Kazakhstan has dismissed the warning by China's embassy for its citizens that advised to guard themselves against an outbreak of pneumonia in the central Asian nation. China described the pneumonia as being more lethal than COVID-19, the disease caused due to the novel coronavirus.

The Chinese embassy, in a statement late on Thursday on its official WeChat account, flagged a "significant increase" in cases in the Kazakh cities of Atyrau, Aktobe and Shymkent since mid-June.

On Friday, however, Kazakhstan's healthcare ministry branded Chinese media reports based on the embassy statement as "fake news". The ministry said its tallies of bacterial, fungal and viral pneumonia infections, which also included cases of unclear causes, were in line with World Health Organisation guidelines.

"The information published by some Chinese media regarding a new kind of pneumonia in Kazakhstan is incorrect," the ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unknown-pneumonia-deadlier-than-coronavirus-sweeping-across-kazakhstan-warns-chinese-embassy-312099">Also read |&nbsp;'Unknown Pneumonia' deadlier than coronavirus sweeping across Kazakhstan, warns Chinese Embassy</a>

In its statement, the Chinese embassy had said pneumonia in Kazakhstan killed 1,772 people in the year's first half, with 628 deaths in June, including Chinese citizens. It is unclear whether the penumonia it referred to was caused by a virus related to coronavirus or a different strain.

The Global Times tabloid run by China's People's Daily has said Kazakhstan's foreign ministry "did not respond to questions about the Chinese embassy's warning".

Kazakhstan, which imposed a second lockdown this week to rein in the pandemic, has a tally of almost 55,000 COVID-19 infections, including 264 deaths. The number of new cases rose on Thursday to a daily record of 1,962.

On Tuesday, state news agency Kazinform said the number of pneumonia cases "increased 2.2 times in June as compared to the same period of 2019".

Kazakhstan has dismissed the warning by China's embassy for its citizens that advised to guard themselves against an outbreak of pneumonia in the central Asian nation.

Kazakhstan has dismissed the warning by China's embassy for its citizens that advised to guard themselves against an outbreak of pneumonia in the central Asian nation. China described the pneumonia as being more lethal than COVID-19, the disease caused due to the novel coronavirus. The Chinese embassy, in a statement late on Thursday on its official WeChat account, flagged a "significant increase" in cases in the Kazakh cities of Atyrau, Aktobe and Shymkent since mid-June. On Friday, however, Kazakhstan's healthcare ministry branded Chinese media reports based on the embassy statement as "fake news". The ministry said its tallies of bacterial, fungal and viral pneumonia infections, which also included cases of unclear causes, were in line with World Health Organisation guidelines. "The information published by some Chinese media regarding a new kind of pneumonia in Kazakhstan is incorrect," the ministry said. Also read | 'Unknown Pneumonia' deadlier than coronavirus sweeping across Kazakhstan, warns Chinese Embassy In its statement, the Chinese embassy had said pneumonia in Kazakhstan killed 1,772 people in the year's first half, with 628 deaths in June, including Chinese citizens. It is unclear whether the penumonia it referred to was caused by a virus related to coronavirus or a different strain. The Global Times tabloid run by China's People's Daily has said Kazakhstan's foreign ministry "did not respond to questions about the Chinese embassy's warning". Kazakhstan, which imposed a second lockdown this week to rein in the pandemic, has a tally of almost 55,000 COVID-19 infections, including 264 deaths. The number of new cases rose on Thursday to a daily record of 1,962. On Tuesday, state news agency Kazinform said the number of pneumonia cases "increased 2.2 times in June as compared to the same period of 2019".

Kazakhstan denies Chinese reports of pneumonia deadlier than COVID-19

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 patients crossed 30,000 in Pakistan after the emergence of nearly 1,300 new infections, while the death toll stood at 667, it was reported on Monday.

The country registered its highest number of cases for three consecutive days with the government lifting the coronavirus-induced lockdown in phases.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 1,476 new COVID-19 patients were identified during the last 24 hours.

A total of 28 more people have died in the same period, taking the tally of COVID-19 deaths in Pakistan to 667, it said, adding that 8,212 people have recovered.

Out of the total 30,941 cases, Punjab reported 11,568 infections, Sindh 11,480, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 4,669, Balochistan 2,017, Islamabad 679, Gilgit-Baltistan 442 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 86.

So far, the authorities have conducted 294,894 tests, including 11,369 in the last 24 hours, the ministry said.

An army officer was among the new COVID-19 fatalities reported.

Pakistani healthcare professionals across the country have also started testing positive for the novel coronavirus in the past few days, with at least 257 confirmed infections among doctors and paramedics between May 5 and May 9.

On Sunday Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said 709 new cases were reported in the province, currently the worst hit, in the past 24 hours pushing its tally to 11,480.

Officials have recorded more than 4.13 million cases and more than 281,000 deaths since the virus emerged in China in December.

(With inputs from agencies)

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 patients crossed 30,000 in Pakistan after the emergence of nearly 1,300 new infections, while the death toll stood at 667, it was reported on Monday.

