More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal.

The research followed 1,192 participants in China infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the first phase of the pandemic in 2020.

While physical and mental health generally improved over time, the study suggests that COVID-19 patients still tend to have poorer health and quality of life than the general population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-tests-positive-for-covid-19-says-experiencing-mild-symptoms-477995">Bill Gates tests positive for COVID-19, says experiencing 'mild symptoms'</a>

This is especially the case for participants with long covid, who typically still have at least one symptom including fatigue, shortness of breath, and sleep difficulties two years after initially falling ill, the researchers said.

The long-term health impacts of COVID-19 have remained largely unknown, as the longest follow-up studies to date have spanned around one year, they said.

"Our findings indicate that for a certain proportion of hospitalised COVID-19 survivors, while they may have cleared the initial infection, more than two years is needed to recover fully from COVID-19," said study lead author Professor Bin Cao, of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, China.

"Ongoing follow-up of COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with symptoms of long covid, is essential to understand the longer course of the illness, as is further exploration of the benefits of rehabilitation programmes for recovery," Cao said in a statement.

The researchers noted that there is a clear need to provide continued support to a significant proportion of people who have had COVID-19, and to understand how vaccines, emerging treatments, and variants affect long-term health outcomes.

Watch |&nbsp;China’s censors target WHO Chief after comments criticizing its Zero covid policy

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-censors-target-who-chief-after-comments-criticizing-its-zero-covid-policy-478273/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

They evaluated the health of 1,192 participants with acute COVID-19 treated at Jin Yin-tan Hospital in Wuhan, between January 7 and May 29, 2020, at six months, 12 months, and two years.

Assessments involved a six-minute walking test, laboratory tests, and questionnaires on symptoms, mental health, health-related quality of life, if they had returned to work, and health-care use after discharge, the researchers said.

The median age of participants at discharge was 57 years, and 54 per cent were men.

Six months after initially falling ill, 68 per cent of participants reported at least one long covid&nbsp;symptom, according to the researchers. 
By two years after infection, reports of symptoms had fallen to 55 per cent, they said.

Fatigue or muscle weakness were the symptoms most often reported and fell from 52 per cent at six months to 30 per cent at two years, the researchers said.

Regardless of the severity of their initial illness, 89 per cent of participants had returned to their original work at two years, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-growing-criticism-chinese-study-claims-lifting-zero-covid-policy-will-unleash-tsunami-of-cases-478182">Chinese study claims lifting ‘zero-Covid’ policy will unleash ‘tsunami of cases’</a>

The researchers noted that two years after initially falling ill, patients with COVID-19 are generally in poorer health than the general population, with 31 per cent reporting fatigue or muscle weakness and 31 per cent reporting sleep difficulties.

COVID-19 patients were also more likely to report a number of other symptoms including joint pain, palpitations, dizziness, and headaches, they said.

Around half of study participants had symptoms of long COVID at two years, and reported lower quality of life than those without long covid.

In mental health questionnaires, 35 per cent reported pain or discomfort and 19 per cent reported anxiety or depression.

Long covid&nbsp;participants also more often reported problems with their mobility or activity than those without the disorder.

The authors acknowledge some limitations to their study.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-first-time-north-korea-officially-confirms-covid-outbreak-orders-lockdown-to-check-omicrons-spread-478240">Covid-19 in North Korea: After official confirmation of outbreak, Kim orders lockdown</a>

Without a control group of hospital survivors unrelated to COVID-19 infection, it is hard to determine whether observed abnormalities are specific to COVID-19, they said.

The slightly increased proportion of participants included in the analysis who received oxygen leads to the possibility that those who did not participate in the study had fewer symptoms than those who did, according to the researchers.

This may result in an overestimate of the prevalence of long covid symptoms, they added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal.

More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal. The research followed 1,192 participants in China infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the first phase of the pandemic in 2020. While physical and mental health generally improved over time, the study suggests that COVID-19 patients still tend to have poorer health and quality of life than the general population. Also read | Bill Gates tests positive for COVID-19, says experiencing 'mild symptoms' This is especially the case for participants with long covid, who typically still have at least one symptom including fatigue, shortness of breath, and sleep difficulties two years after initially falling ill, the researchers said. The long-term health impacts of COVID-19 have remained largely unknown, as the longest follow-up studies to date have spanned around one year, they said. "Our findings indicate that for a certain proportion of hospitalised COVID-19 survivors, while they may have cleared the initial infection, more than two years is needed to recover fully from COVID-19," said study lead author Professor Bin Cao, of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, China. "Ongoing follow-up of COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with symptoms of long covid, is essential to understand the longer course of the illness, as is further exploration of the benefits of rehabilitation programmes for recovery," Cao said in a statement. The researchers noted that there is a clear need to provide continued support to a significant proportion of people who have had COVID-19, and to understand how vaccines, emerging treatments, and variants affect long-term health outcomes. Watch | China’s censors target WHO Chief after comments criticizing its Zero covid policy They evaluated the health of 1,192 participants with acute COVID-19 treated at Jin Yin-tan Hospital in Wuhan, between January 7 and May 29, 2020, at six months, 12 months, and two years. Assessments involved a six-minute walking test, laboratory tests, and questionnaires on symptoms, mental health, health-related quality of life, if they had returned to work, and health-care use after discharge, the researchers said. The median age of participants at discharge was 57 years, and 54 per cent were men. Six months after initially falling ill, 68 per cent of participants reported at least one long covid symptom, according to the researchers. By two years after infection, reports of symptoms had fallen to 55 per cent, they said. Fatigue or muscle weakness were the symptoms most often reported and fell from 52 per cent at six months to 30 per cent at two years, the researchers said. Regardless of the severity of their initial illness, 89 per cent of participants had returned to their original work at two years, they said. Also read | Chinese study claims lifting ‘zero-Covid’ policy will unleash ‘tsunami of cases’ The researchers noted that two years after initially falling ill, patients with COVID-19 are generally in poorer health than the general population, with 31 per cent reporting fatigue or muscle weakness and 31 per cent reporting sleep difficulties. COVID-19 patients were also more likely to report a number of other symptoms including joint pain, palpitations, dizziness, and headaches, they said. Around half of study participants had symptoms of long COVID at two years, and reported lower quality of life than those without long covid. In mental health questionnaires, 35 per cent reported pain or discomfort and 19 per cent reported anxiety or depression. Long covid participants also more often reported problems with their mobility or activity than those without the disorder. The authors acknowledge some limitations to their study. Also read | Covid-19 in North Korea: After official confirmation of outbreak, Kim orders lockdown Without a control group of hospital survivors unrelated to COVID-19 infection, it is hard to determine whether observed abnormalities are specific to COVID-19, they said. The slightly increased proportion of participants included in the analysis who received oxygen leads to the possibility that those who did not participate in the study had fewer symptoms than those who did, according to the researchers. This may result in an overestimate of the prevalence of long covid symptoms, they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Half of Covid survivors show one symptom even two years after infection: Lancet study

In Pics: For first time, North Korea reports Omicron cases, goes for lockdown

With 2,288 new coronavirus infections reported in a day, India's tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,31,07,689, while the active cases decreased to 19,637, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

The death toll climbed to 5,24,103 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-centre-approves-russian-vaccine-sputnik-booster-shot-says-officials-477030">Centre approves Russian vaccine ‘Sputnik’ booster COVID-19 shot: Report</a>

A decrease of 766 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.47 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.79 per cent, according to the ministry.

Watch |&nbsp;India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID cases surge

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-mask-mandate-back-in-new-delhi-as-covid-cases-surge-472482/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,63,949, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 190.50 crore.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covovax-vaccine-available-for-everyone-above-12-years-adar-poonawalla-476470">Covovax vaccine available for everyone above 12 years: Adar Poonawalla</a>

The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year.

The 10 new fatalities include six from Kerala, three from Delhi and one from Karnataka.&nbsp;

With 2,288 new coronavirus infections reported in a day, India's tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,31,07,689, while the active cases decreased to 19,637, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

With 2,288 new coronavirus infections reported in a day, India's tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,31,07,689, while the active cases decreased to 19,637, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. The death toll climbed to 5,24,103 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. Also read | Centre approves Russian vaccine ‘Sputnik’ booster COVID-19 shot: Report A decrease of 766 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.47 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.79 per cent, according to the ministry. Watch | India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID cases surge The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,63,949, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 190.50 crore. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. Also read | Covovax vaccine available for everyone above 12 years: Adar Poonawalla The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year. The 10 new fatalities include six from Kerala, three from Delhi and one from Karnataka.

India: Active COVID-19 cases dip to 19,637

The United States will take steps to&nbsp;increase&nbsp;pressure&nbsp;on Afghanistan's&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;government to&nbsp;reverse&nbsp;some of its recent decisions restricting the rights of&nbsp;women&nbsp;and&nbsp;girls&nbsp;if the hardline group shows no sign of rescinding the actions on its own.

"We've addressed it directly with the&nbsp;Taliban," State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a briefing on Monday. "We have a number of tools that, if we feel these won't be&nbsp;reversed, these won't be undone, that we are prepared to move forward with."

He did&nbsp;not&nbsp;elaborate on the possible steps or indicate how the group, which has already implemented policies curbing 20 years of gains for&nbsp;girls' and&nbsp;women's rights, might have a change of heart.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-want-to-erase-women-from-public-life-in-afghanistan-malala-yousafzai-477746">Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai</a>

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;on Saturday ordered&nbsp;women&nbsp;to cover their faces in public, a return to a signature policy of their past hardline rule and an escalation of restrictions that are causing anger at home and abroad.

The ideal face covering was the all-encompassing blue burqa, the group said, referring to the garment that was obligatory for women in public during the&nbsp;Taliban's previous 1996-2001 rule.

Watch |&nbsp;South Asia Diary: Taliban deny driving license to women

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-taliban-deny-driving-license-to-women-477728/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The international community has made the education of&nbsp;girls&nbsp;a key demand for any future recognition of the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;administration, which took over the country in August as foreign forces withdrew.

Despite that, the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;has restricted&nbsp;girls&nbsp;and&nbsp;women&nbsp;from working and limited their travel unless accompanied by a close male relative. Most&nbsp;girls&nbsp;were also barred from going to school beyond seventh grade.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

"We've consulted closely with our allies and partners," Price said. "There are steps that we will continue to take to&nbsp;increase&nbsp;pressure&nbsp;on the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;to&nbsp;reverse&nbsp;some of these&nbsp;decisions, to make good on the promises that they have made."

A key piece of leverage held by Washington over the group is the $7 billion in frozen Afghan central bank assets on&nbsp;US&nbsp;soil - half of which the Biden administration is seeking to free up to help the Afghan people, the administration has said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-angry-as-taliban-makes-face-covering-mandatory-477656">Afghan women angry as Taliban makes face covering mandatory</a>

The United States and other countries have already cut development aid and sanctioned the banking system since the group took over, pushing Afghanistan toward economic ruin.

