According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19. 
 
The state-wide survey was conducted in April this year, across all districts of the state, except Chennai. 
 
Based on 765 clusters, with each consisting of 30 individuals, the samples were taken at random from a village (in rural areas) or a street (in an urban area).&nbsp;

Completed under the supervision of Dr T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, this survey showed that 5316 individuals of the total 22904 participants had antibodies. While the overall seroprevalence across the state was 23%, it was found to be highest in the districts adjoining Chennai - Tiruvallur (49%), Chengalpattu (43%) and Kanchipuram (38%). The lowest seroprevalence was seen at Nagapattinam District (9%).&nbsp;

Notably, the first such state-wide serosurvey conducted in Oct-Nov 2020 had revealed 31% seropositivity, which is much higher than the latest one. Back then, 6995 samples out of 22690 were found to have developed antibodies.&nbsp;

However, the Government attributes the decrease in seroprevalence to the fact that the first survey was conducted a month after the peak of the first wave, which occurred in August. In the case of the second survey, it was conducted close to the start of the second wave in Tamil Nadu. The possibility of antibodies weaning in the five-month interval between November 2020 and April 2021 is also said to be a factor, based on studies published in International journals.&nbsp;

Other factors are that vaccination coverage till March was meant to cover only the vulnerable population (above the age of 45), whereas other age groups we unvaccinated. It was also observed that there were no variants of SARS CoV -2 during the first serosurvey, whereas several variants were detected in the community during hr subsequent survey.&nbsp;

Despite Tamil Nadu reporting more than 1/5th of India’s daily COVID-19 cases and the highest for any state in the country, the state is seeing a declining trend and an appreciable higher vaccination rate. Hence, a third sero survey is proposed to be carried out between July and August this year.

According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19.

According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19. The state-wide survey was conducted in April this year, across all districts of the state, except Chennai. Based on 765 clusters, with each consisting of 30 individuals, the samples were taken at random from a village (in rural areas) or a street (in an urban area). Completed under the supervision of Dr T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, this survey showed that 5316 individuals of the total 22904 participants had antibodies. While the overall seroprevalence across the state was 23%, it was found to be highest in the districts adjoining Chennai - Tiruvallur (49%), Chengalpattu (43%) and Kanchipuram (38%). The lowest seroprevalence was seen at Nagapattinam District (9%). Notably, the first such state-wide serosurvey conducted in Oct-Nov 2020 had revealed 31% seropositivity, which is much higher than the latest one. Back then, 6995 samples out of 22690 were found to have developed antibodies. However, the Government attributes the decrease in seroprevalence to the fact that the first survey was conducted a month after the peak of the first wave, which occurred in August. In the case of the second survey, it was conducted close to the start of the second wave in Tamil Nadu. The possibility of antibodies weaning in the five-month interval between November 2020 and April 2021 is also said to be a factor, based on studies published in International journals. Other factors are that vaccination coverage till March was meant to cover only the vulnerable population (above the age of 45), whereas other age groups we unvaccinated. It was also observed that there were no variants of SARS CoV -2 during the first serosurvey, whereas several variants were detected in the community during hr subsequent survey. Despite Tamil Nadu reporting more than 1/5th of India’s daily COVID-19 cases and the highest for any state in the country, the state is seeing a declining trend and an appreciable higher vaccination rate. Hence, a third sero survey is proposed to be carried out between July and August this year.

Tamil Nadu: COVID-19 antibodies detected in 23% samples of second sero survey; third survey from July-August

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded Indian scientists developing a made-in-India vaccine against COVID and boosting other measures to fight the pandemic within a year of its outbreak.

Addressing a meeting of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Society via video conferencing, he cited India's experience in the previous century to say that it used to wait for years to lay its hands on innovations achieved abroad, but its scientists are now working shoulder to shoulder with their counterparts outside.

They are working at the same quick pace, he said. Noting that the world is grappling with the biggest challenge in a century, the prime minister praised the scientific community, saying it is perhaps unprecedented that vaccines were prepared within a year.

On the occasion, Modi reiterated his call for an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-reliant) and strong India, saying the COVID-19 crisis may have slowed its pace but our resolve remains the same.

India wants to be self-reliant in a number of sectors, ranging from agriculture to astronomy, disaster management to defence technology, vaccine to virtual reality, and biotechnology to battery technology, he asserted.

He said that India is now showing the way to the world in sustainable development and clean energy, and is playing an important role in progress in other countries with its role in software and satellite development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded Indian scientists developing a made-in-India vaccine against COVID and boosting other measures to fight the pandemic within a year of its outbreak.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded Indian scientists developing a made-in-India vaccine against COVID and boosting other measures to fight the pandemic within a year of its outbreak. Addressing a meeting of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Society via video conferencing, he cited India's experience in the previous century to say that it used to wait for years to lay its hands on innovations achieved abroad, but its scientists are now working shoulder to shoulder with their counterparts outside. They are working at the same quick pace, he said. Noting that the world is grappling with the biggest challenge in a century, the prime minister praised the scientific community, saying it is perhaps unprecedented that vaccines were prepared within a year. On the occasion, Modi reiterated his call for an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-reliant) and strong India, saying the COVID-19 crisis may have slowed its pace but our resolve remains the same. India wants to be self-reliant in a number of sectors, ranging from agriculture to astronomy, disaster management to defence technology, vaccine to virtual reality, and biotechnology to battery technology, he asserted. He said that India is now showing the way to the world in sustainable development and clean energy, and is playing an important role in progress in other countries with its role in software and satellite development.

PM Narendra Modi lauds Indian scientists for developing vaccine against COVID-19

India announced on Thursday 134,154 new COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, while deaths from the coronavirus rose by 2,887.

According to data from the health ministry, the country's total COVID-19 caseload now stands at 28.4 million, while total fatalities are at 337,989.

The death toll due to the viral disease has climbed to 3,37,989 with 2,887 more people succumbing to it, while the number of active COVID-19 cases was recorded below 2 million for the third consecutive day, according to the ministry's data updated at 8 am.

Also, 21,59,873 tests were conducted on Wednesday to detect COVID-19, taking the total number of such tests conducted so far in the country to 35,37,82,648, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.21 per cent.

It has been less than 10 per cent for 10 consecutive days now, the ministry said.

The weekly positivity rate has declined to 7.66 per cent.

The number of active cases has reduced to 17,13,413, accounting for 6.02 per cent of the total number of cases, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.79 per cent.

A net decline of 80,232 cases was recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours, the ministry said.

Recoveries continued to outnumber the fresh cases for the 21st day in a row.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has surged to 2,63,90,584, while the case fatality rate has gone up to 1.19 per cent, the data showed.

The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million coronavirus cases on May 4 this year.

India announced on Thursday 134,154 new COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, while deaths from the coronavirus rose by 2,887. According to data from the health ministry, the country's total COVID-19 caseload now stands at 28.

India announced on Thursday 134,154 new COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, while deaths from the coronavirus rose by 2,887. According to data from the health ministry, the country's total COVID-19 caseload now stands at 28.4 million, while total fatalities are at 337,989. The death toll due to the viral disease has climbed to 3,37,989 with 2,887 more people succumbing to it, while the number of active COVID-19 cases was recorded below 2 million for the third consecutive day, according to the ministry's data updated at 8 am. Also, 21,59,873 tests were conducted on Wednesday to detect COVID-19, taking the total number of such tests conducted so far in the country to 35,37,82,648, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.21 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for 10 consecutive days now, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has declined to 7.66 per cent. The number of active cases has reduced to 17,13,413, accounting for 6.02 per cent of the total number of cases, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.79 per cent. A net decline of 80,232 cases was recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours, the ministry said. Recoveries continued to outnumber the fresh cases for the 21st day in a row. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has surged to 2,63,90,584, while the case fatality rate has gone up to 1.19 per cent, the data showed. The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million coronavirus cases on May 4 this year.

India records 2,887 more Covid fatalities; active cases below 2 million for third straight day

Chinese authorities have registered 15 new locally transmitted Covid-19 cases in Guangdong province, the National Health Commission said on Thursday. 
 
Besides, there were also nine new imported cases, according to the Commission. 
 
Of them, three were reported in Shanghai, two each in Guangdong and Sichuan, and one each in Beijing and Fujian, reports Xinhua news agency. 
 
No new suspected cases or new deaths related to Covid were reported in the mainland, it added. 
 
With the new cases, China`s overall infection tally has increased to 91,170, while the death toll stood at 4,636.

Chinese authorities have registered 15 new locally transmitted Covid-19 cases in Guangdong province, the National Health Commission said on Thursday. Besides, there were also nine new imported cases, according to the Commission.

Chinese authorities have registered 15 new locally transmitted Covid-19 cases in Guangdong province, the National Health Commission said on Thursday. Besides, there were also nine new imported cases, according to the Commission. Of them, three were reported in Shanghai, two each in Guangdong and Sichuan, and one each in Beijing and Fujian, reports Xinhua news agency. No new suspected cases or new deaths related to Covid were reported in the mainland, it added. With the new cases, China`s overall infection tally has increased to 91,170, while the death toll stood at 4,636.

China reports 15 new locally transmitted Covid cases

The coronavirus pandemic has severely affected children's rights worldwide, with young people risking a "generational catastrophe" if governments do not act, a rights group said in an annual survey Thursday.

Millions of children have missed out on education because of Covid-19 restrictions while there will be a long term impact in terms of their physical and mental health, Dutch NGO KidsRights said as it launched its annual ranking.

The survey ranks Iceland, Switzerland and Finland as best for children's rights and Chad, Afghanistan and Sierra Leone as the worst, out of a total of 182 countries.

Marc Dulleart, founder and chairman of KidsRights, said that the effects of the pandemic on children had "unfortunately exceeded our predictions at the outset last year".

"Apart from patients of the coronavirus, children have been hardest hit, not directly by the virus itself, but fundamentally failed through the deferred actions of governments around the world," he said.

"Educational recovery is the key to avoiding generational catastrophe," Dulleart added.

The group said schools for more than 168 million children have been closed for almost a full year, with one in three children worldwide unable to access remote learning while their schools were shut.

An additional 142 million kids fell into material poverty as the global economy was hit by the pandemic, while 370 million kids missed out on school meals.

KidsRights paid tribute to Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford for his campaign to extend free school meals.&nbsp;

It also hailed Bangladesh for taking over a national TV channel for homeschooling and praised Belgium and Sweden for trying to keep schools open.

Meanwhile, 80 million children under the age of one could miss out on routine vaccination for other diseases because of disruption to healthcare systems, it said.

The report said there was also an "astonishing increase" in domestic violence during lockdowns, with children often the victims.&nbsp;

KidsRights included Palestine on its list for the first time, placing it in the 104th position due to a focus on healthcare despite difficult circumstances.

However, as in previous years, it gave low scores to Britain, Australia and New Zealand, due to a lack of legal protection for children relative to their wealth.

Britain and New Zealand were ranked at 169 and 168 respectively, below North Korea, Syria, Iraq, and Sudan, and just ahead of Eritrea.

