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Amid covid surge, Govt to re-introduce random testing of international passengers 

As covid cases surge globally, Govt to re-introduce random testing of international passengers 

Amid covid surge, Govt to re-introduce random testing of international passengers 

The government's decision to re-introduce the Covid-19 testing related measures at airports comes as a part of preventive measures being taken up as coronavirus cases surge globally

Centre is considering to re-introduce Covid-19 testing at airports for international travellers.&nbsp;
According to India Today, samples of those arriving from foreign countries will be randomly tested for coronavirus
The fresh measures come in the wake of a sharp spike in Covid-19 cases in China.
Earlier, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya chaired a meeting with top officials &nbsp;on the Covid situation in the country.
Also watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/chinese-population-resorts-to-lemons-to-fight-covid-surge-here-s-why-1671546125913">Chinese population resorts to lemons to fight COVID surge. Here's why</a>

Chinese cities are currently hit by the highly transmissible Omicron strain, mostly BF.7 which is the main variant spreading in Beijing and is contributing to a wider surge of Covid infections in that country

What to know about Omicron sub-variant BF.7, driving China's Covid surge

Chinese cities are currently hit by the highly transmissible Omicron strain, mostly BF.7 which is the main variant spreading in Beijing and is contributing to a wider surge of Covid infections in that country

The current surge in Covid cases in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 sub-variant of Omicron that is circulating in the country.&nbsp; The variant is reportedly more infectious and transmits more quickly than other variants known so far.&nbsp;
The symptoms are similar to other Omicron subvariants like fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. The variant is likely to cause severe illness for those with weaker immune systems.&nbsp;
This is not the first time that BF.7 has made news, it accounted for over 5 per cent of the cases in the US in October and over 7 per cent of the cases in the UK.
Also watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/india-covid-alert-3-cases-of-variant-driving-china-spike-detected-in-gujarat-odisha-says-report-1671616390805">India Covid alert: 3 cases of variant driving China spike detected in Gujarat, Odisha, says report</a>

India recorded 1,68,063 fresh Covid cases in the last 24 hours, 6.4 percent lower than yesterday, according to government data on Tuesday morning.
The active cases rose to 8,21,446, the highest in 208 days, while the death toll climbed to 4.84 lakhs with 277 fresh fatalities.
According to the Union Ministry of Health, the Omicron tally has reached 4,461, with Maharashtra reporting the highest number of cases (1,247), followed by Rajasthan (645) and Delhi (546).
The national Covid recovery rate decreased to 96.36 percent, the ministry said.
Also watch | Covid-19: Home quarantine must for all international arrivals in India from today
The daily positivity rate was recorded at 10.64 percent while the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 8.85 percent.
Meanwhile, 9.68 lakh people from three priority groups, the elderly with comorbidities, healthcare workers, and frontline workers, were administered the booster dose across the country on the first day of the rollout.

Covid update: India logs nearly 1.68 lakh new Covid cases in 24 hrs, Omicron tally stands at 4,461

India logs over 1.68 lakh fresh Covid cases in the last 24 hours. Omicron case tally nears 4,500

India logs nearly 1.68 lakh new Covid cases in 24 hrs, Omicron tally stands at 4,461

India recorded 1,68,063 fresh Covid cases in the last 24 hours, 6.4 percent lower than Monday, according to government data on Tuesday morning.
The active cases rose to 8,21,446, the highest in 208 days, while the death toll climbed to 4.84 lakhs with 277 fresh fatalities.
According to the Union Ministry of Health, the Omicron tally has reached 4,461, with Maharashtra reporting the highest number of cases at 1,247, followed by 645 in Rajasthan&nbsp;and 546 in Delhi.
The national Covid recovery rate decreased to 96.36 percent, the ministry said.
The daily positivity rate was recorded at 10.64 percent while the weekly positivity rate stands at 8.85 percent.
Meanwhile, 9.68 lakh people from three priority groups, the elderly with comorbidities, healthcare workers, and frontline workers, were administered the booster dose across the country on the first day of the rollout.

The active cases rose to 8,21,446, the highest in 208 days, while the death toll climbed to 4.84 lakhs with 277 fresh fatalities.

