China&nbsp;on Saturday said it had given "conditional"&nbsp;approval&nbsp;for&nbsp;Pfizer's&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;drug&nbsp;Paxlovid to treat adults with mild to moderate illness and a high risk of developing severe disease.

The&nbsp;drug&nbsp;has so far been authorised in about 40 countries including the United States and Israel, while the European Union has permitted member states to use it ahead of formal&nbsp;approval&nbsp;as an emergency measure against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant.

Unlike&nbsp;Covid-19 vaccines,&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;says that preliminary studies show that Paxlovid does not target the ever-evolving spike protein the coronavirus uses to invade cells, meaning it should theoretically be more variant-proof.

China's National Medical Products Administration on Saturday said further research on the&nbsp;drug&nbsp;needed to be undertaken and submitted to the&nbsp;regulator.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-labour-organization-slams-china-for-racial-and-religious-discrimination-in-xinjiang-452555">International Labour Organization slams China for racial and religious discrimination in Xinjiang</a>

Beijing has not yet approved any foreign-made coronavirus vaccines.

Lab tests have shown Omicron patients jabbed with the Chinese-produced Sinovac vaccine experience larger drops in antibody levels than those given the&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;version.

Earlier this week,&nbsp;Pfizer, whose vaccine developed with Germany's BioNTech was the first approved in the US, forecast more than $50 billion in 2022 sales for its coronavirus jab and therapeutic treatment.

The company expects to make 120 million treatment courses of Paxlovid, with executives describing ongoing contract talks with about 100 governments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easing-curbs-in-covid-zero-regions-will-cause-2-million-deaths-infections-china-ccdc-study-451366">Easing curbs in Covid zero regions will cause 2 million deaths, infections: China CCDC study</a>

Beijing's&nbsp;conditional&nbsp;approval&nbsp;of the&nbsp;pill&nbsp;comes as&nbsp;China&nbsp;-- where the coronavirus first emerged in late 2019 -- has slowed new cases to a trickle with a strict "zero-Covid" strategy of targeted lockdowns, travel restrictions and lengthy quarantines.

The country has fought several isolated flare-ups in recent months, with some driven by the delta variant and others by the Omicron strain.

All 40 of&nbsp;China's new domestic cases on Saturday occurred in just two cities, according to the National Health Commission.

One of them, the southern city of Baise –- a major aluminium producer –- went into lockdown this week amid a spike in infections, sending global prices for the metal to a 14-year high.

The other cases were detected in the northeastern coastal city of Huludao, prompting authorities to suspend cross-provincial tourism in the surrounding province of Liaoning, state broadcaster CCTV reported Saturday.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan scientists flag deadlier coronavirus

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-scientists-flag-deadlier-coronavirus-448614/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The country's uncompromising approach on the pandemic has led it to hold the ongoing Winter Olympics in a so-called closed loop, preventing participants from coming into contact with the wider population.

Organisers on Saturday announced eight new cases related to the Games, including four athletes and team officials.

More than 400 Olympics-related cases have been confirmed so far, the organisers said in a statement.

China on Saturday said it had given "conditional" approval for Pfizer's Covid-19 drug Paxlovid to treat adults with mild to moderate illness and a high risk of developing severe disease.

China on Saturday said it had given "conditional" approval for Pfizer's Covid-19 drug Paxlovid to treat adults with mild to moderate illness and a high risk of developing severe disease. The drug has so far been authorised in about 40 countries including the United States and Israel, while the European Union has permitted member states to use it ahead of formal approval as an emergency measure against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. Unlike Covid-19 vaccines, Pfizer says that preliminary studies show that Paxlovid does not target the ever-evolving spike protein the coronavirus uses to invade cells, meaning it should theoretically be more variant-proof. China's National Medical Products Administration on Saturday said further research on the drug needed to be undertaken and submitted to the regulator. Also read | International Labour Organization slams China for racial and religious discrimination in Xinjiang Beijing has not yet approved any foreign-made coronavirus vaccines. Lab tests have shown Omicron patients jabbed with the Chinese-produced Sinovac vaccine experience larger drops in antibody levels than those given the Pfizer version. Earlier this week, Pfizer, whose vaccine developed with Germany's BioNTech was the first approved in the US, forecast more than $50 billion in 2022 sales for its coronavirus jab and therapeutic treatment. The company expects to make 120 million treatment courses of Paxlovid, with executives describing ongoing contract talks with about 100 governments. Also read | Easing curbs in Covid zero regions will cause 2 million deaths, infections: China CCDC study Beijing's conditional approval of the pill comes as China -- where the coronavirus first emerged in late 2019 -- has slowed new cases to a trickle with a strict "zero-Covid" strategy of targeted lockdowns, travel restrictions and lengthy quarantines. The country has fought several isolated flare-ups in recent months, with some driven by the delta variant and others by the Omicron strain. All 40 of China's new domestic cases on Saturday occurred in just two cities, according to the National Health Commission. One of them, the southern city of Baise –- a major aluminium producer –- went into lockdown this week amid a spike in infections, sending global prices for the metal to a 14-year high. The other cases were detected in the northeastern coastal city of Huludao, prompting authorities to suspend cross-provincial tourism in the surrounding province of Liaoning, state broadcaster CCTV reported Saturday. Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan scientists flag deadlier coronavirus The country's uncompromising approach on the pandemic has led it to hold the ongoing Winter Olympics in a so-called closed loop, preventing participants from coming into contact with the wider population. Organisers on Saturday announced eight new cases related to the Games, including four athletes and team officials. More than 400 Olympics-related cases have been confirmed so far, the organisers said in a statement.

