Pakistan has recorded its first “suspected” case of Omicron variant of COVID-19, the health authorities informed on Thursday.

The patient is a 57-year-old woman from Karachi city who is unvaccinated. The infected woman had been admitted for treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital.&nbsp;

The authorities have said that the patient has no travel history, reports Geo News.

The health officials said that the patient has not been showing any symptoms of the virus and has been sent home to isolate.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-omicron-threat-as-big-as-the-hype-read-what-who-experts-say-434393">Is Omicron threat as big as the hype? Read what WHO experts say</a>

“We have not yet conducted a genome study but the way the virus is behaving, it seems likely that it is the Omicron variant,” said Sindh health minister Azra Pechuho in a video statement.&nbsp;

"Omicron is very transmissible but deaths or serious [conditions] have not been seen in recent reports coming from South Africa (where the variant was first detected). There is no cause for concern. We are conducting a genomic study which will take one or two weeks,” she added.

After South Africa reported its first Omicron case to the World Health Organisation, the Pakistan government on November 27 placed a complete ban on travel from six south African countries — South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Botswana and Namibia — and Hong Kong in the wake of the variant's discovery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-may-cause-third-wave-in-india-by-february-scientist-warns-434873">Omicron may cause third wave in India by February, scientist warns</a>

This&nbsp;travel ban&nbsp;was later extended to nine more countries — Croatia, Hungary, Netherlands, Ukraine, Ireland, Slovenia, Vietnam, Poland and Zimbabwe.

Apart from that, Cuba also reported its first Omicron case. The patient is a health worker and had recently travelled recently from Mozambique.

Cuban health officials identified 18 people the traveller may have been in contact with since arriving in Cuba, but all were asymptomatic and had tested negative for the virus, reports Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan has recorded its first “suspected” case of Omicron variant of COVID-19, the health authorities informed on Thursday. The patient is a 57-year-old woman from Karachi city who is unvaccinated.

Pakistan has recorded its first “suspected” case of Omicron variant of COVID-19, the health authorities informed on Thursday. The patient is a 57-year-old woman from Karachi city who is unvaccinated. The infected woman had been admitted for treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital. The authorities have said that the patient has no travel history, reports Geo News. The health officials said that the patient has not been showing any symptoms of the virus and has been sent home to isolate. Also read | Is Omicron threat as big as the hype? Read what WHO experts say “We have not yet conducted a genome study but the way the virus is behaving, it seems likely that it is the Omicron variant,” said Sindh health minister Azra Pechuho in a video statement. "Omicron is very transmissible but deaths or serious [conditions] have not been seen in recent reports coming from South Africa (where the variant was first detected). There is no cause for concern. We are conducting a genomic study which will take one or two weeks,” she added. After South Africa reported its first Omicron case to the World Health Organisation, the Pakistan government on November 27 placed a complete ban on travel from six south African countries — South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Botswana and Namibia — and Hong Kong in the wake of the variant's discovery. Also read | Omicron may cause third wave in India by February, scientist warns This travel ban was later extended to nine more countries — Croatia, Hungary, Netherlands, Ukraine, Ireland, Slovenia, Vietnam, Poland and Zimbabwe. Apart from that, Cuba also reported its first Omicron case. The patient is a health worker and had recently travelled recently from Mozambique. Cuban health officials identified 18 people the traveller may have been in contact with since arriving in Cuba, but all were asymptomatic and had tested negative for the virus, reports Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, Cuba report first Omicron Covid variant cases

As the Omicron variant continues to spread worldwide, the European Medicines Agency (EMU) said the new strain may cause mild disease.

However, the European medical body maintained that more tests needed to be done.&nbsp;

The variant which was first discovered in South Africa led to a worldwide flight ban on several African countries even as investigations are still underway over critical elements about the new variant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigative-report-claims-pfizer-paid-money-to-spread-lies-about-astrazeneca-covid-jab-435463">Also Read:&nbsp;Investigative report claims Pfizer paid money to spread lies about AstraZeneca Covid jab</a>

EMA's Marco Cavaleri said early research showed that Omicron is more infectious than Delta. Amid the new variant threat, WHO's vaccines chief Kate O'Brien cautioned high-income countries against "reverting" to vaccine hoarding.

The UN health body said severe cases under the Omicron variant remains low however it asked countries to ramp up vaccination as Africa struggles to vaccinate its citizens against the virus. The WHO had said that the Omicron variant may reinfect people faster than other variants including those who have been vaccinated.

Watch:&nbsp;Tougher&nbsp;restrictions introduced in UK amid Omicron variant

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WHO informed that the virus has surged in the past week in Africa recording 107,000 COVID-19 cases with southern African witnessing the greatest surge.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-china-grants-emergency-approval-for-its-first-monoclonal-antibody-drug-435365">Also Read:&nbsp;China grants emergency approval for its first Monoclonal antibody drug</a>

South Africa gave the authorisation for booster shots amid a surge in coronavirus cases in the country as it battles the fourth wave.

South Africa's health regulators also authorised Pfizer jab for kids over 12.

Meanwhile, Russian President Putin told South African President Ramaphosa that his country will be sending virus specialists to South Africa to help establish a coronavirus research lab as the country continues to battle against the virus.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

As the Omicron variant continues to spread worldwide, the European Medicines Agency (EMU) said the new strain may cause mild disease. However, the European medical body maintained that more tests needed to be done.

As the Omicron variant continues to spread worldwide, the European Medicines Agency (EMU) said the new strain may cause mild disease. However, the European medical body maintained that more tests needed to be done. The variant which was first discovered in South Africa led to a worldwide flight ban on several African countries even as investigations are still underway over critical elements about the new variant. Also Read: Investigative report claims Pfizer paid money to spread lies about AstraZeneca Covid jab EMA's Marco Cavaleri said early research showed that Omicron is more infectious than Delta. Amid the new variant threat, WHO's vaccines chief Kate O'Brien cautioned high-income countries against "reverting" to vaccine hoarding. The UN health body said severe cases under the Omicron variant remains low however it asked countries to ramp up vaccination as Africa struggles to vaccinate its citizens against the virus. The WHO had said that the Omicron variant may reinfect people faster than other variants including those who have been vaccinated. Watch: Tougher restrictions introduced in UK amid Omicron variant WHO informed that the virus has surged in the past week in Africa recording 107,000 COVID-19 cases with southern African witnessing the greatest surge. Also Read: China grants emergency approval for its first Monoclonal antibody drug South Africa gave the authorisation for booster shots amid a surge in coronavirus cases in the country as it battles the fourth wave. South Africa's health regulators also authorised Pfizer jab for kids over 12. Meanwhile, Russian President Putin told South African President Ramaphosa that his country will be sending virus specialists to South Africa to help establish a coronavirus research lab as the country continues to battle against the virus. (With inputs from Agencies)

Omicron may cause mild disease, more infectious than Delta: EU health body

Amid the Omicron threat, reports claim Israel is may impose restrictions on unvaccinated citizens.

Reports said Israel recorded&nbsp;the highest coronavirus cases on Tuesday as the government braced to tighten restrictions. The country has reported 21 Omicron cases so far.

Israel had earlier declared a 10-day quarantine for those hit by the Omicron variant, however, the number of days has been increased to 14&nbsp;days.

Reports claimed Israel may impose lockdown for individuals who haven't been inoculated and could ban them from travelling abroad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-fallout-israeli-students-returning-to-school-from-hanukah-holidays-should-test-for-covid-434590">Also Read:&nbsp;Israeli students returning to school from Hanukah holidays should test for Covid</a>

Israel had earlier moved to close borders for all foreigners as South Africa declared the presence of the new virus variant in the country.&nbsp;The authorities had also imposed strict measures for travellers entering the country which included quarantine for three days and to take a second PCR test on the third day of arrival including the first which needs to be taken upon arrival in the country.

Reports claimed earlier that health authorities were seeking to fourth vaccine jab for immunocompromised patients. Health officials had earlier started their vaccination drive for children aged between 5 to 11 amid the Omicron threat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-halts-virus-phone-tracker-amid-privacy-concerns-433885">Also Read:&nbsp;Israel halts virus phone tracker amid privacy concerns</a>

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett had said earlier that half of the recently confirmed coronavirus cases were among children below 11 as the Delta variant continues to be the dominant strain in the country. The vaccination drive for children aged between 12 to 17 is already underway&nbsp;across the country.

Reports claim over 5.7 million people have been fully vaccinated in a country of nine million, however, COVID-19 cases have surged in recent weeks worrying health officials.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid the Omicron threat, reports claim Israel is may impose restrictions on unvaccinated citizens. Reports said Israel recorded the highest coronavirus cases on Tuesday as the government braced to tighten restrictions.

Amid the Omicron threat, reports claim Israel is may impose restrictions on unvaccinated citizens. Reports said Israel recorded the highest coronavirus cases on Tuesday as the government braced to tighten restrictions. The country has reported 21 Omicron cases so far. Israel had earlier declared a 10-day quarantine for those hit by the Omicron variant, however, the number of days has been increased to 14 days. Reports claimed Israel may impose lockdown for individuals who haven't been inoculated and could ban them from travelling abroad. Also Read: Israeli students returning to school from Hanukah holidays should test for Covid Israel had earlier moved to close borders for all foreigners as South Africa declared the presence of the new virus variant in the country. The authorities had also imposed strict measures for travellers entering the country which included quarantine for three days and to take a second PCR test on the third day of arrival including the first which needs to be taken upon arrival in the country. Reports claimed earlier that health authorities were seeking to fourth vaccine jab for immunocompromised patients. Health officials had earlier started their vaccination drive for children aged between 5 to 11 amid the Omicron threat. Also Read: Israel halts virus phone tracker amid privacy concerns Prime Minister Naftali Bennett had said earlier that half of the recently confirmed coronavirus cases were among children below 11 as the Delta variant continues to be the dominant strain in the country. The vaccination drive for children aged between 12 to 17 is already underway across the country. Reports claim over 5.7 million people have been fully vaccinated in a country of nine million, however, COVID-19 cases have surged in recent weeks worrying health officials. (With inputs from Agencies)

Israeli government seeks greater restrictions amid Omicron threat

Just after Pakistani media reported that first case of Omicron had been found in the country, health authorities refuted the claim. National Institute of Health (NIH) said the sample taken from a 57-year-old woman was not confirmed to contain the Omicron variant. The institute said that whole-genome sequencing of the sample was yet to be done.

"This is in response to media reports of a suspected case of Omicron variant being reported from Karachi. To clarify, the sample is not yet confirmed to be Omicron via whole-genome sequencing, which is to be performed after obtaining the sample," said the NIH in a tweet.&nbsp;

Earlier, a private hospital in Karachi reported the first case of the variant in a 57-year-old female patient who is unvaccinated, confirmed Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho.&nbsp;

Pechuho later said that it could not be said for sure whether the patient was suffering from the Omicron variant or not.

