Brazil's coronavirus death toll crosses 5,000 | Jair Bolsonaro | Brazil News Brazil's death toll due to coronavirus crossed 5,000 on Wednesday, the country's health ministry said.

Brazil's coronavirus death toll crosses 5,000

Members of the Satere Mawe indigenous community living in Manaus in Brazil's Amazon found their livelihoods - the production and sale of handicrafts - halted by government measures meant to stop the spread of the new coronavirus.

Indigenous women make face masks instead of crafts

Brazil's justice and security minister quit on Friday as he slammed President Jair Bolsonaro for "political interference" in the federal police after the firing of its chief Mauricio Valeixo.&nbsp;

Sergio Moro, who gained popular support for sentencing corrupt politicians and businessmen as a judge, said&nbsp;that Bolsonaro "emphasied" to him multiple times that "he wanted someone who was a personal contact, whom he could call, from whom he could get information, intelligence reports" as a top cop.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hopes-grow-for-antibody-tests-but-experts-urge-caution-294686">Hopes grow for antibody tests, but experts urge caution</a>

"And really, that's not the job of the federal police to give that information," Moro said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-set-to-return-to-office-as-pressure-mounts-to-explain-uk-virus-plan-294684">Boris Johnson set to return to office as pressure mounts to explain UK virus plan</a>

In a speech at capital Brasilia, he also said: "The change at the head of the federal police without a genuine reason is political interference that harms my credibility and that of the government."&nbsp;

The Brazilian president called Moro's allegations "baseless", adding, "the appointment is mine, the prerogative is mine and the day I have to submit to any of my subordinates I cease to be president of the republic."&nbsp;

Brazil's chief public prosecutor Augusto Aras asked the apex court to launch an investigation into the allegations.

Last week, Bolsonaro also sacked his health minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta, who was in favour of isolation as a measure to contain the spread of the COVID-19. Bolsonaro has repeatedly spoken against the social distancing measures and downplayed the danger of COVID-19. &nbsp;

Brazil has confirmed 357 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to as many as 3,670. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country stands at nearly 53,000. &nbsp; 
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Brazil's justice and security minister quit on Friday as he slammed President Jair Bolsonaro for "political interference" in the federal police after the firing of its chief Mauricio Valeixo.

Brazil's justice and security minister quit on Friday as he slammed President Jair Bolsonaro for "political interference" in the federal police after the firing of its chief Mauricio Valeixo. Sergio Moro, who gained popular support for sentencing corrupt politicians and businessmen as a judge, said that Bolsonaro "emphasied" to him multiple times that "he wanted someone who was a personal contact, whom he could call, from whom he could get information, intelligence reports" as a top cop. Also read | Hopes grow for antibody tests, but experts urge caution "And really, that's not the job of the federal police to give that information," Moro said. Also read | Boris Johnson set to return to office as pressure mounts to explain UK virus plan In a speech at capital Brasilia, he also said: "The change at the head of the federal police without a genuine reason is political interference that harms my credibility and that of the government." The Brazilian president called Moro's allegations "baseless", adding, "the appointment is mine, the prerogative is mine and the day I have to submit to any of my subordinates I cease to be president of the republic." Brazil's chief public prosecutor Augusto Aras asked the apex court to launch an investigation into the allegations. Last week, Bolsonaro also sacked his health minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta, who was in favour of isolation as a measure to contain the spread of the COVID-19. Bolsonaro has repeatedly spoken against the social distancing measures and downplayed the danger of COVID-19. Brazil has confirmed 357 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to as many as 3,670. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country stands at nearly 53,000.

Brazil's Justice Minister quits, accuses Jair Bolsonaro of 'political interference'

Students at a Brazilian research facility in the northeastern city of Salvador developed a disinfection station for the healthcare workers on the frontlines of the combat against the coronavirus.

Brazilian students develop hospital disinfection station

In the battle against the coronavirus in Brazil, authorities in Rio de Janeiro imposed a mandatory use of masks for people walking on streets or using public transportation services. According to local media reports, only homemade and common masks are made compulsory for the public while professionals masks are kept for medical workers only to avoid any shortages.

Even statues in Brazil wear face masks amid coronavirus outbreak

Authorities in Manaus began digging mass graves on Tuesday to bury the increasing number of victims of Covid-19 in the city. According to a City Hall statement, the number of burials has more than doubled in the Nossa Senhora Aparecida public cemetery over the past few days.

Mass graves being dug in Brazil amid COVID-19 pandemic

After ongoing clashes on the country's response to deal with novel coronavirus crisis, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro sacked country's Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta on Thursday.&nbsp;

Mandetta, in a Twitter post, announced his removal after a meeting with Bolsonaro at the presidential palace in the capital Brasilia.

