As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant.&nbsp;Scientists are currently struggling to identify the symptoms of Omicron.

Elaborating on the variant, WHO said, “There are still limited data on the clinical severity of Omicron. More data are needed to understand the severity profile and how severity is impacted by vaccination and pre-existing immunity."

“There are still limited available data, and no peer-reviewed evidence, on vaccine efficacy or effectiveness to date for Omicron,” it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-has-doubling-time-of-15-to-3-days-will-outpace-delta-in-community-transmission-who-438010">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron has doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days, will outpace Delta in community transmission: WHO</a>

Recently, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that the majority of patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of the Omicron variant.

He further highlighted that even though these symptoms are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded if the variant is less severe or virulent.

The WHO further revealed that the variant has a doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days.

Identified as a variant of concern, it is likely that Omicron will outpace Delta where community transmission occurs.

In its ‘Enhancing Readiness for Omicron (B.1.1.529): Technical Brief and Priority Actions for Member States’ report, WHO said, "Omicron is spreading rapidly in countries with high levels of population immunity and it remains uncertain to what extent the observed rapid growth rate can be attributed to immune evasion, intrinsic increased transmissibility or a combination of both."

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant.

As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant. Scientists are currently struggling to identify the symptoms of Omicron. Elaborating on the variant, WHO said, “There are still limited data on the clinical severity of Omicron. More data are needed to understand the severity profile and how severity is impacted by vaccination and pre-existing immunity." “There are still limited available data, and no peer-reviewed evidence, on vaccine efficacy or effectiveness to date for Omicron,” it added. Also read | Omicron has doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days, will outpace Delta in community transmission: WHO Recently, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that the majority of patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of the Omicron variant. He further highlighted that even though these symptoms are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded if the variant is less severe or virulent. The WHO further revealed that the variant has a doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days. Identified as a variant of concern, it is likely that Omicron will outpace Delta where community transmission occurs. In its ‘Enhancing Readiness for Omicron (B.1.1.529): Technical Brief and Priority Actions for Member States’ report, WHO said, "Omicron is spreading rapidly in countries with high levels of population immunity and it remains uncertain to what extent the observed rapid growth rate can be attributed to immune evasion, intrinsic increased transmissibility or a combination of both." (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron has now spread to 89 countries: WHO

United Kingdom's Health Minister Sajid Javid said that there is much "we still don't know" about the Omicron variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) and also warned that "it may be too late to react" as virus cases are rising in the country.&nbsp;

While writing a column in Sunday Telegraph he&nbsp;said, "We have to be clear-eyed about the challenge Omicron presents. Our strategy since it emerged has been and remains to buy time for our scientists to assess the threat and build up our defences."

"Once that trend leads to a clear outcome, it may be too late to react to it," he said.&nbsp;

He further wrote, "Standing in Parliament this week and arguing for Plan B brought me no joy – promoting individual freedom and opportunity is one of the reasons I got into politics."&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-cases-surge-in-uk-hinting-towards-a-new-wave-438151">Omicron cases surge in UK hinting towards a new wave</a>

The UK has been hardest hit by the threats of the Omicron variant as the country registered another 90,418 daily Covid cases on Saturday. It has been confirmed that more than 10,000 new Omicron cases have been detected, which is fueling the Covid surge in the country.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the health secretary appeared on BBC's The Andrew Marr Show, where he suggested that the government needs to learn from things that have gone wrong and resulted in a continuous rise in virus cases of late.&nbsp;

"We need to learn lessons from those things that have gone wrong, and keep focusing on those things that everyone wants to see, that have gone very well," Javid said on the show.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-more-infected-with-omicron-variant-than-reported-say-uk-scientists-438070">Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists</a>

During the show, he also said that new restrictions in England are "inevitable". While speaking about the rise in cases, he said, "If we don't bring in restrictions sooner rather than later you are going to see even more positive cases and potentially public services like the NHS (National Health Service) on the verge of collapsing if not collapsing."

As reported by The Guardian, some scientists have warned that the daily number of Covid cases could reach between 600,000 and 2 million by the end of the month if new restrictions are not brought in immediately.&nbsp;

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'Major incident' in London

London mayor Sadiq Khan declared a "major incident" in the British capital due to the spread of the Omicron variant on Saturday as 26,418 cases reported in the last 24 hours, a rapid surge.&nbsp;A major incident is defined as an event with a range of serious consequences which requires special arrangements to be implemented.

"The surge in cases of the Omicron variant across our capital is hugely concerning, so we are once again declaring a major incident because of the threat of COVID-19 to our city," said Khan.

United Kingdom's Health Minister Sajid Javid said that there is much "we still don't know" about the Omicron variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) and also warned that "it may be too late to react" as virus cases are rising in the country.

United Kingdom's Health Minister Sajid Javid said that there is much "we still don't know" about the Omicron variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) and also warned that "it may be too late to react" as virus cases are rising in the country. While writing a column in Sunday Telegraph he said, "We have to be clear-eyed about the challenge Omicron presents. Our strategy since it emerged has been and remains to buy time for our scientists to assess the threat and build up our defences." "Once that trend leads to a clear outcome, it may be too late to react to it," he said. He further wrote, "Standing in Parliament this week and arguing for Plan B brought me no joy – promoting individual freedom and opportunity is one of the reasons I got into politics." ALSO READ | Omicron cases surge in UK hinting towards a new wave The UK has been hardest hit by the threats of the Omicron variant as the country registered another 90,418 daily Covid cases on Saturday. It has been confirmed that more than 10,000 new Omicron cases have been detected, which is fueling the Covid surge in the country. On Sunday, the health secretary appeared on BBC's The Andrew Marr Show, where he suggested that the government needs to learn from things that have gone wrong and resulted in a continuous rise in virus cases of late. "We need to learn lessons from those things that have gone wrong, and keep focusing on those things that everyone wants to see, that have gone very well," Javid said on the show. ALSO READ | Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists During the show, he also said that new restrictions in England are "inevitable". While speaking about the rise in cases, he said, "If we don't bring in restrictions sooner rather than later you are going to see even more positive cases and potentially public services like the NHS (National Health Service) on the verge of collapsing if not collapsing." As reported by The Guardian, some scientists have warned that the daily number of Covid cases could reach between 600,000 and 2 million by the end of the month if new restrictions are not brought in immediately. × 'Major incident' in London London mayor Sadiq Khan declared a "major incident" in the British capital due to the spread of the Omicron variant on Saturday as 26,418 cases reported in the last 24 hours, a rapid surge. A major incident is defined as an event with a range of serious consequences which requires special arrangements to be implemented. "The surge in cases of the Omicron variant across our capital is hugely concerning, so we are once again declaring a major incident because of the threat of COVID-19 to our city," said Khan.

UK health minister says it may be 'too late to react' to Omicron as COVID-19 cases continue to rise

Paul Rudd, People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive of 2021, hosted&nbsp;the special Saturday Night Live episode&nbsp;for the 5th next time, but this time there was&nbsp;no live audience. 
 
Hours before the episode premiere, SNL announced on social media that the final episode of this year featuring 'Ant-Man' star Rudd as host, would tape without a live audience and with only a limited cast and crew due to the recent spike in the Omnicorn variant.&nbsp;

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Due to the recent spike in the Omicron variant and out of an abundance of caution, there will be no live audience for tonight’s taping of “Saturday Night Live” and the show will have limited cast and crew.
— Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) <a href="https://twitter.com/nbcsnl/status/1472302468344254470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The statement posted on the SNL IG page reads, "Due to the recent spike in the Omicron variant and out of an abundance of caution, there will be no live audience for tonight's taping of 'Saturday Night Live' and the show will have limited cast and crew." 
 
Charli XCX, who was the musical guest for the episode, announced Saturday afternoon on Twitter that she will no longer be performing.

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:( <a href="https://t.co/5D0I1XM65b">pic.twitter.com/5D0I1XM65b</a>
— Charli (@charli_xcx) <a href="https://twitter.com/charli_xcx/status/1472329132675534848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“Due to the limited crew at tonight’s taping of snl my musical performances will no longer be able to go ahead,” she wrote. “I am devastated and heartbroken” after she and her team “worked so hard all week alongside the snl team to bring the most amazing musical performance to life.” 
She added, “I am currently safe and healthy but of course very sad.” 
 
As per the reports “four actors” have tested positive for coronavirus and others have called out because of their fear about coming to NBC Studios at 30 Rockefeller Center, where the weekly sketch show is filmed.

For the special episode, Rudd was joined by&nbsp;Tom Hanks&nbsp;and &nbsp;Tina Fey - both five-time hosts.

Paul Rudd, People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive of 2021, hosted the special Saturday Night Live episode for the 5th next time, but this time there was no live audience.

