New coronavirus variant a ‘serious concern’ in South Africa
Scientists in South Africa are studying a recently identified new coronavirus variant of concern, stoking fears the country may face a potentially severe fourth...
Singapore to avoid a Europe-style COVID resurgence, official says
One of the highest vaccination rates in the world and growing natural immunity could protect Singapore from a Covid-19 resurgence like those currently engulfing...
Thailand sees slow tourism recovery after reopening
BANGKOK — Thailand was among the first countries in Asia to reopen for foreign arrivals, and it is seeing a slow recovery, including new...
Death of S. Korean dictator leaves brutal legacy unresolved
SEOUL — The death this week of South Korea’s last military dictator, Chun Doo-hwan, marks the end of a divisive chapter in the country’s...
Australia introduces contentious religious anti-discrimination legislation
SYDNEY — Australia on Thursday introduced contentious religious anti-discrimination legislation to parliament that if approved would allow faith-based organizations to prioritize the hiring and...
Seoul, Barbados check into metaverse as governments eye virtual presence
The metaverse will soon be a place to not just buy virtual goods and meet avatars, but to also get essential public services, as...
US economy eyes strong 2021 finish as labor market tightens, spending accelerates
WASHINGTON — The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits dropped to a 52-year low last week, suggesting economic activity was accelerating...
COVID cases break records in Europe, prompting booster shot expansion
BRUSSELS/PRAGUE — Coronavirus infections broke records in parts of Europe on Wednesday, with the continent once again the epicenter of a pandemic that has...
Only 7 countries proved to be pandemic MVPs
FOR A YEAR NOW, Bloomberg’s COVID Resilience Ranking has tracked the best and worst places to be during the pandemic, combining data ranging from...
Little known cult is new S.Korea COVID-19 outbreak
SEOUL — Little known sect led by a pastor who pokes eyes to heal is at the center of a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)...
Flaming bus crash in Bulgaria kills 45 North Macedonian tourists; 7 survive
SOFIA — At least 45 people, including 12 children, died as a bus carrying mostly North Macedonian tourists crashed in flames on a highway in western Bulgaria hours before daybreak on Tuesday, officials said.
Coastal towns locked down on La Palma Island as lava stream crashes into ocean
MADRID — Authorities on the Spanish island of La Palma ordered residents of three coastal towns to stay indoors on Monday after a new stream of lava crashed into the ocean, sending thick clouds of potentially toxic gases high into the sky.