India recorded 1,68,063 fresh <a href="https://www.editorji.com/coronavirus">Covid cases</a> in the last 24 hours, 6.4 percent lower than Monday, according to government data on Tuesday morning.
The active cases rose to 8,21,446, the highest in 208 days, while the death toll climbed to 4.84 lakhs with 277 fresh fatalities.
According to the Union Ministry of Health, the Omicron tally has reached 4,461, with Maharashtra reporting the highest number of cases at 1,247, followed by 645 in Rajasthan&nbsp;and 546 in Delhi.
The national Covid recovery rate decreased to 96.36 percent, the ministry said.
Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/covid-19-home-quarantine-must-for-all-international-arrivals-in-india-from-today-1641869125954" target="_blank">Covid-19: Home quarantine must for all international arrivals in India from today</a>
The daily positivity rate was recorded at 10.64 percent while the weekly positivity rate stands at 8.85 percent.
Meanwhile, 9.68 lakh people from three priority groups, the elderly with comorbidities, healthcare workers, and frontline workers, were administered the booster dose across the country on the first day of the rollout.

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has tested positive for Covid-19 and will now miss their upcoming Manchester City match which will be laid on Saturday, confirmed the Eng

Mikel Arteta tests positive, to miss Premier League games

Arteta is currently isolating as per government guidelines, Arsenal informed. He has tested positive for Covid-19 for the second time. 

Arteta&nbsp;is currently isolating as per government guidelines, Arsenal informed. He has tested positive for Covid-19 for the second time.

Arsenal head coach Mikel&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;has tested positive for Covid-19 and will now miss their upcoming Manchester City match which will be played on Saturday, confirmed the English club.&nbsp; 
Also Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/football/premier-league-phil-foden-s-only-goal-helps-man-city-beat-brentford-1-0-1640833003325">Premier League: Phil Foden's only goal helps Man City beat Brentford 1-0&nbsp;</a>
Arteta&nbsp;is currently isolating as per government guidelines, Arsenal informed. He has tested positive for Covid-19 for the second time. Crystal Palace's Patrick Vieira&nbsp;and Aston Villa's Steven Gerrard&nbsp;have also tested positive.&nbsp; A number of matches in the<a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/football/premier-league-brighton-stuns-chelsea-at-stamford-bridge-holds-the-blues-to-1-1-draw-1640832303417"> Premier League</a> got postponed due to the Omicron&nbsp;scare. Gunners' match against Wolves was also pushed back after a few players in the Wolves camp had contracted the virus.

Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope on Wednesday said that it was alarming to see the rise in the number of active Covid-19 cases in the state and that the govt will have to impose restrictions if caseload continues to increase. 
Tope said that Mumbai positivity rate is at 4% and if it goes above 5% restrictions will have to be imposed in the city. 
He also said that the focus needs to be on vaccination and they will open up centres at various schools for inoculation of children aged 15-18 years. 
On Tuesday, Maharashtra reported 2,172 fresh coronavirus cases, up by 50% from 1,426 infections recorded a day before, the state's health department said.

Rise in number of active cases alarming: Maharashtra health minister

Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope on Wednesday said that it was alarming to see the rise in the number of active Covid-19 cases in the state and that the govt will have to impose restrictions if caseload continues to increase. 

Maharashtra health minister: rise in number of cases is alarming
Maharashthra&nbsp;minister: will have to think of imposing curbs
Mumbai's positivity&nbsp;rate is at 4%: Maharashtra&nbsp;health minister
Maharashtra&nbsp;reported 2,172 cases on Tuesday, up by 50% from Monday
&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Maharashtra reported 2,172 fresh coronavirus cases, up by 50% from 1,426 infections recorded a day before, the state's health department said.

Maharashtra&nbsp;Health Minister Rajesh&nbsp;Tope&nbsp;on Wednesday said that it was alarming to see the rise in the number of active Covid-19 cases in the state and that the govt will have to impose restrictions if caseload continues to increase.&nbsp;
Tope&nbsp;said that Mumbai&nbsp;positivity&nbsp;rate is at 4% and if it goes above 5% restrictions will have to be imposed in the city.&nbsp;
He also said that the focus needs to be on vaccination and they will open up centres at various schools for inoculation of children aged 15-18 years.&nbsp;
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/781-omicron-cases-in-india-44-jump-in-daily-covid-cases-1640754250445">781 Omicron cases in India, 44% jump in daily Covid cases as Delhi &amp; Mumbai explode</a>
On Tuesday, Maharashtra reported 2,172 fresh coronavirus cases, up by 50% from 1,426 infections recorded a day before, the state's health department said.

