Pune firm develops 3D face mask coated with virucides
Pune (Maharshtra), June 14 (IANS) A Pune-based startup has developed a three dimensional face mask, coated with anti-viral agents that attack the Covid-19 virus when it comes in contact with them, an official said here on Monday. Developed by Thincr Technologies India Pvt Ltd, the virucidal mask project was among the earliest projects selected for […]
Read MoreAstraZeneca jab authorised for all age-groups, says EMA
Brussels, June 14 (IANS) AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine remains authorised for all populations, European Medicines Agency (EMA) has said. The clarification camme after Italian newspaper La Stampa earlier quoted Marco Cavaleri, head of the EMA’s vaccine strategy, recommending a stop to administration of AstraZeneca’s Covid shots in Europe to people aged over 60 and younger age […]
Read MoreSri Lanka govt urged to protect FTZ workers amid Covid surge
By Anwesha BhaumikKolkata, June 14 (IANS) Leading Asian labour and human rights groups have appealed to the Sri Lanka government and factory owners to protect Free Trade Zone (FTZ) workers from Covid-19 amid a surge in infections. “In line with its obligations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), the Sri […]
Read MoreChh’garh govt to pay school fees of Covid orphaned children
Raipur/New Delhi, June 14 (IANS) Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Monday announced that the children studying in private schools, who have lost parents/guardians to COVID-19, would be provided free education by the government. Under Mahtari Dular Yojana, the Chhattisgarh government would bear the expenses of education of such children. “Such children will have the […]
Read MoreDelhi reports 131 new Covid cases, 16 deaths
New Delhi, June 14 (IANS) Delhi reported 131 new Covid cases in the last 24 hours with a test positivity rate of 0.22 per cent, according to the daily health bulletin issued by the Delhi government on Monday. In the same time period, 16 persons succumbed to the virus in the national capital, taking Delhi’s […]
Read MoreNew climate-based solutions for eliminating malaria in India
New Delhi, June 14 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Monday partnered with Malaria No More, a non-governmental organisation, to launch an expert committee that will explore and advance climate-based solutions for eliminating malaria in India. The India Interagency Expert Committee on Malaria and Climate (IEC) […]
Read MoreDelhi: People going abroad will get Covid jab in special category
New Delhi, June 14 (IANS) Residents in the national capital who are planning to go abroad for jobs or study will get Covid jabs on urgent basis, said Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. He said that students who are planning to go abroad for their further studies, or citizens who have secured a job […]
Read MoreDelta Covid variant may soon become dominant strain in US
Washington, June 14 (IANS) Covid-19 Delta variant is likely to become the dominant source of new infections in the US and could lead to new outbreaks by September, said Scott Gottlieb, the former commissioner of the US Food and Drug Administration. “Right now, in the United States, it’s about 10 per cent of infections. It’s […]
Read MorePakistan reports 1,019 new Covid cases
Islamabad, June 14 (IANS) Pakistan registered 1,019 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours, which increased the overall infection tally to 942,189, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) said on Monday. According to the NCOC, the total active cases have dropped to 41,726 by more than 26,000 cases in the last 30 days, […]
Read MoreChina’s Guangdong reports 4 locally-transmitted Covid cases
Beijing, June 14 (IANS) China’s Guangdong province reported four locally transmitted Covid-19 cases on Saturday, all in the capital Guangzhou, health authorities said on Monday. The province on Sunday also reported three imported confirmed cases and 14 imported asymptomatic carriers, reports Xinhua news agency. Two medics in Guangzhou Eighth People’s Hospital tested positive on June […]
Read MoreVaxxinity’s new Covid jab tech will also treat Alzheimer’s
Washington, June 14 (IANS) US biotech company Vaxxinity is developing a novel coronavirus vaccine using synthetic proteins, which can also help treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, the media reported. The company’s vaccine against Covid-19, known as UB-612, is currently in phase 2 trials. It uses the traditional recombinant protein coronavirus vaccine technology, but […]
Read MoreB’desh records highest Covid deaths in over a month
Dhaka, June 14 (IANS) Bangladesh has registered its highest number of single-day Covid-19 fatalities in more than a month, increasing the overall death toll to 13,118, according to health authorities. On Sunday, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported 47 new coronavirus fatalities, marking the highest number of daily deaths since May 9, reports Xinhua […]
Read MoreUK reports another 7,490 coronavirus cases
London, June 14 (IANS) Britain reported another 7,490 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 4,565,813, according to official figures released on Sunday. The country also recorded another eight coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the total number of coronavirus-related deaths in Britain to 127,904. These figures […]
Read MoreZimbabwe imposes lockdown in two more districts
Harare, June 14 (IANS) The Zimbabwean government has announced a two-week localised lockdown for Hurungwe and Kariba districts in Mashonaland West Province following a spike in Covid-19 infections. The development comes after the government extended a localized lockdown for Kwekwe district in the Midlands Province after detecting the highly transmissible Delta variant first detected in […]
Read MoreRussia adds 14,723 Covid cases
Moscow, June 14 (IANS) Russia has reported another 14,723 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, the highest number of daily infections since February 13, according to official data released on Sunday. The total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 5,208,687, Xinhua reported. The national Covid-19 death toll rose by 357 […]
Read MoreWife of legendary Olympian Milkha Singh succumbs to Covid
Chandigarh, June 13 (IANS) Former Indian women volleyball team captain Nirmal Kaur, the wife of legendary Olympian Milkha Singh, died at a Mohali hospital on Sunday due to complications related to Covid-19 infection, doctors said. She was 85 and is survived by her husband, a son, and three daughters. “We are deeply saddened to inform […]
Read MoreCovid: Common diabetes drug may help treat lung inflammation
New York, June 13 (IANS) Blood sugar-lowering drug Metformin can prevent pulmonary or lung inflammation, a major factor in Covid-19 severity and mortality, researchers have found in studies of mice infected by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Metformin is often used as an early therapy for Type-2 diabetes. It works by lowering glucose production in the liver, […]
Read MoreCan boredom lead to breaking public-health rules?
