Podcasts by Coronavirus Global Update
News on Covid-19 and its impact on health, business and travel worldwide. When there are developments, we will bring you the latest updates. From the Global News Podcast team.
Further podcasts by BBC World Service
Podcast on the topic Gesundheit und Fitness
All episodes
China puts several cities in lockdown from 2022-03-15T18:22
China imposes lockdown measures on a whole province amid rising cases. Also, Germany records a seven day high of infections, and Britain decides to remove all travel restrictions later this week.
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Covid-19 pandemic anniversary from 2022-03-11T15:07
Also: New data indicates the total number of deaths may be three times higher than records show; what lessons have we learnt from this pandemic to help prevent new outbreaks and meeting the scienti...
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Queen Elizabeth tests positive for Covid from 2022-02-20T14:09
Buckingham Palace says she's experiencing 'mild cold-like symptoms'. Also: England is set to drop the legal requirement for people to self-isolate, and the streets around the parliament building in...
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Canadian police say they're in control of the truckers protest from 2022-02-19T14:46
Vehicles have been towed away and demonstrators handcuffed. Also: plans for mass testing in Hong Kong, and restaurants and shops in Switzerland are hoping for more customers after almost all restri...
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Six African nations to get mRNA vaccine technology from 2022-02-18T15:52
The countries should be able to replicate Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna jabs. Also, Hong Kong struggles with a surge in cases; and Japan lifts tough border restrictions.
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Chinese police search for possibly infected migrants from 2022-02-17T14:29
A reward is offered for three people after cases were discovered among their group. Also, Germany, Israel and the Netherlands press ahead with easing restrictions, and nightclubbers in France may h...
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China piles pressure on Hong Kong's Covid response from 2022-02-16T14:38
The Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged Hong Kong to take "all necessary measures" to curb the soaring number of cases. Also: Moderna seeks volunteers for its Omicron booster vaccine; and South ...
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Novak Djokovic: I will sacrifice trophies if told to get jab from 2022-02-15T14:22
Novak Djokovic has said he would rather miss out on future tennis trophies than be forced to get a Covid vaccine. Speaking exclusively to the BBC, he said he should not be associated with the anti-...
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US-Canada border crossing cleared of protestors from 2022-02-14T14:14
Canadian truckers leave the busiest bridge between the two countries. Also: Hong Kong hospitals overwhelmed after a surge in Covid infections.
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Canadian PM warns protesting truckers from 2022-02-13T12:45
Justin Trudeau has said he's not ruling anything out in order to clear border crossing. Also: Police in New Zealand deploy a noisy secret weapon to disperse protesters.
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China has given approval for Pfizer's Covid-19 drug from 2022-02-12T12:14
China has for the first time given conditional approval for a foreign-made drug to treat Covid-19, an injunction comes into force in Canada to end Truckers' protests, and a study finds the pandemic...
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New Zealand police turn the sprinklers on from 2022-02-11T12:57
Protestors against vaccine mandates get soaked. Also: US officials urge Canadian Government to end blockade, and President Macron refuses Russian PCR test.
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Protests in Canada continue at a key bridge which crosses the US border from 2022-02-10T14:23
The three-day closure of the Ambassador bridge has badly hit the automobile industry. Also, vaccine supplies assigned to North Korea have been reallocated and the heir to the British throne tests p...
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WHO asks for billions to help solve pandemic from 2022-02-09T15:04
The global initiative launched by WHO and partners wants 16 billion dollars, it funds Covid testing, treatments and vaccines around the world. Also: Spanish tourism takes a hit because of its chil...
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Canadian PM demands end to truckers’ protest over Covid restrictions from 2022-02-08T14:07
Justin Trudeau held an emergency debate on demonstrations which have paralysed Ottawa for twelve days. Also, Chinese scientists say they have developed a new quick and accurate method of coronaviru...
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The British PM receives a report into parties during lockdown from 2022-01-31T14:04
The inquiry is into alleged Covid-nineteen lockdown violations at his office and residence. Also: Spotify announces plans to take action against Covid disinformation, and a woman aged one-hundred-a...
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Portugal votes as coronavirus hits economy from 2022-01-30T12:00
Fears some people may struggle to cast votes. Also: Canadian truckers take their objections to Covid-19 measure to the country's capital; and a pregnant New Zealand journalist turns to the Taliban ...
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Beijing Olympics organizers optimistic despite rising coronavirus numbers from 2022-01-29T12:17
Winter Olympics' medical chief says the measures work well. Also:10 billion Covid jabs administered worldwide, and Austria to lift some restrictions.
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British scientists urge to do more to help poorer countries manufacture their own vaccines from 2022-01-28T14:29
Scientists in the UK urge the government to do more to help poorer countries manufacture their own vaccines,
Doubts have emerged over the timing of the positive Covid test Novak Djokovic ...
A new record for cases in the Americas. from 2022-01-27T14:15
More than eight million people have tested positive in the past week. Also: Kanya plans to vaccinate 19 million adults and in England, Covid restrictions in care homes are to be relaxed.
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Study: majority infected with Omicron likely to be reinfections from 2022-01-26T13:52
100,000 volunteers took part in one of the largest Covid infection studies in England. Also, the IMF downgrades global economic growth forecasts, and Tonga battles to contain the virus.
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Covid outbreak on Australian relief ship heading to Tonga from 2022-01-25T14:21
The government of Tonga fears foreign aid workers could bring coronavirus. Also, British police investigate whether parties at Downing Street broke lockdown rules; and Japan extends restrictions to...
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WHO chief warns of danger of assuming pandemic is ending from 2022-01-24T14:00
The head of the World Health Organisation says it's dangerous to assume the pandemic is coming to an end; Also tens of thousands of Germans are due to protest against Covid restrictions. And the ai...
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World's first Covid lockdown anniversary from 2022-01-23T12:31
Eleven million people were quarantined in the Chinese city of Wuhan on this day in 2020. Also: Red list restrictions come into force in New Zealand and a new sub variant of Omicron is detected in 4...
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BBC investigation reveals true number of deaths in Iran from 2022-01-22T12:31
The figure is double that of the official tally. Also: Scientists fear Covid could spread to wild animals, and tourists bring the disease to an island that had escaped it
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WHO: Omicron spreads to 89 countries from 2021-12-18T12:47
The WHO says it's only taking three days for Omicron cases to double. Also: in the UK warnings of a surge in hospitalisations, and stricter rules take effect in South Korea.
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Fewer serious illnesses and deaths from Omicron in South Africa from 2021-12-17T14:30
The officials say fewer people infected with the Omicron variant of coronavirus appear to die or require hospital treatment. Also: president Biden warns Americans they face a winter of severe illne...
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France restricts travel from the UK from 2021-12-16T15:12
France is imposing Covid restrictions for travellers arriving from the UK. Also: South Korea is reintroducing social distancing, and doctors warn that Afghanistan's health system may be on the brin...
