385 days ago, the World Health Organisation declared coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. As of today, 128 million cases have been recorded. Close to three million people have died.&nbsp;

This is one of the deadliest pandemics in human history but even after 385 days, the world doesn't know how it began. &nbsp;

The question of the origin has still not been settled. This should have been a foregone conclusion. The world knows the pandemic began in Wuhan. But the WHO team that spent 27 days in Wuhan, still doesn't have the answers.&nbsp;

Their probe was inconclusive. The much-anticipated report is finally out. It Is 124 page-long report, which is high on details but low on substance. &nbsp;

In fact, the investigation raises more questions than it answers. Let's tell you the five key findings of this report. The team looked into three possibilities. One, the virus jumped from animals to humans. Two, it arrived in Wuhan through food chains. It's a claim that China has aggressively tried to push, but it hasn't found much support. And the third possibility the virus leaked from a lab. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Now, the WHO team says, they found maximum evidence for the first possibility. That is, the virus jumped from animals to humans. So, that's the most likely cause, according to them. They say the virus probably emerged in bats, before spreading to humans through an 'intermediate animal'. What does that mean? What's the intermediate? They have no answers. &nbsp;

In other words, the exact source of the virus is not clear. The WHO team says they do not have enough evidence to pinpoint the exact source yet. What about the role of animal markets? The so-called vet markets of China? No clear answers on that either. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Remember, the initial confirmed cases were linked to the Huanan seafood market. The same market that China subsequently shut down. The WHO team found that many early cases had no clear connection to the Huanan market. So, probably, the virus was already spreading around Wuhan.&nbsp;

But the question is, if the markets were not linked to the outbreak, why did China shut them down? &nbsp;

And finally, the last key finding. And perhaps the most controversial one, the possibility of a lab leak. &nbsp;

The WHO team says a leak is 'highly unlikely' but here comes the twist in the tale. Dr Tedros, Director General of the World Health Organisation made an interesting statement. On Tuesday, he was heard contradicting several of the key findings of the probe team. He said the lab leak might be the 'least likely hypothesis' but it still needs further investigation. Meaning, do not rule it out yet.&nbsp;

"The team also visited several laboratories in Wuhan and considered the possibility that the virus entered the human population as a result of a laboratory incident. However, I do not believe that this assessment was extensive enough," said Tedros.&nbsp;

In other words, this should be probed further. He also said the WHO is ready to deploy more resources for future investigations. He's what we think. we're already in the future. The investigations should have happened by now, the WHO has already botched up enough. &nbsp;

But the fact that Dr Tedros is saying what he is, is welcome change. He also made a revelation, which technically wasn't a revelation. &nbsp;

The WHO chief said, the probe team had difficulty in accessing raw data in Wuhan. Who was holding back that raw data? China. &nbsp;

What is China's response to these statements? The same old denial. With Dr Tedros keeping the lab theory alive, Chinese experts today deflected all questions on the subject.&nbsp;

When asked about the sharing of data, the Chinese scientist who was involved with the WHO team in Wuhan said some data can't leave country because of privacy reasons. &nbsp;

Co-leader of WHO-China joint expert team, Liang Wannian, said, "Of course, according to Chinese law, some data cannot be taken away or photographed, but when we were analyzing it together in Wuhan, everyone could see the database, the materials - it was all done together. for example, some data that involves patient privacy and requires the patient to know and agree, this is a legal requirement. I think this is also a basic international rule." &nbsp;

Imagine China talking about basic international rules. At the same time, Chinese diplomats remain very combative in their defence.&nbsp;

High profile WHO member states have slammed it. On Tuesday, the United States and 13 other governments released a joint statement. The list includes the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea and Australia, which also happens to be the first country that demanded an international investigation. These countries have questioned why China is withholding data. The report lacks crucial data, information and access. It represents a partial and incomplete picture. &nbsp;

"There's a second stage in this process that we believe should be led by international, international and independent experts. They should have unfettered access to data. They should be able to ask questions of people who are on the ground at this point in time and that's a step that the who could take," said White House Press Secretary. &nbsp;

The US wants the WHO to bring in independent experts to take this investigation forward. Needless to say Beijing is not warming up to that idea.&nbsp;

385 days ago, the World Health Organisation declared coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. As of today, 128 million cases have been recorded. Close to three million people have died.

385 days ago, the World Health Organisation declared coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. As of today, 128 million cases have been recorded. Close to three million people have died. This is one of the deadliest pandemics in human history but even after 385 days, the world doesn't know how it began. The question of the origin has still not been settled. This should have been a foregone conclusion. The world knows the pandemic began in Wuhan. But the WHO team that spent 27 days in Wuhan, still doesn't have the answers. Their probe was inconclusive. The much-anticipated report is finally out. It Is 124 page-long report, which is high on details but low on substance. In fact, the investigation raises more questions than it answers. Let's tell you the five key findings of this report. The team looked into three possibilities. One, the virus jumped from animals to humans. Two, it arrived in Wuhan through food chains. It's a claim that China has aggressively tried to push, but it hasn't found much support. And the third possibility the virus leaked from a lab. Now, the WHO team says, they found maximum evidence for the first possibility. That is, the virus jumped from animals to humans. So, that's the most likely cause, according to them. They say the virus probably emerged in bats, before spreading to humans through an 'intermediate animal'. What does that mean? What's the intermediate? They have no answers. In other words, the exact source of the virus is not clear. The WHO team says they do not have enough evidence to pinpoint the exact source yet. What about the role of animal markets? The so-called vet markets of China? No clear answers on that either. Remember, the initial confirmed cases were linked to the Huanan seafood market. The same market that China subsequently shut down. The WHO team found that many early cases had no clear connection to the Huanan market. So, probably, the virus was already spreading around Wuhan. But the question is, if the markets were not linked to the outbreak, why did China shut them down? And finally, the last key finding. And perhaps the most controversial one, the possibility of a lab leak. The WHO team says a leak is 'highly unlikely' but here comes the twist in the tale. Dr Tedros, Director General of the World Health Organisation made an interesting statement. On Tuesday, he was heard contradicting several of the key findings of the probe team. He said the lab leak might be the 'least likely hypothesis' but it still needs further investigation. Meaning, do not rule it out yet. "The team also visited several laboratories in Wuhan and considered the possibility that the virus entered the human population as a result of a laboratory incident. However, I do not believe that this assessment was extensive enough," said Tedros. In other words, this should be probed further. He also said the WHO is ready to deploy more resources for future investigations. He's what we think. we're already in the future. The investigations should have happened by now, the WHO has already botched up enough. But the fact that Dr Tedros is saying what he is, is welcome change. He also made a revelation, which technically wasn't a revelation. The WHO chief said, the probe team had difficulty in accessing raw data in Wuhan. Who was holding back that raw data? China. What is China's response to these statements? The same old denial. With Dr Tedros keeping the lab theory alive, Chinese experts today deflected all questions on the subject. When asked about the sharing of data, the Chinese scientist who was involved with the WHO team in Wuhan said some data can't leave country because of privacy reasons. Co-leader of WHO-China joint expert team, Liang Wannian, said, "Of course, according to Chinese law, some data cannot be taken away or photographed, but when we were analyzing it together in Wuhan, everyone could see the database, the materials - it was all done together. for example, some data that involves patient privacy and requires the patient to know and agree, this is a legal requirement. I think this is also a basic international rule." Imagine China talking about basic international rules. At the same time, Chinese diplomats remain very combative in their defence. High profile WHO member states have slammed it. On Tuesday, the United States and 13 other governments released a joint statement. The list includes the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea and Australia, which also happens to be the first country that demanded an international investigation. These countries have questioned why China is withholding data. The report lacks crucial data, information and access. It represents a partial and incomplete picture. "There's a second stage in this process that we believe should be led by international, international and independent experts. They should have unfettered access to data. They should be able to ask questions of people who are on the ground at this point in time and that's a step that the who could take," said White House Press Secretary. The US wants the WHO to bring in independent experts to take this investigation forward. Needless to say Beijing is not warming up to that idea.

