Young couples are celebrating a child-free life by choice. With birth rates falling in several countries, what are the consequences of this societal shift? Priyanka Sharma explores.

Gravitas: Gen Z says no to kids

The theme park division of media behemoth NBCUniversal, Universal Parks &amp; Resorts, has purchased land on the Dallas North Tollway for a brand-new, family-friendly park and hotel. The theme park will be in Frisco, a city in Collin and Denton counties in the US state of Texas. The Universal theme will have a lot in store, making the theme park and hotel unique for kids. It will have a sizable cast of superheroes, television icons, and legendary movie actors in Collin County. So when will the place be opened and what can you expect from it? Will it be as big as the sprawling parks of Orlando and Los Angeles? Scroll on to know everything about the theme park and the hotel.&nbsp;

<h2>Location of Frisco theme park, and hotel project</h2>

The Frisco theme park and hotel project will be located in Fields, a construction site for the real-estate development company Fields development. Fields development is a $10 billion mega-development project and this theme park and hotel will be a part of it. Universal Parks &amp; Resorts, an Orlando-based company bought a site in Fields for the project in December using a shell company based in Delaware. The company announced the plans for the Frisco project on Wednesday.&nbsp;

<h2>What all the Frisco theme park have?&nbsp;</h2>

In addition to a 300-room hotel, the park will have four or five interactive attractions with Universal themes. According to Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Parks and Resorts, the project would have immersive activities that will make it a one or two-day destination that will appeal to families.

<img alt="Woodleyy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78116e10-1339-4f6b-86dd-278688973a1e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-12T124959.029.png" />

Though it is not going to be as big as Universal Studio's Orlando and Los Angeles theme parks, the Frisco theme park development will be a charming small attraction for young families. Woodbury also added that the park attractions will be built around a lush landscaped environment.

<img alt="Frisco" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="872db4dd-5f5a-4a59-b873-10281946bb87" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-01-12T125210.923.png" />

According to the agreement with Fields developers, the project at the northeast corner of the tollway and Panther Creek Parkway would also contain shops and dining arrangements. When inviting media to the news conference on Wednesday, Frisco authorities termed the project as a significant economic and tourism development.

<h2>When will Frisco theme park be opened?</h2>

The Frisco project's timeline was not provided by Universal officials however, as per the property transaction documents, the company intends to open the park in the next four years.

 
&nbsp;

The theme park division of media behemoth NBCUniversal, Universal Parks & Resorts, has purchased land on the Dallas North Tollway for a brand-new, family-friendly park and hotel.

The theme park division of media behemoth NBCUniversal, Universal Parks & Resorts, has purchased land on the Dallas North Tollway for a brand-new, family-friendly park and hotel. The theme park will be in Frisco, a city in Collin and Denton counties in the US state of Texas. The Universal theme will have a lot in store, making the theme park and hotel unique for kids. It will have a sizable cast of superheroes, television icons, and legendary movie actors in Collin County. So when will the place be opened and what can you expect from it? Will it be as big as the sprawling parks of Orlando and Los Angeles? Scroll on to know everything about the theme park and the hotel. Location of Frisco theme park, and hotel project The Frisco theme park and hotel project will be located in Fields, a construction site for the real-estate development company Fields development. Fields development is a $10 billion mega-development project and this theme park and hotel will be a part of it. Universal Parks & Resorts, an Orlando-based company bought a site in Fields for the project in December using a shell company based in Delaware. The company announced the plans for the Frisco project on Wednesday. What all the Frisco theme park have? In addition to a 300-room hotel, the park will have four or five interactive attractions with Universal themes. According to Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Parks and Resorts, the project would have immersive activities that will make it a one or two-day destination that will appeal to families. Though it is not going to be as big as Universal Studio's Orlando and Los Angeles theme parks, the Frisco theme park development will be a charming small attraction for young families. Woodbury also added that the park attractions will be built around a lush landscaped environment. According to the agreement with Fields developers, the project at the northeast corner of the tollway and Panther Creek Parkway would also contain shops and dining arrangements. When inviting media to the news conference on Wednesday, Frisco authorities termed the project as a significant economic and tourism development. When will Frisco theme park be opened? The Frisco project's timeline was not provided by Universal officials however, as per the property transaction documents, the company intends to open the park in the next four years.

US: Frisco city to get a Universal Theme Park soon, check what's in store for kids, families

The United Nations recently released figures saying that almost five million children died in 2021 worldwide before their fifth birthday, with 47 per cent of them dying&nbsp;during their first month only. The data was published by the UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation on Tuesday. The data also showed that mortality rates have fallen.&nbsp;According to experts, the majority of deaths could have been prevented with better healthcare. They also said that the deaths among newborns have not reduced since 2017.&nbsp;

The director of the MOMENTUM Safe Surgery in Family Planning and Obstetrics, Dr Vandana Tripathi said, "Sadly, the 2.3 million newborns who died in the first month of life isn’t a significant reduction from the 2.5 million babies who died in their first month in 2017." She added that the children born in sub-Saharan Africa are 15 times more likely to die than the ones in Europe or North America, Guardian reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: One and done, say parents

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The figures also showed that in 2021 almost 1.9 million children were stillborn, with nearly 77 per cent in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The data also stated that the risk of a woman having a stillborn baby in sub-Saharan Africa is seven times more than for women in Europe and North America.&nbsp;

Almost 40 per cent of stillbirths occurred during labour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sikh-canadian-woman-creates-special-helmets-for-her-kids-550235">Also read |&nbsp;Sikh Canadian woman creates ‘turban-friendly’ helmets for her kids, gets lauded</a>

The UN also said that though Covid did not affect&nbsp;child mortality, the pandemic might have increased future risks of survival amid poor healthcare. It said that the pandemic has resulted in one of the largest reversals in global vaccination campaigns.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations recently released figures saying that almost five million children died in 2021 worldwide before their fifth birthday, with 47 per cent of them dying during their first month only.

The United Nations recently released figures saying that almost five million children died in 2021 worldwide before their fifth birthday, with 47 per cent of them dying during their first month only. The data was published by the UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation on Tuesday. The data also showed that mortality rates have fallen. According to experts, the majority of deaths could have been prevented with better healthcare. They also said that the deaths among newborns have not reduced since 2017. The director of the MOMENTUM Safe Surgery in Family Planning and Obstetrics, Dr Vandana Tripathi said, "Sadly, the 2.3 million newborns who died in the first month of life isn’t a significant reduction from the 2.5 million babies who died in their first month in 2017." She added that the children born in sub-Saharan Africa are 15 times more likely to die than the ones in Europe or North America, Guardian reported. Watch | Gravitas: One and done, say parents The figures also showed that in 2021 almost 1.9 million children were stillborn, with nearly 77 per cent in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The data also stated that the risk of a woman having a stillborn baby in sub-Saharan Africa is seven times more than for women in Europe and North America. Almost 40 per cent of stillbirths occurred during labour. Also read | Sikh Canadian woman creates ‘turban-friendly’ helmets for her kids, gets lauded The UN also said that though Covid did not affect child mortality, the pandemic might have increased future risks of survival amid poor healthcare. It said that the pandemic has resulted in one of the largest reversals in global vaccination campaigns. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Five million kids die before fifth birthday, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: UN

A new study has found that giving children an electronic gadget to calm them down is actually detrimental to their overall development.

