The Lab Leak Theory is getting bigger & serious. The US is seeking 'Phase 2' of an investigation into Wuhan Virus origins. WHO's top virologist Marion Koopmans says a 'follow-up' probe is needed. Where are things headed? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: US seeks 'Phase 2' of investigation into COVID-origins

A leading scientist on the&nbsp;WHO's COVID-19 mission to&nbsp;China&nbsp;said on Tuesday that a follow-up trip could be helpful to gather additional research on the origins of the disease, but should be separate from any audit of information provided by Beijing.

The comments from Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans came after the United States called on Tuesday for international experts to be allowed to evaluate the source of the coronavirus and the early days of the outbreak in a second phase of the&nbsp;WHO's investigation into the origins of the coronavirus.

Koopmans was part of the&nbsp;WHO-led team which spent four weeks in&nbsp;China&nbsp;earlier this year and in March published a report jointly with Chinese scientists that said the virus had probably been transmitted from bats to humans through another animal.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-lab-origin-theory-gains-traction-in-united-states-387436">Covid lab origin theory gains traction in United States</a>

"Introduction through a laboratory incident was considered to be an extremely unlikely pathway," its report said.

Discussions about the outbreak gained renewed attention this week as US&nbsp;intelligence agencies examine reports that researchers at a Chinese virology laboratory in Wuhan were seriously ill in 2019 a month before the first cases of COVID-19 were reported.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-admits-wuhan-lab-received-modest-funds-from-us-amid-calls-for-probe-into-covid-origins-387497">Fauci admits Wuhan lab received 'modest' funds from US amid calls for probe into Covid origins</a>

US&nbsp;government sources have said there is still no proof the disease originated at the lab.

Koopmans said the team would be eager to carry out additional research in&nbsp;China&nbsp;in a number of areas and was awaiting the outcome of&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;discussions. She stressed the need for a clear mandate to conduct research, not to carry out an audit.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-virus-lab-leak-theory-why-china-has-blocked-access-to-yunnan-mine-387360">Wuhan virus lab leak theory: Why China has blocked access to Yunnan mine</a>

"I think these cannot be combined. So we believe that is a combination that will not work. In that case you say we are going to carry out an inspection, or we are going to do the follow-up research, or both, but through different mechanisms, otherwise you simply will not make any progress," she said.

A leading scientist on the WHO's COVID-19 mission to China said on Tuesday that a follow-up trip could be helpful to gather additional research on the origins of the disease, but should be separate from any audit of information provided by Beijing.

A leading scientist on the WHO's COVID-19 mission to China said on Tuesday that a follow-up trip could be helpful to gather additional research on the origins of the disease, but should be separate from any audit of information provided by Beijing. The comments from Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans came after the United States called on Tuesday for international experts to be allowed to evaluate the source of the coronavirus and the early days of the outbreak in a second phase of the WHO's investigation into the origins of the coronavirus. Koopmans was part of the WHO-led team which spent four weeks in China earlier this year and in March published a report jointly with Chinese scientists that said the virus had probably been transmitted from bats to humans through another animal. Also Read | Covid lab origin theory gains traction in United States "Introduction through a laboratory incident was considered to be an extremely unlikely pathway," its report said. Discussions about the outbreak gained renewed attention this week as US intelligence agencies examine reports that researchers at a Chinese virology laboratory in Wuhan were seriously ill in 2019 a month before the first cases of COVID-19 were reported. Also Read | Fauci admits Wuhan lab received 'modest' funds from US amid calls for probe into Covid origins US government sources have said there is still no proof the disease originated at the lab. Koopmans said the team would be eager to carry out additional research in China in a number of areas and was awaiting the outcome of WHO discussions. She stressed the need for a clear mandate to conduct research, not to carry out an audit. Also Read | Wuhan virus lab leak theory: Why China has blocked access to Yunnan mine "I think these cannot be combined. So we believe that is a combination that will not work. In that case you say we are going to carry out an inspection, or we are going to do the follow-up research, or both, but through different mechanisms, otherwise you simply will not make any progress," she said.

WHO expert say new research mission to China would be helpful

In 2012, 6 miners in China had fallen ill after a visit to a mine. Scientists from the Wuhan lab were called in to investigate the "mysterious illness". Is there a connection between this mine and the pandemic? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Does COVID-19 have a connection with an abandoned mine in China?

US Health Secretary Xavier Becerra has urged the WHO to ensure that the next phase of investigation into COVID-19's origins are more "transparent" and "science-based", amidst media reports here suggesting growing evidence that the virus could have emerged from a laboratory in China.

In March, the World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a report written jointly with Chinese scientists on the origins of COVID-19, saying the chances of it having started in a lab were "extremely unlikely".

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But the US and some other countries have raised concerns about the way the mission of the WHO experts was carried out in China, including in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak, and the lack of adequate cooperation from Beijing.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has also agreed that further studies were needed into the virus' origins.

In a video message&nbsp;at the annual ministerial meeting of the WHO's World Health Assembly, Becerra called for a second phase of the investigation to be launched ''with terms of reference that are transparent, science-based and give international experts the independence to fully assess the source of the virus and the early days of the outbreak."

In his address, Becerra did not mention China directly, but his remarks came days after a Wall Street Journal report in which US intelligence officials are quoted saying three researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in the central Chinese city of Wuhan sought hospital care in November 2019, several weeks before China acknowledged the first case of the new highly infectious disease in the community.

China has angrily rejected the US media reports, repeatedly suggesting the virus may have come from a US laboratory instead.

On Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said that the Wuhan Institute of Virology in a statement on March 23 had said that the premier lab had not been exposed to COVID-19 before December 30, 2019, and a "zero-infection" record is kept among its staff and graduate students so far.

"What is the real purpose for the US to continue to play up the so-called "lab leak theory"? Does it really care about the origin-tracing of the virus or just want to divert attention? We hope that the relevant departments in the US will make a clarification and explain that to the world as soon as possible," Zhao said in response to a question at a foreign ministry briefing in Beijing.

Dr Anthony Fauci, senior White House health adviser and director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases, said recently that he was also not convinced about the natural origins of the coronavirus and called for further investigations.

In his address to the World Health Assembly, Becerra noted that the COVID-19 pandemic "not only stole a year from our lives, it stole millions of lives."

