As millions of people continued to remain under strict lockdowns in several Chinese cities, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said that China's zero-tolerance Covid-19 policy is "not sustainable".

China's zero-Covid policy not 'sustainable', says WHO chief

Eight cases of severe hepatitis of an unknown origin have been detected in children in the Argentinian city of Santa Fe.

The country's ministry of health has denied that it is an outbreak and reported that these are isolated and unconnected cases.

The first case reported in Argentina was that of an 8-year-old boy at the Children’s Hospital in the city of Rosario.

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According to Alejandro Costaguta, the head of the Liver and Transplant Unit Hepatic of the Children’s Sanatorium, “the patient was admitted on the night of April 4 at our service and the first studies are being done.''

After the detection of the cases, Argentina's health ministry has recommended that youngsters should have completed the schemes of the National Vaccination Calendar for each age group.

In a list of guidelines, issued light of the epidemiological alert, the national health ministry requested people to frequently wash their hands, avoid contact with sick people, cover their mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing and avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-us-europe-japan-reports-first-case-of-mysterious-hepatitis-474195">Also read |&nbsp;After US &amp; Europe, Japan reports first case of mysterious hepatitis</a>

It comes after the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 109 childhood cases of a mysterious form of hepatitis.

The global death toll of a fatal ailment puzzling doctors from the US to Asia surged after three children in Indonesia died from a mysterious liver disease.

Raising concerns of the disease's "unknown origin", the World Health Organization has said that this severe strain of acute hepatitis has been identified in nearly 230 children in 20 countries.

According to the UN agency, the symptoms afflicting the children include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, before their livers showed signs of inflammation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Eight cases of severe hepatitis of an unknown origin have been detected in children in the Argentinian city of Santa Fe. The country's ministry of health has denied that it is an outbreak and reported that these are isolated and unconnected cases.

Eight cases of severe hepatitis of an unknown origin have been detected in children in the Argentinian city of Santa Fe. The country's ministry of health has denied that it is an outbreak and reported that these are isolated and unconnected cases. The first case reported in Argentina was that of an 8-year-old boy at the Children’s Hospital in the city of Rosario. According to Alejandro Costaguta, the head of the Liver and Transplant Unit Hepatic of the Children’s Sanatorium, “the patient was admitted on the night of April 4 at our service and the first studies are being done.'' After the detection of the cases, Argentina's health ministry has recommended that youngsters should have completed the schemes of the National Vaccination Calendar for each age group. In a list of guidelines, issued light of the epidemiological alert, the national health ministry requested people to frequently wash their hands, avoid contact with sick people, cover their mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing and avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth. Also read | After US & Europe, Japan reports first case of mysterious hepatitis It comes after the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 109 childhood cases of a mysterious form of hepatitis. The global death toll of a fatal ailment puzzling doctors from the US to Asia surged after three children in Indonesia died from a mysterious liver disease. Raising concerns of the disease's "unknown origin", the World Health Organization has said that this severe strain of acute hepatitis has been identified in nearly 230 children in 20 countries. According to the UN agency, the symptoms afflicting the children include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, before their livers showed signs of inflammation. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world's unending wars. Catch our special series World at War every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

Argentina detects eight cases of severe hepatitis of unknown origin in children

According to recent estimates by the World Health Organization global death toll due to the covid-19 pandemic recorded between January 1st 2020 to December 31st 2021 stands at 14.9 million these numbers are three times higher than the official number of deaths attributed to the disease globally.

Covid-19 News Updates: WHO develops new methodology to calculate death toll

India has raised a strong objection to the WHO's excess covid death estimates in the country soon after the WHO released its report. The government has raised questions over the validity of the estimate model used by the international health body.

Coronavirus latest news updates: India objects to WHO's mathematics model

India expressed strong opposition on Thursday to the World Health Organization's (WHO) use of mathematical models to project excess mortality estimates linked to the coronavirus pandemic.

Citing the lack of authentic data, the country questioned the validity and robustness of the models used as well as the data collection methodology.

As per WHO estimates India has 4.7 million Covid deaths, which is ten times the official amount and accounts for nearly a third of all Covid deaths worldwide.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-warns-world-is-blind-to-how-covid-is-mutating-after-safrica-reports-two-new-omicron-variants-476547" hreflang="en">After S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants, WHO chief warns world is blind to Covid mutations</a>

In total the organisation estimates that approximately 15 million people died in the past two years as a result of the coronavirus or its impact on overburdened health systems. This is more than double the official death toll of 6 million.&nbsp;

Union Health Ministry in its statement said that India has frequently objected to the WHO's methodology for projecting excess death figures based on mathematical models.

"Despite India's objection to the process, methodology and outcome of this modelling exercise," the statement added, "WHO has released the excess mortality estimates without adequately addressing India's concerns."

India further informed the WHO that due to the availability of accurate data released by the Registrar General of India (RGI) through the Civil Registration System (CRS), mathematical models should not be utilised to predict excess mortality numbers for India.

Watch |&nbsp;Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports

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India had questioned the WHO's standards and assumptions for classifying nations into Tier I and II, as well as the very foundation for classifying India into Tier II countries.

According to the statement, India does not deserve to be classified as a Tier II country because of the accuracy of mortality data obtained through an effective and comprehensive statutory system.

"WHO till date has not responded to India's contention. India has consistently questioned WHO's own admission that data in respect of seventeen Indian states was obtained from some websites and media reports and was used in their mathematical model."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-covid-death-toll-tripled-than-actually-reported-in-2020-21-says-who-476572" hreflang="en">15 million: World’s Covid death toll triple than actually reported in 2020-21, says WHO</a>

"This reflects a statistically unsound and scientifically questionable methodology of data collection for making excess mortality projections in case of India," the statement stated.

Because of its size, diversity, and population of 1.3 billion people, the country has always opposed the implementation of a "one size fits all" approach and model, which may be appropriate to smaller countries but not to India, it claims.

India expressed strong opposition on Thursday to the World Health Organization's (WHO) use of mathematical models to project excess mortality estimates linked to the coronavirus pandemic.

India expressed strong opposition on Thursday to the World Health Organization's (WHO) use of mathematical models to project excess mortality estimates linked to the coronavirus pandemic. Citing the lack of authentic data, the country questioned the validity and robustness of the models used as well as the data collection methodology. As per WHO estimates India has 4.7 million Covid deaths, which is ten times the official amount and accounts for nearly a third of all Covid deaths worldwide. Also read | After S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants, WHO chief warns world is blind to Covid mutations In total the organisation estimates that approximately 15 million people died in the past two years as a result of the coronavirus or its impact on overburdened health systems. This is more than double the official death toll of 6 million. Union Health Ministry in its statement said that India has frequently objected to the WHO's methodology for projecting excess death figures based on mathematical models. "Despite India's objection to the process, methodology and outcome of this modelling exercise," the statement added, "WHO has released the excess mortality estimates without adequately addressing India's concerns." India further informed the WHO that due to the availability of accurate data released by the Registrar General of India (RGI) through the Civil Registration System (CRS), mathematical models should not be utilised to predict excess mortality numbers for India. Watch | Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports India had questioned the WHO's standards and assumptions for classifying nations into Tier I and II, as well as the very foundation for classifying India into Tier II countries. According to the statement, India does not deserve to be classified as a Tier II country because of the accuracy of mortality data obtained through an effective and comprehensive statutory system. "WHO till date has not responded to India's contention. India has consistently questioned WHO's own admission that data in respect of seventeen Indian states was obtained from some websites and media reports and was used in their mathematical model." Also read | 15 million: World’s Covid death toll triple than actually reported in 2020-21, says WHO "This reflects a statistically unsound and scientifically questionable methodology of data collection for making excess mortality projections in case of India," the statement stated. Because of its size, diversity, and population of 1.3 billion people, the country has always opposed the implementation of a "one size fits all" approach and model, which may be appropriate to smaller countries but not to India, it claims.

