A new study has claimed that more than 2,32,000 people may have been infected in the first wave of Coronavirus cases in Mainland China. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Is China hiding 75% of its Coronavirus cases?

In United States of America (USA), the COVID-19 death toll has surpassed the mark of 50,000. Meanwhile, US President Trump has refused to take the responsibility for these 50,000 deaths.

US: COVID-19 death toll surpasses the mark of 50,000, President Trump refuse to take responsibility

The Coronavirus has taken more than 1,00,000 lives. The outbreak is a big blow to the world economy. There is a shortage of supplies. The situation is being compared to World War II. Is this outbreak a world war in disguise? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Coronavirus outbreak: A war in disguise

There are more than 27 lakh confirmed cases of the Coronavirus worldwide now. India is reporting more than 23,000 confirmed cases. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you the latest numbers.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: More than 1,90,000 deaths worldwide

16 new hospitals are being built in Russia to tackle the Coronavirus crisis. Meanwhile hundreds of students appeared for school examinations in Hong Kong while maintaining social distancing. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the big global developments for Friday.

Gravitas: The biggest developments for April 24 | Coronavirus Outbreak

Beijing has increased its funding to the W.H.O and is stockpiling tonnes of crude oil & crops. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay decodes the Chinese regime's post-pandemic strategy to strengthen China's position.

Gravitas: How China is exploiting a crisis of its own making | CoronavirusOutbreak

Hawaii, amid the coronavirus pandemic, has begun paying its visitors to leave. Yes, you read that right!

Hawaii's state agency that is dedicated to welcoming tourists to the state is temporarily helping those visitors leave. The Hawaii Tourism Authority has set aside $25,000 for the costs of sending tourists away if they refuse to abide by the state's 14-day quarantine period.

Hawaii has reported at least 596 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 12 deaths.

Hawaii Governor David Ige established a mandatory two-week self-quarantine for any out-of-state visitors and inter-island travellers on April 1. Since then, officials have encouraged tourists not to travel to the state.

Outbound travel arrangements are being handled by the Visitor Aloha Society, a non-profit group that normally helps tourists in Hawaii deal with problems during their visit, such as theft or a medical emergency, the state said, in a press release.

The Visitor Aloha Society arranges for the travel back home, and pays for the ticket if the visitor can't afford it.

To this end, 19 people have so far been flown back to their airports of origin since the beginning of the emergency.

In some cases, the violators have been prosecuted for misdemeanours and forced to pay a fine.&nbsp;

Hawaii, amid the coronavirus pandemic, has begun paying its visitors to leave. Yes, you read that right! Hawaii's state agency that is dedicated to welcoming tourists to the state is temporarily helping those visitors leave.

Hawaii, amid the coronavirus pandemic, has begun paying its visitors to leave. Yes, you read that right! Hawaii's state agency that is dedicated to welcoming tourists to the state is temporarily helping those visitors leave. The Hawaii Tourism Authority has set aside $25,000 for the costs of sending tourists away if they refuse to abide by the state's 14-day quarantine period. Hawaii has reported at least 596 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 12 deaths. Hawaii Governor David Ige established a mandatory two-week self-quarantine for any out-of-state visitors and inter-island travellers on April 1. Since then, officials have encouraged tourists not to travel to the state. Outbound travel arrangements are being handled by the Visitor Aloha Society, a non-profit group that normally helps tourists in Hawaii deal with problems during their visit, such as theft or a medical emergency, the state said, in a press release. The Visitor Aloha Society arranges for the travel back home, and pays for the ticket if the visitor can't afford it. To this end, 19 people have so far been flown back to their airports of origin since the beginning of the emergency. In some cases, the violators have been prosecuted for misdemeanours and forced to pay a fine.

Hawaii is now paying for tourists to leave

Sinopharm, a Chinese state-run company wants the Pakistan govt to conduct clinical trials of a vaccine on its citizens. Pakistan's National Institute of Health has agreed and is expecting 'positive' results. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how Pakistan is making its citizens guinea pigs for unproven cures.

Gravitas: Pakistani citizens 'guinea pigs' for Chinese firm? | Coronavirus Outbreak

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo charged that China may have known of the new coronavirus as early as November, renewing accusations that Beijing has not been transparent.

United States President Donald Trump's administration has harshly criticised both China and the WHO, blaming them for not stopping the illness that has killed more than 1,80,000 people worldwide.

"You'll recall that the first cases of this were known by the Chinese government maybe as early as November, but certainly by mid-December. They were slow to identify this for anyone in the world, including the World Health Organisation," Pompeo said in an interview on Thursday, with conservative radio host Larry O'Connor.

Pompeo said this is still impacting lots of lives in the United States and around the world.

