An&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;sub-variant&nbsp;has fuelled a&nbsp;surge&nbsp;in&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases in Portugal which now has the world's second-highest infection rate, potentially threatening the tourism sector's recovery.&nbsp;Portugal registered an average of 2,447 new cases per million people over the last seven days. That compares to neighbouring Spain's 449 and Britain's 70, according to tracker Our World In Data.&nbsp;The rolling average has&nbsp;subsided slightly in the past few days and is just over a third of the Jan. 31&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;peak.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-omicron-variant-of-covid-is-as-severe-as-delta-variant-476893">&nbsp;Study finds Omicron variant of Covid is as severe as Delta variant</a>

Portugal has the world's fifth-highest death rate from&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;and hospitalisations are on the rise, but both are still far below previous peaks.

Several tourism businesses contacted by&nbsp;Reuters&nbsp;have expressed fears about the&nbsp;surge, but said they had had no cancellations so far. The number of foreign tourists in April was close to levels seen before the pandemic.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: How Zero Covid ravaged Chinese economy

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More than 90 per cent&nbsp;of&nbsp;Portugal's&nbsp;population is fully vaccinated.

Public health institute Ricardo Jorge said in a report on Tuesday the&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;sub-variant&nbsp;BA.5 represented nearly 90 per cent&nbsp;of new&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;infections. The BA.4&nbsp;sub-variant&nbsp;has also been detected in Portugal.

Both drove South Africa's fifth covid&nbsp;wave last month, with scientists saying they were able to dodge antibodies from earlier infection.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-classifies-two-types-of-the-omicron-variants-of-covid-as-variants-of-concern-480932">UK classifies two types of the Omicron variants of Covid as variants of concern</a>

"Portugal is probably the European country with the highest prevalence of this&nbsp;sub-lineage and this partly explains the high number (of cases) we are seeing," Health Minister Marta Temido told RTP broadcaster.

The government lifted most&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;restrictions, including the mandatory use of masks in most indoor public spaces, in April and has said there are no plans to reintroduce measures.

Temido said the use of masks was still recommended and authorities would continue to roll out booster vaccine doses to the most vulnerable.

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An Omicron sub-variant has fuelled a surge in COVID-19 cases in Portugal which now has the world's second-highest infection rate, potentially threatening the tourism sector's recovery.

An Omicron sub-variant has fuelled a surge in COVID-19 cases in Portugal which now has the world's second-highest infection rate, potentially threatening the tourism sector's recovery. Portugal registered an average of 2,447 new cases per million people over the last seven days. That compares to neighbouring Spain's 449 and Britain's 70, according to tracker Our World In Data. The rolling average has subsided slightly in the past few days and is just over a third of the Jan. 31 Omicron peak. Also read | Study finds Omicron variant of Covid is as severe as Delta variant Portugal has the world's fifth-highest death rate from COVID-19 and hospitalisations are on the rise, but both are still far below previous peaks. Several tourism businesses contacted by Reuters have expressed fears about the surge, but said they had had no cancellations so far. The number of foreign tourists in April was close to levels seen before the pandemic. Watch | Gravitas: How Zero Covid ravaged Chinese economy More than 90 per cent of Portugal's population is fully vaccinated. Public health institute Ricardo Jorge said in a report on Tuesday the Omicron sub-variant BA.5 represented nearly 90 per cent of new COVID-19 infections. The BA.4 sub-variant has also been detected in Portugal. Both drove South Africa's fifth covid wave last month, with scientists saying they were able to dodge antibodies from earlier infection. Also read | UK classifies two types of the Omicron variants of Covid as variants of concern "Portugal is probably the European country with the highest prevalence of this sub-lineage and this partly explains the high number (of cases) we are seeing," Health Minister Marta Temido told RTP broadcaster. The government lifted most COVID-19 restrictions, including the mandatory use of masks in most indoor public spaces, in April and has said there are no plans to reintroduce measures. Temido said the use of masks was still recommended and authorities would continue to roll out booster vaccine doses to the most vulnerable. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Omicron sub-variant fuelling Portugal's COVID-19 surge

While Shanghai has reopened four of the 20 subway lines, Beijing is still struggling to eliminate new covid infections. Few parts of Shanghai & Beijing have tightened covid curbs. However, China's zero covid policy at odds with other countries.

China: Shanghai reopens some public transport; Beijing struggles to eliminate new infections

Foreign families fleeing China amid strict regulation. Around 40% foreign teachers may leave jobs in China and experts said that some schools will not survive.

China: About 40% foreign teachers may leave jobs amid strict regulations

India has reported its first case of BA.4 Omicron variant in India, according to the recent data by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), the group of genetic laboratories that are working to identify new variants of SARS-CoV-2 from Indian Covid positive patients. The first case was reported from southern Hyderabad city.

Scientists at the INSACOG said that they identified the new variant after collecting the sample of a Covid positive individual on May 9.

There also reports more BA.4 cases being reported across India, but no official confirmation has been issued regarding in this so far.

First detected in South Africa

The BA.4 Omicron variant was first reported from South Africa in January this year, along with another BA.5 variant.

Currently, these two variants have become dominant and are driving up cases in the country. On Thursday, the country recorded 4,146 new cases with a test positivity rate of 18.3 per cent, compared to 581 cases and a positivity rate of 4.5% on March 28.

More infectious

The BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages are more infectious than the earlier BA.2 lineage, which itself was more infectious than the original Omicron variant, Tulio de Oliveira, director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation, South Africa, told Bloomberg. He is also a member of the WHO group tracking the evolution of COVID-19.

Bypasses vaccines

The US scientists studying the new sub-lineages have said that the key difference between the newer versions of Omicron and the one that previously rocketed through the US is transmissibility.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-health-officials-warn-omicron-strains-ba4-and-ba5-can-escape-vaccines-and-immunity-478806">European health officials warn Omicron strains BA.4 and BA.5 can escape vaccines and immunity</a>

White House’s chief medical adviser Dr Anthony Fauci has estimated that it is 50 per cent more transmissible than the original Omicron lineage.

Which other countries reported?

The sub-variants have been reported across several European nations and the United States.

BA.4 and BA.5 have been detected in Botswana, Germany and Denmark, among other countries, WHO’s technical lead on COVID-19 Maria Van Kerkhove said Thursday.

BA.4 and BA.5 are spreading more rapidly in some countries than previous Omircon variants, specifically BA.1 and BA.2.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-tracks-two-new-omicron-subvariants-what-are-ba4-and-ba5-strains-470395">WHO tracks two new Omicron subvariants: What are BA.4 and BA.5 strains?</a>

At least 16 countries have reported about 700 cases of BA.4, reports&nbsp;CNBC.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India has reported its first case of BA.4 Omicron variant in India, according to the recent data by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), the group of genetic laboratories that are working to identify new variants of SARS-CoV-2 from Indian Covid positive patients.

India has reported its first case of BA.4 Omicron variant in India, according to the recent data by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), the group of genetic laboratories that are working to identify new variants of SARS-CoV-2 from Indian Covid positive patients. The first case was reported from southern Hyderabad city. Scientists at the INSACOG said that they identified the new variant after collecting the sample of a Covid positive individual on May 9. There also reports more BA.4 cases being reported across India, but no official confirmation has been issued regarding in this so far. First detected in South Africa The BA.4 Omicron variant was first reported from South Africa in January this year, along with another BA.5 variant. Currently, these two variants have become dominant and are driving up cases in the country. On Thursday, the country recorded 4,146 new cases with a test positivity rate of 18.3 per cent, compared to 581 cases and a positivity rate of 4.5% on March 28. More infectious The BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages are more infectious than the earlier BA.2 lineage, which itself was more infectious than the original Omicron variant, Tulio de Oliveira, director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation, South Africa, told Bloomberg. He is also a member of the WHO group tracking the evolution of COVID-19. Bypasses vaccines The US scientists studying the new sub-lineages have said that the key difference between the newer versions of Omicron and the one that previously rocketed through the US is transmissibility. Also read | European health officials warn Omicron strains BA.4 and BA.5 can escape vaccines and immunity White House’s chief medical adviser Dr Anthony Fauci has estimated that it is 50 per cent more transmissible than the original Omicron lineage. Which other countries reported? The sub-variants have been reported across several European nations and the United States. BA.4 and BA.5 have been detected in Botswana, Germany and Denmark, among other countries, WHO’s technical lead on COVID-19 Maria Van Kerkhove said Thursday. BA.4 and BA.5 are spreading more rapidly in some countries than previous Omircon variants, specifically BA.1 and BA.2. Also read | WHO tracks two new Omicron subvariants: What are BA.4 and BA.5 strains? At least 16 countries have reported about 700 cases of BA.4, reports CNBC. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India reports first case of Omicron BA.4. Here’s all you need to know about new Covid variant

Shanghai has decided to gradually reopen businesses such as shopping malls and salons. However, Beijing has reported 55 new cases within the last 24 hours. WHO head said China's covid approach is not sustainable.