Toronto, June 13 (IANS) Covid pandemic has brought a drastic change to our lives. It has bound our lives with restrictions, many of which have become heavily politicised. But, people who are more prone to boredom can find it threatening to their identity and are thus more likely to break public-health rules, according to new […]
Read MoreRailways brings oxygen relief to 15 states in 50 days
New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) In a “milestone achievement”, the Indian Railways has delivered nearly 30,182 Metric Tonnes (MT) of medical oxygen in more than 1,734 tankers across the country, bringing relief to 15 states in the last 50 days. Oxygen relief by 421 Oxygen Expresses reached to 15 states namely Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya […]
Read MoreDelhi unlock: Religious places open but visitors not allowed (2nd ld)
New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) As part of the phase-wise unlock in Delhi, the administration has decided to allow public activities and markets to open from Monday with certain restrictions as the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic is under control. In the process of unlocking Delhi for the third consecutive week after lockdown, Delhi Chief […]
Read MoreDelhi unlock: Restaurants allowed with 50% seating from Monday (Ld)
New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) Restaurants in Delhi will be allowed to operate with up to 50 per cent seating capacity from Monday, said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, announcing to unlock the national capital third straight week. Kejriwal said Delhi’s Covid situation is under control as daily cases have reduced below 200, and at […]
Read MoreStates/UTs to get over 4L Covid vaccine doses in next 3 days
New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) More than four lakh (4,48,760) vaccine doses are in the pipeline and will be received by the States and the Union Territories (UTs) within the next 3 days. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) made the announcement through a statement and also clarified that more than 1.53 crore (1,53,79,233) […]
Read MoreChinese province reports 6 locally-transmitted Covid cases
Beijing, June 13 (IANS) China’s Guangdong province reported six locally transmitted Covid-19 cases on Saturday, all in the capital Guangzhou, health authorities said on Sunday. The province on Saturday also reported seven imported confirmed cases, reports Xinhua news agency. By Saturday, Guangdong had reported a total of 2,618 confirmed Covid-19 cases, including 1,072 imported ones. […]
Read MoreIndia begins ‘Extension of Hospitals’ project to fight Covid
New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) To plug a major health infrastructure gap in India’s fight against Covid-19, especially in rural areas and smaller towns, India has started project ‘Extension of Hospitals’ in various states. Modular hospitals are an extension of hospital infrastructure and can be built adjacent to an existing hospital building. As Covid-19 cases […]
Read MoreHeadphones, earbuds may affect hearing in children
New York, June 13 (IANS) Increased usage of headphones, earbuds likely to raise hearing troubles in children as their auditory system maturation is incomplete, warn experts. Children, teenagers, and young adults are listening to many hours of music daily at volumes exceeding the globally recommended public health limit of 70 decibels of average leisure noise […]
Read MorePalestine sees collective recovery from Covid
Ramallah, June 13 (IANS) Palestine has recently witnessed a collective recovery from Covid-19, according to Minister of Health Mai al-Kaila. “The West Bank and the Gaza Strip witnessed a decline in the (daily) positive cases and fatalities,” al-Kaila told state radio Voice of Palestine on Saturday. “It is necessary to keep following the health protocol […]
Read MoreOver 80K new Covid cases, 3,303 deaths in 24 hrs in India
New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) India’s Covid cases continued to witness decline as it recorded 80,834 new Covid cases, lowest since April 1 and 3,303 deaths due to the virus in the last 24 hours, according to data released by the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry on Sunday. This is the sixth consecutive day […]
Read MoreAfrica Covid caseload tops 5mn mark
Addis Ababa, June 13 (IANS) The number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in Africa has reached 5,011,502, according to health authorities. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said on Saturday that the death toll from the pandemic stands at 134,239, while 4,504,296 patients across the continent have recovered from the disease, reports […]
Read MoreCorona Mata temple demolished in UP district
Pratapgarh (UP), June 13 (IANS) A ‘Corona Mata temple that had come up in Juhi Shukulapur village under the limits of Sangipur police station in Pratapgarh district has been demolished by the district administration. A probe has also been ordered regarding the construction of ‘Corona Mata’ temple. According to Inspector general of police, Prayagraj range, […]
Read MoreGlobal Covid-19 caseload tops 175.5mn
Washington, June 13 (IANS) The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 175.5 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.79 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Sunday morning, the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood […]
Read MoreCuba reports highest number of daily Covid cases in 4 weeks
Havana, June 13 (IANS) Cuba on Saturday reported the highest number of cases of Covid-19 in the last four weeks, with 1,372 infections and 10 deaths recorded. The Cuban Ministry of Public Health stated that these new figures bring the total number of infections to 156,238 and the death toll to 1,075, Xinhua news agency […]
Read MoreGoa extends Covid curfew till June 21
Panaji, June 12 (IANS) The Goa government on Saturday extended the ongoing Covid-induced curfew till June 21. “The Goa government has decided to extend the state level curfew till 7 am of June 21. Shops, including panchayat and municipal markets, may open between 7 am to 3 pm. Besides, only 50 guests are allowed in […]
Read MoreLack of Vitamin D may up opioids addiction
New York, June 12 (IANS) Vitamin D deficiency strongly exaggerates the craving for and effects of opioids, potentially increasing the risk for dependence and addiction, a new study suggests. The findings suggest that addressing the common problem of vitamin D deficiency with inexpensive supplements could play a part in combating the ongoing scourge of opioid […]
Read MoreDelhi reports 213 new Covid cases, lowest since March 1
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) Delhi on Saturday reported 213 new Covid cases, the lowest since March 1 when 175 people were found Covid positive in the national capital, according to the daily health bulletin issued by the Delhi government. With 28 more fatalities getting reported in the last 24 hours, Delhi’s overall Covid death […]
Read MoreSaliva can be more effective for Covid testing: Study
New York, June 12 (IANS) The addition of a simple processing step to saliva samples before testing may improve Covid-19 detection rate, eliminate the challenges of nasopharyngeal testing and facilitate mass surveillance, researchers say. The researchers, including Ravindra Kolhe from Augusta University in the US, found that an innovative protocol that processes saliva samples with […]
Read MoreGST rates on Covid items slashed; vaccine still taxed at 5% (Roundup)
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) Amid calls for lower levies on items and medicines required in Covid-19 treatment, the GST Council on Saturday decided to slash rates of several Covid-relief items to 5 per cent from existing 12-18 per cent levels, although it kept the much talked-about tax rate on vaccines unchanged at 5 per […]
Read MoreNine research studies published on Covaxin’s safety in a year: Bharat Biotech
Hyderabad, June 12 (IANS) Aimed at demonstrating data generation and data transparency, Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech on Saturday said that the company has published nine research studies on the safety and efficacy of its vaccine in a year. “The company has published as many as nine research studies on the safety and efficacy of Covaxin […]
Read MoreMilkha Singh’s health condition improving: PGI
Chandigarh, June 12 (IANS) Legendary athlete Milkha Singh, who is being treated for Covid related complications at the PGIMER here, has shown improvement in his health conditions, the hospital said on Saturday. “Milkha Singh’s health is fine and improving, but he is still in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit),” said a spokesperson for the Post […]
Read MoreMTaI concerned over states capping prices of Covid essentials
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) The Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) on Saturday said that states intervening in price control of Covid-19 essentials will lead to supply constraints. According to Pavan Choudary, Chairman and Director General, MTaI, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have fixed prices at different points which may create a risk of […]
Read MoreGST rates on Covid items slashed; vaccine still taxed at 5% (Ld)
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) Amid calls for lower levies on items and medicines required in Covid-19 treatment, the GST Council on Saturday decided to slash rates of several Covid-relief items to 5 per cent from existing 12-18 per cent levels, although it kept the much talked-about tax rate on vaccines unchanged at 5 per […]
Read MorePvt hospitals used only 17.05% of total Covid vax in May
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) In a shocking revelation at a time when there is vaccine shortage in the country, only 17.05 per cent of the total vaccines received from the Centre were used by the private hospitals in May, says government data. As per the Health Ministry’s June 4 data, the Central government provided […]
Read MoreDelhi moves a step further to prepare for third wave with oxygen stock
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) To prepare the health system for a possible third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, Delhi, which faced an acute shortage of medical oxygen to cater to the huge number of daily patients during the second wave, has started as many as 27 oxygen plants so far. Out of the total, […]
Read MoreHCL provides 17 ready-to-use O2 plants in Delhi
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) HCL on Saturday announced that it has provided 17 ready-to-use oxygen plants to the Delhi government. These plants have been imported from France and are now deployed across seven hospitals in the city. The total combined capacity of the 17 plants is 7,300 liters per minute (LPM). The plants were […]
Read MoreCanada won’t use 300K J&J vax doses over possible quality issue
Ottawa, June 12 (IANS) The state-run Health Canada said that it will not use the 300,000 Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine doses which arrived in the country in April due to a possible quality issue. “To protect the health and safety of Canadians in response to concerns regarding a drug substance produced at the Emergent […]
Read More‘80% eligible SF residents have receive 1 Covid vax dose’
