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Coronavirus

On December 31, 2019, China reported a new virus to the World Health Organization (WHO), which later came to be known as COVID-19 -- the “CO” stands for coronavirus, “VI” for virus and “D” for disease. The coronavirus itself is called “nCoV-2019”. The virus, which causes symptoms ranging from an itchy throat to pneumonia, has killed thousands globally and infected millions. Several countries, including India, have implemented lockdown measures and other restrictions in a bid to stop the tranmission of the coronavirus. There are global efforts to find a cure or vaccine for the coronavirus, with several studies underway and in different stages of development. Scientists are also trying to understand the origin of the virus and how it is transmitted. An indigenous vaccine for the coronavirus is being developed in the country by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (MMIL). India initiated a lockdown on March 24 due to the coronavirus, and has gradually eased restrictions in phases. The country stopped rail and air services to contain the coronavirus. The Centre announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore package to that would largely benefit the unorganised sector workers, especially daily wage earners and the urban and rural poor. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has also taken several relief measures to mitigate the economic fallout due to the coronavirus. The Centre initiated Shramik Special trains in May to help stranded migrants, tourists students and others return to their home states. It announced the Vande Bharat Mission and Operation Samudra Setu to help Indian nationals abroad return to the country amid the coronavirus pandemic. The coronavirus pandemic is altering beviour across the world. From social distancing to wearing masks, from washing hands to working from home, people have been forced to change their habits. And not just humans, the coronavirus pandemic has led to cleaner air, blue skies and a change in animal behaviour.

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CORONAVIRUS NEWS

Omicron threat: Night-time restrictions in Kerala for four days starting Dec 30

December 27, 2021 7:46 pm

A meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, decided to slap restrictions during these days from 10 pm to 5 am. New year celebrations would not be allowed after 10 pm.

Manipur reports its first case of Omicron variant in man who returned from Tanzania

December 27, 2021 6:22 pm

The Health director further informed that during the contact tracing exercise, three of his close associates were found to be positive for Covid-19 on December 22.

Delhi: Covid cases rising, schools unlikely to resume for primary classes

December 27, 2021 6:10 pm

In the meantime, with children aged 15-18 eligible for Covid vaccination from January 3, schools are working towards ensuring that their students register for it.

Goa reports first Omicron case as minor traveller from UK tests positive for Covid-19 variant

December 27, 2021 4:43 pm

The state government has so far only appealed to the public to follow Covid protocols like wearing masks and maintaining social distance but not issued any additional restrictions.

'Consider imposing need-based curbs': MHA to states amid Covid-19 surge

December 27, 2021 2:12 pm

State governments should ensure that oxygen supply equipment are fully functional and maintain a buffer stock of essential drugs, Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla wrote in a letter sent to chief secretaries of all states.

Explained: Is the Covid-19 vaccine safe for children?

December 27, 2021 1:34 pm

More than 5 million children ages 5 to 11 have gotten the first dose since early November, and the US government safety monitoring has not uncovered any surprise problems.

First precautionary dose for those who received 2nd shot 9 months ago, CoWIN chief confirms

December 27, 2021 1:15 pm

This would mean that the first lot of recipients of the precautionary vaccine will be those who received their second shot by April this year.

‘Magic’ weight-loss pills and Covid cures: Dr. Oz under the microscope

December 27, 2021 11:24 am

Misinformation about the coronavirus emanating from the Trump White House and conservative news sites helped politicize the nation’s response to the pandemic, with deadly consequences in many Republican areas of the country.

Delhi Omicron count 142, no travel history in 52 out of latest 63

December 28, 2021 1:10 am

🔴 Delhi, in the last 24 hours, witnessed a sharp rise in Omicron cases with 63 people testing positive for new Covid-19 strain.

Himachal sees 1st Omicron case

December 27, 2021 4:59 am

Confirming the positive case, special secretary (health) and Director of National Health Mission Hem Raj Wairva said that a 45-year-old woman from Mandi has tested positive for the variant.

CORONAVIRUS PHOTOS

Tourists flock to hill stations to beat Covid blues, but officials call for vigilance

July 10, 2021 1:37 pm

With daily case detections still above 40,000 and reports and pictures of blatant violations of social distancing norms coming from tourist spots, officials warn that daily cases could explode if people behave recklessly.

Amid the pandemic and rise of multiplexes, Kolkata's single screen cinemas struggle to stay afloat

June 26, 2021 2:59 pm

Amidst rampant modernisation and the emergence of lush multiplexes, Kolkata's single screen cinema halls struggle to stay afloat.

24 crore people vaccinated so far, Govt says over 25.87 crore doses provided to states

June 12, 2021 3:07 pm

Dr V K Paul, who heads the country’s Covid task force, said the US decision will not have any regulatory impact in India.

After pandemic pause, Avengers swing, soar into Disneyland

June 05, 2021 10:54 am

A Spider-Man ride that lets visitors blast bots with virtual webs from their bare hands and a show of strength from the royal guard of Wakanda are among the highlights of the new Avengers Campus at Disney's California Adventure Park, whose debut was paused for about a year by the coronavirus pandemic before it opens to the public Friday.

Spirometers, yoga exercises part of daily routines at Covid-19 care centres

May 29, 2021 1:57 pm

Nurses, doctors and volunteers have started making patients do yoga, and a few stretching exercises known to provide better care as the virus hits. Due to the nature of the virus, monitoring breathing patterns and focusing on lung health has become vital.