It is believed that China at first closely guarded information of the virus and detained whistleblowers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nears-50000-coronavirus-deaths-more-than-85-lakh-infected-294382">Also read |&nbsp;US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected</a>

The first official acknowledgement of what became a global pandemic came on December 31 when authorities in Wuhan reported mysterious cases of pneumonia.

The UN body first spoke of an event in Wuhan on January 4 via Twitter and provided "detailed information" the following day to all member countries.

Pompeo has also previously not ruled out that the virus originated in a virology laboratory in Wuhan and has demanded international access to it.

Critics, however, often say that Trump is seeking to deflect from his own handling of the coronavirus, which he claimed to have "totally under control" in January but has since killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States -- more than any other country.

China, on its part, has dismissed the theory. Its scientists say that the virus probably was transmitted to humans at a meat market in Wuhan that butchered exotic animals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-trial-on-humans-starts-in-uk-294384">Also read | COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo charged that China may have known of the new coronavirus as early as November, renewing accusations that Beijing has not been transparent.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo charged that China may have known of the new coronavirus as early as November, renewing accusations that Beijing has not been transparent. United States President Donald Trump's administration has harshly criticised both China and the WHO, blaming them for not stopping the illness that has killed more than 1,80,000 people worldwide. "You'll recall that the first cases of this were known by the Chinese government maybe as early as November, but certainly by mid-December. They were slow to identify this for anyone in the world, including the World Health Organisation," Pompeo said in an interview on Thursday, with conservative radio host Larry O'Connor. Pompeo said this is still impacting lots of lives in the United States and around the world. It is believed that China at first closely guarded information of the virus and detained whistleblowers. Also read | US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected The first official acknowledgement of what became a global pandemic came on December 31 when authorities in Wuhan reported mysterious cases of pneumonia. The UN body first spoke of an event in Wuhan on January 4 via Twitter and provided "detailed information" the following day to all member countries. Pompeo has also previously not ruled out that the virus originated in a virology laboratory in Wuhan and has demanded international access to it. Critics, however, often say that Trump is seeking to deflect from his own handling of the coronavirus, which he claimed to have "totally under control" in January but has since killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States -- more than any other country. China, on its part, has dismissed the theory. Its scientists say that the virus probably was transmitted to humans at a meat market in Wuhan that butchered exotic animals. Also read | COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK

China may have known of coronavirus in November: US renews accusations

US President Donald Trump has placed temporary curbs on immigration. Meanwhile, South Africa is deploying more than 70,000 soldiers to enforce a lockdown. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you the top developments on the Coronavirus outbreak for Thursday.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: The top developments for 23rd April

A Chinese citizen journalist who was missing for almost two months has resurfaced. Li Zehua reported from Wuhan during some of the worst weeks of the pandemic. After detention, Li has begun praising the Chinese establishment. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Has China silenced this citizen journalist? | Coronavirus

In Nigeria`s Benue state, the food basket of the country, Mercy Yialase sits in front of her idle rice mill. Demand is high across the nation, but she already has mounds of paddy rice that are going nowhere amid the COVID-19 lockdown.

"I can`t mill because the marketers are not coming," Yialase said, referring to wholesale buyers, as she sat at a market stall in the city of Makurdi with dozens of other millers.

Although food truck drivers are meant to be exempt from lockdown restrictions, many are afraid for their own safety, or fear they will be fined or arrested by overzealous police.

The situation in Nigeria, Africa`s most populous nation, is reflected across sub-Saharan Africa.

Trucking logistics firm Kobo360 said 30% of its fleet across Nigeria, Kenya, Togo, Ghana and Uganda was not operating as a result.

Several farmers said crops were rotting in the fields or at the depots waiting for trucks that never arrive. And millers cannot get their milled rice to buyers.

"There is no clarity around what can move around ... or what is essential transportation," said Kobo360 co-founder Ife Oyedele, adding that truck bosses were afraid. "They`re scared to go out and have their drivers on the road."

Millions of people in the region are at risk of not getting the food they need due to coronavirus disruptions, according to the United Nations and World Bank.

While domestic crops and capacity go to waste, the imports the region relies on have also dried up as major suppliers, including India, Vietnam and Cambodia, have reduced or even banned rice exports to make sure their countries have enough food to cope with the pandemic.

Meanwhile, scarcity has driven up prices of the main staple food beyond the reach of some people since lockdowns were announced in three states at the end of March to tame the spread of the virus.

Sub-Saharan Africa, the world`s largest rice-importing region, could be heading from a health crisis straight into a food security crisis, the World Bank warns.

More widely, the United Nations says coronavirus disruptions could double the number of people globally without reliable access to nutritious food, to 265 million.

"There is no question about it that there is an imminent problem of food insecurity, not only in Nigeria, but also in nations all over the world," Nigeria`s Agriculture Minister Muhammed Sabo Nanono told Reuters.

