It's been 2 years since the Wuhan Virus pandemic struck. We still do not know how the virus from China originated. Was it leak from the Wuhan lab? Boris Johnson's government reportedly believes so. Listen in to Palki Sharma.

Gravitas: Lab leak theory: UK considers it 'behind closed doors'

UK Prime minister Boris Johnson told Parliament recently that his government would be "refreshing biosecurity strategy to protect the UK against natural zoonosis and accidental laboratory leaks" in a move reports say the virus likely leaked from a Wuhan lab.

Johnson told lawmakers that protection will be enhanced "as the potential for biological threats emanating from state and non-state actors." The British government has reportedly asked for evidence before drafting the "biosecurity strategy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-experts-weigh-in-on-neocov-fears-after-wuhan-scientists-issue-warning-449002">Also Read: Experts weigh in on 'NeoCoV' fears after Wuhan scientists issue warning</a>

The UK prime minister told Parliament that the government is on "future pandemic preparedness, including through a new pandemic treaty" in the form of a "five-point plan". The UK prime minister said it would be seeking to build an "early warning system or a global pandemic radar".

The UK government proposes to make safe and "effective diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines available within the first 100 days of a future pandemic threat being identified."

Watch |&nbsp;More research needed on deadlier coronavirus flagged by scientists in Wuhan: WHO

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Reports claim a UK expert on chemical and biological counter-terrorism Hamish de Bretton-Gordon has submitted evidence for the strategy with the UK government concerned about “accidental release and dual-use research of concern, where life science research is capable of being misapplied to do harm”.

Hamish de Bretton-Gordon reportedly said officials&nbsp;behind closed doors in the UK government believe the virus was likely spread through a lab leak with Johnson's government eager to ensure a policy is put in place to stop future pandemics.

Ahead of the Winter Olympics in Beijing, a group of international scientists had said that China should stop blocking independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

A WHO team had visited Wuhan in January last year to look into the origins of the virus in cooperation with Chinese experts. 
In a joint report, the experts said the virus had jumped from bats to humans via an intermediate animal while asserting that the lab leak theory was "extremely unlikely".

However, after the report was published there was widespread criticism that rigorous investigation wasn't carried out. The WHO created a new team to look into the origin of the virus but Chinese authorities have blocked further probe into the virus. &nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

UK Prime minister Boris Johnson told Parliament recently that his government would be "refreshing biosecurity strategy to protect the UK against natural zoonosis and accidental laboratory leaks" in a move reports say the virus likely leaked from a Wuhan lab.

UK Prime minister Boris Johnson told Parliament recently that his government would be "refreshing biosecurity strategy to protect the UK against natural zoonosis and accidental laboratory leaks" in a move reports say the virus likely leaked from a Wuhan lab. Johnson told lawmakers that protection will be enhanced "as the potential for biological threats emanating from state and non-state actors." The British government has reportedly asked for evidence before drafting the "biosecurity strategy". Also Read: Experts weigh in on 'NeoCoV' fears after Wuhan scientists issue warning The UK prime minister told Parliament that the government is on "future pandemic preparedness, including through a new pandemic treaty" in the form of a "five-point plan". The UK prime minister said it would be seeking to build an "early warning system or a global pandemic radar". The UK government proposes to make safe and "effective diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines available within the first 100 days of a future pandemic threat being identified." Watch | More research needed on deadlier coronavirus flagged by scientists in Wuhan: WHO Reports claim a UK expert on chemical and biological counter-terrorism Hamish de Bretton-Gordon has submitted evidence for the strategy with the UK government concerned about “accidental release and dual-use research of concern, where life science research is capable of being misapplied to do harm”. Hamish de Bretton-Gordon reportedly said officials behind closed doors in the UK government believe the virus was likely spread through a lab leak with Johnson's government eager to ensure a policy is put in place to stop future pandemics. Ahead of the Winter Olympics in Beijing, a group of international scientists had said that China should stop blocking independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19. A WHO team had visited Wuhan in January last year to look into the origins of the virus in cooperation with Chinese experts. In a joint report, the experts said the virus had jumped from bats to humans via an intermediate animal while asserting that the lab leak theory was "extremely unlikely". However, after the report was published there was widespread criticism that rigorous investigation wasn't carried out. The WHO created a new team to look into the origin of the virus but Chinese authorities have blocked further probe into the virus. (With inputs from Agencies)

UK government seeks to create 'pandemic radar' as Wuhan virus lab theory gains credence

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to unveil his 'living with covid' plan. Those positive for Wuhan virus would no longer need to self-isolate. The plan also scraps free test kits. What explains this? Listen in to Palki Sharma.

Gravitas: Soon: Covid positive patients in UK won't need to isolate

An Omicron fueled Wuhan Virus surge has brought Hong Kong to its knees. The hospitals in the city are overwhelmed. More than 10,000 people are waiting to be admitted to hospitals. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Covid-19 surge brings Hong Kong to its knees

Streaming platform Spotify has reportedly lost USD4 billion. Artists have pulled down their albums, subscribers have hit unsubscribe. Why? Because one podcast host decided to spread Wuhan virus lies. Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: Spotify reportedly loses USD 4 billion in market value

Scientists in Wuhan have flagged a deadlier coronavirus found in bats from South Africa. They say the virus is one mutation away from infecting humans. Its mortality rate is around 33%. Palki Sharma tells you how the world must respond.