"Now we must honour our departed by taking urgent action this year - to strengthen health security and pandemic preparedness so that we are better prepared for the next global health crisis," he said.

This means improving global triggers, so all countries take swift action toward the next biological threat, he said, underlining the importance of establishing a global health security financing mechanism that is sustainable - with strong accountability and oversight.

It would also mean developing surge capacity for the global manufacturing of personal protective equipment, vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and the healthcare workforce, the US health secretary said.

Becerra also said the countries must also do more to understand our current pandemic and look forward toward detecting, preparing, and responding to future biological threats.

As member states of the WHO, "we need to come together and finish this fight against COVID, our greatest test," he said, adding that all must fully implement and adhere to obligations under the International Health Regulations.

"We need to improve transparency, immediately share critical information about outbreaks with pandemic potential, and strengthen health systems to withstand shocks," Becerra said, while calling for a "strong and agile" WHO.

The White House said on Tuesday that it expected from the WHO an "expert-driven evaluation of the pandemic's origins that is free from interference or politicisation".

"We need access to the information that the Chinese government has in order to make a determination through the international bodies that would do this investigation. And that's something we have called for many, many times, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said.

"And we have pressed, with our international partners for the WHO to support an expert-driven evaluation of the pandemic's origins. We would certainly participate in that with all of our research&nbsp;resources from the United States," she said in response to a question at a White House briefing.

The lab leak claims were dismissed last year as a fringe conspiracy theory after then-President Donald Trump said COVID-19 had originated from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

US Health Secretary Xavier Becerra has urged the WHO to ensure that the next phase of investigation into COVID-19's origins are more "transparent" and "science-based", amidst media reports here suggesting growing evidence that the virus could have emerged from a laboratory in China.

US Health Secretary Xavier Becerra has urged the WHO to ensure that the next phase of investigation into COVID-19's origins are more "transparent" and "science-based", amidst media reports here suggesting growing evidence that the virus could have emerged from a laboratory in China. In March, the World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a report written jointly with Chinese scientists on the origins of COVID-19, saying the chances of it having started in a lab were "extremely unlikely". But the US and some other countries have raised concerns about the way the mission of the WHO experts was carried out in China, including in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak, and the lack of adequate cooperation from Beijing. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has also agreed that further studies were needed into the virus' origins. In a video message at the annual ministerial meeting of the WHO's World Health Assembly, Becerra called for a second phase of the investigation to be launched ''with terms of reference that are transparent, science-based and give international experts the independence to fully assess the source of the virus and the early days of the outbreak." In his address, Becerra did not mention China directly, but his remarks came days after a Wall Street Journal report in which US intelligence officials are quoted saying three researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in the central Chinese city of Wuhan sought hospital care in November 2019, several weeks before China acknowledged the first case of the new highly infectious disease in the community. China has angrily rejected the US media reports, repeatedly suggesting the virus may have come from a US laboratory instead. On Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said that the Wuhan Institute of Virology in a statement on March 23 had said that the premier lab had not been exposed to COVID-19 before December 30, 2019, and a "zero-infection" record is kept among its staff and graduate students so far. "What is the real purpose for the US to continue to play up the so-called "lab leak theory"? Does it really care about the origin-tracing of the virus or just want to divert attention? We hope that the relevant departments in the US will make a clarification and explain that to the world as soon as possible," Zhao said in response to a question at a foreign ministry briefing in Beijing. Dr Anthony Fauci, senior White House health adviser and director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases, said recently that he was also not convinced about the natural origins of the coronavirus and called for further investigations. In his address to the World Health Assembly, Becerra noted that the COVID-19 pandemic "not only stole a year from our lives, it stole millions of lives." "Now we must honour our departed by taking urgent action this year - to strengthen health security and pandemic preparedness so that we are better prepared for the next global health crisis," he said. This means improving global triggers, so all countries take swift action toward the next biological threat, he said, underlining the importance of establishing a global health security financing mechanism that is sustainable - with strong accountability and oversight. It would also mean developing surge capacity for the global manufacturing of personal protective equipment, vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and the healthcare workforce, the US health secretary said. Becerra also said the countries must also do more to understand our current pandemic and look forward toward detecting, preparing, and responding to future biological threats. As member states of the WHO, "we need to come together and finish this fight against COVID, our greatest test," he said, adding that all must fully implement and adhere to obligations under the International Health Regulations. "We need to improve transparency, immediately share critical information about outbreaks with pandemic potential, and strengthen health systems to withstand shocks," Becerra said, while calling for a "strong and agile" WHO. The White House said on Tuesday that it expected from the WHO an "expert-driven evaluation of the pandemic's origins that is free from interference or politicisation". "We need access to the information that the Chinese government has in order to make a determination through the international bodies that would do this investigation. And that's something we have called for many, many times, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. "And we have pressed, with our international partners for the WHO to support an expert-driven evaluation of the pandemic's origins. We would certainly participate in that with all of our research resources from the United States," she said in response to a question at a White House briefing. The lab leak claims were dismissed last year as a fringe conspiracy theory after then-President Donald Trump said COVID-19 had originated from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

US calls for 'transparent' second phase of COVID-19 origin investigation

What happened inside the Wuhan Lab in November 2019? A report claims that 3 researchers from the Wuhan Institute of Virology had to be taken to a hospital. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas | COVID Origins: What happened inside the Wuhan Lab in November 2019?

According to the Wall Street Journal report, three researchers from Wuhan Institute of Virology sought hospital care in November 2019, months before China disclosed the COVID-19 pandemic, citing a previously undisclosed US intelligence report.