Austria and Hungary also fell heavily due to discrimination.&nbsp;

The survey uses UN data to measure how countries measure up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The coronavirus pandemic has severely affected children's rights worldwide, with young people risking a "generational catastrophe" if governments do not act, a rights group said in an annual survey Thursday.

The coronavirus pandemic has severely affected children's rights worldwide, with young people risking a "generational catastrophe" if governments do not act, a rights group said in an annual survey Thursday. Millions of children have missed out on education because of Covid-19 restrictions while there will be a long term impact in terms of their physical and mental health, Dutch NGO KidsRights said as it launched its annual ranking. The survey ranks Iceland, Switzerland and Finland as best for children's rights and Chad, Afghanistan and Sierra Leone as the worst, out of a total of 182 countries. Marc Dulleart, founder and chairman of KidsRights, said that the effects of the pandemic on children had "unfortunately exceeded our predictions at the outset last year". "Apart from patients of the coronavirus, children have been hardest hit, not directly by the virus itself, but fundamentally failed through the deferred actions of governments around the world," he said. "Educational recovery is the key to avoiding generational catastrophe," Dulleart added. The group said schools for more than 168 million children have been closed for almost a full year, with one in three children worldwide unable to access remote learning while their schools were shut. An additional 142 million kids fell into material poverty as the global economy was hit by the pandemic, while 370 million kids missed out on school meals. KidsRights paid tribute to Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford for his campaign to extend free school meals. It also hailed Bangladesh for taking over a national TV channel for homeschooling and praised Belgium and Sweden for trying to keep schools open. Meanwhile, 80 million children under the age of one could miss out on routine vaccination for other diseases because of disruption to healthcare systems, it said. The report said there was also an "astonishing increase" in domestic violence during lockdowns, with children often the victims. KidsRights included Palestine on its list for the first time, placing it in the 104th position due to a focus on healthcare despite difficult circumstances. However, as in previous years, it gave low scores to Britain, Australia and New Zealand, due to a lack of legal protection for children relative to their wealth. Britain and New Zealand were ranked at 169 and 168 respectively, below North Korea, Syria, Iraq, and Sudan, and just ahead of Eritrea. Austria and Hungary also fell heavily due to discrimination. The survey uses UN data to measure how countries measure up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Children risk 'generational catastrophe' from COVID-19: Watchdog

The attempt by some employers to bring people back into offices is clashing with workers who have embraced remote work as the new normal, as the scary effect of coronavirus pandemic recedes with global vaccination.

According to a FlexJobs poll of 2,100 employees released in April, the top perks of remote work are the lack of commutes and cost savings.

Working remotely saves at least $5,000 per year for more than a third of the respondents.

Watch: Work from Home during pandemic became uncertain for offices

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/work-from-home-during-pandemic-became-uncertain-for-offices-365345/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to global market research firm Forrester, 70 per cent of US and European companies will pivot to a hybrid work model post-pandemic and only 30 per cent of companies in the US and Europe will embrace a full return-to-office model.

Goldman Sachs plans to ask the majority of its employees in the United States and the United Kingdom to return to work in June, bucking the trend among large firms to establish a permanent hybrid model of remote and on-site employment.

While firms ranging from Google to Ford Motor Company and Citigroup Inc. have offered more freedom, several CEOs have publicly praised the value of being in offices.

Watch: 8 Tips to Make Work from Home Easy and Productive

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/8-tips-to-make-work-from-home-easy-and-productive-292277/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Some people have expressed concern about the dangers of remote work, claiming that it reduces teamwork and company culture. It doesn't work "for those who want to hustle," according to Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. at a recent conference.

However, a large number of employees are not sure about returning to offices. The past year has demonstrated that a lot of work can be done from anywhere, without having to travel for long periods on packed trains or roadways. A few people have relocated. Others are concerned about the virus and not vaccinated coworkers.

(With inputs from agencies)

The attempt by some employers to bring people back into offices is clashing with workers who have embraced remote work as the new normal, as the scary effect of coronavirus pandemic recedes with global vaccination.

The attempt by some employers to bring people back into offices is clashing with workers who have embraced remote work as the new normal, as the scary effect of coronavirus pandemic recedes with global vaccination. According to a FlexJobs poll of 2,100 employees released in April, the top perks of remote work are the lack of commutes and cost savings. Working remotely saves at least $5,000 per year for more than a third of the respondents. Watch: Work from Home during pandemic became uncertain for offices According to global market research firm Forrester, 70 per cent of US and European companies will pivot to a hybrid work model post-pandemic and only 30 per cent of companies in the US and Europe will embrace a full return-to-office model. Goldman Sachs plans to ask the majority of its employees in the United States and the United Kingdom to return to work in June, bucking the trend among large firms to establish a permanent hybrid model of remote and on-site employment. While firms ranging from Google to Ford Motor Company and Citigroup Inc. have offered more freedom, several CEOs have publicly praised the value of being in offices. Watch: 8 Tips to Make Work from Home Easy and Productive Some people have expressed concern about the dangers of remote work, claiming that it reduces teamwork and company culture. It doesn't work "for those who want to hustle," according to Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase & Co. at a recent conference. However, a large number of employees are not sure about returning to offices. The past year has demonstrated that a lot of work can be done from anywhere, without having to travel for long periods on packed trains or roadways. A few people have relocated. Others are concerned about the virus and not vaccinated coworkers. (With inputs from agencies)

Work from home: Employees are quitting instead of returning to the office

India rose to the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre and State governments patiently fought the virus, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday.&nbsp;

While speaking at the virtual inauguration of nine oxygen plants in Ahmedabad, the Union Home Minister noted several steps taken by the government to overcome one of the largest challenges in the second wave - the ten-fold increase in oxygen demand.&nbsp;

"Under normal circumstances, the country used to produce about 1000 MT of oxygen. Within a month, the demand increased to 10,000 MT. It was a huge challenge to meet this 10-fold increase in demand, but under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre and State rose to the challenge and started our fight against this," he said.&nbsp;

"The production of industrial oxygen was paused in plants across the country and were diverted towards medical oxygen. Cryogenic tankers were in the country were limited but we brought in from across the world and oxygen was transported in trains. About 15,000MT has been transported by train," he added.&nbsp;

He also said that after the first wave, 162 PSA plants were approved from the PM CARES fund by the Prime Minister, along with an additional 1,051 plants.

"Along with this, 100 more PSA plants were also initiated by other ministries. In the coming days, work to set up 300 more will also be started," he said.&nbsp;

Shah also lauded efforts by the armed forces, Railways and scientists.

"Thanks to their efforts, this pandemic is receding slowly and demand for oxygen has come down as well. The number of recoveries is higher than new cases," he said.&nbsp;

The nine oxygen plants inaugurated by Amit Shah will be operated by the Vallabh Youth Organization. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also present at the virtual event.

India rose to the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre and State governments patiently fought the virus, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday.

India rose to the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre and State governments patiently fought the virus, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday. While speaking at the virtual inauguration of nine oxygen plants in Ahmedabad, the Union Home Minister noted several steps taken by the government to overcome one of the largest challenges in the second wave - the ten-fold increase in oxygen demand. "Under normal circumstances, the country used to produce about 1000 MT of oxygen. Within a month, the demand increased to 10,000 MT. It was a huge challenge to meet this 10-fold increase in demand, but under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre and State rose to the challenge and started our fight against this," he said. "The production of industrial oxygen was paused in plants across the country and were diverted towards medical oxygen. Cryogenic tankers were in the country were limited but we brought in from across the world and oxygen was transported in trains. About 15,000MT has been transported by train," he added. He also said that after the first wave, 162 PSA plants were approved from the PM CARES fund by the Prime Minister, along with an additional 1,051 plants. "Along with this, 100 more PSA plants were also initiated by other ministries. In the coming days, work to set up 300 more will also be started," he said. Shah also lauded efforts by the armed forces, Railways and scientists. "Thanks to their efforts, this pandemic is receding slowly and demand for oxygen has come down as well. The number of recoveries is higher than new cases," he said. The nine oxygen plants inaugurated by Amit Shah will be operated by the Vallabh Youth Organization. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also present at the virtual event.

India rose to challenges posed by COVID-19, fought patiently: Amit Shah

The Indian biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals company Serum Institute of India has applied for a regulatory licence to manufacture Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine, in addition to the AstraZeneca PLC and Novavax Inc vaccines it already produces.

From June onwards, the Serum Institute expects to produce 100 million Covishield vaccines per month. Meanwhile, the SII is developing the Novavax vaccine, which is awaiting FDA approval in the United States.

India has received approximately 3 million doses of the Sputnik V vaccine from Russia, making it the third and largest shipment of imported COVID-19 vaccinations. The dosage had landed at Hyderabad Airport in Telangana on a specially chartered cargo. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals company Serum Institute of India has applied for a regulatory licence to manufacture Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine, in addition to the AstraZeneca PLC and Novavax Inc vaccines it already produces.

The Indian biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals company Serum Institute of India has applied for a regulatory licence to manufacture Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine, in addition to the AstraZeneca PLC and Novavax Inc vaccines it already produces. From June onwards, the Serum Institute expects to produce 100 million Covishield vaccines per month. Meanwhile, the SII is developing the Novavax vaccine, which is awaiting FDA approval in the United States. India has received approximately 3 million doses of the Sputnik V vaccine from Russia, making it the third and largest shipment of imported COVID-19 vaccinations. The dosage had landed at Hyderabad Airport in Telangana on a specially chartered cargo. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Serum Institute of India seeks approval to make Russia's Sputnik V vaccine

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines.

The decision by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) comes in the backdrop of Pfizer and Cipla putting forth similar demands during negotiations to supply imported vaccines to India.

These exemptions have been made in light of the huge vaccination requirements in India in the wake of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases and the need for increased availability of imported vaccines to meet national requirements, according to DCGI.

"It has been decided that for approval of COVID-19 vaccines in India for restricted use in an emergency situation which is already approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or which are listed in WHO Emergency Use Listing and which are well-established vaccines from the standpoint that millions of individuals have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement of conducting post-approval bridging clinical trials and of testing every batch of vaccine by CDL, Kasauli can be exempted, if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by National Control Laboratory of the country of origin," it said.

However, scrutiny of their summary lot protocol and certificate of analysis of batch or lot shall be undertaken by CDL, Kasauli for release as per standard procedures and requirement of assessment on the first 100 beneficiaries for seven days for safety outcomes before the vaccine is rolled out for further immunization programme, the DCGI said in a notice issued on June 1.

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines.

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines. The decision by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) comes in the backdrop of Pfizer and Cipla putting forth similar demands during negotiations to supply imported vaccines to India. These exemptions have been made in light of the huge vaccination requirements in India in the wake of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases and the need for increased availability of imported vaccines to meet national requirements, according to DCGI. "It has been decided that for approval of COVID-19 vaccines in India for restricted use in an emergency situation which is already approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or which are listed in WHO Emergency Use Listing and which are well-established vaccines from the standpoint that millions of individuals have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement of conducting post-approval bridging clinical trials and of testing every batch of vaccine by CDL, Kasauli can be exempted, if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by National Control Laboratory of the country of origin," it said. However, scrutiny of their summary lot protocol and certificate of analysis of batch or lot shall be undertaken by CDL, Kasauli for release as per standard procedures and requirement of assessment on the first 100 beneficiaries for seven days for safety outcomes before the vaccine is rolled out for further immunization programme, the DCGI said in a notice issued on June 1.

Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks. Those who were due to fly abroad by end of June or July had taken their jabs in May.&nbsp;

They did so right after the Indian government opened vaccination for the 18-44 age group from May 1st.&nbsp;

But, owing to the new timelines for the second dose, the students are afraid that they may be forced to further delay their journey, as their wait for full vaccination and certification is now 2-3 months.

Canada-bound students are the most affected by this decision and elaborated their woes to WION.

They were originally due to fly out in late April or early May, ahead of the summer intake of Canadian universities.

But, their plans hit a roadblock owing to Canada’s ban on direct flights from India starting 22nd April. With India’s COVID-19 second wave having continued throughout April and May, this flight ban was further extended until June 22nd. In the case of American and European Universities, the intake of students starts in August or September.

Given the new 12-16 week interval in place, students who took their jab in May would have to wait at least until August to get their second jab, the vaccination certificate and then board their flights. This brings with it, its own set of challenges for some of the already anguished students who are taking online classes at home, despite having paid hefty fees.

“Even if we manage to convince the Public health centre to give us the second jab in 45 days, the official certificate of having taken it would be available only after the 12-16 week period. This would delay our travel plans even further” says Karan Thakkar, who is headed for Ontario.

According to the recommendations for persons entering Canada, not vaccinated and partially vaccinated persons will have to undergo a quarantine period.&nbsp;

“Once we reach Canada without getting vaccinated or with only a single shot, we’d have to shell out nearly 2000 Canadian Dollars (about Rs1.2 lakhs) for quarantine facilities. There are also doubts over whether the unvaccinated and single-shot persons will be allowed to enter” said Sajith Ahamed who is to pursue his Post graduation.

Raama Sreenivasan, a student who tweeted out the students’ emergency request for priority vaccination to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Council of ministers says there was no response as yet. “When I checked for a solution with the Cowin helpline, they directed me to the District immunization officer. But the district officer says that they can act only under instructions from the State Government” he said.

Students that spoke to WION think that the Tamil Nadu Government too must implement a strategy to provide priority jabs to students travelling abroad. They feel that since Kerala, Mumbai, Karnataka, Gujarat and Telangana have taken decisions in this regard and there is a precedent, the Tamil Nadu Government must explore this option immediately. 
 
Another issue is that Covaxin, the indigenous vaccine of Bharat Biotech has not been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it has also been approved for international travel only in a handful of countries. The foreign travel options of those who have taken Covaxin also raises questions.&nbsp;

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks.

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks. Those who were due to fly abroad by end of June or July had taken their jabs in May. They did so right after the Indian government opened vaccination for the 18-44 age group from May 1st. But, owing to the new timelines for the second dose, the students are afraid that they may be forced to further delay their journey, as their wait for full vaccination and certification is now 2-3 months. Canada-bound students are the most affected by this decision and elaborated their woes to WION. They were originally due to fly out in late April or early May, ahead of the summer intake of Canadian universities. But, their plans hit a roadblock owing to Canada’s ban on direct flights from India starting 22nd April. With India’s COVID-19 second wave having continued throughout April and May, this flight ban was further extended until June 22nd. In the case of American and European Universities, the intake of students starts in August or September. Given the new 12-16 week interval in place, students who took their jab in May would have to wait at least until August to get their second jab, the vaccination certificate and then board their flights. This brings with it, its own set of challenges for some of the already anguished students who are taking online classes at home, despite having paid hefty fees. “Even if we manage to convince the Public health centre to give us the second jab in 45 days, the official certificate of having taken it would be available only after the 12-16 week period. This would delay our travel plans even further” says Karan Thakkar, who is headed for Ontario. According to the recommendations for persons entering Canada, not vaccinated and partially vaccinated persons will have to undergo a quarantine period. “Once we reach Canada without getting vaccinated or with only a single shot, we’d have to shell out nearly 2000 Canadian Dollars (about Rs1.2 lakhs) for quarantine facilities. There are also doubts over whether the unvaccinated and single-shot persons will be allowed to enter” said Sajith Ahamed who is to pursue his Post graduation. Raama Sreenivasan, a student who tweeted out the students’ emergency request for priority vaccination to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Council of ministers says there was no response as yet. “When I checked for a solution with the Cowin helpline, they directed me to the District immunization officer. But the district officer says that they can act only under instructions from the State Government” he said. Students that spoke to WION think that the Tamil Nadu Government too must implement a strategy to provide priority jabs to students travelling abroad. They feel that since Kerala, Mumbai, Karnataka, Gujarat and Telangana have taken decisions in this regard and there is a precedent, the Tamil Nadu Government must explore this option immediately. Another issue is that Covaxin, the indigenous vaccine of Bharat Biotech has not been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it has also been approved for international travel only in a handful of countries. The foreign travel options of those who have taken Covaxin also raises questions.

Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt 

India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday.

The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths.

The active cases were recorded below 2 million for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent.

It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said.

The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent.

The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent.

A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in 24 hours.

Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 20th consecutive days.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million mark on August 7, 3 million on August 23, 4 million on September 5 and 5 million on September 16.

It went past 6 million on September 28, 7 million on October 11, crossed 8 million on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

India crossed the grim milestone of 20 million on May 4.

India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.

India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday. The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths. The active cases were recorded below 2 million for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent. The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent. A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in 24 hours. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 20th consecutive days. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million mark on August 7, 3 million on August 23, 4 million on September 5 and 5 million on September 16. It went past 6 million on September 28, 7 million on October 11, crossed 8 million on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 20 million on May 4.

India records over 1,32,788 fresh COVID-19 cases, 3,207 fatalities in the last 24 hours

In a bid to encourage Covid vaccination, the district administration here has ordered that government employees will not receive their salaries unless they are vaccinated, an official said here on Wednesday.

Chief Development Officer, Charchit Gaur said that District Magistrate Chandra Vijay Singh has issued an oral order of "no vaccination, no salary".

As per the order, if an employee does not take the Covid vaccine, the department will initiate action and stop their salary for the month of May, Gaur said.

District treasury officer and other departmental heads have been given directions to implement the order and were asked to make a list and ensure vaccination, he said.

The CDO said that the employees are trying to get themselves vaccinated in fear that their salary might be stopped.

In a bid to encourage Covid vaccination, the district administration here has ordered that government employees will not receive their salaries unless they are vaccinated, an official said here on Wednesday.

In a bid to encourage Covid vaccination, the district administration here has ordered that government employees will not receive their salaries unless they are vaccinated, an official said here on Wednesday. Chief Development Officer, Charchit Gaur said that District Magistrate Chandra Vijay Singh has issued an oral order of "no vaccination, no salary". As per the order, if an employee does not take the Covid vaccine, the department will initiate action and stop their salary for the month of May, Gaur said. District treasury officer and other departmental heads have been given directions to implement the order and were asked to make a list and ensure vaccination, he said. The CDO said that the employees are trying to get themselves vaccinated in fear that their salary might be stopped.

'No vaccination, no salary' for government employees in this Indian state

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday said "one day the COVID-19 pandemic will be behind us."

He was addressing the 74th World Health Assembly.

"But the psychological scars will remain for those who have lost loved ones, who have been stretched beyond breaking point and the millions of people of all ages confronted with months of loneliness and isolation," he further said.

"And we will still face the same vulnerabilities that allowed a small outbreak to become a global pandemic", he added.

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"And we will still face the same vulnerabilities that allowed a small outbreak to become a global pandemic"-<a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTedros</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WHA74?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WHA74</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/vnb88jAgS4">https://t.co/vnb88jAgS4</a>
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Talking about the governments' handling the pandemic he said: "The safety of the Earth’s people cannot rely solely on the goodwill of governments. Every government is responsible for, &amp; accountable to, its people. But the member States can only truly keep their people safe if they are accountable to each other at the global level".

Emphasising a Pandemic treaty and joint action he said that: "A Pandemic Treaty would foster improved sharing, trust and accountability, and provide the solid foundation on which to build other mechanisms for global health security". 
 
In closing comments to the WHO’s annual week-long high-level assembly, Tedros said that a potential international treaty will be discussed in a special session of WHO members in November.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday said "one day the COVID-19 pandemic will be behind us." He was addressing the 74th World Health Assembly.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday said "one day the COVID-19 pandemic will be behind us." He was addressing the 74th World Health Assembly. "But the psychological scars will remain for those who have lost loved ones, who have been stretched beyond breaking point and the millions of people of all ages confronted with months of loneliness and isolation," he further said. "And we will still face the same vulnerabilities that allowed a small outbreak to become a global pandemic", he added. "And we will still face the same vulnerabilities that allowed a small outbreak to become a global pandemic"-@DrTedros #WHA74 #COVID19 https://t.co/vnb88jAgS4 — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 31, 2021 × Talking about the governments' handling the pandemic he said: "The safety of the Earth’s people cannot rely solely on the goodwill of governments. Every government is responsible for, & accountable to, its people. But the member States can only truly keep their people safe if they are accountable to each other at the global level". Emphasising a Pandemic treaty and joint action he said that: "A Pandemic Treaty would foster improved sharing, trust and accountability, and provide the solid foundation on which to build other mechanisms for global health security". In closing comments to the WHO’s annual week-long high-level assembly, Tedros said that a potential international treaty will be discussed in a special session of WHO members in November.

One day the pandemic will be behind us, but psychological scars will remain: WHO chief

India recorded a single-day rise of 1,27,510 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 51 days, taking the country's infection tally to 2,81,75,044, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.

India's active caseload further declined and is below 2 million&nbsp;after 43 days. The active caseload further declined to 18,95,520 as active cases decreased by 1,30,572 in the last 24 hours

The daily positivity rate also declined to 6.62 per cent, remaining below the 10 per cent-mark for the seventh consecutive days, while the weekly positivity rate dropped to 8.64 per cent.

The death toll due to the virus climbed to 3,31,895 with 2,795 fatalities being recorded in a span of 24 hours.

Meanwhile, recoveries continue to outnumber the daily new cases for the 19th successive days, as India witnessed 2,55,287 recoveries in the last 24 hours, the ministry said.

The recovery tally of India has reached 2,59,47,629 and the recovery rate stands at 92.09 per cent.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 34,67,92,257 samples tested up to May 31 of which 19,25,374 samples were tested yesterday.

The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 21,60,46,638 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

India recorded a single-day rise of 1,27,510 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 51 days, taking the country's infection tally to 2,81,75,044, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.

