Airport security Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has made a new necessary plan for air passengers post lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of coronavirus.In the new plan submitted to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), CISF said that when flight operation resumes "passengers reaching timing at the airport two hours before their flight timing with proper protective gear eg; mask, gloves, and sanitisers.

"CISF also urged the civil aviation ministry that sanitiser bottles can be also placed at every exit and entry gates of the airports for passengers and employees.Flying with a seat vacant between every two people could be the `new norms` for air passengers when schedule commercial flights resume, CISF said in the new plan.

According to the officials, the plan is under consideration and the idea behind it is to seek staggering flights to avoid crowding at airports at any time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-covid-19-cases-shoot-up-to-7447-with-239-deaths-reported-so-far-291920" hreflang="en">Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far</a>

"We have proposed a new plan incorporating necessary precaution in view of the change of circumstances due to COVID-19. This has been sent to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) for consideration," GA Ganapathy, Special Director (Airport) of CISF, told ANI.Further, CISF advised all the airlines that, airlines make it clear for the passengers to whom so ever booking tickets they should give details of their home/self-quarantine history.

If any passengers flying after quarantine history, CISF will screening them in isolation checking point where CISF officers are covered full personal protective equipment (PPE) suit.

Airlines crew will offer sanitisers to every onboard passenger, as per the plan.Passenger flight operations in India are suspended from March 25, due to coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/united-states-is-looking-into-extension-of-h1b-visas-for-indians-amid-covid-19-pandemic-291909" hreflang="en">United States is looking into extension of H1B visas for Indians amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

As of now, there is no clarity from the government to resume flights operation. Minister of Civil Aviation (MoCA) Hardeep Puri tweeted, "The current Lockdown on both domestic &amp; international passenger flights is till April 15. A decision to restart the flights after this period remains to be taken. If required, we will have to assess the situation on a case by case basis"

Civil Aviation Ministry, Airport Authority Of India (AAI), Director General Of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other stakeholders are working together on how to resume the operation post lockdown.&nbsp;

Airport security Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has made a new necessary plan for air passengers post lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Airport security Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has made a new necessary plan for air passengers post lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of coronavirus.In the new plan submitted to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), CISF said that when flight operation resumes "passengers reaching timing at the airport two hours before their flight timing with proper protective gear eg; mask, gloves, and sanitisers. "CISF also urged the civil aviation ministry that sanitiser bottles can be also placed at every exit and entry gates of the airports for passengers and employees.Flying with a seat vacant between every two people could be the `new norms` for air passengers when schedule commercial flights resume, CISF said in the new plan. According to the officials, the plan is under consideration and the idea behind it is to seek staggering flights to avoid crowding at airports at any time. Also read: Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far "We have proposed a new plan incorporating necessary precaution in view of the change of circumstances due to COVID-19. This has been sent to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) for consideration," GA Ganapathy, Special Director (Airport) of CISF, told ANI.Further, CISF advised all the airlines that, airlines make it clear for the passengers to whom so ever booking tickets they should give details of their home/self-quarantine history. If any passengers flying after quarantine history, CISF will screening them in isolation checking point where CISF officers are covered full personal protective equipment (PPE) suit. Airlines crew will offer sanitisers to every onboard passenger, as per the plan.Passenger flight operations in India are suspended from March 25, due to coronavirus. Also read: United States is looking into extension of H1B visas for Indians amid COVID-19 pandemic As of now, there is no clarity from the government to resume flights operation. Minister of Civil Aviation (MoCA) Hardeep Puri tweeted, "The current Lockdown on both domestic & international passenger flights is till April 15. A decision to restart the flights after this period remains to be taken. If required, we will have to assess the situation on a case by case basis" Civil Aviation Ministry, Airport Authority Of India (AAI), Director General Of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other stakeholders are working together on how to resume the operation post lockdown.

CISF carves out new plan for flying during coronavirus pandemic

U.S. coronavirus cases topped 500,000 on Friday, according to a Reuters tally, although there are signs that Americans staying home was helping to curb new infections. Nearly 2,108 people lost their lives in US due to COVID-19 in last 24 hours.

Coronavirus Outbreak: US records its highest daily death toll

Asia’s favourite beach destination Phuket now resembles a ghost town.

The city, which has emerged as Thailand’s COVID-19 hotspot has the highest infection rate per capita out of the 77 provinces in Thailand, CNN reported.

For 100,000 people in Phuket, there are 38.95 cases.

The government has stepped up testing in a bid to contain the virus from spreading. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smoking-pot-to-kick-away-pandemic-blues-you-might-wanna-rethink-that-idea-291940" hreflang="en">Smoking pot to kick away pandemic blues? You might wanna rethink that idea!</a>

On April 9, restrictions were announced for the whole island for 14 days, with strict orders to stay indoors between April 13-26.

"The move makes Phuket the first province in Thailand to impose a total lockdown of all areas, in its sustained effort to stop the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019," says a statement from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

"With the exceptions of medical and emergency personnel and logistics workers, all 17 sub-districts are sealed off to ensure minimum mobilization of people and vehicles”, it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-teenager-belonging-to-an-isolated-amazonian-tribe-dies-of-coronavirus-291936" hreflang="en">A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus</a>

The Phuket International Airpot has also shut down, with no non-essential flights being allowed to take off or land until April 30.

The island connects to the mainland via a bridge. To further reduce the transmission, all entry and exit points have been sealed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-fight-the-gloom-doom-doctors-in-california-flaunt-dance-moves-as-patients-recover-291932" hreflang="en">WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover</a>

Additionally, all beaches, bars, and shops have been closed until further notice.

A curfew has been put in place from dusk to dawn - 10 PM to 4 Am everyday, and everybody venturing out has to compulsorily wear masks.

Asia’s favourite beach destination Phuket now resembles a ghost town. The city, which has emerged as Thailand’s COVID-19 hotspot has the highest infection rate per capita out of the 77 provinces in Thailand, CNN reported.

Asia’s favourite beach destination Phuket now resembles a ghost town. The city, which has emerged as Thailand’s COVID-19 hotspot has the highest infection rate per capita out of the 77 provinces in Thailand, CNN reported. For 100,000 people in Phuket, there are 38.95 cases. The government has stepped up testing in a bid to contain the virus from spreading. Also read: Smoking pot to kick away pandemic blues? You might wanna rethink that idea! On April 9, restrictions were announced for the whole island for 14 days, with strict orders to stay indoors between April 13-26. "The move makes Phuket the first province in Thailand to impose a total lockdown of all areas, in its sustained effort to stop the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019," says a statement from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. "With the exceptions of medical and emergency personnel and logistics workers, all 17 sub-districts are sealed off to ensure minimum mobilization of people and vehicles”, it added. Also read: A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus The Phuket International Airpot has also shut down, with no non-essential flights being allowed to take off or land until April 30. The island connects to the mainland via a bridge. To further reduce the transmission, all entry and exit points have been sealed. WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover Additionally, all beaches, bars, and shops have been closed until further notice. A curfew has been put in place from dusk to dawn - 10 PM to 4 Am everyday, and everybody venturing out has to compulsorily wear masks.

Asia's favourite beach destination shuts down to contain coronavirus transmission

In Spain and France the fatality rate is 10%, In Italy and UK it is about 12% while in Germany it is just 2%. How has Germany achieved this? Watch this video to know.

Coronavirus Pandemic: The reason behind Germany's low fatality rate

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the whole world to a standstill, with emergency health workers being put at the forefront of fighting the virus.

With the number of deaths increasing everyday, gloom has eclipsed the world.

However, a few health workers in California are finding joy in the little things!

An intensive care unit (ICU) at the Ronald Reagon UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California have found a way to deal with the despair: every time a patient is taken off ventilator support, they perform a dance routine.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In our fight against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ventilators?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ventilators</a> &amp; breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced &amp; took a moment for ourselves. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HealthcareHeroes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HealthcareHeroes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllInThisTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllInThisTogether</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARDS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARDS</a> <a href="https://t.co/7XzqpzAo8B">pic.twitter.com/7XzqpzAo8B</a>
— Desiree (@HungryDes) <a href="https://twitter.com/HungryDes/status/1247369358705176577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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They recently shared clips of them dancing on Twitter after two of their patients showed signs of recovery.

Taking to Twitter, Dr Nida Qadir said, “Yes, patients do recover from #COVID19 #ARDS. And yes, my #ICU team does do an #extubation dance every time we liberate someone from a #Ventilator."

"In our fight against #COVID19 remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off #ventilators &amp; breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced &amp; took a moment for ourselves. #HealthcareHeroes #AllInThisTogether #ARDS”, one of the doctors tweeted.

Watch the video below:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Yes, patients do recover from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARDS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARDS</a>. And yes, my <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICU</a> team does do an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/extubation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#extubation</a> dance every time we liberate someone from a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ventilator?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ventilator</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARDSAvengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARDSAvengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bestteamever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bestteamever</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/uclaimchiefs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uclaimchiefs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLAHealth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UCLAHealth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/atscommunity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atscommunity</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GiladJaffe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GiladJaffe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HungryDes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HungryDes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NoCoughEng?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NoCoughEng</a> <a href="https://t.co/axgV7pOTXU">pic.twitter.com/axgV7pOTXU</a>
— Nida Qadir, MD (@NidaQadirMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/NidaQadirMD/status/1246953772657631235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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So far the video is nearing 8 lakh views with over 30,000 likes.

A twitter user&nbsp;responded to their video and said, “Taking 2 people, both of whom probably have dozens of others praying for them, off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ventilators?src=hashtag_click">#ventilators</a> is not a small win. It's HUGE. You guys are awesome! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/keepcelebrating?src=hashtag_click">#keepcelebrating</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BIGwins?src=hashtag_click">#BIGwins</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThanksHealthHeroes?src=hashtag_click">#ThanksHealthHeroes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SomeGoodNews?src=hashtag_click">#SomeGoodNews</a>”

Another user said, “Lovely. Keep those dances coming!”

The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported.