India calls WHO data collection methodology 'unsound and scientifically questionable'

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday said that the death count associated with the COVID-19 pandemic is actually three times more than the official toll attributed to the virus.

According to its estimates released on Thursday, the Covid virus has killed 13.3 million to 16.6 million people in excess in 2020 and 2021.

The WHO said that most of the excess deaths —84 per cent —were concentrated in southeast Asia, Europe and the Americas.

“New estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that the full death toll associated directly or indirectly with #COVID19 pandemic (described as “excess mortality”) between 1 Jan 2020 and 31 Dec 2021 was approximately 14.9 million (range 13.3 million to 16.6 million),” the UN health agency said in a statement.

Describing it as “excess mortality”, the WHO put out the numbers by including those deaths caused by the Covid’s “knock-on effects”.

Watch |&nbsp;Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports

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Excess mortality is defined as the difference in the total number of deaths in a crisis compared to those expected under normal conditions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-warns-world-is-blind-to-how-covid-is-mutating-after-safrica-reports-two-new-omicron-variants-476547">WHO chief warns world is blind to how Covid is mutating, after S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants</a>

COVID-19 excess mortality accounts for both the total number of deaths directly attributed to the virus as well as the indirect impact, such as disruption to essential health services or travel disruptions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-as-severe-as-previous-covid-variants-large-study-finds-476450" hreflang="en">Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds</a>

“These sobering data not only point to the impact of the pandemic but also to the need for all countries to invest in more resilient health systems that can sustain essential health services during crises, including stronger health information systems," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

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Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday said that the death count associated with the COVID-19 pandemic is actually three times more than the official toll attributed to the virus.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday said that the death count associated with the COVID-19 pandemic is actually three times more than the official toll attributed to the virus. According to its estimates released on Thursday, the Covid virus has killed 13.3 million to 16.6 million people in excess in 2020 and 2021. The WHO said that most of the excess deaths —84 per cent —were concentrated in southeast Asia, Europe and the Americas. “New estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that the full death toll associated directly or indirectly with #COVID19 pandemic (described as “excess mortality”) between 1 Jan 2020 and 31 Dec 2021 was approximately 14.9 million (range 13.3 million to 16.6 million),” the UN health agency said in a statement. Describing it as “excess mortality”, the WHO put out the numbers by including those deaths caused by the Covid’s “knock-on effects”. Watch | Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports Excess mortality is defined as the difference in the total number of deaths in a crisis compared to those expected under normal conditions. Also read | WHO chief warns world is blind to how Covid is mutating, after S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants COVID-19 excess mortality accounts for both the total number of deaths directly attributed to the virus as well as the indirect impact, such as disruption to essential health services or travel disruptions. Also read | Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds “These sobering data not only point to the impact of the pandemic but also to the need for all countries to invest in more resilient health systems that can sustain essential health services during crises, including stronger health information systems," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. WATCH WION LIVE Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

15 million: World’s Covid death toll triple than actually reported in 2020-21, says WHO

Amid abortion rights causing a flutter in the United States, World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned that restricting access to abortion will lead to unhealthy and unsafe procedures.

Without mentioning the US case, Tedros in a tweet said, “Women should always have the right to choose when it comes to their bodies and their health. Restricting access to #abortion does not reduce the number of procedures — it drives women and girls towards unsafe ones.”

“Access to safe abortion saves lives.”

The comments come in the backdrop of a US Supreme Court ruling draft that got leaked a few days ago.

According to the draft, the majority of the conservative-controlled Supreme Court bench are in favour of banning abortions.

In the draft opinion document&nbsp;leaked to the media, Justice Samuel Alito wrote that the 1973 Roe vs Wade ruling was “egregiously wrong from the start” and that the US Constitution “does not prohibit the citizens of each state from regulating or prohibiting abortion”.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US top court is set to overturn abortion rights, reveals leaked document

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Meanwhile, furious women gathered on the court premises to protest in Washington just minutes after the news broke late on Monday night, and more were there on Tuesday, with larger protests planned.

According to the Guardian, anti-abortion demonstrators prayed and celebrated but pro-choice protesters lit candles, chanted in support of reproductive rights and shouted expletives about Samuel Alito.

Barriers were erected in front of the court shortly after the leaked report was made public.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-abortion-us-supreme-court-may-go-after-contraception-same-sex-marriage-say-experts-476339">After abortion, US Supreme Court may go after contraception, same-sex marriage, say experts</a>

Abortion has long been a contentious issue in the US, even though polling finds that a clear majority of the public believes it should be legal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-urges-americans-to-oppose-possible-anti-abortion-ruling-476167">US President Joe Biden urges Americans to oppose possible anti-abortion ruling</a>

The supreme court has a 6-3 majority of deeply conservative justices.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.&nbsp;

Amid abortion rights causing a flutter in the United States, World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned that restricting access to abortion will lead to unhealthy and unsafe procedures.

Amid abortion rights causing a flutter in the United States, World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned that restricting access to abortion will lead to unhealthy and unsafe procedures. Without mentioning the US case, Tedros in a tweet said, “Women should always have the right to choose when it comes to their bodies and their health. Restricting access to #abortion does not reduce the number of procedures — it drives women and girls towards unsafe ones.” “Access to safe abortion saves lives.” The comments come in the backdrop of a US Supreme Court ruling draft that got leaked a few days ago. According to the draft, the majority of the conservative-controlled Supreme Court bench are in favour of banning abortions. In the draft opinion document leaked to the media, Justice Samuel Alito wrote that the 1973 Roe vs Wade ruling was “egregiously wrong from the start” and that the US Constitution “does not prohibit the citizens of each state from regulating or prohibiting abortion”. Watch | Gravitas: US top court is set to overturn abortion rights, reveals leaked document Meanwhile, furious women gathered on the court premises to protest in Washington just minutes after the news broke late on Monday night, and more were there on Tuesday, with larger protests planned. According to the Guardian, anti-abortion demonstrators prayed and celebrated but pro-choice protesters lit candles, chanted in support of reproductive rights and shouted expletives about Samuel Alito. Barriers were erected in front of the court shortly after the leaked report was made public. Also read | After abortion, US Supreme Court may go after contraception, same-sex marriage, say experts Abortion has long been a contentious issue in the US, even though polling finds that a clear majority of the public believes it should be legal. Also read | US President Joe Biden urges Americans to oppose possible anti-abortion ruling The supreme court has a 6-3 majority of deeply conservative justices. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

‘Access to safe abortion saves lives’: WHO chief comments amid row

According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), the severe cases of hepatitis being detected in children might be linked to adenovirus infection.

The WHO had reported at least 169 children had suffered from mysterious hepatitis disease which was detected in the US and Europe. Reports claimed a similar case was also recorded in Japan. One patient has reportedly died of the new form of hepatitis&nbsp;with the UK reporting the most number of cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-dies-of-acute-hepatitis-as-12-countries-report-increase-in-cases-473380">Also Read:&nbsp;Child dies of acute hepatitis as 12 countries report increase in cases</a>

At least 17 children reportedly needed a liver transplant. The UN health body said at least 74 children had tested positive for adenovirus.

Adenovirus causes respiratory illness and also causes stomach pain and bladder infections. The WHO said adenovirus was caused among children who had a weak immune system but is not usually seen in healthy children.

Watch:&nbsp;Children are the worst victims of drought in Ethiopia

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The WHO said at least 20 children suffered from COVID-19 and 19 tested positive both for coronavirus and adenovirus.

The WHO had informed that the acute case of hepatitis was also detected among children in Israel, Romania, Belgium and the Netherlands with ages ranging from 1 month to 16 years.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), the severe cases of hepatitis being detected in children might be linked to adenovirus infection. The WHO had reported at least 169 children had suffered from mysterious hepatitis disease which was detected in the US and Europe.

