Now the US state of New York has dropped its mask requirements on public transportation. However, masks are still required in adult care and health care facilities. NY governor said that booster jobs are effective against Omicron.

New York state drops mask mandate; residents encouraged to take booster

In an effort to stop a new wave of dreaded illnesses this winter, US officials on Wednesday approved enhanced Covid-19 immunizations made by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech that specifically target the most recent strains of the Omicron form.&nbsp;

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in a statement that the two new booster shots are acceptable for anyone 12 and older for the Pfizer shot and 18 and older for Moderna.&nbsp;

The BA.4 and BA.5 lineages, the subvariants of Omicron that makeup nearly 90% of all new cases in the United States, are also protected against by this new generation of so-called "bivalent" vaccines.

According to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, "although the current Covid-19 surge is waning overall, it's predicated that&nbsp;we'll enter yet another surge as we spend more time indoors later this fall and winter."&nbsp;

These update boosters provide us with a chance to go in front of the curve, he claimed.&nbsp;

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Even though Americans no longer pay much attention to coronavirus in their daily lives, the country still sees about 80,000 new instances of the disease each day, along with 400 fatalities.

The US health department said earlier this summer that it had ordered 105 million pills from Pfizer and 66 million from Moderna for use in the next fall and winter.&nbsp;

Before injections may start, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the country's health protection body, must still recommend the vaccines.&nbsp;

The CDC will hold a meeting with an impartial team of specialists on Thursday to go over the changes.

(with inputs from agencies)

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In an effort to stop a new wave of dreaded illnesses this winter, US officials on Wednesday approved enhanced Covid-19 immunizations made by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech that specifically target the most recent strains of the Omicron form.

In an effort to stop a new wave of dreaded illnesses this winter, US officials on Wednesday approved enhanced Covid-19 immunizations made by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech that specifically target the most recent strains of the Omicron form. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in a statement that the two new booster shots are acceptable for anyone 12 and older for the Pfizer shot and 18 and older for Moderna. The BA.4 and BA.5 lineages, the subvariants of Omicron that makeup nearly 90% of all new cases in the United States, are also protected against by this new generation of so-called "bivalent" vaccines. According to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, "although the current Covid-19 surge is waning overall, it's predicated that we'll enter yet another surge as we spend more time indoors later this fall and winter." These update boosters provide us with a chance to go in front of the curve, he claimed. Also Read: India's GDP jumped 13.5% in June quarter on pandemic rebound: Official figures Even though Americans no longer pay much attention to coronavirus in their daily lives, the country still sees about 80,000 new instances of the disease each day, along with 400 fatalities. The US health department said earlier this summer that it had ordered 105 million pills from Pfizer and 66 million from Moderna for use in the next fall and winter. Before injections may start, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the country's health protection body, must still recommend the vaccines. The CDC will hold a meeting with an impartial team of specialists on Thursday to go over the changes. (with inputs from agencies)

US approves Moderna and Pfizer shots targeting omicron variant of Covid

Moderna has come up with a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose tailored specifically for the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron and the company is currently waiting for authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The company said that the application was based on data from clinical trials on all variants of COVID-19 and if sanctioned, they will deliver the doses by September.&nbsp;

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The BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron have been the main reasons behind the latest surge of COVID-19 cases around the world. However, the fatality rate has gone down drastically and last week, Pfizer Inc and German partner BioNTech also sought US authorisation for their booster shot for the subvariants.&nbsp;

While Moderna’s booster shot will be available for emergency use among people who are 18 years old or above, Pfizer said that their product can be used by people above 12 years. &nbsp;

The booster shot designed by Moderna to combat the BA.1 Omicron variant has already been approved in the United Kingdom and it was also a part of their application to the FDA. The company told Reuters that they are looking to release both drugs at the same time in the US after the approval arrives.&nbsp;

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The race among the companies to produce the new booster shots was sparked by the announcement of renewed vaccination drives by countries like the US and UK in the next few months. &nbsp;

While the number of cases is currently under control, most countries are trying to safeguard themselves from future surges.&nbsp;The FDA had earlier said that human testing is not mandatory for new shots.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Moderna has come up with a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose tailored specifically for the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron and the company is currently waiting for authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States.

Moderna has come up with a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose tailored specifically for the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron and the company is currently waiting for authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The company said that the application was based on data from clinical trials on all variants of COVID-19 and if sanctioned, they will deliver the doses by September. ALSO READ | Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia The BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of Omicron have been the main reasons behind the latest surge of COVID-19 cases around the world. However, the fatality rate has gone down drastically and last week, Pfizer Inc and German partner BioNTech also sought US authorisation for their booster shot for the subvariants. While Moderna’s booster shot will be available for emergency use among people who are 18 years old or above, Pfizer said that their product can be used by people above 12 years. The booster shot designed by Moderna to combat the BA.1 Omicron variant has already been approved in the United Kingdom and it was also a part of their application to the FDA. The company told Reuters that they are looking to release both drugs at the same time in the US after the approval arrives. ALSO READ | Europe facing worst drought in almost 500 years, new report claims The race among the companies to produce the new booster shots was sparked by the announcement of renewed vaccination drives by countries like the US and UK in the next few months. While the number of cases is currently under control, most countries are trying to safeguard themselves from future surges. The FDA had earlier said that human testing is not mandatory for new shots. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Moderna seeks FDA approval for booster shot aimed at Omicron BA.4, BA.5

The United Kingdom has become the first nation to approve a booster dose against COVID-19 that targets both the original virus and mutated Omicron variant.

UK first country to approve booster dose that targets both Omicron & original virus

The Chinese authorities imposed a lockdown in Hainan province’s southern beach holiday city of Sanya on Saturday and shut its public transport system as a preventive measure against COVID-19 outbreak during its peak tourist season.

The lockdown comes into force at 6 am after authorities said the Covid situation was "very severe" and people's movements were being restricted.

The lockdown move&nbsp;follows the COVID-19 virus resurging in Sanya with 257 cases registered on Friday from just 11 two days earlier. Authorities said they had detected the Omicron subvariant BA.5.1.3.

However, there is confirmation when the measures would be lifted.

“We urge the general public and tourists to understand and give their support,” authorities said in a statement on the city government’s WeChat account, reports Reuters.

Almost 80 per cent of flights out of the city had been cancelled by 1 pm on Saturday, according to news.carnoc.com, an civil aviation information website.

In an interview with the state broadcaster on Friday night, Vice mayor He Shigang said that about 80,000 tourists are stranded in Sanya, and that they must have two negative PCR tests taken within 48 hours to leave the city.

The decision to cancel the flights was not received well by the tourists, who took to socla media to vent their frustration.

"My plane was supposed to leave at 9 a.m. this morning but they suddenly locked down the city … I need to go back home to start work," said one user of the Weibo platform.

However, the official, while addressing a news conference later on Saturday, assured that tourists would get hotels at half price if they had to extend their stays.

Meanwhile, another city in Hainan, Danzhou, announced a partial lockdown starting 2 pm on Saturday, according to a government notice.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Chinese authorities imposed a lockdown in Hainan province’s southern beach holiday city of Sanya on Saturday and shut its public transport system as a preventive measure against COVID-19 outbreak during its peak tourist season.