WHO report on coronavirus origins raises more questions, than it answers

The WHO-China probe team has ruled out only one possibility, they say that the COVID-19 virus did not escape from the Wuhan lab. They have ruled out the Wuhan lab leak hypothesis but they say that the result of their probe is still inconclusive.

Tedros: Further investigation needed on COVID-19 origin

The US and UK have criticised the World Health Organization (WHO) on its report looking into the beginnings of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemics.

US and UK, along with 12 other countries, have issued a statement of resistance against the WHO's report and have accused China of "withholding access to complete, original data and samples".

This statement has come after the WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus criticised the lack of data access from China about the study of the origins of coronavirus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-criticises-lack-of-data-access-from-china-for-covid-origins-study-374325">WHO chief criticises lack of data access from China for Covid origins' study</a>

"In my discussions with the team, they expressed the difficulties they encountered in accessing raw data," Tedros had said. "I expect future collaborative studies to include more timely and comprehensive data sharing."

The resistance has come in relation to the report issued by the WHO and Chinese experts who worked together to work out the cause and beginning of the coronavirus — with a conclusion stating the pandemic probably began in humans from animals.

However, the conclusion had attracted massive criticism from various government and international groups.&nbsp;

The statement, issued by 14 countries, has criticised the delay in the investigation and has demanded timely access for independent experts in future pandemics.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-briefs-on-covid-19-origin-report-374327">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-briefs-on-covid-19-origin-report-374327/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It has also pointed out the alleged politics associated with the investigation, with countries alleging China has been allowed to excuse itself from providing data for the origin of coronavirus pandemic.

The White House, individually, too, has urged the WHo to take additional steps to determine the origin of this pandemic, which has taken millions of lives around the world.

"There’s a second stage in this process that we believe should be led by international and independent experts," White House press secretary, Jen Psaki, told reporters.

"They should have unfettered access to data. They should be able to ask questions of people who are on the ground at this point in time, and that’s a step the WHO could take," she added.

Tedros has also claimed that his team faced issues in gaining data and access to information, as needed.

"Although the team has concluded that a laboratory leak is the least likely hypothesis, this requires further investigation, potentially with additional missions involving specialist experts, which I am ready to deploy," he said.

The US and UK have criticised the World Health Organization (WHO) on its report looking into the beginnings of the coronavirus pandemics. US and UK, along with 12 other countries, have issued a statement of resistance against the WHO's report and have accused China of "withholding access to complete, original data and samples".

The US and UK have criticised the World Health Organization (WHO) on its report looking into the beginnings of the coronavirus pandemics. US and UK, along with 12 other countries, have issued a statement of resistance against the WHO's report and have accused China of "withholding access to complete, original data and samples". This statement has come after the WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus criticised the lack of data access from China about the study of the origins of coronavirus. Also read | WHO chief criticises lack of data access from China for Covid origins' study "In my discussions with the team, they expressed the difficulties they encountered in accessing raw data," Tedros had said. "I expect future collaborative studies to include more timely and comprehensive data sharing." The resistance has come in relation to the report issued by the WHO and Chinese experts who worked together to work out the cause and beginning of the coronavirus — with a conclusion stating the pandemic probably began in humans from animals. However, the conclusion had attracted massive criticism from various government and international groups. The statement, issued by 14 countries, has criticised the delay in the investigation and has demanded timely access for independent experts in future pandemics. Watch | It has also pointed out the alleged politics associated with the investigation, with countries alleging China has been allowed to excuse itself from providing data for the origin of coronavirus pandemic. The White House, individually, too, has urged the WHo to take additional steps to determine the origin of this pandemic, which has taken millions of lives around the world. "There’s a second stage in this process that we believe should be led by international and independent experts," White House press secretary, Jen Psaki, told reporters. "They should have unfettered access to data. They should be able to ask questions of people who are on the ground at this point in time, and that’s a step the WHO could take," she added. Tedros has also claimed that his team faced issues in gaining data and access to information, as needed. "Although the team has concluded that a laboratory leak is the least likely hypothesis, this requires further investigation, potentially with additional missions involving specialist experts, which I am ready to deploy," he said.

US, UK, along with 12 countries, criticise WHO's report on COVID origin

World Health Organization (WHO) holds press briefing on COVID-19 origins report that will be released on Tuesday.

WHO briefs on Covid-19 origin report

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Chief Tedros has now revealed that the origin of the COVID-19 pandemic needs further study. He also asserted that all hypothesis are on the table.

WHO-China team rules out Wuhan 'lab leak' hypothesis

The U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday that some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-defy-lams-surrender-warning-as-authorities-struggle-to-free-university-campus-263094">Hong Kong demonstrators'</a> resorting to extreme violence, including against police, was "deeply regrettable and cannot be condoned" and voiced concern that the situation could deteriorate further.

Spokesman Rupert Colville urged Hong Kong authorities to de-escalate the situation at the Polytechnic University - where about 100 protesters are holed up - and address the humanitarian situation of those inside "which is clearly deteriorating".

Hong Kong's embattled leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/university-protesters-in-hong-kong-must-surrender-to-resolve-stand-off-peacefully-carrie-lam-263037">Carrie Lam said</a> on Tuesday she hoped the standoff between police and a group of anti-government protesters at the university could be resolved and she had told police to handle it humanely.

Dozens of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;protesters staged a dramatic escape from a university campus sealed off by police on Monday by shimmying down plastic hosing from a bridge and fleeing on waiting motorbikes as the police fired projectiles.

Many more anti-government protesters remained trapped inside the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Polytechnic University, and two prominent figures were allowed by police onto the campus late on Monday to mediate, a sign that there is a growing risk of bloodshed.

Polytechnic University in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's Kowloon district is at the centre of a standoff in the past week that has seen the most intense violence in five months of anti-government demonstrations.

Some of the protesters who escaped on Monday lowered themselves several metres from a bridge they had occupied on the campus to a flyover below. They then sped off on the back of motorcycles that were already waiting or arrived quickly.

A number of them appeared subsequently to have been arrested, a Reuters witness said.

Other protesters, hurling petrol bombs, tried repeatedly to break into the campus but police fired tear gas and water cannon to push them back.

The United States expressed concern about the situation but China's ambassador to London accused Western countries of interfering.

The U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday that some Hong Kong demonstrators' resorting to extreme violence, including against police, was "deeply regrettable and cannot be condoned" and voiced concern that the situation could deteriorate further.

The U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday that some Hong Kong demonstrators' resorting to extreme violence, including against police, was "deeply regrettable and cannot be condoned" and voiced concern that the situation could deteriorate further. Spokesman Rupert Colville urged Hong Kong authorities to de-escalate the situation at the Polytechnic University - where about 100 protesters are holed up - and address the humanitarian situation of those inside "which is clearly deteriorating". Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday she hoped the standoff between police and a group of anti-government protesters at the university could be resolved and she had told police to handle it humanely. Dozens of Hong Kong protesters staged a dramatic escape from a university campus sealed off by police on Monday by shimmying down plastic hosing from a bridge and fleeing on waiting motorbikes as the police fired projectiles. Many more anti-government protesters remained trapped inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and two prominent figures were allowed by police onto the campus late on Monday to mediate, a sign that there is a growing risk of bloodshed. Polytechnic University in Hong Kong's Kowloon district is at the centre of a standoff in the past week that has seen the most intense violence in five months of anti-government demonstrations. Some of the protesters who escaped on Monday lowered themselves several metres from a bridge they had occupied on the campus to a flyover below. They then sped off on the back of motorcycles that were already waiting or arrived quickly. A number of them appeared subsequently to have been arrested, a Reuters witness said. Other protesters, hurling petrol bombs, tried repeatedly to break into the campus but police fired tear gas and water cannon to push them back. The United States expressed concern about the situation but China's ambassador to London accused Western countries of interfering.

