Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which continues to decimate economies and kill scores of population across the globe, a new kind of medical storm is brewing in a Central African country - Democratic Republic of Congo.

A new outbreak of Ebola was reported in the country’s northwestern areas, news agency AFP reported. The country is currently dealing with the coronavirus outbreak in the eastern parts. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/in-the-shadow-of-ebola-and-covid-19-measles-rips-through-congo-288051" hreflang="en">In the shadow of Ebola and Covid-19, measles rips through Congo</a>

This resurgence has taken the lives of four people in the city of Mbandaka, the Health Minister Eteni Longondo said in a press conference.

"The National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB) has confirmed to me that samples from Mbandaka tested positive for Ebola... We will send them the vaccine and medicine very quickly" Longondo said.

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A girl is getting inoculated with an Ebola vaccine on November 22, 2019 in Goma | AFP 
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Mbandaka is the capital of Congo’s Equateur province, which serves as a transport hub alongside the Congo river and houses over a million people.&nbsp;Ebola had hit the same province in the summer months of May and July in 2018, which claimed the lives of 33 people.

Since surfacing, the Ebola epidemic has killed 2,280 people in the country’s eastern region. The government was planning to announce the country Ebola free on June 25, but with new cases resurfacing, the country has to continue fighting it.&nbsp;A similar situation had&nbsp;come up in April this year when the country was three days away from declaring itself free of Ebola.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/coronavirus-much-much-worse-says-peter-piot-ebola-discoverer-286205" hreflang="en">Coronavirus much, much worse, says Peter Piot, Ebola discoverer</a>

"This is a province that has already experienced the disease. They know how to respond. They started the response at the local level yesterday (Sunday)," Longondo said.

If no cases are reported for 42 days in a row, the country would be able to declare itself free of ebola.

This marks the eleventh outbreak in the country since 1976.

Alongside ebola, the country is battling the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed over 72 and infected over 3,000 so far.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which continues to decimate economies and kill scores of population across the globe, a new kind of medical storm is brewing in a Central African country - Democratic Republic of Congo.

Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which continues to decimate economies and kill scores of population across the globe, a new kind of medical storm is brewing in a Central African country - Democratic Republic of Congo. A new outbreak of Ebola was reported in the country’s northwestern areas, news agency AFP reported. The country is currently dealing with the coronavirus outbreak in the eastern parts. Also read: In the shadow of Ebola and Covid-19, measles rips through Congo This resurgence has taken the lives of four people in the city of Mbandaka, the Health Minister Eteni Longondo said in a press conference. "The National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB) has confirmed to me that samples from Mbandaka tested positive for Ebola... We will send them the vaccine and medicine very quickly" Longondo said. A girl is getting inoculated with an Ebola vaccine on November 22, 2019 in Goma | AFP Mbandaka is the capital of Congo’s Equateur province, which serves as a transport hub alongside the Congo river and houses over a million people. Ebola had hit the same province in the summer months of May and July in 2018, which claimed the lives of 33 people. Since surfacing, the Ebola epidemic has killed 2,280 people in the country’s eastern region. The government was planning to announce the country Ebola free on June 25, but with new cases resurfacing, the country has to continue fighting it. A similar situation had come up in April this year when the country was three days away from declaring itself free of Ebola. Also read: Coronavirus much, much worse, says Peter Piot, Ebola discoverer "This is a province that has already experienced the disease. They know how to respond. They started the response at the local level yesterday (Sunday)," Longondo said. If no cases are reported for 42 days in a row, the country would be able to declare itself free of ebola. This marks the eleventh outbreak in the country since 1976. Alongside ebola, the country is battling the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed over 72 and infected over 3,000 so far. (With inputs from AFP)

Congo reports fresh Ebola outbreak three weeks before plans to proclaim the country disease-free

Momentum is building behind Thailand's push to create its own coronavirus vaccine, with more manpower and resources dedicated to the effort amid hopes it could boost medical tourism.

Thai trials of an experimental vaccine using monkeys started last month, one of at least 100 potential vaccines being developed globally. The government is hopeful it will have a cost-effective vaccine ready for next year.

Bionet-Asia, a local firm working with the government and a top Bangkok university, has put all other activities on hold and dedicated 250 personnel and all of its labs, technology and production facilities to developing a COVID-19 vaccine.

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"In the case of COVID, there is a global effort to speed up experiment, trials, to share information, share diagnostics and that's why we are in a position too, to move very fast," chief executive officer, Pham Hong Thai, told Reuters.

He said tests on animals had so far shown encouraging results and the next step would be seeking government approval for clinical trials involving humans.

With just over 3,082 cases and 57 deaths, Thailand has had some success in containing the coronavirus and eased many of its restrictions in response to low infection numbers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-authenticity-of-study-on-hydroxychloroquine-drugs-302287" hreflang="en">Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs</a>

It has been seven days without a case of local transmission, with all infections this past week found among quarantined nationals returning from overseas.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said it was important to channel all efforts towards the development of a vaccine and put Thailand on the medical map.

"Thailand has a good healthcare system, good medical practices. It will garner a lot of interest from tourists and investors and boost us as a medical hub," he said.

Momentum is building behind Thailand's push to create its own coronavirus vaccine, with more manpower and resources dedicated to the effort amid hopes it could boost medical tourism.

Momentum is building behind Thailand's push to create its own coronavirus vaccine, with more manpower and resources dedicated to the effort amid hopes it could boost medical tourism. Thai trials of an experimental vaccine using monkeys started last month, one of at least 100 potential vaccines being developed globally. The government is hopeful it will have a cost-effective vaccine ready for next year. Bionet-Asia, a local firm working with the government and a top Bangkok university, has put all other activities on hold and dedicated 250 personnel and all of its labs, technology and production facilities to developing a COVID-19 vaccine. Also read: Russia to start administering 'game changer' drug to treat coronavirus patients "In the case of COVID, there is a global effort to speed up experiment, trials, to share information, share diagnostics and that's why we are in a position too, to move very fast," chief executive officer, Pham Hong Thai, told Reuters. He said tests on animals had so far shown encouraging results and the next step would be seeking government approval for clinical trials involving humans. With just over 3,082 cases and 57 deaths, Thailand has had some success in containing the coronavirus and eased many of its restrictions in response to low infection numbers. Also read: Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs It has been seven days without a case of local transmission, with all infections this past week found among quarantined nationals returning from overseas. Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said it was important to channel all efforts towards the development of a vaccine and put Thailand on the medical map. "Thailand has a good healthcare system, good medical practices. It will garner a lot of interest from tourists and investors and boost us as a medical hub," he said.

Thailand races to create COVID vaccine, eyes possible medical tourism boost

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus.

In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently. The testing was conducted at the port of Bellingham in the US state of Washington, before the vessel took off for Seattle.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-authenticity-of-study-on-hydroxychloroquine-drugs-302287" hreflang="en">Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs</a>

The vessel can carry 142 crew members. Even though everybody was tested, the results of nine crew members is still being fetched, Reuters reported.

The seafood company is based in Seattle and is responsible for six fish processing vessels in the North Pacific Ocean. The company is touted as one of the largest processors of wild pacific hake, and wild Alaska pollock fish.

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As coronavirus-induced hysteria hit the meat industry, over twenty plants in the United States were shut down recently after new clusters emerged at units across the country. Big corporations like McDonald’s and Smithfield Foods were recently sued for not adhering to health and safety measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-supremacists-or-antifa-or-multiple-theories-float-on-who-caused-violence-in-us-302348" hreflang="en">White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US</a>

Based on numbers from May 31, the US state of Washington alone has 22,000 positive cases of coronavirus, with over 1.8 million infections across the country - the highest in the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact.

As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India.

(With inputs from Reuters)

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus. In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently.

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus. In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently. The testing was conducted at the port of Bellingham in the US state of Washington, before the vessel took off for Seattle. Also read: Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs The vessel can carry 142 crew members. Even though everybody was tested, the results of nine crew members is still being fetched, Reuters reported. The seafood company is based in Seattle and is responsible for six fish processing vessels in the North Pacific Ocean. The company is touted as one of the largest processors of wild pacific hake, and wild Alaska pollock fish. As coronavirus-induced hysteria hit the meat industry, over twenty plants in the United States were shut down recently after new clusters emerged at units across the country. Big corporations like McDonald’s and Smithfield Foods were recently sued for not adhering to health and safety measures to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read: White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US Based on numbers from May 31, the US state of Washington alone has 22,000 positive cases of coronavirus, with over 1.8 million infections across the country - the highest in the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact. As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India. (With inputs from Reuters)

American seafood company's vessel spawns a coronavirus cluster with 86 new cases

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Traffic levels jumped in the commercial hub of Istanbul, with many Turks returning to work as the government sought to revive an economy hit hard by the pandemic. Employees of government offices and public facilities joined the many factory workers who restarted last month.

Masked shopkeepers opened and cleaned their stores at the Grand Bazaar, which media reports said was the scene of one of the first virus outbreaks in March. A key tourist destination, the sprawling covered market was closed for more than two months.&nbsp;

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President Tayyip Erdogan's government has slowly removed some restrictions in recent weeks and authorities say the outbreak is under control. The COVID-19 infection has killed more than 4,500 and infected more than 160,000 in Turkey, though new daily cases and deaths are sharply down.

Transport Minister Adil Karaismailoglu sought to reassure passengers at a ceremony to mark the first regular flight from Istanbul to the capital Ankara in two months.

