World Health Organization (W.H.O.) has taken a u-turn on wet markets. W.H.O. says that these markets are source of livelihood. Watch report.

W.H.O. takes a u-turn on wet markets, rejects call to ban wet markets

FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn, a member of the White House coronavirus task force, is in self-quarantine for the next two weeks after coming in contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19.

CDC, FDA Chiefs Enter Quarantine After COVID-19 Exposure

Libya has an estimated 654,000 migrants – more than 48,000 of them registered asylum seekers or refugees - many of them living in cramped conditions with little access to healthcare. Restrictions on movement are driving them further into hardship.

Libyan migrants trapped between war and COVID-19

A medical staff of the elite counter-terrorism force NSG has contracted the coronavirus, taking the total number of active cases among the five central paramilitary forces to over 745.

This is the first case in the commando force raised for special counter-terrorism and anti-hijack duties. The personnel was posted at the NSG hospital at its garrison in Gurgaon's Manesar.

He was quarantined immediately after he showed symptoms, and was admitted to the referral hospital of the Central Armed Police Forces in Greater Noida.

The NSG is a federal contingency force under the Union Home Ministry apart from the five CAPFs -- CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB. According to PTI, these forces reported 93 cases on Sunday.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police, that guards the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control with China, reported 56 new cases, all from a camp in Delhi. The mountain-warfare trained force now has 156 active cases.

The Border Security Force and the Central Industrial Security Force reported 18 fresh cases each over the last 24 hours.

While 16 cases in the BSF were reported from a unit in the border state of Tripura, the CISF saw 17 new cases from its contingent that guards the Mumbai international airport.

CRPF reported one fresh case, taking the tally of its active COVID-19 cases to 233.

The Central Reserve Police Force has major cases coming from its two battalions based in Delhi.

The Sashastra Seema Bal, which has a strength of 80,000 personnel and mans the Nepal and Bhutan frontiers, reported no fresh case and has the least 18 active coronavirus cases.

(with inputs from PTI)

A medical staff of the elite counter-terrorism force NSG has contracted the coronavirus, taking the total number of active cases among the five central paramilitary forces to over 745.

A medical staff of the elite counter-terrorism force NSG has contracted the coronavirus, taking the total number of active cases among the five central paramilitary forces to over 745. This is the first case in the commando force raised for special counter-terrorism and anti-hijack duties. The personnel was posted at the NSG hospital at its garrison in Gurgaon's Manesar. He was quarantined immediately after he showed symptoms, and was admitted to the referral hospital of the Central Armed Police Forces in Greater Noida. The NSG is a federal contingency force under the Union Home Ministry apart from the five CAPFs -- CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB. According to PTI, these forces reported 93 cases on Sunday. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police, that guards the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control with China, reported 56 new cases, all from a camp in Delhi. The mountain-warfare trained force now has 156 active cases. The Border Security Force and the Central Industrial Security Force reported 18 fresh cases each over the last 24 hours. While 16 cases in the BSF were reported from a unit in the border state of Tripura, the CISF saw 17 new cases from its contingent that guards the Mumbai international airport. CRPF reported one fresh case, taking the tally of its active COVID-19 cases to 233. The Central Reserve Police Force has major cases coming from its two battalions based in Delhi. The Sashastra Seema Bal, which has a strength of 80,000 personnel and mans the Nepal and Bhutan frontiers, reported no fresh case and has the least 18 active coronavirus cases. (with inputs from PTI)

NSG medical staff tests coronavirus positive; over 745 cases reported in CAPFs

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to announce limited changes to coronavirus lockdown measures that have been in place for nearly seven weeks.

UK PM Boris Johnson to launch COVID-19 alert system | World News

With Nepal gearing up to ease the lockdown measures and allow factories to resume production, health authorities have warned that people entering the country in cargo trucks, especially from India, could increase the number of coronavirus cases, according to a media report.

The health authorities warned that cargo truck drivers and their helpers have been entering Nepal without undergoing proper health screening and reaching all major cities, The Kathmandu Post reported, as the number of coronavirus cases in the country rose to 110.

The mayor of Birgunj Metropolitan City, Vijaya Kumar Sarawagi, told the newspaper that the number of cargo trucks entering the country via Birgunj-Raxaul border point daily has reached around 700 and each truck carries two to three people-driver and their helpers.

"We just disinfect the truck's wheels, windshield and the driver's seat and measure the temperature of its occupants before allowing them in," Sarawagi was quoted as saying.

"We cannot disinfect the people and they are reaching all major cities across the country." Besides the Brigunj border point, hundreds of cargo trucks are also entering the country via several other border entries such as in Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj.

"We all know that drivers and their helpers cannot stay inside the truck all the time," said an official. "Chances of the disease spread will be high when they come out and come in contact with other people," he said.

Representatives of local levels that share borders with India have asked authorities concerned to perform coronavirus tests on cargo truck drivers and their helpers before allowing them entry into Nepal.

"We have been prohibiting Nepalis stranded in Indian borders from entering the country to prevent the transmission of the virus. But we are not paying attention regarding the risk of the disease spread from the people entering the country in cargo trucks," the official at the Health Ministry told the Post.

Birgunj Mayor Sarawagi said that risk could be mitigated if the incoming cargo trucks are stopped at border points and the goods are sent to their destinations in domestic cargo trucks.

People who do not have high temperature and other COVID-19 symptoms does not necessarily mean that they are free from virus, making the disease difficult to diagnose without proper testing, health officials say.

Nepal is among the nations with the lowest number of coronavirus infections.

As of now 31 people infected with the virus have been successfully treated. The number of active COVID-19 patients currently undergoing treatment at different hospitals across the country stands at 79.&nbsp;

With Nepal gearing up to ease the lockdown measures and allow factories to resume production, health authorities have warned that people entering the country in cargo trucks, especially from India, could increase the number of coronavirus cases, according to a media report.

