A Japanese biotech firm has devised a new method that might help detect pancreatic cancer at an early stage.

The technique involves the use of a genetically modified a type of worm called “C. elegans” created by a Japanese firm, Hirotsu Bio Science.

It is well known that bodily fluids of cancer patients smell different to those of healthy people. There have been experiments with dogs who were trained to detect the disease in breath or urine samples. However, the method is time-consuming.

The firm has claimed that their genetically modified worm, which is around one-millimetre-long, has an acute sense of smell and will be able to react to the urine of people with cancer.

With this experiment, the scientists claimed that it was possible to detect cancer early.

“The new test is not meant to diagnose pancreatic cancer, but could help boost routine screening as urine samples can be collected at home without the need for a hospital visit,” Hirotsu said at a press conference on Tuesday.

And if the worms raise the alarm, the patient would then be referred to a doctor for further testing, he said.

"This is a major technological advancement," CEO Takaaki Hirotsu, a former academic who studied the tiny worms known as nematodes, told AFP.

He is hopeful it could help boost cancer detection rates in Japan, which like many countries has seen screening rates drop during the pandemic as people avoided medical visits.

Hirotsu and Osaka University detailed "C. elegans"&nbsp;cancer-detecting skills in a joint study published earlier this year in the peer-reviewed journal "Oncotarget"

In separate tests conducted by the firm, the worms correctly identified all 22 urine samples from pancreatic cancer patients, including people with early stages of the disease.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Japanese biotech firm has devised a new method that might help detect pancreatic cancer at an early stage. The technique involves the use of a genetically modified a type of worm called “C.

A Japanese biotech firm has devised a new method that might help detect pancreatic cancer at an early stage. The technique involves the use of a genetically modified a type of worm called “C. elegans” created by a Japanese firm, Hirotsu Bio Science. It is well known that bodily fluids of cancer patients smell different to those of healthy people. There have been experiments with dogs who were trained to detect the disease in breath or urine samples. However, the method is time-consuming. The firm has claimed that their genetically modified worm, which is around one-millimetre-long, has an acute sense of smell and will be able to react to the urine of people with cancer. With this experiment, the scientists claimed that it was possible to detect cancer early. “The new test is not meant to diagnose pancreatic cancer, but could help boost routine screening as urine samples can be collected at home without the need for a hospital visit,” Hirotsu said at a press conference on Tuesday. And if the worms raise the alarm, the patient would then be referred to a doctor for further testing, he said. "This is a major technological advancement," CEO Takaaki Hirotsu, a former academic who studied the tiny worms known as nematodes, told AFP. He is hopeful it could help boost cancer detection rates in Japan, which like many countries has seen screening rates drop during the pandemic as people avoided medical visits. Hirotsu and Osaka University detailed "C. elegans" cancer-detecting skills in a joint study published earlier this year in the peer-reviewed journal "Oncotarget" In separate tests conducted by the firm, the worms correctly identified all 22 urine samples from pancreatic cancer patients, including people with early stages of the disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese scientists use genetically modified worm to detect cancer

Doctors have advised Britain's Queen Elizabeth to take rest for at least the next two weeks. The 95-year-old monarch is avoiding official visits and only undertaking light duties at this time, Buckingham Palace said on Friday. &nbsp;

The world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch seems to be determined to appear at the annual Remembrance Sunday service. It commemorates the nation's war dead in central London on November 14, the palace said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-delegate-applications-for-six-afghans-rejected-days-before-event-425289" hreflang="en">Cop26: Delegate applications for six Afghans rejected days before event</a>

The queen of 15 other realms, including Australia, Canada and New Zealand, Elizabeth has been resting at her Windsor Castle since she stayed overnight in hospital last week. She had undergone "preliminary investigations" for an unspecified ailment, which is not related to Covid. &nbsp;

She is also not going to address world leaders in-person next week at the COP26 climate change summit in Glasgow. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-seeks-to-calm-fears-over-queen-elizabeths-health-425288" hreflang="en">UK PM Johnson seeks to calm fears over Queen Elizabeth's health</a>

After the latest advice, the queen will no longer attend a major event on November 13 at the Royal Albert Hall hosted by a British military charity. But the queen had a "firm intention" to be present at the main national service of remembrance for veterans on November 14, the palace said. &nbsp;

The queen is in good spirits and have recorded a video address for the delegates of COP26 on Friday. Further rest was a "sensible precaution", a palace source said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Doctors have advised Britain's Queen Elizabeth to take rest for at least the next two weeks. The 95-year-old monarch is avoiding official visits and only undertaking light duties at this time, Buckingham Palace said on Friday.

Doctors have advised Britain's Queen Elizabeth to take rest for at least the next two weeks. The 95-year-old monarch is avoiding official visits and only undertaking light duties at this time, Buckingham Palace said on Friday. The world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch seems to be determined to appear at the annual Remembrance Sunday service. It commemorates the nation's war dead in central London on November 14, the palace said. Also Read: Cop26: Delegate applications for six Afghans rejected days before event The queen of 15 other realms, including Australia, Canada and New Zealand, Elizabeth has been resting at her Windsor Castle since she stayed overnight in hospital last week. She had undergone "preliminary investigations" for an unspecified ailment, which is not related to Covid. She is also not going to address world leaders in-person next week at the COP26 climate change summit in Glasgow. Also Read: UK PM Johnson seeks to calm fears over Queen Elizabeth's health After the latest advice, the queen will no longer attend a major event on November 13 at the Royal Albert Hall hosted by a British military charity. But the queen had a "firm intention" to be present at the main national service of remembrance for veterans on November 14, the palace said. The queen is in good spirits and have recorded a video address for the delegates of COP26 on Friday. Further rest was a "sensible precaution", a palace source said. (With inputs from agencies)

Doctors advise two more weeks’ rest to 95-year-old Queen Elizabeth   

There have been reports of health officials investigating 10 reported cases of Legionnaires' disease on Long Island. This is a rare form of pneumonia caused by a bacteria called Legionella.&nbsp;

The source of the illness has not yet been identified, but New York is experiencing an uptick in Legionnaires cases statewide.&nbsp;

As per the country's health department, the 10 cases have been reported within a one-mile radius in a Long Island neighbourhood. The cluster includes people between the ages of 35 and 96. As of Saturday, one person has died from Legionnaires, two are hospitalised and seven have been released from the hospital

Medical teams are working on contact tracing, as well as swabbing and sampling on-site to find the cases' origins, reports CBS New York.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-covid-19-creates-new-poor-heres-how-india-is-progressing-to-eradicate-extreme-poverty-421445">Also read |&nbsp;As COVID-19 creates 'new poor', here's how India is progressing to eradicate extreme poverty</a>

The county health department has said that people can easily contract Legionnaires by breathing in a vapour containing the Legionella bacteria.

Symptoms of Legionnaires begin between 2 to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria. The symptoms include breath, high fever, cough, muscle aches and headache.&nbsp;

The disease tends to last between 2 to 5 days and can range from a mild cough to a fatal case of pneumonia. Severe diseases can include respiratory failure, shock and acute kidney failure.&nbsp;

There have been reports of health officials investigating 10 reported cases of Legionnaires' disease on Long Island. This is a rare form of pneumonia caused by a bacteria called Legionella.

There have been reports of health officials investigating 10 reported cases of Legionnaires' disease on Long Island. This is a rare form of pneumonia caused by a bacteria called Legionella. The source of the illness has not yet been identified, but New York is experiencing an uptick in Legionnaires cases statewide. As per the country's health department, the 10 cases have been reported within a one-mile radius in a Long Island neighbourhood. The cluster includes people between the ages of 35 and 96. As of Saturday, one person has died from Legionnaires, two are hospitalised and seven have been released from the hospital Medical teams are working on contact tracing, as well as swabbing and sampling on-site to find the cases' origins, reports CBS New York. Also read | As COVID-19 creates 'new poor', here's how India is progressing to eradicate extreme poverty The county health department has said that people can easily contract Legionnaires by breathing in a vapour containing the Legionella bacteria. Symptoms of Legionnaires begin between 2 to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria. The symptoms include breath, high fever, cough, muscle aches and headache. The disease tends to last between 2 to 5 days and can range from a mild cough to a fatal case of pneumonia. Severe diseases can include respiratory failure, shock and acute kidney failure.

Legionnaires' disease: Health officials investigating cluster in New York

Russia on Saturday topped 1,000 deaths over 24 hours for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, with the country's jab drive at a standstill and few restrictions in place.

An official government tally showed 1,002 deaths and 33,208 new infections, setting a high for both fatalities and cases for the third day in a row.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-development-finance-corporation-chief-to-visit-india-to-boost-vaccine-manufacturing-421167">&nbsp;US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing</a>

The surging outbreak has come with just 31 per cent of Russians fully inoculated as of Saturday, according to the Gogov website, which tallies COVID-19 data from the regions.

A lack of tough restrictions has allowed the virus to spread unchecked, though a number of regions have re-introduced QR codes for access to public places.

The Kremlin has avoided re-introducing major restrictions despite calling the country's vaccination rate "unacceptably" low, saying this week authorities have to ensure "the economy continues working".

It also said that Russia's medical system is prepared to take in the rising number of patients, describing it as not "overwhelmed".

Authorities have blamed Russians for the growing outbreak.

Health Minister Mikhail Murashko this week pointed to their "behaviour", while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said everything had been done to give the public the chance to "save their lives by getting vaccinated".&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-adds-18132-new-covid-19-cases-tally-lowest-in-over-7-months-419794">India adds 18,132 new COVID-19 cases, tally lowest in over 7 months</a>

While several Russian-developed jabs have been available for months, authorities have struggled to inoculate a vaccine-sceptic population.

Independent polls show that more than half of Russians do not plan to get a shot.

Russia's fatalities from Covid now stand at 222,315 -- the highest toll in Europe -- even as authorities are accused of downplaying the severity of Russia's outbreak.

Under a broader definition of deaths linked to the virus, the Rosstat statistics agency has said that by the end of August more than 400,000 people in Russia had died with the coronavirus.&nbsp;

Russia on Saturday topped 1,000 deaths over 24 hours for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, with the country's jab drive at a standstill and few restrictions in place.

Russia on Saturday topped 1,000 deaths over 24 hours for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, with the country's jab drive at a standstill and few restrictions in place. An official government tally showed 1,002 deaths and 33,208 new infections, setting a high for both fatalities and cases for the third day in a row. Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing The surging outbreak has come with just 31 per cent of Russians fully inoculated as of Saturday, according to the Gogov website, which tallies COVID-19 data from the regions. A lack of tough restrictions has allowed the virus to spread unchecked, though a number of regions have re-introduced QR codes for access to public places. The Kremlin has avoided re-introducing major restrictions despite calling the country's vaccination rate "unacceptably" low, saying this week authorities have to ensure "the economy continues working". It also said that Russia's medical system is prepared to take in the rising number of patients, describing it as not "overwhelmed". Authorities have blamed Russians for the growing outbreak. Health Minister Mikhail Murashko this week pointed to their "behaviour", while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said everything had been done to give the public the chance to "save their lives by getting vaccinated". Also Read | India adds 18,132 new COVID-19 cases, tally lowest in over 7 months While several Russian-developed jabs have been available for months, authorities have struggled to inoculate a vaccine-sceptic population. Independent polls show that more than half of Russians do not plan to get a shot. Russia's fatalities from Covid now stand at 222,315 -- the highest toll in Europe -- even as authorities are accused of downplaying the severity of Russia's outbreak. Under a broader definition of deaths linked to the virus, the Rosstat statistics agency has said that by the end of August more than 400,000 people in Russia had died with the coronavirus.

Russia tops 1,000 daily COVID-19 deaths for first time

Health workers have a non-negotiable right to exercise conscientious objection by refusing to participate in an abortion, Pope Francis said on Thursday, calling the procedure "murder".

It was at least the third time in a month that the pope has spoken out strongly against abortion, which has become a major political issue in a number of countries, including the United States.