STRATEGIC RESERVES

Nanono said Nigeria had at least 38,000 tonnes of grains in government-controlled strategic reserves. It is looking to replenish with 100,000 additional tonnes.

However the region has among the lowest inventories relative to consumption, so export restrictions mean rice shortages "could happen very quickly," according to John Hurley, lead regional economist for west and central Africa for the U.N.`s International Fund for Agricultural Development.

Nigeria has substantially increased domestic rice production in recent years. But figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) show it still imports at least a third of what it consumes. Across sub-Saharan Africa, countries rely on imports for roughly 40% of rice consumption.

This puts these countries at particular risk.

India, the world`s largest rice exporter, temporarily stopped new export agreements earlier this month, while lockdowns and supply chain disruptions in Pakistan, Vietnam and Cambodia have limited available exports.

Since only 9% of global output is traded internationally, the curbs hit prices immediately, the USDA said.

"We need to make sure we`re not taking policy measures that are going to hurt the rural poor and people in developing countries, said Hurley.

The price of a bag of imported rice rose by more than 7.5% in Abuja and Lagos between the third week of March and early April, according to SBM Intelligence, while bags of local rice became about 6%-8% more expensive.

LOCUSTS PLAGUE

In Kenya, panic-buying and government programmes to distribute rice to low-income households have already depleted reserves. 
If imports don`t pick up, East Africa alone could face a shortfall of at least 50,000-60,000 tonnes by the end of the month, said Mital Shah, managing director of Kenya-based Sunrice, one of the region`s largest rice importers.

"The entire supply chain has been disrupted," Shah said. "In the next couple of weeks, East Africa is going to have a huge shortage." 
Getting the bills of loading for imports into Kenya has also stretched from three to four days to three to four weeks. In Nigeria, clearing imports has gone from weeks to months.

Senegal`s rice imports have fallen by around 30% due to international supply disruptions, said Ousmane Sy Ndiaye, executive director of UNACOIS, a Senegalese commerce industry group. He estimated the nation had enough in storage to cover two months.

Growing rice in nations outside East Africa, such as Nigeria, is also more important now due to a plague of locusts in East Africa that has decimated crops this year.

BROKEN CHAINS

Domestic movement restrictions and import delays are also hindering farmers, and some are warning that production will fall if governments do not act.

A survey by AFEX Commodities Exchange Limited, a Nigerian company that assists the agriculture sector with logistics and financing, found that Nigeria`s fertilizer stocks are currently 20% below normal levels. There are only enough seeds and other inputs to farm 1 million hectares out of the roughly 30 million typically farmed, the study showed.

Other farmers say the lockdowns are hindering farm inspections by banks, putting their financing at risk, and creating problems physically getting tractors - which are often hired - to fields. Planting rice would typically start in May. 
"Most people in the industry I speak with are worried," said Dimieari Von Kemedi, managing director of Alluvial Agriculture, a farm collective.

Nigeria`s government has created a task force to minimize the coronavirus`s impact on agriculture. Nanono said it was creating ID cards for those in the agriculture sector, from farmhands to food truck drivers, to enable them to move freely.

He said the government was taking steps to make sure farmers, millers and marketers could operate. The agriculture ministry is working to increase locally produced fertilizers, while the central bank would look to expand financing for farmers, he added.

Help cannot come soon enough for Yialase in Benue, who is awaiting the day marketers return.

"When they start to come, I can mill everything here, and they will buy."

In Nigeria`s Benue state, the food basket of the country, Mercy Yialase sits in front of her idle rice mill. Demand is high across the nation, but she already has mounds of paddy rice that are going nowhere amid the COVID-19 lockdown.

