Across the nation, COVID-19 cases are surging and the omicron variant is spreading, throwing the scheduling of schools, concerts and sports leagues into question. Just days away from a holiday weekend, Americans are also grappling with whether to change their traveling or gathering plans.

Millions are forging ahead, but, for many, a sense of unease has crept in.

“My entire family is pretty uncertain about what to do there, what the rules should be,” said Max Farmer, 24, who lives in San Francisco. “With omicron, there’s just a lot of uncertainty.”

Farmer has plans to go to Minnesota this month and see his family for the first time in three years. But he said he was worried about the possibility of getting them sick, particularly a sister who was pregnant.

“It’s definitely something that goes through your head while you’re travelling,” he said.

More than 109 million Americans are expected to travel between Dec. 23 and Jan. 2, a 34% increase from last year, according to AAA. The number of airline passengers alone is projected to rise 184% from last year.

On Sunday, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, said that it was OK for Americans to travel and gather, but he strongly emphasised that people take precautions.

“If you’re vaccinated and you’re boosted, and you take care when you go into congregate settings like airports to make sure you continually wear your mask, you should be OK,” Fauci said on “Meet the Press” on NBC. He urged air travellers to remain masked during flights.

Caiden Nason, a political campaigner in San Francisco, said he would be flying to see family in rural Southern California. “I’m a little nervous,” he said. But he added: “I just got tested today. My parents will all get tested, too. I will double mask on the aeroplane.”

Sally Avery, a native of Columbus, Ohio, who now lives in France, was in Cleveland to visit her daughter. She said the uncertainty over the COVID-19 surge caused her to leave early and miss the holidays with her daughter. If France went into lockdown, she said at Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland, “I could be here for a long time, and I can’t do that.”

Monica Neal of Smyrna, Georgia, took a trip to South Africa on Thanksgiving, but she said she ended up getting stuck there for days because of the omicron variant. She cancelled a trip to Europe this month.

“I have travelled internationally twice this year, and I’ve fortunately been very safe and very healthy,” she said. “I didn’t want to push that luck.”

Many others said they had no plans to adjust. Blake Howe, a software engineer in Roswell, Georgia, said he was going on a cruise in January for his 30th birthday. He planned the trip months ago and received his shots and the booster.

Howe said he knew that cruise liners had been breeding grounds for COVID-19 in the past, but he’s not concerned this time. “They’re requiring full vaccination, as well as the booster,” he said, adding that “they’re at reduced capacity on the ship.”

Some who were interviewed weren’t planning to travel anywhere — and were happy to stay put.

“I wouldn’t want to go anywhere right now,” said Monica Rokes, a 69-year-old retired bank teller in Camden, Maine, who was shopping in the town of Rockland. She said she had started taking more precautions in recent days — washing her hands more often, using hand sanitiser, avoiding large crowds and groups of people, and wearing her mask.

“It’s very frightening,” she said of the recent surge. “I’m doing everything I can do to stay safe.”

For those planning to attend large gatherings, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is still recommending that everyone get vaccinated before getting together with multiple generations of the same family. For indoor gatherings, the CDC is asking people to consider taking an at-home rapid test beforehand.

Eugene DeMarco, 35, who has a bakery stand at the West Side Market in Cleveland, said that his family typically had a big holiday get-together and that this year would be no different.

“We aren’t concerned at all,” said DeMarco, who is unvaccinated and was not wearing a mask. “About 60 or so of our family will be getting together. The COVID-19 infections are the reality, and you have to get used to it. Can’t be driven by fear.”

J’Rycee Johnson, a 20-year-old in Baltimore who works for a T-shirt company, said that he didn’t have extensive plans but that nothing was changing for him, either, adding that he was unconcerned by the virus.

“I don’t take vaccines at all,” he said, citing his spiritual belief that God heals. “That’s basically what it comes down to for me.”

In Springfield, Missouri, Mary Ann Johnson, 57, is looking forward to celebrating with her family on Christmas Eve, even though she’s aware that the omicron variant is spreading quickly.

She worries about contracting the virus from the general public or from clients at her workplace; she works with individuals who have been arrested in connection with impaired driving. But she said she felt comfortable with just her family: “all three of my kids, all five of the grandsons and two foster grandsons.”

Still, Johnson is making one adjustment: No hugs or kisses, she said.

“My daughter-in-law has lupus, so we are extremely cautious with her,” Johnson said. She added: “We all know how we feel. With the virus, that’s good enough.”

Across the nation, COVID-19 cases are surging and the omicron variant is spreading, throwing the scheduling of schools, concerts and sports leagues into question.

Across the nation, COVID-19 cases are surging and the omicron variant is spreading, throwing the scheduling of schools, concerts and sports leagues into question. Just days away from a holiday weekend, Americans are also grappling with whether to change their traveling or gathering plans. Millions are forging ahead, but, for many, a sense of unease has crept in. “My entire family is pretty uncertain about what to do there, what the rules should be,” said Max Farmer, 24, who lives in San Francisco. “With omicron, there’s just a lot of uncertainty.” Farmer has plans to go to Minnesota this month and see his family for the first time in three years. But he said he was worried about the possibility of getting them sick, particularly a sister who was pregnant. “It’s definitely something that goes through your head while you’re travelling,” he said. More than 109 million Americans are expected to travel between Dec. 23 and Jan. 2, a 34% increase from last year, according to AAA. The number of airline passengers alone is projected to rise 184% from last year. On Sunday, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, said that it was OK for Americans to travel and gather, but he strongly emphasised that people take precautions. “If you’re vaccinated and you’re boosted, and you take care when you go into congregate settings like airports to make sure you continually wear your mask, you should be OK,” Fauci said on “Meet the Press” on NBC. He urged air travellers to remain masked during flights. Caiden Nason, a political campaigner in San Francisco, said he would be flying to see family in rural Southern California. “I’m a little nervous,” he said. But he added: “I just got tested today. My parents will all get tested, too. I will double mask on the aeroplane.” Sally Avery, a native of Columbus, Ohio, who now lives in France, was in Cleveland to visit her daughter. She said the uncertainty over the COVID-19 surge caused her to leave early and miss the holidays with her daughter. If France went into lockdown, she said at Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland, “I could be here for a long time, and I can’t do that.” Monica Neal of Smyrna, Georgia, took a trip to South Africa on Thanksgiving, but she said she ended up getting stuck there for days because of the omicron variant. She cancelled a trip to Europe this month. “I have travelled internationally twice this year, and I’ve fortunately been very safe and very healthy,” she said. “I didn’t want to push that luck.” Many others said they had no plans to adjust. Blake Howe, a software engineer in Roswell, Georgia, said he was going on a cruise in January for his 30th birthday. He planned the trip months ago and received his shots and the booster. Howe said he knew that cruise liners had been breeding grounds for COVID-19 in the past, but he’s not concerned this time. “They’re requiring full vaccination, as well as the booster,” he said, adding that “they’re at reduced capacity on the ship.” Some who were interviewed weren’t planning to travel anywhere — and were happy to stay put. “I wouldn’t want to go anywhere right now,” said Monica Rokes, a 69-year-old retired bank teller in Camden, Maine, who was shopping in the town of Rockland. She said she had started taking more precautions in recent days — washing her hands more often, using hand sanitiser, avoiding large crowds and groups of people, and wearing her mask. “It’s very frightening,” she said of the recent surge. “I’m doing everything I can do to stay safe.” For those planning to attend large gatherings, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is still recommending that everyone get vaccinated before getting together with multiple generations of the same family. For indoor gatherings, the CDC is asking people to consider taking an at-home rapid test beforehand. Eugene DeMarco, 35, who has a bakery stand at the West Side Market in Cleveland, said that his family typically had a big holiday get-together and that this year would be no different. “We aren’t concerned at all,” said DeMarco, who is unvaccinated and was not wearing a mask. “About 60 or so of our family will be getting together. The COVID-19 infections are the reality, and you have to get used to it. Can’t be driven by fear.” J’Rycee Johnson, a 20-year-old in Baltimore who works for a T-shirt company, said that he didn’t have extensive plans but that nothing was changing for him, either, adding that he was unconcerned by the virus. “I don’t take vaccines at all,” he said, citing his spiritual belief that God heals. “That’s basically what it comes down to for me.” In Springfield, Missouri, Mary Ann Johnson, 57, is looking forward to celebrating with her family on Christmas Eve, even though she’s aware that the omicron variant is spreading quickly. She worries about contracting the virus from the general public or from clients at her workplace; she works with individuals who have been arrested in connection with impaired driving. But she said she felt comfortable with just her family: “all three of my kids, all five of the grandsons and two foster grandsons.” Still, Johnson is making one adjustment: No hugs or kisses, she said. “My daughter-in-law has lupus, so we are extremely cautious with her,” Johnson said. She added: “We all know how we feel. With the virus, that’s good enough.”

‘A lot of uncertainty’: COVID-19 surge puts many Americans on edge about travelling

As the world is inching towards the end of the year, the coronavirus cases in the US hit a new record as the country officials reported more than 150,000 cases in a day.

The rise in cases comes at a time when the country is awaiting the final and formal announcement of the US election results, in which Joe Biden has been informally announced as the President-elect.

The local authorities have claimed that the rise in cases is majorly due to small private gatherings in the country. With the rise in cases and a holiday season coming up, experts are now once again urging people to not to go out and celebrate and instead&nbsp;"buy a small turkey," said&nbsp;economist Diane Swonk of Grant Thornton.

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"Delay celebrations and demand our elected officials do more for those suffering through no fault of their own. Masks are disposable; people are not," he said.

Noticing the rising cases and taking a cue from Europe. several US cities such as New York and Chicago have decided to reimpose stay-at-home restrictions for their residents.&nbsp;

"We need to fight back this weekend, NYC. We need to get this virus under control," the New York Mayor said while imposing non-mandatory stay-at-home restrictions, as the city reported more than 121 patients in the hospital, 916 cases with the infection rate crossing a 2.83 per cent on a seven-day average.

"COVID-19 fatigue is one thing. COVID-19 denial is another," New York governor Andrew Cuomo said. "Remember, you don’t just put yourself at risk when you host large indoor gatherings and flout the law."

"You put other people at risk, your family, your friends. Knock it off," he added.

As the world is inching towards the end of the year, the coronavirus cases in the US hit a new record as the country officials reported more than 150,000 cases in a day.

As the world is inching towards the end of the year, the coronavirus cases in the US hit a new record as the country officials reported more than 150,000 cases in a day. The rise in cases comes at a time when the country is awaiting the final and formal announcement of the US election results, in which Joe Biden has been informally announced as the President-elect. The local authorities have claimed that the rise in cases is majorly due to small private gatherings in the country. With the rise in cases and a holiday season coming up, experts are now once again urging people to not to go out and celebrate and instead "buy a small turkey," said economist Diane Swonk of Grant Thornton. × "Delay celebrations and demand our elected officials do more for those suffering through no fault of their own. Masks are disposable; people are not," he said. Noticing the rising cases and taking a cue from Europe. several US cities such as New York and Chicago have decided to reimpose stay-at-home restrictions for their residents. "We need to fight back this weekend, NYC. We need to get this virus under control," the New York Mayor said while imposing non-mandatory stay-at-home restrictions, as the city reported more than 121 patients in the hospital, 916 cases with the infection rate crossing a 2.83 per cent on a seven-day average. "COVID-19 fatigue is one thing. COVID-19 denial is another," New York governor Andrew Cuomo said. "Remember, you don’t just put yourself at risk when you host large indoor gatherings and flout the law." "You put other people at risk, your family, your friends. Knock it off," he added.

US records more than 150,000 COVID-19 cases in a day

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day.

China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-deaths-rise-for-fourth-week-new-cases-drop-5-318003">Also read|&nbsp;US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5%</a>

"I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday.

As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said.

"Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question.

"And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-52050-cases-in-a-single-day-death-toll-nears-40000-318001">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000</a>

The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. 
The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus.

"No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said.

Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-against-hiring-h1b-visa-holders-for-federal-contracts-318023">Also read|&nbsp;Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts</a>

"Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop.

"As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said.

Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. 
Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said.

"To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said.

It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said.

"As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said.

The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted.

"We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said.

"In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them.

"At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections. India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound. Also read| US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5% "I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday. As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said. "Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question. "And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said. Also read| COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000 The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus. "No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said. Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time. Also read| Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts "Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop. "As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said. Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said. "To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said. It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said. "As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said. The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted. "We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said. "In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them. "At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

US doing 'very well' against COVID-19, India has a 'tremendous problem': Trump

As a school in US state of&nbsp;Indiana&nbsp;welcomed students to the 2020-21 academic year, one of their students tested positive for coronavirus&nbsp;on the first day of class, forcing many children into quarantine.