Virus origins remain unclear in WHO-China inquiry

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday immediately called for a donation of 10 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine </a>doses so that all the countries could begin their vaccination campaign within the first 100 days of this year.&nbsp;

WHO's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the rush to receive Covid-19 vaccines had delayed supply for Covax scheme that can deliver doses to poorer nations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/who-says-global-covid-19-vaccine-inequality-becoming-grotesque-372521/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He added that there are 36 countries that had not received even a single dose and 16 of those were scheduled to receive their first doses through Covax in the remaining 15 of the first 100 days of 2021.&nbsp;

This implied that 20 countries would still going to miss out on receiving vaccines.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/who-lashes-out-at-unequal-vaccine-distribution-372409">WHO lashes out at unequal vaccine distribution</a>

"Getting all countries started by day 100 is a solvable problem. Covax needs 10 million doses immediately as an urgent stop-gap measure so these 20 countries can start vaccinating their health workers and older people within the next two weeks," WHO's director-general Tedros said.&nbsp;

"So today I'm asking countries with doses of vaccines that have WHO emergency use listing to donate as many doses as they can to help us meet that target."

"Ten million doses is not much and it is not nearly enough, but it is a start."

Covax intends to deliver vaccines to 92 of the world's poorest nations and vaccinate up to 27 per cent of these countries' population by the end of this year.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday immediately called for a donation of 10 million coronavirus vaccine doses so that all the countries could begin their vaccination campaign within the first 100 days of this year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday immediately called for a donation of 10 million coronavirus vaccine doses so that all the countries could begin their vaccination campaign within the first 100 days of this year. WHO's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the rush to receive Covid-19 vaccines had delayed supply for Covax scheme that can deliver doses to poorer nations. Watch | He added that there are 36 countries that had not received even a single dose and 16 of those were scheduled to receive their first doses through Covax in the remaining 15 of the first 100 days of 2021. This implied that 20 countries would still going to miss out on receiving vaccines. Also read | WHO lashes out at unequal vaccine distribution "Getting all countries started by day 100 is a solvable problem. Covax needs 10 million doses immediately as an urgent stop-gap measure so these 20 countries can start vaccinating their health workers and older people within the next two weeks," WHO's director-general Tedros said. "So today I'm asking countries with doses of vaccines that have WHO emergency use listing to donate as many doses as they can to help us meet that target." "Ten million doses is not much and it is not nearly enough, but it is a start." Covax intends to deliver vaccines to 92 of the world's poorest nations and vaccinate up to 27 per cent of these countries' population by the end of this year.

WHO calls for immediate release of 10 million Covid-19 vaccine doses

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called vaccine inequality "grotesque" as he urged producers of COVID-19 vaccines to follow AstraZeneca's lead and license the technology to other makers.

WHO says global COVID-19 vaccine inequality becoming 'grotesque'

Is the COVID vaccine passport set to become the new norm in 2021 and do we all need to have one soon? This is a pertinent question that is been asked after Israel became the first nation to introduce a certification system allowing those vaccinated against COVID-19 to get entitlement to certain facilities. Everything you need to know about COVID-19 'vaccine passport'.

What is a 'vaccine passport'? All you need to know

World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday lashed out and expressed serious displeasure at the growing gap in the number of COVID vaccines administered in rich and poor countries. It called it a "moral outrage" and said it was grotesque.&nbsp;

The WHO tore into wealthy nations now vaccinating younger people at low risk of developing Covid-19, saying they were doing so at the cost of vulnerable people's lives in low-income countries.

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it was "shocking" how little had been done to avert an entirely predictable "catastrophic moral failure" to ensure the equitable distribution of vaccines.

"The gap between the number of vaccines administered in rich countries, and the number of vaccines administered through Covax is growing every single day, and becoming more grotesque every day," he said, referring to the facility that ensures poorer countries can access Covid-19 vaccines.

"Countries that are now vaccinating younger, healthy people at low risk of disease are doing so at the cost of the lives of health workers, older people and other at-risk groups in other countries," Tedros told a press conference.

"The inequitable distribution of vaccines is not just a moral outrage. It's also economically and epidemiologically self-defeating.

"Some countries are racing to vaccinate their entire populations while other countries have nothing."

Tedros said rich countries might be buying some short-term comfort but added that they may be giving themselves a false sense of security.

He said that more the virus spreads more is the likelihood of new variants emerging.

"As long as the virus continues to circulate anywhere, people will continue to die, trade and travel will continue to be disrupted, and the economic recovery will be further delayed," he said.

The Covax global vaccine-sharing facility has so far distributed more than 31 million doses to 57 countries.

World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday lashed out and expressed serious displeasure at the growing gap in the number of COVID vaccines administered in rich and poor countries.

World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday lashed out and expressed serious displeasure at the growing gap in the number of COVID vaccines administered in rich and poor countries. It called it a "moral outrage" and said it was grotesque. The WHO tore into wealthy nations now vaccinating younger people at low risk of developing Covid-19, saying they were doing so at the cost of vulnerable people's lives in low-income countries. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it was "shocking" how little had been done to avert an entirely predictable "catastrophic moral failure" to ensure the equitable distribution of vaccines. "The gap between the number of vaccines administered in rich countries, and the number of vaccines administered through Covax is growing every single day, and becoming more grotesque every day," he said, referring to the facility that ensures poorer countries can access Covid-19 vaccines. "Countries that are now vaccinating younger, healthy people at low risk of disease are doing so at the cost of the lives of health workers, older people and other at-risk groups in other countries," Tedros told a press conference. "The inequitable distribution of vaccines is not just a moral outrage. It's also economically and epidemiologically self-defeating. "Some countries are racing to vaccinate their entire populations while other countries have nothing." Tedros said rich countries might be buying some short-term comfort but added that they may be giving themselves a false sense of security. He said that more the virus spreads more is the likelihood of new variants emerging. "As long as the virus continues to circulate anywhere, people will continue to die, trade and travel will continue to be disrupted, and the economic recovery will be further delayed," he said. The Covax global vaccine-sharing facility has so far distributed more than 31 million doses to 57 countries.

WHO lashes out at unequal vaccine distribution

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has -- yet again -- backed the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine.

The health agency has also urged countries to maintain the roll-out after reviewing reports of blood clots.

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said there was "no question" over the &nbsp;benefits after the UN health agency's vaccine safety experts found no increase in clotting conditions linked to an AstraZeneca shot.

"The available data do not suggest any overall increase in clotting conditions following administration of the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. We urge countries to continue using this important vaccine," Tedros told a press conference.

Several European countries resumed AstraZeneca vaccinations on Friday after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) likewise gave their green light on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-countries-to-resume-astrazeneca-jabs-after-safe-verdict-371547">Also read |&nbsp;EU countries to resume AstraZeneca jabs after 'safe' verdict</a>

The WHO's Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) met virtually on Tuesday and Friday. It reviewed available information and data on thromboembolic events (blood clots) and thrombocytopenia (low platelets) after vaccination with an AstraZeneca Covid-19 shot.

The committee said the jab "continues to have a positive benefit-risk profile, with tremendous potential to prevent infections and reduce deaths across the world. The available data do not suggest any overall increase in clotting conditions such as deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism."