Paul Rudd, People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive of 2021, hosted the special Saturday Night Live episode for the 5th next time, but this time there was no live audience. Hours before the episode premiere, SNL announced on social media that the final episode of this year featuring 'Ant-Man' star Rudd as host, would tape without a live audience and with only a limited cast and crew due to the recent spike in the Omnicorn variant. Due to the recent spike in the Omicron variant and out of an abundance of caution, there will be no live audience for tonight’s taping of “Saturday Night Live” and the show will have limited cast and crew. — Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) December 18, 2021 × The statement posted on the SNL IG page reads, "Due to the recent spike in the Omicron variant and out of an abundance of caution, there will be no live audience for tonight's taping of 'Saturday Night Live' and the show will have limited cast and crew." Charli XCX, who was the musical guest for the episode, announced Saturday afternoon on Twitter that she will no longer be performing. :( pic.twitter.com/5D0I1XM65b — Charli (@charli_xcx) December 18, 2021 × “Due to the limited crew at tonight’s taping of snl my musical performances will no longer be able to go ahead,” she wrote. “I am devastated and heartbroken” after she and her team “worked so hard all week alongside the snl team to bring the most amazing musical performance to life.” She added, “I am currently safe and healthy but of course very sad.” As per the reports “four actors” have tested positive for coronavirus and others have called out because of their fear about coming to NBC Studios at 30 Rockefeller Center, where the weekly sketch show is filmed. For the special episode, Rudd was joined by Tom Hanks and Tina Fey - both five-time hosts.

Paul Rudd hosts Omicron-affected Saturday Night Live Christmas episode

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time.&nbsp;

Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting."

The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-to-suggest-new-variant-omicron-less-severe-than-delta-reveals-uk-study-437843">Also read |&nbsp;No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study</a>

The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK.

Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta.&nbsp;

The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day.

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time. Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting." The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day. Also read | No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus. The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK. Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists

The new Omicron variant is spreading rapidly around the world and there is a chance that the same might happen in India, the government's Covid task force chief warned.<o:p></o:p>

As India’s Omicron cases tally increased to 101, the experts have warned that the rising cases in United Kingdom and France may translate into nearly 1,400,000 cases on a daily basis.<o:p></o:p>

"If we look at the scale of spread in the UK and if there is a similar outbreak in India, then given our population, there will be 14 lakh cases every day. France is reporting 65,000 cases. If an outbreak of a similar scale takes place in India, then given our population it will mean 13 lakh cases every day," VK Paul said.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-spreads-across-the-world-with-uk-covid-19-cases-surging-to-a-record-high-437816">WATCH |</a></o:p>

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Looking at the increasing Omicron cases in the country, Indian authorities are urging locals to avoid public gatherings, especially in large groups. Considering the upcoming Christmas and New Year festivities, Paul has urged locals to avoid all kinds of unnecessary travel and at all costs steer away from parties and crowded festivities.<o:p></o:p>

"It is time to avoid non-essential travel, time to avoid mass gatherings, and time to observe low-intensity festivities and low-intensity New Year celebrations," he said.<o:p></o:p>

This warning comes as the experts fear that as per the data, Omicron may replicate the Delta variant, which caused the second Covid wave in India during summer 2021.<o:p></o:p>

"WHO has said that Omicron is spreading faster than the Delta variant in South Africa where Delta circulation was low. It's likely Omicron will outpace Delta variant where community transmission occurs, WHO added," said Health Ministry Joint Secretary Luv Agarwal.<o:p></o:p>

Currently, Maharashtra has reported the highest number of Omicron cases in India, and other states such as Delhi, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Karnataka, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh also reporting cases of the new virus.

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

The new Omicron variant is spreading rapidly around the world and there is a chance that the same might happen in India, the government's Covid task force chief warned.

The new Omicron variant is spreading rapidly around the world and there is a chance that the same might happen in India, the government's Covid task force chief warned. As India’s Omicron cases tally increased to 101, the experts have warned that the rising cases in United Kingdom and France may translate into nearly 1,400,000 cases on a daily basis. "If we look at the scale of spread in the UK and if there is a similar outbreak in India, then given our population, there will be 14 lakh cases every day. France is reporting 65,000 cases. If an outbreak of a similar scale takes place in India, then given our population it will mean 13 lakh cases every day," VK Paul said. WATCH | Looking at the increasing Omicron cases in the country, Indian authorities are urging locals to avoid public gatherings, especially in large groups. Considering the upcoming Christmas and New Year festivities, Paul has urged locals to avoid all kinds of unnecessary travel and at all costs steer away from parties and crowded festivities. "It is time to avoid non-essential travel, time to avoid mass gatherings, and time to observe low-intensity festivities and low-intensity New Year celebrations," he said. This warning comes as the experts fear that as per the data, Omicron may replicate the Delta variant, which caused the second Covid wave in India during summer 2021. "WHO has said that Omicron is spreading faster than the Delta variant in South Africa where Delta circulation was low. It's likely Omicron will outpace Delta variant where community transmission occurs, WHO added," said Health Ministry Joint Secretary Luv Agarwal. Currently, Maharashtra has reported the highest number of Omicron cases in India, and other states such as Delhi, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Karnataka, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh also reporting cases of the new virus. (With inputs from agencies)

Studying UK's Omicron trend, experts warn India could see 1.4 million daily Covid cases

It was three words that workers don’t hear every day from their bosses: “I was wrong.”

Morgan Stanley’s CEO, James Gorman, asked this week about employees returning to the office, said his projection about the pandemic subsiding was off. “I thought we would have been out of it past Labor Day,” Gorman said on CNBC. “And we’re not.”

Office workers this week watched as events unfolded that were at once familiar and jarring in their persistence: COVID case counts ballooned, and employer plans deflated. The United States is reporting an average of more than 120,000 new COVID cases each day, up 40% from two weeks ago, according to a New York Times database. New York City is experiencing a spike in cases larger than any since last winter. Employers that had been growing bolder in their plans — reopening offices, mandating or strongly suggesting that workers report back, promising holiday blowouts — are now scaling back their ambitions for in-person business and socializing.

Jefferies, an investment bank, asked its 4,542 employees to work from home because of a spate of COVID cases. Goldman Sachs told its teams to postpone their remaining holiday parties, and JPMorgan Chase announced that its health care conference would go virtual. Citigroup, which had called people back two days a week starting in September, sent a memo giving its New York and New Jersey staff the option to work remotely, while Morgan Stanley employees were given more flexibility to stay home. And Apple delayed its office return indefinitely, the latest in a slew of employers that have conceded their corporate timelines are no match for the unpredictability of the virus.

“Since the start of December, Jefferies has experienced nearly 40 new COVID cases,” the CEO, Rich Handler, and president, Brian Friedman, wrote in a memo to staff last week, in which the bank also required that anyone eligible who enters its offices or attends its events get a booster shot by the end of January. “Our priority now is to best protect every one of you and your families.”

For months, the finance industry had been confident in the value, and relative safety, of in-person work. In October, an average of 27% of finance workers went to the office every day in New York City, and that figure was expected to rise to 47% by the end of January, according to the Partnership for New York City, a business group. But now some financial firms are beginning to backtrack.

“Despite all best efforts, COVID is really forcing a rollback of plans,” said Kathryn Wylde, head of the partnership. “The contagion factor with omicron has meant that people are going to hunker down again.”

Fidelity Investments, which has 52,000 employees globally, this week paused its pilot program allowing vaccinated workers to come back to their desks in some parts of the United States. Though workers deemed essential will still report to the office, other associates have been asked to work from home.

Companies forging ahead on in-person work face the question of whether to require booster shots, as the need for extra protection against the omicron variant becomes increasingly clear. The Washington Post, which is bringing its employees back to the office by mid-February, told staff members they will have to get boosters and submit to weekly testing. Few other private employers have come out publicly on the issue, though the Metropolitan Opera, the National Football League and several universities have put in place some form of booster requirement.

“What we’ve been seeing from our customers is uncertainty: Do we mandate boosters, do we not mandate boosters?” said Benjamin Granger, an organizational psychologist at the software company Qualtrics who advises hundreds of clients on how to use the platform. “When we see the first domino fall, I think we’ll see a cascade of them coming.”

As employers weigh vaccine guidelines and adjust their office returns, they also face a more immediate challenge: How will they celebrate the holidays as omicron spreads? After a year of email and Slack correspondence, corporate teams had been eagerly anticipating holiday parties. But as New York City’s new COVID cases rose significantly after party invitations went out, dozens of companies scrambled to cancel their plans.

Vincent Chee, head of people and culture at Bevel, a communications consultancy with 30 employees, had started making arrangements for the company’s holiday celebration in late September: It would involve a scavenger hunt, a make-your-own-snow-globe session and hot cocoa. Last week, when an employee tested positive for the virus, the company shifted to virtual celebrations.

“We’re going back to basics,” Chee said, describing his plans for online yoga and meals that employees can expense on food delivery websites like Seamless.

Meanwhile, employers that held holiday parties right as cases were exploding are trying to help their workers manage the aftermath: BuzzFeed, which hosted a party last week in Manhattan, said attendees reported positive test results to the company’s in-house public health researcher, and close contacts were encouraged to get tested.

Some company leaders came under fire for taking a middle-of-the-road approach to party cancellations. Peloton decided not to host a holiday party because of COVID concerns, budgetary considerations and space constraints, according to the company. But then the CEO and his wife held their own celebration at the Plaza Hotel, which some Peloton employees attended.

“John and Jill Foley hosted a personal holiday party for their friends and family, some of whom were Peloton team members,” a company official said in an email. “This was not a Peloton-paid or -sponsored event.”

