Ready for the new era of Big Brother? Cameras using artificial intelligence have been installed on the streets of Quito, Ecuador to check if people are social distancing.

Violating social distancing in Ecuador? Big brother is watching

Social distancing has gone for a 'toss' in England. Thousands flock to beaches & round hundreds are attending rave parties.

Social distancing gone for a 'toss' in England, thousands flock to beaches & parties

The first time since the beginning of the coronavirus crisis in Germany, the North-Rhine Westphalia Parliament met in full session. To maintain social distance 240 lawmakers were separated by acyclic glass boxes. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Acyclic glass installed in state parliament in Germany

Britain on Tuesday announced an easing of social distancing rules from July 4, reducing the recommended gap from 2 metres to "1 metre plus" in England as it further loosened lockdown measures meant to curb the COVID-19 pandemic.

WHAT DO SCIENTISTS SAY?

Infectious disease experts say the closer people are to someone infected with COVID-19, and the more time people spend in close quarters, the higher the risk that the coronavirus will spread from one person to another.

Beyond that simple reality, "it is just a matter of reducing risk with increased physical distance", said Jonathan Reid, a professor of Physical Chemistry at Britain's Bristol University.

"The further you stand away from someone, the fewer droplets you will be exposed to. One metre only prevents you from being exposed to the largest of droplets; two metres reduces your exposure - but doesn’t make it zero risk."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/initial-coronavirus-infection-rate-in-us-may-be-80-times-greater-than-reported-says-study-307989">Also read |&nbsp;Initial coronavirus infection rate in US may be 80 times greater than reported, says study</a>

A study in The Lancet this month found that physical distancing of at least 1m lowers risk of COVID-19 transmission, but that 2m could be more effective.

WHAT IS THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION'S ADVICE?

The WHO says keeping a distance of at least one metre helps reduce the risk of the coronavirus spreading in the small liquid droplets that people spray out when they cough, sneeze and talk.

These droplets may contain the virus, and "if you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets", the WHO says.

IS DISTANCE THE ONLY FACTOR?

Switzerland's health ministry says that "according to current data, a distance of more than one meter reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection by more than 80% in both healthcare (settings) and everyday life".

It added, however, that the risk is higher "in circumstances in which a particularly large number of droplets are expelled, such as when singing or speaking loudly".

Shaun Fitzgerald, a professor of engineering at Britain's University of Cambridge, said the key point is that "it's not all about the distance".

"There are other mitigation measures," he said - including the duration of close proximity, the number of people in a given space, the use of face masks, availability of ventilation, and whether people talk quietly or shout loudly.

WHAT DO OTHER COUNTRIES RECOMMEND?

China, Denmark, France, Hong Kong and Singapore recommend social distancing of 1 metre, and many people also choose to, or are required to, wear face masks in public spaces.

Australia, Belgium, Greece, Germany, Italy, Spain and Portugal advise people to keep 1.5m apart. Switzerland this week also reduced the required distance to 1.5m from 2m.

The guidance in the United States is six feet, or 1.8m.

Britain on Tuesday announced an easing of social distancing rules from July 4, reducing the recommended gap from 2 metres to "1 metre plus" in England as it further loosened lockdown measures meant to curb the COVID-19 pandemic.

Britain on Tuesday announced an easing of social distancing rules from July 4, reducing the recommended gap from 2 metres to "1 metre plus" in England as it further loosened lockdown measures meant to curb the COVID-19 pandemic. WHAT DO SCIENTISTS SAY? Infectious disease experts say the closer people are to someone infected with COVID-19, and the more time people spend in close quarters, the higher the risk that the coronavirus will spread from one person to another. Beyond that simple reality, "it is just a matter of reducing risk with increased physical distance", said Jonathan Reid, a professor of Physical Chemistry at Britain's Bristol University. "The further you stand away from someone, the fewer droplets you will be exposed to. One metre only prevents you from being exposed to the largest of droplets; two metres reduces your exposure - but doesn’t make it zero risk." Also read | Initial coronavirus infection rate in US may be 80 times greater than reported, says study A study in The Lancet this month found that physical distancing of at least 1m lowers risk of COVID-19 transmission, but that 2m could be more effective. WHAT IS THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION'S ADVICE? The WHO says keeping a distance of at least one metre helps reduce the risk of the coronavirus spreading in the small liquid droplets that people spray out when they cough, sneeze and talk. These droplets may contain the virus, and "if you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets", the WHO says. IS DISTANCE THE ONLY FACTOR? Switzerland's health ministry says that "according to current data, a distance of more than one meter reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection by more than 80% in both healthcare (settings) and everyday life". It added, however, that the risk is higher "in circumstances in which a particularly large number of droplets are expelled, such as when singing or speaking loudly". Shaun Fitzgerald, a professor of engineering at Britain's University of Cambridge, said the key point is that "it's not all about the distance". "There are other mitigation measures," he said - including the duration of close proximity, the number of people in a given space, the use of face masks, availability of ventilation, and whether people talk quietly or shout loudly. WHAT DO OTHER COUNTRIES RECOMMEND? China, Denmark, France, Hong Kong and Singapore recommend social distancing of 1 metre, and many people also choose to, or are required to, wear face masks in public spaces. Australia, Belgium, Greece, Germany, Italy, Spain and Portugal advise people to keep 1.5m apart. Switzerland this week also reduced the required distance to 1.5m from 2m. The guidance in the United States is six feet, or 1.8m.