San Francisco, June 12 (IANS) San Francisco Mayor London Breed has announced that 80 per cent of eligible residents in the US city have received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, with nearly 70 per cent of the entire population fully inoculated. San Francisco is the first major American city to achieve this […]
Read MoreCSIR to start clinical trials of Colchicine on Covid patients
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) will undertake a two-arm phase-II clinical trial to assess the safety and efficacy of the drug Colchicine for the treatment of Covid-19 patients. Colchicine is used for treating gout and related inflammatory conditions. The drug is expected to be an important therapeutic […]
Read More719 doctors died in 2nd wave, Bihar records highest deaths
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) As many as 719 doctors have died during the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to the latest report by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) with Bihar reporting the highest number of 111 doctors dying in the line of duty. The second wave of coronavirus pandemic across the country […]
Read MoreMaldives boosts anti-pandemic measures in prisons
Male, June 12 (IANS) Maldives has amped up anti-pandemic measures in jails across the island nation in an effort to prevent Covid-19 from spreading in the prison system, state media reported. President’s Office spokesperson Mohamed Mabrook Azeez was quoted by state-owned PSM News as saying on Friday that prisons are frequently disinfected and inmate temperatures […]
Read More4,002 Covid deaths in 24 hrs as India logs 84K new cases
New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) The coronavirus situation in India appears to be stabilizing as the country recorded 84,332 new Covid cases, and 4,002 deaths due to the virus in the last 24 hours, according to data released by the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry on Saturday. This is the fifth consecutive day when […]
Read MoreGlobal Covid-19 caseload tops 175mn
Washington, June 12 (IANS) The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 174.7 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.78 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Saturday morning, the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood […]
Read MoreArgentina to extend Covid social distancing measures
Buenos Aires, June 12 (IANS) Argentina will extend its mandatory social distancing and preventive measures against Covid-19 until June 25, Health Minister Carla Vizzotti has said. The official stated that the presidential decree, which established social distancing measures and nighttime mobility restrictions, was set to expire on Friday but will be renewed in order to […]
Read MoreUS states warned over scaling back on reporting Covid data
Washington, June 12 (IANS) Only about half of US states still provide daily updates on key Covid-19 metrics such as new cases, deaths, hospitalizations and vaccinations, a trend that worries some public health experts, the media reported on Friday. Two of the largest scale-backs took effect this week, with Florida dropping down to one update […]
Read MoreChile records 7,972 new Covid cases in one day
Santiago, June 12 (IANS) Chile reported on Friday 7,972 new Covid-19 infections and 133 more deaths in the last day, bringing the total caseload to 1,461,419 and the death toll to 30,472, the Health Ministry said. The Chilean region of Aysen had the highest incidence per 100,000 inhabitants in the country, followed by the regions […]
Read MoreItaly suspends AstraZeneca vaccine for under-60s
Rome, June 12 (IANS) Italy on Friday suspended the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine for people under 60 years old, health officials announced at a weekly press conference on the Covid-19 pandemic. The move came after an 18-year-old woman died of a blood clot Thursday after receiving an initial dose of AstraZeneca on May 25, […]
Read MoreRussia records over 12,000 new Covid cases
Moscow, June 12 (IANS) Russia has reported another 12,505 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, the highest number of daily infections since February 22, according to the official data released on Friday. The total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 5,180,454 Xinhua news agency reported. The national Covid-19 death toll […]
Read MoreDelhi reports 238 new Covid cases, 24 deaths
New Delhi, June 11 (IANS) Delhi reported 238 new Covid cases and 24 deaths in the last 24 hours. The daily positivity rate was at 0.31 per cent, according to the health bulletin. Delhi has a total of 3,922 active cases, out of which 1,238 are in home isolation. A total of 504 people recovered […]
Read MoreHow Covid can lead to Alzheimer’s-like cognitive impairment
New Delhi, June 11 (IANS) Post-Covid infection patients are likely to have lasting effects on brain function and have dementia. Now, US researchers have found an overlap between Covid-19 and brain changes that are common in Alzheimer’s. It may help inform risk management and therapeutic strategies for coronavirus-associated cognitive impairment. While some studies suggest that […]
Read MoreCovid-19 creates hearing, balance disorders, worsens tinnitus: Study
New York, June 11 (IANS) After loss of taste, respiratory distress, researchers have found evidence that Covid-19 also leads to hearing and balance disorders, as well as aggravating tinnitus symptoms. The factors that may play a role in the relationship between Covid-19 and hearing are multifold. Covid-19 is known to have inflammatory effects, including in […]
Read MoreModerna seeks US FDA approval for Covid jabs in adolescents
Washington, June 11 (IANS) US-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology company Moderna has sought the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) emergency authorisation for its mRNA Covid-19 vaccine for use in adolescents 12-to 17-year-olds. “We are pleased to announce that we have submitted for an emergency use authorisation for our Covid-19 vaccine with the FDA for use […]
Read MoreIndian Army hands over medical supplies to Nepali Army
Kathmandu, June 11 (IANS) As part of the ‘Neighborhood First’ policy, medical equipment and supplies worth Nepali Rupees 28.80 crore (Rs 280 million) provided by the Indian Army were handed over to the Nepali Army here on Friday. During a ceremony at the Nepali Army headquarters, the medical equipment were handed over by the Ambassador […]
Read MoreGovt considering plea for Rs 4 lakh to Covid victims, SC told
New Delhi, June 11 (IANS) The Centre on Friday informed the Supreme Court that it was considering a plea to provide monetary compensation of Rs 4 lakh to the family members of those who have died due to Covid-19. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, submitted before a bench of Justices Ashok Bhushan and […]
Read MoreLucknow: Over one lakh patients await surgeries post pandemic
Lucknow, June 11 (IANS) Over one lakh patients in Lucknow are in the queue for surgeries as the non-Covid services open up. A huge backlog of surgeries has built up in the pandemic when most hospital closed down for surgeries and only emergency operations were carried out. A senior faculty member at the King George […]
Read MoreHighly contagious Covid variants detected in SL
Colombo, June 11 (IANS) Sri Lankan health authorities announced on Friday that the two highly contagious Covid-19 variants — B.1.1.7 and B.1.617.2 — have been detected in the island nation. Director of the Allergy, Immunity and Cell Biology Unit at the Sri Jayewardenepura University, Chandima Jeewandara said the B.1.1.7 variant, also known as Alpha, has […]
Read MoreWorking for full US FDA approval of Covaxin: Bharat Biotech (Ld)
New Delhi, June 11 (IANS) A day after the US Food and Drug administration (FDA) denied approval for emergency use of Covaxin, the Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech on Friday said that it is following the recommendation for additional data and will work for full approval. The process will extend Covaxin timelines for seeking US approvals, the […]
Read MoreG7 members pledge 1B Covid vax doses for poorer nations
London, June 11 (IANS) The Group of Seven(G7) leaders countries — Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US — have pledged to donate one billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines to poor countries to help vaccinate the world by the end of next year, according to media reports. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson […]
Read MoreUS FDA denies emergency use approval for Covaxin
New Delhi, June 11 (IANS) The US Food and Drug administration has denied approval for emergency use of Covaxin, developed by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, and has asked for additional data, biopharmaceutical Ocugen, the US partner of the Indian vaccine maker has said. The FDA recommended Ocugen to “pursue a Biologics Licence Application (BLA) submission instead […]
Read MorePfizer Covid-19 jabs protective against Beta, Gamma variant
New York, June 11 (IANS) US pharmaceutical Pfizer’s vaccine against Covid-19 can effectively neutralise Beta, Gamma variant of the Coronavirus disease, according to a study. The study led by researchers from the New York University, US, showed that the Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccination worked well against the majority of variants as the earlier virus, but the […]
Read MoreS.Africa ‘technically’ enters 3rd Covid wave
Johannesburg, June 11 (IANS) South Africa has “technically” entered the third wave of the coronavirus pandemic, the country’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases said. The national seven-day moving average incidence, which reached 5,959 cases, exceeded the new wave threshold defined by the Ministerial Advisory Committee of the government, Xinhua news agency quoted the Institute as […]
Read MoreDisposable cutlery playing key role amid pandemic
By Vaibhav Jaiswal & Amardeep BardhanNew Delhi, June 11 (IANSlife) At the absolute starting point of this pandemic, we understood the significance of disposables and the huge need for dispensable cutlery and crockery. The worldwide pandemic has created a shift in how and in what we eat. As eateries across the Capital offer takeout in […]
Read MoreAfrican nations acquire nearly 55mn Covid vaccines
Addis Ababa, June 11 (IANS) African countries have acquired nearly 55 million Covid-19 vaccines so far, according to health authorities. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said on Thursday that around 0.6 per cent of the continent’s population have received a full vaccine regimen, which is an increase of 17 per […]
Read MoreIndia records 91K Covid cases & 3,403 deaths
New Delhi, June 11 (IANS) India recorded 91,702 new Covid cases as 3,403 people succumbed to the virus in last 24 hours, according to data released by the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry on Friday. This is the fourth consecutive day when India has reported less than one lakh case. On June 8, India […]
Read MoreGlobal Covid-19 caseload tops 174.7mn
Washington, June 11 (IANS) The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 174.7 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.76 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Friday morning, the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood […]
Read MoreChinese mainland reports 9 new locally transmitted Covid cases
