A UN report on terrorism has warned that there are significant numbers of ISIS terrorists in Kerala and Karnataka, noting that the al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent terror group, which reportedly has between 150 and 200 militants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, is planning attacks in the region.

UN report: 'Significant numbers' of ISIS terrorists in India's Kerala and Karnataka

Kerala recorded 927 fresh coronavirus cases, including 16 health workers on Sunday, taking the infection tally to 18,140.

The state capital reported 175 cases, followed by Kasaragod 107, Pathnamthitta 91 and Kollam 74, Health minister K K Shailaja said.

With two more deaths, the coronavirus toll in the state climbed to 61.

Two 71-year-old men from Thrissur and Malappuram, who had tested positive and were under treatment, succumbed to the disease, the minister said in a press release.

Of the positive cases, 76 had come from abroad and 91 from other states, while 733 were infected through contact.

The source of infection of 67 people is not yet known.

Presently, 9,655 are undergoing treatment for the infection, while 9,302 have recovered so far, including 689 discharged on Sunday.

As many as 1.56 lakh people are under observation in various districts, of whom 1.47 lakh are in home or institutional quarantine and 8,980 in hospitals, including 1,277 admitted today, the release said.

Kerala recorded 927 fresh coronavirus cases, including 16 health workers on Sunday, taking the infection tally to 18,140. The state capital reported 175 cases, followed by Kasaragod 107, Pathnamthitta 91 and Kollam 74, Health minister K K Shailaja said.

Kerala recorded 927 fresh coronavirus cases, including 16 health workers on Sunday, taking the infection tally to 18,140. The state capital reported 175 cases, followed by Kasaragod 107, Pathnamthitta 91 and Kollam 74, Health minister K K Shailaja said. With two more deaths, the coronavirus toll in the state climbed to 61. Two 71-year-old men from Thrissur and Malappuram, who had tested positive and were under treatment, succumbed to the disease, the minister said in a press release. Of the positive cases, 76 had come from abroad and 91 from other states, while 733 were infected through contact. The source of infection of 67 people is not yet known. Presently, 9,655 are undergoing treatment for the infection, while 9,302 have recovered so far, including 689 discharged on Sunday. As many as 1.56 lakh people are under observation in various districts, of whom 1.47 lakh are in home or institutional quarantine and 8,980 in hospitals, including 1,277 admitted today, the release said.

927 fresh COVID-19 cases in Kerala as tally crosses 18,000 mark

The COVID-19 cases continued to soar in Kerala breaching the grim 1,000 mark for the second straight day on Thursday, taking the tally past the 16,000 mark with the state government saying the option of a complete lockdown again to manage the situation cannot be ruled out.

A decision on lockdown would be taken after consultations with all stakeholders, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said as the state has been logging higher number of cases with a large number among the thousands of people who returned to the state since Unlock-1 phase last month testing positive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/single-day-cases-surpass-1000-mark-in-kerala-as-total-covid-19-tally-tops-15000-315203">Single day cases surpass 1000 mark in Kerala as total COVID-19 tally tops 15,000</a>

He also announced the formation of "Covid Brigade" consisting of doctors, para-medical staff and volunteers to man the First Line Treatment Centres (FLTC) that would treat asymptomatic and less complicated COVID-19 patients, and said additional manpower would be mobilised for them.

The state reported 1,078 fresh cases out of which 798 contracted the disease through their contacts, marking back- to-back four digit spikes after 1,038 cases on Wednesday, causing concern.

"We need to discuss the matter with everyone in the society. The medical experts have given their opinion. An option of complete lockdown cannot be ruled out yet but a decision has not yet been taken.

"We need to introspect all the aspects related to it and take a decision accordingly," Vijayan told reporters here when asked about the government's plan on lockdown.

The total infection tally has touched 16,110 and the toll has climbed to 50 with five more COVID-19 deaths reported from different districts.

The worst hit Thiruvananthapuram district, with 222 fresh cases on Thursday, has 2,583 patients under treatment, followed by Ernakulam 989, Alappuzha 763 and Kollam 745.

A total of 1,58,117 people are under observation in the state.

Vijayan "Covid Brigade" would be set up by mobilising additional manpower in addition to the health department staff.

"More people are needed to strengthen Covid defensive operations in view of the rising numbers of cases. We have worked out an integrated action plan. In addition to the staff in the health department, more contract health workers, including those from the National Health Mission, will be appointed," he said.

They would get a higher salary as determined from time to time and there will be a proportional increase. Besides, health insurance cover and incentives would be extended to them.

The brigade should be seen as an army that includes doctors, nurses, other paramedical staff as well as volunteers to combat the virus, he said.

Certificates of appreciation will be given to student volunteers who have been involved in the COVID defence activities, he said adding remuneration for those currently engaged in these activities would be increased.

At present half of the active cases are in Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram, Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts.

On the upcoming Eid festival, Vijayan said the government had held discussions with the religious leaders, who had agreed to celebrate the day by strictly following COVID-19 health protocols.

"They have agreed to cooperate in accordance with the state COVID-19 health protocol. There will be no public Eid gahs, but it will be held with participation of a maximum of 100 people indoors in mosques which are now open. Those mosques which are closed, will remain closed," he said.

Meanwhile, the state cabinet Thursday decided to recommend the Governor to postponement of the assembly session scheduled for July 27, citing rising number of COVID-19 cases.

Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Ramesh Chennithala described the move as an attempt to stave off the no-confidence motion planned by the UDF against the Left government over the gold smuggling case.

Chennithala, earlier in the day, alleged the session was deferred due to political reasons and expressed strong resentment and protest against the move.

Vijayan, however, rejected the charge.

"The no-confidence motion was not a reason at all. The COVID cases have been on a rise in the state and especially in the capital city where the Assembly is situated. Most of the members are above 65 years of age. The matter was discussed with the Opposition Leader before the decision was taken," he said.

The one-day session was earlier convened for passing the Kerala Finance Bill, which could not be done earlier as the budget session was adjourned in March in view of COVID-19 situation.

As per the provisions of the Constitution, the Assembly should meet once in six months and in Kerala, the last session concluded on March 13.

The government would have to convene the next session on or before September 12. 
&nbsp;

The COVID-19 cases continued to soar in Kerala breaching the grim 1,000 mark for the second straight day on Thursday, taking the tally past the 16,000 mark with the state government saying the option of a complete lockdown again to manage the situation cannot be ruled out.

The COVID-19 cases continued to soar in Kerala breaching the grim 1,000 mark for the second straight day on Thursday, taking the tally past the 16,000 mark with the state government saying the option of a complete lockdown again to manage the situation cannot be ruled out. A decision on lockdown would be taken after consultations with all stakeholders, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said as the state has been logging higher number of cases with a large number among the thousands of people who returned to the state since Unlock-1 phase last month testing positive. Also read | Single day cases surpass 1000 mark in Kerala as total COVID-19 tally tops 15,000 He also announced the formation of "Covid Brigade" consisting of doctors, para-medical staff and volunteers to man the First Line Treatment Centres (FLTC) that would treat asymptomatic and less complicated COVID-19 patients, and said additional manpower would be mobilised for them. The state reported 1,078 fresh cases out of which 798 contracted the disease through their contacts, marking back- to-back four digit spikes after 1,038 cases on Wednesday, causing concern. "We need to discuss the matter with everyone in the society. The medical experts have given their opinion. An option of complete lockdown cannot be ruled out yet but a decision has not yet been taken. "We need to introspect all the aspects related to it and take a decision accordingly," Vijayan told reporters here when asked about the government's plan on lockdown. The total infection tally has touched 16,110 and the toll has climbed to 50 with five more COVID-19 deaths reported from different districts. The worst hit Thiruvananthapuram district, with 222 fresh cases on Thursday, has 2,583 patients under treatment, followed by Ernakulam 989, Alappuzha 763 and Kollam 745. A total of 1,58,117 people are under observation in the state. Vijayan "Covid Brigade" would be set up by mobilising additional manpower in addition to the health department staff. "More people are needed to strengthen Covid defensive operations in view of the rising numbers of cases. We have worked out an integrated action plan. In addition to the staff in the health department, more contract health workers, including those from the National Health Mission, will be appointed," he said. They would get a higher salary as determined from time to time and there will be a proportional increase. Besides, health insurance cover and incentives would be extended to them. The brigade should be seen as an army that includes doctors, nurses, other paramedical staff as well as volunteers to combat the virus, he said. Certificates of appreciation will be given to student volunteers who have been involved in the COVID defence activities, he said adding remuneration for those currently engaged in these activities would be increased. At present half of the active cases are in Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram, Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts. On the upcoming Eid festival, Vijayan said the government had held discussions with the religious leaders, who had agreed to celebrate the day by strictly following COVID-19 health protocols. "They have agreed to cooperate in accordance with the state COVID-19 health protocol. There will be no public Eid gahs, but it will be held with participation of a maximum of 100 people indoors in mosques which are now open. Those mosques which are closed, will remain closed," he said. Meanwhile, the state cabinet Thursday decided to recommend the Governor to postponement of the assembly session scheduled for July 27, citing rising number of COVID-19 cases. Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Ramesh Chennithala described the move as an attempt to stave off the no-confidence motion planned by the UDF against the Left government over the gold smuggling case. Chennithala, earlier in the day, alleged the session was deferred due to political reasons and expressed strong resentment and protest against the move. Vijayan, however, rejected the charge. "The no-confidence motion was not a reason at all. The COVID cases have been on a rise in the state and especially in the capital city where the Assembly is situated. Most of the members are above 65 years of age. The matter was discussed with the Opposition Leader before the decision was taken," he said. The one-day session was earlier convened for passing the Kerala Finance Bill, which could not be done earlier as the budget session was adjourned in March in view of COVID-19 situation. As per the provisions of the Constitution, the Assembly should meet once in six months and in Kerala, the last session concluded on March 13. The government would have to convene the next session on or before September 12.

Kerala records over 1,000 COVID-19 cases for second straight day

84 staff at the Tamil Nadu Governor’s official residence, the Raj Bhavan, in Chennai, have tested positive for Covid-19, a statement has revealed. It added that the Governor Banwarilal Purohit and senior staff were safe and had not come in contact with the personnel who had tested positive.

Tests were conducted after a few staff had shown symptoms. Of the 147 tests conducted, 84 have returned positive, said the statement.

