The World Health Organization has declared the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda a global health emergency after the deadly virus spread across borders and reached African capitals. More than 80 deaths have already been reported in Congo as fears grow over the rare Bundibugyo Ebola strain, which currently has no approved vaccine or treatment. WHO officials warn the outbreak may be far larger than official numbers suggest, with possible undetected spread for weeks before discovery. Scientists are now exploring experimental treatments including remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies as Africa races to contain the fast-moving health crisis.

According to the Health Ministry, 1,525 people in India have contracted the Omicron variant since the first case was reported in November. Maharashtra and Delhi continue to be the worst-hit state while the country reported a 21 per cent jump in new Covid-19 cases with 27,553 infections on January 2.