Beijing, June 11 (IANS) The Chinese mainland on Thursday reported nine new locally transmitted Covid-19 cases, all in Guangdong Province, the National Health Commission said in its daily report on Friday. The same day also saw 13 new imported cases on the mainland. Of them, three were reported in Fujian, two in Shanghai, two in […]
Read MoreFDA extends shelf life of Johnson & Johnson vax vaccine
Washington, June 11 (IANS) Johnson & Johnson said on Thursday the US Food and Drug Administration has extended the shelf life of its single-shot Covid-19 vaccine from 3 months to 4.5 months, as millions of unused doses nationwide are set to expire this month. The decision is based on data from ongoing stability assessment studies, […]
Read MoreWHO says 47 African countries could miss vax target
Nairobi, June 11 (IANS) Nine out of ten African countries could miss the target of vaccinating 10 per cent of their population against Covid-19 by September, dimming hopes of containing the pandemic in the continent, a World Health Organization (WHO) official said on Thursday. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director for Africa, said that nearly 90 […]
Read MoreIndia’s Covid toll sees sharp spike as Bihar revises data (Lead)
New Delhi/Patna, June 10 (IANS) India recorded 6,148 deaths in last 24 hours — the highest since the pandemic hit last year — according to data released by the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry on Thursday, as Bihar sharply revised its toll upwards. This spike in death comes as daily infections have been steadily […]
Read MoreGlobal Covid-19 caseload tops 174.3mn
Washington, June 10 (IANS) The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 174.3 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.75 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Thursday morning, the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood […]
Read MoreChinese mainland reports six new locally transmitted Covid cases
Beijing, June 10 (IANS) The Chinese mainland on Wednesday reported six new locally transmitted Covid-19 cases, all in Guangdong Province, the National Health Commission said in its daily report on Thursday. The same day also saw 15 new imported cases on the mainland. Of them, seven were reported in Shanghai, three in Guangdong, two in […]
Read MoreFauci warns of new Covid variant spreading rapidly in UK
Washington, June 10 (IANS) US top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci has warned of the risks of a new Covid-19 variant, first identified in India, which is now spreading widely in the UK. The Delta variant, known by the scientific name B.1.617.2, has spread from where it was first discovered in India to over 60 […]
Read MoreUS CDC eases travel restriction for dozens of countries
Washington, June 10 (IANS) The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revised travel recommendations for dozens of countries to a lower risk tier, adjusting travel guidance for vaccinated Americans. The CDC lowered over 60 countries from “COVID-19 very high” Level 4 tier to “COVID-19 high” Level 3 tier on its updated travel […]
Read MoreFrance enters new phase of easing Covid lockdown
Paris, June 10 (IANS) “Here we are!” tweeted French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday, marking the debut of a new phase in the country’s easing of its coronavirus lockdown. “Sit at a restaurant table. Escape from it during a show. Vibrate in unison in the stadium. Go back to the halls. The life we missed […]
Read MoreUK reports highest daily coronavirus cases since February
London, June 10 (IANS) Britain has reported another 7,540 coronavirus cases in the latest 24-hour period, the highest number since late February, according to official figures released on Wednesday. The country also recorded another six coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the national death toll to 127,860. These figures only include the deaths of people who died within […]
Read MoreDelhi receives more doses, vax to start again
New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) Delhiites in the 18-44 age group waiting to get an anti-Covid jab can now book their slot through ‘CoWIN’ app as the free vaccination for youth will start again after suspension for the last two weeks. After the two week-long break with no vaccination, Delhi has received 1.25 lakh doses […]
Read MoreNepal’s new Foreign Minister seeks India’s support for Covid vaccines
Kathmandu, June 9 (IANS) Nepal’s new Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, Raghubir Mahaseth on Wednesday sought India’s support for Covid vaccines. He made the request to Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, who paid a courtesy call on him and handed over the congratulatory message of Indian Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar, Nepal’s Ministry of […]
Read MoreDelhi reports 337 new Covid cases, 36 deaths
New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) Delhi reported 337 new Covid cases and 36 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the Delhi government’s daily health bulletin. This is the second straight day that the national capital has witnessed a slight surge in daily cases. Delhi had reported 231 new cases on Monday, the lowest […]
Read MoreSonu Sood to set up O2 plants in over 16 states across India
Mumbai, June 9 (IANS) Actor Sonu Sood, who has been relentlessly trying to help people who have been affected by Covid-19, has announced that he will set up oxygen plants across the country in almost 16-18 states. The actor has revealed that the process has already started with two places being locked in Andhra Pradhesh’s […]
Read MoreWarmer temperatures not enough to prevent Covid spread: Study
London, June 9 (IANS) Transmission of the virus behind Covid-19 varies seasonally, but warmer conditions are not enough to prevent its spread, shows a new research. The study, led by Imperial College London researchers, showed that temperature and population density are the most important factors determining how easily the virus spreads, but only in the […]
Read MoreNanotech-based reusable mask can block 99.9% bacteria, viruses
Singapore, June 9 (IANS) Scientists from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have developed a reusable “nanotech mask” that can block 99.9 per cent of bacteria, viruses and particulate matter (PM), as well as kill germs in just 45 seconds, much effective against Covid-19 than the currently used N95 masks. The mask’s novel antimicrobial coating is […]
Read MoreB’desh clocks 2,537 new Covid cases, 36 deaths
Dhaka, June 9 (IANS) Bangladesh on Wednesday reported 2,537 new Covid-19 cases and 36 more deaths, pushing the tally to 817,819 and the toll to 12,949, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) said. The official data showed that 20,584 samples were tested in the last 24 hours across Bangladesh, Xinhua reported. The total number […]
Read MoreIndonesia mulls to inoculate 1 mn people per day
Jakarta, June 9 (IANS) Indonesia is planning to vaccinate 1 million people per day by July, President Joko Widodo said on Wednesday. Widodo made the remarks after observing a mass Covid-19 vaccination held at a university’s hospital in West Java province, Xinhua reported. Widodo urged authorities to accelerate the mass vaccinations across the country in […]
Read MoreRussia reports over 10k new Covid cases
Moscow, June 9 (IANS) Russia has reported 10,407 Covid cases in the last 24 hours, the highest number of daily infections since March 7, according to the official data released on Wednesday. The total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 5,156,250, Xinhua reported. The national Covid death toll rose by 399 […]
Read MoreSL: Over 2 mn people vaccinated against Covid so far
Colombo, June 9 (IANS) Over 2 million people have been vaccinated against Covid-19 in Sri Lanka so far, since the launch of the nationwide inoculation drive in late January, the Health Ministry said here on Wednesday. According to official figures, 2,023,256 people have been vaccinated to date with Sinopharm, Sputnik V, and AstraZeneca vaccines. Presently […]
Read MoreFree vax for 18-44 age group in Delhi from June 21: Kejriwal
New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday that people between 18-44 age group will also be included in – ‘Jahaan Vote, Wahaan Vaccine’ from June 21 as the Centre has announced to provide Covid jabs for youth free of cost. Kejriwal’s remarks came during a visit to inspect ongoing […]
Read MoreKenya unveils scheme to boost mental health
Nairobi, June 9 (IANS) Kenya’s health ministry launched Kenya Mental Health Action Plan (2021-2025) on Wednesday to promote mental health among citizens. Mercy Mwangangi, Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Health said the action plan provides a framework for the national, county governments and other key stakeholders to implement policies that promote the mental […]
Read MoreThailand logs 2,680 new Covid cases, 35 deaths
Bangkok, June 9 (IANS) Thailand on Wednesday recorded 2,680 new Covid-19 cases and 35 more fatalities, as the country accelerated its nationwide vaccination campaign to combat the recent outbreak of the pandemic. Of the new infections, 11 were imported cases and 2,669 were local transmissions, the Centre for the Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) said. The […]
Read MoreMonoclonal antibody can change Covid scenario: Gangaram Hospital
New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) At a time when the country is passing through the second wave of Covid-19, Delhi-based Sir Gangaram Hospital claims that monoclonal antibody can be a game changer with its better hold on the deadly pandemic. As per the hospital, the monoclonal antibodies will change the scenario of Covid-19 pandemic very […]
Read MoreAustralia’s medical body calls for sugar tax to combat obesity, diabetes
Canberra, June 9 (IANS) Australia’s peak medical body has called on the government to implement a tax on sugary beverages to combat obesity, diabetes and poor health. In an address at the National Press Club Wednesday, President of the Australian Medical Association (AMA) Omar Khorshid advocated for a tax that would reduce the consumption of […]
Read MoreBirth cord cells can boost survival of critically ill Covid patients
Jakarta, June 9 (IANS) Critically ill Covid-19 patients treated with non-altered stem cells from umbilical cord connective tissue were more than twice as likely to survive as those who did not have the treatment, according to a small study. The clinical trial, carried out at four hospitals in Jakarta, Indonesia, also showed that administering the […]
Read MoreCovid more likely to spread indoors through maskless interaction
New York, June 9 (IANS) Speaking without masks in confined spaces poses the greatest risk of spreading SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, to others, according to a study. The study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine describes how different sized respiratory droplets emitted while speaking span a continuum of sizes and can carry […]
Read MoreMillions of J&J Covid vaccine doses to expire soon in US
Washington, June 9 (IANS) While many countries are yet to receive even one dose of Covid vaccines, many US states are seeing unused Johnson & Johnson vaccine doses piling up on shelves — all set to expire this month, media reports say. State officials have warned the doses could go to waste if they go […]
Read MoreChoose the right cooking oil to stay healthy
By N. Lothungbeni HumtsoeNew Delhi, June 9 (IANSlife) In the midst of the pandemic, a healthy diet can help to boost your immunity, aiding protection from various diseases. However, making healthy food a part of your diet can be difficult, due to several reasons. For instance, snacking has increased considerably during the present lockdown, not […]