India recorded a single-day rise of 1,27,510 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 51 days, taking the country's infection tally to 2,81,75,044, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday. India's active caseload further declined and is below 2 million after 43 days. The active caseload further declined to 18,95,520 as active cases decreased by 1,30,572 in the last 24 hours The daily positivity rate also declined to 6.62 per cent, remaining below the 10 per cent-mark for the seventh consecutive days, while the weekly positivity rate dropped to 8.64 per cent. The death toll due to the virus climbed to 3,31,895 with 2,795 fatalities being recorded in a span of 24 hours. Meanwhile, recoveries continue to outnumber the daily new cases for the 19th successive days, as India witnessed 2,55,287 recoveries in the last 24 hours, the ministry said. The recovery tally of India has reached 2,59,47,629 and the recovery rate stands at 92.09 per cent. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 34,67,92,257 samples tested up to May 31 of which 19,25,374 samples were tested yesterday. The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 21,60,46,638 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

India's active COVID-19 caseload below 2 million mark, 1,27,510 new cases reported

Tamil Nadu government said on Tuesday that it would be receiving a consignment of 420,000 vaccines from the central government. The consignment is expected to land at the city airport by 5:20 pm.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu Health Minister M&nbsp;Subramanian said that vaccination will be halted in Tamil Nadu from Tuesday evening onwards, as stocks would be exhausted. He said that vaccination would have to be halted until doses arrive on June 6th. 
&nbsp; 
Speaking at the government hospital in Chengalpet, the minister said Tamil Nadu had received about 9.6 million vaccines, of which 9.2 million were administered and the rest&nbsp; were wasted. He claimed that there was a delay from the central government in sending 175,000 doses that were due by May-end.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Subramanian said that DMK representatives in Delhi had met central ministers and officials in Delhi to seek adequate vaccines for the state. He expressed confidence that about 4.2 million vaccines would arrive in Tamil Nadu in a phased manner this month. Those vaccines would be dispatched to the districts based on the population and other requirements, he added. 
&nbsp; 
The minister said he was requesting state BJP President L&nbsp;Murugan and BJP Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan to provide support and urge the Central Government to provide adequate vaccines for Tamil Nadu. 
&nbsp; 
The DMK Government had earlier floated a global tender to procure vaccines for Tamil Nadu, which is yet to yield any results. DMK leaders and Chief Minister Stalin had written to the prime minister to permit the state government to take on lease the unused Integrated Vaccine Complex, at Chengalpet near Chennai.

The plant, which was established by the central government in 2021, has been lying idle ever since. Stalin wanted the factory to be handed over to the State Government on the lease, without any past liabilities and full operational freedom. However, questions loom over which Covid-19 vaccine would be manufactured here.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On the issue of people queuing up for vaccines in Tamil Nadu despite the looming shortage, he said that it was heartening to see people eagerly waiting to take the shot, rather than hesitating to take the shot.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Tamil Nadu continues to witness the highest daily number of Covid-19 cases of all states in India. The daily case numbers are nearly 28,000 and active cases are a little over 300,000.

Over the last few days, the number of persons discharged following treatment has surpassed the daily cases. However, the worry remains the fatality numbers which have been hovering over 450 for more than a week. So far, 24,232 people have lost their lives to the pandemic in Tamil Nadu, with most lives lost being in May.

Tamil Nadu government said on Tuesday that it would be receiving a consignment of 420,000 vaccines from the central government. The consignment is expected to land at the city airport by 5:20 pm.

Tamil Nadu government said on Tuesday that it would be receiving a consignment of 420,000 vaccines from the central government. The consignment is expected to land at the city airport by 5:20 pm. Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu Health Minister M Subramanian said that vaccination will be halted in Tamil Nadu from Tuesday evening onwards, as stocks would be exhausted. He said that vaccination would have to be halted until doses arrive on June 6th. Speaking at the government hospital in Chengalpet, the minister said Tamil Nadu had received about 9.6 million vaccines, of which 9.2 million were administered and the rest were wasted. He claimed that there was a delay from the central government in sending 175,000 doses that were due by May-end. Subramanian said that DMK representatives in Delhi had met central ministers and officials in Delhi to seek adequate vaccines for the state. He expressed confidence that about 4.2 million vaccines would arrive in Tamil Nadu in a phased manner this month. Those vaccines would be dispatched to the districts based on the population and other requirements, he added. The minister said he was requesting state BJP President L Murugan and BJP Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan to provide support and urge the Central Government to provide adequate vaccines for Tamil Nadu. The DMK Government had earlier floated a global tender to procure vaccines for Tamil Nadu, which is yet to yield any results. DMK leaders and Chief Minister Stalin had written to the prime minister to permit the state government to take on lease the unused Integrated Vaccine Complex, at Chengalpet near Chennai. The plant, which was established by the central government in 2021, has been lying idle ever since. Stalin wanted the factory to be handed over to the State Government on the lease, without any past liabilities and full operational freedom. However, questions loom over which Covid-19 vaccine would be manufactured here. On the issue of people queuing up for vaccines in Tamil Nadu despite the looming shortage, he said that it was heartening to see people eagerly waiting to take the shot, rather than hesitating to take the shot. Tamil Nadu continues to witness the highest daily number of Covid-19 cases of all states in India. The daily case numbers are nearly 28,000 and active cases are a little over 300,000. Over the last few days, the number of persons discharged following treatment has surpassed the daily cases. However, the worry remains the fatality numbers which have been hovering over 450 for more than a week. So far, 24,232 people have lost their lives to the pandemic in Tamil Nadu, with most lives lost being in May.

COVID-19: Tamil Nadu stops vaccination due to shortages, will receive 420,000 doses

India`s economic growth likely picked up in the January-March quarter from the previous three months, but economists have grown more pessimistic about this quarter after a harsh second wave of COVID-19 hit the country last month. 
 
The median forecast from a Reuters survey of 29 economists showed the gross domestic product in Asia`s third-largest economy grew 1.0% in the March quarter from a year earlier, up from 0.4% in the previous quarter when India began pulling out of a steep pandemic-induced recession in earlier six months. 
 
But the second wave of infections and deaths across the world`s second-hardest hit country has caused forecasters to trim their projections for the coming months. 
 
The median forecast for April-June growth is 21.6%, down from a month-earlier estimate of 23% after the resurgence prompted most industrial states to impose lockdowns, throwing millions out of work. For the fiscal year to March 2022, economists cut their median forecast to 9.8% from 10.4%. 
 
The statistics ministry is to announce the data at 1200 GMT. 
 
India has recorded 27.9 million COVID-19 infections, behind only the United States, and 325,972 deaths as of Sunday, although the rise has begun to slow. 
 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s administration says the economic impact will not be as severe as last year, as lockdowns are looser this time and growth in manufacturing and exports is higher. 
 
But Arun Singh, global chief economist at Dun &amp; Bradstreet, said the downside risks to growth were intensifying as the second wave makes the return to pre-pandemic growth rates difficult. 
 
"Owing to the intensifying nature of the pandemic and the spread to the rural areas, which were largely spared in 2020, we expect growth prospects to have deteriorated for 2021/22." 
 
The central bank, which has kept monetary policy loose while boosting liquidity to the economy, said on Thursday that growth prospects will depend on how fast India can arrest infections. 
 
Modi has faced criticism for the slow pace of his four-month-old vaccination campaign, which has inoculated fewer than 4% of India`s 1.38 billion people. Analysts warn the slow rollout could pose medium-term risks to growth, especially if the country were to experience the third wave of COVID-19. 
 
The economy, which was facing a slowdown even before the pandemic, now confronts a crash of consumer demand - constituting over 55% of the economy - as household incomes and jobs have declined. 
 
Unemployment soared to a near one-year high of 14.73% in the week ending May 23, according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, a Mumbai-based private think tank. 
 
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who said on Friday that no decision has been taken for another stimulus package, has limited space due to a fall in tax collections and rising public debt.

India`s economic growth likely picked up in the January-March quarter from the previous three months, but economists have grown more pessimistic about this quarter after a harsh second wave of COVID-19 hit the country last month.

India`s economic growth likely picked up in the January-March quarter from the previous three months, but economists have grown more pessimistic about this quarter after a harsh second wave of COVID-19 hit the country last month. The median forecast from a Reuters survey of 29 economists showed the gross domestic product in Asia`s third-largest economy grew 1.0% in the March quarter from a year earlier, up from 0.4% in the previous quarter when India began pulling out of a steep pandemic-induced recession in earlier six months. But the second wave of infections and deaths across the world`s second-hardest hit country has caused forecasters to trim their projections for the coming months. The median forecast for April-June growth is 21.6%, down from a month-earlier estimate of 23% after the resurgence prompted most industrial states to impose lockdowns, throwing millions out of work. For the fiscal year to March 2022, economists cut their median forecast to 9.8% from 10.4%. The statistics ministry is to announce the data at 1200 GMT. India has recorded 27.9 million COVID-19 infections, behind only the United States, and 325,972 deaths as of Sunday, although the rise has begun to slow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s administration says the economic impact will not be as severe as last year, as lockdowns are looser this time and growth in manufacturing and exports is higher. But Arun Singh, global chief economist at Dun & Bradstreet, said the downside risks to growth were intensifying as the second wave makes the return to pre-pandemic growth rates difficult. "Owing to the intensifying nature of the pandemic and the spread to the rural areas, which were largely spared in 2020, we expect growth prospects to have deteriorated for 2021/22." The central bank, which has kept monetary policy loose while boosting liquidity to the economy, said on Thursday that growth prospects will depend on how fast India can arrest infections. Modi has faced criticism for the slow pace of his four-month-old vaccination campaign, which has inoculated fewer than 4% of India`s 1.38 billion people. Analysts warn the slow rollout could pose medium-term risks to growth, especially if the country were to experience the third wave of COVID-19. The economy, which was facing a slowdown even before the pandemic, now confronts a crash of consumer demand - constituting over 55% of the economy - as household incomes and jobs have declined. Unemployment soared to a near one-year high of 14.73% in the week ending May 23, according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, a Mumbai-based private think tank. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who said on Friday that no decision has been taken for another stimulus package, has limited space due to a fall in tax collections and rising public debt.

India's economy likely accelerated in Jan-Mar, before second wave of COVID-19 hit

Chile on Sunday reported a 21 per cent increase in Covid-19 cases in the last 14 days, and the government has urged Chileans to get vaccinated and continue to maintain personal protection measures to prevent the spread of the virus. 
 
"We will overcome this increase in new cases together and hand in hand with compliance with the vaccination schedule," said Minister of Health Enrique Paris, Xinhua news agency reported. 
 
Chile has been facing an increase in infections for the last few weeks despite the progress of the vaccination campaign, with 52 per cent of the target population fully immunized. 
 
Paris stated that 80 per cent of new cases "are people who have not received their full immunization". 
 
He warned that those who do not get vaccinated "are 3.23 times more likely to be hospitalized, 3.57 times more likely to enter an intensive care unit and 4.5 times more likely to die". 
 
According to the Ministry of Health, Chile registered 7,772 new cases of Covid-19 this Sunday, after exceeding 8,000 daily cases in the last two days, for a total of 1,377,507. 
 
A total of 44,928 people are in the active stage of the virus, a figure that has been on the rise compared to previous weeks, causing concern among epidemiology experts. 
 
Another 121 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 29,168. 
 
This week, the "mobility pass" implemented by the government began to take effect in the country, granting greater freedoms to people who have been fully vaccinated.