The Chinese authorities imposed a lockdown in Hainan province’s southern beach holiday city of Sanya on Saturday and shut its public transport system as a preventive measure against COVID-19 outbreak during its peak tourist season. The lockdown comes into force at 6 am after authorities said the Covid situation was "very severe" and people's movements were being restricted. The lockdown move follows the COVID-19 virus resurging in Sanya with 257 cases registered on Friday from just 11 two days earlier. Authorities said they had detected the Omicron subvariant BA.5.1.3. However, there is confirmation when the measures would be lifted. “We urge the general public and tourists to understand and give their support,” authorities said in a statement on the city government’s WeChat account, reports Reuters. Almost 80 per cent of flights out of the city had been cancelled by 1 pm on Saturday, according to news.carnoc.com, an civil aviation information website. In an interview with the state broadcaster on Friday night, Vice mayor He Shigang said that about 80,000 tourists are stranded in Sanya, and that they must have two negative PCR tests taken within 48 hours to leave the city. The decision to cancel the flights was not received well by the tourists, who took to socla media to vent their frustration. "My plane was supposed to leave at 9 a.m. this morning but they suddenly locked down the city … I need to go back home to start work," said one user of the Weibo platform. However, the official, while addressing a news conference later on Saturday, assured that tourists would get hotels at half price if they had to extend their stays. Meanwhile, another city in Hainan, Danzhou, announced a partial lockdown starting 2 pm on Saturday, according to a government notice. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese beach holiday city imposes lockdown as Covid cases spike

Nearly a million people have been placed under a covid lockdown in the suburb of Wuhan in China. The government has asked residents to stay inside their homes for three days.

Millions put under lockdown again in China; residents told to quarantine for 3 days

A new study, that is yet to be certified by peer review, has shown that a piece of experimental chewing gum can reduce Omicron particles in saliva.

According to the study, the gum "traps" SARS-CoV-2 particles in saliva and holds promise for curbing the transmission of new variants of the virus.

Researchers reported in Biomaterials that the virus particles attached themselves to the ACE2 "receptors" in the chewing gum and the viral load fell to undetectable levels.

The coronavirus used copies of the ACE2 protein found on cell surfaces to break into cells and infect them during test-tube experiments using saliva from individuals infected with the Delta or Omicron variants.

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While researchers prepare to launch the first human trial, COVID-19 patients will each chew four ACE2 gum tablets each day for four days in the clinical trial.

Engineered lettuce cells carry the "viral trap" ACE2 proteins in the gum as per the study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania.

When researchers replaced lettuce cells with bean powder, it trapped SARS-CoV-2 particles along with influenza strains, and oral viruses such as human papillomavirus and herpesvirus.

Dr. Henry Daniell of the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, who is the research leader, told the news agency Reuters that "Because the nasal transmission is negligible when compared to oral transmission... chewing ACE2 gum and swallowing ACE2 protein should minimise infection, protect COVID-19 patients and prevent transmission."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

A new study, that is yet to be certified by peer review, has shown that a piece of experimental chewing gum can reduce Omicron particles in saliva. According to the study, the gum "traps" SARS-CoV-2 particles in saliva and holds promise for curbing the transmission of new variants of the virus.

A new study, that is yet to be certified by peer review, has shown that a piece of experimental chewing gum can reduce Omicron particles in saliva. According to the study, the gum "traps" SARS-CoV-2 particles in saliva and holds promise for curbing the transmission of new variants of the virus. Researchers reported in Biomaterials that the virus particles attached themselves to the ACE2 "receptors" in the chewing gum and the viral load fell to undetectable levels. The coronavirus used copies of the ACE2 protein found on cell surfaces to break into cells and infect them during test-tube experiments using saliva from individuals infected with the Delta or Omicron variants. × While researchers prepare to launch the first human trial, COVID-19 patients will each chew four ACE2 gum tablets each day for four days in the clinical trial. Engineered lettuce cells carry the "viral trap" ACE2 proteins in the gum as per the study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania. When researchers replaced lettuce cells with bean powder, it trapped SARS-CoV-2 particles along with influenza strains, and oral viruses such as human papillomavirus and herpesvirus. Dr. Henry Daniell of the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, who is the research leader, told the news agency Reuters that "Because the nasal transmission is negligible when compared to oral transmission... chewing ACE2 gum and swallowing ACE2 protein should minimise infection, protect COVID-19 patients and prevent transmission." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Study shows experimental chewing gum reduces Omicron particles in saliva

China is witnessing a fresh surge in COVID-19 cases driven by the Omicron variant. Despite taking a toll on the local economy, authorities are sticking to the 'Zero-COVID policy'.

China: Omicron variant driving fresh COVID-19 outbreaks

The world is reporting a fresh surge in COVID-19 outbreaks driven by the Omicron variant. China has recorded 450 local infections in a day. Meanwhile, Macao has decided to keep its casinos shut till Friday.

Omicron variant driving fresh COVID-19 outbreaks worldwide

A more contagious subvariant of COVID-19’s Omicron, BA.2.75 variant —nicknamed “Centaurus”—has now emerged in The Netherlands, alarming experts who are concerned over the strain’s rapid spread.

According to reports, the variant was found in a sample from the Northeast Gelderland region. &nbsp;The sample was collected on June 26.

It 'has also now been identified in the Netherlands,' the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;National Institute of Public Health said in a statement on Wednesday, according to AFP.

The Centaurus subvariant first emerged in India in May and has since been detected in 14 other countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, according to WHO Covid-19 Technical Lead, Maria Van Kerkhove.&nbsp;

Though little is known about the new subvariant, there have been concerns about the contagious nature of the virus.

Last week, the World Health Organisation's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said that they are closely monitoring the situation, but there were "limited sequences to analyse".

"This sub-variant seems to have a few mutations on the receptor binding domain of the spike protein... so we have to watch that," she said in a tweeted video.

She further said that was "too early to know" how well the strain can evade immunity or how severe it was.

In an interview to AFP, Antoine Flahault, director of the Institute of Global Health at the University of Geneva said that BA.2.75 might be more contagious than BA.5 Omicron subvariant since it is driving up cases in India.

"It seems to be becoming the dominant strain in India - the question is will it become the dominant strain all over the world?"

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

A more contagious subvariant of COVID-19’s Omicron, BA.2.75 variant —nicknamed “Centaurus”—has now emerged in The Netherlands, alarming experts who are concerned over the strain’s rapid spread.