Those two conditions "occur naturally and are not uncommon", and also occur as a result of Covid-19, the experts said.

"While very rare and unique thromboembolic events in combination with thrombocytopenia, such as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), have also been reported following vaccination with the AstraZeneca &nbsp;Covid-19 vaccine in Europe, it is not certain that they have been caused by vaccination."

The GACVS also agreed with the EMA's plans to further investigate and monitor for such events.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-share-4-million-doses-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-with-mexico-canada-371635">Also read |&nbsp;US to share 4 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine with Mexico, Canada</a>

The EU's EMA regulators have reviewed 18 such cases out of more than 20 million AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccinations in Europe, and "a causal relationship between these rare events has not been established at this time".

The AstraZeneca vaccine accounts for more than 90 per cent of the doses being distributed around the world in the first wave of the Covax global vaccine-sharing facility. Just under 30 million doses have so far been distributed to 50 countries as part of the scheme, which aims to ensure poorer nations get enough doses to vaccinate at least 20 per cent of their population by the end of the year.

Also, the WHO vaccine safety experts recommended that countries continue monitoring Covid-19 vaccine safety and report suspected adverse events.

(with inputs from AFP)

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has -- yet again -- backed the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. The health agency has also urged countries to maintain the roll-out after reviewing reports of blood clots.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has -- yet again -- backed the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. The health agency has also urged countries to maintain the roll-out after reviewing reports of blood clots. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said there was "no question" over the benefits after the UN health agency's vaccine safety experts found no increase in clotting conditions linked to an AstraZeneca shot. "The available data do not suggest any overall increase in clotting conditions following administration of the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. We urge countries to continue using this important vaccine," Tedros told a press conference. Several European countries resumed AstraZeneca vaccinations on Friday after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) likewise gave their green light on Thursday. Also read | EU countries to resume AstraZeneca jabs after 'safe' verdict The WHO's Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) met virtually on Tuesday and Friday. It reviewed available information and data on thromboembolic events (blood clots) and thrombocytopenia (low platelets) after vaccination with an AstraZeneca Covid-19 shot. The committee said the jab "continues to have a positive benefit-risk profile, with tremendous potential to prevent infections and reduce deaths across the world. The available data do not suggest any overall increase in clotting conditions such as deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism." Those two conditions "occur naturally and are not uncommon", and also occur as a result of Covid-19, the experts said. "While very rare and unique thromboembolic events in combination with thrombocytopenia, such as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), have also been reported following vaccination with the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine in Europe, it is not certain that they have been caused by vaccination." The GACVS also agreed with the EMA's plans to further investigate and monitor for such events. Also read | US to share 4 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine with Mexico, Canada The EU's EMA regulators have reviewed 18 such cases out of more than 20 million AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccinations in Europe, and "a causal relationship between these rare events has not been established at this time". The AstraZeneca vaccine accounts for more than 90 per cent of the doses being distributed around the world in the first wave of the Covax global vaccine-sharing facility. Just under 30 million doses have so far been distributed to 50 countries as part of the scheme, which aims to ensure poorer nations get enough doses to vaccinate at least 20 per cent of their population by the end of the year. Also, the WHO vaccine safety experts recommended that countries continue monitoring Covid-19 vaccine safety and report suspected adverse events. (with inputs from AFP)

WHO renews backing for AstraZeneca Covid vaccine

After several countries imposed a temporary suspension on AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine.</a>

WHO has recommended countries to continue using AstraZeneca's vaccine 'at this time', till the experts conclude the ongoing assessment of reports that claimed blood clotting to be a side-effect of the vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-chief-proposes-digital-green-certificates-and-stricter-curbs-on-vaccine-exports-371168" hreflang="en">EU Chief proposes 'digital green certificates' and stricter curbs on vaccine exports</a>

"The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety is carefully assessing the latest available safety data," the agency said in a statement. "At this time, WHO considers that the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh its risks and recommends that vaccinations continue."

Experts at WHO have assured that the results of the review will be communicated as soon as the assessment of the reports is finished.

The statement has come after several countries temporarily suspended the use of AstraZeneca after a few cases of formation of blood clots were reported around the world.

However, the European Union's medicines regulator has stressed that, as of now, there is no evidence that points towards a link between the vaccine shot and formation of blood clots — termed as thromboembolic events.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-to-begin-coronavirus-vaccine-trials-on-children-in-us-and-canada-371034" hreflang="en">Moderna to begin coronavirus vaccine trials on children in US and Canada</a>

The WHO backed this by explaining that it is a routine procedure for experts and countries to flag any potential side-effects of a vaccine, but also stressed that "this does not necessarily mean that the events are linked to vaccination itself, but it is good practice to investigate them. It also shows that the surveillance system works and that effective controls are in place".

"Vaccination against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a> will not reduce illness or deaths from other causes," WHO assured. "Thromboembolic events are known to occur frequently. Venous thromboembolism is the third most common cardiovascular disease globally."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, WHO experts have also recommended Johnson &amp; Johnson's coronavirus vaccine for use against the different variants of coronavirus.

"We have a vaccine that shows to be safe and it shows to have the necessary efficacy to be recommended by us for use in people above the age of 18, without an upper age limit," SAGE chair Alejandro Cravioto said. "In the countries where there is a high spread of the variants and in countries where we now have information about the use of this vaccine to control SARS-CoV-2 caused by these variants, we recommend that you use it."

After several countries imposed a temporary suspension on AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of this vaccine.

After several countries imposed a temporary suspension on AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of this vaccine. WHO has recommended countries to continue using AstraZeneca's vaccine 'at this time', till the experts conclude the ongoing assessment of reports that claimed blood clotting to be a side-effect of the vaccine. Also read | EU Chief proposes 'digital green certificates' and stricter curbs on vaccine exports "The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety is carefully assessing the latest available safety data," the agency said in a statement. "At this time, WHO considers that the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh its risks and recommends that vaccinations continue." Experts at WHO have assured that the results of the review will be communicated as soon as the assessment of the reports is finished. The statement has come after several countries temporarily suspended the use of AstraZeneca after a few cases of formation of blood clots were reported around the world. However, the European Union's medicines regulator has stressed that, as of now, there is no evidence that points towards a link between the vaccine shot and formation of blood clots — termed as thromboembolic events. Also read | Moderna to begin coronavirus vaccine trials on children in US and Canada The WHO backed this by explaining that it is a routine procedure for experts and countries to flag any potential side-effects of a vaccine, but also stressed that "this does not necessarily mean that the events are linked to vaccination itself, but it is good practice to investigate them. It also shows that the surveillance system works and that effective controls are in place". "Vaccination against Covid-19 will not reduce illness or deaths from other causes," WHO assured. "Thromboembolic events are known to occur frequently. Venous thromboembolism is the third most common cardiovascular disease globally." Meanwhile, WHO experts have also recommended Johnson & Johnson's coronavirus vaccine for use against the different variants of coronavirus. "We have a vaccine that shows to be safe and it shows to have the necessary efficacy to be recommended by us for use in people above the age of 18, without an upper age limit," SAGE chair Alejandro Cravioto said. "In the countries where there is a high spread of the variants and in countries where we now have information about the use of this vaccine to control SARS-CoV-2 caused by these variants, we recommend that you use it."

WHO backs use of AstraZeneca vaccine; approves J&J for COVID variants

The World Health Organisation and the European drug regulator urge country not to panic as several of them have since halted the use of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

WHO: Countries should continue AstraZeneca rollout

Coronavirus Update: WHO says no link between blood clots & vaccine

After several European countries decided to impose a temporary ban on the usage of AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>, Ireland has also decided to suspend the use of this vaccine.