Omicron concerns escalated Monday blues for the markets that are facing a full-blown meltdown. The Sensex&nbsp;crashed over 1000 points and the Nifty traded below 16,700 mark as increased infections in UK and UAE&nbsp;spooked equities globally.&nbsp;All the sectoral indices are trading in the red with auto, bank, metal, realty, oil &amp; gas, power indices down 2-3 percent. BSE midcap and smallcap indices down 2 percent each.New listing Shriram&nbsp;Properties listed at Rs 94/share vs base price of Rs 120/share. There is a listing a day this week and a new IPO&nbsp;of CMS&nbsp;Infosystems that opens tomorrow.&nbsp;Here are the top Omicron updates that are raising the alerts on Dalal&nbsp;Street-:&nbsp;

Infections in the U.K. jumped more than 50% in a week
Netherlands returns to a strict lockdown, non-essentials and schools shut
Germany Health Minister: The country is already headed for a fifth wave
UAE: Reported the highest number of daily infections since late September,
Delhi records 107 new Covid cases, the highest daily rise since June 27&nbsp;


Omicron leads to a market meltdown: Sensex sinks, Nifty down 10% from record

Sensex sinks, Nifty down 10% from record high. 9 stocks falling for every one rising as global Omicron scare spoils the year end party. 

Omicron leads to a market meltdown

FIIs have sold equities worth over Rs 13,000 cr in India from the start of December.&nbsp;

Omicron concerns escalated Monday blues for the markets that are facing a full-blown meltdown. The Sensex&nbsp;crashed over 1000 points and the Nifty traded below 16,700 mark as increased infections in UK and UAE&nbsp;spooked equities globally.&nbsp; All the sectoral indices are trading in the red with auto, bank, metal, realty, oil &amp; gas, power indices down 2-3 percent. BSE midcap and smallcap indices down 2 percent each. New listing Shriram&nbsp;Properties listed at Rs 94/share vs base price of Rs 120/share. There is a listing a day this week and a new IPO&nbsp;of CMS&nbsp;Infosystems that opens tomorrow.&nbsp; Here are the top Omicron updates that are raising the alerts on Dalal&nbsp;Street-:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Infections in the U.K. jumped more than 50% in a week</li>
<li>Netherlands returns to a strict lockdown, non-essentials and schools shut</li>
<li>Germany Health Minister: The country is already headed for a fifth wave</li>
<li>UAE: Reported the highest number of daily infections since late September,</li>
<li>Delhi records 107 new Covid cases, the highest daily rise since June 27 &nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Thursday said that four more cases of the new Covid-19 variant Omicron have been detected in the national capital, taking the total count to 10. 
The Minister said there are currently 40 people, who are suspected cases of the variant, admitted in the special facility of LNJP Hospital, of whom 38 are Covid-19 positive.
"There has been no "severe" case so far,” he added.
The minister further said many international travellers are turning out Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Also watch: Amid Omicron fears, UK records highest daily surge since Covid-19 pandemic began 
With the fresh Omicron cases reported in Delhi on Thursday, the nationwide tally has climbed to 77. 
Under the new norms, RT-PCR tests are mandatory for passengers arriving from the "at-risk" countries and they are allowed to leave the airport only after the results come.

Delhi reports 4 more Omicron cases, India tally climbs to 77

With four more cases of the new Covid-19 variant Omicron in the national capital, India's tally has climbed to 77

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Thursday said that four more cases of the new Covid-19 variant Omicron have been detected in the national capital, taking the total count to 10.
The Minister said there are currently 40 people, who are suspected cases of the variant, admitted in the special facility of LNJP&nbsp;Hospital, of whom 38 are&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;positive.
There has been no "severe" case so far, he added.
The minister further said many international travellers are turning out Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
With the fresh Omicron cases reported in Delhi on Thursday, the nationwide tally has climbed to 77.
Under the new norms, RT-PCR tests are mandatory for passengers arriving from the "at-risk" countries and they are allowed to leave the airport only after the results come.