In Nigeria`s Benue state, the food basket of the country, Mercy Yialase sits in front of her idle rice mill. Demand is high across the nation, but she already has mounds of paddy rice that are going nowhere amid the COVID-19 lockdown. "I can`t mill because the marketers are not coming," Yialase said, referring to wholesale buyers, as she sat at a market stall in the city of Makurdi with dozens of other millers. Although food truck drivers are meant to be exempt from lockdown restrictions, many are afraid for their own safety, or fear they will be fined or arrested by overzealous police. The situation in Nigeria, Africa`s most populous nation, is reflected across sub-Saharan Africa. Trucking logistics firm Kobo360 said 30% of its fleet across Nigeria, Kenya, Togo, Ghana and Uganda was not operating as a result. Several farmers said crops were rotting in the fields or at the depots waiting for trucks that never arrive. And millers cannot get their milled rice to buyers. "There is no clarity around what can move around ... or what is essential transportation," said Kobo360 co-founder Ife Oyedele, adding that truck bosses were afraid. "They`re scared to go out and have their drivers on the road." Millions of people in the region are at risk of not getting the food they need due to coronavirus disruptions, according to the United Nations and World Bank. While domestic crops and capacity go to waste, the imports the region relies on have also dried up as major suppliers, including India, Vietnam and Cambodia, have reduced or even banned rice exports to make sure their countries have enough food to cope with the pandemic. Meanwhile, scarcity has driven up prices of the main staple food beyond the reach of some people since lockdowns were announced in three states at the end of March to tame the spread of the virus. Sub-Saharan Africa, the world`s largest rice-importing region, could be heading from a health crisis straight into a food security crisis, the World Bank warns. More widely, the United Nations says coronavirus disruptions could double the number of people globally without reliable access to nutritious food, to 265 million. "There is no question about it that there is an imminent problem of food insecurity, not only in Nigeria, but also in nations all over the world," Nigeria`s Agriculture Minister Muhammed Sabo Nanono told Reuters. STRATEGIC RESERVES Nanono said Nigeria had at least 38,000 tonnes of grains in government-controlled strategic reserves. It is looking to replenish with 100,000 additional tonnes. However the region has among the lowest inventories relative to consumption, so export restrictions mean rice shortages "could happen very quickly," according to John Hurley, lead regional economist for west and central Africa for the U.N.`s International Fund for Agricultural Development. Nigeria has substantially increased domestic rice production in recent years. But figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) show it still imports at least a third of what it consumes. Across sub-Saharan Africa, countries rely on imports for roughly 40% of rice consumption. This puts these countries at particular risk. India, the world`s largest rice exporter, temporarily stopped new export agreements earlier this month, while lockdowns and supply chain disruptions in Pakistan, Vietnam and Cambodia have limited available exports. Since only 9% of global output is traded internationally, the curbs hit prices immediately, the USDA said. "We need to make sure we`re not taking policy measures that are going to hurt the rural poor and people in developing countries, said Hurley. The price of a bag of imported rice rose by more than 7.5% in Abuja and Lagos between the third week of March and early April, according to SBM Intelligence, while bags of local rice became about 6%-8% more expensive. LOCUSTS PLAGUE In Kenya, panic-buying and government programmes to distribute rice to low-income households have already depleted reserves. If imports don`t pick up, East Africa alone could face a shortfall of at least 50,000-60,000 tonnes by the end of the month, said Mital Shah, managing director of Kenya-based Sunrice, one of the region`s largest rice importers. "The entire supply chain has been disrupted," Shah said. "In the next couple of weeks, East Africa is going to have a huge shortage." Getting the bills of loading for imports into Kenya has also stretched from three to four days to three to four weeks. In Nigeria, clearing imports has gone from weeks to months. Senegal`s rice imports have fallen by around 30% due to international supply disruptions, said Ousmane Sy Ndiaye, executive director of UNACOIS, a Senegalese commerce industry group. He estimated the nation had enough in storage to cover two months. Growing rice in nations outside East Africa, such as Nigeria, is also more important now due to a plague of locusts in East Africa that has decimated crops this year. BROKEN CHAINS Domestic movement restrictions and import delays are also hindering farmers, and some are warning that production will fall if governments do not act. A survey by AFEX Commodities Exchange Limited, a Nigerian company that assists the agriculture sector with logistics and financing, found that Nigeria`s fertilizer stocks are currently 20% below normal levels. There are only enough seeds and other inputs to farm 1 million hectares out of the roughly 30 million typically farmed, the study showed. Other farmers say the lockdowns are hindering farm inspections by banks, putting their financing at risk, and creating problems physically getting tractors - which are often hired - to fields. Planting rice would typically start in May. "Most people in the industry I speak with are worried," said Dimieari Von Kemedi, managing director of Alluvial Agriculture, a farm collective. Nigeria`s government has created a task force to minimize the coronavirus`s impact on agriculture. Nanono said it was creating ID cards for those in the agriculture sector, from farmhands to food truck drivers, to enable them to move freely. He said the government was taking steps to make sure farmers, millers and marketers could operate. The agriculture ministry is working to increase locally produced fertilizers, while the central bank would look to expand financing for farmers, he added. Help cannot come soon enough for Yialase in Benue, who is awaiting the day marketers return. "When they start to come, I can mill everything here, and they will buy."

How Africa risks reeling from a health crisis to a food crisis

A new report claims that Chinese agents amplified fake news during the onset of the Coronavirus outbreak in the US. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about China's information warfare during this pandemic.

Gravitas: 'Chinese agents' amplifying fake news in US | Coronavirus Outbreak

On twitter, fake accounts of Pakistani origin are posing are Arabs - and pushing anti-India posts. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how during a pandemic, a disinformation campaign is compromising the fight against the Coronavirus.