Gravitas: Wuhan scientists flag deadlier coronavirus

As China battles the virus, Chinese authorities moved to close down communities in Beijing's neighbouring city&nbsp;Sanhe in Hebei province, reports said.

China's state-run Global Times said capital Beijing reported eight new coronavirus cases. The Chinese daily said bus services were suspended in Sanhe as local communities with suspected virus cases were put under lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-records-two-year-high-in-covid-cases-weeks-before-winter-olympics-445515">Also Read:&nbsp;China records two-year high in Covid cases weeks before Winter Olympics</a>

China's newspaper said 75 new coronavirus cases were detected with six Omicron and 69 Delta variant cases. The report added that COVID-19 cases had spilled over to four provinces.

Beijing is set to host the Winter Olympics next month with officials worried over rising coronavirus cases in the Chinese capital.

The Delta variant is reportedly still the dominant strain in Beijing with new cases detected in a cold-chain storage facility.

China has been following a "zero Covid" policy, however, the International Monetary Fund(IMF)&nbsp;on Wednesday said its anti-Covid policies had led to a slowdown in the economy amid worldwide global supply change disruption.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/china-warns-about-pollution-ahead-of-beijing-2022-covid-curbs-eased-447171">Also Read:&nbsp;China warns about pollution ahead of Beijing 2022; COVID curbs eased</a>

The IMF urged China to "recalibrate" its policy, however, the Chinese foreign ministry said the country has adopted "scientific, comprehensive and effective prevention and control measures" against the virus.

China has been grappling with the Delta wave since mid-September last year with several cities put under severe restrictions amid mass testing of people.&nbsp;

Chinese authorities have moved to impose harsh measures to combat the virus in port cities including in manufacturing centres while slowing down the local economy.

(With inputs from Agencies)

&nbsp;

As China battles the virus, Chinese authorities moved to close down communities in Beijing's neighbouring city Sanhe in Hebei province, reports said. China's state-run Global Times said capital Beijing reported eight new coronavirus cases.

As China battles the virus, Chinese authorities moved to close down communities in Beijing's neighbouring city Sanhe in Hebei province, reports said. China's state-run Global Times said capital Beijing reported eight new coronavirus cases. The Chinese daily said bus services were suspended in Sanhe as local communities with suspected virus cases were put under lockdown. Also Read: China records two-year high in Covid cases weeks before Winter Olympics China's newspaper said 75 new coronavirus cases were detected with six Omicron and 69 Delta variant cases. The report added that COVID-19 cases had spilled over to four provinces. Beijing is set to host the Winter Olympics next month with officials worried over rising coronavirus cases in the Chinese capital. The Delta variant is reportedly still the dominant strain in Beijing with new cases detected in a cold-chain storage facility. China has been following a "zero Covid" policy, however, the International Monetary Fund(IMF) on Wednesday said its anti-Covid policies had led to a slowdown in the economy amid worldwide global supply change disruption. Also Read: China warns about pollution ahead of Beijing 2022; COVID curbs eased The IMF urged China to "recalibrate" its policy, however, the Chinese foreign ministry said the country has adopted "scientific, comprehensive and effective prevention and control measures" against the virus. China has been grappling with the Delta wave since mid-September last year with several cities put under severe restrictions amid mass testing of people. Chinese authorities have moved to impose harsh measures to combat the virus in port cities including in manufacturing centres while slowing down the local economy. (With inputs from Agencies)

Amid Delta outbreak, Chinese authorities lock down communities near Beijing's neighbouring city

Hong Kong is culling 2000 hamsters after traces of the Wuhan Virus were found in 11 of them. Residents are being forced to surrender their pets; Pet shops are being raided. Hamsters testing negative are being put to sleep too. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Hong Kong to cull 2000 hamsters

It was supposed to be a new year, a post-pandemic 2022 one, where we put the pandemic behind us. Instead, it is the year of a new variant one that is wreaking havoc across the world omicron is currently shaking the globe to its core.

Omicron causing crippling staff shortages in UK & US

As China battles the pandemic, authorities in&nbsp;Shaanxi province have ordered workers not to leave for home during New Year and Spring holidays.

China's Xi'an city has emerged as the new epicentre of the virus as authorities have imposed wide-ranging lockdown of the city.

On Saturday, Xi'an witnessed a flare-up of COVID-19 cases with 155 confirmed coronavirus cases with 485 locally transmitted cases detected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-fold-increase-observed-in-hospitalisation-of-new-yorks-children-amid-omicron-spread-440255">Also Read:&nbsp;Four-fold increase observed in hospitalisation of New York's children</a>

China's state-run Global Times reported the coronavirus virus cases have been fueled by the Delta variant as authorities have moved in to seal residents of Shaanxi province and tightened restrictions.

Reports said authorities have imposed fines of upto $7,852 on businesses who have been found to be hoarding goods or indulging in overpricing.

The Chinese daily&nbsp;reported that the virus surge has spilled over to other provinces including Henan, Guangdong and capital Beijing.

Reports claim "infection chains" were detected in multiple districts. There are nearly 13 million residents in &nbsp;Xi'an who have been put under lockdown as authorities started a mass testing campaign to rein in the virus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coronavirus-alpha-variant-has-learnt-how-to-evade-innate-immune-system-research-440242">Also Read |&nbsp;Coronavirus' Alpha variant has learnt how to evade innate immune system: Research</a>

The authorities have disallowed cars on the road in Xi'an with fines and detention on those who break the rule.