With Nepal gearing up to ease the lockdown measures and allow factories to resume production, health authorities have warned that people entering the country in cargo trucks, especially from India, could increase the number of coronavirus cases, according to a media report. The health authorities warned that cargo truck drivers and their helpers have been entering Nepal without undergoing proper health screening and reaching all major cities, The Kathmandu Post reported, as the number of coronavirus cases in the country rose to 110. The mayor of Birgunj Metropolitan City, Vijaya Kumar Sarawagi, told the newspaper that the number of cargo trucks entering the country via Birgunj-Raxaul border point daily has reached around 700 and each truck carries two to three people-driver and their helpers. "We just disinfect the truck's wheels, windshield and the driver's seat and measure the temperature of its occupants before allowing them in," Sarawagi was quoted as saying. "We cannot disinfect the people and they are reaching all major cities across the country." Besides the Brigunj border point, hundreds of cargo trucks are also entering the country via several other border entries such as in Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj. "We all know that drivers and their helpers cannot stay inside the truck all the time," said an official. "Chances of the disease spread will be high when they come out and come in contact with other people," he said. Representatives of local levels that share borders with India have asked authorities concerned to perform coronavirus tests on cargo truck drivers and their helpers before allowing them entry into Nepal. "We have been prohibiting Nepalis stranded in Indian borders from entering the country to prevent the transmission of the virus. But we are not paying attention regarding the risk of the disease spread from the people entering the country in cargo trucks," the official at the Health Ministry told the Post. Birgunj Mayor Sarawagi said that risk could be mitigated if the incoming cargo trucks are stopped at border points and the goods are sent to their destinations in domestic cargo trucks. People who do not have high temperature and other COVID-19 symptoms does not necessarily mean that they are free from virus, making the disease difficult to diagnose without proper testing, health officials say. Nepal is among the nations with the lowest number of coronavirus infections. As of now 31 people infected with the virus have been successfully treated. The number of active COVID-19 patients currently undergoing treatment at different hospitals across the country stands at 79.

Cargo trucks entering Nepal from India could increase coronavirus cases, warn health authorities

Pressure has been mounting on the UK government to launch an independent public inquiry into the reasons behind the ethnic minorities, including Indians, being at a higher risk of contracting the novel coronavirus in the country.

The letter to the UK PM comes as the UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS) statistic found earlier this week that Indians are among the ethnicities that face a statistically raised risk of death involving COVID-19 compared to those of white ethnicity.

A coalition of around 70 prominent figures from the UK's black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds wrote a letter to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, saying COVID-19 had highlighted race and health inequality issues in Britain.

They warned that the ongoing government review, led by Public Health England, into the factors behind the disproportionate impact of the deadly virus on BAME groups lacks transparency.

"Only an independent public inquiry will provide the answers we need. Such an inquiry is essential for all, especially for those who have lost loved ones as a result of the pandemic," stated the letter signed by BAME activists, artists and faith leaders.

"By instigating such an inquiry, the government will provide an opportunity for a range of stakeholders to submit evidence through a transparent process. This would help to restore public confidence amongst the UK's BAME communities," it added.

Such an inquiry would provide a comprehensive exploration of all possible contributing factors that could explain the outsized effect COVID-19 has on BAME communities, killing up to four times as many as white people in some groups, it said.

The letter also called for the inquiry to probe the "level of exposure" to COVID-19 of BAME staff working in the National Health Service (NHS) and the social care sector, as well as key workers across both the public and private sectors.

(with inputs from PTI)

Pressure has been mounting on the UK government to launch an independent public inquiry into the reasons behind the ethnic minorities, including Indians, being at a higher risk of contracting the novel coronavirus in the country.

Pressure has been mounting on the UK government to launch an independent public inquiry into the reasons behind the ethnic minorities, including Indians, being at a higher risk of contracting the novel coronavirus in the country. The letter to the UK PM comes as the UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS) statistic found earlier this week that Indians are among the ethnicities that face a statistically raised risk of death involving COVID-19 compared to those of white ethnicity. A coalition of around 70 prominent figures from the UK's black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds wrote a letter to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, saying COVID-19 had highlighted race and health inequality issues in Britain. They warned that the ongoing government review, led by Public Health England, into the factors behind the disproportionate impact of the deadly virus on BAME groups lacks transparency. "Only an independent public inquiry will provide the answers we need. Such an inquiry is essential for all, especially for those who have lost loved ones as a result of the pandemic," stated the letter signed by BAME activists, artists and faith leaders. "By instigating such an inquiry, the government will provide an opportunity for a range of stakeholders to submit evidence through a transparent process. This would help to restore public confidence amongst the UK's BAME communities," it added. Such an inquiry would provide a comprehensive exploration of all possible contributing factors that could explain the outsized effect COVID-19 has on BAME communities, killing up to four times as many as white people in some groups, it said. The letter also called for the inquiry to probe the "level of exposure" to COVID-19 of BAME staff working in the National Health Service (NHS) and the social care sector, as well as key workers across both the public and private sectors. (with inputs from PTI)

Pressure mounts on UK govt for public inquiry into higher risk of COVID-19 among ethnic minorities

China has issued a lengthy rebuttal of what it said were 24 lies by some leading US politicians over its handling of the new coronavirus outbreak.

Ever since the deadly virus broke out in China's Wuhan in December last year, US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have been terming it the "Chinese virus" or "Wuhan virus", holding Beijing solely responsible for the global crisis.

To this end, the Chinese foreign ministry has dedicated most of its press briefings to rejecting accusations by US politicians that said China had withheld information about the new coronavirus and that it had originated in a laboratory in the city of Wuhan.

A 30-page, 11,000-word article posted on the ministry website on Saturday night added to these refutations. It began by invoking Abraham Lincoln, the 19th century US president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-faces-increasing-global-backlash-over-coronavirus-outbreak-warns-internal-report-296619">Also read |&nbsp;China faces increasing global backlash over coronavirus outbreak, warns internal report</a>

The article also cited documents from the World Health Organisation to say the name of a virus should not be country-specific.

"As Lincoln said, you can fool some of the people all the time and fool all the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time," it said in the prologue.

The article said that all evidence shows the virus is not man-made and that the institute is not capable of synthesising a new coronavirus.

Despite China's repeated assurances, concerns about the timeliness of its information have persisted in several parts of the world.