Some people whose companies have pressed ahead with holiday festivities are left wondering whether to assume the risk of gathering with co-workers. Emily Crebbin, 24, who works for a global technology company, said she felt a sense of unease toggling between Twitter and TikTok posts about the rapid spread of omicron in New York City while she planned an outfit for her employer’s holiday party Friday.

She joined the company in July and was excited to spend time with colleagues, enjoying the open bar and passed appetizers — but the gloom in her social media feeds has transported her back to the city’s atmosphere in March 2020.

“It was so exciting that we were going to have a holiday party, because last year we couldn’t and it was like, ‘Yay New York is back and everyone is vaccinated,’” she said. “But I kind of wish they’d cancel, because then I wouldn’t have to make the call.”

Even as office workers returned home and universities moved classes online, an elite group of politicians and executives held firm on plans for its annual conclave in the Swiss Alps. The organizers of the World Economic Forum, which brings together political leaders and CEOs, said they were still planning on hosting the annual meeting in Davos next month. So far, there have not been many cancellations, and preparations for the event — which attracts thousands for a week of lectures, panel discussions, meals and parties — had begun, according to Peter Vanham, a spokesperson for the organization.

But Vanham added that the World Economic Forum was watching the virus closely and expected to make a final decision about whether to proceed or cancel the event by Jan. 6.

“The X-factor is omicron,” he said. “We will know just how bad that X-factor is by the end of the year.”

It was three words that workers don’t hear every day from their bosses: “I was wrong.” Morgan Stanley’s CEO, James Gorman, asked this week about employees returning to the office, said his projection about the pandemic subsiding was off.

It was three words that workers don’t hear every day from their bosses: “I was wrong.” Morgan Stanley’s CEO, James Gorman, asked this week about employees returning to the office, said his projection about the pandemic subsiding was off. “I thought we would have been out of it past Labor Day,” Gorman said on CNBC. “And we’re not.” Office workers this week watched as events unfolded that were at once familiar and jarring in their persistence: COVID case counts ballooned, and employer plans deflated. The United States is reporting an average of more than 120,000 new COVID cases each day, up 40% from two weeks ago, according to a New York Times database. New York City is experiencing a spike in cases larger than any since last winter. Employers that had been growing bolder in their plans — reopening offices, mandating or strongly suggesting that workers report back, promising holiday blowouts — are now scaling back their ambitions for in-person business and socializing. Jefferies, an investment bank, asked its 4,542 employees to work from home because of a spate of COVID cases. Goldman Sachs told its teams to postpone their remaining holiday parties, and JPMorgan Chase announced that its health care conference would go virtual. Citigroup, which had called people back two days a week starting in September, sent a memo giving its New York and New Jersey staff the option to work remotely, while Morgan Stanley employees were given more flexibility to stay home. And Apple delayed its office return indefinitely, the latest in a slew of employers that have conceded their corporate timelines are no match for the unpredictability of the virus. “Since the start of December, Jefferies has experienced nearly 40 new COVID cases,” the CEO, Rich Handler, and president, Brian Friedman, wrote in a memo to staff last week, in which the bank also required that anyone eligible who enters its offices or attends its events get a booster shot by the end of January. “Our priority now is to best protect every one of you and your families.” For months, the finance industry had been confident in the value, and relative safety, of in-person work. In October, an average of 27% of finance workers went to the office every day in New York City, and that figure was expected to rise to 47% by the end of January, according to the Partnership for New York City, a business group. But now some financial firms are beginning to backtrack. “Despite all best efforts, COVID is really forcing a rollback of plans,” said Kathryn Wylde, head of the partnership. “The contagion factor with omicron has meant that people are going to hunker down again.” Fidelity Investments, which has 52,000 employees globally, this week paused its pilot program allowing vaccinated workers to come back to their desks in some parts of the United States. Though workers deemed essential will still report to the office, other associates have been asked to work from home. Companies forging ahead on in-person work face the question of whether to require booster shots, as the need for extra protection against the omicron variant becomes increasingly clear. The Washington Post, which is bringing its employees back to the office by mid-February, told staff members they will have to get boosters and submit to weekly testing. Few other private employers have come out publicly on the issue, though the Metropolitan Opera, the National Football League and several universities have put in place some form of booster requirement. “What we’ve been seeing from our customers is uncertainty: Do we mandate boosters, do we not mandate boosters?” said Benjamin Granger, an organizational psychologist at the software company Qualtrics who advises hundreds of clients on how to use the platform. “When we see the first domino fall, I think we’ll see a cascade of them coming.” As employers weigh vaccine guidelines and adjust their office returns, they also face a more immediate challenge: How will they celebrate the holidays as omicron spreads? After a year of email and Slack correspondence, corporate teams had been eagerly anticipating holiday parties. But as New York City’s new COVID cases rose significantly after party invitations went out, dozens of companies scrambled to cancel their plans. Vincent Chee, head of people and culture at Bevel, a communications consultancy with 30 employees, had started making arrangements for the company’s holiday celebration in late September: It would involve a scavenger hunt, a make-your-own-snow-globe session and hot cocoa. Last week, when an employee tested positive for the virus, the company shifted to virtual celebrations. “We’re going back to basics,” Chee said, describing his plans for online yoga and meals that employees can expense on food delivery websites like Seamless. Meanwhile, employers that held holiday parties right as cases were exploding are trying to help their workers manage the aftermath: BuzzFeed, which hosted a party last week in Manhattan, said attendees reported positive test results to the company’s in-house public health researcher, and close contacts were encouraged to get tested. Some company leaders came under fire for taking a middle-of-the-road approach to party cancellations. Peloton decided not to host a holiday party because of COVID concerns, budgetary considerations and space constraints, according to the company. But then the CEO and his wife held their own celebration at the Plaza Hotel, which some Peloton employees attended. “John and Jill Foley hosted a personal holiday party for their friends and family, some of whom were Peloton team members,” a company official said in an email. “This was not a Peloton-paid or -sponsored event.” Some people whose companies have pressed ahead with holiday festivities are left wondering whether to assume the risk of gathering with co-workers. Emily Crebbin, 24, who works for a global technology company, said she felt a sense of unease toggling between Twitter and TikTok posts about the rapid spread of omicron in New York City while she planned an outfit for her employer’s holiday party Friday. She joined the company in July and was excited to spend time with colleagues, enjoying the open bar and passed appetizers — but the gloom in her social media feeds has transported her back to the city’s atmosphere in March 2020. “It was so exciting that we were going to have a holiday party, because last year we couldn’t and it was like, ‘Yay New York is back and everyone is vaccinated,’” she said. “But I kind of wish they’d cancel, because then I wouldn’t have to make the call.” Even as office workers returned home and universities moved classes online, an elite group of politicians and executives held firm on plans for its annual conclave in the Swiss Alps. The organizers of the World Economic Forum, which brings together political leaders and CEOs, said they were still planning on hosting the annual meeting in Davos next month. So far, there have not been many cancellations, and preparations for the event — which attracts thousands for a week of lectures, panel discussions, meals and parties — had begun, according to Peter Vanham, a spokesperson for the organization. But Vanham added that the World Economic Forum was watching the virus closely and expected to make a final decision about whether to proceed or cancel the event by Jan. 6. “The X-factor is omicron,” he said. “We will know just how bad that X-factor is by the end of the year.”

Offices shut and holiday parties dim as a familiar feeling sinks in

Even as the severity of Omicron remains unclear, a research team from Imperial College, London after conducting a huge study on Friday said that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. &nbsp;

The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threat-of-omicron-wave-americans-rush-to-get-covid-19-boosters-437648" hreflang="en">Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters</a>

It may be too soon to say how hospitalisations will play out in the UK. &nbsp;

The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19% protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20%. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A booster dose, however, helped by blocking around 55% to 80% symptomatic cases. &nbsp;

From November 29 to December 11, the team analysed all PCR test-confirmed cases of coronavirus in England. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-france-fears-dominance-of-omicron-covid-variant-in-2022-canada-lifts-travel-ban-437815">As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant, Canada lifts travel ban</a>

It was one of the most expansive examinations of Omicron's potential to infect people. &nbsp;

The proportion of new Covid variant, Omicron, seems to be doubling among Covid cases in every two days up to December 11, the team said. &nbsp;

It means every person infected with new variant passed it on to over three other people. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as the severity of Omicron remains unclear, a research team from Imperial College, London after conducting a huge study on Friday said that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta.

