Soon after the Wuhan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-increase-in-sweden-after-resistance-to-complete-lockdown-295355">virus</a> began spreading beyond China, countries across the world started releasing prisoners to avoid a possible catastrophe but some Latin American countries refrained from freeing their inmates.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-coronavirus-end-in-us-uk-france-india-study-predicts-dates-month-295324">Also Read:&nbsp;When will coronavirus end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates &amp; month</a>

Their prisons today are reporting numerous coronavirus cases. Hundreds of prisoners had crammed in jail cells in El Salvador with no masks and no precautions.&nbsp;Just inmates with their hands around their necks, queueing up for an impending disaster.

Among the prisoners were notorious gang members. They have been accused of masterminding 53 murders from their cells over the weekend. El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele ordered a crackdown.

"They will not receive sunlight, they will be in total confinement 24 hours a day in the seven maximum security prisons that there are in this country. This was an order from President Nayib Bukele. We are complying with that order," Salvadoran deputy security minister, Osiris Luna said.

Overcrowded prisons are an ugly truth of Latin America. The region's jails house as many as 1.5 million inmates. They are brewing coronavirus hotspots for multiple reasons.

Firstly, these prisons are overcrowded. Secondly, they run on tight budgets which means soap and water are limited and the sanitation conditions are poor and then there is corruption.

Latin America's prisons are perfect breeding grounds for coronavirus. The inmates are scared and vulnerable. They have a single demand - protection against the contagion.

However, the numbers look grim. El Salvador has reported 1,400 coronavirus cases among inmates and prison staff. There are 613 cases and 13 deaths in the prisons of Peru.

In Colombia, 23 inmates have died in prison riots since the pandemic. In brazil, hundred inmates escaped prisons. Chile's Puente Alto prison alone has reported over 300 coronavirus cases. The situation raises a unique challenge for the administration..

These inmates have been sentenced to captivity, not death.

Soon after the Wuhan virus began spreading beyond China, countries across the world started releasing prisoners to avoid a possible catastrophe but some Latin American countries refrained from freeing their inmates.

Soon after the Wuhan virus began spreading beyond China, countries across the world started releasing prisoners to avoid a possible catastrophe but some Latin American countries refrained from freeing their inmates. Also Read: When will coronavirus end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates & month Their prisons today are reporting numerous coronavirus cases. Hundreds of prisoners had crammed in jail cells in El Salvador with no masks and no precautions. Just inmates with their hands around their necks, queueing up for an impending disaster. Among the prisoners were notorious gang members. They have been accused of masterminding 53 murders from their cells over the weekend. El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele ordered a crackdown. "They will not receive sunlight, they will be in total confinement 24 hours a day in the seven maximum security prisons that there are in this country. This was an order from President Nayib Bukele. We are complying with that order," Salvadoran deputy security minister, Osiris Luna said. Overcrowded prisons are an ugly truth of Latin America. The region's jails house as many as 1.5 million inmates. They are brewing coronavirus hotspots for multiple reasons. Firstly, these prisons are overcrowded. Secondly, they run on tight budgets which means soap and water are limited and the sanitation conditions are poor and then there is corruption. Latin America's prisons are perfect breeding grounds for coronavirus. The inmates are scared and vulnerable. They have a single demand - protection against the contagion. However, the numbers look grim. El Salvador has reported 1,400 coronavirus cases among inmates and prison staff. There are 613 cases and 13 deaths in the prisons of Peru. In Colombia, 23 inmates have died in prison riots since the pandemic. In brazil, hundred inmates escaped prisons. Chile's Puente Alto prison alone has reported over 300 coronavirus cases. The situation raises a unique challenge for the administration.. These inmates have been sentenced to captivity, not death.

Inmates in El Salvador suffer as Latin American prisons breed COVID-19

As France moved to ease restrictions on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-attack-china-says-us-shirking-responsibility-diverting-public-attention-over-coronavirus-295340">lockdown</a>, French Prime Minister Édouard Philippe said that work from home should continue when lockdown lifts on May 11.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-coronavirus-end-in-us-uk-france-india-study-predicts-dates-month-295324">Also Read:&nbsp;When will coronavirus end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates &amp; month</a>

French shops, markets can reopen May 11, but not restaurants and bars, Philippe asserted.

The French premier said face masks will be mandatory in public transport.

"We will have to learn to live with the virus," Philippe said while informing Parliament that home confinement had helped brake the epidemic and prevented thousands of more deaths.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said schools will resume classes only gradually.

French professional sports leagues including football and rugby cannot restart before September, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe added.

France is one of the hardest hit due to the coronavirus in Europe with 23, 293 deaths and 166,036 infected cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus virus resource centre's live tracker.

The country has been on lockdown for the past six weeks even as authorities called for "progressive and controlled easing of the confinement".

Amid the virus crisis, French public hospitals said that the cost of treating patients was $652-980 million even as over 28,000 people remain in hospital.

The French health ministry had said earlier that it would be making 377 million euros available to treat patients as the cost of treating patients continues to go up.

The country had reported 437 new deaths from COVID-19 in hospitals and nursing homes on Monday as authorities moved to ease restrictions.&nbsp;

The health ministry had said on Monday that the number of coronavirus patients in intensive care had gone down by 74 to 4,608 while the numbers in the hospital had fallen by 162 patients to 28,055.

As France moved to ease restrictions on the lockdown, French Prime Minister Édouard Philippe said that work from home should continue when lockdown lifts on May 11.