China recorded 206 coronavirus cases on Sunday.&nbsp;The country continues to fight the pandemic nearly two years after it was first reported in Wuhan.

China had reported the first case of coronavirus to the World Health Organisation on December 31, 2019.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As China battles the pandemic, authorities in Shaanxi province have ordered workers not to leave for home during New Year and Spring holidays. China's Xi'an city has emerged as the new epicentre of the virus as authorities have imposed wide-ranging lockdown of the city.

As China battles the pandemic, authorities in Shaanxi province have ordered workers not to leave for home during New Year and Spring holidays. China's Xi'an city has emerged as the new epicentre of the virus as authorities have imposed wide-ranging lockdown of the city. On Saturday, Xi'an witnessed a flare-up of COVID-19 cases with 155 confirmed coronavirus cases with 485 locally transmitted cases detected. Also Read: Four-fold increase observed in hospitalisation of New York's children China's state-run Global Times reported the coronavirus virus cases have been fueled by the Delta variant as authorities have moved in to seal residents of Shaanxi province and tightened restrictions. Reports said authorities have imposed fines of upto $7,852 on businesses who have been found to be hoarding goods or indulging in overpricing. The Chinese daily reported that the virus surge has spilled over to other provinces including Henan, Guangdong and capital Beijing. Reports claim "infection chains" were detected in multiple districts. There are nearly 13 million residents in Xi'an who have been put under lockdown as authorities started a mass testing campaign to rein in the virus. Also Read | Coronavirus' Alpha variant has learnt how to evade innate immune system: Research The authorities have disallowed cars on the road in Xi'an with fines and detention on those who break the rule. China recorded 206 coronavirus cases on Sunday. The country continues to fight the pandemic nearly two years after it was first reported in Wuhan. China had reported the first case of coronavirus to the World Health Organisation on December 31, 2019. (With inputs from Agencies)

Amid mass testing and lockdown, China orders migrants in Xi'an not to leave city

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa slammed the western nations which have imposed travel bans on the country on fears of the new potentially highly-transmissible variant of COVID-19, Omicron.

South Africa President questions travel bans by western nations on fears of Omicron

Omicron was in Europe way before South Africa flagged it. Where did the new variant come from? Is banning flights from South Africa even helping? What should the World do? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: What the world can learn from the Omicron surge

Days after a new variant of COVID-19 was identified in southern Africa, at least 20 countries around the world have confirmed that they have found cases of it too. At least 70 countries and territories have imposed travel restrictions over the Omicron variant.

At least 20 countries confirm Omicron COVID-19 variant cases

The discovery of a new COVID-19 variant named Omicron triggered global alarm as countries rushed to suspend travel from southern Africa. A Bioinformatics Professor from Jerusalem, Michal Linial brings you an overview of the variant.

New COVID-19 variant Omicron triggers travel bans, restrictions

The discovery of a new and potentially more transmissible coronavirus variant by South African health authorities has sparked a forceful reaction across the world. An epidemiologist from South Africa brings you an overview of the variant.

Omicron, a new COVID-19 variant sparks travel bans, worries scientists

The new Omicron variant is spreading across the globe. Nations are shutting down borders and COVID-19 restrictions are returning. WION takes you where the news goes as our correspondents track the latest Omicron variant updates across the globe.

WION Developing Story: Fears of Omicron variant looms over the world

WHO has skipped Greek letters 'Xi' & 'Nu' to name the new Wuhan Virus variant 'Omicron'. Was this a deliberate omission? What is the health body saying in its defence? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: WHO skips 'XI' & 'NU', names new variant 'Omicron'; How deadly is the new variant?

According to China's state-run Global Times, the country's northwest Shaanxi province has witnessed several cases of hemorrhagic fever.

The Chinese newspaper said it is a "natural epidemic disease with high fatality rate". However, there is no confirmation on the exact number of fatalities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christmas-travel-can-lead-to-doubling-of-omicron-cases-fauci-438291">Also Read:&nbsp;Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases, says&nbsp;Fauci</a>

Report says rodents are the main source of infection. A mouse bite on food including edibles infected with mouse blood or faeces also causes the disease.

The newspaper quoting medical experts said it does not cause "human-to-human transmission". It can also be prevented through vaccination.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the report said hospitals in China's Xian has temporarily stopped taking non-coronavirus patients.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-pakistans-covid-19-mortality-rate-much-higher-than-global-data-heres-a-report-438225">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;Is Pakistan's COVID-19 mortality rate much higher than global data?&nbsp;</a>

The report claimed hemorrhagic fever is common in northern China with Shaanxi reporting hemorrhagic fever cases since October.

China has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases in the past two months with the Delta variant dominating the COVID-19 cases. The authorities had lockdown provinces close to the border with Russia as virus cases surged last month.

Millions of people in the past few months have been put on lockdown after COVID-19 flare-ups across the country. China has been preparing for the Winter Olympics in February with authorities worried over the current virus spread. The country has also reported at least two confirmed Omicron cases so far.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to China's state-run Global Times, the country's northwest Shaanxi province has witnessed several cases of hemorrhagic fever. The Chinese newspaper said it is a "natural epidemic disease with high fatality rate".