"We are entering a period of travel focused on isolation, from the entry into airports until the exit from them," he said on TV, adding that six domestic airports had so far been certified to meet hygiene and safety standards.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/greece-fears-border-standoff-with-turkey-over-migrants-return-301172" hreflang="en">Greece fears border standoff with Turkey over migrants' return</a>

International flights are expected to start next week. Shares of Turkish airports and carriers including Turkish Airlines rose.

Parks, gyms, beaches, libraries and museums also re-opened, including in Istanbul, the centre of Turkey's outbreak.&nbsp;

Economic activity took a nose dive beginning in March and it is unclear how badly Turkey's key tourism sector will suffer this summer. Some provinces, including Istanbul, were still subject to weekend lockdowns this past weekend.

A survey showed on Monday that manufacturing activity continued to contract sharply in May, though at a slower pace than in April, with output and new orders shrinking again and companies decreasing employment and purchasing.

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic. Traffic levels jumped in the commercial hub of Istanbul, with many Turks returning to work as the government sought to revive an economy hit hard by the pandemic. Employees of government offices and public facilities joined the many factory workers who restarted last month. Masked shopkeepers opened and cleaned their stores at the Grand Bazaar, which media reports said was the scene of one of the first virus outbreaks in March. A key tourist destination, the sprawling covered market was closed for more than two months. Also read: Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East President Tayyip Erdogan's government has slowly removed some restrictions in recent weeks and authorities say the outbreak is under control. The COVID-19 infection has killed more than 4,500 and infected more than 160,000 in Turkey, though new daily cases and deaths are sharply down. Transport Minister Adil Karaismailoglu sought to reassure passengers at a ceremony to mark the first regular flight from Istanbul to the capital Ankara in two months. "We are entering a period of travel focused on isolation, from the entry into airports until the exit from them," he said on TV, adding that six domestic airports had so far been certified to meet hygiene and safety standards. Also read: Greece fears border standoff with Turkey over migrants' return International flights are expected to start next week. Shares of Turkish airports and carriers including Turkish Airlines rose. Parks, gyms, beaches, libraries and museums also re-opened, including in Istanbul, the centre of Turkey's outbreak. Economic activity took a nose dive beginning in March and it is unclear how badly Turkey's key tourism sector will suffer this summer. Some provinces, including Istanbul, were still subject to weekend lockdowns this past weekend. A survey showed on Monday that manufacturing activity continued to contract sharply in May, though at a slower pace than in April, with output and new orders shrinking again and companies decreasing employment and purchasing.

Grand Bazaar, cafes open and flights resume as Turkey eases up

Russia is set to using the first approved drug in the country meant to treat COVID-19 patients. Starting next week, “a game changer” drug will be administered on people, Reuters reported.

The country has enough stock of the drug in question, “Avifavir” to treat 60,000 coronavirus patients in one month, and the hospitals across the country will begin administering it from June 11, 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-authenticity-of-study-on-hydroxychloroquine-drugs-302287" hreflang="en">Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs</a>

As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India.

Russia saw a major increase in the number of cases two weeks ago, with fears of it becoming a hotspot. 
 
Related video: Russian economy contracts by 12% in April as a result of Coronavirus lockdown

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The modified antiviral drug “Avifavir” was approved by Russian health ministry very recently. After conducting clinical trials, the drug was officially approved for use on Saturday. According to Reuters, over 330 people were part of this trial, and they found that the drug was able to successfully treat patients within four days of beginning treatment.

More trials are expected to continue in the country to ascertain the usefulness of the drug. The country has begun manufacturing the drug in March itself, which will soon be used for mass treatments.

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Touted by Russia as a “game changer”, the health ministry believes the “drug is key to resuming full activity in Russia”. The new drug, however has some side effects and is not suggested for treating pregnant women.

The third most hard-hit country in the world, Russia has witnessed 4,693 deaths due to the pandemic, but has recorded a low fatality rate.

The drug was initially developed in the 1990s by a Japanese health company, which is now owned by Fujifilm. The generic name of the drug is “favipiravir”.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Russia is set to using the first approved drug in the country meant to treat COVID-19 patients. Starting next week, “a game changer” drug will be administered on people, Reuters reported.

Russia is set to using the first approved drug in the country meant to treat COVID-19 patients. Starting next week, “a game changer” drug will be administered on people, Reuters reported. The country has enough stock of the drug in question, “Avifavir” to treat 60,000 coronavirus patients in one month, and the hospitals across the country will begin administering it from June 11, 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact. Also read: Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India. Russia saw a major increase in the number of cases two weeks ago, with fears of it becoming a hotspot. Related video: Russian economy contracts by 12% in April as a result of Coronavirus lockdown The modified antiviral drug “Avifavir” was approved by Russian health ministry very recently. After conducting clinical trials, the drug was officially approved for use on Saturday. According to Reuters, over 330 people were part of this trial, and they found that the drug was able to successfully treat patients within four days of beginning treatment. More trials are expected to continue in the country to ascertain the usefulness of the drug. The country has begun manufacturing the drug in March itself, which will soon be used for mass treatments. Also read: Trampoline is working, hysteria is not; Russian space agency taunts Donald Trump Touted by Russia as a “game changer”, the health ministry believes the “drug is key to resuming full activity in Russia”. The new drug, however has some side effects and is not suggested for treating pregnant women. The third most hard-hit country in the world, Russia has witnessed 4,693 deaths due to the pandemic, but has recorded a low fatality rate. The drug was initially developed in the 1990s by a Japanese health company, which is now owned by Fujifilm. The generic name of the drug is “favipiravir”. (With inputs from Reuters)

Russia to start administering 'game changer' drug to treat coronavirus patients

Bottlenecks at borders as government screen lorry drivers to contain the new coronavirus are putting the delivery of vital food supplies in East Africa at risk, the U.N.'s World Food Programme (WFP) warned.

East Africa battles hunger amid COVID-19 pandemic

Pope Francis on Saturday urged politicians to divert funds from weapons to research to avoid such pandemics in the future.

The request was made in the outdoor prayer service with about 130 people, largest gathering in the Vatican in nearly three months. Majority of these people&nbsp;had been directly affected by the pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-coronavirus-vaccine-must-be-shared-worldwide-296424">Also read:&nbsp;Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide</a>

The prayer gathering took place in&nbsp;the Vatican gardens. The devotees, who&nbsp;prayed the rosary,&nbsp; joined in large numbers through video from about 50 Catholic shrines around the world. A large screen in the gardens showed video links with about 25 locations.

Pope Francis, who maintained enough distance from everyone but was spotted without a facemask,&nbsp;in his closing prayer, said the national leaders should take a far-sighted attitude, help the most needy and establish&nbsp;long-term economic and social solutions.

He prayed that the Madonna would "touch (leaders') consciences so that enormous sums spent to possess more armaments and to perfect them be instead destined to the promotion of sufficient research to prevent such catastrophes in the future".

For the last few months, Pope Francis has been delivering his address through video messages with no audience present, due to the pandemic. St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square were fully reopened on May 18 as Italy entered the second phase of easing restrictions.

On Sunday, Francis will say a Mass with only about 50 people inside the basilica but will later deliver his Sunday message from his window overlooking the square for the first time since early March.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pope Francis on Saturday urged politicians to divert funds from weapons to research to avoid such pandemics in the future. The request was made in the outdoor prayer service with about 130 people, largest gathering in the Vatican in nearly three months.

Pope Francis on Saturday urged politicians to divert funds from weapons to research to avoid such pandemics in the future. The request was made in the outdoor prayer service with about 130 people, largest gathering in the Vatican in nearly three months. Majority of these people had been directly affected by the pandemic. Also read: Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide The prayer gathering took place in the Vatican gardens. The devotees, who prayed the rosary, joined in large numbers through video from about 50 Catholic shrines around the world. A large screen in the gardens showed video links with about 25 locations. Pope Francis, who maintained enough distance from everyone but was spotted without a facemask, in his closing prayer, said the national leaders should take a far-sighted attitude, help the most needy and establish long-term economic and social solutions. He prayed that the Madonna would "touch (leaders') consciences so that enormous sums spent to possess more armaments and to perfect them be instead destined to the promotion of sufficient research to prevent such catastrophes in the future". For the last few months, Pope Francis has been delivering his address through video messages with no audience present, due to the pandemic. St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square were fully reopened on May 18 as Italy entered the second phase of easing restrictions. On Sunday, Francis will say a Mass with only about 50 people inside the basilica but will later deliver his Sunday message from his window overlooking the square for the first time since early March. (With inputs from Reuters)

Direct funding towards research to avoid another pandemic: Pope Francis

Renault acknowledged that its global ambitions had been unrealistic, announcing plans to cut about 15,000 jobs, shrink production and restructure French plants as it pressed the reset button and sought to banish the spectre of Carlos Ghosn.

Renault to lay-off 15,000 people globally | COVID-19 crisis

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Frankfurt airport, India's envoy to Germany Mukta Dutta Tomar highlighted the key role played by Gurudwaras in the country in providing food and support to stranded in Indians. Remember Gurudwaras in countries like Australia, Portugal, Canada, the US have been helping out the stranded Indian nationals.

Mukta Dutta Tomar: We will increase our efforts to get people back to India

One in ten hospitalised COVID-19 patients, who also have diabetes, may die within seven days of admission, and one in five may need to be intubated and mechanically ventilated by this point, according to a study.

Researchers, including those from the University of Nantes in France, analysed data from 1,317 COVID-19 patients admitted to 53 French hospitals between 10 and 31 March 2020.

They said a majority of these patients, nearly 90 per cent, had type 2 diabetes, while only 3 per cent had type 1 diabetes, with other types of diabetes in the remaining cases.