WION Fineprint | Smartphones harmful for a child's development?

The US Food and Drug Administration has now authorised&nbsp;bivalent COVID-19 boosters for children between the ages of 6 months and four.&nbsp;The booster, offered by both Pfizer and Moderna, was originally approved for use in October by anyone five years of age and above.&nbsp;

"More children now have the opportunity to update their protection against COVID-19 with a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine, and we encourage parents and caregivers of those eligible to consider doing so -- especially as we head into the holidays and winter months where more time will be spent indoors," FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said in a statement.

"As this virus has changed, and immunity from previous COVID-19 vaccination wanes, the more people who keep up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations, the more benefit there will be for individuals, families and public health by helping prevent severe illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths," he added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-basketball-star-brittney-griner-on-her-way-home-confirms-joe-biden-541338">Brittany Griner freed for Russian arms dealer in mediation led by UAE president, Saudi crown prince</a>

The modified booster shot is targeted to fight against the omicron subvariants - BA.4 and BA.5.

Children can receive the booster shot after two months of receiving&nbsp;their primary set.&nbsp;According to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the authorisation implies that more than 267 million Americans are now qualified to take the jab.&nbsp;On the other hand, as of 30 November, only 13 per cent&nbsp;of individuals who were qualified had gotten an updated booster dose.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-finally-found-the-reason-why-people-get-more-colds-and-flu-during-winters-541050">Scientists have finally found the reason why people get more colds and flu during winters</a>

The FDA confirmed&nbsp;&nbsp;that it considered immune response data from adults who had received the original booster, which focused on the original omicron variant BA.1, as well as data from a study comparing children who received the original booster and children who only received the primary series.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US Food and Drug Administration has now authorised bivalent COVID-19 boosters for children between the ages of 6 months and four. The booster, offered by both Pfizer and Moderna, was originally approved for use in October by anyone five years of age and above.

The US Food and Drug Administration has now authorised bivalent COVID-19 boosters for children between the ages of 6 months and four. The booster, offered by both Pfizer and Moderna, was originally approved for use in October by anyone five years of age and above. "More children now have the opportunity to update their protection against COVID-19 with a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine, and we encourage parents and caregivers of those eligible to consider doing so -- especially as we head into the holidays and winter months where more time will be spent indoors," FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said in a statement. "As this virus has changed, and immunity from previous COVID-19 vaccination wanes, the more people who keep up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations, the more benefit there will be for individuals, families and public health by helping prevent severe illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths," he added. Also read | Brittany Griner freed for Russian arms dealer in mediation led by UAE president, Saudi crown prince The modified booster shot is targeted to fight against the omicron subvariants - BA.4 and BA.5. Children can receive the booster shot after two months of receiving their primary set. According to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the authorisation implies that more than 267 million Americans are now qualified to take the jab. On the other hand, as of 30 November, only 13 per cent of individuals who were qualified had gotten an updated booster dose. Also read | Scientists have finally found the reason why people get more colds and flu during winters The FDA confirmed that it considered immune response data from adults who had received the original booster, which focused on the original omicron variant BA.1, as well as data from a study comparing children who received the original booster and children who only received the primary series. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: FDA authorises updated COVID-19 booster shots for children under five

In this age of the internet, nothing feels short or small to reach be it access to information or gaining billions of dollars by just being on YouTube and when nothing can stop you, why should age be an obstacle?

The Under-10 Millionaires: Meet the kids who make millions by unboxing toys

According to the experts, children with autism are at increased risk due to several factors. Watch this video to know more.

Why are kids with ASD at increased risk of drowning?

New research shows that children who play video games show sigs of better cognitive abilities and impulse control. But it finds no evidence of a direct causal link. Priyanka Sharma tells you more

WION Fineprint | Are video games actually beneficial?

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae.

UK’s Daily Mail newspaper reported that she was seen among a group of other children attending the anniversary of the founding of North Korea earlier this month.

She was performing a song at the event, which saw the attendance of Kim and his wife Ri Sol-ju.

During her performance, something stood out, experts noted.

A self-proclaimed North Korean analyst of InDPRK.com blog, which identifies itself as a North Korean travel agency, pointed to the actions of Ri Sol-ju concerning this girl.

She was seen patting the kid's back and talking to her personally, while Ju-ae "appeared calmer". At that time, the other children were seen huddling around the North Korean dictator and jumping excitedly.

Notably, it is said that the girl also stood out because of her attire, as she was the only one with her hair down and donning white socks.

Moreover, the camera seemed to focus more on her, lingering for several seconds when the song began and returning to her frequently.

According to local reports, Ju-ae is believed to have been born in 2013.

Little is known about Kim Jong-un's children. The fact that he has a daughter was first revealed by Kim's friend and basketball star Dennis Rodman after his visit to the hermit country in 2013.

That would make the girl around nine or 10 years old —which matches up with the child in the new video, Pyongyang experts noted.

In 2017, South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Kim has three children with Ri. The first one is a son born in 2010, and the youngest is a child born in early 2017, whose gender is yet to be confirmed. Ju-ae is said to be the middle child.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae.

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae. UK’s Daily Mail newspaper reported that she was seen among a group of other children attending the anniversary of the founding of North Korea earlier this month. She was performing a song at the event, which saw the attendance of Kim and his wife Ri Sol-ju. During her performance, something stood out, experts noted. A self-proclaimed North Korean analyst of InDPRK.com blog, which identifies itself as a North Korean travel agency, pointed to the actions of Ri Sol-ju concerning this girl. She was seen patting the kid's back and talking to her personally, while Ju-ae "appeared calmer". At that time, the other children were seen huddling around the North Korean dictator and jumping excitedly. Notably, it is said that the girl also stood out because of her attire, as she was the only one with her hair down and donning white socks. Moreover, the camera seemed to focus more on her, lingering for several seconds when the song began and returning to her frequently. According to local reports, Ju-ae is believed to have been born in 2013. Little is known about Kim Jong-un's children. The fact that he has a daughter was first revealed by Kim's friend and basketball star Dennis Rodman after his visit to the hermit country in 2013. That would make the girl around nine or 10 years old —which matches up with the child in the new video, Pyongyang experts noted. In 2017, South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Kim has three children with Ri. The first one is a son born in 2010, and the youngest is a child born in early 2017, whose gender is yet to be confirmed. Ju-ae is said to be the middle child. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Is this Kim Jong-un’s reclusive daughter? Experts reveal key clues

Bullying is typically represented as physical aggression or verbal aggression, such as threatening or making obscene statements. The most common kind of bullying, ‘relational aggression', which involves socially excluding friends or an individual from group activities and spreading false rumours, has been linked to detrimental social and emotional effects on victims.