"We have not yet conducted a genome study but the way the virus is behaving, it seems likely that it is the Omicron variant," she said.

Dr Pechuho said it would take between one to two weeks for the genome study to take place, after which it can be said for sure whether the patient has contracted the Omicron variant of the coronavirus or not.&nbsp;

"The virus spreads [rapidly]. This lady is also not vaccinated, which is why I would like to appeal to you all to get both doses of the vaccine," said the minister.&nbsp;

"For those who are fully vaccinated and it has been six months since, please get yourselves a booster shot," she urged.&nbsp;

Omicron variant has been reported in 57 countries. World Health Organisation (WHO) is expecting the number to continue growing.

Features of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron, including the extent to which it will spread, and the sheer number of mutations, suggest that it could have a major impact on the course of the pandemic, according to WHO.

(With inputs from agencies)

Just after Pakistani media reported that first case of Omicron had been found in the country, health authorities refuted the claim. National Institute of Health (NIH) said the sample taken from a 57-year-old woman was not confirmed to contain the Omicron variant.

Just after Pakistani media reported that first case of Omicron had been found in the country, health authorities refuted the claim. National Institute of Health (NIH) said the sample taken from a 57-year-old woman was not confirmed to contain the Omicron variant. The institute said that whole-genome sequencing of the sample was yet to be done. "This is in response to media reports of a suspected case of Omicron variant being reported from Karachi. To clarify, the sample is not yet confirmed to be Omicron via whole-genome sequencing, which is to be performed after obtaining the sample," said the NIH in a tweet. Earlier, a private hospital in Karachi reported the first case of the variant in a 57-year-old female patient who is unvaccinated, confirmed Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho. Pechuho later said that it could not be said for sure whether the patient was suffering from the Omicron variant or not. "We have not yet conducted a genome study but the way the virus is behaving, it seems likely that it is the Omicron variant," she said. Dr Pechuho said it would take between one to two weeks for the genome study to take place, after which it can be said for sure whether the patient has contracted the Omicron variant of the coronavirus or not. "The virus spreads [rapidly]. This lady is also not vaccinated, which is why I would like to appeal to you all to get both doses of the vaccine," said the minister. "For those who are fully vaccinated and it has been six months since, please get yourselves a booster shot," she urged. Omicron variant has been reported in 57 countries. World Health Organisation (WHO) is expecting the number to continue growing. Features of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron, including the extent to which it will spread, and the sheer number of mutations, suggest that it could have a major impact on the course of the pandemic, according to WHO. (With inputs from agencies)

No case of Omicron in Pakistan, say health authorities refuting media claims

Top US epidemiologist Anthony Fauci said on Tuesday that there were early indications that Covid-19 Omicron variant was not more severe than&nbsp;strains encountered before. However, he cautioned that it would take weeks to fully understand full severity of the Omicron variant.

Speaking to AFP, President Joe Biden's chief medical advisor broke down the knowns and unknowns about Omicron into three major areas: transmissibility, how well it evades immunity from prior infection and vaccines, and severity of illness.

Fauci said that Omicron was "clearly highly transmissible," very likely more so than Delta. He called Omicron to be currently the dominant strain in the world.

Accumulating epidemiological data from around the world also indicates re-infections are higher with Omicron.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/early-indications-omicron-variant-more-transmissible-than-delta-uk-pm-johnson-434892">Early indications Omicron variant more transmissible than Delta: UK PM Johnson</a>

Fauci, the long-time director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), said results from lab experiments that tested the potency of antibodies from current vaccines against Omicron should come in the "next few days to a week."

On the question of severity, "it almost certainly is not more severe than Delta," said Fauci.

"There is some suggestion that it might even be less severe, because when you look at some of the cohorts that are being followed in South Africa, the ratio between the number of infections and the number of hospitalizations seems to be less than with Delta."

But he noted it was important to not over-interpret this data because the populations being followed skewed young and were less likely to become hospitalized. Severe disease can also take weeks to develop.

"I think that's going to take another couple of weeks at least" to confirm in South Africa, where the variant was first reported in November, he said.

"Then as we get more infections throughout the rest of the world, it might take longer to see what's the level of severity."

Fauci said a more transmissible virus that doesn't cause more severe illness and doesn't lead to a surge of hospitalizations and deaths was the "best-case scenario."

"The worst-case scenario is that it is not only highly transmissible, but it also causes severe disease and then you have another wave of infections that are not necessarily blunted by the vaccine or by people's prior infections," he added.

"I don't think that worst-case scenario is going to come about, but you never know."

(With inputs from agencies)

Top US epidemiologist Anthony Fauci said on Tuesday that there were early indications that Covid-19 Omicron variant was not more severe than strains encountered before.

Top US epidemiologist Anthony Fauci said on Tuesday that there were early indications that Covid-19 Omicron variant was not more severe than strains encountered before. However, he cautioned that it would take weeks to fully understand full severity of the Omicron variant. Speaking to AFP, President Joe Biden's chief medical advisor broke down the knowns and unknowns about Omicron into three major areas: transmissibility, how well it evades immunity from prior infection and vaccines, and severity of illness. Fauci said that Omicron was "clearly highly transmissible," very likely more so than Delta. He called Omicron to be currently the dominant strain in the world. Accumulating epidemiological data from around the world also indicates re-infections are higher with Omicron. Also Read | Early indications Omicron variant more transmissible than Delta: UK PM Johnson Fauci, the long-time director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), said results from lab experiments that tested the potency of antibodies from current vaccines against Omicron should come in the "next few days to a week." On the question of severity, "it almost certainly is not more severe than Delta," said Fauci. "There is some suggestion that it might even be less severe, because when you look at some of the cohorts that are being followed in South Africa, the ratio between the number of infections and the number of hospitalizations seems to be less than with Delta." But he noted it was important to not over-interpret this data because the populations being followed skewed young and were less likely to become hospitalized. Severe disease can also take weeks to develop. "I think that's going to take another couple of weeks at least" to confirm in South Africa, where the variant was first reported in November, he said. "Then as we get more infections throughout the rest of the world, it might take longer to see what's the level of severity." Fauci said a more transmissible virus that doesn't cause more severe illness and doesn't lead to a surge of hospitalizations and deaths was the "best-case scenario." "The worst-case scenario is that it is not only highly transmissible, but it also causes severe disease and then you have another wave of infections that are not necessarily blunted by the vaccine or by people's prior infections," he added. "I don't think that worst-case scenario is going to come about, but you never know." (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant 'almost certainly' not more severe than Delta: Top epidemiologist Anthony Fauci

A preliminary laboratory study has revealed that three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

The company said that although two doses of the vaccine offer a high level&nbsp;of protection, the third jab increases efficacy by 25 per cent.

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“Although two doses of the vaccine may still offer protection against severe disease caused by the Omicron strain, it’s clear from these preliminary data that protection is improved with a third dose of our vaccine,” said Pfizer Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Albert Bourla.

“Ensuring as many people as possible are fully vaccinated with the first two-dose series and a booster remains the best course of action to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/omicron-travel-chaos-countries-that-imposed-travel-curbs-over-new-covid-variant-432196">Omicron travel chaos: Countries that imposed travel curbs over new Covid variant</a>

Omicron counts more than 30 mutations on the spike protein that dots the surface of the coronavirus and allows it to invade cells.&nbsp;

The results suggest "that there is definitely much less neutralisation against Omicron compared to neutralisation against the original strains that came out of Wuhan initially," said Willem Hanekom, executive director of the Africa Health Research Institute, which carried out the study.&nbsp;

Pfizer will&nbsp;deliver an Omicron-based vaccine in March 2022. It is currently under development&nbsp;by BioNTech.

Omicron has caused global concern over signs that it can transmit faster than previous strains and fears that its multiple mutations could help it evade immune defences provided by vaccines.

(With inputs from agencies)

A preliminary laboratory study has revealed that three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises the Omicron variant of coronavirus. The company said that although two doses of the vaccine offer a high level of protection, the third jab increases efficacy by 25 per cent.

A preliminary laboratory study has revealed that three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises the Omicron variant of coronavirus. The company said that although two doses of the vaccine offer a high level of protection, the third jab increases efficacy by 25 per cent. “Although two doses of the vaccine may still offer protection against severe disease caused by the Omicron strain, it’s clear from these preliminary data that protection is improved with a third dose of our vaccine,” said Pfizer Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Albert Bourla. “Ensuring as many people as possible are fully vaccinated with the first two-dose series and a booster remains the best course of action to prevent the spread of COVID-19.” Also see | Omicron travel chaos: Countries that imposed travel curbs over new Covid variant Omicron counts more than 30 mutations on the spike protein that dots the surface of the coronavirus and allows it to invade cells. The results suggest "that there is definitely much less neutralisation against Omicron compared to neutralisation against the original strains that came out of Wuhan initially," said Willem Hanekom, executive director of the Africa Health Research Institute, which carried out the study. Pfizer will deliver an Omicron-based vaccine in March 2022. It is currently under development by BioNTech. Omicron has caused global concern over signs that it can transmit faster than previous strains and fears that its multiple mutations could help it evade immune defences provided by vaccines. (With inputs from agencies)

Study demonstrates three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises Omicron variant

Scientists have discovered a ‘stealth version’ of the Omicron Covid variant that is difficult to detect using the standard lab tests, the Guardian reported.

The scientists in the UK found that the stealth variant has a number of mutations similar to the Omicron variant, but it lacks a particular genetic change, called S-Gene drop-out, that helps PCR tests to flag probable cases.

As the variant needs to be confirmed through testing through genome analysis, the scientists are calling the new variant “stealth Omicron”.

The new version of Omicron was discovered in samples from South Africa, Australia, and Canada.

Professor Francois Balloux, director of the University College London Genetics Institute, told The Guardian that 6 per cent of the Omicron genome samples submitted to the Gisaid genome database were the new stealth version of the variant, which is known as BA.2.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-may-cause-third-wave-in-india-by-february-scientist-warns-434873">Omicron may cause third wave in India by February, scientist warns</a>

“There are two lineages within Omicron, BA.1 and BA.2, that are quite differentiated genetically,” Balloux said, adding, “The two lineages may behave differently.”

Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation has said that the Omicron variant is “not more severe than the Delta variant” while adding that the existing vaccines would still protect people against the new variant.

“The preliminary data doesn't indicate that this is more severe. In fact, if anything, the direction is towards less severity,” WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan told AFP on Tuesday, insisting though that more research was needed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-proof-that-covid-pandemic-is-just-starting-warns-uk-scientist-434349">Omicron variant proof that Covid pandemic is just starting, warns UK scientist</a>

Ryan also said there was no sign that Omicron could fully sidestep protections provided by existing Covid vaccines.