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Vigil held in the US for coronavirus victims from 2021-12-15T14:29
A vigil in the US mourns more than 800 thousand people who have died from Covid-19. Also: Students and workers are allowed back into Australia, and the government in Britain survives a vote on new ...
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Covid passports drive increase in vaccinations, study finds from 2021-12-14T14:17
The study examined six countries that had introduced such passes, and found they drove an uptake in vaccines in four of them. Also: The US Air Force discharges twenty-seven people for refusing the ...
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South Africa's president recovers from Covid symptoms from 2021-12-13T14:17
The South African president is recovering from Covid symptoms after testing positive; Also the British health secretary warns Omicron is spreading at a "phenomenal" rate. And tearful family reunion...
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Brazilian judge rules that foreign visitors must show proof of vaccination from 2021-12-12T12:25
Brazil's lenient regulations had made it a destination for non-vaccinated tourists. Also: pressure mounts on the British prime minister after he's pictured taking part in a Christmas quiz last year...
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Formula 1 drivers urge people to get vaccinated, UK minister warns against Omicron and two zoo hippos test positive in Belgium from 2021-12-11T14:53
Formula 1 drivers promote vaccines, UK says Omicron challenging, Belgian hippos get Covid
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WFP says Coronavirus has created a hunger pandemic from 2021-12-10T14:19
The executive head of the WFP has called it an unprecedented perfect storm. The UK makes face coverings mandatory in more indoor venues, and Japan develops glowing Covid masks.
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Omicron spreading twice as fast as Delta from 2021-12-04T12:43
Scientists say the number of cases recorded in South Africa has shot up over the past week. Also: Brazilian president to be investigated for linking Covid vaccines to AIDS, the Cook Islands record ...
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Omicron variant takes hold in South Africa from 2021-12-03T14:35
Health officials say coronavirus cases in South Africa are surging at an unprecedented rate. Also: A UK study finds the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines give the best overall booster response, and shoul...
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Scientists breakthrough on AstraZenica vaccine from 2021-12-02T14:08
Discovery of link to rare blood clots. Also: Pfizer to roll out vaccine which can be stored in a fridge and South Africa sees a surge in Omicron cases.
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Governments tighten travel rules from 2021-12-01T13:52
Governments brings in restrictions despite WHO warnings. Also: Fiji opens up to tourists after 600 days and the UK PM is accused of having party during last year’s lockdown.
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Confusion over Omicron variant from 2021-11-30T13:19
Concern varies over vaccine effectiveness for Omicron. Also: the UK introduces new restrictions and Greece will fine unvaccinated pensioners
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WHO warns new variant poses a very high global risk from 2021-11-29T14:31
As the Omicron variant spreads, borders close and health leaders call for action. Also: a couple are arrested in the Netherlands for fleeing a quarantine hotel, and a three day vaccine blitz begin...
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Israel imposes travel ban from 2021-11-28T13:41
Israel bans foreigners coming in as it tries to limit the impact of the Omicron coronavirus variant. Also, England brings back mandatory face coverings in shops and public transport. And Moderna sa...
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European countries check Omicron cases from 2021-11-27T14:12
The mutated virus has been listed as a variant of concern by the World Health Organisation. Also, South Africa says it is being punished for detecting the new variant, and airlines want the EU to e...
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WHO meets to consider new variant found in southern Africa from 2021-11-26T14:24
Experts in Geneva will decide if it should be designated a variant of concern. Also, South Africa has expressed disappointment after several countries imposed travel bans, and stock markets have fa...
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Scientists discover new coronavirus variant from 2021-11-25T14:25
A new strain with a high number of mutations is being investigated. Also, countries in Central Europe struggle to respond to a surge in Covid cases, and Pfizer accuses an employee of stealing confi...
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New Zealand to reopen to vaccinated citizens from 2021-11-24T14:15
The move eases strict curbs that have locked out many citizens and tourists since borders were shut at the start of the Covid pandemic. Also, South Korea considers the introduction of new emergency...
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US travel warning for European countries from 2021-11-23T14:05
The US State Department warning comes amid increasing Covid infection rates. Also, France appeals for calm in Guadeloupe following unrest over Covid restrictions, and AstraZeneca is to unveil a 1.3...
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WHO condemns the world's failure to act together to end the pandemic from 2021-11-22T13:32
The WHO is warning that progress the world is making is too slow. Also: Austria re-enters Covid lockdown as Europe battles a surge, and Australia to ease its border ban on some foreign citizens.
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A second night of rioting in the Netherlands from 2021-11-21T12:55
Nearly 30 are arrested over further rioting in the Netherlands. Also: a review into potential racial bias in the design of medical devices, and Britain puts its faith in booster jabs.
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The Dutch justice minister condemns rioting in Rotterdam from 2021-11-20T13:19
Ferd Grapperhaus said the police faced extreme violence. Also: the WHO calls for a debate on compulsory vaccination, and Vietnam welcomes its first foreign tourists in nearly two years.
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Austria announces general lockdown from 2021-11-19T14:11
New restrictions imposed by Vienna include a vaccine mandate. Also, Japan approves a multi-billion dollar Covid relief stimulus package. And a British doctor calls for health workers to receive bet...
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Germany's parliament approves stricter Covid restrictions from 2021-11-18T14:13
The move comes as more than 65,000 infections are registered. Also; studies find that mask-wearing is the most effective non-pharmaceutical way to tackle the spread of Covid-19, and the election in...
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US hopes COVID-19 could be reduced to endemic illness early next year from 2021-11-17T14:02
Dr Anthony Fauci believes an increase in vaccination rates could lessen its impact. Also: The UK Health Security Agency has warned of a "hidden pandemic" of antibiotic-resistant infections if peopl...
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Low-cost access to Pfizer's Covid pill from 2021-11-16T15:18
Pfizer is sharing the licence to its antiviral pill but not to its vaccine. The medicine is yet to be approved in the US. Also: the Dutch government lodges a police complaint against a provider of ...
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China restricts entry to the capital, Beijing, as outbreaks are recorded in the north of the country from 2021-10-25T12:46
People arriving from districts with even one Covid case won't be able to access the city. Also: Germany's health minister wants state of emergency to end, and Pakistan records lowest number of Covi...
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Coronavirus cases in eastern Europe surpass 20 million from 2021-10-24T11:59
One of the worst affected countries is Romania. Doctors there say hospitals are at breaking point. Also: cheaper tests are introduced for travellers returning to England, and in China the Wuhan mar...
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US officials say the Pfizer vaccine looks effective for children from 2021-10-23T12:06
The FDA says the benefits of the jab outweigh the risks. Also: Vietnam opens up to tourists again, and South Korea achieves a key vaccination goal.
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The WHO says 100,000 health workers have died from 2021-10-22T12:27
Head of WHO criticises countries that control vaccines. Also: England continues with Covid strategy despite 50,000 new cases and Thailand prepares to welcome tourists again.
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WHO says jab inequity means pandemic will drag on from 2021-10-21T13:48
Slow vaccine supply to poorer nations will make the crisis last a year longer, experts say. Also, China cancels flights and train journeys in the north - in a bid to contain a Covid outbreak across...