Last week a US&nbsp;appeals court temporarily reinstated Texas's restrictive abortion law, which bars the procedure as early as six weeks into pregnancy and outsources enforcement of the ban to ordinary citizens.

"Today it has become a bit fashionable to think that maybe it would be good to do away with conscientious objection (in the medical field)," he said to participants of a conference in Rome of hospital pharmacists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/learn-to-switch-off-says-pope-francis-after-successful-surgery-398866">Also read |&nbsp;Learn to switch off, says Pope Francis after successful surgery</a>

"It (conscientious objection) should never be negotiated, it is the ultimate responsibility of heath professionals," he said, adding that it was particularly applicable to abortion.

"Know that on this I am very clear: It is murder and it is never licit to be an accomplice," he said.

Most countries have laws that provide for some form of conscientious objection by health professionals, but abortion rights activists say not all are fulfilling their duty to refer a woman to another doctor.

In some Scandinavian countries, doctors are barred from refusing to provide any medical care that is legal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coastline-to-be-dotted-with-wind-farms-says-biden-administration-420686">Also read |&nbsp;US coastline to be dotted with wind farms, says Biden administration</a>

Last month, Francis told reporters on the plane returning from Slovakia that abortion was "murder", even soon after conception, but appeared to criticise some US&nbsp;Catholic bishops for dealing with US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's pro-choice position in a political rather than pastoral way.

The Roman Catholic Church teaches that life begins at the moment of conception.

In June a divided conference of US Roman Catholic bishops voted to draft a statement on communion that may admonish Catholic politicians, including Biden. They are due to take up the issue again next month.

Health workers have a non-negotiable right to exercise conscientious objection by refusing to participate in an abortion, Pope Francis said on Thursday, calling the procedure "murder".

Health workers have a non-negotiable right to exercise conscientious objection by refusing to participate in an abortion, Pope Francis said on Thursday, calling the procedure "murder". It was at least the third time in a month that the pope has spoken out strongly against abortion, which has become a major political issue in a number of countries, including the United States. Last week a US appeals court temporarily reinstated Texas's restrictive abortion law, which bars the procedure as early as six weeks into pregnancy and outsources enforcement of the ban to ordinary citizens. "Today it has become a bit fashionable to think that maybe it would be good to do away with conscientious objection (in the medical field)," he said to participants of a conference in Rome of hospital pharmacists. Also read | Learn to switch off, says Pope Francis after successful surgery "It (conscientious objection) should never be negotiated, it is the ultimate responsibility of heath professionals," he said, adding that it was particularly applicable to abortion. "Know that on this I am very clear: It is murder and it is never licit to be an accomplice," he said. Most countries have laws that provide for some form of conscientious objection by health professionals, but abortion rights activists say not all are fulfilling their duty to refer a woman to another doctor. In some Scandinavian countries, doctors are barred from refusing to provide any medical care that is legal. Also read | US coastline to be dotted with wind farms, says Biden administration Last month, Francis told reporters on the plane returning from Slovakia that abortion was "murder", even soon after conception, but appeared to criticise some US Catholic bishops for dealing with US President Joe Biden's pro-choice position in a political rather than pastoral way. The Roman Catholic Church teaches that life begins at the moment of conception. In June a divided conference of US Roman Catholic bishops voted to draft a statement on communion that may admonish Catholic politicians, including Biden. They are due to take up the issue again next month.

Pope says health workers' conscientious objection to abortion non-negotiable

Daily exposure to phthalates, a group of chemicals used in everything from plastic containers to makeup, may lead to approximately 100,000 deaths in older Americans annually, a study from New York University warned Tuesday.

The chemicals, which can be found in hundreds of products such as toys, clothing and shampoo, have been known for decades to be "hormone disruptors," affecting a person's endocrine system.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/14-die-of-alcohol-poisoning-in-russia-419093">14 die of alcohol poisoning in Russia</a>

The toxins can enter the body through such items and are linked to obesity, diabetes and heart disease, said the study published in the journal Environmental Pollution.

The research, which was carried out by New York University's Grossman School of Medicine and includes some 5,000 adults aged 55 to 64, shows that those with higher concentrations of phthalates in their urine were more likely to die of heart disease.

However, higher concentrations did not appear to increase the risk of death by cancer.

"Our findings reveal that increased phthalate exposure is linked to early death, particularly due to heart disease," said study lead author Leonardo Trasande.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merck-seeks-us-fdas-authorisation-for-covid-19-pill-420024">Merck seeks US FDA's authorisation for COVID-19 pill</a>

"Until now, we have understood that the chemicals connect to heart disease, and heart disease in turn is a leading cause of death, but we had not yet tied the chemicals themselves to death."

Trasande cautioned, however, that the study does not establish a direct cause and effect relationship between phthalate exposure and death, in part because the specific biological mechanisms of that relationship are unclear.

"Our research suggests that the toll of this chemical on society is much greater than we first thought," Trasande said, adding that it "is undeniably clear that limiting exposure to toxic phthalates can help safeguard Americans' physical and financial wellbeing."

Other studies have already linked phthalates to more than 10,000 deaths per year associated with reduced testosterone levels in adult men.

The study added that the economic loss due to phthalates is between $40 billion and $47 billion -- more than four times what was previously estimated.

Daily exposure to phthalates, a group of chemicals used in everything from plastic containers to makeup, may lead to approximately 100,000 deaths in older Americans annually, a study from New York University warned Tuesday.

Daily exposure to phthalates, a group of chemicals used in everything from plastic containers to makeup, may lead to approximately 100,000 deaths in older Americans annually, a study from New York University warned Tuesday. The chemicals, which can be found in hundreds of products such as toys, clothing and shampoo, have been known for decades to be "hormone disruptors," affecting a person's endocrine system. Also Read | 14 die of alcohol poisoning in Russia The toxins can enter the body through such items and are linked to obesity, diabetes and heart disease, said the study published in the journal Environmental Pollution. The research, which was carried out by New York University's Grossman School of Medicine and includes some 5,000 adults aged 55 to 64, shows that those with higher concentrations of phthalates in their urine were more likely to die of heart disease. However, higher concentrations did not appear to increase the risk of death by cancer. "Our findings reveal that increased phthalate exposure is linked to early death, particularly due to heart disease," said study lead author Leonardo Trasande. Also Read | Merck seeks US FDA's authorisation for COVID-19 pill "Until now, we have understood that the chemicals connect to heart disease, and heart disease in turn is a leading cause of death, but we had not yet tied the chemicals themselves to death." Trasande cautioned, however, that the study does not establish a direct cause and effect relationship between phthalate exposure and death, in part because the specific biological mechanisms of that relationship are unclear. "Our research suggests that the toll of this chemical on society is much greater than we first thought," Trasande said, adding that it "is undeniably clear that limiting exposure to toxic phthalates can help safeguard Americans' physical and financial wellbeing." Other studies have already linked phthalates to more than 10,000 deaths per year associated with reduced testosterone levels in adult men. The study added that the economic loss due to phthalates is between $40 billion and $47 billion -- more than four times what was previously estimated.

Widely used chemical linked to 100,000 US deaths per year: Study

New Zealand announced Monday a sweeping "no jab, no job" policy for most healthcare workers and teachers to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

"We can't leave anything to chance so that's why we are making it mandatory," said COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins, who is also the education minister.

Doctors, nurses and other frontline health workers must be double-jabbed by December 1 while everyone working in the education sector who has contact with students must have their two doses by January 1.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-drops-its-covid-19-elimination-plan-as-delta-persists-418063">New Zealand drops its COVID-19 elimination plan as Delta persists</a>

The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners backed mandatory vaccinations with president Samantha Murton describing it as a "bold, but necessary call" to make.

Secondary schools will also be required to keep a register to show the vaccination status of students.

"Vaccination remains our strongest and most effective tool to protect against infection and disease," Hipkins said.&nbsp;

The order includes home-based educators and parents volunteering at schools, but no decision has been made on whether vaccination will be mandatory in the tertiary education sector.

Before the arrival of the Delta variant in August, New Zealand had won widespread praise for its Covid elimination policy, which had largely protected the country from the pandemic.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-racing-for-profits-keeps-covid-vaccine-out-of-reach-of-poor-419518">Moderna, racing for profits, keeps Covid vaccine out of reach of poor</a>

Residents enjoyed a near-normal domestic life alongside tight restrictions on international borders.&nbsp;

However, the "Covid Zero" strategy fell apart when Delta was detected in Auckland, New Zealand's most populated region, and has since spread to the surrounding Northland and Waikato provinces.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the highly transmissible Delta variant had proved a "game-changer" that could not be eliminated.

New Zealand announced Monday a sweeping "no jab, no job" policy for most healthcare workers and teachers to prevent the spread of COVID-19. "We can't leave anything to chance so that's why we are making it mandatory," said COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins, who is also the education minister.

New Zealand announced Monday a sweeping "no jab, no job" policy for most healthcare workers and teachers to prevent the spread of COVID-19. "We can't leave anything to chance so that's why we are making it mandatory," said COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins, who is also the education minister. Doctors, nurses and other frontline health workers must be double-jabbed by December 1 while everyone working in the education sector who has contact with students must have their two doses by January 1. Also Read | New Zealand drops its COVID-19 elimination plan as Delta persists The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners backed mandatory vaccinations with president Samantha Murton describing it as a "bold, but necessary call" to make. Secondary schools will also be required to keep a register to show the vaccination status of students. "Vaccination remains our strongest and most effective tool to protect against infection and disease," Hipkins said. The order includes home-based educators and parents volunteering at schools, but no decision has been made on whether vaccination will be mandatory in the tertiary education sector. Before the arrival of the Delta variant in August, New Zealand had won widespread praise for its Covid elimination policy, which had largely protected the country from the pandemic. Also Read | Moderna, racing for profits, keeps Covid vaccine out of reach of poor Residents enjoyed a near-normal domestic life alongside tight restrictions on international borders. However, the "Covid Zero" strategy fell apart when Delta was detected in Auckland, New Zealand's most populated region, and has since spread to the surrounding Northland and Waikato provinces. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the highly transmissible Delta variant had proved a "game-changer" that could not be eliminated.

New Zealand health workers, teachers told 'no jab, no job'

Malaysia eased domestic and international travel curbs on Sunday for those fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, as a fierce outbreak slows and inoculation rates rise.&nbsp;

The Southeast Asian nation had faced its worst COVID-19 wave in recent months, prompting authorities to impose a tough nationwide lockdown.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blood-sweat-no-beers-sydney-set-to-ease-key-covid-19-curbs-419558">'Blood, sweat, no beers': Sydney set to ease key COVID-19 curbs</a>

But with case numbers falling and the inoculation rollout picking up speed, authorities began lifting curbs, with businesses allowed to reopen and workers slowly returning to offices.&nbsp;

In a televised address on Sunday, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced fully inoculated people can move freely within the country, as well as fly overseas without special permission.

"According to the ministry of health, the vaccination rate for the adult population has reached 90 per cent," he said to explain the move that takes effect on Monday.

But Ismail Sabri warned people to continue abiding by rules such as mask-wearing to keep the virus in check.&nbsp;

"Do not be complacent&nbsp;this is important in the government's efforts to reopen the economy," he said.

Malaysians had been prohibited from travelling between the country's different states since January, apart from in exceptional circumstances.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/womens-mental-health-deteriorated-more-in-covid-pandemic-study-419561">Women's mental health deteriorated more in Covid pandemic: Study</a>

Overseas travel had only been allowed for those who got special permission by applying through an official system.&nbsp;

While this requirement is being dropped, returning travellers will still need to undergo quarantine.

Malaysia largely avoided a first wave of the virus at the start of the pandemic last year after imposing restrictions and closing its borders.&nbsp;

It was hit hard this year by the Delta variant, and was logging over 20,000 cases a day and hundreds of deaths in August.

But after one of Southeast Asia's fastest vaccine rollouts, infection rates have slowed.&nbsp;

The country of 32 million has recorded over 2.3 million cases and 27,000 deaths.&nbsp;

Malaysia eased domestic and international travel curbs on Sunday for those fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, as a fierce outbreak slows and inoculation rates rise.