This comes days after US President Donald Trump asked public schools to reopen, claiming it was&nbsp;safe enough.

It so happened that hours after the school started, a student got back his coronavirus report, for which he had tested positive. The incident happened at&nbsp;the Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation, 20 miles east of Indianapolis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/children-should-go-back-to-school-even-if-studies-show-they-spread-coronavirus-white-house-315870">Also read|&nbsp;Children should go back to school even if studies show they spread coronavirus: White House</a>

Administrators almost immediately started emergency protocol of isolating students and informing all the parents and other people who had come in contact with the students.

Superintendent Harold Olin then sent out an email to the parents of all the students informing them about the situation, and urged everyone to self-isolate themselves for the next 14 days.

The kid who tested positive was isolated in the nurse's ward, and all the halls and classrooms were sanitised on emergency basis. The people who came in contact with the infected student can only re-join the school after 14 days of quarantine. However, all the students and faculty members who were not in close contact with the infected student were able to continue in-person classes from next day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-be-comfortable-sending-my-son-to-school-trump-backs-reopening-schools-315428">Also read|&nbsp;I will be comfortable sending my son to school: Trump backs reopening schools</a>

The school authorities reported that the school did&nbsp;offer students the option for online classes&nbsp;at the start of the new academic year, but only about 600 students&nbsp;chose to stay home for remote learning.&nbsp;

As a school in US state of Indiana welcomed students to the 2020-21 academic year, one of their students tested positive for coronavirus on the first day of class, forcing many children into quarantine.

As a school in US state of Indiana welcomed students to the 2020-21 academic year, one of their students tested positive for coronavirus on the first day of class, forcing many children into quarantine. This comes days after US President Donald Trump asked public schools to reopen, claiming it was safe enough. It so happened that hours after the school started, a student got back his coronavirus report, for which he had tested positive. The incident happened at the Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation, 20 miles east of Indianapolis. Also read| Children should go back to school even if studies show they spread coronavirus: White House Administrators almost immediately started emergency protocol of isolating students and informing all the parents and other people who had come in contact with the students. Superintendent Harold Olin then sent out an email to the parents of all the students informing them about the situation, and urged everyone to self-isolate themselves for the next 14 days. The kid who tested positive was isolated in the nurse's ward, and all the halls and classrooms were sanitised on emergency basis. The people who came in contact with the infected student can only re-join the school after 14 days of quarantine. However, all the students and faculty members who were not in close contact with the infected student were able to continue in-person classes from next day. Also read| I will be comfortable sending my son to school: Trump backs reopening schools The school authorities reported that the school did offer students the option for online classes at the start of the new academic year, but only about 600 students chose to stay home for remote learning.

On the first day of school, a student in US' Indiana tests positive for coronavirus

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump`s national security adviser(NSA)&nbsp;Robert O'Brien has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, a source familiar with the situation said on Monday.

The White House has said staff is regularly tested for the virus, and O'Brien is the most senior official to be found positive amid the pandemic.

O’Brien has been isolating at home and working remotely after apparently contracting the virus at a family event, Bloomberg earlier reported citing unnamed sources.

Politico separately reported it was unclear how O’Brien was exposed to the virus or how much contact he had recently with Trump in person.

Representatives for the White House and the National Security Council could not be immediately reached for comment.

A US&nbsp;military member who works at the White House as a valet tested positive for coronavirus in May as did Vice President Mike Pence`s press secretary.

US President Donald Trump`s national security adviser(NSA) Robert O'Brien has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, a source familiar with the situation said on Monday.

US President Donald Trump`s national security adviser(NSA) Robert O'Brien has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, a source familiar with the situation said on Monday. The White House has said staff is regularly tested for the virus, and O'Brien is the most senior official to be found positive amid the pandemic. O’Brien has been isolating at home and working remotely after apparently contracting the virus at a family event, Bloomberg earlier reported citing unnamed sources. Politico separately reported it was unclear how O’Brien was exposed to the virus or how much contact he had recently with Trump in person. Representatives for the White House and the National Security Council could not be immediately reached for comment. A US military member who works at the White House as a valet tested positive for coronavirus in May as did Vice President Mike Pence`s press secretary.

Trump's NSA Robert O'Brien tests positive for coronavirus

In the ongoing debate of whether or not American kids should return to schools and colleges, the US President Donald Trump has been a concrete supporter of reopening the schools.&nbsp;

In a recent interview, Trump has assured the nation that he would be comfortable sending his 14-year old son Barron and his 10 grandchildren&nbsp;to school this fall, amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-touts-five-word-memory-test-as-showing-he-is-cognitively-there-315334">Also read:&nbsp;Trump touts five-word memory test as showing he is 'cognitively there'</a>

“I am comfortable with that, and we do have a national strategy, but, as you know, ultimately, it’s up to the governors of the states,” Trump said.

Trump has said that he want to see all schools reopened for the fall session, or he would consider rolling back some of the school funding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-sees-china-as-a-threat-and-ties-between-us-india-strengthened-says-nikki-haley-315274">Also read: Trump sees China as a threat and ties between US-India strengthened, says Nikki Haley</a>

However, some health experts and parents are not on the same page as Trump as they believe that it would be dangerous to send children back to school, amid surge in number of positive coronavirus cases in the country.

Trump, however, claims that his administration would reopen the schools safely and carefully. “I would like to see the schools open 100 percent. And we’ll do it safely. We’ll do it carefully,” he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-calls-trump-first-racist-president-of-the-united-states-315267">Also read:&nbsp;Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States</a>

He also claimed that his administration is looking at researches to determine whether or not children transmit the deadly coronavirus as easily as adults, and how vulnerable children are to the deadly virus.

Now, they don't catch it easily. They don't bring it home easily, and if they do catch it, they get better fast. We're looking at that fact. That is a factor, and we're looking at it strongly," Trump told reporters in a press conference.

In the ongoing debate of whether or not American kids should return to schools and colleges, the US President Donald Trump has been a concrete supporter of reopening the schools.

In the ongoing debate of whether or not American kids should return to schools and colleges, the US President Donald Trump has been a concrete supporter of reopening the schools. In a recent interview, Trump has assured the nation that he would be comfortable sending his 14-year old son Barron and his 10 grandchildren to school this fall, amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Trump touts five-word memory test as showing he is 'cognitively there' “I am comfortable with that, and we do have a national strategy, but, as you know, ultimately, it’s up to the governors of the states,” Trump said. Trump has said that he want to see all schools reopened for the fall session, or he would consider rolling back some of the school funding. Also read: Trump sees China as a threat and ties between US-India strengthened, says Nikki Haley However, some health experts and parents are not on the same page as Trump as they believe that it would be dangerous to send children back to school, amid surge in number of positive coronavirus cases in the country. Trump, however, claims that his administration would reopen the schools safely and carefully. “I would like to see the schools open 100 percent. And we’ll do it safely. We’ll do it carefully,” he said. Also read: Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States He also claimed that his administration is looking at researches to determine whether or not children transmit the deadly coronavirus as easily as adults, and how vulnerable children are to the deadly virus. Now, they don't catch it easily. They don't bring it home easily, and if they do catch it, they get better fast. We're looking at that fact. That is a factor, and we're looking at it strongly," Trump told reporters in a press conference.

I will be comfortable sending my son to school: Trump backs reopening schools

As the WHO reported a record single-day spike, more than half of the cases were reported from the United States of America.

The US reported&nbsp;9,747 new cases over the last 24-hour period, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.

With 442 new fatalities reported, the death toll of the country now stands at&nbsp;135,171.&nbsp;

Florida, alone,&nbsp;has recorded over 15,000 new cases in the past 24 hours on Sunday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-florida-records-15000-cases-in-one-day-shatters-new-yorks-record-312812">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Florida records 15,000 cases in one day; shatters New York's record</a>

However, this was not the record high single-day spike. The highest single day spike was on Saturday when&nbsp;66,528 new cases were reported.

The US now has&nbsp;3,301,820 total infections, according to the data released by&nbsp;Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

The surge in the cases is being seen as a result of the trials of reopening the economy, which led to people flocking on the streets and beaches without taking proper safety measures.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the WHO reported a record single-day spike, more than half of the cases were reported from the United States of America. The US reported 9,747 new cases over the last 24-hour period, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.

As the WHO reported a record single-day spike, more than half of the cases were reported from the United States of America. The US reported 9,747 new cases over the last 24-hour period, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University. With 442 new fatalities reported, the death toll of the country now stands at 135,171. Florida, alone, has recorded over 15,000 new cases in the past 24 hours on Sunday. Also read: COVID-19: Florida records 15,000 cases in one day; shatters New York's record However, this was not the record high single-day spike. The highest single day spike was on Saturday when 66,528 new cases were reported. The US now has 3,301,820 total infections, according to the data released by Johns Hopkins University. The surge in the cases is being seen as a result of the trials of reopening the economy, which led to people flocking on the streets and beaches without taking proper safety measures. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID 19: US reports 9,747 new cases; death toll crosses 135,000

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported&nbsp;219,983 new positive tests in the last 24 hours, taking the global tally of coronavirus cases above 12.3 million.

The death toll increased by 5,286 in the past 24 hours, taking the global tally of deaths caused by the novel coronavirus to 556,335, the WHO said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-spotted-in-a-mask-during-his-visit-to-a-military-hospital-312624">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump spotted in a mask during his visit to a military medical facility</a>

As per the organization's reports,&nbsp;132,683 new positive tests were reported in the United States and a further 69,184 new cases were also confirmed in Brazil in the past 24 hours.

Meanwhile, Brazilian President's family has tested negative for coronavirus, while he tested positive few days ago. In India, actor father-son duo, Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan tested positive for coronavirus in late hours on Saturday night (IST).

WHO, to help people increase their immunity, is urging people to quit smoking during the pandemic.&nbsp;WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the launch of the new Access Initiative for Quitting Tobacco initiative by the WHO. The aim of this initiative is to help more than one billion people worldwide stop smoking amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage.

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported 219,983 new positive tests in the last 24 hours, taking the global tally of coronavirus cases above 12.3 million. The death toll increased by 5,286 in the past 24 hours, taking the global tally of deaths caused by the novel coronavirus to 556,335, the WHO said. Also read: Donald Trump spotted in a mask during his visit to a military medical facility As per the organization's reports, 132,683 new positive tests were reported in the United States and a further 69,184 new cases were also confirmed in Brazil in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, Brazilian President's family has tested negative for coronavirus, while he tested positive few days ago. In India, actor father-son duo, Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan tested positive for coronavirus in late hours on Saturday night (IST). WHO, to help people increase their immunity, is urging people to quit smoking during the pandemic. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the launch of the new Access Initiative for Quitting Tobacco initiative by the WHO. The aim of this initiative is to help more than one billion people worldwide stop smoking amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Global cases of COVID-19 jumps to 12.3 million; death toll crosses 556,000

The United States has reported&nbsp;66,528 new coronavirus cases and 760 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to&nbsp;3,242,073 and death toll to 134,729, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.

This is the fourth consecutive day that the country has reported more than 60,000 cases.

While there is an alarming rise in number of coroanvirus cases in the country, the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen&nbsp; claiming that online teaching has been unsuccessful.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-cases-of-covid-19-rises-by-219983-death-toll-crosses-556000-312625">Also read:&nbsp;Global cases of COVID-19 rises by 219,983; death toll crosses 556,000</a>

"Now that we have witnessed it on a large scale basis, and firsthand, Virtual Learning has proven to be TERRIBLE compared to In School, or On Campus, Learning. Not even close! Schools must be open in the Fall. If not open, why would the Federal Government give Funding? It won’t!!!," he re-tweeted his tweet from July 10.

However, students, parents, school authorities and health experts are opposing this proposal by Trump. The health experts seem believe that the students will be exposed to the virus if the schools restart.

Amid the rising number of cases, Disney World has, however, reopened its doors for public on Saturday in Orlando. The state of Florida reported 10,360 new positive coronavirus cases and 95 deaths.

The United States has reported 66,528 new coronavirus cases and 760 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 3,242,073 and death toll to 134,729, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.

The United States has reported 66,528 new coronavirus cases and 760 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 3,242,073 and death toll to 134,729, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University. This is the fourth consecutive day that the country has reported more than 60,000 cases. While there is an alarming rise in number of coroanvirus cases in the country, the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen claiming that online teaching has been unsuccessful. Also read: Global cases of COVID-19 rises by 219,983; death toll crosses 556,000 "Now that we have witnessed it on a large scale basis, and firsthand, Virtual Learning has proven to be TERRIBLE compared to In School, or On Campus, Learning. Not even close! Schools must be open in the Fall. If not open, why would the Federal Government give Funding? It won’t!!!," he re-tweeted his tweet from July 10. However, students, parents, school authorities and health experts are opposing this proposal by Trump. The health experts seem believe that the students will be exposed to the virus if the schools restart. Amid the rising number of cases, Disney World has, however, reopened its doors for public on Saturday in Orlando. The state of Florida reported 10,360 new positive coronavirus cases and 95 deaths.

