A recent study found that there’s an increase in the proportion of healthy kids who are dieting to reduce their weight. Everybody is so conscious and particular about their weight, and how they look, majorly youngsters. Experts from Oxford University surveyed 34,000 kids on their weight and discovered that the proportion of kids with a healthy body mass index (BMI) has tripled in the previous two decades. In a survey, children were asked if they want to grow, maintain or reduce their weight. Only 5 per cent said they were keen to lose weight when this study began in 1997. But it rose to 14 per cent by the year 2016, Mirror reported.

According to the data, over one in three kids in the United Kingdom is overweight or obese.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/diabetes-drug-helps-people-with-obesity-to-lose-weight-significantly-says-study-485412">Diabetes drug helps people with obesity to lose weight significantly, says study</a>

Children’s health behaviours were tracked while responses from 34,235 children, between the age group of 8 to 17 participated in the Health Survey for England done between the year 1997 to 2016.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: New viral weight loss fad

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Children who were obese has a fourfold increased likelihood of trying to lose weight, and then the proportion of overweight children doing so doubled. Researchers called the study that overweight and obese kids are more likely to shed weight as success.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/weight-loss-surgery-cuts-the-risk-of-developing-cancer-by-37-486408">Weight-loss surgery cuts the risk of developing cancer by 37%</a>

Nearly 26.5 per cent of youngsters, according per the study were attempting to lose weight in the year 2016, per the findings published in Archives of Disease in Childhood. Children between 13 to 17 were more likely to reduce their weight.&nbsp;

According to Tam Fry, chairman of the National obese Forum in conversation with the daily mail said, “The news that more and more children appear to be taking their weight seriously is most welcome but this success must be greeted with a hint of caution. He further added, “It is concerning that children with a healthy weight appear to be 'dieting' and they should be gently told to snap out of it.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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A recent study found that there’s an increase in the proportion of healthy kids who are dieting to reduce their weight. Everybody is so conscious and particular about their weight, and how they look, majorly youngsters.

A recent study found that there’s an increase in the proportion of healthy kids who are dieting to reduce their weight. Everybody is so conscious and particular about their weight, and how they look, majorly youngsters. Experts from Oxford University surveyed 34,000 kids on their weight and discovered that the proportion of kids with a healthy body mass index (BMI) has tripled in the previous two decades. In a survey, children were asked if they want to grow, maintain or reduce their weight. Only 5 per cent said they were keen to lose weight when this study began in 1997. But it rose to 14 per cent by the year 2016, Mirror reported. According to the data, over one in three kids in the United Kingdom is overweight or obese. Also read | Diabetes drug helps people with obesity to lose weight significantly, says study Children’s health behaviours were tracked while responses from 34,235 children, between the age group of 8 to 17 participated in the Health Survey for England done between the year 1997 to 2016. Watch | Gravitas: New viral weight loss fad Children who were obese has a fourfold increased likelihood of trying to lose weight, and then the proportion of overweight children doing so doubled. Researchers called the study that overweight and obese kids are more likely to shed weight as success. Also read | Weight-loss surgery cuts the risk of developing cancer by 37% Nearly 26.5 per cent of youngsters, according per the study were attempting to lose weight in the year 2016, per the findings published in Archives of Disease in Childhood. Children between 13 to 17 were more likely to reduce their weight. According to Tam Fry, chairman of the National obese Forum in conversation with the daily mail said, “The news that more and more children appear to be taking their weight seriously is most welcome but this success must be greeted with a hint of caution. He further added, “It is concerning that children with a healthy weight appear to be 'dieting' and they should be gently told to snap out of it.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

More than quarter healthy teenagers are on diet to lose weight, says study

Another working week of partial lockdown is about to start in Macau after the city decided to extend the shutdown of its casinos and other non-essential companies in an effort to contain its biggest outbreak yet. After reporting more than 1,500 cases in the previous three weeks despite numerous rounds of mandatory mass testing in the city’s population, authorities planned a week of “static control” at the beginning of June. The limitations were supposed to be lifted on Monday, but the number of cases has risen, the Macau govt said that there had been 1,733 cases reported since the outbreak began, AFP reported.&nbsp;

The Macau administration declared a ‘static management’ on Saturday (July 16) and will continue till Friday (July 22).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-macau-announces-shutdown-of-casinos-and-businesses-for-one-week-496110">COVID-19: Macau announces shutdown of casinos and businesses for one week</a>

All residents are required to remain at home, with the exception of going shopping for daily essentials and getting themselves tested for the virus. Violators might face up in prison for two years.

After city officials stated that employers are not required to pay employees during the Covid-related shutdown, this might create financial hardships for the residents.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China gaming shares plunge as Macau shuts all its Casinos to curb Covid spread

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Greater than Las Vegas’ casino industry, Macau’s casino sector contributes to nearly one-fifth of the city’s employment and accounts for more than half of the GDP.

Despite the relatively low number of cases reported each day by international standards, authorities have responded fast to stop transmission in accordance with mainland China’s rigorous zero-Covid policy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macau-uses-two-more-casino-hotels-for-covid-19-medical-facilities-495580">Macau uses two more casino hotels for COVID-19 medical facilities</a>

Macau the city in China where gambling is legal has been some of the world’s strongest anti-measures such as strict border controls, lengthy quarantines, and targeted lockdowns.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Another working week of partial lockdown is about to start in Macau after the city decided to extend the shutdown of its casinos and other non-essential companies in an effort to contain its biggest outbreak yet.

Another working week of partial lockdown is about to start in Macau after the city decided to extend the shutdown of its casinos and other non-essential companies in an effort to contain its biggest outbreak yet. After reporting more than 1,500 cases in the previous three weeks despite numerous rounds of mandatory mass testing in the city’s population, authorities planned a week of “static control” at the beginning of June. The limitations were supposed to be lifted on Monday, but the number of cases has risen, the Macau govt said that there had been 1,733 cases reported since the outbreak began, AFP reported. The Macau administration declared a ‘static management’ on Saturday (July 16) and will continue till Friday (July 22). Also read | COVID-19: Macau announces shutdown of casinos and businesses for one week All residents are required to remain at home, with the exception of going shopping for daily essentials and getting themselves tested for the virus. Violators might face up in prison for two years. After city officials stated that employers are not required to pay employees during the Covid-related shutdown, this might create financial hardships for the residents. Watch | China gaming shares plunge as Macau shuts all its Casinos to curb Covid spread Greater than Las Vegas’ casino industry, Macau’s casino sector contributes to nearly one-fifth of the city’s employment and accounts for more than half of the GDP. Despite the relatively low number of cases reported each day by international standards, authorities have responded fast to stop transmission in accordance with mainland China’s rigorous zero-Covid policy. Also read | Macau uses two more casino hotels for COVID-19 medical facilities Macau the city in China where gambling is legal has been some of the world’s strongest anti-measures such as strict border controls, lengthy quarantines, and targeted lockdowns. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: Macau to extend its partial lockdown for one week

After a gap of 145 days, India recorded a spike in daily COVID-19 instances of over 20,000 and the number of active cases rose to 1,36,076, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry. In the span of 24 hours, a total of 20,139 additional cases were recorded, bringing the overall number of cases to 4,36,89,989. The death toll reached 5,25,557 after 38 fatalities were reported. As per the ministry, the weekly positivity rate was 4.37 per cent and the daily positivity rate was 5.10 per cent. The number of people recovering from illness reached 4,30,28,356 and the case fatality rate has been reported at 1.20 per cent, reported by PTI.

The surge in cases comes after the government encourages people to get a third dose or booster shots with free doses starting this Friday (July 15).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worrying-trend-new-covid-variant-ba275-shows-exponential-increase-in-cases-globally-496623">Worrying trend: New Covid variant BA.2.75 shows ‘exponential’ increase in cases globally</a>

However, of the 38 fatalities reported, 16 were from Kerala, 10 were from Maharashtra, four were in West Bengal, three were in Delhi and one each from Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, and Bihar.

As a part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration, the government declared that vaccine booster shots would be provided free to all adults at government-run facilities beginning from July 15 for next the 75 days.

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-still-not-over-who-warns-as-new-cases-emerge-496937">‘Covid pandemic still not over’, WHO warns as new cases emerge</a>

The Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Twitter appreciated the decision made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the vaccination programme. Mandaviya on his Twitter tweeted for the same.&nbsp;

Narendra Modi on Twitter said that the virus can effectively be combated with vaccination and the cabinet’s motive of increasing vaccination coverage in the country.

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(With inputs from agencies)

After a gap of 145 days, India recorded a spike in daily COVID-19 instances of over 20,000 and the number of active cases rose to 1,36,076, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry.

After a gap of 145 days, India recorded a spike in daily COVID-19 instances of over 20,000 and the number of active cases rose to 1,36,076, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry. In the span of 24 hours, a total of 20,139 additional cases were recorded, bringing the overall number of cases to 4,36,89,989. The death toll reached 5,25,557 after 38 fatalities were reported. As per the ministry, the weekly positivity rate was 4.37 per cent and the daily positivity rate was 5.10 per cent. The number of people recovering from illness reached 4,30,28,356 and the case fatality rate has been reported at 1.20 per cent, reported by PTI. The surge in cases comes after the government encourages people to get a third dose or booster shots with free doses starting this Friday (July 15). Also read | Worrying trend: New Covid variant BA.2.75 shows ‘exponential’ increase in cases globally However, of the 38 fatalities reported, 16 were from Kerala, 10 were from Maharashtra, four were in West Bengal, three were in Delhi and one each from Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, and Bihar. As a part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration, the government declared that vaccine booster shots would be provided free to all adults at government-run facilities beginning from July 15 for next the 75 days. Also read | ‘Covid pandemic still not over’, WHO warns as new cases emerge The Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Twitter appreciated the decision made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the vaccination programme. Mandaviya on his Twitter tweeted for the same. Narendra Modi on Twitter said that the virus can effectively be combated with vaccination and the cabinet’s motive of increasing vaccination coverage in the country. Vaccination is an effective means to fight COVID-19. Today’s Cabinet decision will further India’s vaccination coverage and create a healthier nation. https://t.co/LolQyWjK90 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2022 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India reports over 20,000 cases for first time in 145 days, free booster shots on cards

German researchers recently discovered that patients with monkeypox have high chances for virus load that can be ‘potentially’ contagious. With assistance from the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) and University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), the researchers examined the hospital rooms of two monkeypox. The results were reported in the journal Eurosurveillance, which revealed that all surfaces that the patients’ hands had directly touched viral contamination, with the largest amounts being found in patients' bathrooms and also detected on the fabrics of chairs of patients, IANS reported.

However, it was unknown during the time of the test if and to what extent the patients had touched the surfaces, researchers found viral DNA on “all other investigated surfaces in the patients’ rooms.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-issues-first-situation-report-on-spread-of-monkeypox-495401">WHO issues first situation report on spread of monkeypox</a>

All of the hand-contact locations in the anteroom that were investigated produced positive PCR results. Both the room door handles, placed in the hallway outside the rooms, had DNA traces on them.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Analysts challenge Monkeypox definition as UK patients show different symptoms

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Researchers concluded that there currently is no “definite date” on the viral load required to spread the monkeypox. As per them, the virus was discovered on a number of surfaces, without touching them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-risk-of-monkeypox-spread-in-russia-remains-high-493843">WHO says risk of Monkeypox spread in Russia remains high</a>

Hugh Adler, from the dept of clinical sciences at the Liverpool School of Tropical medicines, said, “absolutely an expected development" and that "outside of very heavily contaminated areas surfaces in the community are not likely to be at high risk for transmission,” IANS reported.&nbsp;

Adler further said, “Monkeypox viral persistence on surfaces is already well known in public health circles, and current public health guidelines for people self-isolating at home include recommendations for how to do laundry and steps to be taken to prevent transmission to household contacts.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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German researchers recently discovered that patients with monkeypox have high chances for virus load that can be ‘potentially’ contagious. With assistance from the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) and University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), the researchers examined the hospital rooms of two monkeypox.

German researchers recently discovered that patients with monkeypox have high chances for virus load that can be ‘potentially’ contagious. With assistance from the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) and University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), the researchers examined the hospital rooms of two monkeypox. The results were reported in the journal Eurosurveillance, which revealed that all surfaces that the patients’ hands had directly touched viral contamination, with the largest amounts being found in patients' bathrooms and also detected on the fabrics of chairs of patients, IANS reported. However, it was unknown during the time of the test if and to what extent the patients had touched the surfaces, researchers found viral DNA on “all other investigated surfaces in the patients’ rooms.” Also read | WHO issues first situation report on spread of monkeypox All of the hand-contact locations in the anteroom that were investigated produced positive PCR results. Both the room door handles, placed in the hallway outside the rooms, had DNA traces on them. Watch | Analysts challenge Monkeypox definition as UK patients show different symptoms Researchers concluded that there currently is no “definite date” on the viral load required to spread the monkeypox. As per them, the virus was discovered on a number of surfaces, without touching them. Also read | WHO says risk of Monkeypox spread in Russia remains high Hugh Adler, from the dept of clinical sciences at the Liverpool School of Tropical medicines, said, “absolutely an expected development" and that "outside of very heavily contaminated areas surfaces in the community are not likely to be at high risk for transmission,” IANS reported. Adler further said, “Monkeypox viral persistence on surfaces is already well known in public health circles, and current public health guidelines for people self-isolating at home include recommendations for how to do laundry and steps to be taken to prevent transmission to household contacts.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Researchers discover that monkeypox patients shed significant virus load that are ‘potentially’ infectious

India reported 16,678 new infection cases, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry on Monday (July 10), taking the number of active cases in the country to 1,30,713 and total number of Covid cases to 4,36,39,329. As per the figures updated at 8 am, the toll increased to 5,25,454 with 26 new fatalities. As per the ministry, the recovery rate was recorded at 98.50 per cent while active cases make up 0.30 per cent of all the infections. In the last 24 hours, there has been an increase of 2,023 cases in the active caseload, reported by PTI.