Malaysia eased domestic and international travel curbs on Sunday for those fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, as a fierce outbreak slows and inoculation rates rise. The Southeast Asian nation had faced its worst COVID-19 wave in recent months, prompting authorities to impose a tough nationwide lockdown. Also Read | 'Blood, sweat, no beers': Sydney set to ease key COVID-19 curbs But with case numbers falling and the inoculation rollout picking up speed, authorities began lifting curbs, with businesses allowed to reopen and workers slowly returning to offices. In a televised address on Sunday, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced fully inoculated people can move freely within the country, as well as fly overseas without special permission. "According to the ministry of health, the vaccination rate for the adult population has reached 90 per cent," he said to explain the move that takes effect on Monday. But Ismail Sabri warned people to continue abiding by rules such as mask-wearing to keep the virus in check. "Do not be complacent this is important in the government's efforts to reopen the economy," he said. Malaysians had been prohibited from travelling between the country's different states since January, apart from in exceptional circumstances. Also Read | Women's mental health deteriorated more in Covid pandemic: Study Overseas travel had only been allowed for those who got special permission by applying through an official system. While this requirement is being dropped, returning travellers will still need to undergo quarantine. Malaysia largely avoided a first wave of the virus at the start of the pandemic last year after imposing restrictions and closing its borders. It was hit hard this year by the Delta variant, and was logging over 20,000 cases a day and hundreds of deaths in August. But after one of Southeast Asia's fastest vaccine rollouts, infection rates have slowed. The country of 32 million has recorded over 2.3 million cases and 27,000 deaths.

Malaysia eases travel curbs as Covid outbreak slows

Experts have warned that climate change is having an impact on the mental health of children and young people.&nbsp; 
Mala Rao and Richard Powell, of Imperial College London’s Department of Primary Care and Public Health, while writing in the British medical journal said that eco-anxiety “risks exacerbating health and social inequalities between those more or less vulnerable to these psychological impacts”.&nbsp;

Eco anxiety refers to the chronic fear of environmental doom. It is not yet considered a diagnosable condition. However, as per the researchers, the recognition of eco-anxiety and its complex psychological effects is increasing. Also, its “disproportionate” impact on children and young people is on an upward cycle.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/theres-no-vaccine-for-climate-crisis-who-chief-on-wildfires-in-several-countries-404716">Also read |&nbsp;There's no vaccine for climate crisis: WHO chief on wildfires in several countries</a>

The research talked about how young people’s emotions were linked with their feelings of betrayal by governments and adults. Governments were seen as failing to respond adequatel. This has left the young people with “no future” and “humanity doomed”.

The researchers highlighted that as per a 2020 survey, a total of 57 per cent of children and young people are seen distressed about the climate crisis.&nbsp;

The researchers called on global leaders to “recognise the challenges ahead, the need to act now, and the commitment necessary to create a path to a happier and healthier future, leaving no one behind”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-set-to-worsen-resource-degradation-conflict-report-says-418842">Also read |&nbsp;Climate change set to worsen resource degradation, conflict, report says</a>

According to a report by The Guardian, the researchers said, "The best chance of increasing optimism and hope in the eco-anxious young and old is to ensure they have access to the best and most reliable information on climate mitigation and adaptation."

“Especially important is information on how they could connect more strongly with nature, contribute to greener choices at an individual level, and join forces with like-minded communities and groups.” 
With this, the researchers said that it is important to find a solution to this problem.&nbsp;

Experts have warned that climate change is having an impact on the mental health of children and young people. Mala Rao and Richard Powell, of Imperial College London’s Department of Primary Care and Public Health, while writing in the British medical journal said that eco-anxiety “risks exacerbating health and social inequalities between those more or less vulnerable to these psychological impacts”.

Experts have warned that climate change is having an impact on the mental health of children and young people. Mala Rao and Richard Powell, of Imperial College London’s Department of Primary Care and Public Health, while writing in the British medical journal said that eco-anxiety “risks exacerbating health and social inequalities between those more or less vulnerable to these psychological impacts”. Eco anxiety refers to the chronic fear of environmental doom. It is not yet considered a diagnosable condition. However, as per the researchers, the recognition of eco-anxiety and its complex psychological effects is increasing. Also, its “disproportionate” impact on children and young people is on an upward cycle. Also read | There's no vaccine for climate crisis: WHO chief on wildfires in several countries The research talked about how young people’s emotions were linked with their feelings of betrayal by governments and adults. Governments were seen as failing to respond adequatel. This has left the young people with “no future” and “humanity doomed”. The researchers highlighted that as per a 2020 survey, a total of 57 per cent of children and young people are seen distressed about the climate crisis. The researchers called on global leaders to “recognise the challenges ahead, the need to act now, and the commitment necessary to create a path to a happier and healthier future, leaving no one behind”. Also read | Climate change set to worsen resource degradation, conflict, report says According to a report by The Guardian, the researchers said, "The best chance of increasing optimism and hope in the eco-anxious young and old is to ensure they have access to the best and most reliable information on climate mitigation and adaptation." “Especially important is information on how they could connect more strongly with nature, contribute to greener choices at an individual level, and join forces with like-minded communities and groups.” With this, the researchers said that it is important to find a solution to this problem.

‘Eco-anxiety’: Fear of environmental damage affecting mental health of people

Australian medical tech manufacturer Ellume said it had recalled almost 200,000 at-home COVID-19 tests in the United States over an increased chance of false positives.

Ellume's rapid at-home coronavirus test last year became the first to receive emergency use authorisation in the US.

The US Food and Drug Administration issued an alert Tuesday over the "potential for false positive results with certain lots of the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test, due to a recently identified manufacturing issue".&nbsp;

"Negative results do not appear to be affected by the manufacturing issue," the statement said.

"The FDA is working closely with Ellume to assess the company's additional manufacturing checks and other corrective steps to help ensure that the issue is resolved."

A spokesman for Ellume told AFP on Wednesday that 195,000 of the 3.5 million tests shipped to the United States had been affected.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-reports-2355-new-covid-19-cases-as-vaccination-push-continues-417536">Australia reports 2,355 new COVID-19 cases as vaccination push continues</a>

Among them were tests provided to the Department of Defense for distribution to community health programmes.

In a statement dated October 1, the company said the voluntary recall was ordered after false positive results were reported in some product batches at higher rates than expected.&nbsp;

"I offer my sincere apologies -– and the apologies of our entire company –- for the stress or difficulties people may have experienced due to a false positive result," founder Sean Parsons said.

The firm said it had identified the cause of the issue and implemented additional controls, and had resumed distributing the tests to US retailers.&nbsp;

"We have and will continue to work diligently to ensure test accuracy, in all cases," Parsons added

Australian medical tech manufacturer Ellume said it had recalled almost 200,000 at-home COVID-19 tests in the United States over an increased chance of false positives.

Australian medical tech manufacturer Ellume said it had recalled almost 200,000 at-home COVID-19 tests in the United States over an increased chance of false positives. Ellume's rapid at-home coronavirus test last year became the first to receive emergency use authorisation in the US. The US Food and Drug Administration issued an alert Tuesday over the "potential for false positive results with certain lots of the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test, due to a recently identified manufacturing issue". "Negative results do not appear to be affected by the manufacturing issue," the statement said. "The FDA is working closely with Ellume to assess the company's additional manufacturing checks and other corrective steps to help ensure that the issue is resolved." A spokesman for Ellume told AFP on Wednesday that 195,000 of the 3.5 million tests shipped to the United States had been affected. Also Read | Australia reports 2,355 new COVID-19 cases as vaccination push continues Among them were tests provided to the Department of Defense for distribution to community health programmes. In a statement dated October 1, the company said the voluntary recall was ordered after false positive results were reported in some product batches at higher rates than expected. "I offer my sincere apologies -– and the apologies of our entire company –- for the stress or difficulties people may have experienced due to a false positive result," founder Sean Parsons said. The firm said it had identified the cause of the issue and implemented additional controls, and had resumed distributing the tests to US retailers. "We have and will continue to work diligently to ensure test accuracy, in all cases," Parsons added

Australian firm recalls US Covid tests over false positives

Russia on Tuesday recorded its highest daily coronavirus death toll as cases linked to the Delta variant spike amid a lacklustre vaccination drive and few anti-virus restrictions.

A government tally reported 895 fatalities over the past 24 hours, a record in Russia since the start of the pandemic.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reports-highest-covid-death-toll-for-second-consecutive-day-416898">Russia reports highest Covid death toll for second consecutive day</a>&nbsp;

The new figure brings total deaths from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>&nbsp;to 211,696 -&nbsp;the highest in Europe.

Authorities have been accused of playing down the severity of the outbreak.

The surging infections have come without any real pandemic restrictions to limit the spread.

Russia, the world's fifth worst-hit country with more than seven million infections, has seen cases climb as vaccinations stall.

Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, has experienced a spike over the past few weeks, with officials warning of rising hospital admissions.

Authorities say that the highly contagious Delta variant now accounts for all of the cases in the Russian capital.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-tourism-surges-in-july-but-falls-short-of-pre-covid-levels-418165">World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels</a>

Free jabs have been available since early December, but authorities have struggled to convince a vaccine-sceptic population to get immunised.

Independent polling shows that more than half of Russians do not plan on getting a shot.

As of Tuesday, only 29 per cent of the population had been fully vaccinated, according to the Gogov website, which tallies Covid data from the regions.

Under a broader definition for deaths linked to the coronavirus, statistics agency Rosstat reported in August that Russia had seen more than 350,000 fatalities.

Russia on Tuesday recorded its highest daily coronavirus death toll as cases linked to the Delta variant spike amid a lacklustre vaccination drive and few anti-virus restrictions.

Russia on Tuesday recorded its highest daily coronavirus death toll as cases linked to the Delta variant spike amid a lacklustre vaccination drive and few anti-virus restrictions. A government tally reported 895 fatalities over the past 24 hours, a record in Russia since the start of the pandemic. Also Read | Russia reports highest Covid death toll for second consecutive day The new figure brings total deaths from COVID-19 to 211,696 - the highest in Europe. Authorities have been accused of playing down the severity of the outbreak. The surging infections have come without any real pandemic restrictions to limit the spread. Russia, the world's fifth worst-hit country with more than seven million infections, has seen cases climb as vaccinations stall. Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, has experienced a spike over the past few weeks, with officials warning of rising hospital admissions. Authorities say that the highly contagious Delta variant now accounts for all of the cases in the Russian capital. Also Read | World tourism surges in July, but falls short of pre-Covid levels Free jabs have been available since early December, but authorities have struggled to convince a vaccine-sceptic population to get immunised. Independent polling shows that more than half of Russians do not plan on getting a shot. As of Tuesday, only 29 per cent of the population had been fully vaccinated, according to the Gogov website, which tallies Covid data from the regions. Under a broader definition for deaths linked to the coronavirus, statistics agency Rosstat reported in August that Russia had seen more than 350,000 fatalities.

Russia reports record daily coronavirus deaths

Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday asked a judge to reduce the frequency of her court hearings due to strained health, her lawyer said, but assured the public there was no concern about her condition.

Suu Kyi, who is on trial and attending court sessions in multiple cases since her overthrow in a Feb. 1 coup, requested hearings in each case be handled every two weeks, not every week, chief lawyer Khin Maung Zaw told media.

Asked by Reuters about the status of her health, he said Suu Kyi, 76, was suffering from tiredness from her busy schedule and there was no indication of illness.

"She is tired. "At her age, it is not convenient to sit for hearings every day of the whole week," Khin Maung Zaw said by phone.

"She doesn’t have any disease nor specified sickness. It is not a concerning situation. She is just tired."

The health of the Nobel laureate is closely watched in Myanmar, where she spent many years in detention for challenging its military rulers.

She is charged with a litany of offences, including breaking coronavirus protocols, illegally importing and possessing two-way radios, incitement to cause public alarm and violating the Official Secrets Act.