As France moved to ease restrictions on the lockdown, French Prime Minister Édouard Philippe said that work from home should continue when lockdown lifts on May 11. Also Read: When will coronavirus end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates & month French shops, markets can reopen May 11, but not restaurants and bars, Philippe asserted. The French premier said face masks will be mandatory in public transport. "We will have to learn to live with the virus," Philippe said while informing Parliament that home confinement had helped brake the epidemic and prevented thousands of more deaths. Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said schools will resume classes only gradually. French professional sports leagues including football and rugby cannot restart before September, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe added. France is one of the hardest hit due to the coronavirus in Europe with 23, 293 deaths and 166,036 infected cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus virus resource centre's live tracker. The country has been on lockdown for the past six weeks even as authorities called for "progressive and controlled easing of the confinement". Amid the virus crisis, French public hospitals said that the cost of treating patients was $652-980 million even as over 28,000 people remain in hospital. The French health ministry had said earlier that it would be making 377 million euros available to treat patients as the cost of treating patients continues to go up. The country had reported 437 new deaths from COVID-19 in hospitals and nursing homes on Monday as authorities moved to ease restrictions. The health ministry had said on Monday that the number of coronavirus patients in intensive care had gone down by 74 to 4,608 while the numbers in the hospital had fallen by 162 patients to 28,055.

France eases lockdown restrictions; shops, markets to reopen on May 11

The total number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-fresh-covid-19-case-reported-in-80-districts-in-seven-days-health-minister-harsh-vardhan-295321">coronavirus</a> cases in the country has risen to 29,974 with 1,594 new cases and 51 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, India's health ministry said today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-evidence-plasma-therapy-can-be-used-as-treatment-for-covid-19-health-ministry-295330">Also Read:&nbsp;No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry</a>

The death toll due to the virus has now climbed to 937, the health ministry said. There are 22,010 active COVID-19 cases with 7,027 patients cured of the virus.

West Bengal on Tuesday reported 22 deaths due to coronavirus in the country even as&nbsp; Tamil Nadu health department reported 121 new coronavirus cases in the state to&nbsp;day.

The total number of cases in Tamil Nadu has risen to 2,058 with West Bengal reporting 522 cases of COVID-19.

Assam reported 37 cases of the virus after a person from Goalpara district a "secondary contact" of a Markaz attendee tested coronavirus.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, ICMR said today that currently, there are no approved, definitive therapies for coronavirus.

"Convalescent plasma is one of several emerging therapies. However, there's no robust evidence to support it for routine therapy. US Food and Drug Admn has also viewed it as an experimental therapy," ICMR said.

In Jammu and Kashmir, 19 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, with the number of cases in the Union Territory rising to 565 which includes 381 "active cases".

As the number of cases in Mumbai continued to rise, Mumbai Police said all personnel above 55 years of age have been asked to stay at home and all personnel above 52 years of age with previous medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension also asked to stay home.

The directive comes after another policeman had died of the virus on Monday.

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The total number of coronavirus cases in the country has risen to 29,974 with 1,594 new cases and 51 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, India's health ministry said today.

The total number of coronavirus cases in the country has risen to 29,974 with 1,594 new cases and 51 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, India's health ministry said today. Also Read: No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry The death toll due to the virus has now climbed to 937, the health ministry said. There are 22,010 active COVID-19 cases with 7,027 patients cured of the virus. West Bengal on Tuesday reported 22 deaths due to coronavirus in the country even as Tamil Nadu health department reported 121 new coronavirus cases in the state to day. The total number of cases in Tamil Nadu has risen to 2,058 with West Bengal reporting 522 cases of COVID-19. Assam reported 37 cases of the virus after a person from Goalpara district a "secondary contact" of a Markaz attendee tested coronavirus. Meanwhile, ICMR said today that currently, there are no approved, definitive therapies for coronavirus. "Convalescent plasma is one of several emerging therapies. However, there's no robust evidence to support it for routine therapy. US Food and Drug Admn has also viewed it as an experimental therapy," ICMR said. In Jammu and Kashmir, 19 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, with the number of cases in the Union Territory rising to 565 which includes 381 "active cases". As the number of cases in Mumbai continued to rise, Mumbai Police said all personnel above 55 years of age have been asked to stay at home and all personnel above 52 years of age with previous medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension also asked to stay home. The directive comes after another policeman had died of the virus on Monday.

29,974 coronavirus cases in the country; 937 deaths: Health ministry

India's health ministry said today that 1,543 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-fresh-covid-19-case-reported-in-80-districts-in-seven-days-health-minister-harsh-vardhan-295321">coronavirus</a> cases were reported in the last 24 hours in the country taking the number of cases to 29,435.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-outbreak-is-mumbai-turning-into-indias-new-york-city-295323">Also Read:&nbsp;COVID-19 outbreak: Is Mumbai turning into India's New York City?</a>

The health ministry said 684 patients were cured of the virus&nbsp;in the last 24 hours with the recovery rate now being 23.3 per cent which is a "progressive increase"&nbsp;in recovery rate..

"Plasma therapy is being experimented, however, no evidence that this can be used as a treatment," health ministry official Lav Aggarwal said, adding,"national level study has been launched by ICMR to study its efficacy."

"Until ICMR concludes its study and a robust scientific proof is available, plasma therapy should be used only for research or trial purpose," the health ministry official said.

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Currently, there are no approved, definitive therapies for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. Convalescent plasma is one of the several emerging therapies. However, there is no robust evidence to support it for routine therapy. <a href="https://twitter.com/US_FDA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@US_FDA</a> has also viewed it as an experimental therapy (IND). 1/4
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"If plasma therapy is not used in a proper manner under proper guideline then it can also cause life threatening complications," the ministry official asserted.

Meanwhile, the Rajashtan government said that there have been 2,328 coronavirus cases cases in the state with progress witnessed in the recovery process.&nbsp;

"We are also increasing our capacity to do coronavirus tests. In one week's time, we will be able to do 10,000 tests per day," Rajasthan health minister informed.