COVID 19: USA records more than 60,000 cases for fourth consecutive day

While the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen, the number of coronavirus cases in the country seem to be increasing at an alarming rate.

The United States recorded&nbsp;69,000 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, a record daily increase for a third day in a row, according to a Reuters tally.

Alaska, Georgia, Louisiana, Montana, Ohio, Utah and Wisconsin are few of the states that saw a record spike in the number of cases on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-california-prisons-to-release-8000-prisoners-to-contain-rapid-spread-312434">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: California prisons to release 8,000 prisoners to contain rapid spread</a>

While the number of cases on a rise, the country is divided on the opinion of reopening economy and schools. The US President Donald Trump feels that his opponents are trying to discourage reopening of economy to send the economy in a downward spiral that will adversely affect his re-election campaigns.

In addition to this, the reluctance of lawmakers towards wearing facemasks has also added to the increase in COVID-19 cases as the lawmakers come in contact with dozens of people on a daily basis which results in a rapid spread of the infection, experts believe.

About one in six state lawmakers have tested positive for the coronavirus,&nbsp;the Mississippi Health Department told a media channel.

(With inputs from Reuters)

While the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen, the number of coronavirus cases in the country seem to be increasing at an alarming rate. The United States recorded 69,000 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, a record daily increase for a third day in a row, according to a Reuters tally.

While the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen, the number of coronavirus cases in the country seem to be increasing at an alarming rate. The United States recorded 69,000 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, a record daily increase for a third day in a row, according to a Reuters tally. Alaska, Georgia, Louisiana, Montana, Ohio, Utah and Wisconsin are few of the states that saw a record spike in the number of cases on Friday. Also read| COVID 19: California prisons to release 8,000 prisoners to contain rapid spread While the number of cases on a rise, the country is divided on the opinion of reopening economy and schools. The US President Donald Trump feels that his opponents are trying to discourage reopening of economy to send the economy in a downward spiral that will adversely affect his re-election campaigns. In addition to this, the reluctance of lawmakers towards wearing facemasks has also added to the increase in COVID-19 cases as the lawmakers come in contact with dozens of people on a daily basis which results in a rapid spread of the infection, experts believe. About one in six state lawmakers have tested positive for the coronavirus, the Mississippi Health Department told a media channel. (With inputs from Reuters)

COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly 69,000 new cases

As the coronavirus cases in the US are increasing on an alarming rate, the US prisons too have been observing a rapid increase in the number of positive cases in their premises.

To contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, the state of California has decided to release up to 8,000 inmates from state prisons, the state authorities reported.

The prisoners will be allowed to leave the prison premises earlier than their set release date. The state corrections department is preparing a list of inmates who could be eligible for an an early release, probably by the end of August.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-to-sue-trump-over-order-revoking-foreign-student-visas-312110">Also read:&nbsp;California to sue Trump over order revoking foreign student visas</a>

These actions are taken to provide for the health and safety of the incarcerated population and staff," California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Secretary Ralph Diaz said in a statement.

This will be California's biggest move to contain the spread of the virus inside the state prisons, a matter which has been a rising concern for few months now.

The prisoners who will be eligible for the release would be the inmates who have only a year or less left to serve, and have not been convicted for violent felonies or sex-related crimes.

California Governor Gavin Newsom said on Thursday nearly 2,400 people in California's 35 prisons have tested positive for the coronavirus, including 1,314 at San Quentin State Prison north of San Francisco.

As the coronavirus cases in the US are increasing on an alarming rate, the US prisons too have been observing a rapid increase in the number of positive cases in their premises.

As the coronavirus cases in the US are increasing on an alarming rate, the US prisons too have been observing a rapid increase in the number of positive cases in their premises. To contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, the state of California has decided to release up to 8,000 inmates from state prisons, the state authorities reported. The prisoners will be allowed to leave the prison premises earlier than their set release date. The state corrections department is preparing a list of inmates who could be eligible for an an early release, probably by the end of August. Also read: California to sue Trump over order revoking foreign student visas These actions are taken to provide for the health and safety of the incarcerated population and staff," California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Secretary Ralph Diaz said in a statement. This will be California's biggest move to contain the spread of the virus inside the state prisons, a matter which has been a rising concern for few months now. The prisoners who will be eligible for the release would be the inmates who have only a year or less left to serve, and have not been convicted for violent felonies or sex-related crimes. California Governor Gavin Newsom said on Thursday nearly 2,400 people in California's 35 prisons have tested positive for the coronavirus, including 1,314 at San Quentin State Prison north of San Francisco.

COVID 19: California prisons to release 8,000 prisoners to contain rapid spread

Global coronavirus cases neared 10 million on Sunday as the World Health Organization's (WHO) daily statistical bulletin reported 179,316 new cases in the past 24 hours. The death toll has surged past 498,000.

Total number of cases reached 9,950,945 on Sunday morning, according to statistics reported by&nbsp;the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE); the death toll has increased to&nbsp;498,135.

The United States of America, worst-hit by coronavirus, recorded 2,507,930 fresh cases and 125,511 deaths, according to the CSSE.&nbsp;The US continues to be the country with the highest number of infections and fatalities.&nbsp;

The US has been badly hit by the novel coronavirus and few states are considering reimposing emergency and stringent guidelines to contain the massive spread of the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-crosses-5-lakh-mark-with-highest-single-day-spike-of-18552-cases-308942">also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India crosses 5 lakh mark with highest single-day spike of 18,552 cases</a>

Brazil, whose President has faced humongous criticism for poor handling of the pandemic amid surging cases, reported 1,313,667 infections and 57,070 deaths.

Russia stands on third rank in number of COVID-19 cases in world as the toll surged to&nbsp;626,779.

India, on Saturday, reported 18,552 new cases which was the country's highest single-day spike.

The UK, on the other hand, has not seen a massive surge in COVID-19 cases, as the toll reached&nbsp;311,727.

On Wednesday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the organisation fully expects the global case total to surpass 10 million next week. He added that almost four million new cases have been registered over the past month.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases neared 10 million on Sunday as the World Health Organization's (WHO) daily statistical bulletin reported 179,316 new cases in the past 24 hours.

Global coronavirus cases neared 10 million on Sunday as the World Health Organization's (WHO) daily statistical bulletin reported 179,316 new cases in the past 24 hours. The death toll has surged past 498,000. Total number of cases reached 9,950,945 on Sunday morning, according to statistics reported by the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE); the death toll has increased to 498,135. The United States of America, worst-hit by coronavirus, recorded 2,507,930 fresh cases and 125,511 deaths, according to the CSSE. The US continues to be the country with the highest number of infections and fatalities. The US has been badly hit by the novel coronavirus and few states are considering reimposing emergency and stringent guidelines to contain the massive spread of the virus. also read| COVID 19: India crosses 5 lakh mark with highest single-day spike of 18,552 cases Brazil, whose President has faced humongous criticism for poor handling of the pandemic amid surging cases, reported 1,313,667 infections and 57,070 deaths. Russia stands on third rank in number of COVID-19 cases in world as the toll surged to 626,779. India, on Saturday, reported 18,552 new cases which was the country's highest single-day spike. The UK, on the other hand, has not seen a massive surge in COVID-19 cases, as the toll reached 311,727. On Wednesday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the organisation fully expects the global case total to surpass 10 million next week. He added that almost four million new cases have been registered over the past month. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases approach 10 million; death toll over 498,000

Donald Trump, the President of the United States of America, in infamous for his statements - be it in public gatherings or on Twitter.

This time, it is his election campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma where he decided to talk about coronavirus (yet again) and ended up bringing trouble for himself (yet again).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-again-blames-china-for-covid-19-terms-it-kung-flu-307466">Also read|&nbsp;Donald Trump again blames China for COVID-19, terms it ‘Kung flu'</a>

As the country is observing protests to put an end to racism against the African-American and Asian communities in the US, the President decided to term the coronavirus as "kung flu" to blame China for spreading the virus in the world.&nbsp;

While the blame game has been going on since months, the usage of the word 'kung' is a racist move that can bring violent disturbances for the Asian community in the US.

Not just this, the President said he has asked his officials to slow down the testing for coronavirus in the country. He feels that COVID testing is a&nbsp;“double-edged sword” as more testing leads to identification of more cases.

“When you do testing to that extent, you’re gonna find more people, you’re gonna find more cases. So I said to my people slow the testing down.”

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The US has tested nearly 25 million people till date, which is far more than other countries.

After this statement, the White House had to clear the air and an official later told local media that Trump was joking.

The US, which is also facing mass protests against racism and police brutality, has been observing a rapid increase in coronavirus cases.

Trump also feels that the "radical fake news" has not given him enough credit for the "phenomenal job" he has done in containing the coronavirus outbreak in the country. The Trump-led country has lost almost 119,654 people to coronavirus till date.

Donald Trump, the President of the United States of America, in infamous for his statements - be it in public gatherings or on Twitter. This time, it is his election campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma where he decided to talk about coronavirus (yet again) and ended up bringing trouble for himself (yet again).

Donald Trump, the President of the United States of America, in infamous for his statements - be it in public gatherings or on Twitter. This time, it is his election campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma where he decided to talk about coronavirus (yet again) and ended up bringing trouble for himself (yet again). Also read| Donald Trump again blames China for COVID-19, terms it ‘Kung flu' As the country is observing protests to put an end to racism against the African-American and Asian communities in the US, the President decided to term the coronavirus as "kung flu" to blame China for spreading the virus in the world. While the blame game has been going on since months, the usage of the word 'kung' is a racist move that can bring violent disturbances for the Asian community in the US. Not just this, the President said he has asked his officials to slow down the testing for coronavirus in the country. He feels that COVID testing is a “double-edged sword” as more testing leads to identification of more cases. “When you do testing to that extent, you’re gonna find more people, you’re gonna find more cases. So I said to my people slow the testing down.” × The US has tested nearly 25 million people till date, which is far more than other countries. After this statement, the White House had to clear the air and an official later told local media that Trump was joking. The US, which is also facing mass protests against racism and police brutality, has been observing a rapid increase in coronavirus cases. Trump also feels that the "radical fake news" has not given him enough credit for the "phenomenal job" he has done in containing the coronavirus outbreak in the country. The Trump-led country has lost almost 119,654 people to coronavirus till date.

'Slow the testing down please': Trump's solution to end COVID-19

New York was titled as the epicenter of coronavirus in the US, which has been one of the worst hit countries with the highest death toll due to coronavirus in the world.

However, New York has been making significant improvements, according to reports. Following this, New York Mayor&nbsp;Bill de Blasio, on Thursday, said “We're now actually in a position to start talking about opening things up step by step, phase by phase."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100000-deaths-very-sad-milestone-says-trump-on-coronavirus-fatalities-301661">Also read:&nbsp;100,000 deaths very sad milestone, says Trump on coronavirus fatalities</a>

As stated by the Mayor, the city should must stay below a certain number of hospitalizations, intensive care unit (ICU) patients, and percentage of people testing positive for COVID-19, which it has. Therefore, the NYC government is considering to move to Phase one of reopening the economy.

Phase one will allow activities related to&nbsp;means construction, manufacturing, wholesale and non essential retail businesses to reopen.

However, social distancing rules along with other rules such as compulsory face mask, employers keeping a check on employees' health, no dine-in etc. will be maintained.

“We do not have a specific date. I think I've given people plenty of warning multiple times now for days and days you can expect it to be in the first or second week of June if the numbers continue to hold in most cases or progress,” the Mayor said.

The New York government is also currently trying to finalize a draft of the new budget that will help the city resume the economy without much losses.

New York was titled as the epicenter of coronavirus in the US, which has been one of the worst hit countries with the highest death toll due to coronavirus in the world.

New York was titled as the epicenter of coronavirus in the US, which has been one of the worst hit countries with the highest death toll due to coronavirus in the world. However, New York has been making significant improvements, according to reports. Following this, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio, on Thursday, said “We're now actually in a position to start talking about opening things up step by step, phase by phase." Also read: 100,000 deaths very sad milestone, says Trump on coronavirus fatalities As stated by the Mayor, the city should must stay below a certain number of hospitalizations, intensive care unit (ICU) patients, and percentage of people testing positive for COVID-19, which it has. Therefore, the NYC government is considering to move to Phase one of reopening the economy. Phase one will allow activities related to means construction, manufacturing, wholesale and non essential retail businesses to reopen. However, social distancing rules along with other rules such as compulsory face mask, employers keeping a check on employees' health, no dine-in etc. will be maintained. “We do not have a specific date. I think I've given people plenty of warning multiple times now for days and days you can expect it to be in the first or second week of June if the numbers continue to hold in most cases or progress,” the Mayor said. The New York government is also currently trying to finalize a draft of the new budget that will help the city resume the economy without much losses.