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 patients crossed 30,000 in Pakistan after the emergence of nearly 1,300 new infections, while the death toll stood at 667, it was reported on Monday. The country registered its highest number of cases for three consecutive days with the government lifting the coronavirus-induced lockdown in phases. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 1,476 new COVID-19 patients were identified during the last 24 hours. A total of 28 more people have died in the same period, taking the tally of COVID-19 deaths in Pakistan to 667, it said, adding that 8,212 people have recovered. Out of the total 30,941 cases, Punjab reported 11,568 infections, Sindh 11,480, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 4,669, Balochistan 2,017, Islamabad 679, Gilgit-Baltistan 442 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 86. So far, the authorities have conducted 294,894 tests, including 11,369 in the last 24 hours, the ministry said. An army officer was among the new COVID-19 fatalities reported. Pakistani healthcare professionals across the country have also started testing positive for the novel coronavirus in the past few days, with at least 257 confirmed infections among doctors and paramedics between May 5 and May 9. On Sunday Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said 709 new cases were reported in the province, currently the worst hit, in the past 24 hours pushing its tally to 11,480. Officials have recorded more than 4.13 million cases and more than 281,000 deaths since the virus emerged in China in December. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's coronavirus cases rise to 30,941; death toll at 667

As the cases are increasing in Pakistan, the local government has decided to extend the lockdown to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

The cases saw a sudden rise, especially as hundreds of&nbsp;repatriated Pakistan nationals tested positive after returning from UAE last week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-seeks-pakistans-help-for-intra-afghan-dialogue-297740">Also read:&nbsp;US seeks Pakistan's help for intra-Afghan dialogue&nbsp;</a>

The Pakistan government, on Sunday, has decided to extend the lockdown restrictions for another three weeks till May 31. However, certain&nbsp;exemptions will be provided to traders and businessmen.

Officials have decided that all industries&nbsp;that are included in the second phase of the construction sector, all factories which are not included in the negative list, including the export industry, all retail shops and community markets will be allowed to remain open.

Small shops, too, will re-open. However, shopping malls, parks, golf clubs, tennis courts and all entertainment venues will stay closed.

The shops will be allowed to remain open&nbsp;five days a week from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, no shops will be allowed top open on the weekends.

Pakistan`s coronavirus tally crossed 29,000 on Sunday after 1,991 new patients were diagnosed in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.The Ministry of National Health Services said that 21 new deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of fatalities to 639.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

As the cases are increasing in Pakistan, the local government has decided to extend the lockdown to contain the spread of the deadly virus. The cases saw a sudden rise, especially as hundreds of repatriated Pakistan nationals tested positive after returning from UAE last week.

As the cases are increasing in Pakistan, the local government has decided to extend the lockdown to contain the spread of the deadly virus. The cases saw a sudden rise, especially as hundreds of repatriated Pakistan nationals tested positive after returning from UAE last week. Also read: US seeks Pakistan's help for intra-Afghan dialogue The Pakistan government, on Sunday, has decided to extend the lockdown restrictions for another three weeks till May 31. However, certain exemptions will be provided to traders and businessmen. Officials have decided that all industries that are included in the second phase of the construction sector, all factories which are not included in the negative list, including the export industry, all retail shops and community markets will be allowed to remain open. Small shops, too, will re-open. However, shopping malls, parks, golf clubs, tennis courts and all entertainment venues will stay closed. The shops will be allowed to remain open five days a week from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, no shops will be allowed top open on the weekends. Pakistan`s coronavirus tally crossed 29,000 on Sunday after 1,991 new patients were diagnosed in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.The Ministry of National Health Services said that 21 new deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of fatalities to 639. (With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan extends lockdown till May 31; factories open

Malaysia has been able to contain the spread of coronavirus. However, the Malaysian government has decided to extend the lockdown by four weeks.

The country has been following partial lockdown with some restrictions being lifted in phases. However, the lockdown will now be extended till June 9.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-flight-from-dhaka-brings-back-129-stranded-indians-297624">Also read:&nbsp;Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians</a>

The current lockdown was scheduled to end on May 12, Tuesday. However,&nbsp;Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has announced that the movement restrictions need to continue to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

As the cases had been decreasing in the country, the government had allowed few businesses to re-open to revive its economy.

However, mass gatherings remain barred. All&nbsp;schools, cinemas and places of worship too will stay shut. In addition it, the travel restrictions are still in place.

Malaysia recorded 67 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases to 6,656, and 108 deaths.

Malaysia has been able to contain the spread of coronavirus. However, the Malaysian government has decided to extend the lockdown by four weeks. The country has been following partial lockdown with some restrictions being lifted in phases.

Malaysia has been able to contain the spread of coronavirus. However, the Malaysian government has decided to extend the lockdown by four weeks. The country has been following partial lockdown with some restrictions being lifted in phases. However, the lockdown will now be extended till June 9. Also read: Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians The current lockdown was scheduled to end on May 12, Tuesday. However, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has announced that the movement restrictions need to continue to contain the spread of the deadly virus. As the cases had been decreasing in the country, the government had allowed few businesses to re-open to revive its economy. However, mass gatherings remain barred. All schools, cinemas and places of worship too will stay shut. In addition it, the travel restrictions are still in place. Malaysia recorded 67 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases to 6,656, and 108 deaths.

Malaysia extends lockdown till June 9; cases decrease

South Korea was applauded for the way the country handled coronavirus.&nbsp; However, a new group of 25 coronavirus cases have been reported on Friday in Seoul's popular multicultural neighbourhood of Itaewon.

After the cases were reported,&nbsp;South Korean government on Friday issued an advisory to clubs,&nbsp;bars and all other social events venues to suspend the business for a month. The advisory will come into place from 8pm on Friday, Yonhap, a local&nbsp;news agency, reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-the-covid-19-pandemic-is-over-ready-for-review-under-who-china-297447">Also read:&nbsp;After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO: China</a>

While it is not compulsory for clubs and bars to temporarily suspend their business, if they are found as a source of coronavirus, the respective venue could lose their license forever.

Schools were also to reopen from next month. However, the government is now considering postponing the reopening of schools.

“At this moment, it’s too early to say whether we need to postpone the opening of schools, but we will monitor the spread of the virus and review information&nbsp;from investigations of the new cases," said Jeong Eun-kyeong, director of the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,&nbsp;during a virus briefing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-undergo-covid-19-test-every-day-as-military-aide-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-297381">Also Read:&nbsp;Trump to undergo COVID-19 test every day as military aide tests positive for coronavirus</a>

The health officials have linked almost&nbsp;15 infections to a 29-year-old patient who visited three clubs in Seoul’s Itaewon district on Saturday. He was tested positive on Wednesday. The patient was not wearing a mask in the nightclub, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) reported.

Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip reported that&nbsp;13 of the new cases were&nbsp;office colleagues of the patient and others were fellow clubgoers, including three foreigners and a soldier.

Kim Gang-lip has cautioned the public and has advised people to follow the rules of social distancing. “A drop of ink in clear water spreads swiftly. Anyone can become that drop of ink that spreads COVID-19,” he said&nbsp;during a briefing.

While the decision on resuming the schools is still pending, South Korean government has urged the people to practice social distancing and other rules which have been set in place to avoid a second wave of the deadly coronavirus.

South Korea has reported more than 10,800 cases and 256 deaths from COVID-19.

South Korea was applauded for the way the country handled coronavirus. However, a new group of 25 coronavirus cases have been reported on Friday in Seoul's popular multicultural neighbourhood of Itaewon.

South Korea was applauded for the way the country handled coronavirus. However, a new group of 25 coronavirus cases have been reported on Friday in Seoul's popular multicultural neighbourhood of Itaewon. After the cases were reported, South Korean government on Friday issued an advisory to clubs, bars and all other social events venues to suspend the business for a month. The advisory will come into place from 8pm on Friday, Yonhap, a local news agency, reported. Also read: After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO: China While it is not compulsory for clubs and bars to temporarily suspend their business, if they are found as a source of coronavirus, the respective venue could lose their license forever. Schools were also to reopen from next month. However, the government is now considering postponing the reopening of schools. “At this moment, it’s too early to say whether we need to postpone the opening of schools, but we will monitor the spread of the virus and review information from investigations of the new cases," said Jeong Eun-kyeong, director of the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, during a virus briefing. Also Read: Trump to undergo COVID-19 test every day as military aide tests positive for coronavirus The health officials have linked almost 15 infections to a 29-year-old patient who visited three clubs in Seoul’s Itaewon district on Saturday. He was tested positive on Wednesday. The patient was not wearing a mask in the nightclub, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) reported. Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip reported that 13 of the new cases were office colleagues of the patient and others were fellow clubgoers, including three foreigners and a soldier. Kim Gang-lip has cautioned the public and has advised people to follow the rules of social distancing. “A drop of ink in clear water spreads swiftly. Anyone can become that drop of ink that spreads COVID-19,” he said during a briefing. While the decision on resuming the schools is still pending, South Korean government has urged the people to practice social distancing and other rules which have been set in place to avoid a second wave of the deadly coronavirus. South Korea has reported more than 10,800 cases and 256 deaths from COVID-19.

South Korea closes bars and clubs; fears second wave of COVID-19

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said today that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-spain-records-lower-death-toll-as-lockdown-measures-set-to-ease-295815"> coronavirus </a>pandemic is under control while asserting that the sudden risen in the number of cases will be dwelt with by authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-no-significant-clinical-benefits-of-remdesivir-claims-a-new-lancet-study-295754">Also Read:&nbsp;No significant clinical benefits of remdesivir, claims a new Lancet study</a>

Last week sailors were infected with COVID-19 in a naval base near Colombo with the number of virus cases suddenly&nbsp;increasing to 477 reported cases. At least 68 sailors were infected with the virus at the Welisara naval base, with another 27 who had reportedly gone on leave also testing positive.

Reports said at least 400 sailors were infected but results were not out yet. The naval base which included thousands of sailors and their families was placed under quartine.

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa has called a meeting of members of the previous Parliament for meeting next week as the country stares at a financial crisis due to the virus.

Meanwhile, authorities said the curfew regulations will be relaxed to open state and private enterprises from May in Colombo. Relaxation in curfew across districts has already been undertaken by local authorities to allow people to move around even as the president's office declared that curfew would be imposed throughout the island from April 30 to May 4.

Despite the gradual relaxation, schools and universities contiue to remain shut with people asked to stay at home with trip s and functions banned for the present moment.

Sri Lanka's doctors' trade union had earlier appealed to the governnent to increase testing to contain the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said today that coronavirus pandemic is under control while asserting that the sudden risen in the number of cases will be dwelt with by authorities.

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said today that coronavirus pandemic is under control while asserting that the sudden risen in the number of cases will be dwelt with by authorities. Also Read: No significant clinical benefits of remdesivir, claims a new Lancet study Last week sailors were infected with COVID-19 in a naval base near Colombo with the number of virus cases suddenly increasing to 477 reported cases. At least 68 sailors were infected with the virus at the Welisara naval base, with another 27 who had reportedly gone on leave also testing positive. Reports said at least 400 sailors were infected but results were not out yet. The naval base which included thousands of sailors and their families was placed under quartine. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa has called a meeting of members of the previous Parliament for meeting next week as the country stares at a financial crisis due to the virus. Meanwhile, authorities said the curfew regulations will be relaxed to open state and private enterprises from May in Colombo. Relaxation in curfew across districts has already been undertaken by local authorities to allow people to move around even as the president's office declared that curfew would be imposed throughout the island from April 30 to May 4. Despite the gradual relaxation, schools and universities contiue to remain shut with people asked to stay at home with trip s and functions banned for the present moment. Sri Lanka's doctors' trade union had earlier appealed to the governnent to increase testing to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Coronavirus under control, says Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as sailors test positive

While other states are yet to take a decision on whether to lift the lockdown, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh in a video message announced a two-week extension of the lockdown.

It&nbsp;has to been done to contain the spread of the virus.

"Though the curfew has been extended by two more weeks, there will be relaxation from 7am to 11am every day. During this time, people can come out of their houses. Shops will also be allowed to open," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rajasthan-reports-29-cases-madhya-pradesh-announces-94-cases-295555">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Rajasthan reports 29 cases, Madhya Pradesh announces 94 cases</a>

India has now crossed the 31,000 mark of positive cases as the country recorded&nbsp;1,897 cases in 24 hours, making it the steepest rise i the curve. According to the Union Health Ministry, there a&nbsp;total of&nbsp;22,629 active cases, 7,695 cured/discharged, 1 migrated and 1,007 deaths.