According to China's state-run Global Times, the country's northwest Shaanxi province has witnessed several cases of hemorrhagic fever. The Chinese newspaper said it is a "natural epidemic disease with high fatality rate". However, there is no confirmation on the exact number of fatalities. Also Read: Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases, says Fauci Report says rodents are the main source of infection. A mouse bite on food including edibles infected with mouse blood or faeces also causes the disease. The newspaper quoting medical experts said it does not cause "human-to-human transmission". It can also be prevented through vaccination. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the report said hospitals in China's Xian has temporarily stopped taking non-coronavirus patients. Also Read: Is Pakistan's COVID-19 mortality rate much higher than global data? The report claimed hemorrhagic fever is common in northern China with Shaanxi reporting hemorrhagic fever cases since October. China has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases in the past two months with the Delta variant dominating the COVID-19 cases. The authorities had lockdown provinces close to the border with Russia as virus cases surged last month. Millions of people in the past few months have been put on lockdown after COVID-19 flare-ups across the country. China has been preparing for the Winter Olympics in February with authorities worried over the current virus spread. The country has also reported at least two confirmed Omicron cases so far. (With inputs from Agencies)

China's northwest region hit with hemorrhagic fever

There is a possibility that the COVID-19 virus was "most likely" leaked from a lab in China,&nbsp;British MPs were informed on Thursday.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Harvard scientist Dr Alina Chan, while testifying&nbsp;before the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee, said that it was reasonable to hypothesise and investigate whether the Covid virus was modified in the lab.&nbsp;

The first cases were linked to a seafood market in Wuhan, which is located across&nbsp;the Yangtze river&nbsp;where a virology lab is located.

When asked by the panel about the probability of a lab leak as the origin of the pandemic, Chan said a “lab origin is more likely than natural origin at this point”.

“We all agree that there was a critical event at the Huanan Seafood Market, that was a superspreader event caused by humans. There is no evidence pointing to a natural animal origin of the virus at that market,” she noted.

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Wuhan lab leak 'now the most likely origin of Covid' Dr Alina Chan tells MPs: "you find these scientists who said in early 2018 ‘I’m going to put horns on horses’ and at the end of 2019 a unicorn turns up in Wuhan city" <a href="https://t.co/4Tg3CUssZF">pic.twitter.com/4Tg3CUssZF</a>
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Speaking on the possibility of the&nbsp;virus being engineered in the lab before a leak, Chan said: "We have heard from many top virologists that a genetically engineered origin of this virus is reasonable...and this includes virologists who themselves have made modifications to the first SARS virus."

On the question of her level of confidence that the world would eventually be able to establish the true origins of COVID-19, Chan said it was simply a matter of time.

"Right now it's not safe for people who know about the origin of this pandemic to come forward. It might be five years from now, it might be 50 years from now, but we live in an era where there's so much data being collected and stored...we just need a credible, systematic investigation," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-working-on-covid-origin-notice-timeline-discrepancies-1st-case-was-a-vendor-at-wuhan-market-430452">Also read | Scientists working on Covid origin notice timeline discrepancies; 1st case was a vendor at Wuhan market</a>

"We know now that this virus has a very unique feature, called the furin cleavage site that makes it the pandemic pathogen it is. So, without this feature, there's no way this would be causing this pandemic."

"Only recently in September did a proposal get leaked showing that scientists from the EcoHealth Alliance were in collaboration with the Wuhan Institute of Virology developing this pipeline for inserting novel furin cleavage sites, these genetic modifications, into SARS-like viruses in the lab," Chan said.

According to Tory lord Lord Ridley, who has co-authored a book on the virus's origins with Dr Chan, the fact that experts have still not located the animal host that would support a natural origin despite two years of investigation, supports the notion that COVID-19 emerged from a lab.Recent discoveries of China's attempted cover-up have compelled British and US intelligence agencies to investigate the lab-leak idea seriously, which was previously regarded as a lunatic conspiracy theory.

 
 
Watch |&nbsp; Gravitas: Lab leak "most likely" source of Covid-19, British MPs told

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The explosive charges, on the other hand, are expected to put pressure on the UK government to question Beijing's assertions that the virus originated in nature.

They're also expected to raise more questions about Chinese President Xi Jinping's connection with the WHO, which was accused last year of issuing a whitewash report on the outbreak.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

There is a possibility that the COVID-19 virus was "most likely" leaked from a lab in China, British MPs were informed on Thursday. Harvard scientist Dr Alina Chan, while testifying before the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee, said that it was reasonable to hypothesise and investigate whether the Covid virus was modified in the lab.