Report says Wuhan lab staff sought hospital care before COVID-19 outbreak disclosed

Three researchers from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) sought hospital care in November 2019, months before China disclosed the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing a previously undisclosed US intelligence report.&nbsp;

The newspaper said the report, which provides fresh details on the number of researchers affected, the timing of their illnesses, and their hospital visits, may add weight to calls for a broader probe of whether the COVID-19 virus could have escaped from the laboratory.&nbsp;

The report came on the eve of a meeting of the World Health Organization's decision-making body, which is expected to discuss the next phase of an investigation into the origins of COVID-19.&nbsp;

A National Security Council spokeswoman had no comment on the Journal's report but said the Biden administration continued to have "serious questions about the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, including its origins within the Peoples Republic of China."&nbsp;

She said the US government was working with the WHO and other member states to support an expert-driven evaluation of the pandemic's origins "that is free from interference or politicisation."&nbsp;

"We're not going to make pronouncements that prejudge an ongoing WHO study into the source of SARS-CoV-2, but we've been clear that sound and technically credible theories should be thoroughly evaluated by international experts," she said.&nbsp;

The Journal said current and former officials familiar with the intelligence about the lab researchers expressed a range of views about the strength of the report's supporting evidence, with one unnamed person saying it needed 'further investigation and additional corroboration’.&nbsp;

The United States, Norway, Canada, Britain and other countries in March expressed concerns about the WHO-led COVID-19 origins study, and called for further investigation and full access to all pertinent human, animal and other data about the early stages of the outbreak.&nbsp;

Washington is keen to ensure greater cooperation and transparency by China, according to a source familiar with the effort.&nbsp;

The Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday.&nbsp;

On Sunday, China's foreign ministry noted that a WHO-led team had concluded a lab leak was extremely unlikely after a visit in February to the virology institute. "The US continues to hype the lab leak theory," the ministry said in response to a request for comment by the Journal. "Is it actually concerned about tracing the source or trying to divert attention?"&nbsp;

The Trump administration had said it suspected the virus may have escaped from a Chinese lab, which Beijing denies.&nbsp;

A State Department fact sheet released near the end of the Trump administration had said "the US government has reason to believe that several researchers inside the WIV became sick in autumn 2019, before the first identified case of the outbreak, with symptoms consistent with both COVID-19 and common seasonal illnesses." It did not say how many researchers.&nbsp;

China refused to give raw data on early COVID-19 cases to the WHO-led team probing the origins of the pandemic, according to one of the team’s investigators, potentially complicating efforts to understand how the outbreak began.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Three researchers from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) sought hospital care in November 2019, months before China disclosed the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing a previously undisclosed US intelligence report.

Three researchers from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) sought hospital care in November 2019, months before China disclosed the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing a previously undisclosed US intelligence report. The newspaper said the report, which provides fresh details on the number of researchers affected, the timing of their illnesses, and their hospital visits, may add weight to calls for a broader probe of whether the COVID-19 virus could have escaped from the laboratory. The report came on the eve of a meeting of the World Health Organization's decision-making body, which is expected to discuss the next phase of an investigation into the origins of COVID-19. A National Security Council spokeswoman had no comment on the Journal's report but said the Biden administration continued to have "serious questions about the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, including its origins within the Peoples Republic of China." She said the US government was working with the WHO and other member states to support an expert-driven evaluation of the pandemic's origins "that is free from interference or politicisation." "We're not going to make pronouncements that prejudge an ongoing WHO study into the source of SARS-CoV-2, but we've been clear that sound and technically credible theories should be thoroughly evaluated by international experts," she said. The Journal said current and former officials familiar with the intelligence about the lab researchers expressed a range of views about the strength of the report's supporting evidence, with one unnamed person saying it needed 'further investigation and additional corroboration’. The United States, Norway, Canada, Britain and other countries in March expressed concerns about the WHO-led COVID-19 origins study, and called for further investigation and full access to all pertinent human, animal and other data about the early stages of the outbreak. Washington is keen to ensure greater cooperation and transparency by China, according to a source familiar with the effort. The Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday. On Sunday, China's foreign ministry noted that a WHO-led team had concluded a lab leak was extremely unlikely after a visit in February to the virology institute. "The US continues to hype the lab leak theory," the ministry said in response to a request for comment by the Journal. "Is it actually concerned about tracing the source or trying to divert attention?" The Trump administration had said it suspected the virus may have escaped from a Chinese lab, which Beijing denies. A State Department fact sheet released near the end of the Trump administration had said "the US government has reason to believe that several researchers inside the WIV became sick in autumn 2019, before the first identified case of the outbreak, with symptoms consistent with both COVID-19 and common seasonal illnesses." It did not say how many researchers. China refused to give raw data on early COVID-19 cases to the WHO-led team probing the origins of the pandemic, according to one of the team’s investigators, potentially complicating efforts to understand how the outbreak began. (With inputs from agencies)

Wuhan lab staff sought hospital care before COVID-19 outbreak disclosed: WSJ

China, the home country of the Wuhan virus, is trying to leverage the crisis in India. It called a meeting of South Asian foreign ministers and extended a last-minute invitation to India.

India did not attend but China's intentions were clear. With India firefighting at home, China wanted to step into India's role as the chief vaccine supplier to the region.

China has been trying to do that while promising more doses to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

And that's not all, China has also sent aid to India. Something that India did not ask for.

Oxygen concentrators, ventilators and medical supplies have come from China via the Red Cross.

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&nbsp;

The motive is not lost on anyone. This is not aid. This is China trying to portray itself as the saviour after unleashing a pandemic on the world. Beijing may want the world to forget about its cover-up. But the past keeps catching up with them.

This time it comes in the form of a book.

A book that reveals what China wanted to do with coronaviruses. The Chinese military was studying if these viruses can be used as a weapon in the future. This was five years before the pandemic began.

Chinese military scientists wrote a paper. It predicted a third world war or more specifically, a war where viruses will serve as a bio-weapon. This report was published by The Australian. The journalist behind it has written a book on the origins of the pandemic.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-fights-to-attend-who-meeting-as-china-denies-entry-384144">Taiwan fights to attend WHO meeting as China denies entry</a>

This report is a teaser for the book. It only talks about the paper written by Chinese military scientists.

Scientists from the People's Liberation Army (PLA), and senior public health officials wrote the paper. It said SARS coronaviruses are "heralding a new era of genetic weapons". Weapons&nbsp;that can be artificially manipulated into a virus and later weaponised and unleashed in a way "Never seen before".

This was written five years ago.

Chinese military predicting how coronaviruses can be used as weapons,&nbsp;this&nbsp;can normally be termed as mere scientific observations. But considering it's the Chinese army, things assume different dimensions.

For the US, these revelations were deeply disturbing. They found this document while investigating the origins of the virus. Even lawmakers in the UK and Australia are concerned.