Drop in Omicron cases in Shanghai | Beijing struggles to contain covid outbreak

European health officials have warned that Omicron strains BA. 4 and BA. 5 can escape vaccines and immunity.

Amid fear of a ''summer wave,'' the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has become the first public authority to label both the strains as ''variants of concern.''

According to the ECDC, BA. 4 and BA. 5 can trigger an uptick in cases across Europe as they have become dominant in South Africa, where they were discovered in February.

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“The presence of these variants could cause a significant overall increase in Covid-19 cases in the EU/EEA in the coming weeks and months,” it said in a statement.

ECDC is worried as 37 per cent of the coronavirus cases in Portugal till May 8 were infected with the BA.5 strain.

Its daily growth rate of 13 per cent is similar to that reported in South Africa as per the Portuguese National Institute of Health.

The institute believes that if this growth rate continues BA.5 will become the dominant variant in Portugal by 22 May 2022.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-registers-more-than10000-covid-10-cases-for-first-time-since-january-478694">Also read |&nbsp;South Africa registers more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases for first time since January</a>

BA. 4 and BA. 5 can evade immune protection if it has waned over time as most vaccines are effective for only a year from the date of inoculation.

ECDC has asked all countries of the bloc to remain vigilant for signals of BA.4 and BA.5 emergence as its spread can increase pressure on both hospital and intensive care capacity.

“If such signals emerge, a second booster may be considered for some or all adults 60 years and older and for other vulnerable groups,” it said in its report. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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European health officials have warned that Omicron strains BA. 4 and BA. 5 can escape vaccines and immunity. Amid fear of a ''summer wave,'' the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has become the first public authority to label both the strains as ''variants of concern.

European health officials have warned that Omicron strains BA. 4 and BA. 5 can escape vaccines and immunity. Amid fear of a ''summer wave,'' the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has become the first public authority to label both the strains as ''variants of concern.'' According to the ECDC, BA. 4 and BA. 5 can trigger an uptick in cases across Europe as they have become dominant in South Africa, where they were discovered in February. “The presence of these variants could cause a significant overall increase in Covid-19 cases in the EU/EEA in the coming weeks and months,” it said in a statement. ECDC is worried as 37 per cent of the coronavirus cases in Portugal till May 8 were infected with the BA.5 strain. Its daily growth rate of 13 per cent is similar to that reported in South Africa as per the Portuguese National Institute of Health. The institute believes that if this growth rate continues BA.5 will become the dominant variant in Portugal by 22 May 2022. Also read | South Africa registers more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases for first time since January BA. 4 and BA. 5 can evade immune protection if it has waned over time as most vaccines are effective for only a year from the date of inoculation. ECDC has asked all countries of the bloc to remain vigilant for signals of BA.4 and BA.5 emergence as its spread can increase pressure on both hospital and intensive care capacity. “If such signals emerge, a second booster may be considered for some or all adults 60 years and older and for other vulnerable groups,” it said in its report. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

European health officials warn Omicron strains BA.4 and BA.5 can escape vaccines and immunity

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year.

According to the data provided by South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Wednesday, 10,107 cases were reported with most of them showing signs of the Omicron sub-variants. Some experts believe that this can be the indication of the COVID-19 fifth wave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-deal-temporarily-on-hold-says-elon-musk-478601" hreflang="en">Twitter deal temporarily on hold, says Elon Musk</a>

With the world suffering from a surge in cases due to the BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants of COVID-19, South Africa can be headed towards a fifth wave of infections. The last time that South Africa recorded 10,000 daily cases was in the middle of the fourth wave earlier this year.

During the fourth wave, South Africa had the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Africa, and it was predicted by WHO that they can be the first country in Africa to witness the fifth wave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-president-and-ruler-sheikh-khalifa-bin-zayed-al-nahyan-passes-away-478632">UAE President and ruler Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan passes away</a>

According to Reuters, the vaccination rate in South Africa has also been quite average with just 45 per cent of the total population getting completely vaccinated. Even the first dose was administered on just 50 percent of the entire population due to shortages and patient reluctancy.

Earlier, it was reported that South Africa’s positivity rate is around 30 per cent at the moment – a level reminiscent of the fourth wave. According to a Bloomberg report, the highest positivity rate in South Africa remains 34.9 per cent which was recorded on December 14, 2021 in the middle of one of the worst phases in the country’s battle with COVID-19.

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year.

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year. According to the data provided by South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Wednesday, 10,107 cases were reported with most of them showing signs of the Omicron sub-variants. Some experts believe that this can be the indication of the COVID-19 fifth wave. Also read | Twitter deal temporarily on hold, says Elon Musk With the world suffering from a surge in cases due to the BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants of COVID-19, South Africa can be headed towards a fifth wave of infections. The last time that South Africa recorded 10,000 daily cases was in the middle of the fourth wave earlier this year. During the fourth wave, South Africa had the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Africa, and it was predicted by WHO that they can be the first country in Africa to witness the fifth wave. Also read | UAE President and ruler Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan passes away According to Reuters, the vaccination rate in South Africa has also been quite average with just 45 per cent of the total population getting completely vaccinated. Even the first dose was administered on just 50 percent of the entire population due to shortages and patient reluctancy. Earlier, it was reported that South Africa’s positivity rate is around 30 per cent at the moment – a level reminiscent of the fourth wave. According to a Bloomberg report, the highest positivity rate in South Africa remains 34.9 per cent which was recorded on December 14, 2021 in the middle of one of the worst phases in the country’s battle with COVID-19.

South Africa registers more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases for first time since January

After over two years, North Korea has officially confirmed Covid outbreak for the first time on Thursday, media reports said. &nbsp;

The nation has also ordered a nation-wide lockdown. A sub-variant of Omicron has been found in Pyongyang, state media reported. &nbsp;

"There has been the biggest emergency incident in the country, with a hole in our emergency quarantine front, that has been kept safely over the past two years and three months since February 2020," official KCNA news agency said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yoon-asks-north-to-embark-on-path-of-complete-denuclearisation-477830" hreflang="en">South Korea's President Yoon asks North to embark on path of complete denuclearisation</a>

The people of Pyongyang have contracted the Omicron variant of virus, the report said, without providing much details. &nbsp;

The infected people’s samples were taken on May 8, it added. &nbsp;

To prevent the spread of the coronavirus, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered all cities and counties of the nation to "strictly lock down" their regions, as per KCNA. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;North Korea speeds up weapon testing, launches ballistic missile

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Emergency reserve medical supplies should be mobilised, added Kim. &nbsp;

At a Workers' Party meeting called to discuss responses to the first outbreak of the coronavirus, Kim said that the latest emergency quarantine system looks to stably control and manage the spread of the coronavirus. It is also aimed at quickly healing infected people to end the source of transmission in the shortest period, the KCNA said. &nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After over two years, North Korea has officially confirmed Covid outbreak for the first time on Thursday, media reports said. The nation has also ordered a nation-wide lockdown.

After over two years, North Korea has officially confirmed Covid outbreak for the first time on Thursday, media reports said. The nation has also ordered a nation-wide lockdown. A sub-variant of Omicron has been found in Pyongyang, state media reported. "There has been the biggest emergency incident in the country, with a hole in our emergency quarantine front, that has been kept safely over the past two years and three months since February 2020," official KCNA news agency said. Also Read: South Korea's President Yoon asks North to embark on path of complete denuclearisation The people of Pyongyang have contracted the Omicron variant of virus, the report said, without providing much details. The infected people’s samples were taken on May 8, it added. To prevent the spread of the coronavirus, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered all cities and counties of the nation to "strictly lock down" their regions, as per KCNA. Watch: North Korea speeds up weapon testing, launches ballistic missile × Emergency reserve medical supplies should be mobilised, added Kim. At a Workers' Party meeting called to discuss responses to the first outbreak of the coronavirus, Kim said that the latest emergency quarantine system looks to stably control and manage the spread of the coronavirus. It is also aimed at quickly healing infected people to end the source of transmission in the shortest period, the KCNA said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 in North Korea: After official confirmation of outbreak, Kim orders lockdown

Amid criticisms over its zero-Covid policy that has hampered normal lives of citizens and shut down several factories, a new study has claimed that lifting the draconian policy would lead to a <a name="_Hlk103199475">“tsunami of infections” </a>and almost 1.6 million deaths.

