British government scientists are increasingly finding the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> variant first detected in Britain to be linked to a higher risk of death than other versions of the virus, a devastating trend that highlights the serious risks and considerable uncertainties of this new phase of the pandemic.

The scientists said last month that there was a “realistic possibility” that the variant was not only more contagious than others, but also more lethal. Now, they say in a new document that it is “likely” that the variant is linked to an increased risk of hospitalization and death.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/common-cold-cant-be-termed-as-sign-of-coronavirus-aiims-363511" hreflang="en">Common cold can't be termed as sign of coronavirus: AIIMS</a>

The British government did not publicly announce the updated findings, which are based on roughly twice as many studies as its earlier assessment and include more deaths from COVID-19 cases caused by the new variant, known as B.1.1.7. It posted the document on a government website Friday.

The reasons for an elevated death rate are not entirely clear. Some evidence suggests that people infected with the variant may have higher viral loads, a feature that could not only make the virus more contagious but also potentially undermine the effectiveness of certain treatments.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/single-soda-can-big-enough-to-hold-every-covid-19-particle-in-world-british-mathematician-363260" hreflang="en">Single 'soda can' big enough to hold every Covid-19 particle in world: British mathematician</a>

But scientists are also trying to understand how much of the increased risk of death may stem from the propensity of the variant to spread very easily through settings like nursing homes, where people are already vulnerable.

No matter the explanation, scientific advisers to the British government said Saturday, the new findings laid bare the dangers of countries easing restrictions as the variant takes hold.

The variant has spread to at least 82 countries, and is being transmitted 35% to 45% more easily than other variants in the United States, scientists recently estimated. US&nbsp;officials have suggested that the variant could be the dominant source of infection there by March.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-kent-variant-will-sweep-the-world-says-top-genome-sequencing-expert-362820" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Kent variant will 'sweep the world', says top genome sequencing expert</a>

“The overall picture is one of something like a 40% to 60% increase in hospitalization risk and risk of death,” Neil Ferguson, a public health researcher and scientific adviser to the British government, said in an interview Saturday. Referring to the tight restrictions on socializing that are in effect across Britain, he said, “It reinforces the policy measures in place.”

Most COVID-19 cases, even those caused by the new variant, are not fatal. And the government scientists were relying on studies that examined a small proportion of overall deaths.

The scientists also struggled to account for the presence of underlying illnesses in people infected with the new variant, and for whether the cases originated in nursing homes.

They were largely limited to studying people who had tested positive for the virus at community testing sites, rather than in hospitals. A quirk of hospital tests means that many cannot detect an altered gene that is often used as a proxy for the variant.

One of the studies that fed the new government findings also offered alarming, though very preliminary, signs that the elevated risk from the new variant held especially among Black and Asian Britons. That raised the notion that because the variant was more contagious, it could be hitting vulnerable populations harder.

Overall, the government scientists’ assessment that the variant was “likely” to be linked to a higher risk of death still only signaled 55% to 75% confidence in the finding.

“I think these results are possibly genuine, although there are still several limitations, and we need to understand what causes it,” said Muge Cevik, an infectious disease expert at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and a scientific adviser to the British government.

She added that “there are other explanations of this increased severity,” among them that the variant may “transmit disproportionately in settings with frailer people,” like nursing homes, because it is more transmissible.

The biggest danger of the new variant remains its propensity to spread: It is thought to be 30% to 50% more transmissible, although some scientists put the figure higher than that.

Since the first sample of the variant was collected in southeastern England in September, it has become the dominant source of infection in Britain. It accounts for more than 90% of cases in many parts of the country.

A stringent lockdown has recently driven down the number of new cases, but only after British hospitals became overwhelmed. An easing of the lockdown could trigger a sharp rise in cases caused by the variant.

Roughly 117,000 people have died from the coronavirus in Britain, half of them since the end of November as the variant spread.

“This has been quite catastrophic in terms of mortality,” said Ferguson, the public health researcher. “And that’s a result of both the increased transmissibility and the increased lethality.”

A recent study by the London School of Hygiene &amp; Tropical Medicine, one of those the government scientists relied on, offered rough estimates of the effect of the variant. It examined 3,382 deaths, 1,722 of them in people infected with the variant, and estimated that the risk of death was 58% higher among cases caused by the variant.

For men from 55 to 69 years old, for example, that raised the overall risk of death from to 0.9% from 0.6%. For women in that age group, it raised the overall risk of death to 0.3% from 0.2%.

“Calculating when we can lift restrictions has to be influenced by this,” Simon Clarke, an associate professor in cellular microbiology at the University of Reading, said of the new report. “It provides extra evidence that this variant is more lethal than the one we dealt with last time.”

He added that the findings vindicated the British government’s decision to raise an alarm about the variant in December and then publish evidence last month that it was potentially more lethal. Some outside scientists initially dismissed the warnings.

“They didn’t hold the data back,” Clarke said. “They were very upfront about how uncertain things were.”

British government scientists are increasingly finding the coronavirus variant first detected in Britain to be linked to a higher risk of death than other versions of the virus, a devastating trend that highlights the serious risks and considerable uncertainties of this new phase of the pandemic.

British government scientists are increasingly finding the coronavirus variant first detected in Britain to be linked to a higher risk of death than other versions of the virus, a devastating trend that highlights the serious risks and considerable uncertainties of this new phase of the pandemic. The scientists said last month that there was a “realistic possibility” that the variant was not only more contagious than others, but also more lethal. Now, they say in a new document that it is “likely” that the variant is linked to an increased risk of hospitalization and death. Also read| Common cold can't be termed as sign of coronavirus: AIIMS The British government did not publicly announce the updated findings, which are based on roughly twice as many studies as its earlier assessment and include more deaths from COVID-19 cases caused by the new variant, known as B.1.1.7. It posted the document on a government website Friday. The reasons for an elevated death rate are not entirely clear. Some evidence suggests that people infected with the variant may have higher viral loads, a feature that could not only make the virus more contagious but also potentially undermine the effectiveness of certain treatments. Also read| Single 'soda can' big enough to hold every Covid-19 particle in world: British mathematician But scientists are also trying to understand how much of the increased risk of death may stem from the propensity of the variant to spread very easily through settings like nursing homes, where people are already vulnerable. No matter the explanation, scientific advisers to the British government said Saturday, the new findings laid bare the dangers of countries easing restrictions as the variant takes hold. The variant has spread to at least 82 countries, and is being transmitted 35% to 45% more easily than other variants in the United States, scientists recently estimated. US officials have suggested that the variant could be the dominant source of infection there by March. Also read| Coronavirus: Kent variant will 'sweep the world', says top genome sequencing expert “The overall picture is one of something like a 40% to 60% increase in hospitalization risk and risk of death,” Neil Ferguson, a public health researcher and scientific adviser to the British government, said in an interview Saturday. Referring to the tight restrictions on socializing that are in effect across Britain, he said, “It reinforces the policy measures in place.” Most COVID-19 cases, even those caused by the new variant, are not fatal. And the government scientists were relying on studies that examined a small proportion of overall deaths. The scientists also struggled to account for the presence of underlying illnesses in people infected with the new variant, and for whether the cases originated in nursing homes. They were largely limited to studying people who had tested positive for the virus at community testing sites, rather than in hospitals. A quirk of hospital tests means that many cannot detect an altered gene that is often used as a proxy for the variant. One of the studies that fed the new government findings also offered alarming, though very preliminary, signs that the elevated risk from the new variant held especially among Black and Asian Britons. That raised the notion that because the variant was more contagious, it could be hitting vulnerable populations harder. Overall, the government scientists’ assessment that the variant was “likely” to be linked to a higher risk of death still only signaled 55% to 75% confidence in the finding. “I think these results are possibly genuine, although there are still several limitations, and we need to understand what causes it,” said Muge Cevik, an infectious disease expert at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and a scientific adviser to the British government. She added that “there are other explanations of this increased severity,” among them that the variant may “transmit disproportionately in settings with frailer people,” like nursing homes, because it is more transmissible. The biggest danger of the new variant remains its propensity to spread: It is thought to be 30% to 50% more transmissible, although some scientists put the figure higher than that. Since the first sample of the variant was collected in southeastern England in September, it has become the dominant source of infection in Britain. It accounts for more than 90% of cases in many parts of the country. A stringent lockdown has recently driven down the number of new cases, but only after British hospitals became overwhelmed. An easing of the lockdown could trigger a sharp rise in cases caused by the variant. Roughly 117,000 people have died from the coronavirus in Britain, half of them since the end of November as the variant spread. “This has been quite catastrophic in terms of mortality,” said Ferguson, the public health researcher. “And that’s a result of both the increased transmissibility and the increased lethality.” A recent study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, one of those the government scientists relied on, offered rough estimates of the effect of the variant. It examined 3,382 deaths, 1,722 of them in people infected with the variant, and estimated that the risk of death was 58% higher among cases caused by the variant. For men from 55 to 69 years old, for example, that raised the overall risk of death from to 0.9% from 0.6%. For women in that age group, it raised the overall risk of death to 0.3% from 0.2%. “Calculating when we can lift restrictions has to be influenced by this,” Simon Clarke, an associate professor in cellular microbiology at the University of Reading, said of the new report. “It provides extra evidence that this variant is more lethal than the one we dealt with last time.” He added that the findings vindicated the British government’s decision to raise an alarm about the variant in December and then publish evidence last month that it was potentially more lethal. Some outside scientists initially dismissed the warnings. “They didn’t hold the data back,” Clarke said. “They were very upfront about how uncertain things were.”