US&nbsp;Special Representative for Afghanistan Tom West expressed "deep concern" over the Saturday decision in a series of tweets, while the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said it was an "unconscionable" move.

Most&nbsp;women&nbsp;in Afghanistan wear a headscarf for religious reasons but many in urban areas such as Kabul do&nbsp;not&nbsp;cover their faces.

The United States will take steps to increase pressure on Afghanistan's Taliban government to reverse some of its recent decisions restricting the rights of women and girls if the hardline group shows no sign of rescinding the actions on its own.

The United States will take steps to increase pressure on Afghanistan's Taliban government to reverse some of its recent decisions restricting the rights of women and girls if the hardline group shows no sign of rescinding the actions on its own. "We've addressed it directly with the Taliban," State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a briefing on Monday. "We have a number of tools that, if we feel these won't be reversed, these won't be undone, that we are prepared to move forward with." He did not elaborate on the possible steps or indicate how the group, which has already implemented policies curbing 20 years of gains for girls' and women's rights, might have a change of heart. Also read | Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai The Taliban on Saturday ordered women to cover their faces in public, a return to a signature policy of their past hardline rule and an escalation of restrictions that are causing anger at home and abroad. The ideal face covering was the all-encompassing blue burqa, the group said, referring to the garment that was obligatory for women in public during the Taliban's previous 1996-2001 rule. Watch | South Asia Diary: Taliban deny driving license to women The international community has made the education of girls a key demand for any future recognition of the Taliban administration, which took over the country in August as foreign forces withdrew. Despite that, the Taliban has restricted girls and women from working and limited their travel unless accompanied by a close male relative. Most girls were also barred from going to school beyond seventh grade. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: "We've consulted closely with our allies and partners," Price said. "There are steps that we will continue to take to increase pressure on the Taliban to reverse some of these decisions, to make good on the promises that they have made." A key piece of leverage held by Washington over the group is the $7 billion in frozen Afghan central bank assets on US soil - half of which the Biden administration is seeking to free up to help the Afghan people, the administration has said. Also read | Afghan women angry as Taliban makes face covering mandatory The United States and other countries have already cut development aid and sanctioned the banking system since the group took over, pushing Afghanistan toward economic ruin. US Special Representative for Afghanistan Tom West expressed "deep concern" over the Saturday decision in a series of tweets, while the US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said it was an "unconscionable" move. Most women in Afghanistan wear a headscarf for religious reasons but many in urban areas such as Kabul do not cover their faces.

US says it will increase pressure on Taliban if it does not reverse decisions on women, girls

A study conducted on&nbsp;animals has shown that&nbsp;a covid vaccine developed to be administered orally not only protects fighting against the coronavirus, but also reduces the airborne dissemination of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to the others in close contact, reported by PTI.

The study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, shows that the vaccine has the capacity to neutralise the virus through mucosal tissue, limiting the infections and the spread of the active airborne particles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-omicron-variant-of-covid-is-as-severe-as-delta-variant-476893">Study finds Omicron variant of Covid is as severe as Delta variant</a>

In the study,&nbsp;which used hamsters for trials, the vaccine induced a strong antibody&nbsp;response in&nbsp;the blood and lungs.

When the animals were exposed to large doses of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, causing a breakthrough infection they were found to be less symptomatic and had lower quantities of infections virus in their nose and lungs than the non-vaccinated hamsters.

As a result, they did not shed as much virus through routine airborne exposures, according to the researchers.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Another setback for Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID vaccine jab as FDA limits its use

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/another-setback-for-johnson-johnson-covid-vaccine-jab-as-fda-limits-its-use-477016/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Stephanie N Langel of Duke University Medical Centre in the US said, “Considering most of the world is under-immunised and this is especially true of children, the possibility that a vaccinated person with a breakthrough infection can spread covid&nbsp;to unimmunised family or community members poses a public health risk.”

She further said that developing such vaccines will not only be beneficial for protecting against disease but will also decrease the chances of transmitting the virus to an unvaccinated person.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The researchers, which included teams from Vaxart, a US vaccine producer and Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, a clinical research non-profit,&nbsp;examined the vaccine that uses an adenovirus as a vector to express the virus spike protein. The SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter and infect human cells.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-shows-risk-of-long-covid-19-is-worse-after-getting-infected-with-delta-variant-than-omicron-477052">&nbsp;Study shows risk of long COVID-19 is worse after getting infected with Delta variant than Omicron</a>

According to researchers, contrary to the vaccinations that are injected to muscle, mucosal immunisations enhance the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA), the immune system’s first line of defence against pathogens in the lungs and nose.

They said that these mucosal ports of entry are then protected making it rare for a vaccinated person to transfer infection during cough or sneezing. As per the researchers, the human vaccination is designed to be consumed as a pill.&nbsp;

Researchers noted that this study focused on the original SARS-CoV-2 virus, but new tests will be conducted to test the vaccine against the Omicron variants.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A study conducted on animals has shown that a covid vaccine developed to be administered orally not only protects fighting against the coronavirus, but also reduces the airborne dissemination of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to the others in close contact, reported by PTI.

A study conducted on animals has shown that a covid vaccine developed to be administered orally not only protects fighting against the coronavirus, but also reduces the airborne dissemination of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to the others in close contact, reported by PTI. The study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, shows that the vaccine has the capacity to neutralise the virus through mucosal tissue, limiting the infections and the spread of the active airborne particles. Also read | Study finds Omicron variant of Covid is as severe as Delta variant In the study, which used hamsters for trials, the vaccine induced a strong antibody response in the blood and lungs. When the animals were exposed to large doses of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, causing a breakthrough infection they were found to be less symptomatic and had lower quantities of infections virus in their nose and lungs than the non-vaccinated hamsters. As a result, they did not shed as much virus through routine airborne exposures, according to the researchers. Watch | Another setback for Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine jab as FDA limits its use Stephanie N Langel of Duke University Medical Centre in the US said, “Considering most of the world is under-immunised and this is especially true of children, the possibility that a vaccinated person with a breakthrough infection can spread covid to unimmunised family or community members poses a public health risk.” She further said that developing such vaccines will not only be beneficial for protecting against disease but will also decrease the chances of transmitting the virus to an unvaccinated person. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The researchers, which included teams from Vaxart, a US vaccine producer and Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, a clinical research non-profit, examined the vaccine that uses an adenovirus as a vector to express the virus spike protein. The SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter and infect human cells. Also read | Study shows risk of long COVID-19 is worse after getting infected with Delta variant than Omicron According to researchers, contrary to the vaccinations that are injected to muscle, mucosal immunisations enhance the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA), the immune system’s first line of defence against pathogens in the lungs and nose. They said that these mucosal ports of entry are then protected making it rare for a vaccinated person to transfer infection during cough or sneezing. As per the researchers, the human vaccination is designed to be consumed as a pill. Researchers noted that this study focused on the original SARS-CoV-2 virus, but new tests will be conducted to test the vaccine against the Omicron variants. (With inputs from agencies)

New oral vaccine protects against Covid and reduces its transmission, says Study

Sri Lankan energy companies said on Monday they were running low on stocks of liquid petroleum gas mainly used in cooking, as shortages of foreign exchange put renewed pressure on the island nation.

Hit hard by the pandemic, rising oil prices and tax cuts by the populist government of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka has as little as $50 million of useable foreign reserves, Finance Minister Ali Sabry said last week.

Shortages of fuel, which is mostly imported, food and medicines have led to more than a month of mostly peaceful anti-government protests, although Rajapaksa declared a state of emergency for the second time in five weeks on Friday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-eu-to-provide-humanitarian-funding-bangladesh-provides-medical-supplies-477132">Sri Lanka crisis: EU to provide humanitarian funding; Bangladesh provides medical supplies</a>

State-run Litro Gas chairman Vijitha Herath told Reuters Sri Lanka's foreign exchange crisis was causing a severe gas shortage with the company struggling to find adequate dollars for payments.

"With the involvement of the President we will get $7 million from the central bank to pay for a 3,500 metric tonne (MT) shipment, which is expected to arrive on Tuesday," he said.

Sri Lanka needs minimum 40,000 MT a month for gas, which at current prices costs about $40m.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Sources: Mahinda Rajapaksa asked to step down

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-sources-mahinda-rajapaksa-asked-to-step-down-476970/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Long queues for cooking gas seen in recent days have frequently turned into impromptu protests as frustrated consumers block roads.

The second player in Sri Lanka's duopoly, Laugfs Gas, has less than 2000 MT of gas, which has been reserved for industries and hospitals. The company is also struggling to find dollars and is currently in talks to use its overseas assets to open letters of credit.

"We are a bankrupt nation. Banks don't have sufficient dollars for us to open lines of credit and we cannot go to the black market. We are struggling to keep our businesses afloat," Laugfs chairman W.H.K Wegapitiya said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

He estimated it would take at least another week for the company to secure a gas shipment.

On Monday, several hundred ruling party supporters rallied outside the official residence of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, after reports in local media saying he may step down to alleviate pressure on the president, who is his younger brother.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bar-association-of-sri-lanka-expresses-grave-concern-on-the-state-of-emergency-477068">Bar Association of Sri Lanka expresses 'grave concern' on the state of emergency</a>

"Whose power? Mahinda's power!" they shouted as the compound gates swung open to allow them inside.

Sri Lanka has approached the International Monetary Fund for a bailout, and will begin a virtual summit on Monday with officials from the multilateral lender aimed at securing emergency assistance.

Sri Lankan energy companies said on Monday they were running low on stocks of liquid petroleum gas mainly used in cooking, as shortages of foreign exchange put renewed pressure on the island nation.

Sri Lankan energy companies said on Monday they were running low on stocks of liquid petroleum gas mainly used in cooking, as shortages of foreign exchange put renewed pressure on the island nation. Hit hard by the pandemic, rising oil prices and tax cuts by the populist government of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka has as little as $50 million of useable foreign reserves, Finance Minister Ali Sabry said last week. Shortages of fuel, which is mostly imported, food and medicines have led to more than a month of mostly peaceful anti-government protests, although Rajapaksa declared a state of emergency for the second time in five weeks on Friday. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis: EU to provide humanitarian funding; Bangladesh provides medical supplies State-run Litro Gas chairman Vijitha Herath told Reuters Sri Lanka's foreign exchange crisis was causing a severe gas shortage with the company struggling to find adequate dollars for payments. "With the involvement of the President we will get $7 million from the central bank to pay for a 3,500 metric tonne (MT) shipment, which is expected to arrive on Tuesday," he said. Sri Lanka needs minimum 40,000 MT a month for gas, which at current prices costs about $40m. Watch | Gravitas: Sources: Mahinda Rajapaksa asked to step down Long queues for cooking gas seen in recent days have frequently turned into impromptu protests as frustrated consumers block roads. The second player in Sri Lanka's duopoly, Laugfs Gas, has less than 2000 MT of gas, which has been reserved for industries and hospitals. The company is also struggling to find dollars and is currently in talks to use its overseas assets to open letters of credit. "We are a bankrupt nation. Banks don't have sufficient dollars for us to open lines of credit and we cannot go to the black market. We are struggling to keep our businesses afloat," Laugfs chairman W.H.K Wegapitiya said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: He estimated it would take at least another week for the company to secure a gas shipment. On Monday, several hundred ruling party supporters rallied outside the official residence of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, after reports in local media saying he may step down to alleviate pressure on the president, who is his younger brother. Also read | Bar Association of Sri Lanka expresses 'grave concern' on the state of emergency "Whose power? Mahinda's power!" they shouted as the compound gates swung open to allow them inside. Sri Lanka has approached the International Monetary Fund for a bailout, and will begin a virtual summit on Monday with officials from the multilateral lender aimed at securing emergency assistance.