The study by Shanghai’s Fudan University, which has been published in the Nature journal and peer-reviewed, said that such a strong measure against Covid is needed due to the low vaccination rate among the country’s elder population.

The research says that a decision by the Chinese authorities to lift such measures could see more than 112 million symptomatic cases of COVID-19, five million hospitalisations, and 1.55 million deaths, The Guardian reported.

“We find that the level of immunity induced by the March 2022 vaccination campaign would be insufficient to prevent an Omicron wave that would result in exceeding critical care capacity with a projected intensive care unit peak demand of 15.6 times the existing capacity,” the paper said.

However, the researchers said that authorities can prevent the health system from being overwhelmed if there is access to vaccines and antivirals and maintain “implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions”.

It suggested these factors could be more of a focus in future policies.

Watch |&nbsp;China covid-19 crisis: Authorities isolate entire buildings over few covid-19 cases

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There have been reports of Chinese residents complaining against the zero-Covid policy. They have faced shortage of food, and medicines, as they have been completely barred from stepping outside.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-exit-zero-covid-strategy-top-scientist-says-it-cannot-remain-unchanged-forever-457858">China to exit zero-Covid strategy? Top scientist says it cannot 'remain unchanged forever'</a>

Several companies have even asked their employees to stay back on the campus premises in the wake of severe lockdown hampering their operations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-economic-data-hints-at-cost-of-zero-covid-strategy-471860">China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy</a>

But during a speech last week, President Xi Jinping reaffirmed the commitment, despite the challenge posed by the Omicron variant and warned to crackdown against those voicing against the zero-Covid policy.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid criticisms over its zero-Covid policy that has hampered normal lives of citizens and shut down several factories, a new study has claimed that lifting the draconian policy would lead to a “tsunami of infections” and almost 1.

Amid criticisms over its zero-Covid policy that has hampered normal lives of citizens and shut down several factories, a new study has claimed that lifting the draconian policy would lead to a “tsunami of infections” and almost 1.6 million deaths. The study by Shanghai’s Fudan University, which has been published in the Nature journal and peer-reviewed, said that such a strong measure against Covid is needed due to the low vaccination rate among the country’s elder population. The research says that a decision by the Chinese authorities to lift such measures could see more than 112 million symptomatic cases of COVID-19, five million hospitalisations, and 1.55 million deaths, The Guardian reported. “We find that the level of immunity induced by the March 2022 vaccination campaign would be insufficient to prevent an Omicron wave that would result in exceeding critical care capacity with a projected intensive care unit peak demand of 15.6 times the existing capacity,” the paper said. However, the researchers said that authorities can prevent the health system from being overwhelmed if there is access to vaccines and antivirals and maintain “implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions”. It suggested these factors could be more of a focus in future policies. Watch | China covid-19 crisis: Authorities isolate entire buildings over few covid-19 cases There have been reports of Chinese residents complaining against the zero-Covid policy. They have faced shortage of food, and medicines, as they have been completely barred from stepping outside. Also read | China to exit zero-Covid strategy? Top scientist says it cannot 'remain unchanged forever' Several companies have even asked their employees to stay back on the campus premises in the wake of severe lockdown hampering their operations. Also read | China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy But during a speech last week, President Xi Jinping reaffirmed the commitment, despite the challenge posed by the Omicron variant and warned to crackdown against those voicing against the zero-Covid policy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese study claims lifting ‘zero-Covid’ policy will unleash ‘tsunami of cases’

A new study conducted by the United Kingdom's Office for National Statistics has said that the risk of long COVID-19 is worse after getting infected with Delta variant in comparison to the Omicron variant.

The report shows that people who got infected by the Omicron variant were 50 per cent lower than the Delta variant in the case of those who got inoculated with two doses.

But those who took three doses during their vaccination, had higher odds of getting infected with Omicron's BA.2 variant than the BA.1 variant.

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Last month, approximately 1.8 million people had reported lingering symptoms after contracting coronavirus.

The longest-known Covid-19 infection was documented in a patient who tested positive for a total of 505 days before their death as per British researchers.

One of the study's co-authors, consultant virologist Gaia Nebbia, said ''Regular sampling and genetic analysis of the virus showed that five of the nine patients developed at least one mutation seen in variants of concern.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omicron-skin-lips-and-nail-symptoms-that-mean-you-need-urgent-covid-19-treatment-442234">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron: Skin, lips, and nail symptoms that mean you need urgent COVID-19 treatment</a>

The British people who had tested coronavirus positive reported fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty in concentrating which adversely affected their day-to-day activities.

Meanwhile, British drugmaker AstraZeneca's &nbsp;chief executive Pascal Soriot said at a conference, "In many countries, we are moving into what you can call a 'normal phase' where we have to learn with this disease, managing it with vaccination and treatment when needed."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

A new study conducted by the United Kingdom's Office for National Statistics has said that the risk of long COVID-19 is worse after getting infected with Delta variant in comparison to the Omicron variant.

A new study conducted by the United Kingdom's Office for National Statistics has said that the risk of long COVID-19 is worse after getting infected with Delta variant in comparison to the Omicron variant. The report shows that people who got infected by the Omicron variant were 50 per cent lower than the Delta variant in the case of those who got inoculated with two doses. But those who took three doses during their vaccination, had higher odds of getting infected with Omicron's BA.2 variant than the BA.1 variant. Last month, approximately 1.8 million people had reported lingering symptoms after contracting coronavirus. The longest-known Covid-19 infection was documented in a patient who tested positive for a total of 505 days before their death as per British researchers. One of the study's co-authors, consultant virologist Gaia Nebbia, said ''Regular sampling and genetic analysis of the virus showed that five of the nine patients developed at least one mutation seen in variants of concern.'' Also read | Omicron: Skin, lips, and nail symptoms that mean you need urgent COVID-19 treatment The British people who had tested coronavirus positive reported fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty in concentrating which adversely affected their day-to-day activities. Meanwhile, British drugmaker AstraZeneca's chief executive Pascal Soriot said at a conference, "In many countries, we are moving into what you can call a 'normal phase' where we have to learn with this disease, managing it with vaccination and treatment when needed." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

Study shows risk of long COVID-19 is worse after getting infected with Delta variant than Omicron

Back in November last year when the Omicron variant of COVID-19 was first identified, many experts and scientists claimed that the variant is mild and not as dangerous as its predecessors Delta and Alpha.

Now, a study led by Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School has found that the risk of hospitalisation and mortality between Omicron and previous waves was "nearly identical".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/severe-covid-may-result-in-cognitive-ability-dropping-by-10-iq-points-study-476336" hreflang="en">Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study</a>

"Our analysis suggests that the intrinsic severity of the Omicron variant may be as severe as previous variants."

The variant was first detected in South Africa and previous studies have reported that it is more transmissible than other variants.

Conducted in multiple countries, these studies also claimed that the variant is less severe, leading to a lower number of hospitalisations and deaths.

Watch |&nbsp;Beijing imposes stringent curbs amid rapid rise in COVID-19 cases

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Scientists integrated state-level vaccination data with quality-controlled electronic health records from a large healthcare system in Massachusetts, which included 13 hospitals, for the study.

The researchers then conducted a weighted case-control study on approximately 130,000 Covid patients to examine the risks of hospitalisation and fatality across the SARS-CoV-2 waves.

Previous waves appeared to have higher unadjusted rates of hospital admission and mortality than the Omicron period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-discovers-why-covid-impacted-some-children-more-than-others-475827" hreflang="en">Study discovers why Covid impacted some children more than others</a>

However, after controlling for variables such as demography and vaccination status, the researchers concluded that "the Omicron variant was as deadly as previous SARS-CoV-2 waves," according to the study's authors, which included MGH's Zachary H. Strasse.

While previous reports have made note of Omicron's vaccine evading properties this new study provides evidence that the vaccines helped people escape its worst effects.

(With inputs from agencies)

Back in November last year when the Omicron variant of COVID-19 was first identified, many experts and scientists claimed that the variant is mild and not as dangerous as its predecessors Delta and Alpha.