Omicron in India: RT-PCR tests are mandatory for passengers arriving from the "at-risk" countries and they are allowed to leave the airport only after the results come.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Thursday said that four more cases of the new Covid-19 variant Omicron have been detected in the national capital, taking the total count to 10.
The Minister said there are currently 40 people, who are suspected cases of the variant, admitted in the special facility of LNJP&nbsp;Hospital, of whom 38 are&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;positive.
"There has been no "severe" case so far,&rdquo; he added.
The minister further said many international travellers are turning out Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/amid-omicron-fears-uk-records-highest-daily-surge-since-covid-19-pandemic-began-1639589099095" target="_blank">Amid Omicron fears, UK records highest daily surge since Covid-19 pandemic began</a>&nbsp;
With the fresh Omicron cases reported in Delhi on Thursday, the nationwide tally has climbed to 77.
Under the new norms, RT-PCR tests are mandatory for passengers arriving from the "at-risk" countries and they are allowed to leave the airport only after the results come.

The emergence of Omicron variant of the novel coronavirus has led to a lot of changes in travel guidelines for passengers arriving in India from abroad.
Here are the rules announced by the Indian govt for international arrivals in effect from December 1:
All international passengers will have to submit a travel history of the last 14 days on govt&rsquo;s Air Suvidha portal before the taking the flight to India. The travel history is a part of a self-declaration form.
Passengers travelling to India will also have to upload a negative RT-PCR report. The test should have been conducted within 72 hours prior to the journey.
Airlines will only be allowed to board passengers who have submitted their travel history and a negative RT-PCR test result.
All international passengers will have to undergo thermal screening on arrival at an Indian airport and those who are found symptomatic will be immediately isolated and taken to a medical facility. If they test positive, standard operation procedure like quarantine and tracing and testing of contacts will be followed.
All travellers from &lsquo;at risk&rsquo; countries listed by the govt will have to submit a sample for a Covid-19 test on arrival at the airport. They will have to wait at the airport till the report comes. The cost for these tests will have to be borne by the passengers.
According to the govt list, at risk countries are the European countries, the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong and Israel.
If they test negative, they will have quarantine at home for 7 days and do a re-test on the 8th day.
If the passenger tests positive at the airport, the sample will be sent for genome sequencing and they will be taken an isolation facility.
There are two kinds of Covid-19 tests that the passengers can choose from &ndash; the standard RT-PCR test and what is being called a rapid PCR test. Passengers can also pre-book this test.
While the RT-PCR takes about 4 hours for the report to come and is cheaper, the rapid PCR tests takes 30 mins to 45 mins but costs more.
Several airports like Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai have reduced the price of the rapid PCR by Rs 500-600 since more people are opting for it as it is quicker. But the test still costs more than Rs 3000.
Passengers arriving from countries not in the &lsquo;at risk&rsquo; list will be allowed to leave the airport and self-monitor themselves for 14 days.
Random testing of international arrivals will also be done at the airports. The govt will pay for these random tests.
However, India is not entirely resuming regular international flights. The govt had announced that regular international flights would resume from December 15 but it was put on hold due to the Omicron variant.
Currently international passengers flights operations are mainly restricted to countries India has air bubble agreements with.

Omicron variant | Flying to India? Here's all you need to know

All travellers from &lsquo;at risk&rsquo; countries listed by the govt will have to submit a sample for a Covid-19 test on arrival at the airport. They will have to wait at the airport till the report comes.

The emergence of Omicron variant of the novel coronavirus has led to a lot of changes in travel guidelines for passengers arriving in India from abroad.
Here are the rules announced by the Indian govt for international arrivals in effect from December 1:
All international passengers will have to submit a travel history of the last 14 days on govt&rsquo;s Air Suvidha portal before the taking the flight to India. The travel history is a part of a self-declaration form.
Passengers travelling to India will also have to upload a negative RT-PCR report. The test should have been conducted within 72 hours prior to the journey.
Airlines will only be allowed to board passengers who have submitted their travel history and a negative RT-PCR test result.
All international passengers will have to undergo thermal screening on arrival at an Indian airport and those who are found symptomatic will be immediately isolated and taken to a medical facility. If they test positive, standard operation procedure like quarantine and tracing and testing of contacts will be followed.
All travellers from &lsquo;at risk&rsquo; countries listed by the govt will have to submit a sample for a Covid-19 test on arrival at the airport. They will have to wait at the airport till the report comes. The cost for these tests will have to be borne by the passengers.
According to the govt list, at risk countries are the European countries, the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Singapore, Hong Kong and Israel.
If they test negative, they will have quarantine at home for 7 days and do a re-test on the 8th day.
If the passenger tests positive at the airport, the sample will be sent for genome sequencing and they will be taken an isolation facility.
There are two kinds of Covid-19 tests that the passengers can choose from &ndash; the standard RT-PCR test and what is being called a rapid PCR test. Passengers can also pre-book this test.
While the RT-PCR takes about 4 hours for the report to come and is cheaper, the rapid PCR tests takes 30 mins to 45 mins but costs more.
Several airports like Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai have reduced the price of the rapid PCR by Rs 500-600 since more people are opting for it as it is quicker. But the test still costs more than Rs 3000.
Passengers arriving from countries not in the &lsquo;at risk&rsquo; list will be allowed to leave the airport and self-monitor themselves for 14 days.
Random testing of international arrivals will also be done at the airports. The govt will pay for these random tests.
However, India is not entirely resuming regular international flights. The govt had announced that regular international flights would resume from December 15 but it was put on hold due to the Omicron variant.
Currently international passengers flights operations are mainly restricted to countries India has air bubble agreements with.

The emergence of Omicron, the new variant of the novel coronavirus has everyone concerned and there are several that are on people's mind - especially after 2 cases of the variant were reported in India. 
The Centre has now issued answers to some frequently asked questions. 
Could Omicron variant lead to a third wave in India?
The ministry has said that the ministry said Omicron cases are increasingly being reported from countries outside of South Africa and given its characteristics, it is likely to spread to more countries, including India.  However, the scale and magnitude of the rise in cases and the severity of the disease are still not clear. 
Do existing vaccines work against the Omicron variant?
While, there is no evidence to suggest that existing vaccines do not work on Omicron, some of the mutations reported on spike gene may decrease the efficacy of existing vaccines, the ministry said in its statement. 
However, vaccine protection is also by antibodies as well as by cellular immunity, which is expected to be relatively better preserved. Hence, vaccines are expected to still offer protection against severe disease and vaccination is crucial. If eligible one should get vaccinated, it said.
How concerned should we be?
Omicron has been declared a variant of conern based on the observed mutations, their predicted features of increased transmission and immune evasion. The definitive evidence for increased remission and immune evasion is awaited, the ministry said.
What precautions does the Govt recommend?
It stressed that the precautions and steps to be taken remain the same as before and said tt's essential to mask up properly, take both doses of vaccines, maintain social distancing and maintain good ventilation to the maximum possible.
Do current diagnostic methods work against Omicron?
RT-PCR test detects specific genes in the virus, such as Spike (S), Enveloped (E) and Nucleocapsid (N) etc to confirm the presence of the virus. However, in the case of Omicron, as the S gene is heavily mutated, some of the primers may lead to results indicating the absence of the S gene (called S gene drop out).
This particular S gene drop out along with the detection of other viral genes could be used as a diagnostic feature of Omicron. However, for final confirmation of the omicron variant genomic sequencing is required, the ministry explained.

Does vaccine work against Omicron? Should you be concerned? Govt answers FAQs

Does vaccine work against Omicron? Should you be concerned? Govt answers FAQs. 

OR
 The Govt has issued answers to some frequently asked questions about the Omicron variant

((Caption: Govt answers some FAQs about Omicron variant))
The emergence of Omicron, the new variant of the novel coronavirus&nbsp;has everyone concerned and there are several that are on people's mind - especially after 2 cases of the variant were reported in India.&nbsp;
The Centre has now issued answers to some frequently asked questions.&nbsp;
Could Omicron variant lead to a third wave in India?
((caption: Could Omicron variant lead to a third wave in India?))
((caption: Omicron likely to spread to more countries))
((caption: Scale of rise in cases, severity of disease still not clear))
The ministry has said that Omicron cases are increasingly being reported from countries outside of South Africa and given its characteristics, it is likely to spread to more countries, However, the scale and magnitude of the rise in cases and the severity of the disease are still not clear.&nbsp;
Do existing vaccines work against the Omicron variant?
((caption: Do existing vaccines work against the Omicron variant?))
((caption: No evidence to suggest vaccines don&rsquo;t work against Omicron: Govt))
((caption: Some Omicron mutations may decrease efficacy of vaccines: Govt))
((caption: Vaccination is crucial, one should get vaccinated: Govt))
While, there is no evidence to suggest that existing vaccines do not work on Omicron, some of the mutations reported on spike gene may decrease the efficacy of existing vaccines, the ministry said in its statement. Vaccines are expected to still offer protection against severe disease and vaccination is crucial. If eligible one should get vaccinated, it said.
What precautions does the Govt recommend?
((caption: What precautions does the Govt recommend?))
((caption: wear masks, get vaccinated, maintain social distancing: Govt))
It stressed that the precautions and steps to be taken remain the same as before and said it&rsquo;s essential to mask up properly, take both doses of vaccines, maintain social distancing and maintain good ventilation to the maximum possible.
Do current diagnostic&nbsp;methods work against Omicron?
((caption: Do current diagnostic&nbsp;methods work against Omicron?))
((caption: RT-PCR test can detect infection caused by Omicron variant: Govt))
RT-PCR&nbsp;test detects specific genes in the virus, such as Spike (S), Enveloped (E) and Nucleocapsid (N) etc to confirm the presence of the virus. However, in the case of Omicron, as the S gene is heavily mutated, some of the primers may lead to results indicating the absence of the S gene (called S gene drop out).
This particular S gene drop out along with the detection of other viral genes could be used as a diagnostic feature of Omicron. However, for final confirmation of the omicron variant genomic sequencing is required, the ministry explained.
&nbsp;

The Govt has issued answers to some frequently asked questions about the Omicron variant

The emergence of Omicron, the new variant of the novel coronavirus&nbsp;has everyone concerned and there are several questions that are on people's mind - especially after 2 cases of the variant were reported in India.&nbsp;
The Centre has now issued answers to some frequently asked questions.&nbsp;
Could Omicron variant lead to a third wave in India?
The ministry has said that&nbsp;the ministry said Omicron cases are increasingly being reported from countries outside of South Africa and given its characteristics, it is likely to spread to more countries, including India.&nbsp; However, the scale and magnitude of the rise in cases and the severity of the disease are still not clear.&nbsp;
Do existing vaccines work against the Omicron variant?
While, there is no evidence to suggest that existing vaccines do not work on Omicron, some of the mutations reported on spike gene may decrease the efficacy of existing vaccines, the ministry said in its statement.&nbsp;
However, vaccine protection is also by antibodies as well as by cellular immunity, which is expected to be relatively better preserved. Hence, vaccines are expected to still offer protection against severe disease and vaccination is crucial. If eligible one should get vaccinated, it said.
How concerned should we be?
Omicron has been declared a variant of conern based on the observed mutations, their predicted features of increased transmission and immune evasion.&nbsp;The definitive evidence for increased remission and immune evasion is awaited, the ministry said.
What precautions does the Govt recommend?
It stressed that the precautions and steps to be taken remain the same as before and said it's essential to mask up properly, take both doses of vaccines, maintain social distancing and maintain good ventilation to the maximum possible.
Do current diagnostic&nbsp;methods work against Omicron?
RT-PCR&nbsp;test detects specific genes in the virus, such as Spike (S), Enveloped (E) and Nucleocapsid (N) etc to confirm the presence of the virus. However, in the case of Omicron, as the S gene is heavily mutated, some of the primers may lead to results indicating the absence of the S gene (called S gene drop out).
This particular S gene drop out along with the detection of other viral genes could be used as a diagnostic feature of Omicron. However, for final confirmation of the omicron variant genomic sequencing is required, the ministry explained.

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has said that India's South Africa tour which is set to begin from 17th December will go ahead as per schedule for now. 

IND vs SA: tour is on as of now but players' health is BCCI's priority says Ganguly

Concerns around India's South Africa tour have risen after the emergence of a new Covid-19 variant, Omicron, that has been first reported in South Africa. 


BCCI chief Sourav&nbsp;Ganguly has said that India's South Africa tour which is set to begin from 17th December will go ahead as per schedule for now.