According to the research, published in the journal Diabetologia, two-thirds of the COVID-19 patients with diabetes admitted to the hospitals were men, and the average age of all patients was 70 years.

The researchers noted that bad blood sugar control did not directly seem to impact a patient''s outcome, but the presence of diabetic complications and old age increased the risk of death.

They said an increased BMI, which is a measure of the weight of a person with respect to their height, is associated with both increased risk of needing mechanical ventilation, and with increased risk of death.

Complications were also noted in the eye, kidney, and nerves in 47 per cent of the subjects, while small blood vessel-related microvascular problems of the heart, brain, and legs were present in 41 per cent of the patients, the study noted.

Across all patients in this study, the researchers said, one in five had been intubated by day seven, and placed on a ventilator in intensive care.

By this time, they said about one in 10 had died, and a further 18 per cent had been discharged home.

According to the researchers, microvascular complications more than doubled the risk of death at day seven.

They said advanced age also substantially increased the risk of death, with the group of patients aged 75 years more than 14 times likely to die than younger patients aged under 55 years.

Patients 65-74 years old were three times more likely to die than those under 55 years, the study noted.

The scientists said the presence of the respiratory conditions like obstructive sleep apnoea, and symptoms like shortness of breath almost tripled the risk of death within a week.

"Elderly populations with long-term diabetes with advanced diabetic complications and/or treated obstructive sleep apnoea were particularly at risk of early death and might require specific management to avoid infection with the novel coronavirus," the scientists wrote in the study.

The study also confirmed previous research that insulin, and other treatments for modifying blood sugar, are not a risk factor for severe forms of COVID-19 and can be continued in patients with diabetes.

According to the study, there were no deaths in patients under 65 years old with type 1 diabetes.

However, the authors said there were only 39 patients with type 1 diabetes in the current study, adding that further research is needed to establish the effect of COVID-19 in this specific population.

Among other findings, the scientists said men were not statistically more likely to die at day seven than women.

The researchers noted that BMI may also be an independent factor for COVID-19 severity in the population living with diabetes and requiring hospital admission.

"The link between obesity and COVID-19 requires further study," they said.

One in ten hospitalised COVID-19 patients, who also have diabetes, may die within seven days of admission, and one in five may need to be intubated and mechanically ventilated by this point, according to a study.

One in ten hospitalised COVID-19 patients, who also have diabetes, may die within seven days of admission, and one in five may need to be intubated and mechanically ventilated by this point, according to a study. Researchers, including those from the University of Nantes in France, analysed data from 1,317 COVID-19 patients admitted to 53 French hospitals between 10 and 31 March 2020. They said a majority of these patients, nearly 90 per cent, had type 2 diabetes, while only 3 per cent had type 1 diabetes, with other types of diabetes in the remaining cases. According to the research, published in the journal Diabetologia, two-thirds of the COVID-19 patients with diabetes admitted to the hospitals were men, and the average age of all patients was 70 years. The researchers noted that bad blood sugar control did not directly seem to impact a patient''s outcome, but the presence of diabetic complications and old age increased the risk of death. They said an increased BMI, which is a measure of the weight of a person with respect to their height, is associated with both increased risk of needing mechanical ventilation, and with increased risk of death. Complications were also noted in the eye, kidney, and nerves in 47 per cent of the subjects, while small blood vessel-related microvascular problems of the heart, brain, and legs were present in 41 per cent of the patients, the study noted. Across all patients in this study, the researchers said, one in five had been intubated by day seven, and placed on a ventilator in intensive care. By this time, they said about one in 10 had died, and a further 18 per cent had been discharged home. According to the researchers, microvascular complications more than doubled the risk of death at day seven. They said advanced age also substantially increased the risk of death, with the group of patients aged 75 years more than 14 times likely to die than younger patients aged under 55 years. Patients 65-74 years old were three times more likely to die than those under 55 years, the study noted. The scientists said the presence of the respiratory conditions like obstructive sleep apnoea, and symptoms like shortness of breath almost tripled the risk of death within a week. "Elderly populations with long-term diabetes with advanced diabetic complications and/or treated obstructive sleep apnoea were particularly at risk of early death and might require specific management to avoid infection with the novel coronavirus," the scientists wrote in the study. The study also confirmed previous research that insulin, and other treatments for modifying blood sugar, are not a risk factor for severe forms of COVID-19 and can be continued in patients with diabetes. According to the study, there were no deaths in patients under 65 years old with type 1 diabetes. However, the authors said there were only 39 patients with type 1 diabetes in the current study, adding that further research is needed to establish the effect of COVID-19 in this specific population. Among other findings, the scientists said men were not statistically more likely to die at day seven than women. The researchers noted that BMI may also be an independent factor for COVID-19 severity in the population living with diabetes and requiring hospital admission. "The link between obesity and COVID-19 requires further study," they said.

1 in 10 hospitalised Covid-19 patients with diabetes dies: Study

Joy returned to a nursing home in Tandil, Argentina this week after the installation of a plastic curtain on one of its doors which allows residents to hug their relatives while also preventing the spread of the coronavirus.

Argentine retirement home creates ‘hug curtain’ to embrace grandparents during quarantine

With countries all over the world affected by the coronavirus pandemic, the US has emerged as a global hotspot.&nbsp;

The US currently leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths. The United States of America recorded 1,297 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, bringing its total to 101,573 since the global pandemic began

It’s important to point out that the actual death toll is believed to be far higher than the tally compiled from government figures.

On Thursday, the US surpassed the "sad milestone" of over one lakh coronavirus-linked deaths, the highest in the world. 
 
<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/world/100000-deaths-very-sad-milestone-says-trump-on-coronavirus-fatalities-301661">Also read: 100,000 deaths very sad milestone, says Trump on coronavirus fatalities</a> 
 
"We have just reached a very sad milestone with the coronavirus pandemic deaths reaching 100,000," Trump tweeted, hours after the country registered the grim figure in an election year.&nbsp;

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We have just reached a very sad milestone with the coronavirus pandemic deaths reaching 100,000. To all of the families &amp; friends of those who have passed, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy &amp; love for everything that these great people stood for &amp; represent. God be with you!
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The Trump administration has been criticized for being slower to act than other countries.&nbsp;

Four months after the first novel coronavirus infection was confirmed in the United States, the virus has killed people in every state. It has found victims in dense cities and rural towns. Some of the victims were well-known; many were unsung.

(With inputs from agencies)

With countries all over the world affected by the coronavirus pandemic, the US has emerged as a global hotspot. The US currently leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths.

With countries all over the world affected by the coronavirus pandemic, the US has emerged as a global hotspot. The US currently leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths. The United States of America recorded 1,297 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, bringing its total to 101,573 since the global pandemic began It’s important to point out that the actual death toll is believed to be far higher than the tally compiled from government figures. On Thursday, the US surpassed the "sad milestone" of over one lakh coronavirus-linked deaths, the highest in the world. Also read: 100,000 deaths very sad milestone, says Trump on coronavirus fatalities "We have just reached a very sad milestone with the coronavirus pandemic deaths reaching 100,000," Trump tweeted, hours after the country registered the grim figure in an election year. We have just reached a very sad milestone with the coronavirus pandemic deaths reaching 100,000. To all of the families & friends of those who have passed, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy & love for everything that these great people stood for & represent. God be with you! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 28, 2020 × The Trump administration has been criticized for being slower to act than other countries. Four months after the first novel coronavirus infection was confirmed in the United States, the virus has killed people in every state. It has found victims in dense cities and rural towns. Some of the victims were well-known; many were unsung. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 1,200 coronavirus deaths in the US in the last 24 hours: Report 

Chilean authorities are calling on young people to respect the measures imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus and say that over 50% of coronavirus cases are people under 40-years-old.

Chilean youth flaunting guidelines pose coronavirus risk

Around 5.8 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

On Friday, the cases stood at &nbsp;5,814,885, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 360,412 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world.

United States, Spain, Russia, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day.

The US currently leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths. The United States of America recorded 1,297 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, bringing its total to 101,573 since the global pandemic began.

It’s important to point out that the actual death toll is believed to be far higher than the tally compiled from government figures.

The number of declared cases in the world has doubled in a month, and more than one million new cases of COVID-19 have been registered in the last 10 days.

The number of diagnosed cases, however, reflects only a fraction of the actual number of infections as many countries test only serious cases or lack testing capacity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 5.8 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

Around 5.8 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University. On Friday, the cases stood at 5,814,885, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 360,412 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world. United States, Spain, Russia, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day. The US currently leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths. The United States of America recorded 1,297 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, bringing its total to 101,573 since the global pandemic began. It’s important to point out that the actual death toll is believed to be far higher than the tally compiled from government figures. The number of declared cases in the world has doubled in a month, and more than one million new cases of COVID-19 have been registered in the last 10 days. The number of diagnosed cases, however, reflects only a fraction of the actual number of infections as many countries test only serious cases or lack testing capacity. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases near 5.8 million, death toll rises to  360,412

After staunchly denying the US allegations of coronavirus originating from a bio-lab in its first epicentre Wuhan, Chinese researchers have debunked widely reported view that the deadly virus emanated from a wet market in the city selling live animals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-closures-pre-travel-tests-largely-ineffective-against-covid-19-spread-eu-health-agency-301331">Also read — Border closures, pre-travel tests largely ineffective against COVID-19 spread: EU health agency</a> 
 
A leading Chinese virologist, whose mysterious disappearance sparked speculation about the novel coronavirus emanating from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), was for the first time interviewed on Tuesday on China's state television where she warned that such viruses are just the "tip of the iceberg" and expressed regret over science being "politicised".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whistleblower-accuses-un-human-rights-office-of-helping-china-keep-an-eye-on-dissidents-301414">Also read: Whistleblower accuses UN human rights office of helping China keep an eye on dissidents</a> 
 
Shi Zhengli, known as the "Bat Woman" for her passionate research about bats and the viruses associated with them, had early this month refuted "rumours" of her defection to the West on her Chinese social media WeChat account. She also posted nine photos of her recent life.