One metre or two? How social distancing affects COVID-19 risk

British government has been reviewing the decision of reducing the social distance of two-metre for the past few days now. The country reopened its economy a week back and the government has been thinking of taking the suggestion of business owners of reducing the required social distance.

The pending decision will soon be revealed, culture minister Oliver Dowden told in a local media interview on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-finance-minister-hints-towards-review-of-distancing-rule-305773">Also read|&nbsp;UK Finance Minister hints towards review of distancing rule</a>

"We have committed to reviewing the two-metre to one-metre rule and we will be concluding on that shortly," he said.

"Within the coming days we will get the outcome."

Prime Minister Brois Johnson had announced a review of the two-metre distance last week, after the UK reported a 20 per cent collapse in April. If the required social distance is lowered, it would allow more pubs and shops to open with more capacity, which can revive UK's economy.

Last week, Finance Minister Rishi Sunak had also said "The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes.

British government has been reviewing the decision of reducing the social distance of two-metre for the past few days now. The country reopened its economy a week back and the government has been thinking of taking the suggestion of business owners of reducing the required social distance.

British government has been reviewing the decision of reducing the social distance of two-metre for the past few days now. The country reopened its economy a week back and the government has been thinking of taking the suggestion of business owners of reducing the required social distance. The pending decision will soon be revealed, culture minister Oliver Dowden told in a local media interview on Saturday. Also read| UK Finance Minister hints towards review of distancing rule "We have committed to reviewing the two-metre to one-metre rule and we will be concluding on that shortly," he said. "Within the coming days we will get the outcome." Prime Minister Brois Johnson had announced a review of the two-metre distance last week, after the UK reported a 20 per cent collapse in April. If the required social distance is lowered, it would allow more pubs and shops to open with more capacity, which can revive UK's economy. Last week, Finance Minister Rishi Sunak had also said "The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes.

UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon

Ultra-wideband measures the time the signal takes to travel from one distancer to another and back again. This is a very, very, very precise measuring method.

German device makes social distancing amid COVID-19 high-tech

A church in Bengaluru, India, took the line 'Modern problems require modern solutions' quite seriously, as it came up with an interesting and useful hack to make sure people visiting the church stay safe.

Bethel AG Church, in Bengaluru, introduced the concept of 'drive-in worship' for their Sunday service, to promote social distancing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-tamil-nadu-and-delhi-record-more-cases-than-maharashtra-305843">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: Tamil Nadu and Delhi record more cases than Maharashtra</a>

The organizers divided the mass into five service and three batches.&nbsp;The first batch was of people coming on&nbsp;two-wheeler&nbsp;at 7 am and 5 pm, the second batch was for cars commuters from 9 am to 7 pm and the third batch was for people who took public transport or walked to the church at 11 am.

"It is not a must in these pandemic times for all the people to come into the church. For, those in vehicles performed the prayers from inside their vehicles, those who came without vehicles went into the main building and those who could not make it to the mass attended it online," pastor Dani Kuruvilla&nbsp;told a news agency.

The officials also made it compulsory for the attendees to wear masks, and the people who entered the building were urge to maintain safe distance. All the common points where there were chances of people passing on infections were disabled.

The church also asked all elders and young children to stay at home and attend the digital service.

While this was the church's first trial at such an arrangement, the management and the worshipers were happy with the smooth functioning of the Sunday mass.

(With inputs from PTI)

A church in Bengaluru, India, took the line 'Modern problems require modern solutions' quite seriously, as it came up with an interesting and useful hack to make sure people visiting the church stay safe.

A church in Bengaluru, India, took the line 'Modern problems require modern solutions' quite seriously, as it came up with an interesting and useful hack to make sure people visiting the church stay safe. Bethel AG Church, in Bengaluru, introduced the concept of 'drive-in worship' for their Sunday service, to promote social distancing. Also read| COVID 19: Tamil Nadu and Delhi record more cases than Maharashtra The organizers divided the mass into five service and three batches. The first batch was of people coming on two-wheeler at 7 am and 5 pm, the second batch was for cars commuters from 9 am to 7 pm and the third batch was for people who took public transport or walked to the church at 11 am. "It is not a must in these pandemic times for all the people to come into the church. For, those in vehicles performed the prayers from inside their vehicles, those who came without vehicles went into the main building and those who could not make it to the mass attended it online," pastor Dani Kuruvilla told a news agency. The officials also made it compulsory for the attendees to wear masks, and the people who entered the building were urge to maintain safe distance. All the common points where there were chances of people passing on infections were disabled. The church also asked all elders and young children to stay at home and attend the digital service. While this was the church's first trial at such an arrangement, the management and the worshipers were happy with the smooth functioning of the Sunday mass. (With inputs from PTI)

WOW: Bengaluru church adopts 'worship on wheels' to promote social distancing

Rishi Sunak, finance minister of the United Kingdom, has said that the country will urgently look into its&nbsp;two-metre social distancing rule.