UK virus variant is probably deadlier, scientists say

The US firm Moderna has claimed their vaccine is effective against the new strain of coronavirus found in the UK and South Africa.

Recent lab reports have shown that Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine gives protection against the deadly virus' new variants too.

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This has come as welcoming news as several countries have reported multiple cases of the new variants, and many have also reported a surge in cases due to the new strains.

"The study showed no significant impact" on the level of neutralizing antibodies elicited against the UK variant, B.1.1.7.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/heres-how-long-modernas-vaccine-will-protect-you-from-coronavirus-356272" hreflang="en">Here's how long Moderna's vaccine will protect you from coronavirus</a>

A six-fold reduction in antibody levels was observed with the B.1.351 variant first seen in South Africa, but the levels are thought to remain above what is required for protection against COVID-19.

This news has also come at a time when the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been facing criticism for delaying the vaccine doses, especially in the EU countries. Pfizer has claimed that a minor delay has been caused in the delivery due to some construction issues in one of their facilities.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US firm Moderna has claimed their vaccine is effective against the new strain of coronavirus found in the UK and South Africa. Recent lab reports have shown that Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine gives protection against the deadly virus' new variants too.

The US firm Moderna has claimed their vaccine is effective against the new strain of coronavirus found in the UK and South Africa. Recent lab reports have shown that Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine gives protection against the deadly virus' new variants too. Also read| US study finds adverse reactions to Moderna vaccine are rare This has come as welcoming news as several countries have reported multiple cases of the new variants, and many have also reported a surge in cases due to the new strains. "The study showed no significant impact" on the level of neutralizing antibodies elicited against the UK variant, B.1.1.7. Also read: Here's how long Moderna's vaccine will protect you from coronavirus A six-fold reduction in antibody levels was observed with the B.1.351 variant first seen in South Africa, but the levels are thought to remain above what is required for protection against COVID-19. This news has also come at a time when the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been facing criticism for delaying the vaccine doses, especially in the EU countries. Pfizer has claimed that a minor delay has been caused in the delivery due to some construction issues in one of their facilities. (With inputs from agencies)

Moderna vaccine effective against UK and South Africa coronavirus variant

Ireland was one of the countries which reported cases of the new variant of coronavirus — first identified in the UK. The neighbouring country of the UK had also reported three new cases of the other strain of the coronavirus from South Africa.

A state of panic had taken over the country after the new strains were reported. However, the health experts in Ireland have now assured the locals that the new strains have successfully been contained in the country.

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Cases of the new variant of South Africa&nbsp;had been reported in Ireland on Friday after three people had travelled to Ireland from South Africa during the Christmas holidays.

"The UK variant is of more concern to us purely because of the amount of virus that’s on the island, and we know that it’s transmitting in the community,"&nbsp;Cillian De Gascun, the head of Ireland’s national virus laboratory told the local media. "The good thing about the South African variant is we know exactly where those cases came from, they have been contained, controlled and contact traced, and to the best of my knowledge there was no onward transmission."

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-goes-into-lockdown-again-as-new-coronavirus-strain-cases-surge-354484">&nbsp;England goes into lockdown again as new coronavirus strain cases surge</a>

Ireland had observed a surge in coronavirus cases which exceeded last year's first wave. Since the identification of the new variant in the UK, Ireland has reported nearly 25 per cent positive cases which have then further been tested. This has increased from a previous nine per cent rate two weeks before January 03.

Since the identification of the new strains, Ireland has announced another strict lockdown urging people to stay indoors to make sure another "tsunami" of coronavirus cases does not pile up due to the new variants.

Ireland hospitals have also urged the government to increase funding as the Intensive Care Units (ICU) are struggling to meet the rising demands with a surge in coronavirus cases.

Ireland was one of the countries which reported cases of the new variant of coronavirus — first identified in the UK. The neighbouring country of the UK had also reported three new cases of the other strain of the coronavirus from South Africa.

Ireland was one of the countries which reported cases of the new variant of coronavirus — first identified in the UK. The neighbouring country of the UK had also reported three new cases of the other strain of the coronavirus from South Africa. A state of panic had taken over the country after the new strains were reported. However, the health experts in Ireland have now assured the locals that the new strains have successfully been contained in the country. Also read| Cancer doctor in US voids bills worth over $600,000 Cases of the new variant of South Africa had been reported in Ireland on Friday after three people had travelled to Ireland from South Africa during the Christmas holidays. "The UK variant is of more concern to us purely because of the amount of virus that’s on the island, and we know that it’s transmitting in the community," Cillian De Gascun, the head of Ireland’s national virus laboratory told the local media. "The good thing about the South African variant is we know exactly where those cases came from, they have been contained, controlled and contact traced, and to the best of my knowledge there was no onward transmission." Also read| England goes into lockdown again as new coronavirus strain cases surge Ireland had observed a surge in coronavirus cases which exceeded last year's first wave. Since the identification of the new variant in the UK, Ireland has reported nearly 25 per cent positive cases which have then further been tested. This has increased from a previous nine per cent rate two weeks before January 03. Since the identification of the new strains, Ireland has announced another strict lockdown urging people to stay indoors to make sure another "tsunami" of coronavirus cases does not pile up due to the new variants. Ireland hospitals have also urged the government to increase funding as the Intensive Care Units (ICU) are struggling to meet the rising demands with a surge in coronavirus cases.

New strain of coronavirus under control: Ireland health experts

Iran, on Tuesday, joined the list of countries that have identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus. The new variant is the one which was first reported by the British government.&nbsp;

"Sadly, the first instance of the mutated British COVID-19 was detected in one of our compatriots who had arrived from England,"&nbsp;Health Minister Saeed Namaki said in a televised address.

Alsoread|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portuguese-nurse-dies-two-days-after-getting-the-pfizer-covid-vaccine-354526">Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine</a>

The patient, who has not been named, was admitted to a private hospital where the medical team detected that the virus was of the mutated type. "Our extensive testing showed (the virus) was of the mutated type," Namaki said.

While the patient is being treated under expert supervision, no traces of the virus were found in&nbsp;their family and acquaintances. This has been possible only because the patient had self-isolated upon arrival in the country.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portuguese-nurse-dies-two-days-after-getting-the-pfizer-covid-vaccine-354526">Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine</a>

This report has come in at a time when the country had already been struggling to report the right figures of coronavirus cases as several officials, including Namaki, believe the actual figures would be higher than what is being reported. However, Namaki believes this is&nbsp;mostly due to testing protocols.

The new strain of the coronavirus has been reported to spread faster than the original variant., and has now spread in various other countries. many countries across the globe have also closed their international borders for all incoming passengers from the UK.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-poised-for-state-of-emergency-as-covid-19-cases-soar-354446">WATCH|</a>

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Iran recorded&nbsp;6,113 new coronavirus cases and 98 new deaths on Tuesday. The record-low number has been attributed to the partial lockdown guidelines which are still in place, weeks after its announcement.

Iran, on Tuesday, joined the list of countries that have identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus. The new variant is the one which was first reported by the British government.