Even as the severity of Omicron remains unclear, a research team from Imperial College, London after conducting a huge study on Friday said that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. Also Read: Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters It may be too soon to say how hospitalisations will play out in the UK. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19% protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20%. A booster dose, however, helped by blocking around 55% to 80% symptomatic cases. From November 29 to December 11, the team analysed all PCR test-confirmed cases of coronavirus in England. Also Read: As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant, Canada lifts travel ban It was one of the most expansive examinations of Omicron's potential to infect people. The proportion of new Covid variant, Omicron, seems to be doubling among Covid cases in every two days up to December 11, the team said. It means every person infected with new variant passed it on to over three other people. (With inputs from agencies)

No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study

While the Omicron variant of coronavirus continues to rapidly spread all over the world, scientists are still struggling to identify the symptoms of this new variant. However, the experts believe they might have identified at least one symptom.<o:p></o:p>

The new variant has been reported in at least 77 countries all over the world, and majority of the Omicron patients around the globe have scratchy throat common as a symptom of this new variant.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-france-fears-dominance-of-omicron-covid-variant-in-2022-canada-lifts-travel-ban-437815">As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant in 2022, Canada lifts travel ban</a></o:p>

While scientists are still trying to understand the symptoms for the new variant, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that majority of the patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of Omicron variant.<o:p></o:p>

Scratchy throat is usually followed by nasal congestion, dry cough and myalgia manifesting in lower back pain. While doctors have noted some other different symptoms in many other patients, scratchy throat has been a common one in majority.<o:p></o:p>

He also stressed that even though these symptoms look and are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded that the variant is less severe or virulent.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-spreads-across-the-world-with-uk-covid-19-cases-surging-to-a-record-high-437816">WATCH |</a></o:p>

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Following on the warning by Noach, Sir John Bell, a leading British medical expert, also warned that the Omicron variant has been behaving strangely as compared to other strains of coronavirus. "The symptoms people get from this particular virus are different to the previous variants," Sir John Bell told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

He also named stuffy nose, sore throat, loose stool and myalgia are the usual symptoms that have been reported in Omicron patients till now.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Omicron variant has been spreading rapidly around the world. French Prime Minister Jean Castex has warned locals that the new variant may become dominant in the country by the start of 2022. However, he also added that "it does not seem to be more dangerous than the Delta variant and the data available to us indicate that complete vaccination coverage with the booster dose protects well against severe forms of the disease".

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

While the Omicron variant of coronavirus continues to rapidly spread all over the world, scientists are still struggling to identify the symptoms of this new variant.

While the Omicron variant of coronavirus continues to rapidly spread all over the world, scientists are still struggling to identify the symptoms of this new variant. However, the experts believe they might have identified at least one symptom. The new variant has been reported in at least 77 countries all over the world, and majority of the Omicron patients around the globe have scratchy throat common as a symptom of this new variant. Also read | As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant in 2022, Canada lifts travel ban While scientists are still trying to understand the symptoms for the new variant, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that majority of the patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of Omicron variant. Scratchy throat is usually followed by nasal congestion, dry cough and myalgia manifesting in lower back pain. While doctors have noted some other different symptoms in many other patients, scratchy throat has been a common one in majority. He also stressed that even though these symptoms look and are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded that the variant is less severe or virulent. WATCH | Following on the warning by Noach, Sir John Bell, a leading British medical expert, also warned that the Omicron variant has been behaving strangely as compared to other strains of coronavirus. "The symptoms people get from this particular virus are different to the previous variants," Sir John Bell told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Tuesday. He also named stuffy nose, sore throat, loose stool and myalgia are the usual symptoms that have been reported in Omicron patients till now. Meanwhile, Omicron variant has been spreading rapidly around the world. French Prime Minister Jean Castex has warned locals that the new variant may become dominant in the country by the start of 2022. However, he also added that "it does not seem to be more dangerous than the Delta variant and the data available to us indicate that complete vaccination coverage with the booster dose protects well against severe forms of the disease". (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Experts name one common symptom of Omicron variant

Around 5.3 million people have died due to different strains of coronavirus, more than 27,000 cases of the new Omicron strain have also been recorded in almost 91 countries.

Covid-19 News Update| 5.3 million died due to different strains of coronavirus

As the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic wreaked havoc across the world in the past two years, scientists and researchers are busy developing ways to counter the threat efficiently and curb the spread of the virus in the community.&nbsp;

Safety measures such as face masks, social distancing, sanitising are still in place in the areas where the cases are rising, owing to new variants and community spread.&nbsp;

COVID-19 vaccines are effective against the virus but their effect sometimes varies in case of the mutations of the virus, the complexity of vaccination strategies, etc.&nbsp;

New research, published in&nbsp;Nature Communications, has revealed that antibody-like proteins found in a shark's immune system can also be a counter to the Covid. The proteins could also prevent different variants – such as Delta, Omicron.&nbsp;

"This study highlights the utility of VNARs as effective therapeutics against coronaviruses and may serve as a critical milestone for nearing a paradigm shift of the greater biologic landscape," abstract of the study read.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-seek-better-care-for-covid-19-patients-in-thailand-jail-inmates-riot-set-fire-437754">To seek better care for COVID-19 patients in Thailand jail, inmates riot, set fire</a>

Aaron LeBeau, a pathologist from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a co-author of the new study, said in a statement, "These small antibody-like proteins can get into nooks and crannies that human antibodies cannot access."

"They can form these very unique geometries. This allows them to recognize structures in [coronavirus] proteins that our human antibodies cannot," he added.&nbsp;

The study mentioned that the single-domain Variable New Antigen Receptors (VNARs) from the immune system of sharks are the smallest naturally occurring binding domains found in nature.

As per the study, the ability of the VNARs to neutralise the Covid virus rivalled or exceeded that of full-length immunoglobulins and other single-domain antibodies.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-reports-highest-number-of-covid-19-cases-for-the-third-consecutive-day-437786">UK reports highest number of COVID-19 cases for the third consecutive day</a>

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Crystallographic analysis of two VNARs found that they recognised separate epitopes on the RBD and had distinctly different mechanisms of virus neutralisation unique to VNARs.&nbsp;

Structural and biochemical data suggest that VNARs would be effective therapeutic agents against emerging SARS-CoV-2 mutants, including the Delta variant.&nbsp;

"The big issue is there are a number of coronaviruses that are poised for emergence in humans," said LeBeau.&nbsp;

"What we're doing is preparing an arsenal of shark VNAR therapeutics that could be used down the road for future SARS outbreaks. It's a kind of insurance against the future," he added.

As the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic wreaked havoc across the world in the past two years, scientists and researchers are busy developing ways to counter the threat efficiently and curb the spread of the virus in the community.

As the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic wreaked havoc across the world in the past two years, scientists and researchers are busy developing ways to counter the threat efficiently and curb the spread of the virus in the community. Safety measures such as face masks, social distancing, sanitising are still in place in the areas where the cases are rising, owing to new variants and community spread. COVID-19 vaccines are effective against the virus but their effect sometimes varies in case of the mutations of the virus, the complexity of vaccination strategies, etc. New research, published in Nature Communications, has revealed that antibody-like proteins found in a shark's immune system can also be a counter to the Covid. The proteins could also prevent different variants – such as Delta, Omicron. "This study highlights the utility of VNARs as effective therapeutics against coronaviruses and may serve as a critical milestone for nearing a paradigm shift of the greater biologic landscape," abstract of the study read. ALSO READ | To seek better care for COVID-19 patients in Thailand jail, inmates riot, set fire Aaron LeBeau, a pathologist from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a co-author of the new study, said in a statement, "These small antibody-like proteins can get into nooks and crannies that human antibodies cannot access." "They can form these very unique geometries. This allows them to recognize structures in [coronavirus] proteins that our human antibodies cannot," he added. The study mentioned that the single-domain Variable New Antigen Receptors (VNARs) from the immune system of sharks are the smallest naturally occurring binding domains found in nature. As per the study, the ability of the VNARs to neutralise the Covid virus rivalled or exceeded that of full-length immunoglobulins and other single-domain antibodies. ALSO READ | UK reports highest number of COVID-19 cases for the third consecutive day × Crystallographic analysis of two VNARs found that they recognised separate epitopes on the RBD and had distinctly different mechanisms of virus neutralisation unique to VNARs. Structural and biochemical data suggest that VNARs would be effective therapeutic agents against emerging SARS-CoV-2 mutants, including the Delta variant. "The big issue is there are a number of coronaviruses that are poised for emergence in humans," said LeBeau. "What we're doing is preparing an arsenal of shark VNAR therapeutics that could be used down the road for future SARS outbreaks. It's a kind of insurance against the future," he added.

Study reveals that proteins taken from shark immune systems can neutralise COVID-19 and its variants

US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta.

Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming. And that's the nature of what this, this awful virus has been, which as it turns out, has mutations and variants.”

Harris added that despite relying on scientists and experts, the US government could not foresee and prepare&nbsp;to tackle the virus.

“I think most scientists did not - upon whose advice and direction we have relied —didn't see Delta coming,” she said.

The comment from Harris comes as New York City reported 21,027 new COVID-19 cases in a single day on Friday, the highest the state has ever recorded.

President Joe Biden has warned of a “winter of severe illness and death” for the unvaccinated, as the Omicron variant fuels new cases in the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-to-suggest-new-variant-omicron-less-severe-than-delta-reveals-uk-study-437843">No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study</a>

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;has predicted that COVID-19 cases and deaths will increase in the US over the next month, with its latest model projecting more than 40,000 deaths by January 8.

Scientists have remained uncertain as to how dangerous the highly mutated Omicron variant is, but early data suggests it can be more resistant to vaccines and is more transmissible than the Delta variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threat-of-omicron-wave-americans-rush-to-get-covid-19-boosters-437648" hreflang="en">Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters</a>

The warning particularly holds true for the United Kingdon, which has been reporting a record number of cases in the past three days.

More than 88,000 Covid-19 infections were detected on Friday in a second consecutive record daily number in a country where over 69% of its population is fully vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta. Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming.