This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the whole world to a standstill, with emergency health workers being put at the forefront of fighting the virus. With the number of deaths increasing everyday, gloom has eclipsed the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the whole world to a standstill, with emergency health workers being put at the forefront of fighting the virus. With the number of deaths increasing everyday, gloom has eclipsed the world. However, a few health workers in California are finding joy in the little things! An intensive care unit (ICU) at the Ronald Reagon UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California have found a way to deal with the despair: every time a patient is taken off ventilator support, they perform a dance routine. In our fight against #COVID19 remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off #ventilators & breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced & took a moment for ourselves. #HealthcareHeroes #AllInThisTogether #ARDS pic.twitter.com/7XzqpzAo8B — Desiree (@HungryDes) April 7, 2020 × They recently shared clips of them dancing on Twitter after two of their patients showed signs of recovery. Taking to Twitter, Dr Nida Qadir said, “Yes, patients do recover from #COVID19 #ARDS. And yes, my #ICU team does do an #extubation dance every time we liberate someone from a #Ventilator." "In our fight against #COVID19 remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off #ventilators & breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced & took a moment for ourselves. #HealthcareHeroes #AllInThisTogether #ARDS”, one of the doctors tweeted. Watch the video below: Yes, patients do recover from #COVID19 #ARDS. And yes, my #ICU team does do an #extubation dance every time we liberate someone from a #Ventilator. #ARDSAvengers #coronavirus #bestteamever @uclaimchiefs @UCLAHealth @atscommunity @GiladJaffe @HungryDes @NoCoughEng pic.twitter.com/axgV7pOTXU — Nida Qadir, MD (@NidaQadirMD) April 6, 2020 × So far the video is nearing 8 lakh views with over 30,000 likes. A twitter user responded to their video and said, “Taking 2 people, both of whom probably have dozens of others praying for them, off #ventilators is not a small win. It's HUGE. You guys are awesome! #keepcelebrating #BIGwins #ThanksHealthHeroes #SomeGoodNews” Another user said, “Lovely. Keep those dances coming!” The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported. This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover

Coronavirus has now reached uncharted territories: indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin are now threatened by the killer pandemic as the first death among tribes was reported yesterday.

A 15-year-boy from an isolated tribe called “Yanomami” passed away recently, as per Brazil’s Ministry of Health.

The boy was put in the intensive care unit of Roraima General Hospital in Boa Vista on April 3 after he was tested positive.

Even then, the hospital has not released the exact cause of his death yet.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-fight-the-gloom-doom-doctors-in-california-flaunt-dance-moves-as-patients-recover-291932">To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt moves as patients recover</a>

His test status was revealed on Wednesday during a press conference.

"Today we had a confirmed case in the Yanomami, which concerns us a lot. This is a government concern for indigenous health”, the ministry spokesperson said.

The Amazon basin has numerous rainforests and is filled with mountains stretching from northern Brazil to souther Venezuela.

One of the most isolated tribes in South America, the Yanomami have 38,000 members.

According to the Socio-Environmental Institute, the virus was transmitted to the tribe from miners who had visited indigenous territory illegally, CNN reported.

"Today, without a doubt, the main vector for the spread of COVID-19 inside the Yanomami Indigenous Territory is the more than 20,000 illegal miners that go in and out of the territory without any control," ISA’s statement redad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-apple-and-google-collaboration-to-trace-covid-19-carriers-in-the-works-291916" hreflang="en">In a first, Apple and Google collaboration to trace COVID-19 carriers in the works</a>

"The Yanomami, as many other indigenous people, are among the groups most vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19 and should be urgently protected, under the risk of genocide with the complicity of the Brazilian State”, it added.

This is the third indigenous death related to COVID-19.

Coronavirus has now reached uncharted territories: indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin are now threatened by the killer pandemic as the first death among tribes was reported yesterday.

Coronavirus has now reached uncharted territories: indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin are now threatened by the killer pandemic as the first death among tribes was reported yesterday. A 15-year-boy from an isolated tribe called “Yanomami” passed away recently, as per Brazil’s Ministry of Health. The boy was put in the intensive care unit of Roraima General Hospital in Boa Vista on April 3 after he was tested positive. Even then, the hospital has not released the exact cause of his death yet. Also read: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt moves as patients recover His test status was revealed on Wednesday during a press conference. "Today we had a confirmed case in the Yanomami, which concerns us a lot. This is a government concern for indigenous health”, the ministry spokesperson said. The Amazon basin has numerous rainforests and is filled with mountains stretching from northern Brazil to souther Venezuela. One of the most isolated tribes in South America, the Yanomami have 38,000 members. According to the Socio-Environmental Institute, the virus was transmitted to the tribe from miners who had visited indigenous territory illegally, CNN reported. "Today, without a doubt, the main vector for the spread of COVID-19 inside the Yanomami Indigenous Territory is the more than 20,000 illegal miners that go in and out of the territory without any control," ISA’s statement redad. Also read: In a first, Apple and Google collaboration to trace COVID-19 carriers in the works "The Yanomami, as many other indigenous people, are among the groups most vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19 and should be urgently protected, under the risk of genocide with the complicity of the Brazilian State”, it added. This is the third indigenous death related to COVID-19.

A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus

From futile statements to veiled attacks - The UN Security Council session on the Coronavirus crisis ended inconclusively and without a resolution. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report on the wasted opportunity.

Gravitas: UNSC fails to pin responsibility on China | Coronavirus

China has accused Taiwan of 'venomous' attacks against the W.H.O chief. But, the Taiwanese govt has unearthed a fake apology plot by China's propaganda machinery. Allegedly, Chinese twitter accounts are issuing apologies to Dr. Tedros Adhanom in Taiwan's name. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Taiwan unearths China's 'Fake apology' plot |  Coronavirus outbreak

Over 1,000 people who died of the coronavirus in care homes across the United Kingdom may not have been accounted for in the official death toll.

As per the numbers released by the Office for National Statistics, only 20 people had died in care hames across England and Wales up to March 27.

This stands in stark opposition to the data released by two agencies in the country, which claimed over 200 deaths in such care homes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-migratory-birds-killed-by-strong-winds-over-europe-291732" hreflang="en">Thousands of migratory birds killed by strong winds over Europe</a>

If new numbers by Care England are to be believed, over 1,000 people have died in care homes so far.

Reports worldwide have asserted how the pandemic is killing more people falling in the elderly age bracket than the young.

The government toll only represents the number of deaths recorded in hospitals in the ambit of the National Health Services in the country.

The figures for deaths in care homes are running 12 days behind the daily reported deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cautiously-optimistic-as-coronavirus-curve-appears-to-flatten-291657">Also read |&nbsp;US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten</a>

This is owing to dependence on registered death certificates, which can take over a week to be processed.&nbsp;The death toll could even be higher than 1,000, as there is a lag of over 17 days between home care deaths and the announcement.

The UK’s Alzheimer’s Society also feared that thousands of patients with dementia may be abandoned in care homes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-covid-19-exceeds-90000-worldwide-291655">Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide</a>

Additionally, the world is experiencing&nbsp;a shortage of PPE kits and tests which may be another cause of failure in the number of reported cases.

Care homes take care of over 400,000 people in the United Kingdom.

Just yesterday, the UK recorded over 881 fresh COVID-19 related deaths, a small reprieve from the 1000 deaths recorded a day earlier.

As of now, almost 8000 people have died in the country, with over 65,000 active cases.

Over 1,000 people who died of the coronavirus in care homes across the United Kingdom may not have been accounted for in the official death toll. As per the numbers released by the Office for National Statistics, only 20 people had died in care hames across England and Wales up to March 27.

Over 1,000 people who died of the coronavirus in care homes across the United Kingdom may not have been accounted for in the official death toll. As per the numbers released by the Office for National Statistics, only 20 people had died in care hames across England and Wales up to March 27. This stands in stark opposition to the data released by two agencies in the country, which claimed over 200 deaths in such care homes. Also read: Thousands of migratory birds killed by strong winds over Europe If new numbers by Care England are to be believed, over 1,000 people have died in care homes so far. Reports worldwide have asserted how the pandemic is killing more people falling in the elderly age bracket than the young. The government toll only represents the number of deaths recorded in hospitals in the ambit of the National Health Services in the country. The figures for deaths in care homes are running 12 days behind the daily reported deaths. Also read | US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten This is owing to dependence on registered death certificates, which can take over a week to be processed. The death toll could even be higher than 1,000, as there is a lag of over 17 days between home care deaths and the announcement. The UK’s Alzheimer’s Society also feared that thousands of patients with dementia may be abandoned in care homes. Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide Additionally, the world is experiencing a shortage of PPE kits and tests which may be another cause of failure in the number of reported cases. Care homes take care of over 400,000 people in the United Kingdom. Just yesterday, the UK recorded over 881 fresh COVID-19 related deaths, a small reprieve from the 1000 deaths recorded a day earlier. As of now, almost 8000 people have died in the country, with over 65,000 active cases.

UK is underreporting the number of deaths in care homes for the elderly

An Indian expat in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to face police action after being fired for "insulting" Islam on social media.

According to Gulf News, Rakesh B Kitturmath, who worked as a team leader at Emrill Services, headquartered in Dubai, was sacked on Thursday.

Kitturmath sparked outrage on social media after he ridiculed Muslim worshippers in response to a Facebook post on the coronavirus pandemic. A screenshot of his comment went viral on social media with hundreds demanding his dismissal and arrest.

Emril Services CEO said they were trying to find out if Kitturmath was still in the UAE.

"If he's still in the country, he will be handed over to Dubai Police," he said.

In a similar cases earlier this week, Abu Dhabi resident Mitesh Udeshi was sacked for posting a cartoon mocking Islam on his Facebook page, and a police complaint was filed against Sameer Bhandari in Dubai after he asked a Muslim job seeker from India to go back to Pakistan.

An Indian expat in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to face police action after being fired for "insulting" Islam on social media. According to Gulf News, Rakesh B Kitturmath, who worked as a team leader at Emrill Services, headquartered in Dubai, was sacked on Thursday.