Back in November last year when the Omicron variant of COVID-19 was first identified, many experts and scientists claimed that the variant is mild and not as dangerous as its predecessors Delta and Alpha. Now, a study led by Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School has found that the risk of hospitalisation and mortality between Omicron and previous waves was "nearly identical". Also read | Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study "Our analysis suggests that the intrinsic severity of the Omicron variant may be as severe as previous variants." The variant was first detected in South Africa and previous studies have reported that it is more transmissible than other variants. Conducted in multiple countries, these studies also claimed that the variant is less severe, leading to a lower number of hospitalisations and deaths. Watch | Beijing imposes stringent curbs amid rapid rise in COVID-19 cases Scientists integrated state-level vaccination data with quality-controlled electronic health records from a large healthcare system in Massachusetts, which included 13 hospitals, for the study. The researchers then conducted a weighted case-control study on approximately 130,000 Covid patients to examine the risks of hospitalisation and fatality across the SARS-CoV-2 waves. Previous waves appeared to have higher unadjusted rates of hospital admission and mortality than the Omicron period. Also read | Study discovers why Covid impacted some children more than others However, after controlling for variables such as demography and vaccination status, the researchers concluded that "the Omicron variant was as deadly as previous SARS-CoV-2 waves," according to the study's authors, which included MGH's Zachary H. Strasse. While previous reports have made note of Omicron's vaccine evading properties this new study provides evidence that the vaccines helped people escape its worst effects. (With inputs from agencies)

Study finds Omicron variant of Covid is as severe as Delta variant

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is intrinsically as severe as previous variants, unlike assumptions made in previous studies that it was more transmissible but less severe, a large study in the United States has found.

"We found that the risks of hospitalisation and mortality were nearly identical between periods," said four scientists who conducted the study based on records of 130,000 COVID-19 patients, referring to times in the past two years when different variants were dominant across the world.

The study, which is undergoing peer review at Nature Portfolio and was posted on Research Square on May 2, was adjusted for confounders including demographics, vaccination status, and the Charlson comorbidity index that predicts the risk of death within a year of hospitalisation for patients with specific comorbid conditions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dangerous-superbugs-may-get-transmitted-from-pigs-to-humans-say-scientists-473502" hreflang="en">Dangerous superbugs may get transmitted from pigs to humans, say scientists</a>

The studies that assumed the Omicron variant was less severe were conducted in various places including South Africa, Scotland, England, and Canada, said the scientists from Massachusetts General Hospital, Minerva University and Harvard Medical School.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/severe-covid-may-result-in-cognitive-ability-dropping-by-10-iq-points-study-476336">Also read | Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study</a>

They said their study could have several limitations, including the possibility that it underestimated the number of vaccinated patients in more recent COVID waves, and the total number of infections, because it excluded patients who performed at-home rapid tests.

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The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is intrinsically as severe as previous variants, unlike assumptions made in previous studies that it was more transmissible but less severe, a large study in the United States has found.

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is intrinsically as severe as previous variants, unlike assumptions made in previous studies that it was more transmissible but less severe, a large study in the United States has found. "We found that the risks of hospitalisation and mortality were nearly identical between periods," said four scientists who conducted the study based on records of 130,000 COVID-19 patients, referring to times in the past two years when different variants were dominant across the world. The study, which is undergoing peer review at Nature Portfolio and was posted on Research Square on May 2, was adjusted for confounders including demographics, vaccination status, and the Charlson comorbidity index that predicts the risk of death within a year of hospitalisation for patients with specific comorbid conditions. Also Read: Dangerous superbugs may get transmitted from pigs to humans, say scientists The studies that assumed the Omicron variant was less severe were conducted in various places including South Africa, Scotland, England, and Canada, said the scientists from Massachusetts General Hospital, Minerva University and Harvard Medical School. Also read | Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study They said their study could have several limitations, including the possibility that it underestimated the number of vaccinated patients in more recent COVID waves, and the total number of infections, because it excluded patients who performed at-home rapid tests. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds

Beijing authorities are now imposing strict covid-19 curbs, they are ramping up measures to control the spread of the virus. Watch this report to know more.

Beijing imposes stringent curbs amid rapid rise in COVID-19 cases

New Omicron variants can cause a fresh wave of the Covid pandemic, a study has said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The new variants have been able to bypass natural immunity from prior COVID-19 infections, the study conducted in South Africa added. &nbsp;

As new cases of coronavirus are still rising, it seems that it is not over yet. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dangerous-superbugs-may-get-transmitted-from-pigs-to-humans-say-scientists-473502" hreflang="en">Dangerous superbugs may get transmitted from pigs to humans, say scientists</a>

A spike in infection rates was witnessed among people, who had Omicron, but weren’t vaccinated, in comparison to their vaccinated counterparts, scientists found while examining the Omicron’s BA.4 and BA.5 sublineages. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The blood samples of 39 people, including 15 who were vaccinated, were also taken by scientists. &nbsp;

In a preprint over the weekend, the scientists wrote, "The vaccinated group showed about a 5-fold higher neutralisation capacity ... and should be better protected." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Covid-19 in China: Authorities in Beijing impose strict covid curbs

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The preprints of these scientific papers haven't been peer reviewed yet. &nbsp;

"Based on neutralisation escape, BA.4 and BA.5 have potential to result in a new infection wave," the study said. &nbsp;

South Africa may enter a new COVID-19 wave, the officials said late last week. They have also pointed out the Omicron’s subvariants as the likely reason behind it. &nbsp;&nbsp;

So, it may be wise to keep following norms for keeping a check on the virus and stay safe. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

New Omicron variants can cause a fresh wave of the Covid pandemic, a study has said. The new variants have been able to bypass natural immunity from prior COVID-19 infections, the study conducted in South Africa added.

New Omicron variants can cause a fresh wave of the Covid pandemic, a study has said. The new variants have been able to bypass natural immunity from prior COVID-19 infections, the study conducted in South Africa added. As new cases of coronavirus are still rising, it seems that it is not over yet. Also Read: Dangerous superbugs may get transmitted from pigs to humans, say scientists A spike in infection rates was witnessed among people, who had Omicron, but weren’t vaccinated, in comparison to their vaccinated counterparts, scientists found while examining the Omicron’s BA.4 and BA.5 sublineages. The blood samples of 39 people, including 15 who were vaccinated, were also taken by scientists. In a preprint over the weekend, the scientists wrote, "The vaccinated group showed about a 5-fold higher neutralisation capacity ... and should be better protected." Watch: Covid-19 in China: Authorities in Beijing impose strict covid curbs × The preprints of these scientific papers haven't been peer reviewed yet. "Based on neutralisation escape, BA.4 and BA.5 have potential to result in a new infection wave," the study said. South Africa may enter a new COVID-19 wave, the officials said late last week. They have also pointed out the Omicron’s subvariants as the likely reason behind it. So, it may be wise to keep following norms for keeping a check on the virus and stay safe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron Covid subvariants can overcome natural immunity, trigger new wave: Study

China's Beiijing has expanded its mass COVID testing drive amid the ongoing surge in cases. The mandatory mass testing entered 3rd day today.

China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing

After the Shanghai lockdown jitters hit the capital city Beijing, the city of about 20 million residents has expanded its COVID-19 mass testing drive. Beijing has already started mass testing residents of its most populous district Chaoyang.

Beijing to test 20 million people for COVID, sparks panic buying

the latest virus flare-up that has pushed the city into panic mode. With the daily rise in Covid-19 cases and virus-related deaths, Shanghai is currently witnessing one of the worst outbreaks since the start of the pandemic.

Shanghai: 12 deaths reported on Friday amid the ongoing spike in COVID cases

Amid fears of the fourth coronavirus (COVID-19) wave in India, especially in the nation's capital, health experts on Thursday (April 21) said that&nbsp;is a possibility that new variants are emerging of the Omicron&nbsp;and they are being sequenced.&nbsp;

Delhi on Wednesday (April 20) reported 1,009 fresh cases, the highest since February 10, while the positivity rate is 5.70 per cent.&nbsp;

In the latest development, the health expert suggested&nbsp;that there are eight variants of Omicron. He added that among those eight, one is dominating and causing the surge in cases.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/amid-4th-covid-wave-fears-india-reports-2380-new-cases-active-cases-increase-to-13433-472560">Amid 4th Covid wave fears, India reports 2,380 new cases, active cases increase to 13,433</a>

The Omicron variant, which was first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) from South Africa in November last year, led to a massive surge in Covid cases globally.&nbsp;

While speaking to India-based news agency ANI, Dr SK Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) said that there is a possibility of new variants of Omicron in Delhi while adding that the samples at the ILBS lab have been sequenced.&nbsp;

"There is a possibility that new variants are emerging of the Omicron and they are being sequenced," said Dr Sarin, adding, "I think by today at our institute ILBS many samples have been sequenced and I think there are eight variants of which one is now dominating, we will come to know slowly."&nbsp;

Dr Sarin also warned people and urged them to be careful. He said, "I would suggest people should be very careful. There is a fear that children may get infected because they are not adequately vaccinated. People must wear masks."&nbsp;

