<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-1200000-death-toll-rises-to-69444-290745" hreflang="en">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,200,000; death toll rises to 69,444</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-ii-says-collective-effort-will-defeat-covid-19-290739" hreflang="en">Queen Elizabeth II says collective effort will defeat COVID-19</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sees-rises-in-new-coronavirus-cases-asymptomatic-patients-290743" hreflang="en">China sees rises in new coronavirus cases, asymptomatic patients</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-hospitalised-for-tests-after-persistent-coronavirus-symptoms-290737" hreflang="en">UK PM Johnson hospitalised for tests after persistent coronavirus symptoms</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-urges-govts-to-protect-women-as-domestic-violence-soars-due-to-lockdown-290738" hreflang="en">UN chief urges govts to protect women as domestic violence soars due to lockdown</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-hit-us-girds-for-pearl-harbour-moment-as-death-toll-spikes-290736" hreflang="en">Virus-hit US girds for 'Pearl Harbour moment' as death toll spikes</a></h2>

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Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,200,000; death toll rises to 69,444 Queen Elizabeth II says collective effort will defeat COVID-19 China sees rises i

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,200,000; death toll rises to 69,444 Queen Elizabeth II says collective effort will defeat COVID-19 China sees rises in new coronavirus cases, asymptomatic patients UK PM Johnson hospitalised for tests after persistent coronavirus symptoms UN chief urges govts to protect women as domestic violence soars due to lockdown Virus-hit US girds for 'Pearl Harbour moment' as death toll spikes

Morning news brief: COVID-19 kills over 69,000; Queen makes rare address, and more!

Mainland China reported 39 new coronavirus cases as of Sunday, up from 30 a day earlier, and the number of asymptomatic cases also surged, as Beijing continued to struggle to extinguish the outbreak despite drastic containment efforts.

The National Health Commission said in a statement on Monday that 78 new asymptomatic cases had been identified as of the end of the day on Sunday, compared with 47 the day before.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-trump-administration-debated-travel-restrictions-thousands-streamed-in-from-china-290711" hreflang="en">As Trump administration debated travel restrictions, thousands streamed in from China</a>

Imported cases and asymptomatic patients, who have the virus and can give it to others but show no symptoms, have become China's chief concern in recent weeks after draconian containment measures succeeded in slashing the infection rate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-like-making-pyromaniac-the-fire-chief-un-watchdog-on-china-joining-human-rights-panel-290658" hreflang="en">'It's like making pyromaniac the fire chief': UN watchdog on China joining human rights panel</a>

Of the new cases showing symptoms, 38 were people who had entered China from abroad, compared with 25 a day earlier. One new locally transmitted infection was reported, in the southern province of Guangdong, down from five a day earlier in the same province.

The new locally transmitted case, in the city of Shenzhen, was a person who had travelled from Hubei province, the original epicentre of the outbreak, Guangdong provincial authorities said.

The Guangdong health commission raised the risk level for a total of four districts in the cities of Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Jieyang from low to medium late on Sunday.

Mainland China has now reported a total of 81,708 cases, with 3,331 deaths.

Daily infections have fallen dramatically from the peak of the epidemic in February, when hundreds were reported daily, but new infections continue to appear daily.

The country has closed off its borders to foreigners as the virus spreads globally, though most imported cases involve Chinese nationals returning from overseas.

The central government also has pushed local authorities to identify and isolate the asymptomatic patients.

Mainland China reported 39 new coronavirus cases as of Sunday, up from 30 a day earlier, and the number of asymptomatic cases also surged, as Beijing continued to struggle to extinguish the outbreak despite drastic containment efforts.

Mainland China reported 39 new coronavirus cases as of Sunday, up from 30 a day earlier, and the number of asymptomatic cases also surged, as Beijing continued to struggle to extinguish the outbreak despite drastic containment efforts. The National Health Commission said in a statement on Monday that 78 new asymptomatic cases had been identified as of the end of the day on Sunday, compared with 47 the day before. Also read: As Trump administration debated travel restrictions, thousands streamed in from China Imported cases and asymptomatic patients, who have the virus and can give it to others but show no symptoms, have become China's chief concern in recent weeks after draconian containment measures succeeded in slashing the infection rate. Also read: 'It's like making pyromaniac the fire chief': UN watchdog on China joining human rights panel Of the new cases showing symptoms, 38 were people who had entered China from abroad, compared with 25 a day earlier. One new locally transmitted infection was reported, in the southern province of Guangdong, down from five a day earlier in the same province. The new locally transmitted case, in the city of Shenzhen, was a person who had travelled from Hubei province, the original epicentre of the outbreak, Guangdong provincial authorities said. The Guangdong health commission raised the risk level for a total of four districts in the cities of Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Jieyang from low to medium late on Sunday. Mainland China has now reported a total of 81,708 cases, with 3,331 deaths. Daily infections have fallen dramatically from the peak of the epidemic in February, when hundreds were reported daily, but new infections continue to appear daily. The country has closed off its borders to foreigners as the virus spreads globally, though most imported cases involve Chinese nationals returning from overseas. The central government also has pushed local authorities to identify and isolate the asymptomatic patients.

China sees rises in new coronavirus cases, asymptomatic patients

US governors on Sunday appealed to the White House for a national strategy against the fast-spreading coronavirus, as deaths surged and health authorities warned the coming week could resemble a "Pearl Harbor moment."

The US death toll was creeping toward the grim milestone of 10,000 as the pandemic's epicenter in New York racked up hundreds of lives lost a day and hospitals girded for an influx of new infected patients.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-governor-sees-return-to-normalcy-with-rapid-coronavirus-testing-290732" hreflang="en">New York governor sees 'return to normalcy' with rapid coronavirus testing</a>

Anthony Fauci, the senior American scientist battling the pandemic stateside, warned of a looming "escalation," saying Americans should prepare for "a bad week."

"I will not say we have it under control," Fauci said on&nbsp;Sunday. "That would be a false statement."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-trump-administration-debated-travel-restrictions-thousands-streamed-in-from-china-290711" hreflang="en">As Trump administration debated travel restrictions, thousands streamed in from China</a>

US Surgeon General Jerome Adams sounded an even more dire alarm.

"This is going to be the hardest and the saddest week of most Americans' lives, quite frankly," he said.&nbsp;

"This is going to be our Pearl Harbor moment, our 9-11 moment, only it's not going to be localized."

Most of the nation is under shelter-in-place orders, but nine states have yet to issue such regulations, while the federal government has declined to mandate anything on a national level.&nbsp;

Adams noted that the nine states without orders were producing much of the US food supply.