Chile on Sunday reported a 21 per cent increase in Covid-19 cases in the last 14 days, and the government has urged Chileans to get vaccinated and continue to maintain personal protection measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

Chile on Sunday reported a 21 per cent increase in Covid-19 cases in the last 14 days, and the government has urged Chileans to get vaccinated and continue to maintain personal protection measures to prevent the spread of the virus. "We will overcome this increase in new cases together and hand in hand with compliance with the vaccination schedule," said Minister of Health Enrique Paris, Xinhua news agency reported. Chile has been facing an increase in infections for the last few weeks despite the progress of the vaccination campaign, with 52 per cent of the target population fully immunized. Paris stated that 80 per cent of new cases "are people who have not received their full immunization". He warned that those who do not get vaccinated "are 3.23 times more likely to be hospitalized, 3.57 times more likely to enter an intensive care unit and 4.5 times more likely to die". According to the Ministry of Health, Chile registered 7,772 new cases of Covid-19 this Sunday, after exceeding 8,000 daily cases in the last two days, for a total of 1,377,507. A total of 44,928 people are in the active stage of the virus, a figure that has been on the rise compared to previous weeks, causing concern among epidemiology experts. Another 121 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 29,168. This week, the "mobility pass" implemented by the government began to take effect in the country, granting greater freedoms to people who have been fully vaccinated.

Chile's Covid cases increase 21% in last 2 weeks despite vaccination

With 1,52,734 COVID-19 infections in the last 24 hours, India maintained its declining trend of new cases and reported the lowest single-day COVID-19 rise in 50 days. the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday.

With this, the total cases have reached 2,80,47,534, and the daily positivity rate stands at 9.07 per cent, which is less than 10 per cent for the seventh consecutive day. Also, the weekly positivity rate dropped to 9.04 per cent.

According to the health ministry, a total of 3,128 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 3,29,100 in the country.

Meanwhile, recoveries continue to outnumber the daily new cases for the 18th consecutive day, as India witnessed 2,38,022 recoveries in the last 24 hours, the ministry said.

The recovery tally of India has reached 2,56,92,342 and the recovery rate stands at 91.60 per cent.

Active caseload further declined to 20,26,092 after cases decreased by 88,416 in the last 24 hours according to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 16,83,135 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours in the country and cumulatively 34,48,66,883 tests have been done so far.

The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 21,31,54,129 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

With 1,52,734 COVID-19 infections in the last 24 hours, India maintained its declining trend of new cases and reported the lowest single-day COVID-19 rise in 50 days.

With 1,52,734 COVID-19 infections in the last 24 hours, India maintained its declining trend of new cases and reported the lowest single-day COVID-19 rise in 50 days. the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday. With this, the total cases have reached 2,80,47,534, and the daily positivity rate stands at 9.07 per cent, which is less than 10 per cent for the seventh consecutive day. Also, the weekly positivity rate dropped to 9.04 per cent. According to the health ministry, a total of 3,128 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 3,29,100 in the country. Meanwhile, recoveries continue to outnumber the daily new cases for the 18th consecutive day, as India witnessed 2,38,022 recoveries in the last 24 hours, the ministry said. The recovery tally of India has reached 2,56,92,342 and the recovery rate stands at 91.60 per cent. Active caseload further declined to 20,26,092 after cases decreased by 88,416 in the last 24 hours according to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 16,83,135 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours in the country and cumulatively 34,48,66,883 tests have been done so far. The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 21,31,54,129 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

With 1,52,734 new COVID-19 cases, India sees lowest daily rise in 50 days

Serrana, a city in the southeastern Brazilian state of Sao Paulo, has seen a 95% drop in COVID-19 deaths after it concluded vaccination of almost all adults, TV Globo reported on Sunday. 
 
With 45,000 inhabitants Serrana is a healthy oasis in Brazil, which has the world`s second-deadliest outbreak with more than 461,000 deaths so far and a very slow immunization pace due to the lack of vaccines. 
 
Serrana was the subject of a study by Instituto Butantan, which produces the Coronavac vaccine developed by China`s Sinovac Biotech in Brazil. 
 
When vaccination was starting, the city had an increase in COVID cases, but the spread of the virus was contained once 75% of the population was immunized, scientists found. 
 
Scientists divided the city into four areas to try to understand which was the threshold to contain the spread of the virus and found that it was controlled after three areas received the second dose. 
 
The number of symptomatic cases fell 80%, and hospitalizations 86%. COVID deaths fell 95%, according to data given by Butantan to TV Globo. 
 
Serrana is surrounded by cities that are still dealing with a spike in COVID cases. Ribeirao Preto, 15 miles away from Serrana, is going through a lockdown to try to contain the spread of COVID-19. 
 
A similar experiment is underway in another city in Sao Paulo, Brazil`s richest state. The city of Botucatu expects to immunize most of its 148,000 inhabitants with the Astra Zeneca vaccine.

Serrana, a city in the southeastern Brazilian state of Sao Paulo, has seen a 95% drop in COVID-19 deaths after it concluded vaccination of almost all adults, TV Globo reported on Sunday.

Serrana, a city in the southeastern Brazilian state of Sao Paulo, has seen a 95% drop in COVID-19 deaths after it concluded vaccination of almost all adults, TV Globo reported on Sunday. With 45,000 inhabitants Serrana is a healthy oasis in Brazil, which has the world`s second-deadliest outbreak with more than 461,000 deaths so far and a very slow immunization pace due to the lack of vaccines. Serrana was the subject of a study by Instituto Butantan, which produces the Coronavac vaccine developed by China`s Sinovac Biotech in Brazil. When vaccination was starting, the city had an increase in COVID cases, but the spread of the virus was contained once 75% of the population was immunized, scientists found. Scientists divided the city into four areas to try to understand which was the threshold to contain the spread of the virus and found that it was controlled after three areas received the second dose. The number of symptomatic cases fell 80%, and hospitalizations 86%. COVID deaths fell 95%, according to data given by Butantan to TV Globo. Serrana is surrounded by cities that are still dealing with a spike in COVID cases. Ribeirao Preto, 15 miles away from Serrana, is going through a lockdown to try to contain the spread of COVID-19. A similar experiment is underway in another city in Sao Paulo, Brazil`s richest state. The city of Botucatu expects to immunize most of its 148,000 inhabitants with the Astra Zeneca vaccine.

Mass vaccination creates healthy oasis in Brazilian city

A team from Johns Hopkins conducted a new study to understand that how long-term exposure to air pollution can rob someone of the ability to smell and taste and lead a person in the state of 'anosmia'.

Anosmia is a condition of partial or complete loss of the sense of smell. This can severely impact a person's quality of life, making it extremely difficult to taste foods, detect airborne hazards in the environment, and carry out other functions dependent on the senses.

They found long-term airborne exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of losing one's smell by nearly twice (a 1.6- to 1.7-fold increase).

"Based on this result, we feel that long-term exposure to high levels of PM2.5 represents a common risk factor for the loss of sense of smell, especially in vulnerable populations such as older people—but also one that is potentially modifiable if sources of PM2.5 components can be better controlled," said lead author Murugappan Ramanathan, rhinologist and associate professor of otolaryngology at the University's School of Medicine.

In their study, the researchers looked at 2,690 people, aged 18 and older, who were evaluated by otolaryngologists between January 2013 and December 2016. Of these, 538 were diagnosed with anosmia, with an average age of 54 and with men making up the majority (339 or 63 per cent).

Exposure to PM2.5 has been already linked to cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, the decline in cognitive thinking ability, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and premature death.

Meanwhile, the overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 170.1 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.53 million, according to Johns Hopkins University.

In its latest update on Monday morning, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 170,174,444 and 3,537,835, respectively.

The US continues to be the worst-hit country with the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 33,258,547 and 594,430, respectively, according to the CSSE.

(With inputs from agencies)

A team from Johns Hopkins conducted a new study to understand that how long-term exposure to air pollution can rob someone of the ability to smell and taste and lead a person in the state of 'anosmia'.

A team from Johns Hopkins conducted a new study to understand that how long-term exposure to air pollution can rob someone of the ability to smell and taste and lead a person in the state of 'anosmia'. Anosmia is a condition of partial or complete loss of the sense of smell. This can severely impact a person's quality of life, making it extremely difficult to taste foods, detect airborne hazards in the environment, and carry out other functions dependent on the senses. They found long-term airborne exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of losing one's smell by nearly twice (a 1.6- to 1.7-fold increase). "Based on this result, we feel that long-term exposure to high levels of PM2.5 represents a common risk factor for the loss of sense of smell, especially in vulnerable populations such as older people—but also one that is potentially modifiable if sources of PM2.5 components can be better controlled," said lead author Murugappan Ramanathan, rhinologist and associate professor of otolaryngology at the University's School of Medicine. In their study, the researchers looked at 2,690 people, aged 18 and older, who were evaluated by otolaryngologists between January 2013 and December 2016. Of these, 538 were diagnosed with anosmia, with an average age of 54 and with men making up the majority (339 or 63 per cent). Exposure to PM2.5 has been already linked to cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, the decline in cognitive thinking ability, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and premature death. Meanwhile, the overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 170.1 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.53 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Monday morning, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 170,174,444 and 3,537,835, respectively. The US continues to be the worst-hit country with the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 33,258,547 and 594,430, respectively, according to the CSSE. (With inputs from agencies)

Prolonged exposure to air pollution can cause 'anosmia': Study

Nearly&nbsp;120 million doses of coronavirus vaccine will be available in June, the Health Ministry said on Sunday.&nbsp;In May, 79.4&nbsp;million doses were available for vaccination.

In a statement, the ministry said the allocation of supplies to states and union territories is decided on the consumption pattern, population and vaccine wastage.

"Visibility for availability of vaccines for the entire month of June 2021 has been provided well in advance to States/UTs...," it said.

"For the month of June, 6.09 crore (6,09,60,000) doses of COVID-19 vaccines will be supplied to the States and UTs for vaccination of priority group of Health Care Workers (HCWs), Front-Line Workers (FLWs) and person aged 45 years + and above as free supply from Government of India," the ministry said.

"In addition, more than 5.86 crore (5,86,10,000) doses will be available for direct procurement by the state/UTs and Private Hospitals. Therefore, in June 2021 close to 12 crore (11,95,70,000) doses will be available for the national COVID-19 vaccination programme," it said.

The ministry said the delivery schedule for this allocation will be shared with states in advance. "States have been requested to direct the concerned officials to ensure rational and judicious utilisation of allocated doses and minimise the vaccine wastage. The basic objective behind informing the States/UTs in advance of the quantum of free vaccine doses to be made available from Centre for 15/30 days and the total vaccine doses which are available for direct procurement by States/UTs is to ensure better planning and delivery of vaccine by States/UTs," it said.

For the month of May, 4,03,49,830 vaccine doses have been made available by the Union Government to states. 
In addition, 3,90,55,370 doses were available for direct procurement by the states as well as private hospitals in May.