The chairmen of the British and Australian foreign affairs and intelligence committees have issued a statement. They say that the Chinese paper raises major concerns about Beijing's lack of transparency over the origins of the Wuhan virus. These claims have essentially revived all the theories around the Wuhan lab and the claim that the virus has leaked from a laboratory.

This paper itself makes no mention of Covid-19 or the Wuhan virus. It talks about coronaviruses in general, the large family of viruses ranging from common cold to SARS. The Wuhan virus is part of this family of viruses. So far, there is no clear evidence that conclusively proves that the Wuhan virus leaked from a lab accidentally or intentionally.

However, Dr Tedros, chief of the World Health Organization (WHO) hasn't dismissed this theory. He wants more investigation into this angle. Even with his compromised credentials, he has not been able to dismiss the lab theory.

So here's a question, was China thinking about building a coronavirus weapon? Experts remain suspicious about Beijing's intentions, and this is the reason why.&nbsp;They are concerned about the high-risk nature of Chinese research into coronaviruses.&nbsp;Especially the studies being conducted by scientists in Wuhan.

The infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology was allegedly conducting a "Gain of function" research. In this research, scientists create new viruses that could be more transmissible and lethal. So they were creating new variants that spread and killed faster.

Peter Jennings, Executive Director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, has raised a red flag. He believes that under President Xi Jinping, there is a growing collaboration between civilian researchers and the military, a collaboration that could potentially lead to weaponisation of biological research. A collaboration that the Wuhan lab was allegedly conducting.

What does China have to say about these latest revelations?

Beijing deployed the Global Times to respond. It called this report an attempt to twist facts. China continues to deny reports, browbeat critics and whitewash evidence. But the lab theory is not going away. Every new claim, every new revelation, only adds more fuel to the fire.&nbsp;

It keeps bringing us back to the same question. What is China trying to hide about the origins of this pandemic?

China, the home country of the Wuhan virus, is trying to leverage the crisis in India. It called a meeting of South Asian foreign ministers and extended a last-minute invitation to India.

China, the home country of the Wuhan virus, is trying to leverage the crisis in India. It called a meeting of South Asian foreign ministers and extended a last-minute invitation to India. India did not attend but China's intentions were clear. With India firefighting at home, China wanted to step into India's role as the chief vaccine supplier to the region. China has been trying to do that while promising more doses to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka. And that's not all, China has also sent aid to India. Something that India did not ask for. Oxygen concentrators, ventilators and medical supplies have come from China via the Red Cross. × The motive is not lost on anyone. This is not aid. This is China trying to portray itself as the saviour after unleashing a pandemic on the world. Beijing may want the world to forget about its cover-up. But the past keeps catching up with them. This time it comes in the form of a book. A book that reveals what China wanted to do with coronaviruses. The Chinese military was studying if these viruses can be used as a weapon in the future. This was five years before the pandemic began. Chinese military scientists wrote a paper. It predicted a third world war or more specifically, a war where viruses will serve as a bio-weapon. This report was published by The Australian. The journalist behind it has written a book on the origins of the pandemic. Also Read | Taiwan fights to attend WHO meeting as China denies entry This report is a teaser for the book. It only talks about the paper written by Chinese military scientists. Scientists from the People's Liberation Army (PLA), and senior public health officials wrote the paper. It said SARS coronaviruses are "heralding a new era of genetic weapons". Weapons that can be artificially manipulated into a virus and later weaponised and unleashed in a way "Never seen before". This was written five years ago. Chinese military predicting how coronaviruses can be used as weapons, this can normally be termed as mere scientific observations. But considering it's the Chinese army, things assume different dimensions. For the US, these revelations were deeply disturbing. They found this document while investigating the origins of the virus. Even lawmakers in the UK and Australia are concerned. The chairmen of the British and Australian foreign affairs and intelligence committees have issued a statement. They say that the Chinese paper raises major concerns about Beijing's lack of transparency over the origins of the Wuhan virus. These claims have essentially revived all the theories around the Wuhan lab and the claim that the virus has leaked from a laboratory. This paper itself makes no mention of Covid-19 or the Wuhan virus. It talks about coronaviruses in general, the large family of viruses ranging from common cold to SARS. The Wuhan virus is part of this family of viruses. So far, there is no clear evidence that conclusively proves that the Wuhan virus leaked from a lab accidentally or intentionally. However, Dr Tedros, chief of the World Health Organization (WHO) hasn't dismissed this theory. He wants more investigation into this angle. Even with his compromised credentials, he has not been able to dismiss the lab theory. So here's a question, was China thinking about building a coronavirus weapon? Experts remain suspicious about Beijing's intentions, and this is the reason why. They are concerned about the high-risk nature of Chinese research into coronaviruses. Especially the studies being conducted by scientists in Wuhan. The infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology was allegedly conducting a "Gain of function" research. In this research, scientists create new viruses that could be more transmissible and lethal. So they were creating new variants that spread and killed faster. Peter Jennings, Executive Director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, has raised a red flag. He believes that under President Xi Jinping, there is a growing collaboration between civilian researchers and the military, a collaboration that could potentially lead to weaponisation of biological research. A collaboration that the Wuhan lab was allegedly conducting. What does China have to say about these latest revelations? Beijing deployed the Global Times to respond. It called this report an attempt to twist facts. China continues to deny reports, browbeat critics and whitewash evidence. But the lab theory is not going away. Every new claim, every new revelation, only adds more fuel to the fire. It keeps bringing us back to the same question. What is China trying to hide about the origins of this pandemic?

China's past on coronavirus comes back to haunt it

A new report has revived all the theories around the Wuhan lab. Five years before the pandemic began, Chinese military scientists were discussing the weaponisation of Coronaviruses. Palki Sharma gets you the details.

Gravitas: Chinese military probed weaponising Coronaviruses

According to Australian media reports China had discussed weaponising Coronaviruses in 2015, which is almost five years before the first COVID-19 case was reported in the Wuhan and may have predicted a World War III fought with biological weapons.

Report: China discussed weaponising Coronaviruses in 2015

Thousands of people attended the Strawberry Music Festival on Saturday (May 1) in Wuhan, the Chinese city where COVID-19 first emerged last year, with many in the crowd not wearing masks.