Iran, on Tuesday, joined the list of countries that have identified cases of the new variant of coronavirus. The new variant is the one which was first reported by the British government. "Sadly, the first instance of the mutated British COVID-19 was detected in one of our compatriots who had arrived from England," Health Minister Saeed Namaki said in a televised address. Alsoread| Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine The patient, who has not been named, was admitted to a private hospital where the medical team detected that the virus was of the mutated type. "Our extensive testing showed (the virus) was of the mutated type," Namaki said. While the patient is being treated under expert supervision, no traces of the virus were found in their family and acquaintances. This has been possible only because the patient had self-isolated upon arrival in the country. Also read| Portuguese nurse dies two days after getting the Pfizer Covid vaccine This report has come in at a time when the country had already been struggling to report the right figures of coronavirus cases as several officials, including Namaki, believe the actual figures would be higher than what is being reported. However, Namaki believes this is mostly due to testing protocols. The new strain of the coronavirus has been reported to spread faster than the original variant., and has now spread in various other countries. many countries across the globe have also closed their international borders for all incoming passengers from the UK. WATCH| × Iran recorded 6,113 new coronavirus cases and 98 new deaths on Tuesday. The record-low number has been attributed to the partial lockdown guidelines which are still in place, weeks after its announcement.

Iran reports first case of new variant of Coronavirus

Amid rising coronavirus cases, the United Kingdom has decided to reactivate the&nbsp;emergency hospitals which were&nbsp;established at the start of the pandemic. The government has also decided to shut primary schools amid rise in new variant of the virus.

A day after entering the new year, the situation in the Uk stays as grim as the pandemic year. Considering the grave situation, the Boris Johnson-led government has decided to reinstate the emergency hospitals to stay prepared for the expected rush of cases in the next few days.

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The announcement came a few days after the popular&nbsp;Royal London Hospital informed its staff, through an email, that the hospital was now entering the "disaster medicine mode", meaning it will not be able to provide&nbsp;high standard critical care.

It was also announced that all primary schools in the capital city&nbsp;London will return to online teaching, and cease all offline classes, amid fears of rising infection rate of the new variant of coronavirus — which has been proved to be 70 per cent more infectious.

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"Children's education and wellbeing remains a national priority," said&nbsp;Education Secretary Gavin Williamson. "Moving further parts of London to remote education really is a last resort and a temporary solution."

The decision has come back as a shock as an opposing announcement was made on schools reopening a few days ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-pandemic-politics-put-drug-industrys-revenues-at-risk-353967">WATCH|</a>

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This announcement has been justified by the government by releasing the official number of infections and deaths caused by the new strain of coronavirus, which is more than 74,000 in total. On Friday, the UK recorded&nbsp;53,285 new coronavirus cases and 613 deaths.

"In anticipation of pressures rising from the spread of the new variant infection, the NHS London Region were asked to ensure the Nightingale was reactivated and ready to admit patients should it be needed,"&nbsp;National Health Service (NHS) spokesperson said.&nbsp;

The hospital authorities have also warned the government about shortage of nurses in the hospitals, especially the COVID wards.

Amid rising coronavirus cases, the United Kingdom has decided to reactivate the emergency hospitals which were established at the start of the pandemic. The government has also decided to shut primary schools amid rise in new variant of the virus.

Amid rising coronavirus cases, the United Kingdom has decided to reactivate the emergency hospitals which were established at the start of the pandemic. The government has also decided to shut primary schools amid rise in new variant of the virus. A day after entering the new year, the situation in the Uk stays as grim as the pandemic year. Considering the grave situation, the Boris Johnson-led government has decided to reinstate the emergency hospitals to stay prepared for the expected rush of cases in the next few days. Also read| 'I am French', says UK PM Boris Johnson's father as he seeks France citizenship The announcement came a few days after the popular Royal London Hospital informed its staff, through an email, that the hospital was now entering the "disaster medicine mode", meaning it will not be able to provide high standard critical care. It was also announced that all primary schools in the capital city London will return to online teaching, and cease all offline classes, amid fears of rising infection rate of the new variant of coronavirus — which has been proved to be 70 per cent more infectious. Also read| India to resume UK flights from January 8 "Children's education and wellbeing remains a national priority," said Education Secretary Gavin Williamson. "Moving further parts of London to remote education really is a last resort and a temporary solution." The decision has come back as a shock as an opposing announcement was made on schools reopening a few days ago. WATCH| × This announcement has been justified by the government by releasing the official number of infections and deaths caused by the new strain of coronavirus, which is more than 74,000 in total. On Friday, the UK recorded 53,285 new coronavirus cases and 613 deaths. "In anticipation of pressures rising from the spread of the new variant infection, the NHS London Region were asked to ensure the Nightingale was reactivated and ready to admit patients should it be needed," National Health Service (NHS) spokesperson said. The hospital authorities have also warned the government about shortage of nurses in the hospitals, especially the COVID wards.

UK reinstates all COVID-19 emergency hospitals amid fears of rising cases

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier,&nbsp;Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims.

"At present, there is no evidence that the 501.V2 (variant) is more transmissible than the United Kingdom variant — as suggested by the British Health Secretary," said South Africa's Mkhize in a statement.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uk-south-africa-another-coronavirus-variant-emerges-in-nigeria-352189">After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria</a>

The statement has come after the UK imposed travel restrictions from all incoming passengers from South Africa, citing the new coronavirus variant as a reason.

Hancock had issued travel restrictions&nbsp;on Wednesday and had claimed the variant from South Africa was "highly concerning, because it is yet more transmissible, and it appears to have mutated further".&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Mkhize has denied any such claims and said Hancock's statements "have created a perception that the variant in SA has been a major factor in the second wave in the UK", which he says is not true.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-600000-people-in-britain-get-first-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-jab-352187">Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab</a>

"This is not correct," he said. "There is also no evidence that (it) causes more severe disease or increased mortality than the UK variant or any variant that has been sequenced around the world."

To further prove his point, he also pointed out that the new variant found in the UK appeared in Kent county near the month of September whereas the South African once developed around a month after that.

He also said "banning travel between UK and SA is an unfortunate decision" as "the risks of travel bans may outweigh the benefits".

As of now, a few other European countries, too, have restricted incoming passengers from South Africa, in addition to the UK passengers.

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier, Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims.

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier, Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims. "At present, there is no evidence that the 501.V2 (variant) is more transmissible than the United Kingdom variant — as suggested by the British Health Secretary," said South Africa's Mkhize in a statement. Also read| After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria The statement has come after the UK imposed travel restrictions from all incoming passengers from South Africa, citing the new coronavirus variant as a reason. Hancock had issued travel restrictions on Wednesday and had claimed the variant from South Africa was "highly concerning, because it is yet more transmissible, and it appears to have mutated further". However, Mkhize has denied any such claims and said Hancock's statements "have created a perception that the variant in SA has been a major factor in the second wave in the UK", which he says is not true. Also read| Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab "This is not correct," he said. "There is also no evidence that (it) causes more severe disease or increased mortality than the UK variant or any variant that has been sequenced around the world." To further prove his point, he also pointed out that the new variant found in the UK appeared in Kent county near the month of September whereas the South African once developed around a month after that. He also said "banning travel between UK and SA is an unfortunate decision" as "the risks of travel bans may outweigh the benefits". As of now, a few other European countries, too, have restricted incoming passengers from South Africa, in addition to the UK passengers.

'Not true': South Africa denies new variant is deadlier than UK's strain

The Union Health Ministry has issued standard operating procedure (SOP) for epidemiological surveillance and response in the context of a new variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus detected in the United Kingdom (UK) in which it has stated that all international travellers who have travelled from or transited through the UK in the past four weeks will be required to declare their travel history of past 14 days and fill up the Self Declaration form to be screened for COVID-19.

"All international travellers who have travelled from or transited through the UK in the past four weeks will be required to declare as per existing procedure, their travel history (of past 14 days) and fill up the Self Declaration form to be screened for COVID-19," the Health Ministry stated in the SOPs issued for actions to be taken at international airports.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-strain-of-coronavirus-not-seen-in-india-so-far-government-351602" hreflang="en">New strain of coronavirus not seen in India so far: Government</a>

The SOPs further describe the activities to be undertaken at the point of entry and in the community for all international passengers who have travelled from or transited through the UK in the past four weeks (from November 25 to December 23, 2020). Any reference to testing in this SOP implies RT-PCR testing only.

The Health Ministry has issued SOPs separately for actions to be taken at international airports, Bureau of Immigration (BOI) and for surveillance by state governments/Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).