"Therefore, in May 2021 a total number of 7,94,05,200 doses were available for the national COVID-19 vaccination programme," the ministry said.&nbsp;

Nearly 120 million doses of coronavirus vaccine will be available in June, the Health Ministry said on Sunday. In May, 79.4 million doses were available for vaccination.

Nearly 120 million doses of coronavirus vaccine will be available in June, the Health Ministry said on Sunday. In May, 79.4 million doses were available for vaccination. In a statement, the ministry said the allocation of supplies to states and union territories is decided on the consumption pattern, population and vaccine wastage. "Visibility for availability of vaccines for the entire month of June 2021 has been provided well in advance to States/UTs...," it said. "For the month of June, 6.09 crore (6,09,60,000) doses of COVID-19 vaccines will be supplied to the States and UTs for vaccination of priority group of Health Care Workers (HCWs), Front-Line Workers (FLWs) and person aged 45 years + and above as free supply from Government of India," the ministry said. "In addition, more than 5.86 crore (5,86,10,000) doses will be available for direct procurement by the state/UTs and Private Hospitals. Therefore, in June 2021 close to 12 crore (11,95,70,000) doses will be available for the national COVID-19 vaccination programme," it said. The ministry said the delivery schedule for this allocation will be shared with states in advance. "States have been requested to direct the concerned officials to ensure rational and judicious utilisation of allocated doses and minimise the vaccine wastage. The basic objective behind informing the States/UTs in advance of the quantum of free vaccine doses to be made available from Centre for 15/30 days and the total vaccine doses which are available for direct procurement by States/UTs is to ensure better planning and delivery of vaccine by States/UTs," it said. For the month of May, 4,03,49,830 vaccine doses have been made available by the Union Government to states. In addition, 3,90,55,370 doses were available for direct procurement by the states as well as private hospitals in May. "Therefore, in May 2021 a total number of 7,94,05,200 doses were available for the national COVID-19 vaccination programme," the ministry said.

Nearly 120 mn doses of Covid vaccine to be available in June: Health Ministry

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday. The capital has been under strict lockdown since April 20. 
 
After a meeting with Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, who is also Chairman of DDMA, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the time has come when the process of lifting lockdown needs to be initiated. He asserted that the people of Delhi have suffered a lot during this Covid pandemic, and also due to a month-long lockdown. 
 
He stated those who are working as a labourer and daily wage earner have lost their livelihood and it has been decided that these two activities will be opened from Monday (May 31). 
 
"During the meeting, it has decided that the situation of COVID-19 is under control as daily cases and positivity rate have reduced, now we have to focus on economic activities as well. Many poor families have lost their livelihood due to lockdown and therefore, it has been decided that - two activities - construction work and factories in Delhi will start functioning from Monday." Kejriwal said. 
 
A senior official told IANS that operations of manufacturing, production units in approved industrial areas, activities where the workers are employed within Delhi will be allowed to function. 
 
Addressing a digital press conference on Friday, Kejriwal also said that, taking in consideration the number of Covid cases, the process of unlocking will be increased further. 
 
"Every week, we will continue the process of opening slowly based on the suggestions of the public and on the basis of the views of the experts. If matters start growing again, we have to stop this process. Everyone needs to take precaution. Lockdown is imposed under compulsion... we do not want to impose," he added. 
 
Meanwhile, he also appealed to the citizen of Delhi that "not to leave the house unless there is a need. We all have to behave responsibly".

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday.

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday. The capital has been under strict lockdown since April 20. After a meeting with Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, who is also Chairman of DDMA, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the time has come when the process of lifting lockdown needs to be initiated. He asserted that the people of Delhi have suffered a lot during this Covid pandemic, and also due to a month-long lockdown. He stated those who are working as a labourer and daily wage earner have lost their livelihood and it has been decided that these two activities will be opened from Monday (May 31). "During the meeting, it has decided that the situation of COVID-19 is under control as daily cases and positivity rate have reduced, now we have to focus on economic activities as well. Many poor families have lost their livelihood due to lockdown and therefore, it has been decided that - two activities - construction work and factories in Delhi will start functioning from Monday." Kejriwal said. A senior official told IANS that operations of manufacturing, production units in approved industrial areas, activities where the workers are employed within Delhi will be allowed to function. Addressing a digital press conference on Friday, Kejriwal also said that, taking in consideration the number of Covid cases, the process of unlocking will be increased further. "Every week, we will continue the process of opening slowly based on the suggestions of the public and on the basis of the views of the experts. If matters start growing again, we have to stop this process. Everyone needs to take precaution. Lockdown is imposed under compulsion... we do not want to impose," he added. Meanwhile, he also appealed to the citizen of Delhi that "not to leave the house unless there is a need. We all have to behave responsibly".

Will open Delhi phase-wise from May 31: Kejriwal

India is witnessing a decrease in the second wave of COVID-19 as the single-day rise in coronavirus cases has fallen to the lowest in the last 44 days.

According to the Union Health Ministry data, the recoveries from this deadly virus has continued to outnumber daily cases for the 15th consecutive day.

The active caseload in the country has reduced to 23,43,152, with a net decline of 76,755 cases in the last 24 hours.

The recovery tally of India has reached 2,48,93,410 and the recovery rate stands at 90.34 per cent. India recorded 3,660 COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours. The death toll has now mounted to 3,18,895.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 20,70,508 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours in the country and cumulatively 33,90,39,861 tests have been done so far.

The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 20.57 crore vaccine doses were administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India is witnessing a decrease in the second wave of COVID-19 as the single-day rise in coronavirus cases has fallen to the lowest in the last 44 days. According to the Union Health Ministry data, the recoveries from this deadly virus has continued to outnumber daily cases for the 15th consecutive day.

India is witnessing a decrease in the second wave of COVID-19 as the single-day rise in coronavirus cases has fallen to the lowest in the last 44 days. According to the Union Health Ministry data, the recoveries from this deadly virus has continued to outnumber daily cases for the 15th consecutive day. The active caseload in the country has reduced to 23,43,152, with a net decline of 76,755 cases in the last 24 hours. The recovery tally of India has reached 2,48,93,410 and the recovery rate stands at 90.34 per cent. India recorded 3,660 COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours. The death toll has now mounted to 3,18,895. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 20,70,508 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours in the country and cumulatively 33,90,39,861 tests have been done so far. The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 20.57 crore vaccine doses were administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. (With inputs from agencies)

Lowest in 44 days: India reports 1.86 lakh fresh COVID-19 cases

Scientists have identified persistent damage in the lungs of COVID-19 patients at least three months after they were discharged from the hospital, and for some patients even longer.

This damage was not detected by routine CT scans and clinical tests, and the patients would consequently normally be told their lungs are normal, according to the researchers at the universities of Sheffield and Oxford in the UK.

The study, published in the journal Radiology, also shows that patients not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who experience long-term breathlessness may have similar damage in their lungs.

However, the researchers said a larger study is needed to confirm this.

They noted that hyperpolarised xenon MRI (XeMRI) scans had found abnormalities in the lungs of some COVID-19 patients more than three months -- and in some cases, nine months -- after leaving the hospital when other clinical measurements were normal.

"The findings of the study are very interesting,” said Professor Jim Wild from the University of Sheffield.

The 129Xe MRI is pinpointing the parts of the lung where the physiology of oxygen uptake is impaired due to long-standing effects of COVID-19 on the lungs, even though they often look normal on CT scans.

"Many COVID-19 patients are still experiencing breathlessness several months after being discharged from hospital, despite their CT scans indicating that their lungs are functioning normally," said Professor Fergus Gleeson, the study's principal investigator at Oxford.

"Our follow-up scans using hyperpolarised xenon MRI have found that abnormalities not normally visible on regular scans are indeed present, and these abnormalities are preventing oxygen getting into the bloodstream as it should in all parts of the lungs," Gleeson said.

The study has now begun testing patients who were not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who have been attending long COVID clinics.

"Although we are currently only talking about early findings, the XeMRI scans of non-hospitalised patients who are breathless -- and 70 per cent of our local patients with Long COVID do experience breathlessness --may have similar abnormalities in their lungs," Gleeson explained.

"We need a larger study to identify how common this is and how long it will take to get better," he added.

Scientists have identified persistent damage in the lungs of COVID-19 patients at least three months after they were discharged from the hospital, and for some patients even longer.

Scientists have identified persistent damage in the lungs of COVID-19 patients at least three months after they were discharged from the hospital, and for some patients even longer. This damage was not detected by routine CT scans and clinical tests, and the patients would consequently normally be told their lungs are normal, according to the researchers at the universities of Sheffield and Oxford in the UK. The study, published in the journal Radiology, also shows that patients not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who experience long-term breathlessness may have similar damage in their lungs. However, the researchers said a larger study is needed to confirm this. They noted that hyperpolarised xenon MRI (XeMRI) scans had found abnormalities in the lungs of some COVID-19 patients more than three months -- and in some cases, nine months -- after leaving the hospital when other clinical measurements were normal. "The findings of the study are very interesting,” said Professor Jim Wild from the University of Sheffield. The 129Xe MRI is pinpointing the parts of the lung where the physiology of oxygen uptake is impaired due to long-standing effects of COVID-19 on the lungs, even though they often look normal on CT scans. "Many COVID-19 patients are still experiencing breathlessness several months after being discharged from hospital, despite their CT scans indicating that their lungs are functioning normally," said Professor Fergus Gleeson, the study's principal investigator at Oxford. "Our follow-up scans using hyperpolarised xenon MRI have found that abnormalities not normally visible on regular scans are indeed present, and these abnormalities are preventing oxygen getting into the bloodstream as it should in all parts of the lungs," Gleeson said. The study has now begun testing patients who were not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who have been attending long COVID clinics. "Although we are currently only talking about early findings, the XeMRI scans of non-hospitalised patients who are breathless -- and 70 per cent of our local patients with Long COVID do experience breathlessness --may have similar abnormalities in their lungs," Gleeson explained. "We need a larger study to identify how common this is and how long it will take to get better," he added.

COVID-19 may cause long-term lung damage: Study

India on Tuesday posted 196,427 new coronavirus cases over the last 24 hours, its lowest daily rise in infections since April 14, while deaths from COVID-19 rose by 3,511.

The country's overall caseload now stands at 26.95 million, while total fatalities are at 307,231, according to health ministry data.&nbsp;

On Monday, India crossed the 300,000 mark of fatalities due to coronavirus infections, thus becoming the world's third country after the US and Brazil to cross three-lakh deaths.

According to the Health Ministry, a total of 326,850 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours, with 24,054,861 being cured of Covid to date.

The Health Ministry said that a total of 19,85,38,999 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 24,40,236 who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 33,25,94,176 samples have been tested up to May 24 for COVID-19. Of these 20,58,112 samples were tested on Monday.

India registered record deaths due to Covid on Wednesday with 4,529 deaths -- the highest number of fatalities from Covid infection in any country since the coronavirus outbreak was reported in China`s Wuhan in December 2019.

It surpassed 4,468 deaths in the US on January 12, and earlier 4,211 in Brazil on April 6. These three are the worst hit by the pandemic. Now, India is behind the US and Brazil with the highest deaths due to COVID-19.