Still, he pleaded with state leaders to urge residents to stay home for at least the next seven to 10 days: "There is a light at the end of the tunnel if everyone does their part."&nbsp;

Sunday night the White House aimed to emphasize progress in the fight including plans to send hundreds of thousands of masks to counties in New York, but could not sugarcoat the difficult weeks ahead.

"We all know that we have to reach a certain point, and that point is going to be a horrific point in terms of death," President Donald Trump said at his briefing. &nbsp;

US governors on Sunday appealed to the White House for a national strategy against the fast-spreading coronavirus, as deaths surged and health authorities warned the coming week could resemble a "Pearl Harbor moment.

US governors on Sunday appealed to the White House for a national strategy against the fast-spreading coronavirus, as deaths surged and health authorities warned the coming week could resemble a "Pearl Harbor moment." The US death toll was creeping toward the grim milestone of 10,000 as the pandemic's epicenter in New York racked up hundreds of lives lost a day and hospitals girded for an influx of new infected patients. Also read: New York governor sees 'return to normalcy' with rapid coronavirus testing Anthony Fauci, the senior American scientist battling the pandemic stateside, warned of a looming "escalation," saying Americans should prepare for "a bad week." "I will not say we have it under control," Fauci said on Sunday. "That would be a false statement." Also read: As Trump administration debated travel restrictions, thousands streamed in from China US Surgeon General Jerome Adams sounded an even more dire alarm. "This is going to be the hardest and the saddest week of most Americans' lives, quite frankly," he said. "This is going to be our Pearl Harbor moment, our 9-11 moment, only it's not going to be localized." Most of the nation is under shelter-in-place orders, but nine states have yet to issue such regulations, while the federal government has declined to mandate anything on a national level. Adams noted that the nine states without orders were producing much of the US food supply. Still, he pleaded with state leaders to urge residents to stay home for at least the next seven to 10 days: "There is a light at the end of the tunnel if everyone does their part." Sunday night the White House aimed to emphasize progress in the fight including plans to send hundreds of thousands of masks to counties in New York, but could not sugarcoat the difficult weeks ahead. "We all know that we have to reach a certain point, and that point is going to be a horrific point in terms of death," President Donald Trump said at his briefing.

Virus-hit US girds for 'Pearl Harbour moment' as death toll spikes

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was admitted to hospital for tests on Sunday after suffering persistent coronavirus symptoms 10 days after testing positive for the virus, though Downing Street said he remained in charge of the government.

Johnson, who was isolating in Downing Street after testing positive last month, still had a high temperature and so his doctors felt he should go to an undisclosed hospital for tests in what the government said was a "precautionary step".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnsons-pregnant-fiance-had-covid-19-symptoms-but-on-the-mend-290676" hreflang="en">UK PM Johnson's pregnant fiance had COVID-19 symptoms but on the mend</a>

"On the advice of his doctor, the prime minister has tonight been admitted to hospital for tests," his Downing Street office said in a statement. Johnson is expected to stay overnight.

"This is a precautionary step, as the prime minister continues to have persistent symptoms of coronavirus ten days after testing positive for the virus," the statement added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/9-unsc-members-call-for-meet-on-covid-19-290735" hreflang="en">9 UNSC members call for meet on COVID-19</a>

News of his hospitalisation came only after an hour after Queen Elizabeth delivered a rallying call to the British public saying they would overcome the coronavirus outbreak if they stayed resolute.

Johnson, 55, on March 27 became the first leader of a major power to announce that he had tested positive. He went into isolation at an apartment in Downing Street and said on Friday he was staying there as he still had a high temperature.

Downing Street underscored that this was not an emergency admission and that Johnson remained in charge of the government. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will chair the government's emergency COVID-19 meeting on Monday, a source said.

With only an unwieldy collection of sometimes ancient and contradictory precedents to go by, there is no simple, formally-enshrined "Plan B" or succession scenario should the prime minister become incapacitated.

The pound briefly fell 0.4 per cent&nbsp;vs the U.S. dollar to $1.2215 before trimming some losses to trade at $1.2230, down 0.3 per cent.

Queen Elizabeth had been informed of Johnson's admission to hospital, Buckingham Palace said. It made no further comment.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said Johnson was a "strong man" as he passed on his nation's best wishes.

"All Americans are praying for him," Trump told a news conference. "He's a friend of mine, he's a great gentleman and a great leader, and as you know he went to the hospital today but I'm hopeful and sure that he's going to be fine."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was admitted to hospital for tests on Sunday after suffering persistent coronavirus symptoms 10 days after testing positive for the virus, though Downing Street said he remained in charge of the government.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was admitted to hospital for tests on Sunday after suffering persistent coronavirus symptoms 10 days after testing positive for the virus, though Downing Street said he remained in charge of the government. Johnson, who was isolating in Downing Street after testing positive last month, still had a high temperature and so his doctors felt he should go to an undisclosed hospital for tests in what the government said was a "precautionary step". Also read: UK PM Johnson's pregnant fiance had COVID-19 symptoms but on the mend "On the advice of his doctor, the prime minister has tonight been admitted to hospital for tests," his Downing Street office said in a statement. Johnson is expected to stay overnight. "This is a precautionary step, as the prime minister continues to have persistent symptoms of coronavirus ten days after testing positive for the virus," the statement added. Also read: 9 UNSC members call for meet on COVID-19 News of his hospitalisation came only after an hour after Queen Elizabeth delivered a rallying call to the British public saying they would overcome the coronavirus outbreak if they stayed resolute. Johnson, 55, on March 27 became the first leader of a major power to announce that he had tested positive. He went into isolation at an apartment in Downing Street and said on Friday he was staying there as he still had a high temperature. Downing Street underscored that this was not an emergency admission and that Johnson remained in charge of the government. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will chair the government's emergency COVID-19 meeting on Monday, a source said. With only an unwieldy collection of sometimes ancient and contradictory precedents to go by, there is no simple, formally-enshrined "Plan B" or succession scenario should the prime minister become incapacitated. The pound briefly fell 0.4 per cent vs the U.S. dollar to $1.2215 before trimming some losses to trade at $1.2230, down 0.3 per cent. Queen Elizabeth had been informed of Johnson's admission to hospital, Buckingham Palace said. It made no further comment. US President Donald Trump said Johnson was a "strong man" as he passed on his nation's best wishes. "All Americans are praying for him," Trump told a news conference. "He's a friend of mine, he's a great gentleman and a great leader, and as you know he went to the hospital today but I'm hopeful and sure that he's going to be fine."

UK PM Johnson hospitalised for tests after persistent coronavirus symptoms

A medical centre in Israel has found a way to enable families to say goodbye to the body of their loved ones if they die from COVID-19.