A more contagious subvariant of COVID-19’s Omicron, BA.2.75 variant —nicknamed “Centaurus”—has now emerged in The Netherlands, alarming experts who are concerned over the strain’s rapid spread. According to reports, the variant was found in a sample from the Northeast Gelderland region. The sample was collected on June 26. It 'has also now been identified in the Netherlands,' the Dutch National Institute of Public Health said in a statement on Wednesday, according to AFP. The Centaurus subvariant first emerged in India in May and has since been detected in 14 other countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, according to WHO Covid-19 Technical Lead, Maria Van Kerkhove. Though little is known about the new subvariant, there have been concerns about the contagious nature of the virus. Last week, the World Health Organisation's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said that they are closely monitoring the situation, but there were "limited sequences to analyse". "This sub-variant seems to have a few mutations on the receptor binding domain of the spike protein... so we have to watch that," she said in a tweeted video. She further said that was "too early to know" how well the strain can evade immunity or how severe it was. In an interview to AFP, Antoine Flahault, director of the Institute of Global Health at the University of Geneva said that BA.2.75 might be more contagious than BA.5 Omicron subvariant since it is driving up cases in India. "It seems to be becoming the dominant strain in India - the question is will it become the dominant strain all over the world?" (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Netherlands detects first case of ‘more contagious’ Centaurus Covid subvariant

The United States has relaxed most of the Covid-19 restrictions in many parts for a long time. But since then, the Covid-19 cases have also started to increase.&nbsp;

It is feared that the US is moving towards its second-largest wave, which may have already begun.

The country reported a huge number of cases while the pandemic was at its peak and was also one of the worst affected countries, with a large number of deaths being reported due to the infection.

In a matter of weeks, the BA.5 version of Covid-19 has become the predominant&nbsp;variant of the virus in the country. 
 
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The BA.5 variant can spread faster than other variants around the world.&nbsp;The infection rate is very high, which may lead to more problems.

It is one of Omicron's sub-variants. It is similar to the Ba 2 variant from last year but has its own mutations.

Watch |&nbsp;China's Xi'an, Shanghai &amp; Macao put under COVID lockdown

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Its spread depends on the population's immunity.&nbsp;

The Ba.5 variant may pose the biggest threat to immune protection yet in the US.

The BA.5 variant accounted for nearly 54 percent of Covid-19 cases in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The BA.4 variant accounted for 17%&nbsp;of the total.

The variants have also been shown to evade protection from vaccination and previous infections.&nbsp;

The symptoms vary from person to person. While some have a high fever, headache, runny nose, cough, etc., some show no symptoms at all.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-travellers-warned-of-rising-virus-cases-in-europe-495211">COVID-19: Travellers warned of rising virus cases in Europe</a>

According to a report by The Guardian, Jason Salemi, who is an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of South Florida’s College of Public Health said,&nbsp;“Covid-19 is very clearly not over. We’re seeing dramatic increases in the number of cases and hospitalisations in many places throughout the United States".&nbsp;

“BA.4 and 5 are potentially the variants that can break through immunity the easiest.&nbsp;They are capable of reinfection and&nbsp;we’re headed in a bad direction”, he added.&nbsp;

According to the&nbsp;US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in three Americans live in a county at medium risk from Covid, and one in five are at high risk. This is the&nbsp;highest proportion of the country facing risks since February.

Though hospitalisations were fewer earlier, they have increased as the cases have started to rise.&nbsp;

Usually, people in their old age were hospitalised, but now hospitalisations are continuing for all ages.&nbsp;

Salemi also said that “the first and second booster is very important”.

However, only 34 percent of people in the US have received their booster doses. While after that the second booster dose has been taken by a very less number of people.

The US government as well as the citizens&nbsp;need to take&nbsp;some necessary precautions to prevent further spread of the infection and take the booster doses as well.&nbsp;

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The United States has relaxed most of the Covid-19 restrictions in many parts for a long time. But since then, the Covid-19 cases have also started to increase. It is feared that the US is moving towards its second-largest wave, which may have already begun.

The United States has relaxed most of the Covid-19 restrictions in many parts for a long time. But since then, the Covid-19 cases have also started to increase. It is feared that the US is moving towards its second-largest wave, which may have already begun. The country reported a huge number of cases while the pandemic was at its peak and was also one of the worst affected countries, with a large number of deaths being reported due to the infection. In a matter of weeks, the BA.5 version of Covid-19 has become the predominant variant of the virus in the country. Also read | Macau uses two more casino hotels for COVID-19 medical facilities The BA.5 variant can spread faster than other variants around the world. The infection rate is very high, which may lead to more problems. It is one of Omicron's sub-variants. It is similar to the Ba 2 variant from last year but has its own mutations. Watch | China's Xi'an, Shanghai & Macao put under COVID lockdown Its spread depends on the population's immunity. The Ba.5 variant may pose the biggest threat to immune protection yet in the US. The BA.5 variant accounted for nearly 54 percent of Covid-19 cases in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The BA.4 variant accounted for 17% of the total. The variants have also been shown to evade protection from vaccination and previous infections. The symptoms vary from person to person. While some have a high fever, headache, runny nose, cough, etc., some show no symptoms at all. Also read | COVID-19: Travellers warned of rising virus cases in Europe According to a report by The Guardian, Jason Salemi, who is an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of South Florida’s College of Public Health said, “Covid-19 is very clearly not over. We’re seeing dramatic increases in the number of cases and hospitalisations in many places throughout the United States". “BA.4 and 5 are potentially the variants that can break through immunity the easiest. They are capable of reinfection and we’re headed in a bad direction”, he added. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in three Americans live in a county at medium risk from Covid, and one in five are at high risk. This is the highest proportion of the country facing risks since February. Though hospitalisations were fewer earlier, they have increased as the cases have started to rise. Usually, people in their old age were hospitalised, but now hospitalisations are continuing for all ages. Salemi also said that “the first and second booster is very important”. However, only 34 percent of people in the US have received their booster doses. While after that the second booster dose has been taken by a very less number of people. The US government as well as the citizens need to take some necessary precautions to prevent further spread of the infection and take the booster doses as well. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Is America heading towards its second-largest Covid-19 wave?

Australia on Thursday (July 7) announced that starting this week it would increase the roll out of the fourth Covid vaccine as it fights a persistent rise in hospital admissions fuelled by the highly contagious new Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5. These new subvariants have now taken over as the predominant Covid strains in a number of countries, and pandemic experts have warned that because they spread more swiftly than any other variants, they may have hospitalisations and fatalities. According to officials, there are more than 4,000 Covid patients in hospitals in the country, the highest number since early February, with the Omicron outbreak, reported by Reuters.

Health Minister Mark Butler at a media briefing said, "The pandemic is not over, we are entering a third wave that is placing enormous pressure on our health and hospital system."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-travellers-warned-of-rising-virus-cases-in-europe-495211">COVID-19: Travellers warned of rising virus cases in Europe</a>

More than 7 million people will be eligible for their second booster, as per the announcements. Until now, the immunisation was only available to people over the age of 65 or those suffering from serious illness.

The most populous state, New South Wales, recently issued a warning about the recent outbreak of infections brought on by the two variants. However, on the other hand, Victoria claimed that these strains have taken over as the state’s main ones.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-covarscan-a-new-covid-19-test-that-can-detect-all-variants-in-hours-494425">What is CoVarScan? A new COVID-19 test that can detect all variants in hours</a>

Australia, it is amongst the most vaccinated nations against Covid, has 95 per cent of adults administered to two doses for people above the age of 16.&nbsp;According to official records, more than 70 per cent have been given a third chance.