The cases are being handled by courts in several cities and her allies fear the multiple legal cases, which they dismiss as nonsense, could tie her up in proceedings for years.

Suu Kyi has also been accused in court by a former politician of accepting big bribes and gold bars, allegations she on Monday told the court were "all absurd", according to her lawyer.

Suu Kyi last month was unable to appear for one session in court, complaining of feeling dizzy and unwell, which her legal team dismissed as motion sickness.

Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday asked a judge to reduce the frequency of her court hearings due to strained health, her lawyer said, but assured the public there was no concern about her condition.

Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday asked a judge to reduce the frequency of her court hearings due to strained health, her lawyer said, but assured the public there was no concern about her condition. Suu Kyi, who is on trial and attending court sessions in multiple cases since her overthrow in a Feb. 1 coup, requested hearings in each case be handled every two weeks, not every week, chief lawyer Khin Maung Zaw told media. Asked by Reuters about the status of her health, he said Suu Kyi, 76, was suffering from tiredness from her busy schedule and there was no indication of illness. "She is tired. "At her age, it is not convenient to sit for hearings every day of the whole week," Khin Maung Zaw said by phone. "She doesn’t have any disease nor specified sickness. It is not a concerning situation. She is just tired." The health of the Nobel laureate is closely watched in Myanmar, where she spent many years in detention for challenging its military rulers. She is charged with a litany of offences, including breaking coronavirus protocols, illegally importing and possessing two-way radios, incitement to cause public alarm and violating the Official Secrets Act. The cases are being handled by courts in several cities and her allies fear the multiple legal cases, which they dismiss as nonsense, could tie her up in proceedings for years. Suu Kyi has also been accused in court by a former politician of accepting big bribes and gold bars, allegations she on Monday told the court were "all absurd", according to her lawyer. Suu Kyi last month was unable to appear for one session in court, complaining of feeling dizzy and unwell, which her legal team dismissed as motion sickness.

Myanmar’s Suu Kyi tired, seeks less court time over ‘strained health’

A resurgence of global economic activity has lifted merchandise trade above its pre-pandemic peak, the World Trade Organization said on Monday as it upgraded its 2021 and 2022 trade forecasts.

"The WTO is now predicting global merchandise trade volume growth of 10.8 per cent in 2021- up from 8.0 per cent forecasted in March - followed by a 4.7 per cent rise in 2022," up from four percent previously, the global trade body said.

The strong annual growth rate for merchandise trade in 2021 is mainly due to the collapse in 2020, when trade bottomed out in the second quarter.

The rate of growth is expected to moderate as merchandise trade returns to the long-term trend it was on before the COVID-19 crisis struck.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-wants-trade-security-pact-with-india-says-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-417979" hreflang="en">UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss</a>

Supply-side issues such as semiconductor scarcity and port backlogs may strain supply chains, but are unlikely to have large impacts on global aggregates, WTO experts said.

They said the biggest downside risks came from the pandemic itself.

"Trade has been a critical tool in combatting the pandemic, and this strong growth underscores how important trade will be in underpinning the global economic recovery," said WTO director-general, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

"But inequitable access to vaccines is exacerbating economic divergence across regions. The longer vaccine inequity is allowed to persist, the greater the chance that even more dangerous variants of COVID-19 will emerge, setting back the health and economic progress we have made to date."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-have-frank-conversations-with-china-on-trade-418119" hreflang="en">US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade</a>

While regions with access to COVID-19 jabs and sufficient fiscal space were recovering strongly, poorer regions with mostly unvaccinated populations are lagging behind, she said.

The WTO's 12th ministerial conference is to be held in Geneva from November 30 to December 3.

Okonjo-Iweala has said that one of her main objectives is to push long-blocked trade talks on fishery subsidies across the finish line.

The former Nigerian finance and foreign minister started her four-year term at the WTO helm in March. She dismissed as "fake news" reports that she was threatening to resign if no progress is made on major logjams at the global trade body.

A resurgence of global economic activity has lifted merchandise trade above its pre-pandemic peak, the World Trade Organization said on Monday as it upgraded its 2021 and 2022 trade forecasts.

A resurgence of global economic activity has lifted merchandise trade above its pre-pandemic peak, the World Trade Organization said on Monday as it upgraded its 2021 and 2022 trade forecasts. "The WTO is now predicting global merchandise trade volume growth of 10.8 per cent in 2021- up from 8.0 per cent forecasted in March - followed by a 4.7 per cent rise in 2022," up from four percent previously, the global trade body said. The strong annual growth rate for merchandise trade in 2021 is mainly due to the collapse in 2020, when trade bottomed out in the second quarter. The rate of growth is expected to moderate as merchandise trade returns to the long-term trend it was on before the COVID-19 crisis struck. Also Read: UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss Supply-side issues such as semiconductor scarcity and port backlogs may strain supply chains, but are unlikely to have large impacts on global aggregates, WTO experts said. They said the biggest downside risks came from the pandemic itself. "Trade has been a critical tool in combatting the pandemic, and this strong growth underscores how important trade will be in underpinning the global economic recovery," said WTO director-general, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. "But inequitable access to vaccines is exacerbating economic divergence across regions. The longer vaccine inequity is allowed to persist, the greater the chance that even more dangerous variants of COVID-19 will emerge, setting back the health and economic progress we have made to date." Also Read: US to have 'frank conversations' with China on trade While regions with access to COVID-19 jabs and sufficient fiscal space were recovering strongly, poorer regions with mostly unvaccinated populations are lagging behind, she said. The WTO's 12th ministerial conference is to be held in Geneva from November 30 to December 3. Okonjo-Iweala has said that one of her main objectives is to push long-blocked trade talks on fishery subsidies across the finish line. The former Nigerian finance and foreign minister started her four-year term at the WTO helm in March. She dismissed as "fake news" reports that she was threatening to resign if no progress is made on major logjams at the global trade body.

WTO says goods trade surging past pre-pandemic level

New Zealand on Monday abandoned its strategy of eliminating coronavirus, easing some COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in its biggest city Auckland, and will instead look to live with the virus while controlling its spread.

The Pacific nation was among just a handful of countries to bring COVID-19 cases down to zero last year and largely stayed virus-free until an outbreak of the highly infections Delta variant in mid-August frustrated efforts to stamp out transmission.

"With this outbreak and Delta the return to zero is incredibly difficult," Ardern told a news conference.

"This is a change in approach we were always going to make over time. Our Delta outbreak has accelerated this transition. Vaccines will support it," she said.

Health authorities reported 29 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, taking the total number in the current outbreak to 1,357. The majority of the cases are in Auckland, which has been in lockdown for nearly 50 days.

Amid mounting pressure, Ardern has said her strategy was never to have zero cases, but to aggressively stamp out the virus. She said strict lockdowns will end once 90% of the eligible population is vaccinated.

"It`s clear that a long period of heavy restrictions has not got us to zero cases. But its ok elimination was important because we didn`t have vaccinations. Now we do. So we can begin to change the way we do things," she said.

People in Auckland will be able to leave their homes to connect with loved ones outdoors from Wednesday, with a limit of 10 people.

Early childhood education will return and people can also move around for recreation, but retail, hospitality and offices will still remain shut.

Ardern said remaining restrictions in Auckland will be eased in phases.

New Zealand on Monday abandoned its strategy of eliminating coronavirus, easing some COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in its biggest city Auckland, and will instead look to live with the virus while controlling its spread.

New Zealand on Monday abandoned its strategy of eliminating coronavirus, easing some COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in its biggest city Auckland, and will instead look to live with the virus while controlling its spread. The Pacific nation was among just a handful of countries to bring COVID-19 cases down to zero last year and largely stayed virus-free until an outbreak of the highly infections Delta variant in mid-August frustrated efforts to stamp out transmission. "With this outbreak and Delta the return to zero is incredibly difficult," Ardern told a news conference. "This is a change in approach we were always going to make over time. Our Delta outbreak has accelerated this transition. Vaccines will support it," she said. Health authorities reported 29 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, taking the total number in the current outbreak to 1,357. The majority of the cases are in Auckland, which has been in lockdown for nearly 50 days. Amid mounting pressure, Ardern has said her strategy was never to have zero cases, but to aggressively stamp out the virus. She said strict lockdowns will end once 90% of the eligible population is vaccinated. "It`s clear that a long period of heavy restrictions has not got us to zero cases. But its ok elimination was important because we didn`t have vaccinations. Now we do. So we can begin to change the way we do things," she said. People in Auckland will be able to leave their homes to connect with loved ones outdoors from Wednesday, with a limit of 10 people. Early childhood education will return and people can also move around for recreation, but retail, hospitality and offices will still remain shut. Ardern said remaining restrictions in Auckland will be eased in phases.

New Zealand drops its COVID-19 elimination plan as Delta persists

US lawmakers grilled Facebook over the potential harm its services are causing and its impact on the mental health of children.&nbsp; 
However, Facebook has defended the impact of its products, saying Instagram has "affirmatively helped" young people. Its global head of safety, Antigone Davis, testified to the US Senate, about child protection.

This comes after a leak exposed how Instagram's research had found the platform could harm children’s well-being. Earlier, Instagram boss Adam Mosseri said the app's effects on teenagers' mental health were "quite small".

The committee started by reiterating Facebook's own research which said that Instagram could have a negative impact on body image and self-esteem.

Teenagers "blame Instagram for increases in the rate of anxiety and depression", it said. 
Davis was quoted by The BBC as saying, "We conduct this research, to make our platform better, to minimise the bad and maximise the good and to proactively identify where we can improve."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/smart-glasses-made-google-look-dumb-now-facebook-is-giving-them-a-try-413629">Also read |&nbsp;Smart glasses made google look dumb. Now Facebook is giving them a try.</a>

"We want our platforms to be a place for meaningful interactions with friends and family and we cannot achieve that goal if people do not feel safe."

Richard Blumenthal chairs the Senate commerce, science, and transportation subcommittee on consumer protection, product safety, and data security, highlighted how Facebook had earlier denied it was aware of any research that showed a negative correlation.

He said, "We know it chooses the growth of its products over the well-being of our children".&nbsp;

He further added, "And we now know that it is indefensibly delinquent in acting to protect them." 
"It is failing to hold itself accountable and the question that haunts me is how can we or parents or anyone trust Facebook."

Davis repeatedly failed to answer the committee's questions and said she would have to check with the relevant Facebook teams.

US lawmakers grilled Facebook over the potential harm its services are causing and its impact on the mental health of children. However, Facebook has defended the impact of its products, saying Instagram has "affirmatively helped" young people.

US lawmakers grilled Facebook over the potential harm its services are causing and its impact on the mental health of children. However, Facebook has defended the impact of its products, saying Instagram has "affirmatively helped" young people. Its global head of safety, Antigone Davis, testified to the US Senate, about child protection. This comes after a leak exposed how Instagram's research had found the platform could harm children’s well-being. Earlier, Instagram boss Adam Mosseri said the app's effects on teenagers' mental health were "quite small". The committee started by reiterating Facebook's own research which said that Instagram could have a negative impact on body image and self-esteem. Teenagers "blame Instagram for increases in the rate of anxiety and depression", it said. Davis was quoted by The BBC as saying, "We conduct this research, to make our platform better, to minimise the bad and maximise the good and to proactively identify where we can improve." Also read | Smart glasses made google look dumb. Now Facebook is giving them a try. "We want our platforms to be a place for meaningful interactions with friends and family and we cannot achieve that goal if people do not feel safe." Richard Blumenthal chairs the Senate commerce, science, and transportation subcommittee on consumer protection, product safety, and data security, highlighted how Facebook had earlier denied it was aware of any research that showed a negative correlation. He said, "We know it chooses the growth of its products over the well-being of our children". He further added, "And we now know that it is indefensibly delinquent in acting to protect them." "It is failing to hold itself accountable and the question that haunts me is how can we or parents or anyone trust Facebook." Davis repeatedly failed to answer the committee's questions and said she would have to check with the relevant Facebook teams.