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Acabo de ouvir do presidente Jair Bolsonaro o aviso da minha demissão do Ministério da Saúde. 
Quero agradecer a oportunidade que me foi dada, de ser gerente do nosso SUS, de pôr de pé o projeto de melhoria da saúde dos brasileiros e
— Henrique Mandetta (@lhmandetta) <a href="https://twitter.com/lhmandetta/status/1250865863755997189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Both the leaders' relations soured since the crisis began which has so far killed nearly 2,000 people with over 30,000 cases in the country, the highest in Latin America.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-state-governors-defy-bolsonaros-commands-over-coronavirus-pandemic-289920">Brazilian State Governors defy Bolsonaro's commands over coronavirus pandemic</a>

Bolsonaro sharply slammed isolation measures and shut down, while the Health Ministry under Mandetta regularly provided guidance to encourage social distancing. the former health minister's daily briefings had also contradicted on Bolsonaro's appreciation for unproven medications.&nbsp;

Soon after Mandetta's post, several people in the country banged their pots and pans to protest against the decision.

Earlier this month, at least 76 per cent of Brazilians rated "good" or "great" on a survey over the response of the Health Ministry to tackle the epidemic, according to pollster Datafolfa.&nbsp;

Following the pot-banging protests, Bolsonaro in televised remarks said that Mandetta didn't fully appreciate the need to save jobs in the country and once again insisted on the resumption of economic activities.&nbsp;

In his closing comments to the officials of the Health Ministry, Mandetta called for a smooth transition and warned that country is still far way from the peak of COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

Oncologist Nelson Teich is likely to replace Mandetta, according to the Brazilian media.&nbsp;

(With AFP, Reuters inputs) 
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After ongoing clashes on the country's response to deal with novel coronavirus crisis, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro sacked country's Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta on Thursday.

After ongoing clashes on the country's response to deal with novel coronavirus crisis, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro sacked country's Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta on Thursday. Mandetta, in a Twitter post, announced his removal after a meeting with Bolsonaro at the presidential palace in the capital Brasilia. Acabo de ouvir do presidente Jair Bolsonaro o aviso da minha demissão do Ministério da Saúde. Quero agradecer a oportunidade que me foi dada, de ser gerente do nosso SUS, de pôr de pé o projeto de melhoria da saúde dos brasileiros e — Henrique Mandetta (@lhmandetta) April 16, 2020 × Both the leaders' relations soured since the crisis began which has so far killed nearly 2,000 people with over 30,000 cases in the country, the highest in Latin America. Also read | Brazilian State Governors defy Bolsonaro's commands over coronavirus pandemic Bolsonaro sharply slammed isolation measures and shut down, while the Health Ministry under Mandetta regularly provided guidance to encourage social distancing. the former health minister's daily briefings had also contradicted on Bolsonaro's appreciation for unproven medications. Soon after Mandetta's post, several people in the country banged their pots and pans to protest against the decision. Earlier this month, at least 76 per cent of Brazilians rated "good" or "great" on a survey over the response of the Health Ministry to tackle the epidemic, according to pollster Datafolfa. Following the pot-banging protests, Bolsonaro in televised remarks said that Mandetta didn't fully appreciate the need to save jobs in the country and once again insisted on the resumption of economic activities. In his closing comments to the officials of the Health Ministry, Mandetta called for a smooth transition and warned that country is still far way from the peak of COVID-19 outbreak. Oncologist Nelson Teich is likely to replace Mandetta, according to the Brazilian media. (With AFP, Reuters inputs)

Brazil: After weeks of clashes, President Jair Bolsonaro sacks Health Minister

Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer was lit up in green on Wednesday (April 15), to honour military personnel on the frontlines in the fight against coronavirus.

Rio's Christ the Redeemer lit up in green in tribute to military at coronavirus frontlines

Statues around monuments in the cities of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Buenos Aires, Argentina have been covered with face masks to raise awareness among the pouplation, as the countries battle the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Face masks placed on statues in Rio and Buenos Aires to raise awareness amid pandemic

For thousands of homeless people in Brazil, coronavirus has only added risks that they are already facing. Watch report.

Brazil's homeless hit hard by coronavirus lockdown

While Rio de Janeiro residents abide by the quarantine orders aimed at slowing the spread of the new coronavirus, one street artist continues to deliver moments of joy to passers by.

Rio street artist delivers moments of joy

What else is making news in the world? Watch this video for a quick check.