The article hence also provided a timeline of how China had provided information to the international community in a timely, open and transparent manner to rebuke US suggestions that it had been slow to sound the alarm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-us-china-cold-war-now-begun-295905">Also read |&nbsp;Has the US-China cold war now begun?</a>

The article also rejected Western criticism of Beijing's handling of the case of Li Wenliang, a 34-year-old doctor who had tried to raise the alarm over the outbreak of the new virus in Wuhan. His death from COVID-19 prompted an outpouring of rage and grief across China.

It ministry article said Li was not a "whistleblower" and he was never arrested, contrary to many Western reports.

China faces a rising wave of hostility in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak that could tip relations with the United States into confrontation.

The deadly virus, which first showed signs in China's Wuhan city, has so far infected more than 4&nbsp;million people globally and caused more than 2,80,000 deaths.

Italy, Spain, the UK and the US are worst-hit in the pandemic.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-torn-over-us-china-trade-deal-as-officials-push-to-fulfill-its-terms-297563">Also read |&nbsp;Trump 'torn' over US-China trade deal as officials push to fulfill its terms</a>

China has issued a lengthy rebuttal of what it said were 24 lies by some leading US politicians over its handling of the new coronavirus outbreak. Ever since the deadly virus broke out in China's Wuhan in December last year, US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have been terming it the "Chinese virus" or "Wuhan virus", holding Beijing solely responsible for the global crisis.

China has issued a lengthy rebuttal of what it said were 24 lies by some leading US politicians over its handling of the new coronavirus outbreak. Ever since the deadly virus broke out in China's Wuhan in December last year, US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have been terming it the "Chinese virus" or "Wuhan virus", holding Beijing solely responsible for the global crisis. To this end, the Chinese foreign ministry has dedicated most of its press briefings to rejecting accusations by US politicians that said China had withheld information about the new coronavirus and that it had originated in a laboratory in the city of Wuhan. A 30-page, 11,000-word article posted on the ministry website on Saturday night added to these refutations. It began by invoking Abraham Lincoln, the 19th century US president. Also read | China faces increasing global backlash over coronavirus outbreak, warns internal report The article also cited documents from the World Health Organisation to say the name of a virus should not be country-specific. "As Lincoln said, you can fool some of the people all the time and fool all the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time," it said in the prologue. The article said that all evidence shows the virus is not man-made and that the institute is not capable of synthesising a new coronavirus. Despite China's repeated assurances, concerns about the timeliness of its information have persisted in several parts of the world. The article hence also provided a timeline of how China had provided information to the international community in a timely, open and transparent manner to rebuke US suggestions that it had been slow to sound the alarm. Also read | Has the US-China cold war now begun? The article also rejected Western criticism of Beijing's handling of the case of Li Wenliang, a 34-year-old doctor who had tried to raise the alarm over the outbreak of the new virus in Wuhan. His death from COVID-19 prompted an outpouring of rage and grief across China. It ministry article said Li was not a "whistleblower" and he was never arrested, contrary to many Western reports. China faces a rising wave of hostility in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak that could tip relations with the United States into confrontation. The deadly virus, which first showed signs in China's Wuhan city, has so far infected more than 4 million people globally and caused more than 2,80,000 deaths. Italy, Spain, the UK and the US are worst-hit in the pandemic. Also read | Trump 'torn' over US-China trade deal as officials push to fulfill its terms

In a lengthy rebuttal, China refutes 24 US' lies over coronavirus

A study has found new link between vitamin D and mortality rates. Watch this video to know more

Study finds new link between vitamin D and mortality rates

Watch today in 'WION In Focus': Some stories related to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

WION In Focus: Some stories related to coronavirus pandemic | COVID-19 | Coronavirus News

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said on Saturday it would allow state health departments to distribute Gilead Sciences Inc's remdesivir drug to fight COVID-19, and the United States would receive about 40% of the drug maker's global donation.

US to allow states to distribute Gilead's remdesivir drug to fight COVID-19

Former President Barack Obama described President Donald Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic as "chaotic" in a conference call with former members of his administration, news agency Reuters reported quoting a source on Saturday.

Obama describes Trump handling of COVID-19 as chaotic

China's National Health Commission reported 14 new confirmed coronavirus cases on May 9, the highest number since April 28, including the first in more than a month in the city of Wuhan -- the original epicentre of the crisis.

The new Wuhan case, the first reported in the epicentre of China's outbreak since April 3, was previously asymptomatic, according to the health commission.

The patient is currently in a critical condition, and his wife has also tested positive.

The new case is lined to "past community infection," according to the Wuhan Health Commission.

Meanwhile, the new cases according to data published on Sunday represent a jump from the single case reported for the day before. The number was lifted by a cluster of 11 in Shulan city in northeastern Jilin province.

No new deaths were reported.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in mainland China has reached 82,901, while the total death toll from the virus stands&nbsp;at 4,633.

China reopened Wuhan's borders after a 76-day lockdown on April 8. As of Saturday, 50,334 total cases have been confirmed in the city.

China's National Health Commission reported 14 new confirmed coronavirus cases on May 9, the highest number since April 28, including the first in more than a month in the city of Wuhan -- the original epicentre of the crisis.

China's National Health Commission reported 14 new confirmed coronavirus cases on May 9, the highest number since April 28, including the first in more than a month in the city of Wuhan -- the original epicentre of the crisis. The new Wuhan case, the first reported in the epicentre of China's outbreak since April 3, was previously asymptomatic, according to the health commission. The patient is currently in a critical condition, and his wife has also tested positive. The new case is lined to "past community infection," according to the Wuhan Health Commission. Meanwhile, the new cases according to data published on Sunday represent a jump from the single case reported for the day before. The number was lifted by a cluster of 11 in Shulan city in northeastern Jilin province. No new deaths were reported. The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in mainland China has reached 82,901, while the total death toll from the virus stands at 4,633. China reopened Wuhan's borders after a 76-day lockdown on April 8. As of Saturday, 50,334 total cases have been confirmed in the city.

Wuhan, original epicentre of coronavirus, reports first new case in more than a month

India has issued guidelines to ensure the safe restart of manufacturing facilities, as it looks forward to easing restrictions on people and economic activity after a weeks' long nationwide lockdown.