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Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro accused of crimes against humanity from 2021-10-20T14:19
An inquiry recommends that he face at least 10 charges over his handling of the pandemic. Also: President Putin orders a week long shutdown in Russia and New York city workers will be given 500 dol...
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EU sends emergency aid to Romania from 2021-10-19T13:24
The EU sends emergency aid to Romania as it records one of the highest covid mortality rates in the world; Russia reports a record daily number of deaths.
And why an Indian man wants a photo of...
EU hits vaccine export milestone from 2021-10-18T13:50
More than a billion doses have been exported, many via the Covax programme. Also: more than 50,000 children in Iran have lost a parent to the pandemic; and the former US Secretary of State, Colin ...
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Japan’s PM pledges to end Covid crisis from 2021-10-08T12:33
Japan’s new Prime Minister promises to carve out a new era. Also, Britain launches its largest-ever flu vaccination programme, and how restaurants in the US are using robots because of Covid staff ...
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Ivermectin: How false science created a Covid 'miracle drug' from 2021-10-07T13:23
Investigation casts serious doubt on research which was used by Ivermectin's promoters. Also, Romania experiences a major surge in Covid case-numbers and deaths, and how the AstraZeneca Covid vacc...
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What causes Covid toe? from 2021-10-06T12:02
Scientists think they have the answer. Also: figures are still rising in Russia, and a court in the Netherlands rejects a bid to ban covid passes.
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UN: Pandemic has severe toll on child mental health from 2021-10-05T13:19
Unicef says the pandemic has amplified the mental health crisis affecting young people. Also: in Guatemala anti-vaccine villagers attack and detain nurses administering Covid jabs.
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New Zealand changes strategy from 2021-10-04T11:52
Prime Minister Ardern says they will have to live with virus, due to the delta variant. Also: UK ends most of its travel restrictions, and Venezuela welcomes 900,000 doses of vaccine from Cuba
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Systems crash causes Israel Green Pass delay from 2021-10-03T11:52
Tough new controls delayed for days by glitch. Also today: Liverpool’s manager likens refusing a jab to drink-driving, and the head of United Airlines defends firing workers who refuse to get vacci...
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US passes 700,000 Covid deaths from 2021-10-02T11:05
Millions of Americans remain unvaccinated. Also: hundreds protest in Auckland; and Morocco says it will soon be giving a third jab.
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Australia to end strict travel ban from 2021-10-01T13:32
The country will re-open its borders to fully vaccinated residents from November. Also: With 85 percent of its population fully vaccinated, Portugal lifts almost all of its Covid restrictions, and ...
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Britain finishes its furlough scheme from 2021-09-30T13:07
18 months of financial help for workers come to an end. Also: A call for more Covid vaccines to be sent to poorer countries, and Argentine rugby players banned from Australian training camp.
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Vitamin A treatment trial for Covid loss of smell from 2021-09-29T13:50
UK researchers are assessing if vitamin A nasal drops might be able to treat the loss or altered sense of smell in some people who have had Covid.
Also, South Africa's former health minist...
Record deaths in Russia from 2021-09-28T13:43
The 852 deaths in 24 hours come amid a surge in Delta variant cases. Also: Japan's state of emergency to end; President Biden gets booster jab as New York's unvaccinated teachers and health worker...
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Australia restrictions to ease from 2021-09-27T11:49
New South Wales lockdown likely to end for fully vaccinated in two weeks. Also: the most deprived parts of the UK have to wait longest for health care, and EU officials may continue to limit vacci...
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France to double vaccine supplies to poorer countries from 2021-09-26T11:18
France says it will double the number of vaccine doses for poorer countries. A Chinese health official says Covid may have lain hidden for up to 50 years.
And the Japanese Prime Minister says ...
India to restart vaccine exports from 2021-09-25T11:38
They had been suspended in April because of a Covid wave. Also: the Netherlands eases restrictions; and the son of the Brazilian President tests positive for the virus.
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Portugal has world's highest vaccination rate from 2021-09-24T13:17
More than 87% of the country's 10.3 million population is fully jabbed. Also: Russia records its highest daily death toll; and Norway announces an end to all restrictions.
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US pledges another 500 million vaccine doses to poorer countries from 2021-09-23T13:12
US will donate more than one billion vaccines, how the brain of a Covid survivor could help treatments. Australia tells British cricketers that they won't get special treatment.
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The US pledges to vaccinate 70% of the world from 2021-09-22T13:12
President Biden is hosting a global Covid-19 summit, the UK says it will recognise India's main vaccine and why llamas could help in the fight against coronavirus.
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US eases travel restrictions from 2021-09-21T13:25
White House announces plans to relax restrictions for fully vaccinated foreign nationals. Also: India plans to restart exports of vaccines, a bishop from the Greek-Catholic Church in Slovakia, who ...
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WHO head in Afghanistan from 2021-09-20T13:35
Dr Tedros will discuss the pressure on hospitals amid a funding crisis. Also: lockdown restrictions are relaxed in New Zealand's biggest city; and the Chelsea Flower Show gets underway in the autu...
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Italy vaccine demand spikes from 2021-09-19T11:32
Demand for coronavirus vaccines in Italy has risen by forty percent after it extended its Green Pass requirement to all public and private workplaces. Also; more than a million people in England wi...
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Hundreds arrested in Australian anti-lockdown protests from 2021-09-18T11:31
Protesters clashed with police officers at rallies in Sydney and Melbourne. Also; booster jabs of Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine are recommended for people 65 and over in the US, and can we say when the...
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Austrian Government sued from 2021-09-17T11:49
Austrian Government sued over Europe's first Covid outbreak, England to change its travel rules, and Italy introduces a compulsory Covid ‘Green Pass’
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France suspends 3,000 unvaccinated health workers from 2021-09-16T13:14
The country has made vaccination mandatory for all healthcare and care home workers. Also: a leading British immunologist calls for more research into the link between Covid jabs and menstrual prob...
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EU warns of 'pandemic of the unvaccinated' from 2021-09-15T14:04
It pledges an additional 200 million vaccine doses to speed up global immunisation. Also: the governments of France and Zimbabwe introduce punitive measures against workers who aren't vaccinated; a...
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President Putin will go into self-isolation after cases of coronavirus were detected in his entourage from 2021-09-14T13:19
The president's spokesman said Mr Putin had tested negative for Covid-19 and was absolutely healthy. Also, the UK government gives more details about a vaccination programme in England for teenager...
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UK recommends vaccines for younger teenagers from 2021-09-13T14:27
Chief medical officers say 12-15 year olds should be given 1 dose of Pfizer vaccine, South Africa says it will introduce vaccines passports, and Sydney slightly relaxes lockdown rules.
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Plans ditched for vaccine passports in England from 2021-09-12T12:01
The health minister, Sajid Javid, says passports are not needed. Also: 13 gorillas test positive at an American zoo, and the motorcycle Grand Prix in Argentina is cancelled.