As the virus cases continued to rise, Bihar on Tuesday reported 13 more coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 359.

The government meanwhile has put Air India and Indian Navy on standby to evacuate Indians from Gulf, government officials said.

India's health ministry said today that 1,543 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours in the country taking the number of cases to 29,435. Also Read: COVID-19 outbreak: Is Mumbai turning into India's New York City?

India's health ministry said today that 1,543 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours in the country taking the number of cases to 29,435. Also Read: COVID-19 outbreak: Is Mumbai turning into India's New York City? The health ministry said 684 patients were cured of the virus in the last 24 hours with the recovery rate now being 23.3 per cent which is a "progressive increase" in recovery rate.. "Plasma therapy is being experimented, however, no evidence that this can be used as a treatment," health ministry official Lav Aggarwal said, adding,"national level study has been launched by ICMR to study its efficacy." "Until ICMR concludes its study and a robust scientific proof is available, plasma therapy should be used only for research or trial purpose," the health ministry official said. Currently, there are no approved, definitive therapies for #COVID19. Convalescent plasma is one of the several emerging therapies. However, there is no robust evidence to support it for routine therapy. @US_FDA has also viewed it as an experimental therapy (IND). 1/4 — ICMR (@ICMRDELHI) April 28, 2020 × "If plasma therapy is not used in a proper manner under proper guideline then it can also cause life threatening complications," the ministry official asserted. Meanwhile, the Rajashtan government said that there have been 2,328 coronavirus cases cases in the state with progress witnessed in the recovery process. "We are also increasing our capacity to do coronavirus tests. In one week's time, we will be able to do 10,000 tests per day," Rajasthan health minister informed. As the virus cases continued to rise, Bihar on Tuesday reported 13 more coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 359. The government meanwhile has put Air India and Indian Navy on standby to evacuate Indians from Gulf, government officials said.

No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19: Health ministry

Iran on Tuesday reported 71 deaths due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-coronavirus-end-in-us-uk-france-india-study-predicts-dates-month-295324">coronavirus</a> in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 5,877 which is the highest in the Middle East.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-attack-china-says-us-shirking-responsibility-diverting-public-attention-over-coronavirus-295340">Also Read:&nbsp;After Trump's attack, China says US shirking responsibility &amp; diverting public attention over coronavirus</a>

On Monday, the country had reported 96 deaths from the novel coronavirus.

The are now over 1,000 new cases of COVID-19 infection in the country, with 92,584 the total number of infections in the country.

Iran's health ministry said that 72,439 people were treated and recovered in the hospital.&nbsp;

The ministry asserted that daily infection count had fallen to 991, which was below the 1,000 for the first time since March 10.

The authorities had earlier closed schools and universities in a bid to combat the virus, however, the number of cases has continued to rise.

Iran has struggled to contain the virus since it first reported cases on February 19. The Iran government has allowed a "phased" reopening of shops and has lifted restrictions on movement within the country since April 11 but mosques, schools and cinemas remain closed.

Amdi the Ramadan festivities on Saturday, health officials warned of "fresh outbreak" of coronavirus cases as the country continued to battle the virus. Citizens could not go to mosques to pray due to the restrictions.

Health ministry officials Jahanpour reiterated social distancing and hygiene measures to guard against COVID-19. The tensions between Iran and the US has also added to the hardships in the country with officials often hitting out against US sanctions.

"In addition to fighting the virus, Iran faces illegal and inhuman American sanctions, doubling the pressure on the Iranian people," &nbsp;Iran's deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi had said earlier.

Iran on Tuesday reported 71 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 5,877 which is the highest in the Middle East. Also Read: After Trump's attack, China says US shirking responsibility & diverting public attention over coronavirus On Monday, the country had reported 96 deaths from the novel coronavirus.

Iran on Tuesday reported 71 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 5,877 which is the highest in the Middle East. Also Read: After Trump's attack, China says US shirking responsibility & diverting public attention over coronavirus On Monday, the country had reported 96 deaths from the novel coronavirus. The are now over 1,000 new cases of COVID-19 infection in the country, with 92,584 the total number of infections in the country. Iran's health ministry said that 72,439 people were treated and recovered in the hospital. The ministry asserted that daily infection count had fallen to 991, which was below the 1,000 for the first time since March 10. The authorities had earlier closed schools and universities in a bid to combat the virus, however, the number of cases has continued to rise. Iran has struggled to contain the virus since it first reported cases on February 19. The Iran government has allowed a "phased" reopening of shops and has lifted restrictions on movement within the country since April 11 but mosques, schools and cinemas remain closed. Amdi the Ramadan festivities on Saturday, health officials warned of "fresh outbreak" of coronavirus cases as the country continued to battle the virus. Citizens could not go to mosques to pray due to the restrictions. Health ministry officials Jahanpour reiterated social distancing and hygiene measures to guard against COVID-19. The tensions between Iran and the US has also added to the hardships in the country with officials often hitting out against US sanctions. "In addition to fighting the virus, Iran faces illegal and inhuman American sanctions, doubling the pressure on the Iranian people," Iran's deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi had said earlier.

Iran reports 73 new coronavirus deaths, 1,000 new cases; death toll crosses over 5,800

Karnataka on Tuesday confirmed 523 coronavirus cases in the city which includes twenty deaths due to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-outbreak-is-mumbai-turning-into-indias-new-york-city-295323"> virus</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-evidence-plasma-therapy-can-be-used-as-treatment-for-covid-19-health-ministry-295330">Also Read:&nbsp;No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry</a>

Bengaluru reported the most number of cases with 131 followed by Mysuru with 87.