India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The guidelines come days after a gas leak at a plant in Vishakhapatnam operated by a subsidiary of South Korean petrochemicals maker LG Chem Ltd killed 11 people and hospitalised 800 others.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in a statement issued late on Saturday, said companies should consider the first week of restarting operations as a test run and not attempt to achieve high production targets during the period.

It added the lockdown may have resulted in residual chemicals in pipelines, valves and other areas that could pose a risk. It also said companies must ensure staff are trained to identify abnormalities that could indicate potential system failures.

The NDMA said factories must also carry out complete safety audits of entire plants before restarting activities.

India has recorded about 63,000 coronavirus cases, with nearly 2,000 deaths.

The lockdown is set to last until at least May 17. To this end, India has recently begun to ease curbs in areas with fewer infections to restart economic activity that had ground to a halt, impacting the livelihoods of tens of millions of people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-190000-indians-will-be-brought-home-civil-aviation-minister-to-wion-297492">Also read | Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion</a>

India has issued guidelines to ensure the safe restart of manufacturing facilities, as it looks forward to easing restrictions on people and economic activity after a weeks' long nationwide lockdown.

India has issued guidelines to ensure the safe restart of manufacturing facilities, as it looks forward to easing restrictions on people and economic activity after a weeks' long nationwide lockdown. India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. The guidelines come days after a gas leak at a plant in Vishakhapatnam operated by a subsidiary of South Korean petrochemicals maker LG Chem Ltd killed 11 people and hospitalised 800 others. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in a statement issued late on Saturday, said companies should consider the first week of restarting operations as a test run and not attempt to achieve high production targets during the period. It added the lockdown may have resulted in residual chemicals in pipelines, valves and other areas that could pose a risk. It also said companies must ensure staff are trained to identify abnormalities that could indicate potential system failures. The NDMA said factories must also carry out complete safety audits of entire plants before restarting activities. India has recorded about 63,000 coronavirus cases, with nearly 2,000 deaths. The lockdown is set to last until at least May 17. To this end, India has recently begun to ease curbs in areas with fewer infections to restart economic activity that had ground to a halt, impacting the livelihoods of tens of millions of people. Also read | Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion

India issues guidelines for post-lockdown factory restarts after Vizag gas leak

The UK had to send coronavirus tests to the United States to be processed after an issue cropped up at&nbsp;one of its laboratories.

The Sunday Telegraph newspaper has, in a report, said that as many as 50,000 test samples were sent on chartered flights to the US last week.

There was an issue with one of the labs, and the contingency plan included taking some of the tests to the United States for the tests to be processed.

Britain, of late, has ramped up its testing programme, but since hitting its target of 1,00,000 a day at the end of April has struggled to maintain that level.

The latest figures from the Department of Health show there have been been 17,28,443 tests in total, including 96,878 on May 8.

Britain has so far reported 2,15,260 and 31,587 fatalities.

The UK had to send coronavirus tests to the United States to be processed after an issue cropped up at one of its laboratories. The Sunday Telegraph newspaper has, in a report, said that as many as 50,000 test samples were sent on chartered flights to the US last week.

The UK had to send coronavirus tests to the United States to be processed after an issue cropped up at one of its laboratories. The Sunday Telegraph newspaper has, in a report, said that as many as 50,000 test samples were sent on chartered flights to the US last week. There was an issue with one of the labs, and the contingency plan included taking some of the tests to the United States for the tests to be processed. Britain, of late, has ramped up its testing programme, but since hitting its target of 1,00,000 a day at the end of April has struggled to maintain that level. The latest figures from the Department of Health show there have been been 17,28,443 tests in total, including 96,878 on May 8. Britain has so far reported 2,15,260 and 31,587 fatalities.

Britain sent coronavirus tests to US for processing

As Spain's daily death toll&nbsp;fell to its second lowest since mid-March on Saturday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has urged the Spaniards to maintain social distancing saying "the virus&nbsp;has not disappeared."

Spain has been able to contain the spread of coronavirus, and&nbsp;the daily death toll fell down to 179 on Saturday.

The country will be easing the lockdown on Monday. Healthy adults will be allowed to step out of the houses and go for walks. The European country is also planning to reopen churches, theatres, parks and other entertainment venues. However, no more than 10 people will be allowed in a gathering.

This is the Phase 1 of opening up the lockdown for Europe's strictest lockdown. The lockdown is being relaxed only in the regions which have shown significant signs of improvement. These areas will see reopening of museums, gyms and hotels&nbsp;for the first time in nearly two months, but with limited capacity.

However, Pedro has cautioned the people to not forget that the virus is still present amongst them until a vaccine is developed.&nbsp;

"We've managed to retake 99% of the ground lost to the virus," said Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in a televised address on Saturday.

The government has made sure the pedestrians have enough space to walk and breathe while maintaining social distancing, by increasing the pedestrian and cyclists lanes.&nbsp;

As the country feared an economic fall, Spain's hotels will be allowed to operate open from Monday for groups of 10 people. This will give the needed boost to Spain's well-to-do tourism industry.

However, none of these rules will be eased down in Madrid and Barcelona. These two cities, that still face the danger of the spread of virus, are still in Phase 0 of lifting the lockdown. The government has assured the residents that the cities will move to Phase 1 as soon as some relief is seen.

Spanish&nbsp;PM has urged the people of Spain to cooperate and exercise caution, so that the country can move to Phase 2 in the next few weeks.

The cumulative death total rose to 26,478 while the number of diagnosed cases rose to 223,578 from 222,857 the day before, the health ministry said.

As Spain's daily death toll fell to its second lowest since mid-March on Saturday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has urged the Spaniards to maintain social distancing saying "the virus has not disappeared.