The day is fast approaching: NYC Mayor talks about lifting lockdown

The United States reported 1,237 more coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours on Saturday night, taking the total toll to 88,730. The figures were reported by Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

The total number of positive coronavirus cases is now&nbsp;1,466,682 in the US, which has been the worst-affected country by COVID-19.

As months are passing, the number of fresh coronavirus cases and deaths seem to be on a constant rise in the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-lot-of-them-arent-even-pretending-to-be-in-charge-obama-attacks-trump-administration-299125">Also read:&nbsp;A lot of them aren’t even pretending to be in charge: Obama criticises Trump administration</a>

While the cases on a rise, former US President Barack Obama has criticised current President Donald Trump for handling the pandemic poorly.

Trump, on the other hand, has accused China of withholding important information about coronavirus, and stealing America's research on COVID-19 vaccine. China, in return, has claimed that this is Trump's way of hiding the poor handling of coronavirus in his country.

The United States reported 1,237 more coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours on Saturday night, taking the total toll to 88,730. The figures were reported by Johns Hopkins University.

The United States reported 1,237 more coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours on Saturday night, taking the total toll to 88,730. The figures were reported by Johns Hopkins University. The total number of positive coronavirus cases is now 1,466,682 in the US, which has been the worst-affected country by COVID-19. As months are passing, the number of fresh coronavirus cases and deaths seem to be on a constant rise in the US. Also read: A lot of them aren’t even pretending to be in charge: Obama criticises Trump administration While the cases on a rise, former US President Barack Obama has criticised current President Donald Trump for handling the pandemic poorly. Trump, on the other hand, has accused China of withholding important information about coronavirus, and stealing America's research on COVID-19 vaccine. China, in return, has claimed that this is Trump's way of hiding the poor handling of coronavirus in his country.

COVID-19: US records 1,237 more deaths in 24 hours, taking total toll to 88,730

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC) revealed a $12 billion investment plan in Arizona on Friday. The chip manufacturing company claimed that it will be generating over 1,600 jobs in the US.

TSMC is the biggest contract chipmaker. It is also a major supplier to U.S. tech giants such as Apple Inc and Qualcomm Inc, as well as Chinese firms like Huawei Technologies, which has not been America's favourite right now

However,&nbsp;Keith Krach, the U.S. undersecretary for economic growth, energy and the environment, claimed that&nbsp;no assurance has been provided that TSMC will be granted a license to allow it to sell US technology to China's Huawei.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-tsmc-plans-to-build-chip-plant-in-arizona-amid-us-china-rivalry-298838">Also read:&nbsp;Taiwan's TSMC plans to build chip plant in Arizona amid US-China rivalry</a>

"I think roughly around 10-12% of TMSC`s business is China, and I think that is in essence almost primarily Huawei," Krach said. "So they will be restricted unless they're granted a license, and there is no assurances on that and we don't anticipate that."

The conflict happened as American President Donald Trump threatened to cut all ties with China accusing the Chinese government of hiding information about&nbsp;coronavirus. Following this accusation and suspecting Huawei of hacking the US research data, the American government blacklisted Chinese technology company&nbsp;Huawei.

"In terms of incentives, I know there is a number of things the U.S. Congress is looking at. I think there are some really good possibilities coming down the road," Krach said, while talking about the incentives being provided to TMSC.

He also urged people and political leaders to join forces in bringing back the manufacturing units back to the US.

China and the US have been at crossroads for the past few months as the US government has accused China of not only withholding information about coronavirus, but also of stealing US research on COVID-19.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC) revealed a $12 billion investment plan in Arizona on Friday. The chip manufacturing company claimed that it will be generating over 1,600 jobs in the US.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC) revealed a $12 billion investment plan in Arizona on Friday. The chip manufacturing company claimed that it will be generating over 1,600 jobs in the US. TSMC is the biggest contract chipmaker. It is also a major supplier to U.S. tech giants such as Apple Inc and Qualcomm Inc, as well as Chinese firms like Huawei Technologies, which has not been America's favourite right now However, Keith Krach, the U.S. undersecretary for economic growth, energy and the environment, claimed that no assurance has been provided that TSMC will be granted a license to allow it to sell US technology to China's Huawei. Also read: Taiwan's TSMC plans to build chip plant in Arizona amid US-China rivalry "I think roughly around 10-12% of TMSC`s business is China, and I think that is in essence almost primarily Huawei," Krach said. "So they will be restricted unless they're granted a license, and there is no assurances on that and we don't anticipate that." The conflict happened as American President Donald Trump threatened to cut all ties with China accusing the Chinese government of hiding information about coronavirus. Following this accusation and suspecting Huawei of hacking the US research data, the American government blacklisted Chinese technology company Huawei. "In terms of incentives, I know there is a number of things the U.S. Congress is looking at. I think there are some really good possibilities coming down the road," Krach said, while talking about the incentives being provided to TMSC. He also urged people and political leaders to join forces in bringing back the manufacturing units back to the US. China and the US have been at crossroads for the past few months as the US government has accused China of not only withholding information about coronavirus, but also of stealing US research on COVID-19.

No assurance given to TSMC to sell to Huawei: US top official

Mike Pompeo, on Thursday, accused China of stealing America's research on COVID-19.

"The US condemns attempts by cyber actors and non-traditional collectors affiliated with People's Republic of China (PRC) to steal US intellectual property and data related to COVID-19 research. The United States calls on China to cease this malicious activity," US Secretary of State said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-arrests-nasa-researcher-for-not-disclosing-ties-with-china-298579">Also watch:&nbsp;FBI arrests NASA researcher for not 'disclosing' ties with China&nbsp;</a>

The allegations on China of stealing intellectual property and data on COVID-19 came a day after the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security announced that there is a chance that hackers might be targeting the research being conducted by few organisations.

They also claimed that these hackers might have a direct or indirect link to the&nbsp;Chinese government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-covid-19-crisis-trump-threatens-to-cut-off-whole-relationship-with-china-298711">Also read:&nbsp;Amid COVID-19 crisis, Trump threatens to 'cut off whole relationship with China'</a>

Mike Pompeo has alleged that "China continues to silence scientists, journalists, and citizens, and to spread disinformation, which has exacerbated the dangers of this health crisis." On the other hand, he has also claimed that the US&nbsp;and its allies and partners are coordinating a collective, transparent response to save lives.

This allegation was challenged by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, who&nbsp;said that the US is simply shifting blame on China just to cover up their poor way of handling the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

This is not the first time the US has accused China for coronavirus. Earlier, too, US President Donald Trump had accused China of spreading the coronavirus onto the world and had also been criticized for calling it the "Wuhan virus".&nbsp;

China and the US have been in constant verbal war for few months now. Trump had also, recently, threatened to cut all relationship ties with China over the coronavirus.

Mike Pompeo, on Thursday, accused China of stealing America's research on COVID-19. "The US condemns attempts by cyber actors and non-traditional collectors affiliated with People's Republic of China (PRC) to steal US intellectual property and data related to COVID-19 research.

Mike Pompeo, on Thursday, accused China of stealing America's research on COVID-19. "The US condemns attempts by cyber actors and non-traditional collectors affiliated with People's Republic of China (PRC) to steal US intellectual property and data related to COVID-19 research. The United States calls on China to cease this malicious activity," US Secretary of State said in a statement. Also watch: FBI arrests NASA researcher for not 'disclosing' ties with China The allegations on China of stealing intellectual property and data on COVID-19 came a day after the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security announced that there is a chance that hackers might be targeting the research being conducted by few organisations. They also claimed that these hackers might have a direct or indirect link to the Chinese government. Also read: Amid COVID-19 crisis, Trump threatens to 'cut off whole relationship with China' Mike Pompeo has alleged that "China continues to silence scientists, journalists, and citizens, and to spread disinformation, which has exacerbated the dangers of this health crisis." On the other hand, he has also claimed that the US and its allies and partners are coordinating a collective, transparent response to save lives. This allegation was challenged by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, who said that the US is simply shifting blame on China just to cover up their poor way of handling the coronavirus pandemic. This is not the first time the US has accused China for coronavirus. Earlier, too, US President Donald Trump had accused China of spreading the coronavirus onto the world and had also been criticized for calling it the "Wuhan virus". China and the US have been in constant verbal war for few months now. Trump had also, recently, threatened to cut all relationship ties with China over the coronavirus.

Mike Pompeo accuses China of stealing American research on COVID-19

United States of America has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in the world. The number of cases have been rising rapidly, and so has the death toll. Despite the rapid increase in number of infections, Americans have not been in favour of lockdown.&nbsp;

Canada, on the other hand, has had a strict lockdown in place but has not been able to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Keeping this in mind, both countries are now deciding to extend the travel ban till June 21.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-zoo-is-sending-two-pandas-back-to-china-because-it-cant-get-enough-bamboo-to-feed-them-298500">Also read:&nbsp;Canada zoo is sending two pandas back to China because it can't get enough bamboo to feed them</a>

"It's too early to lift the restrictions, so we're working toward an extension," said one Canadian government source to a media house.

Earlier, on April 18, Canada and the US had agreed to extend border restrictions until May 21. Considering the rise in number of cases, Canada is now hoping to extend the travel ban&nbsp;for another month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeau-starts-canadahomeworkhelp-asks-kids-to-reach-out-to-him-298079">Also read:&nbsp;Justin Trudeau starts #CanadaHomeworkHelp; asks kids to reach out to him</a>

The restriction will be in place only for non-essential travel plans. All trade travels will be allowed across the border as US takes 75% of all Canadian good exports.&nbsp;

The chief Canadian public health officer, on Tuesday, talked to the media about US being a risk for Canadians, if the travel ban is lifted.

The same travel ban will be proposed for US-Mexico border too.&nbsp;

United States of America has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in the world. The number of cases have been rising rapidly, and so has the death toll.

United States of America has been one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus in the world. The number of cases have been rising rapidly, and so has the death toll. Despite the rapid increase in number of infections, Americans have not been in favour of lockdown. Canada, on the other hand, has had a strict lockdown in place but has not been able to contain the spread of coronavirus. Keeping this in mind, both countries are now deciding to extend the travel ban till June 21. Also read: Canada zoo is sending two pandas back to China because it can't get enough bamboo to feed them "It's too early to lift the restrictions, so we're working toward an extension," said one Canadian government source to a media house. Earlier, on April 18, Canada and the US had agreed to extend border restrictions until May 21. Considering the rise in number of cases, Canada is now hoping to extend the travel ban for another month. Also read: Justin Trudeau starts #CanadaHomeworkHelp; asks kids to reach out to him The restriction will be in place only for non-essential travel plans. All trade travels will be allowed across the border as US takes 75% of all Canadian good exports. The chief Canadian public health officer, on Tuesday, talked to the media about US being a risk for Canadians, if the travel ban is lifted. The same travel ban will be proposed for US-Mexico border too.

Canada-US to extend travel ban till June 21

American President Donald Trump has not been spotted wearing&nbsp;face mask even once during the past few months when coronavirus has taken over the world.

The issue was raised, and the President was trolled and criticized, majorly when he visited the Honeywell plant in Arizona few weeks back. Honeywell plant, which was earlier an&nbsp;aerospace plant in Phoenix, has started producing masks&nbsp;in recent months as the country faced a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE).&nbsp;

Donald Trump, on his visit to examine the operation, was spotted without a mask in the mask-producing factory. Although, he claimed he wore a mask backstage. This raised the question of why does the American President not wear a mask.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fast-and-safely-donald-trump-comes-in-support-for-elon-musks-fremont-factory-298366">Also read:&nbsp;'Fast and safely': Donald Trump comes in support for Elon Musk's Fremont factory</a>

Donald Trump is not alone in this. Not wearing a mask seems to be a subtle representation of Trump's administration. Vice President Mike Pence was criticized for not wearing a mask during his tour of the Mayo Clinic in April.

When the nationwide lockdown was initiated, a lot of Americans scrambled on the streets to protest against the lockdown, asking for their lives back. Majority of these protestors, who took over the roads and the beaches, were spotted without masks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-approval-rating-dips-currently-trails-behind-biden-polls-298359">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump's approval rating dips, currently trails behind Biden: Polls</a>

The absence of masks from these protests and the official tours hints towards the underlying problem of racial discrimination and&nbsp;prejudices. Wearing a mask was earlier, especially in the US, associated with Asian communities. Asian Americans have faced various racial attacks and slurs for wearing a mask.