Australia has been coping with the virus since last year following staggered relaxing of barriers after vaccination rates, after mainly controlling the infection through severe border control and sudden lockdowns early in the pandemic.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Australia on Thursday (July 7) announced that starting this week it would increase the roll out of the fourth Covid vaccine as it fights a persistent rise in hospital admissions fuelled by the highly contagious new Omicron subvariants BA.

Australia on Thursday (July 7) announced that starting this week it would increase the roll out of the fourth Covid vaccine as it fights a persistent rise in hospital admissions fuelled by the highly contagious new Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5. These new subvariants have now taken over as the predominant Covid strains in a number of countries, and pandemic experts have warned that because they spread more swiftly than any other variants, they may have hospitalisations and fatalities. According to officials, there are more than 4,000 Covid patients in hospitals in the country, the highest number since early February, with the Omicron outbreak, reported by Reuters. Health Minister Mark Butler at a media briefing said, "The pandemic is not over, we are entering a third wave that is placing enormous pressure on our health and hospital system." Also read | COVID-19: Travellers warned of rising virus cases in Europe More than 7 million people will be eligible for their second booster, as per the announcements. Until now, the immunisation was only available to people over the age of 65 or those suffering from serious illness. The most populous state, New South Wales, recently issued a warning about the recent outbreak of infections brought on by the two variants. However, on the other hand, Victoria claimed that these strains have taken over as the state’s main ones. Also read | What is CoVarScan? A new COVID-19 test that can detect all variants in hours Australia, it is amongst the most vaccinated nations against Covid, has 95 per cent of adults administered to two doses for people above the age of 16. According to official records, more than 70 per cent have been given a third chance. Australia has been coping with the virus since last year following staggered relaxing of barriers after vaccination rates, after mainly controlling the infection through severe border control and sudden lockdowns early in the pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Australia to offer fourth shot amid new Omicron variants threat

Australia is witnessing a spurt in Covid hospital admissions since February, putting a massive strain on the country’s healthcare system.

This new wave of Covid cases is being primarily driven by the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 variants of Omicron, which are more infectious and adept at evading immunity.

According to The Guardian, the national total of hospital admissions reached 3,781 on Wednesday, up from 3,740 on Tuesday and 3,511 on Monday – the highest numbers have been since February 8.

The nation is recording on average 33,000 cases each day.

Amidst the rise in cases, leading epidemiologists and the Australian Medical Association (AMA) have called for stronger mask mandates.

Doubts are also being raised on the official figures, saying that there is double the number of infections silently spreading through the community.

Prof Catherine Bennett, chair of epidemiology at Deakin University, told The Guardian, “The reported cases are half of the numbers out there,”

“Some people will know and isolate, some will guess and not isolate, and some will not know.”

The rise in cases comes amid reports that the fourth dose of the coronavirus vaccine will be made available to anyone over the age of 30.

Currently, the fourth dose vaccine is only available to people aged 65 and over, or those suffering conditions placing them at higher risk of severe Covid.

As of Thursday, 60 per cent of people over 65 have had a fourth COVID-19 vaccine.

Meanwhile, Australia's COVID-19 death toll has passed 10,000 more than two years after the pandemic began.

The demographic with the most deaths in males aged 80 to 89 years, according to federal government figures up to July 1.&nbsp;

That's followed closely by&nbsp;females aged 80&nbsp;to 89 years.&nbsp;

That same data&nbsp;showed&nbsp;the 10-19 age group had the least deaths,&nbsp;followed closely by the 0-9 age group.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Australia is witnessing a spurt in Covid hospital admissions since February, putting a massive strain on the country’s healthcare system. This new wave of Covid cases is being primarily driven by the highly transmissible BA.

Australia is witnessing a spurt in Covid hospital admissions since February, putting a massive strain on the country’s healthcare system. This new wave of Covid cases is being primarily driven by the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 variants of Omicron, which are more infectious and adept at evading immunity. According to The Guardian, the national total of hospital admissions reached 3,781 on Wednesday, up from 3,740 on Tuesday and 3,511 on Monday – the highest numbers have been since February 8. The nation is recording on average 33,000 cases each day. Amidst the rise in cases, leading epidemiologists and the Australian Medical Association (AMA) have called for stronger mask mandates. Doubts are also being raised on the official figures, saying that there is double the number of infections silently spreading through the community. Prof Catherine Bennett, chair of epidemiology at Deakin University, told The Guardian, “The reported cases are half of the numbers out there,” “Some people will know and isolate, some will guess and not isolate, and some will not know.” The rise in cases comes amid reports that the fourth dose of the coronavirus vaccine will be made available to anyone over the age of 30. Currently, the fourth dose vaccine is only available to people aged 65 and over, or those suffering conditions placing them at higher risk of severe Covid. As of Thursday, 60 per cent of people over 65 have had a fourth COVID-19 vaccine. Meanwhile, Australia's COVID-19 death toll has passed 10,000 more than two years after the pandemic began. The demographic with the most deaths in males aged 80 to 89 years, according to federal government figures up to July 1. That's followed closely by females aged 80 to 89 years. That same data showed the 10-19 age group had the least deaths, followed closely by the 0-9 age group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Omicron subvariants driving fresh Covid wave in Australia

After a fresh amount of COVID-19 infections that have been reported in China, tens of millions of people have now been put under a lockdown yet again as authorities are trying to curb the spread of the virus.

New Omicron variant found in China, Shanghai carries out new rounds of covid-19 testing

China on Tuesday (June 28) has reduced the period of mandatory quarantine for inbound travellers. The country has banked on a strict zero coronavirus (COVID-19) policy throughout the pandemic to minimise the spread of the virus. Amid such policies, the reduction in the quarantine period appears to be the biggest relaxation of entry restrictions.&nbsp;

As quoted by news agencies, the National Health Commission said the quarantine at centralised facilities has been cut to seven days from 14. The authorities revealed that subsequently the at-home health monitoring has been reduced to three days from seven.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-warn-of-dual-risk-from-influenza-and-covid-report-492640">Experts warn of dual risk from influenza and Covid: Report</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Lei Zhenglong, who is an official with the National Health Commission, told reporters in Beijing on Tuesday that the policy change was based on "huge amounts of scientific evidence" collected from pilot schemes in April and May.&nbsp;

Zhenglong also said that they have learned lessons from recent outbreaks in Shanghai and Jilin province. He also added that the Covid situation in China had been stable this month and it was a good time to make the change.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uk-medical-students-train-with-life-like-holographic-patients-in-the-world-first-492635">UK medical students train with life-like holographic patients in world-first</a>&nbsp;

The new quarantine rules were welcomed by American, British and European business lobby groups in China.&nbsp;

The British Chamber of Commerce in China told Reuters: "It will hopefully work towards increasing business exchanges and stemming the outflow of international talent, some of whom are coming up to having had three years of separation from family and friends overseas."&nbsp;

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China on Tuesday (June 28) has reduced the period of mandatory quarantine for inbound travellers. The country has banked on a strict zero coronavirus (COVID-19) policy throughout the pandemic to minimise the spread of the virus.

