No person can be forced to get vaccinated against COVID-19, India’s Supreme Court said on Monday, while noting that the central government's Covid-19 vaccination policy “cannot be said to be unreasonable or manifestly arbitrary”.

The apex court has also asked the Centre to make public data on the possible adverse effects of these immunisations public. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The court gave the judgement in a plea filed by Jacob Puliyel, who had sought directions for the disclosure of the data on clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccines and post-jab cases. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-move-coal-fast-by-freeing-tracks-indian-railways-cancels-753-passenger-trains-amid-shortage-475511" hreflang="en">To move coal fast by freeing tracks, Indian Railways cancels 753 passenger trains amid shortage&nbsp;</a>

The current policy of COVID-19 vaccine cannot be said to be manifestly arbitrary and unreasonable, said a bench of Justices, L Nageswara Rao and B R Gavai, who were hearing the case. &nbsp;

Bodily autonomy and integrity are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution, the top court said. &nbsp;

"Till numbers are low, we suggest that relevant orders are followed and no restriction is imposed on unvaccinated individuals on access to public areas or recall the same if already not done," the bench added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indians are people with a lot of humility, says Indian-origin German politician Dr Bala S Ramani

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As far as the segregation of vaccine trial data, subject to privacy of individuals, is concerned, all trials conducted and to be subsequently conducted, all the data must be available to the public without any delay, it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Centre was also directed by the apex court to publish any report on adverse events of vaccines from the public and doctors on a publicly accessible system without compromising on the data of individuals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

No person can be forced to get vaccinated against COVID-19, India’s Supreme Court said on Monday, while noting that the central government's Covid-19 vaccination policy “cannot be said to be unreasonable or manifestly arbitrary”.

No person can be forced to get vaccinated against COVID-19, India’s Supreme Court said on Monday, while noting that the central government's Covid-19 vaccination policy “cannot be said to be unreasonable or manifestly arbitrary”. The apex court has also asked the Centre to make public data on the possible adverse effects of these immunisations public. The court gave the judgement in a plea filed by Jacob Puliyel, who had sought directions for the disclosure of the data on clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccines and post-jab cases. Also Read: To move coal fast by freeing tracks, Indian Railways cancels 753 passenger trains amid shortage The current policy of COVID-19 vaccine cannot be said to be manifestly arbitrary and unreasonable, said a bench of Justices, L Nageswara Rao and B R Gavai, who were hearing the case. Bodily autonomy and integrity are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution, the top court said. "Till numbers are low, we suggest that relevant orders are followed and no restriction is imposed on unvaccinated individuals on access to public areas or recall the same if already not done," the bench added. Watch: Indians are people with a lot of humility, says Indian-origin German politician Dr Bala S Ramani × As far as the segregation of vaccine trial data, subject to privacy of individuals, is concerned, all trials conducted and to be subsequently conducted, all the data must be available to the public without any delay, it said. The Centre was also directed by the apex court to publish any report on adverse events of vaccines from the public and doctors on a publicly accessible system without compromising on the data of individuals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: India's Supreme Court against restrictions on unvaccinated in public places

According to a COVID antibody survey by US CDC, 58% of US population had COVID by February. It also suggest that majority of the cases remained undetected.

58% of US population had COVID by February says COVID antibody survey by US CDC

According to a new study, unvaccinated people are a threat to the safety of those who are vaccinated against coronavirus (COVID-19). Researchers explored the effect of mixing between unvaccinated and vaccinated people to understand the dynamics of an infectious disease. When vaccinated and unvaccinated people were mixed, a substantial number of new infections would occur in the vaccinated people. Read details here: https://www.wionews.com/science/unvaccinated-people-pose-a-threat-to-those-inoculated-against-covid-19-study-473685

If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed

The United States is preparing to take on the BA.2 variant of COVID-19 by allowing people aged 50 & above to receive a booster dose.

U.S: People aged 50 & above to get a booster dose to prepare for BA.2 variant

Indian government has announced that the country will start its covid-19 vaccination for 12 to 14 years old from March 16. The health ministry said that the Corbevax will be administered to the new age group as it is India's first indigenously developed covid-19 vaccine.

India to vaccinate 12-14 year old against covid-19

According to a US Fed Report, the government paid $1 Billion to American media to promote COVID-19 vaccines. Pfizer vaccine data reveals side effects.

US Fed Report: Government paid $1 Billion to American media to promote COVID-19 vaccines

The European medicines agency said that it has authorised Moderna's coronavirus vaccine for children aged six to 11. This comes in addition to recommending booster shots of Pfizer's vaccine for people aged 12 and over.

EU regulator's vaccines chief Dr Marco Cavaleri, at a press briefing said that the Moderna vaccine for children will be a half-dose of what is given to adults.&nbsp;

He further said that the research showed how young children had an immune response compared to older populations “as measured by the level of neutralising antibodies” against the virus.&nbsp;

Earlier, Moderna's Covid "Spikevax" vaccine received full approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It had previously been authorised for emergency use in the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-watch-taiwan-is-going-to-be-next-trump-warns-as-russia-ukraine-war-rages-on-458579">Also read |&nbsp;‘Just watch, Taiwan is going to be next’: Trump warns as Russia-Ukraine war rages on</a>

Janet Woodcock, the acting FDA commissioner, said in a statement that "the public can be assured that Spikevax meets the FDA's high standards for safety, effectiveness and manufacturing quality required of any vaccine approved for use in the United States."

"The FDA's approval of Spikevax is a significant step in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the second vaccine approved to prevent COVID-19," Woodcock said.

The Moderna vaccine was approved for emergency use in December 2020.

Moderna has full FDA approval for only the first two doses, emergency use authorisation remains in effect for the booster dose.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European medicines agency said that it has authorised Moderna's coronavirus vaccine for children aged six to 11. This comes in addition to recommending booster shots of Pfizer's vaccine for people aged 12 and over.