Later, as the masks became important and compulsory, a lot of cities got complaints of police targeting Black minority groups for 'covering their faces', when they were wearing masks. These men, who were simply following the protocol of social distancing, were profiled as criminals.

Trump has not been known to bite his tongue when it comes to blaming China for spreading coronavirus in the world. In a recent press conference, when an Asian-American journalist asked Trump a question, he responded back saying "Don't ask me, ask China" and ended the press conference saying the said reporter asked a "nasty" question.

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Trump storms out of coronavirus press conference after getting called out for a racist comment to an Asian American reporter. Kudos to CNN’s ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/kaitlancollins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kaitlancollins</a>⁩ who let the reporter follow up with Trump over his racist question. <a href="https://t.co/NQySU4P4NH">pic.twitter.com/NQySU4P4NH</a>
— John Aravosis 🇺🇸🇬🇷🏳️‍🌈 (@aravosis) <a href="https://twitter.com/aravosis/status/1259956800645992448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Another reason why Americans have refused to listen to the health experts, is the show of 'manliness'. It has been observed that a&nbsp;lot of Americans associate wearing masks to weakness. They feel it is a sign of being weak. They like to believe that coronavirus is not an issue and everything in the world is normal. Coronavirus, according to them, is simply a small virus which has been hyped by the media. In order to prove their manliness, Americans feel it is necessary that they do not show any sign of weakness, which would include succumbing to the guidelines of health experts.

It is not only men who feel this way. Women, too, have been spotted outdoors without masks. They, too, have joined the protests and feel wearing a mask is a sign of weakness, and that everything is normal.&nbsp;

The fact that the US is one of the worst-hit countries by the deadly coronavirus pandemic points at the problematic current trend of Americans not wearing masks. It is always said that the citizens follow their ruler. Sadly, in this case, Donald Trump, has not been able to set the right example.

American President Donald Trump has not been spotted wearing face mask even once during the past few months when coronavirus has taken over the world. The issue was raised, and the President was trolled and criticized, majorly when he visited the Honeywell plant in Arizona few weeks back.

American President Donald Trump has not been spotted wearing face mask even once during the past few months when coronavirus has taken over the world. The issue was raised, and the President was trolled and criticized, majorly when he visited the Honeywell plant in Arizona few weeks back. Honeywell plant, which was earlier an aerospace plant in Phoenix, has started producing masks in recent months as the country faced a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE). Donald Trump, on his visit to examine the operation, was spotted without a mask in the mask-producing factory. Although, he claimed he wore a mask backstage. This raised the question of why does the American President not wear a mask. Also read: 'Fast and safely': Donald Trump comes in support for Elon Musk's Fremont factory Donald Trump is not alone in this. Not wearing a mask seems to be a subtle representation of Trump's administration. Vice President Mike Pence was criticized for not wearing a mask during his tour of the Mayo Clinic in April. When the nationwide lockdown was initiated, a lot of Americans scrambled on the streets to protest against the lockdown, asking for their lives back. Majority of these protestors, who took over the roads and the beaches, were spotted without masks. Also read: Donald Trump's approval rating dips, currently trails behind Biden: Polls The absence of masks from these protests and the official tours hints towards the underlying problem of racial discrimination and prejudices. Wearing a mask was earlier, especially in the US, associated with Asian communities. Asian Americans have faced various racial attacks and slurs for wearing a mask. Later, as the masks became important and compulsory, a lot of cities got complaints of police targeting Black minority groups for 'covering their faces', when they were wearing masks. These men, who were simply following the protocol of social distancing, were profiled as criminals. Trump has not been known to bite his tongue when it comes to blaming China for spreading coronavirus in the world. In a recent press conference, when an Asian-American journalist asked Trump a question, he responded back saying "Don't ask me, ask China" and ended the press conference saying the said reporter asked a "nasty" question. Trump storms out of coronavirus press conference after getting called out for a racist comment to an Asian American reporter. Kudos to CNN’s ⁦@kaitlancollins⁩ who let the reporter follow up with Trump over his racist question. pic.twitter.com/NQySU4P4NH — John Aravosis 🇺🇸🇬🇷🏳️‍🌈 (@aravosis) May 11, 2020 × Another reason why Americans have refused to listen to the health experts, is the show of 'manliness'. It has been observed that a lot of Americans associate wearing masks to weakness. They feel it is a sign of being weak. They like to believe that coronavirus is not an issue and everything in the world is normal. Coronavirus, according to them, is simply a small virus which has been hyped by the media. In order to prove their manliness, Americans feel it is necessary that they do not show any sign of weakness, which would include succumbing to the guidelines of health experts. It is not only men who feel this way. Women, too, have been spotted outdoors without masks. They, too, have joined the protests and feel wearing a mask is a sign of weakness, and that everything is normal. The fact that the US is one of the worst-hit countries by the deadly coronavirus pandemic points at the problematic current trend of Americans not wearing masks. It is always said that the citizens follow their ruler. Sadly, in this case, Donald Trump, has not been able to set the right example.

Donald Trump's refusal to wear masks hints towards racism and masculinity in America

A lot of countries are now moving towards easing of lockdown, whether the coronavirus cases have decreased or not.

As on Sunday night, the total number of coronavirus positive cases has crossed 4.32 million mark globally, out of which nearly 1,516,060 people have recovered, and almost&nbsp;285,454 have lost their lives to the deadly coronavirus.

United States of America is one of the worst hit countries in the world. The death toll of the country, today, crossed 80,000. The country has more than 1.3 million cases now. However, New York, which was the epicentre, is now planning to end its partial lockdown, despite an increase in the cases.

United Kingdom, recently adopted the message of 'stay alert' instead of 'stay home', to urge people to stay alert even when they step out. UK reported almost 3,900 new cases which has increased the confirmed cases to nearly 223,000, including 32,000 deaths.

Russia, too, has announced that it will be easing its lockdown to revive its economy. However, the country reported 11,656 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours. Russia's death toll has crossed the 2,000 mark., and the total cases have reached near to 221,344.

France reported nearly 200 fresh cases, taking the toll to 139,000, including 26,380 deaths and 56,217 recovered patients. Spain has allowed people to step out, except for Madrid, as the cases decreased. The total toll stands near 227,000 cases out of which more than 137,000 people have recovered. The death toll in the past 24 hours was 123, which was 20 less than yesterday.

Gulf Arab countries saw a significant increase in&nbsp;the number of positive cases, as the six Gulf Arab states surpassed 100,000 on Monday. Saudi Arabia, which is the largest Arab Gulf state, has a total 41,014 cases, including 225 deaths.

Singapore reported 486 new cases, taking its tally to 28,822. However, 33 false positive cases were also identified. This is Singapore's lowest number in the last week.

On the other hand, Shanghai's Disneyland opened to public today, and saw a huge crowd excited to get back to the land of fantasies. New Zealand, too, has decided to move to phase 2 of easing lockdown. This will allow citizens to move around the country, go for recreational activities and resume businesses.

A lot of countries are now moving towards easing of lockdown, whether the coronavirus cases have decreased or not. As on Sunday night, the total number of coronavirus positive cases has crossed 4.

A lot of countries are now moving towards easing of lockdown, whether the coronavirus cases have decreased or not. As on Sunday night, the total number of coronavirus positive cases has crossed 4.32 million mark globally, out of which nearly 1,516,060 people have recovered, and almost 285,454 have lost their lives to the deadly coronavirus. United States of America is one of the worst hit countries in the world. The death toll of the country, today, crossed 80,000. The country has more than 1.3 million cases now. However, New York, which was the epicentre, is now planning to end its partial lockdown, despite an increase in the cases. United Kingdom, recently adopted the message of 'stay alert' instead of 'stay home', to urge people to stay alert even when they step out. UK reported almost 3,900 new cases which has increased the confirmed cases to nearly 223,000, including 32,000 deaths. Russia, too, has announced that it will be easing its lockdown to revive its economy. However, the country reported 11,656 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours. Russia's death toll has crossed the 2,000 mark., and the total cases have reached near to 221,344. France reported nearly 200 fresh cases, taking the toll to 139,000, including 26,380 deaths and 56,217 recovered patients. Spain has allowed people to step out, except for Madrid, as the cases decreased. The total toll stands near 227,000 cases out of which more than 137,000 people have recovered. The death toll in the past 24 hours was 123, which was 20 less than yesterday. Gulf Arab countries saw a significant increase in the number of positive cases, as the six Gulf Arab states surpassed 100,000 on Monday. Saudi Arabia, which is the largest Arab Gulf state, has a total 41,014 cases, including 225 deaths. Singapore reported 486 new cases, taking its tally to 28,822. However, 33 false positive cases were also identified. This is Singapore's lowest number in the last week. On the other hand, Shanghai's Disneyland opened to public today, and saw a huge crowd excited to get back to the land of fantasies. New Zealand, too, has decided to move to phase 2 of easing lockdown. This will allow citizens to move around the country, go for recreational activities and resume businesses.

COVID-19: US death toll crosses the 80,000 mark; New Zealand to lift lockdown

The United States has been fighting a deadly virus. It is now the world's worst affected country and now it is preparing to fight another enemy, except this one is not invisible.

On the contrary, it is huge. The world's largest hornets have been spotted for the first time in America.

Ever since the deadly insects were discovered late last year in Washington, scientists have been on a mission to track them down and&nbsp;eventually eradicate them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whistleblower-complaint-draws-attention-to-trump-administrations-flawed-covid-19-response-297366">Also read:&nbsp;Whistleblower complaint draws attention to Trump administration's flawed COVID-19 response</a>

First, the size is a huge concern.&nbsp;"It's a large organism, so it's very intimidating when you first encounter one. In fact, when I first picked up the specimen in blaine, I thought it was a child's toy. That's how large it was compared to other hornets that I'm used to dealing with," said&nbsp;Sven-Erik Spichiger, Managing Entomologist at WSDA.

Second, the insects are notorious for killing entire honeybee hives,&nbsp;which would be a huge threat for the country's agricultural system.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-records-205-million-job-losses-in-april-no-surprise-will-bring-it-back-says-trump-297490">Also read: US records 20.5 million job losses in April; no surprise, will bring it back, says Trump</a>

"Well, the real danger besides human health is to the apiary industry. So pollination is a huge part of agriculture and the agricultural systems we have here in the United States," explained&nbsp;Sven-Erik Spichiger.

On Thursday,&nbsp;an entomologist at the Washington State Department of agriculture took media personnel on a tour of the traps that have been set up.

The programme takes a cue from Japan and Korea where the species have been around for a long time.

"As gruesome as that sounds, that's our goal, to kill these off and keep them from establishing in Washington State," said Dr. Chris Looney, an&nbsp;Entomologist.

The Asian giant hornets are also called Murder Hornets.&nbsp;Experts say multiple stings can be fatal. Group attacks can produce toxic venom equal to that of a venomous snake.

"If you sustain multiple stings, the necrosis and the venom will actually start getting into your bloodstream and will start working on your organs. And multiple stings could literally be fatal and have been fatal," said&nbsp;Sven-Erik Spichiger.

While question marks remain over how exactly the insects landed on American soil, what is clear is that they could not have arrived at a worse time.

The United States has been fighting a deadly virus. It is now the world's worst affected country and now it is preparing to fight another enemy, except this one is not invisible.

The United States has been fighting a deadly virus. It is now the world's worst affected country and now it is preparing to fight another enemy, except this one is not invisible. On the contrary, it is huge. The world's largest hornets have been spotted for the first time in America. Ever since the deadly insects were discovered late last year in Washington, scientists have been on a mission to track them down and eventually eradicate them. Also read: Whistleblower complaint draws attention to Trump administration's flawed COVID-19 response First, the size is a huge concern. "It's a large organism, so it's very intimidating when you first encounter one. In fact, when I first picked up the specimen in blaine, I thought it was a child's toy. That's how large it was compared to other hornets that I'm used to dealing with," said Sven-Erik Spichiger, Managing Entomologist at WSDA. Second, the insects are notorious for killing entire honeybee hives, which would be a huge threat for the country's agricultural system. Also read: US records 20.5 million job losses in April; no surprise, will bring it back, says Trump "Well, the real danger besides human health is to the apiary industry. So pollination is a huge part of agriculture and the agricultural systems we have here in the United States," explained Sven-Erik Spichiger. On Thursday, an entomologist at the Washington State Department of agriculture took media personnel on a tour of the traps that have been set up. The programme takes a cue from Japan and Korea where the species have been around for a long time. "As gruesome as that sounds, that's our goal, to kill these off and keep them from establishing in Washington State," said Dr. Chris Looney, an Entomologist. The Asian giant hornets are also called Murder Hornets. Experts say multiple stings can be fatal. Group attacks can produce toxic venom equal to that of a venomous snake. "If you sustain multiple stings, the necrosis and the venom will actually start getting into your bloodstream and will start working on your organs. And multiple stings could literally be fatal and have been fatal," said Sven-Erik Spichiger. While question marks remain over how exactly the insects landed on American soil, what is clear is that they could not have arrived at a worse time.

