Belarus has a peculiar problem - the President Alexander Lukashenko refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of COVID-19, along the lines of Brazilian, Mexican, and American leaders.

The aforementioned countries are now experiencing high infections everyday.

Owing to the government’s denial, volunteers in Belarus have taken up crowdfunding to help country deal with the crisis, The Guardian reported

The country responded to the virus very late, and did not back down from hosting Europe’s only active football league.

The president has referred to the pandemic as a “psychosis”.

<h6><img alt="oppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="760ed96e-ebe8-44db-aabf-54ebfd455641" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_3.jpg" /> 
Football players attend the match of the Belarus Championship between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020. Belarus continue its championship despite all the leagues in Europe cancelled it to curb the spread of the COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. As most people in Europe are confined to their homes, life goes on as usual in Belarus where even football is continuing -- though fears are growing over the leader's contentious response to COVID-19 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

“No one in the country will die from coronavirus,” Lukashenko said.

Owing to this denial clubbed with shortage of life-saving paraphernalia, a mask now costs over £12. As of now, an NGO has raised over £100,000. Over 27,000 respirators have been distributed, alongside protective gear.

Belarus boasts a population of 9.5 million people and has so far reported over 4200 positive cases, with over 40 deaths.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8399175f-a925-42ac-812b-02b7708b7e13" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_0.jpg" /> 
A woman installs dummies to replace audience due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 caused by the novel coronavirus during the Belarus Championship football match between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Many independent campaigns have sprouted up in the country to ease the pressure created by the pandemic.

Organisations and individuals are using all possible tactics, including 3D printers.

Belarus has a peculiar problem - the President Alexander Lukashenko refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of COVID-19, along the lines of Brazilian, Mexican, and American leaders.

Belarus has a peculiar problem - the President Alexander Lukashenko refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of COVID-19, along the lines of Brazilian, Mexican, and American leaders. The aforementioned countries are now experiencing high infections everyday. Owing to the government’s denial, volunteers in Belarus have taken up crowdfunding to help country deal with the crisis, The Guardian reported The country responded to the virus very late, and did not back down from hosting Europe’s only active football league. The president has referred to the pandemic as a “psychosis”. Football players attend the match of the Belarus Championship between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020. Belarus continue its championship despite all the leagues in Europe cancelled it to curb the spread of the COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. As most people in Europe are confined to their homes, life goes on as usual in Belarus where even football is continuing -- though fears are growing over the leader's contentious response to COVID-19 | AFP “No one in the country will die from coronavirus,” Lukashenko said. Owing to this denial clubbed with shortage of life-saving paraphernalia, a mask now costs over £12. As of now, an NGO has raised over £100,000. Over 27,000 respirators have been distributed, alongside protective gear. Belarus boasts a population of 9.5 million people and has so far reported over 4200 positive cases, with over 40 deaths. A woman installs dummies to replace audience due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 caused by the novel coronavirus during the Belarus Championship football match between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020 | AFP Many independent campaigns have sprouted up in the country to ease the pressure created by the pandemic. Organisations and individuals are using all possible tactics, including 3D printers.

As Belarus' president calls coronavirus 'psychosis', organisations step-up mobilisation efforts

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a potential outbreak?

Turns out, the Obama administration had been pushing for a universal healthcare infrastructure to globally deal with a potentially “air borne” pandemic, similar to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

“We have to put in place an infrastructure,&nbsp; not just at home but also globally. That allows us to see it quickly, isolate it quickly, respond to it quickly”, he said in a briefing. 
 
"We must be ready"

Obama warned in 2014, that we must be ready to deal with an epidemic.

“So that if and when a new strain of flu, like the Spanish flu, crops up, five years or a decade from now - we’ve made the investment - and we’re further along to be able to catch it”, the former president had asserted.

Obama called for more pandemic preparedness following the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, which was then seen as a global threat. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-time-of-coronavirus-this-is-the-safest-place-in-us-293140">In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US</a>

“The funding we’re asking for is needed to keep strengthening our capacity here at home so we can respond to any future Ebola cases.. It’s needed to help us partner with other countries to prevent and deal with future outbreaks and threats before they become epidemics”, Obama had said.

He added how the world had got lucky in terms of the Swine Flu, which had subsided on its own.

“We were lucky with H1N1 that it did not prove to be more deadly. We can’t say we’re lucky with Ebola because obviously it’s having a devastating effect tin West africa, but it is not airborne in its transmission”, he had said.

However, coronavirus is airborne, and is way more deadly than any epidemic seen in recent history.

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If this had happened under Obama's watch we wouldn't have the most cases in the world right now <a href="https://t.co/uv51QJZrci">pic.twitter.com/uv51QJZrci</a>
— Quentin Quarantino 😷 (@ShawnInArizona) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShawnInArizona/status/1249950517339377664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Airborne mayhem

“There may and likely will come a time in which we have both an airborne disease that is deadly“, he said predicted. Looks like his prophecy turned out to be true.

“It’s not just insurance, it is knowing that down the road, we’re gonna continue to have problems like this - particularly in a globalised world”. 
 
He had earlier written in an oped in New York Times back in 2005 - “We recommend that this administration work with Congress, public health officials, the pharmaceutical industry, foreign governments, and international organisations to create a permanent framework for curtailing the spread of future infectious diseases”.

“I cannot think of a better example of an area where we should all agree than passing this emergency funding to fight Ebola and to set up some of the public health infrastructure in the world to deal with potential outbreaks in the future”.

Trump's denial

The incumbent US president Donald Trump had received reports about the seriousness of COVID-19 as early as March but continued to discount those well into March.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-orders-to-print-trumps-name-on-stimulus-cheques-293080" hreflang="en">US treasury orders to print Trump’s name on stimulus cheques</a>

At a briefing he said that the virus would go away by April because of the heat. But it has now killed over 30,000 people in the United States alone.

According to new projections, 100,000-240,000 people are expected to die of the virus in the US alone.

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a potential outbreak? Turns out, the Obama administration had been pushing for a universal healthcare infrastructure to globally deal with a potentially “air borne” pandemic, similar to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a potential outbreak? Turns out, the Obama administration had been pushing for a universal healthcare infrastructure to globally deal with a potentially “air borne” pandemic, similar to the ongoing coronavirus crisis. “We have to put in place an infrastructure, not just at home but also globally. That allows us to see it quickly, isolate it quickly, respond to it quickly”, he said in a briefing. "We must be ready" Obama warned in 2014, that we must be ready to deal with an epidemic. “So that if and when a new strain of flu, like the Spanish flu, crops up, five years or a decade from now - we’ve made the investment - and we’re further along to be able to catch it”, the former president had asserted. Obama called for more pandemic preparedness following the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, which was then seen as a global threat. Also read: In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US “The funding we’re asking for is needed to keep strengthening our capacity here at home so we can respond to any future Ebola cases.. It’s needed to help us partner with other countries to prevent and deal with future outbreaks and threats before they become epidemics”, Obama had said. He added how the world had got lucky in terms of the Swine Flu, which had subsided on its own. “We were lucky with H1N1 that it did not prove to be more deadly. We can’t say we’re lucky with Ebola because obviously it’s having a devastating effect tin West africa, but it is not airborne in its transmission”, he had said. However, coronavirus is airborne, and is way more deadly than any epidemic seen in recent history. If this had happened under Obama's watch we wouldn't have the most cases in the world right now pic.twitter.com/uv51QJZrci — Quentin Quarantino 😷 (@ShawnInArizona) April 14, 2020 × Airborne mayhem “There may and likely will come a time in which we have both an airborne disease that is deadly“, he said predicted. Looks like his prophecy turned out to be true. “It’s not just insurance, it is knowing that down the road, we’re gonna continue to have problems like this - particularly in a globalised world”. He had earlier written in an oped in New York Times back in 2005 - “We recommend that this administration work with Congress, public health officials, the pharmaceutical industry, foreign governments, and international organisations to create a permanent framework for curtailing the spread of future infectious diseases”. “I cannot think of a better example of an area where we should all agree than passing this emergency funding to fight Ebola and to set up some of the public health infrastructure in the world to deal with potential outbreaks in the future”. Trump's denial The incumbent US president Donald Trump had received reports about the seriousness of COVID-19 as early as March but continued to discount those well into March. Also read: US treasury orders to print Trump’s name on stimulus cheques At a briefing he said that the virus would go away by April because of the heat. But it has now killed over 30,000 people in the United States alone. According to new projections, 100,000-240,000 people are expected to die of the virus in the US alone.