As Spain's daily death toll fell to its second lowest since mid-March on Saturday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has urged the Spaniards to maintain social distancing saying "the virus has not disappeared." Spain has been able to contain the spread of coronavirus, and the daily death toll fell down to 179 on Saturday. The country will be easing the lockdown on Monday. Healthy adults will be allowed to step out of the houses and go for walks. The European country is also planning to reopen churches, theatres, parks and other entertainment venues. However, no more than 10 people will be allowed in a gathering. This is the Phase 1 of opening up the lockdown for Europe's strictest lockdown. The lockdown is being relaxed only in the regions which have shown significant signs of improvement. These areas will see reopening of museums, gyms and hotels for the first time in nearly two months, but with limited capacity. However, Pedro has cautioned the people to not forget that the virus is still present amongst them until a vaccine is developed. "We've managed to retake 99% of the ground lost to the virus," said Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in a televised address on Saturday. The government has made sure the pedestrians have enough space to walk and breathe while maintaining social distancing, by increasing the pedestrian and cyclists lanes. As the country feared an economic fall, Spain's hotels will be allowed to operate open from Monday for groups of 10 people. This will give the needed boost to Spain's well-to-do tourism industry. However, none of these rules will be eased down in Madrid and Barcelona. These two cities, that still face the danger of the spread of virus, are still in Phase 0 of lifting the lockdown. The government has assured the residents that the cities will move to Phase 1 as soon as some relief is seen. Spanish PM has urged the people of Spain to cooperate and exercise caution, so that the country can move to Phase 2 in the next few weeks. The cumulative death total rose to 26,478 while the number of diagnosed cases rose to 223,578 from 222,857 the day before, the health ministry said.

Spain to lift lockdown; daily death toll falls down to 179

Three children in New York have died from a rare inflammatory syndrome believed to be linked to the novel coronavirus, Governor Andrew Cuomo told a daily briefing on Saturday.

Cuomo&nbsp;had, on&nbsp;Friday, disclosed the death of a 5-year old linked to the coronavirus and a syndrome that shares symptoms with toxic shock and Kawasaki disease, which was the first known fatality tied to the rare illness in New York. He did not, however, give information about where the two other children died.

The New York State Department of Health is investigating several cases of the severe illness in children and child deaths that may be linked to the serious inflammatory disease called 'Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with COVID-19'. 
There have been 73 reported cases in New York where children are experiencing symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease and toxic shock-like syndrome possibly due to COVID-19.

As of now, there is no proof that the novel coronavirus causes the syndrome.

The children, it's said, had tested positive for COVID-19 or the antibodies but did not show the common symptoms of the virus when they were hospitalised.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-grants-emergency-use-authorisation-to-quidel-for-first-antigen-test-for-covid-19-297696">Also read |&nbsp;US grants emergency use authorisation to Quidel for antigen test for COVID-19</a>

"The priority for us today is dealing with a new issue that has come up, which is truly disturbing. And that is the issue on how the coronavirus may affect young people, very young people, infants, children in elementary school. We had thought initially -- and again so many of what the initial information we had turned out not to be correct or turned out to be modified," Cuomo said at his daily briefing.

He added, "But we were labouring under the impression that young people were not affected by COVID-19. And that was actually good news, right? The vulnerable population was older people -- people with co-morbidities. But one of the few rays of good news was young people weren't affected. We're not so sure that that is the fact anymore. Toddlers, elementary school children are presenting symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease or toxic shock-like syndrome."

At least 3,000 children in the United States are diagnosed with Kawasaki disease each year. It is most common in children younger than six and in boys.

Kawasaki disease primarily affects children up to the age of five and causes the walls of arteries to become inflamed, resulting in fever, skin peeling and joint pain. Other symptoms include diarrhea or vomiting, breathing trouble, a paling of skin colour, chest pain and lethargy.

Earlier this week, the New York City Health Department said 15 children aged 2-15 years had been hospitalised from April 17- May 1 with Kawasaki disease or features of toxic shock.

Of the 15 children, four had tested positive for COVID19. More than half of the reported patients required blood pressure support and five required mechanical ventilation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buses-offered-to-homeless-for-shelter-during-nightly-nyc-subway-closure-297688">Also read |&nbsp;Buses offered to homeless for shelter during nightly NYC subway closure</a>

The syndrome has received growing attention in recent weeks as cases began appearing in European countries hit hard by the coronavirus.

Meanwhile, the State Department of Health has issued an advisory about the serious inflammatory disease.

Parents have been advised to seek immediate care if a child has prolonged fever (more than five days), difficulty feeding (in infants) or is too sick to drink fluids, severe abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting, change in skin colour, trouble breathing, lethargy, irritability or confusion.

New York, the worst-hit US state, has over 335,890 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 26,000 deaths. The US has recorded more than 77,340 fatalities and nearly 13 lakh COVID-19 cases -- both highest in the world.

(with inputs from agencies)

Three children in New York have died from a rare inflammatory syndrome believed to be linked to the novel coronavirus, Governor Andrew Cuomo told a daily briefing on Saturday.

Three children in New York have died from a rare inflammatory syndrome believed to be linked to the novel coronavirus, Governor Andrew Cuomo told a daily briefing on Saturday. Cuomo had, on Friday, disclosed the death of a 5-year old linked to the coronavirus and a syndrome that shares symptoms with toxic shock and Kawasaki disease, which was the first known fatality tied to the rare illness in New York. He did not, however, give information about where the two other children died. The New York State Department of Health is investigating several cases of the severe illness in children and child deaths that may be linked to the serious inflammatory disease called 'Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with COVID-19'. There have been 73 reported cases in New York where children are experiencing symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease and toxic shock-like syndrome possibly due to COVID-19. As of now, there is no proof that the novel coronavirus causes the syndrome. The children, it's said, had tested positive for COVID-19 or the antibodies but did not show the common symptoms of the virus when they were hospitalised. Also read | US grants emergency use authorisation to Quidel for antigen test for COVID-19 "The priority for us today is dealing with a new issue that has come up, which is truly disturbing. And that is the issue on how the coronavirus may affect young people, very young people, infants, children in elementary school. We had thought initially -- and again so many of what the initial information we had turned out not to be correct or turned out to be modified," Cuomo said at his daily briefing. He added, "But we were labouring under the impression that young people were not affected by COVID-19. And that was actually good news, right? The vulnerable population was older people -- people with co-morbidities. But one of the few rays of good news was young people weren't affected. We're not so sure that that is the fact anymore. Toddlers, elementary school children are presenting symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease or toxic shock-like syndrome." At least 3,000 children in the United States are diagnosed with Kawasaki disease each year. It is most common in children younger than six and in boys. Kawasaki disease primarily affects children up to the age of five and causes the walls of arteries to become inflamed, resulting in fever, skin peeling and joint pain. Other symptoms include diarrhea or vomiting, breathing trouble, a paling of skin colour, chest pain and lethargy. Earlier this week, the New York City Health Department said 15 children aged 2-15 years had been hospitalised from April 17- May 1 with Kawasaki disease or features of toxic shock. Of the 15 children, four had tested positive for COVID19. More than half of the reported patients required blood pressure support and five required mechanical ventilation. Also read | Buses offered to homeless for shelter during nightly NYC subway closure The syndrome has received growing attention in recent weeks as cases began appearing in European countries hit hard by the coronavirus. Meanwhile, the State Department of Health has issued an advisory about the serious inflammatory disease. Parents have been advised to seek immediate care if a child has prolonged fever (more than five days), difficulty feeding (in infants) or is too sick to drink fluids, severe abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting, change in skin colour, trouble breathing, lethargy, irritability or confusion. New York, the worst-hit US state, has over 335,890 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 26,000 deaths. The US has recorded more than 77,340 fatalities and nearly 13 lakh COVID-19 cases -- both highest in the world. (with inputs from agencies)