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Former French health minister under formal investigation from 2021-09-11T11:18
Agnès Buzyn faces a potential charge of 'endangering lives.' Also: An Australian official says some people are dying at home from Covid without seeking help, and why dogs are losing their pandemic ...
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Biden widens vaccine mandate from 2021-09-10T13:25
President Biden announces new measures to boost vaccination. Also: UK economic recovery falters; Denmark lifts restrictions; and the England v India cricket match is called off.
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Dr Anthony Fauci encourages third Pfizer dose from 2021-09-09T13:17
The senior US adviser for Covid-19 says booster jabs should not be delayed. Also, Italian police carry out raids after anti-vaccine activists allegedly planned violent attacks. And 14 patients are ...
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China vaccinates almost a billion people from 2021-09-08T13:07
Beijing says two thirds of the country’s population have now had two doses of a vaccine. Also: flooding kills Covid patients in Mexico. And could the pandemic mean poor countries' voices won't be h...
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Vietnamese man jailed for spreading Covid from 2021-09-07T13:01
He was sentenced to five years in prison for breaking quarantine rules. Also: Brazil's president has issued a decree aimed at restricting social media - after Facebook and Twitter blocked misleadin...
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Brazil's World Cup qualifier against Argentina abandoned minutes into the game from 2021-09-06T13:05
A group of Argentine players were accused of breaking coronavirus rules, also: New Zealand eases restrictions, except for Auckland, and Vietnam carries out testing blitz in Hanoi.
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Paralympics end - 'still overshadowed by Covid' from 2021-09-05T12:21
Tokyo hospitals continue to be under severe strain – with thousands unable to find beds. Also: the former UK prime minister, Gordon Brown, condemns rich countries for stockpiling vaccines, and Ame...
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Decision on jabs for UK children due in days from 2021-09-04T11:39
The government says there is a 'strong case' for vaccinating 12 to 15-year-olds. Also: the fierce debate in Australia over reopening borders; the pandemic: a recipe for weight gain; and mapping the...
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EU ends bitter row with AstraZeneca from 2021-09-03T13:19
The European Union ends its row with vaccine maker AstraZeneca. Also: Volunteers try to help contain a Covid outbreak in Australia. And Japan's Prime Minister says he can't deal with Coronavirus an...
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The WHO appeal for more vaccines to be donated to Central American countries from 2021-09-02T13:26
The World Health Organisation says that vaccination levels remain very low in the region. Also: a pandemic early warning centre is opened in Germany and a study suggests being fully vaccinated grea...
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Taiwan rolls out homegrown vaccine from 2021-08-23T13:10
Clinical trials are yet to be completed, but the government says the vaccine is safe. Also: Iran reports another record number of deaths, despite a six day shutdown; and how a Nigerian entrepreneu...
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Delta variant forces NZ to rethink strategy from 2021-08-22T12:41
New Zealand casts doubt on its Covid zero strategy, as outbreak in Wellington grows. Also: a new study in the UK will test how many antibodies participants have after testing positive, and Olympic ...
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Australian police clash with anti-lockdown protesters from 2021-08-21T11:27
Hundreds of people are arrested after rallies in Melbourne and Sydney. Also: India approves the world's first DNA vaccine, and it's been delayed three times due to the pandemic, but there's now a d...
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Sydney extends lockdown and puts two million under curfew from 2021-08-20T13:10
Australia's largest city faces stay-at-home order until at least the end of September. Also: A Covid-antibody therapy - given to former US President Donald Trump - has been approved for use in the ...
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Covid vaccines still effective against Delta variant from 2021-08-19T13:15
But they don’t appear to be successful in preventing infected people from passing it on. Also: The World Health Organisation condemns the rush by wealthy countries to provide Covid-19 vaccine boost...
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New Zealand battles first Delta outbreak from 2021-08-18T13:28
New Zealand says its recently-detected cases are linked to Australia. Also: WHO flags fake jabs in India and Africa, and Israel requires tests for children aged three and up.
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WHO fears Afghanistan surge from 2021-08-17T13:29
The WHO is worried the virus could spread amid chaos after the Taliban takeover. Also: New Zealand locking down after one case and what's next for American booster jabs?
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Canada calls pandemic election from 2021-08-16T13:36
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the government needs a mandate for its response to Covid 19 and how it can 'build back better'. Also: Over 50s in Israel are offered a third vaccine dose -- while...
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Soldiers help to enforce Covid restrictions in Sydney from 2021-08-15T13:10
New coronavirus cases across New South Wales reached a record high on Saturday. Also: thousands protest on vehicles in Bangkok over the handling of the pandemic, and Iran orders a new lockdown.
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Australian capital goes into a snap lockdown from 2021-08-12T13:24
Canberra locks downs for one week after recording first Covid-19 in case in more than a year. Also: New Zealand's borders will remain closed for the rest of the year, and the mayor of a Japanese ci...
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The number of Covid deaths in Iran may be double the official figure from 2021-08-11T14:09
Research by BBC Persian has found that the number of lives lost to coronavirus in Iran may be as high as two hundred thousand. Also: Germany is among a growing list of countries tightening rules on...
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Vaccines look set to become mandatory for US military from 2021-08-10T14:20
The Pentagon says it's seeking to make jabs compulsory for all 1.3 million US military personnel. Also: riot police in Thailand clash with protestors angered by the government's handling of the pa...
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French show health passes for bars and restaurants from 2021-08-09T13:23
From today people in France have to show a health pass to enter bars, cafes and restaurants. also: Canada reopens its border to non-essential American travellers; and the New Orleans Jazz festival ...
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Tokyo Olympics hailed as a success despite pandemic from 2021-08-08T11:14
As the Games come to a close, there's praise for the organisers. Also: Britain relaxes Covid restrictions on travellers from a number of countries including France, Germany and India; and Saudi Ara...
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Bangladesh launches major vaccination drive from 2021-08-07T11:32
15,000 centres open across the country. Also: Thai police clash with protesters, angry at the government's handling of the pandemic; and why there is no such thing as vaccine shedding.
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Italy launches COVID "green pass" from 2021-08-06T13:34
It admits the holder to restaurants and cinemas. Also: CNN sacks employees who've entered the office without being vaccinated and the UK Government launches $1billion insurance scheme for the live ...
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WHO urges delay in booster jabs to help poorer nations from 2021-08-05T13:25
It says a moratorium until September would help ease vaccine inequity. Also: several African countries will receive the first shipments of vaccines acquired by the African Union; and are we reachin...
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Long Covid rare in children from 2021-08-04T12:58
A study finds very few children who test positive develop long-term symptoms. Also: New York is to become the first US city to require proof of vaccination for indoor venues, and the new Barbie do...
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Mass testing in Wuhan from 2021-08-03T13:22
Everyone in the central Chinese city will be tested after seven cases of the Delta variant were reported on Monday. Also: rising case numbers prompt an increase in vaccinations in the US, and ther...
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A new outbreak in China reaches Wuhan from 2021-08-02T13:21
Seven cases of the Delta variant detected where the pandemic began. Also: Australia uses the army to tighten Covid curbs, and in the UK quarantine is scrapped for fully vaccinated arrivals from the...
