Researchers have revealed that cannabidiol (CBD), which is an active ingredient found in cannabis might help block infection with the virus that causes coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;

It has been established after the laboratory studies that CBD has shown promising results, however, further investigation is needed to produce a concrete result as the possible effect still needs to be tested on humans.

It should be noted that many potential COVID-19 treatments that showed promise in test tubes have not worked or benefitted researchers during Covid studies/trials.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-funding-to-who-fell-by-25-during-the-pandemic-report-447722">US funding to WHO fell by 25% during the pandemic: Report</a>

However, Marsha Rosner of the University of Chicago, who led a team that found CBD might help curb Covid infection in laboratory experiments, says findings will make a "strong case" for trials.&nbsp;

She said as quoted by Reuters: "Our findings do not say this will work in patients. Our findings make a strong case for a clinical trial."&nbsp;

Since it has not been tested on humans, the finding should not be treated as any sort of recommendation to buy and consume CBD oils or smoke marijuana to prevent coronavirus infection.

Using small doses of highly purified CBD that approximate what patients receive in an oral drug already approved for severe epilepsy, Rosner and colleagues found that CBD did not keep the coronavirus from infecting cells in test tubes.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-pfizer-and-biontech-begin-clinical-trial-of-omicron-based-vaccine-447469">COVID-19: Pfizer and BioNTech begin clinical trial of Omicron-based vaccine</a>

As per a report in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abi6110">Science Advances</a>, the researcher found that CBD acted soon after the virus entered the cells. It further blocked it from making copies of itself in part via effects on the inflammatory protein interferon. They found similar effects in infected mice.&nbsp;

"We don't know yet if CBD can prevent COVID, but we think our results provide a strong case for conducting a clinical trial. That's really our mantra: We want a clinical trial," Rosner told Live Science.

Covid cases have increased exponentially in the recent days, especially after the&nbsp;emergence of 'variant of concern' Omicron, which was detected in November last year.&nbsp;

"Our results suggest that CBD and its metabolite 7-OH-CBD can block SARS-CoV-2 infection at early and even later stages of infection. The mechanism appears to be mediated in part by activation of the IRE1α RNase and interferon pathways," part of the study read.&nbsp;

"In addition to these cell-based findings, pre-clinical studies show that CBD treatment reduced viral titers in the lungs and nasal turbinates of SARS-CoV-2-infected mice. Finally, analysis of a national sample of patients with active records of 100 mg/ml CBD consumption at the time of COVID testing revealed an association with substantially fewer SARS-CoV-2 positive test results," it added.&nbsp;

Researchers have revealed that cannabidiol (CBD), which is an active ingredient found in cannabis might help block infection with the virus that causes coronavirus (COVID-19).

Researchers have revealed that cannabidiol (CBD), which is an active ingredient found in cannabis might help block infection with the virus that causes coronavirus (COVID-19). It has been established after the laboratory studies that CBD has shown promising results, however, further investigation is needed to produce a concrete result as the possible effect still needs to be tested on humans. It should be noted that many potential COVID-19 treatments that showed promise in test tubes have not worked or benefitted researchers during Covid studies/trials. ALSO READ | US funding to WHO fell by 25% during the pandemic: Report However, Marsha Rosner of the University of Chicago, who led a team that found CBD might help curb Covid infection in laboratory experiments, says findings will make a "strong case" for trials. She said as quoted by Reuters: "Our findings do not say this will work in patients. Our findings make a strong case for a clinical trial." Since it has not been tested on humans, the finding should not be treated as any sort of recommendation to buy and consume CBD oils or smoke marijuana to prevent coronavirus infection. Using small doses of highly purified CBD that approximate what patients receive in an oral drug already approved for severe epilepsy, Rosner and colleagues found that CBD did not keep the coronavirus from infecting cells in test tubes. ALSO READ | COVID-19: Pfizer and BioNTech begin clinical trial of Omicron-based vaccine As per a report in Science Advances, the researcher found that CBD acted soon after the virus entered the cells. It further blocked it from making copies of itself in part via effects on the inflammatory protein interferon. They found similar effects in infected mice. "We don't know yet if CBD can prevent COVID, but we think our results provide a strong case for conducting a clinical trial. That's really our mantra: We want a clinical trial," Rosner told Live Science. Covid cases have increased exponentially in the recent days, especially after the emergence of 'variant of concern' Omicron, which was detected in November last year. "Our results suggest that CBD and its metabolite 7-OH-CBD can block SARS-CoV-2 infection at early and even later stages of infection. The mechanism appears to be mediated in part by activation of the IRE1α RNase and interferon pathways," part of the study read. "In addition to these cell-based findings, pre-clinical studies show that CBD treatment reduced viral titers in the lungs and nasal turbinates of SARS-CoV-2-infected mice. Finally, analysis of a national sample of patients with active records of 100 mg/ml CBD consumption at the time of COVID testing revealed an association with substantially fewer SARS-CoV-2 positive test results," it added.

Can weed cure Covid? Cannabis compound stops coronavirus in test tube

French health authorities said the country has reached over 1.04 million confirmed coronavirus cases, becoming the second country in Western Europe after Spain to reach that number of known infections.

In the past 24 hours, the country confirmed 42,032 new cases on Friday, beating Thursday`s record of 41,661, Xinhua news agency reported.

The overall caseload currently stands at 1,084,659.

The death toll increased to 34,508, representing a one-day spike of 298, higher than 162 on Thursday.

The number of hospitalized Covid-19 patients reached 15,008, up by 976 in one day, exceeding the 15,000 thresholds for the first time since May 25.

To date, 2,073 clusters are under investigation, of which 477 are in nursing homes. This represents 184 additional outbreaks in 24 hours.

The "grave" resurgence of the epidemic has forced the government to extend curfews, imposed on Paris and eight other major cities, to 38 other departments.

The restrictive measure now involves 46 million residents who have been asked to stay home from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. from Friday midnight.

Since the end of September when infection cases soared up, France had already put in place extra measures in regions on maximum alert, including the closure of bars, pools and gyms.

Meanwhile, the worldwide number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has surpassed 42 million, Johns Hopkins University says.

The exact number of coronavirus cases stood at 42,020,333. More than 1.14 million people have died of the disease, the university added.

The World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11. The biggest number of cases so far have been registered in the United States, India and Brazil.

(With inputs from agencies)

French health authorities said the country has reached over 1.04 million confirmed coronavirus cases, becoming the second country in Western Europe after Spain to reach that number of known infections.

French health authorities said the country has reached over 1.04 million confirmed coronavirus cases, becoming the second country in Western Europe after Spain to reach that number of known infections. In the past 24 hours, the country confirmed 42,032 new cases on Friday, beating Thursday`s record of 41,661, Xinhua news agency reported. The overall caseload currently stands at 1,084,659. The death toll increased to 34,508, representing a one-day spike of 298, higher than 162 on Thursday. The number of hospitalized Covid-19 patients reached 15,008, up by 976 in one day, exceeding the 15,000 thresholds for the first time since May 25. To date, 2,073 clusters are under investigation, of which 477 are in nursing homes. This represents 184 additional outbreaks in 24 hours. The "grave" resurgence of the epidemic has forced the government to extend curfews, imposed on Paris and eight other major cities, to 38 other departments. The restrictive measure now involves 46 million residents who have been asked to stay home from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. from Friday midnight. Since the end of September when infection cases soared up, France had already put in place extra measures in regions on maximum alert, including the closure of bars, pools and gyms. Meanwhile, the worldwide number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has surpassed 42 million, Johns Hopkins University says. The exact number of coronavirus cases stood at 42,020,333. More than 1.14 million people have died of the disease, the university added. The World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11. The biggest number of cases so far have been registered in the United States, India and Brazil. (With inputs from agencies)

France's coronavirus cases top 1 million as daily tally hits new high 

US President Donald Trump has said that he is pleased that the United &nbsp;States tops the list in terms of coronavirus cases in the world. On Monday, Donald &nbsp;Trump said he views it as "badge of honour".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-considering-travel-ban-on-brazil-over-covid-19-says-trump-299791">US considering travel ban on Brazil over COVID-19, says Trump</a>

He said: "By the way, you know when you say that we lead in cases, that's because we have more testing than anybody else.

"So when we have a lot of cases, I don't look at that as a bad thing, I look at that as, in a certain respect, as being a good thing because it means our testing is much better.

"So I view it as a badge of honour. Really, it's a badge of honour.

"It's a great tribute to the testing and all of the work that a lot of professionals have done."

Earlier, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he is considering imposing a ban on travel from Brazil, which has the world's third-highest number of people infected by the novel coronavirus.

Responding to a question over whether he would institute a travel ban on Brazil, Trump said, "We are considering it. We hope that we are not going to have a problem."&nbsp;

"I don't want people coming over here and infecting our people. I don't want people over there sick either. We're helping Brazil with ventilators. ... Brazil is having some trouble, no question about it," Trump added.

US President Donald Trump has said that he is pleased that the United States tops the list in terms of coronavirus cases in the world. On Monday, Donald Trump said he views it as "badge of honour".

US President Donald Trump has said that he is pleased that the United States tops the list in terms of coronavirus cases in the world. On Monday, Donald Trump said he views it as "badge of honour". Also read: US considering travel ban on Brazil over COVID-19, says Trump He said: "By the way, you know when you say that we lead in cases, that's because we have more testing than anybody else. "So when we have a lot of cases, I don't look at that as a bad thing, I look at that as, in a certain respect, as being a good thing because it means our testing is much better. "So I view it as a badge of honour. Really, it's a badge of honour. "It's a great tribute to the testing and all of the work that a lot of professionals have done." Earlier, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he is considering imposing a ban on travel from Brazil, which has the world's third-highest number of people infected by the novel coronavirus. Responding to a question over whether he would institute a travel ban on Brazil, Trump said, "We are considering it. We hope that we are not going to have a problem." "I don't want people coming over here and infecting our people. I don't want people over there sick either. We're helping Brazil with ventilators. ... Brazil is having some trouble, no question about it," Trump added.

US President Donald Trump views highest COVID-19 cases as 'Badge of Honour'

A Delhi man with a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia has tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of confirmed cases in India to 31, health ministry officials said on Friday.

The latest case is the third in Delhi.

"One suspected COVID19 case has been confirmed as positive. The patient is from Delhi. He has a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia. He is stable and being monitored. The total number of confirmed cases in India now stands at 31," a health ministry official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-confirms-first-coronavirus-case-us-tourist-tested-positive-government-284643">Bhutan confirms first coronavirus case, US tourist tested positive: Government</a>

The 30 other positive cases include a 45-year-old man from Delhi's Mayur Vihar and six of his relatives from Agra whom he had recently visited.

Another is a Paytm employee who works in Gurgaon and lives in west Delhi.

They are all being treated at the Safdarjung hospital.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-iran-three-senior-politicians-die-total-death-toll-rises-to-107-284639">Coronavirus in Iran: Three senior politicians die, total death toll rises to 107</a>

A middle-aged man from Ghaziabad, who tested positive for the virus, is being treated at the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital in the national capital.

A 24-year-old man from Hyderabad, who has also tested positive for coronavirus, has been isolated.