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There's a possibility that new variants of Omicron are emerging. Many samples were sequenced at ILBS. I think there're 8 variants of Omicron, which one is the dominating variant,we'll know soon: Dr SK Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver&amp;Biliary Sciences,on Delhi Covid cases surge <a href="https://t.co/HtAMlOYwFD">pic.twitter.com/HtAMlOYwFD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1517066299502858241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Here's is Covid data released on April 21:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> Updates 
 
Over 2.53 Cr. 1st dose vaccines administered for age group 12-14 years 
 
India's Active caseload currently stands at 13,433 
 
2,380 new cases reported in the last 24 hours 
 
Details: <a href="https://t.co/smQz3IzSaK">https://t.co/smQz3IzSaK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LargestVaccinationDrive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LargestVaccinationDrive</a> <a href="https://t.co/HbkjN4ZbzP">pic.twitter.com/HbkjN4ZbzP</a>
— PIB India (@PIB_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India/status/1517005663209426944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Another expert said 4th wave is unlikely

Meanwhile, in another report, Manindra Agrawal, who is a professor at IIT Kanpur, weighed in on the reports of the fourth Covid wave in India is concerned. He recently told the media outlet India Today that the fourth wave of Covid is unlikely.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID-19 cases surge

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&nbsp;

Amid fears of the fourth coronavirus (COVID-19) wave in India, especially in the nation's capital, health experts on Thursday (April 21) said that is a possibility that new variants are emerging of the Omicron and they are being sequenced.

Amid fears of the fourth coronavirus (COVID-19) wave in India, especially in the nation's capital, health experts on Thursday (April 21) said that is a possibility that new variants are emerging of the Omicron and they are being sequenced. Delhi on Wednesday (April 20) reported 1,009 fresh cases, the highest since February 10, while the positivity rate is 5.70 per cent. In the latest development, the health expert suggested that there are eight variants of Omicron. He added that among those eight, one is dominating and causing the surge in cases. ALSO READ | Amid 4th Covid wave fears, India reports 2,380 new cases, active cases increase to 13,433 The Omicron variant, which was first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) from South Africa in November last year, led to a massive surge in Covid cases globally. While speaking to India-based news agency ANI, Dr SK Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) said that there is a possibility of new variants of Omicron in Delhi while adding that the samples at the ILBS lab have been sequenced. "There is a possibility that new variants are emerging of the Omicron and they are being sequenced," said Dr Sarin, adding, "I think by today at our institute ILBS many samples have been sequenced and I think there are eight variants of which one is now dominating, we will come to know slowly." Dr Sarin also warned people and urged them to be careful. He said, "I would suggest people should be very careful. There is a fear that children may get infected because they are not adequately vaccinated. People must wear masks." There's a possibility that new variants of Omicron are emerging. Many samples were sequenced at ILBS. I think there're 8 variants of Omicron, which one is the dominating variant,we'll know soon: Dr SK Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver&Biliary Sciences,on Delhi Covid cases surge pic.twitter.com/HtAMlOYwFD — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2022 × Here's is Covid data released on April 21: #COVID19 Updates Over 2.53 Cr. 1st dose vaccines administered for age group 12-14 years India's Active caseload currently stands at 13,433 2,380 new cases reported in the last 24 hours Details: https://t.co/smQz3IzSaK #IndiaFightsCorona #LargestVaccinationDrive pic.twitter.com/HbkjN4ZbzP — PIB India (@PIB_India) April 21, 2022 × Another expert said 4th wave is unlikely Meanwhile, in another report, Manindra Agrawal, who is a professor at IIT Kanpur, weighed in on the reports of the fourth Covid wave in India is concerned. He recently told the media outlet India Today that the fourth wave of Covid is unlikely. WATCH | India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID-19 cases surge ×

COVID-19 in India: Amid fourth wave fears, new variants of the Omicron 'possibly emerging' in New Delhi

A 31-year-old health worker from Spain caught Covid twice within a record 20 days, in what is believed to be the shortest-known gap between infections, researchers have claimed.

The woman from Madrid was infected with two different variants—Delta in late December and&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;in January, BBC reported citing the Spanish scientists.

The woman was fully vaccinated and even took a booster shot. Despite all the protection, the woman tested positive during a PCR screening test at work on December 20 last year.

However, she didn’t develop any symptoms, and self-isolated for 10 days before returning to work.

But 20 days after the first test, the woman took a PCR test again on January 10 after feeling unwell.&nbsp;That test report also turned out to be positive.

In a presentation at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, study author Dr Gemma Recio said the case highlighted that Omicron can "evade the previous immunity acquired either from a natural infection with other variants or from vaccines".

"In other words, people who have had COVID-19 cannot assume they are protected against reinfection, even if they have been fully vaccinated,” she said.

"Nevertheless, both previous infection with other variants and vaccination does seem to partially protect against severe disease and hospitalisation in those with Omicron," added Dr Recio.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-tracks-two-new-omicron-subvariants-what-are-ba4-and-ba5-strains-470395">WHO tracks two new Omicron subvariants: What are BA.4 and BA.5 strains?</a>

She said monitoring reinfections in people who were fully vaccinated was important, and would help the search for variants which evade vaccines.

The Omicron variant of the Covid variant has been found to be evading&nbsp;immunity from past infection or two vaccine doses.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omicron-variant-originated-from-mice-say-chinese-scientists-is-the-narrative-changing-continuously-450343">:&nbsp;Omicron variant originated from mice, say Chinese scientists</a>

According to a study by the Imperial College of London, the risk of reinfection with the Omicron variant is 5.4 times greater than that of the Delta variant.

Watch |&nbsp;Study: Omicron is less severe than Delta &amp; recovery is 3.3 days quicker

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(With inputs from agencies)

A 31-year-old health worker from Spain caught Covid twice within a record 20 days, in what is believed to be the shortest-known gap between infections, researchers have claimed.

A 31-year-old health worker from Spain caught Covid twice within a record 20 days, in what is believed to be the shortest-known gap between infections, researchers have claimed. The woman from Madrid was infected with two different variants—Delta in late December and Omicron in January, BBC reported citing the Spanish scientists. The woman was fully vaccinated and even took a booster shot. Despite all the protection, the woman tested positive during a PCR screening test at work on December 20 last year. However, she didn’t develop any symptoms, and self-isolated for 10 days before returning to work. But 20 days after the first test, the woman took a PCR test again on January 10 after feeling unwell. That test report also turned out to be positive. In a presentation at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, study author Dr Gemma Recio said the case highlighted that Omicron can "evade the previous immunity acquired either from a natural infection with other variants or from vaccines". "In other words, people who have had COVID-19 cannot assume they are protected against reinfection, even if they have been fully vaccinated,” she said. "Nevertheless, both previous infection with other variants and vaccination does seem to partially protect against severe disease and hospitalisation in those with Omicron," added Dr Recio. Also read | WHO tracks two new Omicron subvariants: What are BA.4 and BA.5 strains? She said monitoring reinfections in people who were fully vaccinated was important, and would help the search for variants which evade vaccines. The Omicron variant of the Covid variant has been found to be evading immunity from past infection or two vaccine doses. Also read |: Omicron variant originated from mice, say Chinese scientists According to a study by the Imperial College of London, the risk of reinfection with the Omicron variant is 5.4 times greater than that of the Delta variant. Watch | Study: Omicron is less severe than Delta & recovery is 3.3 days quicker (With inputs from agencies)

Spanish woman infected with Covid twice in record 20 days

Authorities in the Chinese city of Shanghai are finding it hard to contain the latest virus flare-up that has pushed the city into panic mode. With daily rise in Covid-19 cases and virus-related deaths, Shanghai is currently witnessing one of the worst outbreaks since the start of the pandemic.

Authorities ease COVID rules in Shanghai amid worsening situation in China's financial hub

With Covid showing no signs of slowing down, Shanghai has decided to ease some of the Covid restrictions that hit the businesses hard.

Many factories in one of China’s biggest manufacturing hubs are now opening up in closed-loop systems, where workers have to live on-site to maintain zero contact with outsiders.

According to the Guardian, Tesla&nbsp;staff have been ordered to sleep on site.

Drone footage taken by Chinese media appeared to show Tesla employees arriving at the factory on Tuesday with luggage, and several people moving the frame of a Tesla car around the site, the UK newspaper reported.

Volkswagen, which restarted production at its Changchun factories after restrictions there eased, said it was still studying the feasibility of resuming production in Shanghai, Reuters reported.