Coronavirus fears in Nigeria camps, Brazil prepares more graves

Twitter on Sunday removed two tweets by Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for not confirming to public health guidelines on coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-bolsonaro-questions-coronavirus-deaths-says-sorry-some-will-die-289037">Also Read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die'</a>

The social networking site while taking down the tweets said that it had recently expanded its global rules on managing content that contradicted public health information from official sources and could put people at greater risk of transmitting COVID-19.

In the now deleted video, Bolsonaro told a street vendor: "What I have been hearing from people is that they want to work."

"What I have said from the beginning is that 'we are going to be careful, the over-65s stay at home,'" he said.

"We just can't stand still, there is fear because if you don't die of the disease, you starve," the vendor told Bolsonaro, who responded, saying: "You're not going to die!".

In another deleted video, the Brazilian president called for "return to normality" while questioning quarantine measures imposed by government officials across the country.

Bolsonaro&nbsp;had earlier said "some people will die, they will die, that's life" while describing the consequences of the coronavirus outbreak in the country leading to a huge controversy.

There are over 3,400 cases of the COVID-19 in Brazil with 92 deaths reported.

Twitter on Sunday removed two tweets by Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for not confirming to public health guidelines on coronavirus. Also Read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' The social networking site while taking down the tweets said that it had recently expanded its global rules on managing content that contradicted public health information from official sources and could put people at greater risk of transmitting COVID-19.

Twitter on Sunday removed two tweets by Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for not confirming to public health guidelines on coronavirus. Also Read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' The social networking site while taking down the tweets said that it had recently expanded its global rules on managing content that contradicted public health information from official sources and could put people at greater risk of transmitting COVID-19. In the now deleted video, Bolsonaro told a street vendor: "What I have been hearing from people is that they want to work." "What I have said from the beginning is that 'we are going to be careful, the over-65s stay at home,'" he said. "We just can't stand still, there is fear because if you don't die of the disease, you starve," the vendor told Bolsonaro, who responded, saying: "You're not going to die!". In another deleted video, the Brazilian president called for "return to normality" while questioning quarantine measures imposed by government officials across the country. Bolsonaro had earlier said "some people will die, they will die, that's life" while describing the consequences of the coronavirus outbreak in the country leading to a huge controversy. There are over 3,400 cases of the COVID-19 in Brazil with 92 deaths reported.

Twitter removes Bolsonaro's posts for 'contradicting public health information'

Criminal gangs in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro impose curfew to curb the spread of coronavirus. Whereas Brazil Prez Jair Bolsonaro gives a slow response on this pandemic situation

Criminal Gang Rio's fight against Covid-19, impose curfew to curb the spread

This volunteer in Rio de Janeiro is rallying round to help her elderly neighbours, stepping up to run their errands as they isolate themselves to prevent coronavirus spreading.

Brazilians step up to run errands for elderly in quarantine amidst coronavirus fears

After a series of reports that claimed&nbsp;Brazilian President suffering from coronavirus,&nbsp;Jair Bolsonaro confirmed that he is&nbsp;tested negative for the novel virus.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro tweeted in Portuguese that said he is tested negative for COVID-19.

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- HFA/SABIN atestam negativo para o COVID-19 o Sr. Pres. da República Jair Bolsonaro. <a href="https://t.co/iL3YPGPGXA">pic.twitter.com/iL3YPGPGXA</a>
— Jair M. Bolsonaro (@jairbolsonaro) <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro/status/1238490282385080322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After, sharing this news, Bolsonaro said in another tweet that don't believe in fake news.

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- NÃO ACREDITE NA MÍDIA FAKE NEWS! 
 
- SÃO ELES QUE PRECISAM DE VOCÊS!
— Jair M. Bolsonaro (@jairbolsonaro) <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro/status/1238491455200649219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Media reports earlier said that the Brazilian president had tested positive for coronavirus and the results of a second test were being awaited.

After the widespread reports of Bolsonaro becoming COVID-19's victim, his son Eduardo told Fox News, "he tested negative full stop".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bolsonaro, who previously described the pandemic's fears "overblown" was in a spot of bother after&nbsp;his communications chief, Fabio Wajngarten, had tested positive for the deadly virus.&nbsp;

The news came after a trip to the United States, during which both Bolsonaro and Wajngarten met US President Donald Trump on Saturday, Vice President Mike Pence and other top US officials.

Late on Thursday,&nbsp;Bolsonaro in a video address said that he would know "in the next few hours" whether he was infected with the COVID-19.