The European medicines agency said that it has authorised Moderna's coronavirus vaccine for children aged six to 11. This comes in addition to recommending booster shots of Pfizer's vaccine for people aged 12 and over. EU regulator's vaccines chief Dr Marco Cavaleri, at a press briefing said that the Moderna vaccine for children will be a half-dose of what is given to adults. He further said that the research showed how young children had an immune response compared to older populations “as measured by the level of neutralising antibodies” against the virus. Earlier, Moderna's Covid "Spikevax" vaccine received full approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It had previously been authorised for emergency use in the US. Also read | ‘Just watch, Taiwan is going to be next’: Trump warns as Russia-Ukraine war rages on Janet Woodcock, the acting FDA commissioner, said in a statement that "the public can be assured that Spikevax meets the FDA's high standards for safety, effectiveness and manufacturing quality required of any vaccine approved for use in the United States." "The FDA's approval of Spikevax is a significant step in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the second vaccine approved to prevent COVID-19," Woodcock said. The Moderna vaccine was approved for emergency use in December 2020. Moderna has full FDA approval for only the first two doses, emergency use authorisation remains in effect for the booster dose. (With inputs from agencies)

EU authorises Moderna vaccine for young kids; recommends Pfizer's booster

In a bid to ramp up vaccination campaigns in the low and middle-income countries, the World Health Organization has announced that the six African nations will receive the technology that is needed to produce the mRNA vaccines.

WHO: African countries to get mRNA vaccine technology

Ontario is easing Covid curbs starting from Thursday. Also, vaccine passport requirements will be lifted in the Canadian province starting from March 1. Premier Doug Ford, while speaking at a press conference said, "We're going to get rid of the passports."

He further explained that the majority of people have been vaccinated and the peak of cases, which was triggered by the Omicron variant, had passed.&nbsp;

From Thursday, social gatherings can increase to 50 people indoors and 100 outdoors. Sports arenas will now be allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity. The same is for concert venues and live theatres.&nbsp; 
Cinemas, however, can operate at full capacity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-covid-restrictions-eased-for-vaccinated-british-travellers-452978">Also read |&nbsp;France: Covid restrictions eased for vaccinated British travellers</a>

Dr Kieran Moore, chief medical officer of health, in a report by a local media outlet said, "Thanks to the efforts of Ontarians to help blunt the transmission of Omicron, our health care indicators suggest a general improvement in the Covid situation in the province."

This comes in as demonstrators have been blockading the nation's capital Ottawa, located in Ontario, for over two weeks now.&nbsp;

The demonstrators in Ottawa, Ontario and elsewhere have been primarily demanding an end to all Covid vaccine mandates and other restrictions including mask requirements. Protesters have also called for Trudeau’s resignation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ontario is easing Covid curbs starting from Thursday. Also, vaccine passport requirements will be lifted in the Canadian province starting from March 1. Premier Doug Ford, while speaking at a press conference said, "We're going to get rid of the passports.

Ontario is easing Covid curbs starting from Thursday. Also, vaccine passport requirements will be lifted in the Canadian province starting from March 1. Premier Doug Ford, while speaking at a press conference said, "We're going to get rid of the passports." He further explained that the majority of people have been vaccinated and the peak of cases, which was triggered by the Omicron variant, had passed. From Thursday, social gatherings can increase to 50 people indoors and 100 outdoors. Sports arenas will now be allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity. The same is for concert venues and live theatres. Cinemas, however, can operate at full capacity. Also read | France: Covid restrictions eased for vaccinated British travellers Dr Kieran Moore, chief medical officer of health, in a report by a local media outlet said, "Thanks to the efforts of Ontarians to help blunt the transmission of Omicron, our health care indicators suggest a general improvement in the Covid situation in the province." This comes in as demonstrators have been blockading the nation's capital Ottawa, located in Ontario, for over two weeks now. The demonstrators in Ottawa, Ontario and elsewhere have been primarily demanding an end to all Covid vaccine mandates and other restrictions including mask requirements. Protesters have also called for Trudeau’s resignation. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada's Ontario to lift Covid vaccine passport requirement

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;that was to&nbsp;discuss&nbsp;authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;for children 6 months through 4 years of age.

In a separate statement, the companies said they planned to extend the process of submitting data to U.S. regulators for the shot for children&nbsp;under&nbsp;5.

U.S. regulators have been considering the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;for the only age group not yet eligible for the shots, even though the companies said initial results fell short of expectations in 2- to 4-year olds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/efficacy-of-pfizer-and-moderna-vaccines-wane-after-third-dose-study-452589">Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study</a>

In December, Pfizer said it was amending its clinical trial to test a three-dose version of the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;because the low dose used generated an immune response in&nbsp;kids&nbsp;aged 2 to 4 that was inferior to the response measured in those aged 16 to 25.

The companies had said they submitted data on the first two doses of what would eventually be a three-dose regimen in the age group at the request of the&nbsp;FDA. On Friday, they said they expect to have three-dose protection data available in early April.

Some scientists were critical of this idea, suggesting that regulators should wait for data from a third shot before deciding on authorization.

In very young children between 6 months and 2 years old, the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;generated an immune response in line with 16- to 25-year-olds, the companies had said.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel meeting that was to discuss authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years of age.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel meeting that was to discuss authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years of age. In a separate statement, the companies said they planned to extend the process of submitting data to U.S. regulators for the shot for children under 5. U.S. regulators have been considering the vaccine for the only age group not yet eligible for the shots, even though the companies said initial results fell short of expectations in 2- to 4-year olds. Also read | Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study In December, Pfizer said it was amending its clinical trial to test a three-dose version of the vaccine because the low dose used generated an immune response in kids aged 2 to 4 that was inferior to the response measured in those aged 16 to 25. The companies had said they submitted data on the first two doses of what would eventually be a three-dose regimen in the age group at the request of the FDA. On Friday, they said they expect to have three-dose protection data available in early April. Some scientists were critical of this idea, suggesting that regulators should wait for data from a third shot before deciding on authorization. In very young children between 6 months and 2 years old, the vaccine generated an immune response in line with 16- to 25-year-olds, the companies had said.

FDA postpones meeting to discuss Pfizer's COVID vaccine for kids under 5

New&nbsp;York&nbsp;City&nbsp;was poised to sack roughly&nbsp;3,000&nbsp;municipal workers on Friday for failing to meet a deadline to get vaccinated against Covid-19.

The expected dismissals come amid growing discontent in North America against coronavirus restrictions and as states unilaterally lift mask mandates.