On Wednesday, Chinese scientists dismissed the reports that the deadly virus which struck Wuhan and later turned into a pandemic paralysing the world originated in the seafood market in Wuhan.

Recent Shanghai-based research targeting locally confirmed cases of coronavirus once again proved the attacks on a seafood market in central China's Hubei province for originating the virus are nonsense, state-run Global Times daily reported.

The results of the study, being published on the website of top academic journal Nature on May 20, implied the Huanan Seafood Market in Hubei's capital Wuhan may not be the birthplace of COVID-19, although the virus outbreak emerged in Wuhan had a strong link to contacts with the market.

Based on the analysis of 112 quality samples from 326 confirmed cases reported in Shanghai between January 20 and February 25, researchers found two major lineages (clade I and clade II) with differential exposure history during the early phase of the outbreak in Wuhan, it said.

There has been no direct evidence that the cross-species COVID-19 transmission originally occurred in the Huanan market in Wuhan, although it was a probable place for human-to-human transmission of the virus because of its relatively high crowd density, a researcher of the team, who preferred to be anonymous, told state-run Global Times.

"The origin of the virus remains unknown based on current published data," she told the daily. "It still needs scientists' continuous effort in determining the intermediate host of coronavirus, and carrying out comprehensive and detailed virus-tracing studies."

The research team consisted of members from Shanghai''s scientific research and medical institutions including the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Centre, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and the Shanghai Institute of Haematology.

China is resisting mounting pressure from the US and the leaders of many countries for an inquiry into the origin of the virus, which was initially stated to have emerged from the wet market in Wuhan. 
Besides US President Donald Trump, who stepped up demand for an investigation into the origin of the virus and whether it escaped from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Britain, Australia and German Chancellor Angela Merkel called for more transparency from Beijing on COVID-19 origins.

China's new narrative followed as the World Health Assembly, a decision-making body of the Geneva-based World Health Organisation, recently passed a unanimous resolution to probe the origin of the virus.

China, which also backed the resolution, called for a comprehensive evaluation of the global COVID-19 response, to sum up, experiences and address shortcomings after the pandemic is brought under control.

After staunchly denying the US allegations of coronavirus originating from a bio-lab in its first epicentre Wuhan, Chinese researchers have debunked widely reported view that the deadly virus emanated from a wet market in the city selling live animals.

After staunchly denying the US allegations of coronavirus originating from a bio-lab in its first epicentre Wuhan, Chinese researchers have debunked widely reported view that the deadly virus emanated from a wet market in the city selling live animals. Also read — Border closures, pre-travel tests largely ineffective against COVID-19 spread: EU health agency A leading Chinese virologist, whose mysterious disappearance sparked speculation about the novel coronavirus emanating from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), was for the first time interviewed on Tuesday on China's state television where she warned that such viruses are just the "tip of the iceberg" and expressed regret over science being "politicised". Also read: Whistleblower accuses UN human rights office of helping China keep an eye on dissidents Shi Zhengli, known as the "Bat Woman" for her passionate research about bats and the viruses associated with them, had early this month refuted "rumours" of her defection to the West on her Chinese social media WeChat account. She also posted nine photos of her recent life. On Wednesday, Chinese scientists dismissed the reports that the deadly virus which struck Wuhan and later turned into a pandemic paralysing the world originated in the seafood market in Wuhan. Recent Shanghai-based research targeting locally confirmed cases of coronavirus once again proved the attacks on a seafood market in central China's Hubei province for originating the virus are nonsense, state-run Global Times daily reported. The results of the study, being published on the website of top academic journal Nature on May 20, implied the Huanan Seafood Market in Hubei's capital Wuhan may not be the birthplace of COVID-19, although the virus outbreak emerged in Wuhan had a strong link to contacts with the market. Based on the analysis of 112 quality samples from 326 confirmed cases reported in Shanghai between January 20 and February 25, researchers found two major lineages (clade I and clade II) with differential exposure history during the early phase of the outbreak in Wuhan, it said. There has been no direct evidence that the cross-species COVID-19 transmission originally occurred in the Huanan market in Wuhan, although it was a probable place for human-to-human transmission of the virus because of its relatively high crowd density, a researcher of the team, who preferred to be anonymous, told state-run Global Times. "The origin of the virus remains unknown based on current published data," she told the daily. "It still needs scientists' continuous effort in determining the intermediate host of coronavirus, and carrying out comprehensive and detailed virus-tracing studies." The research team consisted of members from Shanghai''s scientific research and medical institutions including the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Centre, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and the Shanghai Institute of Haematology. China is resisting mounting pressure from the US and the leaders of many countries for an inquiry into the origin of the virus, which was initially stated to have emerged from the wet market in Wuhan. Besides US President Donald Trump, who stepped up demand for an investigation into the origin of the virus and whether it escaped from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Britain, Australia and German Chancellor Angela Merkel called for more transparency from Beijing on COVID-19 origins. China's new narrative followed as the World Health Assembly, a decision-making body of the Geneva-based World Health Organisation, recently passed a unanimous resolution to probe the origin of the virus. China, which also backed the resolution, called for a comprehensive evaluation of the global COVID-19 response, to sum up, experiences and address shortcomings after the pandemic is brought under control.

Covid-19 did not originate from Wuhan wet market, claim Chinese scientists

Around 5.6 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

On Wednesday, the cases stood at &nbsp;5,593,148, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed &nbsp;350,509 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world.

United States, Spain, Russia, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day.

The number of declared cases in the world has doubled in a month, and more than one million new cases of COVID-19 have been registered in the last 11 days.

The number of diagnosed cases, however, reflects only a fraction of the actual number of infections as many countries test only serious cases or lack testing capacity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 5.6 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

Around 5.6 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University. On Wednesday, the cases stood at 5,593,148, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 350,509 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world. United States, Spain, Russia, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day. The number of declared cases in the world has doubled in a month, and more than one million new cases of COVID-19 have been registered in the last 11 days. The number of diagnosed cases, however, reflects only a fraction of the actual number of infections as many countries test only serious cases or lack testing capacity. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases near 5.6 million, death toll rises to 350,509

The daily death toll in the United States has been below 700 for the third consecutive day, the country has recorded 657 deaths in the past 24 hours, the Johns Hopkins University tracker said Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-brazil-records-over-1000-daily-deaths-for-fourth-time-in-week-toll-stands-at-24512-301221" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Brazil records over 1,000 daily deaths for fourth time in week, toll stands at 24,512</a>

The death toll in the country now stands at 98,875, and the number of cases of infection stands at more than 1.68 million, it said.&nbsp;

Despite showing a decrease in the toll, the United States remains the worst-hit nation in terms of the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-fact-checks-trump-tweet-for-the-first-time-calls-it-unsubstantiated-301222" hreflang="en">Twitter fact-checks Trump tweet for the first time, calls it 'unsubstantiated'&nbsp;</a>

Followed by Brazil, the country has recorded 1,039 deaths in 24 hours due to the novel coronavirus. Despite being downplayed by Jair Bolsonaro, who called it a "little flu", Brazil has turned out to be the new epicentre of the virus. Their death toll has surged to 24,512, according to health ministry figures.&nbsp;

According to health experts, the numbers are probably much higher but due to under-testing, many cases are going unnoticed.&nbsp;

In terms of cases, Brazil has recorded 391,222 infections in a population of 210 million.

While the country has officially surpassed the United States in terms of the daily death toll, Bolsonaro continues to tout the virus as a ''measly cold'' and is not willing to acknowledge the outcome of his actions.

The daily death toll in the United States has been below 700 for the third consecutive day, the country has recorded 657 deaths in the past 24 hours, the Johns Hopkins University tracker said Tuesday.

The daily death toll in the United States has been below 700 for the third consecutive day, the country has recorded 657 deaths in the past 24 hours, the Johns Hopkins University tracker said Tuesday. Also read: Coronavirus: Brazil records over 1,000 daily deaths for fourth time in week, toll stands at 24,512 The death toll in the country now stands at 98,875, and the number of cases of infection stands at more than 1.68 million, it said. Despite showing a decrease in the toll, the United States remains the worst-hit nation in terms of the novel coronavirus. Also read: Twitter fact-checks Trump tweet for the first time, calls it 'unsubstantiated' Followed by Brazil, the country has recorded 1,039 deaths in 24 hours due to the novel coronavirus. Despite being downplayed by Jair Bolsonaro, who called it a "little flu", Brazil has turned out to be the new epicentre of the virus. Their death toll has surged to 24,512, according to health ministry figures. According to health experts, the numbers are probably much higher but due to under-testing, many cases are going unnoticed. In terms of cases, Brazil has recorded 391,222 infections in a population of 210 million. While the country has officially surpassed the United States in terms of the daily death toll, Bolsonaro continues to tout the virus as a ''measly cold'' and is not willing to acknowledge the outcome of his actions.

US records daily death toll below 700 for third consecutive day, tally stands at 98,875

Pakistan on Tuesday said that 176 Pakistanis stranded in India due to the current coronavirus lockdown will return home on Wednesday through the Attari-Wagah border, according to a statement from the Foreign Office.