Three New York children die from rare inflammatory illness possibly linked to COVID-19

Hair salons and barbershops re-open in Texas as some lockdown rules relax. Watch story of one of the iconic barbershop in Houston.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Hair salons and barbershops re-open in Texas

Hospitals in Trinidad, Bolivia are struggling with limited resources due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch this video to know more.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Doctors struggle in makeshift hospital in Bolivia

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved emergency use authorisation (EUA) to Quidel Corp for the first COVID-19 antigen test.

An antigen test is a new type of diagnostic test designed for rapid detection of the virus that causes COVID-19.

The emergency use authorisation was issued on Friday to Quidel for the Sofia 2 SARS Antigen FIA.

An antigen test can provide results in minutes but it may not detect all active infections. It is very specific for the virus, but there is a higher chance of false negatives.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved emergency use authorisation (EUA) to Quidel Corp for the first COVID-19 antigen test. An antigen test is a new type of diagnostic test designed for rapid detection of the virus that causes COVID-19.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved emergency use authorisation (EUA) to Quidel Corp for the first COVID-19 antigen test. An antigen test is a new type of diagnostic test designed for rapid detection of the virus that causes COVID-19. The emergency use authorisation was issued on Friday to Quidel for the Sofia 2 SARS Antigen FIA. An antigen test can provide results in minutes but it may not detect all active infections. It is very specific for the virus, but there is a higher chance of false negatives.

US grants emergency use authorisation to Quidel for first antigen test for COVID-19

Hundreds of people defied Los Angeles County lockdown orders and beach closures to watch glowing neon blue waves crash to shore at El Segundo beach.

Los Angeles defies lockdown to watch waves crash to shores

The Maldives has seen a rapid rise in coronavirus cases over the past few weeks.&nbsp;

It had reported its first case in March and first death from COVID-19 with the number of positive cases standing at 280 on April 30.

Official figures on Saturday showed 766 cases, including 743 that are still active. Three people have died so far.

A vast majority of the patients are residents of Male, the capital, known to be a very congested city.

First cases of COVID-19 were reported at tourist resorts in this Indian Ocean archipelago state and authorities for sometime kept it from spilling over into the community.

But a patient in Male -- with no traceable source of infection -- triggered an explosion in the number of cases.

Six inhabited islands, including Male, are now under lockdown.

The Maldives has seen a rapid rise in coronavirus cases over the past few weeks. It had reported its first case in March and first death from COVID-19 with the number of positive cases standing at 280 on April 30.

The Maldives has seen a rapid rise in coronavirus cases over the past few weeks. It had reported its first case in March and first death from COVID-19 with the number of positive cases standing at 280 on April 30. Official figures on Saturday showed 766 cases, including 743 that are still active. Three people have died so far. A vast majority of the patients are residents of Male, the capital, known to be a very congested city. First cases of COVID-19 were reported at tourist resorts in this Indian Ocean archipelago state and authorities for sometime kept it from spilling over into the community. But a patient in Male -- with no traceable source of infection -- triggered an explosion in the number of cases. Six inhabited islands, including Male, are now under lockdown.

Maldives sees rapid spike in coronavirus patients

North Korea's Kim Jong Un has sent a "warm greetings" to Chinese leader Xi Jinping in a "verbal message", state news agency of North Korea reported Friday, after weeks of speculation about his health.

Xi Jinping responds to Kim Jong-un's 'warm' message

New York City is providing buses for homeless people to shelter them from cold weather this weekend during newly instituted overnight subway closure.

The subway system last week took the step of halting overnight service in order to clean train cars in order to curtail the spread of coronavirus. The subway system, whose more than 600 miles of track crisscross four of New York's five boroughs, will close between 1 am and 5 am beginning May 6 to allow crews to disinfect the cars each night. The city’s buses will also be cleaned every night.

With the freezing temperatures and traces of snow, transit officials said they would provide a limited number of buses at end-of-line stations Saturday and Sunday to the homeless.

According to the statement from the officials, the buses may serve as a place for individuals to escape the elements in the short term -- during this cold snap.

New York City is providing buses for homeless people to shelter them from cold weather this weekend during newly instituted overnight subway closure. The subway system last week took the step of halting overnight service in order to clean train cars in order to curtail the spread of coronavirus.

New York City is providing buses for homeless people to shelter them from cold weather this weekend during newly instituted overnight subway closure. The subway system last week took the step of halting overnight service in order to clean train cars in order to curtail the spread of coronavirus. The subway system, whose more than 600 miles of track crisscross four of New York's five boroughs, will close between 1 am and 5 am beginning May 6 to allow crews to disinfect the cars each night. The city’s buses will also be cleaned every night. With the freezing temperatures and traces of snow, transit officials said they would provide a limited number of buses at end-of-line stations Saturday and Sunday to the homeless. According to the statement from the officials, the buses may serve as a place for individuals to escape the elements in the short term -- during this cold snap.