Earlier, Bolsonaro's office said that all officials and ministers who went with the Brazilian president to the US would be tested for the virus, including the president's son.&nbsp;

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau today was placed under quarantine after his wife was tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

Trudeau's spokesperson said that Trudeau's wife would be in isolation at the moment, while the prime minister would be under self-isolation for a period of 14 days.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

 
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After a series of reports that claimed Brazilian President suffering from coronavirus, Jair Bolsonaro confirmed that he is tested negative for the novel virus. Bolsonaro tweeted in Portuguese that said he is tested negative for COVID-19.

After a series of reports that claimed Brazilian President suffering from coronavirus, Jair Bolsonaro confirmed that he is tested negative for the novel virus. Bolsonaro tweeted in Portuguese that said he is tested negative for COVID-19. - HFA/SABIN atestam negativo para o COVID-19 o Sr. Pres. da República Jair Bolsonaro. pic.twitter.com/iL3YPGPGXA — Jair M. Bolsonaro (@jairbolsonaro) March 13, 2020 × After, sharing this news, Bolsonaro said in another tweet that don't believe in fake news. - NÃO ACREDITE NA MÍDIA FAKE NEWS! - SÃO ELES QUE PRECISAM DE VOCÊS! — Jair M. Bolsonaro (@jairbolsonaro) March 13, 2020 × Media reports earlier said that the Brazilian president had tested positive for coronavirus and the results of a second test were being awaited. After the widespread reports of Bolsonaro becoming COVID-19's victim, his son Eduardo told Fox News, "he tested negative full stop". Bolsonaro, who previously described the pandemic's fears "overblown" was in a spot of bother after his communications chief, Fabio Wajngarten, had tested positive for the deadly virus. The news came after a trip to the United States, during which both Bolsonaro and Wajngarten met US President Donald Trump on Saturday, Vice President Mike Pence and other top US officials. Late on Thursday, Bolsonaro in a video address said that he would know "in the next few hours" whether he was infected with the COVID-19. Earlier, Bolsonaro's office said that all officials and ministers who went with the Brazilian president to the US would be tested for the virus, including the president's son. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau today was placed under quarantine after his wife was tested positive for COVID-19. Trudeau's spokesperson said that Trudeau's wife would be in isolation at the moment, while the prime minister would be under self-isolation for a period of 14 days. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Amid speculations, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro tests negative for coronavirus

Twelve-year-old bookworm launches favela library in Brazil

India's exports of sugar to Malaysia so far in 2020 have nearly tripled over the figure for all of last year, as Kuala Lumpur steps up purchases to placate New Delhi in a trade dispute that halted its palm oil exports to India, trade officials said.

The record buying could also help India, the world's biggest producer of sugar, to cut stockpiles that are squeezing domestic prices.

India had been the biggest buyer of Malaysian palm oil for five years, but purchases ground to a halt after the January curbs, a retaliation for then prime minister Mahathir Mohamad's criticism of New Delhi's policy regarding its Muslim minority.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indonesia-to-increase-imports-from-india-amid-new-delhi-malaysia-spat-report-276398">Indonesia to increase imports from India amid New Delhi-Malaysia spat: Report</a>

"This year Malaysia was aggressively buying Indian raw sugar, which was a pleasant surprise," Praful Vithalani, president of the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA), told Reuters.

The trade body's data shows Malaysia has imported 324,405 tonnes of sugar from India this year. That compares with India's exports last year of around 110,000 tonnes and a 2008 record of 313,406 tonnes, according to trade estimates. Malaysia imported a total of 1.95 million tonnes of raw sugar in 2019, data from the International Sugar Organization on Refinitiv Eikon shows. It typically buys more from Brazil and Thailand than from India.

Kuala Lumpur's sugar purchases from India could easily surpass 400,000 tonnes in 2020, as some shipments are still in the pipeline, said a Mumbai-based dealer of a global trading house.

Kuala Lumpur may have asked refiners to give preference to India in sugar purchases, said another Mumbai-based dealer, adding, "It's an effort to please India."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-offers-to-buy-more-imports-from-india-after-threat-of-palm-oil-curbs-256078">Malaysia offers to buy more imports from India after threat of palm oil curbs</a>

Both dealers sought anonymity as they were not allowed to speak with media.

In January, MSM Malaysia Holdings Berhad, the southeast Asian nation's top sugar refiner, said it would buy 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India, worth 200 million ringgit ($49.20 million), in the first quarter.

Malaysia has set itself a month's deadline to resolve the dispute over palm oil, its new Commodities Minister Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali said on Wednesday, adding that he wanted to send a delegation to India as soon as possible.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/2nd-largest-sugar-producer-india-imposes-stock-limit-to-control-price-rise-prevent-black-marketing-14685/amp">2nd largest sugar producer India imposes stock limit to control price rise, prevent black-marketing</a>

"Malaysia can show that it is buying more goods from India than Indonesia," a Mumbai-based refiner said, adding that higher imports of farm commodities would give Malaysia grounds to argue in negotiations that New Delhi should resume palm oil purchases.