Besides, 16 members of a tourist group from Italy and their Indian guide have been found infected by the virus.

Watch:&nbsp;

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While one Italian man and his wife are being treated at Jaipur's SMS hospital, 14 members of the group and their Indian guide, who was quarantined at the ITBP camp in Chhawla, have been admitted to the Medanta hospital in Gurgaon.

The total figure of positive cases includes the first three reported from Kerala last month. All three persons have been discharged following recovery. 
Meanwhile, in a suspected coronavirus case, a man from Raipur, who returned to India from Kenya through Dubai, has been put under home quarantine.

A Delhi man with a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia has tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of confirmed cases in India to 31, health ministry officials said on Friday.

A Delhi man with a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia has tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of confirmed cases in India to 31, health ministry officials said on Friday. The latest case is the third in Delhi. "One suspected COVID19 case has been confirmed as positive. The patient is from Delhi. He has a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia. He is stable and being monitored. The total number of confirmed cases in India now stands at 31," a health ministry official said. Also read: Bhutan confirms first coronavirus case, US tourist tested positive: Government The 30 other positive cases include a 45-year-old man from Delhi's Mayur Vihar and six of his relatives from Agra whom he had recently visited. Another is a Paytm employee who works in Gurgaon and lives in west Delhi. They are all being treated at the Safdarjung hospital. Also see: Coronavirus in Iran: Three senior politicians die, total death toll rises to 107 A middle-aged man from Ghaziabad, who tested positive for the virus, is being treated at the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital in the national capital. A 24-year-old man from Hyderabad, who has also tested positive for coronavirus, has been isolated. Besides, 16 members of a tourist group from Italy and their Indian guide have been found infected by the virus. Watch: × While one Italian man and his wife are being treated at Jaipur's SMS hospital, 14 members of the group and their Indian guide, who was quarantined at the ITBP camp in Chhawla, have been admitted to the Medanta hospital in Gurgaon. The total figure of positive cases includes the first three reported from Kerala last month. All three persons have been discharged following recovery. Meanwhile, in a suspected coronavirus case, a man from Raipur, who returned to India from Kenya through Dubai, has been put under home quarantine.

Delhi man with travel history to Thailand, Malaysia tests positive for coronavirus; total cases 31

Hong Kong's business outlook hit a record low in February, according to data released on Wednesday, as the coronavirus outbreak added to the financial hub's troubles following months of political turmoil.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-hong-kong-schools-to-remain-shut-until-easter-holidays-282768">Coronavirus: Hong Kong schools to remain shut until Easter holidays</a>&nbsp;

The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for the city's economy plunged to its lowest mark since the gauge began, worse than the SARS outbreak in 2003 and the global financial crisis in 2007-2008.

Hong Kong's economy is reeling from the US-China trade war, pro-democracy protests last year and now the coronavirus -- a triple whammy that has created a situation Financial Secretary Paul Chan described as "exceptionally austere" as he delivered his annual budget last week.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-study-says-china-fudged-coronavirus-numbers-278115"> Hong Kong University study says China fudged coronavirus numbers&nbsp;</a>

Chan said the economy is facing "enormous challenges this year", and predicted a range of 0.5 percent growth to a 1.5 percent contraction this year.

The PMI index fell to 33.1, dropping below the previous low in April 2003, according to IHS Markit, whose report added the PMI averaged 39.9 so far for the first quarter.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-today-coronavirus-outbreak-hong-kong-declares-emergency-iraq-protests-and-more-276536"> Top 10 world news today: Coronavirus outbreak, Hong Kong declares emergency, Iraq protests and more</a>

The gauge has been below the 50 level that divides expansion and contraction since April 2018, though it had risen in December and January.

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-hong-kong-satisfied-with-chinas-efforts-to-contain-outbreak-281988/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Market surveys around 400 private-sector companies in Hong Kong across manufacturing, construction, wholesale, retail and services to generate the index. The survey responses are collected in the second half of each month.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/hong-kong-cops-infected-with-coronavirus-ground-report-from-hong-kong-282135/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The latest PMI flashed red warning lights on the dire private-sector conditions across Hong Kong in February amid the coronavirus outbreak, with the headline index plunging to an unprecedented level since the survey started in July 1998," Bernard Aw, principal economist with IHS Markit, said in the report.

"The average PMI so far for the first quarter of 2020 points to a deepening recession, raising the urgency for policy support."

The figures come just days after China's PMI was at 35.7 points in February, well below the 50-point mark that separates growth and contraction every month.

This was down from 50 points in January and the worst level since China began recording the figure in 2005.

It was also nowhere near expectations of a smaller contraction, at 45.0, according to a Bloomberg poll of analysts.

Hong Kong's business outlook hit a record low in February, according to data released on Wednesday, as the coronavirus outbreak added to the financial hub's troubles following months of political turmoil.

Hong Kong's business outlook hit a record low in February, according to data released on Wednesday, as the coronavirus outbreak added to the financial hub's troubles following months of political turmoil. Also read: Coronavirus: Hong Kong schools to remain shut until Easter holidays The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for the city's economy plunged to its lowest mark since the gauge began, worse than the SARS outbreak in 2003 and the global financial crisis in 2007-2008. Hong Kong's economy is reeling from the US-China trade war, pro-democracy protests last year and now the coronavirus -- a triple whammy that has created a situation Financial Secretary Paul Chan described as "exceptionally austere" as he delivered his annual budget last week. Also read: Hong Kong University study says China fudged coronavirus numbers Chan said the economy is facing "enormous challenges this year", and predicted a range of 0.5 percent growth to a 1.5 percent contraction this year. The PMI index fell to 33.1, dropping below the previous low in April 2003, according to IHS Markit, whose report added the PMI averaged 39.9 so far for the first quarter. Also read: Top 10 world news today: Coronavirus outbreak, Hong Kong declares emergency, Iraq protests and more The gauge has been below the 50 level that divides expansion and contraction since April 2018, though it had risen in December and January. Market surveys around 400 private-sector companies in Hong Kong across manufacturing, construction, wholesale, retail and services to generate the index. The survey responses are collected in the second half of each month. "The latest PMI flashed red warning lights on the dire private-sector conditions across Hong Kong in February amid the coronavirus outbreak, with the headline index plunging to an unprecedented level since the survey started in July 1998," Bernard Aw, principal economist with IHS Markit, said in the report. "The average PMI so far for the first quarter of 2020 points to a deepening recession, raising the urgency for policy support." The figures come just days after China's PMI was at 35.7 points in February, well below the 50-point mark that separates growth and contraction every month. This was down from 50 points in January and the worst level since China began recording the figure in 2005. It was also nowhere near expectations of a smaller contraction, at 45.0, according to a Bloomberg poll of analysts.

Coronavirus drags Hong Kong business outlook to record low: data

Indian economy is facing a tough time but it seems we are at the end of it and dawn is approaching.&nbsp;

For the October-December quarter, GDP grew at 4.7 per cent in line with expectations of various estimates while the growth rate for the September quarter was revised up to 5.1 per cent.&nbsp;

At the same time, industrial production of 8 core sectors grew for the second month in January while growth in the core sectors for the month of December was also revised up from 1.3 to 2.1 per cent. Before that, it showed that there was a contraction for 4 months. Manufacturing PMI for the month of January also showed sharp uptick when it grew from 52.7 to 55.3. While other high-frequency indicators like passenger vehicle sales, rail freight traffic are giving mixed signals. Inflation has reached 7.59 per cent but that seemed to be due to perishable goods and is expected to come down.&nbsp;

The government has breached its fiscal deficit target, but looking at improvement in the core sector, it seems to be paying off.&nbsp;

Although a few green shoots are emerging which are trying hard to sustain, but before we dive into that, let’s take a look at what led to the slowdown.&nbsp;

Story of a current slowdown began with the delayed recognition of the twin balance sheet. It basically meant that companies were not profitable so they were unable to pay back their loans and since banks did not receive the previous loans they were unable to lend more money.

Due to this investment started deaccelerating at a time when the Indian economy was growing rapidly and a high rate of investment was required to maintain it. At the same time, the central bank increased the interest rates, following which inflation fell quite quickly.

Now high-interest rates, coupled with low inflation, led to the high real rate of interest which further dented the investments. This, in turn, impacted the job and wage growth rate.&nbsp;

All this happened in the labour-intensive sector, so a large number of people were affected which translated into a lower level of consumption, while rural consumption also fell due to the problem of uneven monsoon.&nbsp;

Since businesses were already under pressure, this fall in consumption had a multiplier effect which led to a bigger fall in investments and more downsizing by firms. For example, in the FMCG sector - the sales growth in rural areas is generally more than urban counterpart but last year it fell to almost half.&nbsp;

Due to a tight balance sheet of banks, NBFC sector (Non-Banking Finance Company) emerged into prominence and its lending increased, specifically for high ticket items like cars and homes. Also, NBFCs give a huge amount of loan to the unorganised sector. But shadow banks also took a hit after ILFS fiasco as lenders’ trust on NBFCs dented.&nbsp;

Now the global economy was also facing headwinds due to geopolitical tensions in the form of a trade war and Brexit but in most of the developed countries, the labour market was quite strong and that supported consumption. Since India's consumption also took a hit, we saw a sharp fall in the Indian growth rate as compared to the rest of the world.&nbsp;

Not to forget, the fall in investments affected the competitiveness and productivity of Indian firms at a global level (potentially), and this along with global slowdown dented the exports.&nbsp;

Government is in full fledge mode to revive growth, it has reduced corporate tax, changed personal income tax structure, set up infrastructure fund of Rs 105 lakh crore, while also coming up with various sector-specific measures. Although the government's earnings are facing stress due to low tax collection and delay in the divestment process, but right now it is more concerned about growth.

So if the economy is revived, even though the fiscal deficit target is breached, the long term fiscal consolidation target will also be achieved.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is also showing up its ammunition in the fight against slowdown, as it reduced the repo rate by 135 basis point.&nbsp;

And when inflation constrained it from reducing the rate further, the RBI came up with other measures like operation twist (buying long term bonds and selling short term bonds to reduce long term interest rates), easing CRR norms on incremental loans to boost lending for MSME, automobile and residential sector.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the central bank conducted long term repo operation, so banks can get money at cheaper rates and also linked more loans to external benchmarks like repo rates.&nbsp;

Although RBI reduced rates by 135 basis points, banks have not completely transmitted them because of which their profitability has improved, also the previous NPAs are being resolved.

And quality shadow banks (High-grade NBFCs) are also emerging stronger as their borrowing cost has reduced.&nbsp;

Still, there are few headwinds like telecom sector and now the coronavirus is a googly which took everyone by surprise.&nbsp;

Coronavirus has disrupted the supply chain and has impacted both the manufacturing and the service sector. The virus is spreading across the world and it can become a pandemic, which can cause a global recession. On the global front, fear of recession is quite high as indicated by a sharp fall in financial markets.&nbsp;

The current slowdown is basically a result of the policy - prevention is better than cure as business activities are being shut off to contain virus outbreak while previously it was more like a cure after the damage.