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a coronavirus-like pandemic in 2014?

For the second year in a row, Twitter CEO and billionaire Jack Dorsey has taken a salary of $.140. 
 
Recently, the CEO had announced to donate $1 billion towards coronavirus relief. 
 
In 2017, Dorsey earned nothing, which increased to $1.40 in 2019.

"At his own recommendation to the compensation committee and consistent with his compensation in 2018, Mr. Dorsey elected to forgo any compensation for 2019 other than a base salary of $1.40," Twitter said in an SEC filing.

Additionally, the filing touted it “is a testament to his commitment to and belief in Twitter's long-term value creation potential".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-time-of-coronavirus-this-is-the-safest-place-in-us-293140" hreflang="en">In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US</a> 
 
When Dorsey resumed control of Twitter in 2015, his salary added up to one cent for each character out of the 140 that users were permitted to include. 
 
It is expected that his salary would rise to $2.80 eventually as Twitter has increased the limit of characters to 280 per tweet.

Based on Forbes numbers, Dorsey is worth $3.9 billion, mostly because of this role as CEO of a company called Square, which is about financial services and mobile payment.

It was from this company that Dorsey had set aside $1 billion to fight COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-first-coronavirus-victim-was-a-holocaust-survivor-293106" hreflang="en">Israel's first coronavirus victim was a Holocaust survivor</a>

"Simply: I own a lot more Square. And I'll need to pace the sales over some time. The impact this money will have should benefit both companies over the long-term because it's helping the people we want to serve," Dorsey recently tweeted. 
 
Dorsey claims to have funded organisations with potential impact in the past, with funding running up to over $40 million.

He also runs a non-profit organisation with musician Rihanna. “The Clara Lionel Foundation” (CLF) has been able to set aside $4.2 million to help victims of domestic violence during the coronavirus pandemic.

In Los Angeles alone, the CLF has committed $2.1 million to assist victims of violence at home.

For the second year in a row, Twitter CEO and billionaire Jack Dorsey has taken a salary of $.140. Recently, the CEO had announced to donate $1 billion towards coronavirus relief.

For the second year in a row, Twitter CEO and billionaire Jack Dorsey has taken a salary of $.140. Recently, the CEO had announced to donate $1 billion towards coronavirus relief. In 2017, Dorsey earned nothing, which increased to $1.40 in 2019. "At his own recommendation to the compensation committee and consistent with his compensation in 2018, Mr. Dorsey elected to forgo any compensation for 2019 other than a base salary of $1.40," Twitter said in an SEC filing. Additionally, the filing touted it “is a testament to his commitment to and belief in Twitter's long-term value creation potential". Also read: In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US When Dorsey resumed control of Twitter in 2015, his salary added up to one cent for each character out of the 140 that users were permitted to include. It is expected that his salary would rise to $2.80 eventually as Twitter has increased the limit of characters to 280 per tweet. Based on Forbes numbers, Dorsey is worth $3.9 billion, mostly because of this role as CEO of a company called Square, which is about financial services and mobile payment. It was from this company that Dorsey had set aside $1 billion to fight COVID-19. Also read: Israel's first coronavirus victim was a Holocaust survivor "Simply: I own a lot more Square. And I'll need to pace the sales over some time. The impact this money will have should benefit both companies over the long-term because it's helping the people we want to serve," Dorsey recently tweeted. Dorsey claims to have funded organisations with potential impact in the past, with funding running up to over $40 million. He also runs a non-profit organisation with musician Rihanna. “The Clara Lionel Foundation” (CLF) has been able to set aside $4.2 million to help victims of domestic violence during the coronavirus pandemic. In Los Angeles alone, the CLF has committed $2.1 million to assist victims of violence at home.

Twitter CEO Dorsey takes a salary of $1.40 - second year in a row!

An 88-year-old, who became Israel's first coronavirus fatality, had famously been a Holocaust survivor.

Arie Even contracted coronavirus&nbsp;by a visiting social worker at his Jerusalem assisted-living facility.

As a child in Hungary, he survived the Holocaust by taking shelter along with his mother and brother after his father was shipped to a notorious concentration camp.

Even's grandfather had then found them refuge in a Swiss-protected home in Budapest before they were rushed to another shelter, under the cover of night, thanks to the Swedish embassy and the efforts of famed diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, who saved tens of thousands of Jews before mysteriously disappearing.

The next day, Even's grandfather was shot to death and his body was dumped in the Danube River.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-time-of-coronavirus-this-is-the-safest-place-in-us-293140">Also read | In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US</a>

Struggles did not spare Even's life even in the later stages. He overcame multiple heart attacks, surgeries and even a brush with a cholera epidemic during a family visit to Spain.&nbsp;

Arie Even couldn't escape the wrath of the global coronavirus pandemic that has been plaguing the globe. He breathed his last on March 20.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-toll-passes-32000-probable-virus-deaths-included-293016">Also read |&nbsp;US COVID-19 toll passes 32,000; 'probable' virus deaths included</a>

An 88-year-old, who became Israel's first coronavirus fatality, had famously been a Holocaust survivor. Arie Even contracted coronavirus by a visiting social worker at his Jerusalem assisted-living facility.

An 88-year-old, who became Israel's first coronavirus fatality, had famously been a Holocaust survivor. Arie Even contracted coronavirus by a visiting social worker at his Jerusalem assisted-living facility. As a child in Hungary, he survived the Holocaust by taking shelter along with his mother and brother after his father was shipped to a notorious concentration camp. Even's grandfather had then found them refuge in a Swiss-protected home in Budapest before they were rushed to another shelter, under the cover of night, thanks to the Swedish embassy and the efforts of famed diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, who saved tens of thousands of Jews before mysteriously disappearing. The next day, Even's grandfather was shot to death and his body was dumped in the Danube River. Also read | In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US Struggles did not spare Even's life even in the later stages. He overcame multiple heart attacks, surgeries and even a brush with a cholera epidemic during a family visit to Spain. Arie Even couldn't escape the wrath of the global coronavirus pandemic that has been plaguing the globe. He breathed his last on March 20. Also read | US COVID-19 toll passes 32,000; 'probable' virus deaths included

Israel's first coronavirus victim was a Holocaust survivor

The safest place in probably North America and definitely within the United States amid the coronavirus pandemic may be a small town in Washington state -- on an off-the-beaten-path peninsula connected to Canada south of Vancouver.