China gives 'conditional' approval for Pfizer Covid pill Paxlovid

Belgium announced further easing of coronavirus restrictions on Friday to allow nightclubs to reopen and drop the requirement for primary school pupils to wear masks, as cases of the Omicron variant fell from an end-of-January peak.

"The successive waves have not been easy for us," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo told a news conference, referring to back-to-back Omicron and Delta variant surges. "But we have got through them and we have got through them together."

COVID-19 infections have fallen from a record 75,000 on Jan. 24 to an average of around 23,000 in the week to Feb. 7. Hospital admissions have also declined and the numbers of patients in intensive care was far lower than during previous waves.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trendy-look-belgium-starts-to-issue-passports-with-countrys-comic-strip-heroes-images-451193">Trendy look? Belgium starts to issue passports with country's comic strip heroes’ images</a>

From next Friday, nightclubs will be allowed to reopen, bars will be able to extend their hours beyond the current limit of midnight and end curbs on the number of customers per table and concerts will be possible with a standing audience.

Indoor access will still be largely based on a COVID pass, showing vaccination or a recent test or recovery from infection. Limits, from 70% to full capacity, will be based on the activity and the degree of ventilation.

Watch |&nbsp;Inflation push up price of Belgium's nation food- Fries

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/inflation-push-up-price-of-belgiums-nation-food-fries-451665/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Non-essential workers will also no longer need to work from home for at least four days a week and consumers will be able to go shopping in groups of more than two.

The easing of measures follows those already announced in Belgium`s neighbours. France has set in motion a gradual easing through February.

The Dutch government said on Thursday it aims to drop most coronavirus restrictions by the end of the month, but with COVID passes for access to many public places.

Belgium announced further easing of coronavirus restrictions on Friday to allow nightclubs to reopen and drop the requirement for primary school pupils to wear masks, as cases of the Omicron variant fell from an end-of-January peak.

Belgium announced further easing of coronavirus restrictions on Friday to allow nightclubs to reopen and drop the requirement for primary school pupils to wear masks, as cases of the Omicron variant fell from an end-of-January peak. "The successive waves have not been easy for us," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo told a news conference, referring to back-to-back Omicron and Delta variant surges. "But we have got through them and we have got through them together." COVID-19 infections have fallen from a record 75,000 on Jan. 24 to an average of around 23,000 in the week to Feb. 7. Hospital admissions have also declined and the numbers of patients in intensive care was far lower than during previous waves. Also read | Trendy look? Belgium starts to issue passports with country's comic strip heroes’ images From next Friday, nightclubs will be allowed to reopen, bars will be able to extend their hours beyond the current limit of midnight and end curbs on the number of customers per table and concerts will be possible with a standing audience. Indoor access will still be largely based on a COVID pass, showing vaccination or a recent test or recovery from infection. Limits, from 70% to full capacity, will be based on the activity and the degree of ventilation. Watch | Inflation push up price of Belgium's nation food- Fries Non-essential workers will also no longer need to work from home for at least four days a week and consumers will be able to go shopping in groups of more than two. The easing of measures follows those already announced in Belgium`s neighbours. France has set in motion a gradual easing through February. The Dutch government said on Thursday it aims to drop most coronavirus restrictions by the end of the month, but with COVID passes for access to many public places.

Belgium to reopen nightclubs, ease mask mandate as infections sink

Canada's&nbsp;Ontario&nbsp;province Friday declared a&nbsp;state&nbsp;of&nbsp;emergency&nbsp;over&nbsp;trucker-led protests paralyzing the capital and disrupting trade with the United States, as Premier Doug Ford vowed to do whatever it takes to end the blockades.

The capital Ottawa has been clogged with hundreds of big rigs for two weeks, while three border crossings have been shut down by truckers demanding an end to all Covid health restrictions.

"We will take whatever steps are necessary to ensure the border is reopened," Ford told a news conference, threatening steep fines of up to Can$100,000 ($80,000) and jail unless protesters end their "illegal&nbsp;occupation."

"To the people of Ottawa under siege, I say we will ensure you're able to resume life and business as soon as possible."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-canada-court-order-us-warning-to-americans-and-more-452541">Morning news brief: Canada court order, US warning to Americans, and more</a>

The vital Ambassador Bridge connecting Windsor,&nbsp;Ontario&nbsp;and the US city of Detroit, is used daily by more than 40,000 commuters and tourists, along with trucks carrying $323 million worth of goods each day on average -- about one-quarter of all&nbsp;Canada-US trade.

The days-long border obstructions have already have major impact, with several automakers forced to cut back production as a result, triggering fears it could impact&nbsp;Canada's economic recovery from the &nbsp;pandemic.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is under mounting pressure to get the situation under control, with Washington calling on its northern neighbor to use federal powers to end the blockades.