Israeli hospital finds way for families to say goodbye

The Central Zoo Authority on Monday asked all zoos across the country to remain on high alert and collect samples fortnightly in suspected cases after a tiger in a US zoo tested positive for coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiger-in-new-york-city-tests-positive-for-covid-19-other-cats-around-showing-symptoms-290762" hreflang="en">Tiger in New York City tests positive for COVID-19; other cats around showing symptoms!</a>

In a letter to all states and Union territories, CZA Member Secretary SP Yadav said, "The United States Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratories has confirmed COVID-19 in a tiger in the Bronx Zoo, New York.

"Zoos in the country are, therefore, advised to remain on highest alertness, watch animals on a 24X7 basis using CCTVs for any abnormal behaviour or symptoms," it said.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/are-animals-next-see-how-many-have-tested-positive-for-covid-19-so-far-290812" hreflang="en">Are animals next? See how many have tested positive for COVID-19 so far!</a>

<iframe data-google-container-id="6" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>The authority said mammals, especially cats, ferret, and primates, need to be carefully monitored and fortnightly samples of suspected cases are sent to designated animal health institutes for COVID-19 testing.&nbsp;

The Central Zoo Authority on Monday asked all zoos across the country to remain on high alert and collect samples fortnightly in suspected cases after a tiger in a US zoo tested positive for coronavirus.

The Central Zoo Authority on Monday asked all zoos across the country to remain on high alert and collect samples fortnightly in suspected cases after a tiger in a US zoo tested positive for coronavirus. Also read: Tiger in New York City tests positive for COVID-19; other cats around showing symptoms! In a letter to all states and Union territories, CZA Member Secretary SP Yadav said, "The United States Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratories has confirmed COVID-19 in a tiger in the Bronx Zoo, New York. "Zoos in the country are, therefore, advised to remain on highest alertness, watch animals on a 24X7 basis using CCTVs for any abnormal behaviour or symptoms," it said. Also see: Are animals next? See how many have tested positive for COVID-19 so far! The authority said mammals, especially cats, ferret, and primates, need to be carefully monitored and fortnightly samples of suspected cases are sent to designated animal health institutes for COVID-19 testing.

Indian zoos on high alert after tiger tests positive for coronavirus in US

Amid rising concerns about the quality of equipment provided by China to other countries, the country yesterday claimed that they have sold over four billion masks in&nbsp;March.

Chinese Customs Official Jin Hai claimed that the country has exported 3.86 billion masks, 37.5 million pieces of protective clothing, 16,000 ventilators and over 2.84 million testing kits since March 1.

Currently, orders from 50 countries have been received by the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e-commerce-giants-issue-face-masks-for-employees-but-is-it-an-effective-barrier-290841">E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier?</a>

Hai further claimed that the export of supplies valued at 10.2 billion Yuan, roughly amounting to USD 1.4 billion.&nbsp;

The Netherlands, the Philippines, Croatia, Turkey, and Spain have recently returned masks and other equipment on account of substandard quality.

Just last week, over 1.3 million masks were shipped to the Netherlands, out of which 600,000 masks were returned.

According to China, the manufacturer, before sending the shipments, had clearly stated that “the masks are non-surgical”.

Additionally, Spain recently sent back thousands of testing kits after finding them faulty.&nbsp;

China hit out to this recently, and claimed that “this did not reflect the full facts”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-your-protective-gear-causing-coronavirus-cross-contamination-290823" hreflang="en">Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?</a>

"In reality there are various factors, such as China having different standards and different usage habits to other countries. Even improper use can lead to doubts over quality," said Jiang Fan, an official with the Ministry of Commerce.

Another spokesperson, from the Foreign Ministry, Hua Chunying urged the Western media to not “politicise” or “hype up” the issue.

Amid the critique, Beijing has increased regulations for medical equipment set for exports. The administration further claimed plans to ensure licensing standards of both China as well as the countries the supplies were headed.

Currently, China is producing over four million testing kits everyday!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

The coronavirus pandemic began in Wuhan, China and has amped up the production of face masks and gloves, with hard-hit countries increasingly running out of supplies.

As of now, over 60,000 have died worldwide!

Amid rising concerns about the quality of equipment provided by China to other countries, the country yesterday claimed that they have sold over four billion masks in March.

Amid rising concerns about the quality of equipment provided by China to other countries, the country yesterday claimed that they have sold over four billion masks in March. Chinese Customs Official Jin Hai claimed that the country has exported 3.86 billion masks, 37.5 million pieces of protective clothing, 16,000 ventilators and over 2.84 million testing kits since March 1. Currently, orders from 50 countries have been received by the country. Also read: E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier? Hai further claimed that the export of supplies valued at 10.2 billion Yuan, roughly amounting to USD 1.4 billion. The Netherlands, the Philippines, Croatia, Turkey, and Spain have recently returned masks and other equipment on account of substandard quality. Just last week, over 1.3 million masks were shipped to the Netherlands, out of which 600,000 masks were returned. According to China, the manufacturer, before sending the shipments, had clearly stated that “the masks are non-surgical”. Additionally, Spain recently sent back thousands of testing kits after finding them faulty. China hit out to this recently, and claimed that “this did not reflect the full facts”. Also read: Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination? "In reality there are various factors, such as China having different standards and different usage habits to other countries. Even improper use can lead to doubts over quality," said Jiang Fan, an official with the Ministry of Commerce. Another spokesperson, from the Foreign Ministry, Hua Chunying urged the Western media to not “politicise” or “hype up” the issue. Amid the critique, Beijing has increased regulations for medical equipment set for exports. The administration further claimed plans to ensure licensing standards of both China as well as the countries the supplies were headed. Currently, China is producing over four million testing kits everyday! Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! The coronavirus pandemic began in Wuhan, China and has amped up the production of face masks and gloves, with hard-hit countries increasingly running out of supplies. As of now, over 60,000 have died worldwide!

As countries return faulty supplies, China claims to have exported 4 million masks in March

Are animals next? See how many have tested positive for COVID-19 so far!

The world is increasingly falling into the grip of COVID-19, the pandemic which has claimed over 69,000 lives globally.

The epicentre has shifted continents twice, first from China in Asia to European countries like Italy, and then to North America - the United States.

Currently, the US has over 300,000 active cases of the virus, with over 8,000 reported deaths. The toll is expected to increase over the next few weeks before the virus heats its peak in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-african-country-has-released-over-4000-prisoners-through-video-calling-to-limit-covid-19-clusters-290849" hreflang="en">This African country has released over 4,000 prisoners through video-calling to limit COVID-19 clusters!</a>

However, many religious congregations are defying the lockdown and social distancing directives.&nbsp;

In the US state of Louisiana, “Palm Sunday” was celebrated over the weekend. And the coronavirus didn’t stop a suburban church! Palm Sunday refers to the beginning of holy week among Christian churches.