Packed crowds attend music festival in China's 'almost virus-free' Wuhan

Thousands of people attended the Wuhan Strawberry music festival in China. The festival made a return in Wuhan after it was forced to be online only last year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Thousands attend Wuhan Strawberry music festival in China

'What virus?': Packed crowds attend music festival in China's 'almost virus-free' Wuhan

A group of scientists, in an open letter, have asked The World Health Organization to order another investigation into the origins of the Covid-19 or c<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">oronavirus</a>. According to them, a new investigation should look for the origins in sources other than those of the animal origin.

It was the third open letter from this group of more than 20 signatories. They propose specific steps on what a new probe should take into account. Ensuring that a team is free of “unnecessary presence” of government officials while undertaking the study, A mandate for broad access to records, samples and data, and removing veto powers from the member selection process are among the suggestions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/unless-true-origin-of-coronavirus-is-identified-another-chinese-pandemic-is-in-the-offing-320236">Unless true origin of coronavirus is identified, another Chinese pandemic is in the offing</a>

Previously a joint mission that included Chinese scientists and WHO had conducted a study whose aim was defined as probing the zoonotic source of the virus. According to them, a laboratory incident was the least likely hypothesis. They conjectured that the coronavirus had probably spread from bats to humans via other animals. Because the aim was limited, “other theories didn’t receive the same attention and the team didn’t fully investigate labs”, Peter Ben Embarek, co-leader of the trip, said after a report was published in March.

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Afterwards, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General said that the probe failed to adequately analyse the possibility of a lab accident before reaching the conclusion that most likely, the spread of the pathogen was from bats to humans via another animal. He also said that he is ready to deploy additional missions that involve experts. But, that this will require China’s cooperation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-postpones-coronavirus-origin-report-likely-to-be-out-next-week-370924">WHO postpones coronavirus origin report, likely to be out next week</a>

&nbsp;

The first Covid-19 outbreak site was identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan, which, is home to a high-security virus lab, and this proximity had triggered former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump and others speculation on the possibility of a leak from the said lab. Denying connection, China floated an alternative theory that the virus may have gained entry into the country via frozen-food imports.

A group of scientists, in an open letter, have asked The World Health Organization to order another investigation into the origins of the Covid-19 or coronavirus.

A group of scientists, in an open letter, have asked The World Health Organization to order another investigation into the origins of the Covid-19 or coronavirus. According to them, a new investigation should look for the origins in sources other than those of the animal origin. It was the third open letter from this group of more than 20 signatories. They propose specific steps on what a new probe should take into account. Ensuring that a team is free of “unnecessary presence” of government officials while undertaking the study, A mandate for broad access to records, samples and data, and removing veto powers from the member selection process are among the suggestions. Also read | Unless true origin of coronavirus is identified, another Chinese pandemic is in the offing Previously a joint mission that included Chinese scientists and WHO had conducted a study whose aim was defined as probing the zoonotic source of the virus. According to them, a laboratory incident was the least likely hypothesis. They conjectured that the coronavirus had probably spread from bats to humans via other animals. Because the aim was limited, “other theories didn’t receive the same attention and the team didn’t fully investigate labs”, Peter Ben Embarek, co-leader of the trip, said after a report was published in March. Afterwards, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General said that the probe failed to adequately analyse the possibility of a lab accident before reaching the conclusion that most likely, the spread of the pathogen was from bats to humans via another animal. He also said that he is ready to deploy additional missions that involve experts. But, that this will require China’s cooperation. Also read | WHO postpones coronavirus origin report, likely to be out next week The first Covid-19 outbreak site was identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan, which, is home to a high-security virus lab, and this proximity had triggered former US President Donald Trump and others speculation on the possibility of a leak from the said lab. Denying connection, China floated an alternative theory that the virus may have gained entry into the country via frozen-food imports.

Scientists urge WHO to look further into coronavirus origins

Israel wants to vaccinate 12 to 15-year-olds in the second phase of its vaccination drive. Are Wuhan virus vaccines safe for children? Do kids even need these vaccines? WION's Palki Sharma has the answers.

Gravitas: Are Wuhan vaccines safe for children?

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

Zhang Zhan, journalist who showed the reality of the coronavirus outbreak in China's Wuhan, is severely weakened, but continuing her hunger strike from jail.&nbsp;

She caught the world's attention after she shared footage of bedridden patients lined up in a hospital corridor in Wuhan during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic in China.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-scribe-that-exposed-wuhans-truth-un-calls-for-zhang-zhans-release-353032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In another video, Zhang calmly handles a security officer who tried to stop her from filming.&nbsp;

"It's my right to monitor the government," she says as the man tries to snatch her phone.&nbsp;

However, Zhang's work, which exposed the mismanagement of the Chinese government, came at a great cost as she was detained in May.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-jails-citizen-journalist-zhang-zhan-for-four-years-over-wuhan-coronavirus-reports-352875">China jails citizen journalist Zhang Zhan for four years over Wuhan coronavirus reports</a>

Seven months later, the 37-year-old was sentenced to jail for four years for "picking quarrels and provoking trouble". &nbsp;

'Not eating way to tell them, they are wrong'

One of her lawyers said Zhang has become very "thin" and "unrecognisable" as she is on a hunger strike to protest against the illegal treatment given to her, reports news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The lawyer said that she has been force-fed via nasal tubes.&nbsp;

"By not eating, she wants to protest against the illegal nature of her treatment," said Zhang Keke, a member of the legal team representing Zhang.

"She believes that not eating is a way to tell them they are wrong."

Zhang Zhan, journalist who showed the reality of the coronavirus outbreak in China's Wuhan, is severely weakened, but continuing her hunger strike from jail. She caught the world's attention after she shared footage of bedridden patients lined up in a hospital corridor in Wuhan during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic in China.

Zhang Zhan, journalist who showed the reality of the coronavirus outbreak in China's Wuhan, is severely weakened, but continuing her hunger strike from jail. She caught the world's attention after she shared footage of bedridden patients lined up in a hospital corridor in Wuhan during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic in China. Watch | In another video, Zhang calmly handles a security officer who tried to stop her from filming. "It's my right to monitor the government," she says as the man tries to snatch her phone. However, Zhang's work, which exposed the mismanagement of the Chinese government, came at a great cost as she was detained in May. Also read | China jails citizen journalist Zhang Zhan for four years over Wuhan coronavirus reports Seven months later, the 37-year-old was sentenced to jail for four years for "picking quarrels and provoking trouble". 'Not eating way to tell them, they are wrong' One of her lawyers said Zhang has become very "thin" and "unrecognisable" as she is on a hunger strike to protest against the illegal treatment given to her, reports news agency AFP. The lawyer said that she has been force-fed via nasal tubes. "By not eating, she wants to protest against the illegal nature of her treatment," said Zhang Keke, a member of the legal team representing Zhang. "She believes that not eating is a way to tell them they are wrong."