Indonesia is the world's biggest producer of palm oil, followed by Malaysia.

India, hoping to reduce its vast surplus stocks of sugar, has approved an export subsidy of 10,448 Indian rupees ($142) per tonne of the sweetener for the marketing year that will end on Sept. 30.

India's exports of sugar to Malaysia so far in 2020 have nearly tripled over the figure for all of last year, as Kuala Lumpur steps up purchases to placate New Delhi in a trade dispute that halted its palm oil exports to India, trade officials said.

India's exports of sugar to Malaysia so far in 2020 have nearly tripled over the figure for all of last year, as Kuala Lumpur steps up purchases to placate New Delhi in a trade dispute that halted its palm oil exports to India, trade officials said. The record buying could also help India, the world's biggest producer of sugar, to cut stockpiles that are squeezing domestic prices. India had been the biggest buyer of Malaysian palm oil for five years, but purchases ground to a halt after the January curbs, a retaliation for then prime minister Mahathir Mohamad's criticism of New Delhi's policy regarding its Muslim minority. Also Read: Indonesia to increase imports from India amid New Delhi-Malaysia spat: Report "This year Malaysia was aggressively buying Indian raw sugar, which was a pleasant surprise," Praful Vithalani, president of the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA), told Reuters. The trade body's data shows Malaysia has imported 324,405 tonnes of sugar from India this year. That compares with India's exports last year of around 110,000 tonnes and a 2008 record of 313,406 tonnes, according to trade estimates. Malaysia imported a total of 1.95 million tonnes of raw sugar in 2019, data from the International Sugar Organization on Refinitiv Eikon shows. It typically buys more from Brazil and Thailand than from India. Kuala Lumpur's sugar purchases from India could easily surpass 400,000 tonnes in 2020, as some shipments are still in the pipeline, said a Mumbai-based dealer of a global trading house. Kuala Lumpur may have asked refiners to give preference to India in sugar purchases, said another Mumbai-based dealer, adding, "It's an effort to please India." Also Read: Malaysia offers to buy more imports from India after threat of palm oil curbs Both dealers sought anonymity as they were not allowed to speak with media. In January, MSM Malaysia Holdings Berhad, the southeast Asian nation's top sugar refiner, said it would buy 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India, worth 200 million ringgit ($49.20 million), in the first quarter. Malaysia has set itself a month's deadline to resolve the dispute over palm oil, its new Commodities Minister Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali said on Wednesday, adding that he wanted to send a delegation to India as soon as possible. Also Read: 2nd largest sugar producer India imposes stock limit to control price rise, prevent black-marketing "Malaysia can show that it is buying more goods from India than Indonesia," a Mumbai-based refiner said, adding that higher imports of farm commodities would give Malaysia grounds to argue in negotiations that New Delhi should resume palm oil purchases. Indonesia is the world's biggest producer of palm oil, followed by Malaysia. India, hoping to reduce its vast surplus stocks of sugar, has approved an export subsidy of 10,448 Indian rupees ($142) per tonne of the sweetener for the marketing year that will end on Sept. 30.

Malaysia's sugar purchases from India hit record amid diplomatic spat trade

Brazil cities gets hit by torrential rain taking death toll to 21

At least 21 people have been killed in torrential rain that hit the Brazilian states of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, triggering flash floods and destroying homes, authorities said Tuesday.

Another 32 people are missing in Sao Paulo, raising fears the toll could rise further.

Violent storms in recent days have dumped a month's worth of rain on some areas in a matter of hours, devastating the southern coast of Sao Paulo state and poor neighbourhoods on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro, the country's second-most populous city.

Watch: Brazil completes Covid-19 DNA sequencing to help in developing vaccines

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At least 16 people were killed early Tuesday in Sao Paulo state after floods and landslides hit the coastal cities of Santos, Sao Vicente and Guaruja, authorities said.

One of the victims was a rescue worker who was killed by a landslide.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-confirms-latin-americas-first-coronavirus-case-us-reports-57-cases-282954">Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases</a>

"I express my solidarity with those who are suffering from these heavy rains," Sao Paulo Governor Joao Doria wrote on Twitter.

Several highways were blocked by fallen trees and landslides, including some linking Santos, the biggest port in South America, to Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city and economic capital.

In Rio de Janeiro, authorities said the death toll had risen to at least five after three days of violent rain that destroyed houses, swept away cars, and left some communities covered in water or mud.

The victims were electrocuted, buried in landslides or drowned, emergency officials said.