Sri Lanka runs low on gas as supporters rally for embattled prime minister

A 6.3-magnitude&nbsp;earthquake struck off the coast of&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;on Monday afternoon, according to the US Geological Survey, with buildings in capital Taipei sent swaying.

The offshore quake hit just before 2:30 pm (0630 GMT) at a depth of 27 kilometres (17 miles), about 70 kilometres southwest of Yonakuni, a Japanese island not far from&nbsp;Taiwan, according to the USGS report.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-try-anything-stupid-against-taiwan-hacker-group-anonymous-warns-china-477038">&nbsp;'Don't try anything stupid against Taiwan': Hacker group Anonymous warns China</a>

Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said the shake, the fifth this year above a magnitude of 6.0, was felt across the island, though there were no immediate reports of damage.

"Hope everyone is safe... there could be some aftershocks and please be cautious," New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-yi posted on Facebook.

Watch |&nbsp;US-UK first high-level talks on Taiwan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-uk-first-high-level-talks-on-taiwan-advanced-talks-on-chinese-threat-475820/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Japan Meteorological Agency estimated the tremor at a magnitude of 6.6 and said it may prompt minor sea-level fluctuations, but has not issued a tsunami warning.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Taiwan&nbsp;and the surrounding area are regularly hit by earthquakes due to the nearby junction of two tectonic plates.&nbsp;

In March, a 6.7-magnitude earthquake that struck off&nbsp;Taiwan's eastern coast rattled buildings and roused people from sleep, leaving one injured and collapsing a half-constructed bridge in the island's east.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-premier-su-tseng-chang-slams-chinas-cruel-coronavirus-lockdowns-475392">Taiwan's Premier Su Tseng-chang slams China's 'cruel' coronavirus lockdowns</a>

Earthquakes of 6.0 or more can prove deadly, although much depends on where they strike and at what depth.&nbsp;

Taiwan&nbsp;experienced a quake of a similar magnitude in January when a 6.2 tremor hit the east coast. There was no widespread damage or injuries.

A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Taiwan on Monday afternoon, according to the US Geological Survey, with buildings in capital Taipei sent swaying.

A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Taiwan on Monday afternoon, according to the US Geological Survey, with buildings in capital Taipei sent swaying. The offshore quake hit just before 2:30 pm (0630 GMT) at a depth of 27 kilometres (17 miles), about 70 kilometres southwest of Yonakuni, a Japanese island not far from Taiwan, according to the USGS report. Also read | 'Don't try anything stupid against Taiwan': Hacker group Anonymous warns China Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said the shake, the fifth this year above a magnitude of 6.0, was felt across the island, though there were no immediate reports of damage. "Hope everyone is safe... there could be some aftershocks and please be cautious," New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-yi posted on Facebook. Watch | US-UK first high-level talks on Taiwan The Japan Meteorological Agency estimated the tremor at a magnitude of 6.6 and said it may prompt minor sea-level fluctuations, but has not issued a tsunami warning. WATCH WION LIVE HERE Taiwan and the surrounding area are regularly hit by earthquakes due to the nearby junction of two tectonic plates. In March, a 6.7-magnitude earthquake that struck off Taiwan's eastern coast rattled buildings and roused people from sleep, leaving one injured and collapsing a half-constructed bridge in the island's east. Also read | Taiwan's Premier Su Tseng-chang slams China's 'cruel' coronavirus lockdowns Earthquakes of 6.0 or more can prove deadly, although much depends on where they strike and at what depth. Taiwan experienced a quake of a similar magnitude in January when a 6.2 tremor hit the east coast. There was no widespread damage or injuries.

6.3-magnitude quake strikes off Taiwan's coast

Sri Lankan police imposed a curfew on Monday after clashes between rival political camps, as anger builds over the island’s worst economic crisis since independence.

Months of blackouts and dire shortages of food, fuel and medicines have caused widespread suffering across the South Asian island and weeks of overwhelmingly peaceful anti-government protests.

At least 20 people were injured in the violence in central Colombo, according to officials. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bar-association-of-sri-lanka-expresses-grave-concern-on-the-state-of-emergency-477068">Bar Association of Sri Lanka expresses 'grave concern' on the state of emergency</a>

Rajapaksa loyalists armed with sticks and clubs attacked unarmed protesters who have been camping outside President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office since April 9, AFP reporters said.

Police fired tear gas and water cannon on the government supporters who breached police lines to smash tents and other structures set up by anti-government protesters.

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, the president's brother, urged "our general public to exercise restraint &amp; remember that violence only begets violence.

"The economic crisis we're in needs an economic solution which this administration is committed to resolving," he tweeted.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Sources: Mahinda Rajapaksa asked to step down

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-sources-mahinda-rajapaksa-asked-to-step-down-476970/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Friday, the government imposed a state of emergency granting the military sweeping powers to arrest and detain people after trade unions brought the country to a virtual standstill hoping to pressure the Rajapaksas to step down.

The defence ministry said in a statement on Sunday that anti-government demonstrators were behaving in a "provocative and threatening manner" and disrupting essential services.

Unions said they would stage daily protests from Monday to pressure the government to revoke the emergency.

Union leader Ravi Kumudesh said they will mobilise both state and private sector workers to storm the national parliament when it opens its next session on May 17.

"What we want is for the president and his family to go," Kumudesh said in a statement.

President Rajapaksa has not been seen in public since tens of thousands attempted to storm his private residence in Colombo on March 31.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Official sources say the president may ask his brother Mahinda to stand down in an effort to clear the way for a unity government to navigate Sri Lanka through the crisis.&nbsp;

But the country's largest opposition party has already said it will not join any government helmed by a member of the Rajapaksa clan.

Sri Lanka's crisis began after the coronavirus pandemic hammered vital income from tourism and remittances.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-eu-to-provide-humanitarian-funding-bangladesh-provides-medical-supplies-477132">Sri Lanka crisis: EU to provide humanitarian funding; Bangladesh provides medical supplies</a>

This left it short of foreign currency needed to pay off its debt, forcing the government to ban the imports of many goods.&nbsp;

This in turn has led to severe shortages, runaway inflation and lengthy power blackouts.

In April, the country announced it was defaulting on its $51 billion foreign debt.

Sri Lankan police imposed a curfew on Monday after clashes between rival political camps, as anger builds over the island’s worst economic crisis since independence.

Sri Lankan police imposed a curfew on Monday after clashes between rival political camps, as anger builds over the island’s worst economic crisis since independence. Months of blackouts and dire shortages of food, fuel and medicines have caused widespread suffering across the South Asian island and weeks of overwhelmingly peaceful anti-government protests. At least 20 people were injured in the violence in central Colombo, according to officials. Also read | Bar Association of Sri Lanka expresses 'grave concern' on the state of emergency Rajapaksa loyalists armed with sticks and clubs attacked unarmed protesters who have been camping outside President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office since April 9, AFP reporters said. Police fired tear gas and water cannon on the government supporters who breached police lines to smash tents and other structures set up by anti-government protesters. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, the president's brother, urged "our general public to exercise restraint & remember that violence only begets violence. "The economic crisis we're in needs an economic solution which this administration is committed to resolving," he tweeted. Watch | Gravitas: Sources: Mahinda Rajapaksa asked to step down On Friday, the government imposed a state of emergency granting the military sweeping powers to arrest and detain people after trade unions brought the country to a virtual standstill hoping to pressure the Rajapaksas to step down. The defence ministry said in a statement on Sunday that anti-government demonstrators were behaving in a "provocative and threatening manner" and disrupting essential services. Unions said they would stage daily protests from Monday to pressure the government to revoke the emergency. Union leader Ravi Kumudesh said they will mobilise both state and private sector workers to storm the national parliament when it opens its next session on May 17. "What we want is for the president and his family to go," Kumudesh said in a statement. President Rajapaksa has not been seen in public since tens of thousands attempted to storm his private residence in Colombo on March 31. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Official sources say the president may ask his brother Mahinda to stand down in an effort to clear the way for a unity government to navigate Sri Lanka through the crisis. But the country's largest opposition party has already said it will not join any government helmed by a member of the Rajapaksa clan. Sri Lanka's crisis began after the coronavirus pandemic hammered vital income from tourism and remittances. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis: EU to provide humanitarian funding; Bangladesh provides medical supplies This left it short of foreign currency needed to pay off its debt, forcing the government to ban the imports of many goods. This in turn has led to severe shortages, runaway inflation and lengthy power blackouts. In April, the country announced it was defaulting on its $51 billion foreign debt.

Sri Lanka imposes curfew in capital after 20 get injured in clashes

In pics: UK's first LGBTQ+ museum opens in London

A Russian influencer and her husband will be deported from&nbsp;Bali&nbsp;after staging a nude photo shoot on a sacred tree in violation of local culture, officials on the Indonesian holiday island said Friday.

Alina Fazleeva, who has thousands of followers on Instagram, posed naked on a 700-year-old banyan tree at a temple in Tabanan district.

The picture, which was taken by her husband Andrey Fazleev, was uploaded to Instagram and went viral, irking Balinese communities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-russian-president-vladimir-putin-to-give-doomsday-warning-to-west-476985">Ukraine invasion: Russian President Vladimir Putin to give 'doomsday' warning to West</a>

Mountains, trees and other natural features are considered holy in Balinese Hindu culture, as they are thought to be the homes of the gods.

"Both of them are proven to have carried out activities that endanger public order and do not respect the local norms," Bali immigration chief Jamaruli Manihuruk told reporters Friday.

"So, they will be sanctioned with deportation."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: European Union states block sanctions on Russia oil

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-european-union-states-block-sanctions-on-russia-oil-476973/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The husband and wife will be banned from Indonesia for at least six months, and also had to participate in a cleansing ceremony at the sacred area in accordance with local belief, he added.

Fazleeva apologised on her Instagram account in English and Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledging that she "made a big mistake".

"There are a lot of sacred places in&nbsp;Bali&nbsp;and not all of them have information signs about it, as in my case," she said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

"And, it is very important to treat these places and traditions with respect".