Echoing similar views, top US Anthony Fauci said that Omicron did not appear worse than prior strains based on early indications and was possibly milder.

The new variant is "clearly highly transmissible," very likely more so than&nbsp;the current dominant global strain, Fauci told AFP.

"It almost certainly is not more severe than Delta," he added. "There is some suggestion that it might even be less severe."

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have discovered a ‘stealth version’ of the Omicron Covid variant that is difficult to detect using the standard lab tests, the Guardian reported. The scientists in the UK found that the stealth variant has a number of mutations similar to the Omicron variant, but it lacks a particular genetic change, called S-Gene drop-out, that helps PCR tests to flag probable cases.

Scientists have discovered a ‘stealth version’ of the Omicron Covid variant that is difficult to detect using the standard lab tests, the Guardian reported. The scientists in the UK found that the stealth variant has a number of mutations similar to the Omicron variant, but it lacks a particular genetic change, called S-Gene drop-out, that helps PCR tests to flag probable cases. As the variant needs to be confirmed through testing through genome analysis, the scientists are calling the new variant “stealth Omicron”. The new version of Omicron was discovered in samples from South Africa, Australia, and Canada. Professor Francois Balloux, director of the University College London Genetics Institute, told The Guardian that 6 per cent of the Omicron genome samples submitted to the Gisaid genome database were the new stealth version of the variant, which is known as BA.2. Also read | Omicron may cause third wave in India by February, scientist warns “There are two lineages within Omicron, BA.1 and BA.2, that are quite differentiated genetically,” Balloux said, adding, “The two lineages may behave differently.” Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation has said that the Omicron variant is “not more severe than the Delta variant” while adding that the existing vaccines would still protect people against the new variant. “The preliminary data doesn't indicate that this is more severe. In fact, if anything, the direction is towards less severity,” WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan told AFP on Tuesday, insisting though that more research was needed. Also read | Omicron variant proof that Covid pandemic is just starting, warns UK scientist Ryan also said there was no sign that Omicron could fully sidestep protections provided by existing Covid vaccines. Echoing similar views, top US Anthony Fauci said that Omicron did not appear worse than prior strains based on early indications and was possibly milder. The new variant is "clearly highly transmissible," very likely more so than the current dominant global strain, Fauci told AFP. "It almost certainly is not more severe than Delta," he added. "There is some suggestion that it might even be less severe." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover ‘stealth version’ of Omicron variant that is ‘harder to track’ using PCR tests

An official in Indian State Maharashtra's Thane district claimed on Monday that over 100 recent foreign returnees are untraceable due to the Omicron scare.

According to KMDC chairman Vijay Suryavanshi, 109 out of 295 recent foreign returnees to the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KMDC) township in Thane district are now untraceable.

Some of these people's phones were turned off, and many of the last addresses they gave were determined to be locked, he added.

Returnees to KDMC boundaries from all 'at risk' nations must undertake a 7-day home quarantine, followed by a COVID-19 test on the eighth day, according to current rules.

"Even if the test is negative, they will be subjected to another seven-day home quarantine, and it will be the responsibility of housing society members to guarantee that the norm is not broken," he said. &nbsp;

Maharashtra has documented ten cases of the new variant thus far.

The state's first case was reported from Dombivili.

Seven people in the Pune district later tested positive for the Omicron strain of coronavirus, including a non-resident Indian (NRI) mother and her two Nigerian kids.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An official in Indian State Maharashtra's Thane district claimed on Monday that over 100 recent foreign returnees are untraceable due to the Omicron scare. According to KMDC chairman Vijay Suryavanshi, 109 out of 295 recent foreign returnees to the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KMDC) township in Thane district are now untraceable.

An official in Indian State Maharashtra's Thane district claimed on Monday that over 100 recent foreign returnees are untraceable due to the Omicron scare. According to KMDC chairman Vijay Suryavanshi, 109 out of 295 recent foreign returnees to the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KMDC) township in Thane district are now untraceable. Some of these people's phones were turned off, and many of the last addresses they gave were determined to be locked, he added. Returnees to KDMC boundaries from all 'at risk' nations must undertake a 7-day home quarantine, followed by a COVID-19 test on the eighth day, according to current rules. "Even if the test is negative, they will be subjected to another seven-day home quarantine, and it will be the responsibility of housing society members to guarantee that the norm is not broken," he said. Maharashtra has documented ten cases of the new variant thus far. The state's first case was reported from Dombivili. Seven people in the Pune district later tested positive for the Omicron strain of coronavirus, including a non-resident Indian (NRI) mother and her two Nigerian kids. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron scare: Over 100 foreign returnees ‘go missing’ in India

As several pharmaceutical companies rush to test their vaccines and other products in relation to the new variant,&nbsp;British drugmaker GSK&nbsp;has claimed that its&nbsp;antibody-based COVID-19 therapy&nbsp;is effective against the new Omicron variant of coronavirus.

GSK has revealed that as per new data from the early stages of its study, their antibody-test Covid therapy with US&nbsp;partner Vir Biotechnology works against all 37 identified mutations of coronavirus, including the latest Omicron variant.

"The preclinical data was generated through pseudo-virus testing of the combined known mutations of the Omicron variant, which included the maximum number of changes (37 mutations) identified to date in the spike protein," a statement from GSK read. "These findings build on the initial preclinical data generated through pseudo-virus testing, provided last week, showing sotrovimab retained in vitro activity against key individual mutations of the Omicron variant, including those found in the binding site of sotrovimab."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-daily-cases-reduce-as-covid-19-testing-goes-down-434906">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-daily-cases-reduce-as-covid-19-testing-goes-down-434906/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This finding comes a week after a pre-clinical data had revealed that the drug was effective against key mutations of the Omicron variant — which is being labelled as more transmissible than the Delta variant.

GSK's&nbsp;Sotrovimabhas been designed in a manner that it latches on to the spike protein found on the surface of coronavirus. However, Omicron reportedly has an unusually high number of mutations on that protein.&nbsp;"These pre-clinical data demonstrate the potential for our monoclonal antibody to be effective against the latest variant, Omicron, plus all other variants of concern defined to date by the WHO," GSK Chief Scientific Officer Hal Barron said.

"Sotrovimab is the first monoclonal antibody to report preclinical data demonstrating activity against all tested SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and interest to date, including Omicron, as well as the still prevalent and highly contagious Delta variant,"&nbsp;George Scangos, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Vir said. "Given the less than three-fold neutralization shift demonstrated in the pre-clinical pseudo-virus assay, which falls below the FDA authorized fact sheet guidance of less than a 5-fold change, we are confident that sotrovimab will continue to provide significant benefit for the early treatment of patients hoping to avoid the most severe consequences of COVID-19."

As several pharmaceutical companies rush to test their vaccines and other products in relation to the new variant, British drugmaker GSK has claimed that its antibody-based COVID-19 therapy is effective against the new Omicron variant of coronavirus.

As several pharmaceutical companies rush to test their vaccines and other products in relation to the new variant, British drugmaker GSK has claimed that its antibody-based COVID-19 therapy is effective against the new Omicron variant of coronavirus. GSK has revealed that as per new data from the early stages of its study, their antibody-test Covid therapy with US partner Vir Biotechnology works against all 37 identified mutations of coronavirus, including the latest Omicron variant. "The preclinical data was generated through pseudo-virus testing of the combined known mutations of the Omicron variant, which included the maximum number of changes (37 mutations) identified to date in the spike protein," a statement from GSK read. "These findings build on the initial preclinical data generated through pseudo-virus testing, provided last week, showing sotrovimab retained in vitro activity against key individual mutations of the Omicron variant, including those found in the binding site of sotrovimab." WATCH | This finding comes a week after a pre-clinical data had revealed that the drug was effective against key mutations of the Omicron variant — which is being labelled as more transmissible than the Delta variant. GSK's Sotrovimabhas been designed in a manner that it latches on to the spike protein found on the surface of coronavirus. However, Omicron reportedly has an unusually high number of mutations on that protein. "These pre-clinical data demonstrate the potential for our monoclonal antibody to be effective against the latest variant, Omicron, plus all other variants of concern defined to date by the WHO," GSK Chief Scientific Officer Hal Barron said. "Sotrovimab is the first monoclonal antibody to report preclinical data demonstrating activity against all tested SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and interest to date, including Omicron, as well as the still prevalent and highly contagious Delta variant," George Scangos, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Vir said. "Given the less than three-fold neutralization shift demonstrated in the pre-clinical pseudo-virus assay, which falls below the FDA authorized fact sheet guidance of less than a 5-fold change, we are confident that sotrovimab will continue to provide significant benefit for the early treatment of patients hoping to avoid the most severe consequences of COVID-19."

GSK-Vir's Covid drug effective against Omicron variant: Study

As the Omicron variant cases increase steadily in India, an IIT scientist has warned that the third wave of coronavirus could reach its peak by February.<o:p></o:p>

Manindra Agarwal, an IIT scientist who is involved in the mathematical projection of the trajectory of COVID-19, had warned that the Covid cases can reach upto 150,000 per day in India till February. Through his forecast he has warned that the third wave of coronavirus will hit its peak by the second month of 2022.

The same warning has been backed by the&nbsp;Indian Medical Association (IMA). "At a time when India is limbing back to normalcy, this is a great setback. If we do not take adequate measures, we may have a massive third wave," it said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-scare-over-100-foreign-returnees-go-missing-in-india-434773">Omicron scare: Over 100 foreign returnees ‘go missing’ in India</a></o:p>

However, he also added that the third wave will be milder than the second wave which had taken over the country in the summer of 2021. "With the new variant, our current forecast is that the country could see the third wave by February but it will be milder than the second wave. So far we have seen that the severity of Omicron is not like the one seen in the Delta variant," Agarwal&nbsp;said.<o:p></o:p>

He also added that the Omicron variant may not be as severe as the Delta variant. While he agrees that the new Omicron variant is more transmissible, he made it clear that as per the present data the variant is not as severe as Delta variant of coronavirus.<o:p></o:p>

"It looks like although the new variant has shown high transmissibility, its severity is not like the one seen in the Delta variant,"&nbsp;Agarwal said.&nbsp;

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-vaccine-inequality-african-nations-scramble-for-covid-19-vaccines-434822">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-vaccine-inequality-african-nations-scramble-for-covid-19-vaccines-434822/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, he also added that experts need to keep a closer eye on cases rising out of South Africa, which was the first place where experts identified the new variant.