Gravitas: Pakistanis pose as Arabs, push anti-India posts

The Wuhan Coronavirus has taken more than 1,80,000 lakh lives worldwide. In India, there are more than 21,000 confirmed cases. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronvirus: More than 26 lakh cases

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in Pakistan has revealed that 79 per cent of the total coronavirus infections in the country were caused by local transmission.

This is in contrast with the claims made in the first week of the current month. It was said that almost 90 per cent patients were travellers from foreign countries and there were fewer cases caused by local transmission of the virus. However, fresh data showed that only 21 per cent cases have been reported in foreign travellers.

The coronavirus tally in Pakistan has increased to 11,155 with 237 deaths.

To this end, the government has decided to introduce track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days, reports Dawn news.

According to the NCOC data, 1,24,549 tests have been conducted since the first case was reported in Pakistan. As many as 2,337 patients have recovered but around 60 were in critical condition across the country.

Meanwhile, 717 hospitals have been providing treatment to people suffering from COVID-19 and 2,779 patients have been admitted to hospitals across the country.

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in Pakistan has revealed that 79 per cent of the total coronavirus infections in the country were caused by local transmission.

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in Pakistan has revealed that 79 per cent of the total coronavirus infections in the country were caused by local transmission. This is in contrast with the claims made in the first week of the current month. It was said that almost 90 per cent patients were travellers from foreign countries and there were fewer cases caused by local transmission of the virus. However, fresh data showed that only 21 per cent cases have been reported in foreign travellers. The coronavirus tally in Pakistan has increased to 11,155 with 237 deaths. To this end, the government has decided to introduce track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days, reports Dawn news. According to the NCOC data, 1,24,549 tests have been conducted since the first case was reported in Pakistan. As many as 2,337 patients have recovered but around 60 were in critical condition across the country. Meanwhile, 717 hospitals have been providing treatment to people suffering from COVID-19 and 2,779 patients have been admitted to hospitals across the country.

At least 79% COVID-19 cases in Pakistan caused by local transmission

After creating furore earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump said the was speaking sarcastically, referring to his earlier comment that people could try injecting disinfectants to fight the novel coronavirus.

President Trump on Thursday during a press conference suggested injecting disinfectants into people to help patients flush the virus from their system.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trump-suggests-injection-of-disinfectant-to-treat-coronavirus-294429">Watch: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to treat coronavirus</a>

"I was asking a question sarcastically to reporters like you, just to see what would happen," he told journalists at the White House.

During a press conference late Thursday, Trump turned to government scientists in the room and asked them about the role of disinfectants in killing the coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-viral-drug-being-hailed-as-coronavirus-cure-fails-first-clinical-trial-294417">Also read: Anti-viral drug being hailed as coronavirus cure, fails first clinical trial</a>

"It knocks (the virus) out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning? Because you see it gets in the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs," he said while talking directly to&nbsp;a Department of Homeland Security official in the briefing room, Bill Bryan.

Sitting alongside Bryan was top White House coronavirus medical advisor Dr Deborah Birx.

Trump often spars with journalists at his daily briefings and he did again Thursday, calling two of them "fake." He also repeated his regular complaints that the media does not treat him fairly and plays down his accomplishments.

The comment about the disinfectants caused widespread confusion and alarm Friday.

The parent group of popular household product Lysol said in a statement that "under no circumstance should our disinfectant products be administered into the human body (through injection, ingestion or any other route)."

The White House spokeswoman, Kayleigh McEnany, said the media had taken "President Trump out of context," but did not say he was being sarcastic.

(With inputs from Reuters)

After creating furore earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump said the was speaking sarcastically, referring to his earlier comment that people could try injecting disinfectants to fight the novel coronavirus.

After creating furore earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump said the was speaking sarcastically, referring to his earlier comment that people could try injecting disinfectants to fight the novel coronavirus. President Trump on Thursday during a press conference suggested injecting disinfectants into people to help patients flush the virus from their system. Watch: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to treat coronavirus "I was asking a question sarcastically to reporters like you, just to see what would happen," he told journalists at the White House. During a press conference late Thursday, Trump turned to government scientists in the room and asked them about the role of disinfectants in killing the coronavirus. Also read: Anti-viral drug being hailed as coronavirus cure, fails first clinical trial "It knocks (the virus) out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning? Because you see it gets in the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs," he said while talking directly to a Department of Homeland Security official in the briefing room, Bill Bryan. Sitting alongside Bryan was top White House coronavirus medical advisor Dr Deborah Birx. Trump often spars with journalists at his daily briefings and he did again Thursday, calling two of them "fake." He also repeated his regular complaints that the media does not treat him fairly and plays down his accomplishments. The comment about the disinfectants caused widespread confusion and alarm Friday. The parent group of popular household product Lysol said in a statement that "under no circumstance should our disinfectant products be administered into the human body (through injection, ingestion or any other route)." The White House spokeswoman, Kayleigh McEnany, said the media had taken "President Trump out of context," but did not say he was being sarcastic. (With inputs from Reuters)

Was speaking 'sarcastically', says Trump on his injecting disinfectants comment

New Yorkers applauded, banged pots and pans, and, shortly after the 7:00 p.m. "Clap Because We Care", broke into a collective rendition of the 1972 Bill Withers's classic "Lean on Me" from their windows and balconies to honour essential workers on Thursday (April 23).

