Health

Japan bans entry of foreign visitors as Omicron COVID-19 variant spreads

Japan announced Monday it will suspend entry of all foreign visitors from around the world as a new coronavirus variant spreads.

For the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the measure will take effect Tuesday.

The decision means Japan will restore border controls that it eased earlier this month for short-term business visitors, foreign students and workers.

Over the weekend, Japan tightened entry restrictions for people arriving from South Africa and eight other countries, requiring them to undergo a 10-day quarantine period at government-designated facilities.

Many countries have moved to tighten their borders after the new omicron variant of the coronavirus was found in a number of nations.

WHO classifies renamed COVID-19 strain, Omicron, ‘variant of concern’

First image of Omicron shows many more mutations than Delta variant

Health

Trafficking in the Sahel: Killer cough syrup and fake medicine

In the summer of 2022, 70 Gambian babies and young children died from kidney failure after ingesting cough syrup spooned out by their caregivers. The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global alert that four tainted paediatric products had originated in India, as local health authorities continue to investigate how this tragedy unfolded.

Health

Stop tobacco farming, grow food instead, says WHO

With hunger spreading worldwide and tobacco responsible for eight million deaths each year, countries should stop subsidizing tobacco crops and help farmers grow food, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday.

Health

‘Safe digital public square’ never more important, says Türk

Allowing space for everyone to speak up, is critical for a free and fully functioning society said the UN human rights chief on Friday, warning that a safe environment online has never been more essential.