<o:p>IMA has urged the government to "officially announce additional dose (of vaccine) be given to healthcare, frontline workers and immunocompromised individuals to augment the immunity."</o:p>

Agarwal also suggested partial lockdowns, such as night curfew, in case Covid cases start increasing. This, he explains, will help reduce the peak value.<o:p></o:p>

His warning comes a few months after the Department of Science and Technology (DST) backed Sutra-model had warned that a new wave of Covid was expected in October in case there was a new variant. However, as the Omicron variant was not identified till December, the wave was avoided.<o:p></o:p>

As the Omicron variant cases increase steadily in India, an IIT scientist has warned that the third wave of coronavirus could reach its peak by February. Manindra Agarwal, an IIT scientist who is involved in the mathematical projection of the trajectory of COVID-19, had warned that the Covid cases can reach upto 150,000 per day in India till February.

As the Omicron variant cases increase steadily in India, an IIT scientist has warned that the third wave of coronavirus could reach its peak by February. Manindra Agarwal, an IIT scientist who is involved in the mathematical projection of the trajectory of COVID-19, had warned that the Covid cases can reach upto 150,000 per day in India till February. Through his forecast he has warned that the third wave of coronavirus will hit its peak by the second month of 2022. The same warning has been backed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). "At a time when India is limbing back to normalcy, this is a great setback. If we do not take adequate measures, we may have a massive third wave," it said. Also read | Omicron scare: Over 100 foreign returnees ‘go missing’ in India However, he also added that the third wave will be milder than the second wave which had taken over the country in the summer of 2021. "With the new variant, our current forecast is that the country could see the third wave by February but it will be milder than the second wave. So far we have seen that the severity of Omicron is not like the one seen in the Delta variant," Agarwal said. He also added that the Omicron variant may not be as severe as the Delta variant. While he agrees that the new Omicron variant is more transmissible, he made it clear that as per the present data the variant is not as severe as Delta variant of coronavirus. "It looks like although the new variant has shown high transmissibility, its severity is not like the one seen in the Delta variant," Agarwal said. WATCH | However, he also added that experts need to keep a closer eye on cases rising out of South Africa, which was the first place where experts identified the new variant. IMA has urged the government to "officially announce additional dose (of vaccine) be given to healthcare, frontline workers and immunocompromised individuals to augment the immunity." Agarwal also suggested partial lockdowns, such as night curfew, in case Covid cases start increasing. This, he explains, will help reduce the peak value. His warning comes a few months after the Department of Science and Technology (DST) backed Sutra-model had warned that a new wave of Covid was expected in October in case there was a new variant. However, as the Omicron variant was not identified till December, the wave was avoided.

Omicron may cause third wave in India by February, scientist warns

The President said the number of daily infections has increased five-fold in the past week, with nearly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Two weeks ago, only two per cent of tests were positive.

President Cyril Ramaphosa warned on Monday that South Africa is preparing its hospitals for additional admissions as the Omicron variant drives the country into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections.

The appearance of the new Omicron form was unavoidable, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who called the increase in infections a "grave concern."

In a weekly communication, Ramaphosa stated that Omicron looked to be dominating new infections in most provinces and recommended more people to acquire COVID-19 vaccines.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-acts-as-a-wake-up-call-for-rich-nations-about-vaccine-inequality-experts-434570">Also read | Omicron acts as a wake-up call for rich nations about vaccine inequality: Experts</a>

The number of daily infections has surged fivefold in the last week, according to the President, with roughly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive.

Only 2% of tests were positive only two weeks earlier.&nbsp;

"While the surge in infections is of great concern, we should remember that we anticipated it. Disease modellers in our country have told us that we would likely experience a fourth wave around this time and that it was almost inevitable that new variants of the virus would emerge, " Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.

"As the country heads into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, we are experiencing a rate of infections that we have not seen since the pandemic started. The Omicron variant that was brought to global attention by South African scientists nearly two weeks ago appears to be dominating new infections in most provinces, " he said.

Scientists in South Africa and throughout the globe are still working to answer key issues regarding the novel Omicron variation, including its transmissibility, progression, whether it produces more severe illness, and how effective vaccinations will be against it, he added.&nbsp;

Without waiting for stronger lockdown laws, Ramaphosa advised citizens to be vaccinated and take steps to protect communal safety.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The President said the number of daily infections has increased five-fold in the past week, with nearly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Two weeks ago, only two per cent of tests were positive.

The President said the number of daily infections has increased five-fold in the past week, with nearly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Two weeks ago, only two per cent of tests were positive. President Cyril Ramaphosa warned on Monday that South Africa is preparing its hospitals for additional admissions as the Omicron variant drives the country into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections. The appearance of the new Omicron form was unavoidable, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who called the increase in infections a "grave concern." In a weekly communication, Ramaphosa stated that Omicron looked to be dominating new infections in most provinces and recommended more people to acquire COVID-19 vaccines. Also read | Omicron acts as a wake-up call for rich nations about vaccine inequality: Experts The number of daily infections has surged fivefold in the last week, according to the President, with roughly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Only 2% of tests were positive only two weeks earlier. "While the surge in infections is of great concern, we should remember that we anticipated it. Disease modellers in our country have told us that we would likely experience a fourth wave around this time and that it was almost inevitable that new variants of the virus would emerge, " Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday. "As the country heads into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, we are experiencing a rate of infections that we have not seen since the pandemic started. The Omicron variant that was brought to global attention by South African scientists nearly two weeks ago appears to be dominating new infections in most provinces, " he said. Scientists in South Africa and throughout the globe are still working to answer key issues regarding the novel Omicron variation, including its transmissibility, progression, whether it produces more severe illness, and how effective vaccinations will be against it, he added. Without waiting for stronger lockdown laws, Ramaphosa advised citizens to be vaccinated and take steps to protect communal safety. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid cases increase five-fold in South Africa; President says emergence of Omicron was inevitable

A family decided to send their child to school even after they were aware that their kid had tested positive for coronavirus. This carelessness resulted in putting several other children’s lives in danger.<o:p></o:p>

Parents of an elementary student continued to send the child to school for seven days after the student had tested positive for COVID-19, Dr. Brett Geithman, superintendent of Larkspur-Corte Madera School District in Marin County, told CNN.<o:p></o:p>

A student of Neil Cummins Elementary School in Corte Madera, near San Francisco, the student’s attendance in school resulted in 75 other students having to quarantine from November 19.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-resulted-in-alarming-increase-in-malaria-deaths-who-434686">Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO</a></o:p>

The school authorities got to know about the positive case only when the Marin County Public Health contacted the authorities to make sure the case was registered in the company’s database.<o:p></o:p>

"In this case both the school and public health were given inaccurate information by the parents, which led to a prolonged interval of exposure." Dr. Matt Willis, Marin County's public health officer, told CNN.<o:p></o:p>

Public health departments make sure that the laboratories inform them about all new infections. The authorities then follow up with concerned school authorities to make sure the infected students are following the necessary quarantine protocols.<o:p></o:p>

It was when the authorities were following this process, when this violation was caught and reported. "This is not only a violation of basic ethics, it's a violation of law." Willis told CNN. "Violation can lead to a fine or criminal prosecution as a misdemeanor. Because of the seriousness of this violation we've referred the case to the District Attorney."

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-vaccine-inequality-african-nations-scramble-for-covid-19-vaccines-434822">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-vaccine-inequality-african-nations-scramble-for-covid-19-vaccines-434822/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We did not know this positive case existed." Superintendent Brett Geithman said in a written statement to CNN. "Upon calling the household, we learned that the student tested positive, did not inform the schools, and then sent the student and their sibling to school for seven days."<o:p></o:p>

As soon as the school was made aware of this case, they hurried to alert and test everyone who had come in contact with the student — primary or secondary. The principal arranged testing for the nearly 50 students, 10 staff members and other people on the morning of 19th in the school gym.<o:p></o:p>

"They've since issued apology letters to me, the principal, and the teachers involved and recognized their lack of judgement," Geithman told CNN. "This is a community that takes Covid protocols very seriously and acts on it. This is a one-off where a family made a terrible decision that impacted many students and comprised the health and safety of our schools."<o:p></o:p>

A family decided to send their child to school even after they were aware that their kid had tested positive for coronavirus. This carelessness resulted in putting several other children’s lives in danger.

A family decided to send their child to school even after they were aware that their kid had tested positive for coronavirus. This carelessness resulted in putting several other children’s lives in danger. Parents of an elementary student continued to send the child to school for seven days after the student had tested positive for COVID-19, Dr. Brett Geithman, superintendent of Larkspur-Corte Madera School District in Marin County, told CNN. A student of Neil Cummins Elementary School in Corte Madera, near San Francisco, the student’s attendance in school resulted in 75 other students having to quarantine from November 19. Also read | Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO The school authorities got to know about the positive case only when the Marin County Public Health contacted the authorities to make sure the case was registered in the company’s database. "In this case both the school and public health were given inaccurate information by the parents, which led to a prolonged interval of exposure." Dr. Matt Willis, Marin County's public health officer, told CNN. Public health departments make sure that the laboratories inform them about all new infections. The authorities then follow up with concerned school authorities to make sure the infected students are following the necessary quarantine protocols. It was when the authorities were following this process, when this violation was caught and reported. "This is not only a violation of basic ethics, it's a violation of law." Willis told CNN. "Violation can lead to a fine or criminal prosecution as a misdemeanor. Because of the seriousness of this violation we've referred the case to the District Attorney." WATCH | "We did not know this positive case existed." Superintendent Brett Geithman said in a written statement to CNN. "Upon calling the household, we learned that the student tested positive, did not inform the schools, and then sent the student and their sibling to school for seven days." As soon as the school was made aware of this case, they hurried to alert and test everyone who had come in contact with the student — primary or secondary. The principal arranged testing for the nearly 50 students, 10 staff members and other people on the morning of 19th in the school gym. "They've since issued apology letters to me, the principal, and the teachers involved and recognized their lack of judgement," Geithman told CNN. "This is a community that takes Covid protocols very seriously and acts on it. This is a one-off where a family made a terrible decision that impacted many students and comprised the health and safety of our schools."