"The administration of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca is temporarily deferred from this morning, Sunday 14th March," a health ministry spokesperson told the news agency AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-probes-blood-clot-cases-after-astrazeneca-vaccine-suspension-370309">Norway probes blood clot cases after AstraZeneca vaccine suspension</a>

This decision has been taken after there were several reported cases of blood clots being formed in people who took a shot of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine.

Earlier, Ireland's National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NUAC) had recommended suspending the rollout of AstraZeneca as a "precautionary principal" after "a report from the Norwegian Medicines Agency of four new reports of serious blood clotting events in adults after vaccination".

While it hasn't been concluded yet if there is any link between the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine and the blood clot cases, Ireland claims the decision has been taken "pending receipt of further information," Ireland's deputy chief medical officer Ronan Glynn said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-union-faces-shortfall-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-370391">Watch |</a>

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As of now, nearly 570,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine have been administered in Ireland, as per government data.

Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has denied these claims saying, "An analysis of our safety data that covers reported cases from more than 17 million doses of vaccine administered has shown no evidence of an increased risk" in blood clot conditions.

"In fact, the reported numbers of these types of events for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca are lower than the number that would have occurred naturally in the unvaccinated population," the statement read.

Ireland's announcement came a few hours after Norway reported three more cases of blood clots or brain haemorrhages in younger people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 jab, but said they could not yet say they were vaccine-related.

After several European countries decided to impose a temporary ban on the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, Ireland has also decided to suspend the use of this vaccine.

After several European countries decided to impose a temporary ban on the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, Ireland has also decided to suspend the use of this vaccine. "The administration of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca is temporarily deferred from this morning, Sunday 14th March," a health ministry spokesperson told the news agency AFP. Also read | Norway probes blood clot cases after AstraZeneca vaccine suspension This decision has been taken after there were several reported cases of blood clots being formed in people who took a shot of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. Earlier, Ireland's National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NUAC) had recommended suspending the rollout of AstraZeneca as a "precautionary principal" after "a report from the Norwegian Medicines Agency of four new reports of serious blood clotting events in adults after vaccination". While it hasn't been concluded yet if there is any link between the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine and the blood clot cases, Ireland claims the decision has been taken "pending receipt of further information," Ireland's deputy chief medical officer Ronan Glynn said. Watch | As of now, nearly 570,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine have been administered in Ireland, as per government data. Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has denied these claims saying, "An analysis of our safety data that covers reported cases from more than 17 million doses of vaccine administered has shown no evidence of an increased risk" in blood clot conditions. "In fact, the reported numbers of these types of events for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca are lower than the number that would have occurred naturally in the unvaccinated population," the statement read. Ireland's announcement came a few hours after Norway reported three more cases of blood clots or brain haemorrhages in younger people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 jab, but said they could not yet say they were vaccine-related.

Ireland suspends use of AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine

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The World Health Organisation's (WHO) Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) is carefully assessing reports on risks related to the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19, a Sputnik report has said.

A number of European states have suspended vaccination with the AstraZeneca drug as a precaution after reports on severe side-effects, including blood clots, emerged, Sputnik reported.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), however, said there was currently no indication that the reported negative effects had been caused by the vaccination.

“There is currently no indication that vaccination has caused these conditions, which are not listed as side effects with this vaccine… Although a quality defect is considered unlikely at this stage, the batch quality is being investigated,” according to EMA’s Wednesday statement.

"The GACVS is carefully assessing the current reports on the AstraZeneca vaccine. As soon as WHO gains a full understanding of these events, the findings and any changes to current recommendations will be immediately communicated to the public," the WHO spokesperson said late Thursday as quoted by Sputnik.

"The information available so far indicates that the number of thromboembolic events in vaccinated people is no higher than that seen in the general population. The Committee further noted that the vaccine can continue to be administered while the investigation of cases of thromboembolic events is ongoing," the spokesperson added.

AstraZeneca said it had found no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis - marked by the formation of blood clots - in safety data of more than 10 million records, even when considering subgroups based on age, gender, production batch or country of use.

Canada has also said the AstraZeneca vaccine is safe even as Denmark and Norway temporarily suspended its use.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-delays-astrazeneca-vaccine-rollout-369838">Also read | Thailand delays AstraZeneca vaccine rollout</a>

"Health Canada is aware of reports of adverse events in Europe following immunization with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, and would like to reassure Canadians that the benefits of the vaccine continue to outweigh its risks," the health department said in a statement.

"At this time, there is no indication that the vaccine caused these events," it said.

Canada received 500,000 AstraZeneca doses made at the Serum Institute of India last week, and expects to get 1.5 million more in by May.

"To date, no adverse events related to the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine... have been reported to Health Canada or the Public Health Agency of Canada," the statement said.

The WHO declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11, 2020.&nbsp;

More than 118.34 million people have so far been infected with the coronavirus worldwide, with over 2.62 million fatalities, according to Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

(with inputs)

The World Health Organisation's (WHO) Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) is carefully assessing reports on risks related to the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19, a Sputnik report has said.

The World Health Organisation's (WHO) Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) is carefully assessing reports on risks related to the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19, a Sputnik report has said. A number of European states have suspended vaccination with the AstraZeneca drug as a precaution after reports on severe side-effects, including blood clots, emerged, Sputnik reported. The European Medicines Agency (EMA), however, said there was currently no indication that the reported negative effects had been caused by the vaccination. “There is currently no indication that vaccination has caused these conditions, which are not listed as side effects with this vaccine… Although a quality defect is considered unlikely at this stage, the batch quality is being investigated,” according to EMA’s Wednesday statement. "The GACVS is carefully assessing the current reports on the AstraZeneca vaccine. As soon as WHO gains a full understanding of these events, the findings and any changes to current recommendations will be immediately communicated to the public," the WHO spokesperson said late Thursday as quoted by Sputnik. "The information available so far indicates that the number of thromboembolic events in vaccinated people is no higher than that seen in the general population. The Committee further noted that the vaccine can continue to be administered while the investigation of cases of thromboembolic events is ongoing," the spokesperson added. AstraZeneca said it had found no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis - marked by the formation of blood clots - in safety data of more than 10 million records, even when considering subgroups based on age, gender, production batch or country of use. Canada has also said the AstraZeneca vaccine is safe even as Denmark and Norway temporarily suspended its use. Also read | Thailand delays AstraZeneca vaccine rollout "Health Canada is aware of reports of adverse events in Europe following immunization with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, and would like to reassure Canadians that the benefits of the vaccine continue to outweigh its risks," the health department said in a statement. "At this time, there is no indication that the vaccine caused these events," it said. Canada received 500,000 AstraZeneca doses made at the Serum Institute of India last week, and expects to get 1.5 million more in by May. "To date, no adverse events related to the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine... have been reported to Health Canada or the Public Health Agency of Canada," the statement said. The WHO declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11, 2020. More than 118.34 million people have so far been infected with the coronavirus worldwide, with over 2.62 million fatalities, according to Johns Hopkins University. (with inputs)

WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine

A few hours after several reports suggested that AstraZeneca's side effects include blood clotting, the EU drug regulator has asked to add severe allergies to the list of side-effects from this<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1"> coronavirus vaccine.</a>

On Friday, the EU drug regulator said that severe allergies should be added to the possible side effects of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine as the regulator has found likely links of such cases in the UK.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/excellent-vaccine-who-backs-use-of-astrazenecas-coronavirus-vaccine-369954" hreflang="en">'Excellent vaccine': WHO backs use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine</a>

The EMA said it had "recommended an update to the product information to include anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity (allergic reactions) as side effects".