Chinese journalist, who exposed Wuhan Covid-19 crisis, continues hunger strike from jail

In yet another accusation against China's freedom rights, a press group has alleged that the Asian country is using the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> as "yet another way to control journalists".

The press group has alleged that China has introduced extra surveillance and restrictions in the country, citing coronavirus as the reason behind the tightened security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rolls-out-first-one-jab-covid-vaccine-366870" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rolls-out-first-one-jab-covid-vaccine-366870&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwmfGj1I7vAhWO4nMBHcL6CsY4ChAWMAF6BAgJEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1XkNAEdUfH2XneHzrMUUL8" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rolls-out-first-one-jab-covid-vaccine-366870" target="_blank">China&nbsp;rolls out first one-jab Covid vaccine</a>

"China has used the pandemic as yet another way to control journalists," said The Foreign Correspondents' Club of China (FCCC) in its annual report.

Although China's city of Wuhan was the original epicentre of the deadly virus, the cases of coronavirus have now significantly declined to almost zero.&nbsp;

However, the press group claims that Beijing is still promoting an official narrative saving itself from the blame of the public health disaster which has taken millions of lives around the globe.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-foreign-correspondents-face-harassment-and-surveillance-in-china-367524">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-foreign-correspondents-face-harassment-and-surveillance-in-china-367524/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"As China's propaganda machine struggled to regain control of the narrative around this public health disaster, foreign press outlets were repeatedly obstructed in their attempts to cover the pandemic," the media group said.

It has also been alleged that China has been regularly using coronavirus restrictions as a way to threaten journalists and block access to media. They also claimed that many times reporters have been "forced to abandon reporting trips after being told to leave or be quarantined".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-puts-chinese-sinopharm-on-hold-to-use-india-manufactured-vaccine-366513">Sri Lanka puts Chinese Sinopharm on hold, to use India-manufactured vaccine</a>

Nearly 42 per cent of respondents said they have been, in the recent past, asked to leave a place or denied access, citing health and safety restrictions, even though the correspondents could see no such risk.

The FCCC also added that the Beijing authorities have created coronavirus checkpoints and contact tracing apps that have "created additional opportunities for Chinese authorities to gather data and surveil foreign journalists and their sources".

It has also been alleged that the Beijing officials are asking journalists to comply with coronavirus measures that are not being applied to anyone else.

As China's foreign relations worsened with the majority of the other countries — especially the US —&nbsp;Beijing has seen "the largest expulsion of foreign journalists since the aftermath of the Tiananmen Square massacre more than three decades ago" in 2020, the FCCC claimed.

In yet another accusation against China's freedom rights, a press group has alleged that the Asian country is using the deadly coronavirus as "yet another way to control journalists".

In yet another accusation against China's freedom rights, a press group has alleged that the Asian country is using the deadly coronavirus as "yet another way to control journalists". The press group has alleged that China has introduced extra surveillance and restrictions in the country, citing coronavirus as the reason behind the tightened security. Also read | China rolls out first one-jab Covid vaccine "China has used the pandemic as yet another way to control journalists," said The Foreign Correspondents' Club of China (FCCC) in its annual report. Although China's city of Wuhan was the original epicentre of the deadly virus, the cases of coronavirus have now significantly declined to almost zero. However, the press group claims that Beijing is still promoting an official narrative saving itself from the blame of the public health disaster which has taken millions of lives around the globe. WATCH | "As China's propaganda machine struggled to regain control of the narrative around this public health disaster, foreign press outlets were repeatedly obstructed in their attempts to cover the pandemic," the media group said. It has also been alleged that China has been regularly using coronavirus restrictions as a way to threaten journalists and block access to media. They also claimed that many times reporters have been "forced to abandon reporting trips after being told to leave or be quarantined". Also read | Sri Lanka puts Chinese Sinopharm on hold, to use India-manufactured vaccine Nearly 42 per cent of respondents said they have been, in the recent past, asked to leave a place or denied access, citing health and safety restrictions, even though the correspondents could see no such risk. The FCCC also added that the Beijing authorities have created coronavirus checkpoints and contact tracing apps that have "created additional opportunities for Chinese authorities to gather data and surveil foreign journalists and their sources". It has also been alleged that the Beijing officials are asking journalists to comply with coronavirus measures that are not being applied to anyone else. As China's foreign relations worsened with the majority of the other countries — especially the US — Beijing has seen "the largest expulsion of foreign journalists since the aftermath of the Tiananmen Square massacre more than three decades ago" in 2020, the FCCC claimed.

China is using coronavirus to block journalists' freedom: Media group

China refuses to give raw data on early COVID-19 cases to a world health organization led team probing the origin of a pandemic. Raw data could help answer crucial questions on the origin of a pandemic. WION brings you more details.

China refuse to give raw data on early COVID-19 cases to a WHO led team

Residents in the central Chinese city of Wuhan flocked to the streets on Wednesday (February 10) to prepare goods for the Lunar New Year, after a year marred by a deadly pandemic that killed thousands there and required the city to be locked down between the end of January and early April last year.

Wuhan residents prepare new year goods to welcome year of the ox

More than a year after the Coronavirus pandemic began, the World Health Organisation (WHO) team probing COVID-19 origin in the Chinese city Wuhan will brief the media today (09 February).

WHO team probing COVID-19 origins in China to brief media

A World Health Organization probe team member has said that the team concluded its site visit in China's Wuhan, they are investigating the origins of coronavirus. The probe team visited various markets and hospital sites that first witness the outbreak. WHO probe team will go through all the data before submitting a summary of their findings.

WHO team members are worried about different bat COVID-19

Canada has a population of around 38 million. But it has some 200 million shots. One assessment says, it may take 7 years for the pandemic to end, if the rate of vaccination doesn't pick up.