BCCI chief Sourav&nbsp;Ganguly has said that<a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/cricket/ind-vs-sa-omicron-shadow-on-india-s-tour-to-south-africa-bcci-puts-india-s-team-selection-on-hold-1638342437706"> India's South Africa tour</a> which is set to begin from 17th December will go ahead as per schedule for now. Concerns around India's tour rose&nbsp;after the emergence&nbsp;of a new Covid-19 variant, Omicron, that was first reported in South Africa.&nbsp; 'The tour is on as things stand till now, we still have time to decide, said Ganguly. He went on to add that players' health and security have always been BCCI's&nbsp;first priority and the board will do everything to follow it.&nbsp;&nbsp; Also Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/cricket/ashes-perth-test-in-doubt-as-western-australia-sticks-to-very-strict-quarantine-rules-1638330875785">Ashes: Perth Test in doubt as Western Australia sticks to 'very strict' quarantine rules</a>&nbsp; India is set to play 3 Tests, 3 ODIs, and 4 T20Is in South Africa. The South African govt also promised a secured bio-bubble environment for the Indian team.&nbsp;

Western Australia has reiterated its stance on following 'very strict quarantine rules', casting doubts on the possibility of Perth hosting the 5th Test of the upcoming 

Ashes: Perth Test in doubt as Western Australia sticks to 'very strict' quarantine rules 

Western Australia has reiterated its stance on following 'very strict quarantine rules', casting doubts on the possibility of Perth hosting the 5th Test of the upcoming Ashes series.   

Western Australia has reiterated its stance on following 'very strict quarantine rules', casting doubts on the possibility of Perth hosting the 5th Test of the upcoming Ashes series.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Western Australia has reiterated its stance on following 'very strict quarantine rules', casting&nbsp;doubts on the possibility of Perth hosting the 5th Test of the upcoming Ashes series.&nbsp; &nbsp; Perth Stadium is set to host the final Test of the Ashes series between England and Australia from Jan 14. The Western Australian government has issued a mandate of not allowing players and staff into the state without 14 days quarantining after the fourth Test ends in Sydney on 9th January. Also Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/cricket/ind-vs-sa-tour-is-on-as-of-now-but-players-health-is-bcci-s-priority-says-ganguly-1638345414723">IND vs SA: tour is on as of now but players' health is BCCI's priority says Ganguly</a> The WA Govt also strictly refused to allow staffs' and players' family members to enter the state.&nbsp; England's Joss&nbsp;Buttler&nbsp;said that players could express their reservations about the decision as the huge part of the Ashes negotiations was allowing&nbsp;the families of the players to stay with them.&nbsp; While most of Australia has eased the Covid-19 restrictions for fully vaccinated persons, Western Australia is expected to open up&nbsp;by early 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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A total of 61 people who arrived in the Netherlands on two flights from South Africa on Friday have tested positive for the coronavirus and were in isolation on Saturday, a local health authority spokesperson has said.
Further tests are now underway to establish if any of the infected travellers have the new highly transmissible variant of Covid 19 that was first identified in South Africa earlier this week.
Two planes arrived in the Netherlands from Johannesburg and Cape Town shortly after the Dutch government, along with other nations around the world, on Friday imposed a ban on flights from southern African nations following discovery of the new omicron variant.
The Kennermerland local health authority, which is responsible for the testing and isolation operation, said in an update Saturday that the people who tested positive must quarantine for seven days if they have symptoms and five days if they are symptom free.
The 539 travelers who tested negative were allowed to return home or continue their journeys to other countries.
Under government regulations, those who live in the Netherlands and are allowed to return home must self-isolate for at least five days.
 

61 covid cases on South Africa flight, Dutch authorities check for omicron variant 

Variant worries; Dutch face health authorities said  the new 'Omicron' strain of Covid-19 was "probably" among some of the 61 passengers who tested positive after arriving on two flights from South Africa.

Variant worries; 61 covid cases on two flights from South Africa 

61 passengers tested&nbsp;positive&nbsp;for Covid-19 in Netherlands arriving&nbsp;from South Africa
Further tests underway to establish if 'Omicron' variant present
'Omicron' is a newly detected variant, poses to be highly transmissible

Netherlands: The National Institute for Public Health said the 'Omicron' variant was "probably found in a number of people" who were found infected with coronavirus.