Ford, who faces elections in June, has likewise been under fire for several days&nbsp;over&nbsp;his inaction to bring an end to the&nbsp;trucker-led disruptions.

Watch |&nbsp;'Time to go home,' Canadian PM Justin Trudeau warns demonstrators

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/time-to-go-home-canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-warns-demonstrators-452550/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The snowballing&nbsp;trucker&nbsp;movement has morphed&nbsp;over&nbsp;the past weeks into a broader&nbsp;protest&nbsp;against Covid-19 health restrictions and Trudeau's government -- and sparked solidarity rallies across the nation and abroad.

Canada's Ontario province Friday declared a state of emergency over trucker-led protests paralyzing the capital and disrupting trade with the United States, as Premier Doug Ford vowed to do whatever it takes to end the blockades.

Canada's Ontario province Friday declared a state of emergency over trucker-led protests paralyzing the capital and disrupting trade with the United States, as Premier Doug Ford vowed to do whatever it takes to end the blockades. The capital Ottawa has been clogged with hundreds of big rigs for two weeks, while three border crossings have been shut down by truckers demanding an end to all Covid health restrictions. "We will take whatever steps are necessary to ensure the border is reopened," Ford told a news conference, threatening steep fines of up to Can$100,000 ($80,000) and jail unless protesters end their "illegal occupation." "To the people of Ottawa under siege, I say we will ensure you're able to resume life and business as soon as possible." Also read | Morning news brief: Canada court order, US warning to Americans, and more The vital Ambassador Bridge connecting Windsor, Ontario and the US city of Detroit, is used daily by more than 40,000 commuters and tourists, along with trucks carrying $323 million worth of goods each day on average -- about one-quarter of all Canada-US trade. The days-long border obstructions have already have major impact, with several automakers forced to cut back production as a result, triggering fears it could impact Canada's economic recovery from the pandemic. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is under mounting pressure to get the situation under control, with Washington calling on its northern neighbor to use federal powers to end the blockades. Ford, who faces elections in June, has likewise been under fire for several days over his inaction to bring an end to the trucker-led disruptions. Watch | 'Time to go home,' Canadian PM Justin Trudeau warns demonstrators The snowballing trucker movement has morphed over the past weeks into a broader protest against Covid-19 health restrictions and Trudeau's government -- and sparked solidarity rallies across the nation and abroad.

State of emergency in Canada's Ontario over 'illegal' trucker protest

A raging&nbsp;measles&nbsp;outbreak in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;infected tens of thousands and killed more than 150 people last month alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Friday, warning of more&nbsp;deaths.

The UN health agency said the outbreak was particularly concerning since&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is facing massive food insecurity and malnutrition, leaving children far more vulnerable to the highly contagious disease.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-6-womens-rights-activists-still-missing-un-human-rights-office-expresses-concern-451313">Afghanistan: 6 women’s rights activists still missing; UN human rights office expresses concern</a>

"Measles&nbsp;cases&nbsp;have been increasing in all provinces since the end of July 2021,"&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;spokesman Christian Lindmeier told reporters in Geneva.

He said&nbsp;cases&nbsp;had surged recently, ballooning by 18 per cent in the week of January 24 and by 40 per cent in the last week of the month.

In all, 35,319 suspected&nbsp;measles&nbsp;cases&nbsp;were reported in January, including 3,000 that were laboratory confirmed, and 156&nbsp;deaths.&nbsp;Ninety-one per cent of the&nbsp;cases&nbsp;and 97 per cent of the&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;were children under the age of five.

Lindmeier stressed that the&nbsp;measles-related&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;were likely underreported and the numbers were expected to swell.

"The rapid rise in&nbsp;cases&nbsp;in January suggests that the number of&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;due to&nbsp;measles&nbsp;is likely to increase sharply in the coming weeks," Lindmeier said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prolonged-humanitarian-crisis-forces-starving-afghans-to-sell-kidneys-says-report-448781">Prolonged humanitarian crisis forces starving Afghans to sell kidneys, says report</a>

Measles&nbsp;is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks mainly children. The most serious complications include blindness, brain swelling, diarrhoea, and severe respiratory infections.

The latest surge in&nbsp;cases&nbsp;comes as&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is in the grip of a humanitarian disaster, worsened by the Taliban takeover in August -- when Western countries froze international aid and access to assets held abroad.

The United Nations has warned that half the country is threatened with food shortages.

"Malnutrition weakens immunity, making people more vulnerable to illness and&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;diseases like&nbsp;measles, especially children," Lindmeier said.

The best protection against&nbsp;measles&nbsp;is broad vaccination, with the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;recommending that countries ensure at least 95-per cent vaccination coverage -- a difficult goal in the Afghan context.

Watch |&nbsp;Women's activism grows in Afghanistan with Taliban in power

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/womens-activism-grows-in-afghanistan-with-taliban-in-power-451919/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Lindmeier said the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;and its partners had been working to scale up their&nbsp;measles&nbsp;surveillance capacities and provide support for things like lab testing and immunisation campaigns.

Last December, a vaccination campaign in the hardest-hit areas reached 1.5 million children, he said.

They have also been providing Vitamin A supplements, which are important to help reduce sickness and death from&nbsp;measles, reaching 8.5 million children in a nationwide campaign last November.