Prior studies have shown that excluding a child from social activities by their peers at school will have the same detrimental short-and-long-term effects as punching, slapping, and kicking.

According to Chad Rose, a professor at the University of Missouri, this study sheds light on a social exclusion that young people frequently confront.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-study-shows-artificial-sweeteners-may-increase-sugar-levels-in-the-body-510284">New study shows artificial sweeteners may increase sugar levels, affect gut health</a>

For the study, 14,000 teenagers were asked to indicate their level of agreement or disagreement with statements regarding bullying attitudes, perceived popularity, or relational aggression. ANI reported that most of the responses included "a little teasing never hurts anyone," or "as long as it does not involve me, I don’t care what others think of me."

The professor further said that another group, who were not considered to be socially dominant or well known, supported pro-bullying viewpoints and practised relational aggression. She further observed that low levels of relational aggression and pro-bullying views were reported by the third group. They promoted bullying by being physically present there.

When kids are rejected by their classmates, it's alarming because adults often don’t seem to think it equally damaging.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/just-not-the-face-doppelgangers-might-have-same-dna-also-study-tells-509915">Just not the face, some doppelgängers might have same DNA also: Study</a>

Rose claimed that teachers, parents, and community members may benefit by valuing each student’s individuality. She further added that when kids are young, conformity is commonly applauded, but as soon as they get older, individuality is what makes a person stand out and achieve in their professional and personal lives. Another good idea that teachers may use right now is to incorporate social communication skills into the regular curriculum. Teachers can also assess how well the students encourage others.

According to Rose, students who aren’t taught to express themselves properly and effectively are more likely to behave aggressively.

It is important to treat everyone with respect, even if you don’t know the person well.

Bullying affects the entire community, not just individuals.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

Bullying is typically represented as physical aggression or verbal aggression, such as threatening or making obscene statements. The most common kind of bullying, ‘relational aggression', which involves socially excluding friends or an individual from group activities and spreading false rumours, has been linked to detrimental social and emotional effects on victims.

Bullying is typically represented as physical aggression or verbal aggression, such as threatening or making obscene statements. The most common kind of bullying, ‘relational aggression', which involves socially excluding friends or an individual from group activities and spreading false rumours, has been linked to detrimental social and emotional effects on victims. Prior studies have shown that excluding a child from social activities by their peers at school will have the same detrimental short-and-long-term effects as punching, slapping, and kicking. According to Chad Rose, a professor at the University of Missouri, this study sheds light on a social exclusion that young people frequently confront. Also read | New study shows artificial sweeteners may increase sugar levels, affect gut health For the study, 14,000 teenagers were asked to indicate their level of agreement or disagreement with statements regarding bullying attitudes, perceived popularity, or relational aggression. ANI reported that most of the responses included "a little teasing never hurts anyone," or "as long as it does not involve me, I don’t care what others think of me." The professor further said that another group, who were not considered to be socially dominant or well known, supported pro-bullying viewpoints and practised relational aggression. She further observed that low levels of relational aggression and pro-bullying views were reported by the third group. They promoted bullying by being physically present there. When kids are rejected by their classmates, it's alarming because adults often don’t seem to think it equally damaging. Also read | Just not the face, some doppelgängers might have same DNA also: Study Rose claimed that teachers, parents, and community members may benefit by valuing each student’s individuality. She further added that when kids are young, conformity is commonly applauded, but as soon as they get older, individuality is what makes a person stand out and achieve in their professional and personal lives. Another good idea that teachers may use right now is to incorporate social communication skills into the regular curriculum. Teachers can also assess how well the students encourage others. According to Rose, students who aren’t taught to express themselves properly and effectively are more likely to behave aggressively. It is important to treat everyone with respect, even if you don’t know the person well. Bullying affects the entire community, not just individuals. (With inputs from agencies)

New study reveals why 'social exclusion' is the worst form of bullying

Tesla has been criticized on various occasions for the lack of safeguards in its autopilot system. The effectiveness of Tesla's self-driving feature has been questioned for failing to detect child sized objects.

Report: Tesla's self-driving tech fails to detect kids on road

Nearly 700 children have been strip-searched by London’s Metropolitan Police over a period of two years, most of them black boys, a new report has revealed.

According to the figures released by the Children’s Commissioner, kids aged from 10 to 17 underwent the ‘intrusive and traumatising’ strip searches between 2018 and 2020, in which almost three out of five (58 per cent) were black, and more than 95 per cent were boys.

The revelation comes close to the heels of the Child Q scandal in which a teenage black girl on her period was told to strip naked for a drug search by police without another adult present. No drugs were found.

Expressing concern over the ethnic imbalance, Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza, who published the report on Monday, said the Child Q incident was not isolated and represented a ‘systemic problem’ within the Met.

“I am not reassured that what happened to Child Q was an isolated issue, but instead believe it may be a particularly concerning example of a more systemic problem around child protection within the Metropolitan Police,” she was quoted as saying.

“I remain unconvinced that the Metropolitan Police is consistently considering children’s welfare and wellbeing,’ she added.

De Souza questioned the necessity of this “intrusive and traumatising” practice after data revealed that in 53 per cent of cases no further action was taken.

“This low level of successful searches arguably indicates that this intrusive practice may well not be justified or necessary in all cases,” she was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

She also raised concerns about “a lack of appropriate oversight” on police practising strip searches after the data revealed that in one in five cases there was no way of knowing where it even took place.

Meanwhile, four Metropolitan Police officers are being questioned for gross misconduct by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in connection with the Child Q incident.

They have apologised and said it “should never have happened”.

This is not the first time Met has been accused of exhibiting racial bias. According to a 1999 report, the Met was found to be “institutionally racist”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nearly 700 children have been strip-searched by London’s Metropolitan Police over a period of two years, most of them black boys, a new report has revealed. According to the figures released by the Children’s Commissioner, kids aged from 10 to 17 underwent the ‘intrusive and traumatising’ strip searches between 2018 and 2020, in which almost three out of five (58 per cent) were black, and more than 95 per cent were boys.