There is a possibility that the COVID-19 virus was "most likely" leaked from a lab in China, British MPs were informed on Thursday. Harvard scientist Dr Alina Chan, while testifying before the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee, said that it was reasonable to hypothesise and investigate whether the Covid virus was modified in the lab. The first cases were linked to a seafood market in Wuhan, which is located across the Yangtze river where a virology lab is located. When asked by the panel about the probability of a lab leak as the origin of the pandemic, Chan said a “lab origin is more likely than natural origin at this point”. “We all agree that there was a critical event at the Huanan Seafood Market, that was a superspreader event caused by humans. There is no evidence pointing to a natural animal origin of the virus at that market,” she noted. Wuhan lab leak 'now the most likely origin of Covid' Dr Alina Chan tells MPs: "you find these scientists who said in early 2018 ‘I’m going to put horns on horses’ and at the end of 2019 a unicorn turns up in Wuhan city" pic.twitter.com/4Tg3CUssZF — BenHurst (@BenHurst) December 15, 2021 × Speaking on the possibility of the virus being engineered in the lab before a leak, Chan said: "We have heard from many top virologists that a genetically engineered origin of this virus is reasonable...and this includes virologists who themselves have made modifications to the first SARS virus." On the question of her level of confidence that the world would eventually be able to establish the true origins of COVID-19, Chan said it was simply a matter of time. "Right now it's not safe for people who know about the origin of this pandemic to come forward. It might be five years from now, it might be 50 years from now, but we live in an era where there's so much data being collected and stored...we just need a credible, systematic investigation," she said. Also read | Scientists working on Covid origin notice timeline discrepancies; 1st case was a vendor at Wuhan market "We know now that this virus has a very unique feature, called the furin cleavage site that makes it the pandemic pathogen it is. So, without this feature, there's no way this would be causing this pandemic." "Only recently in September did a proposal get leaked showing that scientists from the EcoHealth Alliance were in collaboration with the Wuhan Institute of Virology developing this pipeline for inserting novel furin cleavage sites, these genetic modifications, into SARS-like viruses in the lab," Chan said. According to Tory lord Lord Ridley, who has co-authored a book on the virus's origins with Dr Chan, the fact that experts have still not located the animal host that would support a natural origin despite two years of investigation, supports the notion that COVID-19 emerged from a lab.Recent discoveries of China's attempted cover-up have compelled British and US intelligence agencies to investigate the lab-leak idea seriously, which was previously regarded as a lunatic conspiracy theory. Watch | Gravitas: Lab leak "most likely" source of Covid-19, British MPs told The explosive charges, on the other hand, are expected to put pressure on the UK government to question Beijing's assertions that the virus originated in nature. They're also expected to raise more questions about Chinese President Xi Jinping's connection with the WHO, which was accused last year of issuing a whitewash report on the outbreak. (With input from agencies)

Reasonable to hypothesise Covid virus is genetically engineered: Expert

Alina Chan told British MPs that a lab leak is "the most likely" source of the Wuhan virus. She also asked the Lancet to share the research it received from Chinese scientists. Palki Sharma tells you how the lab leak theory is back in focus.

Gravitas: Lab leak "most likely" source of Covid-19, British MPs told

Amid surge in coronavirus cases, reports say Chinese authorities have told workers to not travel&nbsp;home for Lunar New Year.

The authorities had issued a similar order last year as China was hit with COVID-19 cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-cases-of-a-new-more-transmissible-delta-strain-sub-lineage-ay4-436525">Also Read:&nbsp;China reports cases of a new, more transmissible Delta strain, 'sub-lineage AY.4'</a>

Reports claim China's Zhejiang province has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases including locally transmitted cases. Coronavirus cases have also been detected in Inner Mongolia as the country continues to battle the virus.

Reports claim Chinese companies have suspended production in Zhejiang province after the government imposed curbs. The province had detected just one COVID-19 case last month however in the past month with several news cases reported this month.

Amid the coronavirus cases, reports claimed China reported the first Omicron case in the country. The case was reportedly detected in China's northern port city of Tianjin. The person had reportedly travelled overseas.

The country has witnessed a surge in cases for the past three months even as it prepares to host the Winter Olympics in February next year.&nbsp;China's foreign ministry had declared earlier that the Omicron variant may "lead to challenges linked to prevention and control" with the impending Winter Games set to take place.

Chinese media reports said authorities may allow only fully vaccinated spectators to enter the stadium, however, they may not be allowed altogether if the virus situation gets worse.

On Sunday, the country reported 80 new locally transmitted cases. China had earlier locked down cities bordering Russia amid rise in cases. The country's capital Beijing was also put under restriction as new COVID-19 were detected.

According to Chinese health officials over 1 billion people have been vaccinated so far.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid surge in coronavirus cases, reports say Chinese authorities have told workers to not travel home for Lunar New Year. The authorities had issued a similar order last year as China was hit with COVID-19 cases.

Amid surge in coronavirus cases, reports say Chinese authorities have told workers to not travel home for Lunar New Year. The authorities had issued a similar order last year as China was hit with COVID-19 cases. Also Read: China reports cases of a new, more transmissible Delta strain, 'sub-lineage AY.4' Reports claim China's Zhejiang province has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases including locally transmitted cases. Coronavirus cases have also been detected in Inner Mongolia as the country continues to battle the virus. Reports claim Chinese companies have suspended production in Zhejiang province after the government imposed curbs. The province had detected just one COVID-19 case last month however in the past month with several news cases reported this month. Amid the coronavirus cases, reports claimed China reported the first Omicron case in the country. The case was reportedly detected in China's northern port city of Tianjin. The person had reportedly travelled overseas. The country has witnessed a surge in cases for the past three months even as it prepares to host the Winter Olympics in February next year. China's foreign ministry had declared earlier that the Omicron variant may "lead to challenges linked to prevention and control" with the impending Winter Games set to take place. Chinese media reports said authorities may allow only fully vaccinated spectators to enter the stadium, however, they may not be allowed altogether if the virus situation gets worse. On Sunday, the country reported 80 new locally transmitted cases. China had earlier locked down cities bordering Russia amid rise in cases. The country's capital Beijing was also put under restriction as new COVID-19 were detected. According to Chinese health officials over 1 billion people have been vaccinated so far. (With inputs from Agencies)

China on alert amid COVID-19 surge as Lunar New Year approaches

The new Wuhan virus variant- Omicron is ringing alarm bells worldwide. Travel restrictions are back. New clusters have emerged outside Africa. There are doubts if existing vaccines will work. Palki Sharma bring you the 5 big developments.