This call for action has come a day after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) started an investigation of the claim that blood clots were formed in a handful of cases in Denmark after the patient got vaccinated with AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-assessing-reports-on-risks-related-to-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-369845">WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine</a>

In the highlights of the EMA committee assessing risks of medications, the EMA said, "the update is based on a review of 41 reports of possible anaphylaxis seen among around 5 million vaccinations in the United Kingdom."

It has also asserted that the declaration has been made after a review of the provided data. "After careful review of the data, (the committee) considered that a link to the vaccine was likely in at least some of these cases," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxford-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-can-be-used-until-probe-results-eu-regulator-369788" hreflang="en">Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine can be used until probe results: EU regulator</a>

This has also raised an important warning by AstraZeneca where the company has asked that the people receiving the jab should be kept under "close observation for at least 15 minutes" after getting inoculated, to monitor any allergic reactions.

Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has also issued a statement assuring that its coronavirus vaccine is safe to be used and has dismissed blood clotting as a side effect.

"An analysis of our safety data of more than 10 million records has shown no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis in any defined age group, gender, batch or in any particular country," a spokesperson said.

"In fact, the observed number of these types of events are significantly lower in those vaccinated than would be expected among the general population."

A few hours after several reports suggested that AstraZeneca's side effects include blood clotting, the EU drug regulator has asked to add severe allergies to the list of side-effects from this coronavirus vaccine.

A few hours after several reports suggested that AstraZeneca's side effects include blood clotting, the EU drug regulator has asked to add severe allergies to the list of side-effects from this coronavirus vaccine. On Friday, the EU drug regulator said that severe allergies should be added to the possible side effects of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine as the regulator has found likely links of such cases in the UK. Also read | 'Excellent vaccine': WHO backs use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine The EMA said it had "recommended an update to the product information to include anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity (allergic reactions) as side effects". This call for action has come a day after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) started an investigation of the claim that blood clots were formed in a handful of cases in Denmark after the patient got vaccinated with AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. Also read | WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine In the highlights of the EMA committee assessing risks of medications, the EMA said, "the update is based on a review of 41 reports of possible anaphylaxis seen among around 5 million vaccinations in the United Kingdom." It has also asserted that the declaration has been made after a review of the provided data. "After careful review of the data, (the committee) considered that a link to the vaccine was likely in at least some of these cases," it said. Also read | Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine can be used until probe results: EU regulator This has also raised an important warning by AstraZeneca where the company has asked that the people receiving the jab should be kept under "close observation for at least 15 minutes" after getting inoculated, to monitor any allergic reactions. Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has also issued a statement assuring that its coronavirus vaccine is safe to be used and has dismissed blood clotting as a side effect. "An analysis of our safety data of more than 10 million records has shown no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis in any defined age group, gender, batch or in any particular country," a spokesperson said. "In fact, the observed number of these types of events are significantly lower in those vaccinated than would be expected among the general population."

Severe allergy side-effect of AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine: EU drug regulator

After a flurry of concerning reports from various resources, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine.</a>

"AstraZeneca is an excellent vaccine, as are the other vaccines that are being used," the WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-assessing-reports-on-risks-related-to-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-369845">WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine</a>

WHO's Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) has been assessing the reports on the concerns of risks of side-effects including blood clots.

The concern was raised by several European states who even suggested temporarily suspending the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine worrying about its possible side-effects on the locals.

However, a WHO spokesperson clarified saying there is no reason not to use the AstraZeneca vaccine. "Yes, we should continue using the AstraZeneca vaccine," Margaret Harris said. "There is no indication to not use it."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-medical-agencies-backs-astrazeneca-vaccine-after-suspensions-369937">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-medical-agencies-backs-astrazeneca-vaccine-after-suspensions-369937/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For now, the WHO has also clarified that although its advisory committee is currently studying the safety data provided, there is no causal link between the vaccine and blood clotting.

"We've reviewed the data on deaths. There has been no death, to date, proven to have be caused by vaccination," Harris claimed.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Italy and Romania have limited and postponed the rollout of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine since&nbsp;isolated reports of recipients developing blood clots.

While Harris has backed the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine on behalf of WHO, she has also stressed that any safety signal must be investigated.

"We must always ensure that we look for any safety signals when we roll out vaccines, and we must review them," she said. "But there is no indication to not use it."

After a flurry of concerning reports from various resources, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. "AstraZeneca is an excellent vaccine, as are the other vaccines that are being used," the WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said.

After a flurry of concerning reports from various resources, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. "AstraZeneca is an excellent vaccine, as are the other vaccines that are being used," the WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said. Also read | WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine WHO's Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) has been assessing the reports on the concerns of risks of side-effects including blood clots. The concern was raised by several European states who even suggested temporarily suspending the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine worrying about its possible side-effects on the locals. However, a WHO spokesperson clarified saying there is no reason not to use the AstraZeneca vaccine. "Yes, we should continue using the AstraZeneca vaccine," Margaret Harris said. "There is no indication to not use it." WATCH | For now, the WHO has also clarified that although its advisory committee is currently studying the safety data provided, there is no causal link between the vaccine and blood clotting. "We've reviewed the data on deaths. There has been no death, to date, proven to have be caused by vaccination," Harris claimed. Meanwhile, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Italy and Romania have limited and postponed the rollout of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine since isolated reports of recipients developing blood clots. While Harris has backed the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine on behalf of WHO, she has also stressed that any safety signal must be investigated. "We must always ensure that we look for any safety signals when we roll out vaccines, and we must review them," she said. "But there is no indication to not use it."

'Excellent vaccine': WHO backs use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Thursday that China is "open, transparent and cooperative" on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">novel coronavirus </a>and will continue to work with the World Health Organization (WHO) to find the origins of the virus.&nbsp;

"The Chinese side has acted in a fact-based manner, and with an open, transparent and cooperative approach. China has maintained communication with the WHO and provided the WHO mission support during their work in China concerning the origin of the virus," Chinese premier was quoted as saying by state-run CGTN.&nbsp;

He also said that Covid-19 is a global health contingency and like other nations, China also wants to know about the origins of it as early as possible.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-will-not-scrap-the-interim-report-on-covid-19-origin-368494/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Li said hat virus origin tracing is a complex scientific matter and requires cooperation between nations and continuous research.&nbsp;

"Covid-19 is a common enemy of humankind, and has affected so many members of the global community. We hope that all countries will join hands to achieve early victory over the virus," he said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijings-public-health-workers-the-least-willing-in-china-to-get-coronavirus-vaccine-survey-368048">Beijing's public health workers the least willing in China to get coronavirus vaccine: Survey</a>

Meanwhile. a prominent member of the WHO's independent team that visited China to find the virus's origins said that "fairly soon," it will be found how the outbreak began.&nbsp;

Peter Daszak, the president of the New York-based EcoHealth Alliance, said collective scientific research might be able to pin down how animals with the deadly virus infected the first people in Wuhan last December.&nbsp;

He said the wildlife trade was the most probable explanation of how coronavirus reached Wuhan, where the first human cases were found.&nbsp;

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Thursday that China is "open, transparent and cooperative" on the novel coronavirus and will continue to work with the World Health Organization (WHO) to find the origins of the virus.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Thursday that China is "open, transparent and cooperative" on the novel coronavirus and will continue to work with the World Health Organization (WHO) to find the origins of the virus. "The Chinese side has acted in a fact-based manner, and with an open, transparent and cooperative approach. China has maintained communication with the WHO and provided the WHO mission support during their work in China concerning the origin of the virus," Chinese premier was quoted as saying by state-run CGTN. He also said that Covid-19 is a global health contingency and like other nations, China also wants to know about the origins of it as early as possible. Watch | Li said hat virus origin tracing is a complex scientific matter and requires cooperation between nations and continuous research. "Covid-19 is a common enemy of humankind, and has affected so many members of the global community. We hope that all countries will join hands to achieve early victory over the virus," he said. Also read | Beijing's public health workers the least willing in China to get coronavirus vaccine: Survey Meanwhile. a prominent member of the WHO's independent team that visited China to find the virus's origins said that "fairly soon," it will be found how the outbreak began. Peter Daszak, the president of the New York-based EcoHealth Alliance, said collective scientific research might be able to pin down how animals with the deadly virus infected the first people in Wuhan last December. He said the wildlife trade was the most probable explanation of how coronavirus reached Wuhan, where the first human cases were found.