New&nbsp;York&nbsp;requires all&nbsp;city&nbsp;employees, including police, firefighters and teachers, to receive at least one dose of a&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;under orders passed by former mayor Bill de Blasio last year.

"We're not firing them. People are quitting," his successor, Eric Adams, said on Thursday.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/future-of-covid-vaccines-scientists-develop-a-vaccine-that-can-be-inhaled-wont-need-needles-452473">&nbsp;Future of Covid vaccines: Scientists develop a vaccine that can be inhaled, won't need needles</a>

"The responsibility is clear. We said it: if you're hired, if you get this job, you have to be vaccinated. If you are not following the rules, you are making that decision," he added.

Like mandatory mask-wearing, mandatory vaccinations have been a controversial political issue in America, with Republican-led Texas going as far as banning them.

Hundreds of workers who oppose&nbsp;New&nbsp;York's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;requirement were due to march on&nbsp;City&nbsp;Hall in Manhattan on Friday.&nbsp;

Approximately 95 percent of the&nbsp;city's municipal workforce has received at least one dose of a&nbsp;vaccine.

The&nbsp;3,000&nbsp;number represents less than one percent of the Big Apple's 370,000&nbsp;municipal workers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/efficacy-of-pfizer-and-moderna-vaccines-wane-after-third-dose-study-452589">Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study</a>

Several thousand others remain unvaccinated but have applied for either medical or religious exemptions to avoid losing their jobs.

Friday's deadline comes after&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;state let an indoor mask&nbsp;mandate&nbsp;expire on Thursday.

Several other states, including California,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Jersey and Massachusetts announced this week the lifting of mask mandates for either businesses or schools.

The moves come as the US government&nbsp;grows increasingly concerned about copycat trucker-led protests against coronavirus restrictions that have shut down the Canadian capital Ottawa and three US border crossings.

Watch | NYC's municipal workers face termination over covid-19 vaccine status

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nycs-municipal-workers-face-termination-over-covid-19-vaccine-status-452560/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Supporters of the movement in the United States have called on a convoy of truckers to gather in California in early March for a two-day rally before possibly heading towards the capital Washington.

&nbsp;

New York City was poised to sack roughly 3,000 municipal workers on Friday for failing to meet a deadline to get vaccinated against Covid-19. The expected dismissals come amid growing discontent in North America against coronavirus restrictions and as states unilaterally lift mask mandates.

New York City was poised to sack roughly 3,000 municipal workers on Friday for failing to meet a deadline to get vaccinated against Covid-19. The expected dismissals come amid growing discontent in North America against coronavirus restrictions and as states unilaterally lift mask mandates. New York requires all city employees, including police, firefighters and teachers, to receive at least one dose of a vaccine under orders passed by former mayor Bill de Blasio last year. "We're not firing them. People are quitting," his successor, Eric Adams, said on Thursday. Also read | Future of Covid vaccines: Scientists develop a vaccine that can be inhaled, won't need needles "The responsibility is clear. We said it: if you're hired, if you get this job, you have to be vaccinated. If you are not following the rules, you are making that decision," he added. Like mandatory mask-wearing, mandatory vaccinations have been a controversial political issue in America, with Republican-led Texas going as far as banning them. Hundreds of workers who oppose New York's vaccine requirement were due to march on City Hall in Manhattan on Friday. Approximately 95 percent of the city's municipal workforce has received at least one dose of a vaccine. The 3,000 number represents less than one percent of the Big Apple's 370,000 municipal workers. Also read | Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study Several thousand others remain unvaccinated but have applied for either medical or religious exemptions to avoid losing their jobs. Friday's deadline comes after New York state let an indoor mask mandate expire on Thursday. Several other states, including California, New Jersey and Massachusetts announced this week the lifting of mask mandates for either businesses or schools. The moves come as the US government grows increasingly concerned about copycat trucker-led protests against coronavirus restrictions that have shut down the Canadian capital Ottawa and three US border crossings. Watch | NYC's municipal workers face termination over covid-19 vaccine status Supporters of the movement in the United States have called on a convoy of truckers to gather in California in early March for a two-day rally before possibly heading towards the capital Washington.

New York City set to fire 3,000 staff for defying vaccine mandate

Several Democratic-run US states have announced plans to lift&nbsp;mask&nbsp;mandates in indoor places and schools, as coronavirus infections decline in America.

The announcements signal a move towards a policy of accepting Covid-19&nbsp;as part of&nbsp;everyday life.

Mask-wearing became a political battleground in the United States in the early days of the pandemic.

Many Democratic governors enforced strict mandates, while Republican-led states such as Texas and Florida banned the enforcement of face coverings.

California governor Gavin Newsom announced Monday evening that the state's indoor&nbsp;mask&nbsp;mandate&nbsp;would end for vaccinated residents on February 15.

California's "case rate has decreased by 65 per cent since our Omicron peak. Our hospitalizations have stabilized across the state," tweeted Newsom.

"Unvaccinated people will still need to wear masks indoors. Get vaccinated. Get boosted," he added.

Newsom's announcement came after New Jersey governor Phil Murphy announced that children and staff would not need to wear masks in schools from March 7.

"This is not a declaration of victory as much as an acknowledgement that we can responsibly live with this thing," he said, referring to the coronavirus.

In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont said he was recommending that school boards drop mandatory&nbsp;mask-wearing in schools after February 28.

Delaware governor John Carney announced that his state's indoor&nbsp;mask&nbsp;mandate&nbsp;would expire on Friday, and that masks in schools will end by March 31.

"We're in a much better place than we were several weeks ago," he wrote on Twitter.

In Oregon, Governor Kate Brown tweeted that she "will lift&nbsp;mask&nbsp;requirements no later than March 31."

New York, the early epicenter of America's outbreak in spring 2020, hasn't officially announced plans to lift Covid restrictions, but Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to end the city's indoor&nbsp;mask&nbsp;mandate&nbsp;on Wednesday, the New York Times reported, citing multiple people briefed on the decision.

CDC recommendations&nbsp;

The varying measures highlight the disparate nature of&nbsp;mask&nbsp;rules, which can differ&nbsp;between local authorities in the heavily defederalised country.

The lifting of the mandates still allows individual school boards to require masks if they want to.

But the mandates' revocation appears to be out of sync with guidance from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which Joe Biden's administration follows.