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US eviction ban could leave millions homeless from 2021-08-01T13:02
The United States ban on residential evictions during the pandemic expired on Saturday at midnight putting millions of renters at risk of becoming homeless. Also: Saudi Arabia demands people be ful...
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China hurries to contain new outbreak from 2021-07-31T11:18
China is rushing to contain its largest outbreak in months. Also, the Australian city of Brisbane goes into lockdown. And we look at the teams of police and firefighters collecting the dead in Indo...
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Tokyo Olympics begin a year late from 2021-07-23T13:03
Opening ceremony remembers all those who've died during the pandemic. Also: New Zealand to suspend trans-Tasman bubble for two months, Eurozone economy rebounds and footballer Karim Benzema tests p...
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China rejects second WHO probe into Covid origins from 2021-07-22T13:16
China rejects a plan for a second WHO probe into the origins of Covid-19. Also: YouTube removes videos by President Bolsonaro of Brazil, saying that they spread misinformation; And Australia and Ne...
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Health pass needed in France to visit museums and cinemas from 2021-07-21T13:05
The measure could be extended to restaurants and public transport. Also: WHO chief wants Olympics to go ahead, and Tunisian health minister sacked over 'mismanagement' of coronavirus crisis.
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India's excess deaths 'could be ten times official figure from 2021-07-20T13:09
Researchers say it's India's worst humanitarian disaster since independence. Also: Iran reports its highest number of new cases in a single day; and Australia and Thailand reintroduce lockdown meas...
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Is England's 'freedom day' safe? from 2021-07-19T13:37
England has lifted covid restrictions despite a sharp rise in infections. Dubbed 'freedom day, the legal requirement to wear masks and limit venue capacities has been scrapped.
Also, the I...
British PM to self-isolate in U-turn from 2021-07-18T11:54
Downing Street says Boris Johnson will conduct meetings remotely at his official country residence. Also: new research into the effects of long Covid, and people in LA to wear face masks indoors ag...
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First Covid case in Tokyo's Olympic village from 2021-07-17T11:33
The first Covid case is detected in the athletes village at the Tokyo Olympics. Also Saudi Arabia sharply reduces the number of pilgrims allowed on the Hajj.
And President Biden says social me...
Face masks become mandatory again in LA from 2021-07-16T13:32
The rule covering indoor spaces even applies to people who have been vaccinated. Also: record cases in Russia and a delegate at the Tokyo Olympics is hospitalised.
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23 million children miss out on routine vaccines due to pandemic from 2021-07-15T13:12
The World Health Organisation says the pandemic has undone years of progress protecting children from illnesses such as measles, diphtheria and polio. Also: Thailand is told it will be waiting mont...
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Olympic hotel in Japan reports Covid-19 cluster from 2021-07-14T13:39
Seven staff members test positive at a hotel hosting Brazilian athletes in the city of Hamamatsu. Also: face coverings will remain compulsory on London's public transport network despite England's ...
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Israel races to unload vaccine surplus from 2021-07-05T13:25
About a million doses of Pfizer vaccines are due to expire by the end of July. Also: the UK honours the National Health Service; and President Biden says the US will soon declare independence from...
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Thousands protest in Brazil against Bolsonaro's handling of the pandemic from 2021-07-04T12:39
Tens of thousands took to the streets across Brazil to protest against the government of President Jair Bolsonaro. Also: doctors in France have signed an open letter calling on the government to ma...
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Emergency restrictions enforced in Indonesia as Covid-19 infections rise from 2021-07-03T12:17
Hundreds of road blocks have been set up by police in Java and Bali. Also: Iran has expressed fears that the whole country could be engulfed by a fifth wave of the pandemic, and South Africa has ap...
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Australia to halve international arrivals to fight Delta strain from 2021-07-02T13:11
Australia will halve the number of international arrivals to just three thousand people a week after a spike in Covid cases. Also, India has passed four hundred thousand Covid-related deaths, and ...
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New restrictions in Indonesia from 2021-07-01T13:13
Indonesia’s vital tourism industry is expected to suffer as Java and Bali lock down. Also, a travel certificate goes live in the European Union. And Australia tries to boost vaccine use in Aborigin...
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UN: Pandemic has devastated tourism from 2021-06-30T13:23
Report says the coronavirus pandemic is costing the global economy trillions of dollars. Also, Putin says vaccination is not compulsory, and the plea for help from Spanish students confined in a q...
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Russia records its worst official Covid figures since the start of the pandemic. from 2021-06-29T13:25
Moscow and St Petersburg are badly affected, while vaccine rates are low amid widespread scepticism. Also: Germany urges fewer football spectators, and Shangai serenades people who've just been vac...
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Australia considers new restrictions as Delta variant spreads from 2021-06-28T12:51
Prime minister Scott Morrison has met state and territory leaders to discuss measures, also: Italy drops the mask mandate for outside settings, and Japan tightens Covid checks on athletes arriving ...
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Australia ponders new restrictions as the Delta variant spreads from 2021-06-28T12:51
Prime minister Scott Morrison has met state and territory leaders to discuss measures, also: Italy drops the mask mandate for outside settings, and Japan tightens Covid checks on athletes arriving ...
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Ibiza prepares to open nightclubs from 2021-06-27T11:49
The Spanish island of Ibiza prepares to open up nightclubs again. Also: Moscow records the highest death toll in a Russian city since the start of the pandemic; And in South Africa officials say th...
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Thousands leave Dhaka ahead of lockdown from 2021-06-26T11:04
Tough restrictions across Bangladesh begin on Monday. Also: Namibia warns of oxygen shortages, and 'grab a jab' for over-18s in England.
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Week-long lockdown imposed in parts of Sydney from 2021-06-25T13:22
Authorities in Australia order a week- long lockdown for four areas of Sydney. Plus, doctors in South Africa are forced to choose between patients; and thousands are hit by fake vaccine scams in In...
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Study reveals impact of long Covid from 2021-06-24T13:47
More than one third of people in England who reported coronavirus symptoms had at least one long-lasting effect. Also: EU leaders consider new travel measures to cope with the Delta variant and the...
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New Zealand: Covid alert level raised in the capital from 2021-06-23T14:06
A single virus-infected Australian triggered the alarm. There are also new curbs in Australia as authorities fight an outbreak in Sydney. Also: Oxford University explores an anti-parasite drug as a...
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Infections in India drop below 50,000 from 2021-06-22T13:27
The number of daily infections in India drops below 50,000 for the first time in 3 months. Also: The WHO says a large number of poorer countries don't have enough doses under the Covax scheme; And ...
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Vaccinations compulsory for many Moscow workers from 2021-06-16T13:30
Authorities have ordered 60% of service workers to get the jab, as cases surge. Also: India reopens the Taj Mahal, and New York and California ease restrictions.