China 'open, transparent' on Covid-19, will work with WHO to find origins: Premier Li Keqiang

Days after India gifted vaccines to Mongolia, the country is keen to get more vaccines from New Delhi, this time commercially.&nbsp;

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Caring for a Spiritual Neighbour. Made in India vaccines reach Mongolia. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineMaitri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineMaitri</a> <a href="https://t.co/8wIRImXX7D">pic.twitter.com/8wIRImXX7D</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1363712034337034241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia has written to India's external affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar requesting for 10 to 15 lakh India-made vaccines Covishield.

India had gifted 1.5 lakh doses of Covishield vaccine to Mongolia on February 21 that helped the country begin its vaccination drive.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the Prime Minister of Mongolia Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene was vaccinated using India-made vaccines. What makes Covishield is the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine produced by Pune-based Serum Institute of India much sought after is that it has got approval from the World Health Organization (WHO).

India and Mongolia share close ties and have seen a number of visits including the famous visit of Indian PM Modi in 2015. Mongolia, landlocked between China and Russia considers India as its spiritual and third neighbour.

New Delhi's outreach on COVID-19 vaccines has been much appreciated globally with India sending 568.06 lakh doses of vaccines to 56 countries and UN Health workers.&nbsp;

Not only Mongolia but countries in South Asia - Afghanistan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh and countries in Africa and Caricom region began their COVID-19 vaccination using India-made coronavirus vaccines.

Days after India gifted vaccines to Mongolia, the country is keen to get more vaccines from New Delhi, this time commercially. Caring for a Spiritual Neighbour. Made in India vaccines reach Mongolia.

Days after India gifted vaccines to Mongolia, the country is keen to get more vaccines from New Delhi, this time commercially. Caring for a Spiritual Neighbour. Made in India vaccines reach Mongolia. #VaccineMaitri pic.twitter.com/8wIRImXX7D — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 22, 2021 × The deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia has written to India's external affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar requesting for 10 to 15 lakh India-made vaccines Covishield. India had gifted 1.5 lakh doses of Covishield vaccine to Mongolia on February 21 that helped the country begin its vaccination drive. Interestingly, the Prime Minister of Mongolia Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene was vaccinated using India-made vaccines. What makes Covishield is the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine produced by Pune-based Serum Institute of India much sought after is that it has got approval from the World Health Organization (WHO). India and Mongolia share close ties and have seen a number of visits including the famous visit of Indian PM Modi in 2015. Mongolia, landlocked between China and Russia considers India as its spiritual and third neighbour. New Delhi's outreach on COVID-19 vaccines has been much appreciated globally with India sending 568.06 lakh doses of vaccines to 56 countries and UN Health workers. Not only Mongolia but countries in South Asia - Afghanistan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh and countries in Africa and Caricom region began their COVID-19 vaccination using India-made coronavirus vaccines.

Mongolia requests for more vaccines from India

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance & World Health Organisation will be holding a virtual meeting and the aim is to brainstorm a plant to boost the COVID-19 vaccine distribution globally.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance & WHO to hold virtual meet

The findings of a WHO-led mission to Wuhan, China to investigate the origins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are expected in mid-March, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday.

WHO: Will not scrap the interim report on COVID-19 origin

World Health Organization has decided to scrap the origination report of COVID-19. The decision has been taken by the organisation to squash and originate fresh reports for the same.

WHO decides to squash the reports on probe of COVID-19 origins

World Health Organization has decided to scrap the origination report of COVID-19. The decision has been taken by the organization to squash and originate fresh reports for the same.

World Health Organisation (WHO) has released its first-ever report on hearing which suggests that 1 in 4 people of the world's population will suffer from hearing problems by 2050.

WHO: 1 in 4 people to have hearing problems by 2050

For the very first time in over seven weeks, the number of Coronavirus infections has shot up. The Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged countries to not relax the virus measures.

COVID-19 cases edging back up after weeks of decline

While the world is currently fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about another possible danger in the near future.

A report by the WHO suggests that by 2050 one in four of the world's population will suffer from hearing problems.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modernas-coronavirus-vaccine-side-effects-are-severe-but-worth-it-cdc-study-367057" hreflang="en">Moderna's coronavirus vaccine side effects are severe, but worth it: CDC study</a>

The first-ever global report on hearing claims that causes of many of these problems, such as infections, diseases, birth defects, noise exposure and lifestyle choices can be prevented.&nbsp;

WHO has called for immediate and extra investment in prevention and treatment. As per the proposed package of measures in WHO's report, it would cost $1.33 per person per year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-coronavirus-vaccine-may-be-less-effective-in-obesity-study-367008" hreflang="en">Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study</a>

"Failure to act will be costly in terms of the health and well-being of those affected, and the financial losses arising from their exclusion from communication, education and employment," the report said.

While right now there are one in five people who suffer from hearing problems, the number can increase to 2.5 billion soon, the report warned.

"The number of people with hearing loss may increase more than 1.5-fold during the next three decades" to 2.5 billion people, which was previously 1.6 billion in 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/large-study-shows-pfizers-coronavirus-vaccine-94-effective-366057" hreflang="en">Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective</a>

Out of these 2.5 billion, nearly 700 million people would be suffering from serious hearing problems by 2050. The 700 million people may even require major treatment for the hearing condition, which would be a major increase from 430 million people in 2019.

One of the major reason behind this alarming increase is demographic and population trends, the report explained.

This issue has also been increasing due to lack of access to care, especially in the low-income countries — as nearly 80 per cent of people live in these countries — as the majority of them are not getting the required help.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/future-vaccines-depend-on-test-subjects-in-short-supply-monkeys-365739" hreflang="en">Future vaccines depend on test subjects in short supply: Monkeys</a>

The lack of accurate information and an increasing stigma around ear diseases and loss of hearing also contributes to the increasing number of people who are suffering from hearing problems.

"Even among health-care providers, knowledge relevant to prevention, early identification and management of hearing loss and ear diseases is commonly lacking," the report said.

The package of measures proposed by the WHO include public health initiatives such as reduction of noise in public spaces and an increase in vaccinations for diseases that can lead to hearing loss. It also proposed systematic screening to identify the problem.

"An estimated one trillion US dollars is lost each year due to our collective failure to adequately address hearing loss," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. "While the financial burden is enormous, what cannot be quantified is the distress caused by the loss of communication, education and social interaction that accompanies unaddressed hearing loss."

While the world is currently fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about another possible danger in the near future.