US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta. Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming. And that's the nature of what this, this awful virus has been, which as it turns out, has mutations and variants.” Harris added that despite relying on scientists and experts, the US government could not foresee and prepare to tackle the virus. “I think most scientists did not - upon whose advice and direction we have relied —didn't see Delta coming,” she said. The comment from Harris comes as New York City reported 21,027 new COVID-19 cases in a single day on Friday, the highest the state has ever recorded. President Joe Biden has warned of a “winter of severe illness and death” for the unvaccinated, as the Omicron variant fuels new cases in the United States. Also read | No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted that COVID-19 cases and deaths will increase in the US over the next month, with its latest model projecting more than 40,000 deaths by January 8. Scientists have remained uncertain as to how dangerous the highly mutated Omicron variant is, but early data suggests it can be more resistant to vaccines and is more transmissible than the Delta variant. Also read | Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters The warning particularly holds true for the United Kingdon, which has been reporting a record number of cases in the past three days. More than 88,000 Covid-19 infections were detected on Friday in a second consecutive record daily number in a country where over 69% of its population is fully vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris admits Biden admin ‘failed to see Omicron variant coming’

As the UK battles the Omicron threat, Britain on Friday reported a record 93,045 new COVID-19 cases.

It is the third consecutive day as the UK reported a record number of COVID-19 cases amid a surge in Omicron cases. The UK had reported 78,610 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday and 88,000 COVID-19 cases on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-warns-of-massive-fifth-wave-as-omicron-cases-surge-in-europe-437731">Also Read:&nbsp;Germany warns of 'massive fifth wave' as Omicron cases surge in Europe</a>

The government report said there have been 111 fatalities with over 7,600 hospitalisations. The UK is one of the worst-hit countries due to the virus with over 11 million coronavirus cases and 147,000 deaths.

The surge in coronavirus cases come as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" as Omicron cases had begun to surge in the country last year.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK reports highest number of COVID-19 cases amid Omicron

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The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory COVID-19 tests for travellers arriving in the UK.

The surge in cases comes as the country braces for Christmas. Last year, the country was hit with the Alpha variant ahead of Christmas celebrations.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OmicronVariant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OmicronVariant</a> latest information 
 
3,201 additional confirmed cases of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Omicron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Omicron</a> variant of COVID-19 have been reported across the UK. Confirmed Omicron cases in the UK now total 14,909. <a href="https://t.co/SfWundIFVa">pic.twitter.com/SfWundIFVa</a>
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UK's health security agency informed there were 3,201 confirmed Omicron cases reported in the last 24 hours which was more than double the number of cases reported a day earlier.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threat-of-omicron-wave-americans-rush-to-get-covid-19-boosters-437648">Also Read:&nbsp;Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters</a>

Omicron variant cases have now surged to 14,909 in the country.

Meanwhile, Scotland's government said&nbsp;Omicron is now the dominant strain in the country.

&nbsp;"The tsunami I warned about a week ago is now starting to hit us," Scotland's first minister Nicola Sturgeon said.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As the UK battles the Omicron threat, Britain on Friday reported a record 93,045 new COVID-19 cases. It is the third consecutive day as the UK reported a record number of COVID-19 cases amid a surge in Omicron cases.

As the UK battles the Omicron threat, Britain on Friday reported a record 93,045 new COVID-19 cases. It is the third consecutive day as the UK reported a record number of COVID-19 cases amid a surge in Omicron cases. The UK had reported 78,610 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday and 88,000 COVID-19 cases on Thursday. Also Read: Germany warns of 'massive fifth wave' as Omicron cases surge in Europe The government report said there have been 111 fatalities with over 7,600 hospitalisations. The UK is one of the worst-hit countries due to the virus with over 11 million coronavirus cases and 147,000 deaths. The surge in coronavirus cases come as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" as Omicron cases had begun to surge in the country last year. Watch: UK reports highest number of COVID-19 cases amid Omicron The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory COVID-19 tests for travellers arriving in the UK. The surge in cases comes as the country braces for Christmas. Last year, the country was hit with the Alpha variant ahead of Christmas celebrations. #OmicronVariant latest information 3,201 additional confirmed cases of the #Omicron variant of COVID-19 have been reported across the UK. Confirmed Omicron cases in the UK now total 14,909. pic.twitter.com/SfWundIFVa — UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) December 17, 2021 × UK's health security agency informed there were 3,201 confirmed Omicron cases reported in the last 24 hours which was more than double the number of cases reported a day earlier. Also Read: Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters Omicron variant cases have now surged to 14,909 in the country. Meanwhile, Scotland's government said Omicron is now the dominant strain in the country. "The tsunami I warned about a week ago is now starting to hit us," Scotland's first minister Nicola Sturgeon said. (With inputs from Agencies)

UK reports highest number of COVID-19 cases for the third consecutive day

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The total number of cases has reached to 22. Most of the patients are "fully vaccinated" and "asymptomatic", the officials said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/101-cases-of-omicron-variant-detected-in-india-so-far-says-health-department-official-437703" hreflang="en">101 cases of Omicron variant detected in India so far, says health department official</a>

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said that 10 of the 22 patients have already been discharged. &nbsp;

Lok Nayak Hospital’s senior doctor said that two Omicron patients are "contacts of those, who had tested Covid positive upon arrival at the airport". &nbsp;

"Some of them have mild symptoms, such as mild fever, bodyache and sore throat," Jain said. &nbsp;

A special facility has been set up at Lok Nayak Hospital to isolate and treat suspected Omicron cases. Around 40 people have been currently admitted in this facility, said LNJP's medical director Suresh Kumar. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-conferred-with-highest-civilian-honour-of-bhutan-heres-what-you-should-know-437675" hreflang="en">Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know</a>

Many travellers, who are coming from abroad, have been turning Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the minister said on Thursday. &nbsp;

Jain also said that the Omicron has not spread in the community so far. On Tuesday, he said that the situation is under control. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. The total number of cases has reached to 22.

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. The total number of cases has reached to 22. Most of the patients are "fully vaccinated" and "asymptomatic", the officials said. Also Read: 101 cases of Omicron variant detected in India so far, says health department official Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said that 10 of the 22 patients have already been discharged. Lok Nayak Hospital’s senior doctor said that two Omicron patients are "contacts of those, who had tested Covid positive upon arrival at the airport". "Some of them have mild symptoms, such as mild fever, bodyache and sore throat," Jain said. A special facility has been set up at Lok Nayak Hospital to isolate and treat suspected Omicron cases. Around 40 people have been currently admitted in this facility, said LNJP's medical director Suresh Kumar. Also Read: Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know Many travellers, who are coming from abroad, have been turning Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the minister said on Thursday. Jain also said that the Omicron has not spread in the community so far. On Tuesday, he said that the situation is under control. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant: 12 new cases surface in Indian capital

As coronavirus cases rise across the country, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans.

At a meeting with medical experts and Vice President Harris to discuss the pandemic, Biden claimed the country was in a better position to deal with the omicron version of COVID-19 because of actions taken to limit travel and expand access to boosters during a meeting.&nbsp;

"For unvaccinated, we are looking at a winter of severe illness and death... for themselves, their families and the hospitals they’ll soon overwhelm," Biden continued.

"But there's good news. If you're vaccinated, and you have your booster shot, you’re protected from severe illness and death, period."

"It’s past time" to get shots, the president said Thursday following a briefing with his coronavirus team at the White House.&nbsp;

We’re going to protect our economic recovery if we do this. We’re going to keep our schools and businesses open if we do this.

Infections have grown by 40% across the country in the last two weeks, and deaths have soared by more than a third, with more than 1,300 Americans dying every day from the coronavirus. 
 
Watch | Omicron spreading faster than any other variant: WHO

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-spreading-faster-than-any-other-variant-who-437132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As the number of cases has increased, some colleges have already declared a switch to online classes, while professional sports leagues and Broadway theatres have cancelled games and performances.&nbsp;

Biden stressed the need for booster vaccinations in preventing serious diseases.

Nearly 57 million Americans have had their immune systems strengthened, which doctors say is one approach to protect against serious sickness regardless of the variations.

Boosters, according to Biden, would help keep the economy and schools open.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-could-cause-75000-deaths-in-england-by-april-2022-experts-436153">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron variant could cause 75,000 deaths in England by April, 2022: Experts</a>

Biden's top medical adviser on the pandemic, Anthony Fauci, said earlier Thursday that the omicron form will likely be prevalent in the United States in "a few weeks" and warned of hospital overcrowding this winter.

People who have been vaccinated, especially those who have had their booster injections, would be "pretty well protected, at least against serious sickness," he said, adding that he is most concerned about those who have not been vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

As coronavirus cases rise across the country, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans. At a meeting with medical experts and Vice President Harris to discuss the pandemic, Biden claimed the country was in a better position to deal with the omicron version of COVID-19 because of actions taken to limit travel and expand access to boosters during a meeting.