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New Zealand works on ways to re-use PPE from 2021-06-15T13:26
Researchers begin final stage of a study to see if masks and gowns can be decontaminated. Also: Russia says it's worried about low vaccine take-up and US airlines report thousands of cases of passe...
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G7 makes global vaccine promise from 2021-06-14T13:18
Leaders pledge one billion doses for poorer countries. Italy eases restrictions as infection rates continue to fall across Europe, and the Argentinian football star Lionel Messi says he's concerned...
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South Africa stops use of contaminated vaccines from 2021-06-13T12:07
Millions of doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccines made in Baltimore are affected. Also: Saudi Arabia restricts this year's Hajj to its own citizens; and a new wave of infections in the Democrat...
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G7 to adopt new pandemic plan from 2021-06-12T11:54
The Carbis Bay declaration promises measures to prevent a repeat of the Covid-19 crisis. Also: politicians in Pakistan have threatened to block the mobile phones or withhold the salaries of people ...
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One billion vaccines expected to be donated by G7 leaders from 2021-06-11T14:13
Grand gestures of Covid vaccines from the leaders of the G7, the world's richest nations, at the summit in Cornwall, but critics warn they won't be sufficient. Also: Chile's back in lockdown despit...
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Pandemic hits global campaign to end child labour from 2021-06-10T13:36
The United Nations is warning that nine million additional children are at risk of exploitation as a result of Covid-19. Also: a new study finds that vegans and vegetarians are less likely to becom...
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US accuses Russia and China of vaccine intimidation from 2021-06-09T13:11
The US National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, says Russia and China had twisted arms and demanded concessions in order to deliver coronavirus vaccines. Also, France is further easing coronavirus...
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Call to stagger global vaccine donations from 2021-06-08T13:19
Unicef warns wealthy nations not to overwhelm poorer countries with leftover vaccines that may then go to waste. Also: hospitals in Kenya prepare for an expected surge in infections; and why some A...
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Thailand begins mass vaccination campaign from 2021-06-07T13:32
Thailand starts a mass vaccination campaign to curb a third wave of infections. Also: Taiwan extends lockdown measures amid increasing case numbers, and vaccine stickers come to dating apps in the UK.
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US donates vaccines to Taiwan from 2021-06-06T11:39
Washington pledges 750,000 doses, as Taiwan struggles with a surge in Covid-19 infections. Also, the British prime minister, Boris Johnson, is expected to urge wealthy countries to commit to a glob...
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Easing of lockdown in Indian capital from 2021-06-05T11:43
The authorities in Delhi announce a partial lifting of Covid restrictions -- just weeks after the city suffered a devastating second wave of the virus. Also: Beijing accuses Taiwan of playing polit...
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Nepalese PM says Britain has a duty to help his nation from 2021-06-04T13:11
Prime minister KP Sharma Oli says the two countries share close ties, Also: Taiwan gets more than a million vaccine doses from Japan, and a cautious welcome to Biden vaccine offer.
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Olympics 100% on says Tokyo 2020 president from 2021-06-03T13:18
But she warns they could be held without local fans if there is a coronavirus outbreak. Also: India's Supreme Court has strongly criticised the government's Covid-19 vaccination programme, and the ...
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Malaysia battles rise in infections from 2021-06-01T12:13
Covid infections are more than five times higher than at the start of the year prompting new restrictions on travel and store openings. Also; there are fears of a third wave in the UK, and the WHO ...
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Vietnam bans international flights to Hanoi from 2021-05-31T13:24
Officials have warned of a new hybrid variant, which is highly transmissible. Also: Burkina Faso receives its first vaccines, and the King of Spain gets his first jab.
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Brazil protesters denounce Bolsonaro over Covid crisis from 2021-05-30T11:57
Thousands gathered in front of Congress calling for President Bolsonaro's impeachment. Also: the leaders of New Zealand and Australia rub noses, and tennis crowds return to the French Open.
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Vietnam reports new hybrid variant from 2021-05-29T11:15
The country’s health minister says it is a combination of those first identified in India and the UK. Also: The EU regulator approves the use of the Pfizer- BioNTech vaccine for children aged 12-15...
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New centre for global collaboration to prevent future health crises from 2021-05-28T14:15
Oxford University's Pandemic Sciences Centre hopes to ensure the world is never caught unprepared again. A new computer programme can identify Covid-19 from just the sound of a cough. And Japan ext...
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US calls for deeper probe into virus origins from 2021-05-27T13:37
China says politicising Covid-19 could undermine global efforts to curb the pandemic. Also: Doctors' groups in Japan warn of potential Olympic virus strain, Australian state of Victoria enters anot...
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US joins calls for a transparent investigation into the origins of Covid 19 from 2021-05-26T14:56
Reports in American media suggest there's growing evidence that the coronavirus could have emerged from a laboratory in Wuhan. The former chief advisor to the British prime minister has told MPs th...
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Hong Kong may throw away huge stores of covid vaccines from 2021-05-25T15:14
A mistrust of government and a lack of urgency has meant vaccine take-up has been slow in Hong Kong. The United States is warning against travel to Japan weeks before the Olympics. Austria is to ba...
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Japan opens mass vaccination centres ahead of Tokyo Olympics from 2021-05-24T13:19
Japan is trying to curb a surge in coronavirus infections that's left much of the country under a state of emergency. Also, WHO chief describes vaccine inequality as scandalous, and India registers...
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Japan extends restrictions to three more prefectures from 2021-05-14T13:22
Japan extends its State of Emergency to three more prefectures. India's PM warns rural residents. Plus, Greece welcomes back tourists at the start of the summer season.
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Indian state governments to buy vaccines from international companies from 2021-05-13T13:32
Indian state governments to buy vaccines from international companies. There's been a surge of coronavirus infections inside Thailand's overcrowded prisons. And a million reason in the US state of ...
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A damning report into how the world handled Covid 19 from 2021-05-12T13:10
A report into the world's response to the pandemic says both the WHO and individual governments made serious mistakes. Also: the British Prime Minister announces a public inquiry into his handling ...
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Africa urged to speed up vaccinations from 2021-05-11T13:25
Health officials warn Africa could see rapidly escalating infections and deaths unless more people receive jabs. Also, Facebook says it will remove pages that discourage vaccine use. And Pakistan t...
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Saudi Arabia gives the green light for international pilgrims at this year's Hajj from 2021-05-10T12:58
Only ten thousand Saudi nationals were permitted to attend last year. Also,Germany lifts priority limits for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, and the IOC head cancels his trip to Japan in advance of ...
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Spain lifts Covid state of emergency from 2021-05-09T11:45
The Spanish measures had restricted travel. Also, the Olympic stadium in Tokyo holds a test event, and Dracula's castle offers free jabs.
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India records more than 4,000 daily deaths from 2021-05-08T11:33
There are fears the real number of deaths is higher, and infections may not peak until the end of May. Also: new restrictions for Pakistan, and the WHO approves China's vaccine Sinopharm.
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Japan extends Covid restrictions as Olympics loom from 2021-05-07T14:43
Officials have extended the state of emergency less than three months before the Games. Also: India's Supreme Court orders the government to increase oxygen supplies, and Australia is to resume som...