New Yorkers sing 'Lean on Me' to honour essential workers

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

Brazilian students develop hospital disinfection station

The state of Maharashtra has now become the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in India. The number of cases is surging. Watch report.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Drones being used in Dharavi for surveillance

South Korea will send one million face masks to foreign veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War as it amplifies efforts to help other countries deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

South Korea had, in March, banned the exports of masks and channelled most domestically produced masks to pharmacies, where people have been limited to buying two masks per week.

To this end, South Korean Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun during a virus meeting on Friday said the country could send more masks overseas at a level that doesn't disrupt domestic supply.

The nationwide rationing programme was a drastic attempt at calming public anger over shortages and reduce hour-longs lines that formed in stores across the country in previous weeks as infections soared.

South Korea's coronavirus tally stands at 10,703 and 240 fatalities. 
&nbsp;

South Korea will send one million face masks to foreign veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War as it amplifies efforts to help other countries deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

South Korea will send one million face masks to foreign veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War as it amplifies efforts to help other countries deal with the coronavirus pandemic. South Korea had, in March, banned the exports of masks and channelled most domestically produced masks to pharmacies, where people have been limited to buying two masks per week. To this end, South Korean Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun during a virus meeting on Friday said the country could send more masks overseas at a level that doesn't disrupt domestic supply. The nationwide rationing programme was a drastic attempt at calming public anger over shortages and reduce hour-longs lines that formed in stores across the country in previous weeks as infections soared. South Korea's coronavirus tally stands at 10,703 and 240 fatalities.

South Korea to provide face masks to foreign veterans of 1950-53 Korean War

Two opera singers whose shows were cancelled due to coronavirus, find a different audience in the park.

Arias in open air as opera singers surprise Washington D.C. area park goers

New York City will provide 5,00,000 free halal meals to Muslims during the Ramzan month.

Since mosques that provide meals for the poor to break their Ramzan fast are not able to function because of the coronavirus-enforced restrictions, the city will ensure they get halal meals.

"As many as 4,00,000 halal meals will be distributed directly by the city at its distribution centres known as 'grab-and-go' sites because the people receiving the meal packages have to leave immediately and cannot eat there," de Blasio said, while announcing the programme on Thursday.

The halal meals will be available through 435 distribution sites -- 32 of which in areas with large Muslim communities will be the focus of the programme.

Another 1,00,000 meals will be distributed through community organisations. Those who cannot leave their homes can request home delivery.

The halal meals will be a part of a wider free meals programme run by the city to help all those impoverished by the massive loss of jobs due to the COVID-19 crisis. The city expects to distribute 10 million free meals in April and 15 million in May, the Mayor said.

The federal government is giving $1,200 to all adults and $500 to children, but illegal immigrants, who are a sizable number in the city, are not eligible for them.

Many of them work in the unorganised sector and do not qualify for unemployment insurance, either. The state has banned evictions of tenants for 90 days to ensure that those unable to pay rent will not be out a home.

Estimates say there are 7,68,767 Muslims in the city making up nearly 9 per cent of the city's population of 8.6 million. 
&nbsp;

New York City will provide 5,00,000 free halal meals to Muslims during the Ramzan month. Since mosques that provide meals for the poor to break their Ramzan fast are not able to function because of the coronavirus-enforced restrictions, the city will ensure they get halal meals.

New York City will provide 5,00,000 free halal meals to Muslims during the Ramzan month. Since mosques that provide meals for the poor to break their Ramzan fast are not able to function because of the coronavirus-enforced restrictions, the city will ensure they get halal meals. "As many as 4,00,000 halal meals will be distributed directly by the city at its distribution centres known as 'grab-and-go' sites because the people receiving the meal packages have to leave immediately and cannot eat there," de Blasio said, while announcing the programme on Thursday. The halal meals will be available through 435 distribution sites -- 32 of which in areas with large Muslim communities will be the focus of the programme. Another 1,00,000 meals will be distributed through community organisations. Those who cannot leave their homes can request home delivery. The halal meals will be a part of a wider free meals programme run by the city to help all those impoverished by the massive loss of jobs due to the COVID-19 crisis. The city expects to distribute 10 million free meals in April and 15 million in May, the Mayor said. The federal government is giving $1,200 to all adults and $500 to children, but illegal immigrants, who are a sizable number in the city, are not eligible for them. Many of them work in the unorganised sector and do not qualify for unemployment insurance, either. The state has banned evictions of tenants for 90 days to ensure that those unable to pay rent will not be out a home. Estimates say there are 7,68,767 Muslims in the city making up nearly 9 per cent of the city's population of 8.6 million.