The Life Tabernacle Church defied the stay-at-home orders on Sunday, with the pastor, Tony Spell telling people that there was “nothing to fear but fear itself.”

Besides this, across the area, gatherings of over 1,000 people have been happening in full-swing!

“We’re defying the rules because the commandment of God is to spread the Gospel,” Louisiana pastor Tony Spell said on Saturday.

The state of Louisiana has become one of the virus hotspots in the region, with over 400 deaths and 13,000 active cases.

“They would rather come to church and worship like free people than live like prisoners in their homes,” Spell further said.

Even when the majority of churches have been holding services online, many churches continue to defy the orders, in different states like Florida, Texas, California.

“Satan’s trying to keep us apart, he’s trying to keep us from worshipping together. But we’re not going to let him win,” Kelly Burton, the pastor at Lone Star Baptist Church in Lone Star, Texas, said on Facebook.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e-commerce-giants-issue-face-masks-for-employees-but-is-it-an-effective-barrier-290841" hreflang="en">E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier?</a>

Even the chronic denier of coronavirus, President Donald Trump recently warned that “there’s going to be a lot of death” in the country, and asked the citizens to prepare for a big surge in deaths.

As per data from White House, over 1,00,000 to 2,40,000 Americans could be killed due to the pandemic, even with lockdowns in place.

The state of New York remains the hardest-hit, the number of deaths rising everyday, and medical supplies quickly running out!

The world is increasingly falling into the grip of COVID-19, the pandemic which has claimed over 69,000 lives globally. The epicentre has shifted continents twice, first from China in Asia to European countries like Italy, and then to North America - the United States.

The world is increasingly falling into the grip of COVID-19, the pandemic which has claimed over 69,000 lives globally. The epicentre has shifted continents twice, first from China in Asia to European countries like Italy, and then to North America - the United States. Currently, the US has over 300,000 active cases of the virus, with over 8,000 reported deaths. The toll is expected to increase over the next few weeks before the virus heats its peak in the country. Also read: This African country has released over 4,000 prisoners through video-calling to limit COVID-19 clusters! However, many religious congregations are defying the lockdown and social distancing directives. In the US state of Louisiana, “Palm Sunday” was celebrated over the weekend. And the coronavirus didn’t stop a suburban church! Palm Sunday refers to the beginning of holy week among Christian churches. The Life Tabernacle Church defied the stay-at-home orders on Sunday, with the pastor, Tony Spell telling people that there was “nothing to fear but fear itself.” Besides this, across the area, gatherings of over 1,000 people have been happening in full-swing! “We’re defying the rules because the commandment of God is to spread the Gospel,” Louisiana pastor Tony Spell said on Saturday. The state of Louisiana has become one of the virus hotspots in the region, with over 400 deaths and 13,000 active cases. “They would rather come to church and worship like free people than live like prisoners in their homes,” Spell further said. Even when the majority of churches have been holding services online, many churches continue to defy the orders, in different states like Florida, Texas, California. “Satan’s trying to keep us apart, he’s trying to keep us from worshipping together. But we’re not going to let him win,” Kelly Burton, the pastor at Lone Star Baptist Church in Lone Star, Texas, said on Facebook. Also read: E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier? Even the chronic denier of coronavirus, President Donald Trump recently warned that “there’s going to be a lot of death” in the country, and asked the citizens to prepare for a big surge in deaths. As per data from White House, over 1,00,000 to 2,40,000 Americans could be killed due to the pandemic, even with lockdowns in place. The state of New York remains the hardest-hit, the number of deaths rising everyday, and medical supplies quickly running out!

'Not going to let Satan win': Churches in US defy stay-at-home orders to hold services amid coronavirus pandemic

Many governments across the world fear that prisons pose health hazards during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Many countries have also released several prisoners with negligible offences to prevent clusters from forming in the prison.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-your-protective-gear-causing-coronavirus-cross-contamination-290823" hreflang="en">Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?</a>

Another country to&nbsp;recently join in on the decongestion process is Kenya.&nbsp;

Over the last 30 days, the country has released over 4,800 prisoners across different prisons to ease the potential consequences of a cluster in the prison.

Most states are now taking steps based on the new information that keeps coming in about the pandemic.

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Today, Mombasa High Court Presiding Judge, Hon. Eric Ogola, delivered 23 judgements through the use of Skype Conference to the inmates in Shimo La Tewa Prison. <a href="https://t.co/DCsdn4nArj">pic.twitter.com/DCsdn4nArj</a>
— The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kenyajudiciary/status/1244679392271441921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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What’s interesting is how these prisoners were released. With social distancing the new norm, the release sessions were conducted on video chatting applications like Skype and Zoom.

The prioritisation was based on the gravity of the crimes as well as the time left to serve in the prison.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

The majority of 4,800 releases were undertaken online across 39 high court stations, as per information released by CNN.

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Hon Ritah Amwayi of Mombasa County Court dispensing justice through a video conference, linked to Kingorani Remand Prison. She delivered 5 Judgements and 8 rulings. 21 remandees were released. <a href="https://t.co/Jj6FOQAOup">pic.twitter.com/Jj6FOQAOup</a>
— The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kenyajudiciary/status/1245672957726375940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As of now, Kenya, and largely Africa, has remained untouched by the killer virus. With just 110 cases, the country has enforced a dusk to dawn curfew. Nobody is allowed to leave their homes between 7 pm to 5 am.

The first case in the country was reported on March 12, after which all sports, religious, and other mega-events stand cancelled.&nbsp;

Many governments across the world fear that prisons pose health hazards during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many countries have also released several prisoners with negligible offences to prevent clusters from forming in the prison.