Sunak has announced this in an interview with a news channel. The review is being planned after many employers voiced their concerns and said it was hard for them to get their businesses back on track due to the present rules.

"The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-scaled-down-ceremony-at-windsor-marks-queen-elizabeth-iis-94th-birthday-305638">Have a look:&nbsp;A scaled-down ceremony at Windsor marks Queen Elizabeth II's 94th birthday</a>

Talking about the economic slowdown of the country, he said, "We have always known that was going to happen, but now the numbers are starting to show that."

As per the latest reports, UK's economy shrank by a quarter over March and April. However, Sunak believes that the slowdown will prove out to be temporary, and the reopening of retail sector this week will help revive the economy.

If the distance is reduced from two metre, it will allow&nbsp;three quarters of pubs to reopen, rather than about one third.

The country has seen a decline in the number of cases, following which the government has reopened the economy in phases.

He also said the&nbsp; government is looking for options against the two-week quarantine rule for all visitors, and may come up with an alternate to the rule that was met with criticism from the aviation industry.

"We all want to see travel open again, of course we do, and like everything else we want to make sure we have the right measures at the right time informed by the science and everything else that we have to consider," Sunak said in an interview with a news channel.

"We are looking at all options to ensure that that is possible and people have got suggestions about how we might be able to open up some travel corridors over time and so the transport secretary is actively looking at all of those options," he continued.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Rishi Sunak, finance minister of the United Kingdom, has said that the country will urgently look into its two-metre social distancing rule. Sunak has announced this in an interview with a news channel.

Rishi Sunak, finance minister of the United Kingdom, has said that the country will urgently look into its two-metre social distancing rule. Sunak has announced this in an interview with a news channel. The review is being planned after many employers voiced their concerns and said it was hard for them to get their businesses back on track due to the present rules. "The prime minister has put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule. That review will involve the scientists, economists and others," he said, adding that safety would not be put at risk by any changes. Have a look: A scaled-down ceremony at Windsor marks Queen Elizabeth II's 94th birthday Talking about the economic slowdown of the country, he said, "We have always known that was going to happen, but now the numbers are starting to show that." As per the latest reports, UK's economy shrank by a quarter over March and April. However, Sunak believes that the slowdown will prove out to be temporary, and the reopening of retail sector this week will help revive the economy. If the distance is reduced from two metre, it will allow three quarters of pubs to reopen, rather than about one third. The country has seen a decline in the number of cases, following which the government has reopened the economy in phases. He also said the government is looking for options against the two-week quarantine rule for all visitors, and may come up with an alternate to the rule that was met with criticism from the aviation industry. "We all want to see travel open again, of course we do, and like everything else we want to make sure we have the right measures at the right time informed by the science and everything else that we have to consider," Sunak said in an interview with a news channel. "We are looking at all options to ensure that that is possible and people have got suggestions about how we might be able to open up some travel corridors over time and so the transport secretary is actively looking at all of those options," he continued. (With inputs from Reuters)

UK Finance Minister hints towards review of distancing rule

The world has been under a lockdown, partial or complete, since few months now. As the pandemic took over the world, majority countries closed their economies and people quarantined themselves in their homes.

While some countries are now re-opening economies, citizens of some countries are still in self-isolation.

Some researchers studied this situation and conducted a research on the effect that this self-isolation can have on people.

UCL researchers based at the Wolfson Institute and the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre researched on how while the isolation period can bring up loneliness, it can also&nbsp;result in a decreased desire for social interaction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-virus-may-get-inactive-if-exposed-to-direct-sunlight-305519">Also watch|&nbsp;Study: Virus may get inactive, if exposed to direct sunlight</a>

To understand the paradox, the researchers&nbsp;investigated social behaviour in Zebrafish, a freshwater fish. The researchers chose Zebrafish as most&nbsp;of them demonstrate pro-social behaviour, but approximately 10 per cent are `loner` fish. These loner fishes show different brain activity than the pro-social Zebrafish.

It has also been observed that on a usual basis too, Zebrafish&nbsp;avoid social interaction after a period of isolation.