A total of 73 people have lost their battle to coronavirus&nbsp;in the last 24 hours, recording the biggest jump in the number of deaths in a day. The number of positive coronavirus cases as well as the death count has doubled in the past 10 days, despite the lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-oxford-vaccine-effective-in-monkeys-heading-for-mass-production-in-india-295429">Also Read:&nbsp;Oxford vaccine effective in monkeys, heading for mass production in India</a>

Rajasthan on Wednesday reported 29 more COVID-19 cases taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the state to 2,393, state Health Department said. Jammu and Kashmir has also seen a rise as the total number of cases in the Union Territory stands at 565 in Jammu and Kashmir, including 381 active cases.

Bihar, too, has reported 12 new cases, including a six-month old baby, taking the tally to 378.&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh announced&nbsp;94 new cases on Wednesday.

As the cases are on a constant rise, Tamil Nadu had initiated a four-day&nbsp;intense lockdown in four cities, which is ending today. Following that, the Tamil Nadu government has issued a notice that grocery shops will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm for tomorrow in those cities, namely Chennai and Coimbatore. The timings will shift back to 6am to 1pm from Friday.

While other states are yet to take a decision on whether to lift the lockdown, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh in a video message announced a two-week extension of the lockdown.

While other states are yet to take a decision on whether to lift the lockdown, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh in a video message announced a two-week extension of the lockdown. It has to been done to contain the spread of the virus. "Though the curfew has been extended by two more weeks, there will be relaxation from 7am to 11am every day. During this time, people can come out of their houses. Shops will also be allowed to open," he said. Also read: COVID-19: Rajasthan reports 29 cases, Madhya Pradesh announces 94 cases India has now crossed the 31,000 mark of positive cases as the country recorded 1,897 cases in 24 hours, making it the steepest rise i the curve. According to the Union Health Ministry, there a total of 22,629 active cases, 7,695 cured/discharged, 1 migrated and 1,007 deaths. A total of 73 people have lost their battle to coronavirus in the last 24 hours, recording the biggest jump in the number of deaths in a day. The number of positive coronavirus cases as well as the death count has doubled in the past 10 days, despite the lockdown. Also Read: Oxford vaccine effective in monkeys, heading for mass production in India Rajasthan on Wednesday reported 29 more COVID-19 cases taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the state to 2,393, state Health Department said. Jammu and Kashmir has also seen a rise as the total number of cases in the Union Territory stands at 565 in Jammu and Kashmir, including 381 active cases. Bihar, too, has reported 12 new cases, including a six-month old baby, taking the tally to 378. Madhya Pradesh announced 94 new cases on Wednesday. As the cases are on a constant rise, Tamil Nadu had initiated a four-day intense lockdown in four cities, which is ending today. Following that, the Tamil Nadu government has issued a notice that grocery shops will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm for tomorrow in those cities, namely Chennai and Coimbatore. The timings will shift back to 6am to 1pm from Friday.

Decided to extend curfew in state by two more weeks: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh

For the first time in its history, the flag hoisting of Thrissur Pooram, the annual temple festival, was held without the participation of people.

Only five people participated at the flag hoisting ritual held here on Sunday at Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples due to the COVID-19 lockdown guidelines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period</a>

It was decided earlier this month that this year's festival will be held without gathering of people.

The main attraction of Thrissur Pooram, which showcases fireworks and parading of elephants falls on May 3. But this year it has also been cancelled in the wake of COVID-19.&nbsp;

For the first time in its history, the flag hoisting of Thrissur Pooram, the annual temple festival, was held without the participation of people. Only five people participated at the flag hoisting ritual held here on Sunday at Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples due to the COVID-19 lockdown guidelines.

For the first time in its history, the flag hoisting of Thrissur Pooram, the annual temple festival, was held without the participation of people. Only five people participated at the flag hoisting ritual held here on Sunday at Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples due to the COVID-19 lockdown guidelines. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period It was decided earlier this month that this year's festival will be held without gathering of people. The main attraction of Thrissur Pooram, which showcases fireworks and parading of elephants falls on May 3. But this year it has also been cancelled in the wake of COVID-19.

Flag-hoisting at Thrissur Pooram festival held without mass gathering

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday.

Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-australia-launches-app-to-trace-patients-contacts-294845">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts</a>

Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department.

The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities,&nbsp;passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday.

The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-worth-the-time-us-president-donald-trump-says-about-media-briefings-after-backtracking-on-his-controversial-comment-294807">Also read:&nbsp;Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment</a>

"We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF).

The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-should-provide-rs-7500-per-month-for-three-months-to-those-who-lost-livelihood-in-lockdown-sitaram-yechury-294844">Also read:&nbsp;Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury</a>

"With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care."

The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts."

"We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet.

"His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state. The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here. Also read: Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department. The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities, passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday. The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility. Also read: Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment "We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF). The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern". Also read: Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury "With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care." The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts." "We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet. "His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

Doctor dies of COVID-19 in West Bengal; CM Mamata condoles

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis.

He pointed out that the unemployment rate in the country shot up from 7.5 per cent to 23.6 per cent from early March to April 20.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"It is imperative that immediately the Central government transfers Rs 7,500 per month for the next three months to all who have lost their livelihoods. Surely, if a staggering Rs 7.76 lakhs of crores of loans taken by the super rich and corporates can be waived off by your government during the last five years, there should be no shortage of funds to feed and support the majority of our people," he said in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The CPI-M leader also questioned the manner in which the lockdown was imposed in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read:&nbsp;With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period</a>

"Since the lockdown, the urge among the migrant workers to return to their homes has seen surging crowds in huge numbers seeking to leave for their homes as they have lost all means of livelihood and shelter. This in itself negated one of the objectives of the lockdown, of maintaining physical distancing in order to contain community transmission of the pandemic," he wrote.