The Health Ministry said that the respective state governments shall ensure that all passengers travelling from or transiting through airports in the UK and disembarking in India would be subjected to RT-PCR test on arrival. In the case of a positive sample, it is recommended that spike gene-based RT-PCR test should also be performed by an appropriate laboratory.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-biotech-recruits-13000-volunteers-for-phase-iii-trials-of-covaxin-351568" hreflang="en">Bharat Biotech recruits 13,000 volunteers for Phase III trials of Covaxin</a>

It further said that passengers testing positive shall be isolated in an institutional facility in a separate (isolation) unit coordinated by the respective state health authorities. They would earmark specific facilities for such isolation and treatment. necessary action to send the samples to National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune or any other appropriate lab for genomic sequencing will be initiated at the facility level.

The persons testing negative will be advised home quarantine.

Informing about the new strain of coronavirus found in the UK, the Health Ministry briefed: "A new variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus [variant under investigation (VUI)-20212/01] has been reported by the Government of United Kingdom (UK) to World Health Organization (WHO). This variant is estimated by the European Center for Disease Control (ECDC) to be more transmissible and affecting the younger population."

"This variant is defined by a set of 17 changes or mutations. One of the most significant is an N501Y mutation in the spike protein that the virus uses to bind to the human ACE2 receptor. Changes in this part of the spike protein may result in the virus becoming more infectious and spreading more easily between people," it added.

Earlier, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Monday had announced in the light of the new strain of coronavirus found in the UK that the flights from and to the UK stand temporarily suspended from December 23 to 31, 2020 or till further orders.

The government has also issued a direction that all the passengers coming from the UK during the intervening period from December 21 to 23, 2020 will have to undergo RT-PCR tests at the airports of arrival.&nbsp;

The Union Health Ministry has issued standard operating procedure (SOP) for epidemiological surveillance and response in the context of a new variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus detected in the United Kingdom (UK) in which it has stated that all international travellers who have travelled from or transited through the UK in the past four weeks will be required to declare their travel history of past 14 days and fill up the Self Declaration form to be screened for COVID-19.

The Union Health Ministry has issued standard operating procedure (SOP) for epidemiological surveillance and response in the context of a new variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus detected in the United Kingdom (UK) in which it has stated that all international travellers who have travelled from or transited through the UK in the past four weeks will be required to declare their travel history of past 14 days and fill up the Self Declaration form to be screened for COVID-19. "All international travellers who have travelled from or transited through the UK in the past four weeks will be required to declare as per existing procedure, their travel history (of past 14 days) and fill up the Self Declaration form to be screened for COVID-19," the Health Ministry stated in the SOPs issued for actions to be taken at international airports. Also read| New strain of coronavirus not seen in India so far: Government The SOPs further describe the activities to be undertaken at the point of entry and in the community for all international passengers who have travelled from or transited through the UK in the past four weeks (from November 25 to December 23, 2020). Any reference to testing in this SOP implies RT-PCR testing only. The Health Ministry has issued SOPs separately for actions to be taken at international airports, Bureau of Immigration (BOI) and for surveillance by state governments/Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP). The Health Ministry said that the respective state governments shall ensure that all passengers travelling from or transiting through airports in the UK and disembarking in India would be subjected to RT-PCR test on arrival. In the case of a positive sample, it is recommended that spike gene-based RT-PCR test should also be performed by an appropriate laboratory. Also read| Bharat Biotech recruits 13,000 volunteers for Phase III trials of Covaxin It further said that passengers testing positive shall be isolated in an institutional facility in a separate (isolation) unit coordinated by the respective state health authorities. They would earmark specific facilities for such isolation and treatment. necessary action to send the samples to National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune or any other appropriate lab for genomic sequencing will be initiated at the facility level. The persons testing negative will be advised home quarantine. Informing about the new strain of coronavirus found in the UK, the Health Ministry briefed: "A new variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus [variant under investigation (VUI)-20212/01] has been reported by the Government of United Kingdom (UK) to World Health Organization (WHO). This variant is estimated by the European Center for Disease Control (ECDC) to be more transmissible and affecting the younger population." "This variant is defined by a set of 17 changes or mutations. One of the most significant is an N501Y mutation in the spike protein that the virus uses to bind to the human ACE2 receptor. Changes in this part of the spike protein may result in the virus becoming more infectious and spreading more easily between people," it added. Earlier, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Monday had announced in the light of the new strain of coronavirus found in the UK that the flights from and to the UK stand temporarily suspended from December 23 to 31, 2020 or till further orders. The government has also issued a direction that all the passengers coming from the UK during the intervening period from December 21 to 23, 2020 will have to undergo RT-PCR tests at the airports of arrival.

Passengers who transited through UK in last 4 weeks to declare travel history of past 14 days: Centre

Amid rising concerns over the discovery of a new strain of coronavirus in the UK, seven passengers (5 in New Delhi and 2 in Kolkata)&nbsp;of two UK to India flights have tested positive for coronavirus, officials said on Tuesday. 
 
"Five out of 266 passengers and crew members of a flight which arrived at Delhi airport from London last night have tested positive for COVID-19. Their samples have been sent to NCDC for research and they have been sent to the care centre," said a Nodal officer for COVID-19. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-flights-from-uk-over-new-covid-19-variant-spread-351346">Also read | India bans flights from UK over new Covid-19 variant spread</a> 
 
"Two passengers from the UK were Found positive for COVID-19 after they arrived at the Kolkata airport here," health department officials said.

A flight carrying 222 passengers from the UK arrived at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) airport on Sunday night, they said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-finds-patient-with-new-coronavirus-strain-which-uk-said-is-out-of-control-351333">Also read | Italy finds patient with new coronavirus strain which UK said is 'out of control'</a>

"Twenty-five passengers did not have COVID reports with them. So they were taken to a nearby quarantine centre, and their coronavirus tests were conducted. Two tested positive," the West Bengal Health and Family Welfare Department official said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-was-out-of-control-in-uk-lockdown-can-be-extended-health-secretary-351194">Also read | New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK; lockdown can be extended: Health Secretary</a> 
 
According to COVID-19 protocols, all international passengers coming to India will have to remain in isolation for seven days.

Moreover, passengers coming from the UK through flights till Tuesday midnight would be tested for COVID-19 on arrival at airports "as a measure of abundant precaution", it added.

This comes as flight services from the UK to India have been suspended till December 31 over the spread of a new strain of coronavirus in London and England. 
 
However, India has not yet detected the new strain of coronavirus that has spread to some parts of the UK. Virology experts who have been performing genome sequencing have confirmed saying that they have not come across this particular strain as of now. 
 
Furthermore, scores of passengers arriving from the UK in Mumbai on Tuesday morning have been sent for institutional quarantine in the wake of the new virus strain. 
 
On December 20, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had informed the public that a new variant of the COVID-19 virus has been found in the UK.

"Given the early evidence we have on this new variant of the virus, and the potential risk it poses, it is with a heavy heart that I must tell you we cannot continue with Christmas as planned," he had tweeted.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Amid rising concerns over the discovery of a new strain of coronavirus in the UK, seven passengers (5 in New Delhi and 2 in Kolkata) of two UK to India flights have tested positive for coronavirus, officials said on Tuesday.

Amid rising concerns over the discovery of a new strain of coronavirus in the UK, seven passengers (5 in New Delhi and 2 in Kolkata) of two UK to India flights have tested positive for coronavirus, officials said on Tuesday. "Five out of 266 passengers and crew members of a flight which arrived at Delhi airport from London last night have tested positive for COVID-19. Their samples have been sent to NCDC for research and they have been sent to the care centre," said a Nodal officer for COVID-19. Also read | India bans flights from UK over new Covid-19 variant spread "Two passengers from the UK were Found positive for COVID-19 after they arrived at the Kolkata airport here," health department officials said. A flight carrying 222 passengers from the UK arrived at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) airport on Sunday night, they said. Also read | Italy finds patient with new coronavirus strain which UK said is 'out of control' "Twenty-five passengers did not have COVID reports with them. So they were taken to a nearby quarantine centre, and their coronavirus tests were conducted. Two tested positive," the West Bengal Health and Family Welfare Department official said. Also read | New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK; lockdown can be extended: Health Secretary According to COVID-19 protocols, all international passengers coming to India will have to remain in isolation for seven days. Moreover, passengers coming from the UK through flights till Tuesday midnight would be tested for COVID-19 on arrival at airports "as a measure of abundant precaution", it added. This comes as flight services from the UK to India have been suspended till December 31 over the spread of a new strain of coronavirus in London and England. However, India has not yet detected the new strain of coronavirus that has spread to some parts of the UK. Virology experts who have been performing genome sequencing have confirmed saying that they have not come across this particular strain as of now. Furthermore, scores of passengers arriving from the UK in Mumbai on Tuesday morning have been sent for institutional quarantine in the wake of the new virus strain. On December 20, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had informed the public that a new variant of the COVID-19 virus has been found in the UK. "Given the early evidence we have on this new variant of the virus, and the potential risk it poses, it is with a heavy heart that I must tell you we cannot continue with Christmas as planned," he had tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid new virus strain scare, 7 flyers from UK test Covid-19 positive at Delhi, Kolkata Airports

The Government of India has called an urgent meeting of its Joint Monitoring Group of Health Ministery on Monday to discuss the emergence of a mutated variant of the coronavirus in the UK, which has led to a surge in the infection rate there. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-was-out-of-control-in-uk-lockdown-can-be-extended-health-secretary-351194">Also read | New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK; lockdown can be extended: Health Secretary</a>

A number of European countries have banned flights from the UK as the British government warned that the potent new strain of the virus was "out of control" and imposed a stringent new stay-at-home lockdown from Sunday. 
 
Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-countries-mull-ban-on-flights-from-uk-over-new-coronavirus-variant-351191">European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant</a>

"The Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) chaired by the Director-General of Health Services (DGHS) will hold a meeting on Monday morning to discuss the issue of the mutated variant of the coronavirus reported from the UK. WHO's India representative Dr Roderico H Ofrin, who is also a member of the JMG, is likely to participate in the meeting," a source said. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/a-new-coronavirus-strain-is-spreading-more-quickly-351032" hreflang="en">A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly</a>

A surge in the infection rate caused by the new variant of the coronavirus has led to millions entering a stringent new stay-at-home lockdown in the UK from Sunday, with non-essential shops and businesses now closed.

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock was the first one to announce the identification of a new variant of coronavirus. Now, as his government has announced a Tier 4 lockdown in the country, Hancock has justified the move by revealing the extent of danger the new variant poses.

Talking about the new and stricter lockdown in south-eastern England during the Christmas time, Hancock said the decision was needed to control the worsening situation as the new variant was "out of control".

Patting his own back, Hancock defended the new 'stay at home' orders. "We acted very quickly and decisively," he said. "Unfortunately the new strain was out of control. We have got to get it under control."

While many leaders and scientists have been assuring the locals that the new variant can be easily handled, Hancock revealed the situation was "deadly serious" and people should stay at home to make sure the situation does not get any worse than this.

"It's going to be very difficult to keep it under control until we have the vaccine rolled out," he said. "This is what we face over the next couple of months."

Hancock's statement comes a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson imposed a Tier 4 lockdown in the capital city London and the rest of the country to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — especially since the new variant resulted in a surge of cases. The lockdown was not appreciated by the locals as it hampers their Christmas celebrations.

Johnson also reported that the new variant is 70 per cent more transmissible. However, whether or not is deadlier than the previous one is not yet clear.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Government of India has called an urgent meeting of its Joint Monitoring Group of Health Ministery on Monday to discuss the emergence of a mutated variant of the coronavirus in the UK, which has led to a surge in the infection rate there.

The Government of India has called an urgent meeting of its Joint Monitoring Group of Health Ministery on Monday to discuss the emergence of a mutated variant of the coronavirus in the UK, which has led to a surge in the infection rate there. Also read | New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK; lockdown can be extended: Health Secretary A number of European countries have banned flights from the UK as the British government warned that the potent new strain of the virus was "out of control" and imposed a stringent new stay-at-home lockdown from Sunday. Also read| European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant "The Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) chaired by the Director-General of Health Services (DGHS) will hold a meeting on Monday morning to discuss the issue of the mutated variant of the coronavirus reported from the UK. WHO's India representative Dr Roderico H Ofrin, who is also a member of the JMG, is likely to participate in the meeting," a source said. Also read: A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly A surge in the infection rate caused by the new variant of the coronavirus has led to millions entering a stringent new stay-at-home lockdown in the UK from Sunday, with non-essential shops and businesses now closed. British Health Secretary Matt Hancock was the first one to announce the identification of a new variant of coronavirus. Now, as his government has announced a Tier 4 lockdown in the country, Hancock has justified the move by revealing the extent of danger the new variant poses. Talking about the new and stricter lockdown in south-eastern England during the Christmas time, Hancock said the decision was needed to control the worsening situation as the new variant was "out of control". Patting his own back, Hancock defended the new 'stay at home' orders. "We acted very quickly and decisively," he said. "Unfortunately the new strain was out of control. We have got to get it under control." While many leaders and scientists have been assuring the locals that the new variant can be easily handled, Hancock revealed the situation was "deadly serious" and people should stay at home to make sure the situation does not get any worse than this. "It's going to be very difficult to keep it under control until we have the vaccine rolled out," he said. "This is what we face over the next couple of months." Hancock's statement comes a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson imposed a Tier 4 lockdown in the capital city London and the rest of the country to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — especially since the new variant resulted in a surge of cases. The lockdown was not appreciated by the locals as it hampers their Christmas celebrations. Johnson also reported that the new variant is 70 per cent more transmissible. However, whether or not is deadlier than the previous one is not yet clear. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian health ministry calls urgent meet after new mutant coronavirus spreads rapidly in UK

Following a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases after a new strain of the deadly virus was identified, the UK government has issued a 'do not travel' advisory for the locals to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Welwyn Hatfield MP and Secretary of State for Transport, Rt Hon Grant Shapps, took to Twitter to urge people to stay at home and cancel all travel plans, until and unless it is situation of emergency.

The decision has been taken after the French government closed their borders for all incoming travellers from the UK, fearing a spread of the new strain of coronavirus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-uk-government-issues-advisory-do-not-travel-unless-essential-351421">WATCH|</a>

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"Following the French Government's announcement it will not accept any passengers arriving from the UK for the next 48hrs, we're asking the public &amp; particularly hauliers not to travel to Kent ports or other routes to France,"&nbsp;Shapps said. "We expect significant disruption in the area."

In addition to France, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-that-have-blocked-travel-from-uk-after-the-emergence-of-new-strain-of-coronavirus-351376">several other have closed their borders to all incoming flights from the UK</a>. As of now, South Africa, Italy and Australia, too, have reported a case each of the new variant of coronavirus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-works-against-new-variant-too-eu-approves-pfizer-biontech-coronavirus-vaccine-351418" hreflang="en">'It works against new variant too': EU approves Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine</a>

Shapps also assured locals they will be entitled to a full refund if their tickets were booked after the announcement of a nationwide lockdown was made by the UK's Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

"If you booked a train Steam locomotive or coach Oncoming bus journey for the 23rd - 27th travel window (after it was announced), I've made sure you’re entitled to a full refund. No-one should be left out of pocket for doing the right thing. Please speak to your operators to find out how to claim," he tweeted.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;France’s Minister of Transport Jean-Baptiste Djebbari has assured people his government will soon come up with a solution to help travellers cross borders without transmitting the deadly virus. "In the coming hours, at a European level, we will put a solid health protocol in place so that the flow from the United Kingdom can resume," he said.

The&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron, who himself is battling COVID-19 right now, told in his cabinet meeting that the government is "looking at systematic testing upon arrival".

Following a surge in coronavirus cases after a new strain of the deadly virus was identified, the UK government has issued a 'do not travel' advisory for the locals to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Following a surge in coronavirus cases after a new strain of the deadly virus was identified, the UK government has issued a 'do not travel' advisory for the locals to contain the spread of COVID-19. Welwyn Hatfield MP and Secretary of State for Transport, Rt Hon Grant Shapps, took to Twitter to urge people to stay at home and cancel all travel plans, until and unless it is situation of emergency. The decision has been taken after the French government closed their borders for all incoming travellers from the UK, fearing a spread of the new strain of coronavirus. WATCH| × "Following the French Government's announcement it will not accept any passengers arriving from the UK for the next 48hrs, we're asking the public & particularly hauliers not to travel to Kent ports or other routes to France," Shapps said. "We expect significant disruption in the area." In addition to France, several other have closed their borders to all incoming flights from the UK. As of now, South Africa, Italy and Australia, too, have reported a case each of the new variant of coronavirus. Also read| 'It works against new variant too': EU approves Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine Shapps also assured locals they will be entitled to a full refund if their tickets were booked after the announcement of a nationwide lockdown was made by the UK's Prime Minister Boris Johnson. "If you booked a train Steam locomotive or coach Oncoming bus journey for the 23rd - 27th travel window (after it was announced), I've made sure you’re entitled to a full refund. No-one should be left out of pocket for doing the right thing. Please speak to your operators to find out how to claim," he tweeted. Meanwhile, France’s Minister of Transport Jean-Baptiste Djebbari has assured people his government will soon come up with a solution to help travellers cross borders without transmitting the deadly virus. "In the coming hours, at a European level, we will put a solid health protocol in place so that the flow from the United Kingdom can resume," he said. The French President Emmanuel Macron, who himself is battling COVID-19 right now, told in his cabinet meeting that the government is "looking at systematic testing upon arrival".