As coronavirus cases rise across the country, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans. At a meeting with medical experts and Vice President Harris to discuss the pandemic, Biden claimed the country was in a better position to deal with the omicron version of COVID-19 because of actions taken to limit travel and expand access to boosters during a meeting. "For unvaccinated, we are looking at a winter of severe illness and death... for themselves, their families and the hospitals they’ll soon overwhelm," Biden continued. "But there's good news. If you're vaccinated, and you have your booster shot, you’re protected from severe illness and death, period." "It’s past time" to get shots, the president said Thursday following a briefing with his coronavirus team at the White House. We’re going to protect our economic recovery if we do this. We’re going to keep our schools and businesses open if we do this. Infections have grown by 40% across the country in the last two weeks, and deaths have soared by more than a third, with more than 1,300 Americans dying every day from the coronavirus. Watch | Omicron spreading faster than any other variant: WHO As the number of cases has increased, some colleges have already declared a switch to online classes, while professional sports leagues and Broadway theatres have cancelled games and performances. Biden stressed the need for booster vaccinations in preventing serious diseases. Nearly 57 million Americans have had their immune systems strengthened, which doctors say is one approach to protect against serious sickness regardless of the variations. Boosters, according to Biden, would help keep the economy and schools open. Also read | Omicron variant could cause 75,000 deaths in England by April, 2022: Experts Biden's top medical adviser on the pandemic, Anthony Fauci, said earlier Thursday that the omicron form will likely be prevalent in the United States in "a few weeks" and warned of hospital overcrowding this winter. People who have been vaccinated, especially those who have had their booster injections, would be "pretty well protected, at least against serious sickness," he said, adding that he is most concerned about those who have not been vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron: US President warns of winter with 'severe illness and death'

Reports claim there has been a rush for booster doses in Ameican amid warning of an Omicron wave.

US President Joe Biden had warned about "winter of severe illness and death" due to the rise in Omicron cases. The White House had also insisted on booster doses as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-identify-scratchy-throat-as-a-common-symptom-of-highly-transmissible-omicron-variant-437575">Also Read:&nbsp;Scientists identify 'scratchy throat' as a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant</a>

As Christmas approaches, President Biden said the virus could spread more rapidly with the US reporting an average of 86,000 COVID-19 cases since December.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the US has been recording 1,150 COVID-19 deaths per day. The total number of deaths due to the pandemic in the United has over&nbsp;803,000 deaths and 50 million cases as reports claim over 450,000 people have died this year due to the virus.

Watch:&nbsp;UK reports highest COVID-19 spike in a day since January

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-uk-reports-over-78000-new-cases-highest-spike-in-a-day-since-january-437431/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Alarmed by the rise in Omicron cases, G-7 nations called international cooperation as the EU imposed new travel restrictions.

Reports claim US universities have reverted to online classes with the National Football League(NFL) league also imposing new restrictions with several players testing positive for the virus as coaches, staff and players have been asked to wear masks and conduct team meetings either outside or remotely.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-drug-regulator-gives-go-ahead-for-pfizer-covid-pills-emergency-use-437518">Also Read:&nbsp;EU drug regulator gives go-ahead for Pfizer Covid pill's emergency use</a>

The WHO had warned earlier that the Omicron variant has been spreading an unprecedented rate.

WHO expert Bruce Aylward had said that it would be a "dangerous situation" to categorise the new variant as a "mild disease".

(With inputs from Agencies)

Reports claim there has been a rush for booster doses in Ameican amid warning of an Omicron wave. US President Joe Biden had warned about "winter of severe illness and death" due to the rise in Omicron cases.

Reports claim there has been a rush for booster doses in Ameican amid warning of an Omicron wave. US President Joe Biden had warned about "winter of severe illness and death" due to the rise in Omicron cases. The White House had also insisted on booster doses as COVID-19 cases continue to rise. Also Read: Scientists identify 'scratchy throat' as a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant As Christmas approaches, President Biden said the virus could spread more rapidly with the US reporting an average of 86,000 COVID-19 cases since December. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the US has been recording 1,150 COVID-19 deaths per day. The total number of deaths due to the pandemic in the United has over 803,000 deaths and 50 million cases as reports claim over 450,000 people have died this year due to the virus. Watch: UK reports highest COVID-19 spike in a day since January Alarmed by the rise in Omicron cases, G-7 nations called international cooperation as the EU imposed new travel restrictions. Reports claim US universities have reverted to online classes with the National Football League(NFL) league also imposing new restrictions with several players testing positive for the virus as coaches, staff and players have been asked to wear masks and conduct team meetings either outside or remotely. Also Read: EU drug regulator gives go-ahead for Pfizer Covid pill's emergency use The WHO had warned earlier that the Omicron variant has been spreading an unprecedented rate. WHO expert Bruce Aylward had said that it would be a "dangerous situation" to categorise the new variant as a "mild disease". (With inputs from Agencies)

Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters

France has banned non-essential travel to and from UK, which has been reporting a spike in Covid cases ever since it reported the first case of the Omicron variant.

Only those with “compelling reasons” will be allowed to travel between the two countries, the French government said in a statement.

From Saturday midnight there will be a "requirement to have an essential reason to travel to, or come from, the UK, both for the unvaccinated and vaccinated... People cannot travel for touristic or professional reasons,” news agency AFP quoted the government’s statement.

“Faced with the extremely rapid spread of the Omicron variant in the UK, the government has chosen to reinstate the need for an essential reason for travel from and to the UK,” it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-reports-more-than-78000-covid-cases-highest-daily-since-pandemic-began-437395">UK reports more than 78,000 Covid cases, highest daily since pandemic began</a>

The announcement was made a day after Britan recorded its highest ever daily Covid cases, detecting 78,610 COVID-19 infections in a single day.

The new measure also seeks COVID-19 tests within 24 hours before entering France, instead of the current 48 hours. They apply to all arrivals whether or not people are vaccinated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-vaccines-likely-to-be-less-effective-against-omicron-variant-who-437383">Covid vaccines likely to be less effective against Omicron variant: WHO</a>

"People (coming back) will have to register on an app and will have to self-isolate in a place of their choosing for seven days -- controlled by the security forces -- but this can be shortened to 48 hours if a negative test is carried out in France," government spokesman Gabriel Attal told BFMTV channel.

"We will put in place a system of controls drastically tighter than the one we have already," Attal added.

(With inputs from agencies)

France has banned non-essential travel to and from UK, which has been reporting a spike in Covid cases ever since it reported the first case of the Omicron variant.

France has banned non-essential travel to and from UK, which has been reporting a spike in Covid cases ever since it reported the first case of the Omicron variant. Only those with “compelling reasons” will be allowed to travel between the two countries, the French government said in a statement. From Saturday midnight there will be a "requirement to have an essential reason to travel to, or come from, the UK, both for the unvaccinated and vaccinated... People cannot travel for touristic or professional reasons,” news agency AFP quoted the government’s statement. “Faced with the extremely rapid spread of the Omicron variant in the UK, the government has chosen to reinstate the need for an essential reason for travel from and to the UK,” it said. Also read | UK reports more than 78,000 Covid cases, highest daily since pandemic began The announcement was made a day after Britan recorded its highest ever daily Covid cases, detecting 78,610 COVID-19 infections in a single day. The new measure also seeks COVID-19 tests within 24 hours before entering France, instead of the current 48 hours. They apply to all arrivals whether or not people are vaccinated. Also read | Covid vaccines likely to be less effective against Omicron variant: WHO "People (coming back) will have to register on an app and will have to self-isolate in a place of their choosing for seven days -- controlled by the security forces -- but this can be shortened to 48 hours if a negative test is carried out in France," government spokesman Gabriel Attal told BFMTV channel. "We will put in place a system of controls drastically tighter than the one we have already," Attal added. (With inputs from agencies)

France tightens curbs for UK travellers amid Omicron surge

For the second consecutive day, the UK registered a record&nbsp;88,376 Covid infections in 24 hours on Thursday, the highest daily since the pandemic began.&nbsp;

According to the latest data from the government’s coronavirus&nbsp;dashboard, the total number of deaths soared to&nbsp;147,000, with 146&nbsp;people succumbing to the virus.

Thursday's figures broke the previous day's (Wednesday) record when Britain&nbsp;reported 78,610 Covid cases.

The previous highest daily spike was on January 8 this year, when 68,053 cases were recorded.

It is also higher than last week&nbsp;when the country reported 51,342 coronavirus cases on December 8.

The UK&nbsp;is becoming a new focus for the Omicron outbreak&nbsp;ever since the country first detected on November 27.

More than 11 million people have now tested positive for the disease in the UK, which has a total population of around 67 million, according to the government's figures.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-one-patient-confirmed-dead-due-to-omicron-says-uk-pm-boris-johnson-436575">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-one-patient-confirmed-dead-due-to-omicron-says-uk-pm-boris-johnson-436575">At least one patient confirmed dead due to Omicron, says UK PM Boris Johnson</a>

Of these 146,791 patients have died, 9,617,941 have been discharged and the active cases stand at 1,245,554.

Warning of a “tidal wave” of infections, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has imposed strict restrictions on the backdrop of rapidly spreading Omicron variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-vaccines-likely-to-be-less-effective-against-omicron-variant-who-437383">Covid vaccines likely to be less effective against Omicron variant: WHO</a>

Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday, the British prime minister said the doubling rate of omicron in some regions is now down to less than two days.