Belagavi and Kalaburgi also reported a high number of coronavirus cases of 52 and 44 respectively.

Meanwhile, an inter-ministerial central team today inspected different locations in Darjeeling today to assess the coronavirus situation in the area even as the health &amp; family welfare ministry issued guidelines for "home isolation" of people who either have very mild coronavirus symptoms or are in the pre-symptomatic phase.&nbsp;

The home ministry announced that several tests are being conducted so that COVID-19 cases can be identified in the initial stages itself.

As the number of cases continued to rise in the national capital, Delhi L-G Anil Baijal said: "We have to emphasise on extensive testing, faster results, meticulous contact tracing and isolation with strict perimeter control in the containment zones."

Punjab on Tuesday reported reduced number of deaths in Amritsar amid the lockdown even as one more patients tested positive for coronavirus from Hindpiri in Ranchi taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in Jharkhand to 104.

Andhra Pradesh reported 82 new cases of the virus on Tuesday in the last 24 hours taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,259. Thirty-one people have died to the virus in the state.

Karnataka on Tuesday confirmed 523 coronavirus cases in the city which includes twenty deaths due to the virus. Also Read: No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry Bengaluru reported the most number of cases with 131 followed by Mysuru with 87.

Karnataka on Tuesday confirmed 523 coronavirus cases in the city which includes twenty deaths due to the virus. Also Read: No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry Bengaluru reported the most number of cases with 131 followed by Mysuru with 87. Belagavi and Kalaburgi also reported a high number of coronavirus cases of 52 and 44 respectively. Meanwhile, an inter-ministerial central team today inspected different locations in Darjeeling today to assess the coronavirus situation in the area even as the health & family welfare ministry issued guidelines for "home isolation" of people who either have very mild coronavirus symptoms or are in the pre-symptomatic phase. The home ministry announced that several tests are being conducted so that COVID-19 cases can be identified in the initial stages itself. As the number of cases continued to rise in the national capital, Delhi L-G Anil Baijal said: "We have to emphasise on extensive testing, faster results, meticulous contact tracing and isolation with strict perimeter control in the containment zones." Punjab on Tuesday reported reduced number of deaths in Amritsar amid the lockdown even as one more patients tested positive for coronavirus from Hindpiri in Ranchi taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in Jharkhand to 104. Andhra Pradesh reported 82 new cases of the virus on Tuesday in the last 24 hours taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,259. Thirty-one people have died to the virus in the state.

Karnataka confirms 523 COVID-19 cases; Bengaluru most affected

After US President Donald Trump said he may seek damages from China over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-outbreak-is-mumbai-turning-into-indias-new-york-city-295323">coronavirus</a> outbreak, China's foreign ministry hit back saying, "American politicians have repeatedly ignored the truth and have been telling barefaced lies".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-to-step-up-enforcement-of-coronavirus-restrictions-in-view-of-beach-crowd-295230">Also Read: California to step up enforcement of coronavirus restrictions in view of beach crowd</a>

"They have only one objective: shirk their responsibility for their own poor epidemic prevention and control measures, and divert public attention," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, adding that,"US politicians should reflect on their own problems and find ways to contain the outbreak as quickly as possible".

Trump had earlier said that he wasn't happy with China while asserting that that "it could have been stopped at the source."

"It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said.

"There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know."

Several nations including Germany, Australia, the UK have called an independent probe into the outbreak, a case pushed by the Trump administration widely in recent weeks.

However, China has remained reticent to the idea. The US and China have been at loggerhead over the virus Trump repeatedly referring to COVID-19 as "the Chinese virus" when discussing the COVID-19 outbreak.

China had hit back last month over Trump's assertion by suggesting that the virus may have been spread by the US military which brought the virus to Wuhan.

"(We) hope that other countries can work with China to do more things that are conducive to international cooperation and mutual trust, rather than just saying one thing and doing another," Geng added.

After US President Donald Trump said he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak, China's foreign ministry hit back saying, "American politicians have repeatedly ignored the truth and have been telling barefaced lies".

After US President Donald Trump said he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak, China's foreign ministry hit back saying, "American politicians have repeatedly ignored the truth and have been telling barefaced lies". Also Read: California to step up enforcement of coronavirus restrictions in view of beach crowd "They have only one objective: shirk their responsibility for their own poor epidemic prevention and control measures, and divert public attention," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, adding that,"US politicians should reflect on their own problems and find ways to contain the outbreak as quickly as possible". Trump had earlier said that he wasn't happy with China while asserting that that "it could have been stopped at the source." "It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said. "There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know." Several nations including Germany, Australia, the UK have called an independent probe into the outbreak, a case pushed by the Trump administration widely in recent weeks. However, China has remained reticent to the idea. The US and China have been at loggerhead over the virus Trump repeatedly referring to COVID-19 as "the Chinese virus" when discussing the COVID-19 outbreak. China had hit back last month over Trump's assertion by suggesting that the virus may have been spread by the US military which brought the virus to Wuhan. "(We) hope that other countries can work with China to do more things that are conducive to international cooperation and mutual trust, rather than just saying one thing and doing another," Geng added.

After Trump's attack, China says US shirking responsibility & diverting public attention over coronavirus

By

Huidrom Athouba Meetei

Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam, is a consultant in emergency medicine in the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS trust in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

The hospital based in Birmingham is the second worst-affected city in the UK which alone has witnessed more than 250 deaths due to COVID-19.&nbsp;

Dr Elangam who was also a part of the SARS team when it had hit the UK, shares his experiences with WION on the nature of the pathogen and the knowledge gathered during his days of attending to the survivors.

WION: You have seen people suffering with COVID-19 since day one in your hospital. Can you please share your experiences since the first positive cases were reported and then resulting in casualties?

Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: We first heard about the outbreak of this pandemic in Wuhan and on Jan 27, then we did first testing of our mask, we were preparing ourself by making ensure our masks were fitted to our face, and I still remember on Feb 1, we did a simulation for our department.

In order to look after our patients. We had a separate room for coronavirus, we called it corona post- for looking at suspected patients, with the hope of not contracting it with anyone in the hospital.&nbsp;

On February 10, I saw my first suspected patient, he had a travel history to China and Hong Kong.

We were looking at many suspected patients. The first confirmed case reported on March 5 in Birmingham and on March 14, the first positive case was reported in our hospital, since the last six weeks things have changed a lot from the data we have recorded unfortunate deaths of around 250 patients and 870 confirmed positive cases.&nbsp;

A lot of patients are coming to our hospital. I was among the team to deal during the SARS period, &nbsp;we thought, we should be ok but we were worried as the number of mortality increased in Wuhan and in Italy, even though we had the experience from the past, there was a lot of apprehension among our colleagues.&nbsp;

WION: Now across the globe the fight against the virus is underway. What do you suggest as a precaution since there seems very little clarity on the nature of the virus,&nbsp;its mode of attack at humans and how and when it affects us?

Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: COVID-19 virus is a very very contagious virus. It is similar to common flu, common cold - transmits through droplets, it can transfer when you cough, sneeze, through our sputum. It's very very highly contagious. What we can do about it?&nbsp;

We are happy to share the information that Oxford have started clinical trial of a vaccine on humans and we are hopeful that by September, we should have a viable vaccine that is safe, but according to the CMO UK government, it feels that it may take around 1 year or 18 months.&nbsp;

Come next year, we should have some idea of from where the vaccine are coming through by the end of year, we have a long time to go, meanwhile, various countries are taking several measures to stop the transmission - lockdown is going on, this is very, very important, lockdown is just to buy some time to decrease the transmission and we can prepare ourself, when we say, "we" - it includes everyone, healthcare providers and the public. &nbsp;

Handwashing and social distancing is the way to minimize the transmission, and we should strictly follow the rules set by the government and keep a good hygiene habit.

WION: As you have been directly dealing with this new deadly virus, what is your advice to the people when should they go for a test, any set of measures that one can take up before going for test?

Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: Tests are&nbsp;being done according to the strategy of respective countries - for example, in be UK we started with the containment phase, where we were swabbing people in the community and we were doing tests for the people who were coming to the hospital.&nbsp;

Now in the UK, we are doing delayed phase testing that is swabbing for people who are admitted in hospitals only and key workers who are working in the frontline.&nbsp;

If you have been in contact with any positive individuals and you are feeling unwell take advice from the hospital through helplines or doctors first through phone and fix a time for your visit, so that the hospital can prepare or to avoid other patients putting them at risk

WION: As you know India is moving towards a critical stage, what would be your advice or best practices that should be followed in the healthcare sectors or for the public?

Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: I saw in India that the curve has been flattening, my advice to the people is - please follow the government order, wash your hands regularly, keep social distancing, follow hygiene advice strictly, lockdown is just a means to buy time to prevent mass spreading before vaccines are made.&nbsp;

I repeat - remember lockdown is only meant to buy time, we may become infected with the viruses with some way or the other if we don't take care of ourselves.&nbsp;

WION: Tell us from your experiences how does this disease attacks the human body- does it give time once it enters the human body, which part or parts are the most vulnerable?

Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam:&nbsp;&nbsp;This virus is just like common flu,&nbsp;it attacks in two ways-&nbsp; first, the virus loads into the upper respiratory tract infection that is how we have sore throat and sneezing.

Eight per cent of patients have flu or cold-like symptom another 14 per cent to 20 per cent are quite unwell, what happens is - if the person has immunity compromised like diabetes or cancer treatment when the virus came in the body, then the body reacts - the inflammatory response can be quite high and the person can feel very unwell and the second is immune response phase which is somewhere 6,7,8,9 days, the body tries to fight against the virus - unfortunately it starts to fight too strong that it attacks its own organ like kidney, lung, brain which leads to respiratory failure, kidney failure.&nbsp;

These are two phases is how this virus attacks the human body. Most of them recover but around 5 per cent of patients succumb to the virus. &nbsp;

Many of the patients come to hospital needing oxygen around 28 per cent, they improve after 4/5 days. Another group who are very unwell with very low oxygen level, they deteriorate within hours and its so fast that we have little time to treat them.&nbsp;

People who have diabetes, are obese, people who used to smoking have a higher rate of death.&nbsp;

WION: We also know about the clinical trial of a vaccine that's happening in the UK, can you share with us any information about the nature of the trial, what can one hope?&nbsp;

Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: The Oxford team is doing the trial for a vaccine. The vaccine is the only way that can save us from this virus.

They are studying around 510 volunteers, they are expecting a result by September and hoping for a good result, until then we have to take care of our family, our loved ones till the vaccine&nbsp;comes out.&nbsp;

We need to behave as responsible individuals and as responsible citizens to fight this deadly virus.

By Huidrom Athouba Meetei Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam, is a consultant in emergency medicine in the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS trust in the United Kingdom. The hospital based in Birmingham is the second worst-affected city in the UK which alone has witnessed more than 250 deaths due to COVID-19.