The death toll reached 5,25,454 with the fatalities reported. Among the 26 fatalities recorded on Monday, 18 are from Kerala, 4 from West Bengal, 2 from Delhi, and 1 each from Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-tackling-particle-pollution-leads-to-upward-push-in-photochemical-smog-495689">Why tackling particle pollution leads to upward push in photochemical smog</a>

The weekly positivity rate was 4.18 per cent, while the daily positivity rate was 5.99 per cent. The number of recovered people from illness is at 4,29,83,162, while the case mortality rate has been reported at 1.20 per cent.

The number of cases recorded in Assam increased to 7,26,541 on Monday as 86 additional people had positive tests, as per official health bulletin. Over the past 24 hours, no new fatalities have been reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-covarscan-a-new-covid-19-test-that-can-detect-all-variants-in-hours-494425">Also read |&nbsp;What is CoVarScan? A new COVID-19 test that can detect all variants in hours</a>

However, three more people tested positive for Covid on Monday, bringing the total number for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to 10,239, as per the official health bulletins.

The number of Covid infections in Maharashtra increased by 272, bringing the total to 7,31,464 as per the health officials on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India reported 16,678 new infection cases, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry on Monday (July 10), taking the number of active cases in the country to 1,30,713 and total number of Covid cases to 4,36,39,329.

India reported 16,678 new infection cases, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry on Monday (July 10), taking the number of active cases in the country to 1,30,713 and total number of Covid cases to 4,36,39,329. As per the figures updated at 8 am, the toll increased to 5,25,454 with 26 new fatalities. As per the ministry, the recovery rate was recorded at 98.50 per cent while active cases make up 0.30 per cent of all the infections. In the last 24 hours, there has been an increase of 2,023 cases in the active caseload, reported by PTI. The death toll reached 5,25,454 with the fatalities reported. Among the 26 fatalities recorded on Monday, 18 are from Kerala, 4 from West Bengal, 2 from Delhi, and 1 each from Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. Also read | Why tackling particle pollution leads to upward push in photochemical smog The weekly positivity rate was 4.18 per cent, while the daily positivity rate was 5.99 per cent. The number of recovered people from illness is at 4,29,83,162, while the case mortality rate has been reported at 1.20 per cent. The number of cases recorded in Assam increased to 7,26,541 on Monday as 86 additional people had positive tests, as per official health bulletin. Over the past 24 hours, no new fatalities have been reported. Also read | What is CoVarScan? A new COVID-19 test that can detect all variants in hours However, three more people tested positive for Covid on Monday, bringing the total number for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to 10,239, as per the official health bulletins. The number of Covid infections in Maharashtra increased by 272, bringing the total to 7,31,464 as per the health officials on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: India reports 16,678 new infections, active cases rise to 1,30,713

In response to a recent increase in infections and hospitalisations across Europe, the European Union health agencies on Monday (July 11), advised a second COVID-19 booster for everyone over 60 as well as medically fragile individuals. Despite the fact that the virus has changed, existing coronavirus vaccinations still offer substantial protection against hospitalisation and death. Since April, the most vulnerable and elderly people have only been advised to receive a second booster. The new advice is anticipated to make it easier for governments to speed up the vaccination programmes, Reuters reported.

In a statement, Andrea Ammon, director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), said, "We are currently seeing increasing COVID-19 case notification rates and an increasing trend in hospital and ICU admissions and occupancy in several countries, mainly driven by the BA 5 sub lineage of the Omicron (coronavirus variant)." She said that providing the elderly and medically fragile a second boost now will prevent a sizable number of hospitalisation and deaths.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-travellers-warned-of-rising-virus-cases-in-europe-495211">COVID-19: Travellers warned of rising virus cases in Europe</a>

In order to tackle the BA.1 Omicron variant, vaccine manufacturers including Moderna Inc. and partners Pfizer Inc. and BioTech have been testing modified versions of their coronavirus vaccines. They observed a reduced immune response against BA.4 and BA.5, despite the fact that they claimed these vaccinations produced a good immune response against the variants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-calls-for-urgent-action-in-europe-to-contain-monkeypox-spread-493613">WHO calls for 'urgent' action in Europe to contain monkeypox spread</a>

The ECDC on Monday further said that currently there is no convincing evidence to recommend the administration of a second booster dosage to people younger than 60 years of age who are not at increased risk of severe infection.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In response to a recent increase in infections and hospitalisations across Europe, the European Union health agencies on Monday (July 11), advised a second COVID-19 booster for everyone over 60 as well as medically fragile individuals.

In response to a recent increase in infections and hospitalisations across Europe, the European Union health agencies on Monday (July 11), advised a second COVID-19 booster for everyone over 60 as well as medically fragile individuals. Despite the fact that the virus has changed, existing coronavirus vaccinations still offer substantial protection against hospitalisation and death. Since April, the most vulnerable and elderly people have only been advised to receive a second booster. The new advice is anticipated to make it easier for governments to speed up the vaccination programmes, Reuters reported. In a statement, Andrea Ammon, director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), said, "We are currently seeing increasing COVID-19 case notification rates and an increasing trend in hospital and ICU admissions and occupancy in several countries, mainly driven by the BA 5 sub lineage of the Omicron (coronavirus variant)." She said that providing the elderly and medically fragile a second boost now will prevent a sizable number of hospitalisation and deaths. Also read | COVID-19: Travellers warned of rising virus cases in Europe In order to tackle the BA.1 Omicron variant, vaccine manufacturers including Moderna Inc. and partners Pfizer Inc. and BioTech have been testing modified versions of their coronavirus vaccines. They observed a reduced immune response against BA.4 and BA.5, despite the fact that they claimed these vaccinations produced a good immune response against the variants. Also read | WHO calls for 'urgent' action in Europe to contain monkeypox spread The ECDC on Monday further said that currently there is no convincing evidence to recommend the administration of a second booster dosage to people younger than 60 years of age who are not at increased risk of severe infection. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: European Union advises second booster for people above 60 years

Hospitals in the United Kingdom are struggling with staff absences, exhaustion, persistent backlogs and issues with discharging patients as Covid infection levels continue to rise. As per the data released by the Office for National Statistics indicates, almost 2.71 million people in the country had Covid in the last week of June, which is an 18 per cent increase from the week prior. According to the report, one in every 25 people in the country was infected with Covid. Hospitalisation in the country is also increasing, which showed that there were 11,316 people with the virus, up from 8,350 on June 23, reported by The Guardian.

As of July 5, there were 3,749 patients in the UK who were hospitalised primarily as a result of the Covid, up from 2,877 from the day prior.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-airways-cuts-10300-more-flights-through-october-due-to-staff-shortages-495297">British Airways cuts 10,300 more flights through October due to staff shortages</a>

Hospital admission for Covid has increased, as per Dr. David Strain, a senior clinical lecturer at the University of Exeter medical school, who said that patients with infection may exhibit respiratory issues or delirium. He further added that the spike in the number of infection cases had also had a drastic effect on labour issues with Brexit, pensions and weariness. According to Strain, issues poised by the rise in infections have been exacerbated by the changes in policy around patient testing and wearing masks in hospitals.

He&nbsp;said, "This wave, which is driven by the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub-variants, started to hit us at exactly the same time that there was significant government pressure to stop wearing masks in hospitals because of the way it appeared. And therefore, for a very brief period, there was a fair amount of in hospital transmission as well."

Patients who have Covid or have been exposed to it cannot be discharged to care facilities, a concern raised by Strain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-causes-covid-brain-fog-this-study-has-answer-may-help-devise-new-treatments-for-long-covid-495123">What causes Covid brain fog? This study has answer; may help devise new treatments for long Covid</a>

Dr. Naru Narayanan, president of HCSA, the doctors’ union, said that they are concerned about the rising cases in the country. He also noted reports of staff absences from growing virus cases across the country.

"NHS staff are already under intense pressure amid a workforce crisis and morale is at rock bottom," he said. He further continued, "Exhausted staff are stepping up to ensure that patient care does not suffer, but every week is a battle to fill rotas. The wisdom of watering down infection control procedures and removing face masks now looks decidedly lacking. "

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hospitals in the United Kingdom are struggling with staff absences, exhaustion, persistent backlogs and issues with discharging patients as Covid infection levels continue to rise.

Hospitals in the United Kingdom are struggling with staff absences, exhaustion, persistent backlogs and issues with discharging patients as Covid infection levels continue to rise. As per the data released by the Office for National Statistics indicates, almost 2.71 million people in the country had Covid in the last week of June, which is an 18 per cent increase from the week prior. According to the report, one in every 25 people in the country was infected with Covid. Hospitalisation in the country is also increasing, which showed that there were 11,316 people with the virus, up from 8,350 on June 23, reported by The Guardian. As of July 5, there were 3,749 patients in the UK who were hospitalised primarily as a result of the Covid, up from 2,877 from the day prior. Also read | British Airways cuts 10,300 more flights through October due to staff shortages Hospital admission for Covid has increased, as per Dr. David Strain, a senior clinical lecturer at the University of Exeter medical school, who said that patients with infection may exhibit respiratory issues or delirium. He further added that the spike in the number of infection cases had also had a drastic effect on labour issues with Brexit, pensions and weariness. According to Strain, issues poised by the rise in infections have been exacerbated by the changes in policy around patient testing and wearing masks in hospitals. He said, "This wave, which is driven by the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub-variants, started to hit us at exactly the same time that there was significant government pressure to stop wearing masks in hospitals because of the way it appeared. And therefore, for a very brief period, there was a fair amount of in hospital transmission as well." Patients who have Covid or have been exposed to it cannot be discharged to care facilities, a concern raised by Strain. Also read | What causes Covid brain fog? This study has answer; may help devise new treatments for long Covid Dr. Naru Narayanan, president of HCSA, the doctors’ union, said that they are concerned about the rising cases in the country. He also noted reports of staff absences from growing virus cases across the country. "NHS staff are already under intense pressure amid a workforce crisis and morale is at rock bottom," he said. He further continued, "Exhausted staff are stepping up to ensure that patient care does not suffer, but every week is a battle to fill rotas. The wisdom of watering down infection control procedures and removing face masks now looks decidedly lacking. " (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: Hospitals in UK struggle with rising infection cases and staff shortage

A weedkilling chemical related to cancer has been found in more than 80 per cent of urine samples collected from kids and adults in a US health research study. As per the research division of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), out of 2,310 samples collected 1,885 had detectable amounts of glyphosate in them. The scientists have labelled the result as ‘disturbing’ and ‘concerning’. Researchers have been detecting the significant concentrations of herbicide glyphosate in human urines samples for years. However, the CDC recently began investigating the extent of the glyphosate exposure in people in US, raising concerns about the effects of pesticides in food and water on humans, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;

Researchers from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine revealed that since Monsanto developed genetically modified crops intended to be sprayed directly with Roundup in the 1990s, the quantity and incidence of glyphosate has been identified and gradually rising in human urine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-in-us-cdc-activates-emergency-operations-unit-493204">Monkeypox in US: CDC activates emergency operations unit</a>

US farmers apply more than 200 million pounds of glyphosate every year. In order to dry out the crops before harvest, the weedkiller chemical is sprayed directly over developed genetically crops and non-developed ones including maize, soyabeans and wheat. Many farmers, especially the ones who cultivate spinach and almond use it on the fields before the growing season. This is probably the most frequent herbicide ever used.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;What is ‘NewBrew’? A beer made from urine

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Many common foods, including baby food produced from cops are sprayed with glyphosate residues. Children’s diets are the main way they are exposed to the chemical. However, as per Monsanto and Bayer, the firm that acquired in 2018, glyphosate and Roundup products are safe and residues in food and human urine and do not posses any health issues. They disagree with numerous scientists and the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer which identifies the chemical as a potential carcinogen since 2015.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-america-heading-towards-its-second-largest-covid-19-wave-495872">Is America heading towards its second-largest Covid-19 wave?</a>

On the other hand, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified the chemical as not likely to be carcinogen. But a federal appeals court ruled against the agency last month, nullifying the safety assessment and directing it to further review the evidence of chemical’s dangers.