The&nbsp;WHO, Lindmeier said, was now working towards a larger&nbsp;measles&nbsp;vaccination drive starting in May, aimed at reaching more than three million children.

A raging measles outbreak in Afghanistan infected tens of thousands and killed more than 150 people last month alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Friday, warning of more deaths.

A raging measles outbreak in Afghanistan infected tens of thousands and killed more than 150 people last month alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Friday, warning of more deaths. The UN health agency said the outbreak was particularly concerning since Afghanistan is facing massive food insecurity and malnutrition, leaving children far more vulnerable to the highly contagious disease. Also read | Afghanistan: 6 women’s rights activists still missing; UN human rights office expresses concern "Measles cases have been increasing in all provinces since the end of July 2021," WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier told reporters in Geneva. He said cases had surged recently, ballooning by 18 per cent in the week of January 24 and by 40 per cent in the last week of the month. In all, 35,319 suspected measles cases were reported in January, including 3,000 that were laboratory confirmed, and 156 deaths. Ninety-one per cent of the cases and 97 per cent of the deaths were children under the age of five. Lindmeier stressed that the measles-related deaths were likely underreported and the numbers were expected to swell. "The rapid rise in cases in January suggests that the number of deaths due to measles is likely to increase sharply in the coming weeks," Lindmeier said. Also read | Prolonged humanitarian crisis forces starving Afghans to sell kidneys, says report Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks mainly children. The most serious complications include blindness, brain swelling, diarrhoea, and severe respiratory infections. The latest surge in cases comes as Afghanistan is in the grip of a humanitarian disaster, worsened by the Taliban takeover in August -- when Western countries froze international aid and access to assets held abroad. The United Nations has warned that half the country is threatened with food shortages. "Malnutrition weakens immunity, making people more vulnerable to illness and deaths diseases like measles, especially children," Lindmeier said. The best protection against measles is broad vaccination, with the WHO recommending that countries ensure at least 95-per cent vaccination coverage -- a difficult goal in the Afghan context. Watch | Women's activism grows in Afghanistan with Taliban in power Lindmeier said the WHO and its partners had been working to scale up their measles surveillance capacities and provide support for things like lab testing and immunisation campaigns. Last December, a vaccination campaign in the hardest-hit areas reached 1.5 million children, he said. They have also been providing Vitamin A supplements, which are important to help reduce sickness and death from measles, reaching 8.5 million children in a nationwide campaign last November. The WHO, Lindmeier said, was now working towards a larger measles vaccination drive starting in May, aimed at reaching more than three million children.

Measles cases, deaths surging in Afghanistan, tens of thousands infected: WHO

Paris&nbsp;police said Thursday they would ban so-called "freedom convoys" inspired by a truckers' protest against coronavirus restrictions that has paralysed the Canadian capital Ottawa.

Convoys of vehicles from across France are expected to converge on the French capital on Friday, risking a possible standoff with the police similar to the violent "yellow vest" protests that rocked the country in 2018.

A repeat of the "yellow vests" -- a nationwide movement against social inequality -- would be unwelcome for President Emmanuel Macron as he prepares for April 2022 elections he remains favourite to win.

"There will be a special deployment... to prevent blockages of major roads, issue tickets and arrest those who infringe on this protest ban," the&nbsp;Paris&nbsp;police force said in a statement.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-slams-canada-trucker-protests-police-threaten-arrests-451963">&nbsp;Trudeau slams Canada trucker protests, police threaten arrests</a>

The city's ban order will remain in force from Friday to Monday, while police recalled that people blocking roads faced up to two years in prison, a fine of 4,500 euros ($5,140) and a three-year exclusion from driving.

Thousands of people opposed to France's vaccine pass, which restricts access to much of public life to those with the Covid-19 jab, have said on social media that they would rally in&nbsp;Paris.

Some plan to continue on to European Union capital Brussels on Monday.

&nbsp;'An aberration'&nbsp;

The movement is "far from having a solid structure" but "this especially media-friendly new form of action could give new momentum to different protest groups," a police report seen by broadcaster RTL and newspaper Le Parisien said earlier this week.

A&nbsp;number of convoys of cars, vans and motorbikes set off from around France on Wednesday, inspired by the two-week blockade of central Ottawa by truckers angry at testing and vaccine requirements for crossing the border with the US.

Eyhande Abeberry, 52, a participant at the send-off in the southern French city of Bayonne, told AFP that the vaccine pass was "an aberration".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-to-buy-french-warplanes-as-paris-boosts-asia-alliances-452033">Indonesia to buy French warplanes as Paris boosts Asia alliances</a>

But as in Canada, where the protest has broadened from the issues that first triggered it, others including purchasing power and energy costs have motivated some French participants.

Those were also at the root of the "yellow vests" demonstrations.

With an election first round coming on April 10, Macron's government has already mobilised billions of euros to limit the impact on households of surging gas and petrol prices.

Far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said that she "understood" the protesters' goals, saying that it was "another form of the yellow vests" demonstrations.

Government spokesman Gabriel Attal said he recognised the public's "weariness" with infection control measures, but insisted that France had been among the European countries with "the fewest restrictions that infringe on citizens' freedom".