India like many other nations in the world has imposed a nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus which has created havoc around the world by infecting 5,543,439 and killing 347,836 people.

These 176 Pakistanis were stranded in different Indian states including Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand and Delhi due to the extended lockdown and closure of Attari-Wagah border following the outbreak of coronavirus, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.

In line with the Prime Minister's directions, for safe and smooth repatriation of stranded Pakistanis, the High Commission for Pakistan in New Delhi remained in close contact with the Indian side and the Foreign Office has been coordinating with other national authorities in Pakistan, the FO added.

It said the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi also facilitated and coordinated logistics for transfer of these Pakistanis to Attari from more than twenty different Indian cities, amid the lockdown.

More than 400 stranded Pakistanis have been repatriated from India through Attari-Wagah border since March 20, 2020.

The ongoing efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue till the repatriation of all remaining stranded Pakistanis, the FO said.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that more than 110,000 Pakistani stranded in various parts of the world wanted to come back.

Pakistan has till now witnessed 57,705 cases of coronavirus, with 1,197 deaths.

Pakistan on Tuesday said that 176 Pakistanis stranded in India due to the current coronavirus lockdown will return home on Wednesday through the Attari-Wagah border, according to a statement from the Foreign Office.

Pakistan on Tuesday said that 176 Pakistanis stranded in India due to the current coronavirus lockdown will return home on Wednesday through the Attari-Wagah border, according to a statement from the Foreign Office. India like many other nations in the world has imposed a nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus which has created havoc around the world by infecting 5,543,439 and killing 347,836 people. These 176 Pakistanis were stranded in different Indian states including Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand and Delhi due to the extended lockdown and closure of Attari-Wagah border following the outbreak of coronavirus, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement. In line with the Prime Minister's directions, for safe and smooth repatriation of stranded Pakistanis, the High Commission for Pakistan in New Delhi remained in close contact with the Indian side and the Foreign Office has been coordinating with other national authorities in Pakistan, the FO added. It said the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi also facilitated and coordinated logistics for transfer of these Pakistanis to Attari from more than twenty different Indian cities, amid the lockdown. More than 400 stranded Pakistanis have been repatriated from India through Attari-Wagah border since March 20, 2020. The ongoing efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue till the repatriation of all remaining stranded Pakistanis, the FO said. Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that more than 110,000 Pakistani stranded in various parts of the world wanted to come back. Pakistan has till now witnessed 57,705 cases of coronavirus, with 1,197 deaths.

Pakistan to bring back 176 citizens stranded in India through Attari-Wagah border

Sydney beaches have closed after surgical face masks, plastic takeaway containers and air-conditioning ducts washed ashore from dozens of shipping containers which were lost at sea.

Sydney beaches have closed after surgical face masks, plastic takeaway containers and air-conditioning ducts washed ashore from dozens of shipping containers which were lost at sea. The materials came from the Singaporean-flagged APL England, a cargo ship that lost 40 containers on Sunday in rough seas off the NSW coast. Large swell caused the ship to roll and stacks of containers destabilised and fell into 2km-deep water, forcing the vessel to turn around and head towards Brisbane. A Randwick Council spokesperson confirmed that it is highly likely the beaches will be closed if debris continues to wash ashore. Debris from a container ship has washed up on many of our beaches, including Malabar (pictured). Our crews are out now, cleaning up. There may be submerged items in the water, so please don’t swim. Don’t pick up rubbish, let us know about it, it may not be safe for you. pic.twitter.com/REYnlObbcr — Randwick Council (@RandwickCouncil) May 27, 2020 × Waverley councillor Sally Betts noted that members of the community were collecting face masks and silver packages off the beach and placing them in bins. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Face masks wash up on Sydney beaches after cargo ship lost containers

People with a faulty gene linked to a greater risk of dementia may also have increased chances of developing severe COVID-19, according to a large-scale study which may lead to new ideas for treatments against the deadly infectious disease.

The study, published in the Journal of Gerontology, Medical Sciences, found a high risk of severe COVID-19 infection among those who carried two faulty copies of the APOE gene termed e4e4.

Researchers, including those from the University of Exeter Medical School in the UK, assessed data from the UK Biobank -- a large long-term study investigating the respective contributions of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to the development of disease in over 5,00,000 people.

The scientists found that one in 36 people of European ancestry have two faulty copies of the APOE gene, which they said can increase risks of Alzheimer's disease up to 14-fold, and also increase risks of heart disease.

In the current study, the scientists found that carrying these gene mutations doubles the risks of COVID-19 -- even in people who had not developed these diseases.

Previously, they had found that people with dementia are three times more likely to get severe COVID-19.

However, the researchers said dementia patients are not one of the groups advertised to shield -- or shelter in place -- on health grounds.

The scientists speculated that part of the increased risk effect may have been exposed to the high prevalence of the virus in care homes.

But based on the current study's findings, they said a genetic component may also be at play.

According to the researchers, people with the APOE e4e4 genotype were at double the risk of developing severe COVID-19, compared to those with the common e3e3 form of the gene.

They said a majority of people in the population, and in the sample size, have not yet been exposed to the virus.

From the analysis, the scientists said 2.36 per cent of participants with European ancestries had the ApoE e4e4 faulty gene.

But 5.13 per cent of those who tested positive for COVID-19 had this gene variant, indicating that the risk is doubled compared to e3e3.

"This is an exciting result because we might now be able to pinpoint how this faulty gene causes vulnerability to COVID-19. This could lead to new ideas for treatments," said Chia-Ling Kuo, study co-author from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in the US.

The researchers believe that increasing disease risks that appear inevitable with ageing might actually be due to specific biological differences.

They said this could help scientists understand why some people stay active to age 100 and beyond, while others become disabled and die in their sixties.

While several studies have shown that people with dementia are at high risk of developing severe COVID-19, the authors of the current research believe that this may not simply be due to the effects of dementia, advancing age or frailty, or exposure to the virus in care homes.

The effect, according to study co-author David Melzer, could be partly due to this underlying genetic change, which puts people at risk for both COVID-19 and dementia.

"Further investigation is needed to understand the biological mechanisms linking ApoE genotypes to COVID-19 severity," the scientists concluded in the study.

People with a faulty gene linked to a greater risk of dementia may also have increased chances of developing severe COVID-19, according to a large-scale study which may lead to new ideas for treatments against the deadly infectious disease.

People with a faulty gene linked to a greater risk of dementia may also have increased chances of developing severe COVID-19, according to a large-scale study which may lead to new ideas for treatments against the deadly infectious disease. The study, published in the Journal of Gerontology, Medical Sciences, found a high risk of severe COVID-19 infection among those who carried two faulty copies of the APOE gene termed e4e4. Researchers, including those from the University of Exeter Medical School in the UK, assessed data from the UK Biobank -- a large long-term study investigating the respective contributions of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to the development of disease in over 5,00,000 people. The scientists found that one in 36 people of European ancestry have two faulty copies of the APOE gene, which they said can increase risks of Alzheimer's disease up to 14-fold, and also increase risks of heart disease. In the current study, the scientists found that carrying these gene mutations doubles the risks of COVID-19 -- even in people who had not developed these diseases. Previously, they had found that people with dementia are three times more likely to get severe COVID-19. However, the researchers said dementia patients are not one of the groups advertised to shield -- or shelter in place -- on health grounds. The scientists speculated that part of the increased risk effect may have been exposed to the high prevalence of the virus in care homes. But based on the current study's findings, they said a genetic component may also be at play. According to the researchers, people with the APOE e4e4 genotype were at double the risk of developing severe COVID-19, compared to those with the common e3e3 form of the gene. They said a majority of people in the population, and in the sample size, have not yet been exposed to the virus. From the analysis, the scientists said 2.36 per cent of participants with European ancestries had the ApoE e4e4 faulty gene. But 5.13 per cent of those who tested positive for COVID-19 had this gene variant, indicating that the risk is doubled compared to e3e3. "This is an exciting result because we might now be able to pinpoint how this faulty gene causes vulnerability to COVID-19. This could lead to new ideas for treatments," said Chia-Ling Kuo, study co-author from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in the US. The researchers believe that increasing disease risks that appear inevitable with ageing might actually be due to specific biological differences. They said this could help scientists understand why some people stay active to age 100 and beyond, while others become disabled and die in their sixties. While several studies have shown that people with dementia are at high risk of developing severe COVID-19, the authors of the current research believe that this may not simply be due to the effects of dementia, advancing age or frailty, or exposure to the virus in care homes. The effect, according to study co-author David Melzer, could be partly due to this underlying genetic change, which puts people at risk for both COVID-19 and dementia. "Further investigation is needed to understand the biological mechanisms linking ApoE genotypes to COVID-19 severity," the scientists concluded in the study.

Gene linked to dementia also associated with severe COVID-19 risk: Study

The number of Covid-19 cases worldwide was nearing the 5.5 million mark on Tuesday, while the deaths have increased to more than 346,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-temporarily-suspends-trial-of-hydroxychloroquine-as-covid-19-treatment-301021">Also read: WHO temporarily suspends trial of hydroxychloroquine as COVID-19 treatment</a> 
 
According to the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) as of Tuesday morning, the total number of cases stood at 5,497,532, while the death toll increased to 346,269.

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Meanwhile, the World Health Organization said that countries, where coronavirus infections are declining, could still face an "immediate second peak" if they let up too soon on measures to halt the outbreak.