The CDC recommends&nbsp;that vaccinated people wear masks indoors if they are "in an area&nbsp;of substantial or high transmission."

Wearing a&nbsp;mask&nbsp;that covers the nose and mouth is required on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation travelling into, within or out of the United States.

The CDC also requires masks inside US transportation hubs such as airports and train stations.

The United States is currently recording about 73,000 new cases a day, down from a peak of about 800,000 a day in early January, according to the CDC.

More than 900,000 people have&nbsp;been killed by Covid-19 in the United States, according to the Johns Hopkins University coronavirus tracker.

Despite falling numbers of new cases linked to the Omicron variant, daily deaths are still averaging 2,300, according to government figures.

Several Democratic-run US states have announced plans to lift mask mandates in indoor places and schools, as coronavirus infections decline in America. The announcements signal a move towards a policy of accepting Covid-19 as part of everyday life.

Several Democratic-run US states have announced plans to lift mask mandates in indoor places and schools, as coronavirus infections decline in America. The announcements signal a move towards a policy of accepting Covid-19 as part of everyday life. Mask-wearing became a political battleground in the United States in the early days of the pandemic. Many Democratic governors enforced strict mandates, while Republican-led states such as Texas and Florida banned the enforcement of face coverings. California governor Gavin Newsom announced Monday evening that the state's indoor mask mandate would end for vaccinated residents on February 15. California's "case rate has decreased by 65 per cent since our Omicron peak. Our hospitalizations have stabilized across the state," tweeted Newsom. "Unvaccinated people will still need to wear masks indoors. Get vaccinated. Get boosted," he added. Newsom's announcement came after New Jersey governor Phil Murphy announced that children and staff would not need to wear masks in schools from March 7. "This is not a declaration of victory as much as an acknowledgement that we can responsibly live with this thing," he said, referring to the coronavirus. In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont said he was recommending that school boards drop mandatory mask-wearing in schools after February 28. Delaware governor John Carney announced that his state's indoor mask mandate would expire on Friday, and that masks in schools will end by March 31. "We're in a much better place than we were several weeks ago," he wrote on Twitter. In Oregon, Governor Kate Brown tweeted that she "will lift mask requirements no later than March 31." New York, the early epicenter of America's outbreak in spring 2020, hasn't officially announced plans to lift Covid restrictions, but Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to end the city's indoor mask mandate on Wednesday, the New York Times reported, citing multiple people briefed on the decision. CDC recommendations The varying measures highlight the disparate nature of mask rules, which can differ between local authorities in the heavily defederalised country. The lifting of the mandates still allows individual school boards to require masks if they want to. But the mandates' revocation appears to be out of sync with guidance from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which Joe Biden's administration follows. The CDC recommends that vaccinated people wear masks indoors if they are "in an area of substantial or high transmission." Wearing a mask that covers the nose and mouth is required on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation travelling into, within or out of the United States. The CDC also requires masks inside US transportation hubs such as airports and train stations. The United States is currently recording about 73,000 new cases a day, down from a peak of about 800,000 a day in early January, according to the CDC. More than 900,000 people have been killed by Covid-19 in the United States, according to the Johns Hopkins University coronavirus tracker. Despite falling numbers of new cases linked to the Omicron variant, daily deaths are still averaging 2,300, according to government figures.

Democratic-led US states roll back mask mandates

The New Malaria vaccine has given thousands of people in Kenya a new hope for a better life. The vaccine was begun in 2019.

Kenya fights the Malaria-endemic: Malaria vaccine gives hope to thousands of people

Malaria endemic in western Kenya has received a new vaccine against Malaria, which kills around 260 000 children under 5 every year in Sub-Saharan Africa. The groundbreaking drug was 30 years in the making, and a pilot program has been rolling out the drug in Kenya, Ghana, and Malawi since 2019.

Kenya: Malaria vaccine gives thousands a hope for better life

Austria becomes the first country in Europe to mandate the Covid vaccine, meaning Austrians over the age of 18 should be vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus starting from Saturday or they can face a heavy fine. Even after such heavy criticism, the country decided to pursue this approach.

Earlier, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said that country will be the first in Europe to make Covid vaccinations compulsory for adults in February. He acknowledged that this was a 'sensitive topic'. &nbsp;

Austria has seen debate on the issue ever since plans for compulsory vaccinations were first announced last year. Nehammer acknowledged the decision covered "a totally sensitive topic" but said it followed careful consideration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-vaccination-to-be-compulsory-from-february-says-austrian-chancellor-445252">Also read |&nbsp;Covid vaccination to be compulsory from February, says Austrian chancellor</a>

Despite such strict rules, the vaccination rate in Austria remains low. Humanitarian association Arbeiter Samariter Bund's manager, Michael Hausmann while speaking to AFP said, "We recorded a small increase of around nine per cent compared to last week."

Germany, which is a neighbouring country, also saw a similar proposal by the new Social Democrat Chancellor Olaf Scholz. It was debated last month in the lower house of parliament but many MPs still oppose the idea.

(With inputs from agencies)

Austria becomes the first country in Europe to mandate the Covid vaccine, meaning Austrians over the age of 18 should be vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus starting from Saturday or they can face a heavy fine.

Austria becomes the first country in Europe to mandate the Covid vaccine, meaning Austrians over the age of 18 should be vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus starting from Saturday or they can face a heavy fine. Even after such heavy criticism, the country decided to pursue this approach. Earlier, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said that country will be the first in Europe to make Covid vaccinations compulsory for adults in February. He acknowledged that this was a 'sensitive topic'. Austria has seen debate on the issue ever since plans for compulsory vaccinations were first announced last year. Nehammer acknowledged the decision covered "a totally sensitive topic" but said it followed careful consideration. Also read | Covid vaccination to be compulsory from February, says Austrian chancellor Despite such strict rules, the vaccination rate in Austria remains low. Humanitarian association Arbeiter Samariter Bund's manager, Michael Hausmann while speaking to AFP said, "We recorded a small increase of around nine per cent compared to last week." Germany, which is a neighbouring country, also saw a similar proposal by the new Social Democrat Chancellor Olaf Scholz. It was debated last month in the lower house of parliament but many MPs still oppose the idea. (With inputs from agencies)

This country in Europe becomes the first to make Covid vaccine compulsory

Pharmaceutical company Zydus Cadila has started supplying its COVID-19 vaccine to the Indian government nearly six months after it had been authorized for emergency use.

