In China, some 13 million residents of the city of Xi’an have been ordered to remain at home after officials reported more than 200 coronavirus infections — the most China has reported since March of 2020. The strict lockdown comes just weeks before Beijing is set to host the Winter Olympics.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis used his Christmas address to advocate for universal healthcare and access to vaccines.

Pope Francis: “Grant health to the infirm, and inspire all men and women of goodwill to seek the best ways possible to overcome the current health crisis and its effects. Open hearts to ensure that necessary medical care and vaccines, in particular, are provided to those people who need them most.”