The staff who have tested positive include security and fire safety personnel. All of them were working in the outer portion of the premises, such as the main gate and not in the main building. They have been quarantined by the health Department.

As a precautionary measure the whole area of Raj Bhavan including the offices have been disinfected and sanitized by Corporation health Authorities.

The Raj Bhavan website also mentions that, as preventive measure Raj Bhavan tours for the tourists stands cancelled till 31st July 2020. However, the premises has been closed from tourists since the first phase of the pan-India lockdown began in late March.

The Raj Bhavan, which is at an arterial location in the city, is situated in the Guindy National Park Reserved Forest Area. There are species of deer (spotted deer, black buck and albino), besides mongoose, jackals, many varieties of reptiles and a large number of birds like partridges, pheasants, parrots, quail, paradise fly-catcher within the campus and the adjoining forest areas.

Over the last one week Tamil Nadu has been seeing a consistent spike in Corona virus cases. On Wednesday, the state had recorded a single-day highest of 5849 cases. As per the bulletin issued on Wednesday, the state has seen a total of 1, 86492 Covid-19 cases, which include 1, 31,583 recoveries. There are 51,765 active cases in the state.

However, in last a few weeks capital city Chennai has seen a marked dip in cases. When compared to June, the daily cases have nearly come down by half. Chennai saw recorded 1171 new cases on Wednesday, thus taking the active cases to 13941.

84 staff at the Tamil Nadu Governor’s official residence, the Raj Bhavan, in Chennai, have tested positive for Covid-19, a statement has revealed. It added that the Governor Banwarilal Purohit and senior staff were safe and had not come in contact with the personnel who had tested positive.

84 staff at the Tamil Nadu Governor’s official residence, the Raj Bhavan, in Chennai, have tested positive for Covid-19, a statement has revealed. It added that the Governor Banwarilal Purohit and senior staff were safe and had not come in contact with the personnel who had tested positive. Tests were conducted after a few staff had shown symptoms. Of the 147 tests conducted, 84 have returned positive, said the statement. The staff who have tested positive include security and fire safety personnel. All of them were working in the outer portion of the premises, such as the main gate and not in the main building. They have been quarantined by the health Department. As a precautionary measure the whole area of Raj Bhavan including the offices have been disinfected and sanitized by Corporation health Authorities. The Raj Bhavan website also mentions that, as preventive measure Raj Bhavan tours for the tourists stands cancelled till 31st July 2020. However, the premises has been closed from tourists since the first phase of the pan-India lockdown began in late March. The Raj Bhavan, which is at an arterial location in the city, is situated in the Guindy National Park Reserved Forest Area. There are species of deer (spotted deer, black buck and albino), besides mongoose, jackals, many varieties of reptiles and a large number of birds like partridges, pheasants, parrots, quail, paradise fly-catcher within the campus and the adjoining forest areas. Over the last one week Tamil Nadu has been seeing a consistent spike in Corona virus cases. On Wednesday, the state had recorded a single-day highest of 5849 cases. As per the bulletin issued on Wednesday, the state has seen a total of 1, 86492 Covid-19 cases, which include 1, 31,583 recoveries. There are 51,765 active cases in the state. However, in last a few weeks capital city Chennai has seen a marked dip in cases. When compared to June, the daily cases have nearly come down by half. Chennai saw recorded 1171 new cases on Wednesday, thus taking the active cases to 13941.

84 staff at Tamil Nadu Governor’s residence test Covid-19 positive; Guv, senior staff safe

India recorded 37,724 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, pushing its tally to 11,92,915, while the total number of recoveries increased to 7,53,050, according to Union health ministry data on Wednesday.

The death toll due to the disease rose to 28,732 with 648 fatalities reported in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

There are 4,11,133 active cases of the coronavirus infection currently in the country.

On Tuesday the health ministry announced that India's COVID-19 recovery rate is increasing day by day and today it stands at 62.72 per cent.

Addressing the press conference in New Delhi, Rajesh Bhushan, Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Health Ministry said that there are currently 4,02,529 active cases in India and 7,24,577 people have recovered. 
The recovery rate in India is increasing, he said and added that today it is 62.72 per cent.

"The case facility rate in India is 2.43 per cent. A very important role in this is that of doctors and paramedical staff. AIIMS also has an important role. Case intensity rate is below the national average in many states," added Bhushan.

Earlier in the day, Bhushan said that number of COVID-19 deaths per million population in India continues to be among the lowest in the world. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India recorded 37,724 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, pushing its tally to 11,92,915, while the total number of recoveries increased to 7,53,050, according to Union health ministry data on Wednesday.

India recorded 37,724 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, pushing its tally to 11,92,915, while the total number of recoveries increased to 7,53,050, according to Union health ministry data on Wednesday. The death toll due to the disease rose to 28,732 with 648 fatalities reported in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed. There are 4,11,133 active cases of the coronavirus infection currently in the country. On Tuesday the health ministry announced that India's COVID-19 recovery rate is increasing day by day and today it stands at 62.72 per cent. Addressing the press conference in New Delhi, Rajesh Bhushan, Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Health Ministry said that there are currently 4,02,529 active cases in India and 7,24,577 people have recovered. The recovery rate in India is increasing, he said and added that today it is 62.72 per cent. "The case facility rate in India is 2.43 per cent. A very important role in this is that of doctors and paramedical staff. AIIMS also has an important role. Case intensity rate is below the national average in many states," added Bhushan. Earlier in the day, Bhushan said that number of COVID-19 deaths per million population in India continues to be among the lowest in the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: 37,724 cases and 648 deaths reported in India in the last 24 hours

For the first time ever&nbsp;Kerala recorded a single day spike of 1,038 fresh COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, taking the infection tally to 15,032.

As many as 8,818 people are presently under treatment of whom 53 are in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and nine are on ventilator support, PTI report said quoting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

While 785 people have contracted the virus through contact, the source of infection of 57 people is not known, Vijayan said.

Of the infected, 87 had come from abroad and 109 from other states. The death toll has climbed to 45, with a 75-year-old man from Idukki succumbing to the virus.

In the last 24 hours, over 20,847 samples have been tested. About 1,59,777 people are under observation, 9,031 in various hospitals, including 1164 admitted today.

Over 3,18,6444 samples have been sent for testing so far, Vijayan said.

According to the chief minister, the situation in Thiruvananthapuram continues to be extremely grave.

Of the 226 cases in the district, 190 have been infected through contact and the source of infection of at least 15 people is not known.

Eighteen health workers are among those infected.

(With inputs from PTI)

For the first time ever Kerala recorded a single day spike of 1,038 fresh COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, taking the infection tally to 15,032. As many as 8,818 people are presently under treatment of whom 53 are in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and nine are on ventilator support, PTI report said quoting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

For the first time ever Kerala recorded a single day spike of 1,038 fresh COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, taking the infection tally to 15,032. As many as 8,818 people are presently under treatment of whom 53 are in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and nine are on ventilator support, PTI report said quoting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. While 785 people have contracted the virus through contact, the source of infection of 57 people is not known, Vijayan said. Of the infected, 87 had come from abroad and 109 from other states. The death toll has climbed to 45, with a 75-year-old man from Idukki succumbing to the virus. In the last 24 hours, over 20,847 samples have been tested. About 1,59,777 people are under observation, 9,031 in various hospitals, including 1164 admitted today. Over 3,18,6444 samples have been sent for testing so far, Vijayan said. According to the chief minister, the situation in Thiruvananthapuram continues to be extremely grave. Of the 226 cases in the district, 190 have been infected through contact and the source of infection of at least 15 people is not known. Eighteen health workers are among those infected. (With inputs from PTI)

Single day cases surpass 1000 mark in Kerala as total COVID-19 tally tops 15,000

With 37,148 new cases being reported in last 24 hours, the total number of coronaivrus cases in India has reached 11, 55,191. And the country's Covid-19 death toll has reached 28084.&nbsp;

Total COVID-19 positive cases stand at 11, 55,191 including 4, 02,529 active cases, 7, 24,578 cured/discharged/migrated and 28084 deaths, as per Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data.

Maharashtra has recorded 8,240 new cases in the last 24 hours to take its tally to 318,695.&nbsp;

On a positive side, researchers have said that "Oxford University’s experimental coronavirus vaccine is safe and generated a strong immune response in the people who volunteered to help trial it", raising hopes it could contribute to ending the pandemic.

Country-wise, the US remains th most affected. It recorded over 62,000 cases in a day to take its tally to 3,961,429 cases, including 143,826 deaths. It is followed by Brazil, which has 2,121,645 cases, 80,251 and deaths, and India (1,155,143 cases, 28,099 deaths). 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

With 37,148 new cases being reported in last 24 hours, the total number of coronaivrus cases in India has reached 11, 55,191. And the country's Covid-19 death toll has reached 28084.

With 37,148 new cases being reported in last 24 hours, the total number of coronaivrus cases in India has reached 11, 55,191. And the country's Covid-19 death toll has reached 28084. Total COVID-19 positive cases stand at 11, 55,191 including 4, 02,529 active cases, 7, 24,578 cured/discharged/migrated and 28084 deaths, as per Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data. Maharashtra has recorded 8,240 new cases in the last 24 hours to take its tally to 318,695. On a positive side, researchers have said that "Oxford University’s experimental coronavirus vaccine is safe and generated a strong immune response in the people who volunteered to help trial it", raising hopes it could contribute to ending the pandemic. Country-wise, the US remains th most affected. It recorded over 62,000 cases in a day to take its tally to 3,961,429 cases, including 143,826 deaths. It is followed by Brazil, which has 2,121,645 cases, 80,251 and deaths, and India (1,155,143 cases, 28,099 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

37,148 new cases and 587 deaths in last 24 hours take India's tally past 11.5 lakh mark, death toll reaches 28084

With the trials of the COVID-19 vaccine being developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University showing encouraging results, Serum Institute of India (SII) on Monday said it will apply for a licence from the Indian regulator to start clinical trials of the shot in a week's time.

SII, the largest vaccine manufacturer in the world, has been chosen by Oxford and its partner AstraZeneca to manufacture the vaccine once it gets ready.

Earlier, Pune-based SII had said that it will start manufacturing the vaccine even before the final nod so as to be ready with sizeable volumes once the vaccine gets all permissions.

"The trials have shown promising results and we are extremely happy about it. We will be applying for the licensure trials to the Indian regulator in a week's time. As soon as they grant us permission, we will begin with the trials for the vaccine in India."