In a nod to public impatience ahead of the elections with France's tough Covid rules, Attal also indicated that the country may be in a position to drop its obligatory vaccine pass in late March or early April as cases fall.

&nbsp;

Paris police said Thursday they would ban so-called "freedom convoys" inspired by a truckers' protest against coronavirus restrictions that has paralysed the Canadian capital Ottawa.

Paris police said Thursday they would ban so-called "freedom convoys" inspired by a truckers' protest against coronavirus restrictions that has paralysed the Canadian capital Ottawa. Convoys of vehicles from across France are expected to converge on the French capital on Friday, risking a possible standoff with the police similar to the violent "yellow vest" protests that rocked the country in 2018. A repeat of the "yellow vests" -- a nationwide movement against social inequality -- would be unwelcome for President Emmanuel Macron as he prepares for April 2022 elections he remains favourite to win. "There will be a special deployment... to prevent blockages of major roads, issue tickets and arrest those who infringe on this protest ban," the Paris police force said in a statement. Also read | Trudeau slams Canada trucker protests, police threaten arrests The city's ban order will remain in force from Friday to Monday, while police recalled that people blocking roads faced up to two years in prison, a fine of 4,500 euros ($5,140) and a three-year exclusion from driving. Thousands of people opposed to France's vaccine pass, which restricts access to much of public life to those with the Covid-19 jab, have said on social media that they would rally in Paris. Some plan to continue on to European Union capital Brussels on Monday. 'An aberration' The movement is "far from having a solid structure" but "this especially media-friendly new form of action could give new momentum to different protest groups," a police report seen by broadcaster RTL and newspaper Le Parisien said earlier this week. A number of convoys of cars, vans and motorbikes set off from around France on Wednesday, inspired by the two-week blockade of central Ottawa by truckers angry at testing and vaccine requirements for crossing the border with the US. Eyhande Abeberry, 52, a participant at the send-off in the southern French city of Bayonne, told AFP that the vaccine pass was "an aberration". Also read | Indonesia to buy French warplanes as Paris boosts Asia alliances But as in Canada, where the protest has broadened from the issues that first triggered it, others including purchasing power and energy costs have motivated some French participants. Those were also at the root of the "yellow vests" demonstrations. With an election first round coming on April 10, Macron's government has already mobilised billions of euros to limit the impact on households of surging gas and petrol prices. Far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said that she "understood" the protesters' goals, saying that it was "another form of the yellow vests" demonstrations. Government spokesman Gabriel Attal said he recognised the public's "weariness" with infection control measures, but insisted that France had been among the European countries with "the fewest restrictions that infringe on citizens' freedom". In a nod to public impatience ahead of the elections with France's tough Covid rules, Attal also indicated that the country may be in a position to drop its obligatory vaccine pass in late March or early April as cases fall.

Paris bans Canada-style Covid 'freedom convoys'

Police and anti-vaccine protesters clashed on the grounds of&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's parliament Thursday, with more than 120 arrested after demonstrators who camped outside the legislature for three days were ordered to move on.

Activists chanted the Maori haka and yelled "hold the line", as they scuffled with a phalanx of officers moving to clear a makeshift settlement on the lawns of parliament.

Officers used pepper spray on a number of protesters who dragged two of their colleagues into the crowd, but only minor injuries were reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/canadian-anti-vax-trucker-protest-fires-up-copycat-protests-451654">Canadian anti-vax trucker protest fires up copycat protests</a>

Police moved in early Thursday after taking a hands-off approach to the first two days of protests, warning the crowd to leave or face arrest.

They were punched and kicked amid cries of "this is not democracy", "shame on you" and "drop the mandate".

The protest began Tuesday as a copycat of a "Freedom Convoy" action by Canadian truckers, with hundreds of semi-trailers and campervans jamming streets in central Wellington.

Many of the vehicles left after 24 hours but a hard core of several hundred activists remained, vowing to stay "as long as it takes".

Wellington City Council, which also took a low-key approach in the protest's early stages, said its parking officers had started issuing tickets to convoy vehicles blocking city streets.

Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson said patience had worn thin among Wellington residents at the disruption, urging police to act.

"Roads are blocked in the city, businesses have had to shut, people felt threatened and intimidated by some of the protesters," he told Radio&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;prior to the police operation.

&nbsp;Police 'disappointed'&nbsp;

Wellington police commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell said more than 150 extra officers were brought in from outside the capital to clear the protest.

"It is disappointing that despite the grounds being officially closed to the public earlier today, a number of protesters are refusing repeated requests to leave the precinct," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-protests-echo-globally-with-a-copycat-demonstration-planned-in-france-451793">Canadian protests echo globally, with a copycat demonstration planned in France</a>&nbsp;

In a rare move, authorities closed the parliamentary precinct to the public to prevent reinforcements from joining the protest. &nbsp;

The police edged forward across the parliament grounds but pulled back behind barricades late in the afternoon as demonstrators cheered and claimed victory.

Parnell said it could take days to disperse the crowd, accusing some activists of using children as human shields to frustrate police.

"This was never going to be a short task," he told reporters when the tactics were questioned.

One woman, who refused to give her name, accused police of provoking the crowd.

"This has been a peaceful protest, what they've done is a disgrace," she said.