Dedication? Parents keep sending Covid positive child to school for a week

India reported the lowest Covid cases since May 2020 on December 07, 2021. The health ministry reported a total of 6,882 new coronavirus infections on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

The new infections have taken the total tally of Covid cases to 3,46,48,383 and the active cases have decreased to 95,014, which is the lowest in 554 days.<o:p></o:p>

Union&nbsp;Health&nbsp;Ministry data reported that 220 Covid-related deaths have been recorded in the past 24 hours till Tuesday morning, taking the death toll to 473,757.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-may-cause-third-wave-in-india-by-february-scientist-warns-434873">Omicron may cause third wave in India by February, scientist warns</a></o:p>

Tuesday marked the 11th continuous day when India has reported less than 10,000 daily Covid cases and 163rd day when India has recorded less than 50,000 Covid cases.<o:p></o:p>

The recovery rate was also recorded to be the highest since March 2020 at 98.36 per cent. Meanwhile, active cases made 0.27 per cent of the total infections, which was the lowest since March 2020.<o:p></o:p>

India, meanwhile, has confirmed 23 cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 on December 07. Out of these 23, eight are from Maharashtra, nine in Rajasthan, two in Karnataka and one each in Gujarat and national capital city New Delhi.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dedication-parents-keep-sending-covid-positive-child-to-school-for-a-week-434830">Dedication? Parents keep sending Covid positive child to school for a week</a></o:p>

This data came at a time when an IIT scientist has warned that the new Omicron variant may cause a third wave in India by February 2022. "With the new variant, our current forecast is that the country could see the third wave by February but it will be milder than the second wave. So far we have seen that the severity of Omicron is not like the one seen in the Delta variant," said Manindra Agarwal, an IIT scientist who is involved in the mathematical projection of the trajectory of COVID-19.<o:p></o:p>

He also added that the "new variant has shown high transmissibility, its severity is not like the one seen in the Delta variant."&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

India reported the lowest Covid cases since May 2020 on December 07, 2021. The health ministry reported a total of 6,882 new coronavirus infections on Tuesday. The new infections have taken the total tally of Covid cases to 3,46,48,383 and the active cases have decreased to 95,014, which is the lowest in 554 days.

India reported the lowest Covid cases since May 2020 on December 07, 2021. The health ministry reported a total of 6,882 new coronavirus infections on Tuesday. The new infections have taken the total tally of Covid cases to 3,46,48,383 and the active cases have decreased to 95,014, which is the lowest in 554 days. Union Health Ministry data reported that 220 Covid-related deaths have been recorded in the past 24 hours till Tuesday morning, taking the death toll to 473,757. Also read | Omicron may cause third wave in India by February, scientist warns Tuesday marked the 11th continuous day when India has reported less than 10,000 daily Covid cases and 163rd day when India has recorded less than 50,000 Covid cases. The recovery rate was also recorded to be the highest since March 2020 at 98.36 per cent. Meanwhile, active cases made 0.27 per cent of the total infections, which was the lowest since March 2020. India, meanwhile, has confirmed 23 cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 on December 07. Out of these 23, eight are from Maharashtra, nine in Rajasthan, two in Karnataka and one each in Gujarat and national capital city New Delhi. Also read | Dedication? Parents keep sending Covid positive child to school for a week This data came at a time when an IIT scientist has warned that the new Omicron variant may cause a third wave in India by February 2022. "With the new variant, our current forecast is that the country could see the third wave by February but it will be milder than the second wave. So far we have seen that the severity of Omicron is not like the one seen in the Delta variant," said Manindra Agarwal, an IIT scientist who is involved in the mathematical projection of the trajectory of COVID-19. He also added that the "new variant has shown high transmissibility, its severity is not like the one seen in the Delta variant."

As Omicron surges around world, India records lowest Covid daily infections

Nepal reported its first two cases of the omicron variant of coronavirus, the health ministry informed on Monday.&nbsp;

Two individuals are foreign nations who had come to Nepal for business purpose. The health ministry said their nationalities will not be revealed due to security reasons.&nbsp;

"A 66-year-old foreigner, who had entered Nepal from a country with confirmed Omicron variant on November 19, and another 71-year-old person who was in close contact with him tested positive for omicron on Sunday, the ministry said in a statement,” Dr Samir Kumar Adhikari, health ministry spokesperson told WION.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-achieves-new-covid-19-vaccine-milestone-50-of-adults-fully-vaccinated-434675">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-achieves-new-covid-19-vaccine-milestone-50-of-adults-fully-vaccinated-434675/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Both individuals are in isolation and under surveillance of health workers, he added. &nbsp;

Adhikari confirmed that in the process of contact tracing, it was found that 66 people had come in contact with infected individuals and all tested negative.&nbsp;

Speaking on the ways to further contain the spread of the variant, Adhikari said, "Our priority is to speed up vaccination process across the country and identify people who have not received their doses."

The health ministry spokesperson informed that discussions are underway to administer booster doses in the country but is yet to take a concrete decision on it.&nbsp;

Nepal government had earlier banned the entry of travelers coming from eight African nations and Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Nepal reported its first two cases of the omicron variant of coronavirus, the health ministry informed on Monday. Two individuals are foreign nations who had come to Nepal for business purpose.

Nepal reported its first two cases of the omicron variant of coronavirus, the health ministry informed on Monday. Two individuals are foreign nations who had come to Nepal for business purpose. The health ministry said their nationalities will not be revealed due to security reasons. "A 66-year-old foreigner, who had entered Nepal from a country with confirmed Omicron variant on November 19, and another 71-year-old person who was in close contact with him tested positive for omicron on Sunday, the ministry said in a statement,” Dr Samir Kumar Adhikari, health ministry spokesperson told WION. WATCH | Both individuals are in isolation and under surveillance of health workers, he added. Adhikari confirmed that in the process of contact tracing, it was found that 66 people had come in contact with infected individuals and all tested negative. Speaking on the ways to further contain the spread of the variant, Adhikari said, "Our priority is to speed up vaccination process across the country and identify people who have not received their doses." The health ministry spokesperson informed that discussions are underway to administer booster doses in the country but is yet to take a concrete decision on it. Nepal government had earlier banned the entry of travelers coming from eight African nations and Hong Kong.

Nepal reports its first two Omicron variant cases, to speed up vaccine process

With Omicron variant spreading all across the globe, a number of countries have now imposed travel bans on South Africa where the mutant variant was first detected. On this, President Cyril Ramaphosa has now slammed west nations calling them 'hypocritical'.

Ramaphosa slams West on 'travel bans' calls them hypocrite

Just when the box office had begun to look up after the pandemic, what with Sooryavanshi and now Tadap opening well, &nbsp;the Omicron scare has put the pressure of the pandemic again on the badly-hit &nbsp;Indian entertainment industry.

“We don’t know where this is going to go. We can only take one day at a time,” says producer Ajay Rai of Jar &nbsp;Pictures who is currently shooting a &nbsp;secret project in Lucknow.

“A &nbsp;sense of muted panic has already gripped the entertainment industry. So many producers have lined up big projects for release during the coming weeks and months. In fact, ambitious producers have booked coveted Friday in November –December &nbsp;2022 and 2023. But do we &nbsp;even know what is going to happen two weeks or &nbsp;one month &nbsp;from now?” &nbsp;Ajay Rai voices the fear that has gripped the Indian entertainment industry all over again.

Anees Bazmi who has his big Kartik Aaryan comedy 'Bhoool Bhulaiya 2'&nbsp; scheduled for &nbsp;25 March 2022 feels uncertainty is the future of the entertainment industry. &nbsp;“I suppose we will have to live with the fear of COVID-19&nbsp; for a &nbsp;very long time. Now with this new variant coming in, nobody knows what will happen.”

Sanjay Leela Bhansali whose Alia Bhatt-Ajay Devgan starrer 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' is scheduled for February 18, 2022, feels the entertainment industry needs to think beyond its own losses. “Thousands of lives are at stake. Millions have already lost their lives. We can’t be bothered &nbsp;about our films at a time like this.”

Producer-director Vipul Shah feels it’s too early to comment on the impact of the Omicron: “It’s too early to know how serious this virus is. I would wait and watch. Our industry is showing amazing resilience and I have no doubt that we will get through this also and come out with flying colours.”

Telugu actor &nbsp;Adivi Sesh whose war bio-pic Major is scheduled for release all over India in multiple languages on &nbsp;February 11 is hopeful that this time the situation won’t get out of hand. “It might affect India, including the entertainment industry. So far, I don’t see an increase in deaths worldwide and that is cautious good news. If our vaccine drives continue to hold, and the new variant doesn’t cause premature death, we should be able to beat this. Optimistic. Fingers crossed.”

Just when the box office had begun to look up after the pandemic, what with Sooryavanshi and now Tadap opening well, the Omicron scare has put the pressure of the pandemic again on the badly-hit Indian entertainment industry.

Just when the box office had begun to look up after the pandemic, what with Sooryavanshi and now Tadap opening well, the Omicron scare has put the pressure of the pandemic again on the badly-hit Indian entertainment industry. “We don’t know where this is going to go. We can only take one day at a time,” says producer Ajay Rai of Jar Pictures who is currently shooting a secret project in Lucknow. “A sense of muted panic has already gripped the entertainment industry. So many producers have lined up big projects for release during the coming weeks and months. In fact, ambitious producers have booked coveted Friday in November –December 2022 and 2023. But do we even know what is going to happen two weeks or one month from now?” Ajay Rai voices the fear that has gripped the Indian entertainment industry all over again. Anees Bazmi who has his big Kartik Aaryan comedy 'Bhoool Bhulaiya 2' scheduled for 25 March 2022 feels uncertainty is the future of the entertainment industry. “I suppose we will have to live with the fear of COVID-19 for a very long time. Now with this new variant coming in, nobody knows what will happen.” Sanjay Leela Bhansali whose Alia Bhatt-Ajay Devgan starrer 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' is scheduled for February 18, 2022, feels the entertainment industry needs to think beyond its own losses. “Thousands of lives are at stake. Millions have already lost their lives. We can’t be bothered about our films at a time like this.” Producer-director Vipul Shah feels it’s too early to comment on the impact of the Omicron: “It’s too early to know how serious this virus is. I would wait and watch. Our industry is showing amazing resilience and I have no doubt that we will get through this also and come out with flying colours.” Telugu actor Adivi Sesh whose war bio-pic Major is scheduled for release all over India in multiple languages on February 11 is hopeful that this time the situation won’t get out of hand. “It might affect India, including the entertainment industry. So far, I don’t see an increase in deaths worldwide and that is cautious good news. If our vaccine drives continue to hold, and the new variant doesn’t cause premature death, we should be able to beat this. Optimistic. Fingers crossed.”