"In addition, we will soon start manufacturing the vaccine in large volumes," SII Chief Executive Officer Adar Poonawalla said.

The interim results from the ongoing Phase I/II COV001 trial, led by Oxford University, showed that the vaccine was tolerated and generated robust immune responses against the SARS-CoV-2 virus in all evaluated participants, AstraZeneca said in a statement.

Earlier this month, Poonawalla had said that the SII was hoping to develop a COVID-19 vaccine by year-end as it was focusing on a "good and safe" product and is not in a "rush".

A coronavirus vaccine developed by the Oxford University appears safe and induces a strong immune response within the body, scientists announced on Monday after the first phase of "promising" human trials against the deadly disease that has infected over 1.45 crore people and claimed more than six lakh lives across the world.

Doses of the vaccine were given to 1,077 healthy adults aged between 18 and 55 in five UK hospitals in April and May as part of the phase one clinical trial and results, published in the Lancet' medical journal.

The results show they induced strong antibody and T-cell immune responses for up to 56 days after they were given.

T-cells are crucial for maintaining protection against the virus for years. The findings are seen as promising, but experts feel it is too soon to know if this is enough to offer protection as larger trials get underway.

Scientists behind the trials found the response could be even greater after a second dose.

"The Phase I/II data for our coronavirus vaccine shows that the vaccine did not lead to any unexpected reactions and had a similar safety profile to previous vaccines of this type."

"The immune responses observed following vaccination are in line with what previous animal studies have shown are associated with protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, although we must continue with our rigorous clinical trial program to confirm this in humans," said Professor Andrew Pollard, Chief investigator of the Oxford Vaccine Trial at Oxford University and co-author of the study.

"We saw the strongest immune response in the 10 participants who received two doses of the vaccine, indicating that this might be a good strategy for vaccination," he said.

Since emerging in the central Chinese city of Wuhan last year, the virus has killed over 606,000 people and infected more than 14,538,000 people worldwide.

In India, the virus has caused 27,497 deaths and infected over 11 lakh people, according to latest official figures.

With the trials of the COVID-19 vaccine being developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University showing encouraging results, Serum Institute of India (SII) on Monday said it will apply for a licence from the Indian regulator to start clinical trials of the shot in a week's time.

With the trials of the COVID-19 vaccine being developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University showing encouraging results, Serum Institute of India (SII) on Monday said it will apply for a licence from the Indian regulator to start clinical trials of the shot in a week's time. SII, the largest vaccine manufacturer in the world, has been chosen by Oxford and its partner AstraZeneca to manufacture the vaccine once it gets ready. Earlier, Pune-based SII had said that it will start manufacturing the vaccine even before the final nod so as to be ready with sizeable volumes once the vaccine gets all permissions. "The trials have shown promising results and we are extremely happy about it. We will be applying for the licensure trials to the Indian regulator in a week's time. As soon as they grant us permission, we will begin with the trials for the vaccine in India." "In addition, we will soon start manufacturing the vaccine in large volumes," SII Chief Executive Officer Adar Poonawalla said. The interim results from the ongoing Phase I/II COV001 trial, led by Oxford University, showed that the vaccine was tolerated and generated robust immune responses against the SARS-CoV-2 virus in all evaluated participants, AstraZeneca said in a statement. Earlier this month, Poonawalla had said that the SII was hoping to develop a COVID-19 vaccine by year-end as it was focusing on a "good and safe" product and is not in a "rush". A coronavirus vaccine developed by the Oxford University appears safe and induces a strong immune response within the body, scientists announced on Monday after the first phase of "promising" human trials against the deadly disease that has infected over 1.45 crore people and claimed more than six lakh lives across the world. Doses of the vaccine were given to 1,077 healthy adults aged between 18 and 55 in five UK hospitals in April and May as part of the phase one clinical trial and results, published in the Lancet' medical journal. The results show they induced strong antibody and T-cell immune responses for up to 56 days after they were given. T-cells are crucial for maintaining protection against the virus for years. The findings are seen as promising, but experts feel it is too soon to know if this is enough to offer protection as larger trials get underway. Scientists behind the trials found the response could be even greater after a second dose. "The Phase I/II data for our coronavirus vaccine shows that the vaccine did not lead to any unexpected reactions and had a similar safety profile to previous vaccines of this type." "The immune responses observed following vaccination are in line with what previous animal studies have shown are associated with protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, although we must continue with our rigorous clinical trial program to confirm this in humans," said Professor Andrew Pollard, Chief investigator of the Oxford Vaccine Trial at Oxford University and co-author of the study. "We saw the strongest immune response in the 10 participants who received two doses of the vaccine, indicating that this might be a good strategy for vaccination," he said. Since emerging in the central Chinese city of Wuhan last year, the virus has killed over 606,000 people and infected more than 14,538,000 people worldwide. In India, the virus has caused 27,497 deaths and infected over 11 lakh people, according to latest official figures.

Serum Institute of India to apply for local trials on Oxford's vaccine in a week

India's coronavirus cases tally crosses 11 lakh mark with highest single day spike of 40,425 new cases and 681 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

According to the data provided by the health ministry total cases stand at 11, 18,043 including 3, 90,459 active cases, 7, 00,087 cured/discharged/migrated.

The death toll of India stands at 27,497. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases. However, the recovery rate is rising and now stands at 62.6 percent.

The number of recovered COVID-19 patients exceeds India's active caseload by 3,390459 as on Monday with 7 lakh people having recuperated from the disease so far, the Union Health Ministry said.

With 3,10,455 confirmed cases of COVID-19 so far, Maharashtra remains the worst-affected state in the country, followed by Tamil Nadu (1,70,693) and Delhi (1,22,793).

Meanwhile, data compiled by Johns Hopkins University show more than 14 million cases worldwide since the start of the pandemic.

The total number of cases stood at 14,430,943, while the fatalities rose to 604,725, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India's coronavirus cases tally crosses 11 lakh mark with highest single day spike of 40,425 new cases and 681 deaths reported in the last 24 hours. According to the data provided by the health ministry total cases stand at 11, 18,043 including 3, 90,459 active cases, 7, 00,087 cured/discharged/migrated.

India's coronavirus cases tally crosses 11 lakh mark with highest single day spike of 40,425 new cases and 681 deaths reported in the last 24 hours. According to the data provided by the health ministry total cases stand at 11, 18,043 including 3, 90,459 active cases, 7, 00,087 cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll of India stands at 27,497. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases. However, the recovery rate is rising and now stands at 62.6 percent. The number of recovered COVID-19 patients exceeds India's active caseload by 3,390459 as on Monday with 7 lakh people having recuperated from the disease so far, the Union Health Ministry said. With 3,10,455 confirmed cases of COVID-19 so far, Maharashtra remains the worst-affected state in the country, followed by Tamil Nadu (1,70,693) and Delhi (1,22,793). Meanwhile, data compiled by Johns Hopkins University show more than 14 million cases worldwide since the start of the pandemic. The total number of cases stood at 14,430,943, while the fatalities rose to 604,725, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Confirmed cases rise to 11.1 lakh, death toll at 27,497

India's COVID-19 case fatality rate is "progressively falling" and is currently at 2.49 per cent, which is one of the lowest in the world, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday, crediting efficient clinical management of hospitalised cases for it.

According to a Health Ministry statement, the case fatality rate (CFR) has fallen below 2.5 per cent for the first time.

India's COVID-19 case fatality rate declined from 3.2 per cent around May 12 to 2.82 per cent around June 1.

It declined further to 2.72 per cent on July 10 and to 2.49 per cent at present.

The number of recovered COVID-19 patients exceeds India's active caseload by 3,04,043 with 6.77 lakh people having recuperated from the disease so far, the ministry said as the coronavirus infection tally surged to 10,77,618 and the death toll rose to 26,816 on Sunday.

Medical attention is being provided to all the 3,73,379 active cases, in hospitals and home isolation, the ministry said.

"The total number of recovered cases is 6,77,422.The recovery rate as of now is at 62.86 per cent," the ministry said.

There are 29 states and union territories with a case fatality rate (CFR) lower than national average, with five of them having a CFR of zero and 14 having fatality rate of less than 1 per cent.

The focused efforts of the Centre and the state and UT governments on efficient clinical management of hospitalised cases have ensured that India's case fatality rate has fallen below 2.5 per cent, the ministry said.

With effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardized clinical management protocols based on holistic standard of care approach, the CFR has significantly dipped, it said.

"The CFR is progressively falling and currently, it is 2.49 per cent. India has one of the lowest fatality rates in the world," the ministry said.

Under the guidance of the Centre, the state and UT governments have ramped up testing and hospital infrastructure by combining public and private sector efforts, the ministry said.

Many states have conducted the population surveys to map and identify the vulnerable population like the elderly, pregnant women and those with comorbidities.

This, with the help of technological solutions like mobile apps, has ensured keeping the high-risk population under continuous observation, thus aiding early identification, timely clinical treatment and reducing fatalities, the ministry said.

"At the ground level, frontline health workers like ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) and ANMs (Auxiliary Nursing Midwives) have done a commendable job of managing the migrant population and to enhance awareness at the community level.

"As a result, there are 29 States and UTs with CFR lower than India's average. This shows commendable work done by public health apparatus of the country," the ministry said.

Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands have zero case fatality rate.

States and UTs having a CFR below the national average include Tripura (0.19 pc), Assam (0.23 pc), Kerala (0.34 pc), Odisha (0.51 pc), Goa (0.60 pc), Himachal Pradesh (0.75 pc), Bihar (0.83 pc), Telangana (0.93 pc), Andhra Pradesh (1.31 pc), Tamil Nadu (1.45 pc), Chandigarh (1.71 pc), Rajasthan (1.94 pc), Karnataka (2.08 pc) and Uttar Pradesh (2.36 pc).

India saw a record single-day jump of 38,902 COVID-19 cases pushing its tally to 10, 77,618 on Sunday, while the death toll due to the disease rose to 26,816 with 543 fatalities being reported in 24 hours, according to the health ministry data updated at 8 AM.

The country's testing infrastructure has been substantially ramped up.

The testing strategy prescribed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) allows all registered medical practitioners to recommend testing.

The Rapid Antigen Point of Care (POC) Test, coupled with the facilitation of widespread gold-standard RT-PCR based testing by states and UTs, has resulted in a surge in the number of samples tested.

A total of 3, 58,127 samples were tested in on Saturday.