Nearly 700 children have been strip-searched by London’s Metropolitan Police over a period of two years, most of them black boys, a new report has revealed. According to the figures released by the Children’s Commissioner, kids aged from 10 to 17 underwent the ‘intrusive and traumatising’ strip searches between 2018 and 2020, in which almost three out of five (58 per cent) were black, and more than 95 per cent were boys. The revelation comes close to the heels of the Child Q scandal in which a teenage black girl on her period was told to strip naked for a drug search by police without another adult present. No drugs were found. Expressing concern over the ethnic imbalance, Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza, who published the report on Monday, said the Child Q incident was not isolated and represented a ‘systemic problem’ within the Met. “I am not reassured that what happened to Child Q was an isolated issue, but instead believe it may be a particularly concerning example of a more systemic problem around child protection within the Metropolitan Police,” she was quoted as saying. “I remain unconvinced that the Metropolitan Police is consistently considering children’s welfare and wellbeing,’ she added. De Souza questioned the necessity of this “intrusive and traumatising” practice after data revealed that in 53 per cent of cases no further action was taken. “This low level of successful searches arguably indicates that this intrusive practice may well not be justified or necessary in all cases,” she was quoted as saying by The Guardian. She also raised concerns about “a lack of appropriate oversight” on police practising strip searches after the data revealed that in one in five cases there was no way of knowing where it even took place. Meanwhile, four Metropolitan Police officers are being questioned for gross misconduct by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in connection with the Child Q incident. They have apologised and said it “should never have happened”. This is not the first time Met has been accused of exhibiting racial bias. According to a 1999 report, the Met was found to be “institutionally racist”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK’s Met Police strip-searched 700 kids for two years, mostly black: Report

India's financial capital city Mumbai is observing a new trend this year. The number of cases of runaway kids seems to have increased. Meanwhile, Indian Railways has taken a step to ensure protection of runaway kids. WION's Disha Shah gets you this report.

Cases of runaway kids soar in India's Mumbai; Railways take steps to ensure protection of kids

A British study has found that one-in-four children are on weight loss diets in the UK. 13% of them are cutting down on food despite being in the 'healthy' weight category. Palki Sharma tells you why this diet obsession is more about body image issues than health goals.

Gravitas: Study finds more children on weight loss diets

Meta Inc's social media platform Instagram on Thursday (June 23) announced that it's currently exploring new ways for its users to verify their age, starting with the United States. In addition to letting users upload their pictures, Instagram is testing two new techniques to confirm a user’s age. In order to protect users’ privacy and data, the app announced its partnership with Yoti, a business that specialises in online age verification. Yoti’s technology uses facial features to determine a user’s age when they upload selfies. As per Instagram, once the picture is verified the photograph will be removed from Meta and Yoti, as reported by Reuters.

Another choice is to choose three mutual followers who can attest to the user’s age; the three followers chosen must all be at least 18 years old.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-announces-whatsapp-chat-transfer-from-ios-to-android-possible-now-488448">Meta announces Whatsapp chat transfer from Android to iOS possible now</a>

Erica Finkle, director of data governance at Meta said, “When we know if someone is a teen (13-17 years), we provide them with age-appropriate experiences like defaulting them into private accounts, preventing unwanted contact from adults they don't know and limiting the options advertisers have to reach them with ads.”

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Facebook knew Instagram is toxic for teenagers

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This move comes after the app delayed the debut of Instagram Kids last year due to negative feedback and backlash.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-meta-removes-a-large-number-of-groups-and-accounts-for-sharing-upskirting-images-490738">Facebook: Meta removes a large number of groups and accounts for sharing upskirting images</a>

Instagram Kids was billed as a requirement for parental consent to join and promised ad-free, age-appropriate content, but US lawmakers pushed the company to abandon its launch plans over safety concerns.&nbsp;

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

(With inputs from agencies)

Meta Inc's social media platform Instagram on Thursday (June 23) announced that it's currently exploring new ways for its users to verify their age, starting with the United States.

Meta Inc's social media platform Instagram on Thursday (June 23) announced that it's currently exploring new ways for its users to verify their age, starting with the United States. In addition to letting users upload their pictures, Instagram is testing two new techniques to confirm a user’s age. In order to protect users’ privacy and data, the app announced its partnership with Yoti, a business that specialises in online age verification. Yoti’s technology uses facial features to determine a user’s age when they upload selfies. As per Instagram, once the picture is verified the photograph will be removed from Meta and Yoti, as reported by Reuters. Another choice is to choose three mutual followers who can attest to the user’s age; the three followers chosen must all be at least 18 years old. Also read | Meta announces Whatsapp chat transfer from Android to iOS possible now Erica Finkle, director of data governance at Meta said, “When we know if someone is a teen (13-17 years), we provide them with age-appropriate experiences like defaulting them into private accounts, preventing unwanted contact from adults they don't know and limiting the options advertisers have to reach them with ads.” Watch | Gravitas: Facebook knew Instagram is toxic for teenagers This move comes after the app delayed the debut of Instagram Kids last year due to negative feedback and backlash. Also read | Facebook: Meta removes a large number of groups and accounts for sharing upskirting images Instagram Kids was billed as a requirement for parental consent to join and promised ad-free, age-appropriate content, but US lawmakers pushed the company to abandon its launch plans over safety concerns. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Instagram tests two new methods for age verification; move will provide age-appropriate content to children

Last group of Americans get vaccinated against covid-19. Parents of babies and toddlers express a sigh of relief after the first shot of the vaccine was administered to kids.

US vaccinates youngest against covid-19, parents of toddlers express sigh of relief

As Russia advances around Severodonetsk, mothers in the nearby city of Slovakia are queueing outside distribution centers for essential baby items.

Amid Russian invasion, Sloviansk residents seek aid for kids

Covid vaccines for children under the age of five in the United States is still not available even as the country lifted some if its masking restrictions. Many parents are upset as even after a year Biden government has failed to get vaccines for children.

No vaccine for Children: Covid cases in kids are surging in US, parents rally for FDA review

As covid-19 cases once again start to rise, India has opened vaccinations for children. Now, Covaxin & Corbevax vaccines gets green light for use.

India's fight against COVID: Covaxin & Corbevax gets green light

Have you ever been punished for clicking pictures of your own children? Well, never, right? &nbsp;

If yes, then consider yourself lucky, as a man in the United States had one of the worst experiences he might remember for the rest of his life. &nbsp;

In a case of sheer bad luck, the man was attacked with pepper spray by a woman in Arlington, Virginia state on Tuesday when he was taking pictures of his children. It seems the woman had mistakenly thought that they were not his kids.&nbsp;

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In the incident, the woman first observed the man while&nbsp;taking pictures of the children. She informed a security guard nearby about the situation, as per the crime report on Wednesday. &nbsp;

When the guard found that the children belonged to the man, the woman just approached and attacked him with the spray. Afterwards, she fled the scene. &nbsp;

The investigation is currently going on and the woman is still at large, police said. &nbsp;

The cops are searching for a black woman, who is in her late 20s to mid-30s on the charges of "malicious injury by caustic agent." &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Drought threatens hydropower at Glen Canyon Dam in Southwestern US

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"The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated on scene by medics," the report said. &nbsp;

In Virginia, using pepper spray on a person Illegally is a Class 6 felony. But, the use of the spray can be carried out by police officers and "in the protection of person, life or property." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Have you ever been punished for clicking pictures of your own children? Well, never, right? If yes, then consider yourself lucky, as a man in the United States had one of the worst experiences he might remember for the rest of his life.

Have you ever been punished for clicking pictures of your own children? Well, never, right? If yes, then consider yourself lucky, as a man in the United States had one of the worst experiences he might remember for the rest of his life. In a case of sheer bad luck, the man was attacked with pepper spray by a woman in Arlington, Virginia state on Tuesday when he was taking pictures of his children. It seems the woman had mistakenly thought that they were not his kids. Also Read: Musk looks to 'solidify relationship' with Twitter, offers to buy for $41 bn In the incident, the woman first observed the man while taking pictures of the children. She informed a security guard nearby about the situation, as per the crime report on Wednesday. When the guard found that the children belonged to the man, the woman just approached and attacked him with the spray. Afterwards, she fled the scene. The investigation is currently going on and the woman is still at large, police said. The cops are searching for a black woman, who is in her late 20s to mid-30s on the charges of "malicious injury by caustic agent." Watch: Drought threatens hydropower at Glen Canyon Dam in Southwestern US × "The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated on scene by medics," the report said. In Virginia, using pepper spray on a person Illegally is a Class 6 felony. But, the use of the spray can be carried out by police officers and "in the protection of person, life or property." (With inputs from agencies)

Hard luck? US man gets attacked with pepper spray by woman for clicking photos of own kids

A Mississippi assistant principal was fired after reading a children's book called "I Need a New Butt!" to second-graders.

According to NBC News, Toby Price was requested to set up a Zoom lesson for the students at Gary Road Elementary School in Byram, and when the principal failed to come up as scheduled, he was directed to read them a book.&nbsp;

Free speech advocates have criticised the episode, claiming that it could limit free expression at a time when conservatives are pushing for book bans in schools across the country.

The New York Times reported that on March 2, Read Across America Day, students aged six and seven from Hinds County, Mississippi, were waiting for a school official to read to them in a Zoom session.

Toby Price, an assistant principal at Gary Road Elementary School who was at his office, stepped in when the administrator was unable to attend.

He promptly picked up Dawn McMillan's "I Need a New Butt! and began reading to approximately 240 children.&nbsp;

Price said he was brought to the principal's office immediately after the lesson ended and told that parents might object to his choice of book.

He was given an administrative leave of absence.&nbsp;

The disgruntled teacher claimed that no parents had complained, but that the Hinds County School District thought it was inappropriate since it used words like "butt" and "fart," according to the network.

According to reports, the book also included cartoon depictions of a child's hiney.

According to WLBT, the superintendent of the school system said in Price's termination letter that he demonstrated "a lack of professionalism and poor judgement" by choosing the book.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Mississippi assistant principal was fired after reading a children's book called "I Need a New Butt!" to second-graders. According to NBC News, Toby Price was requested to set up a Zoom lesson for the students at Gary Road Elementary School in Byram, and when the principal failed to come up as scheduled, he was directed to read them a book.

A Mississippi assistant principal was fired after reading a children's book called "I Need a New Butt!" to second-graders. According to NBC News, Toby Price was requested to set up a Zoom lesson for the students at Gary Road Elementary School in Byram, and when the principal failed to come up as scheduled, he was directed to read them a book. Free speech advocates have criticised the episode, claiming that it could limit free expression at a time when conservatives are pushing for book bans in schools across the country. The New York Times reported that on March 2, Read Across America Day, students aged six and seven from Hinds County, Mississippi, were waiting for a school official to read to them in a Zoom session. Toby Price, an assistant principal at Gary Road Elementary School who was at his office, stepped in when the administrator was unable to attend. He promptly picked up Dawn McMillan's "I Need a New Butt! and began reading to approximately 240 children. Price said he was brought to the principal's office immediately after the lesson ended and told that parents might object to his choice of book. He was given an administrative leave of absence. The disgruntled teacher claimed that no parents had complained, but that the Hinds County School District thought it was inappropriate since it used words like "butt" and "fart," according to the network. According to reports, the book also included cartoon depictions of a child's hiney. According to WLBT, the superintendent of the school system said in Price's termination letter that he demonstrated "a lack of professionalism and poor judgement" by choosing the book. (With inputs from agencies)

US teacher fired for reading ‘I Need a New Butt!’ to kids in second grade

Japan&nbsp;will ease its strict&nbsp;virus&nbsp;border rules to allow students and business people into the country from March, but tourists will still be barred, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Thursday.

The move comes with growing pressure on&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;from the business community and academics to loosen the border restrictions, which are the toughest in the G7 but have broad support from Japanese voters.

Japan&nbsp;has barred tourists since the early days of the pandemic, and has in some cases prevented even existing foreign residents from entering the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-contrast-to-covids-59-million-deaths-this-malady-kills-more-than-9-million-people-every-year-453616">In contrast to Covid's 5.9 million deaths, this malady kills more than 9 million people every year</a>

Last November, the government slightly loosened the rules to allow some students and businesspeople to enter, but then quickly reversed the plan weeks later as the Omicron strain emerged.

After an Omicron-driven spike in infections, cases in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;now appear to have peaked, experts say.

From March 1, Kishida said "we will allow new visitors, except those coming for tourism", adding that a cap on daily entrants will be raised to from the current 3,500 to 5,000.

More than 400,000 people whose visas have already been approved by authorities were waiting to enter&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;as of January 4, an immigration agency official told AFP.

More than 150,000 of those are students, with another 129,000 workers hired to take part in a technical training programme that is a key source of foreign labour for several industries in the country.

While&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;has not pursued a zero-Covid policy and has avoided strict lockdowns, it has made tough border measures a centrepiece of its pandemic response.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-japan-is-whipping-up-hysteria-in-kuril-islands-row-451707">Russia says Japan is whipping up ‘hysteria’ in Kuril Islands row</a>

Even citizens and returning residents able to enter have been subject to quarantines of up to two weeks, with testing before and after entering the country.

Kishida said quarantine requirements would now be eased, going from seven to three days, if arrivals test negative.

Quarantine will be removed altogether for those with three vaccines doses coming from countries judged low-risk, he added, without specifying particular nations.

Japan&nbsp;has recorded more than 20,950 deaths in the pandemic and polls show Japanese broadly favour the tough restrictions, with nearly 60 percent of respondents in a recent survey by public broadcaster NHK backing a continued ban on entry.

Davide Rossi, an Italian entrepreneur living in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;who campaigns for students stuck outside the country, said the news was a light at the end of the tunnel, and many now hope they can enter&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;before the new semester in April.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan is set to announce easing of COVID-19 border curbs

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"There is a very high sense of urgency. People are really on the verge of quitting, but now, with this announcement, they have some hope," he told AFP.

But he recalled the way the border restrictions were tightened in November, just weeks after being eased.

"Hopefully this is a lesson, too, and the borders won't close again like they did in November, because that really hurt a lot of people so much. I hope things will get better from today."

Japan will ease its strict virus border rules to allow students and business people into the country from March, but tourists will still be barred, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Thursday.

Japan will ease its strict virus border rules to allow students and business people into the country from March, but tourists will still be barred, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Thursday. The move comes with growing pressure on Japan from the business community and academics to loosen the border restrictions, which are the toughest in the G7 but have broad support from Japanese voters. Japan has barred tourists since the early days of the pandemic, and has in some cases prevented even existing foreign residents from entering the country. Also read | In contrast to Covid's 5.9 million deaths, this malady kills more than 9 million people every year Last November, the government slightly loosened the rules to allow some students and businesspeople to enter, but then quickly reversed the plan weeks later as the Omicron strain emerged. After an Omicron-driven spike in infections, cases in Japan now appear to have peaked, experts say. From March 1, Kishida said "we will allow new visitors, except those coming for tourism", adding that a cap on daily entrants will be raised to from the current 3,500 to 5,000. More than 400,000 people whose visas have already been approved by authorities were waiting to enter Japan as of January 4, an immigration agency official told AFP. More than 150,000 of those are students, with another 129,000 workers hired to take part in a technical training programme that is a key source of foreign labour for several industries in the country. While Japan has not pursued a zero-Covid policy and has avoided strict lockdowns, it has made tough border measures a centrepiece of its pandemic response. Also read | Russia says Japan is whipping up ‘hysteria’ in Kuril Islands row Even citizens and returning residents able to enter have been subject to quarantines of up to two weeks, with testing before and after entering the country. Kishida said quarantine requirements would now be eased, going from seven to three days, if arrivals test negative. Quarantine will be removed altogether for those with three vaccines doses coming from countries judged low-risk, he added, without specifying particular nations. Japan has recorded more than 20,950 deaths in the pandemic and polls show Japanese broadly favour the tough restrictions, with nearly 60 percent of respondents in a recent survey by public broadcaster NHK backing a continued ban on entry. Davide Rossi, an Italian entrepreneur living in Japan who campaigns for students stuck outside the country, said the news was a light at the end of the tunnel, and many now hope they can enter Japan before the new semester in April. Watch | Japan is set to announce easing of COVID-19 border curbs "There is a very high sense of urgency. People are really on the verge of quitting, but now, with this announcement, they have some hope," he told AFP. But he recalled the way the border restrictions were tightened in November, just weeks after being eased. "Hopefully this is a lesson, too, and the borders won't close again like they did in November, because that really hurt a lot of people so much. I hope things will get better from today."

COVID-19: Japan eases virus border rules for workers and students but tourists will still be barred

Scotland&nbsp;will&nbsp;offer&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;to&nbsp;all&nbsp;5-11&nbsp;year&nbsp;olds, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Wednesday, accepting advice received from British vaccine advisers.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advises the&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine roll-out of&nbsp;all&nbsp;four nations of the United Kingdom, who have followed their guidance so far.

"Although it isn’t yet published, I can confirm that (the Scottish Government) has received advice from JCVI (advisers) recommending that vaccination is&nbsp;offered to&nbsp;all&nbsp;5-11&nbsp;yr&nbsp;olds," Sturgeon said in a tweet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/explainer-patient-dies-due-to-lassa-fever-in-uk-what-are-the-symptoms-how-can-it-be-prevented-453413">Explainer: Patient dies due to Lassa fever in UK: What are the symptoms &amp; how can it be prevented?</a>

"We will accept this advice &amp; work is now underway on the logistics of delivery."

Wales has also said it will implement the JCVI advice, with the Welsh health minister saying she was not quite sure why the publication of the JCVI's advice has been delayed.

Britain has been slower than some other countries in&nbsp;offering the shots to 5-11&nbsp;year&nbsp;olds. While vulnerable children have been&nbsp;offered the shot, Britain is not currently vaccinating the age group more broadly unlike countries such as the United States and Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccinated-kids-allowed-to-enter-shopping-centres-in-jakarta-453691">Vaccinated kids allowed to enter shopping centres in Jakarta</a>

The British government, which sets health policy for England, is yet to announce the vaccination of 5-11&nbsp;year&nbsp;olds, even though its vaccine rollout policy is usually co-ordinated with other UK nations.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that he will set out more details of his strategy for living with&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;when parliament returns on Monday next week.

Watch |&nbsp;UK Prince Andrew settles lawsuit by sex abuse accuser Virginia Giuffre

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"We are reviewing the JCVI’s advice as part of wider decision-making ahead of the publication of our long-term strategy for living with&nbsp;COVID-19," a UK health ministry spokesperson said. "More detail will be set out shortly."

Scotland will offer COVID-19 vaccines to all 5-11 year olds, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Wednesday, accepting advice received from British vaccine advisers.

Scotland will offer COVID-19 vaccines to all 5-11 year olds, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Wednesday, accepting advice received from British vaccine advisers. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advises the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out of all four nations of the United Kingdom, who have followed their guidance so far. "Although it isn’t yet published, I can confirm that (the Scottish Government) has received advice from JCVI (advisers) recommending that vaccination is offered to all 5-11 yr olds," Sturgeon said in a tweet. Also read | Explainer: Patient dies due to Lassa fever in UK: What are the symptoms & how can it be prevented? "We will accept this advice & work is now underway on the logistics of delivery." Wales has also said it will implement the JCVI advice, with the Welsh health minister saying she was not quite sure why the publication of the JCVI's advice has been delayed. Britain has been slower than some other countries in offering the shots to 5-11 year olds. While vulnerable children have been offered the shot, Britain is not currently vaccinating the age group more broadly unlike countries such as the United States and Israel. Also read | Vaccinated kids allowed to enter shopping centres in Jakarta The British government, which sets health policy for England, is yet to announce the vaccination of 5-11 year olds, even though its vaccine rollout policy is usually co-ordinated with other UK nations. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that he will set out more details of his strategy for living with COVID when parliament returns on Monday next week. Watch | UK Prince Andrew settles lawsuit by sex abuse accuser Virginia Giuffre "We are reviewing the JCVI’s advice as part of wider decision-making ahead of the publication of our long-term strategy for living with COVID-19," a UK health ministry spokesperson said. "More detail will be set out shortly."

Scotland to offer COVID vaccines to all 5-11 year olds

The Indonesian government has allowed vaccinated children aged six to 12 to enter all shopping centres and recreational places in Jakarta. 
 
However, the children are required to show proof that they have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, and they must be accompanied by parents. 
 
With Covid restrictions still in place in Jakarta, malls, playgrounds for kids and recreational areas have been allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity, to keep the economy moving amid a surge in Covid cases due to the new Omicron variant, Xinhua news agency reported. 
 
With a four-tier Covid restriction policy in place in the country, the government is currently imposing level-3 curbs in Greater Jakarta.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-to-buy-french-warplanes-as-paris-boosts-asia-alliances-452033">Indonesia to buy French warplanes as Paris boosts Asia alliances</a> 
 
The peak of the third wave of Covid is starting to pass in Jakarta, with the number of daily cases, active cases and hospitalisations beginning to fall, according to Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. 
 
"If (a person) has been vaccinated twice, has been given a booster, has no comorbidities, just go out for a walk. There's nothing to worry about too much," the minister told an online media briefing on Monday, calling on the public to continue implementing health protocols. 
 
To date, the country has recorded over 4.9 million Covid cases with more than 145,000 deaths. 
 
On Monday, Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said that the number of hospitalised patients in the current wave was 30 to 40 per cent of the second wave which hit the country in July and August last year.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/in-indonesia-brave-islanders-free-croc-caught-in-a-tyre-for-the-last-six-years-451631">&nbsp;In Indonesia, brave islanders free croc caught in a tyre for the last six years</a>

More than half of those hospitalised were also either asymptomatic or had mild symptoms. 
 
The minister also said that deaths from Covid have decreased in the country. 
 
Like many other countries in Asia, Indonesia is accelerating its vaccinations for the public. In the country, more than 188 million people have received their first dose, and over 136 million have taken their second dose.

Watch |&nbsp;Indonesian court jails Islamic school teacher for raping 13 students

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesian-court-jails-islamic-school-teacher-for-raping-13-students-453608/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe> 
Indonesia started mass Covid vaccinations in January last year after the authorities approved the emergency use of the Chinese Sinovac vaccine. 
 
Aiming to fully vaccinate 208.2 million people in the country, the government has so far administered over 332 million doses, including the third booster jabs.</div>

The Indonesian government has allowed vaccinated children aged six to 12 to enter all shopping centres and recreational places in Jakarta. However, the children are required to show proof that they have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, and they must be accompanied by parents.

The Indonesian government has allowed vaccinated children aged six to 12 to enter all shopping centres and recreational places in Jakarta. However, the children are required to show proof that they have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, and they must be accompanied by parents. With Covid restrictions still in place in Jakarta, malls, playgrounds for kids and recreational areas have been allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity, to keep the economy moving amid a surge in Covid cases due to the new Omicron variant, Xinhua news agency reported. With a four-tier Covid restriction policy in place in the country, the government is currently imposing level-3 curbs in Greater Jakarta. Also read | Indonesia to buy French warplanes as Paris boosts Asia alliances The peak of the third wave of Covid is starting to pass in Jakarta, with the number of daily cases, active cases and hospitalisations beginning to fall, according to Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. "If (a person) has been vaccinated twice, has been given a booster, has no comorbidities, just go out for a walk. There's nothing to worry about too much," the minister told an online media briefing on Monday, calling on the public to continue implementing health protocols. To date, the country has recorded over 4.9 million Covid cases with more than 145,000 deaths. On Monday, Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said that the number of hospitalised patients in the current wave was 30 to 40 per cent of the second wave which hit the country in July and August last year. Also read | In Indonesia, brave islanders free croc caught in a tyre for the last six years More than half of those hospitalised were also either asymptomatic or had mild symptoms. The minister also said that deaths from Covid have decreased in the country. Like many other countries in Asia, Indonesia is accelerating its vaccinations for the public. In the country, more than 188 million people have received their first dose, and over 136 million have taken their second dose. Watch | Indonesian court jails Islamic school teacher for raping 13 students Indonesia started mass Covid vaccinations in January last year after the authorities approved the emergency use of the Chinese Sinovac vaccine. Aiming to fully vaccinate 208.2 million people in the country, the government has so far administered over 332 million doses, including the third booster jabs.

Vaccinated kids allowed to enter shopping centres in Jakarta

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;that was to&nbsp;discuss&nbsp;authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;for children 6 months through 4 years of age.

In a separate statement, the companies said they planned to extend the process of submitting data to U.S. regulators for the shot for children&nbsp;under&nbsp;5.

U.S. regulators have been considering the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;for the only age group not yet eligible for the shots, even though the companies said initial results fell short of expectations in 2- to 4-year olds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/efficacy-of-pfizer-and-moderna-vaccines-wane-after-third-dose-study-452589">Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study</a>

In December, Pfizer said it was amending its clinical trial to test a three-dose version of the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;because the low dose used generated an immune response in&nbsp;kids&nbsp;aged 2 to 4 that was inferior to the response measured in those aged 16 to 25.

The companies had said they submitted data on the first two doses of what would eventually be a three-dose regimen in the age group at the request of the&nbsp;FDA. On Friday, they said they expect to have three-dose protection data available in early April.

Some scientists were critical of this idea, suggesting that regulators should wait for data from a third shot before deciding on authorization.

In very young children between 6 months and 2 years old, the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;generated an immune response in line with 16- to 25-year-olds, the companies had said.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel meeting that was to discuss authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years of age.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel meeting that was to discuss authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years of age. In a separate statement, the companies said they planned to extend the process of submitting data to U.S. regulators for the shot for children under 5. U.S. regulators have been considering the vaccine for the only age group not yet eligible for the shots, even though the companies said initial results fell short of expectations in 2- to 4-year olds. Also read | Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study In December, Pfizer said it was amending its clinical trial to test a three-dose version of the vaccine because the low dose used generated an immune response in kids aged 2 to 4 that was inferior to the response measured in those aged 16 to 25. The companies had said they submitted data on the first two doses of what would eventually be a three-dose regimen in the age group at the request of the FDA. On Friday, they said they expect to have three-dose protection data available in early April. Some scientists were critical of this idea, suggesting that regulators should wait for data from a third shot before deciding on authorization. In very young children between 6 months and 2 years old, the vaccine generated an immune response in line with 16- to 25-year-olds, the companies had said.