Now, US prepares to fight another war against giant killer hornets

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-records-205-million-job-losses-in-april-no-surprise-will-bring-it-back-says-trump-297490">US records 20.5 million job losses in April; will bring it back, says Trump</a>

US labour Department said today that the coronavirus pandemic led to wiping out of 20.5 million jobs last month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-the-covid-19-pandemic-is-over-ready-for-review-under-who-china-297447">After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO: China</a>

China on Friday said it was ready for "open, transparent and inclusive" panel under the World Health Organization to review the global response to the&nbsp;pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-records-over-10600-new-coronavirus-cases-in-last-24-hours-297451">Russia records over 10,600 new coronavirus cases in last 24 hours</a>

Total positive cases in Russia rise by more than 10,699 in the past 24 hours. After this new tally, Russia's total toll of coronavirus cases stands at 187,859 now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-closes-bars-and-clubs-fears-second-wave-of-covid-19-297461">South Korea closes bars and clubs; fears second wave of COVID-19</a>

A new group of 25 coronavirus cases have been reported on Friday in Seoul's popular multicultural neighbourhood of Itaewon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-records-257-deaths-in-24-hours-plans-to-shift-mothers-day-297466">Mexico records 257 deaths in 24 hours; plans to shift Mothers' Day</a>

Mexico's health ministry has reported 257 fatalities and 1,982 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cat-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-in-spain-297496">Cat tests positive for coronavirus in Spain</a>

A Spanish cat from Catalonia tested positive for coronavirus. It was the sixth feline to be detected with the disease globally.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/75000-americans-at-risk-of-dying-from-coronavirus-despair-says-study-297460">75,000 Americans at risk of dying from 'coronavirus despair', says study</a>

As many as 75,000 Americans could die from coronavirus despair -- of drug or alcohol misuse and suicide, a new study has claimed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dutch-restaurant-introduces-glass-booths-for-ensuring-social-distancing-297370">Dutch restaurant introduces 'glass booths' for ensuring social distancing</a>

A Dutch restaurant in Amsterdam has introduced 'quarantine greenhouses', so diners can eat while following social distancing guidelines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-white-house-press-secy-had-once-called-trumps-comments-racist-297471">New White House press secy had once called Trump's comments 'racist'</a>

Kayleigh McEnany, who recently took over the mantle of the White House press secretary, was once a harsh critic of then-candidate Donald Trump.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-190000-indians-will-be-brought-home-civil-aviation-minister-to-wion-297492">Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion</a>

India's Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, in an exclusive conversation with Wion, said the ministry has so far drawn up the programme for only a week, and the further details shall soon be shared,

US records 20.5 million job losses in April; will bring it back, says Trump US labour Department said today that the coronavirus pandemic led to wiping out of 20.

US records 20.5 million job losses in April; will bring it back, says Trump US labour Department said today that the coronavirus pandemic led to wiping out of 20.5 million jobs last month. After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO: China China on Friday said it was ready for "open, transparent and inclusive" panel under the World Health Organization to review the global response to the pandemic. Russia records over 10,600 new coronavirus cases in last 24 hours Total positive cases in Russia rise by more than 10,699 in the past 24 hours. After this new tally, Russia's total toll of coronavirus cases stands at 187,859 now. South Korea closes bars and clubs; fears second wave of COVID-19 A new group of 25 coronavirus cases have been reported on Friday in Seoul's popular multicultural neighbourhood of Itaewon. Mexico records 257 deaths in 24 hours; plans to shift Mothers' Day Mexico's health ministry has reported 257 fatalities and 1,982 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours. Cat tests positive for coronavirus in Spain A Spanish cat from Catalonia tested positive for coronavirus. It was the sixth feline to be detected with the disease globally. 75,000 Americans at risk of dying from 'coronavirus despair', says study As many as 75,000 Americans could die from coronavirus despair -- of drug or alcohol misuse and suicide, a new study has claimed. Dutch restaurant introduces 'glass booths' for ensuring social distancing A Dutch restaurant in Amsterdam has introduced 'quarantine greenhouses', so diners can eat while following social distancing guidelines. New White House press secy had once called Trump's comments 'racist' Kayleigh McEnany, who recently took over the mantle of the White House press secretary, was once a harsh critic of then-candidate Donald Trump. Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion India's Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, in an exclusive conversation with Wion, said the ministry has so far drawn up the programme for only a week, and the further details shall soon be shared,

Top 10 world news today: South Korea fears second wave of COVID-19, US records 20.5 million job losses in April and more

Let's tell you a story. A story straight from the treasure trove of coronavirus denial. It is set in the land of the free.

The villain is an unsparing virus that has killed thousands&nbsp;and has left millions washing their hands. The hero -- is a president who wants to was his hands too,&nbsp;but from any responsibility. A president, who believes that all is well and is&nbsp;eager to demonstrate that life is slowly resuming,&nbsp;including his own.

What better way to prove this&nbsp;than a cross-country trip.

Donald trump travelled to Arizona earlier today. This was a trip aimed at singaling that normalcy in the united states is imminent. So much so, that trump almost shook hands and hugged somebody. He landed in phoenix&nbsp;with his hand outstretched towards the Arizona governor.

Too bad,&nbsp;there were cameras and he could not shake hands. He settled for a pat on the back, something that social distancing guidelines don't mention.

His next stop, ironically,&nbsp;was a mask production plant. Trump toured a facility that produces face coverings to avoid spreading the virus. Every employee at the factory was wearing a mask. However,&nbsp;the U.S President decided to go without one.

He wore something more essential instead -- safety goggles.

As donald trump was being given a tour of the assembly line, somebody played a song that suits Trump's approach towards this pandemic...'live and let die'&nbsp; by Guns 'N Roses.

Next was time for an interview about whether lives will be lost in reopening the United States. Donald Trump replied, "yes there will be some."

"It's possible there will be some because you won't be locked into an apartment or, or a house or whatever it is. But at the same time, we're going to practice social distancing, we're going to be washing hands, we're gonna be doing a lot of the things that we've learned to do over the last period of time and we have to get our country back. You know, people are dying the other way too. When you look at what's happened with drugs, it goes up. When you look at suicides I mean, take a look at what's going on, people are losing their jobs. We have to bring it back and that's what we're doing."

You heard what he said...'people are dying the other way too'

So let's throw caution into the wind and let more people die. Is this what the U.S. President is suggesting?

Even the coronavirus would doubt if it can do as much damage as him. Donald Trump has set the bar very high. The death toll in the united states stands at 71,000.

Coronavirus cases have crossed&nbsp;a million. In the long run, we may all be dead.&nbsp;But for now, wear a mask, wash your hands and stay at home.

Let's tell you a story. A story straight from the treasure trove of coronavirus denial. It is set in the land of the free. The villain is an unsparing virus that has killed thousands and has left millions washing their hands.

Let's tell you a story. A story straight from the treasure trove of coronavirus denial. It is set in the land of the free. The villain is an unsparing virus that has killed thousands and has left millions washing their hands. The hero -- is a president who wants to was his hands too, but from any responsibility. A president, who believes that all is well and is eager to demonstrate that life is slowly resuming, including his own. What better way to prove this than a cross-country trip. Donald trump travelled to Arizona earlier today. This was a trip aimed at singaling that normalcy in the united states is imminent. So much so, that trump almost shook hands and hugged somebody. He landed in phoenix with his hand outstretched towards the Arizona governor. Too bad, there were cameras and he could not shake hands. He settled for a pat on the back, something that social distancing guidelines don't mention. His next stop, ironically, was a mask production plant. Trump toured a facility that produces face coverings to avoid spreading the virus. Every employee at the factory was wearing a mask. However, the U.S President decided to go without one. He wore something more essential instead -- safety goggles. As donald trump was being given a tour of the assembly line, somebody played a song that suits Trump's approach towards this pandemic...'live and let die' by Guns 'N Roses. Next was time for an interview about whether lives will be lost in reopening the United States. Donald Trump replied, "yes there will be some." "It's possible there will be some because you won't be locked into an apartment or, or a house or whatever it is. But at the same time, we're going to practice social distancing, we're going to be washing hands, we're gonna be doing a lot of the things that we've learned to do over the last period of time and we have to get our country back. You know, people are dying the other way too. When you look at what's happened with drugs, it goes up. When you look at suicides I mean, take a look at what's going on, people are losing their jobs. We have to bring it back and that's what we're doing." You heard what he said...'people are dying the other way too' So let's throw caution into the wind and let more people die. Is this what the U.S. President is suggesting? Even the coronavirus would doubt if it can do as much damage as him. Donald Trump has set the bar very high. The death toll in the united states stands at 71,000. Coronavirus cases have crossed a million. In the long run, we may all be dead. But for now, wear a mask, wash your hands and stay at home.

US President Donald Trump visits mask manufacturing facility, forgets to wear mask

Professor Bing Liu was a Chinese-born researcher on American soil. He was studying cellular mechanisms of the coronavirus and he was apparently close to making 'significant findings'. However, he is now dead.

The 37-year-old researcher was found murdered at his home in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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The incident took place at around noon on Saturday, May 02. He&nbsp;was found with multiple gunshot wounds to the head, neck&nbsp;and torso. His home in the suburbs of Ross township in Pittsburgh was in ruins.

Investigators have been quick to call this an outcome of a love triangle feud, a lengthy dispute which apparently included Hao Gu.

Hao Gu is&nbsp;a 46-year old software engineer and has been identified as the murderer. As per reports, after opening fire on Professor Liu, Hao Gu turned the gun on himself. He, too,&nbsp;was found dead in a car parked just 100 yards away.

It is being called a case of murder-suicide, but investigators have failed to offer additional details about how the two men knew each other.

Here's the twist in the tail. Professor Bing Liu was working at the University of Pittsburgh's Medical Centre. The organisation has issued a statement on his death.

"Bing was on the verge of making very significant findings towards understanding the cellular mechanisms that underlie sars-cov-2 infection and the cellular basis of the following complications," the statement read.

The Pittsburgh Post Gazette, the largest newspaper in the city, reported on the 4th of May&nbsp;that Bing Liu's neighbours did not hear any sounds of gunshots on the day of his death, and that a formal ruling by the county medical examiner on the cause of Liu's death is still pending.

The question that now arises is:&nbsp;was it really a murder over a love triangle? Or the outcome of some conspiracy?&nbsp;Are there more secrets hidden in the dark?

These questions have taken America by storm.

Professor Bing Liu was a Chinese-born researcher on American soil. He was studying cellular mechanisms of the coronavirus and he was apparently close to making 'significant findings'.

Professor Bing Liu was a Chinese-born researcher on American soil. He was studying cellular mechanisms of the coronavirus and he was apparently close to making 'significant findings'. However, he is now dead. The 37-year-old researcher was found murdered at his home in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Also read: 'Live and Let Die' blasts as Trump tours mask factory, without wearing one The incident took place at around noon on Saturday, May 02. He was found with multiple gunshot wounds to the head, neck and torso. His home in the suburbs of Ross township in Pittsburgh was in ruins. Investigators have been quick to call this an outcome of a love triangle feud, a lengthy dispute which apparently included Hao Gu. Hao Gu is a 46-year old software engineer and has been identified as the murderer. As per reports, after opening fire on Professor Liu, Hao Gu turned the gun on himself. He, too, was found dead in a car parked just 100 yards away. It is being called a case of murder-suicide, but investigators have failed to offer additional details about how the two men knew each other. Here's the twist in the tail. Professor Bing Liu was working at the University of Pittsburgh's Medical Centre. The organisation has issued a statement on his death. "Bing was on the verge of making very significant findings towards understanding the cellular mechanisms that underlie sars-cov-2 infection and the cellular basis of the following complications," the statement read. The Pittsburgh Post Gazette, the largest newspaper in the city, reported on the 4th of May that Bing Liu's neighbours did not hear any sounds of gunshots on the day of his death, and that a formal ruling by the county medical examiner on the cause of Liu's death is still pending. The question that now arises is: was it really a murder over a love triangle? Or the outcome of some conspiracy? Are there more secrets hidden in the dark? These questions have taken America by storm.

Love triangle or conspiracy? Questions around Professor Bing Liu's death remain unanswered

Although the daily death toll fell to its lowest in the past one month, New York officials have decided to keep all state schools shut till the end of the academic year.&nbsp;

The announcement was made by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Friday. He has also asked all school authorities to come up with plans on how can they keep their school buildings clean and follow the protocols of social distancing.