With a total of 1, 37, 91,869 samples tested so far, the testing per million (TPM) for India has reached 9994.1, the ministry said.

India's COVID-19 case fatality rate is "progressively falling" and is currently at 2.49 per cent, which is one of the lowest in the world, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday, crediting efficient clinical management of hospitalised cases for it.

India's COVID-19 case fatality rate is "progressively falling" and is currently at 2.49 per cent, which is one of the lowest in the world, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday, crediting efficient clinical management of hospitalised cases for it. According to a Health Ministry statement, the case fatality rate (CFR) has fallen below 2.5 per cent for the first time. India's COVID-19 case fatality rate declined from 3.2 per cent around May 12 to 2.82 per cent around June 1. It declined further to 2.72 per cent on July 10 and to 2.49 per cent at present. The number of recovered COVID-19 patients exceeds India's active caseload by 3,04,043 with 6.77 lakh people having recuperated from the disease so far, the ministry said as the coronavirus infection tally surged to 10,77,618 and the death toll rose to 26,816 on Sunday. Medical attention is being provided to all the 3,73,379 active cases, in hospitals and home isolation, the ministry said. "The total number of recovered cases is 6,77,422.The recovery rate as of now is at 62.86 per cent," the ministry said. There are 29 states and union territories with a case fatality rate (CFR) lower than national average, with five of them having a CFR of zero and 14 having fatality rate of less than 1 per cent. The focused efforts of the Centre and the state and UT governments on efficient clinical management of hospitalised cases have ensured that India's case fatality rate has fallen below 2.5 per cent, the ministry said. With effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardized clinical management protocols based on holistic standard of care approach, the CFR has significantly dipped, it said. "The CFR is progressively falling and currently, it is 2.49 per cent. India has one of the lowest fatality rates in the world," the ministry said. Under the guidance of the Centre, the state and UT governments have ramped up testing and hospital infrastructure by combining public and private sector efforts, the ministry said. Many states have conducted the population surveys to map and identify the vulnerable population like the elderly, pregnant women and those with comorbidities. This, with the help of technological solutions like mobile apps, has ensured keeping the high-risk population under continuous observation, thus aiding early identification, timely clinical treatment and reducing fatalities, the ministry said. "At the ground level, frontline health workers like ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) and ANMs (Auxiliary Nursing Midwives) have done a commendable job of managing the migrant population and to enhance awareness at the community level. "As a result, there are 29 States and UTs with CFR lower than India's average. This shows commendable work done by public health apparatus of the country," the ministry said. Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands have zero case fatality rate. States and UTs having a CFR below the national average include Tripura (0.19 pc), Assam (0.23 pc), Kerala (0.34 pc), Odisha (0.51 pc), Goa (0.60 pc), Himachal Pradesh (0.75 pc), Bihar (0.83 pc), Telangana (0.93 pc), Andhra Pradesh (1.31 pc), Tamil Nadu (1.45 pc), Chandigarh (1.71 pc), Rajasthan (1.94 pc), Karnataka (2.08 pc) and Uttar Pradesh (2.36 pc). India saw a record single-day jump of 38,902 COVID-19 cases pushing its tally to 10, 77,618 on Sunday, while the death toll due to the disease rose to 26,816 with 543 fatalities being reported in 24 hours, according to the health ministry data updated at 8 AM. The country's testing infrastructure has been substantially ramped up. The testing strategy prescribed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) allows all registered medical practitioners to recommend testing. The Rapid Antigen Point of Care (POC) Test, coupled with the facilitation of widespread gold-standard RT-PCR based testing by states and UTs, has resulted in a surge in the number of samples tested. A total of 3, 58,127 samples were tested in on Saturday. With a total of 1, 37, 91,869 samples tested so far, the testing per million (TPM) for India has reached 9994.1, the ministry said.

India's COVID-19 case fatality rate falls below 2.5 per cent for first time: Health Ministry

Kerala government has decided to implement "cluster care" method to mitigate the spread of coronavirus as the number of cases continue to surge,, state health minister K K Shailaja said on Saturday.

The minister said testing, treatment and quarantining will be strengthened inside the "clusters" in order to stop the spread of the virus beyond a particular area.

"Those in the clusters must strictly follow the health protocol including wearing of masks, social distancing, handwash, use of sanitisers etc. We must keep in mind that the clusters are formed just before the community transmission," Shailaja said in a release.

A cluster is formed when there is an "unexpected surge in COVID-19 cases" at a particular area or a region.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had on Friday said that community spread had occurred in Poonthura and Pulluvila in Thiruvananthapuram and its nearby places have seen a rapid increase in the number of contact cases.

The health minister said that there are 87 clusters in the state of which 70 are active clusters and 17 contained clusters.

"Two of such clusters havereported community transmission and the people there need to cooperate with the health department to bringthose regions from the cluster classification," she said.

Kerala government has decided to implement "cluster care" method to mitigate the spread of coronavirus as the number of cases continue to surge,, state health minister K K Shailaja said on Saturday.

Kerala government has decided to implement "cluster care" method to mitigate the spread of coronavirus as the number of cases continue to surge,, state health minister K K Shailaja said on Saturday. The minister said testing, treatment and quarantining will be strengthened inside the "clusters" in order to stop the spread of the virus beyond a particular area. "Those in the clusters must strictly follow the health protocol including wearing of masks, social distancing, handwash, use of sanitisers etc. We must keep in mind that the clusters are formed just before the community transmission," Shailaja said in a release. A cluster is formed when there is an "unexpected surge in COVID-19 cases" at a particular area or a region. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had on Friday said that community spread had occurred in Poonthura and Pulluvila in Thiruvananthapuram and its nearby places have seen a rapid increase in the number of contact cases. The health minister said that there are 87 clusters in the state of which 70 are active clusters and 17 contained clusters. "Two of such clusters havereported community transmission and the people there need to cooperate with the health department to bringthose regions from the cluster classification," she said.

Kerala to go in for 'cluster care' method to contain coronavirus spread

Total Covid-19 confirmed cases in India rose past 9.66 lakh as authorities reported the largest ever spike in fresh cases.&nbsp;

India has recorded over 32,000 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 9, 68,876, according to the Health Ministry’s 8 AM update on July 16.&nbsp;

Of these, more than 6.1 lakh have been cured or discharged, while over 3.3 lakh are active cases.

Total number of confirmed coronavirus cases: 9, 68,876&nbsp; 
 
Active cases: 3, 31,146&nbsp; 
 
Cured/discharged/migrated: 6, 12,815&nbsp; 
 
Total Deaths: 24,915&nbsp; 
 
New cases in last 24 hours: 32,695&nbsp; 
 
Recoveries in last 24 hours: 20,783&nbsp; 
 
Deaths in last 24 hours: 606

Meanwhile, as many as 13,691,674 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, While more than 8,030,267 have recovered, 586,821 have died so far, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It has recorded over 70,000 cases in a day, taking its tally of cases to 3,615,991 and death toll to 140,105. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,970,909 cases and 75,523 deaths, and India (970,169 cases, 24,929 deaths).

Total Covid-19 confirmed cases in India rose past 9.66 lakh as authorities reported the largest ever spike in fresh cases. India has recorded over 32,000 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 9, 68,876, according to the Health Ministry’s 8 AM update on July 16.

Total Covid-19 confirmed cases in India rose past 9.66 lakh as authorities reported the largest ever spike in fresh cases. India has recorded over 32,000 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 9, 68,876, according to the Health Ministry’s 8 AM update on July 16. Of these, more than 6.1 lakh have been cured or discharged, while over 3.3 lakh are active cases. Total number of confirmed coronavirus cases: 9, 68,876 Active cases: 3, 31,146 Cured/discharged/migrated: 6, 12,815 Total Deaths: 24,915 New cases in last 24 hours: 32,695 Recoveries in last 24 hours: 20,783 Deaths in last 24 hours: 606 Meanwhile, as many as 13,691,674 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, While more than 8,030,267 have recovered, 586,821 have died so far, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It has recorded over 70,000 cases in a day, taking its tally of cases to 3,615,991 and death toll to 140,105. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,970,909 cases and 75,523 deaths, and India (970,169 cases, 24,929 deaths).

Covid-19 cases in India rise to 9.6 lakh; nearly 25,000 dead

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage.

As many as 13,706,323 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, while more than 8,030,267 have recovered, 586,821 have died so far, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It has recorded over 70,000 cases in a day, taking its tally of cases to 3,615,991 and death toll to 140,105. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,970,909 cases and 75,523 deaths, and India (970,169 cases, 24,929 deaths).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has said that India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world.

A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage.

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage. As many as 13,706,323 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, while more than 8,030,267 have recovered, 586,821 have died so far, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It has recorded over 70,000 cases in a day, taking its tally of cases to 3,615,991 and death toll to 140,105. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,970,909 cases and 75,523 deaths, and India (970,169 cases, 24,929 deaths). Meanwhile, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has said that India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world. A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Global tally rises to 13.7 million

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates.

A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Speaking in a documentary - COVID-19: India's War against the Virus - to be premiered on Discovery Plus this (Thursday) evening, Bill Gates said India also faces a huge challenge due to the health crisis because of its gigantic size and urban centres with a lot of population density.

Commenting on the strength of India's pharma industry, he said, "India has a lot of capacity there - with the drug and vaccine companies that are huge suppliers to the entire world. You know, more vaccines are made in India than anywhere - starting with Serum Institute, that's the largest."

He further said, "But (there are) also Bio E, Bharat (Biotech), many others. They are doing work to help make the coronavirus vaccine, building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases."

Stating that India joined Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is a group working on a global basis to build vaccines platforms, Mr Gates said, "I am excited that the pharmaceutical industry there will be able to produce not just for India but also for the entire world. (This is) What we need to reduce the deaths and make sure we are immune, which is how we end the epidemic."

Mr Gates said Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is also a "partner with the government, particularly with the department of biotechnology, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the office of the principal scientific advisor provide advice and help about getting these tools going."

Commenting on the deadly virus breaching India''s borders in the documentary which was shot extensively during the period of lockdown, he said, "India is still at the beginning of this, but there's a lot of very important things have been done.

"It's a huge challenge with India because you've got a gigantic country. You've got your urban centers with a lot of density - and so that - drives the spread. You have people moving around."

He, however, added: "Yet people are stepping up... Looking at how we reduce the spread while trying not to reduce food availability, equipment that people need."