The 1,300 residents of the town, Point Roberts, have not been affected by the pandemic so far.

Point Roberts is in no way connected to the mainland of the United States of America. The town's strategic location -- it lies below the 49th parallel, the northern circle of latitude used to roughly designate 2,175 miles of the US-Canadian border -- divides it from mainland US.&nbsp;

The isolated town — about 135 miles northwest of Seattle — may be reached by boat, flying into its single-runway airport or driving past two international border crossings through the southwest corner of Canada.

'This is the safest place in probably North America; definitely within the states,' Theresa Coe, 57, who works at the Point Roberts Marina, told The Guardian.

As the US and Canada closed their borders to all, no non-resident could enter the town, cutting all but food, fuel and other essential goods off from passing over the border -- keeping it at bay from COVID-19.

Residents can, however, still cross over for their essential needs such as doctor's appointments but border agents are tough on non-residents attempting to get through.

Point Roberts is often called 'Little America' or 'an island with no boats'. At present, Point Roberts is following the measures put in place by Washington government, including a stay-home mandate, a ban on all gatherings and the closure of all non-essential businesses.

A local outbreak could be devastating for this town because about 70 per cent of Point Roberts’ residents are 60 or older, the age group deemed to be at higher risk of the disease.

Meanwhile, the confirmed coronavirus death toll has reached 32,917 in the United States. More than 6,67,800 coronavirus cases have been recorded in the country, which has seen a record number of deaths over the past two days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-toll-passes-32000-probable-virus-deaths-included-293016">Also read |&nbsp;US COVID-19 toll passes 32,000; 'probable' virus deaths included</a>

The safest place in probably North America and definitely within the United States amid the coronavirus pandemic may be a small town in Washington state -- on an off-the-beaten-path peninsula connected to Canada south of Vancouver.

The safest place in probably North America and definitely within the United States amid the coronavirus pandemic may be a small town in Washington state -- on an off-the-beaten-path peninsula connected to Canada south of Vancouver. The 1,300 residents of the town, Point Roberts, have not been affected by the pandemic so far. Point Roberts is in no way connected to the mainland of the United States of America. The town's strategic location -- it lies below the 49th parallel, the northern circle of latitude used to roughly designate 2,175 miles of the US-Canadian border -- divides it from mainland US. The isolated town — about 135 miles northwest of Seattle — may be reached by boat, flying into its single-runway airport or driving past two international border crossings through the southwest corner of Canada. 'This is the safest place in probably North America; definitely within the states,' Theresa Coe, 57, who works at the Point Roberts Marina, told The Guardian. As the US and Canada closed their borders to all, no non-resident could enter the town, cutting all but food, fuel and other essential goods off from passing over the border -- keeping it at bay from COVID-19. Residents can, however, still cross over for their essential needs such as doctor's appointments but border agents are tough on non-residents attempting to get through. Point Roberts is often called 'Little America' or 'an island with no boats'. At present, Point Roberts is following the measures put in place by Washington government, including a stay-home mandate, a ban on all gatherings and the closure of all non-essential businesses. A local outbreak could be devastating for this town because about 70 per cent of Point Roberts’ residents are 60 or older, the age group deemed to be at higher risk of the disease. Meanwhile, the confirmed coronavirus death toll has reached 32,917 in the United States. More than 6,67,800 coronavirus cases have been recorded in the country, which has seen a record number of deaths over the past two days. Also read | US COVID-19 toll passes 32,000; 'probable' virus deaths included

In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Wuhan was also revised upwards - by 325 to 50,333, the government said.

COVID-19 death toll up by 50% in Wuhan

French President Emmanuel Macron has questioned China's methods of tackling the coronavirus pandemic by calling it ''naive'' to suggest&nbsp;that China had dealt better with the crisis.

In an interview, Macron said that&nbsp;"things happened that we don't know about".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-patients-recovering-quickly-after-getting-remdesivir-an-experimental-drug-293051" hreflang="en">COVID-19 patients recovering quickly after getting remdesivir, an experimental drug</a>

The comments came after&nbsp;an article on the Chinese embassy's website sparked a row sparked. It had claimed&nbsp;that Western countries had ''left the elderly to die in care homes''.

However, China dismissed the row as a "misunderstanding".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-once-chinas-coronavirus-epicentre-raises-death-toll-by-50-293040" hreflang="en">Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50%</a>

Government spokesman Zhao Lijian said China had never made any negative comments about how France was coping with the epidemic "and has no intention of making any".

The foreign ministry summoned China's ambassador to "express disapproval".

France has recorded&nbsp;141,000 cases of Covid-19 and nearly 18,000 deaths.

Whereas, China has recorded 4,632 deaths - including an extra 1,290 deaths announced on Friday in the city of Wuhan, where the pandemic started and where a strict lockdown has only recently been lifted.

Countries including the US, the UK and France have questioned China's transparency over the outbreak.

French President Emmanuel Macron has questioned China's methods of tackling the coronavirus pandemic by calling it ''naive'' to suggest that China had dealt better with the crisis.

French President Emmanuel Macron has questioned China's methods of tackling the coronavirus pandemic by calling it ''naive'' to suggest that China had dealt better with the crisis. In an interview, Macron said that "things happened that we don't know about". Also read: COVID-19 patients recovering quickly after getting remdesivir, an experimental drug The comments came after an article on the Chinese embassy's website sparked a row sparked. It had claimed that Western countries had ''left the elderly to die in care homes''. However, China dismissed the row as a "misunderstanding". Also read: Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50% Government spokesman Zhao Lijian said China had never made any negative comments about how France was coping with the epidemic "and has no intention of making any". The foreign ministry summoned China's ambassador to "express disapproval". France has recorded 141,000 cases of Covid-19 and nearly 18,000 deaths. Whereas, China has recorded 4,632 deaths - including an extra 1,290 deaths announced on Friday in the city of Wuhan, where the pandemic started and where a strict lockdown has only recently been lifted. Countries including the US, the UK and France have questioned China's transparency over the outbreak.

'Naive' to suggest China dealt well with coronavirus, says Macron

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has begun distribution of PPEs and masks being prepared by its troops and their families, to a number of organisations at the frontline of the battle against coronavirus, officials said on Friday.

Last week, the ITBP had launched a special stitching facility at its camp located at Saboli in Haryana's Sonipat district to prepare protective gear.

A senior official said 200 PPEs and 200 masks have been provided to Haryana Urban Local Body (ULB), 50 PPEs to Rohtak Dental College, 20 PPE suits and 50 masks to Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in Rohini, Delhi and 20 PPEs and 50 masks to the Kondli (east Delhi) municipal corporation.

"These COVID-19 protection gear are meant to be used by people working at quarantine facilities and rendering similar services. These are not meant for use by doctors at hospitals who are treating coronavirus patients," ITBP Director General (DG) S S Deswal told PTI.

He said the force is ramping up its capacity to prepare more such medical equipment to cater to other organisations.

"Some sister forces like the Central Industrial Security Force are also in touch with us and we will provide them PPEs and masks," the ITBP chief said.