UK government issues 'do not travel' advisory after new strain of coronavirus

Government of India on Monday announced that it will temporarily ban flights from the UK to the country after the emergence of a new and highly infectious strain of the coronavirus in Britain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-finds-patient-with-new-coronavirus-strain-which-uk-said-is-out-of-control-351333">Also read | Italy finds patient with new coronavirus strain which UK said is 'out of control'</a> 
 
"Considering the prevailing situation in the UK, Indian govt has decided that all flights originating from the UK to India shall be temporarily suspended till 11:59 pm, 31st December. This suspension to start w.e.f. 11.59 pm, 22nd December," the Ministry of Civil Aviation tweeted. 
&nbsp;

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As a measure of abundant precaution, passengers arriving from UK in all transit flights (flights that have taken off or flights which are reaching India before 22nd Dec at 23.59 hrs) should be subject to mandatory RT-PCR test on arrival at the airports concerned.
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI/status/1340956288688168961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On December 19, the British government had alerted the World Health Organisation about a new variant of the coronavirus that the Prime Minister said maybe “up to 70 per cent” more transmissible than earlier strains.

The new strain – now officially named VUI-202012/01 – showed a “substantial increase in transmissibility”.&nbsp;

Over 60 per cent of new infections in London were now accounted for by the new variant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-suspends-all-flight-from-the-uk-as-concerns-grow-over-new-virus-strain-351363">WATCH|</a>

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Several countries have banned flights from the UK over fears about a new coronavirus variant that has forced millions of people in Britain to cancel their Christmas plans.

WHO has also advised all its members in Europe to step up measures against coronavirus.

(With inputs from agencies)

Government of India on Monday announced that it will temporarily ban flights from the UK to the country after the emergence of a new and highly infectious strain of the coronavirus in Britain.

Government of India on Monday announced that it will temporarily ban flights from the UK to the country after the emergence of a new and highly infectious strain of the coronavirus in Britain. Also read | Italy finds patient with new coronavirus strain which UK said is 'out of control' "Considering the prevailing situation in the UK, Indian govt has decided that all flights originating from the UK to India shall be temporarily suspended till 11:59 pm, 31st December. This suspension to start w.e.f. 11.59 pm, 22nd December," the Ministry of Civil Aviation tweeted. As a measure of abundant precaution, passengers arriving from UK in all transit flights (flights that have taken off or flights which are reaching India before 22nd Dec at 23.59 hrs) should be subject to mandatory RT-PCR test on arrival at the airports concerned. — MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) December 21, 2020 × On December 19, the British government had alerted the World Health Organisation about a new variant of the coronavirus that the Prime Minister said maybe “up to 70 per cent” more transmissible than earlier strains. The new strain – now officially named VUI-202012/01 – showed a “substantial increase in transmissibility”. Over 60 per cent of new infections in London were now accounted for by the new variant. WATCH| × Several countries have banned flights from the UK over fears about a new coronavirus variant that has forced millions of people in Britain to cancel their Christmas plans. WHO has also advised all its members in Europe to step up measures against coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

India bans flights from UK over new Covid-19 variant spread

A Russian scientist who was working on the deadly coronavirus vaccine has been found dead in suspicious circumstances in St Petersburg.&nbsp;

Alexander ‘Sasha’ Kagansky, 45, was reported to have fallen in his underwear from a 14th-floor window of a high rise flat - and was allegedly found with stab wounds.

The scientist also suffered a stab wound, police said.

Police believe there was a scuffle before Kagansky fell from the building, reports said.

Russian police say they are investigating Kagansky’s death as a possible homicide and questioning a 45-year-old man as a potential suspect, e2news.com said.

The biologist had close links to Edinburgh University and had been working in the city for 13 years until at least 2017.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian scientist who was working on the deadly coronavirus vaccine has been found dead in suspicious circumstances in St Petersburg. Alexander ‘Sasha’ Kagansky, 45, was reported to have fallen in his underwear from a 14th-floor window of a high rise flat - and was allegedly found with stab wounds.

A Russian scientist who was working on the deadly coronavirus vaccine has been found dead in suspicious circumstances in St Petersburg. Alexander ‘Sasha’ Kagansky, 45, was reported to have fallen in his underwear from a 14th-floor window of a high rise flat - and was allegedly found with stab wounds. The scientist also suffered a stab wound, police said. Police believe there was a scuffle before Kagansky fell from the building, reports said. Russian police say they are investigating Kagansky’s death as a possible homicide and questioning a 45-year-old man as a potential suspect, e2news.com said. The biologist had close links to Edinburgh University and had been working in the city for 13 years until at least 2017. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian scientist working on Covid vaccine found dead with stab wounds

A coronavirus patient in Italy found with the same new strain of the deadly virus which the UK said is "out of control" and behind a severe surge in infections London and southeast England. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-was-out-of-control-in-uk-lockdown-can-be-extended-health-secretary-351194">Also read | New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK; lockdown can be extended: Health Secretary</a>

The patient and his partner had been in the UK and returned on a flight at Rome's Fiumicino airport earlier this week, the Italian health ministry said. 
 
Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-countries-mull-ban-on-flights-from-uk-over-new-coronavirus-variant-351191">European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant</a>

"The patient and their partner returned from the United Kingdom several days ago, landing in Rome`s Fiumicino airport. They are now isolated and have observed, together with family and close contacts, all procedures proscribed by the health authorities," Sputnik quoted the ministry`s statement. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/a-new-coronavirus-strain-is-spreading-more-quickly-351032" hreflang="en">A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly</a>

According to the communication, the genome of the UK coronavirus strain has been established by experts of the Celio military hospital in Rome. The new strain of Covid-19 is "out of control", said UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock on Sunday. 
&nbsp;

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"The only way you can do that is by restricting social contacts and essentially, especially in Tier 4 areas, everybody needs to behave as if they may well have the virus and that is the way that we can get it under control and keep people safe," he added. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-what-we-know-about-the-uks-new-covid-strain-351327">Also read | Coronavirus: What we know about the UK's new Covid strain</a> 
 
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday announced new tier-4 Covid-19 restrictions in parts of England, including London, due to the rapid spread of a new variant of coronavirus, limiting the celebrations.

A growing number of countries on Sunday halted flights from the UK following the discovery of a new variant of Covid-19, which is said to spread faster than other versions of the virus.

According to CNN, Italy Foreign Affairs Minister Luigi Di Malo on Sunday informed that the country will also suspend flights to and from the UK citing the new strain of the coronavirus, although he did not provide more details.

CNN reported that the Netherlands government is banning all passenger flights coming from the UK from Sunday morning until the New Year in order to minimise the risk of the new strain from spreading in the country as much as possible, according to a press release.

(With inputs from agencies)

A coronavirus patient in Italy found with the same new strain of the deadly virus which the UK said is "out of control" and behind a severe surge in infections London and southeast England.

A coronavirus patient in Italy found with the same new strain of the deadly virus which the UK said is "out of control" and behind a severe surge in infections London and southeast England. Also read | New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK; lockdown can be extended: Health Secretary The patient and his partner had been in the UK and returned on a flight at Rome's Fiumicino airport earlier this week, the Italian health ministry said. Also read| European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant "The patient and their partner returned from the United Kingdom several days ago, landing in Rome`s Fiumicino airport. They are now isolated and have observed, together with family and close contacts, all procedures proscribed by the health authorities," Sputnik quoted the ministry`s statement. Also read: A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly According to the communication, the genome of the UK coronavirus strain has been established by experts of the Celio military hospital in Rome. The new strain of Covid-19 is "out of control", said UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock on Sunday. "The only way you can do that is by restricting social contacts and essentially, especially in Tier 4 areas, everybody needs to behave as if they may well have the virus and that is the way that we can get it under control and keep people safe," he added. Also read | Coronavirus: What we know about the UK's new Covid strain UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday announced new tier-4 Covid-19 restrictions in parts of England, including London, due to the rapid spread of a new variant of coronavirus, limiting the celebrations. A growing number of countries on Sunday halted flights from the UK following the discovery of a new variant of Covid-19, which is said to spread faster than other versions of the virus. According to CNN, Italy Foreign Affairs Minister Luigi Di Malo on Sunday informed that the country will also suspend flights to and from the UK citing the new strain of the coronavirus, although he did not provide more details. CNN reported that the Netherlands government is banning all passenger flights coming from the UK from Sunday morning until the New Year in order to minimise the risk of the new strain from spreading in the country as much as possible, according to a press release. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy finds patient with new coronavirus strain which UK said is 'out of control'

The British government on December 19 alerted the World Health Organisation about a new variant of the coronavirus that the Prime Minister said maybe “up to 70 per cent” more transmissible than earlier strains.