China on Tuesday (June 28) has reduced the period of mandatory quarantine for inbound travellers. The country has banked on a strict zero coronavirus (COVID-19) policy throughout the pandemic to minimise the spread of the virus. Amid such policies, the reduction in the quarantine period appears to be the biggest relaxation of entry restrictions. As quoted by news agencies, the National Health Commission said the quarantine at centralised facilities has been cut to seven days from 14. The authorities revealed that subsequently the at-home health monitoring has been reduced to three days from seven. ALSO READ | Experts warn of dual risk from influenza and Covid: Report As quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Lei Zhenglong, who is an official with the National Health Commission, told reporters in Beijing on Tuesday that the policy change was based on "huge amounts of scientific evidence" collected from pilot schemes in April and May. Zhenglong also said that they have learned lessons from recent outbreaks in Shanghai and Jilin province. He also added that the Covid situation in China had been stable this month and it was a good time to make the change. WATCH | UK medical students train with life-like holographic patients in world-first The new quarantine rules were welcomed by American, British and European business lobby groups in China. The British Chamber of Commerce in China told Reuters: "It will hopefully work towards increasing business exchanges and stemming the outflow of international talent, some of whom are coming up to having had three years of separation from family and friends overseas." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Travelling to China? Quarantine time for international travellers slashed - latest updates

Pfizer and BioNTech said that the updated version of their COVID-19 vaccine has shown a higher immune response against the Omicron variant. According to the statement, which was released on Saturday, the booster shot which was modified specifically to combat the variant has been showing better results. The statement came just days ahead of the meeting of advisors to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) where they will be deciding whether to approve the updated vaccines. With most of the COVID-19 cases happening due to the Omicron variant, Reuters reports that experts believe that the updated shots can be adopted to decrease the infection rate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-signs-first-significant-us-gun-control-law-in-decades-says-it-will-save-lives-491781" hreflang="en">Biden signs first significant US gun control law in decades</a>

Pfizer and BioNTech tested the updated vaccines on a group of 1234 people who were aged 56 years or older. The 30-microgram doses showed a 13.5-fold increase when it comes to fighting the Omicron variant. On the other hand, the 60-microgram dose showed a 19.6-fold increase.

They also tried out a variation of the vaccine where it contained both the updated and the original doses which showed a 9.1 and 10.9-fold increase when it comes to the two different doses.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oslo-shooting-being-treated-as-act-of-islamist-terrorism-says-norwegian-authorities-491783">Oslo shooting being treated as 'act of Islamist terrorism', says authorities</a>

According to the Reuters report, the companies claimed that the updated dose was successfully able to combat the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants but it is still most effective against BA.1.

The Reuters report also claimed that Moderna are also designing an updated version of their virus which targets the BA.1 Omicron subvariant. The company expressed its happiness with the progress of the project and said that they will soon be submitted it to the authorities for approval.

Pfizer and BioNTech said that the updated version of their COVID-19 vaccine has shown a higher immune response against the Omicron variant. According to the statement, which was released on Saturday, the booster shot which was modified specifically to combat the variant has been showing better results.

Pfizer and BioNTech said that the updated version of their COVID-19 vaccine has shown a higher immune response against the Omicron variant. According to the statement, which was released on Saturday, the booster shot which was modified specifically to combat the variant has been showing better results. The statement came just days ahead of the meeting of advisors to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) where they will be deciding whether to approve the updated vaccines. With most of the COVID-19 cases happening due to the Omicron variant, Reuters reports that experts believe that the updated shots can be adopted to decrease the infection rate. Also read | Biden signs first significant US gun control law in decades Pfizer and BioNTech tested the updated vaccines on a group of 1234 people who were aged 56 years or older. The 30-microgram doses showed a 13.5-fold increase when it comes to fighting the Omicron variant. On the other hand, the 60-microgram dose showed a 19.6-fold increase. They also tried out a variation of the vaccine where it contained both the updated and the original doses which showed a 9.1 and 10.9-fold increase when it comes to the two different doses. Also read | Oslo shooting being treated as 'act of Islamist terrorism', says authorities According to the Reuters report, the companies claimed that the updated dose was successfully able to combat the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants but it is still most effective against BA.1. The Reuters report also claimed that Moderna are also designing an updated version of their virus which targets the BA.1 Omicron subvariant. The company expressed its happiness with the progress of the project and said that they will soon be submitted it to the authorities for approval.

Pfizer says updated COVID-19 shots boost protection against Omicron

India is witnessing a surge in covid-19 cases. According to the government's data released today, the country recorded over 13,000 new infections in the last 24 hours.

India witnesses surge in covid cases, positivity rate stands at 2.73%

In the field of medicine, viruses are known for striving to develop and generate new lineages or sub-lineages in order to circumvent acquired immunity. Several studies claim that the protection gained against previous Covid variants is ineffective against the new ones.

People who have been infected with the initial version of the coronavirus Omicron, which was first found in South Africa in November, may be prone to reinfection with subsequent strains of Omicron, according to new studies.

Vaccinated patients with Omicron BA.1 breakthrough infections developed antibodies that could neutralise that virus as well as the original SARS-CoV-2 virus, but the circulating Omicron sublineages now have mutations that allow them to evade those antibodies, according to Chinese researchers who published their findings in Nature on Friday.

Omicron BA.2.12.1, which is currently producing the majority of infections in the United States, as well as Omicron BA.5 and BA.4, which now account for more than 21% of new cases in the United States, have mutations not found in Omicron BA.1 and BA.2.

In test-tube investigations, the researchers discovered that the newer sublineages "significantly elude the neutralising antibodies produced by SARS-CoV-2 infection and immunisation."

Experiments also demonstrated that the monoclonal antibody medications bebtelovimab from Eli Lilly and cilgavimab, a component of AstraZeneca's Evusheld, can still efficiently neutralise BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/BA.5.

The researchers cautioned that vaccination boosters based on the BA.1 virus, such as those being developed by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, "may not deliver broad-spectrum protection against new Omicron variants."

Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, a microbiology and infectious diseases researcher at Mount Sinai's Icahn School of Medicine, suggested that vaccines that target multiple strains of the virus or intranasal vaccines that increase protection from infection and transmission by generating immunity in the lining of the nose, where the virus first enters, could provide better protection.

Garcia-Sastre, who was not involved in the study, believes that by the time one variant-specific vaccination is available, a new variant may have supplanted it. 
&nbsp;

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In the field of medicine, viruses are known for striving to develop and generate new lineages or sub-lineages in order to circumvent acquired immunity. Several studies claim that the protection gained against previous Covid variants is ineffective against the new ones.