Watch |&nbsp;Two weeks of Canada truckers protest, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau calls it unacceptable

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-weeks-of-canada-truckers-protest-canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-calls-it-unacceptable-451922/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"I never thought I'd see this in&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand."

But locals in the capital have complained about being abused for wearing masks and several businesses near parliament have closed after staff were harassed for enforcing vaccine mandates.

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;requires mandatory Covid vaccinations for people working in sectors such as health, law enforcement, education and defence, with those who refuse the jab facing the sack.

Proof of vaccination must also be shown to enter restaurants, sports events and religious services.

The "Freedom Convoy" of truckers in Canada has gridlocked the capital, Ottawa since late last month, prompting city authorities to declare a state of emergency.

Police and anti-vaccine protesters clashed on the grounds of New Zealand's parliament Thursday, with more than 120 arrested after demonstrators who camped outside the legislature for three days were ordered to move on.

Police and anti-vaccine protesters clashed on the grounds of New Zealand's parliament Thursday, with more than 120 arrested after demonstrators who camped outside the legislature for three days were ordered to move on. Activists chanted the Maori haka and yelled "hold the line", as they scuffled with a phalanx of officers moving to clear a makeshift settlement on the lawns of parliament. Officers used pepper spray on a number of protesters who dragged two of their colleagues into the crowd, but only minor injuries were reported. Also read | Canadian anti-vax trucker protest fires up copycat protests Police moved in early Thursday after taking a hands-off approach to the first two days of protests, warning the crowd to leave or face arrest. They were punched and kicked amid cries of "this is not democracy", "shame on you" and "drop the mandate". The protest began Tuesday as a copycat of a "Freedom Convoy" action by Canadian truckers, with hundreds of semi-trailers and campervans jamming streets in central Wellington. Many of the vehicles left after 24 hours but a hard core of several hundred activists remained, vowing to stay "as long as it takes". Wellington City Council, which also took a low-key approach in the protest's early stages, said its parking officers had started issuing tickets to convoy vehicles blocking city streets. Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson said patience had worn thin among Wellington residents at the disruption, urging police to act. "Roads are blocked in the city, businesses have had to shut, people felt threatened and intimidated by some of the protesters," he told Radio New Zealand prior to the police operation. Police 'disappointed' Wellington police commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell said more than 150 extra officers were brought in from outside the capital to clear the protest. "It is disappointing that despite the grounds being officially closed to the public earlier today, a number of protesters are refusing repeated requests to leave the precinct," he said. Also read | Canadian protests echo globally, with a copycat demonstration planned in France In a rare move, authorities closed the parliamentary precinct to the public to prevent reinforcements from joining the protest. The police edged forward across the parliament grounds but pulled back behind barricades late in the afternoon as demonstrators cheered and claimed victory. Parnell said it could take days to disperse the crowd, accusing some activists of using children as human shields to frustrate police. "This was never going to be a short task," he told reporters when the tactics were questioned. One woman, who refused to give her name, accused police of provoking the crowd. "This has been a peaceful protest, what they've done is a disgrace," she said. Watch | Two weeks of Canada truckers protest, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau calls it unacceptable "I never thought I'd see this in New Zealand." But locals in the capital have complained about being abused for wearing masks and several businesses near parliament have closed after staff were harassed for enforcing vaccine mandates. New Zealand requires mandatory Covid vaccinations for people working in sectors such as health, law enforcement, education and defence, with those who refuse the jab facing the sack. Proof of vaccination must also be shown to enter restaurants, sports events and religious services. The "Freedom Convoy" of truckers in Canada has gridlocked the capital, Ottawa since late last month, prompting city authorities to declare a state of emergency.

Police and covid protestors clash at New Zealand parliament

The Omicron variant coronavirus entered&nbsp;Tonga&nbsp;for the first time in the wake of last month's volcanic eruption, officials confirmed Thursday, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the kingdom almost doubled to 64.

Health Minister Saia Piukala said 31 new cases had been detected in the previous 24 hours, a record for the island nation which was virus-free until last month's blast.

Piukala said samples sent to Australia confirmed the variant of the virus spreading in&nbsp;Tonga&nbsp;was the highly transmissible Omicron strain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-surpasses-400-million-known-coronavirus-cases-and-confronts-how-to-live-with-covid-451660">World surpasses 400 million known coronavirus cases and confronts how to live with COVID</a>

The source of the coronavirus infection remains unknown, but suspicion has fallen on ships delivering aid from countries including Australia, China, France, Japan and New Zealand despite strict quarantine rules on the handling of goods.

Australian defence chiefs have denied it came from the Covid-hit warship HMAS Adelaide, saying the vessel did not unload its humanitarian supplies at the wharf in Nuku'alofa, where the virus was first detected.

The nation of about 100,000 remains in lockdown, with stay-at-home orders meaning all businesses and schools are closed and only essential services are allowed to operate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beyond-tragic-who-reports-130-million-cases-and-500000-deaths-linked-to-omicron-451604" hreflang="en">'Beyond tragic': WHO reports 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths linked to Omicron</a>

The restrictions are hampering disaster relief efforts after the Hunga&nbsp;Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano erupted with a force scientists said was more powerful than a nuclear bomb.

The blast generated massive tsunami waves and blanketed the island nation in toxic ash, claiming three lives.