Highlighting Gates foundation's role, he said it has "worked for the Indian government on health issues like introducing new vaccines over the last decade; and so when COVID-19 came along, we stepped in and said you know where are the gaps, we have been funding work on detection and isolation."

"We have been particularly active in UP and Bihar where we have done health delivery in the past."

The foundation is also working with the department of personnel and training to take their online training platforms and "are now using that guidance to help their frontline health workers", Bill Gates said. 
&nbsp;

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates.

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates. A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Speaking in a documentary - COVID-19: India's War against the Virus - to be premiered on Discovery Plus this (Thursday) evening, Bill Gates said India also faces a huge challenge due to the health crisis because of its gigantic size and urban centres with a lot of population density. Commenting on the strength of India's pharma industry, he said, "India has a lot of capacity there - with the drug and vaccine companies that are huge suppliers to the entire world. You know, more vaccines are made in India than anywhere - starting with Serum Institute, that's the largest." He further said, "But (there are) also Bio E, Bharat (Biotech), many others. They are doing work to help make the coronavirus vaccine, building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases." Stating that India joined Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is a group working on a global basis to build vaccines platforms, Mr Gates said, "I am excited that the pharmaceutical industry there will be able to produce not just for India but also for the entire world. (This is) What we need to reduce the deaths and make sure we are immune, which is how we end the epidemic." Mr Gates said Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is also a "partner with the government, particularly with the department of biotechnology, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the office of the principal scientific advisor provide advice and help about getting these tools going." Commenting on the deadly virus breaching India''s borders in the documentary which was shot extensively during the period of lockdown, he said, "India is still at the beginning of this, but there's a lot of very important things have been done. "It's a huge challenge with India because you've got a gigantic country. You've got your urban centers with a lot of density - and so that - drives the spread. You have people moving around." He, however, added: "Yet people are stepping up... Looking at how we reduce the spread while trying not to reduce food availability, equipment that people need." Highlighting Gates foundation's role, he said it has "worked for the Indian government on health issues like introducing new vaccines over the last decade; and so when COVID-19 came along, we stepped in and said you know where are the gaps, we have been funding work on detection and isolation." "We have been particularly active in UP and Bihar where we have done health delivery in the past." The foundation is also working with the department of personnel and training to take their online training platforms and "are now using that guidance to help their frontline health workers", Bill Gates said.

India capable of producing Covid-19 vaccines for entire world: Bill Gates

India has recorded nearly 29,428 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 937,487. With over 550 deaths on Tuesday, the country's death toll has now reached 24,315. &nbsp;

In the wake of the increasing number of coronavirus cases, a total lockdown is to be imposed in Bihar from 16 to 31 July.

Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases.

However, India’s recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has increased to 63.2 per cent. The recoveries/deaths ratio is 96.05 per cent: 3.9 per cent now.

A total of 13,462,460 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. While more than 7,846,427 have recovered, 581,316 have died, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It recorded over 65,000 cases in a day to take its total to 3,545,077 coronavirus cases; its death toll stands at 139,143. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,931,204 cases and 74,262 deaths and India (937,487 cases, 24,315 deaths).

(With inputs from agencies)

India has recorded nearly 29,428 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 937,487. With over 550 deaths on Tuesday, the country's death toll has now reached 24,315.

India has recorded nearly 29,428 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 937,487. With over 550 deaths on Tuesday, the country's death toll has now reached 24,315. In the wake of the increasing number of coronavirus cases, a total lockdown is to be imposed in Bihar from 16 to 31 July. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases. However, India’s recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has increased to 63.2 per cent. The recoveries/deaths ratio is 96.05 per cent: 3.9 per cent now. A total of 13,462,460 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. While more than 7,846,427 have recovered, 581,316 have died, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It recorded over 65,000 cases in a day to take its total to 3,545,077 coronavirus cases; its death toll stands at 139,143. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,931,204 cases and 74,262 deaths and India (937,487 cases, 24,315 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 cases in India rise to 9.3 lakh, death toll at 24,309

Indian Railways has developed post-Covid train coaches to fight coronavirus with several special features in new coaches, which including foot-operated soap dispensers and toilet flushes, new door handles and handrails coated with anti-microbial copper.

"The Coach has been designed by Rail Coach Factory at Kapurthala to prevent the spread of Covid 19. The Ministry said, Railways has taken numerous steps and measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus infection," the Railways Ministry said.

According to the Ministry, "this Coach has the provision of plasma air equipment in the air conditioning duct. This equipment will sterilize the air and surfaces inside the AC coach using ionised air to make the coach Covid-19 and particulate matter resistant." 
 
This Post Covid Coach has design improvements in the coach like handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails &amp; latches, plasma air purification and titanium di-oxide coating for Covid free passenger journey, the Railways added.

"Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st Post Covid Coach' with handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails &amp; latches, plasma air purification, Titanium di-oxide coating.

"For Covid-Free passenger journey!," Railway Minister Piyush Goyal tweeted.

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<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st ‘Post COVID Coach’ with: 
 
▪️Handsfree amenities 
▪️Copper-coated handrails &amp; latches 
▪️Plasma air purification 
▪️Titanium di-oxide coating 
 
For COVID-Free passenger journey! 
 
Details: <a href="https://t.co/VAVDu6lDST">https://t.co/VAVDu6lDST</a> <a href="https://t.co/yWakrxt4s2">pic.twitter.com/yWakrxt4s2</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1282921165678231552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Indian Railways has developed post-Covid train coaches to fight coronavirus with several special features in new coaches, which including foot-operated soap dispensers and toilet flushes, new door handles and handrails coated with anti-microbial copper.

Indian Railways has developed post-Covid train coaches to fight coronavirus with several special features in new coaches, which including foot-operated soap dispensers and toilet flushes, new door handles and handrails coated with anti-microbial copper. "The Coach has been designed by Rail Coach Factory at Kapurthala to prevent the spread of Covid 19. The Ministry said, Railways has taken numerous steps and measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus infection," the Railways Ministry said. According to the Ministry, "this Coach has the provision of plasma air equipment in the air conditioning duct. This equipment will sterilize the air and surfaces inside the AC coach using ionised air to make the coach Covid-19 and particulate matter resistant." This Post Covid Coach has design improvements in the coach like handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails & latches, plasma air purification and titanium di-oxide coating for Covid free passenger journey, the Railways added. "Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st Post Covid Coach' with handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails & latches, plasma air purification, Titanium di-oxide coating. "For Covid-Free passenger journey!," Railway Minister Piyush Goyal tweeted. Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st ‘Post COVID Coach’ with: ▪️Handsfree amenities ▪️Copper-coated handrails & latches ▪️Plasma air purification ▪️Titanium di-oxide coating For COVID-Free passenger journey! Details: https://t.co/VAVDu6lDST pic.twitter.com/yWakrxt4s2 — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) July 14, 2020 ×

Handsfree amenities, plasma air purification: Indian Railways develops the post-Covid coach

France will soon announce an "exceptional package" for India, including ventilators and expertise, as part of its efforts to jointly combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the French envoy to India said on Tuesday.

In his message on the French National Day -- Bastille Day, French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain said that since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the two countries have shown exceptional solidarity.

"India has provided much needed equipment and drugs to French hospitals. Friendship is a two-way road and France has reciprocated," Lenain said.

The French development agency AFD has granted an exceptional loan of 200 million euros (Rs 1,600 crore) to provide social services to the most vulnerable population in India, he said.

"We are going to announce soon an exceptional package comprising serological test (kits), ventilators and some expertise," the French envoy said in the message posted on all social media handles of the French Embassy here.

Solidarity has been exceptional in the way the India government has lent support to the operation to repatriate stranded tourists, he said, thanking Indian authorities for it.

Another great way to express solidarity is the involvement of French companies in corporate social responsibility, he said.

Lenain cited the example of French firms partnering Indian companies for producing ventilators and a French firm contributing 65 ICU beds.

France will soon announce an "exceptional package" for India, including ventilators and expertise, as part of its efforts to jointly combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the French envoy to India said on Tuesday.

France will soon announce an "exceptional package" for India, including ventilators and expertise, as part of its efforts to jointly combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the French envoy to India said on Tuesday. In his message on the French National Day -- Bastille Day, French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain said that since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the two countries have shown exceptional solidarity. "India has provided much needed equipment and drugs to French hospitals. Friendship is a two-way road and France has reciprocated," Lenain said. The French development agency AFD has granted an exceptional loan of 200 million euros (Rs 1,600 crore) to provide social services to the most vulnerable population in India, he said. "We are going to announce soon an exceptional package comprising serological test (kits), ventilators and some expertise," the French envoy said in the message posted on all social media handles of the French Embassy here. Solidarity has been exceptional in the way the India government has lent support to the operation to repatriate stranded tourists, he said, thanking Indian authorities for it. Another great way to express solidarity is the involvement of French companies in corporate social responsibility, he said. Lenain cited the example of French firms partnering Indian companies for producing ventilators and a French firm contributing 65 ICU beds.

France to announce 'exceptional package' boosting India's COVID-19 fight, says Envoy

Delhi got its second plasma bank on Tuesday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurating the facility at the state-run Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital for treatment of COVID-19 patients.

The chief minister had inaugurated the first such facility at the state-run Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences on July 2.

"Plasma therapy is really helpful in saving lives. We cannot say it is 100 percent successful... but the death rate has reduced in Delhi and plasma has a role in it," the chief minister said at the launch.

The LNJP Hospital is located in central Delhi, so it is easily accessible to those willing to donate plasma, he said.

COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery.

Such people should be aged between 18 and 60 and weigh not less than 50 kg.

Women who have been pregnant at some time in their life, people with diabetes, hypertension, cancer survivors, those with chronic heart, liver, lung and kidney diseases and high blood pressure cannot donate plasma.&nbsp;

Delhi got its second plasma bank on Tuesday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurating the facility at the state-run Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital for treatment of COVID-19 patients.

Delhi got its second plasma bank on Tuesday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurating the facility at the state-run Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital for treatment of COVID-19 patients. The chief minister had inaugurated the first such facility at the state-run Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences on July 2. "Plasma therapy is really helpful in saving lives. We cannot say it is 100 percent successful... but the death rate has reduced in Delhi and plasma has a role in it," the chief minister said at the launch. The LNJP Hospital is located in central Delhi, so it is easily accessible to those willing to donate plasma, he said. COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery. Such people should be aged between 18 and 60 and weigh not less than 50 kg. Women who have been pregnant at some time in their life, people with diabetes, hypertension, cancer survivors, those with chronic heart, liver, lung and kidney diseases and high blood pressure cannot donate plasma.