"Since the announcement of the lockdown, we had suggested that the Central government must immediately provide free food to all the needy. Huge stocks of foodgrains are rotting in our central godowns. These should be sent to the states for free distribution. Neither of these demands has even been considered by the government with you as the Prime Minister," he added.

India is under a nation-wide lockdown which was imposed on March 25 and later extended on April 14 to May 3 to stem the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis.

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis. He pointed out that the unemployment rate in the country shot up from 7.5 per cent to 23.6 per cent from early March to April 20. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "It is imperative that immediately the Central government transfers Rs 7,500 per month for the next three months to all who have lost their livelihoods. Surely, if a staggering Rs 7.76 lakhs of crores of loans taken by the super rich and corporates can be waived off by your government during the last five years, there should be no shortage of funds to feed and support the majority of our people," he said in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The CPI-M leader also questioned the manner in which the lockdown was imposed in the country. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period "Since the lockdown, the urge among the migrant workers to return to their homes has seen surging crowds in huge numbers seeking to leave for their homes as they have lost all means of livelihood and shelter. This in itself negated one of the objectives of the lockdown, of maintaining physical distancing in order to contain community transmission of the pandemic," he wrote. "Since the announcement of the lockdown, we had suggested that the Central government must immediately provide free food to all the needy. Huge stocks of foodgrains are rotting in our central godowns. These should be sent to the states for free distribution. Neither of these demands has even been considered by the government with you as the Prime Minister," he added. India is under a nation-wide lockdown which was imposed on March 25 and later extended on April 14 to May 3 to stem the spread of coronavirus.

Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury

With a rise in the temperature in the country,&nbsp;Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about&nbsp;ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-fight-is-people-driven-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-294821">Also read:&nbsp;India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'</a>

Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should&nbsp;we use the AC at this point of time.

As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said.

“Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added.

The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans.

For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air.&nbsp;“The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown. There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat. Also read: India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat' Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should we use the AC at this point of time. As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said. “Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added. The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans. For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air. “The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

24-30 degree celsius is the ideal temperature for your AC, says CPWD in a guideline

<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this&nbsp;on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants.

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-coronavirus-pandemic-is-this-a-world-war-in-disguise-294597">Also read:&nbsp;WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise?</a>

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text">State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramzan-in-the-times-of-coronavirus-294615">Also read:&nbsp;Ramzan in the times of coronavirus</a>

<p content="The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app which has an estimated one million new users registering every hour, and a total of 70 million registrants. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easyaccess and verification." data-reactid="15" type="text">The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">"The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said&nbsp;Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown. The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants. Also read: WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise? State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute. This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka. State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains. Also read: Ramzan in the times of coronavirus The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification. "The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation. Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

eGov Foundation Launches COVID e-Pass Platform to make transportation of essential goods easier

As social distancing has taken over the world, a lot of businesses have suffered losses. However,&nbsp;a young Taiwanese sommelier has decided to not let the lockdown get the better of him. To keep his business afloat,&nbsp;Peter Petrus is teaching the art of wine tasting to his online audience by live streaming from his studio in Taipei.

“So I started contemplating if there might be a way to work around this situation - at the end of the day the company has to keep going,” said Peter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-through-sensitive-taiwan-strait-for-the-second-time-in-a-month-294403">Also read: US warship sails through sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month</a>

Peter sends different wine samples to his online students and then the students who receive the samples join him for an online class. He films the videos and livestreams via his smartphone. While he has been able to keep his students happy, sometime he feels that "The problem with wine is that it starts oxidation once you open the bottle."

His students, too, have been enjoying these online classes and find the idea of this class to be quite special.

“It feels just the same (as being there) with a bit of additional warmth and chill-out, because it’s so cozy at home,” says Candice Yang, a 32-year-old maths teacher.

Taiwan has managed to contain the spread of the virus. There are only 429 reported positive cases, 6 deaths and 275 recovered patients. However, the rules of social distancing still apply in Taiwan.

As social distancing has taken over the world, a lot of businesses have suffered losses. However, a young Taiwanese sommelier has decided to not let the lockdown get the better of him.

As social distancing has taken over the world, a lot of businesses have suffered losses. However, a young Taiwanese sommelier has decided to not let the lockdown get the better of him. To keep his business afloat, Peter Petrus is teaching the art of wine tasting to his online audience by live streaming from his studio in Taipei. “So I started contemplating if there might be a way to work around this situation - at the end of the day the company has to keep going,” said Peter. Also read: US warship sails through sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month Peter sends different wine samples to his online students and then the students who receive the samples join him for an online class. He films the videos and livestreams via his smartphone. While he has been able to keep his students happy, sometime he feels that "The problem with wine is that it starts oxidation once you open the bottle." His students, too, have been enjoying these online classes and find the idea of this class to be quite special. “It feels just the same (as being there) with a bit of additional warmth and chill-out, because it’s so cozy at home,” says Candice Yang, a 32-year-old maths teacher. Taiwan has managed to contain the spread of the virus. There are only 429 reported positive cases, 6 deaths and 275 recovered patients. However, the rules of social distancing still apply in Taiwan.

Taiwan sommelier teaches  wine tasting through online classes to fight lockdown blues

As Malaysia is under a partial lockdown, palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by a closure of private jetties due to coronavirus-related curbs, an industry body said on Saturday.

The company&nbsp;accounts for about a quarter of the total palm oil produced in Malaysia, which, after Indonesia,&nbsp;is the second biggest&nbsp;producer and exporter of vegetable oil in the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-agrees-to-export-hcq-to-malaysia-to-help-fight-covid-19-292634">Also read:&nbsp;India agrees to export HCQ to Malaysia to help fight COVID-19</a>

Malaysia initiated a partial lockdown on March 18 and will be continuing it till May 12. There are a total of 5,742 reported&nbsp;positive cases, with 98 deaths and 3,762 recovered patients. The lockdown has affected a lot of businesses.