The disaster turned political in Rio when the city's Mayor Marcelo Crivella, a far-right evangelical Christian bishop, blamed residents for the flooding.

During a visit to an affected community, he complained to journalists that "people can't be throwing trash on hillsides, in storm drains and in the street."

In the middle of the press conference, someone pelted Crivella in the face with a mud ball which was captured in a video that went viral online.

"The water knocked my granddaughter and I and off the sofa. Dirty water came flooding into my kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, everything. I lost everything," Ivone Cardoso, 65, a resident of Rio's Realengo neighbourhood, told AFP as she swept mud and water out of her house.

Brazil is having an especially intense rainy season this summer.

In January, more than 50 people were killed in Minas Gerais state, which neighbours Sao Paulo, in several days of violent rain.

At least 21 people have been killed in torrential rain that hit the Brazilian states of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, triggering flash floods and destroying homes, authorities said Tuesday.

At least 21 people have been killed in torrential rain that hit the Brazilian states of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, triggering flash floods and destroying homes, authorities said Tuesday. Another 32 people are missing in Sao Paulo, raising fears the toll could rise further. Violent storms in recent days have dumped a month's worth of rain on some areas in a matter of hours, devastating the southern coast of Sao Paulo state and poor neighbourhoods on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro, the country's second-most populous city. Watch: Brazil completes Covid-19 DNA sequencing to help in developing vaccines At least 16 people were killed early Tuesday in Sao Paulo state after floods and landslides hit the coastal cities of Santos, Sao Vicente and Guaruja, authorities said. One of the victims was a rescue worker who was killed by a landslide. Also read: Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases "I express my solidarity with those who are suffering from these heavy rains," Sao Paulo Governor Joao Doria wrote on Twitter. Several highways were blocked by fallen trees and landslides, including some linking Santos, the biggest port in South America, to Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city and economic capital. In Rio de Janeiro, authorities said the death toll had risen to at least five after three days of violent rain that destroyed houses, swept away cars, and left some communities covered in water or mud. The victims were electrocuted, buried in landslides or drowned, emergency officials said. The disaster turned political in Rio when the city's Mayor Marcelo Crivella, a far-right evangelical Christian bishop, blamed residents for the flooding. During a visit to an affected community, he complained to journalists that "people can't be throwing trash on hillsides, in storm drains and in the street." In the middle of the press conference, someone pelted Crivella in the face with a mud ball which was captured in a video that went viral online. "The water knocked my granddaughter and I and off the sofa. Dirty water came flooding into my kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, everything. I lost everything," Ivone Cardoso, 65, a resident of Rio's Realengo neighbourhood, told AFP as she swept mud and water out of her house. Brazil is having an especially intense rainy season this summer. In January, more than 50 people were killed in Minas Gerais state, which neighbours Sao Paulo, in several days of violent rain.

21 dead and 32 missing as torrential rain hits Brazil

There is no denying that major global events are now feeling the impact of this outbreak. The coronavirus is taking the toll over the festive season too. The carnival in Brazil was cut short, there was panic in the country after the first case of the Wuhan virus was confirmed. Watch report:

Global events feel impact of Coronavirus, Takes toll over the festive season

The Peruvian government displayed on Thursday 21 cultural artifacts returned to embassies in Argentina, Canada, Ecuador and Brazil.

Peru officials hail return of cultural artifacts

Why 11 million Brazilians think Earth is flat

The 76 Indians and 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-affected Wuhan city of China this morning were being taken to an ITBP facility in the national capital for quarantine, officials said.

"The evacuees will go through a thermal screening procedure at the tarmac of the airport after which they will be kept at our facility in Chhawla area for quarantine," a spokesperson of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) said.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft brought 112 people that includes 76 Indians, 23 citizens from Bangladesh, six from China, two each from Myanmar and the Maldives and one each from South Africa, the US and Madagascar.

The military aircraft was sent to Wuhan on Wednesday and it carried 15 tonnes of medical supplies for coronavirus-affected people in China.

Earlier, India had evacuated around 650 Indians from Wuhan in two Air India flights who were kept at the ITBP facility and another quarantine facility set up by the Army in Manesar near Delhi.

All these people later tested negative for the virus and were allowed to go home after over a fortnight of quarantine.

The ITBP spokesperson said a team of doctors, paramedics and others will be present at the quarantine facility round-the-clock and the inmates will be provided facilities like food, bed and indoor entertainment to spend time.

The 76 Indians and 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-affected Wuhan city of China this morning were being taken to an ITBP facility in the national capital for quarantine, officials said.