Gravitas: New Wuhan Virus variant rings alarm bells worldwide

2021 may be coming to an end but the pandemic isn't. The 'deadliest' variant of the Wuhan Virus has just been discovered. Scientists are describing it as 'horrific'. There are fears this variant may even escape vaccine-induced immunity. Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: New Variant of Wuhan Virus discovered

A new study on the origins of the Wuhan Virus has rejected WHO's claims on who the first patient was. WHO claimed the first patient had no links to the Huanan Wet market. The study says 'patient zero' was a sea-food vendor at the market. Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: New Study on Wuhan Virus origins rejects WHO findings

According to reports, thousands of students have been quarantined in China's Liaoning province after an outbreak of coronavirus as authorities reportedly moved people who had come in contact with them to hotels.

Reports claimed over 7,000 students have been isolated. Dalian region in China has been the hardest hit with the current virus outbreak as China's health agency reported new COVID-19 cases were detected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-coronavirus-flareups-surge-in-provinces-429245">Also Read:&nbsp;China's coronavirus 'flareups' surge in provinces</a>

The latest outbreak has affected 21 provinces in China with the ports city of Dalian consistently&nbsp;reporting new COVID-19 cases worrying health officials.

Reports say people arriving from Dalian in nearby cities have also been quarantined as authorities continue to impose strict rules to fight the virus.

Watch:&nbsp;Why is China encouraging bulk buying?

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Authorities in Dalian earlier had closed schools and libraries while undertaking mass testing in a bid to combat the virus and later asked people not to leave homes unless necessary.

China has so far reported over 98,000 coronavirus cases since it first appeared in Wuhan city in 2019 while recording 4,636 fatalities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-arrests-official-who-was-sent-to-wuhan-during-covid-outbreak-427198">Also Read:&nbsp;China arrests official who was sent to Wuhan during Covid outbreak</a>

The virus has hit several areas in the country including capital Beijing which last week had closed malls after outbreaks were reported.&nbsp;The authorities also moved to close areas in Beijing's s central districts which reported new coronavirus cases.

People inside the malls were reportedly not allowed to leave before being tested as authorities imposed strict clampdown measures as China continues to follow the "zero-COVID-19" strategy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-china-puts-restrictions-on-kids-clothing-company-after-alleged-covid-risk-428867">Also Read:&nbsp;China puts restrictions on kids' clothing company after alleged COVID risk</a>

In the past few months, Chinese authorities have lockdown several towns after virus cases have been reported and restricted the movement of people and imposed restrictions on domestic air travel.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to reports, thousands of students have been quarantined in China's Liaoning province after an outbreak of coronavirus as authorities reportedly moved people who had come in contact with them to hotels.

According to reports, thousands of students have been quarantined in China's Liaoning province after an outbreak of coronavirus as authorities reportedly moved people who had come in contact with them to hotels. Reports claimed over 7,000 students have been isolated. Dalian region in China has been the hardest hit with the current virus outbreak as China's health agency reported new COVID-19 cases were detected. Also Read: China's coronavirus 'flareups' surge in provinces The latest outbreak has affected 21 provinces in China with the ports city of Dalian consistently reporting new COVID-19 cases worrying health officials. Reports say people arriving from Dalian in nearby cities have also been quarantined as authorities continue to impose strict rules to fight the virus. Watch: Why is China encouraging bulk buying? Authorities in Dalian earlier had closed schools and libraries while undertaking mass testing in a bid to combat the virus and later asked people not to leave homes unless necessary. China has so far reported over 98,000 coronavirus cases since it first appeared in Wuhan city in 2019 while recording 4,636 fatalities. Also Read: China arrests official who was sent to Wuhan during Covid outbreak The virus has hit several areas in the country including capital Beijing which last week had closed malls after outbreaks were reported. The authorities also moved to close areas in Beijing's s central districts which reported new coronavirus cases. People inside the malls were reportedly not allowed to leave before being tested as authorities imposed strict clampdown measures as China continues to follow the "zero-COVID-19" strategy. Also Read: China puts restrictions on kids' clothing company after alleged COVID risk In the past few months, Chinese authorities have lockdown several towns after virus cases have been reported and restricted the movement of people and imposed restrictions on domestic air travel. (With inputs from Agencies)

Thousands of students quarantined in China's province amid surge in virus cases

Gravitas Plus | 1.5 million people die every year because of diabetes. The disease has been linked to kidney failure, heart attack, Alzheimer's, depression. 642mn people will have diabetes by 2040. India is already the diabetes capital of the world. Wuhan Virus has exacerbated the problem. Could you too be at risk? Palki Sharma tells you all about diabetes.

Gravitas Plus: World Diabetes Day, 2021

As coronavirus cases continue to&nbsp;surge in China, reports say the new COVID-19 flareups&nbsp; affected 21 provinces, which is two-thirds of the country.

According to China's state-run Global Times, coronavirus cases may increase in the country with winter on the way and the presence of various infections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-china-puts-restrictions-on-kids-clothing-company-after-alleged-covid-risk-428867">Also Read:&nbsp;China puts restrictions on kids' clothing company after alleged COVID risk</a>

Amid the increase in COVID-19 cases, the Chinese daily quoted the&nbsp;spokesman of China's National Health Commission (NHC) who said that the country's "zero COVID" strategy will continue. The infection cases on China's border with Russia and Mongolia has surged in the past month.&nbsp;

The newspaper said the virus situation in China's northeast Liaoning province is "complex" with "community transmission" detected in towns and streets.

Watch:&nbsp;Zhang Zhan, jailed for COVID-19 reporting in Wuhan is on brink of death

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In an attempt to tighten curbs, authorities in capital Beijing have ordered citizens who have visited other areas to&nbsp;avoid coming to the Chinese capital.

Beijing authorities this week had ordered a lockdown of several areas after virus outbreak in central districts while ramping up testing. Malls were shut as reports claimed people were not allowed to leave the&nbsp;premises without being tested.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-seeks-to-speed-up-vaccination-as-kids-report-increased-infections-427679">Also Read:&nbsp;China seeks to speed up vaccination as kids report increased infections</a>

Chinese authorities have lockdown several areas and cities in the past two months and restricted domestic travel in an attempt to combat the new virus wave.

In Wuhan where the virus first appeared in December 2019, reports claimed authorities this week detained three organisers for allowing people to congregate during an eSports event.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

As coronavirus cases continue to surge in China, reports say the new COVID-19 flareups affected 21 provinces, which is two-thirds of the country. According to China's state-run Global Times, coronavirus cases may increase in the country with winter on the way and the presence of various infections.

As coronavirus cases continue to surge in China, reports say the new COVID-19 flareups affected 21 provinces, which is two-thirds of the country. According to China's state-run Global Times, coronavirus cases may increase in the country with winter on the way and the presence of various infections. Also Read: China puts restrictions on kids' clothing company after alleged COVID risk Amid the increase in COVID-19 cases, the Chinese daily quoted the spokesman of China's National Health Commission (NHC) who said that the country's "zero COVID" strategy will continue. The infection cases on China's border with Russia and Mongolia has surged in the past month. The newspaper said the virus situation in China's northeast Liaoning province is "complex" with "community transmission" detected in towns and streets. Watch: Zhang Zhan, jailed for COVID-19 reporting in Wuhan is on brink of death In an attempt to tighten curbs, authorities in capital Beijing have ordered citizens who have visited other areas to avoid coming to the Chinese capital. Beijing authorities this week had ordered a lockdown of several areas after virus outbreak in central districts while ramping up testing. Malls were shut as reports claimed people were not allowed to leave the premises without being tested. Also Read: China seeks to speed up vaccination as kids report increased infections Chinese authorities have lockdown several areas and cities in the past two months and restricted domestic travel in an attempt to combat the new virus wave. In Wuhan where the virus first appeared in December 2019, reports claimed authorities this week detained three organisers for allowing people to congregate during an eSports event. (With inputs from Agencies)

China's coronavirus 'flareups' surge in provinces

As coronavirus cases continue to mount in China, reports claim authorities in a city&nbsp;on Russia's border have offered up to $15,500 as a reward for information "to uncover the source of virus outbreak".

The authorities have announced the award in China's Heihe city in&nbsp;Heilongjiang province after the latest outbreak in which at least 240 people were infected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-directive-on-stockpiling-food-triggers-hoarding-panic-buying-427729">Also Read: China's new directive on stockpiling food triggers hoarding, panic buying</a>

The officials have also reportedly said that cross-border fishing and smuggling should also be reported. The campaign to hand out rewards to trace the virus has been declared a “people’s war”.

The development comes as China has reported several new cases especially in the northeastern border city including locally transmitted coronavirus cases since August which has worried health officials.

Watch:

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Last month China's National Health Commission (NHC) had released data which showed 377 locally transmitted COVID-19 cases.

Heihe located in Russia's border had reported 26 local cases in a single day with&nbsp;Russia reporting daily rise in coronavirus&nbsp;cases in the past two months.

Chinese health officials said several virus cases in the country's north and northwest areas have been linked to cases from abroad with many located in border areas.

The virus has also spread to several cities in the current outbreak. Last month authorities in Shanghai Disneyland had closed the widely popular entertainment park after a single virus was detected. The authorities reportedly shut the visitors and workers inside and carried out mass testing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-arrests-official-who-was-sent-to-wuhan-during-covid-outbreak-427198">Also Read:&nbsp;China arrests official who was sent to Wuhan during Covid outbreak</a>

The authorities had lockdown Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu province located in northwest China after a surge in virus cases. Domestic flights from Beijing was also barred as residents were asked to stay home.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zhang-zhan-who-exposed-chinas-mishandling-of-covid-is-close-to-death-in-jail-family-426911">Also Read:&nbsp;Zhang Zhan, who exposed China's mishandling of Covid, is close to death in jail</a>

The authorities had also imposed restrictions in capital Beijing as new COVID-19 cases emerged as residents were told not to leave the city unless necessary.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As coronavirus cases continue to mount in China, reports claim authorities in a city on Russia's border have offered up to $15,500 as a reward for information "to uncover the source of virus outbreak".