The researchers tried to test, through this research, if the pro-social behaviour Zebrafish mimic the behaviour of the loner fish, or does it depend on the circumstances.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mutation-could-have-made-coronavirus-more-infectious-study-suggests-305579">Also read|&nbsp;Mutation could have made coronavirus more infectious, study suggests</a>

To test the theory,&nbsp;the researchers isolated typically social zebrafish from other fish for a period of two days and then compared their brain activity to zebrafish, who demonstrated aversion to social interaction without having been isolated.

The isolated fish demonstrated sensitivity to stimuli. It showed increased activity in the areas of brain related to anxiety and stress. However, the activity settled quickly after a dose of an anti-anxiety drug.

The difference between the social and the loner Zebrafish was observed in the&nbsp;hypothalamus, the region of the brain responsible for social rewards.&nbsp;

The loner fish did not show&nbsp;the same pattern of activation during social exposure as the pro-social behaviour one. This proved that the loner fish did&nbsp;not experience rewards in the same way as typical fish during social interactions.

"A detailed view of the zebrafish brain can provide important clues for all of us currently experiencing the effects of social isolation," said Dr Elena Dreosti.

"Our understanding of the neural mechanisms of social behaviour are limited, but we do know that zebrafish and humans share a fundamental drive for social interaction that is controlled by similar brain structures," Dreosti added.

Although the researchers admit that the human brain and behaviour is much more complex, this study does provide an insight that the&nbsp;humans won't be loners after the lockdown, but will be anxious upon returning to normal social lives.

The research has been conducted by&nbsp;PhD students Hande Tunbak and Mireya Vazquez-Prada, Postdoctoral Research Fellow Thomas Ryan, Dr Adam Kampff and Sir Henry Dale Wellcome Fellow Elena Dreosti, and was published&nbsp;in eLife.

(With inputs from agencies)

The world has been under a lockdown, partial or complete, since few months now. As the pandemic took over the world, majority countries closed their economies and people quarantined themselves in their homes.

The world has been under a lockdown, partial or complete, since few months now. As the pandemic took over the world, majority countries closed their economies and people quarantined themselves in their homes. While some countries are now re-opening economies, citizens of some countries are still in self-isolation. Some researchers studied this situation and conducted a research on the effect that this self-isolation can have on people. UCL researchers based at the Wolfson Institute and the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre researched on how while the isolation period can bring up loneliness, it can also result in a decreased desire for social interaction. Also watch| Study: Virus may get inactive, if exposed to direct sunlight To understand the paradox, the researchers investigated social behaviour in Zebrafish, a freshwater fish. The researchers chose Zebrafish as most of them demonstrate pro-social behaviour, but approximately 10 per cent are `loner` fish. These loner fishes show different brain activity than the pro-social Zebrafish. It has also been observed that on a usual basis too, Zebrafish avoid social interaction after a period of isolation. The researchers tried to test, through this research, if the pro-social behaviour Zebrafish mimic the behaviour of the loner fish, or does it depend on the circumstances. Also read| Mutation could have made coronavirus more infectious, study suggests To test the theory, the researchers isolated typically social zebrafish from other fish for a period of two days and then compared their brain activity to zebrafish, who demonstrated aversion to social interaction without having been isolated. The isolated fish demonstrated sensitivity to stimuli. It showed increased activity in the areas of brain related to anxiety and stress. However, the activity settled quickly after a dose of an anti-anxiety drug. The difference between the social and the loner Zebrafish was observed in the hypothalamus, the region of the brain responsible for social rewards. The loner fish did not show the same pattern of activation during social exposure as the pro-social behaviour one. This proved that the loner fish did not experience rewards in the same way as typical fish during social interactions. "A detailed view of the zebrafish brain can provide important clues for all of us currently experiencing the effects of social isolation," said Dr Elena Dreosti. "Our understanding of the neural mechanisms of social behaviour are limited, but we do know that zebrafish and humans share a fundamental drive for social interaction that is controlled by similar brain structures," Dreosti added. Although the researchers admit that the human brain and behaviour is much more complex, this study does provide an insight that the humans won't be loners after the lockdown, but will be anxious upon returning to normal social lives. The research has been conducted by PhD students Hande Tunbak and Mireya Vazquez-Prada, Postdoctoral Research Fellow Thomas Ryan, Dr Adam Kampff and Sir Henry Dale Wellcome Fellow Elena Dreosti, and was published in eLife. (With inputs from agencies)

Humans will be anxious upon returning to normal social lives after lockdown: Researchers

A scaled-down ceremony at Windsor marks Queen Elizabeth II's 94th birthday

Winging it: Paris gallery keeps visitors apart with extension hats

An art gallery in Paris has turned to 'winged' headware inspired by an ancient Chinese dynasty to ensure its visitors respect coronavirus social distancing rules as they peruse the displays.

Winged hats introduced at Paris gallery for social distancing

The mother-daughter are separated by a translucent plastic curtain outfitted with holes for Dircyree's arms, which are themselves wrapped in protective equipment. But the duo do not seem to mind. The pair hugged and danced together in an emotional reunion.