The world is still in the middle of the first wave of the coronavirus outbreak, WHO emergencies head Dr Mike Ryan told an online briefing, noting that while cases are declining in many countries they are still increasing in Central and South America, South Asia and Africa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fumes-at-media-over-golf-outing-amid-covid-19-crisis-301027" hreflang="en">Trump fumes at media over golf outing amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

Brazil has officially surpassed the United States in terms of the daily death toll. Bolsonaro's Brazil recorded 807 deaths over the last 24 hours, whereas, 620 casualties were witnessed in the United States.

Total death tally in Brazil has reached 23,473, whereas the United States nears 100,000 with 97,971 deaths.&nbsp;

Brazil is second to the United States in terms of worst outbreaks of the coronavirus. According to the Baltimore-based university, the United State's cases of infection stands at 1,662,375, whereas, Brazil comes second with 374,898 cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of Covid-19 cases worldwide was nearing the 5.5 million mark on Tuesday, while the deaths have increased to more than 346,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

The number of Covid-19 cases worldwide was nearing the 5.5 million mark on Tuesday, while the deaths have increased to more than 346,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University. Also read: WHO temporarily suspends trial of hydroxychloroquine as COVID-19 treatment According to the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) as of Tuesday morning, the total number of cases stood at 5,497,532, while the death toll increased to 346,269. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization said that countries, where coronavirus infections are declining, could still face an "immediate second peak" if they let up too soon on measures to halt the outbreak. The world is still in the middle of the first wave of the coronavirus outbreak, WHO emergencies head Dr Mike Ryan told an online briefing, noting that while cases are declining in many countries they are still increasing in Central and South America, South Asia and Africa. Also read: Trump fumes at media over golf outing amid COVID-19 crisis Brazil has officially surpassed the United States in terms of the daily death toll. Bolsonaro's Brazil recorded 807 deaths over the last 24 hours, whereas, 620 casualties were witnessed in the United States. Total death tally in Brazil has reached 23,473, whereas the United States nears 100,000 with 97,971 deaths. Brazil is second to the United States in terms of worst outbreaks of the coronavirus. According to the Baltimore-based university, the United State's cases of infection stands at 1,662,375, whereas, Brazil comes second with 374,898 cases. (With inputs from agencies)

Number of coronavirus cases worldwide reaches 5.5 million, death toll over 3.4 lakh

A recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes.

This survey also found that 44 per cent Republicans believe the conspiracy, while 19 per cent Democrats agreed that it was possible. A majority of Democrats (52 per cent) identified the theory as false.

Conducted by Yahoo News and YouGov, over 1,640 Americans were questioned about this possibility in the last week of May.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-magic-drug-hydroxychloroquine-may-be-killing-coronavirus-patients-across-the-globe-study-300863" hreflang="en">Trump's magic drug hydroxychloroquine may be killing coronavirus patients across the globe: Study</a>

The conspiracy theory has made rounds across social media since the race to develop a vaccine amped-up. Many believe this microchip will be used to track people, and to eradicate 15 per cent of the global population.

However, The Bill and Melinda Gates foundation has not undertaken or supported any vaccine driven coronavirus research, especially not involving microchips.

The foundation did fund a study in the beginning of the pandemic, but that was to develop an identifier of sorts only detectable by a smartphone. Gates is also working on the concept of a “digital identity” which would store people’s medical records and personal documents on the cloud with access only to the owner. Conspiracy theories combined these two unrelated projects to suggest that mass human microchipping may be inevitable.

Anti-vaccination groups add to woes

Anti-vaccination groups also increasingly gaining traction across the Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology. Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues.

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/americans-spend-memorial-day-weekend-at-beaches-and-parks-amid-pandemic-rage-300896" hreflang="en">Americans spend Memorial Day weekend at beaches and parks amid pandemic rage</a>

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 5.4 million mark today, while the deaths increased to 345,064.

The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.&nbsp;

Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively.

A recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes.

A recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes. This survey also found that 44 per cent Republicans believe the conspiracy, while 19 per cent Democrats agreed that it was possible. A majority of Democrats (52 per cent) identified the theory as false. Conducted by Yahoo News and YouGov, over 1,640 Americans were questioned about this possibility in the last week of May. Also read: Trump's magic drug hydroxychloroquine may be killing coronavirus patients across the globe: Study The conspiracy theory has made rounds across social media since the race to develop a vaccine amped-up. Many believe this microchip will be used to track people, and to eradicate 15 per cent of the global population. However, The Bill and Melinda Gates foundation has not undertaken or supported any vaccine driven coronavirus research, especially not involving microchips. The foundation did fund a study in the beginning of the pandemic, but that was to develop an identifier of sorts only detectable by a smartphone. Gates is also working on the concept of a “digital identity” which would store people’s medical records and personal documents on the cloud with access only to the owner. Conspiracy theories combined these two unrelated projects to suggest that mass human microchipping may be inevitable. Anti-vaccination groups add to woes Anti-vaccination groups also increasingly gaining traction across the Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology. Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues. In pictures: Americans spend Memorial Day weekend at beaches and parks amid pandemic rage The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 5.4 million mark today, while the deaths increased to 345,064. The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively.

28% Americans believe Bill Gates intends to microchip people using coronavirus vaccine

Brazil has officially surpassed the United States in terms of the daily death toll. Bolsonaro's Brazil recorded &nbsp;807 deaths over the last 24 hours, whereas, 620 casualties were witnessed in the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fumes-at-media-over-golf-outing-amid-covid-19-crisis-301027" hreflang="en">Trump fumes at media over golf outing amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

Total death tally in Brazil has reached 23,473, whereas the United States nears 100,000 with 97,971 deaths.&nbsp;

Brazil is second to the United States in terms of worst outbreaks of the coronavirus. &nbsp;According to the Baltimore-based university, the United State's cases of infection stands at 1,662,375, whereas, Brazil comes second with 374,898 cases.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-mayor-asks-bolsonaro-to-resign-shut-up-and-stay-at-home-as-death-toll-mounts-300982" hreflang="en">Brazilian mayor asks Bolsonaro to 'resign, shut up, and stay at home' as death toll mounts</a>

Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “little flu”.

On Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practising social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge.

Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

Brazil has officially surpassed the United States in terms of the daily death toll. Bolsonaro's Brazil recorded 807 deaths over the last 24 hours, whereas, 620 casualties were witnessed in the United States.

Brazil has officially surpassed the United States in terms of the daily death toll. Bolsonaro's Brazil recorded 807 deaths over the last 24 hours, whereas, 620 casualties were witnessed in the United States. Also read: Trump fumes at media over golf outing amid COVID-19 crisis Total death tally in Brazil has reached 23,473, whereas the United States nears 100,000 with 97,971 deaths. Brazil is second to the United States in terms of worst outbreaks of the coronavirus. According to the Baltimore-based university, the United State's cases of infection stands at 1,662,375, whereas, Brazil comes second with 374,898 cases. Also read: Brazilian mayor asks Bolsonaro to 'resign, shut up, and stay at home' as death toll mounts Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “little flu”. On Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practising social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge. Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

Coronavirus: Brazil surpasses the United States in terms of daily death toll

The 13 edition of&nbsp;National People's Congress is underway in Beijing. Today marks the second plenary meeting.

This&nbsp;session&nbsp;of China’s top legislative body will have a two-fold focus: economy and optics.

All countries are reeling from the effects of coronavirus, which is why all major economies are toying with different ideas to fix the crisis.

Additionally, China wants to project the facade of normalcy to the world, that the country is now back in business.

<h6><img alt="o" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bff56682-4e4c-4ce4-907c-650af1e79bae" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-5_3.jpg" /> 
A security staff looks on after the second plenary session of the National People’s Congress (NPC)at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on May 25, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The day began with Li Zhanshu, the chairman of the NPC standing committee delivering a work report. Li summed up what the standing committee had done in face of the pandemic.

“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, the npc standing committee has acted promptly and performed its lawful duty. We made the decision to completely ban illegal trade and consumption of wildlife”, Zhanshu said.

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On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping met leaders from the Hubei province, which is now witnessing a resurgence of cases after the initial epicentre was able to flatten the curve.

Xi told the Hubei deputies that the pandemic is a test of China's grassroot governance.

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/post-pandemic-nightclub-experience-in-china-gives-a-glimpse-of-the-future-300883" hreflang="en">Post-pandemic nightclub experience in China gives a glimpse of the future</a>

“This epidemic is a test of our grassroots governance system and the level of its capacity. It further highlights the role of our grassroots units such as neighbourhood office, community centre, town-level and village-level committees”, Jinping said.

Xi also commended the efforts of a Hubei doctor. “I saw you on TV, it was about you treating an 87-year-old man. I am so impressed”, he said.

There will be two broad messages coming out of these chambers over the next couple of days. One may be about China not being the perpetrator but the victim of the coronavirus. Secondly, that the dragon has defeated the virus under Xi's leadership.

The 13 edition of National People's Congress is underway in Beijing. Today marks the second plenary meeting. This session of China’s top legislative body will have a two-fold focus: economy and optics.