Economic fundamentals, like job market and consumption, are still strong so if the virus is contained soon, then sharp recovery can be expected in sentiment.&nbsp;

In the current scenario, the high-frequency indicator will have a favourable base effect which might give a further boost to the sentiment.&nbsp;

Also, an incident like this brings countries closer and to revive the global economy from something like this, a collaborated action can be required which would lead to countries shifting from protectionism to a more open economy.&nbsp;

This would boost exports growth in India while attracting foreign money in the form of both FPI and FDI.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Indian economy is facing a tough time but it seems we are at the end of it and dawn is approaching. For the October-December quarter, GDP grew at 4.7 per cent in line with expectations of various estimates while the growth rate for the September quarter was revised up to 5.

Indian economy is facing a tough time but it seems we are at the end of it and dawn is approaching. For the October-December quarter, GDP grew at 4.7 per cent in line with expectations of various estimates while the growth rate for the September quarter was revised up to 5.1 per cent. At the same time, industrial production of 8 core sectors grew for the second month in January while growth in the core sectors for the month of December was also revised up from 1.3 to 2.1 per cent. Before that, it showed that there was a contraction for 4 months. Manufacturing PMI for the month of January also showed sharp uptick when it grew from 52.7 to 55.3. While other high-frequency indicators like passenger vehicle sales, rail freight traffic are giving mixed signals. Inflation has reached 7.59 per cent but that seemed to be due to perishable goods and is expected to come down. The government has breached its fiscal deficit target, but looking at improvement in the core sector, it seems to be paying off. Although a few green shoots are emerging which are trying hard to sustain, but before we dive into that, let’s take a look at what led to the slowdown. Story of a current slowdown began with the delayed recognition of the twin balance sheet. It basically meant that companies were not profitable so they were unable to pay back their loans and since banks did not receive the previous loans they were unable to lend more money. Due to this investment started deaccelerating at a time when the Indian economy was growing rapidly and a high rate of investment was required to maintain it. At the same time, the central bank increased the interest rates, following which inflation fell quite quickly. Now high-interest rates, coupled with low inflation, led to the high real rate of interest which further dented the investments. This, in turn, impacted the job and wage growth rate. All this happened in the labour-intensive sector, so a large number of people were affected which translated into a lower level of consumption, while rural consumption also fell due to the problem of uneven monsoon. Since businesses were already under pressure, this fall in consumption had a multiplier effect which led to a bigger fall in investments and more downsizing by firms. For example, in the FMCG sector - the sales growth in rural areas is generally more than urban counterpart but last year it fell to almost half. Due to a tight balance sheet of banks, NBFC sector (Non-Banking Finance Company) emerged into prominence and its lending increased, specifically for high ticket items like cars and homes. Also, NBFCs give a huge amount of loan to the unorganised sector. But shadow banks also took a hit after ILFS fiasco as lenders’ trust on NBFCs dented. Now the global economy was also facing headwinds due to geopolitical tensions in the form of a trade war and Brexit but in most of the developed countries, the labour market was quite strong and that supported consumption. Since India's consumption also took a hit, we saw a sharp fall in the Indian growth rate as compared to the rest of the world. Not to forget, the fall in investments affected the competitiveness and productivity of Indian firms at a global level (potentially), and this along with global slowdown dented the exports. Government is in full fledge mode to revive growth, it has reduced corporate tax, changed personal income tax structure, set up infrastructure fund of Rs 105 lakh crore, while also coming up with various sector-specific measures. Although the government's earnings are facing stress due to low tax collection and delay in the divestment process, but right now it is more concerned about growth. So if the economy is revived, even though the fiscal deficit target is breached, the long term fiscal consolidation target will also be achieved. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is also showing up its ammunition in the fight against slowdown, as it reduced the repo rate by 135 basis point. And when inflation constrained it from reducing the rate further, the RBI came up with other measures like operation twist (buying long term bonds and selling short term bonds to reduce long term interest rates), easing CRR norms on incremental loans to boost lending for MSME, automobile and residential sector. Furthermore, the central bank conducted long term repo operation, so banks can get money at cheaper rates and also linked more loans to external benchmarks like repo rates. Although RBI reduced rates by 135 basis points, banks have not completely transmitted them because of which their profitability has improved, also the previous NPAs are being resolved. And quality shadow banks (High-grade NBFCs) are also emerging stronger as their borrowing cost has reduced. Still, there are few headwinds like telecom sector and now the coronavirus is a googly which took everyone by surprise. Coronavirus has disrupted the supply chain and has impacted both the manufacturing and the service sector. The virus is spreading across the world and it can become a pandemic, which can cause a global recession. On the global front, fear of recession is quite high as indicated by a sharp fall in financial markets. The current slowdown is basically a result of the policy - prevention is better than cure as business activities are being shut off to contain virus outbreak while previously it was more like a cure after the damage. Economic fundamentals, like job market and consumption, are still strong so if the virus is contained soon, then sharp recovery can be expected in sentiment. In the current scenario, the high-frequency indicator will have a favourable base effect which might give a further boost to the sentiment. Also, an incident like this brings countries closer and to revive the global economy from something like this, a collaborated action can be required which would lead to countries shifting from protectionism to a more open economy. This would boost exports growth in India while attracting foreign money in the form of both FPI and FDI. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How this economic slowdown is different from the previous ones

A day after two new cases of novel coronavirus that included one from Delhi were reported, the Health Ministry on Tuesday said six cases with "high-viral load" were detected during sample testing in Agra and these people have been kept in isolation.

The six people had come in contact with a 45-year-old patient from Delhi, whose case came to light on Monday, and they include his family members.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-scare-hits-noida-school-premises-closed-all-exams-cancelled-283889">&nbsp;Coronavirus scare hits Noida school: Premises closed, all exams cancelled</a>

According to government sources, the man, who is a resident of Mayur Vihar, had visited them in Agra.

The six have been kept in isolation at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi and their samples are being sent to NIV, Pune for confirmation.

Contact tracing of the people who came in contact with the six is simultaneously being done through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) network, the ministry said in a statement.

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Sources said the patient from Mayur Vihar was shifted to a quarantine ward at Safdarjung Hospital on Sunday night.

His other family members have been asked to stay alert and look out for symptoms. One accountant, who came in contact with the man and some of his family members, was also quarantined, they said.

India on Monday reported two new cases of the novel coronavirus, one from Delhi and another one from Hyderabad. The government has stepped up its efforts to detect and check the infection which has killed 2,912 people in China.

On Monday, Rajasthan Health Minister Raghu Sharma had said that an Italian tourist tested positive for coronavirus in Jaipur.

Watch:&nbsp;New Delhi comes under Covid-19 radar, Noida school shut

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The first sample collected from him on February 29 tested negative but his condition deteriorated, so a second sample was collected which tested positive on Monday, the minister said, adding, "Since there is a variation in the reports, the samples have been sent to the NIV, Pune for testing".

India had earlier reported three cases from Kerala, including two medical students from Wuhan in China, the epicentre of the deadly novel coronavirus. They had self-reported on their return to the country and tested positive for the infection. They were discharged from hospitals last month following recovery.

The infected person from Delhi had travelled to Italy, while the other patient who tested positive for the COVID-19 infection is from Telangana and had recently travelled to Dubai.

Both the patients had self-reported after they developed symptoms.

"They tested positive. They are stable and being closely monitored," the ministry said on Monday.?

The government has asked people to avoid non-essential travel to Iran, Italy, South Korea and Singapore and said India was in discussions with authorities in Iran and Italy, two countries badly affected by the infection, to evacuate Indians there.

The novel coronavirus or COVID-19, which originated in China, has spread to over 60 countries

A day after two new cases of novel coronavirus that included one from Delhi were reported, the Health Ministry on Tuesday said six cases with "high-viral load" were detected during sample testing in Agra and these people have been kept in isolation.

A day after two new cases of novel coronavirus that included one from Delhi were reported, the Health Ministry on Tuesday said six cases with "high-viral load" were detected during sample testing in Agra and these people have been kept in isolation. The six people had come in contact with a 45-year-old patient from Delhi, whose case came to light on Monday, and they include his family members. Also read: Coronavirus scare hits Noida school: Premises closed, all exams cancelled According to government sources, the man, who is a resident of Mayur Vihar, had visited them in Agra. The six have been kept in isolation at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi and their samples are being sent to NIV, Pune for confirmation. Contact tracing of the people who came in contact with the six is simultaneously being done through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) network, the ministry said in a statement. Also see: 'Work from home': Google and Twitter order their staff amid coronavirus concerns Sources said the patient from Mayur Vihar was shifted to a quarantine ward at Safdarjung Hospital on Sunday night. His other family members have been asked to stay alert and look out for symptoms. One accountant, who came in contact with the man and some of his family members, was also quarantined, they said. India on Monday reported two new cases of the novel coronavirus, one from Delhi and another one from Hyderabad. The government has stepped up its efforts to detect and check the infection which has killed 2,912 people in China. On Monday, Rajasthan Health Minister Raghu Sharma had said that an Italian tourist tested positive for coronavirus in Jaipur. Watch: New Delhi comes under Covid-19 radar, Noida school shut × The first sample collected from him on February 29 tested negative but his condition deteriorated, so a second sample was collected which tested positive on Monday, the minister said, adding, "Since there is a variation in the reports, the samples have been sent to the NIV, Pune for testing". India had earlier reported three cases from Kerala, including two medical students from Wuhan in China, the epicentre of the deadly novel coronavirus. They had self-reported on their return to the country and tested positive for the infection. They were discharged from hospitals last month following recovery. The infected person from Delhi had travelled to Italy, while the other patient who tested positive for the COVID-19 infection is from Telangana and had recently travelled to Dubai. Both the patients had self-reported after they developed symptoms. "They tested positive. They are stable and being closely monitored," the ministry said on Monday.? The government has asked people to avoid non-essential travel to Iran, Italy, South Korea and Singapore and said India was in discussions with authorities in Iran and Italy, two countries badly affected by the infection, to evacuate Indians there. The novel coronavirus or COVID-19, which originated in China, has spread to over 60 countries

Six cases with 'high-viral load' detected in Agra

Pope Francis, who canceled a Lent retreat for the first time in his papacy because he is suffering from a cold, has tested negative for coronavirus, the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero reported on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-scare-hits-noida-school-premises-closed-all-exams-cancelled-283889"> Coronavirus scare hits Noida school: Premises closed, all exams cancelled</a>

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said he had no immediate comment on the report.

The 83-year-old Roman Catholic leader, who had part of one lung removed because of an illness decades ago, also canceled most audiences last week.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/work-from-home-google-and-twitter-order-their-staff-amid-coronavirus-concerns-283900"> 'Work from home': Google and Twitter order their staff amid coronavirus concerns</a>

Francis was to have taken part in the week-long retreat with senior Vatican officials that began on Sunday night at a Church residence south of Rome.

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But in a surprise announcement hours earlier, he said he would be following it from his residence in a Vatican guest house.

He has been taken ill at a time when Italy is battling a surging outbreak of the potentially deadly coronavirus.

The death toll in Italy jumped to 52 on Monday from 34 the day before and the total number of confirmed cases in Europe's worst affected country climbed past the 2,000 mark.