The move comes at a time when the city continues to report tens of thousands of cases a day, with the majority among people in quarantine or isolation.&nbsp;

The city of 25 million people has been placed under strict lockdown for three weeks after a spike in positive infections owing to the Omicron variant.

The harsh shutdown, which is part of China's zero Covid policy, has badly affected the economy and thrown global supply lines into disarray.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-cases-continue-to-surge-record-high-in-shanghai-amid-growing-public-anger-471289">Covid&nbsp;cases break records in Shanghai amid growing public anger</a>

Residents have been complaining of job losses, scarcity of food and deplorable conditions in the quarantine centres.

According to Reuters, officials had set a target of reaching “zero-Covid at the community level” by Wednesday.

More than 340,000 positive infections have been reported since Shanghai’s outbreak began in March.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panic-buying-camping-in-offices-shanghai-under-strict-lockdown-as-people-face-fresh-covid-outbreak-466707">Panic buying, camping in offices: Shanghai under strict lockdown as people brace for fresh Covid outbreak</a>

On Monday, the number of new local transmissions fell to 19,442 from 21,395 the previous day, with 550 cases found outside the quarantine zones, down from 561 the day before.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Did just 3 people die in Shanghai due to Covid?

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(With inputs from agencies)

With Covid showing no signs of slowing down, Shanghai has decided to ease some of the Covid restrictions that hit the businesses hard. Many factories in one of China’s biggest manufacturing hubs are now opening up in closed-loop systems, where workers have to live on-site to maintain zero contact with outsiders.

With Covid showing no signs of slowing down, Shanghai has decided to ease some of the Covid restrictions that hit the businesses hard. Many factories in one of China’s biggest manufacturing hubs are now opening up in closed-loop systems, where workers have to live on-site to maintain zero contact with outsiders. According to the Guardian, Tesla staff have been ordered to sleep on site. Drone footage taken by Chinese media appeared to show Tesla employees arriving at the factory on Tuesday with luggage, and several people moving the frame of a Tesla car around the site, the UK newspaper reported. Volkswagen, which restarted production at its Changchun factories after restrictions there eased, said it was still studying the feasibility of resuming production in Shanghai, Reuters reported. The move comes at a time when the city continues to report tens of thousands of cases a day, with the majority among people in quarantine or isolation. The city of 25 million people has been placed under strict lockdown for three weeks after a spike in positive infections owing to the Omicron variant. The harsh shutdown, which is part of China's zero Covid policy, has badly affected the economy and thrown global supply lines into disarray. Also read | Covid cases break records in Shanghai amid growing public anger Residents have been complaining of job losses, scarcity of food and deplorable conditions in the quarantine centres. According to Reuters, officials had set a target of reaching “zero-Covid at the community level” by Wednesday. More than 340,000 positive infections have been reported since Shanghai’s outbreak began in March. Also read | Panic buying, camping in offices: Shanghai under strict lockdown as people brace for fresh Covid outbreak On Monday, the number of new local transmissions fell to 19,442 from 21,395 the previous day, with 550 cases found outside the quarantine zones, down from 561 the day before. Watch | Gravitas: Did just 3 people die in Shanghai due to Covid? (With inputs from agencies)

Shanghai to ease Covid restrictions as shutdown bites businesses hard

From April 18, most of the COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted, the South Korean government announced on Friday as the Omicron variant showed signs of waning in the country.

However, the government said that mask mandates are still compulsory due to the unpredictable nature of the virus.

“Wearing masks is still a very important means to protect ourselves,” Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum told a coronavirus response meeting, according to Reuters.

“It is inevitable to maintain the indoor mask mandate for a considerable period of time,” he added.

Officials will reassess whether to lift the outdoor mask requirement in two weeks, the PM said.

The government has also scrapped the midnight curfew on restaurants and other businesses, along with the cap on private gatherings which was set at 10.

From reporting 620,000 infections per day in mid-March to below 100,000 on Thursday, South Korea appears to have weathered its Covid peak, largely driven by the Omicron variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ba2-covid-variant-driving-new-infections-in-some-parts-of-us-471264">BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US</a>

Now that the cases have come down significantly, the government has ordered local health centres and testing stations to no longer provide rapid antigen tests, but only polymerase chain reaction tests to high-risk groups, starting Monday, the Korea Herald newspaper reported.

More than 86 per cent of the South Korean population of 51 million has been fully vaccinated, with the majority also receiving a booster shot.

South Korea is rolling out second boosters to vulnerable populations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/std-cases-in-us-including-syphilis-rose-during-pandemic-cdc-report-470645" hreflang="en">Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report</a>

Around 20,000 people in South Korea have died from the coronavirus — a 0.13 per cent fatality rate, which is one of the world's lowest, reports AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

From April 18, most of the COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted, the South Korean government announced on Friday as the Omicron variant showed signs of waning in the country.

From April 18, most of the COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted, the South Korean government announced on Friday as the Omicron variant showed signs of waning in the country. However, the government said that mask mandates are still compulsory due to the unpredictable nature of the virus. “Wearing masks is still a very important means to protect ourselves,” Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum told a coronavirus response meeting, according to Reuters. “It is inevitable to maintain the indoor mask mandate for a considerable period of time,” he added. Officials will reassess whether to lift the outdoor mask requirement in two weeks, the PM said. The government has also scrapped the midnight curfew on restaurants and other businesses, along with the cap on private gatherings which was set at 10. From reporting 620,000 infections per day in mid-March to below 100,000 on Thursday, South Korea appears to have weathered its Covid peak, largely driven by the Omicron variant. Also read | BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US Now that the cases have come down significantly, the government has ordered local health centres and testing stations to no longer provide rapid antigen tests, but only polymerase chain reaction tests to high-risk groups, starting Monday, the Korea Herald newspaper reported. More than 86 per cent of the South Korean population of 51 million has been fully vaccinated, with the majority also receiving a booster shot. South Korea is rolling out second boosters to vulnerable populations. Also read | Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report Around 20,000 people in South Korea have died from the coronavirus — a 0.13 per cent fatality rate, which is one of the world's lowest, reports AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea lifts most of Covid restrictions citing drop in daily cases

Some parts of the United States have been seeing a fresh spike in COVID-19 infections again, causing concern among the officials.

According to local media reports, cases in the northeastern part of the US is ticking up due to the BA.2 Omicron subvariant.

It has recorded at least 126 new infections per 100,000 people last week, doubling the rate compared to a month ago, The Washington Post reports.

Not only in the northeastern parts, the BA.2 subvariant, which is 30 per cent more transmissible than the BA.1, has been responsible for new cases across the country last week, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

At least 27 states are seeing an uptick in Covid cases.

The federal data shows that the new infections in the northeast were more than twice as high as in the west, midwest and southeast last week, according to federal data.

The BA.2 Omicron subvariant now makes up more than 85 per cent of new COVID-19 cases in the US, CDC data showed.

Experts opined that the relaxations of Covid rules, including the mask mandates, may drive up the cases further and can lead to another surge.

On Wednesday, the Biden administration extended the mask mandate for public transportation for another two weeks on Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fda-approves-emergency-use-of-first-covid-test-that-uses-breath-samples-471091">US FDA approves emergency use of first Covid test that uses breath samples</a>

“Because of the strategy we executed over the past year on vaccinations, testing, treatments, and more, we’re now in a new moment in this pandemic,” Biden had said.

“It does not mean that COVID-19 is over. It means that COVID-19 no longer controls our lives.”

Several universities across the US, including Columbia, American, Georgetown, George Washington, Johns Hopkins and Rice, are also returning to mask mandates on campus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/std-cases-in-us-including-syphilis-rose-during-pandemic-cdc-report-470645" hreflang="en">Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report</a>

The CDC said that it was extending the mask order, which was set to expire on April 18, till May 3 to allow more time for them to study the impact of the BA.2 subvariant in the country.

Watch |&nbsp;US:&nbsp;People aged 50 &amp; above to get a booster dose to prepare for BA.2 variant

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-people-aged-50-above-to-get-a-booster-dose-to-prepare-for-ba2-variant-466844/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Some parts of the United States have been seeing a fresh spike in COVID-19 infections again, causing concern among the officials. According to local media reports, cases in the northeastern part of the US is ticking up due to the BA.