Bali's Governor Wayan Koster said his administration would no longer tolerate disrespectful tourists.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-top-diplomat-hints-at-more-sanctions-even-as-agency-proposes-amendments-to-oil-embargo-against-russia-476959">EU top diplomat hints at more sanctions, even as agency proposes amendments to oil embargo against Russia</a>

Almost 200 people were deported from the holiday island last year, some of them for violating Covid-19 protocols.

Last month, a Canadian actor and self-proclaimed wellness guru was also facing deportation from&nbsp;Bali&nbsp;after a video went viral of him naked at holy Mount Batur while doing the Haka, New Zealand's Maori ceremonial dance.

A Russian influencer and her husband will be deported from Bali after staging a nude photo shoot on a sacred tree in violation of local culture, officials on the Indonesian holiday island said Friday.

A Russian influencer and her husband will be deported from Bali after staging a nude photo shoot on a sacred tree in violation of local culture, officials on the Indonesian holiday island said Friday. Alina Fazleeva, who has thousands of followers on Instagram, posed naked on a 700-year-old banyan tree at a temple in Tabanan district. The picture, which was taken by her husband Andrey Fazleev, was uploaded to Instagram and went viral, irking Balinese communities. Also read | Ukraine invasion: Russian President Vladimir Putin to give 'doomsday' warning to West Mountains, trees and other natural features are considered holy in Balinese Hindu culture, as they are thought to be the homes of the gods. "Both of them are proven to have carried out activities that endanger public order and do not respect the local norms," Bali immigration chief Jamaruli Manihuruk told reporters Friday. "So, they will be sanctioned with deportation." Watch | Gravitas: European Union states block sanctions on Russia oil The husband and wife will be banned from Indonesia for at least six months, and also had to participate in a cleansing ceremony at the sacred area in accordance with local belief, he added. Fazleeva apologised on her Instagram account in English and Bahasa Indonesia, acknowledging that she "made a big mistake". "There are a lot of sacred places in Bali and not all of them have information signs about it, as in my case," she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: "And, it is very important to treat these places and traditions with respect". Bali's Governor Wayan Koster said his administration would no longer tolerate disrespectful tourists. Also read | EU top diplomat hints at more sanctions, even as agency proposes amendments to oil embargo against Russia Almost 200 people were deported from the holiday island last year, some of them for violating Covid-19 protocols. Last month, a Canadian actor and self-proclaimed wellness guru was also facing deportation from Bali after a video went viral of him naked at holy Mount Batur while doing the Haka, New Zealand's Maori ceremonial dance.

Bali to deport Russian couple for nude photos on sacred tree

The Asian Games due to take place in Hangzhou in September have been postponed indefinitely, organisers said Friday, as China battles a resurgence of Covid cases.

No reason was given for the delay, but China is racing to extinguish its largest outbreak of Covid-19 since the early days of the pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-athletics-day-2022-history-significance-everything-you-need-to-know-476678">World Athletics Day 2022:&nbsp;History, significance, everything you need to know</a>

“The Olympic Council of Asia has announced that the 19th Asian Games, originally scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, China from September 10 to 25, 2022, will be postponed,” said a statement on the official Games website, first posted on Chinese state media.

The new dates for the sporting contest “will be announced at a later date”, the statement added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The host city of Hangzhou lies near the country’s biggest city, Shanghai, which has endured a weeks-long lockdown as part of the ruling Communist Party’s zero-tolerance approach to the virus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taiwan-to-host-asian-pride-games-after-two-years-despite-spikes-in-covid-cases-475099">Taiwan to host Asian Pride Games after two years despite spike in COVID-19</a>

Organisers said last month that Hangzhou, a city of 12 million in eastern China, had finished constructing some 56 competition venues for the Asian Games and Asian Para Games.

At the time, they indicated that they planned to hold the events under a virus control plan that “learns from the successful experience” of the Beijing Winter Olympics, which were held in February in a Covid-secure bubble.

The Asian Games due to take place in Hangzhou in September have been postponed indefinitely, organisers said Friday, as China battles a resurgence of Covid cases.

The Asian Games due to take place in Hangzhou in September have been postponed indefinitely, organisers said Friday, as China battles a resurgence of Covid cases. No reason was given for the delay, but China is racing to extinguish its largest outbreak of Covid-19 since the early days of the pandemic. Also read | World Athletics Day 2022: History, significance, everything you need to know “The Olympic Council of Asia has announced that the 19th Asian Games, originally scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, China from September 10 to 25, 2022, will be postponed,” said a statement on the official Games website, first posted on Chinese state media. The new dates for the sporting contest “will be announced at a later date”, the statement added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The host city of Hangzhou lies near the country’s biggest city, Shanghai, which has endured a weeks-long lockdown as part of the ruling Communist Party’s zero-tolerance approach to the virus. Also read | Taiwan to host Asian Pride Games after two years despite spike in COVID-19 Organisers said last month that Hangzhou, a city of 12 million in eastern China, had finished constructing some 56 competition venues for the Asian Games and Asian Para Games. At the time, they indicated that they planned to hold the events under a virus control plan that “learns from the successful experience” of the Beijing Winter Olympics, which were held in February in a Covid-secure bubble.

Asian Games 2022 postponed, Chinese state media reports

Despite an outbreak of the coronavirus caused by two new Omicron sub-variants of coronavirus; BA.4 and BA.5, South Africa has now put an end to school children wearing masks on Thursday (May 5).

The health ministry announced that regulations requiring all students to wear masks in class expired at midnight ad were not renewed. However, adults are still required to wear masks in public indoor locations, and there are still limits on the number of people for gatherings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-warns-world-is-blind-to-how-covid-is-mutating-after-safrica-reports-two-new-omicron-variants-476547" hreflang="en">After S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants, WHO chief warns world is blind to Covid mutations</a>

The country has officially reported over 3.8 million infected cases and 100,407 fatalities, the highest toll in Africa and yet just around half of the adult population has been properly vaccinated. Following a brief break in April, the number of cases has been in the country has been steadily increasing with reporting more than 6,100 cases on Wednesday (May 4).

Watch |&nbsp;More trouble for Jacob Zuma, probe finds questionable deals under his rule

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/more-trouble-for-jacob-zuma-probe-finds-questionable-deals-under-his-rule-475705/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The ministry in a statement said, “The only way we can protect ourselves and our loved ones against this pandemic and the current rising number of positive cases is through vaccination and adhering to preventative measures at all times.”

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Indoor gatherings are limited to half of the venue capacity or 1,000 people and outdoor events can have 2,000 people with a negative covid test report. The inbound travellers are expected to be fully vaccinated and if not,&nbsp;to submit their negative covid test report.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-watchdog-warns-pandemic-is-far-from-over-will-continue-to-impact-our-lives-476651" hreflang="en">EU watchdog warns pandemic is 'far from over', will continue to impact our lives</a>

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organisation chief on Wednesday said that the two Omicron sub-variant are to be blamed for the increase in infections in the country. He further said, “too soon to know whether these new sub-variants can cause more severe disease than other Omicron sub-variants." 
(With inputs from agencies)

Despite an outbreak of the coronavirus caused by two new Omicron sub-variants of coronavirus; BA.4 and BA.5, South Africa has now put an end to school children wearing masks on Thursday (May 5).

Despite an outbreak of the coronavirus caused by two new Omicron sub-variants of coronavirus; BA.4 and BA.5, South Africa has now put an end to school children wearing masks on Thursday (May 5). The health ministry announced that regulations requiring all students to wear masks in class expired at midnight ad were not renewed. However, adults are still required to wear masks in public indoor locations, and there are still limits on the number of people for gatherings. Also read | After S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants, WHO chief warns world is blind to Covid mutations The country has officially reported over 3.8 million infected cases and 100,407 fatalities, the highest toll in Africa and yet just around half of the adult population has been properly vaccinated. Following a brief break in April, the number of cases has been in the country has been steadily increasing with reporting more than 6,100 cases on Wednesday (May 4). Watch | More trouble for Jacob Zuma, probe finds questionable deals under his rule The ministry in a statement said, “The only way we can protect ourselves and our loved ones against this pandemic and the current rising number of positive cases is through vaccination and adhering to preventative measures at all times.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Indoor gatherings are limited to half of the venue capacity or 1,000 people and outdoor events can have 2,000 people with a negative covid test report. The inbound travellers are expected to be fully vaccinated and if not, to submit their negative covid test report. Also read | EU watchdog warns pandemic is 'far from over', will continue to impact our lives Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organisation chief on Wednesday said that the two Omicron sub-variant are to be blamed for the increase in infections in the country. He further said, “too soon to know whether these new sub-variants can cause more severe disease than other Omicron sub-variants." (With inputs from agencies)

Despite an increase in COVID-19 cases, South Africa to drop masks for kids

In pics: One dead, 5000 suffer breathing problems as thick sandstorm hits Iraq

American Pharma giant Pfizer has operationalized its largest and only drug development centre in Asia in the Indian city of Chennai. Set up at a cost of USD20 million (approx INR150 crore), the facility will carry out the development of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Finished Dosage Forms (FDFs) for a wide range of Prizer's offerings. While API refers to the component of the drug that causes the intended effect, FDF refers to the finished drug that is meant for consumption.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;S. Sridhar, Country Manager, Pfizer India, their organisation is&nbsp;confident that the latest facility will allow for synergistic co-development of cutting-edge API and FDF processes under the same roof. The world-class scientific, technology and innovation-driven Research Park campus provides an ideal setting for our work, he said. Pfizer is also considering roping in talent from the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras and other academia (as employees or interns), collaborating with academia, and funding healthcare sector start-ups in India, among other activities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-reports-record-profits-amid-growth-in-vaccine-paxlovid-pill-476179">Pfizer reports record profits amid growth in vaccine, Paxlovid pill</a>

Queried on the operational status of the new facility, Pfizer officials told WION that a majority of the Chennai facility was operational and that their work had started. However, only the qualification of some sophisticated equipment remains to be completed, in line with Good Manufacturing Practice, they added. "Our new facility is aimed at working on small molecule drug development and we have labs that are meant for chemistry, microbiology, process engineering, support labs, etc." they said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Macron set to host Modi after re-election

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-macron-set-to-host-modi-after-reelection-476428/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Simply put, a&nbsp;small-molecule drug is a synthetic chemical derived from or inspired by natural products produced by bacteria, fungi, and plants. These drugs use biochemical processes to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases.

As per the company, the new centre integrates two essential functions under the export-oriented undertaking of Pfizer Inc.: Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmSci) and Global Technology and Engineering (GT&amp;E) Center of Excellence. While PharmSci is dedicated to the development of anti-infectives, oncolytics, sterile injectables, anaesthesia products, hospital products, GT &amp; E pioneers next-generation API processing and manufacturing technology to supply medicines to patients around the globe.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Situated at the IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai, this 61,000sq ft facility employs over 250 scientists and professionals from a range of domains, including formulation scientists and pharmacists, analytical scientists, life science specialists (Microbiologists, Biotechnologists), chemical engineers, data scientists, and programme managers.