The senior official quoted above said all such equipment distributed till now has been given free and the force is managing the cost of production from its monetary reserves. The PPEs prepared by the ITBP cost about Rs 100, while the price of masks comes to less than Rs 5, he said.

These products have also been analysed for use by the Northern Indian Textile Research Association (NITRA) and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, the official said.

"Till now, we have been fabricating these items for our own use in health and quarantine facility management centres but due to the increased demand, the force is planning to enhance the daily capacity to double the present volume," an ITBP spokesperson said.

At present, 200 PPEs and 500 masks are being fabricated at the Saboli centre every day, he said.

The Wives Welfare Association is also chipping in this task and it has prepared about 1,000 masks till now. Its members are stitching masks at home and sending it to the Saboli centre, he said.

"Some requests for supply of these items are also being made to us on social media and we are looking at their requirements to cater to them as quickly as possible,"&nbsp;the spokesperson said.

The ITBP is also running a quarantine facility in Delhi, one of the largest in the country with 1,000 beds, since January 28. About 1,200 Indians and foreigners, rescued from coronavirus-affected countries, have been catered to by this facility till now.

The force is primarily tasked to guard the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China apart from rendering a variety of duties in the internal security domain of the country.&nbsp;

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has begun distribution of PPEs and masks being prepared by its troops and their families, to a number of organisations at the frontline of the battle against coronavirus, officials said on Friday.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has begun distribution of PPEs and masks being prepared by its troops and their families, to a number of organisations at the frontline of the battle against coronavirus, officials said on Friday. Last week, the ITBP had launched a special stitching facility at its camp located at Saboli in Haryana's Sonipat district to prepare protective gear. A senior official said 200 PPEs and 200 masks have been provided to Haryana Urban Local Body (ULB), 50 PPEs to Rohtak Dental College, 20 PPE suits and 50 masks to Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in Rohini, Delhi and 20 PPEs and 50 masks to the Kondli (east Delhi) municipal corporation. "These COVID-19 protection gear are meant to be used by people working at quarantine facilities and rendering similar services. These are not meant for use by doctors at hospitals who are treating coronavirus patients," ITBP Director General (DG) S S Deswal told PTI. He said the force is ramping up its capacity to prepare more such medical equipment to cater to other organisations. "Some sister forces like the Central Industrial Security Force are also in touch with us and we will provide them PPEs and masks," the ITBP chief said. The senior official quoted above said all such equipment distributed till now has been given free and the force is managing the cost of production from its monetary reserves. The PPEs prepared by the ITBP cost about Rs 100, while the price of masks comes to less than Rs 5, he said. These products have also been analysed for use by the Northern Indian Textile Research Association (NITRA) and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, the official said. "Till now, we have been fabricating these items for our own use in health and quarantine facility management centres but due to the increased demand, the force is planning to enhance the daily capacity to double the present volume," an ITBP spokesperson said. At present, 200 PPEs and 500 masks are being fabricated at the Saboli centre every day, he said. The Wives Welfare Association is also chipping in this task and it has prepared about 1,000 masks till now. Its members are stitching masks at home and sending it to the Saboli centre, he said. "Some requests for supply of these items are also being made to us on social media and we are looking at their requirements to cater to them as quickly as possible," the spokesperson said. The ITBP is also running a quarantine facility in Delhi, one of the largest in the country with 1,000 beds, since January 28. About 1,200 Indians and foreigners, rescued from coronavirus-affected countries, have been catered to by this facility till now. The force is primarily tasked to guard the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China apart from rendering a variety of duties in the internal security domain of the country.

COVID-19: ITBP begins distribution of PPEs, masks to frontline agencies

A 54-year-old security guard, against whom an FIR was registered for allegedly infecting three members of a family with coronavirus in south Delhi, has tested negative, officials said on Friday.

In the first week of April, an FIR was registered at the Defence Colony police station based on the family's complaint. But the test report of the guard that came out on April 11, showed he has tested negative for the virus.

Various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) were part of the FIR.

During inquiry, police learnt that the guard had visited the Tablighi Jamaat's Nizamuddin markaz and was also said to be unwell. He had been absent from duty since April 3, police officials said.

The markaz, where a religious congregation was held in violation of orders restricting gathering of people, was one of the COVID-19 hotspots that led to the spread of the disease not only in Delhi but also several other parts of the country.

On April 8, the security guard was traced to Okhla and an RT-PCR test was conducted on him, which came out negative.

"We have not received test reports of the security guard and will take appropriate action after we receive it. So far, he has not been arrested and no coercive action was taken against him and the case is still under investigation," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Atul Kumar Thakur.

"When we did technical analysis and checked the call details of the security guard, it was learnt that he had been to Nizamuddin for a sustained period of time and on that basis, we had registered a case," Kumar added.

Another official said, "No one has been arrested in connection with the case so far and the investigation is still underway. We are investigating the matter and will take the case to a logical conclusion."&nbsp;

A 54-year-old security guard, against whom an FIR was registered for allegedly infecting three members of a family with coronavirus in south Delhi, has tested negative, officials said on Friday.

A 54-year-old security guard, against whom an FIR was registered for allegedly infecting three members of a family with coronavirus in south Delhi, has tested negative, officials said on Friday. In the first week of April, an FIR was registered at the Defence Colony police station based on the family's complaint. But the test report of the guard that came out on April 11, showed he has tested negative for the virus. Various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) were part of the FIR. During inquiry, police learnt that the guard had visited the Tablighi Jamaat's Nizamuddin markaz and was also said to be unwell. He had been absent from duty since April 3, police officials said. The markaz, where a religious congregation was held in violation of orders restricting gathering of people, was one of the COVID-19 hotspots that led to the spread of the disease not only in Delhi but also several other parts of the country. On April 8, the security guard was traced to Okhla and an RT-PCR test was conducted on him, which came out negative. "We have not received test reports of the security guard and will take appropriate action after we receive it. So far, he has not been arrested and no coercive action was taken against him and the case is still under investigation," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Atul Kumar Thakur. "When we did technical analysis and checked the call details of the security guard, it was learnt that he had been to Nizamuddin for a sustained period of time and on that basis, we had registered a case," Kumar added. Another official said, "No one has been arrested in connection with the case so far and the investigation is still underway. We are investigating the matter and will take the case to a logical conclusion."

Security guard booked for infecting family with COVID-19 tests negative

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

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

Britain applauded its health workers again on Thursday in what has become a weekly moment of solidarity during the coronavirus lockdown.

At 8 pm, people around the country joined in applauding the National Health Service from their front doors and windows. Clips were later shared on social media under the #ClapForCarers hashtag.

Foreign minister Dominic Raab and finance minister Rishi Sunak joined in from outside the Foreign Office, as Prime Minister Boris Johnson continues to recuperate after contracting coronavirus.

Johnson himself managed to join in the applause this time. "Like millions of people across the country, the Prime Minister joined in the clap for carers this evening, to say thank you for the incredible efforts of the country’s doctors, nurses and care workers," his office said in a statement.

The applause has become a weekly feature of life under lockdown in Britain, providing a moment of national unity at a time where social distancing measures are in place.

NHS workers joined in with the cheering outside hospitals in London and Watford.

Britain last month pledged 5 billion pounds to the health service to fight coronavirus and finance minister Rishi Sunak said extra services that were needed would be funded whatever the cost.