Cuddle curtain reunites separated Brazilians during pandemic

Grigore Lup, a Romanian shoemaker from the Transylvanian city of Cluj came up with the idea of long-nosed leather shoes to help keep people apart and respect the rules of social distancing.

Romanian cobbler keeps people apart with size 75 shoes

An autonomous robot equipped with an LED screen greets visitors at the lobby of the headquarters of SK Telecom in downtown Seoul. It not only checks body temperatures, dispenses hand sanitisers and disinfects the floor, it also polices who is wearing and who's not wearing a face mask.

Move! South Korean robot provides total prevention solution to fight virus

A care home in Britain's south west has started a drive-through visiting system for the families of its elderly residents.

Drive-through visits bring cheer to care home residents

Robot barista! South Korea's cafe hires 'modern' help to maintain social distancing

Social distancing has now become an important part of our lives but how to explain this novel concept to children. Hospitals in Peru are doing this successfully. Watch report.

'Cheer calls' for children in Peru hospital: Parents and kids separated by COVID-19

A park in the Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn has installed social distancing circles to help people enjoy the outdoors while respecting the latest coronavirus guidelines.

Circles drawn in Brooklyn park to foster social distancing

To stave off the spread of novel coronavirus, Thailand’s film industry has been instructed not to shoot any love scenes, fighting or acts that involve close contact, according to a report in The Guardian.

To stave off the spread of novel coronavirus, Thailand’s film industry has been instructed not to shoot any love scenes, fighting or acts that involve close contact, according to a report in The Guardian. As officials continued to relax lockdown measures across Thailand, production companies were told to adapt their work to comply with social distancing rules, the report added. Under guidance issued by Yupha Thawiwattanakit Bowon, deputy permanent secretary of culture, filmmakers must work in well-ventilated spaces, with no more than 50 crew members present. Special effects and camera angles can be used to help depict scenes that would usually require intimacy or contact, and all people off-camera must wear a mask. Other measures to limit the risk of infection include screening actors and crew members on arrival for symptoms of Covid-19, making sure soap is readily available and that sets are cleaned thoroughly, the report said. People must remain at least one to two metres apart, Thai PBS reported, and the details of the crew must also be recorded in case an infection emerges and individuals need to be traced. Thailand has eased quarantine measures over recent weeks as the rate of new infections has fallen.

Thailand’s film industry told not to shoot love scenes, fighting or acts that involve close contact

No fans, masks, social distancing: Bundesliga begins after nearly two months

Restaurants come up with creative ways of coping with COVID-19

New Zealand's&nbsp;Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has been applauded for the way she handled the coronavirus pandemic in the country. As the country was was able to flatten the curve, the government eased down the lockdown and allowed people to step out and continue with their day-to-day lives, but with social distancing rules applied.

One such restaurant, Olive Restaurant, in Wellington City, took the social distancing rules seriously and denied Jacinda Ardern a table as they had met the maximum capacity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealand-virus-containment-sets-an-example-for-countries-across-the-world-299135">Also watch: New Zealand virus containment sets an example for countries across the world</a>

Jacinda Ardern has advised the restaurants and cafe to accommodate only a set number of people at once in their premises. As the restaurant already had all tables full, the Prime Minister and her partner were asked to wait.

A twitter user was the first to spot Jacinda, and tweeted, “Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it’s full.”

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it's full. 💀
— Joey 🧜🏻‍♂️ (@reinvention) <a href="https://twitter.com/reinvention/status/1261432122784407552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, almost 10 minutes later, the restaurant was able to accommodate the PM and her partner for a brunch, as a table became available.

Few hours later, Jacinda's partner, Clarke Gayford, replied to the tweet jokingly saying he forgot to book a table, but praised the restaurant staff for their service.

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I have to take responsibility for this, I didn't get organized and book anywhere. Was very nice of them to chase us down st when a spot freed up. A+ service.
— Clarke Gayford (@NZClarke) <a href="https://twitter.com/NZClarke/status/1261499022801395712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Manager reassured that no special treatment was provided to the PM, and that fetching the customers once a table becomes available is restaurant's standard policy.

Jacinda's team said she does not mind waiting in a line during these tough times and&nbsp;"she just waits like everyone else.”

New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has been applauded for the way she handled the coronavirus pandemic in the country. As the country was was able to flatten the curve, the government eased down the lockdown and allowed people to step out and continue with their day-to-day lives, but with social distancing rules applied.