US lawmakers grill Facebook over teen mental health

As the fourth Indo-US Health Dialogue began here on Monday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report to commemorate more than a half-century of successful collaborations with the government in New Delhi.

According to the report, the CDC`s decades-old, highly productive, and mutually beneficial public health collaboration with India has achieved measurable success across several critical areas, including, Polio eradication, controlling HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and influenza, building core public health capabilities across disease surveillance, laboratory systems, public health workforce and emergency response and scaling up antimicrobial resistance, and infection prevention and control.

The pandemic has further strengthened the CDC`s partnership with the government of India.

The CDC's Country Director, Meghna Desai said: "The impact and strategic value of CDC`s long-standing collaborations with the Government of India are increasingly clear. Many of our joint efforts are being leveraged to support India`s ongoing Covid-19 response."

"Based on past successes and current public health initiatives, the CDC and the government of India are well-placed to better respond to the world`s most pressing public health challenges," said a statement from CDC.

It added further that the government of India has successfully addressed challenges over the past decades through major investments in the nation`s public health institutions, dedicated resources and platforms to expand one of the largest public health workforces in the world, and a sustained commitment to confront challenging disease control priorities in the country and the region.

"From smallpox to SARS-CoV-2, CDC collaborations with India have benefited both our countries, the entire region, and indeed the world," the statement said.

As the fourth Indo-US Health Dialogue began here on Monday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report to commemorate more than a half-century of successful collaborations with the government in New Delhi.

As the fourth Indo-US Health Dialogue began here on Monday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report to commemorate more than a half-century of successful collaborations with the government in New Delhi. According to the report, the CDC`s decades-old, highly productive, and mutually beneficial public health collaboration with India has achieved measurable success across several critical areas, including, Polio eradication, controlling HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and influenza, building core public health capabilities across disease surveillance, laboratory systems, public health workforce and emergency response and scaling up antimicrobial resistance, and infection prevention and control. The pandemic has further strengthened the CDC`s partnership with the government of India. The CDC's Country Director, Meghna Desai said: "The impact and strategic value of CDC`s long-standing collaborations with the Government of India are increasingly clear. Many of our joint efforts are being leveraged to support India`s ongoing Covid-19 response." "Based on past successes and current public health initiatives, the CDC and the government of India are well-placed to better respond to the world`s most pressing public health challenges," said a statement from CDC. It added further that the government of India has successfully addressed challenges over the past decades through major investments in the nation`s public health institutions, dedicated resources and platforms to expand one of the largest public health workforces in the world, and a sustained commitment to confront challenging disease control priorities in the country and the region. "From smallpox to SARS-CoV-2, CDC collaborations with India have benefited both our countries, the entire region, and indeed the world," the statement said.

India, CDC well-placed to better respond to pressing public health challenges: Report

According to a report by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), over 41 million people living with dementia worldwide remain undiagnosed.

Experts are of the opinion that getting diagnosed with the disease is vital, as it will ensure that those affected would receive timely support and treatment, which is more effective the earlier it begins, and to take part in clinical trials.

Meanwhile, another research done by McGill University in Montreal, Canada, showed that as many as 90% of people with dementia have not been diagnosed in some countries.

Dementia is one of the biggest health challenges worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is currently the seventh leading cause of death among all diseases and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people worldwide

Paola Barbarino, the chief executive of ADI, said a lack of awareness and stigma within healthcare systems was severely hampering efforts to support people living with dementia.

“This misinformation in our healthcare systems, along with a lack of trained specialists and readily available diagnosis tools, have contributed to alarmingly low diagnosis rates,” said the Guardian quoted Barbarino, who also serves as a board member of the World Dementia Council.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/greater-risk-of-postpartum-depression-in-women-exposed-to-harmful-chemicals-in-plastic-study-377008">Greater risk of postpartum depression in women exposed to harmful chemicals in plastic: Study</a>

She said her chief concern was that governments are still unprepared for the predicted future increase in cases. “Frankly, progress has been too slow,” she said.

Prof Serge Gauthier, of the neurology and neurosurgery department at McGill University, said he was expecting a “tsunami of demand for diagnosis”, a trend that would put “extreme pressure” on healthcare systems.

Globally, around 55 million people have dementia, with over 60% living in low- and middle-income countries. As the proportion of older people in the population is increasing in nearly every country, this number is expected to rise to 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050, the WHO stated.

(WIth inputs from agencies)

According to a report by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), over 41 million people living with dementia worldwide remain undiagnosed. Experts are of the opinion that getting diagnosed with the disease is vital, as it will ensure that those affected would receive timely support and treatment, which is more effective the earlier it begins, and to take part in clinical trials.

According to a report by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), over 41 million people living with dementia worldwide remain undiagnosed. Experts are of the opinion that getting diagnosed with the disease is vital, as it will ensure that those affected would receive timely support and treatment, which is more effective the earlier it begins, and to take part in clinical trials. Meanwhile, another research done by McGill University in Montreal, Canada, showed that as many as 90% of people with dementia have not been diagnosed in some countries. Dementia is one of the biggest health challenges worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is currently the seventh leading cause of death among all diseases and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people worldwide Paola Barbarino, the chief executive of ADI, said a lack of awareness and stigma within healthcare systems was severely hampering efforts to support people living with dementia. “This misinformation in our healthcare systems, along with a lack of trained specialists and readily available diagnosis tools, have contributed to alarmingly low diagnosis rates,” said the Guardian quoted Barbarino, who also serves as a board member of the World Dementia Council. Also read | Greater risk of postpartum depression in women exposed to harmful chemicals in plastic: Study She said her chief concern was that governments are still unprepared for the predicted future increase in cases. “Frankly, progress has been too slow,” she said. Prof Serge Gauthier, of the neurology and neurosurgery department at McGill University, said he was expecting a “tsunami of demand for diagnosis”, a trend that would put “extreme pressure” on healthcare systems. Globally, around 55 million people have dementia, with over 60% living in low- and middle-income countries. As the proportion of older people in the population is increasing in nearly every country, this number is expected to rise to 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050, the WHO stated. (WIth inputs from agencies)

Over 41 million dementia cases globally undiagnosed, claims study

A research study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has claimed that adults under 45 years old who consumed cannabis within the last 30 days suffered from nearly double the number of heart attacks than the adults who didn’t smoke up.

The research, published by Canadian Medical Association Journal, raises eyebrows of many as there has been a movement across the world, including the US&nbsp;and Canada, to legalise the use, distribution and production of cannabis for personal use.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-authorises-export-of-dried-cannabis-flowers-400240">Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers</a>

The research notes, “With cannabis use on the rise, thanks in part to the pandemic, and legalization across the US continuing, its potential health risks have become an important area of research.”

The researchers also discovered that consuming cannabis in other ways was also linked to an elevated risk of heart attacks.

“Additionally, this association was consistent across different forms of cannabis consumption, including smoking, vaporization, and other methods such as edibles," study co-author Dr Karim Ladha, clinician-scientist and staff anesthesiologist at St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto in Canada, said in a statement.

"This suggests that no method of consumption is safer than another in this regard,” he said.

The researchers analysed health data from over 33,000 adults ages 18 to 44 who were part of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention surveys in 2017 and 2018.

Of the 17 per cent of adults who reported using cannabis within the previous month, 1.3 per cent later had a heart attack while only 0.8per cent of non-cannabis users reported the same.

“Some people assume that consuming cannabis is safe and can’t harm your body, but that is incorrect," Ladha later told CNN.

“There’s increasing evidence that this could potentially be harmful to you, both in the short term and the long term,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A research study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has claimed that adults under 45 years old who consumed cannabis within the last 30 days suffered from nearly double the number of heart attacks than the adults who didn’t smoke up.

A research study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has claimed that adults under 45 years old who consumed cannabis within the last 30 days suffered from nearly double the number of heart attacks than the adults who didn’t smoke up. The research, published by Canadian Medical Association Journal, raises eyebrows of many as there has been a movement across the world, including the US and Canada, to legalise the use, distribution and production of cannabis for personal use. Also read | Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers The research notes, “With cannabis use on the rise, thanks in part to the pandemic, and legalization across the US continuing, its potential health risks have become an important area of research.” The researchers also discovered that consuming cannabis in other ways was also linked to an elevated risk of heart attacks. “Additionally, this association was consistent across different forms of cannabis consumption, including smoking, vaporization, and other methods such as edibles," study co-author Dr Karim Ladha, clinician-scientist and staff anesthesiologist at St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto in Canada, said in a statement. "This suggests that no method of consumption is safer than another in this regard,” he said. The researchers analysed health data from over 33,000 adults ages 18 to 44 who were part of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention surveys in 2017 and 2018. Of the 17 per cent of adults who reported using cannabis within the previous month, 1.3 per cent later had a heart attack while only 0.8per cent of non-cannabis users reported the same. “Some people assume that consuming cannabis is safe and can’t harm your body, but that is incorrect," Ladha later told CNN. “There’s increasing evidence that this could potentially be harmful to you, both in the short term and the long term,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Smoking cannabis could double risk of heart attack, claims study

The pandemic has placed us in an unprecedented and long-lasting crisis that has been consistently unfolding on many levels, be it economic, humanitarian or social. It is arguably the biggest health-related challenge we have encountered collectively, and people across the world are learning to evolve and live with it. Whether it using social media to channel emotions or an increasing number of adults taking sabbaticals from work, the need for us to cope is real and imperative.

Here are a few tips that could help to boost your immunity and take better care of your mental and physical health, as things slowly get back into a new normal:

Mind your mental health

Being stationary and home-bound during the pandemic has made the healthiest of people pile on pounds. Being cut off from outdoor spaces has also impacted our mental health in a big way. Seek help if you need it to deal with your anxiety and any other issues that you may be facing. Engaging in distressing activities and hobbies, spending time with loved ones and pets, listening to music, dancing, gardening, watching uplifting comedies and reading inspirational books can help us all navigate tough times. &nbsp;

Set yourself a fitness goal

Our physical movement has been severely limited&nbsp;due to the pandemic. Our connection to the environment, to like-minded communities, has been curtailed and this has taken away a huge part of our organic experiences. One way to engage in a community-centric, physical activity safely is by joining this year’s Oxfam Trailwalker Challenge starting from 17&nbsp;September to 26&nbsp;September and then again from&nbsp;1&nbsp;October to 10&nbsp;October. This virtual walkathon motivates people in 17 locations and nine countries around the globe to reaffirm their commitment to fitness and community welfare.&nbsp;

Eat what is good for you

Eat sensibly, on time and cook meals that balance out the nutrients that you need the most. Experiment with fresh salads, juices, steamed and lightly sauteed meals, &nbsp;steer clear of processed foods, drink lots of water (8-10 glasses a day) to flush out toxins from your body, eschew alcohol and replace sugary drinks with coconut water. Add probiotics to your diet. Cut out sugar, heavy carbs and excessive caffeine and incorporate healthy snacks rather than store-bought ones to address those inconvenient hunger pangs. What you eat will eventually impact how you feel so stock up on foods that are truly good for your body.

Learn to meditate

Many people find it hard to meditate but like everything else in life, it is a skill that given time and persistence, can be mastered. There are instructional videos, guided meditations available online that simplify what seems like an intimidating activity. &nbsp;Once you get a hang&nbsp;of&nbsp;it, you will find yourself feeling less anxious and more at peace with life’s ups and downs. You can also follow mindfulness blogs and read books that teach how to live in the moment. You can join virtual meditation sessions and try different kinds of meditation techniques to see which one suits you. Just learning to regulate your breathing can make a huge difference to your stress levels.

Take your sleep seriously

Addiction to big and small screens and over-dependence on the Internet has made us all compromise our natural sleep cycle. Virtual stimulation, constant notifications and an unending stream of relevant and irrelevant information have chained us to our electronic devices. &nbsp;Even though scientific research has established that taking our mobiles to our beds is detrimental to natural sleep patterns, we continue to scroll through our social media late into the night. Our biological clock follows a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle but electronic back-lit devices like cell phones, laptops, tablets etc emit a blue light which reduces or delays sleep. Delayed or interrupted sleep also impairs cognitive function and in the long run, harms our overall wellness quotient and immunity levels. To take better care of yourself, switch off your devices an hour before you go to bed and sleep and wake up at a designated time. Observe digital detox often, to clear your mind. 
image.gif

The pandemic has placed us in an unprecedented and long-lasting crisis that has been consistently unfolding on many levels, be it economic, humanitarian or social.