Pope Francis, who canceled a Lent retreat for the first time in his papacy because he is suffering from a cold, has tested negative for coronavirus, the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero reported on Tuesday.

Pope Francis, who canceled a Lent retreat for the first time in his papacy because he is suffering from a cold, has tested negative for coronavirus, the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero reported on Tuesday. Also read: Coronavirus scare hits Noida school: Premises closed, all exams cancelled Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said he had no immediate comment on the report. The 83-year-old Roman Catholic leader, who had part of one lung removed because of an illness decades ago, also canceled most audiences last week. Also read: 'Work from home': Google and Twitter order their staff amid coronavirus concerns Francis was to have taken part in the week-long retreat with senior Vatican officials that began on Sunday night at a Church residence south of Rome. × But in a surprise announcement hours earlier, he said he would be following it from his residence in a Vatican guest house. He has been taken ill at a time when Italy is battling a surging outbreak of the potentially deadly coronavirus. The death toll in Italy jumped to 52 on Monday from 34 the day before and the total number of confirmed cases in Europe's worst affected country climbed past the 2,000 mark.

Pope tests negative for coronavirus, Italy report says

US health officials reported Friday a fourth case of novel coronavirus of unknown origin, indicating the disease was spreading in the country.

The latest case is a boy under 18 in Washington State who tested "presumptive positive", local authorities said without releasing further details about the patient.

He is currently in home isolation in Snohomish County. The high school he attends will be shut until March 3 while it is deep cleaned, the Washington State Department of Health said.

In neighboring Oregon, authorities said Friday an adult who had had contact with people at an elementary school had been hospitalized and was also considered "presumptive positive."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/us-postpones-summit-with-asean-leaders-amid-coronavirus-fears-report-283438">US postpones summit with ASEAN leaders amid coronavirus fears: Report</a>

A positive test is treated as "presumptive" until the results have been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"We've been expecting this and we're prepared for it," Oregon's Health Authority director Patrick Allen told reporters.

The school will be closed until March 4 as it undergoes a deep clean, officials said, adding they would talk to employees and parents.

Earlier Friday, Californian health authorities said an older woman was confirmed infected with unknown origin -- the second such case in the northern part of the state.

"This new case indicates that there is evidence of community transmission but the extent is still not clear," said Sara Cody, director of public health for Santa Clara County.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coronavirus-jackie-chan-says-he-is-safe-not-under-quarantine-283448">Coronavirus: Jackie Chan says he is safe, not under quarantine</a>

"What we know now is that the virus is here, present at some level, but we still don't know to what degree," she added.

The two cases in California are close to Silicon Valley, where tech giants like Apple, Google and Tesla are based.

The latest infections have heightened fears of an outbreak across the country.

President Donald Trump, however, downplayed the risk in the US at a campaign rally in South Carolina, accusing Democrats and the press of stirring up hysteria.

"We are preparing for the worst," he said. "My administration has taken the most aggressive action in modern history to prevent the spread of this illness in the United States."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/europes-worst-affected-country-by-covid-19-outbreak-283261">Europe's worst affected country by COVID-19 outbreak</a>

He called the coronavirus the Democrats' "new hoax."

"The Democrats are politicizing the coronavirus. They're politicizing it," he said. "They don't have any clue. They can't even count their votes in Iowa."

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 60 people are infected with the disease in the United States, the majority of them in California.

The state's governor Gavin Newsom said on Thursday 33 people had tested positive for the virus, and five of them had left California.

Worldwide more than 85,000 people have been infected and over 2,900 have died.

US health officials reported Friday a fourth case of novel coronavirus of unknown origin, indicating the disease was spreading in the country. The latest case is a boy under 18 in Washington State who tested "presumptive positive", local authorities said without releasing further details about the patient.

US health officials reported Friday a fourth case of novel coronavirus of unknown origin, indicating the disease was spreading in the country. The latest case is a boy under 18 in Washington State who tested "presumptive positive", local authorities said without releasing further details about the patient. He is currently in home isolation in Snohomish County. The high school he attends will be shut until March 3 while it is deep cleaned, the Washington State Department of Health said. In neighboring Oregon, authorities said Friday an adult who had had contact with people at an elementary school had been hospitalized and was also considered "presumptive positive." Also read: US postpones summit with ASEAN leaders amid coronavirus fears: Report A positive test is treated as "presumptive" until the results have been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "We've been expecting this and we're prepared for it," Oregon's Health Authority director Patrick Allen told reporters. The school will be closed until March 4 as it undergoes a deep clean, officials said, adding they would talk to employees and parents. Earlier Friday, Californian health authorities said an older woman was confirmed infected with unknown origin -- the second such case in the northern part of the state. "This new case indicates that there is evidence of community transmission but the extent is still not clear," said Sara Cody, director of public health for Santa Clara County. Also see: Coronavirus: Jackie Chan says he is safe, not under quarantine "What we know now is that the virus is here, present at some level, but we still don't know to what degree," she added. The two cases in California are close to Silicon Valley, where tech giants like Apple, Google and Tesla are based. The latest infections have heightened fears of an outbreak across the country. President Donald Trump, however, downplayed the risk in the US at a campaign rally in South Carolina, accusing Democrats and the press of stirring up hysteria. "We are preparing for the worst," he said. "My administration has taken the most aggressive action in modern history to prevent the spread of this illness in the United States." Also read: Europe's worst affected country by COVID-19 outbreak He called the coronavirus the Democrats' "new hoax." "The Democrats are politicizing the coronavirus. They're politicizing it," he said. "They don't have any clue. They can't even count their votes in Iowa." According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 60 people are infected with the disease in the United States, the majority of them in California. The state's governor Gavin Newsom said on Thursday 33 people had tested positive for the virus, and five of them had left California. Worldwide more than 85,000 people have been infected and over 2,900 have died.

US reports fourth coronavirus infection of unknown origin

The deadly coronavirus epidemic will cost world tourism at least $22 billion owing to a drop in spending by Chinese tourists, the head of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) said Thursday.

The COVID-19 epidemic has killed more than 2,760 people, mostly in China — where it first emerged in December — and infected more than 81,000 in over 45 countries.

&nbsp;"It is too soon to know but the WTTC has made a preliminary calculation in collaboration with (a research firm) Oxford Economics which estimates that the crisis will cost the sector at least $22 billion," Gloria Guevara told El Mundo daily.

"This calculation is based on the experience of previous crises, such as SARS or H1N1, and is based on losses deriving from Chinese tourists who have not been travelling in recent weeks," she said.

&nbsp;"The Chinese are the tourists who spend most when they travel."

The loss figure, which equates to about 20.2 billion euros, is the most optimistic scenario envisaged by the study which was published on February 11 by Oxford Economics, taking the hypothesis of a 7.0-per-cent drop in overseas trips by Chinese nationals.

But the losses could more than double, reaching as much as $49 billion if the crisis lasts as long as the SARS outbreak, which erupted in November 2002 and was brought under control in July 2003.

And it could spiral to $73 billion if it lasted longer than that, Oxford Economics said.

The economies most likely to suffer would be those most dependent on Chinese tourism, such as Hong Kong and Macau, Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines, researchers found.

On Wednesday, the WTO urged countries to avoid taking health measures that would cause "unnecessary interference with international traffic and trade" saying travel restrictions needed to be proportionate to ensure they did not have "negative repercussions on the tourism sector".

The deadly coronavirus epidemic will cost world tourism at least $22 billion owing to a drop in spending by Chinese tourists, the head of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) said Thursday.

The deadly coronavirus epidemic will cost world tourism at least $22 billion owing to a drop in spending by Chinese tourists, the head of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) said Thursday. The COVID-19 epidemic has killed more than 2,760 people, mostly in China — where it first emerged in December — and infected more than 81,000 in over 45 countries. "It is too soon to know but the WTTC has made a preliminary calculation in collaboration with (a research firm) Oxford Economics which estimates that the crisis will cost the sector at least $22 billion," Gloria Guevara told El Mundo daily. "This calculation is based on the experience of previous crises, such as SARS or H1N1, and is based on losses deriving from Chinese tourists who have not been travelling in recent weeks," she said. "The Chinese are the tourists who spend most when they travel." The loss figure, which equates to about 20.2 billion euros, is the most optimistic scenario envisaged by the study which was published on February 11 by Oxford Economics, taking the hypothesis of a 7.0-per-cent drop in overseas trips by Chinese nationals. But the losses could more than double, reaching as much as $49 billion if the crisis lasts as long as the SARS outbreak, which erupted in November 2002 and was brought under control in July 2003. And it could spiral to $73 billion if it lasted longer than that, Oxford Economics said. The economies most likely to suffer would be those most dependent on Chinese tourism, such as Hong Kong and Macau, Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines, researchers found. On Wednesday, the WTO urged countries to avoid taking health measures that would cause "unnecessary interference with international traffic and trade" saying travel restrictions needed to be proportionate to ensure they did not have "negative repercussions on the tourism sector".

Coronavirus epidemic to cost world tourism at least $22 billion: Global tourism body

The coronavirus outbreak originated in Wuhan. Now, it has escaped the barriers of borders to reach at least 47 countries. Every continent, except Antarctica, is now fighting the Wuhan virus.

And it is showing no signs of slowing down. This outbreak is impacting the world in more ways than one. When the first cases were reported from China, Beijing put 150 million people under a lockdown. More than 50 countries slapped travel restrictions on China.

Now, similar restrictions are being replicated for hotspots like Iran.&nbsp;

The global economy is already feeling the impact of this outbreak - supply chains have been disrupted and if the disease spreads further, critical sectors could be hit. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;

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According to a report, the coronavirus outbreak threatens shortages of about 150 drugs - this includes antibiotics and generics. There can be a shortage of some branded drugs also that don't have alternatives.&nbsp;

Authoritarian china forced people to stay inside homes. But, the virus is already forcing democracies to restrict the free movement of people.

In Italy, a cluster of 10 communities have been placed under quarantine - it is called a red zone. Italian authorities have cordoned off areas with populations of more than 50 thousand.

With global agencies like the WHO trying to play catch up with the outbreak - fears of the people are growing. The rapid spread of the coronavirus has now raised the specter of a global pandemic. Time has come for a coordinated global response to battle the crisis.

Because if the virus spreads any further, the world will be staring at a much bigger disaster.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world) 
&nbsp;

The coronavirus outbreak originated in Wuhan. Now, it has escaped the barriers of borders to reach at least 47 countries. Every continent, except Antarctica, is now fighting the Wuhan virus.