Buses offered to homeless for shelter during nightly NYC subway closure

Caravan sales have surged in Turkey as Turks gear up for summer season overshadowed by the coronavirus outbreak, CEO of Basoglu Caravan, a leading caravan manufacturer, said.

50% jump in caravans sales since March in Turkey

The CRPF reported 62 fresh coronavirus infections on Saturday from a single Delhi-based unit. The total number of active cases in the country's largest paramilitary force now stands at 231.

The fresh cases are from the 194th Rapid Action Force (RAF) battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

Two personnel have recovered from coronavirus while one succumbed to the infection.

All the infected personnel have been placed in home quarantine at a facility in Bawana area, officials said.

The 31st battalion of the force in Delhi has about 137 positive cases. All personnel are admitted at a quarantine facility in Mandoli area and undergoing treatment.

The CRPF reported 62 fresh coronavirus infections on Saturday from a single Delhi-based unit. The total number of active cases in the country's largest paramilitary force now stands at 231.

The CRPF reported 62 fresh coronavirus infections on Saturday from a single Delhi-based unit. The total number of active cases in the country's largest paramilitary force now stands at 231. The fresh cases are from the 194th Rapid Action Force (RAF) battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Two personnel have recovered from coronavirus while one succumbed to the infection. All the infected personnel have been placed in home quarantine at a facility in Bawana area, officials said. The 31st battalion of the force in Delhi has about 137 positive cases. All personnel are admitted at a quarantine facility in Mandoli area and undergoing treatment.

Sixty-two fresh coronavirus infections in CRPF, active cases 231

The first Air India flight from Britain, as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded overseas due to the coronavirus lockdown, took off&nbsp;with 326 passengers from London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday. It is scheduled to land in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday.

The flight marks the first of seven Air India routes organised by the Indian government from London Heathrow Airport to six Indian cities over the next week -- Mumbai (Saturday and Tuesday), Bengaluru (Sunday), Hyderabad (Monday), Ahmedabad (Wednesday), Chennai (Thursday) and New Delhi (Friday).

The first Air India flight will land at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at 1.30 am IST on Sunday.

Each of the passengers underwent temperature tests before boarding. These passengers could face 14 days of quarantine at a hotel or other location designated by the Maharashtra government on landing. The passengers are expected to be screened and allotted quarantine locations based on affordability.

Air India is providing a kit for all passengers confirmed to fly, with meals, snacks, sanitisers, masks and gloves.

Organisers have said that further flights are planned from the UK to other cities of India as well in phase two of the Vande Bharat Mission.

The schedule is being coordinated by the Indian High Commission in London, with payments made directly to Air India by confirmed passengers.

The first set of seven flights to India will prioritise Indian passport holders on vulnerability and health grounds.

The Air India flights landing at London Heathrow will also be bringing back some expatriates and UK visa holders wanting to fly back to the UK.

(with inputs from PTI)

The first Air India flight from Britain, as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded overseas due to the coronavirus lockdown, took off with 326 passengers from London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday.

The first Air India flight from Britain, as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded overseas due to the coronavirus lockdown, took off with 326 passengers from London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday. It is scheduled to land in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday. The flight marks the first of seven Air India routes organised by the Indian government from London Heathrow Airport to six Indian cities over the next week -- Mumbai (Saturday and Tuesday), Bengaluru (Sunday), Hyderabad (Monday), Ahmedabad (Wednesday), Chennai (Thursday) and New Delhi (Friday). The first Air India flight will land at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at 1.30 am IST on Sunday. Each of the passengers underwent temperature tests before boarding. These passengers could face 14 days of quarantine at a hotel or other location designated by the Maharashtra government on landing. The passengers are expected to be screened and allotted quarantine locations based on affordability. Air India is providing a kit for all passengers confirmed to fly, with meals, snacks, sanitisers, masks and gloves. Organisers have said that further flights are planned from the UK to other cities of India as well in phase two of the Vande Bharat Mission. The schedule is being coordinated by the Indian High Commission in London, with payments made directly to Air India by confirmed passengers. The first set of seven flights to India will prioritise Indian passport holders on vulnerability and health grounds. The Air India flights landing at London Heathrow will also be bringing back some expatriates and UK visa holders wanting to fly back to the UK. (with inputs from PTI)

First repatriation flight from London takes off for Mumbai

Two countries that have been widely held up as examples of how to handle a pandemic -- South Korea and Germany -- are now in the enviable position of being able to ease restrictions imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus.

South Korea had the largest outbreak outside of China in February. But the country used a combination of widespread testing,&nbsp;a strict quarantine regime and contact tracing to contain the coronavirus without having to impose a widespread lockdown.

Germany, on the other hand, had its advanced diagnostics industry at play. It was, hence, able to conduct mass testing from early on. Its coronavirus response was widely seen as a success story in Europe.

But both countries, as soon as they began relaxing its social distancing rules, had to trace back a few of its steps owing to new outbreaks -- underscoring the dangers authorities face as they try to reopen their economies.

SOUTH KOREA

The South Korean government on Wednesday started to relax its strict social distancing rules, imposed on March 22, but only in line with a set of guidelines referred to as the distancing in daily life policy.

South Korea's baseball season resumed on Tuesday -- but with games played in empty stadiums, while umpires and base coaches wore masks.

According to AFP, children will start to return to school from May 13. They have been told to wipe their desk and wear a mask except for at mealtimes and maintain double arm's length distance when you are on the move or are standing in line.

But outbreaks at nightclubs undid a lot of effort by the people and the government.

Seoul closed down more than 2,100 bars and other nightspots on Saturday because of a new cluster of coronavirus infections.

Many of the infections were linked to a 29-year-old man who visited three nightclubs before testing positive.

GERMANY

Germany has also been taking a step-by-step approach to reopening for business.

Limits on social contact would remain in place until June 5, but people can meet each other. Shops can open but with&nbsp;hygiene measures.

Germany's top football league, the Bundesliga, will resume play from May 16 -- but under tight restrictions and without spectators.

What, however, came as a big test of the government's strategy for dealing with any resurgence of the virus were the outbreaks at three slaughterhouses.