According to the World Health Organisation(WHO), the severe cases of hepatitis being detected in children might be linked to adenovirus infection. The WHO had reported at least 169 children had suffered from mysterious hepatitis disease which was detected in the US and Europe. Reports claimed a similar case was also recorded in Japan. One patient has reportedly died of the new form of hepatitis with the UK reporting the most number of cases. Also Read: Child dies of acute hepatitis as 12 countries report increase in cases At least 17 children reportedly needed a liver transplant. The UN health body said at least 74 children had tested positive for adenovirus. Adenovirus causes respiratory illness and also causes stomach pain and bladder infections. The WHO said adenovirus was caused among children who had a weak immune system but is not usually seen in healthy children. Watch: Children are the worst victims of drought in Ethiopia The WHO said at least 20 children suffered from COVID-19 and 19 tested positive both for coronavirus and adenovirus. The WHO had informed that the acute case of hepatitis was also detected among children in Israel, Romania, Belgium and the Netherlands with ages ranging from 1 month to 16 years. (With inputs from Agencies) Watch WION Live Here

Severe hepatitis among children may be linked to adenovirus: WHO

World Malaria Day 2022: From causes to who all are at risk, here's all you need to know

On Saturday, the United Nations said it was aware of 169 unusual occurrences of acute hepatitis, a liver infection which is mostly infecting young children from the age group of one month old to 16 years old.

According to the World Health Organisation, at least one child has died from a mysterious strain of acute hepatitis that has now been recorded in 12 nations.

The majority of this infections have been reported in the UK with 114 cases, followed by Spain with 13 cases and the Israel with 12 cases. In addition to this the pandemic has expanded to United States, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, France, Norway, Romania and Belgium.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-is-here-to-stay-and-it-affects-women-worse-than-men-says-study-473318">Covid is here to stay and it affects women worse than men, says study</a>

These cases are are even more unusual because they aren't linked to any of the virus's five common strains: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Some of the hepatitis symptoms include dark urine, yellowing of skin and eyes, sickness, fatigue, fever, nausea, joint pains and loss of appetite.

According to WHO, the vast majority of children who were not vaccinated, therefore any link to Covid-19 vaccinations has been ruled out.

Watch |&nbsp;Is it too early to go back to pre-COVID life?

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Parents are being advised to be on the lookout for these signs and seek medical help if necessary. The British Health Agency has recommended Handwashing and “thorough respiratory hygiene” like covering mouth while sneezing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/invasive-descendants-of-callery-pears-found-in-over-30-states-in-us-473211">Invasive descendants of Callery pears found in over 30 states in US</a>

Scientists suspect that an adenovirus, a common type of virus that causes cold, is to be blamed for the recent surge in acute hepatitis cases. Adenovirus infection has been detected in at least 74 of the children afflicted. However, while adenovirus 41 has been related to hepatitis in immunocompromised children, it has never been connected to the disease in otherwise healthy children.&nbsp;

According to some scientists’ weak immunity as a result if reduced social mixing during the epidemic.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the United Nations said it was aware of 169 unusual occurrences of acute hepatitis, a liver infection which is mostly infecting young children from the age group of one month old to 16 years old.

On Saturday, the United Nations said it was aware of 169 unusual occurrences of acute hepatitis, a liver infection which is mostly infecting young children from the age group of one month old to 16 years old. According to the World Health Organisation, at least one child has died from a mysterious strain of acute hepatitis that has now been recorded in 12 nations. The majority of this infections have been reported in the UK with 114 cases, followed by Spain with 13 cases and the Israel with 12 cases. In addition to this the pandemic has expanded to United States, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, France, Norway, Romania and Belgium. Also read | Covid is here to stay and it affects women worse than men, says study These cases are are even more unusual because they aren't linked to any of the virus's five common strains: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Some of the hepatitis symptoms include dark urine, yellowing of skin and eyes, sickness, fatigue, fever, nausea, joint pains and loss of appetite. According to WHO, the vast majority of children who were not vaccinated, therefore any link to Covid-19 vaccinations has been ruled out. Watch | Is it too early to go back to pre-COVID life? Parents are being advised to be on the lookout for these signs and seek medical help if necessary. The British Health Agency has recommended Handwashing and “thorough respiratory hygiene” like covering mouth while sneezing. Also read | Invasive descendants of Callery pears found in over 30 states in US Scientists suspect that an adenovirus, a common type of virus that causes cold, is to be blamed for the recent surge in acute hepatitis cases. Adenovirus infection has been detected in at least 74 of the children afflicted. However, while adenovirus 41 has been related to hepatitis in immunocompromised children, it has never been connected to the disease in otherwise healthy children. According to some scientists’ weak immunity as a result if reduced social mixing during the epidemic.

WHO confirms death of at least one child from mysterious acute hepatitis

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who is on an official visit to Nepal, lauded the country's achievements in the health sector, including the allocation of a good amount of budget for health services.&nbsp;

Ghebreyesus called on President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba earlier today.

The President highlighted the role of multisectoral collaboration to improve health issues, while the Director-General congratulated Nepal for recognising health as a basic human right in its constitution.&nbsp;

Nepal's Foreign Ministry Statement lauded Nepal’s achievement in reducing maternal and child mortality and for being a pioneer in a number of health initiatives, including a nation-wide new vaccine campaign against typhoid in the routine immunisation programme, the first of its kind in the South East Asia Region of WHO immunisation.&nbsp;

While emphasising the cooperation of WHO in further bolstering health services in Nepal, the Prime Minister praised the effective leadership of WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed his hope for more collaboration between Nepal and WHO in the days to come.&nbsp;

"Nepal is the first country in the S.E Asia Region to introduce the typhoid conjugate vaccine into its national immunisation program.&nbsp;

Today, WHO DG and RD Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh visited a vaccine site to observe the ongoing campaign which aims to vaccinate 7.5 million children, "WHO Nepal said in a tweet.&nbsp;

Later in the day, Ghebreyesus visited Patan Secondary School to observe the ongoing campaign for typhoid vaccination. He also paid a visit to the National Public Health Laboratory and Teku Hospital.

The Director-General arrived in Kathmandu on Thursday and held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Narayan Khadka.&nbsp;

Another statement from the Foreign Ministry said, "The Foreign Minister appreciated the leadership of WHO during the COVID pandemic and expressed thanks to the Director-General for his unfailing support of Nepal during the COVID crisis, including through vaccine support."

He also thanked the Director-General for decades of cooperation from WHO with Nepal in the prevention and control of diseases, the provision of vaccines and technical assistance in critical areas of public health.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who is on an official visit to Nepal, lauded the country's achievements in the health sector, including the allocation of a good amount of budget for health services.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who is on an official visit to Nepal, lauded the country's achievements in the health sector, including the allocation of a good amount of budget for health services. Ghebreyesus called on President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba earlier today. The President highlighted the role of multisectoral collaboration to improve health issues, while the Director-General congratulated Nepal for recognising health as a basic human right in its constitution. Nepal's Foreign Ministry Statement lauded Nepal’s achievement in reducing maternal and child mortality and for being a pioneer in a number of health initiatives, including a nation-wide new vaccine campaign against typhoid in the routine immunisation programme, the first of its kind in the South East Asia Region of WHO immunisation. While emphasising the cooperation of WHO in further bolstering health services in Nepal, the Prime Minister praised the effective leadership of WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed his hope for more collaboration between Nepal and WHO in the days to come. "Nepal is the first country in the S.E Asia Region to introduce the typhoid conjugate vaccine into its national immunisation program. Today, WHO DG and RD Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh visited a vaccine site to observe the ongoing campaign which aims to vaccinate 7.5 million children, "WHO Nepal said in a tweet. Later in the day, Ghebreyesus visited Patan Secondary School to observe the ongoing campaign for typhoid vaccination. He also paid a visit to the National Public Health Laboratory and Teku Hospital. The Director-General arrived in Kathmandu on Thursday and held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Narayan Khadka. Another statement from the Foreign Ministry said, "The Foreign Minister appreciated the leadership of WHO during the COVID pandemic and expressed thanks to the Director-General for his unfailing support of Nepal during the COVID crisis, including through vaccine support." He also thanked the Director-General for decades of cooperation from WHO with Nepal in the prevention and control of diseases, the provision of vaccines and technical assistance in critical areas of public health.