Covid-19 treatment: Delhi gets second plasma bank at LNJP hospital

In a major development capable of helping in drug formulations for COVID-19, the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS) here has successfully established in vitro cultures of coronavirus from the patient samples using Vero cells.

Seventeen virus cultures have been established from swab samples originating from different locations of the country with varying virus loads by the ILS, an autonomous institute of the Department of Biotechnology, officials said.

The Vero cell culture technology is used worldwide to develop inactivated whole cell-based vaccines.

"It is a significant development as only three other laboratories from India has reported establishing virus cultures till date," ILS Director Ajay Parida said.

This has potential application in testing and screening for possible drug targets, formulations as well as possible use in vaccine development.

Cultured SARS-CoV-2 can also be used in developing antibodies or antidotes, testing of antibodies and identification of effective therapeutic agents, he said.

Parida expressed confidence that this will be a useful resource for the country in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic as well as for future preparedness.

In the long run these viral cultures will be useful for academicians as well as industry for testing and validating various antiviral products contributing to diagnostic, cure and management of COVID-19 pandemic, he said.

These virus cultures have been established by the ILS team led by scientists Soma Chattopadhyay and Gulam H Syed following international protocols and all safety precautions in the BSL 3 facility, an official said.

Virus cultures have been stabilised with multiple passages in vero cell culture and titres in culture supernatants of 7-9 passage were estimated by Foci-Forming Unit (FFU) assay.

Infection of the Vero cells with SARS-CoV2 clinical isolate was also confirmed by immunofluorescence detection of SARS-CoV2 infection.

Studies using genome sequencing approaches are underway for understanding stability and detecting any mutation in established cultures.

Vitro culture involves studies conducted with microorganisms, cells outside their usual surroundings.

Vero cells are host cells for growing virus.

ILS has been supporting the Odisha government in augmenting testing for COVID-19 since April this year and has tested around 45,000 samples from as many as 26 districts of the state.

The institute has been selected as one of the 16 in the country for setting up a biorespository of clinical samples for furthering research and development efforts for COVID-19.

Apart from ILS, there other institutes - NIV, Pune, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad and RMRC, Dibrugarh have reported establishing virus cultures. 
&nbsp;

In a major development capable of helping in drug formulations for COVID-19, the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS) here has successfully established in vitro cultures of coronavirus from the patient samples using Vero cells.

In a major development capable of helping in drug formulations for COVID-19, the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS) here has successfully established in vitro cultures of coronavirus from the patient samples using Vero cells. Seventeen virus cultures have been established from swab samples originating from different locations of the country with varying virus loads by the ILS, an autonomous institute of the Department of Biotechnology, officials said. The Vero cell culture technology is used worldwide to develop inactivated whole cell-based vaccines. "It is a significant development as only three other laboratories from India has reported establishing virus cultures till date," ILS Director Ajay Parida said. This has potential application in testing and screening for possible drug targets, formulations as well as possible use in vaccine development. Cultured SARS-CoV-2 can also be used in developing antibodies or antidotes, testing of antibodies and identification of effective therapeutic agents, he said. Parida expressed confidence that this will be a useful resource for the country in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic as well as for future preparedness. In the long run these viral cultures will be useful for academicians as well as industry for testing and validating various antiviral products contributing to diagnostic, cure and management of COVID-19 pandemic, he said. These virus cultures have been established by the ILS team led by scientists Soma Chattopadhyay and Gulam H Syed following international protocols and all safety precautions in the BSL 3 facility, an official said. Virus cultures have been stabilised with multiple passages in vero cell culture and titres in culture supernatants of 7-9 passage were estimated by Foci-Forming Unit (FFU) assay. Infection of the Vero cells with SARS-CoV2 clinical isolate was also confirmed by immunofluorescence detection of SARS-CoV2 infection. Studies using genome sequencing approaches are underway for understanding stability and detecting any mutation in established cultures. Vitro culture involves studies conducted with microorganisms, cells outside their usual surroundings. Vero cells are host cells for growing virus. ILS has been supporting the Odisha government in augmenting testing for COVID-19 since April this year and has tested around 45,000 samples from as many as 26 districts of the state. The institute has been selected as one of the 16 in the country for setting up a biorespository of clinical samples for furthering research and development efforts for COVID-19. Apart from ILS, there other institutes - NIV, Pune, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad and RMRC, Dibrugarh have reported establishing virus cultures.

Odisha-based Institute of Life Sciences establishes stable cultures of coronavirus

India recorded its highest single-day spike of 28,701 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 500 deaths in the last 24 hours, pushing the total tally to close to 9 lakh with a total of 23,174 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday.

There are 3, 01,609 active coronavirus cases in the country.

India’s recovery rate rose above 63 per cent with as many as 18, 850 cases recovered from the COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. The total recoveries now stand at 5, 53,470. The gap between recoveries and active cases is now more than 2.5 lakh.

Meanwhile, India's financial capital Mumbai and its metropolitan region's coronavirus tally was recorded at over 1.73 lakh with almost 4,500 new cases. 
 
Overall, five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Maharashtra (8,139), Tamil Nadu (3,965), Karnataka (2,798), Andhra Pradesh (1,813) and Delhi (1,781). Among states with more than 5,000 cases, the five with worst recovery rates at present are Karnataka (40.63%), Andhra Pradesh (52.85%), Kerala (53.28%), Maharashtra (55.55%), and Jammu &amp; Kashmir (58.04%). 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India recorded its highest single-day spike of 28,701 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 500 deaths in the last 24 hours, pushing the total tally to close to 9 lakh with a total of 23,174 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday.

India recorded its highest single-day spike of 28,701 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 500 deaths in the last 24 hours, pushing the total tally to close to 9 lakh with a total of 23,174 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday. There are 3, 01,609 active coronavirus cases in the country. India’s recovery rate rose above 63 per cent with as many as 18, 850 cases recovered from the COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. The total recoveries now stand at 5, 53,470. The gap between recoveries and active cases is now more than 2.5 lakh. Meanwhile, India's financial capital Mumbai and its metropolitan region's coronavirus tally was recorded at over 1.73 lakh with almost 4,500 new cases. Overall, five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Maharashtra (8,139), Tamil Nadu (3,965), Karnataka (2,798), Andhra Pradesh (1,813) and Delhi (1,781). Among states with more than 5,000 cases, the five with worst recovery rates at present are Karnataka (40.63%), Andhra Pradesh (52.85%), Kerala (53.28%), Maharashtra (55.55%), and Jammu & Kashmir (58.04%). (With inputs from agencies)

India sees highest single-day spike of 28,701 Covid-19 cases, coronavirus tally inches closer to 9 lakh

A total of 2, 19,103 samples have been tested in the country for coronavirus in the last 24 hours, announced the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Monday.

Now, the total number of tests in India have reached 1, 18,06,265. Meanwhile, ICMR is continuously scaling up its testing facilities for COVID-19 by approving government and private laboratories.

India recorded its highest single-day spike of 28,701 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 500 deaths in the last 24 hours, pushing the total tally to close to 9 lakh with a total of 23,174 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

There are 3, 01,609 active coronavirus cases in the country.

India’s recovery rate rose above 63 per cent with as many as 18, 850 cases recovered from the COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. The total recoveries now stand at 5, 53,470. The gap between recoveries and active cases is now more than 2.5 lakh.

As many as 13,041,728 people have been diagnosed with Covid-19 around the world so far. While more than 7,320,900 have recovered, 562,011 have died, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It has recorded over 50,000 cases in a day and now has 3,413,936 coronavirus cases and 137,782 deaths. Brazil has 1,866,176 cases, and 70,524 deaths, while India is the third-worst-hit with 879,466 cases and 22,144 deaths. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A total of 2, 19,103 samples have been tested in the country for coronavirus in the last 24 hours, announced the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Monday.

A total of 2, 19,103 samples have been tested in the country for coronavirus in the last 24 hours, announced the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Monday. Now, the total number of tests in India have reached 1, 18,06,265. Meanwhile, ICMR is continuously scaling up its testing facilities for COVID-19 by approving government and private laboratories. India recorded its highest single-day spike of 28,701 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and 500 deaths in the last 24 hours, pushing the total tally to close to 9 lakh with a total of 23,174 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. There are 3, 01,609 active coronavirus cases in the country. India’s recovery rate rose above 63 per cent with as many as 18, 850 cases recovered from the COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. The total recoveries now stand at 5, 53,470. The gap between recoveries and active cases is now more than 2.5 lakh. As many as 13,041,728 people have been diagnosed with Covid-19 around the world so far. While more than 7,320,900 have recovered, 562,011 have died, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It has recorded over 50,000 cases in a day and now has 3,413,936 coronavirus cases and 137,782 deaths. Brazil has 1,866,176 cases, and 70,524 deaths, while India is the third-worst-hit with 879,466 cases and 22,144 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 11 million samples tested for Covid-19 so far, says ICMR

Kerala`s state health department on Sunday reported 435 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,873.

Out of the total figure, 3,743 are active and 4,095 have recovered. So far, 31 COVID-related fatalities have been reported in the state.

According to Kerela`s Health Minister KK Shailaja, out of the 435 positive cases in the last 24 hours, ten healthcare workers were also infected - four in Alappuzha district, two in Thiruvananthapuram district and one each in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Ernakula, Kasargod districts.

In addition, a DSC employee and a CISF personnel in Kannur district also tested positive.

Meanwhile, the number of tests being conducted has increased.

In the last 24 hours, 13,478 samples were analysed.

Thirty new places were declared hotspots while three were exempted taking the total number of hotspots in the State to 222.&nbsp;

Kerala`s state health department on Sunday reported 435 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,873. Out of the total figure, 3,743 are active and 4,095 have recovered.

Kerala`s state health department on Sunday reported 435 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,873. Out of the total figure, 3,743 are active and 4,095 have recovered. So far, 31 COVID-related fatalities have been reported in the state. According to Kerela`s Health Minister KK Shailaja, out of the 435 positive cases in the last 24 hours, ten healthcare workers were also infected - four in Alappuzha district, two in Thiruvananthapuram district and one each in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Ernakula, Kasargod districts. In addition, a DSC employee and a CISF personnel in Kannur district also tested positive. Meanwhile, the number of tests being conducted has increased. In the last 24 hours, 13,478 samples were analysed. Thirty new places were declared hotspots while three were exempted taking the total number of hotspots in the State to 222.