By Huidrom Athouba Meetei Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam, is a consultant in emergency medicine in the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS trust in the United Kingdom. The hospital based in Birmingham is the second worst-affected city in the UK which alone has witnessed more than 250 deaths due to COVID-19. Dr Elangam who was also a part of the SARS team when it had hit the UK, shares his experiences with WION on the nature of the pathogen and the knowledge gathered during his days of attending to the survivors. WION: You have seen people suffering with COVID-19 since day one in your hospital. Can you please share your experiences since the first positive cases were reported and then resulting in casualties? Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: We first heard about the outbreak of this pandemic in Wuhan and on Jan 27, then we did first testing of our mask, we were preparing ourself by making ensure our masks were fitted to our face, and I still remember on Feb 1, we did a simulation for our department. In order to look after our patients. We had a separate room for coronavirus, we called it corona post- for looking at suspected patients, with the hope of not contracting it with anyone in the hospital. On February 10, I saw my first suspected patient, he had a travel history to China and Hong Kong. We were looking at many suspected patients. The first confirmed case reported on March 5 in Birmingham and on March 14, the first positive case was reported in our hospital, since the last six weeks things have changed a lot from the data we have recorded unfortunate deaths of around 250 patients and 870 confirmed positive cases. A lot of patients are coming to our hospital. I was among the team to deal during the SARS period, we thought, we should be ok but we were worried as the number of mortality increased in Wuhan and in Italy, even though we had the experience from the past, there was a lot of apprehension among our colleagues. WION: Now across the globe the fight against the virus is underway. What do you suggest as a precaution since there seems very little clarity on the nature of the virus, its mode of attack at humans and how and when it affects us? Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: COVID-19 virus is a very very contagious virus. It is similar to common flu, common cold - transmits through droplets, it can transfer when you cough, sneeze, through our sputum. It's very very highly contagious. What we can do about it? We are happy to share the information that Oxford have started clinical trial of a vaccine on humans and we are hopeful that by September, we should have a viable vaccine that is safe, but according to the CMO UK government, it feels that it may take around 1 year or 18 months. Come next year, we should have some idea of from where the vaccine are coming through by the end of year, we have a long time to go, meanwhile, various countries are taking several measures to stop the transmission - lockdown is going on, this is very, very important, lockdown is just to buy some time to decrease the transmission and we can prepare ourself, when we say, "we" - it includes everyone, healthcare providers and the public. Handwashing and social distancing is the way to minimize the transmission, and we should strictly follow the rules set by the government and keep a good hygiene habit. WION: As you have been directly dealing with this new deadly virus, what is your advice to the people when should they go for a test, any set of measures that one can take up before going for test? Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: Tests are being done according to the strategy of respective countries - for example, in be UK we started with the containment phase, where we were swabbing people in the community and we were doing tests for the people who were coming to the hospital. Now in the UK, we are doing delayed phase testing that is swabbing for people who are admitted in hospitals only and key workers who are working in the frontline. If you have been in contact with any positive individuals and you are feeling unwell take advice from the hospital through helplines or doctors first through phone and fix a time for your visit, so that the hospital can prepare or to avoid other patients putting them at risk WION: As you know India is moving towards a critical stage, what would be your advice or best practices that should be followed in the healthcare sectors or for the public? Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: I saw in India that the curve has been flattening, my advice to the people is - please follow the government order, wash your hands regularly, keep social distancing, follow hygiene advice strictly, lockdown is just a means to buy time to prevent mass spreading before vaccines are made. I repeat - remember lockdown is only meant to buy time, we may become infected with the viruses with some way or the other if we don't take care of ourselves. WION: Tell us from your experiences how does this disease attacks the human body- does it give time once it enters the human body, which part or parts are the most vulnerable? Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: This virus is just like common flu, it attacks in two ways- first, the virus loads into the upper respiratory tract infection that is how we have sore throat and sneezing. Eight per cent of patients have flu or cold-like symptom another 14 per cent to 20 per cent are quite unwell, what happens is - if the person has immunity compromised like diabetes or cancer treatment when the virus came in the body, then the body reacts - the inflammatory response can be quite high and the person can feel very unwell and the second is immune response phase which is somewhere 6,7,8,9 days, the body tries to fight against the virus - unfortunately it starts to fight too strong that it attacks its own organ like kidney, lung, brain which leads to respiratory failure, kidney failure. These are two phases is how this virus attacks the human body. Most of them recover but around 5 per cent of patients succumb to the virus. Many of the patients come to hospital needing oxygen around 28 per cent, they improve after 4/5 days. Another group who are very unwell with very low oxygen level, they deteriorate within hours and its so fast that we have little time to treat them. People who have diabetes, are obese, people who used to smoking have a higher rate of death. WION: We also know about the clinical trial of a vaccine that's happening in the UK, can you share with us any information about the nature of the trial, what can one hope? Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam: The Oxford team is doing the trial for a vaccine. The vaccine is the only way that can save us from this virus. They are studying around 510 volunteers, they are expecting a result by September and hoping for a good result, until then we have to take care of our family, our loved ones till the vaccine comes out. We need to behave as responsible individuals and as responsible citizens to fight this deadly virus.

COVID-19 is very, very contagious; hand washing & social distancing can minimise transmission: Dr Bishwajeet Elangbam

India's union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said today that several health workers in Delhi including paramedics, nurses, field workers, doctors have been affected with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-organisations-across-the-world-pledge-support-to-pm-modi-in-fight-against-coronavirus-pandemic-295262">coronavirus </a>which was a worrying factor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-engaged-with-countries-including-us-for-coordinated-response-to-covid-19-envoy-295288">Also Read:&nbsp;India engaged with countries including US for coordinated response to COVID-19</a>

"Currently, there are around hundred hotspots in Delhi, this number should go down," the health minister said, adding," according to experts, we need to increase the periphery of sealed areas in Delhi to fight the virus better."

"For the last 14 days, our doubling rate is 8.7, while for the last 7 days, it is 10.2 days. In last 3 days, it is 10.9 days roughly," Dr Harsh Vardhan informed.