This facility in Chennai is part of one of the 12 global centres that Pfizer operates around the world. In addition to this drug development centre, Pfizer also operates three plants that manufacture Pfizer Pharmaceutical products in the Indian cities of Visakhapatnam, Goa, and Ahmedabad, besides nearly thirty third-party manufacturing facilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizers-anti-covid-pill-gets-who-approval-heres-what-you-should-know-about-paxlovid-472896">Pfizer's anti-Covid pill gets WHO approval. Here's what you should know about Paxlovid</a>

"We believe that the proximity of Pfizer to IITM, scientists and students, the Tech Corridor, and other leading industry start-ups will foster greater collaboration between industry and academia. We are also sure that the academicians at IITM will benefit from having access to Pfizer’s centre," said Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, President, IITM Research Park. 
&nbsp;

American Pharma giant Pfizer has operationalized its largest and only drug development centre in Asia in the Indian city of Chennai. Set up at a cost of USD20 million (approx INR150 crore), the facility will carry out the development of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Finished Dosage Forms (FDFs) for a wide range of Prizer's offerings.

American Pharma giant Pfizer has operationalized its largest and only drug development centre in Asia in the Indian city of Chennai. Set up at a cost of USD20 million (approx INR150 crore), the facility will carry out the development of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Finished Dosage Forms (FDFs) for a wide range of Prizer's offerings. While API refers to the component of the drug that causes the intended effect, FDF refers to the finished drug that is meant for consumption. According to S. Sridhar, Country Manager, Pfizer India, their organisation is confident that the latest facility will allow for synergistic co-development of cutting-edge API and FDF processes under the same roof. The world-class scientific, technology and innovation-driven Research Park campus provides an ideal setting for our work, he said. Pfizer is also considering roping in talent from the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras and other academia (as employees or interns), collaborating with academia, and funding healthcare sector start-ups in India, among other activities. Also read | Pfizer reports record profits amid growth in vaccine, Paxlovid pill Queried on the operational status of the new facility, Pfizer officials told WION that a majority of the Chennai facility was operational and that their work had started. However, only the qualification of some sophisticated equipment remains to be completed, in line with Good Manufacturing Practice, they added. "Our new facility is aimed at working on small molecule drug development and we have labs that are meant for chemistry, microbiology, process engineering, support labs, etc." they said. Watch | Gravitas: Macron set to host Modi after re-election Simply put, a small-molecule drug is a synthetic chemical derived from or inspired by natural products produced by bacteria, fungi, and plants. These drugs use biochemical processes to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases. As per the company, the new centre integrates two essential functions under the export-oriented undertaking of Pfizer Inc.: Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmSci) and Global Technology and Engineering (GT&E) Center of Excellence. While PharmSci is dedicated to the development of anti-infectives, oncolytics, sterile injectables, anaesthesia products, hospital products, GT & E pioneers next-generation API processing and manufacturing technology to supply medicines to patients around the globe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Situated at the IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai, this 61,000sq ft facility employs over 250 scientists and professionals from a range of domains, including formulation scientists and pharmacists, analytical scientists, life science specialists (Microbiologists, Biotechnologists), chemical engineers, data scientists, and programme managers. This facility in Chennai is part of one of the 12 global centres that Pfizer operates around the world. In addition to this drug development centre, Pfizer also operates three plants that manufacture Pfizer Pharmaceutical products in the Indian cities of Visakhapatnam, Goa, and Ahmedabad, besides nearly thirty third-party manufacturing facilities. Also read | Pfizer's anti-Covid pill gets WHO approval. Here's what you should know about Paxlovid "We believe that the proximity of Pfizer to IITM, scientists and students, the Tech Corridor, and other leading industry start-ups will foster greater collaboration between industry and academia. We are also sure that the academicians at IITM will benefit from having access to Pfizer’s centre," said Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, President, IITM Research Park.

Pfizer's largest drug development centre in Asia is situated in this Indian city

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune, confirmed on Wednesday (May 4) in his tweet that the COVID-19 vaccination Covovax will now be available to everyone above the age of 12 years.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A lot of you have asked if Covovax is available for adults. The answer is yes, it is available for everyone above the age of 12.
— Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/1521908211577618437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This confirmation came a day after Poonawalla stated on Twitter that Covovax is now available for children in India. In the country, Covovax (Novavax) will be available for children. This is the only Indian-made vaccine that is also available in Europe, and it boasts a 90 per cent efficacy rate. The CEO even mentioned the vision of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aim of delivering another vaccine to protect the children.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-as-severe-as-previous-covid-variants-large-study-finds-476450">Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds</a>

The Indian government last year in December approved use of Covovax for an emergency case.

Watch |&nbsp;Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cognitive-abilities-can-decline-due-to-severe-covid-reports-476440/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Last Monday (May 2), the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) authorised the Covovax COVID-19 vaccine from the Serum Institute of India for the age group of 12-17 years.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

However, many Twitter users expressed their dissatisfaction with the fact that the Covovax option is not available on the CoWIN app for vaccine recipients for the age group of 18 years and above.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/severe-covid-may-result-in-cognitive-ability-dropping-by-10-iq-points-study-476336">Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study</a>

Another user tweeted with a screenshot of the app and said, “Check this out, when we select 18 &amp; above option in CoWIN app, automatically Covovax option gets faded i.e disabled while 4 other options are highlighted i.e Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik, ZyCov-D."

(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune, confirmed on Wednesday (May 4) in his tweet that the COVID-19 vaccination Covovax will now be available to everyone above the age of 12 years.

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune, confirmed on Wednesday (May 4) in his tweet that the COVID-19 vaccination Covovax will now be available to everyone above the age of 12 years. A lot of you have asked if Covovax is available for adults. The answer is yes, it is available for everyone above the age of 12. — Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) May 4, 2022 × This confirmation came a day after Poonawalla stated on Twitter that Covovax is now available for children in India. In the country, Covovax (Novavax) will be available for children. This is the only Indian-made vaccine that is also available in Europe, and it boasts a 90 per cent efficacy rate. The CEO even mentioned the vision of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aim of delivering another vaccine to protect the children. Also read | Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds The Indian government last year in December approved use of Covovax for an emergency case. Watch | Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports Last Monday (May 2), the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) authorised the Covovax COVID-19 vaccine from the Serum Institute of India for the age group of 12-17 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: However, many Twitter users expressed their dissatisfaction with the fact that the Covovax option is not available on the CoWIN app for vaccine recipients for the age group of 18 years and above. Also read | Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study Another user tweeted with a screenshot of the app and said, “Check this out, when we select 18 & above option in CoWIN app, automatically Covovax option gets faded i.e disabled while 4 other options are highlighted i.e Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik, ZyCov-D." (With inputs from agencies)

Covovax vaccine available for everyone above 12 years: Adar Poonawalla

A firefighting aircraft dropped water over an area south of Las Vegas on Wednesday (May 4) to control the spread of two wildfires that combined in New&nbsp;Mexico.

The wildfire at Calf Canyon has joined with the Hermits Peak wildfire, where according to local officials it has burned through over 145,000 acres. Thousands of residents have evacuated amid the threatening fires.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fishermen-catch-832-pound-bluefin-tuna-in-gulf-of-mexico-look-to-set-new-state-record-475257">US fishermen catch 832-pound bluefin tuna in Gulf of Mexico, look to set new state record</a> &nbsp;

Off of Highway 283 in San Miguel county south of Las Vegas, smoke was seen rising from trees.

Watch |&nbsp;New Mexico: Plane drops water to douse wildfires, Biden approves disaster declaration

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-mexico-plane-drops-water-to-douse-wildfires-biden-approves-disaster-declaration-476477/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Over a 1,000 firefighters are working to put out smoking embers and control the spread of the wildfires.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Swathes of New&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;are under critical fire alerts.

A firefighting aircraft dropped water over an area south of Las Vegas on Wednesday (May 4) to control the spread of two wildfires that combined in New Mexico. The wildfire at Calf Canyon has joined with the Hermits Peak wildfire, where according to local officials it has burned through over 145,000 acres.

A firefighting aircraft dropped water over an area south of Las Vegas on Wednesday (May 4) to control the spread of two wildfires that combined in New Mexico. The wildfire at Calf Canyon has joined with the Hermits Peak wildfire, where according to local officials it has burned through over 145,000 acres. Thousands of residents have evacuated amid the threatening fires. Also read | US fishermen catch 832-pound bluefin tuna in Gulf of Mexico, look to set new state record Off of Highway 283 in San Miguel county south of Las Vegas, smoke was seen rising from trees. Watch | New Mexico: Plane drops water to douse wildfires, Biden approves disaster declaration Over a 1,000 firefighters are working to put out smoking embers and control the spread of the wildfires. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Swathes of New Mexico are under critical fire alerts.

Plane drops water to combat fast-spreading wildfires in New Mexico

May 3 is marked as World Asthma Day (WAD) to raise awareness about the disease and how individuals suffering can best prepare themselves as the condition cannot be cured.

Asthma is often under-treated mainly in low-and middle-income countries.&nbsp;

As per a World Health Organization (WHO) report, it is estimated that Asthma affected nearly 262 million people and caused 416,000 deaths in 2019.&nbsp;

Let’s now understand what is asthma, its causes, the theme for this year's Asthma Day, the condition's impact on daily life and different strategies for its prevention.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/women-more-likely-to-have-asthma-attacks-deaths-than-men-report-474429">Women more likely to have asthma attacks, deaths than men: Report&nbsp;</a>

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects all age groups. It’s basically caused due to inflammation and tightening around the tiny airways and the air channels in the lungs.

Its symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and even chest tightness. However, these sensations come and go, but are usually problematic at night or when one is exercising. &nbsp;

As per WHO, Asthma symptoms can get worse by “triggers.”

The possible triggers can be dust, smoke, strong fumes, change in weather, animal furs and even grass.

The theme for 2022:

The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) a WHO-linked organisation founded in the year 1993, organises World Asthma Day. GINA’s theme for this year is “Closing Gaps in Asthma Care."

As per GINA, there are several gaps in between asthma care, and it needs to be addressed in order to reduce avoidable suffering and the costs of treating uncontrolled asthma.

Watch |&nbsp;Study: Asthma Patients less likely to die of COVID-19

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-asthma-patients-less-likely-to-die-of-covid-19-your-story-333572/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Causes of Asthma:

There are several distinct factors that lead to increased chances of having asthma, but it’s difficult to just point out one direct reason.

The first cause can be genetics. It's prevalent in individuals whose family members have asthma.&nbsp;

People with other allergy disorders, such as eczema and rhinitis are likely to develop asthma (hay fever).

One of the most common causes is linked to urbanisation and even lifestyle factors contribute to this.