New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has been applauded for the way she handled the coronavirus pandemic in the country. As the country was was able to flatten the curve, the government eased down the lockdown and allowed people to step out and continue with their day-to-day lives, but with social distancing rules applied. One such restaurant, Olive Restaurant, in Wellington City, took the social distancing rules seriously and denied Jacinda Ardern a table as they had met the maximum capacity. Also watch: New Zealand virus containment sets an example for countries across the world Jacinda Ardern has advised the restaurants and cafe to accommodate only a set number of people at once in their premises. As the restaurant already had all tables full, the Prime Minister and her partner were asked to wait. A twitter user was the first to spot Jacinda, and tweeted, “Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it’s full.” Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it's full. 💀 — Joey 🧜🏻‍♂️ (@reinvention) May 15, 2020 × However, almost 10 minutes later, the restaurant was able to accommodate the PM and her partner for a brunch, as a table became available. Few hours later, Jacinda's partner, Clarke Gayford, replied to the tweet jokingly saying he forgot to book a table, but praised the restaurant staff for their service. I have to take responsibility for this, I didn't get organized and book anywhere. Was very nice of them to chase us down st when a spot freed up. A+ service. — Clarke Gayford (@NZClarke) May 16, 2020 × The Manager reassured that no special treatment was provided to the PM, and that fetching the customers once a table becomes available is restaurant's standard policy. Jacinda's team said she does not mind waiting in a line during these tough times and "she just waits like everyone else.”

New Zealand: PM Jacinda Ardern denied table in cafe due to social distancing

Australian soap opera 'Neighbours'&nbsp; is filming again, but don`t expect any kisses, hugs or punch-ups in the new episodes as cast members adhere to strict social distancing rules imposed to curb the spread of the new coronavirus.

The pandemic has hugely disrupted the entertainment industry worldwide and many popular television shows have had to suspend production. 
 
The cast and crew of "Neighbours" had a month-long break while producers re-worked scripts and storylines to ensure actors were able to stay apart, in line with Australian government guidelines on social distancing. 
 
"This is an unprecedented situation, there is no rulebook for it," said Jason Herbison, executive producer of the series, now in its 35th year, about the residents of a fictional suburb in the Australian city of Melbourne. 
 
"So what we really had to do was just stop, listen to the government advice and look at the way we film the show. And in consultation with our cast and crew, really formulate a plan where we felt we could all return to work safely," he said in an interview via Skype. 
 
This included reducing the number of characters in specific scenes. Sometimes they filmed them in "smaller components" before stitching scenes together in the editing room. 
 
In intimate scenes, a character might "lean in for a kiss, and then the camera pans away and we hear a little bit of a giggle," Herbison said. 
 
"It`s just about re-imagining the scene differently, so you don`t see that moment of impact." 
 
Actors and film crews have temperature checks when they arrive on set, and a colour coding scheme helps ensure that if somebody contracts the virus or has symptoms, it will be easier to trace the people they may have come into contact with. 
 
Wherever possible, actors will apply their own make-up and do their own hair. Where that is not possible, make-up artists will comply with strict health and hygiene rules. 
 
There will be no explicit references to the coronavirus in the series, Herbison said, especially given that it is all about neighbours interacting with one another. But viewers will see, for example, characters sanitising their hands in restaurants. 
 
"It`ll be little things like that that show that perhaps the world has changed a little bit," he said.

Australian soap opera 'Neighbours' is filming again, but don`t expect any kisses, hugs or punch-ups in the new episodes as cast members adhere to strict social distancing rules imposed to curb the spread of the new coronavirus.

Australian soap opera 'Neighbours' is filming again, but don`t expect any kisses, hugs or punch-ups in the new episodes as cast members adhere to strict social distancing rules imposed to curb the spread of the new coronavirus. The pandemic has hugely disrupted the entertainment industry worldwide and many popular television shows have had to suspend production. The cast and crew of "Neighbours" had a month-long break while producers re-worked scripts and storylines to ensure actors were able to stay apart, in line with Australian government guidelines on social distancing. "This is an unprecedented situation, there is no rulebook for it," said Jason Herbison, executive producer of the series, now in its 35th year, about the residents of a fictional suburb in the Australian city of Melbourne. "So what we really had to do was just stop, listen to the government advice and look at the way we film the show. And in consultation with our cast and crew, really formulate a plan where we felt we could all return to work safely," he said in an interview via Skype. This included reducing the number of characters in specific scenes. Sometimes they filmed them in "smaller components" before stitching scenes together in the editing room. In intimate scenes, a character might "lean in for a kiss, and then the camera pans away and we hear a little bit of a giggle," Herbison said. "It`s just about re-imagining the scene differently, so you don`t see that moment of impact." Actors and film crews have temperature checks when they arrive on set, and a colour coding scheme helps ensure that if somebody contracts the virus or has symptoms, it will be easier to trace the people they may have come into contact with. Wherever possible, actors will apply their own make-up and do their own hair. Where that is not possible, make-up artists will comply with strict health and hygiene rules. There will be no explicit references to the coronavirus in the series, Herbison said, especially given that it is all about neighbours interacting with one another. But viewers will see, for example, characters sanitising their hands in restaurants. "It`ll be little things like that that show that perhaps the world has changed a little bit," he said.