"No fresh case were reported in 80 districts since last the last seven days. In 47 districts, no case has been reported in last 14 days, while 39 districts have not reported a case since last 21 days," the minister said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rajasthan reported seven new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours from Jaipur and Jodhpur taking the number of COVID-19 cases in the state to 2,335.

As the cases continued to rise, Bihar deputy chief minister Sushil Modi has requested the development of an app with the best "strategies" to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

In Haryana, the total number of coronavirus cases stands at 304, out of which 218 have been discharged.

In Karnataka, eight new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 520.

India's union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said today that several health workers in Delhi including paramedics, nurses, field workers, doctors have been affected with coronavirus which was a worrying factor.

India's union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said today that several health workers in Delhi including paramedics, nurses, field workers, doctors have been affected with coronavirus which was a worrying factor. Also Read: India engaged with countries including US for coordinated response to COVID-19 "Currently, there are around hundred hotspots in Delhi, this number should go down," the health minister said, adding," according to experts, we need to increase the periphery of sealed areas in Delhi to fight the virus better." "For the last 14 days, our doubling rate is 8.7, while for the last 7 days, it is 10.2 days. In last 3 days, it is 10.9 days roughly," Dr Harsh Vardhan informed. "No fresh case were reported in 80 districts since last the last seven days. In 47 districts, no case has been reported in last 14 days, while 39 districts have not reported a case since last 21 days," the minister said. Meanwhile, Rajasthan reported seven new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours from Jaipur and Jodhpur taking the number of COVID-19 cases in the state to 2,335. As the cases continued to rise, Bihar deputy chief minister Sushil Modi has requested the development of an app with the best "strategies" to contain the coronavirus pandemic. In Haryana, the total number of coronavirus cases stands at 304, out of which 218 have been discharged. In Karnataka, eight new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 520.

No fresh COVID-19 case reported in 80 districts in seven days: Health minister Harsh Vardhan

Spain on Tuesday 301 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-serious-investigations-against-china-over-coronavirus-says-trump-295192">COVID-19&nbsp;</a>deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll in the country to 23,822 fatalities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-us-been-undercounting-covid-19-deaths-a-new-analysis-suggests-so-295223">Also Read: Has US been undercounting COVID-19 deaths? A new analysis suggests so</a>

The country has 229, 422 infected coronavirus cases of COVID-19 which is the highest in Europe, next only to the United States which has 988, 469.

Italy has 199,414 cases of coronavirus with France having 165, 977 cases. Germany has 158, 758 infected cases making Europe the epicenter of the virus after the United States which has over 50,000 fatalities.

Tuesday's death toll is lower than Monday's toll with authorities intent on easing restrictions. Spain has been on lockdown since March 14 till May 9.

Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez is expected to outline plans to ease the restrictions later today even as the country battles with teh virus.

Amid the crisis, the country's unemployment rate jumped in the first quarter to 14.4 per cent, according to the national statistics institute(INE).

The jobless rate was also in the country rising to 121,000 people to 3.31 million in end March. The jobless data does not include 3.9 million workers who have been temporarily laid off from their jobs. Experts fear the jobless rate is much more than what government statistics show.

Spain on Tuesday 301 new COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll in the country to 23,822 fatalities. Also Read: Has US been undercounting COVID-19 deaths?

Spain on Tuesday 301 new COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll in the country to 23,822 fatalities. Also Read: Has US been undercounting COVID-19 deaths? A new analysis suggests so The country has 229, 422 infected coronavirus cases of COVID-19 which is the highest in Europe, next only to the United States which has 988, 469. Italy has 199,414 cases of coronavirus with France having 165, 977 cases. Germany has 158, 758 infected cases making Europe the epicenter of the virus after the United States which has over 50,000 fatalities. Tuesday's death toll is lower than Monday's toll with authorities intent on easing restrictions. Spain has been on lockdown since March 14 till May 9. Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez is expected to outline plans to ease the restrictions later today even as the country battles with teh virus. Amid the crisis, the country's unemployment rate jumped in the first quarter to 14.4 per cent, according to the national statistics institute(INE). The jobless rate was also in the country rising to 121,000 people to 3.31 million in end March. The jobless data does not include 3.9 million workers who have been temporarily laid off from their jobs. Experts fear the jobless rate is much more than what government statistics show.

COVID-19: Spain records lower one-day fatalities; toll rises to 23,822

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on January 30, WHO triggered its "highest" global emergency alert by declaring<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-widespread-undetected-covid-19-community-transmission-we-have-won-that-battle-new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-295147"> COVID-19</a> a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. At the time, there were fewer than 100 cases and no deaths outside China.&nbsp;

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On 30 January 2020, WHO triggered its highest global emergency alert 🚨 by declaring <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. At the time, there were fewer than 100 cases and no deaths outside China. 
 
📽️<a href="https://twitter.com/mrigankshail?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mrigankshail</a> <a href="https://t.co/9VftkK2GYh">pic.twitter.com/9VftkK2GYh</a>
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1254779294800211970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reopens-schools-despite-fear-of-second-wave-of-coronavirus-295164">Also Read:&nbsp;China reopens schools despite fear of second wave of coronavirus</a>

"The world should have listened to WHO then, carefully," Tedros told a virtual press conference.

President Trump had stopped funds to&nbsp;the UN health body over "mismanaging" the virus earlier while alleging that it had a "China bais".

However, Tedros&nbsp;said the WHO had given "sound advice from the beginning "based on the best science and evidence", however, he added that "we do not have any mandate to force countries to take our advice."

"Every country could have triggered all its public health measures, I think that suffices the importance of listening to WHO's advice," the WHO chief asserted.

"We advised the whole world to implement a comprehensive public health approach, and we said find, test, isolate, and do contact tracing," he said.