Cynthia Curl, assistant professor of community and environmental health at Boise State University, said it is ‘concerning’ that a sizable portion of the population in US is exposed to glyphosate but its unclear how it actually affects people’s health.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A weedkilling chemical related to cancer has been found in more than 80 per cent of urine samples collected from kids and adults in a US health research study. As per the research division of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), out of 2,310 samples collected 1,885 had detectable amounts of glyphosate in them.

A weedkilling chemical related to cancer has been found in more than 80 per cent of urine samples collected from kids and adults in a US health research study. As per the research division of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), out of 2,310 samples collected 1,885 had detectable amounts of glyphosate in them. The scientists have labelled the result as ‘disturbing’ and ‘concerning’. Researchers have been detecting the significant concentrations of herbicide glyphosate in human urines samples for years. However, the CDC recently began investigating the extent of the glyphosate exposure in people in US, raising concerns about the effects of pesticides in food and water on humans, The Guardian reported. Researchers from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine revealed that since Monsanto developed genetically modified crops intended to be sprayed directly with Roundup in the 1990s, the quantity and incidence of glyphosate has been identified and gradually rising in human urine. Also read | Monkeypox in US: CDC activates emergency operations unit US farmers apply more than 200 million pounds of glyphosate every year. In order to dry out the crops before harvest, the weedkiller chemical is sprayed directly over developed genetically crops and non-developed ones including maize, soyabeans and wheat. Many farmers, especially the ones who cultivate spinach and almond use it on the fields before the growing season. This is probably the most frequent herbicide ever used. Watch | What is ‘NewBrew’? A beer made from urine Many common foods, including baby food produced from cops are sprayed with glyphosate residues. Children’s diets are the main way they are exposed to the chemical. However, as per Monsanto and Bayer, the firm that acquired in 2018, glyphosate and Roundup products are safe and residues in food and human urine and do not posses any health issues. They disagree with numerous scientists and the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer which identifies the chemical as a potential carcinogen since 2015. Also read | Is America heading towards its second-largest Covid-19 wave? On the other hand, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified the chemical as not likely to be carcinogen. But a federal appeals court ruled against the agency last month, nullifying the safety assessment and directing it to further review the evidence of chemical’s dangers. Cynthia Curl, assistant professor of community and environmental health at Boise State University, said it is ‘concerning’ that a sizable portion of the population in US is exposed to glyphosate but its unclear how it actually affects people’s health. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 80% of urine samples in US study had weedkilling chemical linked to cancer

The Chinese gambling capital, Macau, announced a weeklong shutdown of casinos and non-essential businesses as it battled its worst Covid outbreak so far.&nbsp; Andre Cheong, one of the top officials, said Macau will go under "static management" for a week starting July 11 and people are required to stay at home. Violators might face up to two years in prison. The city reported 71 new cases on Saturday (July 9), increasing the total infections reported since the beginning of the outbreak to 1,374, a low number by international standards but nevertheless high, reported AFP.

Casinos, which in normal times account for nearly 80 per cent of the government’s earnings, will now have to be closed. Some public services and places like pharmacies and supermarkets can remain open. Despite strict health regulations, the city’s casinos had survived a 15-day closure at the beginning of the pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macau-uses-two-more-casino-hotels-for-covid-19-medical-facilities-495580">Macau uses two more casino hotels for COVID-19 medical facilities</a>

More than 50 per cent of the city’s GDP and nearly one-fifth of the workforce are employed by the casinos, covering an area larger than Las Vegas.

Watch |&nbsp;China: World's biggest gambling hub Macau tests more for covid

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However, this week, after discovering 13 diseases connected to the location, police closed one of Macau’s most renowned casinos, the Grand Lisboa, trapping more than 500 people inside.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macau-locks-down-casino-as-covid-cases-rise-in-worlds-biggest-gambling-hub-494906">Macau locks down casino as Covid cases rise in world's biggest gambling hub</a>

Macau, the only city in China where casino gambling is legal, has seen one of the world’s strongest anti-virus measures, such as strict border controls, targeted lockdowns, and wiping out its essential tourism profits.

Residents of Macau may experience additional financial hardships as a result of an official’s declaration on Saturday (July 9) that employers are not required to pay employees during the Covid-related shutdown.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

The Chinese gambling capital, Macau, announced a weeklong shutdown of casinos and non-essential businesses as it battled its worst Covid outbreak so far. Andre Cheong, one of the top officials, said Macau will go under "static management" for a week starting July 11 and people are required to stay at home.

The Chinese gambling capital, Macau, announced a weeklong shutdown of casinos and non-essential businesses as it battled its worst Covid outbreak so far. Andre Cheong, one of the top officials, said Macau will go under "static management" for a week starting July 11 and people are required to stay at home. Violators might face up to two years in prison. The city reported 71 new cases on Saturday (July 9), increasing the total infections reported since the beginning of the outbreak to 1,374, a low number by international standards but nevertheless high, reported AFP. Casinos, which in normal times account for nearly 80 per cent of the government’s earnings, will now have to be closed. Some public services and places like pharmacies and supermarkets can remain open. Despite strict health regulations, the city’s casinos had survived a 15-day closure at the beginning of the pandemic. Also read | Macau uses two more casino hotels for COVID-19 medical facilities More than 50 per cent of the city’s GDP and nearly one-fifth of the workforce are employed by the casinos, covering an area larger than Las Vegas. Watch | China: World's biggest gambling hub Macau tests more for covid However, this week, after discovering 13 diseases connected to the location, police closed one of Macau’s most renowned casinos, the Grand Lisboa, trapping more than 500 people inside. Also read | Macau locks down casino as Covid cases rise in world's biggest gambling hub Macau, the only city in China where casino gambling is legal, has seen one of the world’s strongest anti-virus measures, such as strict border controls, targeted lockdowns, and wiping out its essential tourism profits. Residents of Macau may experience additional financial hardships as a result of an official’s declaration on Saturday (July 9) that employers are not required to pay employees during the Covid-related shutdown. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: Macau announces shutdown of casinos and businesses for one week

A Chinese ice cream maker has come under scrutiny after people notice that some of the ice cream products do not melt even when they are heated with a blow torch.

Chinese ice-cream that does not melt sparks food safety concerns

Tourists travelling to and from the European continent are advised to take precautions against COVID-19 because cases are on the rise, especially in the popular destination areas. Health officials have warned travellers to take personal accountability and are advocating for the quick reinstatement of the restrictions in some situations. Countries like Greece, Spain, France, and Germany have been reporting an increase in cases. Medical professionals have advised people to receive the full vaccinations- with a double dose and either one or two booster shots, depending on the age factor and health risks before travelling, reported The Guardian.

Greece is one of the nations that has noted an increase in the instances reported recently. As per the health officials, cases are currently concentrated in major tourist areas, with instances primarily affecting people between the age group of 18 and 24. However, wearing a mask is still required in public indoors, such as hospitals and on public transport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-us-researchers-develop-inhalable-vaccine-stable-at-room-temperature-494947">COVID-19: US researchers develop inhalable vaccine stable at room temperature</a>

In Spain, cases have increased by more than 60 per cent. Medical professionals have stated the current level as "alarming" and the local media is reporting that after years of pandemic restrictions and probable conditions for the spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant BA.5, which is assisting in the mergence of a new wave.

Watch |&nbsp;COVID-19 technology used to treat cancer patients

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However, travellers from Germany and Austria are recommended to get covid travel cancellation insurance if they are worried that illness or virus-related cancellations would cause their vacations to be cut short.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/parts-of-europe-are-now-drier-than-they-have-been-in-thousand-years-study-494782">Parts of Europe are now drier than they have been in thousand years: Study</a>

Christian Drosten, a virologist who has been a leading voice in educating Germans about the virus, issued a warning against the advice that was being disseminated on social media, encouraging people to get in touch with the virus in the summer in order to develop an immunity to it in the colder winter months.

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Tourists travelling to and from the European continent are advised to take precautions against COVID-19 because cases are on the rise, especially in the popular destination areas.

Tourists travelling to and from the European continent are advised to take precautions against COVID-19 because cases are on the rise, especially in the popular destination areas. Health officials have warned travellers to take personal accountability and are advocating for the quick reinstatement of the restrictions in some situations. Countries like Greece, Spain, France, and Germany have been reporting an increase in cases. Medical professionals have advised people to receive the full vaccinations- with a double dose and either one or two booster shots, depending on the age factor and health risks before travelling, reported The Guardian. Greece is one of the nations that has noted an increase in the instances reported recently. As per the health officials, cases are currently concentrated in major tourist areas, with instances primarily affecting people between the age group of 18 and 24. However, wearing a mask is still required in public indoors, such as hospitals and on public transport. Also read | COVID-19: US researchers develop inhalable vaccine stable at room temperature In Spain, cases have increased by more than 60 per cent. Medical professionals have stated the current level as "alarming" and the local media is reporting that after years of pandemic restrictions and probable conditions for the spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant BA.5, which is assisting in the mergence of a new wave. Watch | COVID-19 technology used to treat cancer patients However, travellers from Germany and Austria are recommended to get covid travel cancellation insurance if they are worried that illness or virus-related cancellations would cause their vacations to be cut short. Also read | Parts of Europe are now drier than they have been in thousand years: Study Christian Drosten, a virologist who has been a leading voice in educating Germans about the virus, issued a warning against the advice that was being disseminated on social media, encouraging people to get in touch with the virus in the summer in order to develop an immunity to it in the colder winter months. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Travellers warned of rising virus cases in Europe

Researchers in the United States have recently developed an inhalable, self-administered Covid vaccine that is shelf stable at room temperature for up to a duration of three months. The researchers discovered that this delivery mechanism, an exosome produced from the lung and termed LSC-Exo, is more effective for avoiding lung’s lining than the lipid-based nanoparticles currently used. These exosomes are extracellular vesicles that contain metabolites, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, reported by PTI.

The study, written in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering, outlines the process of creating a vaccine prototype that can be used successfully with protein-based vaccines from evidence of concept to animal tests done.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/curevac-sues-biontech-over-covid-vaccine-technology-494798">CureVac sues BioNTech over Covid vaccine technology</a>

According to researchers, a vaccination that is stable at room temperature and could be administered by the patient themselves would significantly minimise waiting time for patients as well as the strain on the medical community during a pandemic. However, they said that in order for it to function by inhalation, the delivery system needs to be reformulated.

Ke Cheng from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill said, "An inhalable vaccine will confer both mucosal and systemic immunity, it is more convenient to store and distribute, and it could be self-administered on a large scale." He further added, "So while there are still challenges associated with scaling up production, we believe that this is a promising vaccine worthy of further research and development."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-covarscan-a-new-covid-19-test-that-can-detect-all-variants-in-hours-494425">What is CoVarScan? A new COVID-19 test that can detect all variants in hours</a>

The researchers sought to overcome a number of difficulties related to vaccination delivery. The first one according to researchers is vaccine taken via intramuscular is less at getting it into the lung system. Second is mRNA vaccines in their present form need to be administered by trained medical staff and kept in the freezer.

Cheng said, "Vaccines can work through various means. For example, mRNA vaccines deliver a script to your cell that instructs it to produce antibodies to the spike protein (which helps the virus to gain entry into a cell)." He further added, "This VLP vaccine, on the other hand, introduces a portion of the spike protein to the body, triggering the immune system to produce antibodies to the spike protein."

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Researchers in the United States have recently developed an inhalable, self-administered Covid vaccine that is shelf stable at room temperature for up to a duration of three months.

Researchers in the United States have recently developed an inhalable, self-administered Covid vaccine that is shelf stable at room temperature for up to a duration of three months. The researchers discovered that this delivery mechanism, an exosome produced from the lung and termed LSC-Exo, is more effective for avoiding lung’s lining than the lipid-based nanoparticles currently used. These exosomes are extracellular vesicles that contain metabolites, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, reported by PTI. The study, written in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering, outlines the process of creating a vaccine prototype that can be used successfully with protein-based vaccines from evidence of concept to animal tests done. Also read | CureVac sues BioNTech over Covid vaccine technology According to researchers, a vaccination that is stable at room temperature and could be administered by the patient themselves would significantly minimise waiting time for patients as well as the strain on the medical community during a pandemic. However, they said that in order for it to function by inhalation, the delivery system needs to be reformulated. Ke Cheng from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill said, "An inhalable vaccine will confer both mucosal and systemic immunity, it is more convenient to store and distribute, and it could be self-administered on a large scale." He further added, "So while there are still challenges associated with scaling up production, we believe that this is a promising vaccine worthy of further research and development." Also read | What is CoVarScan? A new COVID-19 test that can detect all variants in hours The researchers sought to overcome a number of difficulties related to vaccination delivery. The first one according to researchers is vaccine taken via intramuscular is less at getting it into the lung system. Second is mRNA vaccines in their present form need to be administered by trained medical staff and kept in the freezer. Cheng said, "Vaccines can work through various means. For example, mRNA vaccines deliver a script to your cell that instructs it to produce antibodies to the spike protein (which helps the virus to gain entry into a cell)." He further added, "This VLP vaccine, on the other hand, introduces a portion of the spike protein to the body, triggering the immune system to produce antibodies to the spike protein." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: US researchers develop inhalable vaccine stable at room temperature

I started this&nbsp;habit of eating healthy&nbsp;during the country-wide shut down due to the pandemic. We were all home, eating home-cooked meals, scrolling through Instagram feeds, sitting in one place the entire day and gaining body weight.&nbsp;As soon as I realised, I had&nbsp;already added some extra pounds to my body.