The 13 edition of National People's Congress is underway in Beijing. Today marks the second plenary meeting. This session of China’s top legislative body will have a two-fold focus: economy and optics. All countries are reeling from the effects of coronavirus, which is why all major economies are toying with different ideas to fix the crisis. Additionally, China wants to project the facade of normalcy to the world, that the country is now back in business. A security staff looks on after the second plenary session of the National People’s Congress (NPC)at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on May 25, 2020 | AFP The day began with Li Zhanshu, the chairman of the NPC standing committee delivering a work report. Li summed up what the standing committee had done in face of the pandemic. “Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, the npc standing committee has acted promptly and performed its lawful duty. We made the decision to completely ban illegal trade and consumption of wildlife”, Zhanshu said. × On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping met leaders from the Hubei province, which is now witnessing a resurgence of cases after the initial epicentre was able to flatten the curve. Xi told the Hubei deputies that the pandemic is a test of China's grassroot governance. In pictures: Post-pandemic nightclub experience in China gives a glimpse of the future “This epidemic is a test of our grassroots governance system and the level of its capacity. It further highlights the role of our grassroots units such as neighbourhood office, community centre, town-level and village-level committees”, Jinping said. Xi also commended the efforts of a Hubei doctor. “I saw you on TV, it was about you treating an 87-year-old man. I am so impressed”, he said. There will be two broad messages coming out of these chambers over the next couple of days. One may be about China not being the perpetrator but the victim of the coronavirus. Secondly, that the dragon has defeated the virus under Xi's leadership.

NPC's second plenary session in China: What can we expect?

The anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine has been touted as a potential cure to COVID-19 by many experts. However, a new study shows that the drug may be killing people.

Ever since global leaders, especially Donald Trump endorsed the drug, the public confidence in it to prevent coronavirus has increased. In fact, the US president recently claimed to be taking the medicine to avoid contracting COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/britain-begins-hydroxychloroquine-trial-to-test-coronavirus-prevention-300216" hreflang="en">Britain begins hydroxychloroquine trial to test coronavirus prevention</a>

Published in the Lancet online medical journal, the paper claims that the rush to quickly use the drug on patients may not be a great idea. A lot of doctors have been prescribing it without evidence of its potency against the virus. Earlier researches have made it abundantly clear that the drug could cause heart irregularities, and has been used to treat malaria.

The researchers in the paper believe that the drug should no longer be administered on patients, unless in a research setting.

A french doctor started treating his patients with the drug first.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="49fafbe6-6ce4-474a-bf4b-3db403166746" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_6.jpg" /> 
A pharmacy tech holds pills of Hydroxychloroquine at Rock Canyon Pharmacy in Provo, Utah, on May 20, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Even though the drug is otherwise safe for malaria patients, it may be fatal for people carrying COVID-19, for we’re still learning new details of the virus everyday.

The researchers took into account 96,000 patients across 671 hospitals between the time period of December 2019 - April 2020.

They found that the fatality rate was much higher among people who were given the drug as opposed to those who weren’t. One out of six patients on hydroxychloroquine died. While only one out of 11 patients not taking the drug dead.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/amid-rising-cases-brazils-health-ministry-recommends-hydroxychloroquine-to-treat-coronavirus-cases-299967" hreflang="en">Amid rising cases, Brazil's health ministry recommends hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus cases</a>

Many patients who were given hydroxychloroquine also recorded cardiac arrhythmias, which makes the lower chamber of the heart to beat irregularly. Almost 8 per cent of the patients who were being treated with hydroxychloroquine alongside an antibiotic developed irregular heartbeats, as opposed to 0.3 per cent patients who were not given the drug.

“This is the first large-scale study to find statistically robust evidence that treatment with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine does not benefit patients with Covid-19,” said Prof Mandeep R Mehra, lead author of the study in conversation with The Guardian.

“Instead, our findings suggest it may be associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems and increased risk of death. Randomised clinical trials are essential to confirm any harms or benefits associated with these agents. In the meantime, we suggest these drugs should not be used as treatments for Covid-19 outside of clinical trials”, he added.

Many scientists have suggested ending the use of hydroxychloroquine in treating coronavirus patients.

The anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine has been touted as a potential cure to COVID-19 by many experts. However, a new study shows that the drug may be killing people.

The anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine has been touted as a potential cure to COVID-19 by many experts. However, a new study shows that the drug may be killing people. Ever since global leaders, especially Donald Trump endorsed the drug, the public confidence in it to prevent coronavirus has increased. In fact, the US president recently claimed to be taking the medicine to avoid contracting COVID-19. Also read: Britain begins hydroxychloroquine trial to test coronavirus prevention Published in the Lancet online medical journal, the paper claims that the rush to quickly use the drug on patients may not be a great idea. A lot of doctors have been prescribing it without evidence of its potency against the virus. Earlier researches have made it abundantly clear that the drug could cause heart irregularities, and has been used to treat malaria. The researchers in the paper believe that the drug should no longer be administered on patients, unless in a research setting. A french doctor started treating his patients with the drug first. A pharmacy tech holds pills of Hydroxychloroquine at Rock Canyon Pharmacy in Provo, Utah, on May 20, 2020 | AFP Even though the drug is otherwise safe for malaria patients, it may be fatal for people carrying COVID-19, for we’re still learning new details of the virus everyday. The researchers took into account 96,000 patients across 671 hospitals between the time period of December 2019 - April 2020. They found that the fatality rate was much higher among people who were given the drug as opposed to those who weren’t. One out of six patients on hydroxychloroquine died. While only one out of 11 patients not taking the drug dead. Also read: Amid rising cases, Brazil's health ministry recommends hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus cases Many patients who were given hydroxychloroquine also recorded cardiac arrhythmias, which makes the lower chamber of the heart to beat irregularly. Almost 8 per cent of the patients who were being treated with hydroxychloroquine alongside an antibiotic developed irregular heartbeats, as opposed to 0.3 per cent patients who were not given the drug. “This is the first large-scale study to find statistically robust evidence that treatment with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine does not benefit patients with Covid-19,” said Prof Mandeep R Mehra, lead author of the study in conversation with The Guardian. “Instead, our findings suggest it may be associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems and increased risk of death. Randomised clinical trials are essential to confirm any harms or benefits associated with these agents. In the meantime, we suggest these drugs should not be used as treatments for Covid-19 outside of clinical trials”, he added. Many scientists have suggested ending the use of hydroxychloroquine in treating coronavirus patients.

Trump's magic drug hydroxychloroquine may be killing coronavirus patients across the globe: Study

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 5.4 million mark, while the deaths increased to 345,064. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-bars-travel-from-brazil-a-new-pandemic-hotspot-white-house-300817">Also read: Trump bars travel from Brazil, a new pandemic hotspot — White House</a>

The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.&nbsp;

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Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively.

In terms of cases, Brazil accounted for the second-highest number of infections at 363,211.

This was followed by Russia (344,481), the UK (260,916), Spain (235,772), Italy (229,858), France (182,709), Germany (180,328), Turkey (156,827), India (156,827), Iran (135,701), and Peru (119,959), the CSSE figures showed.

Meanwhile, China has reported 51 new coronavirus cases including 40 asymptomatic infections, majority of them in the contagion's first epicentre Wuhan, where over six million tests have been conducted in the last 10 days, health officials said on Monday. 
&nbsp; 
The country's National Health Commission (NHC) said that 11 new imported cases were reported on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 5.4 million mark, while the deaths increased to 345,064. Also read: Trump bars travel from Brazil, a new pandemic hotspot — White House The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 5.4 million mark, while the deaths increased to 345,064. Also read: Trump bars travel from Brazil, a new pandemic hotspot — White House The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively. In terms of cases, Brazil accounted for the second-highest number of infections at 363,211. This was followed by Russia (344,481), the UK (260,916), Spain (235,772), Italy (229,858), France (182,709), Germany (180,328), Turkey (156,827), India (156,827), Iran (135,701), and Peru (119,959), the CSSE figures showed. Meanwhile, China has reported 51 new coronavirus cases including 40 asymptomatic infections, majority of them in the contagion's first epicentre Wuhan, where over six million tests have been conducted in the last 10 days, health officials said on Monday. The country's National Health Commission (NHC) said that 11 new imported cases were reported on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Global covid-19 cases surge past 5.4 million, death toll over 3.4 lakh

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the globe with over 5.4 million cases and 345,064 fatalities.

The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.&nbsp;

Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively.

This pandemic coincides with the revival of the anti-vaccination movement which is increasingly gaining traction across Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology.

Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4677c6b3-f03d-4c4e-b760-48243e130a12" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_9.jpg" /> 
A man holds a sign against vaccination at an anti-coronavirus lockdown demonstration in Hyde Park in London on May 16, 2020, following an easing of lockdown rules in England during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Fliers advertising 'mass gatherings' organised by the UK Freedom Movement to oppose the government lockdown measures and guidelines put in place to halt the spread of coronavirus in parks around the UK calling for attendees to bring a picnic and music have been circulating on social media. People are being asked to "think carefully" before visiting national parks and beaches on the first weekend since coronavirus lockdown measures were partially eased in England | AFP 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

Recently, Bill Gates has been at the centre of COVID-19 discourse. The founder of Microsoft earlier warned the world against a pandemic and called for greater&nbsp;preparedness.

In a bizarre turn of events, a recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes. Gates has pledged $300 million for COVID-19 vaccine research.

Many anti-vaxxers believe that that a vaccine developed at express-speed could be unsafe. The protesters say that vaccines are nothing but chemicals that the government injects into its citizens without their consent.

Today, anti-vaxxers are filling town squares of major European cities such as Berlin, Zurich, and Vienna.&nbsp;The resistance is beginning to trouble governments as they ease lockdowns to re-boot their economies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/28-americans-believe-bill-gates-intends-to-microchip-people-using-coronavirus-vaccine-300988" hreflang="en">28% Americans believe Bill Gates intends to microchip people using coronavirus vaccine</a>

Such protests have been taking place in prominent US cities for at least five years.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has just reported a steep decline in the number of American children receiving their routine immunisations.&nbsp;In 2019, the anti-vax movement caused the return of measles to the US.