"You can check for yourselves: countries who followed that are in a better position than others. This is fact," the WHO chief said, adding "it is up to the countries to reject or accept."

"Each country takes its own responsibility." The global pandemic which has now reached 192 countries has claimed over 206,000 lives worldwide with the United States accounting for over 55,000 lives.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on January 30, WHO triggered its "highest" global emergency alert by declaring COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on January 30, WHO triggered its "highest" global emergency alert by declaring COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. At the time, there were fewer than 100 cases and no deaths outside China. On 30 January 2020, WHO triggered its highest global emergency alert 🚨 by declaring #COVID19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. At the time, there were fewer than 100 cases and no deaths outside China. 📽️@mrigankshail pic.twitter.com/9VftkK2GYh — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) April 27, 2020 × Also Read: China reopens schools despite fear of second wave of coronavirus "The world should have listened to WHO then, carefully," Tedros told a virtual press conference. President Trump had stopped funds to the UN health body over "mismanaging" the virus earlier while alleging that it had a "China bais". However, Tedros said the WHO had given "sound advice from the beginning "based on the best science and evidence", however, he added that "we do not have any mandate to force countries to take our advice." "Every country could have triggered all its public health measures, I think that suffices the importance of listening to WHO's advice," the WHO chief asserted. "We advised the whole world to implement a comprehensive public health approach, and we said find, test, isolate, and do contact tracing," he said. "You can check for yourselves: countries who followed that are in a better position than others. This is fact," the WHO chief said, adding "it is up to the countries to reject or accept." "Each country takes its own responsibility." The global pandemic which has now reached 192 countries has claimed over 206,000 lives worldwide with the United States accounting for over 55,000 lives.

Had warned about the virus on Jan 30, world should have listened to us then, carefully: WHO

By:

DM Seshagiri, Tirupati and Sidharth.M.P Chennai&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Brick walls that were erected by the Vellore district administration (Tamil Nadu) on the highways that led to Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh, to restrict vehicle movement and thereby reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread have been removed following a controversy.&nbsp;

The wall was razed by an earthmover after the Chittoor Collector and Vellore collector had discussed the issue. Renuka, the revenue divisional officer from Chittoor district has also visited the site.&nbsp;

"I called the Vellore district collector regarding the construction of the wall at the border, he said that they have stopped the cross-border transport as per government order. He also added that transportation has not been completely blocked and that in case of emergencies they are allowing via an alternative route“, Chittoor District Collector, Dr. Narayan Bharat Gupta said.&nbsp;

The district administration in Vellore is said to have built the walls, as per the instructions from the Tamil Nadu government. The walls that were raised Synagunda and Ponnai near the border were made of hollow bricks and were meant to keep in check the entry of migrant workers who enter without valid permission.

While the main highways do have checkpoints to monitor the entry and exit of people, there are lesser known routes that are frequented by locals, which could be used to cross the borders.&nbsp;

According to officials, out of the six check posts only ones at Ponnai and Synagunda had been blocked, whereas the routes via Paththalapalli, Paradarami, Christian pet and Serkadu were left open. While the vehicles that usually ply the blocked routes had been diverted in order to regulate and norrow-down the traffic movement.

Since the start of the nationwide lockdown on March 25, cross-border travel has been suspended, unless it is for exceptional, emergency cases, as permitted by the state governments.&nbsp;

The border roads that were earlier blocked were considered important routes for those living in the region. It offered a lifeline for many who sought treatment at the famous Christian Medical College in Vellore. Likewise, there was a sentimental value attached to the roads as the people from Tamil Nadu used to take these roads to the travel across the border to the hill shrine in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.

By: DM Seshagiri, Tirupati and Sidharth.M.P Chennai Brick walls that were erected by the Vellore district administration (Tamil Nadu) on the highways that led to Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh, to restrict vehicle movement and thereby reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread have been removed following a controversy.

By: DM Seshagiri, Tirupati and Sidharth.M.P Chennai Brick walls that were erected by the Vellore district administration (Tamil Nadu) on the highways that led to Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh, to restrict vehicle movement and thereby reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread have been removed following a controversy. The wall was razed by an earthmover after the Chittoor Collector and Vellore collector had discussed the issue. Renuka, the revenue divisional officer from Chittoor district has also visited the site. "I called the Vellore district collector regarding the construction of the wall at the border, he said that they have stopped the cross-border transport as per government order. He also added that transportation has not been completely blocked and that in case of emergencies they are allowing via an alternative route“, Chittoor District Collector, Dr. Narayan Bharat Gupta said. The district administration in Vellore is said to have built the walls, as per the instructions from the Tamil Nadu government. The walls that were raised Synagunda and Ponnai near the border were made of hollow bricks and were meant to keep in check the entry of migrant workers who enter without valid permission. While the main highways do have checkpoints to monitor the entry and exit of people, there are lesser known routes that are frequented by locals, which could be used to cross the borders. According to officials, out of the six check posts only ones at Ponnai and Synagunda had been blocked, whereas the routes via Paththalapalli, Paradarami, Christian pet and Serkadu were left open. While the vehicles that usually ply the blocked routes had been diverted in order to regulate and norrow-down the traffic movement. Since the start of the nationwide lockdown on March 25, cross-border travel has been suspended, unless it is for exceptional, emergency cases, as permitted by the state governments. The border roads that were earlier blocked were considered important routes for those living in the region. It offered a lifeline for many who sought treatment at the famous Christian Medical College in Vellore. Likewise, there was a sentimental value attached to the roads as the people from Tamil Nadu used to take these roads to the travel across the border to the hill shrine in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.

COVID-19 Walls raised near Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border to restrict inter-state travel

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