Read MoreDhaka, Karachi in world’s ten least liveable cities
New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) Damascus remains the world’s least liveable city and most of the previous ten least liveable cities remain in the bottom ten this year, including Dhaka and Karachi in the Asia-Pacific region, as per the the 2021 edition of The Economist Intelligence Unit’s (The EIU) Global Liveability Ranking. However, overall, the […]
Read MoreConsider this before undergoing face upliftment surgery
By Puja GuptaNew Delhi, June 9 (IANSlife) After a certain age, our skin starts to sag around cheeks, chin, or neck area. Getting a face-lift could help tighten skin and eliminate harsh lines giving you an overall more youthful appearance. Face-lifts can be scary, especially if they look unnatural or too obvious. Choosing to undergo […]
Read MoreIndia records over 92K Covid cases, 2,219 deaths in 24 hrs
New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) India on Wednesday logged 92,596 new Covid infections in 24 hours, less than one lakh cases for the second straight day and 6,098 cases more than Tuesday, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry said. On June 8, India recorded 86,498 cases, lowest since April 2 when the country logged […]
Read More‘Eggs, meat, milk essential for ending malnutrition, especially in kids’
New Delhi, June 9 (IANS) A more balanced, sustainable approach to consuming food from livestock — one that meets nutrition needs and focuses on local production methods — is essential for delivering on global commitments to combat malnutrition in all its forms, said a comprehensive report released on Wednesday from UN Nutrition. While acknowledging key […]
Read MoreCovid kills: 54 govt teachers die in Champaran, no salaries, no ex-gratia
By Shilpi VermaMotihari (Bihar) June 9 (IANS/ 101Reporters) “Happiness is no longer part of my life,” said Kumari Neha. The 30-year-old was tragically widowed when her husband Deepak Anand, a government school teacher succumbed to Covid-19 while being treated at Government Medical College and Hospital at Bettiah, the headquarters of Bihar’s West Champaran district. It […]
Read MoreCuba reports 1,156 new Covid-19 cases in last 24 hours
Havana, June 9 (IANS) Cuba reported on Tuesday 1,156 new Covid-19 infections and eight more deaths in the last day, bringing the total number to 151,259 cases and 1,033 deaths, the Ministry of Public Health said. Of the total number of new daily cases reported, 1,104 corresponded to community transmission, according the ministry’s director of […]
Read MoreCovid vax allocation now based on some criteria: Govt
New Delhi, June 8 (IANS) From Tuesday onwards, Covid-19 vaccine doses provided free of cost by the Central government to states and the Union Territories (UTs) will be allocated based on criteria such as population, disease burden and the progress of vaccination. These elements were included in the fresh guidelines for implementation of National Covid […]
Read MorePolling booths in Delhi to be turned into vax centres: Kejriwal
New Delhi, June 7 (IANS) While the Delhi government’s ‘door-to-door’ ration delivery scheme is a fresh political flashpoint between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Centre, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has decided to use his flagship scheme for vaccination drive in the national capital. Addressing a digital press conference on Monday, Kejriwal announced to […]
Read MorePlea in SC to seek postponement of AIIMS PG test amid Covid
New Delhi, June 7 (IANS) A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking to postpone postgraduate entrance test being conducted by AIIMS on June 16 and termed the schedule of the exam an utter disregard to the assurance given by the Prime Minister’s Office while postponing the NEETPG Examination, 2021 by four months. […]
Read MorePM Modi to address the nation at 5 p.m. today
New Delhi, June 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 5 p.m. on Monday at a time when there is declining trend in cases of Covid-19 in the country after a deadly second wave in April-May. Sources indicated that the Prime Minister may speak on the prevailing coronavirus situation in the […]
Read More‘Delta’ Covid variant 40% more transmissible than ‘Alpha’: UK minister
London, June 6 (IANS) UK Health Minister Matt Hancock on Sunday said that the ‘Delta’ variant of Covid-19, first reported in India, is 40 per cent more transmissible than the ‘Alpha’ strain, detected in the UK itself. “We were previously told by the scientific advisory group for emergencies (Sage) that there would be problems if […]
Read MoreCSIR begins clinical trials of Niclosamide for Covid treatment
New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) The CSIR, in collaboration with Laxai Life Sciences, has initiated Phase 2 clinical trial of anti-helminitic drug Niclosamide for treatment of Covid-19. The trial is a multi-centric, randomised, open label clinical study to evaluate efficacy, safety and tolerability of NIclosamide for the treatment of hospitalized Covid-19 patients, it said. Niclosamide […]
Read MoreDelhi reports 381 new Covid cases, 34 deaths
New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) Delhi reported 381 new Covid cases in the last 24 hours, the lowest since March 10, when the city had reported 370. The daily positivity rate, which has been below 1 per cent for over a week, was at 0.50 per cent, according to the health bulletin. The daily Covid […]
Read MoreCan distaste for bitter flavours determine severe Covid risk?
New York, June 6 (IANS) US Researchers have found a connection between a person’s ability to perceive certain bitter stimulants and the symptoms and severity of their Covid-19 infection. The study, led by Baton Rouge General Medical Center, in Louisiana, found that people who experienced low intensity of bitter tastes or no bitter tastes, classified […]
Read MoreIndian scientist too flagged Wuhan lab leak way back (Ld)
New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) Amid the clamour for an in-depth investigation into the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic, Indian scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi were reportedly the first to have flagged the lab-leak theory. A team of biologists at the Kusuma School of Biological Sciences in IIT Delhi wrote a […]
Read MoreOver 1.14L Covid cases in India, lowest spike in 59 days
New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) India on Sunday logged 1,14,460 new Covid infections in 24 hours, the lowest since April 6 when the country saw a rise of 1,15,736 cases in a day. During the same time span, 2,677 more people succumbed to the pandemic, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry said. On Saturday […]
Read More58 Covid-19 clusters reported in Bangkok
Bangkok, June 6 (IANS) Thailand’s capital Bangkok reported a total of 58 Covid-19 clusters, which have been put on maximum surveillance, according to health authorities. The Centre for the Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) said on Saturday that among the clusters are some of Bangkok’s most popular shopping malls such as Siam Square, Siam Discovery and […]
Read MoreGlobal Covid-19 caseload tops 172.8mn
Washington, June 6 (IANS) The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 172.8 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.71 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Sunday morning, the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood […]
Read MoreCanada’s daily Covid-19 cases continue decreasing
Ottawa, June 6 (IANS) Canada reported 1,672 new cases of COVID-19 in the past day, bringing the cumulative total to 1,391,174, including 25,712 deaths, as of Saturday evening, according to CTV. The country’s national-level data showed a continued downward trend in disease activity with an average of 2,339 cases reported daily between May 28 and […]
Read MoreMongolia records 1,393 new Covid-19 cases in highest daily spike
Ulan Bator, June 6 (IANS) Mongolia reported 1,393 new Covid-19 infections, the highest daily spike since the outbreak, over the last 24 hours, bringing the national tally to 63,978, the country’s health ministry said on Saturday. Over 10,700 samples were tested across the country in the past day, the ministry said, adding that two of […]
Read MoreUK reports 5,765 new Covid cases as govt continues to mull easing restrictions
London, June 6 (IANS) Britain on Saturday reported another 5,765 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours as the government continues to consider whether or not to go ahead with the final step of easing restrictions on June 21. The total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 4,511,669, the Xinhua news […]
Read MorePrivate hospitals received 1.20 cr vax doses in May: Centre
New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) Denying any inequity in the distribution of Covid vaccines, the Centre said on Saturday that private hospitals received over 1.20 crore vaccine doses in the month of May. The Union Health Ministry emphasised that the government of India, in close partnership with all the states and Union Territories (UTs), is […]
Read MoreVitamin D may not protect against Covid: Study
New York, June 5 (IANS) While previous research early in the pandemic suggested that vitamin D cuts the risk of contracting Covid-19, a new study finds there is no genetic evidence that it works as a protective measure against the coronavirus. According to the researchers, including Guillaume Butler-Laporte from McGill University, vitamin D supplementation as […]
Read MoreFauci’s emails ‘verify’ Wuhan lab leak claims: Chinese biologist
Beijing, June 5 (IANS) Chinese virologist Li-Meng Yan, who was among the first to suggest Covid-19 leaked from a Wuhan lab, has said that US’ top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci’s emails prove she was right all along. Yan was one of the first to research the emerging coronavirus and previously revealed she was forced […]
Read MoreDelhi lays out plan to tackle 3rd Covid wave, braces for 37K daily cases
New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) The Delhi government will enhance its health infrastructure, including ICU beds, medical oxygen, medicines etc for the possible third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, bracing for around 37,000 cases in a day. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, along with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Health Minister Satyendar Jain held […]
Read MoreAmyra Dastur on father’s Covid experience: Will never forget feeling of utter terror
Mumbai, June 5 (IANS) Actress Amyra Dastur on Saturday shared a social media note talking about her father’s experience with Covid-19. She says she’ll never forget the feeling of utter terror and helplessness. Amyra posted a string of pictures with doctors and healthcare workers. Alongside the image, she wrote: “My father was admitted into hospital […]
Read More2 Indian institutes sign MoU to boost medicinal plants production
New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) The National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB) and the National Botanical Research Institute(CSIR-NBRI) have signed an MoU for extending joint collaborative efforts to boost the cultivation and production of medicinal plants and herbs in India. The MoU will facilitate development of Quality Planting Material (QPM) of medicinal plants and herbs identified […]