In the field of medicine, viruses are known for striving to develop and generate new lineages or sub-lineages in order to circumvent acquired immunity. Several studies claim that the protection gained against previous Covid variants is ineffective against the new ones. People who have been infected with the initial version of the coronavirus Omicron, which was first found in South Africa in November, may be prone to reinfection with subsequent strains of Omicron, according to new studies. Vaccinated patients with Omicron BA.1 breakthrough infections developed antibodies that could neutralise that virus as well as the original SARS-CoV-2 virus, but the circulating Omicron sublineages now have mutations that allow them to evade those antibodies, according to Chinese researchers who published their findings in Nature on Friday. Omicron BA.2.12.1, which is currently producing the majority of infections in the United States, as well as Omicron BA.5 and BA.4, which now account for more than 21% of new cases in the United States, have mutations not found in Omicron BA.1 and BA.2. In test-tube investigations, the researchers discovered that the newer sublineages "significantly elude the neutralising antibodies produced by SARS-CoV-2 infection and immunisation." Experiments also demonstrated that the monoclonal antibody medications bebtelovimab from Eli Lilly and cilgavimab, a component of AstraZeneca's Evusheld, can still efficiently neutralise BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/BA.5. The researchers cautioned that vaccination boosters based on the BA.1 virus, such as those being developed by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, "may not deliver broad-spectrum protection against new Omicron variants." Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, a microbiology and infectious diseases researcher at Mount Sinai's Icahn School of Medicine, suggested that vaccines that target multiple strains of the virus or intranasal vaccines that increase protection from infection and transmission by generating immunity in the lining of the nose, where the virus first enters, could provide better protection. Garcia-Sastre, who was not involved in the study, believes that by the time one variant-specific vaccination is available, a new variant may have supplanted it. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Current variants unlikely to be protected by early Omicron infection

In the first peer-reviewed study of its kind, researchers from the United Kingdom have drawn a conclusion that Omicron variant of coronavirus is less likely to cause long COVID than previous variants. Researchers from King's College, London have carried out this study.&nbsp;

For the study, researchers used data from the ZOE COVID symptom study app. They found that odds of long COVID from Omicron were 20 to 50 per cent less than Delta. There was a variance in the figure depending to age and timing of last vaccination of a patient.

Long COVID, which includes prolonged symptoms ranging from fatigue to 'brain fog', can be debilitating and continue for weeks or months. It is increasingly being recognised as a public health problem, and researchers have been racing to find out if Omicron presents as big a risk of long COVID as previously dominant variants.

Although risk of long COVID was lower during Omicron infection, the absolute number of those suffering was high due to high transmission rate of Omicron variant

"It's good news, but please don't decommission any of your long COVID services," lead researcher Dr Claire Steves told Reuters, appealing to health-service providers.

The UK's Office for National Statistics said in May that 438,000 people in the country have long COVID after Omicron infection, representing 24% of all long COVID patients.

It also said the risk of lingering symptoms after Omicron was lower than with Delta, but only for double-vaccinated people. It found no statistical difference for those who were triple vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the first peer-reviewed study of its kind, researchers from the United Kingdom have drawn a conclusion that Omicron variant of coronavirus is less likely to cause long COVID than previous variants.

In the first peer-reviewed study of its kind, researchers from the United Kingdom have drawn a conclusion that Omicron variant of coronavirus is less likely to cause long COVID than previous variants. Researchers from King's College, London have carried out this study. For the study, researchers used data from the ZOE COVID symptom study app. They found that odds of long COVID from Omicron were 20 to 50 per cent less than Delta. There was a variance in the figure depending to age and timing of last vaccination of a patient. Long COVID, which includes prolonged symptoms ranging from fatigue to 'brain fog', can be debilitating and continue for weeks or months. It is increasingly being recognised as a public health problem, and researchers have been racing to find out if Omicron presents as big a risk of long COVID as previously dominant variants. Although risk of long COVID was lower during Omicron infection, the absolute number of those suffering was high due to high transmission rate of Omicron variant "It's good news, but please don't decommission any of your long COVID services," lead researcher Dr Claire Steves told Reuters, appealing to health-service providers. The UK's Office for National Statistics said in May that 438,000 people in the country have long COVID after Omicron infection, representing 24% of all long COVID patients. It also said the risk of lingering symptoms after Omicron was lower than with Delta, but only for double-vaccinated people. It found no statistical difference for those who were triple vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Omicron less likely to cause long COVID than Delta: Study

The first peer-reviewed study of its kind from the United Kingdom has found that the Omicron variant of coronavirus is less likely to cause long COVID than previous variants.

Using data from the ZOE COVID Symptom study app, researchers at King's College London found that the odds of developing long COVID after infection were 20 per cent to 50 per cent lower during the Omicron wave in the UK compared to Delta.

Depending on the patient's age, the figures varied according to the timing of their last vaccination.

With researchers racing to find out if Omicron presents as big a risk of long COVID as previously dominant variants, long COVID-19 is increasingly being recognised as a public health problem.

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The team has said long COVID-19 includes prolonged symptoms ranging from fatigue to 'brain fog' and while Omicron does not present as great a risk of long COVID, that does not mean long COVID patient numbers are dropping.

Appealing to health-service providers, lead researcher Dr Claire Steves told Reuters "It's good news, but please don't decommission any of your long COVID services."

Representing 24 per cent of all long COVID patients, the UK's Office for National Statistics said in May that 438,000 people in the country have long COVID after Omicron infection.

The study, published in The Lancet journal, the risk of lingering symptoms after Omicron was lower than with Delta, but only for double-vaccinated people.

Titled 'Risk of long COVID associated with Delta versus Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2', the study found no statistical difference for those who were triple vaccinated.

The study compared 4.5 per cent of the 56,003 people studied during Omicron's peak to 10.8 per cent of 41,361 people during the Delta wave and showed no substantial difference in long COVID risk between other variants.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The first peer-reviewed study of its kind from the United Kingdom has found that the Omicron variant of coronavirus is less likely to cause long COVID than previous variants.

The first peer-reviewed study of its kind from the United Kingdom has found that the Omicron variant of coronavirus is less likely to cause long COVID than previous variants. Using data from the ZOE COVID Symptom study app, researchers at King's College London found that the odds of developing long COVID after infection were 20 per cent to 50 per cent lower during the Omicron wave in the UK compared to Delta. Depending on the patient's age, the figures varied according to the timing of their last vaccination. With researchers racing to find out if Omicron presents as big a risk of long COVID as previously dominant variants, long COVID-19 is increasingly being recognised as a public health problem. × The team has said long COVID-19 includes prolonged symptoms ranging from fatigue to 'brain fog' and while Omicron does not present as great a risk of long COVID, that does not mean long COVID patient numbers are dropping. Appealing to health-service providers, lead researcher Dr Claire Steves told Reuters "It's good news, but please don't decommission any of your long COVID services." Representing 24 per cent of all long COVID patients, the UK's Office for National Statistics said in May that 438,000 people in the country have long COVID after Omicron infection. The study, published in The Lancet journal, the risk of lingering symptoms after Omicron was lower than with Delta, but only for double-vaccinated people. Titled 'Risk of long COVID associated with Delta versus Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2', the study found no statistical difference for those who were triple vaccinated. The study compared 4.5 per cent of the 56,003 people studied during Omicron's peak to 10.8 per cent of 41,361 people during the Delta wave and showed no substantial difference in long COVID risk between other variants. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV:

People infected with Omicron variant less likely to get long COVID-19 in comparison to Delta: Study

Anthony Fauci, President Joe Biden’s chief medical advisor and the face of America's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has tested positive for COVID-19.

The National Institutes of Health on Wednesday said that Fauci, who is fully vaccinated and doubly boosted, has mild symptoms and is working from home.

"He is currently experiencing mild symptoms," the NIH said, adding that the 81-year-old had not been in recent close contact with Biden or any other official recently.