WHO lauds Nepal’s prioritisation of health in the national budget

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday "strongly recommended" Pfizer’s COVID-19 antiviral pill Paxlovid for patients who have milder forms of the disease but are still at a high risk of hospitalisation, reports AFP.

The global health agency, however, expressed concern over the possibility of Paxlovid being inaccessible to low and middle-income countries as has been the case for Covid vaccines

Here are some key things you need to know about Pfizer's antiviral pill

1) Paxlovid is a combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir tablets and is administered orally.

2) WHO's recommendation is based on data from two randomized controlled trials showing that the risk of hospital admission is reduced by 85 per cent following the intake of the pill in a high-risk group.

3) The UN agency has recommended its use in Covid patients who at lower risk of hospitalisation.

4) While the brand name drug, sold by Pfizer, will be included in the WHO prequalification list, the health agency said that generic products are not yet available from quality-assured sources. Generic products are the copy of brand name drugs and are available at a much lower price, making accessibility easier in low- and middle-income countries.

5) According to the WHO, a licensing agreement between Pfizer and Medicines Patent Pool limits the number of countries that can benefit from the generic production of the medicine.

Limitations and inequities

The WHO stressed the limitations of such antiviral treatments. "The medicine can only be administered while the disease is at its early stages," they said.

This means that the patients must quickly test positive and be prescribed the pill by a doctor — all of which can pose obstacles for low- and middle-income countries, the WHO said.

Patients must start taking their Paxlovid pills within five days of the onset of symptoms — the course then lasts five days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-woman-infected-with-covid-twice-in-record-20-days-472698" hreflang="en">Spanish woman infected with Covid twice in record 20 days</a>

Remdesivir can be taken within seven days of symptoms setting in, but it is administered intravenously over three days.

Questions about cost

The WHO called on Pfizer to "make its pricing and deals more transparent" for Paxlovid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/new-omicron-ba2121-sub-variant-detected-in-delhi-driving-spike-in-covid-infections-report-472863" hreflang="en">New Omicron sub-variant detected in Delhi, causing surge in Covid cases</a>

Lisa Hedman, the WHO's senior advisor on access to medicines, said that radio station NPR reported a full course of Paxlovid costs $530 in the United States. Another source unconfirmed by WHO gave the price of $250 in an upper-middle income country

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday "strongly recommended" Pfizer’s COVID-19 antiviral pill Paxlovid for patients who have milder forms of the disease but are still at a high risk of hospitalisation, reports AFP.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday "strongly recommended" Pfizer’s COVID-19 antiviral pill Paxlovid for patients who have milder forms of the disease but are still at a high risk of hospitalisation, reports AFP. The global health agency, however, expressed concern over the possibility of Paxlovid being inaccessible to low and middle-income countries as has been the case for Covid vaccines Here are some key things you need to know about Pfizer's antiviral pill 1) Paxlovid is a combination of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir tablets and is administered orally. 2) WHO's recommendation is based on data from two randomized controlled trials showing that the risk of hospital admission is reduced by 85 per cent following the intake of the pill in a high-risk group. 3) The UN agency has recommended its use in Covid patients who at lower risk of hospitalisation. 4) While the brand name drug, sold by Pfizer, will be included in the WHO prequalification list, the health agency said that generic products are not yet available from quality-assured sources. Generic products are the copy of brand name drugs and are available at a much lower price, making accessibility easier in low- and middle-income countries. 5) According to the WHO, a licensing agreement between Pfizer and Medicines Patent Pool limits the number of countries that can benefit from the generic production of the medicine. Limitations and inequities The WHO stressed the limitations of such antiviral treatments. "The medicine can only be administered while the disease is at its early stages," they said. This means that the patients must quickly test positive and be prescribed the pill by a doctor — all of which can pose obstacles for low- and middle-income countries, the WHO said. Patients must start taking their Paxlovid pills within five days of the onset of symptoms — the course then lasts five days. Also read | Spanish woman infected with Covid twice in record 20 days Remdesivir can be taken within seven days of symptoms setting in, but it is administered intravenously over three days. Questions about cost The WHO called on Pfizer to "make its pricing and deals more transparent" for Paxlovid. Also read | New Omicron sub-variant detected in Delhi, causing surge in Covid cases Lisa Hedman, the WHO's senior advisor on access to medicines, said that radio station NPR reported a full course of Paxlovid costs $530 in the United States. Another source unconfirmed by WHO gave the price of $250 in an upper-middle income country (With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer's anti-Covid pill gets WHO approval. Here's what you should know about Paxlovid

PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the centre for traditional medicine in India. World Health Organisation Director-General was virtually present for the event.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates centre for traditional medicine in India

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said Tuesday it was struggling to deliver two&nbsp;generators&nbsp;to&nbsp;hospitals&nbsp;in the besieged Ukrainian port city of Mariupol, fearing the worst for its hard-hit health system.

The World Health Organization said it was trying to pre-position supplies closer to the frontlines to speed up delivery if a window opens.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;is hoping to deliver 15&nbsp;generators&nbsp;to&nbsp;hospitals&nbsp;across&nbsp;Ukraine, from a base in the western city of Lviv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-doing-everything-to-drag-out-ukraine-conflict-russias-defence-minister-472136">West 'doing everything to drag out' Ukraine conflict: Russia's defence minister</a>

Two were due to head to the eastern city of Kharkiv Tuesday, while another three are destined for the Lugansk and Donetsk regions in the east, which have seen heavy fighting.

Two more were for Mariupol, also in the east,&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;Europe spokesman Bhanu Bhatnagar told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv.

"We will only move the&nbsp;generators&nbsp;to their final destinations when we can ensure the safety of our personnel and the precious cargo they are transporting," he said.&nbsp;

"The&nbsp;generators&nbsp;will help meet the minimum energy needs of medical and surgical units of referral&nbsp;hospitals, where power supply is limited or non-existent".

Mariupol has become a symbol of&nbsp;Ukraine's fierce resistance since Russia invaded on February 24.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine says 'Russia has begun it's eastern offensive,' explosions reported across Donbas

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-says-russia-has-begun-its-eastern-offensive-explosions-reported-across-donbas-472101/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russia on Tuesday called on Ukrainian forces to lay down arms "immediately" in the city.&nbsp;

"We don't have access to Mariupol at this time but we will position everything so that the minute we can get access, we are able to get the supplies in," Bhatnagar said.

"We fear the worst for the health system in Mariupol."

The UN's World Food Programme pleaded for unimpeded humanitarian access to people trapped in encircled areas of&nbsp;Ukraine.&nbsp;

In Mariupol alone, more than 100,000 people are unable to leave and "are in dire need of food, water and other essential supplies," Jakob Kern, the WFP's emergency coordinator in&nbsp;Ukraine, told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv.

"In such circumstances, any illness that can usually be treated with medicine becomes a life-threatening situation."

The WFP estimates that some six million people in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;will need food and cash assistance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-conflict-why-victory-in-mariupol-is-important-to-russia-472126">Ukraine Conflict: Why a victory in Mariupol is important to Russia</a>

The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said it had so far delivered&nbsp;218 metric tonnes&nbsp;of emergency and medical supplies and equipment to&nbsp;Ukraine, of which 142 metric tonnes had reached its intended destination, mostly in the north and the east.

Since the Russian invasion, the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;has verified 147 attacks on healthcare sites in&nbsp;Ukraine, in which at least&nbsp;73 people have died and 52 have been injured.