Read More646 doctors succumbed to Covid during 2nd wave: IMA
New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) As many as 646 doctors lost their lives in the fight against Covid-19 during the second wave of the pandemic, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) said on Saturday. Delhi reported the maximum number of fatalities among doctors at 109, followed by Bihar (97), Uttar Pradesh (79), Rajasthan (43), Jharkhand (39), […]
Read MorePunjab govt making profit by selling vax at higher rate: Hardeep Puri
New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) Hitting out at the Congress-led government in Punjab, Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri alleged on Saturday that Covid vaccines supposed to given for free to the beneficiaries were being sold at a higher price in the state to make profit. Addressing a virtual press conference, Puri said, “On May 29, […]
Read MoreDelhi un-lockdown: Restrictions to remain till June 14 (Ld)
New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) In the second phase of unlocking of Delhi after strict lockdown was imposed due to the deadly second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic on April 19, the Delhi administration on Saturday announced to restart markets, malls, Metro rail and some other public activities with certain conditions. Shops in all markets […]
Read MoreGreen tea might help tackle Covid: Indian-origin researcher
London, June 5 (IANS) As India continues to be ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic, a team of researchers is investigating how green tea could give rise to a drug capable of tackling Covid-19. The initial findings suggested that one of the compounds in green tea could combat the coronavirus behind Covid-19, said lead author Suresh […]
Read MoreAfter Covid2.0 fiasco, Goa readies to protect kids from 3rd wave (IANS Special)
Panaji, June 5 (IANS) Criticised for its poor preparation and handling of the second wave, the Pramod Sawant government in Goa appears to have stormed off the blocks quickly to gear up for the impending next wave of the coronavirus pandemic, which according to experts is expected to impact children. Nearly 100 persons died due […]
Read MoreCovid struck aviation industry suffers human toll
New Delhi, June 5 (IANS) The second wave of Covid-19 pandemic that has been much brutal version of its earlier outbreak last year, has not only devastated India’s civil aviation sector economically but took a high casualty toll. Considered to be one of the most essential service during the pandemic period, the sector, has lost […]
Read More‘Pandemic a huge lesson for govts to redefine idea of development’ (IANS Interview)
By Vishnu MakhijaniNew Delhi, June 5 (IANS) From dentistry to animation to promoting environmental issues through illustrations and cartoons, the world has come full circle for Rohan Chakravarty, whose new book “Green Humour for a Greying Planet” (Penguin) has just been published and who fervently hopes the pandemic will come as a “huge lesson” for […]
Read MoreNegative impact of Covid stress on adolescents: Study
New York, June 5 (IANS) The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant detrimental impact on adolescents’ mental health, especially in girls, finds a new study that included 59,000 participants. The study, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, found that negative mental health outcomes were disproportionately reported by girls and older adolescents (13-18-year-olds), compared to same-age peers […]
Read MoreAkshay Kumar, Chiranjeevi back FICCI Corona awareness drive
Mumbai, June 5 (IANS) Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar along with filmstars from different regions come together to be part of a social campaign to create awareness of Covid appropriate behaviour, importance of vaccination etc. The campaign is titled ‘Corona Ko Harana Hai’. Telugu icon Chiranjeevi, Tamil star Arya, and Kannada star Punit Rajkumar are also […]
Read MoreTeenagers seriously sick as adults were vaccinated: US CDC
Washington, June 5 (IANS) As the US doubled down on vaccinating adults in March and April, Covid hospitalisation rates teenagers (between 12 and 17 years old) went significantly up and many were seriously sick, a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report has showed. Around one-third of kids in this age group who […]
Read MoreOxygen Expresses deliver more than 24k MT of LMO to states
New Delhi, June 4 (IANS) The Indian Railways on Friday said that the Oxygen Expresses have delivered more than 24,840 MT of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) to the several states, including more than 10,000 MT to the southern states. A Railway Ministry official said that 359 Oxygen Expresses have completed their journey so far since […]
Read MoreObesity may increase risk of long-term complications of Covid
New York, June 4 (IANS) Covid-19 survivors who have moderate or severe obesity may have a greater risk of experiencing long-term consequences of the disease, compared to the patients who do not have obesity, showed an observational study. Obesity is known to weaken the immune system and create a chronic inflammatory state. These conditions can […]
Read MoreWuhan lab head, US expert flagged Covid risk in 2015: Report
Washington, June 4 (IANS) The head of China’s Wuhan virology lab, also called as the ‘bat woman’, and an expert from the University of North Carolina in the US, had in a paper published in 2015 flagged the dangers of their gain-of-function experiment of a novel coronavirus which could infect human cells, media reports said. […]
Read MorePunjab govt profiteering by selling vaccines to pvt hospitals: Javadekar
New Delhi, June 4 (IANS) Union minister and senior BJP leader Prakash Javadekar on Friday criticised the Congress government in Punjab for allegedly making profit by selling Covid vaccines to private hospitals in the state. “The whole of Punjab is affected by coronavirus, but the vaccination drive is mismanaged. For the last six months, infighting […]
Read MoreTribals in Telangana village isolate in forest after testing Covid +ve
Hyderabad, June 4 (IANS) With no Covid-19 isolation facility available near their habitation, some tribals in an interior village in Telangana spent few days in a forest after testing positive for Covid. A group of 14 tribals isolated themselves in the forests near Yatnaram village in Mahamutharam mandal of Jayashankar Bhupalapally district. District officials persuaded […]
Read MoreFauci ‘undeniable asset’: White House over Covid lab leak emails
London, June 4 (IANS) The US’ top infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci, who has over the last week been embroiled in criticism of his emails, is an “undeniable asset”, said the White House defending the President’s top coronavirus adviser, media reports said on Friday. Over 3,000 pages of Fauci’s work emails during the pandemic […]
Read MoreAlzheimer’s 3X raises Covid severity, death risk: Study
Sao Paulo, June 4 (IANS) People with dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease are at threefold risk of dying as a result of infection by SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind Covid-19, according to a study by Brazilian researchers. The risk is six times greater if they are over 80, found the team at the University of Sao Paulo […]
Read MoreAus state on alert over new Covid variant
Melbourne, June 4 (IANS) Authorities in Victoria on Friday issued an alert as a new Covid-19 variant was detected in the Australian state’s latest outbreak and the source of the strain is still unidentified. The B.1.6172 coronavirus variant, also known as Delta, has been detected in two members of a family of four in West […]
Read MoreOver 24 crore vaccine doses provided to states, UTs so far: Centre
New Delhi, June 4 (IANS) The central government on Friday said that more than 24 crore vaccine doses have been provided to the states and Union Territories so far. It also said that 1.93 crore Covid vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered. The Centre has so far provided, […]
Read MoreLike HIV and hepatitis, Covid cannot infect new born baby from mother : Experts
By Sujit ChakrabortyAgartala/Guwahati, June 4 (IANS) Like HIV and hepatitis, Covid-19 cannot transmit to the new born babies even if the mother had tested positive for the deadly virus, as around 250 nCoV positive women were found to have delivered healthy babies in Tripura, doctors and experts said. Agartala Government Medical College’s (AGMC) Microbiology department […]
Read MoreChile temporarily halts Oxford-AstraZeneca vax for people under 45
Santiago, June 4 (IANS) Chile has temporarily suspended the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine against Covid-19 for people under 45 years of age, after an “adverse event” was reported in a person immunised with the jab. In a communique, the Ministry of Health said on Thursday it was notified on June 1 that after receiving the vaccine, the […]
Read MorePfizer jab produces less antibodies against Delta variant: Lancet
London, June 4 (IANS) People fully vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine are likely to have more than five times lower levels of neutralising antibodies against the Delta variant (B16172) when compared to the original strain, according to new laboratory data that supports Pfizer’s plans to deliver booster shots in Autumn. This antibody’s […]
Read MoreGreece starts Covid vaccination campaign at migrant facilities
Athens, June 4 (IANS) The Greek government has started a Covid-19 vacccination campaign at facilities housing asylum-seekers, refugees and migrants across the country. In a statement on Thursday, the Ministry of Migration and Asylum said the campaign started in the facilities on the Aegean Sea islands of Lesbos, Chios and Samos and will expand to […]
Read MoreB.1.6172 Covid variant now ‘dominant’ in UK
London, June 4 (IANS) The B.1.6172 coronavirus variant, also known as Delta, has become the “dominant” strain in the UK, according to the Public Health England (PHE). The number of cases of the variant has increased by more than 5,000 since last week to 12,431, Xinhua news agency reported citing PHE data as saying on […]
Read MoreAfrican nations acquire 53.5mn Covid vaccines
Addis Ababa, June 4 (IANS) African countries have acquired around 53.5 million Covid-19 vaccines so far, according to the continent’s health authorities. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said on Thursday that 38.1 million Covid-19 doses have been administered till date, Xinhua news agency reported. Around 0.54 per cent of the […]
Read MoreGlobal Covid-19 caseload tops 172mn
Washington, June 4 (IANS) The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 172 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.69 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Friday morning, the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood […]
Read MoreChile to extend lockdown after Covid cases top 1.4mn
Santiago, June 4 (IANS) Chile will extend lockdown measures in 16 cities, including the capital Santiago, due to the increase in Covid-19 infections, which have exceeded 1.4 million cases, Deputy Health Minister Paula Daza has said. Of the total number of cities that will enter into lockdown starting Saturday, five are in the country’s Metropolitan […]
Read More25mn doses: Who all get US vaccines and how much?