Environmental allergens and pollutants, such as indoor and outdoor pollution, home dust mites, chemical fumes at professional places, or even dust raise the risk of asthma.&nbsp;

Weight causes so many problems for people. Overweight or obese people are most likely to develop asthma.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Impacts of Asthma on daily lives:

Sleep disturbance, fatigue during the day and poor concentration are all symptoms of people who are under-treated for Asthma.&nbsp;

Asthmatics miss their schools, and work which later might cause financial hardship for the family and the community.&nbsp;

Asthmatic patients may even require emergency medical attention and even hospital admission for treatment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/out-of-breath-population-boom-and-its-impact-on-air-pollution-452400">Out of breath: Population boom and its impact on air pollution</a>

The WHO is currently working and expanding diagnosis and treatment for Asthma.

As per WHO reports, tobacco smoke reduction is crucial for both primary asthma prevention and even in disease management. &nbsp;The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, as well as WHO initiatives like MPOWER and MTobacco Cessation, are facilitating development in this field.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

May 3 is marked as World Asthma Day (WAD) to raise awareness about the disease and how individuals suffering can best prepare themselves as the condition cannot be cured.

May 3 is marked as World Asthma Day (WAD) to raise awareness about the disease and how individuals suffering can best prepare themselves as the condition cannot be cured. Asthma is often under-treated mainly in low-and middle-income countries. As per a World Health Organization (WHO) report, it is estimated that Asthma affected nearly 262 million people and caused 416,000 deaths in 2019. Let’s now understand what is asthma, its causes, the theme for this year's Asthma Day, the condition's impact on daily life and different strategies for its prevention. Also read | Women more likely to have asthma attacks, deaths than men: Report What is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects all age groups. It’s basically caused due to inflammation and tightening around the tiny airways and the air channels in the lungs. Its symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and even chest tightness. However, these sensations come and go, but are usually problematic at night or when one is exercising. As per WHO, Asthma symptoms can get worse by “triggers.” The possible triggers can be dust, smoke, strong fumes, change in weather, animal furs and even grass. The theme for 2022: The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) a WHO-linked organisation founded in the year 1993, organises World Asthma Day. GINA’s theme for this year is “Closing Gaps in Asthma Care." As per GINA, there are several gaps in between asthma care, and it needs to be addressed in order to reduce avoidable suffering and the costs of treating uncontrolled asthma. Watch | Study: Asthma Patients less likely to die of COVID-19 Causes of Asthma: There are several distinct factors that lead to increased chances of having asthma, but it’s difficult to just point out one direct reason. The first cause can be genetics. It's prevalent in individuals whose family members have asthma. People with other allergy disorders, such as eczema and rhinitis are likely to develop asthma (hay fever). One of the most common causes is linked to urbanisation and even lifestyle factors contribute to this. Environmental allergens and pollutants, such as indoor and outdoor pollution, home dust mites, chemical fumes at professional places, or even dust raise the risk of asthma. Weight causes so many problems for people. Overweight or obese people are most likely to develop asthma. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Impacts of Asthma on daily lives: Sleep disturbance, fatigue during the day and poor concentration are all symptoms of people who are under-treated for Asthma. Asthmatics miss their schools, and work which later might cause financial hardship for the family and the community. Asthmatic patients may even require emergency medical attention and even hospital admission for treatment. Also read | Out of breath: Population boom and its impact on air pollution The WHO is currently working and expanding diagnosis and treatment for Asthma. As per WHO reports, tobacco smoke reduction is crucial for both primary asthma prevention and even in disease management. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, as well as WHO initiatives like MPOWER and MTobacco Cessation, are facilitating development in this field.

On World Asthma Day 2022, know the causes and impact of the condition

World’s longest non-stop commercial existing and upcoming flights

According to reports, five new dengue cases have been registered in Delhi since&nbsp;last week&nbsp;bringing the total number of dengue cases to 81.

The cases of vector-borne diseases commonly&nbsp;spread between July and November and sometimes&nbsp;even last till mid-December.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-landmark-ruling-indian-apex-court-says-no-one-can-be-forced-to-get-covid-19-vaccine-475613">Covid: India's Supreme Court against restrictions on unvaccinated in public places</a>

As per the reports so far, no deaths have been reported due to the vector-bone sickness.

According to the data, the capital reported 23 cases in January, 16 cases in February, 22 in March and 20 cases in April. As per the civic officials, dengue cases reported earlier this year are due to the favourable weather for mosquito breeding.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India may soon make food labelling mandatory

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-may-soon-make-food-labelling-mandatory-474469/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The South Delhi Municipal City (SDMC) is the city’s focal agency for vector-borne disease prevention.

As per the agency’s report, 4,431 dengue cases were reported in Delhi in 2016, 4,726 in 2017, 2,798 in 2018, 2,036 in 2019 and 1,072 in 2020.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The report said Delhi has also reported 11 instances of malaria and eight cases of chikungunya so far this year.

In the national capital last year, there were 9,613 cases, the highest since 2015, in addition, 23 deaths were reported in Delhi, the most since 2016. Dengue fever in the capital claimed 10 deaths in 2017, four deaths in 2018 and two in 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/researchers-at-iit-mandi-discover-molecule-that-can-be-used-to-treat-type-1-and-type-2-diabetes-475727">IIT researchers discover molecule that can be used to treat diabetes</a>

The city had a large dengue break in the year 2015, with the number of infections reaching 10,600 in October alone, being the most severe dengue outbreak since 1996.

The SDMC’s Public Health Department recently performed a mosquito breeding inspection at building sites in schools and hospitals, issuing 99 notices to violators.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to reports, five new dengue cases have been registered in Delhi since last week bringing the total number of dengue cases to 81. The cases of vector-borne diseases commonly spread between July and November and sometimes even last till mid-December.

According to reports, five new dengue cases have been registered in Delhi since last week bringing the total number of dengue cases to 81. The cases of vector-borne diseases commonly spread between July and November and sometimes even last till mid-December. Also read | Covid: India's Supreme Court against restrictions on unvaccinated in public places As per the reports so far, no deaths have been reported due to the vector-bone sickness. According to the data, the capital reported 23 cases in January, 16 cases in February, 22 in March and 20 cases in April. As per the civic officials, dengue cases reported earlier this year are due to the favourable weather for mosquito breeding. Watch | Gravitas: India may soon make food labelling mandatory The South Delhi Municipal City (SDMC) is the city’s focal agency for vector-borne disease prevention. As per the agency’s report, 4,431 dengue cases were reported in Delhi in 2016, 4,726 in 2017, 2,798 in 2018, 2,036 in 2019 and 1,072 in 2020. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The report said Delhi has also reported 11 instances of malaria and eight cases of chikungunya so far this year. In the national capital last year, there were 9,613 cases, the highest since 2015, in addition, 23 deaths were reported in Delhi, the most since 2016. Dengue fever in the capital claimed 10 deaths in 2017, four deaths in 2018 and two in 2019. Also read | IIT researchers discover molecule that can be used to treat diabetes The city had a large dengue break in the year 2015, with the number of infections reaching 10,600 in October alone, being the most severe dengue outbreak since 1996. The SDMC’s Public Health Department recently performed a mosquito breeding inspection at building sites in schools and hospitals, issuing 99 notices to violators. (With inputs from agencies)

Five new dengue cases reported in Delhi; no deaths recorded

New Zealand welcomes Australian visitors with warm hugs, tears and Maori performers

Explained: What is Eid al-Fitr? Meaning behind the end of Ramadan 2022

India's severe heatwave has passed in many parts of the country, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which has now issued a yellow alert for Northwest India for the winds known as western disturbance.

The department predicted that the temperature will drop in isolated parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Haryana and eastern Rajasthan starting today, while Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Rajasthan will continue to remain hot.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-a-heatwave-how-is-it-declared-and-what-are-the-many-types-of-alerts-in-india-475448">What is a heatwave, how is it declared, and what are the many types of alerts in India?</a>

Maximum temperatures are expected to drop by 3-4 degrees Celsius, according to the forecast.

A senior scientist in the national forecasting department RK Jenamani said, "The heatwave in Odisha and Bengal was over on April 30, as we predicted. Strong winds will be there in the next two to three days," ANI news agency quoted him as saying.

"We are also giving a yellow warning to Northwest India as there is a Western disturbance. Delhi is likely to experience rain mainly on May 3. Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab are on yellow alert and strong winds will be there tomorrow and rain may occur.”

Watch |&nbsp;Climate change: Extreme heatwave grips South Asia, temperature soars in India &amp; Pakistan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-change-extreme-heatwave-grips-south-asia-temperature-soars-in-india-pakistan-475498/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He further stated that this Western Disturbance is extremely active, with wind patterns seen in Delhi, Jaipur and Lucknow. The temperature will not climb over the next 6-7 coming days due to strong east breezes.&nbsp;

"It is a big relief after such a big spell. A heatwave cannot be formed till May 7. We will be able to the exact situation after May 7 after analysing however the temperature goes. But right now, the condition is good in May," he added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/extreme-heat-waves-here-is-how-to-keep-yourself-protected-474914">Extreme heat waves: Here is how to keep yourself protected</a>

From Monday (May 2), isolated areas in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh are likely to see partly overcast skies with the risk of thunders.&nbsp;

Many parts of the country have been suffering from an extreme heatwave for the past few weeks, with temperatures reaching record highs and average maximum temperatures of 35.9 and 37.8 Celsius in the northwest and central India, respectively.&nbsp;

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

India's severe heatwave has passed in many parts of the country, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which has now issued a yellow alert for Northwest India for the winds known as western disturbance.

India's severe heatwave has passed in many parts of the country, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which has now issued a yellow alert for Northwest India for the winds known as western disturbance. The department predicted that the temperature will drop in isolated parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Haryana and eastern Rajasthan starting today, while Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Rajasthan will continue to remain hot. Also read | What is a heatwave, how is it declared, and what are the many types of alerts in India? Maximum temperatures are expected to drop by 3-4 degrees Celsius, according to the forecast. A senior scientist in the national forecasting department RK Jenamani said, "The heatwave in Odisha and Bengal was over on April 30, as we predicted. Strong winds will be there in the next two to three days," ANI news agency quoted him as saying. "We are also giving a yellow warning to Northwest India as there is a Western disturbance. Delhi is likely to experience rain mainly on May 3. Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab are on yellow alert and strong winds will be there tomorrow and rain may occur.” Watch | Climate change: Extreme heatwave grips South Asia, temperature soars in India & Pakistan He further stated that this Western Disturbance is extremely active, with wind patterns seen in Delhi, Jaipur and Lucknow. The temperature will not climb over the next 6-7 coming days due to strong east breezes. "It is a big relief after such a big spell. A heatwave cannot be formed till May 7. We will be able to the exact situation after May 7 after analysing however the temperature goes. But right now, the condition is good in May," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Also read | Extreme heat waves: Here is how to keep yourself protected From Monday (May 2), isolated areas in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh are likely to see partly overcast skies with the risk of thunders. Many parts of the country have been suffering from an extreme heatwave for the past few weeks, with temperatures reaching record highs and average maximum temperatures of 35.9 and 37.8 Celsius in the northwest and central India, respectively. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

Heatwave is over in many parts of India, Delhi to experience rain on May 3: IMD

Qantas&nbsp;announced on Monday&nbsp;it will&nbsp;launch&nbsp;the world's&nbsp;longest&nbsp;non-stop&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;flight, with passengers set to spend 19 hours in the air travelling from Sydney to London by the end of 2025.