Gravitas: It could take 7 years for the Wuhan Virus Pandemic to end

Residents in the Chinese city of Wuhan remember the "whistleblower" doctor who first sounded the alarm about the coronavirus outbreak before it received official recognition with fond memories.

Li Wenliang, an ophthalmologist at a hospital in the city, became one of the most visible figures in the early days of the outbreak in Wuhan when he tried to sound the alarm about its appearance, but was reprimanded by police for "spreading rumours."

The 34-year-old doctor's death from the virus on February 7 last year led to an outpouring of public mourning and rare expressions of anger online.

A year after his death, while people on the streets around Li's hospital say life in the city has mostly returned to its usual rhythm, they still revere him for his actions.

The origins of the virus have become highly politicised, and some Chinese diplomats and state media have thrown support behind theories that the virus potentially originated in another country.

A designer in Wuhan said he heard about Li's warning in the early days and rushed to stock up on masks before the officials spoke openly about the virus.

"The public strongly acknowledges him, and personally, I think he should receive more official honours, rather than being treated as what he did is already in the past," he said, adding the government made mistakes in the early stages, but it has handled it well since.

A World Health Organisation team is currently in Wuhan researching the early stages of the outbreak, and is preparing to present its findings, team member Dominic Dwyer told Reuters on Friday.

The team visited the sprawling Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, thought to be where the virus first became an outbreak, which led to a pandemic that has infected over 105 million people and killed nearly 3 million worldwide. The market site has been shut to the public since the beginning of last year.

Residents in the Chinese city of Wuhan remember the "whistleblower" doctor who first sounded the alarm about the coronavirus outbreak before it received official recognition with fond memories.

Residents in the Chinese city of Wuhan remember the "whistleblower" doctor who first sounded the alarm about the coronavirus outbreak before it received official recognition with fond memories. Li Wenliang, an ophthalmologist at a hospital in the city, became one of the most visible figures in the early days of the outbreak in Wuhan when he tried to sound the alarm about its appearance, but was reprimanded by police for "spreading rumours." The 34-year-old doctor's death from the virus on February 7 last year led to an outpouring of public mourning and rare expressions of anger online. A year after his death, while people on the streets around Li's hospital say life in the city has mostly returned to its usual rhythm, they still revere him for his actions. The origins of the virus have become highly politicised, and some Chinese diplomats and state media have thrown support behind theories that the virus potentially originated in another country. A designer in Wuhan said he heard about Li's warning in the early days and rushed to stock up on masks before the officials spoke openly about the virus. "The public strongly acknowledges him, and personally, I think he should receive more official honours, rather than being treated as what he did is already in the past," he said, adding the government made mistakes in the early stages, but it has handled it well since. A World Health Organisation team is currently in Wuhan researching the early stages of the outbreak, and is preparing to present its findings, team member Dominic Dwyer told Reuters on Friday. The team visited the sprawling Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, thought to be where the virus first became an outbreak, which led to a pandemic that has infected over 105 million people and killed nearly 3 million worldwide. The market site has been shut to the public since the beginning of last year.

Wuhan residents remember coronavirus 'whistleblower' doctor a year after his death

A team of World Health Organisation (WHO) experts who are investigating the origin of Coronavirus in China have arrived Wuhan virology lab. Experts believe that the Wuhan virology institute might possibly be the one source of the deadly outbreak of COVID-19 infection.

News Alert: WHO experts arrive at Wuhan virology institute to investigates virus origin in China

World Health Organisation (WHO) team of experts investigating origins of COVID-19 pandemic visited market in Wuhan which was the scene of very first reported clusters of coronavirus last year.

The experts in the team arrived at Hunan seafood market. They were allowed access but guards quickly stopped others from entering, said AFP.

In last few days, the team has visited several locations in Wuhan including a hospital and what was called a 'propaganda' exhibition by the media.

The media has been kept away from the experts and details such as itinerary are trickling through WHO tweets.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-biggest-daily-surge-in-new-coronavirus-cases-360342">China reports biggest daily surge in new coronavirus cases</a>

On Saturday, team member Peter Daszak welcomed the hospital visit as an "Important opportunity to talk directly w/ medics who were on the ground at that critical time fighting COVID!"

The mission, delayed by China and weighed down by political baggage, has a remit to explore how the virus jumped from animal to human.

On Sunday, the WHO team arrived at the Huanan market as part of a long-planned trip now closely monitored by the Chinese authorities.

(With AFP inputs)

World Health Organisation (WHO) team of experts investigating origins of COVID-19 pandemic visited market in Wuhan which was the scene of very first reported clusters of coronavirus last year.

World Health Organisation (WHO) team of experts investigating origins of COVID-19 pandemic visited market in Wuhan which was the scene of very first reported clusters of coronavirus last year. The experts in the team arrived at Hunan seafood market. They were allowed access but guards quickly stopped others from entering, said AFP. In last few days, the team has visited several locations in Wuhan including a hospital and what was called a 'propaganda' exhibition by the media. The media has been kept away from the experts and details such as itinerary are trickling through WHO tweets. Also Read | China reports biggest daily surge in new coronavirus cases On Saturday, team member Peter Daszak welcomed the hospital visit as an "Important opportunity to talk directly w/ medics who were on the ground at that critical time fighting COVID!" The mission, delayed by China and weighed down by political baggage, has a remit to explore how the virus jumped from animal to human. On Sunday, the WHO team arrived at the Huanan market as part of a long-planned trip now closely monitored by the Chinese authorities. (With AFP inputs)

WHO experts visit Wuhan market, the location of first COVID outbreak

Team of World Health Organisation experts visited an exhibition that celebrated China's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic in Wuhan. News agency AFP mentioned this to be a 'propaganda' exhibition. The experts toured the exhibition after a meeting at the hospital that treated first confirmed COVID-19 case a year ago.

The media has been kept away from the experts and details such as itinerary are trickling through WHO tweets. The group of experts was driven to the Jinyintan Hospital, the first to receive officially diagnosed Covid-19 patients in late 2019, as the horrors of the virus emerged in the central Chinese city.

Team member Peter Daszak welcomes the hospital visit as an "Important opportunity to talk directly w/ medics who were on the ground at that critical time fighting COVID!"