Omicron panic in Bollywood: Future seems uncertain for the film industry

The new variant of Covid, Omicron, is rapidly spreading in India. The nation has reported a total of 21 cases so far. However, all of these cases are imported, meaning, they have been brought from outside nations and have not emerged in India. The new variant is believed to be more contagious but less lethal than the previous delta variant.&nbsp;

The first case of Omicron variant in India was reported in Gujarat when a 72-year-old Zimbabwe resident travelled to Jamnagar and tested positive for coronavirus. The second case was reported from&nbsp;Maharashtra state. The person infected by the strain returned from South Africa to Kalyan Dombivali municipal area near Mumbai.&nbsp;

After this, 2 people, including, a 66-year-old South African national and an Indian doctor, tested positive for the new strain in Bengaluru, Karnataka. However, the foreigner somehow managed to escape from India. The doctor has been placed under quarantine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-achieves-new-milestone-as-over-50-of-adult-population-now-vaccinated-against-covid-434472">Also read |&nbsp;India achieves new milestone as over 50% of adult population now vaccinated against Covid</a>

Out of the 21 cases reported in India, eight cases are from Maharashtra, one from Delhi and Gujarat each, nine from Jaipur, and two from Bangalore. The new cases in Maharashtra include a woman and her two daughters, who have a recent travel history to Nigeria.&nbsp;

In Delhi, a Tanzanian returnee who had been admitted to a local hospital tested positive for the new variant.&nbsp;

As all Omicron cases reported in India are imported, it has sparked concerns if the country needs to impose stricter travel rules. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had issued new guidelines for international travellers arriving in India.&nbsp;

As per these guidelines, all travellers are required to submit their travel details of 14 days. Also, the travellers will be required to upload their negative RT-PCR test report on the Air Suvidha portal before the journey. Also, every international traveller needs to fill a self-declaration form.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=hysteria+synonym&amp;oq=hysteria+synonym+&amp;aqs=chrome.0.0i512l3j0i22i30l6j0i390.2579j0j7&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">Also read |&nbsp;Covid: India reports 16 new cases of Omicron variant, tally rises to 21</a>

Amid fears of a potential third wave with a rising number of cases, India's Union Minister for Health Mansukh Mandaviya has said that the government is prepared to fully address any crisis that may come. He further said that the government is taking all necessary steps to stop the growing cases of Omicron variant.&nbsp;

The head of India’s Covid task force, Dr V K Paul said that the vaccine manufacturers are currently examining the vaccine efficacy against Omicron. With this, he said that vaccination remains “the most critical tool”.

While the entire globe is dreading the spread of this new variant, the World Health Organization and experts&nbsp;believe that the variant is only 'super mild'. Chair of the South African Medical Association, Dr Angelique Coetzee said that the&nbsp;reaction was not justified. The WHO also warned the governments against creating panic.

The new variant of Covid, Omicron, is rapidly spreading in India. The nation has reported a total of 21 cases so far. However, all of these cases are imported, meaning, they have been brought from outside nations and have not emerged in India.

The new variant of Covid, Omicron, is rapidly spreading in India. The nation has reported a total of 21 cases so far. However, all of these cases are imported, meaning, they have been brought from outside nations and have not emerged in India. The new variant is believed to be more contagious but less lethal than the previous delta variant. The first case of Omicron variant in India was reported in Gujarat when a 72-year-old Zimbabwe resident travelled to Jamnagar and tested positive for coronavirus. The second case was reported from Maharashtra state. The person infected by the strain returned from South Africa to Kalyan Dombivali municipal area near Mumbai. After this, 2 people, including, a 66-year-old South African national and an Indian doctor, tested positive for the new strain in Bengaluru, Karnataka. However, the foreigner somehow managed to escape from India. The doctor has been placed under quarantine. Also read | India achieves new milestone as over 50% of adult population now vaccinated against Covid Out of the 21 cases reported in India, eight cases are from Maharashtra, one from Delhi and Gujarat each, nine from Jaipur, and two from Bangalore. The new cases in Maharashtra include a woman and her two daughters, who have a recent travel history to Nigeria. In Delhi, a Tanzanian returnee who had been admitted to a local hospital tested positive for the new variant. As all Omicron cases reported in India are imported, it has sparked concerns if the country needs to impose stricter travel rules. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had issued new guidelines for international travellers arriving in India. As per these guidelines, all travellers are required to submit their travel details of 14 days. Also, the travellers will be required to upload their negative RT-PCR test report on the Air Suvidha portal before the journey. Also, every international traveller needs to fill a self-declaration form. Also read | Covid: India reports 16 new cases of Omicron variant, tally rises to 21 Amid fears of a potential third wave with a rising number of cases, India's Union Minister for Health Mansukh Mandaviya has said that the government is prepared to fully address any crisis that may come. He further said that the government is taking all necessary steps to stop the growing cases of Omicron variant. The head of India’s Covid task force, Dr V K Paul said that the vaccine manufacturers are currently examining the vaccine efficacy against Omicron. With this, he said that vaccination remains “the most critical tool”. While the entire globe is dreading the spread of this new variant, the World Health Organization and experts believe that the variant is only 'super mild'. Chair of the South African Medical Association, Dr Angelique Coetzee said that the reaction was not justified. The WHO also warned the governments against creating panic.

Covid in India: Omicron rises but all cases reported so far are imported from other nations

It's been two weeks since the omicron variant was first detected and there is still no consensus on where it first emerged — Africa or Europe?<o:p></o:p>

Scientists are split on its origin, but what they agree on is that this variant is odd. It doesn't resemble any previous variants and has the highest number of mutations, which could make it more transmissible, cause a more severe infection and even render vaccines ineffective.<o:p></o:p>

However, these are just hypotheses that are yet to be proven. While scientists are still debating these possibilities, the cases, meanwhile, are rising.<o:p></o:p>

Last Friday, 23 countries had detected the omicron variant and as of today, this variant has spread to 38 countries.<o:p></o:p>

A few days ago, India discovered its first two cases of omicron in Karnataka and three days later the variant has spread to three other states and the national capital — eight cases have been reported in Maharashtra, nine in Rajasthan, one each in Gujarat and New Delhi. Most of those infected recently travelled abroad but there are also some with no travel history whatsoever.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What is India's omicron strategy? &nbsp;<o:p></o:p></h2>

If the second wave has taught us anything, it is that you cannot prepare enough and India cannot look at other countries to decide its pandemic response; it needs its own strategy and solutions.<o:p></o:p>

The India government has prepared a list of ‘at-risk’ countries even though international flights are still operational in India. Travellers from these countries will be strictly monitored and all positive cases will be isolated, and then sent for genome sequencing to find out if they have the omicron variant.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the government has decided to put all public events on hold till January 15, 2022.<o:p></o:p>

At the same time, New Delhi has strictly ruled out imposing a lockdown. Dr VK Paul, the head of India's COVID-19 task force, has categorically said that imposing a lockdown is not yet required. Instead, the government’s aim will be to test, track and treat all new cases.<o:p></o:p>

Until we find out how dangerous this variant really is, India will have to remain consistent in its response and focus on improving in some key areas.

<h3 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Super-spreader events</o:p></h3>

It can start by putting an end to gatherings that could turn out to be super-spreader events, such as election rallies. At least five states are going to polls next year and election rallies have already begun, crowds are turning up in large numbers. It's almost like déjà vu. Last year, too, several states went to polls during which huge rallies were held. In the end, the outcome was disastrous.<o:p></o:p>

So, should election rallies continue the way they are or is there a need to tone them down by reducing the number of people attending? The election commission needs to take a call immediately.

<h3 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Genome sequencing</o:p></h3>

The second area of concern is genome sequencing — a process used to track how the virus is mutating or multiplying. India is doing more on this front but it still performs poorly on a global level.<o:p></o:p>

According to one report, it has sampled just 0.2 per cent of its total cases, which is a measly figure. Denmark has conducted genome sequencing of 46 per cent of its cases, Australia has 21 per cent, UK 12 per cent and Switzerland nine per cent. So, why is India, which just recovered from a deadly second wave, lagging behind?

<h3 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Stringency</o:p></h3>

The third area where India needs to improve is stringency. Announcing restrictions and social distancing measures won't be enough. India will have to be more stringent in executing them and will have to strictly follow up on whether people are following those rules.<o:p></o:p>

According to the Oxford government response tracker, India, the second most populous country in the world, has a stringency index of 45.8, which is lower than China, Germany, Indonesia and the UK.<o:p></o:p>

India will have to be stricter in the days ahead if it wants to stop omicron from spreading. New Delhi India will have to revisit all the challenges it faced during the second wave this past summer, re-haul its approach, chalk out new strategies and be equipped on all fronts.<o:p></o:p>

It's been two weeks since the omicron variant was first detected and there is still no consensus on where it first emerged — Africa or Europe? Scientists are split on its origin, but what they agree on is that this variant is odd.

It's been two weeks since the omicron variant was first detected and there is still no consensus on where it first emerged — Africa or Europe? Scientists are split on its origin, but what they agree on is that this variant is odd. It doesn't resemble any previous variants and has the highest number of mutations, which could make it more transmissible, cause a more severe infection and even render vaccines ineffective. However, these are just hypotheses that are yet to be proven. While scientists are still debating these possibilities, the cases, meanwhile, are rising. Last Friday, 23 countries had detected the omicron variant and as of today, this variant has spread to 38 countries. A few days ago, India discovered its first two cases of omicron in Karnataka and three days later the variant has spread to three other states and the national capital — eight cases have been reported in Maharashtra, nine in Rajasthan, one each in Gujarat and New Delhi. Most of those infected recently travelled abroad but there are also some with no travel history whatsoever. What is India's omicron strategy? If the second wave has taught us anything, it is that you cannot prepare enough and India cannot look at other countries to decide its pandemic response; it needs its own strategy and solutions. The India government has prepared a list of ‘at-risk’ countries even though international flights are still operational in India. Travellers from these countries will be strictly monitored and all positive cases will be isolated, and then sent for genome sequencing to find out if they have the omicron variant. Meanwhile, the government has decided to put all public events on hold till January 15, 2022. At the same time, New Delhi has strictly ruled out imposing a lockdown. Dr VK Paul, the head of India's COVID-19 task force, has categorically said that imposing a lockdown is not yet required. Instead, the government’s aim will be to test, track and treat all new cases. Until we find out how dangerous this variant really is, India will have to remain consistent in its response and focus on improving in some key areas. Super-spreader events It can start by putting an end to gatherings that could turn out to be super-spreader events, such as election rallies. At least five states are going to polls next year and election rallies have already begun, crowds are turning up in large numbers. It's almost like déjà vu. Last year, too, several states went to polls during which huge rallies were held. In the end, the outcome was disastrous. So, should election rallies continue the way they are or is there a need to tone them down by reducing the number of people attending? The election commission needs to take a call immediately. Genome sequencing The second area of concern is genome sequencing — a process used to track how the virus is mutating or multiplying. India is doing more on this front but it still performs poorly on a global level. According to one report, it has sampled just 0.2 per cent of its total cases, which is a measly figure. Denmark has conducted genome sequencing of 46 per cent of its cases, Australia has 21 per cent, UK 12 per cent and Switzerland nine per cent. So, why is India, which just recovered from a deadly second wave, lagging behind? Stringency The third area where India needs to improve is stringency. Announcing restrictions and social distancing measures won't be enough. India will have to be more stringent in executing them and will have to strictly follow up on whether people are following those rules. According to the Oxford government response tracker, India, the second most populous country in the world, has a stringency index of 45.8, which is lower than China, Germany, Indonesia and the UK. India will have to be stricter in the days ahead if it wants to stop omicron from spreading. New Delhi India will have to revisit all the challenges it faced during the second wave this past summer, re-haul its approach, chalk out new strategies and be equipped on all fronts.