Many governments across the world fear that prisons pose health hazards during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many countries have also released several prisoners with negligible offences to prevent clusters from forming in the prison. Also read: Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination? Another country to recently join in on the decongestion process is Kenya. Over the last 30 days, the country has released over 4,800 prisoners across different prisons to ease the potential consequences of a cluster in the prison. Most states are now taking steps based on the new information that keeps coming in about the pandemic. Today, Mombasa High Court Presiding Judge, Hon. Eric Ogola, delivered 23 judgements through the use of Skype Conference to the inmates in Shimo La Tewa Prison. pic.twitter.com/DCsdn4nArj — The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) March 30, 2020 × What’s interesting is how these prisoners were released. With social distancing the new norm, the release sessions were conducted on video chatting applications like Skype and Zoom. The prioritisation was based on the gravity of the crimes as well as the time left to serve in the prison. Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! The majority of 4,800 releases were undertaken online across 39 high court stations, as per information released by CNN. Hon Ritah Amwayi of Mombasa County Court dispensing justice through a video conference, linked to Kingorani Remand Prison. She delivered 5 Judgements and 8 rulings. 21 remandees were released. pic.twitter.com/Jj6FOQAOup — The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) April 2, 2020 × As of now, Kenya, and largely Africa, has remained untouched by the killer virus. With just 110 cases, the country has enforced a dusk to dawn curfew. Nobody is allowed to leave their homes between 7 pm to 5 am. The first case in the country was reported on March 12, after which all sports, religious, and other mega-events stand cancelled.

This African country has released over 4,000 prisoners through video-calling to limit COVID-19 clusters!

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is likely to declare state of emergency to curb the spread of coronavirus as the confirmed number of cases in the country surged to over 4,500, local media reported.

Japan all set to declare state of emergency

Amidst the panic-driven state of all industries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people who simply cannot work from home are being under risk as they head out to work everyday.

E-commerce is one such industry. With calls for people to stay inside, the pressure on online shopping for essential supplies increases.

Even though the World Health Organisation claims that face masks are not efficient in preventing the virus, the head of the Chinese Centers of Disease and Control claimed that countries need to tell all their citizens to wear masks.

Statistically also, countries that have enforced mask-wearing are performing better in terms of containment efforts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-your-protective-gear-causing-coronavirus-cross-contamination-290823" hreflang="en">Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?</a>

Austria and Slovenia recently made wearing masks compulsory.

Advisories to wear masks were issued in Czech Republic, with the US state of New York advising citizens to wear them.

Marks &amp; Spencer recently issued plastic face shields to protect employees.&nbsp;

Another big retail giant to join in is Amazon. Recently, the company told The Daily Telegraph that it had sourced “million of masks” for employees. Starting next week, every employee will don a mask.

Many are left wondering how places like Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea have been able to contain the virus more effectively besides being so close to the epicentre&nbsp;- Wuhan in China.

Countries that advised against using masks, like Italy, Spain, France, and now the US have been hit hard, with many reporting over 1000 deaths a day during the virus’ peak.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

In the UK alone, almost 5,000 are dead, and over 47,000 positive cases.

The US has reported over 8,000 deaths and 311,600 confirmed cases.

The total death toll in countries like South Korea, Japan, and Singapore stands at only 260, tremendously lower than Western countries, and with a bigger population!

Even if the masks may not be helping with protection, they most definitely act as a barrier between the infected and the uninfected. So a person who may not show symptoms but is infected may spread it to others without a mask, but by wearing it, the person is protecting people around them.

The virus spreads primarily through droplets that released into the air while coughing and sneezing. Additionally, new research claims that even talking and breathing around infected people can spread the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imask-apple-starts-producing-protective-facial-gear-to-help-with-coronavirus-crisis-290773" hreflang="en">iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis</a>

Amidst the panic-driven state of all industries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people who simply cannot work from home are being under risk as they head out to work everyday.

Amidst the panic-driven state of all industries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people who simply cannot work from home are being under risk as they head out to work everyday. E-commerce is one such industry. With calls for people to stay inside, the pressure on online shopping for essential supplies increases. Even though the World Health Organisation claims that face masks are not efficient in preventing the virus, the head of the Chinese Centers of Disease and Control claimed that countries need to tell all their citizens to wear masks. Statistically also, countries that have enforced mask-wearing are performing better in terms of containment efforts. Also read: Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination? Austria and Slovenia recently made wearing masks compulsory. Advisories to wear masks were issued in Czech Republic, with the US state of New York advising citizens to wear them. Marks & Spencer recently issued plastic face shields to protect employees. Another big retail giant to join in is Amazon. Recently, the company told The Daily Telegraph that it had sourced “million of masks” for employees. Starting next week, every employee will don a mask. Many are left wondering how places like Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea have been able to contain the virus more effectively besides being so close to the epicentre - Wuhan in China. Countries that advised against using masks, like Italy, Spain, France, and now the US have been hit hard, with many reporting over 1000 deaths a day during the virus’ peak. Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! In the UK alone, almost 5,000 are dead, and over 47,000 positive cases. The US has reported over 8,000 deaths and 311,600 confirmed cases. The total death toll in countries like South Korea, Japan, and Singapore stands at only 260, tremendously lower than Western countries, and with a bigger population! Even if the masks may not be helping with protection, they most definitely act as a barrier between the infected and the uninfected. So a person who may not show symptoms but is infected may spread it to others without a mask, but by wearing it, the person is protecting people around them. The virus spreads primarily through droplets that released into the air while coughing and sneezing. Additionally, new research claims that even talking and breathing around infected people can spread the virus. Also read: iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis

E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier?

With coronavirus wreaking havoc across the globe, strict lockdowns and social distancing measures have been enforced to contain the pandemic.

However, frontline workers, especially in the healthcare industry continue to be at the highest risk of contracting the virus!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

Even as panic-stricken people hoard masks and gloves, cross-contamination is a very real threat and danger.

For instance, when people wear gloves in public places, the risk of cross contamination multiplies tremendously.

How does it work?

To explain simply, you go to a grocery store, mind you - you have hand gloves on! Then you pick up an item, put it in the trolley. You touch the trolley in the process. Then you touch some fruits. Later you touch the door while leaving. Then all those germs that you picked up during the process, you take them home with you. You touch your car door with the same gloves and open your front door with the same gloves on!&nbsp;

Scary, isn’t it?

After witnessing such contamination, a former health worker, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/69501899/videos/10100252201408846/">Molly Lixey decided to make a video</a> about how people are inadvertently contaminating more surfaces in the attempt of protecting themselves.

Lixey explained cross-contamination by using paint!&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/divided-in-the-time-of-a-pandemic-coronavirus-separates-lovers-friends-at-swiss-german-border-fences-290765" hreflang="en">Divided in the time of a pandemic: Coronavirus separates lovers, friends at Swiss-German border fences</a>

She stimulated a chain of contact and used paint to symbolise the germs she may have spread or picked up in the process. After touching an item, she attends a phone call, thereby attaching germs to her cellular device, without knowing so!

As she pretends to move across a grocery store stimulation, she picks up more paint, ie, germs, to represent how dangerously easy it is to trigger a chain of spreading germs!

As she picks up her phone and puts it across her cheek, the germs have now successfully found a way to her face, which is primarily how COVID-19 spreads.