An Indian expat in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to face police action after being fired for "insulting" Islam on social media. According to Gulf News, Rakesh B Kitturmath, who worked as a team leader at Emrill Services, headquartered in Dubai, was sacked on Thursday. Kitturmath sparked outrage on social media after he ridiculed Muslim worshippers in response to a Facebook post on the coronavirus pandemic. A screenshot of his comment went viral on social media with hundreds demanding his dismissal and arrest. Emril Services CEO said they were trying to find out if Kitturmath was still in the UAE. "If he's still in the country, he will be handed over to Dubai Police," he said. In a similar cases earlier this week, Abu Dhabi resident Mitesh Udeshi was sacked for posting a cartoon mocking Islam on his Facebook page, and a police complaint was filed against Sameer Bhandari in Dubai after he asked a Muslim job seeker from India to go back to Pakistan.

Indian expat in UAE set to face police action for insulting Islam

The Tablighi Jamaat Markaz episode has had India shook -- in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire country. Experts say had it not been for the unearthing of the hundreds of people in the building, India would have been in a much better state in terms of number of cases and death toll from COVID-19.

The Tablighi Jamaatis returnees have been found in almost all parts of Uttar Pradesh. These Jamaatis, majority of them confirmed as 'Corona carriers', returned to various cities and spread the virus.

It has now been found that while returning from the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month, many of the members purchased a sweet, 'petha', from Agra and distributed it to friends and co-travellers during their journey.

A few sweetmeat sellers in the city have told the police that some 'Muslims' made bulk purchases of 'petha' after the Holi festival, which is when the Jamaat meeting ended in Delhi.

The point to be noted here is it is not very normal for Muslims to distribute sweets to co-passengers on buses and trains.

Search is on for those who had travelled with the Jamaatis and accepted the sweets, as authorities fear that it could have passed on the infection. 
&nbsp;

The Tablighi Jamaat Markaz episode has had India shook -- in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire country. Experts say had it not been for the unearthing of the hundreds of people in the building, India would have been in a much better state in terms of number of cases and death toll from COVID-19.

The Tablighi Jamaat Markaz episode has had India shook -- in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire country. Experts say had it not been for the unearthing of the hundreds of people in the building, India would have been in a much better state in terms of number of cases and death toll from COVID-19. The Tablighi Jamaatis returnees have been found in almost all parts of Uttar Pradesh. These Jamaatis, majority of them confirmed as 'Corona carriers', returned to various cities and spread the virus. It has now been found that while returning from the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month, many of the members purchased a sweet, 'petha', from Agra and distributed it to friends and co-travellers during their journey. A few sweetmeat sellers in the city have told the police that some 'Muslims' made bulk purchases of 'petha' after the Holi festival, which is when the Jamaat meeting ended in Delhi. The point to be noted here is it is not very normal for Muslims to distribute sweets to co-passengers on buses and trains. Search is on for those who had travelled with the Jamaatis and accepted the sweets, as authorities fear that it could have passed on the infection.

Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report

The ozone layer is acting up, again!

Two days ago, a new hole was reported in the layer above the Arctic. According to scientists, this is owing to uncannily low temperatures in the atmosphere right above the North Pole.

The hole has broken the record of all ozone holes ever. The Guardian reported that the hole, however, poses no threat to human beings, unless it moves south to areas like Greenland, which could cause sunburn among people exposed to the sun rays.

Based on daily data, the hole may totally disappear in the upcoming few weeks.

Clubbed with anti-sustenance human activities, the presence of chemicals like choline and bromine in the atmosphere causes such holes to appear in the ozone layer.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="winnows.com/world/the-ozone-layer-is-healing-289054" hreflang="en">The ozone layer is healing!</a>

The global shutdowns triggered by coronavirus have drastically reduced air pollution, and have reduced greenhouse gas emissions. This is, in no way, related to the crisis.

However, it is also not clear whether this hole was created due to the climate crisis.

The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service was responsible for tracking the hole.

Even though a rare event, it doesn’t compare to a much larger hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica, which can caused anxiety among scientists for over four decades.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-the-covid-19-crisis-causing-a-dangerous-spike-in-the-circulation-of-counterfeit-medicines-291699" hreflang="en">Is the COVID-19 crisis causing a dangerous spike in the circulation of counterfeit medicines?</a>

The 1987 Montreal Protocol was created in the aftermath of the gigantic hole’s discovery, which has led to the reduction of ozone-depleting chemicals.

In November last year, the big hole recorded its smallest size ever!

In the absence of the ozone layer, humans would not be able to survive on the planet, as the harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun would seep in.

The ozone layer is acting up, again! Two days ago, a new hole was reported in the layer above the Arctic. According to scientists, this is owing to uncannily low temperatures in the atmosphere right above the North Pole.

The ozone layer is acting up, again! Two days ago, a new hole was reported in the layer above the Arctic. According to scientists, this is owing to uncannily low temperatures in the atmosphere right above the North Pole. The hole has broken the record of all ozone holes ever. The Guardian reported that the hole, however, poses no threat to human beings, unless it moves south to areas like Greenland, which could cause sunburn among people exposed to the sun rays. Based on daily data, the hole may totally disappear in the upcoming few weeks. Clubbed with anti-sustenance human activities, the presence of chemicals like choline and bromine in the atmosphere causes such holes to appear in the ozone layer. Also read: The ozone layer is healing! The global shutdowns triggered by coronavirus have drastically reduced air pollution, and have reduced greenhouse gas emissions. This is, in no way, related to the crisis. However, it is also not clear whether this hole was created due to the climate crisis. The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service was responsible for tracking the hole. Even though a rare event, it doesn’t compare to a much larger hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica, which can caused anxiety among scientists for over four decades. Also read: Is the COVID-19 crisis causing a dangerous spike in the circulation of counterfeit medicines? The 1987 Montreal Protocol was created in the aftermath of the gigantic hole’s discovery, which has led to the reduction of ozone-depleting chemicals. In November last year, the big hole recorded its smallest size ever! In the absence of the ozone layer, humans would not be able to survive on the planet, as the harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun would seep in.

Ozone layer inducts a record-size hole!

Yemen has reported its first coronavirus case. The UN has earlier said the country is facing the world's worst humanitarian disaster, and that if the pandemic does break out, the impact would be catastrophic.

"The first confirmed case of coronavirus has been reported in Hadramout province," the supreme national emergency committee for COVID-19 said on Twitter.

Hadramout is located in the southern part of the country, and is under the government's control.

The committee, run by the internationally recognised government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, said the infected patient was in stable condition and receiving care.

Further details will be published by Friday.

Thousands of Yemeni civilians have been killed over past five years in a war between the Huthi rebels and a Saudi-led military coalition backing the government. The coalition announced a unilateral two-week ceasefire on Wednesday especially to prevent coronavirus from reaching the country with practically a paralysed health system. 
&nbsp;

Yemen has reported its first coronavirus case. The UN has earlier said the country is facing the world's worst humanitarian disaster, and that if the pandemic does break out, the impact would be catastrophic.

Yemen has reported its first coronavirus case. The UN has earlier said the country is facing the world's worst humanitarian disaster, and that if the pandemic does break out, the impact would be catastrophic. "The first confirmed case of coronavirus has been reported in Hadramout province," the supreme national emergency committee for COVID-19 said on Twitter. Hadramout is located in the southern part of the country, and is under the government's control. The committee, run by the internationally recognised government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, said the infected patient was in stable condition and receiving care. Further details will be published by Friday. Thousands of Yemeni civilians have been killed over past five years in a war between the Huthi rebels and a Saudi-led military coalition backing the government. The coalition announced a unilateral two-week ceasefire on Wednesday especially to prevent coronavirus from reaching the country with practically a paralysed health system.

War-torn Yemen reports its first coronavirus case

Samsung, the South Korean mobile giant is donating 2,000 smartphones to the United Kingdom’s National Health Services (NHS), for usage by staff.

What makes this special is that these phones are the ones that can be used with gloves on, which makes it a great utility for healthcare workers.

The Galaxy Cover 4s phones are designed to be stronger and to be used in extreme conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-sues-indian-american-techie-over-fake-news-deceptive-ads-on-covid-19-291706">Facebook sues Indian-American techie over fake news, deceptive ads on COVID-19</a>

A statement released by Samsung claimed that NHS had ordered over 20,000 phones which shall be supplied on a not-for-profit basis.

Besides Samsung, Facebook is also donating 2,050 portal video-calling screens.

The portals are helpful to health workers because the calls are not disrupted even as people move across he room, facilitating communication during work.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-covid-19-exceeds-90000-worldwide-291655" hreflang="en">Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide</a>

Facebook is set to deliver the tech to hospitals across Essex, London, Manchester, Newcastle and Surrey.

Additionally, the NHS will be allowed to retain the kit for free even once the crisis is over.

Other companies have also stepped up efforts to help during the crisis. Microsoft has allowed the free usage of its Teams software for British medical workers.&nbsp;

Samsung, the South Korean mobile giant is donating 2,000 smartphones to the United Kingdom’s National Health Services (NHS), for usage by staff. What makes this special is that these phones are the ones that can be used with gloves on, which makes it a great utility for healthcare workers.

Samsung, the South Korean mobile giant is donating 2,000 smartphones to the United Kingdom’s National Health Services (NHS), for usage by staff. What makes this special is that these phones are the ones that can be used with gloves on, which makes it a great utility for healthcare workers. The Galaxy Cover 4s phones are designed to be stronger and to be used in extreme conditions. Also read: Facebook sues Indian-American techie over fake news, deceptive ads on COVID-19 A statement released by Samsung claimed that NHS had ordered over 20,000 phones which shall be supplied on a not-for-profit basis. Besides Samsung, Facebook is also donating 2,050 portal video-calling screens. The portals are helpful to health workers because the calls are not disrupted even as people move across he room, facilitating communication during work. Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide Facebook is set to deliver the tech to hospitals across Essex, London, Manchester, Newcastle and Surrey. Additionally, the NHS will be allowed to retain the kit for free even once the crisis is over. Other companies have also stepped up efforts to help during the crisis. Microsoft has allowed the free usage of its Teams software for British medical workers.

Tech companies step-up efforts to help with coronavirus crisis in the UK

Facebook has filed a lawsuit against an Indian-American software architec who violated the company's policies in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The techie, Basant Gajjar, provided ad-cloaking software designed to push fake news&nbsp;related to COVID-19, cryptocurrency, pharmaceuticals, diet pills and fake news pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Gajjar operated under the name 'LeadCloak'. Some of cloaked websites also included images of celebrities. His brief profile available on Internet says he is a digital marketer, SaaS expert and Founder and System Architect at LeadCloak.com.

LeadCloak's software also targeted a number of other technology companies including Google, Oath, WordPress, Shopify, and others, claimed Facebook in its lawsuit filed in federal court in California.

"Cloaking is a malicious technique that impairs ad review systems by concealing the nature of the website linked to an ad," Facebook said in a statement late Thursday.

"When ads are cloaked, a company's ad review system may see a website showing an innocuous product such as a sweater, but a user will see a different website, promoting deceptive products and services which, in many cases, are not allowed," explained Jessica Romero, Director of Platform Enforcement and Litigation at Facebook.

Facebook added it has taken technical enforcement measures against Leadcloak and similar accounts.

"This suit will also further our efforts to identify Leadcloak`s customers and take additional enforcement actions against them," Facebook added.

Facebook has filed a lawsuit against an Indian-American software architec who violated the company's policies in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. The techie, Basant Gajjar, provided ad-cloaking software designed to push fake news related to COVID-19, cryptocurrency, pharmaceuticals, diet pills and fake news pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook has filed a lawsuit against an Indian-American software architec who violated the company's policies in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. The techie, Basant Gajjar, provided ad-cloaking software designed to push fake news related to COVID-19, cryptocurrency, pharmaceuticals, diet pills and fake news pages on Facebook and Instagram. Gajjar operated under the name 'LeadCloak'. Some of cloaked websites also included images of celebrities. His brief profile available on Internet says he is a digital marketer, SaaS expert and Founder and System Architect at LeadCloak.com. LeadCloak's software also targeted a number of other technology companies including Google, Oath, WordPress, Shopify, and others, claimed Facebook in its lawsuit filed in federal court in California. "Cloaking is a malicious technique that impairs ad review systems by concealing the nature of the website linked to an ad," Facebook said in a statement late Thursday. "When ads are cloaked, a company's ad review system may see a website showing an innocuous product such as a sweater, but a user will see a different website, promoting deceptive products and services which, in many cases, are not allowed," explained Jessica Romero, Director of Platform Enforcement and Litigation at Facebook. Facebook added it has taken technical enforcement measures against Leadcloak and similar accounts. "This suit will also further our efforts to identify Leadcloak`s customers and take additional enforcement actions against them," Facebook added.

Facebook sues Indian-American techie over fake news, deceptive ads on COVID-19

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently warned against the rising sales of counterfeit medicines across the world, especially in developing countries.

An investigation undertaken by the BBC found that such drugs were being sold across Africa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-retains-face-mask-ban-even-amid-covid-19-crisis-291687" hreflang="en">Hong Kong retains face mask ban even amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

The drugs could have “serious side effects” the WHO had warned. Juxtaposing it with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, health analysts warned that consumption of such drugs could trigger a parallel pandemic, triggered by counterfeit and dangerous drugs

The coronavirus pandemic has triggered stockpiling medicines across the globe, especially in the developing countries, where medicines are already not easily available.

Demand vs production

The world’s two largest producers of medical supplies - China and India, are unable to keep up with the global demand owing to the lockdowns enforced in the countries.

Last month, when COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, Interpol arrested over 121 people across 90 countries in seven days. Owing to this, the agency was able to seize counterfeit drugs with $14 million.

Face masks and medicines which are not only fake, but also ineffective have been seized across Asia and Africa.

WHO recently claimed that the trade of illicit medicines may account for over $30 billion, especially in developing countries. This includes contaminated medicines, as well as meds containing the wrong ingredient.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32dfa04b-d5bc-4c3e-9b1d-130fefcb3f19" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-4_0.jpg" /> 
Handout photo released by the Bolivian Presidency of smuggled fake medicines seized by the police in La Paz on April 10, 2019. Bolivian authorities confirmed the existence of a net of falsification and smuggling of medicines from Peru which could also be related to Colombia and India | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The global pharmaceutical industry is worth over $1 trillion. Manufacturing mostly takes place in China and India, while packaging usually happens in Europe, South America.

BBC reported that companies in India are now running at 50-60 per cent of their normal capacity. India sends over 20 per cent of all basic medicines to Africa.

There’s an unhealthy relationship being set into motion owing to the pandemic: while the demand is increasing, the production is decreasing. And as panic stricken people stock up on medicines, the ones who need it the most may not have access at all.

Hydroxychloroquine?

The US President, Donald Trump recently endorsed hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug as a champion in the fight against COVID-19.

However, the WHO has repeatedly asserted that there is no evidence of the medicine assisting with the alleviation of coronavirus symptoms or the virus itself.

Owing to Trump’s claims, countries around the world have stepped up efforts to stock up on the medicine, with over 30 countries requesting India to ship the anti-malarial drug.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-covid-19-exceeds-90000-worldwide-291655" hreflang="en">Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide</a>

The BBC discovered that the counterfeit variation of the medicine is being widely sold across Africa, especially in Congo and Cameroon.

The medicine, which usually cost over $40 in Congo is now being sold for up to $250, and that too fake!

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/famous-tourist-spots-offering-virtual-tour-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-291499">Famous tourist spots offering virtual tour amid coronavirus pandemic</a>

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently warned against the rising sales of counterfeit medicines across the world, especially in developing countries. An investigation undertaken by the BBC found that such drugs were being sold across Africa.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently warned against the rising sales of counterfeit medicines across the world, especially in developing countries. An investigation undertaken by the BBC found that such drugs were being sold across Africa. Also read: Hong Kong retains face mask ban even amid COVID-19 crisis The drugs could have “serious side effects” the WHO had warned. Juxtaposing it with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, health analysts warned that consumption of such drugs could trigger a parallel pandemic, triggered by counterfeit and dangerous drugs The coronavirus pandemic has triggered stockpiling medicines across the globe, especially in the developing countries, where medicines are already not easily available. Demand vs production The world’s two largest producers of medical supplies - China and India, are unable to keep up with the global demand owing to the lockdowns enforced in the countries. Last month, when COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, Interpol arrested over 121 people across 90 countries in seven days. Owing to this, the agency was able to seize counterfeit drugs with $14 million. Face masks and medicines which are not only fake, but also ineffective have been seized across Asia and Africa. WHO recently claimed that the trade of illicit medicines may account for over $30 billion, especially in developing countries. This includes contaminated medicines, as well as meds containing the wrong ingredient. Handout photo released by the Bolivian Presidency of smuggled fake medicines seized by the police in La Paz on April 10, 2019. Bolivian authorities confirmed the existence of a net of falsification and smuggling of medicines from Peru which could also be related to Colombia and India | AFP The global pharmaceutical industry is worth over $1 trillion. Manufacturing mostly takes place in China and India, while packaging usually happens in Europe, South America. BBC reported that companies in India are now running at 50-60 per cent of their normal capacity. India sends over 20 per cent of all basic medicines to Africa. There’s an unhealthy relationship being set into motion owing to the pandemic: while the demand is increasing, the production is decreasing. And as panic stricken people stock up on medicines, the ones who need it the most may not have access at all. Hydroxychloroquine? The US President, Donald Trump recently endorsed hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug as a champion in the fight against COVID-19. However, the WHO has repeatedly asserted that there is no evidence of the medicine assisting with the alleviation of coronavirus symptoms or the virus itself. Owing to Trump’s claims, countries around the world have stepped up efforts to stock up on the medicine, with over 30 countries requesting India to ship the anti-malarial drug. Also read: Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide The BBC discovered that the counterfeit variation of the medicine is being widely sold across Africa, especially in Congo and Cameroon. The medicine, which usually cost over $40 in Congo is now being sold for up to $250, and that too fake! In pics: Famous tourist spots offering virtual tour amid coronavirus pandemic

Is the COVID-19 crisis causing a dangerous spike in the circulation of counterfeit medicines?

Death toll from coronavirus topped 16,400 in the United States on Thursday, although there are signs the outbreak might be nearing a peak.

Americans have been warned of alarming numbers of coronavirus deaths this week, even as the number of new infections was flattening in New York state, the epicentre of the US outbreak.

US deaths, the second highest in the world, set new daily records on Tuesday and Wednesday with over 1,900 new deaths reported each day, according to a Reuters tally.

US cases topped 4,59,000 on Thursday, up 27,000 from the prior day.

Only Italy has more deaths with 18,279 fatalities reported, although it has a much smaller population that the United States.

To this end, the Italian government is planning to extend its lockdown to contain the country's COVID-19 outbreak until May 3.

Italy imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 9 to slow the spread of the virus and Spain followed on March 14.&nbsp;

More than 94 per cent of Americans are under home confinement but the United States has resisted a national stay-at-home order. 
&nbsp;

Death toll from coronavirus topped 16,400 in the United States on Thursday, although there are signs the outbreak might be nearing a peak. Americans have been warned of alarming numbers of coronavirus deaths this week, even as the number of new infections was flattening in New York state, the epicentre of the US outbreak.

Death toll from coronavirus topped 16,400 in the United States on Thursday, although there are signs the outbreak might be nearing a peak. Americans have been warned of alarming numbers of coronavirus deaths this week, even as the number of new infections was flattening in New York state, the epicentre of the US outbreak. US deaths, the second highest in the world, set new daily records on Tuesday and Wednesday with over 1,900 new deaths reported each day, according to a Reuters tally. US cases topped 4,59,000 on Thursday, up 27,000 from the prior day. Only Italy has more deaths with 18,279 fatalities reported, although it has a much smaller population that the United States. To this end, the Italian government is planning to extend its lockdown to contain the country's COVID-19 outbreak until May 3. Italy imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 9 to slow the spread of the virus and Spain followed on March 14. More than 94 per cent of Americans are under home confinement but the United States has resisted a national stay-at-home order.