Some 87 percent of eligible Tongans have received two vaccine doses, according to UN data.

Watch |&nbsp;Tonga: A tale of two disasters

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tonga-a-tale-of-two-disasters-450608/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Communications remain a problem in the kingdom after the eruption cut the undersea cable linking&nbsp;Tonga&nbsp;to the rest of the world.

Tonga&nbsp;Cable Limited said this week that a cable repair ship had found the broken ends of the link but the damage was worse than expected, meaning it was unlikely to be fixed before February 20.

In the meantime, backup satellite links are being used but bandwidth is limited and international communications remain difficult for most Tongans.

The Omicron variant coronavirus entered Tonga for the first time in the wake of last month's volcanic eruption, officials confirmed Thursday, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the kingdom almost doubled to 64.

The Omicron variant coronavirus entered Tonga for the first time in the wake of last month's volcanic eruption, officials confirmed Thursday, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the kingdom almost doubled to 64. Health Minister Saia Piukala said 31 new cases had been detected in the previous 24 hours, a record for the island nation which was virus-free until last month's blast. Piukala said samples sent to Australia confirmed the variant of the virus spreading in Tonga was the highly transmissible Omicron strain. Also read | World surpasses 400 million known coronavirus cases and confronts how to live with COVID The source of the coronavirus infection remains unknown, but suspicion has fallen on ships delivering aid from countries including Australia, China, France, Japan and New Zealand despite strict quarantine rules on the handling of goods. Australian defence chiefs have denied it came from the Covid-hit warship HMAS Adelaide, saying the vessel did not unload its humanitarian supplies at the wharf in Nuku'alofa, where the virus was first detected. The nation of about 100,000 remains in lockdown, with stay-at-home orders meaning all businesses and schools are closed and only essential services are allowed to operate. Also read | 'Beyond tragic': WHO reports 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths linked to Omicron The restrictions are hampering disaster relief efforts after the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano erupted with a force scientists said was more powerful than a nuclear bomb. The blast generated massive tsunami waves and blanketed the island nation in toxic ash, claiming three lives. Some 87 percent of eligible Tongans have received two vaccine doses, according to UN data. Watch | Tonga: A tale of two disasters Communications remain a problem in the kingdom after the eruption cut the undersea cable linking Tonga to the rest of the world. Tonga Cable Limited said this week that a cable repair ship had found the broken ends of the link but the damage was worse than expected, meaning it was unlikely to be fixed before February 20. In the meantime, backup satellite links are being used but bandwidth is limited and international communications remain difficult for most Tongans.

Tonga virus cases surge in wake of volcano eruption

We have all been through this. Uncertainty in life, relationship issues, job woes and many other things bring us down. All seems lost and irreparable. Past seems beautiful and the future represents a dark and dreary period with no hope whatsoever. Your boss seems like a demon. You want to break things.&nbsp;

And all these thoughts vanish after a simple snack. You were 'hangry' (angry because hungry).

Being hangry is a thing and by now we all probably know about it enough to take preventive steps. But do you know about 'hangxiety'? Read on.

A study published in Oxford Academic says that alcohol hangover can be a major cause of anxiety (Hangxiety). The study says that as body recovers from hangover it experiences physiological stress. Such stress is usually generated when the body is injured or ill. In other words, hangover creates symptoms similar to when the body is ill or injred.

This increases our cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone. This causes changes in blood pressure and heart rate. These changes are similar to when we are anxious. In other words, hangover induces symptoms of anxiety in us.

Brain activity changes too during hangover. Brain activity involving dopamine is lowered during hangover. Dopamine normally plays important role in fighting anxiety.

So next time you feel like drinking to drown your sorrows, think again. Because the hangover may make you more anxious. Be responsible.

We have all been through this. Uncertainty in life, relationship issues, job woes and many other things bring us down. All seems lost and irreparable. Past seems beautiful and the future represents a dark and dreary period with no hope whatsoever.

We have all been through this. Uncertainty in life, relationship issues, job woes and many other things bring us down. All seems lost and irreparable. Past seems beautiful and the future represents a dark and dreary period with no hope whatsoever. Your boss seems like a demon. You want to break things. And all these thoughts vanish after a simple snack. You were 'hangry' (angry because hungry). Being hangry is a thing and by now we all probably know about it enough to take preventive steps. But do you know about 'hangxiety'? Read on. A study published in Oxford Academic says that alcohol hangover can be a major cause of anxiety (Hangxiety). The study says that as body recovers from hangover it experiences physiological stress. Such stress is usually generated when the body is injured or ill. In other words, hangover creates symptoms similar to when the body is ill or injred. This increases our cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone. This causes changes in blood pressure and heart rate. These changes are similar to when we are anxious. In other words, hangover induces symptoms of anxiety in us. Brain activity changes too during hangover. Brain activity involving dopamine is lowered during hangover. Dopamine normally plays important role in fighting anxiety. So next time you feel like drinking to drown your sorrows, think again. Because the hangover may make you more anxious. Be responsible.

'Hangry' is passe, 'hangxiety' is the new thing

India's one of the most iconic singers, Lata Mangeshkar has died due to COVID-19 complications. She was admitted to a hospital for around a month.