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India suspends IPL cricket tournament after rise in Covid-19 cases among players from 2021-05-04T15:52
An Indian Cricket Board official said they would try to hold the matches as soon as possible but no date had been fixed. Also: G7 foreign ministers meet in London face to face to discuss a range of...
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EU unveils plans for tourists to return from 2021-05-03T15:37
People who have had two vaccine doses will be allowed to travel. Also: the Indian army is asked to set up covid-care facilities in Delhi; and Covax agrees a deal with Moderna to supply up to 500 m...
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India records its highest daily number of coronavirus deaths from 2021-05-02T13:59
The country is still struggling with lack of oxygen supplies, bordering nations raise fears about infections spreading. Wuhan, where coronavirus first emerged, hosts a huge music festival.
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India's vaccination programme expanded from 2021-05-01T13:54
But states say they don't have enough doses - as new cases pass 400,000. Also: Australians returning from India could face jail, and Hong Kong is accused of discrimination - after ordering all fore...
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Indian Supreme Court rules citizens can criticise handling of the pandemic from 2021-04-30T15:23
The Indian Supreme Court rules that people can complain about the handling of the pandemic, after the government tries to get social media posts removed.
Portugal emerges from lockdown. Why t...
Indian hospitals promised ventilators from abroad from 2021-04-29T15:09
Aid comes as India suffers another record number of Covid cases. Also, Turkey enters its first national lockdown and the boss of London Heathrow calls on the UK government to tackle delays at immig...
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India surpasses 200,000 deaths from 2021-04-28T15:58
Many say the real total is higher - as people struggle to find oxygen. Also: one vaccine dose 'halves transmission', and US relaxes guidance on wearing masks outdoors.
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India accused of under-reporting Covid deaths from 2021-04-27T15:25
One study suggests that deaths recorded by crematoria in Delhi may be double the government figures, which reflect only those who've died in hospital. Also: Brazil's president faces possible impeac...
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Denmark drops AstraZeneca vaccine from 2021-04-14T15:24
First country to stop use of the jab completely over blood clot fears. Also: the UK trial into whether different vaccines can be mixed expands, and the Dutch experiment into whether cafes and resta...
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President Biden's chief medical adviser casts doubt on use of AZ from 2021-04-13T15:21
Dr Fauci says safety concerns over vaccine must first be resolved, also, India authorizes the Russian coronavirus vaccine, Sputnik V, and WHO demands an end to the sale of live wild animals in food...
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Most of the severely ill patients in Brazil are under-40 from 2021-04-12T15:46
Doctors say more under-40s are developing severe symptoms and needing intensive care. Also: wealthy nations urged to fund vaccines for poorer countries; England's lockdown eases; and the Dutch holi...
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India could pass Brazil in total infections from 2021-04-11T14:21
It has reported a record daily rise of over 150,000 cases and more than 800 new deaths. Also: France increases the gap between first and second vaccinations, and could sunshine help beat Covid?
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Brazil reports another record daily high number of deaths from Coronavirus from 2021-04-10T15:09
Brazil reports another record daily high number of deaths from Coronavirus. The World Health Organisation criticises the vaccine gulf between rich and poor nations. And the world's most famous stee...
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New vaccine blood clot inquiry from 2021-04-09T15:51
EU regulator investigates potential link with Johnson & Johnson jab. Also: France to mix vaccine doses in response to AstraZeneca concerns, testing plan unveiled to reopen travel from England and N...
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AstraZeneca vaccine: how safe is it? from 2021-04-08T15:31
The makers of the vaccine are trying to maintain public confidence in it. Also: India accuses Europe and the US of depriving it of raw materials to make the vaccine; and the French Open tennis tour...
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North Korea pulls out of Tokyo Olympics over Covid-19 fears from 2021-04-06T15:04
North Korea pulls out of the Tokyo Olympics after an increase in cases, New Zealand and Australia announce a quarantine-free travel bubble and restrictions ease in Portugal and the United Kingdom.
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India hits record number of daily cases from 2021-04-05T15:19
India hits a record number of daily cases, the UK government steps up testing as lockdown lifts and Thailand hopes vaccinating an entire holiday island will bring tourists back.
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Pope calls vaccines an 'essential tool' in Covid fight from 2021-04-04T13:53
In his Easter address, Francis urged rich nations to help vaccines reach poor countries. Also: England's plans for a Covid passport, and dancing in Central Park to beat the pandemic.
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Italy returns to strict lockdown for Easter from 2021-04-03T13:52
Italy is battling a third wave of the pandemic, with more than 20,000 new cases daily. Also: the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine is linked to rare blood clot deaths in the UK; and Argentina's president ...
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India cricket legend hospitalised from 2021-04-02T15:46
As cases in India surge Sachin Tendulkar is admitted to a Mumbai hospital. AstraZeneca reports 30 examples of blood clots from its vaccination programme in the UK, and Vietnam's plea for vaccines.
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WHO criticises European vaccine roll-out from 2021-04-01T15:26
The World Health Organization blames Europe's 'unacceptably slow' vaccine campaigns for prolonging the pandemic. Also: India widens its immunisation programme to include everyone over the age of 45...
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War-torn Yemen gets first vaccine shipment from 2021-03-31T15:21
The country is facing a public health disaster and the vaccines will be a 'game changer'. Also: Germany suspends the use of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine for people aged under sixty; and Russia r...
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World leaders call for international pandemic treaty from 2021-03-30T15:17
A new global coalition urges action now to prepare for the next global pandemic – declaring that ‘nobody is safe until everyone is safe’. Also today: police in Sicily say health officials on the It...
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Mexico under-reports Covid deaths by 60 percent from 2021-03-29T15:45
The Mexican government says Covid related deaths have risen to 320,000. Also, some regions in Germany are opening up - against the wishes of Chancellor Merkel, and how soothing organ music at a va...
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There's growing concern in Germany about the rapid rise in coronavirus infections from 2021-03-28T13:51
Germany's health minister, Jens Spahn, says he'd like his country to enter a complete Covid19 lockdown immediately. Also, the president of the Pacific nation of Palau has flown to Taiwan to launch ...
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Poland introduces stricter coronavirus measures from 2021-03-27T13:37
Poles are being urged not to travel at Easter. New daily infections have reached record highs in the country. Also: new booster jabs are being planned in England, and we hear some of the songs insp...
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Germany: Third wave could be the worst yet from 2021-03-26T15:27
The head of the German agency for disease control warns of grave consequences unless the current wave of infections is limited. Also, the French foreign minister accuses Russia of using its Sputnik...
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EU leaders hold a virtual summit likely to be dominated by a third wave of infections. from 2021-03-25T15:13
The twenty-seven EU leaders will look at how to increase vaccine production and tighten export controls. Also: A global alliance says low-income countries will be most affected by India's decision ...
