Omicron was in Netherlands days earlier than first thought
The Hindu
The Dutch announcement further muddies the timeline on when the new variant actually emerged
The omicron variant was already in the Netherlands when South Africa alerted the World Health Organization about it last week, Dutch health authorities said Tuesday, adding to fear and confusion over the new version of the coronavirus in a weary world hoping it had left the worst of the pandemic behind.
The Netherlands' RIVM health institute found omicron in samples dating from November 19 and 23. The WHO said South Africa first reported the the variant to the UN healthy agency on November 24.
It remains unclear where or when the variant first emerged — but that hasn't stopped wary nations from rushing to impose travel restrictions, especially on visitors coming from southern Africa. Those moves have been criticized by South Africa and the WHO has urged against them, noting their limited effect.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to attend G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in South Africa, strengthening India's global engagement.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters calls for a reset in relationship with Cook Islands over China agreements.
President Trump orders firing of all remaining U.S. attorneys nominated by Biden, citing politicization of Department of Justice.
Man convicted for throwing pipe bomb at former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Judge denies restraining order against Elon Musk and DOGE, citing lack of evidence for legal harm.
Brazil's former President Bolsonaro charged with coup attempt, poisoning plot, and murder plan after 2022 election defeat.
Declining marriages and population in China pose economic and social challenges, with government policies failing to address root causes.
DOGE cancels $21M fund for voter turnout in India, Trump criticizes decision due to India's high taxation rates.
The Hindu Morning Digest gives a select list of stories to start the day. Read the top news today on February 19, 2025
Marine experts respond to mass stranding of over 150 whales in Tasmania, facing challenges in rescue efforts.
Analysis of Indian immigrants deported from the U.S. in 2025, asylum seekers, illegal agents, and visa overstays trends.
Border arrests plummeted in January due to Trump's immigration policies, reaching the lowest point since May 2020.
Iranian Foreign Minister appeals for Indian nurse on death row in Yemen, diplomatic efforts ongoing, complex resolution due to regional instability.