US coronavirus deaths top 16,000; cases near 5,00,000

Amazon is moving to create it own lab to test employees for coronavirus as the e-commerce giant struggles with safety issues amid the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-drones-in-italy-measure-temperature-and-issue-fines-too-291846" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Drones in Italy measure temperature and issue fines too</a>

The online retail leader, which began the year with some 750,000 employees and is growing, said it had begun "building incremental testing capacity" for the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/simulation-shows-how-single-droplet-of-coronavirus-cough-can-spread-in-supermarket-291835" hreflang="en">Simulation shows how single droplet of coronavirus cough can spread in supermarket</a>

"A team of Amazonians with a variety of skills -- from research scientists and program managers to procurement specialists and software engineers -- have moved from their normal day jobs onto a dedicated team to work on this initiative," the company said in a blog post late Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-higher-temperatures-have-an-effect-on-coronavirus-heres-what-a-new-research-says-291823" hreflang="en">Will higher temperatures have an effect on coronavirus? Here's what a new research says</a>

"We have begun assembling the equipment we need to build our first lab and hope to start testing small numbers of our front line employees soon."

Amazon said it was making the move because of a shortage of tests that can confirm infections and concerns that even people without symptoms may be spreading the disease.

"We are not sure how far we will get in the relevant timeframe, but we think it's worth trying, and we stand ready to share anything we learn with others," the company said.

"If every person, including people with no symptoms, could be tested regularly, it would make a huge difference in how we are all fighting this virus. Those who test positive could be quarantined and cared for, and everyone who tests negative could re-enter the economy with confidence."

Amazon is believed to have had COVID-19 cases in a number of its warehouses, and has seen employee protests and walkouts in several of them to press for safety improvements.

Last week, Amazon began temperature checks and distribution of masks for employees, part of a ramped up safety effort.

Amazon is moving to create it own lab to test employees for coronavirus as the e-commerce giant struggles with safety issues amid the pandemic. Also read: Coronavirus: Drones in Italy measure temperature and issue fines too The online retail leader, which began the year with some 750,000 employees and is growing, said it had begun "building incremental testing capacity" for the virus.

Amazon is moving to create it own lab to test employees for coronavirus as the e-commerce giant struggles with safety issues amid the pandemic. Also read: Coronavirus: Drones in Italy measure temperature and issue fines too The online retail leader, which began the year with some 750,000 employees and is growing, said it had begun "building incremental testing capacity" for the virus. Also read: Simulation shows how single droplet of coronavirus cough can spread in supermarket "A team of Amazonians with a variety of skills -- from research scientists and program managers to procurement specialists and software engineers -- have moved from their normal day jobs onto a dedicated team to work on this initiative," the company said in a blog post late Thursday. Also read: Will higher temperatures have an effect on coronavirus? Here's what a new research says "We have begun assembling the equipment we need to build our first lab and hope to start testing small numbers of our front line employees soon." Amazon said it was making the move because of a shortage of tests that can confirm infections and concerns that even people without symptoms may be spreading the disease. "We are not sure how far we will get in the relevant timeframe, but we think it's worth trying, and we stand ready to share anything we learn with others," the company said. "If every person, including people with no symptoms, could be tested regularly, it would make a huge difference in how we are all fighting this virus. Those who test positive could be quarantined and cared for, and everyone who tests negative could re-enter the economy with confidence." Amazon is believed to have had COVID-19 cases in a number of its warehouses, and has seen employee protests and walkouts in several of them to press for safety improvements. Last week, Amazon began temperature checks and distribution of masks for employees, part of a ramped up safety effort.

Amazon moves to create own lab for employee COVID-19 tests

The number of coronavirus cases in Pakistan rose to 4,474 on Friday with the death toll at 65.

According to official data, 572 people across the country have recovered from the disease.

To this end, the Pakistan government has extended the suspension of domestic and international flight operations in the country until April 21 in a bid to contain the coronavirus spread.

A notification issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said, "As per decision of the government of Pakistan, the suspension of International and Domestic Flight Operations as effected earlier has been extended up to Tuesday April 21, 11.59 p.m."

The CAA had earlier said that diplomatic, special/cargo flights and flights of national carrier to/from Pakistan holding special approval from the competent authority for transporting stranded passengers would be exempted from the ban.

Punjab has the highest number of coronavirus cases in Pakistan with the provincial tally at 2,224, Dawn reported citing official data.

Sindh, the second-worst affected province after Punjab, has so far recorded 1,128 cases.

Global cases of coronavirus topped 1.5 million, while worldwide death toll has crossed 95,000. 
&nbsp;

The number of coronavirus cases in Pakistan rose to 4,474 on Friday with the death toll at 65. According to official data, 572 people across the country have recovered from the disease.

The number of coronavirus cases in Pakistan rose to 4,474 on Friday with the death toll at 65. According to official data, 572 people across the country have recovered from the disease. To this end, the Pakistan government has extended the suspension of domestic and international flight operations in the country until April 21 in a bid to contain the coronavirus spread. A notification issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said, "As per decision of the government of Pakistan, the suspension of International and Domestic Flight Operations as effected earlier has been extended up to Tuesday April 21, 11.59 p.m." The CAA had earlier said that diplomatic, special/cargo flights and flights of national carrier to/from Pakistan holding special approval from the competent authority for transporting stranded passengers would be exempted from the ban. Punjab has the highest number of coronavirus cases in Pakistan with the provincial tally at 2,224, Dawn reported citing official data. Sindh, the second-worst affected province after Punjab, has so far recorded 1,128 cases. Global cases of coronavirus topped 1.5 million, while worldwide death toll has crossed 95,000.

Coronavirus cases in Pakistan near 5,000; flight ban extended

As COVID-19 has penetrated the global society, protests that were peaking last year have come to a halt.

One of the major protests that happened included Hong Kong, where face masks became a symbol of defying the authority.

However, as protests became violent and the crackdown too, the Hong Kong government invoked a British-era law to ban face masks in the city. This did not stop the protestors from donning masks and protesting further.

As China recovers from the coronavirus outbreak, experts have been advocating for compulsory mask use.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-city-of-daegu-once-the-epicentre-outside-of-china-reports-zero-new-coronavirus-cases-291680" hreflang="en">South Korean city of Daegu, once the epicentre outside of China, reports zero new coronavirus cases</a>

But the appeal court which invoked the law has decided to keep it in place, even during a grave health crisis.

The ban, which was introduced in October has remained in place until now, with fears of protests embedded into the government’s mind.

The court recently claimed that colonial-era could be used in the times of emergency, and to ensure public safety. It added that the ban on masks was constitutional if the gathering was unlawful. Additionally, it added that banning masks at lawful gatherings and police forcing to remove it was unconstitutional.

Carrie Lam, the Chief Executive invoked the emergency law by citing the protests as a state of “public danger”.

“The violence and damage are mostly caused by protesters wearing masks and dressed in black outfits,” the court jugdement said.

“At the same time, it is a common phenomenon that many other protesters participating in public assemblies and processions who are not involved in violence are also wearing masks and dressed in black outfits”, it added.

The judgement further deemed Lam’s action as “nothing objectionable” while adding that she was “evidently the only suitable person to make the call”.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08586205-ffbb-4261-8af7-aa472add4915" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2.jpg" /> 
A pro-democracy activist (C) from HK Alliance holds a placard of missing citizen journalist Fang Bin, as she protests outside the Chinese liaison office in Hong Kong on February 19, 2020, in protest against Beijing’s detention of prominent anti-corruption activist Xu Zhiyong. Police in China have arrested Xu Zhiyong, a prominent anti-corruption activist who had been criticising President Xi Jinping’s handling of the COVID-19 coronavirus | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

“That said, it does not follow that the CE could act freely without any rein as she wishes,” it added.

“Total ban of facial coverings from all public demonstrations, processions and gatherings cannot pass the test of reasonable necessity even in the context of the public danger in which the [anti-mask law] is meant to address,” the judgment said.

However, the court added the powers granted to the police to physically remove masks was unconstitutional, considering they already have the power to seek the identification of suspects.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reclassifies-dogs-as-pets-not-livestock-in-post-virus-regulatory-push-291660" hreflang="en">China reclassifies dogs as pets, not livestock, in post-virus regulatory push</a>

The protests that took the city by storm were pro-democracy in nature. However, in November, the high court found the use of such colonial-era legislation was unconstitutional, which stirred anger within Beijing.

As part of China’s “one country, two systems” framework, Hong Kong shall enjoy semi-autonomy from China until 2047.

So far, over 600 people in the city have been arrested due to the law, with sixty-one being charged. The maximum penalty was one year in prison or a fine of HK$25,000.

In view of the ongoing health crisis, many believe that the law should be relaxed.

As COVID-19 has penetrated the global society, protests that were peaking last year have come to a halt. One of the major protests that happened included Hong Kong, where face masks became a symbol of defying the authority.