After battling a brutal second wave for weeks, fresh Covid cases came down below the 3,00,000 mark for the first time on May 17 after touching a record high of 4,14,188 on May 7.

India on Tuesday posted 196,427 new coronavirus cases over the last 24 hours, its lowest daily rise in infections since April 14, while deaths from COVID-19 rose by 3,511.

India on Tuesday posted 196,427 new coronavirus cases over the last 24 hours, its lowest daily rise in infections since April 14, while deaths from COVID-19 rose by 3,511. The country's overall caseload now stands at 26.95 million, while total fatalities are at 307,231, according to health ministry data. On Monday, India crossed the 300,000 mark of fatalities due to coronavirus infections, thus becoming the world's third country after the US and Brazil to cross three-lakh deaths. According to the Health Ministry, a total of 326,850 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours, with 24,054,861 being cured of Covid to date. The Health Ministry said that a total of 19,85,38,999 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 24,40,236 who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 33,25,94,176 samples have been tested up to May 24 for COVID-19. Of these 20,58,112 samples were tested on Monday. India registered record deaths due to Covid on Wednesday with 4,529 deaths -- the highest number of fatalities from Covid infection in any country since the coronavirus outbreak was reported in China`s Wuhan in December 2019. It surpassed 4,468 deaths in the US on January 12, and earlier 4,211 in Brazil on April 6. These three are the worst hit by the pandemic. Now, India is behind the US and Brazil with the highest deaths due to COVID-19. After battling a brutal second wave for weeks, fresh Covid cases came down below the 3,00,000 mark for the first time on May 17 after touching a record high of 4,14,188 on May 7.

India reports its lowest COVID-19 case count since April 14 at 196,427

Every piece of evidence points to a leak of coronavirus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), said US former state secretary Mike Pompeo, adding that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) must be held "accountable".

Pompeo`s remarks come after a US media reported three Wuhan lab staff sought hospitalisation after they fell ill in November 2019, weeks before China reported the first patient with COVID-19-like symptoms.

He claimed that the CCP has "done everything" to cover up and deflect blame.

"The CCP was actively engaged in viral research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Every piece of evidence points to a leak from this laboratory. The CCP has done everything to cover up and deflect blame, even blaming the U.S. Prove it. They must be held accountable," he tweeted.

A US State Department fact sheet released by the Trump administration in January said the researchers had become sick in autumn 2019 and displayed "symptoms consistent with both Covid-19 and common seasonal illness."China reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) that the first patient with Covid-like symptoms was recorded in Wuhan on December 8, 2019.

"The US government has reason to believe that several researchers inside the WIV became sick in autumn 2019, before the first identified case of the outbreak, with symptoms consistent with both Covid-19 and common seasonal illnesses," the report read.

Recently, Anthony Fauci, a top adviser to US President Joe Biden on the coronavirus pandemic said he`s "not convinced" the deadly virus developed naturally and has called for further investigations into where it emerged. Fauci was asked during a Poynter event, "United Facts of America: A Festival of Fact-Checking," earlier this month about whether he was confident that Covid-19 developed naturally, Fox News reported.

"No actually. I am not convinced about that. I think we should continue to investigate what went on in China until we continue to find out to the best of our ability what happened," Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases, said.

"Certainly, the people who investigated it say it likely was the emergence from an animal reservoir that then infected individuals, but it could have been something else, and we need to find that out. So, you know, that`s the reason why I said I`m perfectly in favour of any investigation that looks into the origin of the virus," he added.

Last month, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken launched a scathing attack against China for a lack of transparency during "the early stages" of the coronavirus pandemic and called for a more thorough investigation into the origins of Covid-19. Blinken`s remarks came following the publishing of a joint inquiry by the World Health Organization and China in March.

The inquiry did not conclusively establish how or when the virus began spreading and did little to address Western concerns that the Chinese Communist Party bent the investigation to its advantage.

The WHO report determined that the possibility the virus came from a lab was "extremely unlikely," noting there was "no record" any lab had closely related viruses.

The probe was criticised by the US, UK, and other governments over its limited access to "complete, original data and samples". The organization was also accused of being overly deferential to China throughout the study, which was co-authored by 17 Chinese scientists -- several of them from state-run institutions.

Every piece of evidence points to a leak of coronavirus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), said US former state secretary Mike Pompeo, adding that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) must be held "accountable".

Every piece of evidence points to a leak of coronavirus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), said US former state secretary Mike Pompeo, adding that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) must be held "accountable". Pompeo`s remarks come after a US media reported three Wuhan lab staff sought hospitalisation after they fell ill in November 2019, weeks before China reported the first patient with COVID-19-like symptoms. He claimed that the CCP has "done everything" to cover up and deflect blame. "The CCP was actively engaged in viral research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Every piece of evidence points to a leak from this laboratory. The CCP has done everything to cover up and deflect blame, even blaming the U.S. Prove it. They must be held accountable," he tweeted. A US State Department fact sheet released by the Trump administration in January said the researchers had become sick in autumn 2019 and displayed "symptoms consistent with both Covid-19 and common seasonal illness."China reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) that the first patient with Covid-like symptoms was recorded in Wuhan on December 8, 2019. "The US government has reason to believe that several researchers inside the WIV became sick in autumn 2019, before the first identified case of the outbreak, with symptoms consistent with both Covid-19 and common seasonal illnesses," the report read. Recently, Anthony Fauci, a top adviser to US President Joe Biden on the coronavirus pandemic said he`s "not convinced" the deadly virus developed naturally and has called for further investigations into where it emerged. Fauci was asked during a Poynter event, "United Facts of America: A Festival of Fact-Checking," earlier this month about whether he was confident that Covid-19 developed naturally, Fox News reported. "No actually. I am not convinced about that. I think we should continue to investigate what went on in China until we continue to find out to the best of our ability what happened," Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases, said. "Certainly, the people who investigated it say it likely was the emergence from an animal reservoir that then infected individuals, but it could have been something else, and we need to find that out. So, you know, that`s the reason why I said I`m perfectly in favour of any investigation that looks into the origin of the virus," he added. Last month, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken launched a scathing attack against China for a lack of transparency during "the early stages" of the coronavirus pandemic and called for a more thorough investigation into the origins of Covid-19. Blinken`s remarks came following the publishing of a joint inquiry by the World Health Organization and China in March. The inquiry did not conclusively establish how or when the virus began spreading and did little to address Western concerns that the Chinese Communist Party bent the investigation to its advantage. The WHO report determined that the possibility the virus came from a lab was "extremely unlikely," noting there was "no record" any lab had closely related viruses. The probe was criticised by the US, UK, and other governments over its limited access to "complete, original data and samples". The organization was also accused of being overly deferential to China throughout the study, which was co-authored by 17 Chinese scientists -- several of them from state-run institutions.

Evidence suggests leak of coronavirus from Wuhan lab, CCP must be held accountable: Pompeo

India reported 2,59,591 new COVID-19 cases and 4,209 deaths in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry informed on Friday. 
 
According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), as many as 3,57,295 people recovered from the COVID-19 disease across the country in the last 24 hours, which is more than the fresh cases reported."The cumulative caseload in India now stands at 2,60,31,991. There are 30,27,925 active COVID cases in the country," the Ministry said. 
 
As many as 2,91,331 people have succumbed to the COVID-19 infection in India, while the recovery tally has mounted to 2,27,12,735. 
 
India witnessed a rise in the daily COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours as 3,874 deaths were recorded on Thursday. 
 
As per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a total of 32,44,17,870 samples have been tested for COVID-19 up to May 20. 
 
As many as 20,61,683 samples were tested on Thursday, the highest so far in a single day since the pandemic began. 
 
According to MoHFW, as many as 19,18,79,503 doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered since the commencement of the vaccination drive on January 16.

India reported 2,59,591 new COVID-19 cases and 4,209 deaths in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry informed on Friday. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), as many as 3,57,295 people recovered from the COVID-19 disease across the country in the last 24 hours, which is more than the fresh cases reported.

India reported 2,59,591 new COVID-19 cases and 4,209 deaths in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry informed on Friday. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), as many as 3,57,295 people recovered from the COVID-19 disease across the country in the last 24 hours, which is more than the fresh cases reported."The cumulative caseload in India now stands at 2,60,31,991. There are 30,27,925 active COVID cases in the country," the Ministry said. As many as 2,91,331 people have succumbed to the COVID-19 infection in India, while the recovery tally has mounted to 2,27,12,735. India witnessed a rise in the daily COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours as 3,874 deaths were recorded on Thursday. As per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a total of 32,44,17,870 samples have been tested for COVID-19 up to May 20. As many as 20,61,683 samples were tested on Thursday, the highest so far in a single day since the pandemic began. According to MoHFW, as many as 19,18,79,503 doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered since the commencement of the vaccination drive on January 16.

India reports 2,59,591 new COVID-19 cases, 4,209 deaths

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday choked with emotion while thanking doctors, frontline workers during a video conference with them.&nbsp;

"The COVID-19 has taken away many of our loved ones from us. I pay my respects to all those people, and express my condolences to their families," he said.

"As a servant of Kashi, I thank everyone in Varanasi, especially the doctors, nurses, technicians, ward boys and ambulance drivers who have done commendable work," PM said.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"कोरोना वायरस ने हमारे कई अपनों को हमसे छीना है। मैं उन सभी लोगों को अपनी श्रद्धांजलि देता हूं, उनके परिजनों के प्रति सांत्वना व्यक्त करता हूं।" 
 
कोरोना के कारण जान गंवाने वालों को श्रद्धांजलि देते हुए प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी भावुक हो गए। <a href="https://t.co/UqTp8JzAAy">pic.twitter.com/UqTp8JzAAy</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1395641484964102145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While interacting with doctors, paramedical staff, and other frontline health workers of his parliamentary constituency, PM Modi said, "Varanasi has set a great example by the way it has equipped Pandit Rajan Mishra COVID hospital and increased the number of oxygen beds and ICU beds in the city, in such a short period."

PM Modi also unveiled a new slogan 'Jahan Bimar, Wahin Upchar' and appreciated the micro-containment zone implemented by the city.

"With the concept of 'Jahan Bimar, Wahan Upchar', the practice of making containment zones to distributing door-to-door medicines in your city &amp; villages is commendable," he said.