Kerala reports 435 new infections as total coronavirus cases reach 7,873

Swapna Suresh, a key suspect in the Kerala gold smuggling cases, has been taken in custody by National Investigation Agency in Bengaluru. Her family members have also been taken into custody by NIA, which is probing the case.

Swapna Suresh, a key suspect in the Kerala gold smuggling cases, has been taken in custody by National Investigation Agency in Bengaluru. Her family members have also been taken into custody by NIA, which is probing the case. She will be produced at the NIA office in Kochi on Sunday. The Customs at the Thiruvananthapuram airport seized 30kg of gold, valued nearly Rs.15 crore, in a diplomatic cargo recently. The cardboard carton weighing 79kg had contained foodstuffs and what was said to be “articles other than foodstuffs”. On closer examination and dismantling, it was found that the “articles other than foodstuffs” had gold concealed in them. It is alleged that Swapna Suresh, who had earlier worked with the consulate is the kingpin of this gold smuggling racket. Pictures and videos from several Kerala government functions and banquets also show the woman in close proximity with senior government and opposition leaders and other officials. She is said to be facing a crime branch probe for fabricating a complaint against an Air India Official. (With inputs from ANI)

Kerala gold smuggling case accused Swapna Suresh taken into custody

Kerala on Saturday recorded&nbsp;its biggest single-day jump of&nbsp;488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities.

As many as 234 people were infected through contact, including 57 in Thiruvananthapuram, 51 in Alappuzha, Ernakulam 35, Pathnamthitta 29 and Malappuram 27, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told reporters here.

This is the second consecutive day that the number of cases have crossed the 400 mark.

On Friday, 416 people were infected.

The deaths had occurred at Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts on Friday. 
Three health workers were among those who tested positive today.

Totally, 2.33 lakh samples have been collected so far and results of 6,449 samples are awaited.

There are 195 hotspots as of today.

In Thiruvananthapuram, a Quick Response Team has been constituted, comprising police, revenue and health workers which will function round the clock in the worst affected Poonthura fishing hamlet, the Chief Minister said.

&nbsp;

Kerala on Saturday recorded its biggest single-day jump of 488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities.

Kerala on Saturday recorded its biggest single-day jump of 488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities. As many as 234 people were infected through contact, including 57 in Thiruvananthapuram, 51 in Alappuzha, Ernakulam 35, Pathnamthitta 29 and Malappuram 27, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told reporters here. This is the second consecutive day that the number of cases have crossed the 400 mark. On Friday, 416 people were infected. The deaths had occurred at Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts on Friday. Three health workers were among those who tested positive today. Totally, 2.33 lakh samples have been collected so far and results of 6,449 samples are awaited. There are 195 hotspots as of today. In Thiruvananthapuram, a Quick Response Team has been constituted, comprising police, revenue and health workers which will function round the clock in the worst affected Poonthura fishing hamlet, the Chief Minister said.

488 new cases in Kerala as infection tally touches 7438; 2 deaths

A record single-day jump of 24879 COVID-19 cases took India’s tally to 7, 67,296 on Wednesday, while the death toll climbed to 21,129 with 487 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

The recoveries, however, have also increased to 4, 76,378. The total recovery rate of the nation now stands at 62%. 
 
According to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 2, 67,061 tests were conducted on Wednesday.

India’s doubling time for total cases has increased to 22.3 days, and that for active cases to 33.7 days. Doubling time for deaths, meanwhile, stands at 29.3 days.

Maharashtra continues to be the worst affected state by the Covid-19 virus. The total number of cases reported in the state has reached 2, 23,724. The death tally has gone up to 9,448. Total 91.084 cases are still active.

Five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Maharashtra (5,134), Tamil Nadu (3,616), Delhi (2,008), Telangana (1,879), and Karnataka (1,498).

(With inputs from agencies)

A record single-day jump of 24879 COVID-19 cases took India’s tally to 7, 67,296 on Wednesday, while the death toll climbed to 21,129 with 487 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

A record single-day jump of 24879 COVID-19 cases took India’s tally to 7, 67,296 on Wednesday, while the death toll climbed to 21,129 with 487 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data. The recoveries, however, have also increased to 4, 76,378. The total recovery rate of the nation now stands at 62%. According to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 2, 67,061 tests were conducted on Wednesday. India’s doubling time for total cases has increased to 22.3 days, and that for active cases to 33.7 days. Doubling time for deaths, meanwhile, stands at 29.3 days. Maharashtra continues to be the worst affected state by the Covid-19 virus. The total number of cases reported in the state has reached 2, 23,724. The death tally has gone up to 9,448. Total 91.084 cases are still active. Five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Maharashtra (5,134), Tamil Nadu (3,616), Delhi (2,008), Telangana (1,879), and Karnataka (1,498). (With inputs from agencies)

India reports the highest single-day spike of over 24000 cases

Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-affected in terms of Covid tally in the country. The state reported 6,603 fresh cases in the past 24 hours, taking the total tally to 2, 23,724.

The state also reported 198 new deaths, taking the death toll to 9,448. The mortality rate now stands at 4.22 per cent. Maharashtra continues to lead in the number of deaths followed by Delhi.

Meanwhile, India saw a record single-day surge of 24,879 COVID-19 cases taking the caseload to 7, 67,296 on Thursday, with Maharashtra, TN, Karnataka, Delhi, Telangana, UP, and AP contributing to around 75 per cent of the new cases, Union Health Ministry data says.

Five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Maharashtra (5,134), Tamil Nadu (3,616), Delhi (2,008), Telangana (1,879), and Karnataka (1,498). 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-affected in terms of Covid tally in the country. The state reported 6,603 fresh cases in the past 24 hours, taking the total tally to 2, 23,724.

Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-affected in terms of Covid tally in the country. The state reported 6,603 fresh cases in the past 24 hours, taking the total tally to 2, 23,724. The state also reported 198 new deaths, taking the death toll to 9,448. The mortality rate now stands at 4.22 per cent. Maharashtra continues to lead in the number of deaths followed by Delhi. Meanwhile, India saw a record single-day surge of 24,879 COVID-19 cases taking the caseload to 7, 67,296 on Thursday, with Maharashtra, TN, Karnataka, Delhi, Telangana, UP, and AP contributing to around 75 per cent of the new cases, Union Health Ministry data says. Five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Maharashtra (5,134), Tamil Nadu (3,616), Delhi (2,008), Telangana (1,879), and Karnataka (1,498). (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra records 6,603 fresh cases, total at 2.23 lakh

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has sought a detailed analytical report from the Delhi government's health secretary on factors responsible for COVID-19 deaths in the city in the last fortnight, officials said.

Delhi reported 736 deaths in the last two weeks, with 397 people succumbing to the disease in the first week of July.

Meanwhile, India has recorded 22,752 new COVID-19 cases and 482 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

Positive cases stand at 7, 42,417 including 2, 64,944 active cases, 4, 56,831 cured/discharged/migrated and 20,642 deaths, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The rate of both new virus infections and deaths are rising at the fastest pace in three months, as officials lift a vast lockdown of India's 1.3 billion people.

India on Monday overtook Russia as the third most affected country globally, behind the United States and Brazil.

So far, 11,950,105 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19. While 6,849,076 have recovered, 546,626 have died till now, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected with 3,097,084 coronavirus cases and 133,972 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,674,655 cases, 66,868 deaths) and India (744,006 cases, 20,174 deaths).

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has sought a detailed analytical report from the Delhi government's health secretary on factors responsible for COVID-19 deaths in the city in the last fortnight, officials said.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has sought a detailed analytical report from the Delhi government's health secretary on factors responsible for COVID-19 deaths in the city in the last fortnight, officials said. Delhi reported 736 deaths in the last two weeks, with 397 people succumbing to the disease in the first week of July. Meanwhile, India has recorded 22,752 new COVID-19 cases and 482 deaths in the last 24 hours. Positive cases stand at 7, 42,417 including 2, 64,944 active cases, 4, 56,831 cured/discharged/migrated and 20,642 deaths, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The rate of both new virus infections and deaths are rising at the fastest pace in three months, as officials lift a vast lockdown of India's 1.3 billion people. India on Monday overtook Russia as the third most affected country globally, behind the United States and Brazil. So far, 11,950,105 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19. While 6,849,076 have recovered, 546,626 have died till now, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected with 3,097,084 coronavirus cases and 133,972 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,674,655 cases, 66,868 deaths) and India (744,006 cases, 20,174 deaths).

Arvind Kejriwal government launches probe on virus deaths in Delhi

Poonthura in Thiruvananthapuram will have strict measures in place as the state government has decided to close the borders of the suburb amid rising cases of COVID-19. 
 
With 119 COVID-19 positive cases reported of the 600 samples tested in five days, the coastal belt of Poonthura is becoming a major hotspot of coronavirus. 
 
In the backdrop of this, a high-level meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan here on Wednesday, which was attended by Chief Secretary, the Health Secretary, the Police Chief and the District Collector of Thiruvananthapuram.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/kerala-30kg-gold-smuggling-controversy-gets-murky-cbi-customs-meeting-underway-311600" hreflang="en">Kerala: 30kg gold smuggling controversy gets murky; CBI, Customs meeting underway</a> 
 
The meeting evaluated the situation and the Chief Minister has directed for immediate intervention.In the meeting, it was decided to strictly prevent people from reaching Poonthura from outside. 
 
Coastal police have been advised to stop people from reaching Poonthura by sea and the borders will be sealed. The district administration will provide all necessary assistance to the people of the region. 
 
Now, more COVID-19 tests will be conducted in the locality.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/kerala-reports-a-highest-single-day-spike-of-211-cases-tally-nearing-5000-mark-310525" hreflang="en">Kerala reports a highest single-day spike of 211 cases, tally nearing 5000 mark</a> 
 
The state government has also decided to provide free rations to each family in the three wards at Poonthura from tomorrow onwards.Currently, an enhanced triple lockdown is in place in Thiruvananthapuram city after a spike in the number of cases and authorities unable to find the source of transmission in many cases that were reported recently. 
 
The total number of positive cases in Kerala stands at 5,894 including 2415 active cases, as per the Union Health Ministry.