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Germany cancels its strict Easter lockdown from 2021-03-24T15:24
Chancellor Angela Merkel abandons plans following widespread criticism. Also: The EU plans tougher controls on vaccine exports, and the lockdown artwork that has become one of the most expensive pa...
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Germany tightens restrictions to fight third wave from 2021-03-23T15:33
Angela Merkel announces the toughest measures yet as Germans brace for an Easter lockdown. Also today:America's top infectious diseases expert demands more evidence over the effectiveness of the As...
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US trial: AstraZeneca jab is safe from 2021-03-22T13:55
The study of 32,000 people showed the vaccine is effective and had no link to blood clots. Also: cases continue to climb in India, and the row between the UK and EU over supplies continues to deepen.
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Covid curfew in Florida's Miami Beach from 2021-03-21T13:36
The mayor said the South Beach entertainment district was being overwhelmed by visitors. Also: a mass vaccination programme is under way in the West Bank and Gaza, and why the Dutch government is b...
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Tokyo Olympics ban international fans from 2021-03-20T13:29
Covid fears mean overseas spectators won't be allowed at the delayed event. Also: France and Poland impose new lockdowns, and 'Covid outbreak' at Trump's Florida residence.
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European countries start using Astra Zeneca's vaccine again from 2021-03-19T15:36
Several European countries start using Astra Zeneca's vaccine once again after more assurances about its safety. Also, pressure grows on the German government to reimpose lockdown restrictions and ...
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EU countries wait for AstraZeneca decision from 2021-03-18T16:18
EU countries are waiting to find out if they should restart AstraZeneca vaccinations as the regulator looks at possible links to a small number of blood clots. Also, Tanzania has denied that Presid...
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The pandemic has taken a severe toll on nature conservation efforts from 2021-03-11T15:06
Experts say conservation budgets have been hit hard, especially in Africa and Asia. Also: the UN warns that vaccination programmes are unequal, and the Australian government is offering subsidised ...
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Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda start vaccine rollout from 2021-03-05T15:56
Health workers are among the first to receive the jab. Also: the Brazilian president says there's 'no point hiding under the bed', and Switzerland holds a minute's silence.
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Obese countries have 'highest' Covid-19 death rates from 2021-03-04T15:56
The WHO says the correlation between weight and mortality is clear and compelling. Also: Germany changes its mind and recommends the AstraZeneca shot for older people, and Pakistan suspends its dom...
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Biden: vaccines for all US adults by May from 2021-03-03T15:43
President Biden says the United States will have enough coronavirus vaccines for every American adult by the end of May. Also, an explosion has damaged a coronavirus test centre in the Netherlands...
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Sri Lanka plans covid burials on remote island from 2021-03-02T15:43
The move, which comes days after the end of forced cremations, has angered Muslims. Also: a large shipment of vaccine has arrived in Nigeria, and there's a warning that greenhouse gas emissions are...
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Vaccines: Rollout begins in West Africa from 2021-03-01T15:09
President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana is the first person to receive a vaccine from the global sharing programme Covax. Also: Dr. Anthony Fauci says the US could start vaccinating children later this ...
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Johnson & Johnson to begin vaccine distribution in US from 2021-02-28T13:09
The vaccine was formally approved by US regulators. Also, Philippines get first vaccines from China, and UK churches urge vaccine uptake.
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Biden’s 1.9 trillion Coronavirus relief bill passes House vote from 2021-02-27T13:21
The ‘American Rescue Plan’ seeks to boost vaccinations and testing and stabilize the economy, Also: New Zealand’s biggest city will begin a seven-day lockdown after the discovery of a new coronavir...
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Queen Elizabeth urges vaccine-hesitant to think of others from 2021-02-26T15:43
In a video call with British health workers she said 'it didn't hurt at all', and while she understood getting a jab could be a 'difficult' experience for some people she urged everyone to 'think a...
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EU leaders discuss speeding up vaccine distribution from 2021-02-25T16:12
European Commission criticised for taking longer than Britain and US to order jabs. Also: the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics have confirmed that the Games' torch relay - delayed because of the pa...
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Israel eases restrictions after vaccine success from 2021-02-21T13:42
Shops, synagogues and gyms re-open but entry limited to people who've been immunised. Also: UK confirms one in three adults have now received their first vaccination shot. France considers partial ...
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G7 boost global vaccination rollout from 2021-02-20T14:08
World's wealthiest nations pledge 7.5 billion dollars to Covax initiative. Also: Covid deniers protest in cities across Australia, Thai TV host given suspended jail sentence for holding a birthday ...
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Rich nations accused of hoarding vaccines from 2021-02-19T18:27
So far, 130 countries have had no vaccines at all. Also: Israeli study finds Pfizer jab is 85% effective after one dose. And how gum disease can increase your risk of developing severe covid symptoms.
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US life expectancy falls by a year from 2021-02-18T16:01
It is the largest decline in decades and the pandemic is a major factor, experts say. Also: poor financial results for the airline industry, and how some Brazilians try to buy a house to jump the v...
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S Africa is first to roll out new vaccine from 2021-02-17T15:47
South Africa has started vaccinating health care workers with Johnson and Johnson jabs. Also: the UK healthy volunteers who will be exposed to Covid, and international tributes to Sir Tom Moore.
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Dutch court strikes down coronavirus curfew from 2021-02-16T15:41
Dutch courts strike down a night-time curfew designed to stop the spread of coronavirus; judges say the ban on public outings has no lawful basis. Plus, North Korea is accused of trying to steal th...
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Vaccinations see huge drop in cases, Israel study shows from 2021-02-15T15:44
It has carried out one of the biggest real-world tests so far of the effectiveness of two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Also: suspects behind the production and distribution of fake vaccines are arr...
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China arrests scores over fake vaccines from 2021-02-02T15:17
About three-thousand counterfeit doses containing a saline solution were seized. Also: one of the biggest healthcare providers in Israel says the country's inoculation programme is highly effective...
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EU backtracks on UK vaccine threat from 2021-01-30T13:50
The EU says it was a mistake to attempt to impose vaccine export controls on the Northern Irish border -- in breach of the post-Brexit agreement.
Also, the WHO calls for rich countries to paus...
French firm steps in to help Pfizer vaccine production from 2021-01-27T15:54
Sanofi is to produce millions of the Pfizer/Biontech jab with its own plans on ice; EU anger grows at vaccine-maker AstraZeneca; and in Moscow, restrictions are eased as the Mayor declares the pand...
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Fresh calls for fairer distribution of vaccines from 2021-01-26T15:22
The EU warns vaccine producers they must deliver agreed supplies. Also: will the vaccines work against the new variants of the disease, and the people taking advantage of an offer to work for their...
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Mexican President contracts Covid 19 from 2021-01-25T15:16
The 67-year-old President says his symptoms are mild. He's been criticised for downplaying the pandemic. Also: South Korea rushes to contain an outbreak at a religious training school, and a novel ...
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Welcome to Coronavirus Global Update from 2020-03-05T13:19
Introducing a podcast rounding-up the latest on the spread of the coronavirus around the world, with reports from affected areas and details of the latest medical information.
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