The 76 Indians and 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-affected Wuhan city of China this morning were being taken to an ITBP facility in the national capital for quarantine, officials said. "The evacuees will go through a thermal screening procedure at the tarmac of the airport after which they will be kept at our facility in Chhawla area for quarantine," a spokesperson of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) said. An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft brought 112 people that includes 76 Indians, 23 citizens from Bangladesh, six from China, two each from Myanmar and the Maldives and one each from South Africa, the US and Madagascar. The military aircraft was sent to Wuhan on Wednesday and it carried 15 tonnes of medical supplies for coronavirus-affected people in China. Earlier, India had evacuated around 650 Indians from Wuhan in two Air India flights who were kept at the ITBP facility and another quarantine facility set up by the Army in Manesar near Delhi. All these people later tested negative for the virus and were allowed to go home after over a fortnight of quarantine. The ITBP spokesperson said a team of doctors, paramedics and others will be present at the quarantine facility round-the-clock and the inmates will be provided facilities like food, bed and indoor entertainment to spend time.

76 Indians, 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-hit Wuhan taken to ITBP quarantine facility

China, where 2,744 people have been killed from coronavirus witnessed its lowest single day death toll on Thursday in nearly a month. On Thursday, China's National Health Commission reported 29 deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-confirms-latin-americas-first-coronavirus-case-us-reports-57-cases-282954">Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases</a>

China has started lowering its emergency response level after the number of new cases have continued to come down in the last week.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-edit-wuhan-coronavirus-a-global-pandemic-282963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, globally, the situation is still grave as number of infected cases other than mainland continue to rise.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-confirms-two-coronavirus-cases-no-need-to-panic-says-pak-pm-advisor-282950">Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor</a>

Another 334 positive cases were confirmed today in South Korea, taking the total infected tally to 1,595.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, a second death was reported in France while, Brazil, Georgia, Norway and North Macedonia reported their first coronavirus case.&nbsp;

France is on high alert after neighbouring Italy became a hotbed of the virus, where 12 people have been killed, infecting 400 others. &nbsp;

In the United States, 60 positive cases are found 15 detected through the public health system, and 45 repatriated from abroad.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

China, where 2,744 people have been killed from coronavirus witnessed its lowest single day death toll on Thursday in nearly a month. On Thursday, China's National Health Commission reported 29 deaths.

China, where 2,744 people have been killed from coronavirus witnessed its lowest single day death toll on Thursday in nearly a month. On Thursday, China's National Health Commission reported 29 deaths. Also read: Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases China has started lowering its emergency response level after the number of new cases have continued to come down in the last week. Watch: However, globally, the situation is still grave as number of infected cases other than mainland continue to rise. Also read: Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor Another 334 positive cases were confirmed today in South Korea, taking the total infected tally to 1,595. On Wednesday, a second death was reported in France while, Brazil, Georgia, Norway and North Macedonia reported their first coronavirus case. France is on high alert after neighbouring Italy became a hotbed of the virus, where 12 people have been killed, infecting 400 others. In the United States, 60 positive cases are found 15 detected through the public health system, and 45 repatriated from abroad.

Coronavirus: Severity shrinks in China as global tally continues to rise

The Government has said that a special Air India flight arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, bringing back 119 Indians and five foreign nationals, who were stranded onboard a coronavirus-hit cruise ship, Diamond Princess, off Yokohama port in Japan.

According to a statement issued by the foreign ministry, apart from the 113 crew members and six passengers of India, two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated.

They will be kept under quarantine at the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) facility in Manesar near Gurgaon.

The foreigners were evacuated "in line with India's neighbourhood first policy and Indo-Pacific vision", the government said.

Among five foreign nationals two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated.

As many as 138 Indians including 132 crew and six passengers were among the 3,711 people on board the luxury cruise ship, which was quarantined off Japan on February 5 after it emerged that a former passenger had tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

Of these, 16 were tested positive for coronavirus and will stay in Japan for treatment, while the remaining will be repatriated to India.

The repatriation is being facilitated by the Indian government.

According to the latest official data, over 81,200 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide. More than 30,000 people have been cured of the disease, with over 2,600 of those having been cleared in the last 24 hours.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Government has said that a special Air India flight arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, bringing back 119 Indians and five foreign nationals, who were stranded onboard a coronavirus-hit cruise ship, Diamond Princess, off Yokohama port in Japan.