So what should you do?

Even after all this contamination, one gets rid of the gloves, it will still remain lodged on some familiar surface, a phone? Headphones? Honestly, it could be anything.

In essence, wearing protective gear is very important, but frequent hand washing and sanitation plays a key role in limiting the clench of COVID-19!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imask-apple-starts-producing-protective-facial-gear-to-help-with-coronavirus-crisis-290773" hreflang="en">iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis</a>

Additionally, one must disinfect their phones multiple times over the day, especially if they’re going out to buy supplies.

Even though earlier research claimed that the virus spreads only through coughing or sneezing, it turns out that it can spread simply by breathing, making everybody more vulnerable to the contagion!

Exercise caution and disinfect regularly, if you really want to steer away the killer virus!

With coronavirus wreaking havoc across the globe, strict lockdowns and social distancing measures have been enforced to contain the pandemic. However, frontline workers, especially in the healthcare industry continue to be at the highest risk of contracting the virus!

With coronavirus wreaking havoc across the globe, strict lockdowns and social distancing measures have been enforced to contain the pandemic. However, frontline workers, especially in the healthcare industry continue to be at the highest risk of contracting the virus! Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! Even as panic-stricken people hoard masks and gloves, cross-contamination is a very real threat and danger. For instance, when people wear gloves in public places, the risk of cross contamination multiplies tremendously. How does it work? To explain simply, you go to a grocery store, mind you - you have hand gloves on! Then you pick up an item, put it in the trolley. You touch the trolley in the process. Then you touch some fruits. Later you touch the door while leaving. Then all those germs that you picked up during the process, you take them home with you. You touch your car door with the same gloves and open your front door with the same gloves on! Scary, isn’t it? After witnessing such contamination, a former health worker, Molly Lixey decided to make a video about how people are inadvertently contaminating more surfaces in the attempt of protecting themselves. Lixey explained cross-contamination by using paint! In pics: Divided in the time of a pandemic: Coronavirus separates lovers, friends at Swiss-German border fences She stimulated a chain of contact and used paint to symbolise the germs she may have spread or picked up in the process. After touching an item, she attends a phone call, thereby attaching germs to her cellular device, without knowing so! As she pretends to move across a grocery store stimulation, she picks up more paint, ie, germs, to represent how dangerously easy it is to trigger a chain of spreading germs! As she picks up her phone and puts it across her cheek, the germs have now successfully found a way to her face, which is primarily how COVID-19 spreads. So what should you do? Even after all this contamination, one gets rid of the gloves, it will still remain lodged on some familiar surface, a phone? Headphones? Honestly, it could be anything. In essence, wearing protective gear is very important, but frequent hand washing and sanitation plays a key role in limiting the clench of COVID-19! Also read: iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis Additionally, one must disinfect their phones multiple times over the day, especially if they’re going out to buy supplies. Even though earlier research claimed that the virus spreads only through coughing or sneezing, it turns out that it can spread simply by breathing, making everybody more vulnerable to the contagion! Exercise caution and disinfect regularly, if you really want to steer away the killer virus!

Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?

Even as global COVID-19 crisis spread, the UK is all set to evacuate its nationals from India with seven charter flights being announced from Goa, Mumbai and Delhi. While three flights will leave from Goa on April 8 10 and 12 respectively; the other two will leave from Mumbai and Delhi.

The acting British High Commissioner to India Jan Thompson in a statement said, "I hope this announcement will bring relief, especially to those in greatest need. Due to the large numbers of British travellers involved, the scale of this operation is huge. The UK Government continues to work hard with our Indian counterparts in New Delhi and London to arrange a safe journey back for as many people as possible."

Over 20,000 British nationals in India want to leave. An estimated 35,000 British Nationals are present in the country. On Saturday, an Irish flight carrying the vulnerable British nationals left Goa.

Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, British Foreign Office Minister of State had said, "In the absence of commercial flights, these first charter flights from India should provide relief to some of our British travellers who are desperate to return home, especially for the most vulnerable and those in greatest need."

Nationals of several nationalities are leaving India. Many Russian, German, French, Afghans, Israeli nationals have left India over the last few days.&nbsp;

After the global travel restrictions due to COVID-19 crisis, many nationals of foreign countries are stranded in various parts of the world.&nbsp;

India evacuated more than 2500 of its nationals from 4 countries, China, Japan, Iran and Italy.

Even as global COVID-19 crisis spread, the UK is all set to evacuate its nationals from India with seven charter flights being announced from Goa, Mumbai and Delhi.

Even as global COVID-19 crisis spread, the UK is all set to evacuate its nationals from India with seven charter flights being announced from Goa, Mumbai and Delhi. While three flights will leave from Goa on April 8 10 and 12 respectively; the other two will leave from Mumbai and Delhi. The acting British High Commissioner to India Jan Thompson in a statement said, "I hope this announcement will bring relief, especially to those in greatest need. Due to the large numbers of British travellers involved, the scale of this operation is huge. The UK Government continues to work hard with our Indian counterparts in New Delhi and London to arrange a safe journey back for as many people as possible." Over 20,000 British nationals in India want to leave. An estimated 35,000 British Nationals are present in the country. On Saturday, an Irish flight carrying the vulnerable British nationals left Goa. Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, British Foreign Office Minister of State had said, "In the absence of commercial flights, these first charter flights from India should provide relief to some of our British travellers who are desperate to return home, especially for the most vulnerable and those in greatest need." Nationals of several nationalities are leaving India. Many Russian, German, French, Afghans, Israeli nationals have left India over the last few days. After the global travel restrictions due to COVID-19 crisis, many nationals of foreign countries are stranded in various parts of the world. India evacuated more than 2500 of its nationals from 4 countries, China, Japan, Iran and Italy.