"Vaccination has protected our frontline workers, who could serve the people. In the coming days, we will be extending vaccine protection to everyone," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday choked with emotion while thanking doctors, frontline workers during a video conference with them. "The COVID-19 has taken away many of our loved ones from us.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday choked with emotion while thanking doctors, frontline workers during a video conference with them. "The COVID-19 has taken away many of our loved ones from us. I pay my respects to all those people, and express my condolences to their families," he said. "As a servant of Kashi, I thank everyone in Varanasi, especially the doctors, nurses, technicians, ward boys and ambulance drivers who have done commendable work," PM said. "कोरोना वायरस ने हमारे कई अपनों को हमसे छीना है। मैं उन सभी लोगों को अपनी श्रद्धांजलि देता हूं, उनके परिजनों के प्रति सांत्वना व्यक्त करता हूं।" कोरोना के कारण जान गंवाने वालों को श्रद्धांजलि देते हुए प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी भावुक हो गए। pic.twitter.com/UqTp8JzAAy — BJP (@BJP4India) May 21, 2021 × While interacting with doctors, paramedical staff, and other frontline health workers of his parliamentary constituency, PM Modi said, "Varanasi has set a great example by the way it has equipped Pandit Rajan Mishra COVID hospital and increased the number of oxygen beds and ICU beds in the city, in such a short period." PM Modi also unveiled a new slogan 'Jahan Bimar, Wahin Upchar' and appreciated the micro-containment zone implemented by the city. "With the concept of 'Jahan Bimar, Wahan Upchar', the practice of making containment zones to distributing door-to-door medicines in your city & villages is commendable," he said. "Vaccination has protected our frontline workers, who could serve the people. In the coming days, we will be extending vaccine protection to everyone," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Virus snatched many loved ones': PM Modi gets emotional

The Indian Ministry of Health said on Thursday that 50 per cent of the country's&nbsp;population isn't wearing a mask despite the gradual ingress of COVID-19 infection being seen in peri-urban, rural &amp; tribal areas. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-black-fungus-or-mucormycosis-symptoms-and-treatment-384366">Also read | What is 'Black Fungus' or 'Mucormycosis'?: Symptoms and treatment</a> 
 
According to the study conducted in 25 Indian cities, out of 50% who wear the mask:- 
 
32% of the people do not cover the nose | 10% have it on the chin |&nbsp;1% wear a mask on the neck and only 7% wear it correctly&nbsp;covering the nose, mouth, chin and with a clip-on nose.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> 
 
Half of India isn't wearing a mask! 
 
Around 50% Indians do not wear a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mask?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mask</a> today, only 7% wear it correctly 
 
- <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> quotes a study conducted in 25 cities <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Unite2FightCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Unite2FightCorona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StaySafe</a> <a href="https://t.co/f85gvG1noQ">pic.twitter.com/f85gvG1noQ</a>
— #IndiaFightsCorona (@COVIDNewsByMIB) <a href="https://twitter.com/COVIDNewsByMIB/status/1395340696546996228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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During the media briefing, health ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal informed that eight states in the country have more than 100,000&nbsp;active cases, 9 states have between 50,000-100,000&nbsp;active cases and 19 states have less than 50,000 active cases.

"Some states like Karnataka and West Bengal that are showing positivity of over 25 per cent which remain a concern," said Luv Agarwal. 
 
Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya Tripura, Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim, Mizoram are states showing a rise in cases and rise in positivity in the last three weeks, the health ministry official said.

India has been jolted by the second wave of coronavirus which has crippled its healthcare system.

Till Thursday, India's total of COVID-19 cases climbed to 2,57,72,440 after reporting 2,76,110 new cases in the last 24 hours while the daily deaths were recorded below 4,000 after four days, taking the toll to 2,87,122, according to the Union Health Ministry data update.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Ministry of Health said on Thursday that 50 per cent of the country's population isn't wearing a mask despite the gradual ingress of COVID-19 infection being seen in peri-urban, rural & tribal areas.

The Indian Ministry of Health said on Thursday that 50 per cent of the country's population isn't wearing a mask despite the gradual ingress of COVID-19 infection being seen in peri-urban, rural & tribal areas. Also read | What is 'Black Fungus' or 'Mucormycosis'?: Symptoms and treatment According to the study conducted in 25 Indian cities, out of 50% who wear the mask:- 32% of the people do not cover the nose | 10% have it on the chin | 1% wear a mask on the neck and only 7% wear it correctly covering the nose, mouth, chin and with a clip-on nose. #IndiaFightsCorona Half of India isn't wearing a mask! Around 50% Indians do not wear a #Mask today, only 7% wear it correctly - @MoHFW_INDIA quotes a study conducted in 25 cities #Unite2FightCorona #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/f85gvG1noQ — #IndiaFightsCorona (@COVIDNewsByMIB) May 20, 2021 × During the media briefing, health ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal informed that eight states in the country have more than 100,000 active cases, 9 states have between 50,000-100,000 active cases and 19 states have less than 50,000 active cases. "Some states like Karnataka and West Bengal that are showing positivity of over 25 per cent which remain a concern," said Luv Agarwal. Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya Tripura, Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim, Mizoram are states showing a rise in cases and rise in positivity in the last three weeks, the health ministry official said. India has been jolted by the second wave of coronavirus which has crippled its healthcare system. Till Thursday, India's total of COVID-19 cases climbed to 2,57,72,440 after reporting 2,76,110 new cases in the last 24 hours while the daily deaths were recorded below 4,000 after four days, taking the toll to 2,87,122, according to the Union Health Ministry data update. (With inputs from agencies)

50% of Indians don't wear a mask, only 7% wear it correctly: Ministry of Health

The whole world today is praying for India and its people, America's top civil rights leader Rev Jesse Jackson said on Wednesday, exuding confidence that the country of Mahatma Gandhi will win the battle against this pandemic.

Chicago-based Civil rights leader Rev Jesse Jackson was in the city here to urge the Biden administration to give 60 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccines to India. At a news conference here, the top American civil rights leader said that he has taken up the issue with both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Karris.

"The whole world today prays for India," he said, expressing his solidarity with the people of India.

The conference was addressed by several Indian American community leaders. In his remarks, Rev Jackson called for raising more funds for the people of India and other countries being impacted by COVID-19.

"We should ask for more vaccination for the world. We need respirators, medicines and vaccines right now," he said.

Eminent Indian-American community leader Dr Bharat Barai thanked Rev Jackson for his initiative. "Vaccination is the right thing to do and is the most important thing to do. This will not only save lives but also prevent the economy from collapsing," he said.

Sunil Singh, chairman of, National Council of Asian Indian Associations, said India is in dire need of vaccines now. "We need vaccines now or never. India handled the first COVID attack last year very well. It has helped 80 countries across the world," he said.

"Now India is in need, and the entire world has come forward to help India. We need more vaccines, and we need them now. Please help us now," he said, adding that the community organizations in the Washington DC area have sent 130 oxygen concentrators.

Entrepreneur Ravi Pulli, the founder of US-India Solidarity Council, urged the Biden administration to provide more help to India as he appreciated the American support so far.

In its most recent update, the Union Health Ministry placed the total number of COVID-19 cases in India at 2,54,96,330 and the death toll at 2,83,248. The ministry said there are 32,26,719 active cases, while 2,19,86,363 people have so far recovered from the infection.

The whole world today is praying for India and its people, America's top civil rights leader Rev Jesse Jackson said on Wednesday, exuding confidence that the country of Mahatma Gandhi will win the battle against this pandemic.

The whole world today is praying for India and its people, America's top civil rights leader Rev Jesse Jackson said on Wednesday, exuding confidence that the country of Mahatma Gandhi will win the battle against this pandemic. Chicago-based Civil rights leader Rev Jesse Jackson was in the city here to urge the Biden administration to give 60 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccines to India. At a news conference here, the top American civil rights leader said that he has taken up the issue with both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Karris. "The whole world today prays for India," he said, expressing his solidarity with the people of India. The conference was addressed by several Indian American community leaders. In his remarks, Rev Jackson called for raising more funds for the people of India and other countries being impacted by COVID-19. "We should ask for more vaccination for the world. We need respirators, medicines and vaccines right now," he said. Eminent Indian-American community leader Dr Bharat Barai thanked Rev Jackson for his initiative. "Vaccination is the right thing to do and is the most important thing to do. This will not only save lives but also prevent the economy from collapsing," he said. Sunil Singh, chairman of, National Council of Asian Indian Associations, said India is in dire need of vaccines now. "We need vaccines now or never. India handled the first COVID attack last year very well. It has helped 80 countries across the world," he said. "Now India is in need, and the entire world has come forward to help India. We need more vaccines, and we need them now. Please help us now," he said, adding that the community organizations in the Washington DC area have sent 130 oxygen concentrators. Entrepreneur Ravi Pulli, the founder of US-India Solidarity Council, urged the Biden administration to provide more help to India as he appreciated the American support so far. In its most recent update, the Union Health Ministry placed the total number of COVID-19 cases in India at 2,54,96,330 and the death toll at 2,83,248. The ministry said there are 32,26,719 active cases, while 2,19,86,363 people have so far recovered from the infection.

Country of Mahatma Gandhi will win battle against pandemic: US civil rights leader

India's COVID-19 death toll on Wednesday climbed to 2,83,248 with a record 4,529 fresh fatalities, the highest toll in a single day for any country in the world since the pandemic began.

With a total of 2,67,334 fresh infections, India's total tally of cases climbed to 2,54,96,330,&nbsp;the Union Health Ministry said.

The active cases dipped to 32,26,719 comprising 12.66 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 86.23 per cent, the data showed.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,19,86,363 while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.11 per cent, the data stated.

India crossed the grim milestone of 20 million on May 4.

According to the ICMR, 32,03,01,177 samples have been tested up to May 18 with 20,08,296 samples being tested on Tuesday.

The 4,529 new fatalities include 1,291 from Maharashtra, 525 from Karnataka, 364 from Tamil Nadu, 265 from Delhi, 255 from Uttar Pradesh, 231 from Punjab, 153 from Chhattisgarh, 146 from Rajasthan, 145 from West Bengal, 124 from Haryana and 111 from Bihar.

A total of 2, 83,248 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 83,777 from Maharashtra, 22,838 from Karnataka, 22,111 from Delhi, 18,369 from Tamil Nadu, 18,072 from Uttar Pradesh, 13,576 from West Bengal, 12,317 from Punjab and 12,036 from Chhattisgarh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 death toll on Wednesday climbed to 2,83,248 with a record 4,529 fresh fatalities, the highest toll in a single day for any country in the world since the pandemic began.

India's COVID-19 death toll on Wednesday climbed to 2,83,248 with a record 4,529 fresh fatalities, the highest toll in a single day for any country in the world since the pandemic began. With a total of 2,67,334 fresh infections, India's total tally of cases climbed to 2,54,96,330, the Union Health Ministry said. The active cases dipped to 32,26,719 comprising 12.66 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 86.23 per cent, the data showed. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,19,86,363 while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.11 per cent, the data stated. India crossed the grim milestone of 20 million on May 4. According to the ICMR, 32,03,01,177 samples have been tested up to May 18 with 20,08,296 samples being tested on Tuesday. The 4,529 new fatalities include 1,291 from Maharashtra, 525 from Karnataka, 364 from Tamil Nadu, 265 from Delhi, 255 from Uttar Pradesh, 231 from Punjab, 153 from Chhattisgarh, 146 from Rajasthan, 145 from West Bengal, 124 from Haryana and 111 from Bihar. A total of 2, 83,248 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 83,777 from Maharashtra, 22,838 from Karnataka, 22,111 from Delhi, 18,369 from Tamil Nadu, 18,072 from Uttar Pradesh, 13,576 from West Bengal, 12,317 from Punjab and 12,036 from Chhattisgarh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India records highest single-day Covid deaths in the world

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