&nbsp;“I’m afraid we’re also seeing the inevitable increase in hospitalizations up by 10 per cent nationally week on week and up by almost a third in London,” he added.

Watch |&nbsp;UK records highest-ever daily numbers of COVID-19 cases amid Omicron scare

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-records-highest-ever-daily-numbers-of-covid-19-cases-amid-omicron-scare-437397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“But we are also seeing signs of hope,” said Johnson, referring to people’s response to an emergency omicron appeal launched on Sunday.

“I want to say that each and every one of you who rolls up your sleeve to get jabbed is helping this national effort, and I want to thank everyone who has come forward,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the second consecutive day, the UK registered a record 88,376 Covid infections in 24 hours on Thursday, the highest daily since the pandemic began. According to the latest data from the government’s coronavirus dashboard, the total number of deaths soared to 147,000, with 146 people succumbing to the virus.

For the second consecutive day, the UK registered a record 88,376 Covid infections in 24 hours on Thursday, the highest daily since the pandemic began. According to the latest data from the government’s coronavirus dashboard, the total number of deaths soared to 147,000, with 146 people succumbing to the virus. Thursday's figures broke the previous day's (Wednesday) record when Britain reported 78,610 Covid cases. The previous highest daily spike was on January 8 this year, when 68,053 cases were recorded. It is also higher than last week when the country reported 51,342 coronavirus cases on December 8. The UK is becoming a new focus for the Omicron outbreak ever since the country first detected on November 27. More than 11 million people have now tested positive for the disease in the UK, which has a total population of around 67 million, according to the government's figures. Also read | At least one patient confirmed dead due to Omicron, says UK PM Boris Johnson Of these 146,791 patients have died, 9,617,941 have been discharged and the active cases stand at 1,245,554. Warning of a “tidal wave” of infections, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has imposed strict restrictions on the backdrop of rapidly spreading Omicron variant. Also read | Covid vaccines likely to be less effective against Omicron variant: WHO Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday, the British prime minister said the doubling rate of omicron in some regions is now down to less than two days. “I’m afraid we’re also seeing the inevitable increase in hospitalizations up by 10 per cent nationally week on week and up by almost a third in London,” he added. Watch | UK records highest-ever daily numbers of COVID-19 cases amid Omicron scare “But we are also seeing signs of hope,” said Johnson, referring to people’s response to an emergency omicron appeal launched on Sunday. “I want to say that each and every one of you who rolls up your sleeve to get jabbed is helping this national effort, and I want to thank everyone who has come forward,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron: UK reports over 88,000 Covid cases, highest daily since pandemic began

UK has reported highest number of cases since the pandemic struck last year. Over 78,000 new cases have been confirmed in UK in a single day. The tally is around 10,000 more than the previous highest figure in the month of January this year. UK PM Boris Johnson had earlier stressed on the need of booster doses to combat the situation arising out of the new Omicron variant in the UK. In the wake of continuously rising cases of Omicron variant, Chief Medical Officer of England Prof Chris Whitty has asked people to get their booster doses as soon as possible.

Omicron: UK reports over 78,000 new cases, highest spike in a day since January

Based on a preliminary study, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the COVID-19 vaccines may be less effective against the Omicron variant— which has a higher chance of reinfection.

The WHO said further research is required to get a clearer sense of how the omicron variant may penetrate immunity gained from the vaccines, which have generally proved effective against the coronavirus, Reuters reported.

"As a result of this, the overall risk related to the new variant of concern Omicron remains very high," the WHO said in its weekly epidemiological update on Wednesday.

WHO Director General Tedros had also echoed similar concerns stating that vaccination alone will not be enough to stop the pandemic, and that mask use, social distancing, ventilation, and hand hygiene should be prioritised.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-might-not-need-booster-shot-of-vaccine-to-fight-omicron-fauci-436182">We might not need booster shot of vaccine to fight Omicron: Fauci</a>

As of December 16, Omicron had been confirmed in 77&nbsp;countries.

This statement comes at a time when the emergence of Omicron variant has prompted countries to rollout booster doses to protect against the COVID-19.

Preliminary studies from Pfizer and BioNTech claimed to have found that a booster&nbsp;shot of their vaccine, in addition to the initial two doses, provides&nbsp;strong protection against the variant, according to the companies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-cases-in-77-countries-spreading-at-unprecedented-rate-who-436962">Omicron cases in 77 countries, spreading at unprecedented rate: WHO</a>

The WHO also noted that for the first time since the Delta variant was classified as a variant of concern in April, the percentage of Delta sequences registered on the GISAID global science database has declined this week compared with other variants of concern.

The global health body, however, added that the data needs to be interpreted with caution as countries may perform targeted sequencing for Omicron and therefore upload fewer sequences on all other variants, including Delta, it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Based on a preliminary study, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the COVID-19 vaccines may be less effective against the Omicron variant— which has a higher chance of reinfection.

Based on a preliminary study, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the COVID-19 vaccines may be less effective against the Omicron variant— which has a higher chance of reinfection. The WHO said further research is required to get a clearer sense of how the omicron variant may penetrate immunity gained from the vaccines, which have generally proved effective against the coronavirus, Reuters reported. "As a result of this, the overall risk related to the new variant of concern Omicron remains very high," the WHO said in its weekly epidemiological update on Wednesday. WHO Director General Tedros had also echoed similar concerns stating that vaccination alone will not be enough to stop the pandemic, and that mask use, social distancing, ventilation, and hand hygiene should be prioritised. Also read | We might not need booster shot of vaccine to fight Omicron: Fauci As of December 16, Omicron had been confirmed in 77 countries. This statement comes at a time when the emergence of Omicron variant has prompted countries to rollout booster doses to protect against the COVID-19. Preliminary studies from Pfizer and BioNTech claimed to have found that a booster shot of their vaccine, in addition to the initial two doses, provides strong protection against the variant, according to the companies. Also read | Omicron cases in 77 countries, spreading at unprecedented rate: WHO The WHO also noted that for the first time since the Delta variant was classified as a variant of concern in April, the percentage of Delta sequences registered on the GISAID global science database has declined this week compared with other variants of concern. The global health body, however, added that the data needs to be interpreted with caution as countries may perform targeted sequencing for Omicron and therefore upload fewer sequences on all other variants, including Delta, it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid vaccines likely to be less effective against Omicron variant: WHO

Following a spike in Omicron cases in Indian State of Maharashtra and Mumdai city, the police have announced that prohibitory orders under CrPC section 144 will be imposed in the city from December 16 to December 31, covering Christmas and New Year's Eve, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

An order requiring all employees of all stores and commercial businesses, including those in malls, to be completely (twice) vaccinated will stay in effect.&nbsp;

They also stated that only up to 50% of a venue's capacity will be allowed to attend any event, and that programme organisers should be completely vaccinated against the coronavirus.

On Monday, the deputy commissioner of police (operations) issued an order implementing section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) within the Mumbai commissionerate limits as of Thursday.

The clause forbids, among other things, gatherings of five or more people in one place and holding public meetings.&nbsp;

According to the new orders, only fully vaccinated people should use public transportation, and all visitors to Maharashtra must be fully vaccinated or carry a 72-hour RT-PCR test.&nbsp;

The order will take effect on December 16, 2021, in the areas under the supervision of the Mumbai Commissioner of Police, and will remain in effect until December 31, at 24.00 hours.

Mumbai reported 238 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, bringing the total number of infections to 7,65,934, according to the city's civic body.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Following a spike in Omicron cases in Indian State of Maharashtra and Mumdai city, the police have announced that prohibitory orders under CrPC section 144 will be imposed in the city from December 16 to December 31, covering Christmas and New Year's Eve, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Following a spike in Omicron cases in Indian State of Maharashtra and Mumdai city, the police have announced that prohibitory orders under CrPC section 144 will be imposed in the city from December 16 to December 31, covering Christmas and New Year's Eve, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. An order requiring all employees of all stores and commercial businesses, including those in malls, to be completely (twice) vaccinated will stay in effect. They also stated that only up to 50% of a venue's capacity will be allowed to attend any event, and that programme organisers should be completely vaccinated against the coronavirus. On Monday, the deputy commissioner of police (operations) issued an order implementing section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) within the Mumbai commissionerate limits as of Thursday. The clause forbids, among other things, gatherings of five or more people in one place and holding public meetings. According to the new orders, only fully vaccinated people should use public transportation, and all visitors to Maharashtra must be fully vaccinated or carry a 72-hour RT-PCR test. The order will take effect on December 16, 2021, in the areas under the supervision of the Mumbai Commissioner of Police, and will remain in effect until December 31, at 24.00 hours. Mumbai reported 238 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, bringing the total number of infections to 7,65,934, according to the city's civic body. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron in Mumbai: Section 144 imposed in the city from December 16 to December 31

To battle the growing Covid cases, Canada will be advising its population to avoid international travel as much as possible. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government is expected to advise Canadians to avoid non-essential international travel, claims a report by Reuters. As of now, Canada has travel bans on 10 African countries due to the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

Peter Juni, director of Ontario's Covid science advisory table, urged people to take precautions and get vaccinated. He further told people to not take this variant lightly.