UK to evacuate its citizens from India amid COVID-19 spread

What impact is COVID-19 having on war-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya

Hundreds of officials in Nanjangud, Mysuru are working round the clock. Quarantined persons are receiving calls twice a day, teams are dispatched to check on their status, samples being collected of close to 800 people and the region has been put on complete lockdown, there is no movement into or out of the zone except for essential supplies.&nbsp;

Mysuru is one of the COVID-19 hotspots identified by the Union Health Ministry after one employee of a pharmaceutical company in Nanjangud tested positive on March 26. The patient, P52, is the third positive case from the district and has no travel history or contact history with a positive case. &nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-trump-agree-to-deploy-full-strength-of-india-us-partnership-to-fight-covid-19-290605">Modi, Trump agree to deploy full strength of India-US partnership to fight COVID-19</a>

From one case in Nanjangud on March 26, the number has risen to 21 in the cluster(as of April 4) - with most of the infected persons being employees of Jubilant Generics, the company that is engaged in manufacturing ingredients for pharmaceutical companies. The source of the infection continues to evade authorities. The state government has now termed this a "Cluster Containment Area".&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-in-india-rise-to-3113-death-toll-nears-100-mark-290625">COVID-19 cases in India rise to 3,113, &nbsp;death toll nears 100-mark</a>

"We have made Nanjangud and surrounding areas a Cluster Containment Area. We don’t call it a red zone. We call it a Cluster Containment area, that is the term we use as per the guidelines of the Department of Health and Family Welfare. The Cluster Containment protocol says that the city has to be sealed, entry and exit should be completely barred except for basic essentials like groceries, medicines which go to the city. Nobody leaves, nobody comes in."&nbsp;says Abhiram Shankar, District Commissioner, Mysuru. &nbsp;

The Nanjangud cluster case revolves around Jubilant Generics. P52, is an employee in the quality control section. He was displaying pneumonia-like symptoms and had been admitted to a private hospital. According to the district DC, the private hospital sent his samples to the government lab in Mysore Medical College and the samples tested positive for the virus setting alarm bells ringing.&nbsp;

Watch: PM Modi's call to switch off lights on Sunday creates panic

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The district administration moved quickly screening all 1000+ employees in the company. So far close to 800 of them have been home quarantined. In all 1623 people have been identified and quarantined in Mysuru district. While a majority of them are in Nanjangud city, the rest are scattered in Mysuru city, HD Kote, parts of rural Mysuru, Mandya, Chamarajanagar and a few other neighbouring districts.&nbsp;

The region spread across Nanjangud city limits and adjoining residential areas have been put on complete lockdown. Only one highway is open for essential goods with separate entry and exit points.

"The interstate highway that connects Karnataka with Tamil Nadu and Kerala passes through Nanjangud. That is the only highway we have kept open for entry and exits for these essential services. So any vehicle that is travelling from the city to Tamil Nadu has to take a roundabout route of an extra 35kms, circumnavigate the city and exit without entering the city. These measures have been in place since March 27."&nbsp;says Abhiram. &nbsp;

Before the Nanjangud cluster came to light, Mysuru had developed a system to track over 1400 foreign returnees.

The district had set up a call centre with 15 callers, who call each of those under home quarantine twice a day to check on them. If any of the persons fail to answer the call, then a team is dispatched to physically check on them.&nbsp;

‘The same system has been replicated for Nanjangud as almost 800 people are quarantined in the region. We have a call centre opened in Nanjangud with trained persons, who call the isolated persons twice and day and whoever does not respond then a team is dispatched to check on them. The neighbourhood residents have also been told to inform officials if the quarantined persons are seen outside their homes.The district superintendent has also allotted 10-15 quarantined houses to each police constable. The constables are given the responsibility to check on each of the houses every day.’ says the Mysuru DC.

When asked how many officials are working on ground to contain the spread, the DC tells WION that it is hard to put a number to it as the mechanism has been decentralised. Taluk level officials have been decentralised and a Taluk level response team of 5 persons has been formed. The five officials are free to delegate and take any official from any department to carry out the duty. ‘We have hundreds of officers working on the field.’ says Abhiram. &nbsp;

The screening centre and Covid-19 hospital are both based in Mysuru city. Any symptomatic patient is shifted to Mysuru, if found positive they continue to be treated there, if found negative they are shifted back to their homes. The system has worked well so far in containing the spread, and also ensuring that fewer healthcare workers are in need of protective gear like PPE suits.

Another challenge that officials are facing is that of crowd control. Despite the national lockdown and the region sealing off, residents in Mysuru continue to step out every day to visit the vegetable markets. While the awareness is increasing with each passing day, police are often forced to dispatch teams to disperse crowds that gather in the evenings.

But what about the source of the infection? Can this be classified as a case of community transfer? The DC and Commissioner of the Department of Health and Family Welfare continue to assert that this is not a case of community transfer, however the source of the virus is yet to be found. The packaging material of a consignment that had arrived from China to Jubilant Generics has also been tested, but no sign of contamination was found.&nbsp;

But there are also reasons to cheer. The lockdown of the cluster has restricted the positive cases to those under observation, escaping community transfer by just a whisker. ‘People who are already in quarantine are turning positive. It is a good sign that only the primary and secondary contacts of P52 are turning positive. People whom we expect to turn positive are turning positive. There is nothing out of the blue that is happening.’ says the DC.&nbsp;

Hundreds of officials in Nanjangud, Mysuru are working round the clock. Quarantined persons are receiving calls twice a day, teams are dispatched to check on their status, samples being collected of close to 800 people and the region has been put on complete lockdown, there is no movement into or out of the zone except for essential supplies.