Poonthura in Thiruvananthapuram will have strict measures in place as the state government has decided to close the borders of the suburb amid rising cases of COVID-19.

Poonthura in Thiruvananthapuram will have strict measures in place as the state government has decided to close the borders of the suburb amid rising cases of COVID-19. With 119 COVID-19 positive cases reported of the 600 samples tested in five days, the coastal belt of Poonthura is becoming a major hotspot of coronavirus. In the backdrop of this, a high-level meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan here on Wednesday, which was attended by Chief Secretary, the Health Secretary, the Police Chief and the District Collector of Thiruvananthapuram. Also read: Kerala: 30kg gold smuggling controversy gets murky; CBI, Customs meeting underway The meeting evaluated the situation and the Chief Minister has directed for immediate intervention.In the meeting, it was decided to strictly prevent people from reaching Poonthura from outside. Coastal police have been advised to stop people from reaching Poonthura by sea and the borders will be sealed. The district administration will provide all necessary assistance to the people of the region. Now, more COVID-19 tests will be conducted in the locality. Also read: Kerala reports a highest single-day spike of 211 cases, tally nearing 5000 mark The state government has also decided to provide free rations to each family in the three wards at Poonthura from tomorrow onwards.Currently, an enhanced triple lockdown is in place in Thiruvananthapuram city after a spike in the number of cases and authorities unable to find the source of transmission in many cases that were reported recently. The total number of positive cases in Kerala stands at 5,894 including 2415 active cases, as per the Union Health Ministry.

Kerala: Strict measures in place in Poonthura after surge in COVID-19 cases, borders to be sealed

The commercial capital of India Mumbai recorded the lowest single-day figure in nearly two months as the number of cases came down to 806, taking the tally to 86,132.&nbsp;With 64 more deaths in the city, the toll has now crossed the 5,000 mark.&nbsp;

In Asia's largest slum Dharavi too, only one new case was reported. Dharavi has been the coronavirus cluster for the city.

Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-affected state in the country, reporting 5,134 fresh cases and 224 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 2, 17,121 including 9,250 deaths.

Meanwhile, India has recorded 22,752 new COVID-19 cases and 482 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

Positive cases stand at 7, 42,417 including 2, 64,944 active cases, 4, 56,831 cured/discharged/migrated and 20,642 deaths, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The rate of both new virus infections and deaths are rising at the fastest pace in three months, as officials lift a vast lockdown of India's 1.3 billion people.

India on Monday overtook Russia as the third most affected country globally, behind the United States and Brazil.

So far, 11,950,105 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19. While 6,849,076 have recovered, 546,626 have died till now, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected with 3,097,084 coronavirus cases and 133,972 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,674,655 cases, 66,868 deaths) and India (744,006 cases, 20,174 deaths).

The commercial capital of India Mumbai recorded the lowest single-day figure in nearly two months as the number of cases came down to 806, taking the tally to 86,132.

The commercial capital of India Mumbai recorded the lowest single-day figure in nearly two months as the number of cases came down to 806, taking the tally to 86,132. With 64 more deaths in the city, the toll has now crossed the 5,000 mark. In Asia's largest slum Dharavi too, only one new case was reported. Dharavi has been the coronavirus cluster for the city. Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-affected state in the country, reporting 5,134 fresh cases and 224 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the tally to 2, 17,121 including 9,250 deaths. Meanwhile, India has recorded 22,752 new COVID-19 cases and 482 deaths in the last 24 hours. Positive cases stand at 7, 42,417 including 2, 64,944 active cases, 4, 56,831 cured/discharged/migrated and 20,642 deaths, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The rate of both new virus infections and deaths are rising at the fastest pace in three months, as officials lift a vast lockdown of India's 1.3 billion people. India on Monday overtook Russia as the third most affected country globally, behind the United States and Brazil. So far, 11,950,105 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19. While 6,849,076 have recovered, 546,626 have died till now, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected with 3,097,084 coronavirus cases and 133,972 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,674,655 cases, 66,868 deaths) and India (744,006 cases, 20,174 deaths).

Mumbai records lowest single-day spike, toll crosses 5,000

As many as 872 employees of the Central Railway and Western Railway, their family members and retired personnel have so far tested positive for coronavirus and 86 of them have died, officials said.

All of them were admitted to the Western Railways Jagjivan Ram Hospital here which was in April declared as a facility to treat COVID-19 patients, they said.

Of the total cases, 559 were reported from the Central Railway and 313 from the Western Railway, officials said.

Out of the 86 patients who died of COVID-19, 22 were existing railway employees (14 of the Central Railway and eight of the Western Railway) and the others included their family members and retired personnel.

As of now, 132 railway employees, besides their family members and retired personnel, are undergoing treatment at the hospital, officials said.

Currently, some special trains, goods trains and 700 local train services with limited number of passengers are being operated here by both the Central Railway and Western Railway.

Some railway unions claimed that since the resumption of local train services from June 15, there has been a rise in COVID-19 cases among railway employees.

"The state government allowed only 15 to 30 per cent attendance in offices, but in the railways nearly 100 per cent field staff personnel are working since the resumption of suburban train services, National RailwayMazdoor Union president Venu Nair said.

The zonal railways, however, said there is no connection between the rise in COVID-19 cases and resumption of services.

Central Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer Shivaji Sutar said they are taking utmost care to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among railway personnel and passengers.

"We are taking every possible step for the safety of railway employees and passengers and ensuring social distancing. We are providing masks, sanitisers and all other safety equipment to our employees," he said.

After the outbreak of COVID-19, the Central Railway launched a 'Rail Parivar Dekhrekh' drive to ensure the safety of the railway employees, he added.

The Western Railway's Mumbai division DRM did not respond to queries on this.

As many as 872 employees of the Central Railway and Western Railway, their family members and retired personnel have so far tested positive for coronavirus and 86 of them have died, officials said.

As many as 872 employees of the Central Railway and Western Railway, their family members and retired personnel have so far tested positive for coronavirus and 86 of them have died, officials said. All of them were admitted to the Western Railways Jagjivan Ram Hospital here which was in April declared as a facility to treat COVID-19 patients, they said. Of the total cases, 559 were reported from the Central Railway and 313 from the Western Railway, officials said. Out of the 86 patients who died of COVID-19, 22 were existing railway employees (14 of the Central Railway and eight of the Western Railway) and the others included their family members and retired personnel. As of now, 132 railway employees, besides their family members and retired personnel, are undergoing treatment at the hospital, officials said. Currently, some special trains, goods trains and 700 local train services with limited number of passengers are being operated here by both the Central Railway and Western Railway. Some railway unions claimed that since the resumption of local train services from June 15, there has been a rise in COVID-19 cases among railway employees. "The state government allowed only 15 to 30 per cent attendance in offices, but in the railways nearly 100 per cent field staff personnel are working since the resumption of suburban train services, National RailwayMazdoor Union president Venu Nair said. The zonal railways, however, said there is no connection between the rise in COVID-19 cases and resumption of services. Central Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer Shivaji Sutar said they are taking utmost care to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among railway personnel and passengers. "We are taking every possible step for the safety of railway employees and passengers and ensuring social distancing. We are providing masks, sanitisers and all other safety equipment to our employees," he said. After the outbreak of COVID-19, the Central Railway launched a 'Rail Parivar Dekhrekh' drive to ensure the safety of the railway employees, he added. The Western Railway's Mumbai division DRM did not respond to queries on this.

872 railway employees, kin, ex-staffers test coronavirus positive

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched an investigation into the Kerala smuggling case to find out who was trying to smuggle gold to India under its consulate's name in the southern state and had sent the cargo addressed to it.

According to local authorities, Sarith Kumar, a former PRO at the consulate and one Swapna Suresh, working with Kerala govt IT Company were involved in the gold smuggling racket.&nbsp;A major political row has broken in Kerala after customs seized the diplomatic baggage containing gold worth crores a few days ago.&nbsp;

A statement by the UAE mission in Delhi said, "The authorities have stressed that the culprits who not only committed a major crime but also sought to tarnish the reputation of the UAE mission in India will not be spared. We remain committed to cooperating with Indian authorities in getting to the root of the crime."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-gold-smuggling-ias-officer-m-sivasankar-removed-from-it-secretary-post-311388" hreflang="en">Kerala gold smuggling: IAS officer M Sivasankar removed from IT secretary post</a>

The mission pointed out that the, "employee in question was fired for misconduct long preceding this incident. At this time, it appears that this individual exploited his knowledge of the mission’s channels to engage in criminal activity."

The UAE Embassy has also "utterly condemned&nbsp;the attempted misuse of diplomatic channels by an individual engaged in smuggling activity".

Swapna Suresh&nbsp;was working as a manager at the Kerala State Information technology infrastructure limited company and was hired by IAS official M Sivasankar. Sivasankar, principal secretary to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has been now removed and has been replaced by Mir Muhammad Ali. The opposition in the state is now seeking a wider probe into the matter.&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched an investigation into the Kerala smuggling case to find out who was trying to smuggle gold to India under its consulate's name in the southern state and had sent the cargo addressed to it.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched an investigation into the Kerala smuggling case to find out who was trying to smuggle gold to India under its consulate's name in the southern state and had sent the cargo addressed to it. According to local authorities, Sarith Kumar, a former PRO at the consulate and one Swapna Suresh, working with Kerala govt IT Company were involved in the gold smuggling racket. A major political row has broken in Kerala after customs seized the diplomatic baggage containing gold worth crores a few days ago. A statement by the UAE mission in Delhi said, "The authorities have stressed that the culprits who not only committed a major crime but also sought to tarnish the reputation of the UAE mission in India will not be spared. We remain committed to cooperating with Indian authorities in getting to the root of the crime." Also read: Kerala gold smuggling: IAS officer M Sivasankar removed from IT secretary post The mission pointed out that the, "employee in question was fired for misconduct long preceding this incident. At this time, it appears that this individual exploited his knowledge of the mission’s channels to engage in criminal activity." The UAE Embassy has also "utterly condemned the attempted misuse of diplomatic channels by an individual engaged in smuggling activity". Swapna Suresh was working as a manager at the Kerala State Information technology infrastructure limited company and was hired by IAS official M Sivasankar. Sivasankar, principal secretary to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has been now removed and has been replaced by Mir Muhammad Ali. The opposition in the state is now seeking a wider probe into the matter.

Kerala smuggling case: UAE launches investigation; says culprits won't be spared

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