There are more than 16 jetties that were used&nbsp;to ship fresh fruit bunches, crude palm oils and palm kernels. However, since the April 17 order of partial lockdown, these jetties&nbsp;have been temporarily closed.

"The downstream sector in Sabah which includes the refineries and kernel crushing plants will see their raw materials reduce, thus affecting their production and ability to fulfil the committed supply contracts. "Important of all, they are not able to carry out shipments of finished products for exports to other countries." the Malaysian Palm Oil Association (MPOA) said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-bullying-behaviour-in-south-china-sea-us-to-china-293325">Also read:&nbsp;Stop 'bullying behaviour' in South China Sea: US to China</a>

On the other hand, Petronas, a leading oil and gas company of Malaysia, has said that all its domestic projects have either already resumed or will be resuming soon.

Petronas is striving to minimise the impact to its planned domestic CAPEX programme in the face of the current challenges," the company said in a statement.

"However, we do expect that some projects will be naturally delayed due to the prolonged lockdowns implemented globally and the movement control order in Malaysia, and further disruptions anticipated to the global supply chain."

As Malaysia is under a partial lockdown, palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by a closure of private jetties due to coronavirus-related curbs, an industry body said on Saturday.

As Malaysia is under a partial lockdown, palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by a closure of private jetties due to coronavirus-related curbs, an industry body said on Saturday. The company accounts for about a quarter of the total palm oil produced in Malaysia, which, after Indonesia, is the second biggest producer and exporter of vegetable oil in the world. Also read: India agrees to export HCQ to Malaysia to help fight COVID-19 Malaysia initiated a partial lockdown on March 18 and will be continuing it till May 12. There are a total of 5,742 reported positive cases, with 98 deaths and 3,762 recovered patients. The lockdown has affected a lot of businesses. There are more than 16 jetties that were used to ship fresh fruit bunches, crude palm oils and palm kernels. However, since the April 17 order of partial lockdown, these jetties have been temporarily closed. "The downstream sector in Sabah which includes the refineries and kernel crushing plants will see their raw materials reduce, thus affecting their production and ability to fulfil the committed supply contracts. "Important of all, they are not able to carry out shipments of finished products for exports to other countries." the Malaysian Palm Oil Association (MPOA) said. Also read: Stop 'bullying behaviour' in South China Sea: US to China On the other hand, Petronas, a leading oil and gas company of Malaysia, has said that all its domestic projects have either already resumed or will be resuming soon. Petronas is striving to minimise the impact to its planned domestic CAPEX programme in the face of the current challenges," the company said in a statement. "However, we do expect that some projects will be naturally delayed due to the prolonged lockdowns implemented globally and the movement control order in Malaysia, and further disruptions anticipated to the global supply chain."

Palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by closure

Singapore on Monday reported a jump in the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-81000-people-across-the-world-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-24-hours-293437">coronavirus</a> infections with 1,400 cases most of then linked to dometries of foreign labourers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-recommended-disinfectants-effective-against-covid-19-says-study-293521">Also Read:&nbsp;WHO-recommended disinfectants effective against COVID-19, says study</a>

There are now over 8,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country with eleven people having succumbed to virus.

After aggressive testing, more cases of have been found even as Prime Minister Lee Hsien warned that more cases may come to the for with authorities increasing the number of COVID-19 tests.

"Fortunately, the vast majority of the cases are mild because the workers are young," the prime minister asserted, adding,"it will take some time to show results, so we must expect to see more dorm cases for while longer".

Last Thursday, the country had reported &nbsp;728 new cases with the number of confirmed coronavirus cases jumping to 4,427.

The cases were linked to 43 dorms across the country which hosts nearly 20,000 workers, mostly involved in construction, who live close to one another in often overcrowded rooms.

The migrant workers were moved out of the dormitories after a surge in new coronavirus cases earlier in the month. The workers were moved to relatively open and safe places in army barracks, vacant apartments in a bid to contain the spread of the disease.

While taking measures to move the workers, Singapore's minister said Lawrence Wong, "We are sparing no effort to contain the spread of the virus in the foreign worker dormitories."

However, the minister cautioned that "despite our best efforts at containing the situation, all of us have to be mentally prepared that the numbers in the foreign worker dormitories will continue to rise in the coming days." 
&nbsp;

Singapore on Monday reported a jump in the number of coronavirus infections with 1,400 cases most of then linked to dometries of foreign labourers. Also Read: WHO-recommended disinfectants effective against COVID-19, says study There are now over 8,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country with eleven people having succumbed to virus.

Singapore on Monday reported a jump in the number of coronavirus infections with 1,400 cases most of then linked to dometries of foreign labourers. Also Read: WHO-recommended disinfectants effective against COVID-19, says study There are now over 8,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country with eleven people having succumbed to virus. After aggressive testing, more cases of have been found even as Prime Minister Lee Hsien warned that more cases may come to the for with authorities increasing the number of COVID-19 tests. "Fortunately, the vast majority of the cases are mild because the workers are young," the prime minister asserted, adding,"it will take some time to show results, so we must expect to see more dorm cases for while longer". Last Thursday, the country had reported 728 new cases with the number of confirmed coronavirus cases jumping to 4,427. The cases were linked to 43 dorms across the country which hosts nearly 20,000 workers, mostly involved in construction, who live close to one another in often overcrowded rooms. The migrant workers were moved out of the dormitories after a surge in new coronavirus cases earlier in the month. The workers were moved to relatively open and safe places in army barracks, vacant apartments in a bid to contain the spread of the disease. While taking measures to move the workers, Singapore's minister said Lawrence Wong, "We are sparing no effort to contain the spread of the virus in the foreign worker dormitories." However, the minister cautioned that "despite our best efforts at containing the situation, all of us have to be mentally prepared that the numbers in the foreign worker dormitories will continue to rise in the coming days."