DISCUSSIONS CONTINUE

Urgent discussions, hence, continue on how to lift restrictions on people's lives and reboot the economy without jeopardising the progress made in containing the spread of the coronavirus.

The only way out is to address the public health crisis. Experts had already earlier warned that the lockdown was not a solution -- it was an emergency pause. And that a strategy has to be developed and prepared.

The novel coronavirus has infected over 3.9 million people and killed more than 2,75,000 across the world, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University based on data reported by governments.

 
&nbsp;

Two countries that have been widely held up as examples of how to handle a pandemic -- South Korea and Germany -- are now in the enviable position of being able to ease restrictions imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Two countries that have been widely held up as examples of how to handle a pandemic -- South Korea and Germany -- are now in the enviable position of being able to ease restrictions imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus. South Korea had the largest outbreak outside of China in February. But the country used a combination of widespread testing, a strict quarantine regime and contact tracing to contain the coronavirus without having to impose a widespread lockdown. Germany, on the other hand, had its advanced diagnostics industry at play. It was, hence, able to conduct mass testing from early on. Its coronavirus response was widely seen as a success story in Europe. But both countries, as soon as they began relaxing its social distancing rules, had to trace back a few of its steps owing to new outbreaks -- underscoring the dangers authorities face as they try to reopen their economies. SOUTH KOREA The South Korean government on Wednesday started to relax its strict social distancing rules, imposed on March 22, but only in line with a set of guidelines referred to as the distancing in daily life policy. South Korea's baseball season resumed on Tuesday -- but with games played in empty stadiums, while umpires and base coaches wore masks. According to AFP, children will start to return to school from May 13. They have been told to wipe their desk and wear a mask except for at mealtimes and maintain double arm's length distance when you are on the move or are standing in line. But outbreaks at nightclubs undid a lot of effort by the people and the government. Seoul closed down more than 2,100 bars and other nightspots on Saturday because of a new cluster of coronavirus infections. Many of the infections were linked to a 29-year-old man who visited three nightclubs before testing positive. GERMANY Germany has also been taking a step-by-step approach to reopening for business. Limits on social contact would remain in place until June 5, but people can meet each other. Shops can open but with hygiene measures. Germany's top football league, the Bundesliga, will resume play from May 16 -- but under tight restrictions and without spectators. What, however, came as a big test of the government's strategy for dealing with any resurgence of the virus were the outbreaks at three slaughterhouses. DISCUSSIONS CONTINUE Urgent discussions, hence, continue on how to lift restrictions on people's lives and reboot the economy without jeopardising the progress made in containing the spread of the coronavirus. The only way out is to address the public health crisis. Experts had already earlier warned that the lockdown was not a solution -- it was an emergency pause. And that a strategy has to be developed and prepared. The novel coronavirus has infected over 3.9 million people and killed more than 2,75,000 across the world, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University based on data reported by governments.

Outbreaks in Germany, South Korea show life beyond lockdown isn't what people think it'll be

The United States cannot support the current draft," the country's delegation told the 14 other security council members on Friday

US blocks UNSC vote on COVID-19 pandemic resolution

Seven people were killed when protesters angry over what they see as unfair food aid distribution during the coronavirus pandemic clashed with police in Afghanistan`s western Ghor province on Saturday, according to a local member of parliament.

Fourteen more were wounded during the protest - sparked by growing unhappiness at the distribution allegedly favouring people with political connections, said Gulzaman Nayeb, a lawmaker representing Ghor.

Police opened fire after some among the around 300 protesters threw stones and started firing guns and trying to enter the governor`s house, said Mohammad Arif Aber, a spokesman for the provincial governor of Ghor.

He put the toll at two dead and five wounded, adding police were among the wounded. He denied that aid was being unfairly distributed.

Among the dead was Ahmad Naveed Khan, a local volunteer radio presenter who was sitting at his nearby shop and hit in the head by a bullet, according to Ahmad Quraishi, Executive Director at the Afghanistan Journalists Centre.

The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) is looking into the "worrying reports of police firing on protestors", its chairperson Shaharzad Akbar said on Twitter.

The government has been distributing food aid around the country as the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic have led to many job losses and rising food prices.

Akbar told Reuters this week that the commission was being inundated with complaints from the public that food aid is being distributed unfairly.

"We hear repeated complaints from people that the ones who are receiving the limited aid that is there are not the ones that are most deserving, they are the ones who have connections to local authorities or local officials," she said while adding it was not possible to verify the extent to which this was happening.

Afghanistan has reported 4,033 cases of the coronavirus and 115 deaths.

Seven people were killed when protesters angry over what they see as unfair food aid distribution during the coronavirus pandemic clashed with police in Afghanistan`s western Ghor province on Saturday, according to a local member of parliament.

Seven people were killed when protesters angry over what they see as unfair food aid distribution during the coronavirus pandemic clashed with police in Afghanistan`s western Ghor province on Saturday, according to a local member of parliament. Fourteen more were wounded during the protest - sparked by growing unhappiness at the distribution allegedly favouring people with political connections, said Gulzaman Nayeb, a lawmaker representing Ghor. Police opened fire after some among the around 300 protesters threw stones and started firing guns and trying to enter the governor`s house, said Mohammad Arif Aber, a spokesman for the provincial governor of Ghor. He put the toll at two dead and five wounded, adding police were among the wounded. He denied that aid was being unfairly distributed. Among the dead was Ahmad Naveed Khan, a local volunteer radio presenter who was sitting at his nearby shop and hit in the head by a bullet, according to Ahmad Quraishi, Executive Director at the Afghanistan Journalists Centre. The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) is looking into the "worrying reports of police firing on protestors", its chairperson Shaharzad Akbar said on Twitter. The government has been distributing food aid around the country as the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic have led to many job losses and rising food prices. Akbar told Reuters this week that the commission was being inundated with complaints from the public that food aid is being distributed unfairly. "We hear repeated complaints from people that the ones who are receiving the limited aid that is there are not the ones that are most deserving, they are the ones who have connections to local authorities or local officials," she said while adding it was not possible to verify the extent to which this was happening. Afghanistan has reported 4,033 cases of the coronavirus and 115 deaths.

Seven killed in protests over food distribution in Afghanistan

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