As COVID-19 has penetrated the global society, protests that were peaking last year have come to a halt. One of the major protests that happened included Hong Kong, where face masks became a symbol of defying the authority. However, as protests became violent and the crackdown too, the Hong Kong government invoked a British-era law to ban face masks in the city. This did not stop the protestors from donning masks and protesting further. As China recovers from the coronavirus outbreak, experts have been advocating for compulsory mask use. Also read: South Korean city of Daegu, once the epicentre outside of China, reports zero new coronavirus cases But the appeal court which invoked the law has decided to keep it in place, even during a grave health crisis. The ban, which was introduced in October has remained in place until now, with fears of protests embedded into the government’s mind. The court recently claimed that colonial-era could be used in the times of emergency, and to ensure public safety. It added that the ban on masks was constitutional if the gathering was unlawful. Additionally, it added that banning masks at lawful gatherings and police forcing to remove it was unconstitutional. Carrie Lam, the Chief Executive invoked the emergency law by citing the protests as a state of “public danger”. “The violence and damage are mostly caused by protesters wearing masks and dressed in black outfits,” the court jugdement said. “At the same time, it is a common phenomenon that many other protesters participating in public assemblies and processions who are not involved in violence are also wearing masks and dressed in black outfits”, it added. The judgement further deemed Lam’s action as “nothing objectionable” while adding that she was “evidently the only suitable person to make the call”. A pro-democracy activist (C) from HK Alliance holds a placard of missing citizen journalist Fang Bin, as she protests outside the Chinese liaison office in Hong Kong on February 19, 2020, in protest against Beijing’s detention of prominent anti-corruption activist Xu Zhiyong. Police in China have arrested Xu Zhiyong, a prominent anti-corruption activist who had been criticising President Xi Jinping’s handling of the COVID-19 coronavirus | AFP “That said, it does not follow that the CE could act freely without any rein as she wishes,” it added. “Total ban of facial coverings from all public demonstrations, processions and gatherings cannot pass the test of reasonable necessity even in the context of the public danger in which the [anti-mask law] is meant to address,” the judgment said. However, the court added the powers granted to the police to physically remove masks was unconstitutional, considering they already have the power to seek the identification of suspects. Also read: China reclassifies dogs as pets, not livestock, in post-virus regulatory push The protests that took the city by storm were pro-democracy in nature. However, in November, the high court found the use of such colonial-era legislation was unconstitutional, which stirred anger within Beijing. As part of China’s “one country, two systems” framework, Hong Kong shall enjoy semi-autonomy from China until 2047. So far, over 600 people in the city have been arrested due to the law, with sixty-one being charged. The maximum penalty was one year in prison or a fine of HK$25,000. In view of the ongoing health crisis, many believe that the law should be relaxed.

Hong Kong retains face mask ban even amid COVID-19 crisis

Coronavirus was first reported in late December 2019 in Wuhan in China. The deadly virus since then has infected more than 1.5 million people and led to over 90,000 deaths around the world.

Outside of China, it was the South Korean city of Daegu, which endured the first large coronavirus outbreak. On Friday, it reported zero new cases for the first time since late February, as new infections across the country dropped to record lows.

Daegu accounts for more than half of all South Korea's 10,450 infections -- at least 6,807. The spread of infections at a church in Daegu drove a massive spike in cases in South Korea beginning in late February.

South Korea on Friday reported 27 new cases as of the night before, a new low since daily cases peaked at more than 900 in late February, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). The death toll stands at 208.

South Korea had used widespread testing and social distancing measures to bring the numbers down, as the outbreak had initially pushed the tally of confirmed cases much higher than anywhere else outside of China.

Meanwhile, early voting in South Korea's parliamentary election kicked off on Friday, with coronavirus patients casting ballots at designated stations and candidates adopting new ways of campaigning to limit the risk of contagion.

Coronavirus was first reported in late December 2019 in Wuhan in China. The deadly virus since then has infected more than 1.5 million people and led to over 90,000 deaths around the world.

Coronavirus was first reported in late December 2019 in Wuhan in China. The deadly virus since then has infected more than 1.5 million people and led to over 90,000 deaths around the world. Outside of China, it was the South Korean city of Daegu, which endured the first large coronavirus outbreak. On Friday, it reported zero new cases for the first time since late February, as new infections across the country dropped to record lows. Daegu accounts for more than half of all South Korea's 10,450 infections -- at least 6,807. The spread of infections at a church in Daegu drove a massive spike in cases in South Korea beginning in late February. South Korea on Friday reported 27 new cases as of the night before, a new low since daily cases peaked at more than 900 in late February, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). The death toll stands at 208. South Korea had used widespread testing and social distancing measures to bring the numbers down, as the outbreak had initially pushed the tally of confirmed cases much higher than anywhere else outside of China. Meanwhile, early voting in South Korea's parliamentary election kicked off on Friday, with coronavirus patients casting ballots at designated stations and candidates adopting new ways of campaigning to limit the risk of contagion.

South Korean city of Daegu, once the epicentre outside of China, reports zero new coronavirus cases

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-covid-19-exceeds-90000-worldwide-291655" hreflang="en">Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-who-tested-positive-for-coronavirus-leaves-intensive-care-291662" hreflang="en">Boris Johnson, who tested positive for Coronavirus, leaves intensive care</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-covid-meet-ends-with-no-concrete-outcomes-291658" hreflang="en">UNSC COVID meet ends with no concrete outcomes</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cautiously-optimistic-as-coronavirus-curve-appears-to-flatten-291657" hreflang="en">US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-strikes-rescue-deal-as-hopes-rise-of-coronavirus-easing-291656" hreflang="en">European Union strikes rescue deal as hopes rise of coronavirus easing</a></h2>

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Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide Boris Johnson, who tested positive for Coronavirus, leaves intensive care UNSC COVID meet ends with no concret

Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide Boris Johnson, who tested positive for Coronavirus, leaves intensive care UNSC COVID meet ends with no concrete outcomes US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten European Union strikes rescue deal as hopes rise of coronavirus easing

Morning news brief: Coronavirus kills 90,000, Johnson leaves ICU, and more!

The death toll from COVID-19 has exceeded 90,000 worldwide.

According to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, the fresh figure reached 90,057 as of 1625 GMT.

US deaths due to coronavirus topped 16,400 on Thursday, according to a Reuters tally. The cases topped 459,000, up 27,000 from the prior day.

More than 94 per cent of Americans are under orders of confinement to home, but the United States has so far resisted a national stay-at-home order.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cautiously-optimistic-as-coronavirus-curve-appears-to-flatten-291657">Also read |&nbsp;US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten</a>

Italy saw the most deaths, standing at 17,669 among 139,422 confirmed cases, followed by Spain, with 15,238 deaths among 152,446 cases.

The Italian government is planning to extend its lockdown to contain the country's COVID-19 outbreak until May 3.&nbsp;Spain's prime minister warned on Thursday that nationwide confinement would likely last until May.

Italy imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 9 to slow the spread of the virus and Spain followed on March 14.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-covid-meet-ends-with-no-concrete-outcomes-291658">Also read |&nbsp;UNSC COVID meet ends with no concrete outcomes</a>

(with inputs from agencies)

The death toll from COVID-19 has exceeded 90,000 worldwide. According to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, the fresh figure reached 90,057 as of 1625 GMT. US deaths due to coronavirus topped 16,400 on Thursday, according to a Reuters tally.

The death toll from COVID-19 has exceeded 90,000 worldwide. According to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, the fresh figure reached 90,057 as of 1625 GMT. US deaths due to coronavirus topped 16,400 on Thursday, according to a Reuters tally. The cases topped 459,000, up 27,000 from the prior day. More than 94 per cent of Americans are under orders of confinement to home, but the United States has so far resisted a national stay-at-home order. Also read | US cautiously optimistic as coronavirus curve appears to flatten Italy saw the most deaths, standing at 17,669 among 139,422 confirmed cases, followed by Spain, with 15,238 deaths among 152,446 cases. The Italian government is planning to extend its lockdown to contain the country's COVID-19 outbreak until May 3. Spain's prime minister warned on Thursday that nationwide confinement would likely last until May. Italy imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 9 to slow the spread of the virus and Spain followed on March 14. Also read | UNSC COVID meet ends with no concrete outcomes (with inputs from agencies)

Death toll from COVID-19 exceeds 90,000 worldwide

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday thanked his Indian counterpart for rushing a five-tonne cargo of medicines, including anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine, being seen worldwide as the best possible cure as of now for treating COVID-19 patients.

Netanyahu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India two days after a plane carrying raw material to manufacture medicines for treating coronavirus patients arrived in Israel from India on Tuesday.

"Thank you, my dear friend @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India, for sending Chloroquine to Israel. All the citizens of Israel thank you!" Netanyahu said in a tweet Thursday evening.

The five tonne shipment included ingredients for drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine.

The dreaded coronavirus has infected nearly 10,000 people in Israel and claimed 86 lives.&nbsp;

The Indian consignment reached Israel within days after Netanyahu spoke to PM Modi on April 3.

Netanyahu had been in touch with Modi ever since the coronavirus crisis erupted. He had made a special request on March 13 asking the Indian prime minister to approve and allow export of masks and pharmaceuticals to Israel.

The Israeli leader spoke to Modi a second time on April 3 to discuss various steps to deal with the coronavirus crisis.

Netanyahu's gratitude towards India followed soon after US President Donald Trump and Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro thanked PM Modi for lifting restrictions on the export.

On March 25, India banned export of hydroxychloroquine in the midst of views in some quarters that the drug could be used to fight COVID-19. India is the largest exporter of the drug. The ban was partially lifted on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brazil-president-thanks-pm-modi-for-allowing-export-of-raw-material-to-produce-hcq-291523">Also read | Brazil president thanks PM Modi for allowing export of raw material to produce HCQ</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/humanity-in-times-of-covid-19-trump-thanks-india-pm-modi-for-decision-on-hcq-291430">Also read | Humanity in times of COVID-19: Trump thanks India, PM Modi for decision on HCQ</a>

 
&nbsp;

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday thanked his Indian counterpart for rushing a five-tonne cargo of medicines, including anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine, being seen worldwide as the best possible cure as of now for treating COVID-19 patients.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday thanked his Indian counterpart for rushing a five-tonne cargo of medicines, including anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine, being seen worldwide as the best possible cure as of now for treating COVID-19 patients. Netanyahu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India two days after a plane carrying raw material to manufacture medicines for treating coronavirus patients arrived in Israel from India on Tuesday. "Thank you, my dear friend @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India, for sending Chloroquine to Israel. All the citizens of Israel thank you!" Netanyahu said in a tweet Thursday evening. The five tonne shipment included ingredients for drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine. The dreaded coronavirus has infected nearly 10,000 people in Israel and claimed 86 lives. The Indian consignment reached Israel within days after Netanyahu spoke to PM Modi on April 3. Netanyahu had been in touch with Modi ever since the coronavirus crisis erupted. He had made a special request on March 13 asking the Indian prime minister to approve and allow export of masks and pharmaceuticals to Israel. The Israeli leader spoke to Modi a second time on April 3 to discuss various steps to deal with the coronavirus crisis. Netanyahu's gratitude towards India followed soon after US President Donald Trump and Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro thanked PM Modi for lifting restrictions on the export. On March 25, India banned export of hydroxychloroquine in the midst of views in some quarters that the drug could be used to fight COVID-19. India is the largest exporter of the drug. The ban was partially lifted on Tuesday. Also read | Brazil president thanks PM Modi for allowing export of raw material to produce HCQ Also read | Humanity in times of COVID-19: Trump thanks India, PM Modi for decision on HCQ

Netanyahu thanks India, PM Modi for delivering HCQ to Israel

The United States on Thursday accused the World Health Organisation of putting politics first by ignoring early coronavirus warnings by Taiwan, which voiced outrage over criticism from the UN body's chief.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hardest-hit-by-novel-coronavirus-291635" hreflang="en">US hardest hit by novel coronavirus</a>

President Donald Trump has gone on an offensive with threats to withhold funding for the WHO, which is at the forefront of fighting the pandemic that has infected more than 1.5 million people worldwide since emerging in Wuhan, China late last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wobbles-as-new-york-becomes-coronavirus-epicentre-291628" hreflang="en">Trump wobbles as New York becomes coronavirus epicentre</a>

Critics say that Trump's sudden threats against the WHO amount to a political ploy to find a foreign scapegoat as he comes under fire for not doing more to prepare for and control COVID-19, which has killed about 15,000 people in the United States.

Trump himself said in January that the United States had the coronavirus "totally under control" and predicted it may go away in April as temperatures rise.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-new-york-reports-new-one-day-record-death-toll-as-governor-cuomo-says-hospitalizations-have-fallen-291631" hreflang="en">COVID-19: New York reports new one-day record death toll as governor Cuomo says hospitalizations have fallen</a>

Elaborating on Trump's case against the WHO, the State Department said the WHO was too late in sounding the alarm over COVID-19 and overly deferential to China. It questioned why the Geneva-based body did not pursue a lead from Taiwan.

The United States is "deeply disturbed that Taiwan's information was withheld from the global health community, as reflected in the WHO's January 14, 2020 statement that there was no indication of human-to-human transmission," a State Department spokesperson said.

The WHO's actions have "cost time and lives," the spokesperson said.

Taiwan, which has succeeded in limiting the virus to just five deaths despite the island's proximity and ties with China, warned the WHO on December 31 of human-to-human transmission, Vice President Chen Chien-Jen has said.

Chen, an epidemiologist, told the Financial Times that Taiwanese doctors had learned that colleagues in Wuhan were falling ill but that the WHO did not work to confirm the finding.

China considers Taiwan -- a self-ruling democracy where the mainland's defeated nationalists fled in 1949 -- to be a province awaiting reunification and has sought to exclude it from all international organizations.

"The WHO once again chose politics over public health," she said, criticizing the WHO for denying Taiwan even observer status since 2016.

The United States on Thursday accused the World Health Organisation of putting politics first by ignoring early coronavirus warnings by Taiwan, which voiced outrage over criticism from the UN body's chief.

The United States on Thursday accused the World Health Organisation of putting politics first by ignoring early coronavirus warnings by Taiwan, which voiced outrage over criticism from the UN body's chief. Also read: US hardest hit by novel coronavirus President Donald Trump has gone on an offensive with threats to withhold funding for the WHO, which is at the forefront of fighting the pandemic that has infected more than 1.5 million people worldwide since emerging in Wuhan, China late last year. Also read: Trump wobbles as New York becomes coronavirus epicentre Critics say that Trump's sudden threats against the WHO amount to a political ploy to find a foreign scapegoat as he comes under fire for not doing more to prepare for and control COVID-19, which has killed about 15,000 people in the United States. Trump himself said in January that the United States had the coronavirus "totally under control" and predicted it may go away in April as temperatures rise. Also read: COVID-19: New York reports new one-day record death toll as governor Cuomo says hospitalizations have fallen Elaborating on Trump's case against the WHO, the State Department said the WHO was too late in sounding the alarm over COVID-19 and overly deferential to China. It questioned why the Geneva-based body did not pursue a lead from Taiwan. The United States is "deeply disturbed that Taiwan's information was withheld from the global health community, as reflected in the WHO's January 14, 2020 statement that there was no indication of human-to-human transmission," a State Department spokesperson said. The WHO's actions have "cost time and lives," the spokesperson said. Taiwan, which has succeeded in limiting the virus to just five deaths despite the island's proximity and ties with China, warned the WHO on December 31 of human-to-human transmission, Vice President Chen Chien-Jen has said. Chen, an epidemiologist, told the Financial Times that Taiwanese doctors had learned that colleagues in Wuhan were falling ill but that the WHO did not work to confirm the finding. China considers Taiwan -- a self-ruling democracy where the mainland's defeated nationalists fled in 1949 -- to be a province awaiting reunification and has sought to exclude it from all international organizations. "The WHO once again chose politics over public health," she said, criticizing the WHO for denying Taiwan even observer status since 2016.

US criticises WHO for ignoring Taiwan's warnings about COVID-19

The coronavirus-stricken Antarctica cruise ship which was to dock in Montevideo and the 112 Australian and New Zealander passengers subsequently be flown home is being evacuated under strict sanitary measures.

More than half of the 217 people aboard the Australian liner Greg Mortimer had tested positive for coronavirus. It has been anchored off the coast of Uruguay's capital Montevideo for almost two weeks.

The operation will begin on Friday evening with the flight taking off in the early hours of Saturday. The tourists will be taken on buses with a police escort to Montevideo's international airport where they will board a medically equipped Airbus A350 that will fly them to Melbourne, Australia.

Press will be allowed to cover the operation, but at a distance of 300 meters.

Both those that have tested positive and others to have tested negative will have to stay in quarantine for two weeks upon arrival in Melbourne.

Even after the evacuation, more than 80 crew members and around 20 Europeans and Americans will remain on board the Greg Mortimer.

According to the ship's owners Aurore Expeditions, 128 people aboard the liner have tested positive, among them crew and passengers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-stricken-antarctica-cruise-ship-to-dock-in-montevideo-291433">Also read | Coronavirus-stricken Antarctica cruise ship to dock in Montevideo</a>

The coronavirus-stricken Antarctica cruise ship which was to dock in Montevideo and the 112 Australian and New Zealander passengers subsequently be flown home is being evacuated under strict sanitary measures.

The coronavirus-stricken Antarctica cruise ship which was to dock in Montevideo and the 112 Australian and New Zealander passengers subsequently be flown home is being evacuated under strict sanitary measures. More than half of the 217 people aboard the Australian liner Greg Mortimer had tested positive for coronavirus. It has been anchored off the coast of Uruguay's capital Montevideo for almost two weeks. The operation will begin on Friday evening with the flight taking off in the early hours of Saturday. The tourists will be taken on buses with a police escort to Montevideo's international airport where they will board a medically equipped Airbus A350 that will fly them to Melbourne, Australia. Press will be allowed to cover the operation, but at a distance of 300 meters. Both those that have tested positive and others to have tested negative will have to stay in quarantine for two weeks upon arrival in Melbourne. Even after the evacuation, more than 80 crew members and around 20 Europeans and Americans will remain on board the Greg Mortimer. According to the ship's owners Aurore Expeditions, 128 people aboard the liner have tested positive, among them crew and passengers. Also read | Coronavirus-stricken Antarctica cruise ship to dock in Montevideo

Coronavirus-stricken Antarctica cruise ship evacuation to begin on Friday

Richard Mueller’s Easter bunnies are ready for the coronavirus crisis by wearing candy face masks with a toilet roll under their arm.

Chocolate maker creates Easter bunny dressed for quarantine times

India has been under a nationwide lockdown since March 25 in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire world. As part of the restrictions, people have been asked to stay indoors;&nbsp;commercial rail and air&nbsp;travel, metros and interstate movement have been stopped.

With life almost coming to a standstill,&nbsp;a little humour is what it takes to instil hope of a better future. And talking of humour, the one served with a little spice in the corridors of the social media is a major respite.

So how are&nbsp;the likes of IndiGo and Vistara, which otherwise keep busy all the year round, passing their time?

We have some answers.

On Friday morning, IndiGo kicked off a conversation with Vistara, which in turn invited GoAir to join in their banter session.

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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> , not <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/flyinghigher?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#flyinghigher</a> these days we heard? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsIndiGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsIndiGo</a>
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/1248483452577443844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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No 😌 <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a>, these days being on-ground is a wonderful thing. Flying would not be the ‘smart’ choice, what say <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a>? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— Vistara (@airvistara) <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara/status/1248486087116206093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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What followed was the best thing on the internet today -- some much-needed quarantine humour.&nbsp;

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Totally, <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a>! Staying home is the safe feeling! We can hardly wait till everyone takes to the skies, coz at the moment it's not like <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NowEveryoneCanFly?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NowEveryoneCanFly</a> right, <a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirAsiaIndian</a>? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— GoAir (@goairlinesindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia/status/1248489809305169921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Air Asia chimed in.

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Absolutely <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a>, for now though, staying at home is the Red. Hot. Spicy thing to do! Isn't that right <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyspicejet</a>?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— AirAsia India (@AirAsiaIndian) <a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian/status/1248495355383050245?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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And so did SpiceJet.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirAsiaIndian</a>, good to know our thoughts match, like our colours! Been a while since this bird flew out of her cage. But we’re happy creating a safer tomorrow, today! Right <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiAirport</a>?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet/status/1248498671525609472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi airport was also there -- like a true guardian, advising the airlines to keep patience. And pray. And "stay grounded'.

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Agree with you <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirAsiaIndian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyspicejet</a>, the Indian skies will be coloured with you soon but for now thanks for giving us a reason to smile! Together in the skies, and together on ground too! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorkFromHub?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorkFromHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1248501428374495233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Penguin India came with a wonderful advice -- read books.

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Worry not, you guys, for 'reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are - Mason Cooley'<a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiAirport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyspicejet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a>
— Penguin India (@PenguinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PenguinIndia/status/1248537110371422210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations?"

We don't say it... Delhi airport does...

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Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations?
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1248565362964062208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The entire thread won much love from&nbsp;the Twitterverse.

“That’s a beautiful conversation indeed,” said a Twitter user.