Zydus Cadila begins supplying its COVID-19 vaccine to the Indian government

Truck drivers in Canada are protesting against the government's COVID vaccine mandate at the Parliament hill.

Canada: Truckers' rally reach Ottawa to protest against COVID vaccine mandate

Truck drivers in Canada are protesting against the government's COVID vaccine mandate at the Parliament hill

Canadian truckers protest at Parliament hill against COVID vaccine mandate

Trucks rolled into Canada's capital Ottawa on Saturday to stage what police say will be a massive protest against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's COVID-19 vaccine mandates in front of parliament on a frigid winter day.

Trudeau and his family have left the home where they live in downtown Ottawa due to security concerns, the CBC reported. His office said it does not comment on security matters.

The so-called "Freedom Convoy" - coming from east and west - started out as a rally against a vaccine requirement for cross-border truckers&nbsp;but has turned into a demonstration against government overreach during the pandemic with a strong anti-vaccination streak.

"It's not just about the vaccines. It's about stopping the public health mandates altogether," said Daniel Bazinet, owner of Valley Flatbed &amp; Transportation in Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast. Bazinet is unvaccinated, but operates domestically and so is not affected by the cross-border mandate.

He is in a convoy of some 200 trucks slowly arriving from the east, and says public health policies pushed by Trudeau's government have gone too far.

"Where's it all going to end? That's how a lot of people feel," he said in a telephone interview.

Already dozens of trucks were lined up in front of parliament on Saturday morning, blowing their horns, as thousands of people gathered peacefully on the snow-covered lawn of parliament.

Few wore masks, but many were in balaclavas as the temperature with windchill was minus 21 Celsius (minus 6 Fahrenheit). By the end of the day, some 2,700 trucks are expected, a federal government source said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-calculations-reveal-record-inflation-erdogan-sacks-statistician-448782">Also read |&nbsp;Turkey: Calculations reveal record inflation, Erdogan sacks statistician</a>

The violent rhetoric used by the some of the promoters on social media in the run-up to the protest has worried police, who were out in force.

"We are prepared as best as we possibly can for those who chose to come here to do harm or cause others to do harm," Ottawa police chief Peter Sloly said on Friday, adding the demonstration would be "massive in scale".

On Friday, Trudeau told the Canadian Press he was worried about possible violence connected with the demonstration. Earlier this week he said the convoy represented a "small fringe minority" who do not represent the views of Canadians.

About 90% of Canada's cross-border truckers and 77% of the population have had two COVID vaccination shots.

Trudeau announced a vaccine mandate for federal workers in October on the eve of the election, and then last month both Canada and the United States imposed one for cross-border truckers.

Conservative leader Erin O'Toole opposes vaccine mandates and expressed support for the protest after holding talks with some of the truckers on Friday.

"I support their right to be heard, and I call on Justin Trudeau to meet with these hard-working Canadians to hear their concerns," O'Toole said after the meeting. "Please protest safely this weekend."

Conservative member of parliament Michael Cooper was handing out coffee to the protesters on Saturday.

The Canadian Trucking Alliance, which represents some 4,500 carriers, owner-operators and industry suppliers, opposes the demonstration and has said this is "not how disagreement with government policies should be expressed."

Trucks rolled into Canada's capital Ottawa on Saturday to stage what police say will be a massive protest against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's COVID-19 vaccine mandates in front of parliament on a frigid winter day.

Trucks rolled into Canada's capital Ottawa on Saturday to stage what police say will be a massive protest against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's COVID-19 vaccine mandates in front of parliament on a frigid winter day. Trudeau and his family have left the home where they live in downtown Ottawa due to security concerns, the CBC reported. His office said it does not comment on security matters. The so-called "Freedom Convoy" - coming from east and west - started out as a rally against a vaccine requirement for cross-border truckers but has turned into a demonstration against government overreach during the pandemic with a strong anti-vaccination streak. "It's not just about the vaccines. It's about stopping the public health mandates altogether," said Daniel Bazinet, owner of Valley Flatbed & Transportation in Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast. Bazinet is unvaccinated, but operates domestically and so is not affected by the cross-border mandate. He is in a convoy of some 200 trucks slowly arriving from the east, and says public health policies pushed by Trudeau's government have gone too far. "Where's it all going to end? That's how a lot of people feel," he said in a telephone interview. Already dozens of trucks were lined up in front of parliament on Saturday morning, blowing their horns, as thousands of people gathered peacefully on the snow-covered lawn of parliament. Few wore masks, but many were in balaclavas as the temperature with windchill was minus 21 Celsius (minus 6 Fahrenheit). By the end of the day, some 2,700 trucks are expected, a federal government source said. Also read | Turkey: Calculations reveal record inflation, Erdogan sacks statistician The violent rhetoric used by the some of the promoters on social media in the run-up to the protest has worried police, who were out in force. "We are prepared as best as we possibly can for those who chose to come here to do harm or cause others to do harm," Ottawa police chief Peter Sloly said on Friday, adding the demonstration would be "massive in scale". On Friday, Trudeau told the Canadian Press he was worried about possible violence connected with the demonstration. Earlier this week he said the convoy represented a "small fringe minority" who do not represent the views of Canadians. About 90% of Canada's cross-border truckers and 77% of the population have had two COVID vaccination shots. Trudeau announced a vaccine mandate for federal workers in October on the eve of the election, and then last month both Canada and the United States imposed one for cross-border truckers. Conservative leader Erin O'Toole opposes vaccine mandates and expressed support for the protest after holding talks with some of the truckers on Friday. "I support their right to be heard, and I call on Justin Trudeau to meet with these hard-working Canadians to hear their concerns," O'Toole said after the meeting. "Please protest safely this weekend." Conservative member of parliament Michael Cooper was handing out coffee to the protesters on Saturday. The Canadian Trucking Alliance, which represents some 4,500 carriers, owner-operators and industry suppliers, opposes the demonstration and has said this is "not how disagreement with government policies should be expressed."