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"To say, 'We're going to figure out that plan and put it in place in the next few weeks' is virtually impossible," Cuomo said. "We don't think it's possible to do that in a way that keeps our children safe."

The schools also face the challenge of managing cafeterias run in schools. New York has&nbsp;more than one million students, and colleges, which makes it difficult to maintain social distancing in schools, especially cafeterias. Cuomo has said they are looking at different plans to fight this issue, and keep children safe.

The Democratic governor said 289 people died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, on Thursday (April 30), down from 306 a day earlier. It was the lowest death toll since March 29.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

Although the daily death toll fell to its lowest in the past one month, New York officials have decided to keep all state schools shut till the end of the academic year.

Although the daily death toll fell to its lowest in the past one month, New York officials have decided to keep all state schools shut till the end of the academic year. The announcement was made by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Friday. He has also asked all school authorities to come up with plans on how can they keep their school buildings clean and follow the protocols of social distancing. Also read: Tweet once again gets Elon Musk into trouble as Tesla loses $14 billion "To say, 'We're going to figure out that plan and put it in place in the next few weeks' is virtually impossible," Cuomo said. "We don't think it's possible to do that in a way that keeps our children safe." The schools also face the challenge of managing cafeterias run in schools. New York has more than one million students, and colleges, which makes it difficult to maintain social distancing in schools, especially cafeterias. Cuomo has said they are looking at different plans to fight this issue, and keep children safe. The Democratic governor said 289 people died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, on Thursday (April 30), down from 306 a day earlier. It was the lowest death toll since March 29. (With inputs from Reuters)

'We must protect our children': New York governor announces schools to stay closed this year

As the coronavirus cases continue to increase in the US, one can assume that the anxiety levels may be soaring among the citizens. However, according to a survey by The University of Southern California, the researchers found out that Americans are actually spending more time with their partners and children than they did earlier.

Americans, who are known for dining out and spending time out in the world, are now&nbsp;taking "advantage"&nbsp;of the coronavirus lockdown and rediscovering their hobbies and creative dreams.&nbsp;

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A total of 1000 people took part in a survey titled the "Coronavirus Disruption Project". In this online survey, they were questioned about changes in their lives since the onset of the coronavirus.

The relationship between parents and children seems to have improved in a lot of households, for which the researchers give credit to the changed rules such as relaxed bedtime and TV hours.&nbsp;

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Talking about improved relationships, almost 35 per cent Americans also said their relationship with their spouse or partner has become better now in the lockdown.

The reason behind this can also be a decrease in the bar activities, leading to drunken nights. The report revealed that out of things that Americans missed, which included visiting friends and relatives, and going out to eat, only 20 per cent Americans missed going to bars. The reduction in the alcohol intake can also be credited to the crashing economy.

As the lockdown has been lifted in certain areas of the country, at least 42 per cent people want to work from home more after the pandemic ends, as they prefer to get rid of their long commutes, and love their relaxed way of dressing rather than the formals.

"For all the silliness, and we probably need a dress etiquette for Zoom... bosses are finding that Zoom works a good chunk of the time," said&nbsp;Jeffrey Cole, the study center's director

More than one-third of Americans reported buying food online for the first time,&nbsp;and 39 per cent intend to continue purchasing more products online once the coronavirus ends.

As the coronavirus cases continue to increase in the US, one can assume that the anxiety levels may be soaring among the citizens. However, according to a survey by The University of Southern California, the researchers found out that Americans are actually spending more time with their partners and children than they did earlier.

As the coronavirus cases continue to increase in the US, one can assume that the anxiety levels may be soaring among the citizens. However, according to a survey by The University of Southern California, the researchers found out that Americans are actually spending more time with their partners and children than they did earlier. Americans, who are known for dining out and spending time out in the world, are now taking "advantage" of the coronavirus lockdown and rediscovering their hobbies and creative dreams. Also read: WhatsApp sues Israeli firm over 'deep involvement' in hacking phones A total of 1000 people took part in a survey titled the "Coronavirus Disruption Project". In this online survey, they were questioned about changes in their lives since the onset of the coronavirus. The relationship between parents and children seems to have improved in a lot of households, for which the researchers give credit to the changed rules such as relaxed bedtime and TV hours. Also read: Explainer: NSO spygate row - How Pegasus broke into WhatsApp Talking about improved relationships, almost 35 per cent Americans also said their relationship with their spouse or partner has become better now in the lockdown. The reason behind this can also be a decrease in the bar activities, leading to drunken nights. The report revealed that out of things that Americans missed, which included visiting friends and relatives, and going out to eat, only 20 per cent Americans missed going to bars. The reduction in the alcohol intake can also be credited to the crashing economy. As the lockdown has been lifted in certain areas of the country, at least 42 per cent people want to work from home more after the pandemic ends, as they prefer to get rid of their long commutes, and love their relaxed way of dressing rather than the formals. "For all the silliness, and we probably need a dress etiquette for Zoom... bosses are finding that Zoom works a good chunk of the time," said Jeffrey Cole, the study center's director More than one-third of Americans reported buying food online for the first time, and 39 per cent intend to continue purchasing more products online once the coronavirus ends.

Relationship with spouse better now in lockdown, US survey reveals

Winston, a family dog in North Carolina has tested positive for the coronavirus. It may be the first dog in the United States to test positive for coronavirus, according to researchers.

The McClean family of four found their pug, Winston, tested positive for coronavirus after the family participated in a study about COVID-19 aimed at trying to find potential treatments and vaccines by&nbsp;Duke University. In this study, the subjects undergo weekly nasal swabs and give blood samples.

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Three members of the McClean family,&nbsp;Sam McClean, wife Heather and their son, Ben,&nbsp;had tested positive last month. However, their daughter, Sydney McClean, was the only one to test negative.

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</ul>

Chris Woods, the principal investigator of the study, said that the reason Winston was tested positive was because the researchers have also been collecting samples from family pets to observe the spread of&nbsp;coronavirus in households.

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According to the university researchers, winston might be the first dog in the US to test positive as till now they haven't received a positive result of any other house pet in the country.&nbsp;Winston was showing mild symptoms while the family was infected with the virus. However,&nbsp;researchers said they do not know if it is coronavirus that made Winston sick, or if he had an unrelated ailment.&nbsp;

The family also has another dog and a cat, who have tested negative. Heather McClean explained that the reason behind this might be that Winston is more affectionate than the other two pets, and therefore the family holds him more.

"His (Winston's) amount of virus that we detected was very low, suggesting that he would not be a likely mechanism or vector of transmission of virus to either other animals or to, to humans in these households," Woods explained.

"He had a small cough for a day or two right in the peak when all of us were sick and he didn't eat his breakfast one morning," Ben McClean told a media organization.

"But we didn't have any concrete, like, super alarming illnesses where we're like, 'we need to take him to the vet. He's like really sick," he added.

Sam McClean tested positive for the virus after he treated few COVID-19 patients at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he is&nbsp;a researcher and emergency room doctor.

"I would not change our, our behaviors with our household animals at this point. They're really an important part of our ongoing mental health as we continue to participate in our social distancing to combat the pandemic," Woods said.

The McClean family has recovered and are out of quarantine now.&nbsp;"We are feeling very grateful that we have the opportunity to participate in this research study," Heather told a media organization. "We are really hopeful that we can donate plasma to be able to help other patients."

Winston, a family dog in North Carolina has tested positive for the coronavirus. It may be the first dog in the United States to test positive for coronavirus, according to researchers.

Winston, a family dog in North Carolina has tested positive for the coronavirus. It may be the first dog in the United States to test positive for coronavirus, according to researchers. The McClean family of four found their pug, Winston, tested positive for coronavirus after the family participated in a study about COVID-19 aimed at trying to find potential treatments and vaccines by Duke University. In this study, the subjects undergo weekly nasal swabs and give blood samples. Also read:COVID-19 outbreak: Is Mumbai turning into India's New York City? Three members of the McClean family, Sam McClean, wife Heather and their son, Ben, had tested positive last month. However, their daughter, Sydney McClean, was the only one to test negative. Chris Woods, the principal investigator of the study, said that the reason Winston was tested positive was because the researchers have also been collecting samples from family pets to observe the spread of coronavirus in households. Also Read: India gives go head to Malaysia's hydroxychloroquine request According to the university researchers, winston might be the first dog in the US to test positive as till now they haven't received a positive result of any other house pet in the country. Winston was showing mild symptoms while the family was infected with the virus. However, researchers said they do not know if it is coronavirus that made Winston sick, or if he had an unrelated ailment. The family also has another dog and a cat, who have tested negative. Heather McClean explained that the reason behind this might be that Winston is more affectionate than the other two pets, and therefore the family holds him more. "His (Winston's) amount of virus that we detected was very low, suggesting that he would not be a likely mechanism or vector of transmission of virus to either other animals or to, to humans in these households," Woods explained. "He had a small cough for a day or two right in the peak when all of us were sick and he didn't eat his breakfast one morning," Ben McClean told a media organization. "But we didn't have any concrete, like, super alarming illnesses where we're like, 'we need to take him to the vet. He's like really sick," he added. Sam McClean tested positive for the virus after he treated few COVID-19 patients at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he is a researcher and emergency room doctor. "I would not change our, our behaviors with our household animals at this point. They're really an important part of our ongoing mental health as we continue to participate in our social distancing to combat the pandemic," Woods said. The McClean family has recovered and are out of quarantine now. "We are feeling very grateful that we have the opportunity to participate in this research study," Heather told a media organization. "We are really hopeful that we can donate plasma to be able to help other patients."

A pug, Winston, from North Carolina may be the first dog in US to test positive

The United States on Tuesday recorded its one-millionth coronavirus case as countries including Spain, Russia and Nigeria took tentative steps back towards normal life by preparing to reopen some businesses.

Excitement over partial easing of the lockdowns affecting more than half of humanity has been tempered by fear of new outbreaks and growing evidence of the economic devastation wreaked by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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The US -- where millions of jobs have gone -- reached another grim milestone as it registered 58,351 deaths, a larger loss of life than recorded by the US military in the Vietnam War.

The overall US case load rose to 1,011,877 in a public health disaster that could threaten President Donald Trump's re-election chances.

But some countries have reported falling infection numbers, and governments have begun to chart their way out of the shutdowns.

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France said Tuesday that shops, markets and selected schools could reopen next month, with face masks required on public transport and work-from-home orders staying in place for several more weeks.

Prime Minister Edouard Phillipe admitted even a gradual return to normal life was "risky."

Spain said restrictions would be slowly lifted over the next two months, while Italians will be able to exercise outdoors and visit relatives from next week -- but only if they wear masks and refrain from hugs and handshakes.

Italy, Spain and France have been the worst affected countries in Europe, with each reporting more than 23,000 deaths.

In Russia, President Vladimir Putin warned that the peak of coronavirus infections still lay ahead, saying "the situation remains very difficult."

But he nonetheless said lockdown measures could be eased from next month.

Data on infection rates has shown mixed results in Germany, which is being closely watched after allowing some shops to reopen last week.

"We all need to take care that we don't end up with more infections," said Lothar Wieler, president of the Robert Koch Institute for disease control.

'The cries of the people'

Experts have warned of a second wave of contagion if restrictions are lifted too hastily, and the World Health Organization has said reinfection may be possible even among recovered patients.

In Nigeria's largest city Lagos, bus driver Taju Olonade told AFP a decision to ease the lockdown showed that authorities had finally listened "to the cries of the people."

"For almost one month I have not earned a penny," he said. "I hope life will soon return to normal."

The new coronavirus has killed at least 214,451 people since the outbreak first emerged in China in December, according to a tally compiled by AFP at 1900 GMT on Tuesday.

More than three million cases have been registered in 193 countries and territories, although the official tally is widely thought to lag far behind the actual figures.

The United States, which on Tuesday recorded a further 2,207 deaths in 24 hours, has seen by far the highest number of fatalities.

Trump has increasingly sought to blame China, but China pushed back fiercely on Tuesday, accusing US politicians of "barefaced lies."

"They have only one objective: shirk their responsibility for their own poor epidemic prevention and control measures," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters.

Beijing and Washington have clashed repeatedly over the outbreak.

It seems to be under control in China with no new deaths reported for 13 straight days and the death toll standing at 4,633 -- although much doubt has been cast on whether the numbers are accurate.

 
Shattered economies

Anger at the global economic paralysis has intensified in recent weeks, and anti-government protesters took to the streets in Lebanon on Tuesday in defiance of a lockdown.