"Fauci will follow the COVID-19 guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and medical advice from his physician and return to the NIH when he tests negative," it said.

Fauci’s office told ABC News that he’s taking Pfizer’s antiviral treatment Paxlovid.

In an interview to CNN last month, the top scientist said that he had never tested Covid positive.

US has been witnessing a fresh spurt in breakthrough infections in recent months largely driven by the highly contagious omicron variant.

The current wave of cases began in April with the spread of the BA.2 “stealth” variant. Since mid-May, cases have been hovering at the 100,000 per day mark, with little indication on whether they will rise or fall in the coming weeks and months of summer.&nbsp;

According to the Coronavirus Resource Center at the Johns Hopkins University of Medicine, nearly 86 million Americans have been infected with Covid in the past 18 months. Slightly more than 1 million people in the US have died from the virus.

Meanwhile, a panel of experts convened by the US Food and Drug Administration unanimously recommended COVID-19 vaccines Wednesday for children under five, the final age group awaiting immunization in most countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Anthony Fauci, President Joe Biden’s chief medical advisor and the face of America's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has tested positive for COVID-19. The National Institutes of Health on Wednesday said that Fauci, who is fully vaccinated and doubly boosted, has mild symptoms and is working from home.

Anthony Fauci, President Joe Biden’s chief medical advisor and the face of America's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has tested positive for COVID-19. The National Institutes of Health on Wednesday said that Fauci, who is fully vaccinated and doubly boosted, has mild symptoms and is working from home. "He is currently experiencing mild symptoms," the NIH said, adding that the 81-year-old had not been in recent close contact with Biden or any other official recently. "Fauci will follow the COVID-19 guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and medical advice from his physician and return to the NIH when he tests negative," it said. Fauci’s office told ABC News that he’s taking Pfizer’s antiviral treatment Paxlovid. In an interview to CNN last month, the top scientist said that he had never tested Covid positive. US has been witnessing a fresh spurt in breakthrough infections in recent months largely driven by the highly contagious omicron variant. The current wave of cases began in April with the spread of the BA.2 “stealth” variant. Since mid-May, cases have been hovering at the 100,000 per day mark, with little indication on whether they will rise or fall in the coming weeks and months of summer. According to the Coronavirus Resource Center at the Johns Hopkins University of Medicine, nearly 86 million Americans have been infected with Covid in the past 18 months. Slightly more than 1 million people in the US have died from the virus. Meanwhile, a panel of experts convened by the US Food and Drug Administration unanimously recommended COVID-19 vaccines Wednesday for children under five, the final age group awaiting immunization in most countries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US chief medical advisor Anthony Fauci tests positive for COVID-19

Covid pandemic may have relatively loosened its grip on the world but it is definitely not a time to become complacent. Cases have been on the rise again, particularly in the UK. Researchers at Imperial College in London have made a discovery in their study that infection by Omicron COVID virus does not gurantee protection against re-infection.

Researchers from the college studied blood samples from health workers as they arrived at the conclusion. These health workers had received three doses of mRNA vaccine and had different infection histories.

Researchers found that those health workers (with three doses of vaccines) who were not infected previously got no immune boost after getting infected by Omicron. Immune boost was seen only against alpha, beta, gamma, delta and the original strain, but not against Omicron.

"The message is a little bleak. Omicron and its variants are great at breakthrough, but bad at inducing immunity, thus we get reinfections ad nauseam, and a badly depleted workforce," said Professor Danny Altmann. He is from Imperial’s department of immunology and inflammation. Prof Altmann was quoted by The Telegraph.

"Not only can it break through vaccine defences, it looks to leave very few of the hallmarks we’d expect on the immune system – it’s more stealthy than previous variants and flies under the radar, so the immune system is unable to remember it," he added.

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Covid pandemic may have relatively loosened its grip on the world but it is definitely not a time to become complacent. Cases have been on the rise again, particularly in the UK.

Covid pandemic may have relatively loosened its grip on the world but it is definitely not a time to become complacent. Cases have been on the rise again, particularly in the UK. Researchers at Imperial College in London have made a discovery in their study that infection by Omicron COVID virus does not gurantee protection against re-infection. Researchers from the college studied blood samples from health workers as they arrived at the conclusion. These health workers had received three doses of mRNA vaccine and had different infection histories. Researchers found that those health workers (with three doses of vaccines) who were not infected previously got no immune boost after getting infected by Omicron. Immune boost was seen only against alpha, beta, gamma, delta and the original strain, but not against Omicron. "The message is a little bleak. Omicron and its variants are great at breakthrough, but bad at inducing immunity, thus we get reinfections ad nauseam, and a badly depleted workforce," said Professor Danny Altmann. He is from Imperial’s department of immunology and inflammation. Prof Altmann was quoted by The Telegraph. "Not only can it break through vaccine defences, it looks to leave very few of the hallmarks we’d expect on the immune system – it’s more stealthy than previous variants and flies under the radar, so the immune system is unable to remember it," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Omicron infection doesn't provide immune boost against Covid re-infection: Study

China is witnessing a massive surge in COVID cases. Fresh COVID curbs were imposed in Beijing. Mainland China has reported 275 new COVID cases.

Mainland China sees surge in COVID cases

A senior official at the national consumer health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor on Sunday (June 12) said a more contagious subvariant of the COVID-19 Omicron strain has slipped into Russia.

A viral genome of the BA.4 sublineage has been submitted to national labs for identification in the VGARus database according to Kamil Khafizov, the head of genome research at Rospotrebnadzor's Central Research Institute for Epidemiology.

TASS News agency quoted Khafizov as saying that "Samples date back to late May."

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"One sample was deposited by the Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, and another one - by Rospotrebnadzor’s Central Scientific Research Institute of Epidemiology," said the Russian Health Watchdog.

"A number of studies published recently have revealed that variants, known as BA.4 and BA.5, are a little bit more transmissible that the early forms of Omicron," he added.

According to Khafizov, the BA.2 subtype still accounted for 95 per cent of all new cases in Russia.

Although the BA.2 subvariant remains dominant across the world, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned in May that Omicron sublineages BA.4 and BA.5 were driving a surge of the disease in unvaccinated countries.

BA.4 and BA.5 were first detected in South Africa in January as per the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

(With inputs from agencies) 

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A senior official at the national consumer health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor on Sunday (June 12) said a more contagious subvariant of the COVID-19 Omicron strain has slipped into Russia.

A senior official at the national consumer health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor on Sunday (June 12) said a more contagious subvariant of the COVID-19 Omicron strain has slipped into Russia. A viral genome of the BA.4 sublineage has been submitted to national labs for identification in the VGARus database according to Kamil Khafizov, the head of genome research at Rospotrebnadzor's Central Research Institute for Epidemiology. TASS News agency quoted Khafizov as saying that "Samples date back to late May." "One sample was deposited by the Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, and another one - by Rospotrebnadzor’s Central Scientific Research Institute of Epidemiology," said the Russian Health Watchdog. "A number of studies published recently have revealed that variants, known as BA.4 and BA.5, are a little bit more transmissible that the early forms of Omicron," he added. According to Khafizov, the BA.2 subtype still accounted for 95 per cent of all new cases in Russia. Although the BA.2 subvariant remains dominant across the world, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned in May that Omicron sublineages BA.4 and BA.5 were driving a surge of the disease in unvaccinated countries. BA.4 and BA.5 were first detected in South Africa in January as per the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Russian health watchdog says more contagious subvariant of Omicron detected in Moscow

Covid curbs are back in some parts of Shanghai as four new symptomatic cases were reported. Meanwhile, Shanghai has recently emerged from a two-month lockdown last week.