Canada PM Justin Trudeau leaves home over security concerns as truckers protest against vaccine mandates

One of the biggest challenges in any vaccine rollout is storing vaccines while they are in transit. What if the location of where the vaccines have to be shipped is off the power grid? Our next report gets you all the details.

Storing vaccine doses in areas that are off the grid

In a fresh hope for the COVID vaccine patent agreement, World Trade Organization has now said that a deal between rich nations and other countries on intellectual property waivers are likely to be formulated in the coming weeks.

WTO: intellectual property waivers for COVID vaccine are likely to be formulated in the coming weeks

Booster doses of any COVID-19 vaccine are safe and induce an immune response when given to individuals who have already received the full regimen of one of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines, according to a preliminary study conducted by the US National Institutes of Health.

Results reported in The New England Journal of Medicine showed that both primary and booster vaccines resulted in higher levels of neutralizing antibodies compared to those detected before the booster. Antibodies detected after the booster range from 4.2- to 76-fold higher than those found before.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warning-from-wuhan-chinese-scientists-say-new-covid-variant-neocov-has-high-mortality-rate-report-448335">Warning from Wuhan: Chinese scientists say new Covid variant 'NeoCov' has high mortality rate - Report</a>

Furthermore, all primary-boost combinations resulted in an increase of 4.6- to 56-fold in binding antibody levels.

The newly released report analyses data from 458 adults who had received at least 12 weeks prior to enrollment, full vaccinations with any of three authorised Covid vaccines in the US: Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson and did not have a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Participants received a single booster dose at enrollment: 150 received Janssen/Johnson &amp; Johnson*s vaccine, 154 received Moderna vaccine, and 154 received Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/can-weed-cure-covid-cannabis-compound-stops-coronavirus-in-test-tube-447858">Can weed cure Covid? Cannabis compound stops coronavirus in test tube</a>

Based on the participant's initial vaccination regimen, the booster vaccine was either different (mixed, or heterologous) from or the same (matched, or homologous) as the first vaccine.&nbsp;

Each participant kept a diary to record any side effects. Over half of the participants complained of headaches, pain at the injection site, muscle aches, and malaise.

However, serious adverse reactions were not reported.

In comparison to homologous or matched boosters, heterologous or mixed boosters elicited similar or higher antibody responses.

WATCH |&nbsp;An outlook at the world economy in 2022 amid COVID-19's third wave

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/an-outlook-at-the-world-economy-in-2022-amid-covid-19s-third-wave-448003/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"These data strongly suggest that homologous and heterologous booster vaccine will increase protective efficacy against symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection," the study showed.

This report summarizes vaccination-related data through the first 29 days following booster vaccination.

Researchers plan to follow participants for one year to determine if booster vaccinations have any effect on longer-term immune responses.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Booster doses of any COVID-19 vaccine are safe and induce an immune response when given to individuals who have already received the full regimen of one of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines, according to a preliminary study conducted by the US National Institutes of Health.

Booster doses of any COVID-19 vaccine are safe and induce an immune response when given to individuals who have already received the full regimen of one of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines, according to a preliminary study conducted by the US National Institutes of Health. Results reported in The New England Journal of Medicine showed that both primary and booster vaccines resulted in higher levels of neutralizing antibodies compared to those detected before the booster. Antibodies detected after the booster range from 4.2- to 76-fold higher than those found before. Also read | Warning from Wuhan: Chinese scientists say new Covid variant 'NeoCov' has high mortality rate - Report Furthermore, all primary-boost combinations resulted in an increase of 4.6- to 56-fold in binding antibody levels. The newly released report analyses data from 458 adults who had received at least 12 weeks prior to enrollment, full vaccinations with any of three authorised Covid vaccines in the US: Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson and did not have a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Participants received a single booster dose at enrollment: 150 received Janssen/Johnson & Johnson*s vaccine, 154 received Moderna vaccine, and 154 received Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Also read | Can weed cure Covid? Cannabis compound stops coronavirus in test tube Based on the participant's initial vaccination regimen, the booster vaccine was either different (mixed, or heterologous) from or the same (matched, or homologous) as the first vaccine. Each participant kept a diary to record any side effects. Over half of the participants complained of headaches, pain at the injection site, muscle aches, and malaise. However, serious adverse reactions were not reported. In comparison to homologous or matched boosters, heterologous or mixed boosters elicited similar or higher antibody responses. WATCH | An outlook at the world economy in 2022 amid COVID-19's third wave "These data strongly suggest that homologous and heterologous booster vaccine will increase protective efficacy against symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection," the study showed. This report summarizes vaccination-related data through the first 29 days following booster vaccination. Researchers plan to follow participants for one year to determine if booster vaccinations have any effect on longer-term immune responses. (With inputs from agencies)

Safe to mix and match Covid booster doses: US National Institutes of Health

Moderna Inc has announced that it has started clinical trials of a booster dose of a vaccine that is specifically designed to fight the Omicron variant of the coronavirus. The aim of the trial is to assess safety, tolerability and immune response generated by the booster dose.&nbsp;

The trials will include a total of 600 adults. Out of these, 300 adults will be those who have already received two doses of Moderna's Covid vaccine at least six months ago. The other half will be those who have received two doses plus the previously authorised booster dose.

The booster will be evaluated as both a third and a fourth dose.

Moderna chief executive Stephane Bancel, in a statement, said, "We are reassured by the antibody persistence against Omicron at six months after the currently authorised. Nonetheless, given the long-term threat demonstrated by Omicron's immune escape, we are advancing our Omicron-specific variant vaccine booster candidate and we are pleased to begin this part of our Phase 2 study."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-what-is-the-new-stealth-omicron-447976">Also read |&nbsp;Explainer: What is the new 'stealth Omicron'?</a>

Earlier, Moderna had claimed that its vaccine helps prevent the rapidly spreading Omicron variant.

Dr Paul Burton, Moderna's Chief Medical Officer, in an interview said, "It's highly effective, and it's extremely safe. I think it will protect people through the coming holiday period and through these winter months, when we're going to see the most severe pressure of Omicron."

As per the company, a two-dose course of its vaccine generated low neutralising antibodies against the variant. However, a 50 microgram booster dose increased neutralising antibodies against the variant 37 fold. A 100 microgram booster dose of the same vaccine drove antibody over 80 times the pre-boost levels.