As Omicron variant of Covid spreads, is India really ready this time?

Omicron cases have been alarmingly increasing across the world, and now Russia, too, has been infected by the new Covid variant.<o:p></o:p>

Russia reported its first two cases of the Omicron variant in citizens who had recently returned from South Africa. "Two citizens who returned to Russia from South Africa have been diagnosed with the Omicron coronavirus strain," the Rospotrebnadzor health agency said in a statement.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-unlikely-to-lift-omicron-travel-curbs-on-southern-african-countries-434698">EU unlikely to lift Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries</a></o:p>

The government has started testing all travellers coming from South Africa and its neighbouring countries. They are being tested at the border itself from where they had taken into special observatories. From these observatories, anyone who shows any symptoms or tests positive for Covid is sent to be quarantined in infectious disease hospitals, Rospotrebnadzor reported.<o:p></o:p>

Keeping in mind the dangers the new variant carries, Russian President Vladimir Putin has given his government and coronavirus experts of the country a week to come up with a foolproof action plan to fight the new Omicron variant of COVID-19. <o:p></o:p>

This comes at a time when Russia has been already struggling to control a worsening Covid surge in the country, driven by the Delta variant. Now, as some people are claiming that the Omicron variant could be more transmissible than the existing variants, Russia is hoping to come up with an action plan and stay alert in order to avoid any future surge.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-meets-russian-president-vladimir-putin-at-hyderabad-house-434656">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-meets-russian-president-vladimir-putin-at-hyderabad-house-434656/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In addition to this, experts have also claimed that a booster shots of Russia’s domestically produced Sputnik V vaccine is also being readied to fight the Omicron variant specifically. However, the country has been struggling to get rid of vaccine hesitancy. Even though the country has been catering domestically produced vaccines, only 40 per cent of the population has been fully vaccinated till now.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, experts all around the world are urging rich nations to take the spread of Omicron as a wake-up call with regards to vaccine inequality. "With the new threat of the Omicron variant, it is clear that we cannot just booster our way out of the pandemic while leaving much of the developing world behind,"&nbsp;said Anna Marriott, health policy manager at Oxfam, which is one of about 80 organisations in the People’s Vaccine Alliance. "Unless all countries are vaccinated as soon as possible we could see wave after wave of variants."<o:p></o:p>

Omicron cases have been alarmingly increasing across the world, and now Russia, too, has been infected by the new Covid variant. Russia reported its first two cases of the Omicron variant in citizens who had recently returned from South Africa.

Omicron cases have been alarmingly increasing across the world, and now Russia, too, has been infected by the new Covid variant. Russia reported its first two cases of the Omicron variant in citizens who had recently returned from South Africa. "Two citizens who returned to Russia from South Africa have been diagnosed with the Omicron coronavirus strain," the Rospotrebnadzor health agency said in a statement. Also read | EU unlikely to lift Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries The government has started testing all travellers coming from South Africa and its neighbouring countries. They are being tested at the border itself from where they had taken into special observatories. From these observatories, anyone who shows any symptoms or tests positive for Covid is sent to be quarantined in infectious disease hospitals, Rospotrebnadzor reported. Keeping in mind the dangers the new variant carries, Russian President Vladimir Putin has given his government and coronavirus experts of the country a week to come up with a foolproof action plan to fight the new Omicron variant of COVID-19. This comes at a time when Russia has been already struggling to control a worsening Covid surge in the country, driven by the Delta variant. Now, as some people are claiming that the Omicron variant could be more transmissible than the existing variants, Russia is hoping to come up with an action plan and stay alert in order to avoid any future surge. WATCH | In addition to this, experts have also claimed that a booster shots of Russia’s domestically produced Sputnik V vaccine is also being readied to fight the Omicron variant specifically. However, the country has been struggling to get rid of vaccine hesitancy. Even though the country has been catering domestically produced vaccines, only 40 per cent of the population has been fully vaccinated till now. Meanwhile, experts all around the world are urging rich nations to take the spread of Omicron as a wake-up call with regards to vaccine inequality. "With the new threat of the Omicron variant, it is clear that we cannot just booster our way out of the pandemic while leaving much of the developing world behind," said Anna Marriott, health policy manager at Oxfam, which is one of about 80 organisations in the People’s Vaccine Alliance. "Unless all countries are vaccinated as soon as possible we could see wave after wave of variants."

Russia records its first Omicron Covid cases; Putin demands action plan

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday.

EU states had agreed to &nbsp;impose travel curbs on travellers coming from seven southern African countries. This was done after these countries reported Omicron variant which is considered more infectious than previous variants

Bloomberg News, citing one diplomat familiar with the matter, reported on Monday that EU health ministers at a meeting on Tuesday may agree on the need for a PCR test for vaccinated third-country nationals from that region, which could allow some travel bans to be eased or lifted within a week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-spreads-in-south-africa-as-president-ramaphosa-urges-vaccination-434673">Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination</a>

The travel ban "was meant always as a time-limited measure", one senior EU official told Reuters, adding however that there was no plan at the moment to lift it. "We are not yet working in that direction."

Another two EU sources familiar with the work of health ministers said no decision on travel bans was expected at Tuesday's meeting.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-resulted-in-alarming-increase-in-malaria-deaths-who-434686">Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO</a>

Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are the southern African countries that have been targeted.

South Africa has criticised the travel ban which it said penalised the country for having the expertise to first identify the variant. The United States, Britain and many other countries imposed bans similar to those of the EU.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday.

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday. EU states had agreed to impose travel curbs on travellers coming from seven southern African countries. This was done after these countries reported Omicron variant which is considered more infectious than previous variants Bloomberg News, citing one diplomat familiar with the matter, reported on Monday that EU health ministers at a meeting on Tuesday may agree on the need for a PCR test for vaccinated third-country nationals from that region, which could allow some travel bans to be eased or lifted within a week. Also Read | Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination The travel ban "was meant always as a time-limited measure", one senior EU official told Reuters, adding however that there was no plan at the moment to lift it. "We are not yet working in that direction." Another two EU sources familiar with the work of health ministers said no decision on travel bans was expected at Tuesday's meeting. Also Read | Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are the southern African countries that have been targeted. South Africa has criticised the travel ban which it said penalised the country for having the expertise to first identify the variant. The United States, Britain and many other countries imposed bans similar to those of the EU. (With inputs from agencies)

EU unlikely to lift Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries

Coronavirus pandemic has ruined several lives and caused some major disruptions around the world. Following the same scare, the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that tens of thousands of additional malaria-related deaths were reported in 2020 due to pandemic disruptions.<o:p></o:p>

The UN health agency has claimed that there were nearly 241 million malaria cases around the world in the first year of the pandemic. As per the data, 2020 saw an increase of 14 million malaria cases in comparison to 2019.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-spreads-in-south-africa-as-president-ramaphosa-urges-vaccination-434673">Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination</a></o:p>

In addition to this, 627,000 malaria-related deaths were reported in 2020, which was an alarming increase from 69,000 in 2019.<o:p></o:p>

The shocking thing in this revelation is that out of these additional deaths, nearly two thirds were caused due to the coronavirus pandemic. Experts believe that that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in disruptions in the provision of malaria prevention, diagnosis and treatment, as per WHO. <o:p></o:p>

As per the data, cases increased alarmingly in 11 countries that have been vulnerable to malaria in the past few years. Number of infections increased from 150 million in 2015 to 163 million in 2020, and the deaths rose to 444,600 from 39,000.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-achieves-new-covid-19-vaccine-milestone-50-of-adults-fully-vaccinated-434675">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-achieves-new-covid-19-vaccine-milestone-50-of-adults-fully-vaccinated-434675/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I think we are on the verge of a potential malaria crisis," Dr Pedro Alonso, head of WHO's Global Malaria Programme<o:p></o:p>

However, experts also stressed that the urgent action plan followed by respondents had helped avert a situation which could have been way worse than the present situation. <o:p></o:p>

"Thanks to the hard work of public health agencies in&nbsp;malaria-affected countries, the worst projections of Covid's impact have not come to pass," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement. "Now, we need to harness that same energy and commitment to reverse the setbacks caused by the pandemic and step up the pace of progress against this disease."<o:p></o:p>

Coronavirus pandemic has ruined several lives and caused some major disruptions around the world. Following the same scare, the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that tens of thousands of additional malaria-related deaths were reported in 2020 due to pandemic disruptions.

Coronavirus pandemic has ruined several lives and caused some major disruptions around the world. Following the same scare, the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that tens of thousands of additional malaria-related deaths were reported in 2020 due to pandemic disruptions. The UN health agency has claimed that there were nearly 241 million malaria cases around the world in the first year of the pandemic. As per the data, 2020 saw an increase of 14 million malaria cases in comparison to 2019. Also read | Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination In addition to this, 627,000 malaria-related deaths were reported in 2020, which was an alarming increase from 69,000 in 2019. The shocking thing in this revelation is that out of these additional deaths, nearly two thirds were caused due to the coronavirus pandemic. Experts believe that that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in disruptions in the provision of malaria prevention, diagnosis and treatment, as per WHO. As per the data, cases increased alarmingly in 11 countries that have been vulnerable to malaria in the past few years. Number of infections increased from 150 million in 2015 to 163 million in 2020, and the deaths rose to 444,600 from 39,000. WATCH | "I think we are on the verge of a potential malaria crisis," Dr Pedro Alonso, head of WHO's Global Malaria Programme However, experts also stressed that the urgent action plan followed by respondents had helped avert a situation which could have been way worse than the present situation. "Thanks to the hard work of public health agencies in malaria-affected countries, the worst projections of Covid's impact have not come to pass," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement. "Now, we need to harness that same energy and commitment to reverse the setbacks caused by the pandemic and step up the pace of progress against this disease."

Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO

As South Africa battles a surge in coronavirus cases, reports claim hospitals in the country are bracing for more virus cases amid growing the Omicron variant threat.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged authorities to get jabs as the number of COVID-19 cases showed a five-fold increase as cases rose to over 16,000 in a day last week.

Ramaphosa warned that the rate of infections could rise to a level not seen earlier in the pandemic as the Omicron variant spreads across the country. The President conceded that Omicron was "dominating new infections".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-fallout-israeli-students-returning-to-school-from-hanukah-holidays-should-test-for-covid-434590">Also Read:&nbsp;Israeli students returning to school from Hanukah holidays should test for Covid</a>

South Africa had announced the presence of the Omicron variant as nations across the world moved to impose travel bans on the country. However, investigations are&nbsp;still underway on whether the Omicron variant is more contagious than Delta which is the dominant strain worldwide.