Hundreds of officials in Nanjangud, Mysuru are working round the clock. Quarantined persons are receiving calls twice a day, teams are dispatched to check on their status, samples being collected of close to 800 people and the region has been put on complete lockdown, there is no movement into or out of the zone except for essential supplies. Mysuru is one of the COVID-19 hotspots identified by the Union Health Ministry after one employee of a pharmaceutical company in Nanjangud tested positive on March 26. The patient, P52, is the third positive case from the district and has no travel history or contact history with a positive case. Also read: Modi, Trump agree to deploy full strength of India-US partnership to fight COVID-19 From one case in Nanjangud on March 26, the number has risen to 21 in the cluster(as of April 4) - with most of the infected persons being employees of Jubilant Generics, the company that is engaged in manufacturing ingredients for pharmaceutical companies. The source of the infection continues to evade authorities. The state government has now termed this a "Cluster Containment Area". Also read: COVID-19 cases in India rise to 3,113, death toll nears 100-mark "We have made Nanjangud and surrounding areas a Cluster Containment Area. We don’t call it a red zone. We call it a Cluster Containment area, that is the term we use as per the guidelines of the Department of Health and Family Welfare. The Cluster Containment protocol says that the city has to be sealed, entry and exit should be completely barred except for basic essentials like groceries, medicines which go to the city. Nobody leaves, nobody comes in." says Abhiram Shankar, District Commissioner, Mysuru. The Nanjangud cluster case revolves around Jubilant Generics. P52, is an employee in the quality control section. He was displaying pneumonia-like symptoms and had been admitted to a private hospital. According to the district DC, the private hospital sent his samples to the government lab in Mysore Medical College and the samples tested positive for the virus setting alarm bells ringing. Watch: PM Modi's call to switch off lights on Sunday creates panic × The district administration moved quickly screening all 1000+ employees in the company. So far close to 800 of them have been home quarantined. In all 1623 people have been identified and quarantined in Mysuru district. While a majority of them are in Nanjangud city, the rest are scattered in Mysuru city, HD Kote, parts of rural Mysuru, Mandya, Chamarajanagar and a few other neighbouring districts. The region spread across Nanjangud city limits and adjoining residential areas have been put on complete lockdown. Only one highway is open for essential goods with separate entry and exit points. "The interstate highway that connects Karnataka with Tamil Nadu and Kerala passes through Nanjangud. That is the only highway we have kept open for entry and exits for these essential services. So any vehicle that is travelling from the city to Tamil Nadu has to take a roundabout route of an extra 35kms, circumnavigate the city and exit without entering the city. These measures have been in place since March 27." says Abhiram. Before the Nanjangud cluster came to light, Mysuru had developed a system to track over 1400 foreign returnees. The district had set up a call centre with 15 callers, who call each of those under home quarantine twice a day to check on them. If any of the persons fail to answer the call, then a team is dispatched to physically check on them. ‘The same system has been replicated for Nanjangud as almost 800 people are quarantined in the region. We have a call centre opened in Nanjangud with trained persons, who call the isolated persons twice and day and whoever does not respond then a team is dispatched to check on them. The neighbourhood residents have also been told to inform officials if the quarantined persons are seen outside their homes.The district superintendent has also allotted 10-15 quarantined houses to each police constable. The constables are given the responsibility to check on each of the houses every day.’ says the Mysuru DC. When asked how many officials are working on ground to contain the spread, the DC tells WION that it is hard to put a number to it as the mechanism has been decentralised. Taluk level officials have been decentralised and a Taluk level response team of 5 persons has been formed. The five officials are free to delegate and take any official from any department to carry out the duty. ‘We have hundreds of officers working on the field.’ says Abhiram. The screening centre and Covid-19 hospital are both based in Mysuru city. Any symptomatic patient is shifted to Mysuru, if found positive they continue to be treated there, if found negative they are shifted back to their homes. The system has worked well so far in containing the spread, and also ensuring that fewer healthcare workers are in need of protective gear like PPE suits. Another challenge that officials are facing is that of crowd control. Despite the national lockdown and the region sealing off, residents in Mysuru continue to step out every day to visit the vegetable markets. While the awareness is increasing with each passing day, police are often forced to dispatch teams to disperse crowds that gather in the evenings. But what about the source of the infection? Can this be classified as a case of community transfer? The DC and Commissioner of the Department of Health and Family Welfare continue to assert that this is not a case of community transfer, however the source of the virus is yet to be found. The packaging material of a consignment that had arrived from China to Jubilant Generics has also been tested, but no sign of contamination was found. But there are also reasons to cheer. The lockdown of the cluster has restricted the positive cases to those under observation, escaping community transfer by just a whisker. ‘People who are already in quarantine are turning positive. It is a good sign that only the primary and secondary contacts of P52 are turning positive. People whom we expect to turn positive are turning positive. There is nothing out of the blue that is happening.’ says the DC.

Nanjangud- Inside Karnataka's red zone

COVID-19 is hitting refugees camps, these camps could become the worst victims of coronavirus pandemic. Indiscriminate in targeting its victims, COVID-19 exposes the needs of tens of millions of refugees and displaced persons in destitute camps in Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Bangladesh and shantytowns across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Overcrowded migrant camps at high risk of contracting COVID-19

The US President Donald Trump requested Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to supply Hydroxychloroquine tablets to the United States, so that the drug can be used to treat COVID-19 patients.

US seeks India's help amid coronavirus outbreak

The US President Donald Trump told Americans to brace for a big spike in COVID-19 fatalities in the coming days, as the country faces what he called the toughest two weeks of the pandemic.

COVID-19: Donald Trump warns of toughest two weeks

Iran's president said on Sunday "low-risk" economic activities would resume from April 11 in the Middle Eastern country worst-affected by the new coronavirus.

Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of the highly infectious respiratory disease known as COVID-19 but authorities are also concerned that measures to limit public life to contain the virus could wreck an already sanctions-battered economy.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-coronavirus-surge-after-many-ignore-stay-home-rules-290632">Iran warns of coronavirus surge after many ignore 'stay home' rules</a>

"Under the supervision of the health ministry, all those low-risk economic activities will resume from Saturday," President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised meeting, adding that "those activities will resume in Tehran from April 18".

"Two thirds of all Iranian government employees will work out of the office from Saturday...The decision does not contradict stay at home advice by the health authorities."

Rouhani did not spell what he meant by low-risk activity, but said the suspension of "high-risk activities" - schools, universities and various social, cultural, sports and religious events would be extended to April 18.

The health ministry said on Saturday that the Islamic Republic's death toll had reached 3,452 among a total of 55,743 infected people. The daily toll has been rising by at least 100.

Iranian officials have repeatedly complained that many Iranians ignored appeals to stay at home and cancel travel plans for the New Year holidays that began on March 20.

Health authorities have since warned of a new wave of coronavirus infections in the Islamic Republic. Rouhani's government has refrained from imposing a lockdown on cities but prohibited intercity travel until April 8.

Rouhani said this ban would now be extended until April 18.

Iran's president said on Sunday "low-risk" economic activities would resume from April 11 in the Middle Eastern country worst-affected by the new coronavirus. Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of the highly infectious respiratory disease known as COVID-19 but authorities are also concerned that measures to limit public life to contain the virus could wreck an already sanctions-battered economy.

Iran's president said on Sunday "low-risk" economic activities would resume from April 11 in the Middle Eastern country worst-affected by the new coronavirus. Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of the highly infectious respiratory disease known as COVID-19 but authorities are also concerned that measures to limit public life to contain the virus could wreck an already sanctions-battered economy. Also read: Iran warns of coronavirus surge after many ignore 'stay home' rules "Under the supervision of the health ministry, all those low-risk economic activities will resume from Saturday," President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised meeting, adding that "those activities will resume in Tehran from April 18". "Two thirds of all Iranian government employees will work out of the office from Saturday...The decision does not contradict stay at home advice by the health authorities." Rouhani did not spell what he meant by low-risk activity, but said the suspension of "high-risk activities" - schools, universities and various social, cultural, sports and religious events would be extended to April 18. The health ministry said on Saturday that the Islamic Republic's death toll had reached 3,452 among a total of 55,743 infected people. The daily toll has been rising by at least 100. Iranian officials have repeatedly complained that many Iranians ignored appeals to stay at home and cancel travel plans for the New Year holidays that began on March 20. Health authorities have since warned of a new wave of coronavirus infections in the Islamic Republic. