The coronavirus pandemic provide out to be tough for everyone, whether someone was infected or not. However, it took a massive toll especially on people suffering from mental health problems.

Research has proved that mental health patients found themselves in deeper problems and worsening situations as the hospitals and medical assistants switched from in-person help to telephonic or video/text chat support.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/high-ly-suggested-nyc-organises-joints-for-jabs-to-fight-coronavirus-379806" hreflang="en">High-ly suggested: NYC organises 'joints for jabs' to fight coronavirus</a>

The University of London conducted research about the quality of these support calls and the effect the switch of appointments has had on patients.

Researchers found out that people with mental problems found themselves lonelier as they were now pushed into heightened isolation and away from their friends and family, who acted as major support systems.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-anti-lockdown-protests-leads-to-five-arrests-police-injuries-380087" hreflang="en">London: Anti-lockdown protests leads to five arrests, police injuries</a>

"People with pre-existing mental health conditions experienced serious disruptions to their access to, and the quality of, mental healthcare as a result of the pandemic. The opportunities and challenges of remote mental healthcare were an important aspect of our findings," Dr&nbsp;Brynmor Lloyd-Evans explained.

"While for some people telephone and digital support provided continuity of care, for others there were issues around access to technology, maintaining therapeutic relationships remotely, and digital interfaces exacerbating difficult feelings or symptoms associated with their mental health,"&nbsp;Lloyd-Evans added.

The research was conducted by interviewing and observing 49 people with mental health problems in London, during the first lockdown in the city. Experts observed that the major problems were being caused due to "inadequate access to mental health services” which led to "difficulties in day-to-day functioning".

However, the researchers also stressed that not everyone had a negative experience. "A few participants had found alternative sources of mental health support from voluntary sector services or informal support groups, which were highly valued and mitigated disruptions to available healthcare," Lloyd-Evans said.

The coronavirus pandemic provide out to be tough for everyone, whether someone was infected or not. However, it took a massive toll especially on people suffering from mental health problems.

The coronavirus pandemic provide out to be tough for everyone, whether someone was infected or not. However, it took a massive toll especially on people suffering from mental health problems. Research has proved that mental health patients found themselves in deeper problems and worsening situations as the hospitals and medical assistants switched from in-person help to telephonic or video/text chat support. Also read | High-ly suggested: NYC organises 'joints for jabs' to fight coronavirus The University of London conducted research about the quality of these support calls and the effect the switch of appointments has had on patients. Researchers found out that people with mental problems found themselves lonelier as they were now pushed into heightened isolation and away from their friends and family, who acted as major support systems. Also read | London: Anti-lockdown protests leads to five arrests, police injuries "People with pre-existing mental health conditions experienced serious disruptions to their access to, and the quality of, mental healthcare as a result of the pandemic. The opportunities and challenges of remote mental healthcare were an important aspect of our findings," Dr Brynmor Lloyd-Evans explained. "While for some people telephone and digital support provided continuity of care, for others there were issues around access to technology, maintaining therapeutic relationships remotely, and digital interfaces exacerbating difficult feelings or symptoms associated with their mental health," Lloyd-Evans added. The research was conducted by interviewing and observing 49 people with mental health problems in London, during the first lockdown in the city. Experts observed that the major problems were being caused due to "inadequate access to mental health services” which led to "difficulties in day-to-day functioning". However, the researchers also stressed that not everyone had a negative experience. "A few participants had found alternative sources of mental health support from voluntary sector services or informal support groups, which were highly valued and mitigated disruptions to available healthcare," Lloyd-Evans said.

Mental health patients suffered during lockdown due to lack of in-clinic appointment

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal extended lockdown in the national capital by a week due to the massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the city.

"We had imposed a 6-day lockdown in Delhi. The lockdown is being extended to next Monday (May 3) till 5 am," said the Chief Minister while addressing the press conference on Sunday.

The national capital has recorded the highest single-day toll with 24,103 cases of coronavirus for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic.Kejriwal had last week announced a week-long complete `lockdown` from April 19, 10 pm till April 26 at 5 am.

Prior to that, the Delhi government had announced a weekend curfew in the national capital from 10 pm on April 16 till 6 am on April 19, and the closure of malls, gymnasiums and auditoriums till April 30 amid the surge in COVID-19 cases.Delhi on Saturday reported 24,103 new COVID-19 cases and 357 deaths, the highest single-day toll for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic.&nbsp;

This is the third successive day the national capital has seen the highest daily fatalities due to coronavirus.The city now has 93,080 active cases.

A Delhi Health Department bulletin said the total coronavirus cases count in the city has gone up to 10,04,782 and death toll has gone up to 13,898.The positivity rate in Delhi is 32.27 per cent and the case fatality rate is 1.38 per cent. A total of 22,695 patients also recovered from the disease taking the total number of recoveries to 897,805.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal extended lockdown in the national capital by a week due to the massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the city. "We had imposed a 6-day lockdown in Delhi.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal extended lockdown in the national capital by a week due to the massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the city. "We had imposed a 6-day lockdown in Delhi. The lockdown is being extended to next Monday (May 3) till 5 am," said the Chief Minister while addressing the press conference on Sunday. The national capital has recorded the highest single-day toll with 24,103 cases of coronavirus for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic.Kejriwal had last week announced a week-long complete `lockdown` from April 19, 10 pm till April 26 at 5 am. Prior to that, the Delhi government had announced a weekend curfew in the national capital from 10 pm on April 16 till 6 am on April 19, and the closure of malls, gymnasiums and auditoriums till April 30 amid the surge in COVID-19 cases.Delhi on Saturday reported 24,103 new COVID-19 cases and 357 deaths, the highest single-day toll for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic. This is the third successive day the national capital has seen the highest daily fatalities due to coronavirus.The city now has 93,080 active cases. A Delhi Health Department bulletin said the total coronavirus cases count in the city has gone up to 10,04,782 and death toll has gone up to 13,898.The positivity rate in Delhi is 32.27 per cent and the case fatality rate is 1.38 per cent. A total of 22,695 patients also recovered from the disease taking the total number of recoveries to 897,805.

Lockdown in Delhi extended by a week amid COVID-19 spike

Almost a day after analysts warned of another recession in the country, Japan has imposed a state of emergency in the capital city Tokyo and three other regions on Friday to stop the wide spread of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced that after observing a surge in coronavirus cases, especially related to the new variants, the government has decided to "declare a state of emergency in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo prefectures."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-warn-second-recession-in-case-of-another-lockdown-in-japan-379290">Experts warn second recession in case of another lockdown in Japan</a>

This has come at a time when the country is stepping into the Golden Week holidays which will be starting from next week and will continue till early May. The holiday season was being assumed to bring help in boosting the businesses that have suffered major losses due to the pandemic.

"The risk of a double-dip recession has clearly heightened," said Hiroshi Shiraishi, senior economist at BNP Paribas Securities. "The impact of imposing curbs on Tokyo and Osaka alone would be quite big."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tokyo-motor-show-cancelled-because-of-coronavirus-pandemic-379443">Tokyo Motor Show cancelled because of coronavirus pandemic</a>

Tokyo and the three other regions which have been ordered a lockdown will affect nearly 30 per cent of the GDP of Japan as the regions house almost a quarter of the 126 million.

"We need to take stronger and more targeted steps than before including requests (for shops) to close," Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura was quoted as saying by Kyodo news agency.

Japan's biggest industrial event, the Tokyo Motor Show, has also been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Almost a day after analysts warned of another recession in the country, Japan has imposed a state of emergency in the capital city Tokyo and three other regions on Friday to stop the wide spread of coronavirus.

Almost a day after analysts warned of another recession in the country, Japan has imposed a state of emergency in the capital city Tokyo and three other regions on Friday to stop the wide spread of coronavirus. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced that after observing a surge in coronavirus cases, especially related to the new variants, the government has decided to "declare a state of emergency in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo prefectures." Also read | Experts warn second recession in case of another lockdown in Japan This has come at a time when the country is stepping into the Golden Week holidays which will be starting from next week and will continue till early May. The holiday season was being assumed to bring help in boosting the businesses that have suffered major losses due to the pandemic. "The risk of a double-dip recession has clearly heightened," said Hiroshi Shiraishi, senior economist at BNP Paribas Securities. "The impact of imposing curbs on Tokyo and Osaka alone would be quite big." Also read | Tokyo Motor Show cancelled because of coronavirus pandemic Tokyo and the three other regions which have been ordered a lockdown will affect nearly 30 per cent of the GDP of Japan as the regions house almost a quarter of the 126 million. "We need to take stronger and more targeted steps than before including requests (for shops) to close," Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura was quoted as saying by Kyodo news agency. Japan's biggest industrial event, the Tokyo Motor Show, has also been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Japan declares 'state of emergency' in Tokyo, three other regions as Covid surges

The Union Territory of Puducherry has decided to impose lockdown from April 23 (Friday night) till April 26 (Monday morning) amidst the rising number of Covid-19 cases. 
 
The decision to impose lockdown in the Union Territory was taken by a high level meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry (Additional Charge), Tamilsai Soundararajan held at the Raj Bhavan on Tuesday late night. 
 
All shops will remain closed after 2 p.m. from Wednesday onwards and in restaurants only takeaways are permitted from 2 p.m. onwards. The UT has imposed a night curfew from Tuesday onwards between 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. 
 
Puducherry reported 4,692 active cases till Tuesday, according to the health department officials. 
 
It may be noted that the fatality rate of the Union Territory has touched 1.5 per cent on Monday which is above the national average of 1.2 per cent. 
 
Puducherry headquarters has the maximum number of deaths with 572. Karakkal has 84 deaths followed by Yanam with 45 deaths and Mahe with 12. 
 
Interestingly the recovery rate of the Union Territory is 88.8 per cent which is above the national average of 86 per cent. 
 
a total of 48,336 cases were reported from Puducherry Union Territory of which 42,931 patients recovered from the disease. 
 
The health department has sent 7.33 lakh swab samples for testing of which 6.66 lakh samples turned negative and more than half of the population of the Union Territory of Puducherry underwent the Covid test. Puducherry has a population of 14 lakh people. 
 
A press release from the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare states that it has so far administered Covid 19 vaccines to 30,202 healthcare workers, 17,961 frontline workers and 1,08 lakh others taking the total of people who were administered the vaccine to 1.55 lakh people.

The Union Territory of Puducherry has decided to impose lockdown from April 23 (Friday night) till April 26 (Monday morning) amidst the rising number of Covid-19 cases.

The Union Territory of Puducherry has decided to impose lockdown from April 23 (Friday night) till April 26 (Monday morning) amidst the rising number of Covid-19 cases. The decision to impose lockdown in the Union Territory was taken by a high level meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry (Additional Charge), Tamilsai Soundararajan held at the Raj Bhavan on Tuesday late night. All shops will remain closed after 2 p.m. from Wednesday onwards and in restaurants only takeaways are permitted from 2 p.m. onwards. The UT has imposed a night curfew from Tuesday onwards between 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Puducherry reported 4,692 active cases till Tuesday, according to the health department officials. It may be noted that the fatality rate of the Union Territory has touched 1.5 per cent on Monday which is above the national average of 1.2 per cent. Puducherry headquarters has the maximum number of deaths with 572. Karakkal has 84 deaths followed by Yanam with 45 deaths and Mahe with 12. Interestingly the recovery rate of the Union Territory is 88.8 per cent which is above the national average of 86 per cent. a total of 48,336 cases were reported from Puducherry Union Territory of which 42,931 patients recovered from the disease. The health department has sent 7.33 lakh swab samples for testing of which 6.66 lakh samples turned negative and more than half of the population of the Union Territory of Puducherry underwent the Covid test. Puducherry has a population of 14 lakh people. A press release from the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare states that it has so far administered Covid 19 vaccines to 30,202 healthcare workers, 17,961 frontline workers and 1,08 lakh others taking the total of people who were administered the vaccine to 1.55 lakh people.

COVID-19: Puducherry to impose lockdown from April 23 to April 26

Bangladesh has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown for yet another week to counter the spike in coronavirus infections, an official said on Monday. 
 
"The restrictions will continue for one more week from Thursday," the government`s Chief Information Officer Surodh Kumar Sarker told reporters here, referring to a senior officials` meeting that reviewed the latest Covid-19 situation. 
 
Given the surge in new infections and deaths from the virus, the government on April 5 enforced a nine-day lockdown shutting offices, shopping malls and transport across Bangladesh, reports DPA news agency. 
 
The shutdown was then extended until Wednesday as the situation worsened. 
 
A country of more than 160 million, Bangladesh`s embattled healthcare system has carried out 5.1 million virus tests since the first cases of Covid-19 emerged in March last year. 
 
It saw the highest single-day increase in infections on April 9, with 7,462 new cases, and the highest daily death toll, 102, on Sunday. 
 
Some 781,950 coronavirus cases and 10,385 deaths have been reported so far in Bangladesh, which previously imposed a nationwide shutdown for more than two months, from March 26, 2020, until May.

Bangladesh has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown for yet another week to counter the spike in coronavirus infections, an official said on Monday. "The restrictions will continue for one more week from Thursday," the government`s Chief Information Officer Surodh Kumar Sarker told reporters here, referring to a senior officials` meeting that reviewed the latest Covid-19 situation.

Bangladesh has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown for yet another week to counter the spike in coronavirus infections, an official said on Monday. "The restrictions will continue for one more week from Thursday," the government`s Chief Information Officer Surodh Kumar Sarker told reporters here, referring to a senior officials` meeting that reviewed the latest Covid-19 situation. Given the surge in new infections and deaths from the virus, the government on April 5 enforced a nine-day lockdown shutting offices, shopping malls and transport across Bangladesh, reports DPA news agency. The shutdown was then extended until Wednesday as the situation worsened. A country of more than 160 million, Bangladesh`s embattled healthcare system has carried out 5.1 million virus tests since the first cases of Covid-19 emerged in March last year. It saw the highest single-day increase in infections on April 9, with 7,462 new cases, and the highest daily death toll, 102, on Sunday. Some 781,950 coronavirus cases and 10,385 deaths have been reported so far in Bangladesh, which previously imposed a nationwide shutdown for more than two months, from March 26, 2020, until May.

COVID-19: Bangladesh extends lockdown for another week

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying.

"We haven`t yet got any decision about a fresh lockdown. There`ll be a meeting on Monday over the current Covid-19 situation. But advice is there overextending the ongoing lockdown," the State Minister added.

Bangladesh on Sunday reported over 100 Covid-19 single-day deaths for the third consecutive day.On Sunday, another 102 deaths were logged in 24 hours. Earlier on Saturday and Friday, 101 new deaths were recorded in a single day, the highest in the country so far since the first reported death on March 18, 2020.With the updated data, the death toll in the country stands at 10,385, and the total cases at 718,950.

On April 14, the Bangladesh government enforced a fresh lockdown with harsher measures. The ongoing lockdown was imposed after a `loose` nationwide lockdown for one week from April 5 as part of its move to contain the spike in both coronavirus infections and fatalities.

"The decision [to extend lockdown] will be known within 1-2 days as the coronavirus infections keep spreading. If people follow health guidelines properly and stay home, then the infection rate will come down," Hossain said.

The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid-19 has recommended a 14-day fresh lockdown and the ongoing lockdown might be extended for another week based on the recommendation.Replying to a question about the extension of the ongoing lockdown, Additional Secretary of the Cabinet Division Rafiqul Islam, said: "The decision in this regard will be known on Monday after an inter-ministerial meeting."

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying.

Bangladesh is likely to extend the ongoing nationwide lockdown for another week as the COVID-19 situation in the country continues to worsen."The ongoing nationwide lockdown is likely to be extended for another week, and the decision in this regard will come within a day or two," Dhaka Tribune quoted State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain as saying. "We haven`t yet got any decision about a fresh lockdown. There`ll be a meeting on Monday over the current Covid-19 situation. But advice is there overextending the ongoing lockdown," the State Minister added. Bangladesh on Sunday reported over 100 Covid-19 single-day deaths for the third consecutive day.On Sunday, another 102 deaths were logged in 24 hours. Earlier on Saturday and Friday, 101 new deaths were recorded in a single day, the highest in the country so far since the first reported death on March 18, 2020.With the updated data, the death toll in the country stands at 10,385, and the total cases at 718,950. On April 14, the Bangladesh government enforced a fresh lockdown with harsher measures. The ongoing lockdown was imposed after a `loose` nationwide lockdown for one week from April 5 as part of its move to contain the spike in both coronavirus infections and fatalities. "The decision [to extend lockdown] will be known within 1-2 days as the coronavirus infections keep spreading. If people follow health guidelines properly and stay home, then the infection rate will come down," Hossain said. The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid-19 has recommended a 14-day fresh lockdown and the ongoing lockdown might be extended for another week based on the recommendation.Replying to a question about the extension of the ongoing lockdown, Additional Secretary of the Cabinet Division Rafiqul Islam, said: "The decision in this regard will be known on Monday after an inter-ministerial meeting."

Bangladesh likely to extend lockdown for another week as COVID-19 situation worsens

Delhi Chief Minister&nbsp;Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced a weekend curfew owing to the surging covid cases in the last few days in India's capital.

All spas, auditoriums and malls have been asked to stay shut from Friday evening till further orders.

"I had a meeting with L-G (&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor). We have decided to impose a weekend curfew in Delhi. This is because people generally go out for work on weekdays and entertainment on weekends. So to break the chain, we are imposing a weekend curfew, exempting essential services," Kejriwal said.

However, keeping in mind that essential services do not get affected by the decision, the state government has given exemption in certain categories.

What's allowed:

Essential services to operate with curfew passes.

Interstate transport to continue.

Wedding guests in the permissible limit can apply for passes for movement.&nbsp;

No pass required for movement for medical purposes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Movie shows are allowed to operate at 30% of seating capacity.

Traveller movement allowed but need to show passes.

Only one weekly market will be allowed each day per zone.

Home delivery of food is allowed.

What's not allowed:

Markets, malls, gyms, spas, auditoriums, and swimming pools to remain shut &nbsp;

Work from home in all private offices.

No dine-in restaurants, only take-aways.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced a weekend curfew owing to the surging covid cases in the last few days in India's capital. All spas, auditoriums and malls have been asked to stay shut from Friday evening till further orders.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced a weekend curfew owing to the surging covid cases in the last few days in India's capital. All spas, auditoriums and malls have been asked to stay shut from Friday evening till further orders. "I had a meeting with L-G ( Lieutenant Governor). We have decided to impose a weekend curfew in Delhi. This is because people generally go out for work on weekdays and entertainment on weekends. So to break the chain, we are imposing a weekend curfew, exempting essential services," Kejriwal said. However, keeping in mind that essential services do not get affected by the decision, the state government has given exemption in certain categories. What's allowed: Essential services to operate with curfew passes. Interstate transport to continue. Wedding guests in the permissible limit can apply for passes for movement. No pass required for movement for medical purposes. Movie shows are allowed to operate at 30% of seating capacity. Traveller movement allowed but need to show passes. Only one weekly market will be allowed each day per zone. Home delivery of food is allowed. What's not allowed: Markets, malls, gyms, spas, auditoriums, and swimming pools to remain shut Work from home in all private offices. No dine-in restaurants, only take-aways.

COVID-19: Delhi CM announces weekend curfew: Timings, what's open, what's closed and guidelines

The drinks are flowing as Britain unlocks. The mood on the streets is festive & the pubs are buzzing. Infections, deaths & hospitalisations have all fallen. Which measures worked for the United Kingdom WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Britons celebrate as lockdown ends

In January this year, as Christmas &amp; New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK. To suppress the surge, a third lockdown was imposed, one of the largest and most stringent lockdowns in the world. &nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-britons-celebrate-as-lockdown-ends-377387/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The movement of 56 million people was limited and a mass vaccination programme was launched.

Now, 98 days on, infections, hospitalisations, and deaths have fallen. At least 60% of the adult population has received one vaccine dose.

Britain is slowly unlocking as restrictions are being eased. &nbsp;

Boris Johnson plans to get a haircut, and the people are enjoying their freedom.

The mood is festive. A customer&nbsp;said, "Oh it feels great, it's amazing, there's nothing like it."&nbsp;

The streets are packed. Antonia and Blythe, two students, said, “The start of a new world baby. So exciting to be out on the street. It’s going to be a good time."&nbsp;

The stores are filled up. Nicole Teufelberger, a fashion student, said, “It’s really nice. We talked about it, we walked here, and it feels almost like London’s coming back alive.”&nbsp;

The pubs are buzzing. Lachlan Andrews and Ian Thomason, pub managers, said, “Yeah, I am definitely not going to take a pint for granted ever again. that's just always going to be like yeah... that's going to be a thing."&nbsp;

Families have reunited. Mother and son reunited after almost a year apart due to coronavirus restrictions, said, “It just feels like being released really, from a cage, basically seeing my boy again..."&nbsp;

And the drinks are flowing.&nbsp;

Alan Hargrave, a customer, said, “(drinks) Oh, worth the year wait, cheers."&nbsp;

After living under the most stringent restrictions, the people of the United Kingdom can't help but stay outdoors. In Birmingham, there are long queues outside luxury stores as people are keen to indulge in some retail therapy.&nbsp;

Valeria Schiavo, a shopper, said, “It’s amazing, it almost feels strange to be here actually, but it’s nice, finally."&nbsp;

In Yorkshire, they are toasting to the easing of restrictions with early morning pints.&nbsp;

Geoff, a customer, said, "It's just fantastic. So, I haven’t had one since Christmas day, so this is my first beer this year and how I will carry on later on, I don't know, but it tastes fantastic."&nbsp;

And in London, they are savouring the chance to meet with some steak and laughter. &nbsp;

George Wicks, guest at Skylight Bar, said, “Yeah, we were we were excited to get out. yeah. At least, anyway, it's nice to go out the flat."&nbsp;

At the onset of 2021, the United Kingdom was going through one of Europe's worst coronavirus outbreaks but thanks to timely measures, the situation is finally stabilising.&nbsp;

The infections have fallen by two-thirds since February.&nbsp;

Gatherings of 10 people are now being permitted and students above 8 years of age have returned to classrooms. Meanwhile, the vaccine rollout continues. 5.6 million people have been fully vaccinated,&nbsp;32 million have had their first dose and only 2,800 people are in hospital. According to estimates, by July 31, most British citizens above 18 years of age, in the age group of 40-49 years, 30-39 years, and 18-29 years, will have received their first dose.&nbsp;

&nbsp;UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said, “We are very confident about our vaccine supplies. This was always going to be the second dose month and people should come forward for the second doses, and people who are called from the 39-49 group should come forward and get theirs." &nbsp;

The vaccination programme has helped but Boris Johnson says, it was the lockdown which did most of the work. The UK Prime Minister said, "Yes, of course, the vaccination programme has helped but the bulk of the work in reducing the disease has been done by the lockdown."&nbsp;

As much of the world is bracing for yet another lockdown, the United Kingdom is returning to normalcy but after so many false dawns, there's no guarantee that there would be no going back one more time. &nbsp;

Johnson added, “So, as we unlock, the result will inevitably be that we will see more infection, sadly we will see more hospitalisations and deaths and people have just got to understand that." &nbsp;

In January this year, as Christmas & New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK.

In January this year, as Christmas & New Year festivities came to an end, a new and more transmissible variant of the coronavirus led to a massive spike in infections in the UK. To suppress the surge, a third lockdown was imposed, one of the largest and most stringent lockdowns in the world. The movement of 56 million people was limited and a mass vaccination programme was launched. Now, 98 days on, infections, hospitalisations, and deaths have fallen. At least 60% of the adult population has received one vaccine dose. Britain is slowly unlocking as restrictions are being eased. Boris Johnson plans to get a haircut, and the people are enjoying their freedom. The mood is festive. A customer said, "Oh it feels great, it's amazing, there's nothing like it." The streets are packed. Antonia and Blythe, two students, said, “The start of a new world baby. So exciting to be out on the street. It’s going to be a good time." The stores are filled up. Nicole Teufelberger, a fashion student, said, “It’s really nice. We talked about it, we walked here, and it feels almost like London’s coming back alive.” The pubs are buzzing. Lachlan Andrews and Ian Thomason, pub managers, said, “Yeah, I am definitely not going to take a pint for granted ever again. that's just always going to be like yeah... that's going to be a thing." Families have reunited. Mother and son reunited after almost a year apart due to coronavirus restrictions, said, “It just feels like being released really, from a cage, basically seeing my boy again..." And the drinks are flowing. Alan Hargrave, a customer, said, “(drinks) Oh, worth the year wait, cheers." After living under the most stringent restrictions, the people of the United Kingdom can't help but stay outdoors. In Birmingham, there are long queues outside luxury stores as people are keen to indulge in some retail therapy. Valeria Schiavo, a shopper, said, “It’s amazing, it almost feels strange to be here actually, but it’s nice, finally." In Yorkshire, they are toasting to the easing of restrictions with early morning pints. Geoff, a customer, said, "It's just fantastic. So, I haven’t had one since Christmas day, so this is my first beer this year and how I will carry on later on, I don't know, but it tastes fantastic." And in London, they are savouring the chance to meet with some steak and laughter. George Wicks, guest at Skylight Bar, said, “Yeah, we were we were excited to get out. yeah. At least, anyway, it's nice to go out the flat." At the onset of 2021, the United Kingdom was going through one of Europe's worst coronavirus outbreaks but thanks to timely measures, the situation is finally stabilising. The infections have fallen by two-thirds since February. Gatherings of 10 people are now being permitted and students above 8 years of age have returned to classrooms. Meanwhile, the vaccine rollout continues. 5.6 million people have been fully vaccinated, 32 million have had their first dose and only 2,800 people are in hospital. According to estimates, by July 31, most British citizens above 18 years of age, in the age group of 40-49 years, 30-39 years, and 18-29 years, will have received their first dose. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said, “We are very confident about our vaccine supplies. This was always going to be the second dose month and people should come forward for the second doses, and people who are called from the 39-49 group should come forward and get theirs." The vaccination programme has helped but Boris Johnson says, it was the lockdown which did most of the work. The UK Prime Minister said, "Yes, of course, the vaccination programme has helped but the bulk of the work in reducing the disease has been done by the lockdown." As much of the world is bracing for yet another lockdown, the United Kingdom is returning to normalcy but after so many false dawns, there's no guarantee that there would be no going back one more time. Johnson added, “So, as we unlock, the result will inevitably be that we will see more infection, sadly we will see more hospitalisations and deaths and people have just got to understand that."

UK returns to normalcy as restrictions ease 

Thousands of police patrolled the empty streets of the Bangladesh capital on Wednesday as the government enforced a strict nationwide lockdown to combat a deadly new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>wave.

Normally jammed with some of Asia's worst gridlock, Dhaka took on the air of a ghost town as officers set up checkpoints across the city of 20 million people to ensure no-one ventured out without a special pass.

Wednesday was the first day of the Bengali new year, when millions normally flock to traditional rallies in major cities, as well as the first day of the Ramadan Muslim fasting month.

But all festivities have been called off for the second year because of the coronavirus threat.

Bangladesh has been swept for the past month by a fresh coronavirus wave that has seen daily infections rise seven-fold and deaths triple.

The South Asian country has recorded roughly 700,000 cases and nearly 10,000 deaths in all.

Tens of thousands of people packed the last trains, buses and ferries before the lockdown came into force at 6:00am (midnight GMT).

A Dhaka police spokesman told AFP said he had only seen "a handful" of people on the streets on the first day of the transport ban, as well as the closure of offices and stores.

For eight days, people are only allowed out to buy food and medicines or for medical emergencies.

Officers are checking online movement passes, issued for the first time.

National police chief Benazir Ahmed ordered all officers to strictly enforce the measure in a call with police chiefs across the country of 168 million people.

"During the government restrictions, no one should step out of their homes unnecessarily," he said.

<h2>Pakistan shutdown&nbsp;</h2>

Coronavirus restrictions have also overshadowed the start of Ramadan in India and Pakistan.

Pandemic curfews are being enforced in many Indian cities as fresh cases again hit new highs, while the number of dead in one day rose above 1,000 for the first time since September.

Pakistan's government has ordered a shutdown of all but essential shops at weekends and the closure of markets at 6.00pm on weekdays.

The poor nation has also been hit by a new wave and authorities fear an acceleration of cases during Ramadan.

Many mosques ignored official pleas to host prayers outside and follow social distancing rules, as Muslims gathered ahead of the first fast.

Ikram Jan, 45, a school teacher in Rawalpindi, said he would pray at home to keep his family safe.

"Most worshippers do not have masks and all of them stand shoulder to shoulder, hundreds of people, that's very dangerous," he said.

More than 730,000 people in Pakistan have been diagnosed with coronavirus, but with limited testing in the country of 220 million people, the true figure is believed to be much higher.

It has recorded more than 15,000 deaths, with 130 reported Wednesday one of the highest daily tolls.

Thousands of police patrolled the empty streets of the Bangladesh capital on Wednesday as the government enforced a strict nationwide lockdown to combat a deadly new coronavirus wave.

Thousands of police patrolled the empty streets of the Bangladesh capital on Wednesday as the government enforced a strict nationwide lockdown to combat a deadly new coronavirus wave. Normally jammed with some of Asia's worst gridlock, Dhaka took on the air of a ghost town as officers set up checkpoints across the city of 20 million people to ensure no-one ventured out without a special pass. Wednesday was the first day of the Bengali new year, when millions normally flock to traditional rallies in major cities, as well as the first day of the Ramadan Muslim fasting month. But all festivities have been called off for the second year because of the coronavirus threat. Bangladesh has been swept for the past month by a fresh coronavirus wave that has seen daily infections rise seven-fold and deaths triple. The South Asian country has recorded roughly 700,000 cases and nearly 10,000 deaths in all. Tens of thousands of people packed the last trains, buses and ferries before the lockdown came into force at 6:00am (midnight GMT). A Dhaka police spokesman told AFP said he had only seen "a handful" of people on the streets on the first day of the transport ban, as well as the closure of offices and stores. For eight days, people are only allowed out to buy food and medicines or for medical emergencies. Officers are checking online movement passes, issued for the first time. National police chief Benazir Ahmed ordered all officers to strictly enforce the measure in a call with police chiefs across the country of 168 million people. "During the government restrictions, no one should step out of their homes unnecessarily," he said. Pakistan shutdown Coronavirus restrictions have also overshadowed the start of Ramadan in India and Pakistan. Pandemic curfews are being enforced in many Indian cities as fresh cases again hit new highs, while the number of dead in one day rose above 1,000 for the first time since September. Pakistan's government has ordered a shutdown of all but essential shops at weekends and the closure of markets at 6.00pm on weekdays. The poor nation has also been hit by a new wave and authorities fear an acceleration of cases during Ramadan. Many mosques ignored official pleas to host prayers outside and follow social distancing rules, as Muslims gathered ahead of the first fast. Ikram Jan, 45, a school teacher in Rawalpindi, said he would pray at home to keep his family safe. "Most worshippers do not have masks and all of them stand shoulder to shoulder, hundreds of people, that's very dangerous," he said. More than 730,000 people in Pakistan have been diagnosed with coronavirus, but with limited testing in the country of 220 million people, the true figure is believed to be much higher. It has recorded more than 15,000 deaths, with 130 reported Wednesday one of the highest daily tolls.

COVID-19: Bangladesh enforces tough lockdown to fight virus

As COVID-19 cases rise to an all time high, Bangladesh is going to a strict lockdown for the next 8 days. All offices, factories and transport services have been suspended; only emergency services will remain open in the country.

Bangladesh: 8 day strict lockdown begins after daily COVID cases rose to 7 month high

Millions of people in England will get their first chance in months for haircuts, casual shopping and restaurant meals, as the government takes the next step on its lockdown-lifting road map.

Coronavirus restrictions ease in England after months of lockdown

India reported a record 145,384 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday and the highest number of deaths in more than five months, as it grapples with an overwhelming second-wave of infections that has forced the state of Maharashtra to impose a weekend lockdown.&nbsp;

Deaths rose by 794 to a total of 168,436, health ministry data showed.&nbsp;

India’s overall case load has swelled to 13.21 million, the third-highest globally, behind the United States and Brazil. India has reported&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of cases in the world in the past week, breaching the 100,000 mark for the first time on Monday and four times after that.&nbsp;

The government blames the resurgence mainly on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks as businesses have nearly fully reopened since February, only to be partially shut again to control the current surge.&nbsp;

Maharashtra, the Indian state with the most cases, has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages, officials said. Its weekend lockdown will end on early Monday.&nbsp;

In India’s financial capital Mumbai, hundreds of poor migrant workers crammed onto trains this week to flee the city, potentially risking a wider outbreak in smaller towns and villages.&nbsp;

The railways department denied people were fleeing cities because of the surge, calling it a usual rush this time of year because of holidays and as workers move to harvest crops.&nbsp;

Many states, meanwhile, have complained of a shortage of vaccines.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India reported a record 145,384 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday and the highest number of deaths in more than five months, as it grapples with an overwhelming second-wave of infections that has forced the state of Maharashtra to impose a weekend lockdown.

India reported a record 145,384 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday and the highest number of deaths in more than five months, as it grapples with an overwhelming second-wave of infections that has forced the state of Maharashtra to impose a weekend lockdown. Deaths rose by 794 to a total of 168,436, health ministry data showed. India’s overall case load has swelled to 13.21 million, the third-highest globally, behind the United States and Brazil. India has reported the most number of cases in the world in the past week, breaching the 100,000 mark for the first time on Monday and four times after that. The government blames the resurgence mainly on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks as businesses have nearly fully reopened since February, only to be partially shut again to control the current surge. Maharashtra, the Indian state with the most cases, has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages, officials said. Its weekend lockdown will end on early Monday. In India’s financial capital Mumbai, hundreds of poor migrant workers crammed onto trains this week to flee the city, potentially risking a wider outbreak in smaller towns and villages. The railways department denied people were fleeing cities because of the surge, calling it a usual rush this time of year because of holidays and as workers move to harvest crops. Many states, meanwhile, have complained of a shortage of vaccines. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Covid infections hit another record, weekend lockdown in Maharashtra 

More than 110 people dining at a clandestine restaurant were fined late on Friday for violating a COVID-19 lockdown, Paris police said, days after the government denied allegations that ministers had attended similar underground soirees.

The swoop in the French capital`s 19th arrondissement was the latest police action against restaurants breaking the rules to offer patrons a slice of pre-pandemic life.

Restaurants, bars and cafes have been closed for sit-down dining for months, and public frustration is growing amid a third national lockdown and another wave of coronavirus infections.

"Guests fined for failing to respect sanitary measures. Organiser and manager arrested," the city`s police force said on Twitter.

In a separate incident, dozens of diners were sanctioned for eating out at a restaurant in the Paris suburb of Saint-Ouen at Friday lunchtime.

President Emmanuel Macron`s government rejected allegations aired on the private M6 television station by a flamboyant businessman, who said earlier this week that he had hosted several illicit dinner parties attended by ministers.

The businessman, Pierre-Jean Chalencon, later retracted his remarks about the ministers` presence, but the matter has continued to hound the government.

Government spokesman Gabriel Attal told a news conference on Thursday the government had no reason to think any minister had attended an unlawful dinner party.

Chalencon was briefly detained by police for questioning on Friday, but played down the incident.

"The police are marvellous people," he told reporters. "It was nothing more than a simple questioning."

More than 110 people dining at a clandestine restaurant were fined late on Friday for violating a COVID-19 lockdown, Paris police said, days after the government denied allegations that ministers had attended similar underground soirees.

More than 110 people dining at a clandestine restaurant were fined late on Friday for violating a COVID-19 lockdown, Paris police said, days after the government denied allegations that ministers had attended similar underground soirees. The swoop in the French capital`s 19th arrondissement was the latest police action against restaurants breaking the rules to offer patrons a slice of pre-pandemic life. Restaurants, bars and cafes have been closed for sit-down dining for months, and public frustration is growing amid a third national lockdown and another wave of coronavirus infections. "Guests fined for failing to respect sanitary measures. Organiser and manager arrested," the city`s police force said on Twitter. In a separate incident, dozens of diners were sanctioned for eating out at a restaurant in the Paris suburb of Saint-Ouen at Friday lunchtime. President Emmanuel Macron`s government rejected allegations aired on the private M6 television station by a flamboyant businessman, who said earlier this week that he had hosted several illicit dinner parties attended by ministers. The businessman, Pierre-Jean Chalencon, later retracted his remarks about the ministers` presence, but the matter has continued to hound the government. Government spokesman Gabriel Attal told a news conference on Thursday the government had no reason to think any minister had attended an unlawful dinner party. Chalencon was briefly detained by police for questioning on Friday, but played down the incident. "The police are marvellous people," he told reporters. "It was nothing more than a simple questioning."

Diners at clandestine Paris soiree fined for lockdown breaches

'Ready Player One'&nbsp;star Tye Sheridan sets off into outer space to save humankind in 'Voyagers', a science-fiction thriller that opens in U.S. cinemas on Friday, and which he believes may strike a particular chord with a pandemic-weary public. 
 
The movie is set in 2063. Earth has become hot, dry and disease-stricken but scientists have discovered a new planet that can support human life. 
Salvation is an 86-year journey away, and 30 babies are bred for the trip, during which they are expected to reproduce in order for their grandchildren to populate their destination. 
 
Overseen by an ageing guardian played by Colin Farrell, the voyage takes an unexpected turn when, as they grow older, the youngsters discover they are being drugged into an obedient existence and begin to rebel.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EwJkexUBSeg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Sheridan - Wade Watts in the Steven Spielberg-directed "Ready Player One" (2018) - said that what might have felt like unfamiliar terrain to the actors when making the movie now probably hits closer to home. 
 
"These characters are all in isolation with each other, in a very confined environment. And I think ... based on everyone`s experience during COVID, it`s probably been very similar," the 24-year-old, who plays crew member Christopher, said. 
 
"You start to ask questions about yourself and start to realise things that you typically wouldn`t outside of that containment, and so I think that this film is really timely," he told Reuters from Boston, where he is currently filming George Clooney drama "The Tender Bar". 
 
His 21-year-old co-star Lily-Rose Depp, who plays the spaceship`s medical officer, Sela, liked the way the movie forces its young crew to confront moral and existential questions. 
 
"I was really excited by the idea of what is human nature when we strip away any sort of environmental and societal influence," she said. 
"Voyagers" is written and directed by "Limitless" and "Divergent" filmmaker Neil Burger, who said he set out to tell a story about human nature in a vacuum. "Who are we at our core ... Are we moral or aren`t we?"

'Ready Player One' star Tye Sheridan sets off into outer space to save humankind in 'Voyagers', a science-fiction thriller that opens in U.S. cinemas on Friday, and which he believes may strike a particular chord with a pandemic-weary public.

'Ready Player One' star Tye Sheridan sets off into outer space to save humankind in 'Voyagers', a science-fiction thriller that opens in U.S. cinemas on Friday, and which he believes may strike a particular chord with a pandemic-weary public. The movie is set in 2063. Earth has become hot, dry and disease-stricken but scientists have discovered a new planet that can support human life. Salvation is an 86-year journey away, and 30 babies are bred for the trip, during which they are expected to reproduce in order for their grandchildren to populate their destination. Overseen by an ageing guardian played by Colin Farrell, the voyage takes an unexpected turn when, as they grow older, the youngsters discover they are being drugged into an obedient existence and begin to rebel. Sheridan - Wade Watts in the Steven Spielberg-directed "Ready Player One" (2018) - said that what might have felt like unfamiliar terrain to the actors when making the movie now probably hits closer to home. "These characters are all in isolation with each other, in a very confined environment. And I think ... based on everyone`s experience during COVID, it`s probably been very similar," the 24-year-old, who plays crew member Christopher, said. "You start to ask questions about yourself and start to realise things that you typically wouldn`t outside of that containment, and so I think that this film is really timely," he told Reuters from Boston, where he is currently filming George Clooney drama "The Tender Bar". His 21-year-old co-star Lily-Rose Depp, who plays the spaceship`s medical officer, Sela, liked the way the movie forces its young crew to confront moral and existential questions. "I was really excited by the idea of what is human nature when we strip away any sort of environmental and societal influence," she said. "Voyagers" is written and directed by "Limitless" and "Divergent" filmmaker Neil Burger, who said he set out to tell a story about human nature in a vacuum. "Who are we at our core ... Are we moral or aren`t we?"

Space thriller 'Voyagers' will strike a lockdown chord, star Tye Sheridan says

Owing to a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases, Ontario, one of Canada’s most populous regions, declared a one-month lockdown on Wednesday.

Ontario premier Doug Ford&nbsp;urged residents&nbsp;to stay at home to help bring down the number of rising cases and break the cycle amid fears of the third wave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-justin-trudeau-warns-of-very-serious-third-wave-of-coronavirus-375837">Canada's Justin Trudeau warns of 'very serious' third wave of coronavirus</a>

“The risks are greater and the stakes are higher,” Ford told people while asking them to focus on following all necessary safety guidelines against coronavirus.

His announcement came almost a week after Ford had to reverse the plans of reopening businesses and a couple of days after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned against a very serious third wave in the country.

"Around the world, countries are facing a very serious third wave of this pandemic," Trudeau said. "And right now, so is Canada."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-crosses-1-million-cases-amid-third-wave-of-coronavirus-375216">Canada crosses 1 million cases amid third wave of coronavirus</a>

Canada has already shut down schools and shifted to online/virtual teaching as the cases kept increasing, especially in the younger generation.

The decision to close schools and shift to virtual classes has been taken after it was reported that the younger population was the most affected in the country during the third wave.

"Schools should be the first places in our community to open, and the last to close," Toronto Public Health said in a statement. "Unfortunately, current circumstances require that difficult decisions must be taken locally to protect all those in our school communities.

Owing to a surge in coronavirus cases, Ontario, one of Canada’s most populous regions, declared a one-month lockdown on Wednesday. Ontario premier Doug Ford urged residents to stay at home to help bring down the number of rising cases and break the cycle amid fears of the third wave.

Owing to a surge in coronavirus cases, Ontario, one of Canada’s most populous regions, declared a one-month lockdown on Wednesday. Ontario premier Doug Ford urged residents to stay at home to help bring down the number of rising cases and break the cycle amid fears of the third wave. Also read | Canada's Justin Trudeau warns of 'very serious' third wave of coronavirus “The risks are greater and the stakes are higher,” Ford told people while asking them to focus on following all necessary safety guidelines against coronavirus. His announcement came almost a week after Ford had to reverse the plans of reopening businesses and a couple of days after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned against a very serious third wave in the country. "Around the world, countries are facing a very serious third wave of this pandemic," Trudeau said. "And right now, so is Canada." Also read | Canada crosses 1 million cases amid third wave of coronavirus Canada has already shut down schools and shifted to online/virtual teaching as the cases kept increasing, especially in the younger generation. The decision to close schools and shift to virtual classes has been taken after it was reported that the younger population was the most affected in the country during the third wave. "Schools should be the first places in our community to open, and the last to close," Toronto Public Health said in a statement. "Unfortunately, current circumstances require that difficult decisions must be taken locally to protect all those in our school communities.

Canada: Ontario imposes 1-month lockdown amid fears of COVID-19 third wave

If you thought there was a huge positive impact of the coronavirus lockdowns on climate, scientists have bad news for you. As per the latest measurements, concentrations of carbon dioxide have hit record highs during the pandemic.

According to the latest measurements at Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii, the global levels of carbon dioxide increased alarmingly and are nearly 50 per cent above what they were when the Industrial Revolution started in the UK.

Setting a new record high, the atmospheric concentrations of the greenhouse gas in March was nearly 417.14 parts per million (ppm), as per data released by Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego.

Not just this, the UK’s Met Office has also predicted that the monthly concentrations of carbon dioxide are set to hit the peak in 2021 at nearly 419.5 ppm, increasing from 417.10 ppm in May 2020.

The authorities have also warned that this year’s average level forecast can be around 416.3 ppm, while 2020’s average was 413.94 ppm.

An increase in the concentrations of carbon dioxide has been majorly caused by human activity such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels. While the lockdown in 2020 may have helped a tad, it was not enough to put a stop to the substantial effect of the buildup of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

“Emissions may have been reduced but we are still emitting lots of carbon dioxide, and so its atmospheric concentration is bound to go up – and will continue to do so until we get to somewhere near net-zero emissions,” Prof Martin Siegert, of the Grantham Institute, Imperial College London told The Guardian.

“Our path to net zero is obvious, challenging and necessary – and we must get on with the transition urgently.

If you thought there was a huge positive impact of the coronavirus lockdowns on climate, scientists have bad news for you. As per the latest measurements, concentrations of carbon dioxide have hit record highs during the pandemic.

If you thought there was a huge positive impact of the coronavirus lockdowns on climate, scientists have bad news for you. As per the latest measurements, concentrations of carbon dioxide have hit record highs during the pandemic. According to the latest measurements at Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii, the global levels of carbon dioxide increased alarmingly and are nearly 50 per cent above what they were when the Industrial Revolution started in the UK. Setting a new record high, the atmospheric concentrations of the greenhouse gas in March was nearly 417.14 parts per million (ppm), as per data released by Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego. Not just this, the UK’s Met Office has also predicted that the monthly concentrations of carbon dioxide are set to hit the peak in 2021 at nearly 419.5 ppm, increasing from 417.10 ppm in May 2020. The authorities have also warned that this year’s average level forecast can be around 416.3 ppm, while 2020’s average was 413.94 ppm. An increase in the concentrations of carbon dioxide has been majorly caused by human activity such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels. While the lockdown in 2020 may have helped a tad, it was not enough to put a stop to the substantial effect of the buildup of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. “Emissions may have been reduced but we are still emitting lots of carbon dioxide, and so its atmospheric concentration is bound to go up – and will continue to do so until we get to somewhere near net-zero emissions,” Prof Martin Siegert, of the Grantham Institute, Imperial College London told The Guardian. “Our path to net zero is obvious, challenging and necessary – and we must get on with the transition urgently.

Carbon dioxide levels reach record high despite lockdown in 2020

The Prime Minister of the UK Boris Johnson has given green light to the next step of the roadmap out of lockdown. Pubs, gardens, hairdressers, beauty and nail salons and indoor leisure facilities such as gyms and spas can reopen from April 12.

Next stage of lockdown easing in England to begin in April 12

The Bangladesh government on Saturday decided to impose a week-long nationwide lockdown from Monday as COVID-19 cases and deaths surged across the country.

Bangladesh imposes nationwide lockdown to curb Coronavirus spread

Maharashtra government has decided to impose night curfew and weekend lockdown across the state amid the massive surge in COVID-19 cases.

India: Maharashtra imposes night curfew, weekend lockdown amid rise in COVID-19 cases

Britain will soon test a series of measures to allow the safe return of sports matches, events and nightclubs. The measures will include COVID-19 passports, these passes would show if a person has been vaccinated against the infection.

UK proposes pilots for COVID-19 passports as way out of lockdown

Thousand of locals took to the streets in Germany to protest against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> restrictions while the government plans to initiate stricter regulations amid an incoming third wave of the deadly virus.

The protestors started marching from the city centre to the main square in northeastern Stuttgart.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-baby-born-in-spain-with-coronavirus-antibodies-reports-say-375220" hreflang="en">First baby born in Spain with coronavirus antibodies, reports say</a>

Present in large numbers, the protestors ignored repeated calls of the police to wear masks and maintain proper social distance. However, there were no major incidents reported.

These protests were organised under a movement called "(Anticonformist)", which opposes social restrictions and has been organising similar demonstrations in Germany since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-set-to-enter-third-lockdown-amid-coronavirus-surge-375143" hreflang="en">France set to enter third lockdown amid coronavirus surge</a>

The demonstrators believe the restrictions being imposed by the government are "over the top" and the government should initiate an end of the lockdown.

Some protestors also accused the government of exaggerating the seriousness of the deadly virus by publishing wrong and increased tally.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-vaccinated-people-spread-the-virus-we-dont-know-scientists-say-374976" hreflang="en">Can vaccinated people spread the virus? We don’t know, scientists say</a>

Demonstrators also raised voices against getting vaccinated, as the officials are urging people to get a jab as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, the Angela Merkel-led government is looking at the possibility of introducing uniform measures to contain the spread of the virus and "to stop a third wave if the regional measures are insufficient," a government spokesperson said.

Thousand of locals took to the streets in Germany to protest against the coronavirus restrictions while the government plans to initiate stricter regulations amid an incoming third wave of the deadly virus.

Thousand of locals took to the streets in Germany to protest against the coronavirus restrictions while the government plans to initiate stricter regulations amid an incoming third wave of the deadly virus. The protestors started marching from the city centre to the main square in northeastern Stuttgart. Also read | First baby born in Spain with coronavirus antibodies, reports say Present in large numbers, the protestors ignored repeated calls of the police to wear masks and maintain proper social distance. However, there were no major incidents reported. These protests were organised under a movement called "(Anticonformist)", which opposes social restrictions and has been organising similar demonstrations in Germany since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Also read | France set to enter third lockdown amid coronavirus surge The demonstrators believe the restrictions being imposed by the government are "over the top" and the government should initiate an end of the lockdown. Some protestors also accused the government of exaggerating the seriousness of the deadly virus by publishing wrong and increased tally. Also read | Can vaccinated people spread the virus? We don’t know, scientists say Demonstrators also raised voices against getting vaccinated, as the officials are urging people to get a jab as soon as possible. Meanwhile, the Angela Merkel-led government is looking at the possibility of introducing uniform measures to contain the spread of the virus and "to stop a third wave if the regional measures are insufficient," a government spokesperson said.

Thousands protest against strict coronavirus restrictions in Germany

Long-Covid symptoms are affecting a large part of the population in the UK, with about half that number saying the disease is harming their day-to-day lives, government statistics show.

People were asked to report their own symptoms and the most common ongoing problems included fatigue, a cough, headaches and muscle pain.

The Office for National Statistics said the study of over 20,000 people who had tested positive from April last year to March this year found 13.7 per cent had symptoms that lasted for at least 12 weeks. 
 
Gravitas: UK &amp; Israel vaccinated over 50% of their population. Here is the result

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This was based on people's self-reported symptoms of so-called "long Covid". The list of 13 symptoms included fatigue, muscle pain and difficulty concentrating as well as loss of taste and smell.

Women were more likely (14.7 per cent) to report such long-lasting symptoms than men (12.7 per cent).

Those aged 35-49 were most likely to report symptoms at five weeks (25.6 per cent).

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The study of UK patients was based on a random sample of 21,622 participants who tested positive from swabs and were asked about their symptoms monthly.

A control group who were unlikely to have been infected was also set up. It found they were eight times less likely to have such symptoms.

A larger survey of 1.1 million people self-reported long Covid over the four weeks ending March 6, 2021, the ONS said.

Ben Humberstone, Head of Health Analysis and Life Events at the ONS said this was its first analysis of new data and "our understanding of it and its quality will improve over time".

Long Covid "is an emerging phenomenon that is not yet fully understood", he added.

Britain, one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic, has recorded nearly 127,000 deaths from Covid and 4,350,266 cases.

However, the number of daily deaths and positive tests have fallen steadily amid a strong vaccination campaign.

(With inputs from agencies)

Long-Covid symptoms are affecting a large part of the population in the UK, with about half that number saying the disease is harming their day-to-day lives, government statistics show.

Long-Covid symptoms are affecting a large part of the population in the UK, with about half that number saying the disease is harming their day-to-day lives, government statistics show. People were asked to report their own symptoms and the most common ongoing problems included fatigue, a cough, headaches and muscle pain. The Office for National Statistics said the study of over 20,000 people who had tested positive from April last year to March this year found 13.7 per cent had symptoms that lasted for at least 12 weeks. Gravitas: UK & Israel vaccinated over 50% of their population. Here is the result This was based on people's self-reported symptoms of so-called "long Covid". The list of 13 symptoms included fatigue, muscle pain and difficulty concentrating as well as loss of taste and smell. Women were more likely (14.7 per cent) to report such long-lasting symptoms than men (12.7 per cent). Those aged 35-49 were most likely to report symptoms at five weeks (25.6 per cent). About 6% of the population was hesitant to take vaccines against the virus, down from 9% previously in early December. × The study of UK patients was based on a random sample of 21,622 participants who tested positive from swabs and were asked about their symptoms monthly. A control group who were unlikely to have been infected was also set up. It found they were eight times less likely to have such symptoms. A larger survey of 1.1 million people self-reported long Covid over the four weeks ending March 6, 2021, the ONS said. Ben Humberstone, Head of Health Analysis and Life Events at the ONS said this was its first analysis of new data and "our understanding of it and its quality will improve over time". Long Covid "is an emerging phenomenon that is not yet fully understood", he added. Britain, one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic, has recorded nearly 127,000 deaths from Covid and 4,350,266 cases. However, the number of daily deaths and positive tests have fallen steadily amid a strong vaccination campaign. (With inputs from agencies)

British study finds almost one in seven suffer long Covid symptoms

President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday ordered France into its third national lockdown and said schools would close for three weeks as he sought to push back the third wave of COVID-19 infections that threatens to overwhelm hospitals.

Macron extends COVID-19 lockdown to all of France for 2 weeks

Germany on Wednesday backtracked on its plan to impose strict Easter weekend shutdown after opposition from the public. Germany on Wednesday said it would scrap plans to close most shops in the country over Easter from April 1 to 5 after facing stinging criticism of the plan.&nbsp;

The government instead asked people to stay home over the holiday and Chancellor Angela Merkel issued a mea culpa after reversing the measures.

"This mistake is mine alone," Merkel said. "The whole process has caused additional uncertainty, for which I ask all citizens to forgive me."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the European Union said it was going to tighten vaccine export controls in a bid to give boost to its stuttering.

'Big lesson in humility'

Elsewhere on the continent, Belgium said it would bring in a new partial lockdown for four weeks, closing schools and limiting access to non-essential shops as it sought to quell a third wave.

The pandemic "is a big lesson in humility for politicians, for everyone," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said in announcing the measures. 
Poland meanwhile recorded its highest daily infections with nearly 30,000 new cases, while the Netherlands extended coronavirus restrictions until April 20.&nbsp;

And Norway said it would roll out new restrictions this week, including banning alcohol sales at bars and restaurants.&nbsp;

Vaccines are seen as the way out of the pandemic that has now killed more than 2.7 million people around the world and plunged the global economy into a recession not seen in decades.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

Germany on Wednesday backtracked on its plan to impose strict Easter weekend shutdown after opposition from the public. Germany on Wednesday said it would scrap plans to close most shops in the country over Easter from April 1 to 5 after facing stinging criticism of the plan.

Germany on Wednesday backtracked on its plan to impose strict Easter weekend shutdown after opposition from the public. Germany on Wednesday said it would scrap plans to close most shops in the country over Easter from April 1 to 5 after facing stinging criticism of the plan. The government instead asked people to stay home over the holiday and Chancellor Angela Merkel issued a mea culpa after reversing the measures. "This mistake is mine alone," Merkel said. "The whole process has caused additional uncertainty, for which I ask all citizens to forgive me." Meanwhile, the European Union said it was going to tighten vaccine export controls in a bid to give boost to its stuttering. 'Big lesson in humility' Elsewhere on the continent, Belgium said it would bring in a new partial lockdown for four weeks, closing schools and limiting access to non-essential shops as it sought to quell a third wave. The pandemic "is a big lesson in humility for politicians, for everyone," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said in announcing the measures. Poland meanwhile recorded its highest daily infections with nearly 30,000 new cases, while the Netherlands extended coronavirus restrictions until April 20. And Norway said it would roll out new restrictions this week, including banning alcohol sales at bars and restaurants. Vaccines are seen as the way out of the pandemic that has now killed more than 2.7 million people around the world and plunged the global economy into a recession not seen in decades. (With AFP inputs)

Germany backtracks on Easter shutdown plans

Despite a months-long rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, the world is in the middle of another wave of infections. Much of Europe is under partial lockdown measures, while in Brazil- President Bolsonaro celebrated his birthday with unmasked supporters. What is causing this latest virus resurgence? WION's Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Record surge in COVID-19 cases globally

Anti-lockdown protesters scuffled with police in London on Saturday (March 20). Hundreds of protesters were stopped by police as they marched in streets. Demostrators descended in central London despite a police warning. There were no face masks, social distancing rules were flouted.

Under England's coronavirus rules, it is unlawful for groups to gather for protests and police warned people on Saturday not to head to central London for planned demonstrations.

Police said that a significant operation will be in place in London to engage with people breaching COVID-19 regulations, adding that any protesters will be encouraged to return home or could face fines or arrest.

More than 60 British lawmakers have written to Priti Patel, the interior minister, and have called for the protests to be allowed in England during the lockdown. This came after police used heavy-handed tactics on March 13 to break a vigil for Sarah Everard. A police officer has been charged with her kidnap and murder.

Further protests followed, fuelled by anger over government plans to tighten the law on demonstrations.

(With Reuters inputs)

Anti-lockdown protesters scuffled with police in London on Saturday (March 20). Hundreds of protesters were stopped by police as they marched in streets. Demostrators descended in central London despite a police warning.

Anti-lockdown protesters scuffled with police in London on Saturday (March 20). Hundreds of protesters were stopped by police as they marched in streets. Demostrators descended in central London despite a police warning. There were no face masks, social distancing rules were flouted. Under England's coronavirus rules, it is unlawful for groups to gather for protests and police warned people on Saturday not to head to central London for planned demonstrations. Police said that a significant operation will be in place in London to engage with people breaching COVID-19 regulations, adding that any protesters will be encouraged to return home or could face fines or arrest. More than 60 British lawmakers have written to Priti Patel, the interior minister, and have called for the protests to be allowed in England during the lockdown. This came after police used heavy-handed tactics on March 13 to break a vigil for Sarah Everard. A police officer has been charged with her kidnap and murder. Further protests followed, fuelled by anger over government plans to tighten the law on demonstrations. (With Reuters inputs)

Anti-lockdown protesters scuffle with police in London

More than 60 British lawmakers have written to interior minister Priti Patel calling for protests to be allowed in England during lockdown.&nbsp;

Under England's coronavirus rules, it is unlawful for groups to gather for protests and police warned people on Saturday not to head to central London for planned demonstrations, including by anti-lockdown campaigners.&nbsp;

Police were criticised for using heavy-handed tactics on March 13 to break up an outdoor vigil for 33-year-old Sarah Everard. A police officer has been charged with her kidnap and murder.&nbsp;

Further protests followed, fuelled by anger over government plans to tighten the law on demonstrations.&nbsp;

The group of lawmakers, including Conservative Member of Parliament Steve Baker, and Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, said that protest should not be a criminal offence.&nbsp;

"We call on you to expressly exempt protests from restrictions on gatherings," they said in the letter, which was organised by campaign groups, Liberty and Big Brother Watch.&nbsp;

The interior ministry, known as the Home Office, said in response that the Covid-19 stay at home order remains in place until March 29, and once it ends, protests can resume subject to agreed social-distancing measures.&nbsp;

"While we are still in a pandemic, we continue to urge people to avoid mass gatherings, in line with wider coronavirus restrictions," a spokeswoman said.&nbsp;

Police said that a significant operation will be in place in London to engage with people breaching Covid-19 regulations, adding that any protesters will be encouraged to return home or could face fines or arrest.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

More than 60 British lawmakers have written to interior minister Priti Patel calling for protests to be allowed in England during lockdown. Under England's coronavirus rules, it is unlawful for groups to gather for protests and police warned people on Saturday not to head to central London for planned demonstrations, including by anti-lockdown campaigners.

More than 60 British lawmakers have written to interior minister Priti Patel calling for protests to be allowed in England during lockdown. Under England's coronavirus rules, it is unlawful for groups to gather for protests and police warned people on Saturday not to head to central London for planned demonstrations, including by anti-lockdown campaigners. Police were criticised for using heavy-handed tactics on March 13 to break up an outdoor vigil for 33-year-old Sarah Everard. A police officer has been charged with her kidnap and murder. Further protests followed, fuelled by anger over government plans to tighten the law on demonstrations. The group of lawmakers, including Conservative Member of Parliament Steve Baker, and Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, said that protest should not be a criminal offence. "We call on you to expressly exempt protests from restrictions on gatherings," they said in the letter, which was organised by campaign groups, Liberty and Big Brother Watch. The interior ministry, known as the Home Office, said in response that the Covid-19 stay at home order remains in place until March 29, and once it ends, protests can resume subject to agreed social-distancing measures. "While we are still in a pandemic, we continue to urge people to avoid mass gatherings, in line with wider coronavirus restrictions," a spokeswoman said. Police said that a significant operation will be in place in London to engage with people breaching Covid-19 regulations, adding that any protesters will be encouraged to return home or could face fines or arrest. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 60 lawmakers call for protests to be allowed in England during lockdown 

The nationwide lockdown has been announced in Poland as the country battles a surge in COVID-19 cases. Poland has decided to go on a 3-week partial lockdown.

Poland: Country declares partial lockdown as COVID-19 cases spike

COVID-19 continues to wreak havoc in European Nation France. Hospital resources in the country are overwhelmed, this prompted French President Emmanuel Macron to hint at imposing tighter curbs amid the growing speculations of another lockdown.

French Prez Macron hints at imposing tighter curbs amid rising COVID-19 case

Sales at H&M fell slightly less than expected in the three months through February and rose in the first half of March as pandemic restrictions were eased in some markets, allowing hundreds of stores to reopen.

World Business Watch: H&M's sales recover in March as stores reopen after lockdowns

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