(With inputs from agencies)

Moderna Inc has announced that it has started clinical trials of a booster dose of a vaccine that is specifically designed to fight the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.

Moderna Inc has announced that it has started clinical trials of a booster dose of a vaccine that is specifically designed to fight the Omicron variant of the coronavirus. The aim of the trial is to assess safety, tolerability and immune response generated by the booster dose. The trials will include a total of 600 adults. Out of these, 300 adults will be those who have already received two doses of Moderna's Covid vaccine at least six months ago. The other half will be those who have received two doses plus the previously authorised booster dose. The booster will be evaluated as both a third and a fourth dose. Moderna chief executive Stephane Bancel, in a statement, said, "We are reassured by the antibody persistence against Omicron at six months after the currently authorised. Nonetheless, given the long-term threat demonstrated by Omicron's immune escape, we are advancing our Omicron-specific variant vaccine booster candidate and we are pleased to begin this part of our Phase 2 study." Also read | Explainer: What is the new 'stealth Omicron'? Earlier, Moderna had claimed that its vaccine helps prevent the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. Dr Paul Burton, Moderna's Chief Medical Officer, in an interview said, "It's highly effective, and it's extremely safe. I think it will protect people through the coming holiday period and through these winter months, when we're going to see the most severe pressure of Omicron." As per the company, a two-dose course of its vaccine generated low neutralising antibodies against the variant. However, a 50 microgram booster dose increased neutralising antibodies against the variant 37 fold. A 100 microgram booster dose of the same vaccine drove antibody over 80 times the pre-boost levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Moderna begins trial of Omicron-specific vaccine for adults

A hospital in Boston, USA has refused to perform a heart transplant on a patient who doesn't want to take Covid vaccine. The patient, 31-year-old DJ Ferguson was on priority list for heart transplant. But he has now been excluded, as per a report by CBS Boston.

His father has been quoted as saying that Covid vaccination is against his son's basic principles. He said that his son does not believe in Covid vaccination.&nbsp;

His heart transplant surgery was to take place in Brigham and Women’s hospital in Boston. But now, the hospital is refusing to carry out the procedure.

“Like many other transplant programs in the United States – the Covid-19 vaccine is one of several vaccines and lifestyle behaviors required for transplant candidates in the Mass General Brigham system in order to create both the best chance for a successful operation and also the patient’s survival after transplantation,” explained the hospital as quoted by The Guardian.

Medical experts in the area are supporting the stance taken by hospital. They are saying that organ transplant is followed by weakening of immune system in the immediate aftermath and if a patient is vaccinated against Covid, he or she stands better chance to be protected from Covid infection which can create major trouble for the patient in their weakened state.

Ferguson's family is not sure about future course of action. They said they thinking about several options but are running out of time.

A hospital in Boston, USA has refused to perform a heart transplant on a patient who doesn't want to take Covid vaccine. The patient, 31-year-old DJ Ferguson was on priority list for heart transplant.

A hospital in Boston, USA has refused to perform a heart transplant on a patient who doesn't want to take Covid vaccine. The patient, 31-year-old DJ Ferguson was on priority list for heart transplant. But he has now been excluded, as per a report by CBS Boston. His father has been quoted as saying that Covid vaccination is against his son's basic principles. He said that his son does not believe in Covid vaccination. His heart transplant surgery was to take place in Brigham and Women’s hospital in Boston. But now, the hospital is refusing to carry out the procedure. “Like many other transplant programs in the United States – the Covid-19 vaccine is one of several vaccines and lifestyle behaviors required for transplant candidates in the Mass General Brigham system in order to create both the best chance for a successful operation and also the patient’s survival after transplantation,” explained the hospital as quoted by The Guardian. Medical experts in the area are supporting the stance taken by hospital. They are saying that organ transplant is followed by weakening of immune system in the immediate aftermath and if a patient is vaccinated against Covid, he or she stands better chance to be protected from Covid infection which can create major trouble for the patient in their weakened state. Ferguson's family is not sure about future course of action. They said they thinking about several options but are running out of time.

Hospital denies heart transplant to patient who refused to receive Covid vaccine

Even as the world battles Coronavirus and its various variants, many people still remain unvaccinated. Popularly known as anti-vaxxers or vaccine-skeptics, even after months of vaccine being readily available, these people refuse to get vaccinated. This city is planning on taking harsh steps against its unvaccinated citizens. Find out more.

Tax for unvaccinated! A Canadian city is doing this

Pfizer and BioNTech announced on Tuesday that they have begun a study comparing their Omicron-based Covid-19 vaccine against the original vaccine.

If regulators decide to wait for the results of such a study, it might be months before an Omicron-specific vaccination becomes accessible.

Initial data from the research, which will enrol 1,420 volunteers, is expected in the first half of 2022, according to Pfizer.&nbsp;

It is unclear, however, what information authorities, such as the Food and Drug Administration, would require before approving an Omicron-specific vaccination, or what criteria the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will use to prescribe one.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-is-omicron-sub-variant-ba2-a-threat-in-india-more-than-400-cases-found-in-england-446950">Also read | COVID-19: Is Omicron 'sub-variant' BA.2 a threat in India? More than 400 cases found in England</a> 
 
While recent data revealed that boosters against the original Covid strain continued to protect against severe outcomes with Omicron, the business was operating cautiously, according to Kathrin Jansen, the company's head of vaccine research.&nbsp;

"We recognise the need to be prepared in the event this protection wanes over time and to potentially help address Omicron and new variants in the future," she said.

According to Ugur Sahin, CEO of the German biotech business BioNTech, the original vaccine's protection against mild and moderate COVID appeared to fade more quickly against Omicron.

A total of 1,420 people between the ages of 18 and 55 will participate in the study.

The study did not include anyone over the age of 55, according to a Pfizer spokesman, because the purpose of the study was to assess the immunological response of participants dosed rather than to estimate vaccination efficacy.

Three groups of volunteers have been formed. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-along-with-12-countries-criticise-whos-report-on-covid-origin-374383">Also read |&nbsp;US, UK, along with 12 countries, criticise WHO's report on COVID origin</a>

The first group of patients will receive one or two doses of the Omicron vaccination after receiving two doses of the current Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine 90-180 days prior to enrollment.&nbsp;

The second group will get either another dose of the existing vaccine or an Omicron-specific vaccine after receiving three doses of the current vaccine 90-180 days prior to the research.