Many people in Europe are refusing vaccinations now. For instance, in Switzerland - 20 per cent of the people say they will not get vaccinated. 18 per cent Austrians feel the same way. In Germany - 9 per cent of the population is opposed to vaccines. Over 10 per cent Britons reject vaccinations.

According to a YouGuv survey - only half of surveyed Americans are willing to get vaccinated.

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the globe with over 5.4 million cases and 345,064 fatalities. The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the globe with over 5.4 million cases and 345,064 fatalities. The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively. This pandemic coincides with the revival of the anti-vaccination movement which is increasingly gaining traction across Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology. Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues. A man holds a sign against vaccination at an anti-coronavirus lockdown demonstration in Hyde Park in London on May 16, 2020, following an easing of lockdown rules in England during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Fliers advertising 'mass gatherings' organised by the UK Freedom Movement to oppose the government lockdown measures and guidelines put in place to halt the spread of coronavirus in parks around the UK calling for attendees to bring a picnic and music have been circulating on social media. People are being asked to "think carefully" before visiting national parks and beaches on the first weekend since coronavirus lockdown measures were partially eased in England | AFP Recently, Bill Gates has been at the centre of COVID-19 discourse. The founder of Microsoft earlier warned the world against a pandemic and called for greater preparedness. In a bizarre turn of events, a recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes. Gates has pledged $300 million for COVID-19 vaccine research. Many anti-vaxxers believe that that a vaccine developed at express-speed could be unsafe. The protesters say that vaccines are nothing but chemicals that the government injects into its citizens without their consent. Today, anti-vaxxers are filling town squares of major European cities such as Berlin, Zurich, and Vienna. The resistance is beginning to trouble governments as they ease lockdowns to re-boot their economies. Also read: 28% Americans believe Bill Gates intends to microchip people using coronavirus vaccine Such protests have been taking place in prominent US cities for at least five years. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has just reported a steep decline in the number of American children receiving their routine immunisations. In 2019, the anti-vax movement caused the return of measles to the US. Many people in Europe are refusing vaccinations now. For instance, in Switzerland - 20 per cent of the people say they will not get vaccinated. 18 per cent Austrians feel the same way. In Germany - 9 per cent of the population is opposed to vaccines. Over 10 per cent Britons reject vaccinations. According to a YouGuv survey - only half of surveyed Americans are willing to get vaccinated.

Anti-vaccination movement surges across Europe and US as pandemic soars

President Donald Trump on Sunday suspended travel from Brazil, which has emerged as a major new hotspot in the coronavirus pandemic, the White House said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-proposed-security-law-for-hong-kong-could-lead-to-us-sanctions-says-white-house-300793">Also read: China's proposed security law for Hong Kong could lead to US sanctions, says White House</a> 
 
Non-Americans who have been in Brazil in the 14 days before when they seek admittance to the US cannot come to America, said White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany. Trade is not affected by the new rule. 
 
"Today's action will help ensure foreign nationals who have been in Brazil do not become a source of additional infections in our country," she said in a statement.

With nearly 350,000 confirmed cases, Brazil now has the second-biggest caseload in the world, after the United States. It has registered more than 22,000 deaths.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is a political ally of Trump and with his brash, not politically correct way of speaking, he has been dubbed the "Tropical Trump."

And, like Trump, Bolsonaro has downplayed the health crisis, famously comparing the virus to a "little flu" and arguing that stay-at-home measures are unnecessarily hurting Latin America's largest economy.

President Donald Trump on Sunday suspended travel from Brazil, which has emerged as a major new hotspot in the coronavirus pandemic, the White House said. Also read: China's proposed security law for Hong Kong could lead to US sanctions, says White House Non-Americans who have been in Brazil in the 14 days before when they seek admittance to the US cannot come to America, said White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany.

President Donald Trump on Sunday suspended travel from Brazil, which has emerged as a major new hotspot in the coronavirus pandemic, the White House said. Also read: China's proposed security law for Hong Kong could lead to US sanctions, says White House Non-Americans who have been in Brazil in the 14 days before when they seek admittance to the US cannot come to America, said White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany. Trade is not affected by the new rule. "Today's action will help ensure foreign nationals who have been in Brazil do not become a source of additional infections in our country," she said in a statement. With nearly 350,000 confirmed cases, Brazil now has the second-biggest caseload in the world, after the United States. It has registered more than 22,000 deaths. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is a political ally of Trump and with his brash, not politically correct way of speaking, he has been dubbed the "Tropical Trump." And, like Trump, Bolsonaro has downplayed the health crisis, famously comparing the virus to a "little flu" and arguing that stay-at-home measures are unnecessarily hurting Latin America's largest economy.

Trump bars travel from Brazil, a new pandemic hotspot: White House

The city of Manaus in Brazil currently has 39,155 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and had witnessed 1,182 deaths. It is considered one of the hardest hit cities in the country.

The mayor of Manaus, Arthur Virgilio Neto recently asked Brazilian President to “resign… shut up, and stay at home”. He further told CNN that Bolsonaro was seeking dictatorship”. Neto claimed that the president dreams to be dictator, “but is too stupid”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-records-second-highest-covid-19-cases-as-bolsonaro-downplays-it-as-little-flu-300970" hreflang="en">Brazil records second highest COVID-19 cases as Bolsonaro downplays it as 'little flu'</a>

The mayor of a city that houses 2 million people accused the president of being “co-responsible” for the increasing death count.

Neto claimed that in the early stages of the pandemic, he asked messaged Bolsonaro - "Please Mr. President, shut up and stay at home”.

Now, he only wants his resignation. "Resign, resign, resign, because he doesn't govern Brazil”, he told CNN.

Bolsonaro had earlier called Neto a "piece of s**t”.

<img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d2fa9827-e623-427c-89c7-a5e97e014db2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_102.jpg" />

Second-most global cases

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus.

Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indigenous-tribals-in-brazil-are-dying-twice-as-much-as-the-national-average-due-to-covid-19-300952" hreflang="en">Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far.

Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge.

Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

The city of Manaus in Brazil currently has 39,155 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and had witnessed 1,182 deaths. It is considered one of the hardest hit cities in the country.

The city of Manaus in Brazil currently has 39,155 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and had witnessed 1,182 deaths. It is considered one of the hardest hit cities in the country. The mayor of Manaus, Arthur Virgilio Neto recently asked Brazilian President to “resign… shut up, and stay at home”. He further told CNN that Bolsonaro was seeking dictatorship”. Neto claimed that the president dreams to be dictator, “but is too stupid”. Also read: Brazil records second highest COVID-19 cases as Bolsonaro downplays it as 'little flu' The mayor of a city that houses 2 million people accused the president of being “co-responsible” for the increasing death count. Neto claimed that in the early stages of the pandemic, he asked messaged Bolsonaro - "Please Mr. President, shut up and stay at home”. Now, he only wants his resignation. "Resign, resign, resign, because he doesn't govern Brazil”, he told CNN. Bolsonaro had earlier called Neto a "piece of s**t”. Second-most global cases Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus. Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down. Also read: Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19 According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far. Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge. Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

Brazilian mayor asks Bolsonaro to 'resign, shut up, and stay at home' as death toll mounts

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus.

Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down.

According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far.

Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “little flu”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indigenous-tribals-in-brazil-are-dying-twice-as-much-as-the-national-average-due-to-covid-19-300952" hreflang="en">Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19</a>

Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge.

Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

The World Health Organization had recently announced South America as the epicentre of COVID-19, which started off in Wuhan, then battered European countries especially Italy and France. After which, it caused major fatalities in the US, where the infection rate is currently slowing down.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-restricts-travel-from-brazil-brazil-is-worlds-second-worst-hit-covid-19-country-300826/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With healthcare infrastructure crumbling across the country, especially in the indigenous regions, scores of natives are now infected.

According to Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB), the mortality rate among the native population is twice as much as the the rest of the country’s population.

Brazil currently has over 900,000 indigenous people, out of whom 980 have now tested positive for coronavirus, which is capable of spreading very quickly. 125 natives have died so far, putting the indigenous community’s mortality rate at 12.6 per cent, as opposed to the national average of 6.4 per cent.

Recently, US President Donald Trump suspended travel from Brazil. As part of this move, non-Americans planning to come to the US shouldn’t have spent any of their last 14 days in Brazil, and if found so, they shall not be allowed to enter the country.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus.

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus. Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down. According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far. Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “little flu”. Also read: Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19 Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge. Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters. The World Health Organization had recently announced South America as the epicentre of COVID-19, which started off in Wuhan, then battered European countries especially Italy and France. After which, it caused major fatalities in the US, where the infection rate is currently slowing down. With healthcare infrastructure crumbling across the country, especially in the indigenous regions, scores of natives are now infected. According to Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB), the mortality rate among the native population is twice as much as the the rest of the country’s population. Brazil currently has over 900,000 indigenous people, out of whom 980 have now tested positive for coronavirus, which is capable of spreading very quickly. 125 natives have died so far, putting the indigenous community’s mortality rate at 12.6 per cent, as opposed to the national average of 6.4 per cent. Recently, US President Donald Trump suspended travel from Brazil. As part of this move, non-Americans planning to come to the US shouldn’t have spent any of their last 14 days in Brazil, and if found so, they shall not be allowed to enter the country. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Brazil records second highest COVID-19 cases as Bolsonaro downplays it as 'little flu'

The Wuhan Coronavirus has infected more than 50,00,000 people worldwide. India now accounts for 2.2% cases in the world. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay has the latest numbers.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: More than 50,00,000 infected worldwide

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