The coronavirus outbreak originated in Wuhan. Now, it has escaped the barriers of borders to reach at least 47 countries. Every continent, except Antarctica, is now fighting the Wuhan virus. And it is showing no signs of slowing down. This outbreak is impacting the world in more ways than one. When the first cases were reported from China, Beijing put 150 million people under a lockdown. More than 50 countries slapped travel restrictions on China. Now, similar restrictions are being replicated for hotspots like Iran. The global economy is already feeling the impact of this outbreak - supply chains have been disrupted and if the disease spreads further, critical sectors could be hit. WATCH: × According to a report, the coronavirus outbreak threatens shortages of about 150 drugs - this includes antibiotics and generics. There can be a shortage of some branded drugs also that don't have alternatives. Authoritarian china forced people to stay inside homes. But, the virus is already forcing democracies to restrict the free movement of people. In Italy, a cluster of 10 communities have been placed under quarantine - it is called a red zone. Italian authorities have cordoned off areas with populations of more than 50 thousand. With global agencies like the WHO trying to play catch up with the outbreak - fears of the people are growing. The rapid spread of the coronavirus has now raised the specter of a global pandemic. Time has come for a coordinated global response to battle the crisis. Because if the virus spreads any further, the world will be staring at a much bigger disaster. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: How Wuhan coronavirus will impact the world?

A prominent Iranian cleric and diplomat Hadi Khosroshahi died due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-allows-cruise-ship-to-dock-after-jamaica-cayman-islands-refuse-over-coronavirus-fears-283151">coronavirus</a>, the state broadcaster said as the death toll due to the disease shot up to 26 in the country with at least 245 confirmed cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-vice-president-masoumeh-ebtekar-tests-positive-of-coronavirus-report-283167">Also Read: Iran vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tests positive for coronavirus</a>

As the virus continued to spread in Iran, several countries including the United Arab Emirates, Armenia, Kuwait, Iraq and Turkey suspended passenger and cargo flights to and from Iran. Authorities called off Friday prayers in the country as a preventive measure, the state broadcaster said.

Iran had announced the first death due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-could-get-out-of-control-if-affected-countries-dont-move-swiftly-warns-who-283185">virus</a> last Wednesday. In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus.

Watch Video:

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MP Mahmoud Sadeghi had confirmed that he had the virus while adding that he did not "have much hope of staying alive".

Qom is considered the epicentre of the outbreak but it hasn't been quarantined. To make matters worse, Iran's vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tested positive for&nbsp;coronavirus, local media reports said. Mojtaba Zolnour, head of parliament's national security and foreign affairs committee, is also infected and is in quarantine.&nbsp;

President Hassan Rouhani expressed confidence the authorities were on the right track.

"The reports I have received from the health minister are promising. We are moving towards controlling the virus," he said even as the United States said Iran may have "suppressed vital details" about the outbreak.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-accuses-chinese-trolls-of-sowing-virus-panic-283065">Also Read: Taiwan accuses Chinese trolls of sowing virus panic</a>

In neighbouring Iraq, five confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus were reported traced to Iran with religious tourism receiving a huge setback in the holy city of Karbala where hotels have closed and face masks have become common.

Meanwhile, WHO said the coronavirus was at a "decisive point" even as Saudi Arabia banned pilgrims from visiting Islam's holiest sites.

"We're at a decisive point," WHO chief Tedros said, adding," If you act aggressively now, you can contain this virus, you can prevent people getting sick, you can save lives."

"It's what's happening in the rest of the world that's now our greatest concern," Tedros added.

French President said: "We are facing a crisis, an epidemic that is coming."

The virus has now spread to at least 45 countries, infected 81,000 people. In China, over 2,760 have been killed due to the virus.

A prominent Iranian cleric and diplomat Hadi Khosroshahi died due to the coronavirus, the state broadcaster said as the death toll due to the disease shot up to 26 in the country with at least 245 confirmed cases.

A prominent Iranian cleric and diplomat Hadi Khosroshahi died due to the coronavirus, the state broadcaster said as the death toll due to the disease shot up to 26 in the country with at least 245 confirmed cases. Also Read: Iran vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tests positive for coronavirus As the virus continued to spread in Iran, several countries including the United Arab Emirates, Armenia, Kuwait, Iraq and Turkey suspended passenger and cargo flights to and from Iran. Authorities called off Friday prayers in the country as a preventive measure, the state broadcaster said. Iran had announced the first death due to the virus last Wednesday. In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus. Watch Video: MP Mahmoud Sadeghi had confirmed that he had the virus while adding that he did not "have much hope of staying alive". Qom is considered the epicentre of the outbreak but it hasn't been quarantined. To make matters worse, Iran's vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tested positive for coronavirus, local media reports said. Mojtaba Zolnour, head of parliament's national security and foreign affairs committee, is also infected and is in quarantine. President Hassan Rouhani expressed confidence the authorities were on the right track. "The reports I have received from the health minister are promising. We are moving towards controlling the virus," he said even as the United States said Iran may have "suppressed vital details" about the outbreak. Also Read: Taiwan accuses Chinese trolls of sowing virus panic In neighbouring Iraq, five confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus were reported traced to Iran with religious tourism receiving a huge setback in the holy city of Karbala where hotels have closed and face masks have become common. Meanwhile, WHO said the coronavirus was at a "decisive point" even as Saudi Arabia banned pilgrims from visiting Islam's holiest sites. "We're at a decisive point," WHO chief Tedros said, adding," If you act aggressively now, you can contain this virus, you can prevent people getting sick, you can save lives." "It's what's happening in the rest of the world that's now our greatest concern," Tedros added. French President said: "We are facing a crisis, an epidemic that is coming." The virus has now spread to at least 45 countries, infected 81,000 people. In China, over 2,760 have been killed due to the virus.

Prominent cleric dies as coronavirus death toll rises to 26 in Iran

Taiwan&nbsp;authorities have accused Chinese internet trolls of sowing panic over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-china-feeding-world-health-organisation-wrong-information-about-virus-cases-on-island-279116">coronavirus </a>outbreak, with much of the disinformation falsely implying the island has an out of control epidemic.

Police say they are investigating a surge of stories spreading online and through social media claiming President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-china-feeding-world-health-organisation-wrong-information-about-virus-cases-on-island-279116">Tsai Ing-wen</a>'s government was trying to cover up an outbreak.

"We suspect that mainland Chinese Internet trolls are making up and spreading the false messages based on the content and the phrases,"&nbsp;Taiwan's Investigation Bureau said in a statement late Wednesday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-china-feeding-world-health-organisation-wrong-information-about-virus-cases-on-island-279116">Taiwan says China feeding World Health Organisation wrong information about virus cases on island</a>

"The intent is to cause misunderstanding among the public and to sow panic to seriously jeopardise our social stability," it added.

Tsai, who won a landslide second term in January and is loathed by Beijing, took to Facebook to warn people against believing rumours.&nbsp;

While she did not mention China by name, she hinted at linguistic clues suggesting much of the misinformation was being written outside of&nbsp;Taiwan.&nbsp;

"Some of the rumours even contain phrases not used in&nbsp;Taiwan," she wrote.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-severity-shrinks-in-china-as-global-tally-continues-to-rise-282983">Coronavirus: Severity shrinks in China as global tally continues to rise</a>

One key language difference is that&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;uses traditional Chinese characters, not the simplified versions used on the mainland.

Despite its cultural links and close proximity to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-severity-shrinks-in-china-as-global-tally-continues-to-rise-282983">China</a>,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;moved swiftly against the outbreak, quickly restricting and then banning arrivals from the mainland, Hong Kong and Macau.&nbsp;

It currently has 32 confirmed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-severity-shrinks-in-china-as-global-tally-continues-to-rise-282983">COVID-19</a> cases, with one death.&nbsp;

The coronavirus outbreak has only added to tensions between&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-china-feeding-world-health-organisation-wrong-information-about-virus-cases-on-island-279116">Taiwan</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-severity-shrinks-in-china-as-global-tally-continues-to-rise-282983">China</a>.&nbsp;

Beijing regards the self-ruled democracy as its own territory and has kept it frozen out of international bodies including the World Health Organization.

And the island has long been a target for Chinese nationalist internet trolls seeking to undermine public faith in Tsai's government.&nbsp;

Analysts say trolls have got better in recent years at deploying traditional Chinese and Taiwanese phrasing.&nbsp;

But much of the current misinformation on the virus appears to be more rudimentary.&nbsp;

Examples of misinformation given by the Investigation Bureau was one false social media message claiming to be written by the child of a ruling party councillor saying Taipei "dares not disclose over 500 infections and 200 deaths".

Another false message alleged that the administration of "Governor Tsai," a term used by mainland Chinese to refer to the president, was covering up the cremation of bodies, the bureau said.&nbsp;

Taiwan's FactCheck Centre, an independent organisation that debunks misinformation said there has been a surge in false posts deploying simplified characters or common phrases used in mainland China.&nbsp;

"New variants of such disinformation keeping coming out to spread falsehoods in an attempt to create panic," the centre wrote.&nbsp;

"We urge readers not to forward these messages but to verify and discredit them."

Taiwan authorities have accused Chinese internet trolls of sowing panic over the coronavirus outbreak, with much of the disinformation falsely implying the island has an out of control epidemic.

Taiwan authorities have accused Chinese internet trolls of sowing panic over the coronavirus outbreak, with much of the disinformation falsely implying the island has an out of control epidemic. Police say they are investigating a surge of stories spreading online and through social media claiming President Tsai Ing-wen's government was trying to cover up an outbreak. "We suspect that mainland Chinese Internet trolls are making up and spreading the false messages based on the content and the phrases," Taiwan's Investigation Bureau said in a statement late Wednesday. Also read: Taiwan says China feeding World Health Organisation wrong information about virus cases on island "The intent is to cause misunderstanding among the public and to sow panic to seriously jeopardise our social stability," it added. Tsai, who won a landslide second term in January and is loathed by Beijing, took to Facebook to warn people against believing rumours. While she did not mention China by name, she hinted at linguistic clues suggesting much of the misinformation was being written outside of Taiwan. "Some of the rumours even contain phrases not used in Taiwan," she wrote. Also read: Coronavirus: Severity shrinks in China as global tally continues to rise One key language difference is that Taiwan uses traditional Chinese characters, not the simplified versions used on the mainland. Despite its cultural links and close proximity to China, Taiwan moved swiftly against the outbreak, quickly restricting and then banning arrivals from the mainland, Hong Kong and Macau. It currently has 32 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with one death. The coronavirus outbreak has only added to tensions between Taiwan and China. Beijing regards the self-ruled democracy as its own territory and has kept it frozen out of international bodies including the World Health Organization. And the island has long been a target for Chinese nationalist internet trolls seeking to undermine public faith in Tsai's government. Analysts say trolls have got better in recent years at deploying traditional Chinese and Taiwanese phrasing. But much of the current misinformation on the virus appears to be more rudimentary. Examples of misinformation given by the Investigation Bureau was one false social media message claiming to be written by the child of a ruling party councillor saying Taipei "dares not disclose over 500 infections and 200 deaths". Another false message alleged that the administration of "Governor Tsai," a term used by mainland Chinese to refer to the president, was covering up the cremation of bodies, the bureau said. Taiwan's FactCheck Centre, an independent organisation that debunks misinformation said there has been a surge in false posts deploying simplified characters or common phrases used in mainland China. "New variants of such disinformation keeping coming out to spread falsehoods in an attempt to create panic," the centre wrote. "We urge readers not to forward these messages but to verify and discredit them."

Taiwan accuses Chinese trolls of sowing virus panic

The Wuhan coronavirus is now on a global march, the number of fresh cases might have dropped in China, but the disease shows no signs of slowing down.