The Government has said that a special Air India flight arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, bringing back 119 Indians and five foreign nationals, who were stranded onboard a coronavirus-hit cruise ship, Diamond Princess, off Yokohama port in Japan. According to a statement issued by the foreign ministry, apart from the 113 crew members and six passengers of India, two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated. They will be kept under quarantine at the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) facility in Manesar near Gurgaon. The foreigners were evacuated "in line with India's neighbourhood first policy and Indo-Pacific vision", the government said. Among five foreign nationals two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated. As many as 138 Indians including 132 crew and six passengers were among the 3,711 people on board the luxury cruise ship, which was quarantined off Japan on February 5 after it emerged that a former passenger had tested positive for the virus. Of these, 16 were tested positive for coronavirus and will stay in Japan for treatment, while the remaining will be repatriated to India. The repatriation is being facilitated by the Indian government. According to the latest official data, over 81,200 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide. More than 30,000 people have been cured of the disease, with over 2,600 of those having been cleared in the last 24 hours. (With inputs from ANI)

119 Indians, 5 foreigners from coronavirus-hit Japan ship land in Delhi

Maria Angela Panelli creates custom-made prosthetics for animals at her practice, helping those with injuries and disabilities get up on their feat - or their beaks - and get moving again.

Brazil vet saves animals with custom-made prosthetics

In Rio de Janeiro, the work goes in before the party goes on. With the world's largest carnival just ten days away, warehouses and workshops are putting the final touches in place for the city's biggest event. Floats are being painted, sequins are being glued and glitter painted onto costumes for the dazzling event that attracts millions to Rio de Janeiro's streets.

Feathers, sequins and glitter - Rio gets ready for carnival

Over 90 men from 12 countries including Denmark, Britain, Japan and Brazil took part in the first Beard & Moustache competition. They came together to pick the best in several categories - corporate, casual and hipster. The atmosphere in the bar was intense as the participants showed off their assets to a cheering crowd.

Long, bushy and soft - Belarus picks the best beard

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-senseless-to-condemn-every-immigrant-as-threat-192833">Pope Francis</a> on Wednesday pleaded for social justice and environmental respect for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deforestation-in-the-amazon-soars-to-record-numbers-in-11-years-263128">Amazon </a>basin, but failed to recommend the controversial idea of married priests.

In a highly anticipated text, Francis exhorted the faithful to "feel outrage" over exploitation of the indigenous and destruction of land devastated by illegal mining and deforestation.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deforestation-in-the-amazon-soars-to-record-numbers-in-11-years-263128">Deforestation in the Amazon soars to record numbers in 11 years</a>

Notably absent in his text, however, was mention of priestly marriage, a controversial suggestion made by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deforestation-in-the-amazon-soars-to-record-numbers-in-11-years-263128">Amazon </a>bishops during a three-week synod on the region last October as a way to increase the number of priests who could perform Mass in remote areas.&nbsp;Instead, the first Jesuit pope argued for women and missionaries to take larger, more important roles in the region and advocated for better training for priests to better interact with Amazonian cultures.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-breaks-silence-on-celibacy-debate-after-synod-274001">Former Pope Benedict breaks silence on celibacy debate after synod</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-senseless-to-condemn-every-immigrant-as-threat-192833">Francis </a>has weighed in before on the hotly debated question of whether to allow married "men of proven virtue" to join the priesthood in remote locations, a suggestion that has aroused fierce opposition from traditionalists within the church.

In January 2019 Francis said he did not believe that optional celibacy should be allowed, while conceding "some possibilities for far flung places," a statement that opened the door to speculation that he might make an exception for the Amazon.&nbsp;

Pope Francis on Wednesday pleaded for social justice and environmental respect for the Amazon basin, but failed to recommend the controversial idea of married priests.

Pope Francis on Wednesday pleaded for social justice and environmental respect for the Amazon basin, but failed to recommend the controversial idea of married priests. In a highly anticipated text, Francis exhorted the faithful to "feel outrage" over exploitation of the indigenous and destruction of land devastated by illegal mining and deforestation. Also see: Deforestation in the Amazon soars to record numbers in 11 years Notably absent in his text, however, was mention of priestly marriage, a controversial suggestion made by Amazon bishops during a three-week synod on the region last October as a way to increase the number of priests who could perform Mass in remote areas. Instead, the first Jesuit pope argued for women and missionaries to take larger, more important roles in the region and advocated for better training for priests to better interact with Amazonian cultures. Also read: Former Pope Benedict breaks silence on celibacy debate after synod Francis has weighed in before on the hotly debated question of whether to allow married "men of proven virtue" to join the priesthood in remote locations, a suggestion that has aroused fierce opposition from traditionalists within the church. In January 2019 Francis said he did not believe that optional celibacy should be allowed, while conceding "some possibilities for far flung places," a statement that opened the door to speculation that he might make an exception for the Amazon.

Pope voices 'outrage' over Amazon basin exploitation

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