"What really worries me is that people are asleep at the steering wheel, internationally. They have wishful thinking it will be mild...This is not a realistic attitude," Juni said

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-fears-of-new-variant-who-expert-says-that-pandemic-can-end-in-2022-437253">Also read |&nbsp;Amid fears of new variant, WHO expert says that pandemic can end in 2022</a>

Earlier, Canada's top health official had said that Covid cases in Canada may see a rapid surge in the coming days due to the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

There has been a massive surge of Covid cases in Ontario. This variant accounts for almost 40 per cent of Canada's population.

The Omicron variant, which was discovered in November is now spreading at an 'unprecedented' rate. World Health Organization Director-General Tedros A Ghebreyesus provided an update on the Omicron variant strain, saying that 77 nations have already reported cases of the novel strain.

As per Dr Tedros, vaccination alone will not be enough to stop the pandemic and mask use, social distancing, ventilation, and hand hygiene should be prioritised.

(With inputs from agencies)

To battle the growing Covid cases, Canada will be advising its population to avoid international travel as much as possible. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government is expected to advise Canadians to avoid non-essential international travel, claims a report by Reuters.

To battle the growing Covid cases, Canada will be advising its population to avoid international travel as much as possible. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government is expected to advise Canadians to avoid non-essential international travel, claims a report by Reuters. As of now, Canada has travel bans on 10 African countries due to the Omicron variant. Peter Juni, director of Ontario's Covid science advisory table, urged people to take precautions and get vaccinated. He further told people to not take this variant lightly. "What really worries me is that people are asleep at the steering wheel, internationally. They have wishful thinking it will be mild...This is not a realistic attitude," Juni said Also read | Amid fears of new variant, WHO expert says that pandemic can end in 2022 Earlier, Canada's top health official had said that Covid cases in Canada may see a rapid surge in the coming days due to the Omicron variant. There has been a massive surge of Covid cases in Ontario. This variant accounts for almost 40 per cent of Canada's population. The Omicron variant, which was discovered in November is now spreading at an 'unprecedented' rate. World Health Organization Director-General Tedros A Ghebreyesus provided an update on the Omicron variant strain, saying that 77 nations have already reported cases of the novel strain. As per Dr Tedros, vaccination alone will not be enough to stop the pandemic and mask use, social distancing, ventilation, and hand hygiene should be prioritised. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada to ask people to avoid international travel amid concerns of Omicron

UK's health secretary Sajid Javid informed parliament today that the government will be lifting its "red list" imposed on 11 African countries amid community transmission of Omicron in the UK.

"Now that there is community transmission of Omicron in the UK and Omicron has spread so widely across the world, the travel red list is now less effective in slowing the incursion of Omicron from abroad," Sajid Javed said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/pfizer-vaccine-less-effective-against-omicron-variant-claims-study-436864">Also Read:&nbsp;Pfizer vaccine less effective against Omicron variant, claims study</a>

The Boris Johnson government had imposed a travel ban on South Africa including southern African nations after the discovery of the Omicron variant. On Monday, one person had died due to the Omicron variant in the UK even as the government moved to&nbsp;impose further restrictions in the country.

"We will be removing all 11 countries from the travel red list effective from 4 am tomorrow(Wednesday)&nbsp;morning," the health secretary told parliament.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel shuts border ahead of holiday season amid Omicron fears

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-shuts-border-ahead-of-holiday-season-amid-omicron-fears-436912/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The UK government had imposed travel ban on South Africa, Zambia, &nbsp;Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, &nbsp;Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Nigeria.

The UK health secretary said Omicron cases have been "mirroring" the rapid rise being witnessed in South Africa and it is doubling every two days.&nbsp;Javed informed that there are currently 4,713 confirmed Omicron cases in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-is-a-dress-rehearsal-for-the-next-pandemic-436827">Also Read:&nbsp;Omicron is a dress rehearsal for the next pandemic</a>

"The UKHSA estimates that the number of daily infections was 42 times higher at 200,000," the health secretary revealed.

Javed also defended the government's recent restrictions after Omicron cases surged in the country emphasising that he firmly believes in "individual liberty and curbs should be placed on our freedoms only in the most gravest of circumstances."&nbsp;

Javed said the government was ready to "rescind measures" earlier than January 26 and it will be reviewed&nbsp;on January 5.

(With inputs from Agencies)

UK's health secretary Sajid Javid informed parliament today that the government will be lifting its "red list" imposed on 11 African countries amid community transmission of Omicron in the UK.

UK's health secretary Sajid Javid informed parliament today that the government will be lifting its "red list" imposed on 11 African countries amid community transmission of Omicron in the UK. "Now that there is community transmission of Omicron in the UK and Omicron has spread so widely across the world, the travel red list is now less effective in slowing the incursion of Omicron from abroad," Sajid Javed said. Also Read: Pfizer vaccine less effective against Omicron variant, claims study The Boris Johnson government had imposed a travel ban on South Africa including southern African nations after the discovery of the Omicron variant. On Monday, one person had died due to the Omicron variant in the UK even as the government moved to impose further restrictions in the country. "We will be removing all 11 countries from the travel red list effective from 4 am tomorrow(Wednesday) morning," the health secretary told parliament. Watch: Israel shuts border ahead of holiday season amid Omicron fears The UK government had imposed travel ban on South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Nigeria. The UK health secretary said Omicron cases have been "mirroring" the rapid rise being witnessed in South Africa and it is doubling every two days. Javed informed that there are currently 4,713 confirmed Omicron cases in the country. Also Read: Omicron is a dress rehearsal for the next pandemic "The UKHSA estimates that the number of daily infections was 42 times higher at 200,000," the health secretary revealed. Javed also defended the government's recent restrictions after Omicron cases surged in the country emphasising that he firmly believes in "individual liberty and curbs should be placed on our freedoms only in the most gravest of circumstances." Javed said the government was ready to "rescind measures" earlier than January 26 and it will be reviewed on January 5. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Red list is less effective': UK to lift travel ban on 11 African countries

World Health Organization Director General Tedros A Ghebreyesus provided an update on the Omicron variant strain, saying that 77 nations have already reported cases of the novel strain.

According to the WHO, Omicron is most likely present in most nations, even though it has yet to be detected.

He went on to say, "Omicron is spreading at a rate we haven't seen with any other variety."&nbsp;

Dr. Tedros believes that COVID vaccination alone will not be enough to stop the pandemic, and that mask use, social distancing, ventilation, and hand hygiene should be prioritised.

The WHO director general voiced concern about the potential threat posed by the Omicron form, as well as governments rushing to inoculate their populations with COVID vaccine booster doses.

Dr. Tedros stated unequivocally, "The WHO is not against booster doses, but against inequity."

The global health organisation earlier in the day urged member countries in its South-East Asia Region to increase investments in primary health care as the foundation for universal health coverage and health security, noting that PHC plays a critical role in enabling better preparedness and response to pandemics, citing the emergence of the Omicron variant in more than 70 countries. 
 
Watch | Israel shuts border ahead of holiday season amid Omicron fears

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-shuts-border-ahead-of-holiday-season-amid-omicron-fears-436912/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia Region, noted at a high-level meeting that nations with strong primary health care (PHC) systems were able to respond better and sooner to the COVID-19 pandemic while still sustaining vital services with minimal disruption.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/are-african-nations-wasting-millions-of-covid-jabs-400000-jabs-to-go-waste-in-senegal-436810/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"One of the key lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic is that the best defence against disease outbreaks and other health emergencies is resilient primary health care as the foundation of universal health coverage. Many of the countries that have responded most effectively to COVID-19 are those that have invested adequately in PHC, "the statement quoted WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as saying at the high-level meeting.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organization Director General Tedros A Ghebreyesus provided an update on the Omicron variant strain, saying that 77 nations have already reported cases of the novel strain.

World Health Organization Director General Tedros A Ghebreyesus provided an update on the Omicron variant strain, saying that 77 nations have already reported cases of the novel strain. According to the WHO, Omicron is most likely present in most nations, even though it has yet to be detected. He went on to say, "Omicron is spreading at a rate we haven't seen with any other variety." Dr. Tedros believes that COVID vaccination alone will not be enough to stop the pandemic, and that mask use, social distancing, ventilation, and hand hygiene should be prioritised. The WHO director general voiced concern about the potential threat posed by the Omicron form, as well as governments rushing to inoculate their populations with COVID vaccine booster doses. Dr. Tedros stated unequivocally, "The WHO is not against booster doses, but against inequity." The global health organisation earlier in the day urged member countries in its South-East Asia Region to increase investments in primary health care as the foundation for universal health coverage and health security, noting that PHC plays a critical role in enabling better preparedness and response to pandemics, citing the emergence of the Omicron variant in more than 70 countries. Watch | Israel shuts border ahead of holiday season amid Omicron fears Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia Region, noted at a high-level meeting that nations with strong primary health care (PHC) systems were able to respond better and sooner to the COVID-19 pandemic while still sustaining vital services with minimal disruption. "One of the key lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic is that the best defence against disease outbreaks and other health emergencies is resilient primary health care as the foundation of universal health coverage. Many of the countries that have responded most effectively to COVID-19 are those that have invested adequately in PHC, "the statement quoted WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as saying at the high-level meeting. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron cases in 77 countries, spreading at unprecedented rate: WHO

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