New York City to provide 5,00,000 free halal meals during Ramzan

Clapping, cheering and ringing bells, Londoners on Thursday (April 23) joined in a national show of appreciation for health care workers who are battling the spread of the coronavirus.

Claps and cheers: Londoners applaud workers battling coronavirus

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Thursday derided Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell's suggestion that states whose finances are depleted by the coronavirus epidemic could declare bankruptcy as a "really dumb" idea and warned that financial markets would tank if that were allowed to happen.

New York Governor Cuomo slams Mitch McConnell's suggestion

Nearly all of the thousands of hospitalised coronavirus patients in the New York City area had at least one major chronic health condition, and most — 88 per cent — had at least two, a study has found.

Another shocking finding of the research was striking too -- only 6 per cent of the patients had no underlying health conditions.

Earlier research had also shown chronic conditions like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes were common risk factors for severe COVID-19.

The paper, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, analysed data about 5,700 patients admitted between March 1 and April 4 to a dozen hospitals in New York City, Long Island and Westchester County that are part of the Northwell Health system.

Children, teenagers and women had a clear edge over other patients.

The report added new evidence of the greater susceptibility of men to the coronavirus: Men represented 60 per cent of the hospitalised patients, and an even greater share — 66 per cent — of the patients treated in the intensive care unit.

The risk of dying increased with age for all patients but it climbed faster and higher for men.

Of the other 320 intubated patients, 282 died and 38 were discharged from the hospital. Their mortality rate, 88 per cent, is higher than some other early case reports, which found death rates for coronavirus patients on ventilators ranging from 50 per cent to close to 70 percent, the research report said.

The institute, however, said the report was observational in nature, and that there was no comparison group with which to contrast frailties or outcomes.

Nearly all of the thousands of hospitalised coronavirus patients in the New York City area had at least one major chronic health condition, and most — 88 per cent — had at least two, a study has found.

Nearly all of the thousands of hospitalised coronavirus patients in the New York City area had at least one major chronic health condition, and most — 88 per cent — had at least two, a study has found. Another shocking finding of the research was striking too -- only 6 per cent of the patients had no underlying health conditions. Earlier research had also shown chronic conditions like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes were common risk factors for severe COVID-19. The paper, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, analysed data about 5,700 patients admitted between March 1 and April 4 to a dozen hospitals in New York City, Long Island and Westchester County that are part of the Northwell Health system. Children, teenagers and women had a clear edge over other patients. The report added new evidence of the greater susceptibility of men to the coronavirus: Men represented 60 per cent of the hospitalised patients, and an even greater share — 66 per cent — of the patients treated in the intensive care unit. The risk of dying increased with age for all patients but it climbed faster and higher for men. Of the other 320 intubated patients, 282 died and 38 were discharged from the hospital. Their mortality rate, 88 per cent, is higher than some other early case reports, which found death rates for coronavirus patients on ventilators ranging from 50 per cent to close to 70 percent, the research report said. The institute, however, said the report was observational in nature, and that there was no comparison group with which to contrast frailties or outcomes.

Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study

No source of income, but many mouths to feed is a painful situation faced by the lesser fortunate sections of society, but when it comes to transgenders living in the&nbsp;periphery, it only gets even more worrisome.

However, the transgender community in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-announces-complete-lockdown-in-five-cities-including-chennai-and-coimbatore-294568">Chennai</a> and other parts of Tamil Nadu have ensured that they combine their efforts and resources to ensure that they safely tide over the present crisis.&nbsp;

"In our community, we have hardly any savings and don’t think much about the future needs, but now amid the lockdown, the sources of income have vanished and we can’t&nbsp;even seek alms, but we have managed so far with the largesse of many well-wishers, corporates and NGOs” Jaya, General manager of Sahodaran, an organization that works for the LGBTIQ community told WION.&nbsp;

The transgender community has over 2,000 members across Chennai city and have been sourcing and distributing the available resources, relief material among themselves,&nbsp;while also donating a considerable bit of it to the needy and homeless.&nbsp;

“With the support of the police department, we have been able to reach out across the city and distribute over 300 bags of essentials that include rice, oil, sugar, pulses&nbsp;and also soaps. There were few drivers who volunteered to help with logistics, while our sister organization Thozhi provided us a vehicle for free and another for a very low cost. Beyond Chennai, we have also been asking our friends to provide succor in cash&nbsp;or kind to our community who are living in other districts of the state.” Jaya added.&nbsp;

When most ration card holders get their share of essentials and a small dole in cash, many in the transgender community don’t get it as they&nbsp;do not possess ration cards.