No kissing, no fighting as TV soap 'Neighbours' resumes filming

Failing to abide by social distancing measures on board, United Airlines has been slammed by passengers for putting their safety at risk.

United Airlines put passengers' safety at risk, no social distancing measures on board

As KLM plans to partially resume its flights, the aviation company has made face masks compulsory for all the passengers.

However, instead of providing the face masks, KLM has asked passengers to bring the masks from home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/german-national-stranded-at-indira-gandhi-international-airport-for-54-days-due-to-nationwide-lockdown-297956">Also read:&nbsp;German national stranded at Indira Gandhi International airport for 54 days due to nationwide lockdown</a>

"Wearing facial protection during boarding and on board is mandatory for KLM passengers. Passengers must ensure that they carry the required facial protection with them," KLM said.

Any passenger who will not have the adequate face protection gears will not be allowed to board the plane.

The rule has been set till August 31, 2020, and will be reviewed later depending on the number of coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

The airlines has also assured that all precautions regarding social distancing will be taken care of.

Lufthansa and Wizz Air, too, made face masks compulsory for all passengers.&nbsp;

As KLM plans to partially resume its flights, the aviation company has made face masks compulsory for all the passengers. However, instead of providing the face masks, KLM has asked passengers to bring the masks from home.

As KLM plans to partially resume its flights, the aviation company has made face masks compulsory for all the passengers. However, instead of providing the face masks, KLM has asked passengers to bring the masks from home. Also read: German national stranded at Indira Gandhi International airport for 54 days due to nationwide lockdown "Wearing facial protection during boarding and on board is mandatory for KLM passengers. Passengers must ensure that they carry the required facial protection with them," KLM said. Any passenger who will not have the adequate face protection gears will not be allowed to board the plane. The rule has been set till August 31, 2020, and will be reviewed later depending on the number of coronavirus cases. The airlines has also assured that all precautions regarding social distancing will be taken care of. Lufthansa and Wizz Air, too, made face masks compulsory for all passengers.

Passengers should carry their own face masks: KLM

Social distancing public benches were installed in the northwestern district of Kestel on Thursday (May 7) as Turkey sets out new social guidelines and business practices to prevent any resurgence of coronavirus outbreak.

Social distancing benches become new normal in Turkey

The Supreme Court of India on Friday disposed of a PIL (public interest litigation) seeking clarity on the sale of liquor and to ensure social distancing as it is being sold at liquor shops.&nbsp;

Justice Ashok Bhushan said even asked the states to consider the indirect sale or home delivery of liquor while maintaining social distancing norms and standards.

After hearing the petition, Justice Ashok Bhushan, heading the bench said, as quoted by news agency ANI said, "We will not pass any order but the states should consider an indirect sale/home delivery of liquor to maintain social distancing norms and standards."

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Meanwhile, To ensure social distancing and to stop overcrowding at liquor shops, the Delhi government on Thursday launched an e-token service with a time slot for people to buy alcohol at any nearby store. The Delhi government in a statement said that it took this decision to encourage people to avoid long queues by applying for an e-token.

The Supreme Court of India on Friday disposed of a PIL (public interest litigation) seeking clarity on the sale of liquor and to ensure social distancing as it is being sold at liquor shops.

The Supreme Court of India on Friday disposed of a PIL (public interest litigation) seeking clarity on the sale of liquor and to ensure social distancing as it is being sold at liquor shops. Justice Ashok Bhushan said even asked the states to consider the indirect sale or home delivery of liquor while maintaining social distancing norms and standards. After hearing the petition, Justice Ashok Bhushan, heading the bench said, as quoted by news agency ANI said, "We will not pass any order but the states should consider an indirect sale/home delivery of liquor to maintain social distancing norms and standards." "We will not pass any order but the states should consider indirect sale/home delivery of liquor to maintain social distancing norms and standards", Justice Ashok Bhushan, heading the bench said. https://t.co/qCb6B9NMx0 — ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2020 × Meanwhile, To ensure social distancing and to stop overcrowding at liquor shops, the Delhi government on Thursday launched an e-token service with a time slot for people to buy alcohol at any nearby store. The Delhi government in a statement said that it took this decision to encourage people to avoid long queues by applying for an e-token.

Consider home delivery of liquor to maintain social distancing: Supreme Court to states

Dutch restaurant introduces 'glass booths' for ensuring social distancing

Why political leaders don't get social distancing? There's a palpable sense of fear about how infectious the coronavirus is. Also read: Coronavirus: Italy reopens with strict guidelines after nearly two months Rich or poor, young or old, nobody's immune to this virus, not even top political leaders.