The pandemic has placed us in an unprecedented and long-lasting crisis that has been consistently unfolding on many levels, be it economic, humanitarian or social. It is arguably the biggest health-related challenge we have encountered collectively, and people across the world are learning to evolve and live with it. Whether it using social media to channel emotions or an increasing number of adults taking sabbaticals from work, the need for us to cope is real and imperative. Here are a few tips that could help to boost your immunity and take better care of your mental and physical health, as things slowly get back into a new normal: Mind your mental health Being stationary and home-bound during the pandemic has made the healthiest of people pile on pounds. Being cut off from outdoor spaces has also impacted our mental health in a big way. Seek help if you need it to deal with your anxiety and any other issues that you may be facing. Engaging in distressing activities and hobbies, spending time with loved ones and pets, listening to music, dancing, gardening, watching uplifting comedies and reading inspirational books can help us all navigate tough times. Set yourself a fitness goal Our physical movement has been severely limited due to the pandemic. Our connection to the environment, to like-minded communities, has been curtailed and this has taken away a huge part of our organic experiences. One way to engage in a community-centric, physical activity safely is by joining this year’s Oxfam Trailwalker Challenge starting from 17 September to 26 September and then again from 1 October to 10 October. This virtual walkathon motivates people in 17 locations and nine countries around the globe to reaffirm their commitment to fitness and community welfare. Eat what is good for you Eat sensibly, on time and cook meals that balance out the nutrients that you need the most. Experiment with fresh salads, juices, steamed and lightly sauteed meals, steer clear of processed foods, drink lots of water (8-10 glasses a day) to flush out toxins from your body, eschew alcohol and replace sugary drinks with coconut water. Add probiotics to your diet. Cut out sugar, heavy carbs and excessive caffeine and incorporate healthy snacks rather than store-bought ones to address those inconvenient hunger pangs. What you eat will eventually impact how you feel so stock up on foods that are truly good for your body. Learn to meditate Many people find it hard to meditate but like everything else in life, it is a skill that given time and persistence, can be mastered. There are instructional videos, guided meditations available online that simplify what seems like an intimidating activity. Once you get a hang of it, you will find yourself feeling less anxious and more at peace with life’s ups and downs. You can also follow mindfulness blogs and read books that teach how to live in the moment. You can join virtual meditation sessions and try different kinds of meditation techniques to see which one suits you. Just learning to regulate your breathing can make a huge difference to your stress levels. Take your sleep seriously Addiction to big and small screens and over-dependence on the Internet has made us all compromise our natural sleep cycle. Virtual stimulation, constant notifications and an unending stream of relevant and irrelevant information have chained us to our electronic devices. Even though scientific research has established that taking our mobiles to our beds is detrimental to natural sleep patterns, we continue to scroll through our social media late into the night. Our biological clock follows a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle but electronic back-lit devices like cell phones, laptops, tablets etc emit a blue light which reduces or delays sleep. Delayed or interrupted sleep also impairs cognitive function and in the long run, harms our overall wellness quotient and immunity levels. To take better care of yourself, switch off your devices an hour before you go to bed and sleep and wake up at a designated time. Observe digital detox often, to clear your mind. image.gif

A guide to your healthy routine to beat the long-lasting Covid blues

South Africa’s former President Jacob Zuma, who is serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court, has been granted medical parole because of his ill health.

South Africa's Ex-President Jacob Zuma placed on medical parole amid health speculation

Brazilian health officials accused four Argentine footballers of breaking quarantine rules on Saturday and began an investigation that could lead to their exclusion from this weekend`s World Cup qualifier between the two sides. 
 
The Argentina squad flew into Brazil on Friday, the day after beating Venezuela 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier in Caracas. 
 
The squad for Sunday`s game at the Corinthians arena contains four players who play in England, Emiliano Buendia and Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur duo Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero. 
 
Anvisa said that with few exemptions non-Brazilians were prohibited from entering Brazil from Britain, Northern Ireland, South Africa or India. 
 
Those given exemptions must advise authorities on arrival and spend 14 days in quarantine. 
 
"The players in question, who arrived in Brazil on a flight from Caracas (Venezuela) to Guarulhos, declared they had not spent time in any of the four countries with restrictions on them in the last 14 days," Anvisa said in a statement. 
 
In a separate statement the Sao Paulo State Health Secretariat said "an epidimiological and sanitary investigation has begun." 
 
Brazilian news site UOL said if the four players could not provide documents showing they were exempt from quarantine they could be prevented from playing in Sunday`s game. 
 
Brazil lead the South American qualifying group for Qatar 2022, six points ahead of second-placed Argentina. The top four qualify automatically for the World Cup. 
 
There has been anger in South America after several teams were deprived of key players for this month’s triple header of qualifiers. 
 
Brazil are without nine key men for the Argentina game, and other South American sides have also lost players due to a decision by some European clubs not to let their players travel to the continent. 
 
They would have to quarantine on return and the clubs do not want to lose their players for subsequent league games. 
 
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni criticised the decision earlier on Saturday and said it compromised the integrity of the World Cup. 
 
“It is not equal and that’s very clear,” Scaloni said. 
&nbsp;

Brazilian health officials accused four Argentine footballers of breaking quarantine rules on Saturday and began an investigation that could lead to their exclusion from this weekend`s World Cup qualifier between the two sides.

Brazilian health officials accused four Argentine footballers of breaking quarantine rules on Saturday and began an investigation that could lead to their exclusion from this weekend`s World Cup qualifier between the two sides. The Argentina squad flew into Brazil on Friday, the day after beating Venezuela 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier in Caracas. The squad for Sunday`s game at the Corinthians arena contains four players who play in England, Emiliano Buendia and Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur duo Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero. Anvisa said that with few exemptions non-Brazilians were prohibited from entering Brazil from Britain, Northern Ireland, South Africa or India. Those given exemptions must advise authorities on arrival and spend 14 days in quarantine. "The players in question, who arrived in Brazil on a flight from Caracas (Venezuela) to Guarulhos, declared they had not spent time in any of the four countries with restrictions on them in the last 14 days," Anvisa said in a statement. In a separate statement the Sao Paulo State Health Secretariat said "an epidimiological and sanitary investigation has begun." Brazilian news site UOL said if the four players could not provide documents showing they were exempt from quarantine they could be prevented from playing in Sunday`s game. Brazil lead the South American qualifying group for Qatar 2022, six points ahead of second-placed Argentina. The top four qualify automatically for the World Cup. There has been anger in South America after several teams were deprived of key players for this month’s triple header of qualifiers. Brazil are without nine key men for the Argentina game, and other South American sides have also lost players due to a decision by some European clubs not to let their players travel to the continent. They would have to quarantine on return and the clubs do not want to lose their players for subsequent league games. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni criticised the decision earlier on Saturday and said it compromised the integrity of the World Cup. “It is not equal and that’s very clear,” Scaloni said.

Argentina football players face health inquiry ahead of Brazil match

According to a study, taking 7,000 steps a day during middle age can keep a person’s arteries healthy and lowers the chances of heart diseases.

The report in JAMA Network said participants who took approximately 7,000 steps or more experienced lower mortality rates compared with participants taking fewer than 7000 steps.

The study suggested that "increasing steps" per day among the least active portion of the population may provide "mortality benefit".

The study said 7,000 steps was enough to protect against heart complications than the commonly recommended 10,000 steps per day.

The study assessed adults aged between 38 and 50 and found that those who took 7,000 steps daily were less likely to die over the next decade.

Physical activity provides substantial health benefits for many conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and several cancers, as well as improving quality of life, the report noted.

However, it said that that the US National guidelines for physical activity does not include step counts as a public health target owing to the limited number of studies.

According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), a person should perform 150 minutes of moderate exercise. The study noted that wearable patient monitoring systems have emerged&nbsp;as "personalised medicine tools" for the prevention and management of chronic conditions.

"Encouraging walking to achieve step goals is a well-tolerated form of activity for most people," the report said.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to a study, taking 7,000 steps a day during middle age can keep a person’s arteries healthy and lowers the chances of heart diseases. The report in JAMA Network said participants who took approximately 7,000 steps or more experienced lower mortality rates compared with participants taking fewer than 7000 steps.

According to a study, taking 7,000 steps a day during middle age can keep a person’s arteries healthy and lowers the chances of heart diseases. The report in JAMA Network said participants who took approximately 7,000 steps or more experienced lower mortality rates compared with participants taking fewer than 7000 steps. The study suggested that "increasing steps" per day among the least active portion of the population may provide "mortality benefit". The study said 7,000 steps was enough to protect against heart complications than the commonly recommended 10,000 steps per day. The study assessed adults aged between 38 and 50 and found that those who took 7,000 steps daily were less likely to die over the next decade. Physical activity provides substantial health benefits for many conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and several cancers, as well as improving quality of life, the report noted. However, it said that that the US National guidelines for physical activity does not include step counts as a public health target owing to the limited number of studies. According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), a person should perform 150 minutes of moderate exercise. The study noted that wearable patient monitoring systems have emerged as "personalised medicine tools" for the prevention and management of chronic conditions. "Encouraging walking to achieve step goals is a well-tolerated form of activity for most people," the report said. (With inputs from Agencies)

7,000 steps a day cuts risk of heart disease: Study

India would resume exports of COVID-19 vaccines only after its own interests are taken care of, a health ministry official said on Thursday.&nbsp;

This comes in as a recent surge in immunisations raised hopes of foreign sales that have been barred since mid-April.

"Every country works with an aim of keeping its people, economy and social system safe," Rajesh Bhushan told a weekly news conference.

"Even the public health response to COVID-19 is governed by those goals. So we will also try to achieve those goals and see when would be the right time to export vaccines," he added.

Meanwhile, India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months today, as the government worries about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala state, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-highest-covid-19-cases-in-two-months-worst-hit-kerala-in-focus-410225">Also read |&nbsp;India records highest COVID-19 cases in two months, worst-hit Kerala in focus</a>

Kerala accounted for nearly 70 per cent of the 47,092 new infections and a third of deaths.

This comes a week after it celebrated its biggest festival during which family and social gatherings were common.

"With cases rising in Kerala, adequate steps should be taken to contain the inter-state spread of COVID-19," Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a statement after speaking with his state counterparts in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which border Kerala.

India has so far administered 662 million doses, with at least one dose in 54 per cent of its 944 million adults and the required two doses in 16 per cent.

India would resume exports of COVID-19 vaccines only after its own interests are taken care of, a health ministry official said on Thursday. This comes in as a recent surge in immunisations raised hopes of foreign sales that have been barred since mid-April.

India would resume exports of COVID-19 vaccines only after its own interests are taken care of, a health ministry official said on Thursday. This comes in as a recent surge in immunisations raised hopes of foreign sales that have been barred since mid-April. "Every country works with an aim of keeping its people, economy and social system safe," Rajesh Bhushan told a weekly news conference. "Even the public health response to COVID-19 is governed by those goals. So we will also try to achieve those goals and see when would be the right time to export vaccines," he added. Meanwhile, India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months today, as the government worries about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala state, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season. Also read | India records highest COVID-19 cases in two months, worst-hit Kerala in focus Kerala accounted for nearly 70 per cent of the 47,092 new infections and a third of deaths. This comes a week after it celebrated its biggest festival during which family and social gatherings were common. "With cases rising in Kerala, adequate steps should be taken to contain the inter-state spread of COVID-19," Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a statement after speaking with his state counterparts in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which border Kerala. India has so far administered 662 million doses, with at least one dose in 54 per cent of its 944 million adults and the required two doses in 16 per cent.