“I requested various government officials and highlighted the plight of our community, after which they offered to provide the essentials and Rs.1000 in cash for everyone with a transgender card. We also use the supplies to prepare&nbsp;food and share it with the needy and homeless who have no place to go” Radha, a transgender who contested in the 2019 Lok Sabha Election from Central Chennai constituency told WION.&nbsp;

Transgenders Durga Sri and Maya Sri saw an opportunity in adversity with the government’s door-to-door surveillance effort to contain COVID-19. They work&nbsp;for a little over five hours every morning, covering about 160 homes and checking for coronavirus symptoms and assessing the condition of the aged and the vulnerable groups.&nbsp;

“We get to earn Rs.15,000 a month, thanks to a police official who suggested that we take up this opportunity offered by the civic body in Chennai. This work is temporary&nbsp;would last only about two months, but they provide us PPEs and fresh meals. I have been involved in social work and this campaign is a blessing in disguise. I’m born and raised here and the people accept us for who we are and cooperate with us, we would be&nbsp;grateful if we get permanent jobs” Durga Sri told WION.

No source of income, but many mouths to feed is a painful situation faced by the lesser fortunate sections of society, but when it comes to transgenders living in the periphery, it only gets even more worrisome.

No source of income, but many mouths to feed is a painful situation faced by the lesser fortunate sections of society, but when it comes to transgenders living in the periphery, it only gets even more worrisome. However, the transgender community in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu have ensured that they combine their efforts and resources to ensure that they safely tide over the present crisis. "In our community, we have hardly any savings and don’t think much about the future needs, but now amid the lockdown, the sources of income have vanished and we can’t even seek alms, but we have managed so far with the largesse of many well-wishers, corporates and NGOs” Jaya, General manager of Sahodaran, an organization that works for the LGBTIQ community told WION. The transgender community has over 2,000 members across Chennai city and have been sourcing and distributing the available resources, relief material among themselves, while also donating a considerable bit of it to the needy and homeless. “With the support of the police department, we have been able to reach out across the city and distribute over 300 bags of essentials that include rice, oil, sugar, pulses and also soaps. There were few drivers who volunteered to help with logistics, while our sister organization Thozhi provided us a vehicle for free and another for a very low cost. Beyond Chennai, we have also been asking our friends to provide succor in cash or kind to our community who are living in other districts of the state.” Jaya added. When most ration card holders get their share of essentials and a small dole in cash, many in the transgender community don’t get it as they do not possess ration cards. “I requested various government officials and highlighted the plight of our community, after which they offered to provide the essentials and Rs.1000 in cash for everyone with a transgender card. We also use the supplies to prepare food and share it with the needy and homeless who have no place to go” Radha, a transgender who contested in the 2019 Lok Sabha Election from Central Chennai constituency told WION. Transgenders Durga Sri and Maya Sri saw an opportunity in adversity with the government’s door-to-door surveillance effort to contain COVID-19. They work for a little over five hours every morning, covering about 160 homes and checking for coronavirus symptoms and assessing the condition of the aged and the vulnerable groups. “We get to earn Rs.15,000 a month, thanks to a police official who suggested that we take up this opportunity offered by the civic body in Chennai. This work is temporary would last only about two months, but they provide us PPEs and fresh meals. I have been involved in social work and this campaign is a blessing in disguise. I’m born and raised here and the people accept us for who we are and cooperate with us, we would be grateful if we get permanent jobs” Durga Sri told WION.

Transgender community helps the needy during extended lockdown in Chennai

China is going to prosecute a Belizean citizen for his alleged involvement in providing funds to “meddle” in Hong Kong affairs, a Chinese newspaper reported on Friday. The newspaper backed by the ruling Communist Party, said security authorities concluded their investigation against Lee Henley Hu Xiang to the Guangzhou prosecutorate. Lee will be prosecuted, the report said.

China to prosecute citizens for meddling in Hong Kong affairs

The United Kingdom's COVID-19 numbers reveal a worrying trend. Minority communities in UK seem to be disproportionately affected by the coronavirus. Watch WION ground report from United Kingdom.

WION Ground Report: Minorities hit harder by COVID-19 in United Kingdom

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

Even statues in Brazil wear face masks amid coronavirus outbreak

Scientists in Britain began clinical trials of a potential COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday (April 23) as other vaccine developers across Europe also stepped up work on experimental shots against the disease caused by the new coronavirus.

Coronavirus potential vaccine human trials begin in UK

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