A total of 13,729 patients have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK, up by 861 from 12,868 the day before.

The Department of Health said as of 9 am on Thursday 16 April, a total of 4,17,649 coronavirus tests had been carried out, with 1,03,093 testing positive.

Britain applauded its health workers again on Thursday in what has become a weekly moment of solidarity during the coronavirus lockdown. At 8 pm, people around the country joined in applauding the National Health Service from their front doors and windows.

Britain applauded its health workers again on Thursday in what has become a weekly moment of solidarity during the coronavirus lockdown. At 8 pm, people around the country joined in applauding the National Health Service from their front doors and windows. Clips were later shared on social media under the #ClapForCarers hashtag. Foreign minister Dominic Raab and finance minister Rishi Sunak joined in from outside the Foreign Office, as Prime Minister Boris Johnson continues to recuperate after contracting coronavirus. Johnson himself managed to join in the applause this time. "Like millions of people across the country, the Prime Minister joined in the clap for carers this evening, to say thank you for the incredible efforts of the country’s doctors, nurses and care workers," his office said in a statement. The applause has become a weekly feature of life under lockdown in Britain, providing a moment of national unity at a time where social distancing measures are in place. NHS workers joined in with the cheering outside hospitals in London and Watford. Britain last month pledged 5 billion pounds to the health service to fight coronavirus and finance minister Rishi Sunak said extra services that were needed would be funded whatever the cost. A total of 13,729 patients have died after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK, up by 861 from 12,868 the day before. The Department of Health said as of 9 am on Thursday 16 April, a total of 4,17,649 coronavirus tests had been carried out, with 1,03,093 testing positive.

Coronavirus: Britain applauds its health workers in weekly moment of solidarity

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Palki Sharma - Former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe said that Sri Lanka should consider asking lenders like China to waive off loans. Take a look.

Gravitas Exclusive: Sri Lanka should consider loan waviers | Ranil Wickremesinghe

The US has decided to cut off funding to the WHO. President Donald Trump has accused the WHO of 'China bias'. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the WHO's credibility is the biggest casualty of this outbreak.

Gravitas: US cuts off funding to WHO | Wuhan Coronavirus

The World Health Organisation is facing serious accusations. It has been accused of being too 'China-centric'. Health experts say the WHO response has been slow. WION's Palki Sharma raises five questions that the WHO must answer.

Gravitas: 5 questions WHO must answer | Wuhan Coronavirus

Can heat kill the Coronavirus? Can the virus spread from corpses? Does air conditioning help spread the virus? WION's Palki Sharma analyses the findings of 4 case studies that answer these questions.

Gravitas: New details about the Wuhan Coronavirus come to light

Xenophobia and racism against Africans are on the rise in China. African ambassadors in Beijing wrote to the Chinese foreign minister seeking action. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Africa calls out racism in China | Wuhan Coronavirus

The body’s response to infection goes into overdrive when SARS-CoV-2 — the virus behind the COVID-19 pandemic — enters the lungs, triggering an immune response and attracting immune cells to the region to attack the virus. This results in localized inflammation

Most important recent studies on Coronavirus

The death toll due to coronavirus rose to 414 and the number of cases to 12,380 in the country on Thursday. While the ratio of deaths to the number of cases remains low, people doubt apt number of tests are not being carried out.

To this end, experts have said India needs to ramp up the number of tests done across the country to trace COVID-19 infection.

Out of 12,380, the number of active COVID-19 cases is 10,477, as many as 1,488 people have been cured and discharged and one had migrated.

Data obtained from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said, till April 14, the number of samples tested stood at 2,44,893, an increase of 27,339 from the corresponding figure till the previous day (2,17,554). Experts feel the figures are modest for a count of the size of 1.3 billion and "much more number of tests" are needed to combat COVID-19 outbreak in the country.

According to worldometers, the US, where over 26,000 COVID-19 deaths have occurred, has done 31,00,387 tests averaging about 9,367 per million of population.

The figures for India is 2,44,893 tests averaging 177 per million of population.

Spain and Italy, two countries which have also seen several thousands of fatalities, have done 6,00,000 and 10,73,689 tests respectively.

In India, the number of samples tested till March 28 stood at 27,688, a rise of 7,038 from the corresponding figure till March 27, according to ICMR data.

India is doing lot of tests, but it is not enough compared to what the US and Singapore and other countries are doing, one of the experts said, adding, "much more testing needs to be done".

Two kinds of diagnostic tests are being currently used in India -- RT-PCR test and rapid antibodies test, according to global health norms.

A reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test is a laboratory technique combining reverse transcription of RNA into DNA that detects the virus while the antibody tests, which use blood, detect the body's response to the virus.

In Delhi, which has seen 1561 cases and 30 deaths till April 14, over 16,000 samples had been tested till that period.

The death toll due to coronavirus rose to 414 and the number of cases to 12,380 in the country on Thursday. While the ratio of deaths to the number of cases remains low, people doubt apt number of tests are not being carried out.

The death toll due to coronavirus rose to 414 and the number of cases to 12,380 in the country on Thursday. While the ratio of deaths to the number of cases remains low, people doubt apt number of tests are not being carried out. To this end, experts have said India needs to ramp up the number of tests done across the country to trace COVID-19 infection. Out of 12,380, the number of active COVID-19 cases is 10,477, as many as 1,488 people have been cured and discharged and one had migrated. Data obtained from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said, till April 14, the number of samples tested stood at 2,44,893, an increase of 27,339 from the corresponding figure till the previous day (2,17,554). Experts feel the figures are modest for a count of the size of 1.3 billion and "much more number of tests" are needed to combat COVID-19 outbreak in the country. According to worldometers, the US, where over 26,000 COVID-19 deaths have occurred, has done 31,00,387 tests averaging about 9,367 per million of population. The figures for India is 2,44,893 tests averaging 177 per million of population. Spain and Italy, two countries which have also seen several thousands of fatalities, have done 6,00,000 and 10,73,689 tests respectively. In India, the number of samples tested till March 28 stood at 27,688, a rise of 7,038 from the corresponding figure till March 27, according to ICMR data. India is doing lot of tests, but it is not enough compared to what the US and Singapore and other countries are doing, one of the experts said, adding, "much more testing needs to be done". Two kinds of diagnostic tests are being currently used in India -- RT-PCR test and rapid antibodies test, according to global health norms. A reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test is a laboratory technique combining reverse transcription of RNA into DNA that detects the virus while the antibody tests, which use blood, detect the body's response to the virus. In Delhi, which has seen 1561 cases and 30 deaths till April 14, over 16,000 samples had been tested till that period.

India needs to step up coronavirus testing, say experts

As many as 72 families in a locality in Delhi's South district have been put under quarantine after a pizza delivery boy tested positive for coronavirus.

According to DM BM Mishra, a delivery boy from a famous pizza chain in Malviya Nagar area tested positive on Tuesday, following which the authorities immediately decided to quarantine his 16 colleagues at the outlet.

When his contacts were traced, at least 72 families where he delivered the pizzas to were put under isolation.

The said delivery boy is now undergoing treatment at a hospital, while others who came in his contact are being monitored on a daily basis.

Several orders from this outlet were also made through food delivery giant Zomato, which said that all colleagues of the delivery boy have tested negative.