According to researchers at the Imperial College in London, around two-thirds of the cases exported from China are yet to be detected.

As the world grapples with the extent of this outbreak, America has levied an accusation. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has claimed that China and Iran are censoring information.

He claims China and Iran have suppressed the actual facts about the outbreak, but, the real problem at hand is different -&nbsp;the disease has skipped borders and effectively escaped from China.

When the first wave of cases was reported, several countries responded by placing travel bans and restricting travel from China. These measures would be ineffective now.

Consider what is happening in Europe, the infection is spreading to European Union Nations from Italy. Similarly, the coronavirus is travelling from Iran to other West Asian nations.

While Europe may be equipped to handle a major outbreak, the same cannot be said for West Asia. Years of unrest in that region have broken the back of the health care system.

Doctors in countries like Iran, Iraq, Syria and Yemen would be helpless if they were made to face a Hubei-like coronavirus outbreak. 
 
WATCH: Wuhan Coronavirus, a Global Pandemic?&nbsp;&nbsp;

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America's claim that Iran could be concealing the real numbers is not outrageous. Beyond the weak health system - America's maximum pressure policy towards Iran is a contributing factor here. The tough sanctions have cut off Tehran from a large part of the globe.

The world must pay attention to the new hotspots of the coronavirus outbreaks. The need of the hour is a global response, coordinated by world powers and UN agencies like the World Health organisation (WHO).

Resources, supplies and scientific know-how must be brought together and dispatched to the worst affected areas. The WHO might not be calling the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic for now, but the world could be staring at one if we ignore this new wave of cases. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The Wuhan coronavirus is now on a global march, the number of fresh cases might have dropped in China, but the disease shows no signs of slowing down. According to researchers at the Imperial College in London, around two-thirds of the cases exported from China are yet to be detected.

The Wuhan coronavirus is now on a global march, the number of fresh cases might have dropped in China, but the disease shows no signs of slowing down. According to researchers at the Imperial College in London, around two-thirds of the cases exported from China are yet to be detected. As the world grapples with the extent of this outbreak, America has levied an accusation. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has claimed that China and Iran are censoring information. He claims China and Iran have suppressed the actual facts about the outbreak, but, the real problem at hand is different - the disease has skipped borders and effectively escaped from China. When the first wave of cases was reported, several countries responded by placing travel bans and restricting travel from China. These measures would be ineffective now. Consider what is happening in Europe, the infection is spreading to European Union Nations from Italy. Similarly, the coronavirus is travelling from Iran to other West Asian nations. While Europe may be equipped to handle a major outbreak, the same cannot be said for West Asia. Years of unrest in that region have broken the back of the health care system. Doctors in countries like Iran, Iraq, Syria and Yemen would be helpless if they were made to face a Hubei-like coronavirus outbreak. WATCH: Wuhan Coronavirus, a Global Pandemic? × America's claim that Iran could be concealing the real numbers is not outrageous. Beyond the weak health system - America's maximum pressure policy towards Iran is a contributing factor here. The tough sanctions have cut off Tehran from a large part of the globe. The world must pay attention to the new hotspots of the coronavirus outbreaks. The need of the hour is a global response, coordinated by world powers and UN agencies like the World Health organisation (WHO). Resources, supplies and scientific know-how must be brought together and dispatched to the worst affected areas. The WHO might not be calling the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic for now, but the world could be staring at one if we ignore this new wave of cases. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: World grapples with extent of coronavirus outbreak

As American health authorities say they expect the novel coronavirus to eventually spread in the United States, the city of San Francisco in California declares emergency to prepare for the virus.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-is-chinas-biggest-health-emergency-president-xi-jinping-282217">Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency' —&nbsp;President Xi Jinping</a>

Local governments, businesses, and schools asked to develop plans to combat the virus-like cancelling mass gatherings or switching to teleworking.

Health authorities have warned that an outbreak can threaten drug supplies. They added that there could be an outbreak any time and residents must remain prepared.

Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: South Korea reports more than 1,100 cases

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Officials are also worried that the outbreak might pose a threat to the security of the US drug supply chain. Remember, a high proportion of ingredients used to make medicine is made in China, where the virus was first identified.

"It is not so much of a question of if this will happen anymore but rather more of a question of exactly when this will happen," said Dr Nancy Messonnier, director of the National Center for Immunisation and Respiratory Diseases, reported The New York Times.&nbsp;

At least 57 people have so far tested positive for coronavirus in the US.Shortly after the announcement, the city of San Francisco declared an emergency despite having any confirmed coronavirus cases.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump praised his administration over coronavirus preparedness, saying that the country has not reported any casualty.

Trump also fired shots at opposition democrats accusing them of trying to undermine the government's efforts.

The US Has been stepping up measures to contain coronavirus as the disease claimed a &nbsp;number of fatalities in countries outside of china including Italy and Iran.

As American health authorities say they expect the novel coronavirus to eventually spread in the United States, the city of San Francisco in California declares emergency to prepare for the virus.

As American health authorities say they expect the novel coronavirus to eventually spread in the United States, the city of San Francisco in California declares emergency to prepare for the virus. Also read: Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency' — President Xi Jinping Local governments, businesses, and schools asked to develop plans to combat the virus-like cancelling mass gatherings or switching to teleworking. Health authorities have warned that an outbreak can threaten drug supplies. They added that there could be an outbreak any time and residents must remain prepared. Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: South Korea reports more than 1,100 cases Officials are also worried that the outbreak might pose a threat to the security of the US drug supply chain. Remember, a high proportion of ingredients used to make medicine is made in China, where the virus was first identified. "It is not so much of a question of if this will happen anymore but rather more of a question of exactly when this will happen," said Dr Nancy Messonnier, director of the National Center for Immunisation and Respiratory Diseases, reported The New York Times. At least 57 people have so far tested positive for coronavirus in the US.Shortly after the announcement, the city of San Francisco declared an emergency despite having any confirmed coronavirus cases. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump praised his administration over coronavirus preparedness, saying that the country has not reported any casualty. Trump also fired shots at opposition democrats accusing them of trying to undermine the government's efforts. The US Has been stepping up measures to contain coronavirus as the disease claimed a number of fatalities in countries outside of china including Italy and Iran.

Coronavirus outbreak: State of emergency declared in San Francisco

Brazil's health ministry said a person in Sao Paulo has been diagnosed with coronavirus as Latin America came under the grip of the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-another-person-dies-in-france-as-death-toll-rises-in-iran-282881">Also Read:&nbsp;Another person dies in France as death toll rises in Iran</a>

A 61-year-old person who had returned from Italy's Lombardy region was detected with the virus, Brazil's Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta said.

Watch Video:

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At least twenty cases are under investigation, the government said.

As fears grew of a global pandemic, World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: "We should not be too eager to declare a pandemic without a careful and clear-minded analysis of the facts."

"Using the word pandemic carelessly has no tangible benefit, but it does have a significant risk in terms of amplifying unnecessary and unjustified fear and stigma," Tedros added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-indian-air-force-to-send-c-17-globemaster-aircraft-to-wuhan-282892">Coronavirus outbreak: Indian Air Force to send C-17 Globemaster aircraft to Wuhan</a>

Meanwhile, the United States reported 57 cases of the virus with President Trump declaring that he would meet US officials for a briefing on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-emerging-faster-outside-china-who-282939">coronavirus</a> on Wednesday.

In Europe, Greece reported the first case of the virus after a woman who returned home from northern Italy became Greece's first coronavirus case. North Macedonia also confirmed its first case of the coronavirus infection.

A German couple were on Wednesday diagnosed with coronavirus in the western German state of North Rhine-Westphalia who had taken part in local carnival celebrations.

South Korea has been hit hard by the virus with 1,261 cases reported.

China's National Health Commission reported another 406 new infections on Wednesday with the death toll at 2,715.

Brazil's health ministry said a person in Sao Paulo has been diagnosed with coronavirus as Latin America came under the grip of the virus. Also Read: Another person dies in France as death toll rises in Iran A 61-year-old person who had returned from Italy's Lombardy region was detected with the virus, Brazil's Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta said.

Brazil's health ministry said a person in Sao Paulo has been diagnosed with coronavirus as Latin America came under the grip of the virus. Also Read: Another person dies in France as death toll rises in Iran A 61-year-old person who had returned from Italy's Lombardy region was detected with the virus, Brazil's Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta said. Watch Video: At least twenty cases are under investigation, the government said. As fears grew of a global pandemic, World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: "We should not be too eager to declare a pandemic without a careful and clear-minded analysis of the facts." "Using the word pandemic carelessly has no tangible benefit, but it does have a significant risk in terms of amplifying unnecessary and unjustified fear and stigma," Tedros added. Coronavirus outbreak: Indian Air Force to send C-17 Globemaster aircraft to Wuhan Meanwhile, the United States reported 57 cases of the virus with President Trump declaring that he would meet US officials for a briefing on the coronavirus on Wednesday. In Europe, Greece reported the first case of the virus after a woman who returned home from northern Italy became Greece's first coronavirus case. North Macedonia also confirmed its first case of the coronavirus infection. A German couple were on Wednesday diagnosed with coronavirus in the western German state of North Rhine-Westphalia who had taken part in local carnival celebrations. South Korea has been hit hard by the virus with 1,261 cases reported. China's National Health Commission reported another 406 new infections on Wednesday with the death toll at 2,715.

Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases

The reported cases of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-is-chinas-biggest-health-emergency-president-xi-jinping-282217">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;have now spiked to over 80,000 worldwide. While at least 2,715 people have been killed.

The virus has been quickly spreading to West Asia and Europe. In the lastest coming in Switzerland and Algeria have confirmed their first cases of coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-is-chinas-biggest-health-emergency-president-xi-jinping-282217">Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency': President Xi Jinping</a>

Moving from China, Iran, Italy and South Korea have now become virus hotbeds.

Meanwhile, the situation continues to worsen in West Asia. Iran's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi himself has tested positive for the coronavirus.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-is-chinas-biggest-health-emergency-president-xi-jinping-282217">coronavirus </a>outbreak in Iran started in the Holy city of Qom and has now spread to several cities. Iran infected cases now stand at 95 while 3 more deaths were reported taking the death toll in the country to 15.

Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: South Korea reports more than 1,100 cases

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Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Afghanistan and Iraq reported their first cases.Gulf states are now trying to cut their link with Iran amid virus spread.

Outside China, the virus has also been fast-spreading in Europe. With Italy being the worst hit. It was reported 11 deaths till now.

The virus has spread outside the northern province of Lombardy.54 new cases have been confirmed taking the infected toll to 287.

This is the highest number of infections outside Asia. The UK has warned its citizen against travelling to Italian coronavirus towns.

Facing tough questions about the government's handling of the outbreak, prime minister Giuseppe Conte tried to allay the fears. He said that the health system was excellent and robust precautionary measures are being taken to contain the virus.

Several Italian cities have been put under lockdown. An estimate of 100000 people have been put under quarantine.

Back in Asia, South Korea is also struggling to contain the outbreak.11 people have died while a total of 1,100 people have been infected.

For the first time since 2009, the country raised its highest level of alert.