The WHO said Tuesday it was struggling to deliver two generators to hospitals in the besieged Ukrainian port city of Mariupol, fearing the worst for its hard-hit health system.

The WHO said Tuesday it was struggling to deliver two generators to hospitals in the besieged Ukrainian port city of Mariupol, fearing the worst for its hard-hit health system. The World Health Organization said it was trying to pre-position supplies closer to the frontlines to speed up delivery if a window opens. The WHO is hoping to deliver 15 generators to hospitals across Ukraine, from a base in the western city of Lviv. Also read | West 'doing everything to drag out' Ukraine conflict: Russia's defence minister Two were due to head to the eastern city of Kharkiv Tuesday, while another three are destined for the Lugansk and Donetsk regions in the east, which have seen heavy fighting. Two more were for Mariupol, also in the east, WHO Europe spokesman Bhanu Bhatnagar told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv. "We will only move the generators to their final destinations when we can ensure the safety of our personnel and the precious cargo they are transporting," he said. "The generators will help meet the minimum energy needs of medical and surgical units of referral hospitals, where power supply is limited or non-existent". Mariupol has become a symbol of Ukraine's fierce resistance since Russia invaded on February 24. Watch | Ukraine says 'Russia has begun it's eastern offensive,' explosions reported across Donbas Russia on Tuesday called on Ukrainian forces to lay down arms "immediately" in the city. "We don't have access to Mariupol at this time but we will position everything so that the minute we can get access, we are able to get the supplies in," Bhatnagar said. "We fear the worst for the health system in Mariupol." The UN's World Food Programme pleaded for unimpeded humanitarian access to people trapped in encircled areas of Ukraine. In Mariupol alone, more than 100,000 people are unable to leave and "are in dire need of food, water and other essential supplies," Jakob Kern, the WFP's emergency coordinator in Ukraine, told reporters in Geneva via videolink from Lviv. "In such circumstances, any illness that can usually be treated with medicine becomes a life-threatening situation." The WFP estimates that some six million people in Ukraine will need food and cash assistance. Also read | Ukraine Conflict: Why a victory in Mariupol is important to Russia The WHO said it had so far delivered 218 metric tonnes of emergency and medical supplies and equipment to Ukraine, of which 142 metric tonnes had reached its intended destination, mostly in the north and the east. Since the Russian invasion, the WHO has verified 147 attacks on healthcare sites in Ukraine, in which at least 73 people have died and 52 have been injured.

WHO struggles to send generators to Ukraine hospitals

After New York Times published an article titled 'India Is Stalling the WHO’s Efforts to Make Global Covid Death Toll Public' on April 16, India has shot back by sharing its concerns over the methodology adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the analysis. &nbsp;

On several occasions, it has already raised the issue with the other member states. It sent several formal communications including six letters, which were issued to the WHO. The matter was also pointed out in virtual meetings, Indian government said in a press release. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wishes-pour-in-as-indian-actor-r-madhavans-son-wins-silver-at-danish-open-471411" hreflang="en">Wishes pour in as Indian actor R Madhavan's son wins silver at Danish Open</a>

In these exchanges, specific queries were raised regarding the methodology and use of unofficial sets of data by India along with other member states like Iran, Bangladesh, Syria, China, Ethiopia and Egypt. &nbsp;

The concern is that how the statistical model project estimates for a country of geographical size and population of India can also fit in with other countries, which have smaller populations. The WHO is yet to share the confidence interval for the present statistical model across several countries. &nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-york-times-is-defaming-india-over-its-covid-19-toll-471606/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“The model also gives two highly different sets of excess mortality estimates of when using the data from Tier I countries and when using unverified data from 18 Indian states. Such a wide variation in estimates raises concerns about the validity and accuracy of such a modelling exercise,” the Indian government said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;British PM Boris Johnson to visit India; agreements on defence, security &amp; education likely

Although India has shared many concerns on several occasions, a satisfactory response from the WHO is still awaited. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian government also said it believes in-depth clarity on methodology and clear proof of its validity are crucial for policy makers to feel confident about any use of such data. &nbsp;

“It is very surprising that while New York Times purportedly could obtain the alleged figures of excess COVID-19 mortality with respect to India, it was 'unable to learn the estimates for other countries',” the Indian government said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After New York Times published an article titled 'India Is Stalling the WHO’s Efforts to Make Global Covid Death Toll Public' on April 16, India has shot back by sharing its concerns over the methodology adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the analysis.

After New York Times published an article titled 'India Is Stalling the WHO’s Efforts to Make Global Covid Death Toll Public' on April 16, India has shot back by sharing its concerns over the methodology adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the analysis. On several occasions, it has already raised the issue with the other member states. It sent several formal communications including six letters, which were issued to the WHO. The matter was also pointed out in virtual meetings, Indian government said in a press release. Also Read: Wishes pour in as Indian actor R Madhavan's son wins silver at Danish Open In these exchanges, specific queries were raised regarding the methodology and use of unofficial sets of data by India along with other member states like Iran, Bangladesh, Syria, China, Ethiopia and Egypt. The concern is that how the statistical model project estimates for a country of geographical size and population of India can also fit in with other countries, which have smaller populations. The WHO is yet to share the confidence interval for the present statistical model across several countries. “The model also gives two highly different sets of excess mortality estimates of when using the data from Tier I countries and when using unverified data from 18 Indian states. Such a wide variation in estimates raises concerns about the validity and accuracy of such a modelling exercise,” the Indian government said. Watch: British PM Boris Johnson to visit India; agreements on defence, security & education likely Although India has shared many concerns on several occasions, a satisfactory response from the WHO is still awaited. The Indian government also said it believes in-depth clarity on methodology and clear proof of its validity are crucial for policy makers to feel confident about any use of such data. “It is very surprising that while New York Times purportedly could obtain the alleged figures of excess COVID-19 mortality with respect to India, it was 'unable to learn the estimates for other countries',” the Indian government said.

In response to New York Times article on WHO, India shares concerns over methodology adopted for analysis

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organization's (WHO) director-general on Wednesday said that the world treats “blacks and white lives” unequally.

The WHO chief said this in the context of Ukraine and the attention its ‘white’ population is receiving compared to other areas facing emergencies.

As per him the emergencies happening elsewhere are not being taken seriously, he added that he hopes that the international community "comes back to its senses".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-russias-tit-for-tat-move-slaps-sanctions-on-us-canada-470856" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move;&nbsp;slaps sanctions on US, Canada</a>

Speaking at a news conference, Tedros said: "I don't know if the world really gives equal attention to black and white lives."&nbsp;

"The whole attention to Ukraine is very important of course because it impacts the whole world."

"But even a fraction of it is not being given to Tigray, Yemen, Afghanistan and Syria and the rest. A fraction.”

He added that global attention was simply not being placed on humanitarian crises like the one in Ethiopia.

The United Nations had determined that the besieged northern region of Ethiopia on average needs 100 trucks of humanitarian supplies every day.&nbsp;

Since the declaration of truce till date 2000 trucks should’ve reached the suffering country, however, merely 20 have actually reached, said Tedros, adding that he was worried that these 20 trucks might also merely be a "diplomatic manoeuvre" by the Addis Ababa government.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Western media's racist reportage on Ukrainian refugees

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-western-medias-racist-reportage-on-ukrainian-refugees-457644/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Right now, apart from the crisis in Ukraine other nations too are in an emergency situation.

In Tigray, as per the UN thousands are at risk, facing starvation, fuel shortages, and lack of basic services for months.&nbsp;

Syria's civil war broke out in 2011 as a result of the government's harsh crackdown on anti-regime rallies. In the violence, which has wreaked havoc on the country's economy, nearly half a million people have been killed and millions have been displaced.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sadists-rapists-russian-forces-using-rape-as-punishing-tactic-in-ukraine-un-womens-body-voices-concern-470378" hreflang="en">'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern</a>

Yemen, which the UN calls the world’s worst humanitarian crisis has around 23.7 people in need of assistance.&nbsp;

In northern Ethiopia, the 17-month conflict has displaced two million people and left nine million on the verge of starvation.