"All the co-workers of the said rider have tested negative and as a precaution, the restaurant where the rider worked has suspended operations," a statement by Zomato added. 
&nbsp;

As many as 72 families in a locality in Delhi's South district have been put under quarantine after a pizza delivery boy tested positive for coronavirus. According to DM BM Mishra, a delivery boy from a famous pizza chain in Malviya Nagar area tested positive on Tuesday, following which the authorities immediately decided to quarantine his 16 colleagues at the outlet.

As many as 72 families in a locality in Delhi's South district have been put under quarantine after a pizza delivery boy tested positive for coronavirus. According to DM BM Mishra, a delivery boy from a famous pizza chain in Malviya Nagar area tested positive on Tuesday, following which the authorities immediately decided to quarantine his 16 colleagues at the outlet. When his contacts were traced, at least 72 families where he delivered the pizzas to were put under isolation. The said delivery boy is now undergoing treatment at a hospital, while others who came in his contact are being monitored on a daily basis. Several orders from this outlet were also made through food delivery giant Zomato, which said that all colleagues of the delivery boy have tested negative. "All the co-workers of the said rider have tested negative and as a precaution, the restaurant where the rider worked has suspended operations," a statement by Zomato added.

At least 72 families in South Delhi quarantined after pizza delivery boy tests positive for coronavirus

Pakistan has been under the scanner for under-reporting the coronavirus cases. Officially it has declared over 6000 cases of coronavirus so far. But the string that describes mystery deaths in the last 15 days is raising concerns. What is Pakistan hiding and why?

Over 300 patients brought dead to hospitals: Pakistan under-reporting COVID-19 cases?

Nurseries, kindergartens, and primary schools were restarting after they were officially closed on March 17 in an effort to curb the COVID-19 epidemic, though many had shut before then.

Restrictions relaxed in Denmark: Schools reopen for 1st time amid Coronavirus Pandemic

The Chinese capital saw new local cases for the first time in more than three weeks, though there was a considerable drop in new coronavirus cases involving travellers arriving from overseas.

The number of locally transmitted cases rose to 12 from 10 a day earlier, with the city of Beijing seeing three new local cases for the first time since March 23.

New imported cases dropped to 34 on Wednesday from 36 a day earlier, the National Health Commission said, down for the third straight day.

Mainland China reported 46 new confirmed cases on Wednesday, the same as a day earlier, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 82,341.

Heilongjiang saw 16 new imported cases, all Chinese nationals who came from Russia. The province has become a front line in China's fight to keep out imported cases as infected Chinese nationals return overland from Russia.

The neighbouring autonomous region of Inner Mongolia also saw imported cases from Russia.

Guangdong saw five new cases connected to travellers from overseas.

The number of new asymptomatic cases increased to 64 from 57 a day earlier. China does not include patients with no clinical symptoms such as a cough or a fever in its tally of confirmed cases.

Some of the new confirmed cases had been counted as asymptomatic previously.

The Chinese capital saw new local cases for the first time in more than three weeks, though there was a considerable drop in new coronavirus cases involving travellers arriving from overseas.

The Chinese capital saw new local cases for the first time in more than three weeks, though there was a considerable drop in new coronavirus cases involving travellers arriving from overseas. The number of locally transmitted cases rose to 12 from 10 a day earlier, with the city of Beijing seeing three new local cases for the first time since March 23. New imported cases dropped to 34 on Wednesday from 36 a day earlier, the National Health Commission said, down for the third straight day. Mainland China reported 46 new confirmed cases on Wednesday, the same as a day earlier, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 82,341. Heilongjiang saw 16 new imported cases, all Chinese nationals who came from Russia. The province has become a front line in China's fight to keep out imported cases as infected Chinese nationals return overland from Russia. The neighbouring autonomous region of Inner Mongolia also saw imported cases from Russia. Guangdong saw five new cases connected to travellers from overseas. The number of new asymptomatic cases increased to 64 from 57 a day earlier. China does not include patients with no clinical symptoms such as a cough or a fever in its tally of confirmed cases. Some of the new confirmed cases had been counted as asymptomatic previously.

China sees rise in local infections, drop in imported coronavirus cases

Nurseries, kindergartens and primary schools were restarting after they were officially closed on March 17 in an effort to curb the COVID-19 epidemic, though many had shut before then.

Danish schools begin reopening after month-long closure due to COVID-19

World Is One News, WION exclusively speaks to Mr. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Indian Ambassador to the United States of America.

WION exclusive conversation with Indian envoy to US  Taranjit Singh Sandhu

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has classified 170 hotspot districts in the Red Zone, in view of taking intensive measures for implementing containment measures to combat COVID-19 outbreak in the country.

In addition, 207 non-hotspot districts with clusters and non-infected districts have been classified as Green Zone.

According to guidelines, Red Zone needs to have focussed attention as these areas report a large number of COVID-19 cases and high growth rate. For hotspots within the Red Zone, the Centre has identified about 170 districts.

This is further divided into two groups i.e. there are 123 hotspot districts with a large outbreak and 47 hotspot districts with clusters. The inclusion criteria for hotspots (Red Zone), according to the government says: "Highest caseload districts contributing to more than 80 per cent of cases in India or highest caseload districts contributing to more than 80 per cent of cases for each State in India or districts with doubling rate less than four days."

The Central government said that hotspot districts can be turned to Orange Zone when no cases are reported in 14 days and this zone could be turned to Green Zone when further no positive cases are reported in the next 14 days.

To name a few, Mumbai (873) in Maharashtra, South Delhi (332), Hyderabad (213) in Telangana, Jaipur (170) in Rajasthan, and Kasaragod (155) in Kerala are top five districts from where a large number of COVID-19 cases are being reported.

"With respect to these hotspots, the districts which need implementation of outbreak containment plan and the districts where clusters of cases are found, their states also need to identify hotspots based on doubling rate of confirmed cases. This exercise of identification of hotspots has to be done on a weekly basis (every Monday) or earlier. Strict containment measures need to be implemented in these hotspots," said Preeti Sudan, Union Health Secretary in a letter written to all States and Union Territories.

Similarly, there are about 207 non-hotspots districts with clusters.&nbsp;

"For non-hotspot districts reporting cases, States need to ensure that containment measures are taken so as to ensure that cases in these areas can be contained. States also need to undertake effective surveillance of SARI and ILI cases in districts not having any confirmed cases so far besides ensuring dedicated COVID hospitals," Sudan said.

For the Green Zone, the health ministry stated that a district that has not reported positive coronavirus cases can be marked under this zone. Also, any district currently in hotspots can be moved to the Green category if no new cases arise in 28 days.

"It is requested that States/UTs should utilize the extended lockdown period to the maximum extent to convert the hotspots (Red) to Orange and in turn Green Zones and contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country," she said.

"This period should be utilised effectively and there should be a concerted effort for implementing containment measures in a focused manner. Containment operation would be deemed over when there is no case reported in 28 days from an area after the last case tests negative. Hotspots (designated Red Zones) will be assumed to be undertaking effective containment activities if no case is reported in the next 14 days (designated Orange Zones) and will be deemed successful in containment if no case is reported for 28 days (designated Green Zones)," Sudan said.

India's tally of coronavirus cases has gone up to 11,933, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday.Out of the total tally, 10,197 cases are active while 1,344 patients have been cured/discharged and migrated, and 392 people have succumbed to the virus.