As coronavirus cases continue to mount in China, reports claim authorities in a city on Russia's border have offered up to $15,500 as a reward for information "to uncover the source of virus outbreak". The authorities have announced the award in China's Heihe city in Heilongjiang province after the latest outbreak in which at least 240 people were infected. Also Read: China's new directive on stockpiling food triggers hoarding, panic buying The officials have also reportedly said that cross-border fishing and smuggling should also be reported. The campaign to hand out rewards to trace the virus has been declared a “people’s war”. The development comes as China has reported several new cases especially in the northeastern border city including locally transmitted coronavirus cases since August which has worried health officials. Watch: Last month China's National Health Commission (NHC) had released data which showed 377 locally transmitted COVID-19 cases. Heihe located in Russia's border had reported 26 local cases in a single day with Russia reporting daily rise in coronavirus cases in the past two months. Chinese health officials said several virus cases in the country's north and northwest areas have been linked to cases from abroad with many located in border areas. The virus has also spread to several cities in the current outbreak. Last month authorities in Shanghai Disneyland had closed the widely popular entertainment park after a single virus was detected. The authorities reportedly shut the visitors and workers inside and carried out mass testing. Also Read: China arrests official who was sent to Wuhan during Covid outbreak The authorities had lockdown Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu province located in northwest China after a surge in virus cases. Domestic flights from Beijing was also barred as residents were asked to stay home. Also Read: Zhang Zhan, who exposed China's mishandling of Covid, is close to death in jail The authorities had also imposed restrictions in capital Beijing as new COVID-19 cases emerged as residents were told not to leave the city unless necessary. (With inputs from Agencies)

'People’s war': Now, Chinese city offers cash for coronavirus clues

Wuhan Virus cases and deaths are surging for the first time in 2 months. 6 Million people are under lockdown in China, Russia has recorded its highest daily deaths, Tonga has recorded its first-ever case of the Wuhan Virus. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus cases and deaths surge again

China put another city on lockdown on Thursday as the coronavirus cases continued to surge in the country.

Heilongjiang province on Russia's border in the northeast was put on lockdown. The restrictions came into effect after one person was confirmed with the infection and three asymptomatic cases were also reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-nih-admits-to-us-funding-of-gain-of-function-research-in-wuhan-lab-423010">Also Read:&nbsp;NIH admits to US funding of gain-of-function research in Wuhan lab</a>

China had earlier put Lanzhou in the northwest and the Mongolia border city of Ejin Banner under lockdown.

The authorities suspended all operations in productions units in Heilongjiang with supermarkets and pharmacies allowed to function for a limited time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unvaccinated-people-can-get-infected-by-coronavirus-every-16-months-experts-422374">Also Read|&nbsp;Unvaccinated people can get infected by coronavirus every 16 months: Experts</a>

Reports said residential colonies and villages have been closed in Heihe and gatherings have been banned amid large scale testing underway in the area. Vehicles have also not been allowed to leave the city and movement has been restricted.

China is reportedly battling virus outbreaks in eleven provinces. On Thursday, the country reported 23 virus cases as Lanzhou which is considered a transportation hub reported one case and Ejin recorded seven coronavirus cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reports-record-daily-coronavirus-deaths-418345">Also Read:&nbsp;Russia reports record daily coronavirus deaths</a>

Ejin was reportedly suspected of being the source of transmission surge in China in recent weeks.

However, thousands remain under lockdown in several areas including in capital Beijing in small lockdown.

(With inputs from Agencies)

China put another city on lockdown on Thursday as the coronavirus cases continued to surge in the country. Heilongjiang province on Russia's border in the northeast was put on lockdown.

China put another city on lockdown on Thursday as the coronavirus cases continued to surge in the country. Heilongjiang province on Russia's border in the northeast was put on lockdown. The restrictions came into effect after one person was confirmed with the infection and three asymptomatic cases were also reported. Also Read: NIH admits to US funding of gain-of-function research in Wuhan lab China had earlier put Lanzhou in the northwest and the Mongolia border city of Ejin Banner under lockdown. The authorities suspended all operations in productions units in Heilongjiang with supermarkets and pharmacies allowed to function for a limited time. Also Read| Unvaccinated people can get infected by coronavirus every 16 months: Experts Reports said residential colonies and villages have been closed in Heihe and gatherings have been banned amid large scale testing underway in the area. Vehicles have also not been allowed to leave the city and movement has been restricted. China is reportedly battling virus outbreaks in eleven provinces. On Thursday, the country reported 23 virus cases as Lanzhou which is considered a transportation hub reported one case and Ejin recorded seven coronavirus cases. Also Read: Russia reports record daily coronavirus deaths Ejin was reportedly suspected of being the source of transmission surge in China in recent weeks. However, thousands remain under lockdown in several areas including in capital Beijing in small lockdown. (With inputs from Agencies)

China puts another city on lockdown amid surge in coronavirus cases

In an exclusive interview to Palki Sharma, David Robinson- the Co-Founder of Internet 2.O revealed how purchases of PCR tests in Hubei shot up after May 2019- well before China officially reported its first cases.

Gravitas: Purchases of PCR tests in Hubei rose sharply from July-October 2019

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