While the world is currently fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about another possible danger in the near future. A report by the WHO suggests that by 2050 one in four of the world's population will suffer from hearing problems. Also read | Moderna's coronavirus vaccine side effects are severe, but worth it: CDC study The first-ever global report on hearing claims that causes of many of these problems, such as infections, diseases, birth defects, noise exposure and lifestyle choices can be prevented. WHO has called for immediate and extra investment in prevention and treatment. As per the proposed package of measures in WHO's report, it would cost $1.33 per person per year. Also read | Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study "Failure to act will be costly in terms of the health and well-being of those affected, and the financial losses arising from their exclusion from communication, education and employment," the report said. While right now there are one in five people who suffer from hearing problems, the number can increase to 2.5 billion soon, the report warned. "The number of people with hearing loss may increase more than 1.5-fold during the next three decades" to 2.5 billion people, which was previously 1.6 billion in 2019. Also read | Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective Out of these 2.5 billion, nearly 700 million people would be suffering from serious hearing problems by 2050. The 700 million people may even require major treatment for the hearing condition, which would be a major increase from 430 million people in 2019. One of the major reason behind this alarming increase is demographic and population trends, the report explained. This issue has also been increasing due to lack of access to care, especially in the low-income countries — as nearly 80 per cent of people live in these countries — as the majority of them are not getting the required help. Also read | Future vaccines depend on test subjects in short supply: Monkeys The lack of accurate information and an increasing stigma around ear diseases and loss of hearing also contributes to the increasing number of people who are suffering from hearing problems. "Even among health-care providers, knowledge relevant to prevention, early identification and management of hearing loss and ear diseases is commonly lacking," the report said. The package of measures proposed by the WHO include public health initiatives such as reduction of noise in public spaces and an increase in vaccinations for diseases that can lead to hearing loss. It also proposed systematic screening to identify the problem. "An estimated one trillion US dollars is lost each year due to our collective failure to adequately address hearing loss," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. "While the financial burden is enormous, what cannot be quantified is the distress caused by the loss of communication, education and social interaction that accompanies unaddressed hearing loss."

Louder please? 1 in 4 people will have hearing problems by 2050, WHO warns

According to the World Health Organisation's recent report, '1 in 4 people to have hearing problems by the year 2050'. The report proposed a package of measures, which it calculated would cost $1.33 per person per year.

1 in 4 people to have hearing issues by 2050: WHO

Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;on Friday thanked WHO director-general after the latter praised him for helping more than 60 countries by providing coronavirus vaccines.&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus thanked India and Modi for their commitment to Covax and providing coronavirus vaccines to "60+" countries in a tweet.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-eu-push-to-temporarily-ban-vaccine-patents-366080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Thanks Flag of India &amp; Prime Minister @narendramodi for supporting #VaccinEquity. Your commitment to #COVAX and sharing #COVID19 vaccine doses is helping 60+ countries start vaccinating their #healthworkers and other priority groups. I hope other countries will follow your example, Tedros in a tweet wrote.&nbsp;

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Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTedros</a>. We are all together in the fight against this pandemic. India is committed to sharing resources, experiences, and knowledge for global good. <a href="https://t.co/nVwQKPUl38">https://t.co/nVwQKPUl38</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1365318008474898437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Indian prime minister responded on the tweet, saying that they are "together in the fight against the pandemic" and the country is "committed" to sharing its "resources" for "global good".&nbsp;

"We are all together in the fight against this pandemic. India is committed to sharing resources, experiences, and knowledge for global good," Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-chief-ghebreyesus-praises-india-pm-modi-for-covid-vaccine-effort-366417">WHO chief Ghebreyesus praises India, PM Modi for Covid vaccine effort</a>

India is winning global praise for what is being described as "vaccine diplomacy" under which the country has delivered millions of Covid-19 vaccine doses to neighbouring Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, earlier than Chinese supplies of vaccines whose efficacy is also questionable.&nbsp;

Other than neighbours, countries like Canada and Brazil have also praised New Delhi for providing them doses of vaccines produced in India.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday thanked WHO director-general after the latter praised him for helping more than 60 countries by providing coronavirus vaccines.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday thanked WHO director-general after the latter praised him for helping more than 60 countries by providing coronavirus vaccines. Earlier on Friday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus thanked India and Modi for their commitment to Covax and providing coronavirus vaccines to "60+" countries in a tweet. Watch | "Thanks Flag of India & Prime Minister @narendramodi for supporting #VaccinEquity. Your commitment to #COVAX and sharing #COVID19 vaccine doses is helping 60+ countries start vaccinating their #healthworkers and other priority groups. I hope other countries will follow your example, Tedros in a tweet wrote. Thank you @DrTedros. We are all together in the fight against this pandemic. India is committed to sharing resources, experiences, and knowledge for global good. https://t.co/nVwQKPUl38 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2021 × The Indian prime minister responded on the tweet, saying that they are "together in the fight against the pandemic" and the country is "committed" to sharing its "resources" for "global good". "We are all together in the fight against this pandemic. India is committed to sharing resources, experiences, and knowledge for global good," Modi tweeted. Also read | WHO chief Ghebreyesus praises India, PM Modi for Covid vaccine effort India is winning global praise for what is being described as "vaccine diplomacy" under which the country has delivered millions of Covid-19 vaccine doses to neighbouring Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, earlier than Chinese supplies of vaccines whose efficacy is also questionable. Other than neighbours, countries like Canada and Brazil have also praised New Delhi for providing them doses of vaccines produced in India.

'We're together in this fight': PM Modi acknowledges after WHO chief applauds India's vaccine efforts

The risk of human-to-human spread of the H5N8 strain of bird flu appears low after it was identified for the first time worldwide in farm workers in Russia, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said.

Russia registered the first case of a strain of bird flu virus named influenza A (H5N8) being passed to humans from birds and reported the matter to the WHO.

The death of 101,000 of the farm's 900,000 egg-laying hens in December had sparked the investigation. Seven people in Russia were found to be infected with H5N8, but all were asymptomatic following an outbreak on a poultry farm in the southern oblast (region) of Astrakhan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reports-first-cases-of-h5n8-bird-flu-in-humans-365072">Also read |&nbsp;Russia reports first cases of H5N8 bird flu in humans</a>

"All close contacts of these cases were clinically monitored, and no one showed signs of clinical illness," it said. "Based on currently available information, the risk of human-to-human transmission remains low."

The WHO advised against any special traveller screening at points of entry or restrictions on travel and or trade with the Russian Federation.

Outbreaks of the H5N8 strain were reported last year in poultry or wild birds in Britain, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Egypt, Germany, Hungary, Iraq, Japan, Kazakhstan, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania and Russia, according to WHO.

A separate bird flu strain, H1N1, that spread rapidly worldwide among humans led the WHO to declare an influenza pandemic in 2009-2010. The outbreak, however, turned out to be mild among humans.

The risk of human-to-human spread of the H5N8 strain of bird flu appears low after it was identified for the first time worldwide in farm workers in Russia, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said.

The risk of human-to-human spread of the H5N8 strain of bird flu appears low after it was identified for the first time worldwide in farm workers in Russia, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said. Russia registered the first case of a strain of bird flu virus named influenza A (H5N8) being passed to humans from birds and reported the matter to the WHO. The death of 101,000 of the farm's 900,000 egg-laying hens in December had sparked the investigation. Seven people in Russia were found to be infected with H5N8, but all were asymptomatic following an outbreak on a poultry farm in the southern oblast (region) of Astrakhan. Also read | Russia reports first cases of H5N8 bird flu in humans "All close contacts of these cases were clinically monitored, and no one showed signs of clinical illness," it said. "Based on currently available information, the risk of human-to-human transmission remains low." The WHO advised against any special traveller screening at points of entry or restrictions on travel and or trade with the Russian Federation. Outbreaks of the H5N8 strain were reported last year in poultry or wild birds in Britain, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Egypt, Germany, Hungary, Iraq, Japan, Kazakhstan, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania and Russia, according to WHO. A separate bird flu strain, H1N1, that spread rapidly worldwide among humans led the WHO to declare an influenza pandemic in 2009-2010. The outbreak, however, turned out to be mild among humans.

Risk of human spread of H5N8 strain of bird flu deemed low, WHO clarifies

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