India: Tributes pour in for late veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

Indian singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya remembers late veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

Indian actor Manoj Joshi pays tribute to late veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

India: Veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar passes away due to COVID-19 complications

India mourns the loss of veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

India: Musician AR Rahman pays tribute to late veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

Indian PM Narendra Modi remembers late veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

Indian film actress Sharmila Tagore pays tribute to veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

Indian musician Shankar Mahadevan remembers late veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar

Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar, who was admitted to a Mumbai hospital last month after testing positive for coronavirus has now been put on ventilator support.

India's iconic singer Lata Mangeshkar's health deteriorates, kept on ventilator in ICU

Is wine bad for you? For decades, we have been told that wine is good for our heart. Experts disagree. They say wine, just like every other alcohol, can kill you. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Is wine bad for you? Find out

The Latin American nation of Brazil is currently witnessing an alarming rise in the number of COVID-19 infections. The massive spike, which has been fueled by the fast-spreading omicron variant of the Coronavirus has pushed the country's health infrastructure virtually to its edge now.

Health infrastructure under pressure in Brazil amid a massive spike in COVID cases fueled by Omicron

To promote river health and restore fish stocks, a dam blocking the Tromsa River in Norway was blown using dynamite. This comes in as an attempt to remove barriers that litter Europe’s water bodies.

The dam was blown after a small team drilled five holes deep into the dam and then packed 20 kg of dynamite into each one.&nbsp;

The destruction of the dam was a part of the Open Rivers Programme, which is a €42.5 million project. This project aims at providing grants to support the removal of small dams and restore the river flow all across Europe.&nbsp;

Tore Solbakken of Norwegian angling club Gudbrandsdal Sportsfiskeforening deemed the destruction of the dam as "a big step."

He has campaigned for 5 years to have the dam removed. “I’m very happy. It’s all about restoring healthy rivers and fish populations," he said in a report by The Guardian.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-one-of-the-priciest-real-estate-sales-new-york-apartment-sells-for-190-million-444848">Also read |&nbsp;In one of the priciest real estate sales, New York apartment sells for $190 million</a>

The dam was built nearly 100 years ago and has not been used in the last 50 years. As per campaigners, removing the dam will help fish in the area.&nbsp;

Elaborating on the same, Solbakken said, "Fish barriers, hydropower dams, roadbuilding and the way we secure rivers against flooding are all big problems for big brown trout and other fish. It is important to take care of all the small rivers. If we do that, we can have a positive future for our area.”

As per estimates, there are at least 1.2 million instream barriers in Europe. These have become a prominent factor for the dip in the number of migratory freshwater fish across the continent.&nbsp;

Herman Wanningen, founder of the World Fish Migration Foundation and Dam Removal Europe said, "Some fish species, such as Atlantic salmon, eels and sturgeon, travel thousands of kilometres to complete their lifecycle. Dams also impede important sediment and nutrient transport, and drastically change the natural flow of rivers. Breeding places are lost.”

(With inputs from agencies)

To promote river health and restore fish stocks, a dam blocking the Tromsa River in Norway was blown using dynamite. This comes in as an attempt to remove barriers that litter Europe’s water bodies.

To promote river health and restore fish stocks, a dam blocking the Tromsa River in Norway was blown using dynamite. This comes in as an attempt to remove barriers that litter Europe’s water bodies. The dam was blown after a small team drilled five holes deep into the dam and then packed 20 kg of dynamite into each one. The destruction of the dam was a part of the Open Rivers Programme, which is a €42.5 million project. This project aims at providing grants to support the removal of small dams and restore the river flow all across Europe. Tore Solbakken of Norwegian angling club Gudbrandsdal Sportsfiskeforening deemed the destruction of the dam as "a big step." He has campaigned for 5 years to have the dam removed. “I’m very happy. It’s all about restoring healthy rivers and fish populations," he said in a report by The Guardian. Also read | In one of the priciest real estate sales, New York apartment sells for $190 million The dam was built nearly 100 years ago and has not been used in the last 50 years. As per campaigners, removing the dam will help fish in the area. Elaborating on the same, Solbakken said, "Fish barriers, hydropower dams, roadbuilding and the way we secure rivers against flooding are all big problems for big brown trout and other fish. It is important to take care of all the small rivers. If we do that, we can have a positive future for our area.” As per estimates, there are at least 1.2 million instream barriers in Europe. These have become a prominent factor for the dip in the number of migratory freshwater fish across the continent. Herman Wanningen, founder of the World Fish Migration Foundation and Dam Removal Europe said, "Some fish species, such as Atlantic salmon, eels and sturgeon, travel thousands of kilometres to complete their lifecycle. Dams also impede important sediment and nutrient transport, and drastically change the natural flow of rivers. Breeding places are lost.” (With inputs from agencies)

Norway blows 100 years-old dam which was hampering river health and fish stocks

Omicron variant continues to rage across UK. UK PM has given a message urging people to get vaccinated.

UK PM asks citizens to get vaccinated against Coronavirus to stop surge of Omicron cases

Delta variant continues to wreak havoc across USA. Top health experts have also warned of a looming Omicron wave that could sweep across the US.

Omicron variant continues to wreak havoc across US

Top health experts warn of looming Omicron wave in United States

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