Why political leaders don't get social distancing? There's a palpable sense of fear about how infectious the coronavirus is. Also read: Coronavirus: Italy reopens with strict guidelines after nearly two months Rich or poor, young or old, nobody's immune to this virus, not even top political leaders. Leaders, who just don't understand the concept of social distancing. First, we had the British prime minister Boris Johnson. He wanted to shake hands with everybody -- even coronavirus patients. When confronted Johnson proudly stated that a virus will not stop him from greeting people. The virus only sent him to the ICU! Also read: Global coronavirus: Cases, death-toll and hotspots! Now we have another leader hell-bent on proving social distancing useless and his name is Jair Bolsonaro --- the president of Brazil. For 3 months now, Bolsonaro has downplayed how infectious this virus is. The trajectory of coronavirus in Brazil is reflective of Bolsonaro's denial. There are over 101,000 cases and counting. There have been more than 7,000 deaths. What does the Brazilian president plan on doing to break the chain of transmission? Yet here's what's happening in Brazil. A protest! The Brazilian president himself leads these protests. This is Jair Bolsonaro leading an anti-stay at home protest. Thousands of supporters were allowed into the courtyard of the presidential palace. Jair Bolsonaro himself did not wear a mask. He said: "Guys, it's a spontaneous demonstration, in defence of democracy, of freedom, to govern without interference to work for the future of Brazil. I am sure that this goal will be reached because we all want the good of our country. Thank you all, I will stay here for a while!" The virus was not too nice the last time a leader defied social distancing and then there are some leaders who are not too nice when questioned about social distancing. Like Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the Foreign Minister who is quite sprightly for his age. He turned up at a coronavirus treatment centre without a mask. He then decided to hold a press conference in defiance of social distancing. When confronted by reporters -- this lawmaker told them that they weren't following the rules either. He responded by calling it "negative thinking". Pakistan has recorded its highest spike in coronavirus cases with 1,900 new infections have been reported in the last 24 hours. The negative approach of the Pakistan government is doing enough damage.

Political leaders defy their own by breaking 'self-made' coronavirus protocols!

India's health ministry said today that the total number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/long-queues-at-liquor-shops-authorities-struggle-to-maintain-social-distancing-296536">coronavirus</a> infections had risen to 42,533 in the country with 11,706 people having been cured of the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-floors-of-bsf-headquarters-sealed-after-staffer-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-296560">Also Read:&nbsp;Two floors of BSF headquarters sealed after staffer tests positive for coronavirus</a>

"In the last 24 hours, 1,074 people have been cured. This is the highest number in terms of cured patients," health ministry spokesman Luv Aggarwal said, adding,"our recovery rate is now 27.52 per cent."

Expanding on the COVID-19 situation in the country, Amitabh Kant, chairman of the empowered group on coronavirus, said: "As of now, there are about 610 cases of coronavirus infections in 112 districts which is considered fairly low at less than 2 per cent of the national level of infections, off these, six districts have reported the first case after April 21."

"In pandemics such as coronavirus, historically it has been noted that if social distancing is not respected when social mobility is allowed, chances of disease transmission increase rapidly once restrictions are eased," the health ministry official said.

Meanwhile, India's home ministry asked states to ensure that there are no issues in inter-state cargo movement.&nbsp;

Union Public Service Commission today deferred the Civil Services preliminary examination scheduled to be held on May 31 in view of the coronavirus threat and declared that it would review the situation on May 20.

As the number of COVID-19 infections continued to rise in the country, Chandigarh on Monday reported 80 new coronavirus infections in the country with 21 patients discharged from hospital.

India's health ministry said today that the total number of coronavirus infections had risen to 42,533 in the country with 11,706 people having been cured of the virus.

India's health ministry said today that the total number of coronavirus infections had risen to 42,533 in the country with 11,706 people having been cured of the virus. Also Read: Two floors of BSF headquarters sealed after staffer tests positive for coronavirus "In the last 24 hours, 1,074 people have been cured. This is the highest number in terms of cured patients," health ministry spokesman Luv Aggarwal said, adding,"our recovery rate is now 27.52 per cent." Expanding on the COVID-19 situation in the country, Amitabh Kant, chairman of the empowered group on coronavirus, said: "As of now, there are about 610 cases of coronavirus infections in 112 districts which is considered fairly low at less than 2 per cent of the national level of infections, off these, six districts have reported the first case after April 21." "In pandemics such as coronavirus, historically it has been noted that if social distancing is not respected when social mobility is allowed, chances of disease transmission increase rapidly once restrictions are eased," the health ministry official said. Meanwhile, India's home ministry asked states to ensure that there are no issues in inter-state cargo movement. Union Public Service Commission today deferred the Civil Services preliminary examination scheduled to be held on May 31 in view of the coronavirus threat and declared that it would review the situation on May 20. As the number of COVID-19 infections continued to rise in the country, Chandigarh on Monday reported 80 new coronavirus infections in the country with 21 patients discharged from hospital.

42,533 coronavirus cases in the country, over 11,000 cured: Government

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