Afghanistan is on the verge of an economic collapse, with 24 million in desperate need of aid.

However, global attention was simply not being given to such&nbsp;humanitarian crises&nbsp;and instead is focused only on Ukraine.

"So we need to balance. We need to take every life seriously because every life is precious" said the WHO chief.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organization's (WHO) director-general on Wednesday said that the world treats “blacks and white lives” unequally. The WHO chief said this in the context of Ukraine and the attention its ‘white’ population is receiving compared to other areas facing emergencies.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organization's (WHO) director-general on Wednesday said that the world treats “blacks and white lives” unequally. The WHO chief said this in the context of Ukraine and the attention its ‘white’ population is receiving compared to other areas facing emergencies. As per him the emergencies happening elsewhere are not being taken seriously, he added that he hopes that the international community "comes back to its senses". Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move; slaps sanctions on US, Canada Speaking at a news conference, Tedros said: "I don't know if the world really gives equal attention to black and white lives." "The whole attention to Ukraine is very important of course because it impacts the whole world." "But even a fraction of it is not being given to Tigray, Yemen, Afghanistan and Syria and the rest. A fraction.” He added that global attention was simply not being placed on humanitarian crises like the one in Ethiopia. The United Nations had determined that the besieged northern region of Ethiopia on average needs 100 trucks of humanitarian supplies every day. Since the declaration of truce till date 2000 trucks should’ve reached the suffering country, however, merely 20 have actually reached, said Tedros, adding that he was worried that these 20 trucks might also merely be a "diplomatic manoeuvre" by the Addis Ababa government. Watch | Gravitas: Western media's racist reportage on Ukrainian refugees Right now, apart from the crisis in Ukraine other nations too are in an emergency situation. In Tigray, as per the UN thousands are at risk, facing starvation, fuel shortages, and lack of basic services for months. Syria's civil war broke out in 2011 as a result of the government's harsh crackdown on anti-regime rallies. In the violence, which has wreaked havoc on the country's economy, nearly half a million people have been killed and millions have been displaced. Also read | 'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern Yemen, which the UN calls the world’s worst humanitarian crisis has around 23.7 people in need of assistance. In northern Ethiopia, the 17-month conflict has displaced two million people and left nine million on the verge of starvation. Afghanistan is on the verge of an economic collapse, with 24 million in desperate need of aid. However, global attention was simply not being given to such humanitarian crises and instead is focused only on Ukraine. "So we need to balance. We need to take every life seriously because every life is precious" said the WHO chief. (With inputs from agencies)

'I hope the world comes back to its senses': World treats 'black and white lives' unequally, says WHO chief

The reason for deaths are many which can range from heart diseases to deadly viruses but what is the solution when the air that you breathe may end up killing you. According to the World Health Organization nearly hundred percent of the world's population breathes polluted air and more than seven million people die every year by just breathing this polluted air.

WHO: More than 7 million die every year from polluted air, nearly 100% world breathes polluted air

A comprehensive report on India's health system published by the global health governing body World Health Organization (WHO) highlights how the policies and the entire system coming along.

A comprehensive report on India's health system published by the global health governing body World Health Organization (WHO) highlights how the policies and the entire system coming along. As per the report, India is broadly performing better than ever to treat those who are sick, however, the nation has faced new challenges as types of diseases have changed. India Health System Review shows that the average age of Indians has increased, however, the cost of treatment is also becoming expensive day by day. As per the WHO's report, overall India has taken necessary steps in the field of health care but a lot still needs to be done. The average age in India increased The report states that the average age in the country has increased. In 1970, the average Indian lived 47 years, but it increased to 70 years in 2020. However, the average age in Sri Lanka is 74 years and in China, the average age is 75 years. The average age of women has increased by 24 years while the average age of men has increased by 20 years. The average age of women is 71 years and that of men is 68 years. ALSO READ | Viruses that could save millions of lives The report stated, "The number of years an average Indian can expect to live at the time of their birth has increased sharply, from 47.7 years in 1970 to 69.6 years in 2020, a gain of more than two decades." "Life expectancy at birth among Indian women increased by 24 years between 1970 and 2016, more than that of men, who experienced an increase of 20 years over the same period. In addition, at 60 years of age, the average life expectancy for men is 15 years compared to 17 years for women," it added. The report also mentioned India’s infant mortality rate (IMR). In 1970, out of 1000, 132 infants died at the time of birth. The latest data shows improvement as in 2020, 32 out of 1,000 newborns were killed. Important to note that, the cases of death of women during delivery have also decreased. According to 1990 data, 556 out of 10,000 women died during delivery. By 2018, this figure has come down to 113 per 10,000. Cost of treatment The report shows that the nation requires more efforts to overhaul the health facilities. According to the report, 70 per cent of OPD services, 58 per cent of admitted patients and 90 per cent of the medicines and tests are still in private hands. The data shows that easy access to potential cures and treatment of the diseases are still out of the common man's reach. ALSO READ | UK's NHS adds nine new coronavirus symptoms to its list. Check them out! The ratio of doctors and nurses has improved compared to earlier data but the overall situation is still bad. 10,000 people now have 9.28 per cent of doctors in India and there are 24 nurses per 10,000 people. Also, there are about nine pharmacists per 10,000 people. The report also mentions that spending on public health in India is very low.

A remarkable rise in life expectancy in India but efforts needed to improve country's healthcare: Report

Almost the entire world's population (99 per cent) breaths air that is polluted beyond World Health Organization (WHO) standards, posing a health risk. People in low and middle-income countries are exposed to the highest levels of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide.

Even with a&nbsp;record number of over 6,000 cities in 117 countries that are now monitoring air quality, residents are still breathing unsafe levels of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide.

The World Health Organization has emphasised the necessity of reducing air pollution levels by reducing fossil fuel use and implementing other concrete initiatives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/out-of-breath-population-boom-and-its-impact-on-air-pollution-452400">Out of breath: Population boom and its impact on air pollution</a>

The update of the World Health Organization’s air quality database was released in the run-up to World Health Day, which this year, introduces ground measurements of annual mean concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a prevalent urban pollutant and precursor of particulate matter and ozone.

It also includes measurements of particulate matter with a diameter of 10 μm (PM10) or 2.5 μm (PM2.5); both types of pollutants are mostly caused by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion.

Last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) amended its Air Quality Guidelines to make them more rigorous in order to enable countries properly assess the fitness of their air.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dhaka-is-the-noisiest-city-on-the-planet-here-are-the-top-ten-loudest-cities-recommended-levels-more-468299">Dhaka is the noisiest city on the planet; here are the top ten loudest cities, recommended levels &amp; more</a>

“Current energy concerns highlight the importance of speeding up the transition to cleaner, healthier energy systems,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. &nbsp;

“High fossil fuel prices, energy security, and the urgency of addressing the twin health challenges of air pollution and climate change, underscore the pressing need to move faster towards a world that is much less dependent on fossil fuels.”&nbsp;

In the 117 nations that measure air quality, 17 per cent of cities in high-income countries have air quality that is below the WHO's PM2.5 or PM10 guidelines. In low- and middle-income countries, air quality is only met in less than 1 per cent&nbsp;of cities.

Watch |&nbsp;Mission Sustainability: Out of Breath- Population and Air Pollution

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mission-sustainability-out-of-breath-population-and-air-pollution-456030/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Low&nbsp;and middle income countries are still exposed to higher levels of hazardous PM than the global average, although NO2 patterns differ, with less of a difference between high- and low- and middle-income countries.

At the ground level, almost 4,000 cities/human settlements in 74 nations gather NO2 data.&nbsp;

Only 23 per cent of individuals in these regions breathe annual average NO2 concentrations that match the recently updated version of the WHO's Air Quality Guidelines, according to their assessments.