Another said, "The sky is missing you birds. Hope to see you all flying soon."

Initially scheduled to end on April 14, the shutdown is now expected to stay put for a few more weeks.

&nbsp;

India has been under a nationwide lockdown since March 25 in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire world. As part of the restrictions, people have been asked to stay indoors; commercial rail and air travel, metros and interstate movement have been stopped.

India has been under a nationwide lockdown since March 25 in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire world. As part of the restrictions, people have been asked to stay indoors; commercial rail and air travel, metros and interstate movement have been stopped. With life almost coming to a standstill, a little humour is what it takes to instil hope of a better future. And talking of humour, the one served with a little spice in the corridors of the social media is a major respite. So how are the likes of IndiGo and Vistara, which otherwise keep busy all the year round, passing their time? We have some answers. On Friday morning, IndiGo kicked off a conversation with Vistara, which in turn invited GoAir to join in their banter session. Hey @airvistara , not #flyinghigher these days we heard? #StayingParkedStayingSafe #LetsIndiGo — IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) April 10, 2020 × No 😌 @IndiGo6E, these days being on-ground is a wonderful thing. Flying would not be the ‘smart’ choice, what say @goairlinesindia? #StayingParkedStayingSafe — Vistara (@airvistara) April 10, 2020 × What followed was the best thing on the internet today -- some much-needed quarantine humour. Totally, @airvistara! Staying home is the safe feeling! We can hardly wait till everyone takes to the skies, coz at the moment it's not like #NowEveryoneCanFly right, @AirAsiaIndian? #StayingParkedStayingSafe — GoAir (@goairlinesindia) April 10, 2020 × Air Asia chimed in. Absolutely @goairlinesindia, for now though, staying at home is the Red. Hot. Spicy thing to do! Isn't that right @flyspicejet?! #StayingParkedStayingSafe — AirAsia India (@AirAsiaIndian) April 10, 2020 × And so did SpiceJet. @AirAsiaIndian, good to know our thoughts match, like our colours! Been a while since this bird flew out of her cage. But we’re happy creating a safer tomorrow, today! Right @DelhiAirport?#StayingParkedStayingSafe — SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) April 10, 2020 × Delhi airport was also there -- like a true guardian, advising the airlines to keep patience. And pray. And "stay grounded'. Agree with you @IndiGo6E @airvistara @goairlinesindia @AirAsiaIndian @flyspicejet, the Indian skies will be coloured with you soon but for now thanks for giving us a reason to smile! Together in the skies, and together on ground too! #WorkFromHub #StayingParkedStayingSafe — Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) April 10, 2020 × Penguin India came with a wonderful advice -- read books. Worry not, you guys, for 'reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are - Mason Cooley'@DelhiAirport @airvistara @flyspicejet @IndiGo6E @goairlinesindia — Penguin India (@PenguinIndia) April 10, 2020 × "Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations?" We don't say it... Delhi airport does... Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations? — Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) April 10, 2020 × The entire thread won much love from the Twitterverse. “That’s a beautiful conversation indeed,” said a Twitter user. Another said, "The sky is missing you birds. Hope to see you all flying soon." Initially scheduled to end on April 14, the shutdown is now expected to stay put for a few more weeks.

IndiGo, Vistara's Twitter banter is a dose of much-needed quarantine humour

A man, who tested positive for COVID-19, was booked for hiding his travel history after allegedly attending the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month. In consequence, his village, Deenpur, in Najafgarh has been declared a containment zone.

Since the issue of religious congregation at Nizamuddin came to light, district police has been tracing people who attended the event. It was then found that five people from the area had attended the gathering following which several people, including the man, were asked to home quarantine.

The police had also asked the man if he was part of the event, but he denied it.

During physical verification of the people quarantined at their homes in the area, the man was not found by health authorities at his residence. On subsequent questioning, he again hid facts about his past travel and movements.

Even during repeated medical and police enquiry, he withheld this fact and did not disclose it to the authorities. He later fell ill and when he was tested he was found positive for coronavirus. His wife and child also tested positive for the infection.

After analysing his call records and upon physical enquiry, it was found that he had visited Jamaat at Nizamuddin.

As a result, a containment zone was declared in Deenpur village and legal action was initiated against him, and a case under section 188 (for disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) Of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of Epidemic Diseases Act, has been registered against him at Chhawla police station.

(with inputs from agencies)

A man, who tested positive for COVID-19, was booked for hiding his travel history after allegedly attending the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month.

A man, who tested positive for COVID-19, was booked for hiding his travel history after allegedly attending the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month. In consequence, his village, Deenpur, in Najafgarh has been declared a containment zone. Since the issue of religious congregation at Nizamuddin came to light, district police has been tracing people who attended the event. It was then found that five people from the area had attended the gathering following which several people, including the man, were asked to home quarantine. The police had also asked the man if he was part of the event, but he denied it. During physical verification of the people quarantined at their homes in the area, the man was not found by health authorities at his residence. On subsequent questioning, he again hid facts about his past travel and movements. Even during repeated medical and police enquiry, he withheld this fact and did not disclose it to the authorities. He later fell ill and when he was tested he was found positive for coronavirus. His wife and child also tested positive for the infection. After analysing his call records and upon physical enquiry, it was found that he had visited Jamaat at Nizamuddin. As a result, a containment zone was declared in Deenpur village and legal action was initiated against him, and a case under section 188 (for disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) Of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of Epidemic Diseases Act, has been registered against him at Chhawla police station. (with inputs from agencies)

Man with COVID-19 booked for hiding travel history

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu on Friday informed that 1900 people in the Union Territory who are associated with Delhi's Nizamuddin's Markaz, have been identified and they are being tested for COVID-19.

All the people who are linked to Tablighi Jamaat have been kept in isolation. The Tablighi Jamaat event has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after hundreds of positive cases across the country were linked to the congregation, including deaths in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tablighi-jamaat-returnees-distributed-sweets-to-passengers-in-up-says-report-291726" hreflang="en">Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report</a>

"1900 people have been identified here who were present in Nizamuddin`s Markaz. We traced them through their phone numbers and they cooperated with us. They are being tested and have been kept in isolation. The work is underway in a pro-active manner," Murmu told ANI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-covid-19-cases-at-6412-death-toll-at-199-291681" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199</a>

He informed that the Union Territory has 17,000 N95 masks, 13,000 Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) kits, and 200 ventilators to tackle with COVID-19.

The state will soon get 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used for detection of COVID-19 among people in 'red zones'.

"We have 17,000 N95 masks,13,000 PPE kits, and 200 ventilators. We will soon have 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used in red zones identified here, for early detection of COVID-19," he said.

The Lieutenant Governor further said that restriction will continue in the "34 red zones" in Jammu and Kashmir even after April 14 and there will be "selective restrictions, movement and social distancing" in these zones.

He said that planning for the same is underway.According to the Union Health Ministry`s latest bulletin, 158 people have tested positive for coronavirus, including 4 cured and discharged and 4 deaths. 
&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu on Friday informed that 1900 people in the Union Territory who are associated with Delhi's Nizamuddin's Markaz, have been identified and they are being tested for COVID-19.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu on Friday informed that 1900 people in the Union Territory who are associated with Delhi's Nizamuddin's Markaz, have been identified and they are being tested for COVID-19. All the people who are linked to Tablighi Jamaat have been kept in isolation. The Tablighi Jamaat event has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after hundreds of positive cases across the country were linked to the congregation, including deaths in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. Also read: Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report "1900 people have been identified here who were present in Nizamuddin`s Markaz. We traced them through their phone numbers and they cooperated with us. They are being tested and have been kept in isolation. The work is underway in a pro-active manner," Murmu told ANI. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199 He informed that the Union Territory has 17,000 N95 masks, 13,000 Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) kits, and 200 ventilators to tackle with COVID-19. The state will soon get 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used for detection of COVID-19 among people in 'red zones'. "We have 17,000 N95 masks,13,000 PPE kits, and 200 ventilators. We will soon have 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used in red zones identified here, for early detection of COVID-19," he said. The Lieutenant Governor further said that restriction will continue in the "34 red zones" in Jammu and Kashmir even after April 14 and there will be "selective restrictions, movement and social distancing" in these zones. He said that planning for the same is underway.According to the Union Health Ministry`s latest bulletin, 158 people have tested positive for coronavirus, including 4 cured and discharged and 4 deaths.

Jammu and Kashmir identifies 1900 people linked to Tablighi Jamaat, being tested for COVID-19

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated TrueNat, a tuberculosis testing machine for COVID-19 screening tests.

On Thursday, the ICMR had updated its testing strategy for COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-covid-19-cases-at-6412-death-toll-at-199-291681" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199</a>

The revised strategy states that asymptomatic direct and high-risk contacts of a confirmed case should be tested once between "day 5 and day 14" of coming in his/her contact.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tablighi-jamaat-returnees-distributed-sweets-to-passengers-in-up-says-report-291726" hreflang="en">Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report</a>

Testing of all symptomatic individuals, who have undertaken international travel in the last 14 day, all symptomatic contacts of laboratory-confirmed cases, all symptomatic health care workers and all patients with severe acute respiratory illness (fever and cough and/or shortness of breath) will be done.

It will also be done in hotspots/cluster (as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) and in large migration gatherings/ evacuees centres.&nbsp;

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated TrueNat, a tuberculosis testing machine for COVID-19 screening tests. On Thursday, the ICMR had updated its testing strategy for COVID-19.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated TrueNat, a tuberculosis testing machine for COVID-19 screening tests. On Thursday, the ICMR had updated its testing strategy for COVID-19. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199 The revised strategy states that asymptomatic direct and high-risk contacts of a confirmed case should be tested once between "day 5 and day 14" of coming in his/her contact. Also read: Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report Testing of all symptomatic individuals, who have undertaken international travel in the last 14 day, all symptomatic contacts of laboratory-confirmed cases, all symptomatic health care workers and all patients with severe acute respiratory illness (fever and cough and/or shortness of breath) will be done. It will also be done in hotspots/cluster (as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) and in large migration gatherings/ evacuees centres.

ICMR validates TrueNat for COVID-19 screening tests

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