By Nikhila NatarajanNew York, June 4 (IANS) Riding on strong vaccination numbers at home where more than 63 per cent of American adults have received at least one dose, US President Joe Biden announced on Thursday the US will donate 75 per cent of its unused Covid-19 vaccine stockpile to the United Nations-led COVAX global […]
Read MoreWorld Bank, IMF urge action on vaccine access for developing countries
Washington, June 4 (IANS) The World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Thursday called on countries anticipating excess vaccine supplies in the coming months to release their surplus doses and options as soon as possible to developing countries. “The coronavirus pandemic will not end until everyone has access to vaccines, including people […]
Read MoreUS sending Covid vaccines to India, Harris tells Modi (Ld)
By Arul LouisNew York, June 4 (IANS) US Vice President Kamala Harris has told Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the US will be sending Covid-19 vaccines to India, following which Modi thanked her for the support from the US government and the Indian diaspora, in what was likely their first interaction. The electronic conversation took […]
Read MoreICMR gives nod to two RAT home-testing kits
New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved two home-based Rapid Antigen Test kits, to be used only in symptomatic individuals and immediate contacts of laboratory confirmed positive cases. Accordingly, the ICMR has approved CoviSelf, manufactured by Mylab Discovery Solutions Ltd, Pune, and the PanBio COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test […]
Read MoreGambhir Foundation to vaccinate people free of cost
New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) BJP Lok Sabha MP from Delhi, Gautam Gambhir, announced on Thursday that his foundation will vaccinate people free of cost. The cricketer-turned-politician plans to vaccinate 10,000 people above 18 years of age in a month-long drive that is likely to start from next week. The Gautam Gambhir Foundation (GGF) is […]
Read MoreBiden announces India to receive Covid vaccines from US stockpile
By Arul LouisNew York, June 3 (IANS) As US President Joe Biden announced on Thursday that India will receive Covid-19 vaccines directly from its stockpile, Vice President Kamala Harris spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the distribution, according to the White House. Biden, who has faced international and domestic pressure to share the surplus […]
Read MoreIs allopathic profession so fragile, asks Delhi HC; issues summons to Ramdev
New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) The Delhi High Court on Thursday asked the Delhi Medical Association (DMA) if allopathy was so fragile to be dented by the opinion held by yoga guru Ramdev, his statements against allopathic medicines and also his claims that Patanjali’s Coronil kit is a cure for Covid-19. However, the court issued […]
Read MoreExplained: How oxygen levels decline in Covid-19 patients
Toronto, June 3 (IANS) SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing Covid-19, infects immature red blood cells (RBC), reducing oxygen in the blood and impairing the immune response, say researchers. The study, published in the journal Stem Cell Reports, sheds light on why many Covid-19 patients, even those not in hospital, are suffering from hypoxia — a potentially […]
Read MoreHappy Class 12 board exams cancelled: SC seeks assessment criteria in 2 weeks
New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Thursday said, it is happy that the board exams have been cancelled and emphasized that the interest of students will be protected, as it asked the Centre to submit the objective criteria to assess Class XII students in two weeks. At the beginning of the hearing, […]
Read More2nd Made-in-India vax coming, deal signed for 30 cr doses
New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) In another landmark move in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic, the Central government has booked 30 crore doses of another Made-in-India vaccine to be manufactured by Hyderabad-based Biological-E’s Covid vaccine, which is still in final phase of clinical trials. Biological-E’s vaccine is currently in Phase-3 clinical trials after showing promising […]
Read More50.6% of France’s adult population have received 1st Covid vax
Paris, June 3 (IANS) More than 26.58 million people aged 18 or older, representing 50.6 per cent of the adult population in France, have received the first Covid-19 vaccine shot as the inoculation program continues at a faster pace, according to data from the Health Ministry. France, which extended its vaccine rollout to all adults […]
Read MoreGates Foundation pledges $50 mn for equitable vaccine access
San Francisco, June 2 (IANS) The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation on Wednesday pledged $50 million to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to increase access to safe and affordable Covid-19 vaccines in 92 lower-income countries. The foundation also called for high-income countries to share at least 1 billion excess Covid-19 doses with lower-income countries this year […]
Read MoreTime to act is now, says Harsh Vardhan at virtual WHO meeting
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) Addressing the 149th session of the World Health Organization (WHO) executive board meeting on Wednesday, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said that all must rise to the occasion to save the powerless and the voiceless, to see hope in these darkest of hours. Harsh Vardhan, who successfully completed his tenure […]
Read More‘Arbitrary, irrational’: SC on Centre’s vax policy for 18-44 yrs
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Wednesday made scathing remarks on Centre’s vaccination policy against Covid-19, terming the replacement of free vaccination in the first two phases with paid vaccination for persons between 18-44 years as prima facie as “arbitrary and irrational”. In a 32-page ruling, a bench comprising Justices D.Y. Chandrachud, […]
Read MoreIndonesia reports 5,246 new Covid-19 cases, 185 new deaths
Jakarta, June 2 (IANS) The Covid-19 cases in Indonesia rose by 5,246 within one day to 1,831,773, with the death toll adding by 185 to 50,908, the Health Ministry said on Wednesday. According to the ministry, 6,022 more people were discharged from hospitals, bringing the total number of recovered patients to 1,680,501, the Xinhua news […]
Read MoreRJD blames BJP for health infrastructure collapse in Bihar
Patna June 2 (IANS) After the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic exposed the creaking health infrastructure in Bihar, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has blamed the BJP for the same. Chitranjan Gagan, the spokesperson of the RJD, said that the rural medical infrastructure of Bihar was ranked 12, as per the Planning Commission index of […]
Read MoreGermany supports Libyan vaccination drive with 5mn euros: UNICEF
Tripoli, June 2 (IANS) The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Tuesday announced that Germany would support Libya’s Covid-19 vaccination campaign with a fund of 5 million euros ($6.1 million). The 18-month program will enable UNICEF to scale up its support of the Libyan government by ensuring an adequate cold chain system is in place […]
Read MoreSC seeks documents of ‘thinking’ on vaccination policy, data on numbers covered
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) The Supreme Court has asked Centre to furnish data on the percentage of population vaccinated so far (with one dose and both doses), both in rural and urban areas, along with documents reflecting its thinking in connection with the vaccination policy. A bench of Justices D.Y. Chandrachud, L. Nageswara Rao […]
Read MoreGeorgia reports 954 new Covid-19 cases
Tbilisi, June 2 (IANS) Georgia on Wednesday reported 954 new Covid-19 cases, taking its total to 346,150, according to the country’s National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC). Data from the NCDC showed that 896 more patients have recovered in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of recoveries to 329,516, the […]
Read MoreThailand steps up Covid-19 vaccine distribution for mass inoculation
Bangkok, June 2 (IANS) Thailand is speeding up Covid-19 vaccine distribution as preparation for a mass inoculation campaign due to start next week amid efforts to contain the country’s worst wave of outbreak so far. Some 940,000 doses of vaccines have been distributed to vaccination centres nationwide on Tuesday and Wednesday, the Center for the […]
Read More23 cr vax doses provided to states till date: Health Ministry
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Wednesday that more than 23 crore vaccine doses have been provided to the states and Union Territories (UTs) till date, while 1.64 crore doses are still available them for administration. The government of India has so far provided 23,35,86,960 vaccine […]