This means authorities can shut down schools, suspend public gatherings and take other restrictive measures.

Even though new cases are being reported in China, it seems that the worst is over for the dragon.

Across the country, 25,000 people were discharged from hospitals after recovering from the deadly infection.

The world health organisation commended china for its actions — saying it prevented hundreds of thousands of coronavirus cases.

Meanwhile, markets continue to react badly as coronavirus spreads across the world. Stocks, oil continue to fall further on accelerating coronavirus concerns.

Wall street was seen plunging as coronavirus spread sends investors fleeing.

The reported cases of the coronavirus have now spiked to over 80,000 worldwide. While at least 2,715 people have been killed. The virus has been quickly spreading to West Asia and Europe.

The reported cases of the coronavirus have now spiked to over 80,000 worldwide. While at least 2,715 people have been killed. The virus has been quickly spreading to West Asia and Europe. In the lastest coming in Switzerland and Algeria have confirmed their first cases of coronavirus. Also read: Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency': President Xi Jinping Moving from China, Iran, Italy and South Korea have now become virus hotbeds. Meanwhile, the situation continues to worsen in West Asia. Iran's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi himself has tested positive for the coronavirus. The coronavirus outbreak in Iran started in the Holy city of Qom and has now spread to several cities. Iran infected cases now stand at 95 while 3 more deaths were reported taking the death toll in the country to 15. Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: South Korea reports more than 1,100 cases Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Afghanistan and Iraq reported their first cases.Gulf states are now trying to cut their link with Iran amid virus spread. Outside China, the virus has also been fast-spreading in Europe. With Italy being the worst hit. It was reported 11 deaths till now. The virus has spread outside the northern province of Lombardy.54 new cases have been confirmed taking the infected toll to 287. This is the highest number of infections outside Asia. The UK has warned its citizen against travelling to Italian coronavirus towns. Facing tough questions about the government's handling of the outbreak, prime minister Giuseppe Conte tried to allay the fears. He said that the health system was excellent and robust precautionary measures are being taken to contain the virus. Several Italian cities have been put under lockdown. An estimate of 100000 people have been put under quarantine. Back in Asia, South Korea is also struggling to contain the outbreak.11 people have died while a total of 1,100 people have been infected. For the first time since 2009, the country raised its highest level of alert. This means authorities can shut down schools, suspend public gatherings and take other restrictive measures. Even though new cases are being reported in China, it seems that the worst is over for the dragon. Across the country, 25,000 people were discharged from hospitals after recovering from the deadly infection. The world health organisation commended china for its actions — saying it prevented hundreds of thousands of coronavirus cases. Meanwhile, markets continue to react badly as coronavirus spreads across the world. Stocks, oil continue to fall further on accelerating coronavirus concerns. Wall street was seen plunging as coronavirus spread sends investors fleeing.

Coronavirus outbreak: 2,715 killed, reported cases spike to over 80,000 

France reported the first death of its citizen from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-and-japans-relationship-thawing-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-282857">coronavirus</a> after a&nbsp;man died in Paris hospital, the health ministry said even as the death toll in virus-hit Iran rose to 19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-2715-killed-reported-cases-spike-to-over-80000-282756">Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak - 2,715 killed, reported cases spike to over 80,000</a>&nbsp;

The French health ministry said the 60-year-old died after being admitted in hospital in a serious condition.

The death toll as a result of coronavirus has risen to two in France. Earlier, an 80-year-old Chinese tourist had died in mid-February.

Watch Video:

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Meanwhile, the deaths in Iran took a political turn after President Hassan Rouhani accused the United States on Wednesday of trying to spread "fear" over the virus outbreak.

"We shouldn't let America mount a new virus on top of coronavirus that is called... extreme fear," Rouhani said, after US secretary of state Mike Pompeo accused Iran of suppressing information.

Iran reported four more coronavirus deaths among 44 new cases, taking the total number of fatalities due to the virus to 19 and infections to 139.&nbsp;

In Austria, authorities allowed tourists to leave the Grand Hotel Europa in Innsbruck after an Italian receptionist tested positive for the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-hong-kong-schools-to-remain-shut-until-easter-holidays-282768">Also Read: Hong Kong schools to remain shut until Easter holidays</a>

The virus has especially hit Italy where eleven people have died due to the virus.

A US soldier stationed in South Korea has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The country has reported 1,000 cases of the virus which has rapidly spread in parts of Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

In Europe, the virus has spread to Austria, Croatia and Switzerland including Italy which has been the worst hit.

The virus has killed 2,715 people and infected over 78,000 in China so far.

France reported the first death of its citizen from coronavirus after a man died in Paris hospital, the health ministry said even as the death toll in virus-hit Iran rose to 19.

France reported the first death of its citizen from coronavirus after a man died in Paris hospital, the health ministry said even as the death toll in virus-hit Iran rose to 19. Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak - 2,715 killed, reported cases spike to over 80,000 The French health ministry said the 60-year-old died after being admitted in hospital in a serious condition. The death toll as a result of coronavirus has risen to two in France. Earlier, an 80-year-old Chinese tourist had died in mid-February. Watch Video: Meanwhile, the deaths in Iran took a political turn after President Hassan Rouhani accused the United States on Wednesday of trying to spread "fear" over the virus outbreak. "We shouldn't let America mount a new virus on top of coronavirus that is called... extreme fear," Rouhani said, after US secretary of state Mike Pompeo accused Iran of suppressing information. Iran reported four more coronavirus deaths among 44 new cases, taking the total number of fatalities due to the virus to 19 and infections to 139. In Austria, authorities allowed tourists to leave the Grand Hotel Europa in Innsbruck after an Italian receptionist tested positive for the virus. Also Read: Hong Kong schools to remain shut until Easter holidays The virus has especially hit Italy where eleven people have died due to the virus. A US soldier stationed in South Korea has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The country has reported 1,000 cases of the virus which has rapidly spread in parts of Asia, Europe and the Middle East. In Europe, the virus has spread to Austria, Croatia and Switzerland including Italy which has been the worst hit. The virus has killed 2,715 people and infected over 78,000 in China so far.

Coronavirus outbreak: Another person dies in France as death toll rises in Iran

Bitter territorial disputes and long-running grievances dating back to World War II have marred the Japan-China relationship for decades. During WWII, the Japanese Imperial Army was responsible for a 1937 campaign of rape, murder and looting that became known as the Nanjing Massacre, in which an estimated 300,000 people died, CNN report said.

Bitter territorial disputes and long-running grievances dating back to World War II have marred the Japan-China relationship for decades. During WWII, the Japanese Imperial Army was responsible for a 1937 campaign of rape, murder and looting that became known as the Nanjing Massacre, in which an estimated 300,000 people died, CNN report said. Japanese air strikes during the war also inflicted severe damage on Chinese civilians in Chongqing, killing an estimated 32,000 people between February 1938 and August 1943, the report added. China and Japan have often argued over how the past should be remembered. Successive Japanese governments have apologized, with some prime ministers personally expressing regret for Japan's actions in the war, but many Chinese believe Japan has not adequately acknowledged the extent of its brutal occupation of the country during WWII. With a looming global economic slump and racist coronavirus-related assaults and slurs spreading faster than the outbreak, for now, China and Japan appear to be focusing on what they share in common and what benefits both parties.

China and Japan's relationship thawing amid coronavirus outbreak 

Switzerland reported its first case of new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/markets-end-lower-for-third-session-on-coronavirus-worries-282681">coronavirus</a> on Tuesday as the death toll in Iran rose to 15 with nearly hundred infected in the country.

Watch Video:

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As the virus spread in Iran, The United Arab Emirates halted all passenger and cargo flights to and from Iran.

Iran had reported the first two deaths due to the virus in Qom last week with the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi admitting he too was infected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-hotel-in-tenerife-locked-down-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-282682">Also Read: Spanish hotel in Tenerife locked down amid coronavirus outbreak</a>

Iran has shut schools, universities and cultural centres until the end of the week due to the virus as the &nbsp;United States expressed concern that Iran may have "suppressed vital details" about the outbreak.

"All nations including Iran should tell the truth about the coronavirus and cooperate with international aid organisations," &nbsp;US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;Switzerland's federal health office confirmed first case of coronavirus in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongers-set-up-face-mask-factory-amid-coronavirus-panic-buying-282539">Also Read: Hong Kongers set up face mask factory amid coronavirus panic buying</a>

The case was found in the Italian-speaking Ticino canton on the border with Italy.

The head of a joint WHO-China mission of experts said that the world is "simply not ready" to rein in the new coronavirus outbreak.

"You have to be ready to manage this at a larger scale... and it has to be done fast," Bruce Aylward told reporters in Geneva.

Switzerland reported its first case of new coronavirus on Tuesday as the death toll in Iran rose to 15 with nearly hundred infected in the country. Watch Video: As the virus spread in Iran, The United Arab Emirates halted all passenger and cargo flights to and from Iran.

Switzerland reported its first case of new coronavirus on Tuesday as the death toll in Iran rose to 15 with nearly hundred infected in the country. Watch Video: As the virus spread in Iran, The United Arab Emirates halted all passenger and cargo flights to and from Iran. Iran had reported the first two deaths due to the virus in Qom last week with the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi admitting he too was infected. Also Read: Spanish hotel in Tenerife locked down amid coronavirus outbreak Iran has shut schools, universities and cultural centres until the end of the week due to the virus as the United States expressed concern that Iran may have "suppressed vital details" about the outbreak. "All nations including Iran should tell the truth about the coronavirus and cooperate with international aid organisations," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said. Meanwhile, Switzerland's federal health office confirmed first case of coronavirus in the country. Also Read: Hong Kongers set up face mask factory amid coronavirus panic buying The case was found in the Italian-speaking Ticino canton on the border with Italy. The head of a joint WHO-China mission of experts said that the world is "simply not ready" to rein in the new coronavirus outbreak. "You have to be ready to manage this at a larger scale... and it has to be done fast," Bruce Aylward told reporters in Geneva.

Iran death toll rises as Switzerland reports first coronavirus case

Two more Iranians infected with coronavirus have died, media website Eghtesaonline said on Tuesday, taking to 14 the toll in the Islamic Republic, which has the highest tally of deaths outside China, where the virus emerged late last year.

Two more Iranians infected with coronavirus have died, media website Eghtesaonline said on Tuesday, taking to 14 the toll in the Islamic Republic, which has the highest tally of deaths outside China, where the virus emerged late last year. "Tests showed they had the new coronavirus," the head of the Medical Science University of Saveh said, according to the website. Iran's state TV said a team from the World Health Organisation (WHO) will arrive in the country on Tuesday. On Monday, the health ministry said 61 people had been infected in Iran and that around 900 other cases were suspected. Also Read: China, South Korea, Iran worst-hit from COVID-19, WHO warns of pandemic Iran has yet to say how many people it has quarantined but the semi-official Mehr news agency said 320 people had been hospitalised in the Shi'ite holy city of Qom, where Tehran confirmed its first two deaths last week. The outbreak in Iran comes as its clerical rulers face mounting US pressure that has hit the economy hard. Washington exited Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers in 2018 and has reimposed sanctions on the country. The outbreak threatens to isolate Iran even further, with several countries suspending flights after coronavirus cases in travellers from Iran were confirmed in Canada, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan and Iraq. Also Read: Washington pledges $1 billion for coronavirus vaccine as pandemic risks grow Some neighbouring countries have closed their borders. An airport representative said on Tuesday that Dubai International Airport has suspended all flights to and from the Islamic Republic, except for Tehran. Six Arab countries have reported their first cases of coronavirus, with those infected all having links to Iran. Kuwait said on Tuesday the total number of infected people there had risen to eight. Bahrain said it also had eight cases, four of whom were Saudi nationals and two Bahrainis. To prevent the spread of the virus, Iranian authorities have ordered the nationwide cancellation of concerts, soccer matches, closures of schools and universities in many provinces as a precaution.