Singapore reports record jump in coronavirus cases

Singapore government on Friday announced shutdown amid rising cases of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-stricken-cruise-ships-allowed-to-dock-in-florida-290278">coronavirus</a> in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-records-highest-one-day-covid-19-death-toll-with-1169-fatalities-290246">Also Read:&nbsp;US records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities</a>

“We have decided that instead of tightening incrementally over the next few weeks, we should make a decisive move now, to pre-empt escalating infections,” Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in an address to the nation on Friday.

The one-month long shutdown will come into force from April 7. According to the government food and essential supply services will remain open including "economic sectors which are strategic".

The government said all preschool and student care centers will also be shut.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“If we don’t go out, if we avoid contact with others, then the virus won’t be able to spread. It is as simple as that,” the prime minister told the nation.

Five persons have died due to COVID-19 in Singapore with 49 cases reported today. There are over 1,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country.

“Looking at the trend, I am worried that unless we take further steps, things will gradually get worse, or another big cluster may push things over the edge,” Lee said.

“It will help reduce the risk of a big outbreak occurring and it should also help to gradually bring our numbers down,” the Singapore PM added. 
&nbsp;

Singapore government on Friday announced shutdown amid rising cases of coronavirus in the country. Also Read: US records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities “We have decided that instead of tightening incrementally over the next few weeks, we should make a decisive move now, to pre-empt escalating infections,” Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in an address to the nation on Friday.

Singapore government on Friday announced shutdown amid rising cases of coronavirus in the country. Also Read: US records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities “We have decided that instead of tightening incrementally over the next few weeks, we should make a decisive move now, to pre-empt escalating infections,” Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in an address to the nation on Friday. The one-month long shutdown will come into force from April 7. According to the government food and essential supply services will remain open including "economic sectors which are strategic". The government said all preschool and student care centers will also be shut. “If we don’t go out, if we avoid contact with others, then the virus won’t be able to spread. It is as simple as that,” the prime minister told the nation. Five persons have died due to COVID-19 in Singapore with 49 cases reported today. There are over 1,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country. “Looking at the trend, I am worried that unless we take further steps, things will gradually get worse, or another big cluster may push things over the edge,” Lee said. “It will help reduce the risk of a big outbreak occurring and it should also help to gradually bring our numbers down,” the Singapore PM added.

Singapore announces shutdown as coronavirus cases rise

The death toll in Iran due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-governor-orders-residents-to-stay-home-amid-coronavirus-287480">coronavirus</a> rose to 1,284 with the country reporting 149 new deaths on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sharp-rise-in-coronavirus-cases-as-453-test-positive-287478">Also Read: Pakistan: Sharp rise in coronavirus cases as 453 test positive</a>

Amid the rising cases, Iranian health ministry spokesperson Kianoush Jahanpour said: "50 new cases of infection are detected every hour and one death recorded every 10 minutes."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-china-exported-the-wuhan-coronavirus-287458/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A total of 18,407 people have contracted the disease in Iran.&nbsp;

The health ministry spokesman, however, added that "the number of infections has decreased because people have followed our guidelines, while appealing citizens to "make a conscious decision concerning travel, days out and family visits during Nowruz."&nbsp;

Iran had earlier announced it would free "around 10,000 prisoners" as an amnesty to mark Nowruz, the Persian New Year holiday.

Iran hasn't imposed quarantine measures so far but has only asked its citizens not to travel even as former health ministers urged President Hassan Rouhani to "strictly bar unnecessary movement and travel between provinces" as the number of virus cases continue to mount in the country.

The death toll in Iran due to coronavirus rose to 1,284 with the country reporting 149 new deaths on Thursday. Also Read: Pakistan: Sharp rise in coronavirus cases as 453 test positive Amid the rising cases, Iranian health ministry spokesperson Kianoush Jahanpour said: "50 new cases of infection are detected every hour and one death recorded every 10 minutes.

The death toll in Iran due to coronavirus rose to 1,284 with the country reporting 149 new deaths on Thursday. Also Read: Pakistan: Sharp rise in coronavirus cases as 453 test positive Amid the rising cases, Iranian health ministry spokesperson Kianoush Jahanpour said: "50 new cases of infection are detected every hour and one death recorded every 10 minutes." Watch Video: A total of 18,407 people have contracted the disease in Iran. The health ministry spokesman, however, added that "the number of infections has decreased because people have followed our guidelines, while appealing citizens to "make a conscious decision concerning travel, days out and family visits during Nowruz." Iran had earlier announced it would free "around 10,000 prisoners" as an amnesty to mark Nowruz, the Persian New Year holiday. Iran hasn't imposed quarantine measures so far but has only asked its citizens not to travel even as former health ministers urged President Hassan Rouhani to "strictly bar unnecessary movement and travel between provinces" as the number of virus cases continue to mount in the country.

Iran: 50 new cases of coronavirus detected every hour, 1 death every 10 minutes

Scientists across the world seem to agree that COVID-19 is especially dangerous for the elderly population with many interpreting it to mean that young people are almost invincible.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pitches-for-fast-tracking-anti-malarials-to-treat-coronavirus-fda-on-defensive-287491">Also Read: Trump pitches for fast-tracking anti-malarials to treat coronavirus</a>

However, a study conducted by the CDC in America indicates the assumption isn't true.

A look at the hospitalisation rate reveals new facts. Among COVID-19 patients who have been admitted in hospitals, 31 per cent are aged above 65 and people aged between 45 and 64 account for 36 per cent and the rest of the patients are below 40.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-surpasses-chinas-covid-19-death-toll-287495/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

An almost equal proportion of people from all age groups are being infected in the United States.