China: Parts of Shanghai impose new lockdown restrictions

India is witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. Daily covid cases in India have crossed the 5,000 mark and reported 7,240 cases in one day.

India records nearly 40% jump in daily covid-19 cases

China has relaxed COVID restrictions in Beijing. However, residents need to carry around COVID tests for everything even for stepping out.

China relaxes COVID restrictions but residents to carry around COVID tests for everything

India on Monday (June 6) registered 4,518 coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the last 24 hours, Union Health Ministry's data revealed. A day before, the count was 4,270. This is the second day the Covid tally of the country is above the 4k-mark. In the last 24 hours, the death toll climbed to 5,24,701 with nine fresh fatalities.&nbsp;

As per the latest data updated at 8am (local time), India's active caseload currently stands at 25,782, accounting for 0.06 per cent of the country's total positive cases. Whereas the recovery rate currently is at 98.73 per cent.&nbsp;

The health ministry data revealed that in the last 24 hours, a total of 2,779 patients recovered. The country's daily positivity rate has risen to 1.62 per cent and the weekly positivity rate currently is being pegged at 0.91 per cent.&nbsp;

In the past weeks, the Covid cases in India averaged between 2000-3000 with marginal ups and downs. Health authorities are taking measures to curb the spread of the virus which has been recently fuelled globally by variants and sub-variants.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as many as 12 people tested positive for the new subvariants of COVID-19 BA.4 and BA.5 in Tamil Nadu, as per state Health Minister M Subramanian.&nbsp;

"Today morning we got info from CDFD that BA.4, and BA5 variants of COVID cases have been detected. So far 4 persons tested BA.4 variant positive while 8 people tested positive for BA.5 variant," he said on Sunday.&nbsp;

As of Monday morning, the total vaccination coverage exceeded 194.12 crore.&nbsp;Over 3.44 crore adolescents have been administered with the first dose of the jab since the beginning of the vaccination drive for this age bracket.&nbsp;

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India on Monday (June 6) registered 4,518 coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the last 24 hours, Union Health Ministry's data revealed. A day before, the count was 4,270.

India on Monday (June 6) registered 4,518 coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the last 24 hours, Union Health Ministry's data revealed. A day before, the count was 4,270. This is the second day the Covid tally of the country is above the 4k-mark. In the last 24 hours, the death toll climbed to 5,24,701 with nine fresh fatalities. As per the latest data updated at 8am (local time), India's active caseload currently stands at 25,782, accounting for 0.06 per cent of the country's total positive cases. Whereas the recovery rate currently is at 98.73 per cent. The health ministry data revealed that in the last 24 hours, a total of 2,779 patients recovered. The country's daily positivity rate has risen to 1.62 per cent and the weekly positivity rate currently is being pegged at 0.91 per cent. In the past weeks, the Covid cases in India averaged between 2000-3000 with marginal ups and downs. Health authorities are taking measures to curb the spread of the virus which has been recently fuelled globally by variants and sub-variants. Meanwhile, as many as 12 people tested positive for the new subvariants of COVID-19 BA.4 and BA.5 in Tamil Nadu, as per state Health Minister M Subramanian. "Today morning we got info from CDFD that BA.4, and BA5 variants of COVID cases have been detected. So far 4 persons tested BA.4 variant positive while 8 people tested positive for BA.5 variant," he said on Sunday. As of Monday morning, the total vaccination coverage exceeded 194.12 crore. Over 3.44 crore adolescents have been administered with the first dose of the jab since the beginning of the vaccination drive for this age bracket. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: India registers 4,518 fresh cases, 9 deaths in 24 hrs; tally above 4k-mark for second day

It has been more than two years since the coronavirus pandemic hit the world and the virus continues to mutate. Now, Experts have warned against Omicron's sub-variants BA.4 and BA.5.

Experts warn against Omicron's sub-variants BA.4 and BA.5

China's harsh covid restrictions to ease gradually, but those who want to use public transport must have a negative test report. Residents need to take covid tests for everything.

China's harsh covid restrictions to ease gradually

India registered more than 4,000 coronavirus actions after nearly three months, taking country’s total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,31,68,585, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

With the addition of 4,041 new cases in a span of 24 hours, the active cases touched 21,177, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said.

The death toll also climbed to 5,24,651 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data stated. The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections.

Among the Indian states, western Maharashtra has been registering more than 1,000 COVID-19 cases in the past four days. The state had recorded 1,081 cases on Wednesday, the number dipped to 1,048 on Thursday. Of the new 1,048 cases, Mumbai recorded 704 cases, which accounts for 67 per cent of the total cases in Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the city had recorded 739 infections.

Delhi, on the other hand, recorded 373 fresh COVID-19 cases, and two deaths on Thursday.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2-million mark on August 7, 2020, 3-millions on August 23, 4-million on September 5 and 5-million on September 16. It went past 6-million on September 28, 7-million on October 11, crossed 8-million on October 29, 9-million on November 20 and surpassed 100-million mark on December 19.

The country crossed the grim milestone of 200 million on May 4 and 300 million on June 23 last year.

As per the health ministry, India conducted 4,25,379 COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours. The country has so far conducted 8.5 billion tests, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data.

The country has administered more than 19 billion vaccine doses so far under the Nationwide Vaccination Drive.

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India registered more than 4,000 coronavirus actions after nearly three months, taking country’s total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,31,68,585, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

India registered more than 4,000 coronavirus actions after nearly three months, taking country’s total tally of COVID-19 cases to 4,31,68,585, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday. With the addition of 4,041 new cases in a span of 24 hours, the active cases touched 21,177, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. The death toll also climbed to 5,24,651 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data stated. The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections. Among the Indian states, western Maharashtra has been registering more than 1,000 COVID-19 cases in the past four days. The state had recorded 1,081 cases on Wednesday, the number dipped to 1,048 on Thursday. Of the new 1,048 cases, Mumbai recorded 704 cases, which accounts for 67 per cent of the total cases in Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the city had recorded 739 infections. Delhi, on the other hand, recorded 373 fresh COVID-19 cases, and two deaths on Thursday. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2-million mark on August 7, 2020, 3-millions on August 23, 4-million on September 5 and 5-million on September 16. It went past 6-million on September 28, 7-million on October 11, crossed 8-million on October 29, 9-million on November 20 and surpassed 100-million mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of 200 million on May 4 and 300 million on June 23 last year. As per the health ministry, India conducted 4,25,379 COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours. The country has so far conducted 8.5 billion tests, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data. The country has administered more than 19 billion vaccine doses so far under the Nationwide Vaccination Drive. Watch WION's live TV here:

India registers over 4,000 Covid infections after nearly 3 months; 10 deaths in 24 hours

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