The new strain – now officially named VUI-202012/01 – showed a “substantial increase in transmissibility”.&nbsp;

Over 60 per cent of new infections in London were now accounted for by the new variant.

However, "there's no evidence to suggest it is more lethal or causes more severe illness," or that vaccines would be less effective against it, he said.

Several countries have banned flights from the UK over fears about a new coronavirus variant that has forced millions of people in Britain to cancel their Christmas plans.

The new strain first occurred in September in the South East London and by November, it accounted for 28 per cent of all new Covid infections in the capital, rising to 62 per cent by December 9.

According to the reports, it has also spread to at least three other countries. 
According to the WHO, apart from UK, nine cases of the new strain have been reported in Denmark, as well as one case in the Netherlands and another in Australia.

WHO has also advised all its members in Europe to step up measures against coronavirus.&nbsp;

In response to the surge, Boris Johnson announced a stay at home order for the British capital and southeast England, until at least December 30, to slow the spread of the disease.

(With inputs from agencies)

The British government on December 19 alerted the World Health Organisation about a new variant of the coronavirus that the Prime Minister said maybe “up to 70 per cent” more transmissible than earlier strains.

The British government on December 19 alerted the World Health Organisation about a new variant of the coronavirus that the Prime Minister said maybe “up to 70 per cent” more transmissible than earlier strains. The new strain – now officially named VUI-202012/01 – showed a “substantial increase in transmissibility”. Over 60 per cent of new infections in London were now accounted for by the new variant. However, "there's no evidence to suggest it is more lethal or causes more severe illness," or that vaccines would be less effective against it, he said. Several countries have banned flights from the UK over fears about a new coronavirus variant that has forced millions of people in Britain to cancel their Christmas plans. The new strain first occurred in September in the South East London and by November, it accounted for 28 per cent of all new Covid infections in the capital, rising to 62 per cent by December 9. According to the reports, it has also spread to at least three other countries. According to the WHO, apart from UK, nine cases of the new strain have been reported in Denmark, as well as one case in the Netherlands and another in Australia. WHO has also advised all its members in Europe to step up measures against coronavirus. In response to the surge, Boris Johnson announced a stay at home order for the British capital and southeast England, until at least December 30, to slow the spread of the disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: What we know about the UK's new Covid strain

A few days after the UK announced identifying&nbsp;a new variant of coronavirus, several European countries are thinking of banning all incoming flights from the country.

Belgium has become the first country to impose an immediate ban which will commence from midnight (2300 GMT) on Sunday. The decision was announced by the Belgian&nbsp;Prime Minister Alexander De Croo who has claimed the ban will be in place at least for the next 24 hours.

The&nbsp;Netherlands and Ireland have also followed the path and decided to ban all flights from Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/a-new-coronavirus-strain-is-spreading-more-quickly-351032" hreflang="en">A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly</a>

Italy and has announced a similar ban. "The United Kingdom has issued an alert concerning a new strain of Covid-19," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio wrote on his Facebook account. "As the government, our duty is to protect Italians and for this reason... we will sign, with the health minister, a decree suspending flights to and from Britain."

Germany, too, has imposed ban on all incoming flights from the UK and South Africa due to the new variant of coronavirus. The top officials are observing the situation in the UK and working with other European countries to impose a ban and safeguard the lives of their own citizens from the new coronavirus variant.

These bans have come a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced another lockdown in the capital city of London after the new variant resulted in a surge of COVID-19 cases in the city.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/after-uk-south-africa-identifies-new-strain-of-coronavirus-amid-second-wave-351049" hreflang="en">After UK, South Africa identifies new strain of coronavirus amid second wave</a>

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;World Health Organization (WHO) has assured everyone that their researchers are already closely working with the officials of the UK and South Africa to identify and detect the new variant of coronavirus. "They'll (UK officials) continue to share info &amp; results of their analysis &amp; ongoing studies. We'll update Member States &amp; public as we learn more about the characteristics of this virus variant &amp; any implications", WHO said in a tweet.

As per the initial investigations, the new strain is 70 per cent more infectious. However, whether or not it is deadlier has not yet been established. A few scientists, however, believe the existing vaccines should still be effective against the new variant.

For now, the UK PM Boris Johnson has announced that Tier 4 restrictions will now apply in London and other parts of England from Sunday till further notice.

A few days after the UK announced identifying a new variant of coronavirus, several European countries are thinking of banning all incoming flights from the country.

A few days after the UK announced identifying a new variant of coronavirus, several European countries are thinking of banning all incoming flights from the country. Belgium has become the first country to impose an immediate ban which will commence from midnight (2300 GMT) on Sunday. The decision was announced by the Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo who has claimed the ban will be in place at least for the next 24 hours. The Netherlands and Ireland have also followed the path and decided to ban all flights from Sunday. Also read: A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly Italy and has announced a similar ban. "The United Kingdom has issued an alert concerning a new strain of Covid-19," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio wrote on his Facebook account. "As the government, our duty is to protect Italians and for this reason... we will sign, with the health minister, a decree suspending flights to and from Britain." Germany, too, has imposed ban on all incoming flights from the UK and South Africa due to the new variant of coronavirus. The top officials are observing the situation in the UK and working with other European countries to impose a ban and safeguard the lives of their own citizens from the new coronavirus variant. These bans have come a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced another lockdown in the capital city of London after the new variant resulted in a surge of COVID-19 cases in the city. Also read: After UK, South Africa identifies new strain of coronavirus amid second wave Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has assured everyone that their researchers are already closely working with the officials of the UK and South Africa to identify and detect the new variant of coronavirus. "They'll (UK officials) continue to share info & results of their analysis & ongoing studies. We'll update Member States & public as we learn more about the characteristics of this virus variant & any implications", WHO said in a tweet. As per the initial investigations, the new strain is 70 per cent more infectious. However, whether or not it is deadlier has not yet been established. A few scientists, however, believe the existing vaccines should still be effective against the new variant. For now, the UK PM Boris Johnson has announced that Tier 4 restrictions will now apply in London and other parts of England from Sunday till further notice.

European countries ban flights from UK over new coronavirus variant

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock was the first one to announce the identification of a new variant of coronavirus. Now, as his government has announced a Tier 4 lockdown in the country, Hancock has justified the move by revealing the extent of danger the new variant poses.

Talking about the new and stricter lockdown in south-eastern England during the Christmas time, Hancock said the decision was needed to control the worsening situation as the new variant was "out of control".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-countries-mull-ban-on-flights-from-uk-over-new-coronavirus-variant-351191">European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant</a>

Patting his own back, Hancock defended the new 'stay at home' orders. "We acted very quickly and decisively," he said. "Unfortunately the new strain was out of control. We have got to get it under control."

While many leaders and scientists have been assuring the locals that the new variant can be easily handled, Hancock revealed the situation was "deadly serious" and people should stay at home to make sure the situation does not get any worse than this.

"It's going to be very difficult to keep it under control until we have the vaccine rolled out," he said. "This is what we face over the next couple of months."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/a-new-coronavirus-strain-is-spreading-more-quickly-351032" hreflang="en">A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly</a>

Hancock's statement comes a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson imposed a Tier 4 lockdown in the capital city London and the rest of the country to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — especially since the new variant resulted in a surge of cases. The lockdown was not appreciated by the locals as it hampers their Christmas celebrations.

Johnson also reported that the new variant is&nbsp;70 per cent more transmissible. However, whether or not is deadlier than the previous one is not yet clear.

Meanwhile, several European countries such as Belgium and Germany are imposing travel bans on all the incoming flights from the UK and South Africa to make sure the new variant does not get transmitted to their countries.

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock was the first one to announce the identification of a new variant of coronavirus. Now, as his government has announced a Tier 4 lockdown in the country, Hancock has justified the move by revealing the extent of danger the new variant poses.