India's interests come before vaccine exports: Health ministry

A stress signal received by the heart from fat could help protect against cardiac damage induced by obesity, a new study led by UT Southwestern researchers suggests.

The finding, published online in&nbsp;Cell Metabolism, might help explain the “obesity paradox,” a phenomenon where obese individuals have better short- and medium-term cardiovascular disease prognoses compared with those who are lean, but with ultimately worse long-term outcomes.

"The mechanism we have identified here could be one of many that protects the heart in obesity," said study leader Philipp E. Scherer, PhD, Professor of Internal Medicine and Cell Biology at UTSW who has long studied fat metabolism.

Study co-leader Clair Crewe, PhD, Assistant Instructor of Internal Medicine at UTSW, said the metabolic stress of obesity gradually makes fat tissue dysfunctional, causing its mitochondria — the cellular organelles that generate energy — to shrink and die. Eventually, this unhealthy fat loses the ability to store lipids generated by excess calories in food, poisoning other organs through an effect called lipotoxicity. Some organs, including the heart, appear to mount a preemptive defence to protect against lipotoxicity. But how the heart senses fat's dysfunctional state has been unknown.

In their study, Dr Crewe, Dr Scherer, and their colleagues used a genetic technique to speed the loss of mitochondrial mass and function in mice. When these animals ate a high-fat diet and became obese, the researchers found that the rodents' fat cells began sending out extracellular vesicles filled with small pieces of dying mitochondria. Some of these mitochondrial snippets travelled through the bloodstream to the heart, triggering oxidative stress, a state in which cells generate harmful free radicals.

To counteract this stress, heart cells produce a flood of protective antioxidant molecules. This protective backlash was so strong that when the scientists injected mice with extracellular vesicles filled with mitochondrial snippets and later induced a heart attack, the animals had significantly less damage to their hearts compared with mice that didn't receive an injection.

Further research using fat tissue sampled from obese patients showed that these cells also release mitochondria-filled extracellular vesicles, Dr Crewe said, suggesting that the effects observed in mice also take place in humans.

Eventually, she explained, the heart and other organs in obese individuals become overwhelmed by lipotoxic effects, leading to many of obesity's comorbidities. However, learning how to artificially generate the protective mechanism identified in this study could lead to new ways to buffer obesity's negative consequences. This knowledge could even suggest strategies to protect the heart against damage in lean individuals as well.

“By better understanding the distress signal from fat,” Dr Crewe said, “We may be able to harness the mechanism to improve heart health in obese and non-obese individuals alike.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A stress signal received by the heart from fat could help protect against cardiac damage induced by obesity, a new study led by UT Southwestern researchers suggests.

A stress signal received by the heart from fat could help protect against cardiac damage induced by obesity, a new study led by UT Southwestern researchers suggests. The finding, published online in Cell Metabolism, might help explain the “obesity paradox,” a phenomenon where obese individuals have better short- and medium-term cardiovascular disease prognoses compared with those who are lean, but with ultimately worse long-term outcomes. "The mechanism we have identified here could be one of many that protects the heart in obesity," said study leader Philipp E. Scherer, PhD, Professor of Internal Medicine and Cell Biology at UTSW who has long studied fat metabolism. Study co-leader Clair Crewe, PhD, Assistant Instructor of Internal Medicine at UTSW, said the metabolic stress of obesity gradually makes fat tissue dysfunctional, causing its mitochondria — the cellular organelles that generate energy — to shrink and die. Eventually, this unhealthy fat loses the ability to store lipids generated by excess calories in food, poisoning other organs through an effect called lipotoxicity. Some organs, including the heart, appear to mount a preemptive defence to protect against lipotoxicity. But how the heart senses fat's dysfunctional state has been unknown. In their study, Dr Crewe, Dr Scherer, and their colleagues used a genetic technique to speed the loss of mitochondrial mass and function in mice. When these animals ate a high-fat diet and became obese, the researchers found that the rodents' fat cells began sending out extracellular vesicles filled with small pieces of dying mitochondria. Some of these mitochondrial snippets travelled through the bloodstream to the heart, triggering oxidative stress, a state in which cells generate harmful free radicals. To counteract this stress, heart cells produce a flood of protective antioxidant molecules. This protective backlash was so strong that when the scientists injected mice with extracellular vesicles filled with mitochondrial snippets and later induced a heart attack, the animals had significantly less damage to their hearts compared with mice that didn't receive an injection. Further research using fat tissue sampled from obese patients showed that these cells also release mitochondria-filled extracellular vesicles, Dr Crewe said, suggesting that the effects observed in mice also take place in humans. Eventually, she explained, the heart and other organs in obese individuals become overwhelmed by lipotoxic effects, leading to many of obesity's comorbidities. However, learning how to artificially generate the protective mechanism identified in this study could lead to new ways to buffer obesity's negative consequences. This knowledge could even suggest strategies to protect the heart against damage in lean individuals as well. “By better understanding the distress signal from fat,” Dr Crewe said, “We may be able to harness the mechanism to improve heart health in obese and non-obese individuals alike.” (With inputs from agencies)

Distress signal from fat cells prompts heart to shore up defences against consequences of obesity

Contrary to popular beliefs, an (extra) apple a day can make one gain 10lbs. Also, 'calorie creep'--a term used for overeating, even by 50 to 100 calories regularly, that eventually leads to weight gain.

 
Many of us have believed for a long time that the general calorie-intake limit we should stick to is 2,000 a day for women, and 2,500 for men. And, despite all the tracking we do, it’s easy and quite possible to exceed the aforementioned limit without even realizing.

 
This phenomenon is called 'calorie creep'. It occurs when one consumes more calories than they burn each day.

 
"Calorie creep describes the slow, steady effect of the extra items we consume each day, many of which you might not realize are contributing, bit by bit, to an excess of calories," explains Sophie Medlin, reportedly, a dietitian at City Dietitians in London and chair of the British Dietetic Association's London branch.

 
"It could be a coffee shop latte, the extra biscuit you have with your tea — even an extra apple. It’s a common reason why people gain weight year after year," she goes on to add.&nbsp;

 
Yes, these foods are not the same and the apple provides one with more health benefits than a biscuit. But, as long as you are exceeding the daily calorie limit, it can lead to calorie creep anyway.

 
&nbsp;Theoretically, every extra 3,500 calories you eat is equivalent to a weight gain of 1lb.

 
There may also be other individual factors that increase the impact of calorie creep, reports claim.

 
For instance, a 2017 study in the International Journal of Obesity showed that the type of bacteria in our stomach might make a difference to how many calories we absorb from foods, and have an overall impact on weight gain.

 
Additionally, an increase in weight over time might not be as linear as numbers suggest, as the more you weigh, the more calories you burn (because your body needs more energy to function).&nbsp;

 
A 'cookie habit' that caused you to gain 2lb over a year at 10st might not result in the same weight gain once you reach 11st.

 
The trick to understand as to why the scales are going up despite no obvious overeating, looking into the various sources of calorie creep is a good place to start.

 
One apple can have an excess calorie of 95, which could result in a weight gain of 9.9lb. "This proves that any food, if eaten in excess, can contribute to weight gain. But I wouldn’t suggest that you have to cut this out of your daily intake to address calorie creep, as apples provide gut-friendly fibre and nutrients that support immunity, such as vitamin C. &nbsp;However, some people find that eating fruit alone between meals can make them hungrier — adding a little protein, such as a square of feta cheese, can help," further explains Sophie Medlin.&nbsp;

Contrary to popular beliefs, an (extra) apple a day can make one gain 10lbs. Also, 'calorie creep'--a term used for overeating, even by 50 to 100 calories regularly, that eventually leads to weight gain.

Contrary to popular beliefs, an (extra) apple a day can make one gain 10lbs. Also, 'calorie creep'--a term used for overeating, even by 50 to 100 calories regularly, that eventually leads to weight gain. Many of us have believed for a long time that the general calorie-intake limit we should stick to is 2,000 a day for women, and 2,500 for men. And, despite all the tracking we do, it’s easy and quite possible to exceed the aforementioned limit without even realizing. This phenomenon is called 'calorie creep'. It occurs when one consumes more calories than they burn each day. "Calorie creep describes the slow, steady effect of the extra items we consume each day, many of which you might not realize are contributing, bit by bit, to an excess of calories," explains Sophie Medlin, reportedly, a dietitian at City Dietitians in London and chair of the British Dietetic Association's London branch. "It could be a coffee shop latte, the extra biscuit you have with your tea — even an extra apple. It’s a common reason why people gain weight year after year," she goes on to add. Yes, these foods are not the same and the apple provides one with more health benefits than a biscuit. But, as long as you are exceeding the daily calorie limit, it can lead to calorie creep anyway. Theoretically, every extra 3,500 calories you eat is equivalent to a weight gain of 1lb. There may also be other individual factors that increase the impact of calorie creep, reports claim. For instance, a 2017 study in the International Journal of Obesity showed that the type of bacteria in our stomach might make a difference to how many calories we absorb from foods, and have an overall impact on weight gain. Additionally, an increase in weight over time might not be as linear as numbers suggest, as the more you weigh, the more calories you burn (because your body needs more energy to function). A 'cookie habit' that caused you to gain 2lb over a year at 10st might not result in the same weight gain once you reach 11st. The trick to understand as to why the scales are going up despite no obvious overeating, looking into the various sources of calorie creep is a good place to start. One apple can have an excess calorie of 95, which could result in a weight gain of 9.9lb. "This proves that any food, if eaten in excess, can contribute to weight gain. But I wouldn’t suggest that you have to cut this out of your daily intake to address calorie creep, as apples provide gut-friendly fibre and nutrients that support immunity, such as vitamin C. However, some people find that eating fruit alone between meals can make them hungrier — adding a little protein, such as a square of feta cheese, can help," further explains Sophie Medlin.

An extra apple a day is not really your bae, say dieticians

In Pics | Tens of thousands march against French COVID-19 ‘health pass’

People living in the rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir will be provided with the same medical facilities that are available in cities now. Government is constructing 30 new oxygen plants in these far-flung areas and also providing high-standard medical equipment to these primary health hospitals.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir government with the help of the World Bank has been able to upgrade the medical Infrastructure in the Kashmir Valley. Previously, the people from rural areas had to come to the city for emergency cases. The inflow to the tertiary hospitals had increased manifold due to the Covid Pandemic.&nbsp;

And with the grant of 360 crores from the World Bank, people from the rural areas will benefit a lot. They won't have to come down to cities for medical treatments.&nbsp;

"Covid as a pandemic was a major challenge. The Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) is implementing a 250 million dollar project. 50 million project for covid related infrastructure. We have provided the best medical equipment to the peripheral areas of Kashmir. The primary health centres and district hospitals of these villages will have all the facilities needed.The management has improved remarkably. Patients had to travel from these remote places to Srinagar or Jammu for medical care. But now they won't have to," said Abid Rashid Shah, CEO, ERA

There are 30 new oxygen plants being set up across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. 15 will be constructed in Jammu while the rest in the Kashmir zone. 42 different types of latest Critical Care Medical Equipments have been procured and provided to these facilities. In central Kashmir's Budgam district, ERA is constructing a 500 LPMS oxygen plant at Charar-e-Shareef. This will cater to around 1.5 lakh people living in the area.&nbsp;

"This project is with regard to providing oxygen plants. There will be 15 plants in the Kashmir valley while 15 will be constructed in Jammu. This plant here in Chahrar-e-Shareef would be providing oxygen to 60 beds in a hospital. This will benefit the people living in villages as they have facilities available nearby now," said Shuja Qureshi, AEE, ERA.

The doctors working in these rural areas have appreciated the step and say that it will help them in treating patients in these primary care centres, district hospitals etc. Earlier any patient requiring high oxygen supply would be sent to a tertiary hospital in Srinagar or Jammu.&nbsp;

"We had to shift patients from these far flung areas to Srinagar for the requirement of high oxygen supply. Now that we have an oxygen plant here, we don't have to shift them any more. We can manage the patients here only. This is an excellent job done by the government and they made it in record time." said Dr Mushtaq, Surgeon at Sub-Division Hospital.&nbsp;

The installation of various vital medical equipment at these medical care facilities in the far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir will benefit the people and also take off the load of tertiary hospitals.

People living in the rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir will be provided with the same medical facilities that are available in cities now. Government is constructing 30 new oxygen plants in these far-flung areas and also providing high-standard medical equipment to these primary health hospitals.

People living in the rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir will be provided with the same medical facilities that are available in cities now. Government is constructing 30 new oxygen plants in these far-flung areas and also providing high-standard medical equipment to these primary health hospitals. The Jammu and Kashmir government with the help of the World Bank has been able to upgrade the medical Infrastructure in the Kashmir Valley. Previously, the people from rural areas had to come to the city for emergency cases. The inflow to the tertiary hospitals had increased manifold due to the Covid Pandemic. And with the grant of 360 crores from the World Bank, people from the rural areas will benefit a lot. They won't have to come down to cities for medical treatments. "Covid as a pandemic was a major challenge. The Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) is implementing a 250 million dollar project. 50 million project for covid related infrastructure. We have provided the best medical equipment to the peripheral areas of Kashmir. The primary health centres and district hospitals of these villages will have all the facilities needed.The management has improved remarkably. Patients had to travel from these remote places to Srinagar or Jammu for medical care. But now they won't have to," said Abid Rashid Shah, CEO, ERA There are 30 new oxygen plants being set up across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. 15 will be constructed in Jammu while the rest in the Kashmir zone. 42 different types of latest Critical Care Medical Equipments have been procured and provided to these facilities. In central Kashmir's Budgam district, ERA is constructing a 500 LPMS oxygen plant at Charar-e-Shareef. This will cater to around 1.5 lakh people living in the area. "This project is with regard to providing oxygen plants. There will be 15 plants in the Kashmir valley while 15 will be constructed in Jammu. This plant here in Chahrar-e-Shareef would be providing oxygen to 60 beds in a hospital. This will benefit the people living in villages as they have facilities available nearby now," said Shuja Qureshi, AEE, ERA. The doctors working in these rural areas have appreciated the step and say that it will help them in treating patients in these primary care centres, district hospitals etc. Earlier any patient requiring high oxygen supply would be sent to a tertiary hospital in Srinagar or Jammu. "We had to shift patients from these far flung areas to Srinagar for the requirement of high oxygen supply. Now that we have an oxygen plant here, we don't have to shift them any more. We can manage the patients here only. This is an excellent job done by the government and they made it in record time." said Dr Mushtaq, Surgeon at Sub-Division Hospital. The installation of various vital medical equipment at these medical care facilities in the far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir will benefit the people and also take off the load of tertiary hospitals.

Jammu & Kashmir: Health infrastructure upgraded in rural areas, World Bank helps

Herbal and dietary supplements are causing liver damage. In Australia, several people had to get a liver transplant after consuming supplements. Palki Sharma says it's time to bid goodbye to protein powders, omega-3 pills, and health drinks.

Gravitas: Herbal, dietary health supplements cause liver damage

French cinemas, museums and sports venues began asking visitors Wednesday to furnish proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative test as the country, which is in the throes of a fourth wave of infections, rolled out a controversial vaccine passport system.

The so-called "health pass" is required for all events or places with more than 50 people before being extended to restaurants, cafes and shopping centres in August.

Prime Minister Jean Castex defended the policy, noting that nearly all new infections are in people who have not been immunised.

The number of new infections over 24 hours shot up to 21,000 on Wednesday, the highest level since early May.

"We're in the fourth wave," Castex told TF1 television, adding that the goal of the health pass is to avoid a fourth nationwide lockdown.

Health Minister Olivier Veran lashed out at vaccine refuseniks, who have accused the government of flouting their freedom of choice.

"Freedom is not about dodging taxes, or driving the wrong way up the motorway, or smoking in a restaurant or refusing a vaccine that protects me as much as it protects others," he told parliament.

&nbsp;50-million target

The Louvre museum and Eiffel Tower were among the sites that began implementing the vaccine checks on Wednesday.

But whereas most tourists had their vaccine certificates at hand, having shown them on arrival in the country, some French people were wrong-footed by the new rules.

In the Paris suburb of Rosny-sous-Bois, 28-year-old Marie-Ange Rodrigues was surprised to be barred from a cinema screening after having received her second vaccine shot.

"It's rubbish!" she said of the requirement to have been fully vaccinated for at least a week.

Nearly 38 million people, representing 56 percent of the French population, have received at least one dose of a vaccine, according to data by the covidtracker.fr website.

Nearly 46 per cent, have been fully vaccinated.

French cinemas, museums and sports venues began asking visitors Wednesday to furnish proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative test as the country, which is in the throes of a fourth wave of infections, rolled out a controversial vaccine passport system.

French cinemas, museums and sports venues began asking visitors Wednesday to furnish proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative test as the country, which is in the throes of a fourth wave of infections, rolled out a controversial vaccine passport system. The so-called "health pass" is required for all events or places with more than 50 people before being extended to restaurants, cafes and shopping centres in August. Prime Minister Jean Castex defended the policy, noting that nearly all new infections are in people who have not been immunised. The number of new infections over 24 hours shot up to 21,000 on Wednesday, the highest level since early May. "We're in the fourth wave," Castex told TF1 television, adding that the goal of the health pass is to avoid a fourth nationwide lockdown. Health Minister Olivier Veran lashed out at vaccine refuseniks, who have accused the government of flouting their freedom of choice. "Freedom is not about dodging taxes, or driving the wrong way up the motorway, or smoking in a restaurant or refusing a vaccine that protects me as much as it protects others," he told parliament. 50-million target The Louvre museum and Eiffel Tower were among the sites that began implementing the vaccine checks on Wednesday. But whereas most tourists had their vaccine certificates at hand, having shown them on arrival in the country, some French people were wrong-footed by the new rules. In the Paris suburb of Rosny-sous-Bois, 28-year-old Marie-Ange Rodrigues was surprised to be barred from a cinema screening after having received her second vaccine shot. "It's rubbish!" she said of the requirement to have been fully vaccinated for at least a week. Nearly 38 million people, representing 56 percent of the French population, have received at least one dose of a vaccine, according to data by the covidtracker.fr website. Nearly 46 per cent, have been fully vaccinated.

France launches controversial vaccine pass as fourth Covid wave hits

From Wednesday, people who want to go out to cinemas, museums, sporting matches and other cultural venues in France will have to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test. This comes as the country braces for a feared spike in cases from the highly transmissible Delta variant.

The new 'health pass' will be required for all events or places with more than 50 people.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron announced in a televised speech that the 'health pass' will be required for all events or places with more than 50 people before being extended to restaurants, cafes and shopping centres in August.

The initial COVID-19 pass was implemented by decree, while lawmakers will vote on its extension to restaurants and trains or planes for long-distance travel.

Health minister Olivier Veran warned of an unprecedented increase in COVID-19 cases because of the Delta variant. On Tuesday, 18,000 cases were reported over 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/never-seen-this-before-britain-france-spain-witness-surge-in-covid-19-cases-399293">Also read |&nbsp;'Never seen this before': Britain, France &amp; Spain witness surge in COVID-19 cases</a>

"That means we have an increase in the spread of the virus of around 150 per cent in the last week: we've never seen that," Veran told parliament.&nbsp;

In Paris and much of southern and western France, COVID-19 incidence rates now exceed the warning level of 50 per 100,000 people.&nbsp;

However, the government is hoping that widespread vaccination will help in coping up with the upcoming wave.

The country has been hit hard due to the Delta variant&nbsp;which authorities said was more contagious than the previous strains even as vaccination has picked up in the country.

France has&nbsp;vaccinated&nbsp;over 55 per cent of the population with a single dose with over 44 per cent fully protected as unvaccinated travellers entering the country were put under restrictions.

From Wednesday, people who want to go out to cinemas, museums, sporting matches and other cultural venues in France will have to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test.

From Wednesday, people who want to go out to cinemas, museums, sporting matches and other cultural venues in France will have to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test. This comes as the country braces for a feared spike in cases from the highly transmissible Delta variant. The new 'health pass' will be required for all events or places with more than 50 people. French President Emmanuel Macron announced in a televised speech that the 'health pass' will be required for all events or places with more than 50 people before being extended to restaurants, cafes and shopping centres in August. The initial COVID-19 pass was implemented by decree, while lawmakers will vote on its extension to restaurants and trains or planes for long-distance travel. Health minister Olivier Veran warned of an unprecedented increase in COVID-19 cases because of the Delta variant. On Tuesday, 18,000 cases were reported over 24 hours. Also read | 'Never seen this before': Britain, France & Spain witness surge in COVID-19 cases "That means we have an increase in the spread of the virus of around 150 per cent in the last week: we've never seen that," Veran told parliament. In Paris and much of southern and western France, COVID-19 incidence rates now exceed the warning level of 50 per 100,000 people. However, the government is hoping that widespread vaccination will help in coping up with the upcoming wave. The country has been hit hard due to the Delta variant which authorities said was more contagious than the previous strains even as vaccination has picked up in the country. France has vaccinated over 55 per cent of the population with a single dose with over 44 per cent fully protected as unvaccinated travellers entering the country were put under restrictions.

France now launches a 'health pass'. Here is what you should know

Hungary is ordering mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations for all health workers, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Friday, following similar moves by France and a few other European countries.

"We are not in favour of coercion, with the exception of one area, where we have made a decision that vaccination will be mandatory for healthcare workers," said Orban in his weekly radio interview.&nbsp;

He did not say when the requirement would take effect.

France on Monday announced mandatory vaccinations for healthcare staff, retirement home workers and others working with vulnerable people from September in line with similar moves in Greece, Italy and Britain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plans-for-a-chinese-university-spark-outrage-in-hungary-397614">Also read |&nbsp;Plans for a Chinese university spark&nbsp;outrage in&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;</a>

In Hungary, more than 30,000 people infected with coronavirus have died, making the 9.8-million population central European country one of the hardest-hit EU member states, according to AFP data.&nbsp;

But the EU member carried out one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the 27-member bloc in part thanks to its use of the Chinese Sinopharm and Russian Sputnik V jabs.

The infection case numbers have dropped quickly since May while all coronavirus restrictions including mandatory mask-wearing indoors were lifted in early July.&nbsp;

Since June however the vaccination tempo has slowed. Orban said Friday that elderly people who have not taken the vaccine will be visited in person to offer them a jab.

A third shot will be made available to people four months past their second Covid jab from August 1.&nbsp;

Vaccinations will also be made available to those aged 12 and over in schools during the two days ahead of the start of the school year on September 1.

Hungary is ordering mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations for all health workers, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Friday, following similar moves by France and a few other European countries.

Hungary is ordering mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations for all health workers, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Friday, following similar moves by France and a few other European countries. "We are not in favour of coercion, with the exception of one area, where we have made a decision that vaccination will be mandatory for healthcare workers," said Orban in his weekly radio interview. He did not say when the requirement would take effect. France on Monday announced mandatory vaccinations for healthcare staff, retirement home workers and others working with vulnerable people from September in line with similar moves in Greece, Italy and Britain. Also read | Plans for a Chinese university spark outrage in Hungary In Hungary, more than 30,000 people infected with coronavirus have died, making the 9.8-million population central European country one of the hardest-hit EU member states, according to AFP data. But the EU member carried out one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the 27-member bloc in part thanks to its use of the Chinese Sinopharm and Russian Sputnik V jabs. The infection case numbers have dropped quickly since May while all coronavirus restrictions including mandatory mask-wearing indoors were lifted in early July. Since June however the vaccination tempo has slowed. Orban said Friday that elderly people who have not taken the vaccine will be visited in person to offer them a jab. A third shot will be made available to people four months past their second Covid jab from August 1. Vaccinations will also be made available to those aged 12 and over in schools during the two days ahead of the start of the school year on September 1.

Hungary makes COVID-19 jabs mandatory for health workers

health

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