After five years of planning, the airline said it was ordering 12 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft to operate the "Project Sunrise" flights to cities including London and New York.

Non-stop&nbsp;flights will start from Sydney by the end of 2025, it said, with long-haul trips later planned to include Melbourne.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-a-record-of-interfering-in-foreign-politics-says-australias-prime-minister-scott-morrison-475152">China has a record of interfering in foreign politics, says Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison</a>

"New types of aircraft make new things possible," said&nbsp;Qantas&nbsp;chairman Alan Joyce, according to a statement.

"The A350 and Project Sunrise will make any city just one&nbsp;flight&nbsp;away from Australia," he said.

"It's the final frontier and the final fix for the tyranny of distance."

Qantas&nbsp;operated research flights for the long-haul route in 2019, including a trial London-Sydney trek of 17,800 kilometres (11,030 miles), which took 19 hours and 19 minutes.

A trial New York-Sydney&nbsp;flight&nbsp;in the same year covered 16,200 kilometres (10,200 miles) and took a little over 19 hours.

Singapore Airlines currently operates the world's&nbsp;longest&nbsp;non-stop&nbsp;commercial&nbsp;flight&nbsp;from Singapore to New York, covering 16,700 kilometres (10,400 miles) in a little under 19 hours.

Qantas&nbsp;already operates a 14,498-kilometre Perth-London trip that takes 17 hours.

Watch |&nbsp;Australia's Qantas airways: World's longest non-stop flight

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australias-qantas-airways-worlds-longest-non-stop-flight-475631/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Maximum comfort

"As you'd expect, the cabin is being specially designed for maximum comfort for long-haul flying," Joyce said.

Qantas&nbsp;said the new A350 aircraft would be configured for 238 passengers with first-class suites offering a separate bed, recliner chair and wardrobe.

It promised spacier economy sections and a "wellbeing zone" designed for "movement, stretching and hydration".

Airbus listed the price of the A350-1000 at US$366.5 million (348 million euros) on its 2018 catalogue, the last one it published.

Qantas&nbsp;said it was also ordering 40 A321 XLR and A220 aircraft from Airbus.

In addition, it bought options for another 94 of these planes until the end of 2034.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The A220 models were listed at between US$81 million and US$91.5 million in 2018. The A321 was unveiled after Airbus stopped publishing catalogue prices.

Qantas&nbsp;said the total cost of the deal was a matter of commercial confidence, though it indicated it had obtained a significant discount on the standard price of the aircraft.

"The A320s and A220s will become the backbone of our domestic fleet for the next 20 years, helping to keep this country moving," Joyce said.

The newer aircraft would reduce emissions by at least 15 per cent if running on fossil fuels, and more if using sustainable aviation fuel, he said.

"We have come through the other side of the pandemic a structurally different company," the airline boss said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-competition-watchdog-sues-uber-for-usd-19-million-fine-474004">Australia: Competition watchdog sues Uber for USD 19 million fine</a>

"Our domestic market share is higher and the demand for direct international flights is even stronger than it was before Covid."

The A350-1000 planes will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 turbofan engines, designed to be 25 per cent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation of aircraft,&nbsp;Qantas&nbsp;said.

Qantas announced on Monday it will launch the world's longest non-stop commercial flight, with passengers set to spend 19 hours in the air travelling from Sydney to London by the end of 2025.

Qantas announced on Monday it will launch the world's longest non-stop commercial flight, with passengers set to spend 19 hours in the air travelling from Sydney to London by the end of 2025. After five years of planning, the airline said it was ordering 12 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft to operate the "Project Sunrise" flights to cities including London and New York. Non-stop flights will start from Sydney by the end of 2025, it said, with long-haul trips later planned to include Melbourne. Also read | China has a record of interfering in foreign politics, says Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison "New types of aircraft make new things possible," said Qantas chairman Alan Joyce, according to a statement. "The A350 and Project Sunrise will make any city just one flight away from Australia," he said. "It's the final frontier and the final fix for the tyranny of distance." Qantas operated research flights for the long-haul route in 2019, including a trial London-Sydney trek of 17,800 kilometres (11,030 miles), which took 19 hours and 19 minutes. A trial New York-Sydney flight in the same year covered 16,200 kilometres (10,200 miles) and took a little over 19 hours. Singapore Airlines currently operates the world's longest non-stop commercial flight from Singapore to New York, covering 16,700 kilometres (10,400 miles) in a little under 19 hours. Qantas already operates a 14,498-kilometre Perth-London trip that takes 17 hours. Watch | Australia's Qantas airways: World's longest non-stop flight Maximum comfort "As you'd expect, the cabin is being specially designed for maximum comfort for long-haul flying," Joyce said. Qantas said the new A350 aircraft would be configured for 238 passengers with first-class suites offering a separate bed, recliner chair and wardrobe. It promised spacier economy sections and a "wellbeing zone" designed for "movement, stretching and hydration". Airbus listed the price of the A350-1000 at US$366.5 million (348 million euros) on its 2018 catalogue, the last one it published. Qantas said it was also ordering 40 A321 XLR and A220 aircraft from Airbus. In addition, it bought options for another 94 of these planes until the end of 2034. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The A220 models were listed at between US$81 million and US$91.5 million in 2018. The A321 was unveiled after Airbus stopped publishing catalogue prices. Qantas said the total cost of the deal was a matter of commercial confidence, though it indicated it had obtained a significant discount on the standard price of the aircraft. "The A320s and A220s will become the backbone of our domestic fleet for the next 20 years, helping to keep this country moving," Joyce said. The newer aircraft would reduce emissions by at least 15 per cent if running on fossil fuels, and more if using sustainable aviation fuel, he said. "We have come through the other side of the pandemic a structurally different company," the airline boss said. Also read | Australia: Competition watchdog sues Uber for USD 19 million fine "Our domestic market share is higher and the demand for direct international flights is even stronger than it was before Covid." The A350-1000 planes will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 turbofan engines, designed to be 25 per cent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation of aircraft, Qantas said.

19 hours in air: Qantas to launch world's longest non-stop commercial flight from Sydney to London

The Indian army recently said that there has been a rise in the recovery of military equipment from Afghanistan in the Kashmir&nbsp;region. General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, today said that the equipment weapon system which is used across the world had made its way into the Kashmir region.&nbsp;

He said that it's definitely&nbsp;a challenge, but the Indian Army is all ready to tackle any such issue. According to the Indian army, equipments from Afghanistan have&nbsp;been recovered near the Line of Control and in a few encounters as well. The Indian army had found&nbsp;some night vision devices and satellite&nbsp;phones.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-saves-all-six-crew-members-of-sinking-ship-off-indias-west-coast-475633">Indian Coast Guard saves all six crew members of sinking ship off India's west coast</a>

Sources in security said that traces of satellite&nbsp;phones being used by terror groups have been found in the Kashmir region and are&nbsp;sent to the National Technical Research Organisation for analysis.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Indians are people with a lot of humility, says Indian-origin German politician Dr Bala S Ramani

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indians-are-people-with-a-lot-of-humility-says-indian-origin-german-politician-dr-bala-s-ramani-475610/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There are equipment and weapon systems that are used around the world that have found a way inside. It's definitely a challenge, but we have also changed our rules of engagement and procedures to contest that point. They have been found. They are not in large numbers, but there are signatures and we have recovered them in some encounters and some on the Line of Control, so it's not a big challenge.&nbsp;We have been able to work around that system. "&nbsp;said&nbsp;General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Indian army also says a lot of foreign terrorists in the valley were on the quiet and they were putting up local terrorists in the forefront. And as local terrorist numbers start coming down, the foreign terrorists are getting slowly exposed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-of-5-lankan-tamils-arrive-on-indian-shores-flee-island-nation-carrying-infant-475675">Family of 5 Lankan Tamils arrive on Indian shores, flee island nation carrying infant</a>

"These terrorists were quiet. They were putting the local terrorists as the face of terrorist activities." As the numbers of local terrorists started coming down, they are getting exposed and are compelled to come out of hiding to carry out terror activities against the locals and no locals of the valley. ''Said&nbsp;General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey.&nbsp;

The Indian army says there has been only one infiltration attempt made by terrorists from across the border, but it was foiled. The security grid on the LoC has been made full proof.&nbsp;

The Indian army recently said that there has been a rise in the recovery of military equipment from Afghanistan in the Kashmir region. General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, today said that the equipment weapon system which is used across the world had made its way into the Kashmir region.

The Indian army recently said that there has been a rise in the recovery of military equipment from Afghanistan in the Kashmir region. General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, today said that the equipment weapon system which is used across the world had made its way into the Kashmir region. He said that it's definitely a challenge, but the Indian Army is all ready to tackle any such issue. According to the Indian army, equipments from Afghanistan have been recovered near the Line of Control and in a few encounters as well. The Indian army had found some night vision devices and satellite phones. Also read | Indian Coast Guard saves all six crew members of sinking ship off India's west coast Sources in security said that traces of satellite phones being used by terror groups have been found in the Kashmir region and are sent to the National Technical Research Organisation for analysis. Watch | Indians are people with a lot of humility, says Indian-origin German politician Dr Bala S Ramani "There are equipment and weapon systems that are used around the world that have found a way inside. It's definitely a challenge, but we have also changed our rules of engagement and procedures to contest that point. They have been found. They are not in large numbers, but there are signatures and we have recovered them in some encounters and some on the Line of Control, so it's not a big challenge. We have been able to work around that system. " said General officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Indian army also says a lot of foreign terrorists in the valley were on the quiet and they were putting up local terrorists in the forefront. And as local terrorist numbers start coming down, the foreign terrorists are getting slowly exposed. Also read | Family of 5 Lankan Tamils arrive on Indian shores, flee island nation carrying infant "These terrorists were quiet. They were putting the local terrorists as the face of terrorist activities." As the numbers of local terrorists started coming down, they are getting exposed and are compelled to come out of hiding to carry out terror activities against the locals and no locals of the valley. ''Said General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps, Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey. The Indian army says there has been only one infiltration attempt made by terrorists from across the border, but it was foiled. The security grid on the LoC has been made full proof.