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock was the first one to announce the identification of a new variant of coronavirus. Now, as his government has announced a Tier 4 lockdown in the country, Hancock has justified the move by revealing the extent of danger the new variant poses. Talking about the new and stricter lockdown in south-eastern England during the Christmas time, Hancock said the decision was needed to control the worsening situation as the new variant was "out of control". Also read| European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant Patting his own back, Hancock defended the new 'stay at home' orders. "We acted very quickly and decisively," he said. "Unfortunately the new strain was out of control. We have got to get it under control." While many leaders and scientists have been assuring the locals that the new variant can be easily handled, Hancock revealed the situation was "deadly serious" and people should stay at home to make sure the situation does not get any worse than this. "It's going to be very difficult to keep it under control until we have the vaccine rolled out," he said. "This is what we face over the next couple of months." Also read: A new coronavirus strain is spreading more quickly Hancock's statement comes a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson imposed a Tier 4 lockdown in the capital city London and the rest of the country to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — especially since the new variant resulted in a surge of cases. The lockdown was not appreciated by the locals as it hampers their Christmas celebrations. Johnson also reported that the new variant is 70 per cent more transmissible. However, whether or not is deadlier than the previous one is not yet clear. Meanwhile, several European countries such as Belgium and Germany are imposing travel bans on all the incoming flights from the UK and South Africa to make sure the new variant does not get transmitted to their countries.

New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK; lockdown can be extended: Health Secretary

After the reports of a new variant of COVID-19, World Health Organisation has said that there is no evidence to suggest that the mutation will impact the effectiveness of vaccines against the disease. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-identified-in-uk-london-in-tier-3-lockdown-349785">Also read: New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in tier 3 lockdown</a> 
 
"We are aware of this genetic variant I think reported in about 1,000 individuals in England, and the authorities in the UK under Matt Hancock's leadership are obviously looking at the significance of this," WHO Health Emergencies Programme Executive Director Mike Ryan said at a WHO virtual press briefing. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-triggering-rare-deadly-fungal-infection-claim-indian-hospitals-349845">Also read: Covid-19 triggering rare, deadly fungal infection, claim Indian hospitals</a> 
&nbsp;

"Does this make this virus more serious? Does it allow the virus to transmit more easily? Does it in any way interfere with diagnostics? Would it in any way interfere with vaccine effectiveness? None of these questions have been addressed yet, and we have no information to suggest that any of that is the case," Ryan remarked.

Yesterday, the UK's Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced that a new variant of the deadly virus has been identified in the country.

Hancock, reported at least 60 different local authorities have seen coronavirus infections which stem out of a new and unidentified variant.

"Over the last few days, thanks to our world-class genomic capability in the UK, we have identified a new variant of coronavirus which may be associated with the faster spread in the South of England," Hancock said.

The UK has already notified the World Health Organization about the new variant and scientists have started investigating the new revelation.

As of now, it has not shown any symptoms of being a worse disease and the experts are hoping the vaccines will be able to protect people against the new variant of COVID-19 too. However, the new variant is growing at a faster rate. "Initial analysis suggests that this variant is growing faster than the existing variants," he said.

In addition to this, with a surge in cases, the capital city London has been marked in Tier 3 lockdown with immediate effect to contain the widespread of the deadly virus. The news has come almost a week after the UK approved usage of Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for the masses.

(With inputs from agencies)

After the reports of a new variant of COVID-19, World Health Organisation has said that there is no evidence to suggest that the mutation will impact the effectiveness of vaccines against the disease.

After the reports of a new variant of COVID-19, World Health Organisation has said that there is no evidence to suggest that the mutation will impact the effectiveness of vaccines against the disease. Also read: New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in tier 3 lockdown "We are aware of this genetic variant I think reported in about 1,000 individuals in England, and the authorities in the UK under Matt Hancock's leadership are obviously looking at the significance of this," WHO Health Emergencies Programme Executive Director Mike Ryan said at a WHO virtual press briefing. Also read: Covid-19 triggering rare, deadly fungal infection, claim Indian hospitals "Does this make this virus more serious? Does it allow the virus to transmit more easily? Does it in any way interfere with diagnostics? Would it in any way interfere with vaccine effectiveness? None of these questions have been addressed yet, and we have no information to suggest that any of that is the case," Ryan remarked. Yesterday, the UK's Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced that a new variant of the deadly virus has been identified in the country. Hancock, reported at least 60 different local authorities have seen coronavirus infections which stem out of a new and unidentified variant. "Over the last few days, thanks to our world-class genomic capability in the UK, we have identified a new variant of coronavirus which may be associated with the faster spread in the South of England," Hancock said. The UK has already notified the World Health Organization about the new variant and scientists have started investigating the new revelation. As of now, it has not shown any symptoms of being a worse disease and the experts are hoping the vaccines will be able to protect people against the new variant of COVID-19 too. However, the new variant is growing at a faster rate. "Initial analysis suggests that this variant is growing faster than the existing variants," he said. In addition to this, with a surge in cases, the capital city London has been marked in Tier 3 lockdown with immediate effect to contain the widespread of the deadly virus. The news has come almost a week after the UK approved usage of Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for the masses. (With inputs from agencies)

No indication new Covid-19 variant in UK interferes with vaccine effectiveness: WHO

As the UK started vaccinating the masses for the existing novel coronavirus, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Monday that a new variant of the deadly virus has been identified in the country.

Hancock, on Monday, reported at least 60 different local authorities have seen coronavirus infections which stem out of a new and unidentified variant.

"Over the last few days, thanks to our world-class genomic capability in the UK, we have identified a new variant of coronavirus which may be associated with the faster spread in the South of England," Hancock said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-administers-first-coronavirus-vaccine-donald-trump-congratulates-americans-349779">US administers first coronavirus vaccine; Donald Trump congratulates Americans</a>

The UK has already notified the World Health Organization about the new variant and scientists have started investigating the new revelation.

As of now, it has not shown any symptoms of being a worse disease and the experts are hoping the vaccines will be able to protect people against the new variant of COVID-19 too. However, the new variant is growing at a faster rate. "Initial analysis suggests that this variant is growing faster than the existing variants," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pence-among-top-us-officials-to-be-offered-covid-19-vaccine-on-priority-report-349600" hreflang="en">Trump, Pence among top US officials to be offered COVID-19 vaccine on priority: Report</a>

The announcement was made Hancock in the House of Commons in presence of other MPs. Hancock also reported that majority cases have been identified in the South of England.

"We've currently identified over 1,000 cases with this variant predominantly in the South of England although cases have been identified in nearly 60 different local authority area," he said.

"We do not know the extent to which this is because of the new variant but no matter its cause we have to take swift and decisive action which unfortunately is absolutely essential to control this deadly disease while the vaccine is rolled out."

In addition to this, with a surge in cases, the capital city London has been marked in Tier 3 lockdown with immediate effect to contain the wide spread of the deadly virus. The news has come almost a week after the UK approved usage of Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for the masses.

As the UK started vaccinating the masses for the existing novel coronavirus, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Monday that a new variant of the deadly virus has been identified in the country.

As the UK started vaccinating the masses for the existing novel coronavirus, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Monday that a new variant of the deadly virus has been identified in the country. Hancock, on Monday, reported at least 60 different local authorities have seen coronavirus infections which stem out of a new and unidentified variant. "Over the last few days, thanks to our world-class genomic capability in the UK, we have identified a new variant of coronavirus which may be associated with the faster spread in the South of England," Hancock said. Also read| US administers first coronavirus vaccine; Donald Trump congratulates Americans The UK has already notified the World Health Organization about the new variant and scientists have started investigating the new revelation. As of now, it has not shown any symptoms of being a worse disease and the experts are hoping the vaccines will be able to protect people against the new variant of COVID-19 too. However, the new variant is growing at a faster rate. "Initial analysis suggests that this variant is growing faster than the existing variants," he said. Also read: Trump, Pence among top US officials to be offered COVID-19 vaccine on priority: Report The announcement was made Hancock in the House of Commons in presence of other MPs. Hancock also reported that majority cases have been identified in the South of England. "We've currently identified over 1,000 cases with this variant predominantly in the South of England although cases have been identified in nearly 60 different local authority area," he said. "We do not know the extent to which this is because of the new variant but no matter its cause we have to take swift and decisive action which unfortunately is absolutely essential to control this deadly disease while the vaccine is rolled out." In addition to this, with a surge in cases, the capital city London has been marked in Tier 3 lockdown with immediate effect to contain the wide spread of the deadly virus. The news has come almost a week after the UK approved usage of Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for the masses.

New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in tier 3 lockdown

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