(with inputs from ANI)

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has classified 170 hotspot districts in the Red Zone, in view of taking intensive measures for implementing containment measures to combat COVID-19 outbreak in the country.

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has classified 170 hotspot districts in the Red Zone, in view of taking intensive measures for implementing containment measures to combat COVID-19 outbreak in the country. In addition, 207 non-hotspot districts with clusters and non-infected districts have been classified as Green Zone. According to guidelines, Red Zone needs to have focussed attention as these areas report a large number of COVID-19 cases and high growth rate. For hotspots within the Red Zone, the Centre has identified about 170 districts. This is further divided into two groups i.e. there are 123 hotspot districts with a large outbreak and 47 hotspot districts with clusters. The inclusion criteria for hotspots (Red Zone), according to the government says: "Highest caseload districts contributing to more than 80 per cent of cases in India or highest caseload districts contributing to more than 80 per cent of cases for each State in India or districts with doubling rate less than four days." The Central government said that hotspot districts can be turned to Orange Zone when no cases are reported in 14 days and this zone could be turned to Green Zone when further no positive cases are reported in the next 14 days. To name a few, Mumbai (873) in Maharashtra, South Delhi (332), Hyderabad (213) in Telangana, Jaipur (170) in Rajasthan, and Kasaragod (155) in Kerala are top five districts from where a large number of COVID-19 cases are being reported. "With respect to these hotspots, the districts which need implementation of outbreak containment plan and the districts where clusters of cases are found, their states also need to identify hotspots based on doubling rate of confirmed cases. This exercise of identification of hotspots has to be done on a weekly basis (every Monday) or earlier. Strict containment measures need to be implemented in these hotspots," said Preeti Sudan, Union Health Secretary in a letter written to all States and Union Territories. Similarly, there are about 207 non-hotspots districts with clusters. "For non-hotspot districts reporting cases, States need to ensure that containment measures are taken so as to ensure that cases in these areas can be contained. States also need to undertake effective surveillance of SARI and ILI cases in districts not having any confirmed cases so far besides ensuring dedicated COVID hospitals," Sudan said. For the Green Zone, the health ministry stated that a district that has not reported positive coronavirus cases can be marked under this zone. Also, any district currently in hotspots can be moved to the Green category if no new cases arise in 28 days. "It is requested that States/UTs should utilize the extended lockdown period to the maximum extent to convert the hotspots (Red) to Orange and in turn Green Zones and contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country," she said. "This period should be utilised effectively and there should be a concerted effort for implementing containment measures in a focused manner. Containment operation would be deemed over when there is no case reported in 28 days from an area after the last case tests negative. Hotspots (designated Red Zones) will be assumed to be undertaking effective containment activities if no case is reported in the next 14 days (designated Orange Zones) and will be deemed successful in containment if no case is reported for 28 days (designated Green Zones)," Sudan said. India's tally of coronavirus cases has gone up to 11,933, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday.Out of the total tally, 10,197 cases are active while 1,344 patients have been cured/discharged and migrated, and 392 people have succumbed to the virus. (with inputs from ANI)

Centre earmarks 170 COVID-19 hotspot districts, 207 potential ones

US President Donald Trump will convene the G7 meeting via video conference later today. This comes after Trump decided to the impersonal meeting of G7 leaders, stated to be held at Camp David. Watch the video to know what all you can expect from the G7 meet.

G7 meet on March 16: What all to expect from the meet

To conduct the test, patients will use a nasal swab to swab their own nose while being observed by a trained professional. The sample is then dropped into a sealed contained as the patient leaves the drive-thru site.

Decoding drive through COVID-19 testing

In the United States, the train horns will be put to a better use on Thursday.

At 3 pm, trains across the US will sound their horns to honour the transportation employees who are considered essential workers during the coronavirus crisis.

Amtrak trains, along with regional partner trains across the US, plan to give two blasts of their horns in a toot to transportation workers, as well as health care workers, first-responders, child care workers, grocery store employees and other workers providing essential services during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Every hero deserves to be recognised and thanked for their courage, selflessness and the help they are providing to this country during this time," Stephen Gardner, Amtrak's chief operating and commercial officer, said in a statement.

COVID-19 has now infected &nbsp;20,62,485 people worldwide and 1,36,908 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

In US alone, 28,326 deaths have so far been recorded. Of these, 2,569 were reported in the last 24 hours.

In the United States, the train horns will be put to a better use on Thursday. At 3 pm, trains across the US will sound their horns to honour the transportation employees who are considered essential workers during the coronavirus crisis.

In the United States, the train horns will be put to a better use on Thursday. At 3 pm, trains across the US will sound their horns to honour the transportation employees who are considered essential workers during the coronavirus crisis. Amtrak trains, along with regional partner trains across the US, plan to give two blasts of their horns in a toot to transportation workers, as well as health care workers, first-responders, child care workers, grocery store employees and other workers providing essential services during the coronavirus pandemic. "Every hero deserves to be recognised and thanked for their courage, selflessness and the help they are providing to this country during this time," Stephen Gardner, Amtrak's chief operating and commercial officer, said in a statement. COVID-19 has now infected 20,62,485 people worldwide and 1,36,908 people have been killed due to this pandemic. In US alone, 28,326 deaths have so far been recorded. Of these, 2,569 were reported in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus: US to thank and honour its transportation employees by sounding horns

The United States on Wednesday recorded a little over 2,500 additional deaths from the novel coronavirus in 24 hours, a new record and the heaviest daily toll of any country.

A tally from Johns Hopkins showed 2,569 victims, bringing the total number of US deaths to 28,326 -- higher than any other nation.

More than 6.3 lakh Americans have tested positive for COVID-19 so far.

To this end, US President Donald Trump said the United States had passed the peak on new coronavirus cases.

"The battle continues, but the data suggest that nationwide we have passed the peak on new cases. Hopefully, that will continue, and we will continue to make great progress," Trump told reporters at his daily White House news conference on coronavirus.

These encouraging developments, he said, has put the US in a very strong position to finalise guidelines for states on reopening the country. The new social mitigation measures, he said, would be announced Thursday.

Nine States have less than 1,000 cases and less than 30 new cases per day. Some states like California and Washington State, Oregon never really had a peak because of so much work that their populations did to decrease and keep the new cases down.

The United States has rapidly developed the most expansive and accurate testing system anywhere in the world and have completed more than 3.3 million tests.

The administration is also distributing vast amounts of medical supplies to states across the country. Through project air bridge, which has been an amazing success they have completed 44 flights, and an additional 56 like scheduled in the near future.

In total, through all channels, the federal government has developed and delivered 39.4 million N95 masks, 431 million gloves, 57 million surgical masks and 10.2 million gowns. It ordered 500 million masks and they will be coming shortly and have distributed 100 million masks, he said.

Trump said his administration is using every available authority to accelerate the development, study and develop therapies and treatments. "Ultimately, what we want to come up with is a safe vaccine, but frankly, the therapies to me are the most important because it takes care of people right now," he said.

"The vaccines have to be tested because it takes a longer period of time, but we have some great potential therapies already, and we will see how they are working. We will be able to report on that over the next week or two," he said, adding that at least 35 clinical trials of promising therapies are now underway.

The United States on Wednesday recorded a little over 2,500 additional deaths from the novel coronavirus in 24 hours, a new record and the heaviest daily toll of any country.