Dr Maria Neira, WHO Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, said, “After surviving a pandemic, it is unacceptable to still have 7 million preventable deaths and countless preventable lost years of good health due to air pollution."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Almost the entire world's population (99 per cent) breaths air that is polluted beyond World Health Organization (WHO) standards, posing a health risk. People in low and middle-income countries are exposed to the highest levels of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide.

Almost the entire world's population (99 per cent) breaths air that is polluted beyond World Health Organization (WHO) standards, posing a health risk. People in low and middle-income countries are exposed to the highest levels of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. Even with a record number of over 6,000 cities in 117 countries that are now monitoring air quality, residents are still breathing unsafe levels of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. The World Health Organization has emphasised the necessity of reducing air pollution levels by reducing fossil fuel use and implementing other concrete initiatives. Also read | Out of breath: Population boom and its impact on air pollution The update of the World Health Organization’s air quality database was released in the run-up to World Health Day, which this year, introduces ground measurements of annual mean concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a prevalent urban pollutant and precursor of particulate matter and ozone. It also includes measurements of particulate matter with a diameter of 10 μm (PM10) or 2.5 μm (PM2.5); both types of pollutants are mostly caused by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion. Last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) amended its Air Quality Guidelines to make them more rigorous in order to enable countries properly assess the fitness of their air. Also read | Dhaka is the noisiest city on the planet; here are the top ten loudest cities, recommended levels & more “Current energy concerns highlight the importance of speeding up the transition to cleaner, healthier energy systems,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “High fossil fuel prices, energy security, and the urgency of addressing the twin health challenges of air pollution and climate change, underscore the pressing need to move faster towards a world that is much less dependent on fossil fuels.” In the 117 nations that measure air quality, 17 per cent of cities in high-income countries have air quality that is below the WHO's PM2.5 or PM10 guidelines. In low- and middle-income countries, air quality is only met in less than 1 per cent of cities. Watch | Mission Sustainability: Out of Breath- Population and Air Pollution Low and middle income countries are still exposed to higher levels of hazardous PM than the global average, although NO2 patterns differ, with less of a difference between high- and low- and middle-income countries. At the ground level, almost 4,000 cities/human settlements in 74 nations gather NO2 data. Only 23 per cent of individuals in these regions breathe annual average NO2 concentrations that match the recently updated version of the WHO's Air Quality Guidelines, according to their assessments. Dr Maria Neira, WHO Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, said, “After surviving a pandemic, it is unacceptable to still have 7 million preventable deaths and countless preventable lost years of good health due to air pollution." (With inputs from agencies)

WHO raises alarm; 99% of world population breathing polluted air

In an unprecedented move, the supply of Covaxin through UN procurement agencies has been suspended by the World Health Organization (WHO). &nbsp;

It has also recommended countries, which had received the vaccine to take appropriate action, a PTI report said. &nbsp;

The news of the move was confirmed by the organisation. The Covid vaccine is produced by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/stealth-omicron-ba2-is-now-globally-dominant-covid-variant-466579" hreflang="en">'Stealth Omicron': BA.2 is now globally dominant Covid variant</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement issued by the organisation on Saturday, the suspension has been carried out in response to the outcomes of its post EUL (emergency use authorisation) inspection, which was held between March 14 and 22, 2022 and the need to conduct process and facility upgrade to address recently identified GMP (good manufacturing practice) deficiencies. &nbsp;

Due to suspension of production for export, there will be interruption in supply of Covaxin, WHO said. &nbsp;

The risk assessment to date does not show change in the risk-benefit ratio. The data, which is available to WHO, shows the vaccine is still effective and there is no safety concern, WHO said. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;How exactly does Covid affect body? World's first 'human challenge study' offers clues

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On April 1, Bharat Biotech had announced the temporary slowing down of production of Covaxin across its manufacturing facilities. It had completed its supply obligations to procurement agencies and had foreseen a decline in demand. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bharat Biotech seems to have agreed with the WHO’s team during inspection over the scope of the planned improvement activities. The firm had also indicated that it would be executed as soon as possible. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an unprecedented move, the supply of Covaxin through UN procurement agencies has been suspended by the World Health Organization (WHO). It has also recommended countries, which had received the vaccine to take appropriate action, a PTI report said.

In an unprecedented move, the supply of Covaxin through UN procurement agencies has been suspended by the World Health Organization (WHO). It has also recommended countries, which had received the vaccine to take appropriate action, a PTI report said. The news of the move was confirmed by the organisation. The Covid vaccine is produced by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech. Also Read | 'Stealth Omicron': BA.2 is now globally dominant Covid variant In a statement issued by the organisation on Saturday, the suspension has been carried out in response to the outcomes of its post EUL (emergency use authorisation) inspection, which was held between March 14 and 22, 2022 and the need to conduct process and facility upgrade to address recently identified GMP (good manufacturing practice) deficiencies. Due to suspension of production for export, there will be interruption in supply of Covaxin, WHO said. The risk assessment to date does not show change in the risk-benefit ratio. The data, which is available to WHO, shows the vaccine is still effective and there is no safety concern, WHO said. Watch: How exactly does Covid affect body? World's first 'human challenge study' offers clues × On April 1, Bharat Biotech had announced the temporary slowing down of production of Covaxin across its manufacturing facilities. It had completed its supply obligations to procurement agencies and had foreseen a decline in demand. Bharat Biotech seems to have agreed with the WHO’s team during inspection over the scope of the planned improvement activities. The firm had also indicated that it would be executed as soon as possible. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid vaccine Covaxin supply through UN procurement agencies suspended by WHO  

The World health organization has released an updated plan to deal with covid-19. The global health body has laid out three possible scenarios for how the pandemic is likely to evolve this year.

WHO lists 3 scenarios on how pandemic may evolve

Today is day 31 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and there are no signs of truce yet. Recently, World Health Organization (WHO) said, "there have been more than 70 attacks on hospitals in Ukraine and the number increasing daily".

Russia's lies cost Ukrainian lives, WHO says attacks on hospitals are rising

Covid curbs in several European countries were lowered too aggressively, thereby causing a rise in cases likely due to the more transmissible BA2 variant, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Tuesday.

As a result of a "perfect storm" of government restrictions being lifted, waning immunity, and the more contagious BA.2 Omicron subvariant, COVID-19 cases have surged.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/childrens-natural-immunity-against-covid-lasts-up-to-seven-months-but-vaccines-are-still-important-study-464653" hreflang="en">Children's natural immunity against Covid lasts up to seven months, but vaccines are still important: Study</a>

Over the past few days, countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy have all seen a dramatic resurgence in cases following a month of falling rates.

Hans Kluge, WHO Europe director, said at a press conference in Moldova that he was "optimistic but vigilant" about the pandemic's progress in Europe.

He said that Covid is rising in 18 of 53 countries in the WHO European region.

"The countries where we see a particular increase are the United Kingdom, Ireland, Greece, Cyprus, France, Italy and Germany".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-even-one-country-met-who-air-quality-standards-in-2021-india-5th-most-polluted-country-report-464595">Not even one country met WHO air quality standards in 2021, India 5th most polluted country: Report</a>

The main cause of the increase is most likely the BA2 variant, which experts say is about 30 per cent more contagious than its predecessor BA1, but not more dangerous.&nbsp;

But in addition, "those countries are lifting the restrictions brutally from too much to too few," he said.

WHO data show that the number of new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a>&nbsp;cases in Europe fell sharply after peaking at the end of January, but has been spiking since early March.

More than 5.1 million new cases and 12,496 deaths were reported in the European Region of the WHO in the past seven days.

This brings the total number of cases and deaths since the start of the pandemic to almost 194.4 million and 1.92 million, respectively.

In spite of this, Kluge said, Europe was relatively well prepared for the virus now.

"There is a very large capital of immunity ... either thanks to the vaccination or due to the infection."