The third and final group will receive three doses of the Omicron-specific vaccination if they have never had a Covid vaccine before.

In December 2020, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination became the first COVID injection to be approved in the West.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer and BioNTech announced on Tuesday that they have begun a study comparing their Omicron-based Covid-19 vaccine against the original vaccine. If regulators decide to wait for the results of such a study, it might be months before an Omicron-specific vaccination becomes accessible.

Pfizer and BioNTech announced on Tuesday that they have begun a study comparing their Omicron-based Covid-19 vaccine against the original vaccine. If regulators decide to wait for the results of such a study, it might be months before an Omicron-specific vaccination becomes accessible. Initial data from the research, which will enrol 1,420 volunteers, is expected in the first half of 2022, according to Pfizer. It is unclear, however, what information authorities, such as the Food and Drug Administration, would require before approving an Omicron-specific vaccination, or what criteria the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will use to prescribe one. Also read | COVID-19: Is Omicron 'sub-variant' BA.2 a threat in India? More than 400 cases found in England While recent data revealed that boosters against the original Covid strain continued to protect against severe outcomes with Omicron, the business was operating cautiously, according to Kathrin Jansen, the company's head of vaccine research. "We recognise the need to be prepared in the event this protection wanes over time and to potentially help address Omicron and new variants in the future," she said. According to Ugur Sahin, CEO of the German biotech business BioNTech, the original vaccine's protection against mild and moderate COVID appeared to fade more quickly against Omicron. A total of 1,420 people between the ages of 18 and 55 will participate in the study. The study did not include anyone over the age of 55, according to a Pfizer spokesman, because the purpose of the study was to assess the immunological response of participants dosed rather than to estimate vaccination efficacy. Three groups of volunteers have been formed. Also read | US, UK, along with 12 countries, criticise WHO's report on COVID origin The first group of patients will receive one or two doses of the Omicron vaccination after receiving two doses of the current Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine 90-180 days prior to enrollment. The second group will get either another dose of the existing vaccine or an Omicron-specific vaccine after receiving three doses of the current vaccine 90-180 days prior to the research. The third and final group will receive three doses of the Omicron-specific vaccination if they have never had a Covid vaccine before. In December 2020, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination became the first COVID injection to be approved in the West. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Pfizer and BioNTech begin clinical trial of Omicron-based vaccine

The number of omicron-lead infections across the world is showing no signs of respite, but protests have intensified against vaccination mandates that have been set by different governments around the world.

Mass protests intensify against vaccination mandates despite Omicron surge

Pics: Health workers at LOC continue vaccination process amid extreme weather conditions

Even after a surge in Omicron cases, the World Health Organisation has urged nations to lift travel bans and mandatory vaccination for entry into countries. "The failure of travel restrictions introduced after the detection and reporting of Omicron variant to limit the international spread of Omicron demonstrates the ineffectiveness of such measures over time. Travel measures should be based on risk assessments and avoid placing the financial burden on international travellers in accordance with Article 40 of the IHR," it said in a statement.&nbsp;

It further said that the state parties should consider a risk-based approach to the "facilitation of international travel by lifting or modifying measures, such as testing and/or quarantine requirements, when appropriate."

Apart from this, the committee praised South Africa for their rapid identification of the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had earlier warned global leaders that the Covid pandemic “is nowhere near over” adding that the Omicron variant is causing hospitalisations and deaths the world over.

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“Make no mistake, Omicron is causing hospitalisations and deaths, and even the less severe cases are inundating health facilities," Tedros said.&nbsp;

He further added, "Omicron may be less severe, on average, but the narrative that it is a mild disease is misleading, hurts the overall response and costs more lives."

He also cautioned global leaders that “with the incredible growth of Omicron globally, new variants are likely to emerge, which is why tracking and assessment remain critical”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Even after a surge in Omicron cases, the World Health Organisation has urged nations to lift travel bans and mandatory vaccination for entry into countries. "The failure of travel restrictions introduced after the detection and reporting of Omicron variant to limit the international spread of Omicron demonstrates the ineffectiveness of such measures over time.

Even after a surge in Omicron cases, the World Health Organisation has urged nations to lift travel bans and mandatory vaccination for entry into countries. "The failure of travel restrictions introduced after the detection and reporting of Omicron variant to limit the international spread of Omicron demonstrates the ineffectiveness of such measures over time. Travel measures should be based on risk assessments and avoid placing the financial burden on international travellers in accordance with Article 40 of the IHR," it said in a statement. It further said that the state parties should consider a risk-based approach to the "facilitation of international travel by lifting or modifying measures, such as testing and/or quarantine requirements, when appropriate." Apart from this, the committee praised South Africa for their rapid identification of the Omicron variant. Meanwhile, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had earlier warned global leaders that the Covid pandemic “is nowhere near over” adding that the Omicron variant is causing hospitalisations and deaths the world over. Also read | USA approves Baltic request to send US-made weapons to Ukraine “Make no mistake, Omicron is causing hospitalisations and deaths, and even the less severe cases are inundating health facilities," Tedros said. He further added, "Omicron may be less severe, on average, but the narrative that it is a mild disease is misleading, hurts the overall response and costs more lives." He also cautioned global leaders that “with the incredible growth of Omicron globally, new variants are likely to emerge, which is why tracking and assessment remain critical”. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO urges countries to lift travel bans and not ask for vaccination proof for entry

Israel was one of the first countries to offer four doze of the covid-19 vaccine to people or a second booster. Now a latest Israeli study has revealed that the fourth dose of the Pfizer's Moderna vaccine against covid-19 is only partially effective against the latest omicron variant.

COVID-19: Fourth dose of vaccine 'partially effective' against Omicron, reveals Israeli study

India completed a year of its vaccine drive against covid-19 and in the past 365 days over 1.5 billion doses have been administered. The Prime Minister took to Twitter to celebrate the anniversary and in a series of tweets Narendra Modi lauded everyone associated with the drive and also reiterated India's stance on vaccines.

India completes 1 year of vaccine drive, PM Narendra Modi lauds vaccination campaign

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