Read MoreVitamin D may not protect from Covid infection or severity
Toronto, June 2 (IANS) Genetic evidence does not support vitamin D as a protective measure against Covid-19, say researchers. The team from McGill University in Quebec, Canada, analyzed genetic variants of 4,134 individuals with Covid-19, and 1,284,876 without Covid-19, from 11 countries to determine whether genetic predisposition for higher vitamin D levels were associated with […]
Read MoreNow, challenge to decide fairness, transparency, say experts
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) Students, parents and academicians have welcomed the government’s decision to cancel class 12 board exams. However, questions persist as how to proceed further with regard to the results and evaluation of students. Many renowned educational institutions and academicians across the country have made an appeal to the government to make […]
Read MoreTharoor bats for universal and free vaccination while battling Covid
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has posted video while battling Covid and has supported free and universal vaccination for all till December. Tharoor in the video said, “I am still on my Covid bed. I just want to say having seen the statement by the government that everybody will be vaccinated […]
Read MorePhilippines logs 5,257 new Covid-19 cases, total rises to 1,240,716
Manila, June 2 (IANS) The Philippines’ Department of Health (DOH) reported on Wednesday 5,257 new Covid-19 infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the Southeast Asian country to 1,240,716. The death toll rose to 21,158 after 146 more patients died from the viral disease, the DOH said. The Philippines, which has more than […]
Read MoreNo clinical trials required in India for global Covid-19 vaccines
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) Globally available Covid 19 vaccines can now be launched in India without the requirement of post approval clinical trials and testing every batch of the vaccine. The Drugs Controller General of India in a notification has said that vaccines which have been approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, […]
Read MoreChina, SE Asia ‘hotspot’ for new coronaviruses: Study
New York, June 2 (IANS) China, Japan, Philippines and Thailand may turn into “hotspots” favourable for bats that carry coronaviruses and conditions in these places could become ripe for the disease to jump from bats to humans, finds a new study. The study, published in the journal Nature Food, showed that this is because of […]
Read MoreEthiopia registers 249 new Covid-19 cases
Addis Ababa, June 2 (IANS) Ethiopia registered 249 new Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 271,790 as of Tuesday evening, according to the country’s Ministry of Health. The ministry said that six new deaths were reported, bringing the death toll to 4,171. The East African country reported 741 more […]
Read MoreHaffkine Biopharma to produce 22.8 cr doses of Covaxin per annum
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) The Centre on Wednesday took steps to accelerate domestic vaccine production. Mumbai-based Haffkine Biopharma will produce 22.8 crore doses per annum of Covaxin under technology transfer arrangement with Bharat Biotech. With the aim of vaccinating the entire eligible population at the earliest, domestic vaccine production is being steadily ramped up […]
Read MoreUP govt urges CDRI to carry out genome sequencing
Lucknow, June 2 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh government has urged the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) to carry out studies on genome sequencing and use the results of the study to prepare better for handling the pandemic situation in the future. UP Health Minister Jai Pratap Singh said that the health department would be carrying […]
Read MoreModerna applies to US FDA for full nod to its Covid vax
Washington, June 2 (IANS) US-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology company Moderna has sought the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for full approval for its mRNA Covid-19 Vaccine for use in people 18 and older. The Moderna Covid-19 Vaccine was approved for emergency use in the US in December. So far, more than 124 million doses […]
Read MoreNew Zealand reports 6 new cases of Covid-19 in managed isolation
Wellington, June 2 (IANS) New Zealand reported six new cases of Covid-19 in managed isolation and no cases in the community on Wednesday. The newly imported cases came from Qatar, Brazil and Malaysia and have remained in managed isolation and quarantine facilities in Auckland, according to the Ministry of Health, the Xinhua news agency reported. […]
Read MoreAustralia’s Melbourne extends lockdown as Covid-19 cases escalate
Sydney, June 2 (IANS) Health authorities in the Australian state of Victoria extended a lockdown in the capital of Melbourne as the latest outbreak of Covid-19 active cases rose to 60 by Wednesday. The week-long lockdown, which was due to end on Thursday, will continue for at least another seven days in Melbourne, with restrictions […]
Read MoreGovt’s target to vax 1B people in 2021 ‘not possible’: ICMR
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) Experts from the ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research and the Indian Council of Medical Research, on Wednesday, slammed the government for poor planning of the home-grown vaccine production and deployment, as a result of which “India doesn’t have enough vaccines to go around”. While there are plans to significantly ramp […]
Read MoreMongolia’s Covid-19 cases exceed 60,000
Ulan Bator, June 2 (IANS) Covid-19 cases in Mongolia rose to 60,372 on Wednesday, after 1,143 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours, the highest daily count since May 2, the country’s health ministry said. The daily test positivity rate of Covid-19 has been increasing significantly in recent days, health authorities said, urging […]
Read MorePak reports less than 2,000 new cases for 2nd consecutive day
Islamabad, June 2 (IANS) With 1,843 new infections, Pakistan on Wednesday reported less than 2,000 coronavirus cases for the second consecutive day, pushing the national tally to 924,667 countrywide. The positivity ratio across the country stands at 3.9 per cent. Pakistan has now reported a positivity ratio below 5 per cent for the ninth consecutive […]
Read MoreIndia launches global initiative for clean energy innovation
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) India on Wednesday launched the Mission Innovation CleanTech Exchange, a global initiative, that will create a network of incubators across member countries to accelerate clean energy innovation. The network, launched virtually at the Innovating to Net Zero Summit hosted by Chile, will provide access to the expertise and market insights […]
Read MoreS.Korea reports 677 more Covid cases, 141,476 in total
Seoul, June 2 (IANS) South Korea reported 677 more cases of Covid-19 as of midnight Tuesday compared to 24 hours ago, raising the total number of infections to 141,476. The daily caseload was sharply up from 459 in the prior day, rising above 600 in six days. The daily average caseload for the past week […]
Read MoreNigerian President calls for collective efforts to tackle Covid
Abuja, June 2 (IANS) Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday further called for joint international efforts to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic and the consequent challenges. “The unprecedented crisis brought by the Covid-19 pandemic has now caused far more serious setbacks to our quests for sustainable development, hence the need for international cooperation and collaboration to […]
Read More1.32 lakh Covid cases, 3,207 deaths in India in 24 hrs
New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) A day after reporting lowest cases since April 8, India witnessed a slight increase in Covid numbers with 1,32,788 new infections reported in 24 hours and 3,207 more people succumbed to the pandemic, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry said on Wednesday. On June 1, India reported 1,27,510 cases […]
Read MoreNepal receives more China-donated vaccines
Kathmandu, June 2 (IANS) In a major boost to its faltering vaccination drive against Covid-19, Nepal on Tuesday received more vaccines granted by China. A Nepal Airlines plane carrying a batch of Chinese vaccine arrived in Kathmandu on Tuesday afternoon from Beijing, said Dim Prasad Poudel, Managing Director of the airline. Meanwhile, the Himalaya Airlines, […]
Read MoreEight deaths in 20 days: A family in shock and grief in UP
Lucknow, June 2 (IANS) Imalia village situated on the outskirts of Lucknow is embedded in silent shock and grief. Seven members of a family died within a span of 20 days between April 25 and May 15. The eighth member was unable to bear the shock of successive deaths and died following cardiac arrest. The […]
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