Watch:&nbsp;Early indications suggest Omicron may be less dangerous than Delta, says Fauci

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/early-indications-suggest-omicron-may-be-less-dangerous-than-delta-says-fauci-434616/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Reports claim at least 25 per cent of the population has been vaccinated even as the government has set a target of vaccinating 70 per cent of the population by the end of the year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-acts-as-a-wake-up-call-for-rich-nations-about-vaccine-inequality-experts-434570">Also Read|&nbsp;Omicron acts as a wake-up call for rich nations about vaccine inequality: Experts</a>

South Africa so far has reported over 3 million COVID-19 cases with its economy hit hard due to the virus fallout.

Britain followed by several EU countries had moved to ban flights from South Africa, although France announced recently that it had partially&nbsp;resumed&nbsp;flights under strict restrictions, a move which was welcomed by the government.

UK Health minister Sajid Javid had said over the weekend that travellers coming from Nigeria would need to quarantine themselves in hotels as the country recorded 160 Omicron variant cases.

The Omicron&nbsp;variant has spread to several countries ever since South Africa declared it late last month. Russia reported the first Omicron case along with Argentina.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As South Africa battles a surge in coronavirus cases, reports claim hospitals in the country are bracing for more virus cases amid growing the Omicron variant threat.

As South Africa battles a surge in coronavirus cases, reports claim hospitals in the country are bracing for more virus cases amid growing the Omicron variant threat. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged authorities to get jabs as the number of COVID-19 cases showed a five-fold increase as cases rose to over 16,000 in a day last week. Ramaphosa warned that the rate of infections could rise to a level not seen earlier in the pandemic as the Omicron variant spreads across the country. The President conceded that Omicron was "dominating new infections". Also Read: Israeli students returning to school from Hanukah holidays should test for Covid South Africa had announced the presence of the Omicron variant as nations across the world moved to impose travel bans on the country. However, investigations are still underway on whether the Omicron variant is more contagious than Delta which is the dominant strain worldwide. Watch: Early indications suggest Omicron may be less dangerous than Delta, says Fauci Reports claim at least 25 per cent of the population has been vaccinated even as the government has set a target of vaccinating 70 per cent of the population by the end of the year. Also Read| Omicron acts as a wake-up call for rich nations about vaccine inequality: Experts South Africa so far has reported over 3 million COVID-19 cases with its economy hit hard due to the virus fallout. Britain followed by several EU countries had moved to ban flights from South Africa, although France announced recently that it had partially resumed flights under strict restrictions, a move which was welcomed by the government. UK Health minister Sajid Javid had said over the weekend that travellers coming from Nigeria would need to quarantine themselves in hotels as the country recorded 160 Omicron variant cases. The Omicron variant has spread to several countries ever since South Africa declared it late last month. Russia reported the first Omicron case along with Argentina. (With inputs from Agencies)

Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination

The US embassy in Tokyo has claimed that foreign tourists were being stopped by the Japanese Police in a suspected case of racial profiling.

The embassy in a tweet said it had received reports that a number of foreigners were detained and questioned by the police.

It asked the US citizens to carry proof of immigration and request consular notification if detained.

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The U.S. Embassy has received reports of foreigners stopped and searched by Japanese police in suspected racial profiling incidents. Several were detained, questioned, and searched. U.S. citizens should carry proof of immigration and request consular notification if detained. <a href="https://t.co/a8BkAU7eCR">pic.twitter.com/a8BkAU7eCR</a>
— U.S. Embassy Tokyo, ACS (@ACSTokyo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ACSTokyo/status/1467629914857816065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The tweet is being perceived as an unusual move from the United States, a key Japanese ally.

Reacting to the warning, top government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told Reuters that police are questioning suspicious individuals only based on various factors, but that those decisions are not based on a person’s ethnicity or nationality.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-scare-japan-imposes-strict-quarantine-rules-for-travellers-from-india-434255">&nbsp;Omicron scare: Japan imposes strict quarantine rules for travellers from India</a>

A US Embassy spokesperson said the embassy had nothing further to add to the tweet, and the National Police Agency could not immediately comment, reports&nbsp;Reuters.

The embassy’s message comes a week after Japan closed its borders to all non-resident foreigners in one of the strongest global measures taken to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant of the COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/for-nearly-30-years-this-japan-hospital-used-toilet-water-for-drinking-427965">For nearly 30 years, this Japan hospital used toilet water for drinking</a>

The Japanese government has announced strict quarantine rules for people coming from India, Greece, Romania and four US states.

While, foreign residents, as well as Japanese nationals travelling from Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota and New York to Japan, will have to mandatorily spend three days of their two-week quarantine at government-designated facilities, reported Kyodo News.

The list for three-day mandatory quarantine at government-designated facilities already includes countries such as Austria, Ecuador and France. While many are being subject to stringent quarantine requirements, such as staying in government-designated facilities for over 10 days, reported Kyodo News.

The first Omicron case was reported on Tuesday in Japan, causing it to deny re-entry of all foreigners, including residents with long-term visas, who have recently been to any of 10 African countries likely to have widespread infections of the variant.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US embassy in Tokyo has claimed that foreign tourists were being stopped by the Japanese Police in a suspected case of racial profiling. The embassy in a tweet said it had received reports that a number of foreigners were detained and questioned by the police.

The US embassy in Tokyo has claimed that foreign tourists were being stopped by the Japanese Police in a suspected case of racial profiling. The embassy in a tweet said it had received reports that a number of foreigners were detained and questioned by the police. It asked the US citizens to carry proof of immigration and request consular notification if detained. The U.S. Embassy has received reports of foreigners stopped and searched by Japanese police in suspected racial profiling incidents. Several were detained, questioned, and searched. U.S. citizens should carry proof of immigration and request consular notification if detained. pic.twitter.com/a8BkAU7eCR — U.S. Embassy Tokyo, ACS (@ACSTokyo) December 5, 2021 × The tweet is being perceived as an unusual move from the United States, a key Japanese ally. Reacting to the warning, top government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told Reuters that police are questioning suspicious individuals only based on various factors, but that those decisions are not based on a person’s ethnicity or nationality. Also read | Omicron scare: Japan imposes strict quarantine rules for travellers from India A US Embassy spokesperson said the embassy had nothing further to add to the tweet, and the National Police Agency could not immediately comment, reports Reuters. The embassy’s message comes a week after Japan closed its borders to all non-resident foreigners in one of the strongest global measures taken to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant of the COVID-19. Also read | For nearly 30 years, this Japan hospital used toilet water for drinking The Japanese government has announced strict quarantine rules for people coming from India, Greece, Romania and four US states. While, foreign residents, as well as Japanese nationals travelling from Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota and New York to Japan, will have to mandatorily spend three days of their two-week quarantine at government-designated facilities, reported Kyodo News. The list for three-day mandatory quarantine at government-designated facilities already includes countries such as Austria, Ecuador and France. While many are being subject to stringent quarantine requirements, such as staying in government-designated facilities for over 10 days, reported Kyodo News. The first Omicron case was reported on Tuesday in Japan, causing it to deny re-entry of all foreigners, including residents with long-term visas, who have recently been to any of 10 African countries likely to have widespread infections of the variant. (With inputs from agencies)

US embassy claims ‘racial profiling’ of foreigners by Japanese police

The United Kingdom health authorities confirmed on Sunday that 86 more cases of Omicron Covid have been reported in the country. This brings the total cases in the UK to 246.

In contrast, there were 160 Omicron cases on Saturday, which means that according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures the nation has witnessed an increase of more than 50 per cent in one day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-omicron-threat-as-big-as-the-hype-read-what-who-experts-say-434393">Is Omicron threat as big as the hype? Read what WHO experts say</a>

Meanwhile, according to official figures, the UK has recorded 43,992 new cases of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, bringing the total to 10,464,389, according to the official figures.

Another 54 Coronavirus-related deaths have also been reported in the country, now the total number of Coronavirus-related deaths in the UK stands at 145,605. In these statistics, only those who died within 28 days of their first positive test are included.

Earlier, British Health Secretary Sajid Javid said international arrivals to the country, including children over the age of 12, will be required to take a pre-departure test from 0400 GMT on Tuesday. In addition, he said that the test must be taken no more than 48 hours before departure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-proof-that-covid-pandemic-is-just-starting-warns-uk-scientist-434349" hreflang="en">Omicron variant proof that Covid pandemic is just starting, warns UK scientist</a>

Additionally, Nigeria will be included on the red travel list beginning Monday, along with several other southern African nations. These nations were put on the red travel list after the Omicron variant was first identified in South Africa late last month.

"I think it's too late to make a material difference to the course of the Omicron wave if we're going to have one," professor Mark Woolhouse, a member of the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling (Spi-M), told the BBC when asked about the new travel rules.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Here's what the pandemic will look like in 2022

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-heres-what-the-pandemic-will-look-like-in-2022-434239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Almost 88 per cent of people over the age of 12 in the UK have received their first dose of vaccine, and nearly 81 per cent have received both doses, according to the latest figures.

Over 35 per cent of respondents have also received a booster shot, or the third dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Kingdom health authorities confirmed on Sunday that 86 more cases of Omicron Covid have been reported in the country. This brings the total cases in the UK to 246.

The United Kingdom health authorities confirmed on Sunday that 86 more cases of Omicron Covid have been reported in the country. This brings the total cases in the UK to 246. In contrast, there were 160 Omicron cases on Saturday, which means that according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures the nation has witnessed an increase of more than 50 per cent in one day. Also read | Is Omicron threat as big as the hype? Read what WHO experts say Meanwhile, according to official figures, the UK has recorded 43,992 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total to 10,464,389, according to the official figures. Another 54 Coronavirus-related deaths have also been reported in the country, now the total number of Coronavirus-related deaths in the UK stands at 145,605. In these statistics, only those who died within 28 days of their first positive test are included. Earlier, British Health Secretary Sajid Javid said international arrivals to the country, including children over the age of 12, will be required to take a pre-departure test from 0400 GMT on Tuesday. In addition, he said that the test must be taken no more than 48 hours before departure. Also read | Omicron variant proof that Covid pandemic is just starting, warns UK scientist Additionally, Nigeria will be included on the red travel list beginning Monday, along with several other southern African nations. These nations were put on the red travel list after the Omicron variant was first identified in South Africa late last month. "I think it's too late to make a material difference to the course of the Omicron wave if we're going to have one," professor Mark Woolhouse, a member of the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling (Spi-M), told the BBC when asked about the new travel rules. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Here's what the pandemic will look like in 2022 Almost 88 per cent of people over the age of 12 in the UK have received their first dose of vaccine, and nearly 81 per cent have received both doses, according to the latest figures. Over 35 per cent of respondents have also received a booster shot, or the third dose of a coronavirus vaccine. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron scare: In the United Kingdom, new cases increase by 50%  in a single day

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