The United States on Wednesday recorded a little over 2,500 additional deaths from the novel coronavirus in 24 hours, a new record and the heaviest daily toll of any country. A tally from Johns Hopkins showed 2,569 victims, bringing the total number of US deaths to 28,326 -- higher than any other nation. More than 6.3 lakh Americans have tested positive for COVID-19 so far. To this end, US President Donald Trump said the United States had passed the peak on new coronavirus cases. "The battle continues, but the data suggest that nationwide we have passed the peak on new cases. Hopefully, that will continue, and we will continue to make great progress," Trump told reporters at his daily White House news conference on coronavirus. These encouraging developments, he said, has put the US in a very strong position to finalise guidelines for states on reopening the country. The new social mitigation measures, he said, would be announced Thursday. Nine States have less than 1,000 cases and less than 30 new cases per day. Some states like California and Washington State, Oregon never really had a peak because of so much work that their populations did to decrease and keep the new cases down. The United States has rapidly developed the most expansive and accurate testing system anywhere in the world and have completed more than 3.3 million tests. The administration is also distributing vast amounts of medical supplies to states across the country. Through project air bridge, which has been an amazing success they have completed 44 flights, and an additional 56 like scheduled in the near future. In total, through all channels, the federal government has developed and delivered 39.4 million N95 masks, 431 million gloves, 57 million surgical masks and 10.2 million gowns. It ordered 500 million masks and they will be coming shortly and have distributed 100 million masks, he said. Trump said his administration is using every available authority to accelerate the development, study and develop therapies and treatments. "Ultimately, what we want to come up with is a safe vaccine, but frankly, the therapies to me are the most important because it takes care of people right now," he said. "The vaccines have to be tested because it takes a longer period of time, but we have some great potential therapies already, and we will see how they are working. We will be able to report on that over the next week or two," he said, adding that at least 35 clinical trials of promising therapies are now underway.

US sets another grim milestone, records over 2,500 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours

The International Monetary Fund issued a stark warning on April 15 about the coronavirus’s economic toll. It said that the world is facing its worst downturn since the Great Depression as shuttered factories, quarantine, and national lockdowns cause the economic output to collapse.

IMF predicts worst economic downturn: Proposes 1 trillion-dollars support

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday called for a united fight against COVID-19, and said a lockdown was no solution to defeat the coronavirus. He added aggressive testing was the main weapon and it should be used strategically.

"A misconception that I want to clear is, in no way does a lockdown defeat the virus, it stops the virus for sometime. It's just a pause button," said Rahul, in press briefing through video conferencing.

So, while he said he differed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he did not want to "get involved in 'Tu Tu Main Main' (blame game) as the country is fighting a tough battle against the virus and we will only be successful to contain it when everybody works together."

"There should be no declaration of victory, it is a long fight. I disagree with PM Modi on a lot of issues but we have to unite and not fight. We have to defeat the virus together," he said.

Lockdown is said to have allowed time and space to put in medical resources, ramp up testing abilities, prepare hospitals, and get ventilators for patients. It has been substantially proved -- across the world -- that lockdown did impact COVID-19 tally positively.

Twitterverse latched onto this, and consequently, Rahul Gandhi trended for hours.

On one hand, people asked him for an alternative to lockdown -- because,&nbsp;kya karein otherwise?&nbsp;and on the other, doled out some harmless humour, and some valuable advice.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
So basically <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> did nothing since start on Covid with no contribution to PM relief fund, now he comes up with prepared Q &amp; A n starts giving govt advice which gov is actually doing it..kudos..!! <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> has done everything to control virus and helping indians
— Naveen Singh (@Rebel_Naveen22) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rebel_Naveen22/status/1250745661307453440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> has put several BJP MPs MLAs and numerous IT Cell wannabes to work. Hahahaha <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulSpeaksForIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulSpeaksForIndia</a>
— Akshay Khatry (@AkshayKhatry) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkshayKhatry/status/1250745581988806656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown is not the Solution. 
Also Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown relaxation may cause danger of Spread of Coronavirus.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulSpeaksforIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulSpeaksforIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid_19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid_19</a> <a href="https://t.co/DdRlNHGYZy">pic.twitter.com/DdRlNHGYZy</a>
— Vikash P Tiwari (@bana_rasiya) <a href="https://twitter.com/bana_rasiya/status/1250698783123402752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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So <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> gave an actual press conference on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> and did not give any tasks? Strong leaders are supposed to ask us to bang plates or light lamps no?
— Prabha پربھا (@deepsealioness) <a href="https://twitter.com/deepsealioness/status/1250747642897854464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Harmless and vaulable, as we said!

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi talked of exit strategies too. He concluded his address by saying the government should think of the exit strategy and economic burden which is going to come in months.&nbsp;

"Decide what your exit strategy would be after the lockdown," he said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday called for a united fight against COVID-19, and said a lockdown was no solution to defeat the coronavirus. He added aggressive testing was the main weapon and it should be used strategically.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday called for a united fight against COVID-19, and said a lockdown was no solution to defeat the coronavirus. He added aggressive testing was the main weapon and it should be used strategically. "A misconception that I want to clear is, in no way does a lockdown defeat the virus, it stops the virus for sometime. It's just a pause button," said Rahul, in press briefing through video conferencing. So, while he said he differed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he did not want to "get involved in 'Tu Tu Main Main' (blame game) as the country is fighting a tough battle against the virus and we will only be successful to contain it when everybody works together." "There should be no declaration of victory, it is a long fight. I disagree with PM Modi on a lot of issues but we have to unite and not fight. We have to defeat the virus together," he said. Lockdown is said to have allowed time and space to put in medical resources, ramp up testing abilities, prepare hospitals, and get ventilators for patients. It has been substantially proved -- across the world -- that lockdown did impact COVID-19 tally positively. Twitterverse latched onto this, and consequently, Rahul Gandhi trended for hours. On one hand, people asked him for an alternative to lockdown -- because, kya karein otherwise? and on the other, doled out some harmless humour, and some valuable advice. So basically #RahulGandhi did nothing since start on Covid with no contribution to PM relief fund, now he comes up with prepared Q & A n starts giving govt advice which gov is actually doing it..kudos..!! @narendramodi has done everything to control virus and helping indians — Naveen Singh (@Rebel_Naveen22) April 16, 2020 × #RahulGandhi has put several BJP MPs MLAs and numerous IT Cell wannabes to work. Hahahaha #RahulSpeaksForIndia — Akshay Khatry (@AkshayKhatry) April 16, 2020 × Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown is not the Solution. Also Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown relaxation may cause danger of Spread of Coronavirus.#RahulGandhi#RahulSpeaksforIndia#Covid_19 pic.twitter.com/DdRlNHGYZy — Vikash P Tiwari (@bana_rasiya) April 16, 2020 × So #RahulGandhi gave an actual press conference on #COVID and did not give any tasks? Strong leaders are supposed to ask us to bang plates or light lamps no? — Prabha پربھا (@deepsealioness) April 16, 2020 × Harmless and vaulable, as we said! Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi talked of exit strategies too. He concluded his address by saying the government should think of the exit strategy and economic burden which is going to come in months. "Decide what your exit strategy would be after the lockdown," he said.

'Lockdown is only a pause button to coronavirus': Rahul's assertion has Twitter confused

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