Just like we all do, I started cutting down my regular diet without burning any calories. Or in simpler terms, I would say, I started dieting because that’s the easier way out. Here’s where I got it wrong. Dieting isn’t about simply cutting down your food intake. It’s an approach taken to gain vitamins, proteins, minerals, carbs, fats, and all sort of dietary fibres required by the body in a balanced manner.

It isn’t about limiting just fats or carbs but eating a variety of foods obtained naturally and cooked properly. This change in my viewpoint has brought remarkable results.

I started adding an ample amount of fresh vegetables and fruits to my diet. I kept&nbsp;myself hydrated with Green Tea, Cucumber water, Lime juice and Iced Tea. Anti-oxidants present in fresh fruits and tea leaves nourished my body from within and protected it from diseases. And most importantly, they satisfied&nbsp;my cravings for appetizers. Also, I’ve completely cut down my regular sugar intake but I do pamper my sweet tooth with a cupcake or a pastry now and then. I have limited oily food to a certain extent but I enjoy the pleasure of ginger tea and fritters on a rainy evening. I generally eat small portions at regular intervals because an empty gut decreases my productivity and an excessively stuffed one makes me bloated. So I made peace with the segments. Once you divide, you rule! 
 
My point is balancing your daily diet in a smarter way would yield better results rather than sulking on starvation. You don’t need to do Keto, Intermittent or any form of diet in order to stay fit. Your body needs nutrients to function, make sure you know how to provide it. Depriving yourself completely from carbs and fats might help you lose weight faster but won’t be beneficial in the long run. It can affect your mood and make you weak physically.

Stuffing your body with excessive proteins might lead to breakouts and excessive consumption of fibres might lead to bloating and constipation. Even drinking too much water might make you lose electrolytes, thus leading to low sodium levels in the body. The body can perform its best when it’s supplied with all the nutrients in an adequate quantity. Too much of anything might disturb the natural cycle.

Adapting these minor changes in my eating habits has brought a huge transformation in my body. It was my take on staying healthy. You might be having other approaches working well for you. Intermittent fasting has proved beneficial to a lot of people. Many are doing great on Keto diet. Nutritionists are coming up with tons of other ways to stay fit and healthy. Any form of diet is good if it works for your body. The secret is not to overdo it.

I started this habit of eating healthy during the country-wide shut down due to the pandemic. We were all home, eating home-cooked meals, scrolling through Instagram feeds, sitting in one place the entire day and gaining body weight.

I started this habit of eating healthy during the country-wide shut down due to the pandemic. We were all home, eating home-cooked meals, scrolling through Instagram feeds, sitting in one place the entire day and gaining body weight. As soon as I realised, I had already added some extra pounds to my body. Just like we all do, I started cutting down my regular diet without burning any calories. Or in simpler terms, I would say, I started dieting because that’s the easier way out. Here’s where I got it wrong. Dieting isn’t about simply cutting down your food intake. It’s an approach taken to gain vitamins, proteins, minerals, carbs, fats, and all sort of dietary fibres required by the body in a balanced manner. It isn’t about limiting just fats or carbs but eating a variety of foods obtained naturally and cooked properly. This change in my viewpoint has brought remarkable results. I started adding an ample amount of fresh vegetables and fruits to my diet. I kept myself hydrated with Green Tea, Cucumber water, Lime juice and Iced Tea. Anti-oxidants present in fresh fruits and tea leaves nourished my body from within and protected it from diseases. And most importantly, they satisfied my cravings for appetizers. Also, I’ve completely cut down my regular sugar intake but I do pamper my sweet tooth with a cupcake or a pastry now and then. I have limited oily food to a certain extent but I enjoy the pleasure of ginger tea and fritters on a rainy evening. I generally eat small portions at regular intervals because an empty gut decreases my productivity and an excessively stuffed one makes me bloated. So I made peace with the segments. Once you divide, you rule! My point is balancing your daily diet in a smarter way would yield better results rather than sulking on starvation. You don’t need to do Keto, Intermittent or any form of diet in order to stay fit. Your body needs nutrients to function, make sure you know how to provide it. Depriving yourself completely from carbs and fats might help you lose weight faster but won’t be beneficial in the long run. It can affect your mood and make you weak physically. Stuffing your body with excessive proteins might lead to breakouts and excessive consumption of fibres might lead to bloating and constipation. Even drinking too much water might make you lose electrolytes, thus leading to low sodium levels in the body. The body can perform its best when it’s supplied with all the nutrients in an adequate quantity. Too much of anything might disturb the natural cycle. Adapting these minor changes in my eating habits has brought a huge transformation in my body. It was my take on staying healthy. You might be having other approaches working well for you. Intermittent fasting has proved beneficial to a lot of people. Many are doing great on Keto diet. Nutritionists are coming up with tons of other ways to stay fit and healthy. Any form of diet is good if it works for your body. The secret is not to overdo it.

Trick your palate, make up later: Balance your diet for better results

&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;reported 89 new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, taking the total to more than 900 infections since mid-June, as authorities in the world's biggest gambling hub race to contain its largest outbreak since the pandemic began.

More than 13,000 people are under quarantine in the Chinese special administrative region, which has effectively shut down to limit the spread of coronavirus.

The city's more than 600,000 residents are subject to three citywide COVID-19 tests this week, with people also required to take rapid antigen tests in between.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macau-outbreak-more-than-700-people-locked-inside-casino-after-covid-cases-detected-490617">Macau outbreak: More than 700 people locked inside casino after Covid cases detected</a>

While the former Portuguese colony has not introduced a full scale lockdown seen in mainland Chinese cities like Shanghai, most facilities are shut and restaurants can only provide takeaway.

Only&nbsp;Macau's casinos have been allowed to stay open in a move to ensure job security. The government relies on the industry for over 80 per cent&nbsp;&nbsp;of its tax revenue with most of the population employed directly or indirectly by the casino resorts.

While casinos are physically open, there are hardly any gamblers inside and very few staff working, with many employees asked to stay at home, as per the government's request.

Watch |&nbsp;China: World's biggest gambling hub Macau tests more for covid

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The stringent measures come after&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;has been largely Covid-free since an outbreak in October 2021. It still has an open border with mainland China, with its economy firmly hinged to the inflow of Chinese visitors.

Macau&nbsp;adheres to China's "zero-Covid" policy which aims to eradicate all outbreaks, at just about any cost, running counter to a global trend of trying to co-exist with the virus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macau-shuts-most-businesses-amid-covid-outbreak-casinos-stay-open-489848">Macau shuts most businesses amid Covid outbreak, casinos stay open</a>

Its cases are still far below daily infections in other places, including neighbouring Hong Kong where cases have jumped to more than 2,000 a day this month.

However,&nbsp;Macau&nbsp;only has one public hospital, whose services are already stretched on a daily basis. Officials have put up a makeshift hospital next to the city's Las Vegas style Cotai strip to help cope with the rise in cases.

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Macau reported 89 new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, taking the total to more than 900 infections since mid-June, as authorities in the world's biggest gambling hub race to contain its largest outbreak since the pandemic began.

Macau reported 89 new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, taking the total to more than 900 infections since mid-June, as authorities in the world's biggest gambling hub race to contain its largest outbreak since the pandemic began. More than 13,000 people are under quarantine in the Chinese special administrative region, which has effectively shut down to limit the spread of coronavirus. The city's more than 600,000 residents are subject to three citywide COVID-19 tests this week, with people also required to take rapid antigen tests in between. Also read | Macau outbreak: More than 700 people locked inside casino after Covid cases detected While the former Portuguese colony has not introduced a full scale lockdown seen in mainland Chinese cities like Shanghai, most facilities are shut and restaurants can only provide takeaway. Only Macau's casinos have been allowed to stay open in a move to ensure job security. The government relies on the industry for over 80 per cent of its tax revenue with most of the population employed directly or indirectly by the casino resorts. While casinos are physically open, there are hardly any gamblers inside and very few staff working, with many employees asked to stay at home, as per the government's request. Watch | China: World's biggest gambling hub Macau tests more for covid The stringent measures come after Macau has been largely Covid-free since an outbreak in October 2021. It still has an open border with mainland China, with its economy firmly hinged to the inflow of Chinese visitors. Macau adheres to China's "zero-Covid" policy which aims to eradicate all outbreaks, at just about any cost, running counter to a global trend of trying to co-exist with the virus. Also read | Macau shuts most businesses amid Covid outbreak, casinos stay open Its cases are still far below daily infections in other places, including neighbouring Hong Kong where cases have jumped to more than 2,000 a day this month. However, Macau only has one public hospital, whose services are already stretched on a daily basis. Officials have put up a makeshift hospital next to the city's Las Vegas style Cotai strip to help cope with the rise in cases. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Covid-19: Macau outbreak hits more than 900 as infections spread

White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since&nbsp;the coronavirus&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;began.

Banners welcoming the faithful, including the first international visitors&nbsp;since&nbsp;2019, adorned squares and alleys, while armed security forces patrolled the ancient city, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed.

"This is pure joy," Sudanese pilgrim Abdel Qader Kheder told AFP in Mecca, before the event which officially starts Wednesday. "I almost can't believe I am here. I am enjoying every moment."

One&nbsp;million&nbsp;people, including 850,000 from abroad, are allowed at this year's&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;after two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the&nbsp;pandemic. The&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;is one of five pillars of Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims with the means are required to perform at least once.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-pilgrimage-confusion-among-travellers-over-new-saudi-registration-system-492290">Travel cos face losses, applicants confused over Saudi's Hajj registration system</a>

At least 650,000 overseas pilgrims have arrived so far in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, the authorities said on Sunday.

But authorities on Monday barred nearly 100,000 people from entering Mecca, imposing a security cordon around the holy city. A security official said 288 people were arrested and fined for attempting to perform the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;without permits.

In 2019, about 2.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;people took part in the rituals, which also include gathering at Mount Arafat and "stoning the devil" in Mina.

The following year, when the&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;took hold, foreigners were barred and worshippers were restricted to just 10,000 to stop the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;from turning into a global super-spreader.

That figure rose to 60,000 fully vaccinated&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;citizens and residents in 2021.

Pilgrims this year -- only those younger than 65 are allowed -- will participate under strict sanitary conditions.

The&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;has seen numerous disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 people and a 1979 attack by hundreds of gunmen that, according to the official toll, left 153 dead.

Unaccompanied women&nbsp;

On Monday afternoon, pilgrims carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching sun flocked to souvenir and barber shops in Mecca, while others shared meals under palm trees on streets close to the Grand Mosque.

Many new arrivals had already begun performing the first ritual, which requires walking seven times around the Kaaba, the large black cubic structure at the centre of the Grand Mosque.

Made from granite and draped in a cloth featuring verses from the Koran, the Kaaba stands nearly 15 metres (50 feet) tall. It is the structure all Muslims turn towards to pray, no matter where they are in the world.

"When I first saw the Kaaba I felt something weird and started crying," Egyptian pilgrim Mohammed Lotfi told AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post | Saudi Hajj lottery system slammed by pilgrims

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The&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;is a powerful source of prestige for the conservative desert kingdom and its de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is returning from the diplomatic wilderness.

The&nbsp;hajj, which&nbsp;costs at least $5,000 per person, is a money-spinner for the world's&nbsp;biggest&nbsp;oil exporter trying to diversify its economy. In normal years the&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;brings in billions of dollars.

It is also a chance to showcase the kingdom's rapid social transformation, despite persistent complaints about human rights abuses and limits on personal freedoms.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia now allows women to attend the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;unaccompanied by male relatives, a requirement that was dropped last year.

Serenity

Masks are no longer compulsory in most enclosed spaces in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia but they will be mandatory at the Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Pilgrims from abroad will have to submit a negative PCR test result.&nbsp;

The Grand Mosque will be "washed 10 times a day... by more than 4,000 male and female workers", with more than 130,000 litres (34,000 gallons) of disinfectant used each time, authorities said.

Since&nbsp;the start of the&nbsp;pandemic,&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia has registered more than 795,000 coronavirus cases, 9,000 of them fatal, in a population of about 34&nbsp;million.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/saudi-arabia-welcomes-first-foreign-pilgrims-after-covid-hiatus-485076">Saudi Arabia welcomes first foreign pilgrims after COVID-19 hiatus</a>

Aside from Covid, another challenge is the scorching sun in one of the world's hottest and driest regions, where temperatures have already topped 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in parts of&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia.

But Iraqi pilgrim Ahmed Abdul-Hassan al-Fatlawi said the heat is the last thing he thinks of when in Mecca.

"I am 60 years old, so it's normal if I get physically tired because of the hot weather, but I am in a state of serenity, and that's all that matters to me," he told AFP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic began.

White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic began. Banners welcoming the faithful, including the first international visitors since 2019, adorned squares and alleys, while armed security forces patrolled the ancient city, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed. "This is pure joy," Sudanese pilgrim Abdel Qader Kheder told AFP in Mecca, before the event which officially starts Wednesday. "I almost can't believe I am here. I am enjoying every moment." One million people, including 850,000 from abroad, are allowed at this year's hajj after two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the pandemic. The pilgrimage is one of five pillars of Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims with the means are required to perform at least once. Also read | Travel cos face losses, applicants confused over Saudi's Hajj registration system At least 650,000 overseas pilgrims have arrived so far in Saudi Arabia, the authorities said on Sunday. But authorities on Monday barred nearly 100,000 people from entering Mecca, imposing a security cordon around the holy city. A security official said 288 people were arrested and fined for attempting to perform the hajj without permits. In 2019, about 2.5 million people took part in the rituals, which also include gathering at Mount Arafat and "stoning the devil" in Mina. The following year, when the pandemic took hold, foreigners were barred and worshippers were restricted to just 10,000 to stop the hajj from turning into a global super-spreader. That figure rose to 60,000 fully vaccinated Saudi citizens and residents in 2021. Pilgrims this year -- only those younger than 65 are allowed -- will participate under strict sanitary conditions. The hajj has seen numerous disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 people and a 1979 attack by hundreds of gunmen that, according to the official toll, left 153 dead. Unaccompanied women On Monday afternoon, pilgrims carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching sun flocked to souvenir and barber shops in Mecca, while others shared meals under palm trees on streets close to the Grand Mosque. Many new arrivals had already begun performing the first ritual, which requires walking seven times around the Kaaba, the large black cubic structure at the centre of the Grand Mosque. Made from granite and draped in a cloth featuring verses from the Koran, the Kaaba stands nearly 15 metres (50 feet) tall. It is the structure all Muslims turn towards to pray, no matter where they are in the world. "When I first saw the Kaaba I felt something weird and started crying," Egyptian pilgrim Mohammed Lotfi told AFP. Watch | The West Asia Post | Saudi Hajj lottery system slammed by pilgrims The pilgrimage is a powerful source of prestige for the conservative desert kingdom and its de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is returning from the diplomatic wilderness. The hajj, which costs at least $5,000 per person, is a money-spinner for the world's biggest oil exporter trying to diversify its economy. In normal years the pilgrimage brings in billions of dollars. It is also a chance to showcase the kingdom's rapid social transformation, despite persistent complaints about human rights abuses and limits on personal freedoms. Saudi Arabia now allows women to attend the hajj unaccompanied by male relatives, a requirement that was dropped last year. Serenity Masks are no longer compulsory in most enclosed spaces in Saudi Arabia but they will be mandatory at the Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Pilgrims from abroad will have to submit a negative PCR test result. The Grand Mosque will be "washed 10 times a day... by more than 4,000 male and female workers", with more than 130,000 litres (34,000 gallons) of disinfectant used each time, authorities said. Since the start of the pandemic, Saudi Arabia has registered more than 795,000 coronavirus cases, 9,000 of them fatal, in a population of about 34 million. Also read | Saudi Arabia welcomes first foreign pilgrims after COVID-19 hiatus Aside from Covid, another challenge is the scorching sun in one of the world's hottest and driest regions, where temperatures have already topped 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in parts of Saudi Arabia. But Iraqi pilgrim Ahmed Abdul-Hassan al-Fatlawi said the heat is the last thing he thinks of when in Mecca. "I am 60 years old, so it's normal if I get physically tired because of the hot weather, but I am in a state of serenity, and that's all that matters to me," he told AFP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia welcomes 1 million for biggest hajj pilgrimage since pandemic

Humans have left small plastic fragments all over the planet, from oceans to mountains. Every year millions of tonnes of plastic are created using fossil fuels and then the plastic enters the environment and break into tiny particles which choke marine life and the food chain. We have taken these microplastics into our bodies without even knowing the consequences. Plastic pollution places have become so common these days. One such instance of this can be the enormous “Great Pacific Garbage Patch.” As per a shocking analysis released in the same year by the environmental charity WWF, on an average people consume and breathe in up to 5 grammes of plastic per week, reported by AFP.

Scientists recently discovered that plastics exist in the body, it is quite possible that humans have been ingesting plastic though food, drinking and breathing for many years. In 2019, there were 460 million tonnes of plastic consumed, which is twice as much as 20 years earlier and only 10 per cent of it was recycled.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenyan-start-up-remoulds-plastic-into-useful-and-trendy-furniture-493700">Kenyan start-up remoulds plastic into useful and trendy furniture</a>

The United Nations has started a process to create a legally binding agreement to address the global plastic crisis and warned that the world is facing pollution crisis and along with biodiversity and climate crisis.&nbsp;

Jean-Francois Ghiglione, a researcher at the Laboratory of Microbial Oceanography in France in conversation with AFP said, “We did not imagine 10 years ago that there could be so many small microplastics, invisible to the naked eye, and that they were everywhere around us.” He also told that the scientists are currently finding microplastics in several human organs such as lungs, Speen, kidneys and even the placenta.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India to implement single-use plastic ban from July 1

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"Small microplastics invisible to the naked eye have deleterious effects on all the animals that we have studied in the marine environment, or on land," said Ghiglione.

Laura Sadofsky from the Hull York Medical School in the UK in conversation with AFP said that her team found polypropylene and PET (polythene terephthalate) in lung tissues and it was shocking to that how deep it was in the lungs and the size of the particles.&nbsp; 
Bart Koelmans, professor in Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality at Wageningen University said, " People cannot stop breathing, so even if you change your eating habits you will still inhale them. They're everywhere."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ahead-of-un-ocean-conference-mermaids-call-for-ocean-protection-in-portugal-climate-protest-492230">Ahead of UN Ocean conference, mermaids call for ocean protection in Portugal climate protest</a>

One hypothesis that these microplastics could be responsible for human health and certain syndromes. While the health effects of plastic are not known, scientists are aware of the effects of the indoor and outdoor air pollution, which according to the Lancet Commission on pollution experts, resulted in deaths of nearly 6.7 million people in early 2019.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Humans have left small plastic fragments all over the planet, from oceans to mountains. Every year millions of tonnes of plastic are created using fossil fuels and then the plastic enters the environment and break into tiny particles which choke marine life and the food chain.

Humans have left small plastic fragments all over the planet, from oceans to mountains. Every year millions of tonnes of plastic are created using fossil fuels and then the plastic enters the environment and break into tiny particles which choke marine life and the food chain. We have taken these microplastics into our bodies without even knowing the consequences. Plastic pollution places have become so common these days. One such instance of this can be the enormous “Great Pacific Garbage Patch.” As per a shocking analysis released in the same year by the environmental charity WWF, on an average people consume and breathe in up to 5 grammes of plastic per week, reported by AFP. Scientists recently discovered that plastics exist in the body, it is quite possible that humans have been ingesting plastic though food, drinking and breathing for many years. In 2019, there were 460 million tonnes of plastic consumed, which is twice as much as 20 years earlier and only 10 per cent of it was recycled. Also read | Kenyan start-up remoulds plastic into useful and trendy furniture The United Nations has started a process to create a legally binding agreement to address the global plastic crisis and warned that the world is facing pollution crisis and along with biodiversity and climate crisis. Jean-Francois Ghiglione, a researcher at the Laboratory of Microbial Oceanography in France in conversation with AFP said, “We did not imagine 10 years ago that there could be so many small microplastics, invisible to the naked eye, and that they were everywhere around us.” He also told that the scientists are currently finding microplastics in several human organs such as lungs, Speen, kidneys and even the placenta. Watch | India to implement single-use plastic ban from July 1 "Small microplastics invisible to the naked eye have deleterious effects on all the animals that we have studied in the marine environment, or on land," said Ghiglione. Laura Sadofsky from the Hull York Medical School in the UK in conversation with AFP said that her team found polypropylene and PET (polythene terephthalate) in lung tissues and it was shocking to that how deep it was in the lungs and the size of the particles. Bart Koelmans, professor in Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality at Wageningen University said, " People cannot stop breathing, so even if you change your eating habits you will still inhale them. They're everywhere." Also read | Ahead of UN Ocean conference, mermaids call for ocean protection in Portugal climate protest One hypothesis that these microplastics could be responsible for human health and certain syndromes. While the health effects of plastic are not known, scientists are aware of the effects of the indoor and outdoor air pollution, which according to the Lancet Commission on pollution experts, resulted in deaths of nearly 6.7 million people in early 2019. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Eating, drinking and breathing for years: Scientists find microplastics everywhere

National Doctors’ Day is celebrated annually to honour the importance of doctors in people’s lives and communities. It reflects the sacrifices made by the doctors and health staff and the values they bring to the society. Doctors have fought valiantly to save individuals in a variety of circumstances. One such can be the Covid pandemic. Doctors and health staff worked for endless hours with their commitment to help patients in any situation. The value of a doctors to a human health is immeasurable, and the rich traditions of medicine is still in its glory till this&nbsp;day. Doctors are our saviours!

The day is observed on many dates around the world, but in India it is observed on July 1 and is organised by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). The day is also observed in honour of Dr. BC Roy, a former chief minister of West Bengal to recognise his contribution to the society.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-delhis-doctor-family-where-every-member-has-pursued-medical-profession-since-1920-492955">Meet Delhi’s ‘doctor’ family where every member has pursued medical profession since 1920</a>

So, let’s have a look on the background, theme and significance of the day:

Background:

This day was first observed in 1991 to honour Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, who was then the chief minister of West Bengal. This day was set aside for his outstanding contributions to the medical world during the time of his career.&nbsp;He was a well-known doctor and a freedom fighter. He received Bharat Ratna in the year 1961, the highest civilian honour in the country.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Maradona's doctors to be tried for homicide

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Theme:

The theme for this year’s National Doctors Day 2022 is ‘Family Doctors in the Front Line.’ This emphasises the value of doctors who provide care for an entire family or a community.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-tds-rule-for-doctors-and-social-media-influencers-490242">India to introduce new tax rules for social media influencers, doctors</a>

Significance:

In India, we celebrate this day to recognise and thank doctors for these relentless efforts they do to keep us well. Additionally, during the pandemic, all medical professionals saved millions of lives by placing their lives in danger.&nbsp;

This provides a chance for us to acknowledge and applaud the enthusiasm and commitment of medical professionals everywhere.&nbsp; 
The day is observed by number of healthcare organisations and host free medical check-ups, patient awareness campaigns and honorary awards for the medical professionals.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

National Doctors’ Day is celebrated annually to honour the importance of doctors in people’s lives and communities. It reflects the sacrifices made by the doctors and health staff and the values they bring to the society.

National Doctors’ Day is celebrated annually to honour the importance of doctors in people’s lives and communities. It reflects the sacrifices made by the doctors and health staff and the values they bring to the society. Doctors have fought valiantly to save individuals in a variety of circumstances. One such can be the Covid pandemic. Doctors and health staff worked for endless hours with their commitment to help patients in any situation. The value of a doctors to a human health is immeasurable, and the rich traditions of medicine is still in its glory till this day. Doctors are our saviours! The day is observed on many dates around the world, but in India it is observed on July 1 and is organised by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). The day is also observed in honour of Dr. BC Roy, a former chief minister of West Bengal to recognise his contribution to the society. Also read | Meet Delhi’s ‘doctor’ family where every member has pursued medical profession since 1920 So, let’s have a look on the background, theme and significance of the day: Background: This day was first observed in 1991 to honour Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, who was then the chief minister of West Bengal. This day was set aside for his outstanding contributions to the medical world during the time of his career. He was a well-known doctor and a freedom fighter. He received Bharat Ratna in the year 1961, the highest civilian honour in the country. Watch | Gravitas: Maradona's doctors to be tried for homicide Theme: The theme for this year’s National Doctors Day 2022 is ‘Family Doctors in the Front Line.’ This emphasises the value of doctors who provide care for an entire family or a community. Also read | India to introduce new tax rules for social media influencers, doctors Significance: In India, we celebrate this day to recognise and thank doctors for these relentless efforts they do to keep us well. Additionally, during the pandemic, all medical professionals saved millions of lives by placing their lives in danger. This provides a chance for us to acknowledge and applaud the enthusiasm and commitment of medical professionals everywhere. The day is observed by number of healthcare organisations and host free medical check-ups, patient awareness campaigns and honorary awards for the medical professionals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

National Doctors Day 2022: Theme and significance

As the primary pandemic indicators in the country continues to climb, Italy on Thursday (June 30), amended new coronavirus health measures in the workplace.&nbsp; As per the new regulations developed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policies and the Ministry of Health, wearing masks will be made mandatory for people who face certain health concerns or are in places where infections could be raised.These modification in guidelines comes after the Covid situation in Italy got worse recently. The guidelines encourage “smart working” which includes working from home rather, as well as staggered entry, exit times for employees in workplace and common places such as changing rooms and food dispensaries, reported by ANI.

Employees with body temperatures over 37.5 degrees Celsius are prohibited from accessing workplaces as per the guidelines issued for private organisations. Any employee who exhibits flu-like symptoms is obligated to notify his or her employer “timely.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/before-and-after-satellite-images-show-how-italys-po-river-shrunk-between-2020-and-2022-492702">Before and after satellite images show how Italy's Po river shrunk between 2020 and 2022</a>

The country recorded more than 83,000 cases on Thursday (June 30) and over 94,000 cases on Wednesday (June 29).&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Italy's heat wave to get worse

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Gimbe Foundation, a health monitoring organisation issued a report on Thursday (June 30) as per which the Covid infections throughout the country increased by over 50 per cent during previous week. The organisation also noted on the basis of data released by Health Ministry that the throughout the same time period, the hospitalisation got increased by 25 per cent.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abortion-in-italy-is-legal-but-finding-one-is-hard-488006">Abortion in Italy is legal, but finding one is hard</a>

In the meantime, the weekly fatality rate increased by 16 per cent and the number of patients in intensive care units increased by 15 per cent.&nbsp;

However, the primary indices are still below the peaks reached earlier in the pandemic.

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(With inputs from agencies)

As the primary pandemic indicators in the country continues to climb, Italy on Thursday (June 30), amended new coronavirus health measures in the workplace. As per the new regulations developed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policies and the Ministry of Health, wearing masks will be made mandatory for people who face certain health concerns or are in places where infections could be raised.

As the primary pandemic indicators in the country continues to climb, Italy on Thursday (June 30), amended new coronavirus health measures in the workplace. As per the new regulations developed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policies and the Ministry of Health, wearing masks will be made mandatory for people who face certain health concerns or are in places where infections could be raised.These modification in guidelines comes after the Covid situation in Italy got worse recently. The guidelines encourage “smart working” which includes working from home rather, as well as staggered entry, exit times for employees in workplace and common places such as changing rooms and food dispensaries, reported by ANI. Employees with body temperatures over 37.5 degrees Celsius are prohibited from accessing workplaces as per the guidelines issued for private organisations. Any employee who exhibits flu-like symptoms is obligated to notify his or her employer “timely.” Also read | Before and after satellite images show how Italy's Po river shrunk between 2020 and 2022 The country recorded more than 83,000 cases on Thursday (June 30) and over 94,000 cases on Wednesday (June 29). Watch | Italy's heat wave to get worse Gimbe Foundation, a health monitoring organisation issued a report on Thursday (June 30) as per which the Covid infections throughout the country increased by over 50 per cent during previous week. The organisation also noted on the basis of data released by Health Ministry that the throughout the same time period, the hospitalisation got increased by 25 per cent. Also read | Abortion in Italy is legal, but finding one is hard In the meantime, the weekly fatality rate increased by 16 per cent and the number of patients in intensive care units increased by 15 per cent. However, the primary indices are still below the peaks reached earlier in the pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Italy modifies health regulations as the pandemic situation deteriorates

There is a sharp increase in average screen time by children during the pandemic. But it has a harmful impact on Children's health. Spending more time online increases the risk of depression.

Increased screen time for children has a harmful impact on Children's health

The Austrian government said Thursday it will&nbsp;scrap&nbsp;the country's controversial policy of&nbsp;mandatory&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;against the coronavirus, just&nbsp;months&nbsp;after&nbsp;it&nbsp;became&nbsp;law.&nbsp;

The measure -- which was an EU first -- came into legal effect at the beginning of February and the first checks had been planned for mid-March, with those refusing to get the jab facing fines of up to 3,600 euros ($4,100).

However, the measure was suspended in March before any checks took place, with the government saying such a far-reaching measure could no longer be justified by the danger the coronavirus posed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austrian-chancellor-nehammer-to-tell-russian-president-putin-truth-about-ukraines-invasion-470226">Austrian Chancellor Nehammer becomes first European leader to meet Russian President Putin in Moscow</a>

Health Minister Johannes Rauch told a press conference that the measure had caused deep divisions in the country of nine million and said that the element of compulsion had even deterred some people from getting the jab.

"The mandate isn't bringing anyone to get vaccinated," he said.

The Omicron variant had also "changed the rules", Rauch added, as the wave driven by that variant tended to lead to cases with milder symptoms.

Watch |&nbsp;'SOS Neusiedl Lake' event in Austria

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The mandate had applied to all over-18s except pregnant women, those who had the virus fewer than 180 days prior and those with medical exemptions.

August Woeginger, head of the parliamentary grouping of the ruling People's Party (OeVP), told the same press conference he expected the&nbsp;law&nbsp;mandating compulsory&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;to be repealed in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pics-series-of-avalanche-hit-austria-8-people-killed-multiple-injured-450991">Pics: Series of avalanche hit Austria; 8 people killed, multiple injured</a>

Ever since it was first floated last year as a way of boosting&nbsp;Austria's&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;rate, the prospect of compulsory&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;prompted frequent street protests drawing tens of thousands of people.

Current official figures show just 62 per cent of the population currently have a valid&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;certificate, lagging behind many other Western European countries.

More than 18,700 people have died&nbsp;after&nbsp;contracting the virus in&nbsp;Austria.

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The Austrian government said Thursday it will scrap the country's controversial policy of mandatory vaccination against the coronavirus, just months after it became law.

The Austrian government said Thursday it will scrap the country's controversial policy of mandatory vaccination against the coronavirus, just months after it became law. The measure -- which was an EU first -- came into legal effect at the beginning of February and the first checks had been planned for mid-March, with those refusing to get the jab facing fines of up to 3,600 euros ($4,100). However, the measure was suspended in March before any checks took place, with the government saying such a far-reaching measure could no longer be justified by the danger the coronavirus posed. Also read | Austrian Chancellor Nehammer becomes first European leader to meet Russian President Putin in Moscow Health Minister Johannes Rauch told a press conference that the measure had caused deep divisions in the country of nine million and said that the element of compulsion had even deterred some people from getting the jab. "The mandate isn't bringing anyone to get vaccinated," he said. The Omicron variant had also "changed the rules", Rauch added, as the wave driven by that variant tended to lead to cases with milder symptoms. Watch | 'SOS Neusiedl Lake' event in Austria The mandate had applied to all over-18s except pregnant women, those who had the virus fewer than 180 days prior and those with medical exemptions. August Woeginger, head of the parliamentary grouping of the ruling People's Party (OeVP), told the same press conference he expected the law mandating compulsory vaccination to be repealed in the coming weeks. Also read | Pics: Series of avalanche hit Austria; 8 people killed, multiple injured Ever since it was first floated last year as a way of boosting Austria's vaccination rate, the prospect of compulsory vaccination prompted frequent street protests drawing tens of thousands of people. Current official figures show just 62 per cent of the population currently have a valid vaccination certificate, lagging behind many other Western European countries. More than 18,700 people have died after contracting the virus in Austria. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Austria to scrap mandatory Covid vaccination, just months after making it a law

While it's extremely important to look after your skin, be on the alert for these substances, as they can affect not only your skin but your entire body. Look for these specific materials withinside the commodities and keep away from them. These harmful substances include:

FRAGRANCE:

Both natural and synthetic perfumes have the potential to irritate your skin. Fragrances are one of the major causes of contact dermatitis, a skin condition in which your skin becomes red and inflamed after coming into contact with an irritant.

Artificial scents are made up of a combination of chemicals that can irritate your skin, such as solvents and preservatives. Because of the volatility of the chemicals used to produce them, they have even been known to induce skin disorders including eczema and psoriasis.

 
PARABENS:

Preservatives like parabens are used in skin care products to make them stay longer. The use of parabens in cosmetics is completely safe and poses no severe health risks. It can, however, easily pass through your skin and into your body. They can cause problems because they stay in your body's tissues and fluids. By functioning similarly to estrogen, a hormone that is vital for women's reproductive health, parabens may also disrupt hormone production.

&nbsp;

FORMALDEHYDE

In skincare, formaldehyde is frequently used as a preservative. It's a colourless gas that is used to keep bacteria from expanding and growing. Nail polishes, hair straightening treatments, hair gels, nail hardeners, shampoos, deodorants, lotions, and makeup all contain formaldehyde. It's linked to developmental toxins, hair loss, scalp burns, asthma, and neurotoxicity, among other things. Formaldehyde can cause dizziness and unconsciousness when inhaled.

PHTHALATES

Diethyl phthalate is the most frequent form of phthalate found in skincare products (DEP). DEP helps the penetration and absorption of skin-care products like our moisturizers and creams. DEP is used to help the scent linger for long hours in various products.&nbsp;According to the FDA, even at the highest levels, phthalates found in skincare products pose no substantial health hazards. Phthalates, on the other hand, are known endocrine disruptors. This means they may interfere with our hormones' regular functions in our bodies.

PETROLATUM

Petrolatum is a softening agent that is ideal for dry skin. Petrolatum is found in lip balms and moisturizers. It provides a barrier that keeps water from escaping while also preventing moisture from the air from being absorbed. Your skin will ultimately dry out, which is why you'll be inclined to reapply your lip balm.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Look out for these ingredients the next time you go out shopping. A habit of reading ingredients before buying any product is definitely going to save you a doctor’s visit!

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

While it's extremely important to look after your skin, be on the alert for these substances, as they can affect not only your skin but your entire body. Look for these specific materials withinside the commodities and keep away from them.

While it's extremely important to look after your skin, be on the alert for these substances, as they can affect not only your skin but your entire body. Look for these specific materials withinside the commodities and keep away from them. These harmful substances include: FRAGRANCE: Both natural and synthetic perfumes have the potential to irritate your skin. Fragrances are one of the major causes of contact dermatitis, a skin condition in which your skin becomes red and inflamed after coming into contact with an irritant. Artificial scents are made up of a combination of chemicals that can irritate your skin, such as solvents and preservatives. Because of the volatility of the chemicals used to produce them, they have even been known to induce skin disorders including eczema and psoriasis. PARABENS: Preservatives like parabens are used in skin care products to make them stay longer. The use of parabens in cosmetics is completely safe and poses no severe health risks. It can, however, easily pass through your skin and into your body. They can cause problems because they stay in your body's tissues and fluids. By functioning similarly to estrogen, a hormone that is vital for women's reproductive health, parabens may also disrupt hormone production. FORMALDEHYDE In skincare, formaldehyde is frequently used as a preservative. It's a colourless gas that is used to keep bacteria from expanding and growing. Nail polishes, hair straightening treatments, hair gels, nail hardeners, shampoos, deodorants, lotions, and makeup all contain formaldehyde. It's linked to developmental toxins, hair loss, scalp burns, asthma, and neurotoxicity, among other things. Formaldehyde can cause dizziness and unconsciousness when inhaled. PHTHALATES Diethyl phthalate is the most frequent form of phthalate found in skincare products (DEP). DEP helps the penetration and absorption of skin-care products like our moisturizers and creams. DEP is used to help the scent linger for long hours in various products. According to the FDA, even at the highest levels, phthalates found in skincare products pose no substantial health hazards. Phthalates, on the other hand, are known endocrine disruptors. This means they may interfere with our hormones' regular functions in our bodies. PETROLATUM Petrolatum is a softening agent that is ideal for dry skin. Petrolatum is found in lip balms and moisturizers. It provides a barrier that keeps water from escaping while also preventing moisture from the air from being absorbed. Your skin will ultimately dry out, which is why you'll be inclined to reapply your lip balm. Look out for these ingredients the next time you go out shopping. A habit of reading ingredients before buying any product is definitely going to save you a doctor’s visit! (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Your skin care products will be the death of you!

The World Health Organization is convening a meeting on Thursday (June 23) to discuss whether the monkeypox outbreak to be declared a global emergency like COVID-19. Some experts on the other hand believe that the world organisation’s decisions are acted upon only after the disease spread to the West and could further create inequities that earlier emerged during the coronavirus pandemic. Declaring monkeypox outbreak as a global emergency would signal that the organisation views it as an ‘exceptional event’ and a danger that the illness might cross international borders, reported AP.

Currently most of the monkeypox cases are documented from wealthy nations that are taking rapid steps to stop it, even as many scientists are sceptical that such proclamations will help in stopping the epidemic.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-records-first-recent-case-of-monkeypox-in-a-british-flight-attendant-490715">Singapore reports first case of monkeypox in a flight attendant</a>

Oyewale Tomori, a Nigerian virologist who attends several WHO advisory panels said, “If WHO was really worried about monkeypox spread, they could have convened their emergency committee years ago when it re-emerged in Nigeria in 2017 and no one knew why we suddenly had hundreds of cases.” He further said that WHO only consults its experts after the illness reaches in white nations.

Watch |&nbsp;WHO to rename Monkeypox, scientists call for a non discriminatory name

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According to David Fidler, a senior fellow in global health at the Council on Foreign Relations said, “There may be legitimate reasons why WHO only raised the alarm when monkeypox spread to rich countries, but to poor countries, that looks like a double standard,.” He further added that the global community was still struggling to ensure the world's poor were vaccinated against the coronavirus and that it was unclear if Africans even wanted monkeypox vaccines, given competing priorities like malaria and HIV.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-virus-cdc-issues-sex-guidelines-on-monkeypox-why-india-should-get-battle-ready-for-monkeypox-490589">Monkeypox Virus: CDC issues sex guidelines on Monkeypox. Why India should get battle ready for Monkeypox</a>

More than 3,300 cases of monkeypox have been confirmed by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention so far in 42 nations where the virus is uncommon. Amongst which, Europe accounts for more than 80 per cent of the instances. Over 1,400 cases including 62 fatalities have already been reported in Africa this year.&nbsp;

Monkeypox had not previously produced sizable epidemic outside Africa until this month. However, the scientists haven’t discovered any significant genetic alterations in the virus.

A senior WHO consultant stated last month that the recent spike in infections in Europe is probably caused by gay males engaging in sexual activity in Spain and Belgium.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization is convening a meeting on Thursday (June 23) to discuss whether the monkeypox outbreak to be declared a global emergency like COVID-19.

The World Health Organization is convening a meeting on Thursday (June 23) to discuss whether the monkeypox outbreak to be declared a global emergency like COVID-19. Some experts on the other hand believe that the world organisation’s decisions are acted upon only after the disease spread to the West and could further create inequities that earlier emerged during the coronavirus pandemic. Declaring monkeypox outbreak as a global emergency would signal that the organisation views it as an ‘exceptional event’ and a danger that the illness might cross international borders, reported AP. Currently most of the monkeypox cases are documented from wealthy nations that are taking rapid steps to stop it, even as many scientists are sceptical that such proclamations will help in stopping the epidemic. Also read | Singapore reports first case of monkeypox in a flight attendant Oyewale Tomori, a Nigerian virologist who attends several WHO advisory panels said, “If WHO was really worried about monkeypox spread, they could have convened their emergency committee years ago when it re-emerged in Nigeria in 2017 and no one knew why we suddenly had hundreds of cases.” He further said that WHO only consults its experts after the illness reaches in white nations. Watch | WHO to rename Monkeypox, scientists call for a non discriminatory name According to David Fidler, a senior fellow in global health at the Council on Foreign Relations said, “There may be legitimate reasons why WHO only raised the alarm when monkeypox spread to rich countries, but to poor countries, that looks like a double standard,.” He further added that the global community was still struggling to ensure the world's poor were vaccinated against the coronavirus and that it was unclear if Africans even wanted monkeypox vaccines, given competing priorities like malaria and HIV. Also read | Monkeypox Virus: CDC issues sex guidelines on Monkeypox. Why India should get battle ready for Monkeypox More than 3,300 cases of monkeypox have been confirmed by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention so far in 42 nations where the virus is uncommon. Amongst which, Europe accounts for more than 80 per cent of the instances. Over 1,400 cases including 62 fatalities have already been reported in Africa this year. Monkeypox had not previously produced sizable epidemic outside Africa until this month. However, the scientists haven’t discovered any significant genetic alterations in the virus. A senior WHO consultant stated last month that the recent spike in infections in Europe is probably caused by gay males engaging in sexual activity in Spain and Belgium. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO considers declaring monkeypox a global emergency

According to the recently released Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules in India, couples who wish to become parents through surrogacy must get general health insurance coverage for a surrogate mother for a duration of 36 months. This insurance should cover sufficient pay for pregnancy-related issues or any complications faced by the surrogate. 
 
The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 came into force this year on January 25th. The Union Health Ministry in addition to this said that no surrogacy procedure should be attempted more than three times on the surrogate mother in a single cycle, reported by PTI.

However, the surrogate mother may be allowed for an abortion during the surrogacy process as per the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act of 1971.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-tds-rule-for-doctors-and-social-media-influencers-490242">India to introduce new tax rules for social media influencers, doctors</a>

During the surrogacy procedures, cost of surrogacy clinic, the rules also stated the qualification and requirements for individuals working at a licensed surrogacy clinic. The rules also specify the structure of the surrogate mother’s permission form.&nbsp;

In this regard, the intended couple or woman must provide an affidavit as a guarantee of payment for all medical costs, health problems, surrogate mother’s personal loss, any sort of damage or illness as well as any other expenses that must be paid for the surrogate mother during the surrogacy procedure.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/13-mm-long-robot-fish-designed-by-scientists-to-eat-microplastics-in-oceans-490807">13-mm-long robot-fish designed by scientists to ‘eat’ microplastics in oceans</a>

A woman can opt for surrogacy if her uterus is missing or abnormal uterus, surgically removed uterus. One can choose not to participate if, among other things, they have experienced may pregnancies lost due to some unknown medical causes or if pregnancy poses a risk to her life.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)

According to the recently released Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules in India, couples who wish to become parents through surrogacy must get general health insurance coverage for a surrogate mother for a duration of 36 months.

According to the recently released Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules in India, couples who wish to become parents through surrogacy must get general health insurance coverage for a surrogate mother for a duration of 36 months. This insurance should cover sufficient pay for pregnancy-related issues or any complications faced by the surrogate. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 came into force this year on January 25th. The Union Health Ministry in addition to this said that no surrogacy procedure should be attempted more than three times on the surrogate mother in a single cycle, reported by PTI. However, the surrogate mother may be allowed for an abortion during the surrogacy process as per the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act of 1971. Also read | India to introduce new tax rules for social media influencers, doctors During the surrogacy procedures, cost of surrogacy clinic, the rules also stated the qualification and requirements for individuals working at a licensed surrogacy clinic. The rules also specify the structure of the surrogate mother’s permission form. In this regard, the intended couple or woman must provide an affidavit as a guarantee of payment for all medical costs, health problems, surrogate mother’s personal loss, any sort of damage or illness as well as any other expenses that must be paid for the surrogate mother during the surrogacy procedure. Also read | 13-mm-long robot-fish designed by scientists to ‘eat’ microplastics in oceans A woman can opt for surrogacy if her uterus is missing or abnormal uterus, surgically removed uterus. One can choose not to participate if, among other things, they have experienced may pregnancies lost due to some unknown medical causes or if pregnancy poses a risk to her life. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Couples choosing surrogacy should buy 36 months health insurance for surrogate mother

#InternationalYogaDay2022: World celebrates health- see pics

#InternationalYogaDay2022: India's holistic approach towards health- see pics

June 21 is observed as International Yoga Day (IDY) around the world, following its establishments at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, when the global organisation acknowledged multiple advantages of yoga.&nbsp; Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed June 21 as the date for Yoga Day at the United Nations, noting that it is the longest day of the year.

What's the topic of this year's Yoga Day?

The topic for this year’s Yoga Day is ‘Yoga for Humanity,’ which focuses on how yoga helps people in achieving holistic health. The theme also depicts how yoga has helped humanity during the peak of the Covid pandemic by easing suffering. The Indian prime minister talked about this subject in his ‘Mann ki Baat.’

What is meaning of Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient Indian physical, mental and spiritual discipline that dates back thousands of years. The word ‘Yoga’ is a Sanskrit word that means “to connect” or “to merge,” and represents integration of body and consciousness. Yoga is now performed globally in various forms all around the world and is still growing in its popularity.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-swami-sivananda-a-125-year-old-yoga-guru-receives-padma-shri-pm-modis-reaction-is-unmissable-464517">Watch: Swami Sivananda, a 125-year-old yoga guru receives Padma Shri; PM Modi's reaction is unmissable</a>

India proposed the draftt resolution of creating International Yoga Day, which was endorsed by175 UN member states. The Indian Prime Minister mentioned this during the 69th session of the general Assembly, saying, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action ... a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.”

Watch |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Meet the woman, Nouf Marwaai, who brought yoga to Saudi Arabia

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The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a human disaster unlike any other. Other than its immediate impact on the physical health, the pandemic intensified psychological distress and mental health problems like anxiety, sadness in many countries. This underlined the importance of addressing both mental and physical health components of the pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-soldiers-perform-yoga-at-15000-feet-in-snow-capped-himalayas-475014">Watch | Indian soldiers perform yoga at 15,000 feet in snow-capped Himalayas</a>

During the pandemic, people around the world turned to yoga to stay fit and revitalised as well as combat social isolation and sadness. It helps in calming with concerns and anxiety.&nbsp;

Not just this, Yoga is also helping Covid patients in quarantine and isolation psychological treatment and rehabilitation.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

June 21 is observed as International Yoga Day (IDY) around the world, following its establishments at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, when the global organisation acknowledged multiple advantages of yoga.

June 21 is observed as International Yoga Day (IDY) around the world, following its establishments at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, when the global organisation acknowledged multiple advantages of yoga. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed June 21 as the date for Yoga Day at the United Nations, noting that it is the longest day of the year. What's the topic of this year's Yoga Day? The topic for this year’s Yoga Day is ‘Yoga for Humanity,’ which focuses on how yoga helps people in achieving holistic health. The theme also depicts how yoga has helped humanity during the peak of the Covid pandemic by easing suffering. The Indian prime minister talked about this subject in his ‘Mann ki Baat.’ What is meaning of Yoga? Yoga is an ancient Indian physical, mental and spiritual discipline that dates back thousands of years. The word ‘Yoga’ is a Sanskrit word that means “to connect” or “to merge,” and represents integration of body and consciousness. Yoga is now performed globally in various forms all around the world and is still growing in its popularity. Also read | Watch: Swami Sivananda, a 125-year-old yoga guru receives Padma Shri; PM Modi's reaction is unmissable India proposed the draftt resolution of creating International Yoga Day, which was endorsed by175 UN member states. The Indian Prime Minister mentioned this during the 69th session of the general Assembly, saying, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action ... a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.” Watch | WION Exclusive: Meet the woman, Nouf Marwaai, who brought yoga to Saudi Arabia The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a human disaster unlike any other. Other than its immediate impact on the physical health, the pandemic intensified psychological distress and mental health problems like anxiety, sadness in many countries. This underlined the importance of addressing both mental and physical health components of the pandemic. Also read | Watch | Indian soldiers perform yoga at 15,000 feet in snow-capped Himalayas During the pandemic, people around the world turned to yoga to stay fit and revitalised as well as combat social isolation and sadness. It helps in calming with concerns and anxiety. Not just this, Yoga is also helping Covid patients in quarantine and isolation psychological treatment and rehabilitation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

International Yoga Day 2022: ‘Yoga for Humanity’ a mission to achieve holistic health

India on Monday logged 12,781 fresh COVID-19 cases that pushed its infection tally to 4,33,09,473, while the daily positivity rate went past 4 per cent after 130 days, according to Union health ministry data.

The death toll climbed to 5,24,873 with 18 new fatalities. The number of active cases increased to 76,700, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 4.32 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 2.62 per cent, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-12899-new-cases-and-15-deaths-489539">COVID-19: India records 12,899 new cases and 15 deaths</a>

The active cases comprise 0.18 per cent of the total infections. The national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.61 per cent, it said.

An increase of 4,226 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Watch |&nbsp;India witnesses surge in covid cases, positivity rate stands at 2.73%

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The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,27,07,900, while the case fatality rate stood at 1.21 per cent, the ministry said.

So far, 196.18 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered in the country under the nationwide inoculation drive.

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the 1-crore mark on December 19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fresh-fears-of-4th-wave-india-logs-12000-covid-cases-for-2nd-day-in-a-row-489218">Fresh fears of 4th wave? India logs 12,000+ Covid cases for 2nd day in a row</a>

India crossed the grim milestone of 2 crore on May 4, 3 crore on June 23 and 4 crore on January 25 this year.

The 18 new fatalities include 11 from Kerala, three from Delhi and one each from Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab and West Bengal.

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India on Monday logged 12,781 fresh COVID-19 cases that pushed its infection tally to 4,33,09,473, while the daily positivity rate went past 4 per cent after 130 days, according to Union health ministry data.

India on Monday logged 12,781 fresh COVID-19 cases that pushed its infection tally to 4,33,09,473, while the daily positivity rate went past 4 per cent after 130 days, according to Union health ministry data. The death toll climbed to 5,24,873 with 18 new fatalities. The number of active cases increased to 76,700, the data updated at 8 am stated. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 4.32 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 2.62 per cent, the ministry said. Also read | COVID-19: India records 12,899 new cases and 15 deaths The active cases comprise 0.18 per cent of the total infections. The national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.61 per cent, it said. An increase of 4,226 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Watch | India witnesses surge in covid cases, positivity rate stands at 2.73% The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,27,07,900, while the case fatality rate stood at 1.21 per cent, the ministry said. So far, 196.18 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered in the country under the nationwide inoculation drive. India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the 1-crore mark on December 19. Also read | Fresh fears of 4th wave? India logs 12,000+ Covid cases for 2nd day in a row India crossed the grim milestone of 2 crore on May 4, 3 crore on June 23 and 4 crore on January 25 this year. The 18 new fatalities include 11 from Kerala, three from Delhi and one each from Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab and West Bengal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: India adds 12,781 cases, positivity rate over 4% after 130 days

For Jiratti Kuttanam,&nbsp;Thailand's relaxation of&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;restrictions meant one thing above all - a&nbsp;cheaper&nbsp;supply of the products she uses to manage the pain and sickness caused by her breast cancer treatments.

Thailand&nbsp;last week became the first Asian country to legalise the growing and private consumption of marijuana, a move authorities said would boost agriculture by giving farmers a valuable new cash crop.

Jiratti, 42, said she and other&nbsp;patients&nbsp;would also feel the benefits closer to home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-gather-to-smoke-up-at-thailands-first-legal-cannabis-festival-487790">Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival</a>

Medical marijuana has been legal there since 2018. But, before the law change, she had to rely on pricy foreign imports. Some&nbsp;patients&nbsp;went to illegal dealers.

Imported&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;buds used to cost up to 700 baht ($20) per gram, but prices have since halved, Jiratti said.

Watch |&nbsp;Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use?

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"I've been taking&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;regularly so I don't have to feel pain," she said as she shredded and boiled marijuana leaves to make infused tea, filling her one-bedroom Bangkok apartment with its distinctive smell.

She was diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer five years ago. Two years later she started using&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;oil and other products to ease the pain, vomiting, fatigue and anxiety she suffered after chemotherapy.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-giving-away-one-million-marijuana-plants-to-develop-as-cash-crop-486934">Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop</a>

A legal, local crop would mean a more reliable supply of those products - a good thing as long as&nbsp;patients&nbsp;know how to use them, she said.

"I think you need education. You need to study how to use it ... the right way. It can be harm(ful). It can be dangerous as well, you know."

Thailand's relaxation of restrictions has not meant a total free-for-all. Last week, new regulations went into effect forbidding public smoking of&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;as well as its sale to people under 20, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

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For Jiratti Kuttanam, Thailand's relaxation of cannabis restrictions meant one thing above all - a cheaper supply of the products she uses to manage the pain and sickness caused by her breast cancer treatments.

For Jiratti Kuttanam, Thailand's relaxation of cannabis restrictions meant one thing above all - a cheaper supply of the products she uses to manage the pain and sickness caused by her breast cancer treatments. Thailand last week became the first Asian country to legalise the growing and private consumption of marijuana, a move authorities said would boost agriculture by giving farmers a valuable new cash crop. Jiratti, 42, said she and other patients would also feel the benefits closer to home. Also read | Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival Medical marijuana has been legal there since 2018. But, before the law change, she had to rely on pricy foreign imports. Some patients went to illegal dealers. Imported cannabis buds used to cost up to 700 baht ($20) per gram, but prices have since halved, Jiratti said. Watch | Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use? "I've been taking cannabis regularly so I don't have to feel pain," she said as she shredded and boiled marijuana leaves to make infused tea, filling her one-bedroom Bangkok apartment with its distinctive smell. She was diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer five years ago. Two years later she started using cannabis oil and other products to ease the pain, vomiting, fatigue and anxiety she suffered after chemotherapy. Also read |Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop A legal, local crop would mean a more reliable supply of those products - a good thing as long as patients know how to use them, she said. "I think you need education. You need to study how to use it ... the right way. It can be harm(ful). It can be dangerous as well, you know." Thailand's relaxation of restrictions has not meant a total free-for-all. Last week, new regulations went into effect forbidding public smoking of cannabis as well as its sale to people under 20, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

As Thailand greenlights cannabis, patients welcome cheaper supplies

India recorded 12,899 new Covid cases and 15 deaths on Sunday (June 19). The total number of infections reached 4,32,96,692 with 72,424 active cases and the death toll rose to 5,24,855 as per the figures updated by the Union Health Ministry. The 15 deaths include seven people in Kerala, three in Delhi, two in Maharashtra and one each in Punjab, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The Covid caseload increased by 4,366 in 24 hours. According to the ministry, the daily positivity rate was 2.89 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was 2.50 per cent. The total number of patients who have recovered from the illness has risen to 4,26,99,363. The state wide vaccination push has resulted in the administration of 196.14 crore Covid vaccine doses, reported by PTI.

The national capital, Delhi recorded 1,534 new cases and three deaths with a positivity rate of 7.72 per cent on Saturday (June 18). The state recorded its highest number of cases in nearly four months a day earlier with one death and an 8.18 per cent positivity rate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fresh-fears-of-4th-wave-india-logs-12000-covid-cases-for-2nd-day-in-a-row-489218">Fresh fears of 4th wave? India logs 12,000+ Covid cases for 2nd day in a row</a>

The infection count in Maharashtra has risen to 7,18,884 with the addition of 837 new Covid cases. According to the officials, the latest instances were recorded on Saturday (June 18). The Covid mortality rate stayed at 1.67 per cent.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India witnesses surge in covid cases, positivity rate stands at 2.73%

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Tamil Nadu, which is currently dealing with a surge in the number of daily coronavirus cases, added 596 new cases on Saturday (June 18) which includes four returnees from foreign travel bringing the total number to 34,60,182.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-reports-more-than-12000-new-infections-and-11-fatalities-488620">COVID-19: India reports more than 12,000 new infections and 11 fatalities</a>

According to a Health department bulletin, West Bengal recorded 288 new covid cases on Saturday (June 18) bringing the total number of cases to 20,21,555. While on the other hand, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded new nine Covid cases, six less than the previous day bringing the tally to 10,088, as per the health department officials.

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(With inputs from agencies)

India recorded 12,899 new Covid cases and 15 deaths on Sunday (June 19). The total number of infections reached 4,32,96,692 with 72,424 active cases and the death toll rose to 5,24,855 as per the figures updated by the Union Health Ministry.

India recorded 12,899 new Covid cases and 15 deaths on Sunday (June 19). The total number of infections reached 4,32,96,692 with 72,424 active cases and the death toll rose to 5,24,855 as per the figures updated by the Union Health Ministry. The 15 deaths include seven people in Kerala, three in Delhi, two in Maharashtra and one each in Punjab, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The Covid caseload increased by 4,366 in 24 hours. According to the ministry, the daily positivity rate was 2.89 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was 2.50 per cent. The total number of patients who have recovered from the illness has risen to 4,26,99,363. The state wide vaccination push has resulted in the administration of 196.14 crore Covid vaccine doses, reported by PTI. The national capital, Delhi recorded 1,534 new cases and three deaths with a positivity rate of 7.72 per cent on Saturday (June 18). The state recorded its highest number of cases in nearly four months a day earlier with one death and an 8.18 per cent positivity rate. Also read | Fresh fears of 4th wave? India logs 12,000+ Covid cases for 2nd day in a row The infection count in Maharashtra has risen to 7,18,884 with the addition of 837 new Covid cases. According to the officials, the latest instances were recorded on Saturday (June 18). The Covid mortality rate stayed at 1.67 per cent. Watch | India witnesses surge in covid cases, positivity rate stands at 2.73% Tamil Nadu, which is currently dealing with a surge in the number of daily coronavirus cases, added 596 new cases on Saturday (June 18) which includes four returnees from foreign travel bringing the total number to 34,60,182. Also read | COVID-19: India reports more than 12,000 new infections and 11 fatalities According to a Health department bulletin, West Bengal recorded 288 new covid cases on Saturday (June 18) bringing the total number of cases to 20,21,555. While on the other hand, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded new nine Covid cases, six less than the previous day bringing the tally to 10,088, as per the health department officials. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India records 12,899 new cases and 15 deaths

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has tested positive for COVID-19, according to the White House.

Sullivan typically has frequent contact with President Joe Biden but last was in contact with the president early in the week, according to a senior administration official who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-call-us-national-security-adviser-sullivan-chinas-top-diplomat-yang-talk-north-korea-taiwan-480259">&nbsp;In call, US national security adviser Sullivan, China's top diplomat Yang talk North Korea, Taiwan</a>

Sullivan had been keeping his distance from Biden after 'a couple' of people he had been in close contact with had tested positive for the virus, the official said.

Watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden speaks on Inflation: 'Recession is not inevitable'

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Adrienne Watson, a National Security Council spokeswoman, said Sullivan 'is asymptomatic and he has not been in close contact with the president'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-signs-executive-order-aimed-against-lgbtqi-discrimination-488739">Biden signs executive order aimed against LGBTQI+ discrimination</a>

The White House confirmed on Thursday that Biden had tested negative that day. White House officials did not immediately respond a request for comment on whether Biden has been tested more recently.&nbsp;

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White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has tested positive for COVID-19, according to the White House. Sullivan typically has frequent contact with President Joe Biden but last was in contact with the president early in the week, according to a senior administration official who spoke on condition of anonymity.

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has tested positive for COVID-19, according to the White House. Sullivan typically has frequent contact with President Joe Biden but last was in contact with the president early in the week, according to a senior administration official who spoke on condition of anonymity. Also read | In call, US national security adviser Sullivan, China's top diplomat Yang talk North Korea, Taiwan Sullivan had been keeping his distance from Biden after 'a couple' of people he had been in close contact with had tested positive for the virus, the official said. Watch | US President Joe Biden speaks on Inflation: 'Recession is not inevitable' Adrienne Watson, a National Security Council spokeswoman, said Sullivan 'is asymptomatic and he has not been in close contact with the president'. Also read | Biden signs executive order aimed against LGBTQI+ discrimination The White House confirmed on Thursday that Biden had tested negative that day. White House officials did not immediately respond a request for comment on whether Biden has been tested more recently. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: Joe Biden's adviser Jake Sullivan tests positive

India reported 12,213 Covid infection cases and 11 fatalities in a single day—a 38.4 per cent rise after nearly four months,&nbsp;as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry on Thursday.

In a span of 24 hours, the total number of Covid infections increased to 4,32,57,6730 and the death toll to 5,28,803. The active infection caseload has grown by 4,578 cases. The active cases account for 0.13 per cent of all infections, with a national COVID-19 recovery rate of 98.65 per cent, according to the health ministry.

The number of persons who have recovered has risen to 4,26,74,712 with a 1.21 per cent fatality rate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-logs-8822-new-cases-highest-daily-count-in-3-months-488274">Covid-19: India logs 8,822 new cases, highest daily count in 3 months</a>

Maharashtra and Kerala were among the states that witnessed&nbsp;the highest surge in the country. Maharashtra recorded 4,024 new cases, while Kerala saw 3,488 new infections. The two states also have the highest overall cases.&nbsp;

The national capital Delhi,&nbsp;too, has been witnessing a surge,&nbsp;with the COVID-19 tally increasing by more than 1,000 fresh infections for a second straight day on Wednesday.&nbsp;As many as 1,375 people tested&nbsp;positive in a span of 24 hours.

Watch |&nbsp;India records nearly 40% jump in daily covid-19 cases

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Eastern West Bengal state also recorded a surge in cases with 230 new infections recorded on Wednesday—95 more than the previous day—as per the health bulletin. This is the first time in two and a half months that the state has surpassed 200 cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-china-removes-2-year-visa-restrictions-on-indians-488381">COVID-19: China removes 2-year visa restrictions on Indians</a>

Telangana reported 205 additional Covid cases on Wednesday (June 15), bringing the total number of cases in the state to 7,95,008.&nbsp;

The number of patients infected with the infection in Andaman and Nicobar Islands increased to 10,063 on Thursday (June 16).

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India reported 12,213 Covid infection cases and 11 fatalities in a single day—a 38.4 per cent rise after nearly four months, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry on Thursday.

India reported 12,213 Covid infection cases and 11 fatalities in a single day—a 38.4 per cent rise after nearly four months, as per the data released by the Union Health Ministry on Thursday. In a span of 24 hours, the total number of Covid infections increased to 4,32,57,6730 and the death toll to 5,28,803. The active infection caseload has grown by 4,578 cases. The active cases account for 0.13 per cent of all infections, with a national COVID-19 recovery rate of 98.65 per cent, according to the health ministry. The number of persons who have recovered has risen to 4,26,74,712 with a 1.21 per cent fatality rate. Also read | Covid-19: India logs 8,822 new cases, highest daily count in 3 months Maharashtra and Kerala were among the states that witnessed the highest surge in the country. Maharashtra recorded 4,024 new cases, while Kerala saw 3,488 new infections. The two states also have the highest overall cases. The national capital Delhi, too, has been witnessing a surge, with the COVID-19 tally increasing by more than 1,000 fresh infections for a second straight day on Wednesday. As many as 1,375 people tested positive in a span of 24 hours. Watch | India records nearly 40% jump in daily covid-19 cases Eastern West Bengal state also recorded a surge in cases with 230 new infections recorded on Wednesday—95 more than the previous day—as per the health bulletin. This is the first time in two and a half months that the state has surpassed 200 cases. Also read | COVID-19: China removes 2-year visa restrictions on Indians Telangana reported 205 additional Covid cases on Wednesday (June 15), bringing the total number of cases in the state to 7,95,008. The number of patients infected with the infection in Andaman and Nicobar Islands increased to 10,063 on Thursday (June 16). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India reports more than 12,000 new infections and 11 fatalities

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