In India, 33 per cent of all cases are aged below 40. In China, the rate is 29 per cent and in Italy, it is 22 per cent.

The statistics clearly show young people are equally vulnerable to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-governor-orders-residents-to-stay-home-amid-coronavirus-287480"> infection</a> but the gulf becomes visible while taking a look at the fatality rate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-50-new-cases-of-coronavirus-detected-every-hour-1-death-every-10-minutes-287504">Also Read: 50 new cases of coronavirus detected every hour, 1 death every 10 minutes in Iran</a>

Among the people above 80, the fatality rate is almost 15 per cent which is three times higher than the global average.

It falls to 3.6 per cent for people aged between 60 and 69 and for people between ages 10 and 39, the fatality rate is 0.2 per cent.

It means that while young people are equally vulnerable to the infection, they have a much higher chance of recovery.

The South Korean Church group at the centre of the outbreak comprised mostly of women in their 20s and 30s while in Italy having the second oldest population worsened the situation.

So young people also need to be careful, they could be carriers and may very well end up infecting their family while their fatality rate maybe low, getting infected still means a trip to the hospital.

Scientists across the world seem to agree that COVID-19 is especially dangerous for the elderly population with many interpreting it to mean that young people are almost invincible.

Scientists across the world seem to agree that COVID-19 is especially dangerous for the elderly population with many interpreting it to mean that young people are almost invincible. Also Read: Trump pitches for fast-tracking anti-malarials to treat coronavirus However, a study conducted by the CDC in America indicates the assumption isn't true. A look at the hospitalisation rate reveals new facts. Among COVID-19 patients who have been admitted in hospitals, 31 per cent are aged above 65 and people aged between 45 and 64 account for 36 per cent and the rest of the patients are below 40. Watch Video: An almost equal proportion of people from all age groups are being infected in the United States. In India, 33 per cent of all cases are aged below 40. In China, the rate is 29 per cent and in Italy, it is 22 per cent. The statistics clearly show young people are equally vulnerable to the infection but the gulf becomes visible while taking a look at the fatality rate. Also Read: 50 new cases of coronavirus detected every hour, 1 death every 10 minutes in Iran Among the people above 80, the fatality rate is almost 15 per cent which is three times higher than the global average. It falls to 3.6 per cent for people aged between 60 and 69 and for people between ages 10 and 39, the fatality rate is 0.2 per cent. It means that while young people are equally vulnerable to the infection, they have a much higher chance of recovery. The South Korean Church group at the centre of the outbreak comprised mostly of women in their 20s and 30s while in Italy having the second oldest population worsened the situation. So young people also need to be careful, they could be carriers and may very well end up infecting their family while their fatality rate maybe low, getting infected still means a trip to the hospital.

Not just young people, coronavirus affects people of all ages: Study

A public service announcement video in Vietnam on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-crosses-100-in-us-as-coronavirus-spreads-to-all-states-287098">coronavirus</a> sparked an Internet rage racking up millions of hits as it&nbsp;went viral worldwide.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-spain-grapple-with-coronavirus-epidemic-as-death-toll-rises-287087">Also Read: Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises</a>

The video dedicated to washing hands became an Internet challenge with people on social media mimicking the artists.

The TikTok video garnered millions of hits as dancers lit up the video. The catchy melody and the dancers have now become a worldwide phenomenon as the Internet users said they were filled with "hope" in times of coronavirus.

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I love the Vietnamese covid-19 PSA song so much it fills me with so much genuine hope and joy and love and motivation that everything is going to get better because we're all in this together<a href="https://t.co/5VeNHaOgQm">https://t.co/5VeNHaOgQm</a>
— Quarantined Pup (@workingdog_) <a href="https://twitter.com/workingdog_/status/1239052934761119745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tomorrow's episode is prerecorded, but full of the same feel-good twee goodness (though I did sneak in this excellent PSA from Vietnam: <a href="https://t.co/ROY4oA9IXK">https://t.co/ROY4oA9IXK</a>) Stay healthy, stay sane, and thanks for tuning in! 👋🌞📻
— Hello Sunshine (@SunshineBFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunshineBFF/status/1238708599112663040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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At least 16 cases of coronavirus were reported in Vietnam, however, Vietnamese authorities decided to clampdown after 13 people were caught with the virus on a flight to Hanoi.

Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc vowed to "duly punish" those who fail to disclose the virus.

A public service announcement video in Vietnam on coronavirus sparked an Internet rage racking up millions of hits as it went viral worldwide. Also Read: Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises The video dedicated to washing hands became an Internet challenge with people on social media mimicking the artists.

A public service announcement video in Vietnam on coronavirus sparked an Internet rage racking up millions of hits as it went viral worldwide. Also Read: Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises The video dedicated to washing hands became an Internet challenge with people on social media mimicking the artists. The TikTok video garnered millions of hits as dancers lit up the video. The catchy melody and the dancers have now become a worldwide phenomenon as the Internet users said they were filled with "hope" in times of coronavirus. I love the Vietnamese covid-19 PSA song so much it fills me with so much genuine hope and joy and love and motivation that everything is going to get better because we're all in this togetherhttps://t.co/5VeNHaOgQm — Quarantined Pup (@workingdog_) March 15, 2020 × Tomorrow's episode is prerecorded, but full of the same feel-good twee goodness (though I did sneak in this excellent PSA from Vietnam: https://t.co/ROY4oA9IXK) Stay healthy, stay sane, and thanks for tuning in! 👋🌞📻 — Hello Sunshine (@SunshineBFF) March 14, 2020 × At least 16 cases of coronavirus were reported in Vietnam, however, Vietnamese authorities decided to clampdown after 13 people were caught with the virus on a flight to Hanoi. Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc vowed to "duly punish" those who fail to disclose the virus.

PSA video on coronavirus in Vietnam goes viral, sparks Internet challenge