FDA postpones meeting to discuss Pfizer's COVID vaccine for kids under 5

Amidst concerns that the relaxation of virus rules can once again spark a fresh wave of COVID-19 infections, Hong Kong has now decided to again tighten its virus rules to prevent further transmission of the virus.

Hong Kong: New COVID-19 curbs ahead of lunar New Year to prevent further transmission of the virus

Hong Kong has suspended kindergarten and primary schools until next month. All in-person classes and playgrounds will remain shut until the beginning of the lunar new year break, after which the city administration will start the vaccination program for children.

Hong Kong suspends in-person kindergarten & primary school classes until vaccination program starts

Covid hospitalisations among children are rising in the US as the country continues to battle against the pandemic. According to the latest CDC data, an average of 672 children were admitted to hospitals due to &nbsp;Covid each day last week. This has become a worrying trend among the experts and they believe that the hospitalisations are triggered by low vaccination rates and the very easily transmissible omicron variant.&nbsp;

Dr Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, while speaking to Forbes said, "It’s not surprising to see cases and hospitalisations rise” among children."

Experts have said that there are several reasons for a surge in pediatric cases - including the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. A report by Forbes states that early data suggests the variant could be up to 3 times more infectious than delta and children being more vulnerable to infection.&nbsp;

Another reason can be the lower rate of vaccination among children in the US. The vaccination rate remains drastically low with just 25 per cent vaccinated among ages 5-11 and 64 per cent among ages 12-17.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-10-bodies-left-in-car-outside-a-state-governors-office-442919">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico: 10 bodies left in car outside a state governor's office</a>

Also, children under 5 are not eligible for vaccination at all.

Doctors say it is too early to determine whether Omicron causes more severe illness in children than other variants of the coronavirus.

“At my own hospital, where I work and practice here in DC at Children's National, about half of our hospitalisations ... are children under five,” Dr Lee Savio Beers, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, told CNN.

New York is among the worst-hit states where on average 109 people aged 18 and younger have been hospitalised between December 19 and December 23.

Other parts of the US are also seeing a spike in cases among children. Ohio has seen a 125 per cent increase in hospitalisations among children 17, according to data from the Ohio Hospital Association.

(With inputs from agencies)

Covid hospitalisations among children are rising in the US as the country continues to battle against the pandemic. According to the latest CDC data, an average of 672 children were admitted to hospitals due to Covid each day last week.

Covid hospitalisations among children are rising in the US as the country continues to battle against the pandemic. According to the latest CDC data, an average of 672 children were admitted to hospitals due to Covid each day last week. This has become a worrying trend among the experts and they believe that the hospitalisations are triggered by low vaccination rates and the very easily transmissible omicron variant. Dr Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, while speaking to Forbes said, "It’s not surprising to see cases and hospitalisations rise” among children." Experts have said that there are several reasons for a surge in pediatric cases - including the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. A report by Forbes states that early data suggests the variant could be up to 3 times more infectious than delta and children being more vulnerable to infection. Another reason can be the lower rate of vaccination among children in the US. The vaccination rate remains drastically low with just 25 per cent vaccinated among ages 5-11 and 64 per cent among ages 12-17. Also read | Mexico: 10 bodies left in car outside a state governor's office Also, children under 5 are not eligible for vaccination at all. Doctors say it is too early to determine whether Omicron causes more severe illness in children than other variants of the coronavirus. “At my own hospital, where I work and practice here in DC at Children's National, about half of our hospitalisations ... are children under five,” Dr Lee Savio Beers, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, told CNN. New York is among the worst-hit states where on average 109 people aged 18 and younger have been hospitalised between December 19 and December 23. Other parts of the US are also seeing a spike in cases among children. Ohio has seen a 125 per cent increase in hospitalisations among children 17, according to data from the Ohio Hospital Association. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron more infectious than Delta? Experts reveal why the variant is affecting kids

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After FDA, Centers for Disease Control Director Dr Rochelle Walensky has suggested the use of Pfizer booster doses for teenagers from 12 through 15 years of age. "It is critical that we protect our children and teens from COVID-19 infection and the complications of severe disease," CDC Director said in a statement.&nbsp;

"This booster dose will provide optimised protection against COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. I encourage all parents to keep their children up to date with CDC’s COVID-19 vaccine recommendations," she further added.&nbsp;

The booster shot will be given at least five months after the two doses have been given. The decision was taken after a CDC advisory panel voted 13-1 in favour of booster dose.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-fda-amends-emergency-use-of-pfizer-booster-dose-for-more-teens-442035">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens</a>

The vaccine made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech is the only US option for children of any age. According to the CDC, about 13.5 million 12- to 17-year-olds, just over half that age group, have received two Pfizer shots.

The FDA approved the same booster shot for teens earlier this week. According to Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock,

“Throughout the pandemic, as the virus that causes COVID-19 has continuously evolved, the need for the FDA to quickly adapt has meant using the best available science to make informed decisions with the health and safety of the American public in mind.”&nbsp;

Global Covid cases experiencing a surge due to the Omicron variant. The health authorities have warned that its extremely high transmissibility could overwhelm many health systems all across the globe.

(With inputs from agencies)

After FDA, Centers for Disease Control Director Dr Rochelle Walensky has suggested the use of Pfizer booster doses for teenagers from 12 through 15 years of age.

After FDA, Centers for Disease Control Director Dr Rochelle Walensky has suggested the use of Pfizer booster doses for teenagers from 12 through 15 years of age. "It is critical that we protect our children and teens from COVID-19 infection and the complications of severe disease," CDC Director said in a statement. "This booster dose will provide optimised protection against COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. I encourage all parents to keep their children up to date with CDC’s COVID-19 vaccine recommendations," she further added. The booster shot will be given at least five months after the two doses have been given. The decision was taken after a CDC advisory panel voted 13-1 in favour of booster dose. Also read | Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens The vaccine made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech is the only US option for children of any age. According to the CDC, about 13.5 million 12- to 17-year-olds, just over half that age group, have received two Pfizer shots. The FDA approved the same booster shot for teens earlier this week. According to Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, “Throughout the pandemic, as the virus that causes COVID-19 has continuously evolved, the need for the FDA to quickly adapt has meant using the best available science to make informed decisions with the health and safety of the American public in mind.” Global Covid cases experiencing a surge due to the Omicron variant. The health authorities have warned that its extremely high transmissibility could overwhelm many health systems all across the globe. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron update: CDC suggests Pfizer booster shot for kids aged 12 and above

The latest virus surge across the United States has produced a worrisome rise in hospitalizations among children especially the ones who are too young to be vaccinated. Parents across the country are facing a heightened anxiety of the risks of Omicron on children, several states have reported an increase of about 50 percent in pediatric hospitalizations in December.

United States: Rise in hospitalizations of children, as Omicron and Delta variant becomes dominant

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