A total of 61 people who arrived in the Netherlands on two flights from South Africa on Friday have tested positive for the coronavirus and were in isolation on Saturday, a local health authority spokesperson has said.
Further tests are now underway to establish if any of the infected travellers have the new highly transmissible variant of Covid&nbsp;19 that was first identified in South Africa earlier this week.
Two planes arrived in the Netherlands from Johannesburg and Cape Town shortly after the Dutch government, along with other nations around the world, on Friday imposed a ban on flights from southern African nations following discovery of the new omicron variant.
The Kennermerland local health authority, which is responsible for the testing and isolation operation, said in an update Saturday that the people who tested positive must quarantine for seven days if they have symptoms and five days if they are symptom free.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/coronavirus/strain-may-have-greater-reinfection-risk-who-classifies-new-covid-strain-as-variant-of-concern-1637979672973" target="_blank">'May have greater reinfection risk': WHO says new Covid strain 'variant of concern', names it Omicron</a>
The 539 travelers who tested negative were allowed to return home or continue their journeys to other countries.
Under government regulations, those who live in the Netherlands and are allowed to return home must self-isolate for at least five days.
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State governments of Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra have stepped up Covid-19 precautionary measures amid a rise in cases and worries over new strain 'Omicron'. Maharashtra that was worst affected by the first and second wave of the pandemic has said that over and above the norms prescribed by the central govt, all domestic travellers into the state shall either be fully vaccinated or carry an RT-PCR test valid for 72 hours.Karnataka is stepping up its precaution as well as the BJP led government in the states said that screening of international passengers at the airports will be intensified and RT-PCR tests will now be mandatory for visitors from Maharashtra and Kerala.As per reports two South African passengers who arrived in Bengaluru on November 20 tested positive for the coronavirus. The samples of both of them were sent for genome sequencing which confirmed they are infected by Delta Variant. Karnataka has requested the Centre to allow the state to administer the booster dose of vaccine to prevent the third wave, informed the minister.

Variant scare pushes Karnataka & Maharashtra to issue new rules for travellers 

Maharashtra, Karnataka and Gujarat - issue fresh coronavirus guidelines as precautionary measures as Omicron worries rise across the globe

Omicron worries rise, travel guidelines issued by states

https://www.editorji.com/coronavirus/uk-detects-first-two-cases-of-new-the-covid-19-variant-1638033234719
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// State governments step up safety measures amid worries of 'Omicron'&nbsp;
//Maha: domestic travellers either fully vaccinated or RT-PCR&nbsp;test valid for 72 hours
//K'taka: screening for int'l&nbsp;passengers, mandatory RT-PCR&nbsp;for Maha, Kerala&nbsp;visitors&nbsp;
//B'lore: 2 South African passengers test positive, Delta variant confirmed
//K'taka: asks Centre to allow booster shot administration to prevent third wave&nbsp;
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Two South African passengers who arrived in Bengaluru on November 20 tested positive for the coronavirus.&nbsp;

State governments of&nbsp;Karnataka,&nbsp;Gujarat and&nbsp;Maharashtra&nbsp;have stepped up Covid-19 precautionary measures amid a rise in cases and worries over new strain '<a href="https://www.editorji.com/coronavirus/uk-detects-first-two-cases-of-new-the-covid-19-variant-1638033234719">Omicron'</a>.&nbsp; Maharashtra&nbsp;that was worst affected by the first and second wave of the pandemic has said that over and above the norms prescribed by the central govt, all domestic travellers into the state shall either be fully vaccinated or carry an RT-PCR test valid for 72 hours. Karnataka&nbsp;is stepping up its precaution as well as the&nbsp;BJP led government in the states said that screening of international passengers at the airports will be intensified and RT-PCR tests will now be mandatory for visitors from Maharashtra and Kerala. As per reports <a href="https://www.editorji.com/coronavirus/being-punished-for-detecting-new-covid-19-variant-says-south-africa-1638031220330">two South African passengers</a> who arrived in Bengaluru on November 20 tested positive for the coronavirus. The samples of both of them were sent for genome sequencing which confirmed they are infected by Delta Variant.&nbsp; Karnataka has requested the Centre to allow the state to administer the booster dose of vaccine to prevent the third wave, informed the minister.

omicorn

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