Indian Army recovers military equipment sent from Afghanistan in Kashmir

A five-membered family of Sri Lankan Tamils arrived on Indian shores in the wee hours of Tuesday, after fleeing their home country and taking a dangerous boat ride across the seas. Hailing from Jaffna, in the northern part of the island nation, this family is among several others who are being pushed to the brink amid the ongoing severe economic crisis in the island nation. Dayalan, the head of the family, his wife, their children, a two-month-old infant and a six-year-old girl, and their grandmother, were taken to the Marine Police station, on receipt of information regarding their arrival.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
While being questioned by the Indian authorities, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, the family is said to have cited the basic livelihood issues and the daily struggles faced by those in the lower economic strata of Sri Lanka's. Among the reasons that prompted their extreme decision to flee their homeland are the skyrocketing prices of essentials, a kilogramme of milk powder being sold at Lankan Rs. 2000 (5.7 USD), the unavailability of vaccines meant for infants, meagre daily wages, and the fear of starving to death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-saves-all-six-crew-members-of-sinking-ship-off-indias-west-coast-475633">Indian Coast Guard saves all six crew members of sinking ship off India's west coast</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
While many manage to stay back, earn a living, make ends meet &amp;protes against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajapaksa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajapaksa</a> family rule in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> , the plight of poor <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLankan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLankan</a> tamils is in stark contrast.Fearing they'd starve to death, this Tamil family from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jaffna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jaffna</a> fled to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> with their 2month-old infant <a href="https://t.co/mFXQ05SFKv">pic.twitter.com/mFXQ05SFKv</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1521035668381601792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It is said that the five-member family has been sent to the Mandapam refugee camp in the Ramanathapuram district. The illegal influx of Lankan Tamils into India began on March 22nd and families continue to arrive in batches of up to 18 people, in the hope of a better life across the Palk Strait.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 
&nbsp; 
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Recently, the Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution to provide aid to Sri Lanka and provide succour to a country that is faced with its worst-ever economic crisis. The decision to provide aid to all of Sri Lanka is a volte-face by the Tamil Nadu government. Earlier, the Tamil Nadu government had offered to provide aid only to Lankan Tamils. This move had faced backlash from the island nation. Many Lankan Tamil voices were clear that they were not willing to accept aid from Tamil Nadu, if it was only going to help Lankan Tamils. The Lankan Tamils were firm in their stance that any aid must benefit their entire country and not one community alone.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-hardship-for-sri-lankan-citizens-is-going-to-increase-says-weerakoon-wijewardena-475287">Exclusive | Hardship for Sri Lankan citizens is going to increase, Weerakoon Wijewardena tells WION</a>

However, the aid being sent from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka could only be facilitated via the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian High Commission in Colombo. In this regard, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar asked the Tamil Nadu government's Chief Secretary to coordinate with the Government of India in supplying the relief material. It was also stated that the aid from Tamil Nadu can supplement what was already being provided by the Government of India and that the Government of Sri Lanka prefers inclusive distribution of relief material.&nbsp;

A five-membered family of Sri Lankan Tamils arrived on Indian shores in the wee hours of Tuesday, after fleeing their home country and taking a dangerous boat ride across the seas.

A five-membered family of Sri Lankan Tamils arrived on Indian shores in the wee hours of Tuesday, after fleeing their home country and taking a dangerous boat ride across the seas. Hailing from Jaffna, in the northern part of the island nation, this family is among several others who are being pushed to the brink amid the ongoing severe economic crisis in the island nation. Dayalan, the head of the family, his wife, their children, a two-month-old infant and a six-year-old girl, and their grandmother, were taken to the Marine Police station, on receipt of information regarding their arrival. While being questioned by the Indian authorities, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, the family is said to have cited the basic livelihood issues and the daily struggles faced by those in the lower economic strata of Sri Lanka's. Among the reasons that prompted their extreme decision to flee their homeland are the skyrocketing prices of essentials, a kilogramme of milk powder being sold at Lankan Rs. 2000 (5.7 USD), the unavailability of vaccines meant for infants, meagre daily wages, and the fear of starving to death. Also read | Indian Coast Guard saves all six crew members of sinking ship off India's west coast While many manage to stay back, earn a living, make ends meet &protes against #Rajapaksa family rule in #SriLanka , the plight of poor #SriLankan tamils is in stark contrast.Fearing they'd starve to death, this Tamil family from #jaffna fled to #india with their 2month-old infant pic.twitter.com/mFXQ05SFKv — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) May 2, 2022 × It is said that the five-member family has been sent to the Mandapam refugee camp in the Ramanathapuram district. The illegal influx of Lankan Tamils into India began on March 22nd and families continue to arrive in batches of up to 18 people, in the hope of a better life across the Palk Strait. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Recently, the Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution to provide aid to Sri Lanka and provide succour to a country that is faced with its worst-ever economic crisis. The decision to provide aid to all of Sri Lanka is a volte-face by the Tamil Nadu government. Earlier, the Tamil Nadu government had offered to provide aid only to Lankan Tamils. This move had faced backlash from the island nation. Many Lankan Tamil voices were clear that they were not willing to accept aid from Tamil Nadu, if it was only going to help Lankan Tamils. The Lankan Tamils were firm in their stance that any aid must benefit their entire country and not one community alone. Also read | Exclusive | Hardship for Sri Lankan citizens is going to increase, Weerakoon Wijewardena tells WION However, the aid being sent from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka could only be facilitated via the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian High Commission in Colombo. In this regard, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar asked the Tamil Nadu government's Chief Secretary to coordinate with the Government of India in supplying the relief material. It was also stated that the aid from Tamil Nadu can supplement what was already being provided by the Government of India and that the Government of Sri Lanka prefers inclusive distribution of relief material.

Family of 5 Lankan Tamils arrive on Indian shores, flee island nation carrying infant

In pics: Seoul celebrates ‘Lantern Festival’ after three years of covid hiatus

Canadian police arrests several protesters as the bike parade turn chaotic

In pics: Millions of people travel back home in Indonesia to celebrate Eid al-Fitr

Germany's iconic&nbsp;Oktoberfest&nbsp;beer&nbsp;festival&nbsp;will once again take place in Munich in 2022 after being cancelled two years running due to the coronavirus, the city's mayor said Friday.

The&nbsp;Oktoberfest&nbsp;would be held "without conditions or restrictions", Munich mayor Dieter Reiter told a press conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-votes-overwhelmingly-in-favour-of-supplying-heavy-weapons-to-ukraine-amid-ongoing-conflict-474643">Germany votes overwhelmingly in favour of supplying heavy weapons to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict</a>

The world-renowned knees-up &nbsp;drew around six million visitors annually before the pandemic. It was cancelled in 2020 for the first time since World War II after the outbreak of the virus.

The&nbsp;festival, usually held between September and October, was cancelled again in 2021 as Germany battled consecutive deadly waves of the virus.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Germany defends gas purchase from Russia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-germany-defends-gas-purchase-from-russia-474761/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Since then, pandemic "conditions have changed", Reiter said, noting that the healthcare system was no longer under significant stress from the coronavirus.

"I hope the situation does not get worse in the autumn and that the&nbsp;festival&nbsp;will not have to be called off at the last minute," Reiter said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Most Covid curbs have been lifted in Germany, including the requirement to wear masks in shops and schools, while plans to introduce a vaccine mandate were dropped.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has cast a shadow over similar springtime festivities in Bavaria, where the subject has been hotly debated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-pms-visit-german-minister-says-it-is-in-indias-interest-to-stop-ukrainian-war-474499">Ahead of PM's visit, German minister says ‘it is in India’s interest to stop Ukrainian war’</a>

Cancelling the&nbsp;Oktoberfest&nbsp;as a result of the war "could not be justified", Reiter said, while sharing his sympathies with Ukraine and Munich's twin city Kyiv.

"Nobody can tell what the situation will be in autumn" with the war, the mayor said.

Germany's iconic Oktoberfest beer festival will once again take place in Munich in 2022 after being cancelled two years running due to the coronavirus, the city's mayor said Friday.

Germany's iconic Oktoberfest beer festival will once again take place in Munich in 2022 after being cancelled two years running due to the coronavirus, the city's mayor said Friday. The Oktoberfest would be held "without conditions or restrictions", Munich mayor Dieter Reiter told a press conference. Also read | Germany votes overwhelmingly in favour of supplying heavy weapons to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict The world-renowned knees-up drew around six million visitors annually before the pandemic. It was cancelled in 2020 for the first time since World War II after the outbreak of the virus. The festival, usually held between September and October, was cancelled again in 2021 as Germany battled consecutive deadly waves of the virus. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Germany defends gas purchase from Russia Since then, pandemic "conditions have changed", Reiter said, noting that the healthcare system was no longer under significant stress from the coronavirus. "I hope the situation does not get worse in the autumn and that the festival will not have to be called off at the last minute," Reiter said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Most Covid curbs have been lifted in Germany, including the requirement to wear masks in shops and schools, while plans to introduce a vaccine mandate were dropped. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has cast a shadow over similar springtime festivities in Bavaria, where the subject has been hotly debated. Also read | Ahead of PM's visit, German minister says ‘it is in India’s interest to stop Ukrainian war’ Cancelling the Oktoberfest as a result of the war "could not be justified", Reiter said, while sharing his sympathies with Ukraine and Munich's twin city Kyiv. "Nobody can tell what the situation will be in autumn" with the war, the mayor said.

Oktoberfest to return this year after two years of virus hiatus

Russia-Ukraine crisis: War crimes in Bucha, here’s all what you need to know

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

The death toll climbed to 5,23,753 with 60 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.04 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. An increase of 821 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-more-than-3000-new-cases-and-39-deaths-474526">&nbsp;COVID-19: India records more than 3,000 new cases and 39 deaths</a>

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.71 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.63 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,30,622, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent.

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 188.65 crore.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-eam-jaishankar-to-visit-bangladesh-bhutan-to-deepen-ties-474583/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The 60 new fatalities include 42 from Karnataka, 14 from Kerala, and two each from Delhi and Maharashtra.

A total of 5,23,753 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,840 from Maharashtra, 68,966 from Kerala, 40,099 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,172 from Delhi, 23,506 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,201 from West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-fourth-covid-19-wave-fears-india-reports-3303-new-cases-active-cases-increase-to-16980-474564">Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases</a>

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday. The death toll climbed to 5,23,753 with 60 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.04 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. An increase of 821 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Also read | COVID-19: India records more than 3,000 new cases and 39 deaths The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.71 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.63 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,30,622, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent. The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 188.65 crore. Watch | Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The 60 new fatalities include 42 from Karnataka, 14 from Kerala, and two each from Delhi and Maharashtra. A total of 5,23,753 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,840 from Maharashtra, 68,966 from Kerala, 40,099 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,172 from Delhi, 23,506 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,201 from West Bengal. Also read | Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID-19: India's active cases rise to 17,801

people

People, News on People, stories on People, articles on People, People stories at Wion, People news, People latest news