Some parts of the United States have been seeing a fresh spike in COVID-19 infections again, causing concern among the officials. According to local media reports, cases in the northeastern part of the US is ticking up due to the BA.2 Omicron subvariant. It has recorded at least 126 new infections per 100,000 people last week, doubling the rate compared to a month ago, The Washington Post reports. Not only in the northeastern parts, the BA.2 subvariant, which is 30 per cent more transmissible than the BA.1, has been responsible for new cases across the country last week, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). At least 27 states are seeing an uptick in Covid cases. The federal data shows that the new infections in the northeast were more than twice as high as in the west, midwest and southeast last week, according to federal data. The BA.2 Omicron subvariant now makes up more than 85 per cent of new COVID-19 cases in the US, CDC data showed. Experts opined that the relaxations of Covid rules, including the mask mandates, may drive up the cases further and can lead to another surge. On Wednesday, the Biden administration extended the mask mandate for public transportation for another two weeks on Wednesday. Also read | US FDA approves emergency use of first Covid test that uses breath samples “Because of the strategy we executed over the past year on vaccinations, testing, treatments, and more, we’re now in a new moment in this pandemic,” Biden had said. “It does not mean that COVID-19 is over. It means that COVID-19 no longer controls our lives.” Several universities across the US, including Columbia, American, Georgetown, George Washington, Johns Hopkins and Rice, are also returning to mask mandates on campus. Also read | Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report The CDC said that it was extending the mask order, which was set to expire on April 18, till May 3 to allow more time for them to study the impact of the BA.2 subvariant in the country. Watch | US: People aged 50 & above to get a booster dose to prepare for BA.2 variant (With inputs from agencies)

BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US

A third&nbsp;dose&nbsp;of&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;Inc and&nbsp;BioNTech's covid&nbsp;vaccine produced significant&nbsp;protection&nbsp;against&nbsp;the&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;variant in healthy children&nbsp;aged&nbsp;between 5 and&nbsp;11&nbsp;years in a trial, the companies said on Thursday.

Blood serum analysis of a few pediatric participants who received a&nbsp;booster&nbsp;dose&nbsp;in the study showed a 36-fold increase in Omicron neutralizing antibodies, the drugmakers said.

Neutralizing antibodies&nbsp;against&nbsp;SARS-CoV-2 wild-type strain rose six-fold following the&nbsp;booster&nbsp;shot.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-medicines-regulator-approves-valneva-covid-19-vaccine-for-adult-use-470950">UK medicines regulator approves Valneva COVID-19 vaccine for adult use</a>

The mid-to-late stage study was testing the safety and immunogenicity of a 10 microgram&nbsp;booster&nbsp;dose&nbsp;in 140 healthy children&nbsp;aged&nbsp;5 through&nbsp;11&nbsp;years.

Pfizer&nbsp;and its German partner said the data reinforces potential function of a third&nbsp;dose&nbsp;of the vaccine in maintaining high levels of&nbsp;protection&nbsp;against&nbsp;the virus in this age group.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Covid-19 booster shots for adults, Peru protests &amp; more

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-covid-19-booster-shots-for-adults-peru-protests-more-469480/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The companies plan to apply for Emergency Use Authorization of a&nbsp;booster&nbsp;dose&nbsp;in the 5-11&nbsp;age group in coming days, with additional submissions to global regulatory agencies including the European Medicines Agency to follow.

Earlier this year, the US&nbsp;Food &amp; Drug Administration authorized a third&nbsp;dose&nbsp;of the vaccine for children ages 12 to 15 and those&nbsp;aged&nbsp;5 through&nbsp;11&nbsp;years who are immunocompromised.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/std-cases-in-us-including-syphilis-rose-during-pandemic-cdc-report-470645">Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report</a>

The agency at the time said it will weigh&nbsp;boosters for 5 to&nbsp;11&nbsp;year olds after more children receive two&nbsp;doses.

According to the Centers for Disease Control &amp; Prevention (CDC), about 8 million children&nbsp;aged&nbsp;between 5 and&nbsp;11&nbsp;in the United States are fully vaccinated.

A third dose of Pfizer Inc and BioNTech's covid vaccine produced significant protection against the Omicron variant in healthy children aged between 5 and 11 years in a trial, the companies said on Thursday.

A third dose of Pfizer Inc and BioNTech's covid vaccine produced significant protection against the Omicron variant in healthy children aged between 5 and 11 years in a trial, the companies said on Thursday. Blood serum analysis of a few pediatric participants who received a booster dose in the study showed a 36-fold increase in Omicron neutralizing antibodies, the drugmakers said. Neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type strain rose six-fold following the booster shot. Also read | UK medicines regulator approves Valneva COVID-19 vaccine for adult use The mid-to-late stage study was testing the safety and immunogenicity of a 10 microgram booster dose in 140 healthy children aged 5 through 11 years. Pfizer and its German partner said the data reinforces potential function of a third dose of the vaccine in maintaining high levels of protection against the virus in this age group. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Covid-19 booster shots for adults, Peru protests & more The companies plan to apply for Emergency Use Authorization of a booster dose in the 5-11 age group in coming days, with additional submissions to global regulatory agencies including the European Medicines Agency to follow. Earlier this year, the US Food & Drug Administration authorized a third dose of the vaccine for children ages 12 to 15 and those aged 5 through 11 years who are immunocompromised. Also read | Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report The agency at the time said it will weigh boosters for 5 to 11 year olds after more children receive two doses. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), about 8 million children aged between 5 and 11 in the United States are fully vaccinated.

Pfizer-BioNTech say booster dose increases protection against Omicron in kids aged 5-11

Even as China faces a drastic rise in the number of reported coronavirus cases, the country continues to stick to its ‘zero Covid’ policy. The US said on Tuesday that it had ordered all non-essential embassy personnel from the US consulate in Shanghai to leave due to China's tight lockdowns.

China’s "zero Covid" policy aims to eliminate infections using rigid lockdowns, mass testing and travel restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-shanghai-residents-loot-supermarket-as-covid-lockdown-spurs-food-scarcity-470063">Watch: Shanghai residents loot supermarket as Covid lockdown spurs food scarcity</a>

As per an AFP report, due to a sudden surge of cases in March, the policy has come under a strain in Shanghai.&nbsp;Last month more than 100,000 cases were reported in the city of 25 million population. This led to a lockdown of the city, which in turn led to public panic and outcry over food shortages.

The inflexible policy of sending those who tested positive to quarantine centres also invited criticism, not only from citizens but also from other countries. Nations voiced their concerns about children being separated from their families.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China: Shanghai's covid-19 infections rise by 25,000, authorities shaping an exit plan from lockdown

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-shanghais-covid-19-infections-rise-by-25000-authorities-shaping-an-exit-plan-from-lockdown-470183/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A statement by US’s Beijing embassy said that the US State Department has ordered the departure "due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak", and as there was concern among American diplomats “about the safety and welfare of US citizens with People's Republic of China officials."&nbsp;

"It is best for our employees and their families to be reduced in number and our operations to be scaled down as we deal with the changing circumstances on the ground," added the statement.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-eases-child-separation-under-covid-policy-but-extends-lockdown-468926">Shanghai eases child separation under COVID policy but extends lockdown</a>

Beijing has responded to the US complaints, with Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian blasting the US for making "groundless accusations" and stressing that China's strategy is "scientific and effective."

Shanghai officials have said that the city will not relax in the least and that they are preparing tens of thousands of extra beds to accommodate anybody who tests positive for the virus, regardless of whether or not they show symptoms.

According to a Reuters report, despite an increase in instances, Shanghai on Monday began to ease the lockdown since it is becoming increasingly difficult for residents of China's wealthiest city to obtain food and medications.

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as China faces a drastic rise in the number of reported coronavirus cases, the country continues to stick to its ‘zero Covid’ policy. The US said on Tuesday that it had ordered all non-essential embassy personnel from the US consulate in Shanghai to leave due to China's tight lockdowns.

Even as China faces a drastic rise in the number of reported coronavirus cases, the country continues to stick to its ‘zero Covid’ policy. The US said on Tuesday that it had ordered all non-essential embassy personnel from the US consulate in Shanghai to leave due to China's tight lockdowns. China’s "zero Covid" policy aims to eliminate infections using rigid lockdowns, mass testing and travel restrictions. Also read | Watch: Shanghai residents loot supermarket as Covid lockdown spurs food scarcity As per an AFP report, due to a sudden surge of cases in March, the policy has come under a strain in Shanghai. Last month more than 100,000 cases were reported in the city of 25 million population. This led to a lockdown of the city, which in turn led to public panic and outcry over food shortages. The inflexible policy of sending those who tested positive to quarantine centres also invited criticism, not only from citizens but also from other countries. Nations voiced their concerns about children being separated from their families. Watch | China: Shanghai's covid-19 infections rise by 25,000, authorities shaping an exit plan from lockdown A statement by US’s Beijing embassy said that the US State Department has ordered the departure "due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak", and as there was concern among American diplomats “about the safety and welfare of US citizens with People's Republic of China officials." "It is best for our employees and their families to be reduced in number and our operations to be scaled down as we deal with the changing circumstances on the ground," added the statement. Also read | Shanghai eases child separation under COVID policy but extends lockdown Beijing has responded to the US complaints, with Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian blasting the US for making "groundless accusations" and stressing that China's strategy is "scientific and effective." Shanghai officials have said that the city will not relax in the least and that they are preparing tens of thousands of extra beds to accommodate anybody who tests positive for the virus, regardless of whether or not they show symptoms. According to a Reuters report, despite an increase in instances, Shanghai on Monday began to ease the lockdown since it is becoming increasingly difficult for residents of China's wealthiest city to obtain food and medications. (With inputs from agencies)

Due to China's hard lockdowns, US orders non-essential staff to leave Shanghai embassy

China is said to be responsible for the origin of covid-19 and has reported the highest daily rise recorded in China since the beginning of the pandemic.. The city of shanghai has emerged as the heart of the virus surge despite being in the lockdown.