Iran's coronavirus death toll reaches 14

The death toll from China's new coronavirus epidemic jumped to 2,117 after 108 more people died in Hubei province.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-poses-risks-to-fragile-recovery-in-global-economy-imf-281671">Also Read: IMF warns of risk to global economy from coronavirus&nbsp;</a>

More than 74,500 people have now been infected with the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-department-of-pharma-asks-dgft-to-restrict-export-of-12-drug-ingredients-formulations-281654">coronavirus</a> nationwide.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinatowns-across-the-world-turn-into-ghost-towns-281682/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, two people died in Iran after testing positive on Wednesday, the health ministry said. It is the first deaths from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-chinese-ship-docks-at-chennai-port-2-crew-members-tested-for-infection-281679">virus</a> in the Middle East.

The coronavirus has now claimed the lives of eight people outside mainland China which has now spread to at least 29 countries.

The United Arab Emirates last month had become the first country in the Middle East to report cases of coronavirus.

In China, President Xi greater protection of medical staff fighting the virus after the death of prominent doctors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/students-welfare-better-off-in-china-pak-minister-tells-angry-parents-demanding-evacuation-from-wuhan-281668">Also Read: Students' welfare better off in China, Pak minister tells angry parents&nbsp;</a>

At least seven doctors have died fighting the virus. Xi said China must "strengthen efforts to relieve the stress of medical workers, provide them with daily necessities, arrange time for their rest and give them encouragement."

As the virus continued to cause worldwide concern, several hundred passengers on cruise ship the Diamond Princes who were stranded off Yokohama in Japan disembarked even as health officials said 79 new cases had been detected.

At least 621 coronavirus cases were detected on the cruise ship off Yokhoma, authorities said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The death toll from China's new coronavirus epidemic jumped to 2,117 after 108 more people died in Hubei province. Also Read: IMF warns of risk to global economy from coronavirus More than 74,500 people have now been infected with the new coronavirus nationwide.

The death toll from China's new coronavirus epidemic jumped to 2,117 after 108 more people died in Hubei province. Also Read: IMF warns of risk to global economy from coronavirus More than 74,500 people have now been infected with the new coronavirus nationwide. Watch Video: Meanwhile, two people died in Iran after testing positive on Wednesday, the health ministry said. It is the first deaths from the virus in the Middle East. The coronavirus has now claimed the lives of eight people outside mainland China which has now spread to at least 29 countries. The United Arab Emirates last month had become the first country in the Middle East to report cases of coronavirus. In China, President Xi greater protection of medical staff fighting the virus after the death of prominent doctors. Also Read: Students' welfare better off in China, Pak minister tells angry parents At least seven doctors have died fighting the virus. Xi said China must "strengthen efforts to relieve the stress of medical workers, provide them with daily necessities, arrange time for their rest and give them encouragement." As the virus continued to cause worldwide concern, several hundred passengers on cruise ship the Diamond Princes who were stranded off Yokohama in Japan disembarked even as health officials said 79 new cases had been detected. At least 621 coronavirus cases were detected on the cruise ship off Yokhoma, authorities said.

Coronavirus outbreak: China's Hubei province reports 108 more deaths; 2 dead in Iran

The number of new cases of a coronavirus in China fell slightly, more than three weeks after the outbreak's epicentre was locked down, and a Chinese tourist died from the virus in France, the first fatality in Europe.

The number of new cases of a coronavirus in China fell slightly, more than three weeks after the outbreak's epicentre was locked down, and a Chinese tourist died from the virus in France, the first fatality in Europe. The coronavirus, thought to have emerged at a wildlife market in the central Chinese province of Hubei, has presented the ruling Communist Party with the huge challenge of halting its spread while at the same time minimising damage to the world's second-largest economy. Beijing's latest figures showed 68,500 cases of the illness and 1,665 deaths, most of them in Hubei. The National Health Commission on Sunday reported 2,009 new cases, down from 2,641 the previous day, and 142 new deaths, just one lower than the 143 the previous day. All but four of the new deaths were in Hubei. Also Read: France confirms first coronavirus death outside Asia as China toll rises to 1,500 The province and its capital, Wuhan, have been virtually sealed off and locked down since January 23, with schools, offices and factories shut and most travel suspended. The virus is believed to have an incubation period of 14 days which would appear to indicate it has been spreading since the lockdown was imposed. "China should strengthen the unified leadership of efforts to control the epidemic," President Xi Jinping said in comments reported by the Xinhua news agency. Outside mainland China, there have been about 500 cases in some two dozen countries and territories, with four deaths - in Japan, Chinese-ruled Hong Kong, the Philippines and now France. In the French case, an 80-year-old Chinese man died at a Paris hospital of lung infection due to the flu-like virus, authorities said on Saturday. "We have to get our health system ready to face a possible pandemic propagation of the virus, and therefore the spreading of the virus across France," said Health Minister Agnes Buzyn. Robin Thompson, an expert in mathematical epidemiology at Britain's University of Oxford, said that with nearly 50 cases in Europe, death was not surprising. "The most important thing to point out, however, is that there still hasn't been sustained person-to-person transmission in Europe," he said. [ Statues with face masks in Wuhan, the epicentre of the novel coronavirus outbreak in Hubei province, China (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Lack of urgency After an extended Lunar New Year holiday, China urgently needs to get back to work. But some cities remain in lockdown, streets are deserted, employees are nervous, and travel bans and quarantine orders are in place around the country. Those returning to Beijing from the holiday have been ordered to undergo a 14-day self-quarantine to prevent the spread of the virus. Many factories are yet to re-open, disrupting supply chains in China and beyond for everyone from smartphone makers to car manufacturers. While there has been some hope expressed this week that the disease may be peaking in China, numbers keep rising and a trend has been hard to discern, especially after a reclassification that widened the definition of cases. World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it was impossible to tell where the epidemic will spread. "We are concerned by the continued increase in the number of cases in China," Tedros told the Munich Security Conference in Germany. "We are concerned by the lack of urgency in finding the response from the international community. Most of all, we are concerned about the potential havoc this virus could wreak in countries with weaker health systems," he added. Also WHO defends China's handling of coronavirus as death toll rises to 1,665 Knocking growth The biggest cluster outside China has been on a cruise ship, the Diamond Princess, quarantined off Japan's Yokohama, with 70 more cases reported on Sunday. That took the total out of about 3,700 passengers and crew onboard to 355. Those testing positive are sent to the hospital. The United States said on Saturday it plans to send an aircraft to pick up American passengers and take them back home where they face another two weeks of isolation "out of an abundance of caution". Hong Kong said it planned to do the same for some 330 of its residents, while Canada said it too would send a plane for its citizens on the vessel. Another cruise ship, the MS Westerdam, finally docked in Cambodia on Thursday after being rejected by ports in several other countries and territories. The ship was believed to be free of the virus but an 83-year-old American woman from it tested positive on landing in Malaysia, health authorities there said. The sickness, now officially labelled Covid-19, has killed about 2 per cent of those infected. Cases have spread faster than other respiratory viruses this century. The economic ripple effects go far beyond China. White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said the coronavirus might knock two- to three-tenths of a per cent of US growth in the first quarter. The sporting world has suffered too. In the latest disruption, Chinese gymnasts were forced to cancel attendance at next week's World Cup in Melbourne because of Australian travel curbs.

Chinese tourist dies in France as coronavirus cases show slight decline

China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sacked-senior-officials-over-coronavirus-outbreak-280572">coronavirus</a> with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-qantas-virgin-atlantic-among-many-who-banned-flights-to-china-among-coronavirus-outbreak-280547">Also Read:&nbsp;United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic extend flight ban to China</a>

According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-coronavirus-spike-in-deaths-new-cases-280598/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, Japan has confirmed the death of an 80-year-old woman who was suffering from coronavirus. It is the third fatality outside of mainland China.&nbsp;

Earlier this month the Philippines was the first to confirm the death of a 44-year-old man followed by Hong Kong.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-of-couples-are-married-in-mass-wedding-ceremony-braving-the-fears-of-ncov-279212">In Pics: Couples get married in South Korea braving coronavirus fears</a>

China and the WHO claims that the surge in cases is due to a change in the way of diagnosing the virus.

Health officials in Hubei said they started to count clinically diagnosed cases to ensure that patients get treated as early as possible instead of having to wait for laboratory tests to confirm they have the COVID-19 disease.

Mike Ryan, head of WHO's health emergencies programme, said: "We've seen this spike in the number of cases reported in China, but this does not represent a significant change in the trajectory of the outbreak."

"Outside the cases on the Diamond Princess cruise ship we are not seeing a dramatic increase in transmission outside China," Ryan added.

As the virus continued to spread, Larry Kudlow, the director of the National Economic Council said he was "disappointed" with the lack of "transparency" from Chinese officials over the virus.

"We're more than willing to work with the UN (and) WHO on this and they won't let us. I don't know what their motives are. I do know that apparently more and more people are suffering over there."

"Is the Politburo really being honest with us?" he asked.

China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases. Also Read: United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic extend flight ban to China According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases. Also Read: United, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic extend flight ban to China According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide. Watch Video: Meanwhile, Japan has confirmed the death of an 80-year-old woman who was suffering from coronavirus. It is the third fatality outside of mainland China. Earlier this month the Philippines was the first to confirm the death of a 44-year-old man followed by Hong Kong. In Pics: Couples get married in South Korea braving coronavirus fears China and the WHO claims that the surge in cases is due to a change in the way of diagnosing the virus. Health officials in Hubei said they started to count clinically diagnosed cases to ensure that patients get treated as early as possible instead of having to wait for laboratory tests to confirm they have the COVID-19 disease. Mike Ryan, head of WHO's health emergencies programme, said: "We've seen this spike in the number of cases reported in China, but this does not represent a significant change in the trajectory of the outbreak." "Outside the cases on the Diamond Princess cruise ship we are not seeing a dramatic increase in transmission outside China," Ryan added. As the virus continued to spread, Larry Kudlow, the director of the National Economic Council said he was "disappointed" with the lack of "transparency" from Chinese officials over the virus. "We're more than willing to work with the UN (and) WHO on this and they won't let us. I don't know what their motives are. I do know that apparently more and more people are suffering over there." "Is the Politburo really being honest with us?" he asked.

China's coronavirus death toll rises to over 1,480; Japan confirms first death

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