Watch |&nbsp;Coronavirus cases surge in western Europe, France reports 90,000 average daily Covid-19 cases

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In addition, "winter is finishing so people will gather less in small, crowded places, and thirdly, we know that Omicron is milder in fully vaccinated people including a booster", he said.

Despite this, he noted that it remains a deadly disease in countries with low vaccination rates.

Kluge said the world would have to deal with Covid for quite some time, but that doesn't imply we won't be able to get rid of the pandemic.

His recommendations included protecting the vulnerable, strengthening surveillance, getting access to new antiviral medicines, and strengthening genomic sequencing.

Finally, he said countries must deal with "post-covid" sufferers and the backlog of medical care caused by the pandemic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Covid curbs in several European countries were lowered too aggressively, thereby causing a rise in cases likely due to the more transmissible BA2 variant, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Tuesday.

Covid curbs in several European countries were lowered too aggressively, thereby causing a rise in cases likely due to the more transmissible BA2 variant, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Tuesday. As a result of a "perfect storm" of government restrictions being lifted, waning immunity, and the more contagious BA.2 Omicron subvariant, COVID-19 cases have surged. Also read | Children's natural immunity against Covid lasts up to seven months, but vaccines are still important: Study Over the past few days, countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy have all seen a dramatic resurgence in cases following a month of falling rates. Hans Kluge, WHO Europe director, said at a press conference in Moldova that he was "optimistic but vigilant" about the pandemic's progress in Europe. He said that Covid is rising in 18 of 53 countries in the WHO European region. "The countries where we see a particular increase are the United Kingdom, Ireland, Greece, Cyprus, France, Italy and Germany". Also read | Not even one country met WHO air quality standards in 2021, India 5th most polluted country: Report The main cause of the increase is most likely the BA2 variant, which experts say is about 30 per cent more contagious than its predecessor BA1, but not more dangerous. But in addition, "those countries are lifting the restrictions brutally from too much to too few," he said. WHO data show that the number of new Covid cases in Europe fell sharply after peaking at the end of January, but has been spiking since early March. More than 5.1 million new cases and 12,496 deaths were reported in the European Region of the WHO in the past seven days. This brings the total number of cases and deaths since the start of the pandemic to almost 194.4 million and 1.92 million, respectively. In spite of this, Kluge said, Europe was relatively well prepared for the virus now. "There is a very large capital of immunity ... either thanks to the vaccination or due to the infection." Watch | Coronavirus cases surge in western Europe, France reports 90,000 average daily Covid-19 cases In addition, "winter is finishing so people will gather less in small, crowded places, and thirdly, we know that Omicron is milder in fully vaccinated people including a booster", he said. Despite this, he noted that it remains a deadly disease in countries with low vaccination rates. Kluge said the world would have to deal with Covid for quite some time, but that doesn't imply we won't be able to get rid of the pandemic. His recommendations included protecting the vulnerable, strengthening surveillance, getting access to new antiviral medicines, and strengthening genomic sequencing. Finally, he said countries must deal with "post-covid" sufferers and the backlog of medical care caused by the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Europe's 'brutal' lifting of covid precautions behind the rise in cases: WHO

A survey of pollution data from 6,475 cities showed that no country managed to meet the World Health Organization's (WHO) air quality standard in 2021, and smog even rebounded in some regions after a COVID-related dip.

The data, compiled by <a href="https://www.iqair.com/in-en/world-air-quality-report">IQAir</a>, a Swiss company that monitors air quality, shows that while no countries met the standards in 2021, only 3.4 per cent&nbsp;of the surveyed cities did.&nbsp;Based on air quality data from 6,475 cities in 117 countries, the report presents an overview of global air quality in 2021.

At least 93 cities recorded PM2.5 levels that were 10 times higher than what WHO recommended.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/out-of-breath-population-boom-and-its-impact-on-air-pollution-452400">Out of breath: Population boom and its impact on air pollution</a>

Since changing its guidelines last year, the WHO recommends that average annual concentrations of hazardous airborne particles known as PM2.5 be no more than 5 micrograms per cubic metre. However, the WHO stresses that even low PM2.5 concentrations are harmful.

"There are a lot of countries that are making big strides in reduction," IQAir science manager Christi Schroeder said.&nbsp;

"China started with some very big numbers and they are continuing to decrease over time. But there are also places in the world where it is getting significantly worse."

The data showed that India's overall pollution levels worsened in 2021 and that New Delhi remained the most polluted capital in the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-pollution-kills-7-million-people-per-year-estimates-who-issues-new-guidelines-414975">Air pollution kills 7 million people per year, estimates WHO;&nbsp; issues new guidelines</a>

It was also revealed that 35 of the 50 cities with the worst air quality are in India, the country is ranked as the fifth most polluted country.

"India’s annual average PM2.5 levels reached 58.1 µg/m3 in 2021, ending a three-year trend of improving air quality. India’s annual PM2.5 averages have now returned to pre-quarantine concentrations measured in 2019."

As in the previous year, Bangladesh was the most polluted country, while Chad ranked second after the African nation's data was included for the first time.

Watch |&nbsp;World Health Organization toughens its air quality standards in 16 years

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China fell to 22nd place in the PM2.5 rankings in 2021, down from 14th place a year earlier with an average reading of 32.6 micrograms over the year, according to IQAir.

Hotan in Xinjiang's northwestern region is China's worst-performing city, with an average PM2.5 level reading of over 100 micrograms, due primarily to sandstorms.

After being overtaken by two Indian cities, Bhiwadi and Ghaziabad, it dropped to third on the top polluted cities list.

A survey of pollution data from 6,475 cities showed that no country managed to meet the World Health Organization's (WHO) air quality standard in 2021, and smog even rebounded in some regions after a COVID-related dip.

A survey of pollution data from 6,475 cities showed that no country managed to meet the World Health Organization's (WHO) air quality standard in 2021, and smog even rebounded in some regions after a COVID-related dip. The data, compiled by IQAir, a Swiss company that monitors air quality, shows that while no countries met the standards in 2021, only 3.4 per cent of the surveyed cities did. Based on air quality data from 6,475 cities in 117 countries, the report presents an overview of global air quality in 2021. At least 93 cities recorded PM2.5 levels that were 10 times higher than what WHO recommended. Also read | Out of breath: Population boom and its impact on air pollution Since changing its guidelines last year, the WHO recommends that average annual concentrations of hazardous airborne particles known as PM2.5 be no more than 5 micrograms per cubic metre. However, the WHO stresses that even low PM2.5 concentrations are harmful. "There are a lot of countries that are making big strides in reduction," IQAir science manager Christi Schroeder said. "China started with some very big numbers and they are continuing to decrease over time. But there are also places in the world where it is getting significantly worse." The data showed that India's overall pollution levels worsened in 2021 and that New Delhi remained the most polluted capital in the world. Also read | Air pollution kills 7 million people per year, estimates WHO; issues new guidelines It was also revealed that 35 of the 50 cities with the worst air quality are in India, the country is ranked as the fifth most polluted country. "India’s annual average PM2.5 levels reached 58.1 µg/m3 in 2021, ending a three-year trend of improving air quality. India’s annual PM2.5 averages have now returned to pre-quarantine concentrations measured in 2019." As in the previous year, Bangladesh was the most polluted country, while Chad ranked second after the African nation's data was included for the first time. Watch | World Health Organization toughens its air quality standards in 16 years China fell to 22nd place in the PM2.5 rankings in 2021, down from 14th place a year earlier with an average reading of 32.6 micrograms over the year, according to IQAir. Hotan in Xinjiang's northwestern region is China's worst-performing city, with an average PM2.5 level reading of over 100 micrograms, due primarily to sandstorms. After being overtaken by two Indian cities, Bhiwadi and Ghaziabad, it dropped to third on the top polluted cities list.

Not even one country met WHO air quality standards in 2021, India 5th most polluted country: Report

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