On Saturday afternoon, the team visited a cavernous exhibition that applauds the emergency response of Wuhan health authorities in the chaotic, terrifying early stages of the outbreak -- as well as the agility of the Communist leadership in controlling a crisis without precedent.

The WHO mission comes with heavy political baggage -- China refused the team access until mid-January and there are question marks over what the experts can hope to find a year after the virus first emerged.

On Friday, the WHO's emergencies director Michael Ryan sought to manage expectations.

Success "is not measured necessarily in absolutely finding a source on the first mission", he told a press conference in Geneva.

"This is a complicated business, but what we need to do is gather all of the data... and come to an assessment as to how much more we know about the origins of the disease and what further studies may be needed to elucidate that."

Last week, China warned the United States against "political interference" during the trip, after the White House demanded a "robust and clear" investigation.

The WHO insists the probe will stick tightly to the science behind how the virus jumped from animals -- believed to be bats -- to humans.

(With AFP inputs)

Team of World Health Organisation experts visited an exhibition that celebrated China's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic in Wuhan. News agency AFP mentioned this to be a 'propaganda' exhibition.

Team of World Health Organisation experts visited an exhibition that celebrated China's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic in Wuhan. News agency AFP mentioned this to be a 'propaganda' exhibition. The experts toured the exhibition after a meeting at the hospital that treated first confirmed COVID-19 case a year ago. The media has been kept away from the experts and details such as itinerary are trickling through WHO tweets. The group of experts was driven to the Jinyintan Hospital, the first to receive officially diagnosed Covid-19 patients in late 2019, as the horrors of the virus emerged in the central Chinese city. Team member Peter Daszak welcomes the hospital visit as an "Important opportunity to talk directly w/ medics who were on the ground at that critical time fighting COVID!" On Saturday afternoon, the team visited a cavernous exhibition that applauds the emergency response of Wuhan health authorities in the chaotic, terrifying early stages of the outbreak -- as well as the agility of the Communist leadership in controlling a crisis without precedent. The WHO mission comes with heavy political baggage -- China refused the team access until mid-January and there are question marks over what the experts can hope to find a year after the virus first emerged. On Friday, the WHO's emergencies director Michael Ryan sought to manage expectations. Success "is not measured necessarily in absolutely finding a source on the first mission", he told a press conference in Geneva. "This is a complicated business, but what we need to do is gather all of the data... and come to an assessment as to how much more we know about the origins of the disease and what further studies may be needed to elucidate that." Last week, China warned the United States against "political interference" during the trip, after the White House demanded a "robust and clear" investigation. The WHO insists the probe will stick tightly to the science behind how the virus jumped from animals -- believed to be bats -- to humans. (With AFP inputs)

WHO COVID team visits hospital, 'propaganda' exhibition in Wuhan

Throughout January 2020, WHO kept praising China's response publicly. But, audio recordings of internal WHO meetings show how senior officials were complaining about not getting enough information from China. WION's Molly Gambhir brings you the revelations.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus Pandemic: Leaked audio featuring WHO officials reveal China's lapses

Relatives of the victims in Wuhan are demanding a meeting with the WHO investigators. They say Chinese authorities have deleted a WeChat group they were using to build support and hold officials accountable for the pandemic. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Wuhan: Families of victims demand a meeting with the WHO team

A World Health Organization-led team investigating the origins of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic left their quarantine hotel on Thursday (January 28) to begin fieldwork, two weeks after arriving in the Chinese city of Wuhan, where the virus emerged in late 2019.

WHO team probing coronavirus origins in China's Wuhan leave quarantine

China’s silence in the earliest days of the coronavirus crisis had made it worse for the whole world. And still, China is making it harder for the world to solve the mystery around the origins of the Wuhan virus. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-china-makes-absurd-claims-on-coronavirus-origin-359518">Also read | Now, China makes absurd claims on coronavirus origin</a>

According to news reports, Audio recordings of internal WHO meetings show that even while the WHO praised China's response in public, officials were complaining privately over not getting the information they needed to fight the spread of the deadly virus.

The recordings obtained suggest that the WHO officials were lauding China in public because they wanted to coax more information out of the government. 
 
Xi Jinping Government also held off on releasing the genome of the virus for more than a week after three different government labs had fully decoded the information, slowing recognition that the virus was spreading.

"General, 'there's been no evidence of human-to-human transmission' is not good enough," WHO executive director Michael Ryan said in one of the recordings. 
 
"We need to see the data, we need to be able to determine for ourselves the geographic distribution, the timeline, the epi curve and all of that."

US Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1, 2020, had also stated that Chinese leaders "intentionally concealed the severity" of the pandemic from the world in early January last year.

Other reports also state that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. 
 
Meanwhile, an international team of WHO-led scientists arrived in Wuhan last week to research the animal origins of the pandemic after months of political wrangling to secure China’s approval for the probe.

(With inputs from agencies)

China’s silence in the earliest days of the coronavirus crisis had made it worse for the whole world. And still, China is making it harder for the world to solve the mystery around the origins of the Wuhan virus.

China’s silence in the earliest days of the coronavirus crisis had made it worse for the whole world. And still, China is making it harder for the world to solve the mystery around the origins of the Wuhan virus. Also read | Now, China makes absurd claims on coronavirus origin According to news reports, Audio recordings of internal WHO meetings show that even while the WHO praised China's response in public, officials were complaining privately over not getting the information they needed to fight the spread of the deadly virus. The recordings obtained suggest that the WHO officials were lauding China in public because they wanted to coax more information out of the government. Xi Jinping Government also held off on releasing the genome of the virus for more than a week after three different government labs had fully decoded the information, slowing recognition that the virus was spreading. "General, 'there's been no evidence of human-to-human transmission' is not good enough," WHO executive director Michael Ryan said in one of the recordings. "We need to see the data, we need to be able to determine for ourselves the geographic distribution, the timeline, the epi curve and all of that." US Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1, 2020, had also stated that Chinese leaders "intentionally concealed the severity" of the pandemic from the world in early January last year. Other reports also state that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. Meanwhile, an international team of WHO-led scientists arrived in Wuhan last week to research the animal origins of the pandemic after months of political wrangling to secure China’s approval for the probe. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO recordings show China delayed releasing coronavirus information

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