US: China to impose arbitrary COVID rules amid record rise in COVID cases

Alarmed over a slight increase in Covid cases, the Union health ministry has asked the five states reporting higher infections to tighten their vigil and urged them not let to their guard down.

In a letter to Delhi, Haryana, Kerala, Maharashtra and Mizoram states, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has asked them to maintain a strict watch and take any pre-emptive action required.

"Given that the states/UTs have been undertaking various measures to reopen economic and social activities, there is a need for continuous follow up of a risk assessment-based approach for management of COVID 19," Mr Bhushan wrote.

These states have been told to continue the five-fold strategy, including testing, tracking, treating, vaccination and adherence to Covid appropriate behaviour.

"It is essential that the state must maintain a strict watch and take pre-emptive action if required in any areas of concern to control any emerging spread of infection. Testing and surveillance still remain important to track the virus, its spread and evolution," Bhushan said in the letter.

Among the five states, Kerala saw a massive jump in Covid infections in the past one week.

The southern state reported 2,321 new cases in the last week, accounting to 31.8 per cent of India's new cases. The weekly positivity rate in the state has also gone up to 15.53 per cent from 13.45 per cent.

The national capital Delhi’s weekly new cases reported a rise from 724 new cases in the week ending April 1 to 826 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting to 11.33 per cent of India's new cases.

It has also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 0.51 per cent to 1.25 per cent. &nbsp;

Haryana has reported an increase in weekly new cases from 367 new cases in the week ending (April 1) to 416 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting to 5.70 per cent of India's new cases. The state has also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 0.51 per cent to 1.06 per cent.

Maharashtra has reported 794 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting for 10.9 per cent of India's new cases. The state has also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 0.39 per cent to 0.43 per cent. &nbsp;

Mizoram has reported 814 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting to 11.16 per cent of India's new cases and also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 14.38 per cent to 16.48 per cent, the letter to the state highlighted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Alarmed over a slight increase in Covid cases, the Union health ministry has asked the five states reporting higher infections to tighten their vigil and urged them not let to their guard down.

Alarmed over a slight increase in Covid cases, the Union health ministry has asked the five states reporting higher infections to tighten their vigil and urged them not let to their guard down. In a letter to Delhi, Haryana, Kerala, Maharashtra and Mizoram states, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has asked them to maintain a strict watch and take any pre-emptive action required. "Given that the states/UTs have been undertaking various measures to reopen economic and social activities, there is a need for continuous follow up of a risk assessment-based approach for management of COVID 19," Mr Bhushan wrote. These states have been told to continue the five-fold strategy, including testing, tracking, treating, vaccination and adherence to Covid appropriate behaviour. "It is essential that the state must maintain a strict watch and take pre-emptive action if required in any areas of concern to control any emerging spread of infection. Testing and surveillance still remain important to track the virus, its spread and evolution," Bhushan said in the letter. Among the five states, Kerala saw a massive jump in Covid infections in the past one week. The southern state reported 2,321 new cases in the last week, accounting to 31.8 per cent of India's new cases. The weekly positivity rate in the state has also gone up to 15.53 per cent from 13.45 per cent. The national capital Delhi’s weekly new cases reported a rise from 724 new cases in the week ending April 1 to 826 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting to 11.33 per cent of India's new cases. It has also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 0.51 per cent to 1.25 per cent. Haryana has reported an increase in weekly new cases from 367 new cases in the week ending (April 1) to 416 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting to 5.70 per cent of India's new cases. The state has also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 0.51 per cent to 1.06 per cent. Maharashtra has reported 794 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting for 10.9 per cent of India's new cases. The state has also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 0.39 per cent to 0.43 per cent. Mizoram has reported 814 new cases in the last week (ending April 8), accounting to 11.16 per cent of India's new cases and also seen an increase in positivity in the last week from 14.38 per cent to 16.48 per cent, the letter to the state highlighted. (With inputs from agencies)

Rise in Covid cases: Union government asks these five Indian states to maintain strict watch

A study suggests that the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is less severe than Delta and the recovery is 3.3 days quicker.

Study: Omicron is less severe than Delta & recovery is 3.3 days quicker

There is no end to end in sight to the lockdowns in china's economic hub of shanghai. On Monday, the city reported a record 13,000 new asymptomatic coronavirus cases, the lockdown was originally set to end today but following the surge in cases the lockdown has now been extended until further notice.

The economic impact of lockdown in Shanghai: Lockdown extended until further notice

A German man has been accused of having getting himself vaccinated several times in order to sell vaccination cards to people who did not want to get jabbed.

The 60-year-old from Germany's Magdeburg city reportedly received 90 shots before he was caught by authorities. Reports say the man is under investigation for issuing vaccination cards including forged documents.

He was caught after he was spotted at a vaccination centre for the second day in a row as police reportedly confiscated lank vaccination cards.&nbsp;The man is now under criminal investigation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-is-the-virus-of-theseus-elon-musk-supposedly-tested-positive-for-coronavirus-again-466346">Also Read:&nbsp;Covid-19 is the virus of Theseus': Elon Musk</a>

Reports claim even though many Germans do not want to get vaccinated but are eager to get the vaccination pass as it allows access to various venues including restaurants and theatres.

Germany has been hit by the Omicron wave in the past few months as German health minister Karl Lauterbach said the vaccine meant to specially target Omicron may be delayed.

Watch: Coronavirus cases surge in western Europe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-cases-surge-in-western-europe-france-reports-90000-average-daily-covid-19-cases-464734/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Last month Germany had reported nearly 300,000 infections in a dramatic rise in cases as 249 people died in one day last month. Health minister Karl Lauterbach had warned that the country had reached a "critical" health situation due to soaring COVID-19 cases.

Germany's Robert Koch Institute which monitors the virus cases has said the more transmissible sub-variant BA.2 has led to a surge.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had&nbsp;called for vaccinations to be made mandatory however the plans to get the bill through&nbsp;parliament has&nbsp;been delayed.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A German man has been accused of having getting himself vaccinated several times in order to sell vaccination cards to people who did not want to get jabbed. The 60-year-old from Germany's Magdeburg city reportedly received 90 shots before he was caught by authorities.

A German man has been accused of having getting himself vaccinated several times in order to sell vaccination cards to people who did not want to get jabbed. The 60-year-old from Germany's Magdeburg city reportedly received 90 shots before he was caught by authorities. Reports say the man is under investigation for issuing vaccination cards including forged documents. He was caught after he was spotted at a vaccination centre for the second day in a row as police reportedly confiscated lank vaccination cards. The man is now under criminal investigation. Also Read: Covid-19 is the virus of Theseus': Elon Musk Reports claim even though many Germans do not want to get vaccinated but are eager to get the vaccination pass as it allows access to various venues including restaurants and theatres. Germany has been hit by the Omicron wave in the past few months as German health minister Karl Lauterbach said the vaccine meant to specially target Omicron may be delayed. Watch: Coronavirus cases surge in western Europe Last month Germany had reported nearly 300,000 infections in a dramatic rise in cases as 249 people died in one day last month. Health minister Karl Lauterbach had warned that the country had reached a "critical" health situation due to soaring COVID-19 cases. Germany's Robert Koch Institute which monitors the virus cases has said the more transmissible sub-variant BA.2 has led to a surge. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had called for vaccinations to be made mandatory however the plans to get the bill through parliament has been delayed. (With inputs from Agencies)

German man suspected of taking multiple COVID-19 shots; selling fake vaccination cards

Chinese authorities say a patient was discovered with a new Omicron subtype in Suzhou in east China's Jiangsu province near Shanghai.

Amid COVID-19 battle, China discovers new Omicron subtype

omicron

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