"I came down to raise my voice against hunger, poverty and rising prices," Khaled, 41, told AFP, saying he had lost his job selling motorcycle parts and could no longer support his three children.

In the latest sign of big business woes, British Airways is set to slash up to 12,000 jobs, its parent company said. The carrier, which has approximately 45,000 employees, has already furloughed nearly 23,000 staff.

Despite other European countries moving towards reopening schools and shops, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it was too early for the UK to follow suit.

That was in contrast to New Zealand, where people enjoyed fast food and coffee shop treats for the first time in five weeks after the country lifted its strict lockdown.

"We see the difference in other countries and I don't envy them, that's for sure," said Wellington resident Cheryl Robertson, who planned to celebrate her newfound freedom with a curry.

In Australia, hundreds of surfers and swimmers rushed back to the waves at Bondi Beach in Sydney, five weeks after police closed the area because of large crowds flouting social distancing rules.

"I've been excited for like a week," Diane Delaurens told AFP, dripping after an early-morning surf.

However, there is not yet a vaccine for the disease and Britain issued a warning of coronavirus-related syndrome emerging in children -- including abdominal pain and inflammation around the heart.

"What I would also stress is that it is rare. Although it is very significant for those children who do get it, the number of cases is small," said Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

In Tokyo, organizers said that the postponed 2020 Olympics will have to be canceled next year if the pandemic isn't brought under control.

In Latin America, Brazil emerged as a new hotspot with 5,000 deaths so far -- more than China's -- while nine inmates were killed when rioting broke out at a prison in Lima, Peru after two inmates died from COVID-19.

The United States on Tuesday recorded its one-millionth coronavirus case as countries including Spain, Russia and Nigeria took tentative steps back towards normal life by preparing to reopen some businesses.

The United States on Tuesday recorded its one-millionth coronavirus case as countries including Spain, Russia and Nigeria took tentative steps back towards normal life by preparing to reopen some businesses. Excitement over partial easing of the lockdowns affecting more than half of humanity has been tempered by fear of new outbreaks and growing evidence of the economic devastation wreaked by the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read: Irrfan Khan dies at the age of 54 The US -- where millions of jobs have gone -- reached another grim milestone as it registered 58,351 deaths, a larger loss of life than recorded by the US military in the Vietnam War. The overall US case load rose to 1,011,877 in a public health disaster that could threaten President Donald Trump's re-election chances. But some countries have reported falling infection numbers, and governments have begun to chart their way out of the shutdowns. Also read: '184 countries going through hell': Trump blames China for coronavirus spread France said Tuesday that shops, markets and selected schools could reopen next month, with face masks required on public transport and work-from-home orders staying in place for several more weeks. Prime Minister Edouard Phillipe admitted even a gradual return to normal life was "risky." Spain said restrictions would be slowly lifted over the next two months, while Italians will be able to exercise outdoors and visit relatives from next week -- but only if they wear masks and refrain from hugs and handshakes. Italy, Spain and France have been the worst affected countries in Europe, with each reporting more than 23,000 deaths. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin warned that the peak of coronavirus infections still lay ahead, saying "the situation remains very difficult." But he nonetheless said lockdown measures could be eased from next month. Data on infection rates has shown mixed results in Germany, which is being closely watched after allowing some shops to reopen last week. "We all need to take care that we don't end up with more infections," said Lothar Wieler, president of the Robert Koch Institute for disease control. 'The cries of the people' Experts have warned of a second wave of contagion if restrictions are lifted too hastily, and the World Health Organization has said reinfection may be possible even among recovered patients. In Nigeria's largest city Lagos, bus driver Taju Olonade told AFP a decision to ease the lockdown showed that authorities had finally listened "to the cries of the people." "For almost one month I have not earned a penny," he said. "I hope life will soon return to normal." The new coronavirus has killed at least 214,451 people since the outbreak first emerged in China in December, according to a tally compiled by AFP at 1900 GMT on Tuesday. More than three million cases have been registered in 193 countries and territories, although the official tally is widely thought to lag far behind the actual figures. The United States, which on Tuesday recorded a further 2,207 deaths in 24 hours, has seen by far the highest number of fatalities. Trump has increasingly sought to blame China, but China pushed back fiercely on Tuesday, accusing US politicians of "barefaced lies." "They have only one objective: shirk their responsibility for their own poor epidemic prevention and control measures," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters. Beijing and Washington have clashed repeatedly over the outbreak. It seems to be under control in China with no new deaths reported for 13 straight days and the death toll standing at 4,633 -- although much doubt has been cast on whether the numbers are accurate. Shattered economies Anger at the global economic paralysis has intensified in recent weeks, and anti-government protesters took to the streets in Lebanon on Tuesday in defiance of a lockdown. "I came down to raise my voice against hunger, poverty and rising prices," Khaled, 41, told AFP, saying he had lost his job selling motorcycle parts and could no longer support his three children. In the latest sign of big business woes, British Airways is set to slash up to 12,000 jobs, its parent company said. The carrier, which has approximately 45,000 employees, has already furloughed nearly 23,000 staff. Despite other European countries moving towards reopening schools and shops, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it was too early for the UK to follow suit. That was in contrast to New Zealand, where people enjoyed fast food and coffee shop treats for the first time in five weeks after the country lifted its strict lockdown. "We see the difference in other countries and I don't envy them, that's for sure," said Wellington resident Cheryl Robertson, who planned to celebrate her newfound freedom with a curry. In Australia, hundreds of surfers and swimmers rushed back to the waves at Bondi Beach in Sydney, five weeks after police closed the area because of large crowds flouting social distancing rules. "I've been excited for like a week," Diane Delaurens told AFP, dripping after an early-morning surf. However, there is not yet a vaccine for the disease and Britain issued a warning of coronavirus-related syndrome emerging in children -- including abdominal pain and inflammation around the heart. "What I would also stress is that it is rare. Although it is very significant for those children who do get it, the number of cases is small," said Health Secretary Matt Hancock. In Tokyo, organizers said that the postponed 2020 Olympics will have to be canceled next year if the pandemic isn't brought under control. In Latin America, Brazil emerged as a new hotspot with 5,000 deaths so far -- more than China's -- while nine inmates were killed when rioting broke out at a prison in Lima, Peru after two inmates died from COVID-19.

US registers its one-millionth positive case; Europe heading towards to "normal"

US President Donald Trump always knows how to stay in news. Few days ago, he faced a lot of criticism for&nbsp;suggesting that COVID-19 patients might be injected with disinfectant. While he backtracked on his statement saying he was being sarcastic, he has yet again made the news with another tweet.

POTUS, on Saturday, missed a White House briefing stating it is 'not worth the time and effort'. Once again concentrating on the issue of fake news, in his&nbsp;tweet he mentioned that the 'Lamestream Media' only asks hostile questions and refuses to report the truth.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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What is the purpose of having White House News Conferences when the Lamestream Media asks nothing but hostile questions, &amp; then refuses to report the truth or facts accurately. They get record ratings, &amp; the American people get nothing but Fake News. Not worth the time &amp; effort!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1254168730898173953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-witnesses-nearly-2500-deaths-in-last-24-hours-toll-over-53000-294797">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: US witnesses nearly 2,500 deaths in last 24 hours; toll over 53,000</a>

He took the decision of missing the White House briefing after he faced a lot of criticism for suggesting coronavirus patients can be treated by shining ultraviolet light inside their bodies, or with injecting them with household disinfectant.

"Then I see the disinfectant, where it knocks (the virus) out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning? Because you see it gets in the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-city-to-provide-500000-free-halal-meals-during-ramzan-294414">Also read:&nbsp;New York City to provide 5,00,000 free halal meals during Ramzan</a>

Later, in a press conference on Thursday, Trump&nbsp;said he was being "sarcastic" and did not mean it. That press briefing was cut short to 19 minutes and no questions were accepted from the media.

The next day, on Saturday, he tweeted about not attending press briefing. The tweet did not garner a lot of positive replies, as people feel that he is running away from answering valid questions of Americans and media.&nbsp;

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You consider the softest softball a hostile question. 
 
eg: “What do you say to Americans who are scared?” <a href="https://t.co/Q4ggUjronw">pic.twitter.com/Q4ggUjronw</a>
— Helen Kennedy (@HelenKennedy) <a href="https://twitter.com/HelenKennedy/status/1254177993083121665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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United States of America is one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus&nbsp;with over 956,000 confirmed positive cases, and a death toll of 53,928.&nbsp;

Even with high death tolls, some southern states like Georgia decided to ignore warnings from top medical experts and opened businesses on Friday. People were later seen flocking to beaches.

US President Donald Trump always knows how to stay in news. Few days ago, he faced a lot of criticism for suggesting that COVID-19 patients might be injected with disinfectant.

US President Donald Trump always knows how to stay in news. Few days ago, he faced a lot of criticism for suggesting that COVID-19 patients might be injected with disinfectant. While he backtracked on his statement saying he was being sarcastic, he has yet again made the news with another tweet. POTUS, on Saturday, missed a White House briefing stating it is 'not worth the time and effort'. Once again concentrating on the issue of fake news, in his tweet he mentioned that the 'Lamestream Media' only asks hostile questions and refuses to report the truth. What is the purpose of having White House News Conferences when the Lamestream Media asks nothing but hostile questions, & then refuses to report the truth or facts accurately. They get record ratings, & the American people get nothing but Fake News. Not worth the time & effort! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 25, 2020 × Also read: Coronavirus: US witnesses nearly 2,500 deaths in last 24 hours; toll over 53,000 He took the decision of missing the White House briefing after he faced a lot of criticism for suggesting coronavirus patients can be treated by shining ultraviolet light inside their bodies, or with injecting them with household disinfectant. "Then I see the disinfectant, where it knocks (the virus) out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning? Because you see it gets in the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs," he said. Also read: New York City to provide 5,00,000 free halal meals during Ramzan Later, in a press conference on Thursday, Trump said he was being "sarcastic" and did not mean it. That press briefing was cut short to 19 minutes and no questions were accepted from the media. The next day, on Saturday, he tweeted about not attending press briefing. The tweet did not garner a lot of positive replies, as people feel that he is running away from answering valid questions of Americans and media. You consider the softest softball a hostile question. eg: “What do you say to Americans who are scared?” pic.twitter.com/Q4ggUjronw — Helen Kennedy (@HelenKennedy) April 25, 2020 × United States of America is one of the worst-hit countries by coronavirus with over 956,000 confirmed positive cases, and a death toll of 53,928. Even with high death tolls, some southern states like Georgia decided to ignore warnings from top medical experts and opened businesses on Friday. People were later seen flocking to beaches.

Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment

The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment.

The basic purpose behind the initiative is to reduce the infection rates seen among medical personnel by shifting to the practice of telemedicine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-confirms-288-new-coronavirus-deaths-lowest-in-a-month-294846">Also read:&nbsp;Spain confirms 288 new coronavirus deaths, lowest in a month</a>

The hospital, Brigham And Women's Hospital of Harvard University, has been using a Spot unit since last week for remote triage of patients suspected of having COVID-19.

"Today marks the second week of Spot's presence at a local Boston hospital, Brigham and Women's, where the robot is being deployed as a mobile telemedicine platform, enabling healthcare providers to remotely triage patients," The Verge quoted the company's statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-italy-pm-giuseppe-conte-vows-to-reopen-schools-in-september-294855">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus in Italy: PM Giuseppe Conte vows to reopen schools in September</a>

"We're listening to their feedback on how Spot can do more but are encouraged by their reports that using the robot has helped their nursing staff minimize time exposed to potentially contagious patients," the statement further read.

At present, Spot is currently used to video conference with suspected patients for the initial assessment. (ANI)

The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment.

The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment. The basic purpose behind the initiative is to reduce the infection rates seen among medical personnel by shifting to the practice of telemedicine. Also read: Spain confirms 288 new coronavirus deaths, lowest in a month The hospital, Brigham And Women's Hospital of Harvard University, has been using a Spot unit since last week for remote triage of patients suspected of having COVID-19. "Today marks the second week of Spot's presence at a local Boston hospital, Brigham and Women's, where the robot is being deployed as a mobile telemedicine platform, enabling healthcare providers to remotely triage patients," The Verge quoted the company's statement. Also read: Coronavirus in Italy: PM Giuseppe Conte vows to reopen schools in September "We're listening to their feedback on how Spot can do more but are encouraged by their reports that using the robot has helped their nursing staff minimize time exposed to potentially contagious patients," the statement further read. At present, Spot is currently used to video conference with suspected patients for the initial assessment. (ANI)

Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19

23,000+ lives have been lost in the United States, but the U.S. President says he should not be blamed for anything. A press conference by Trump turned out to be a never-ending monologue of self-pity. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Why Donald Trump has failed to act like a President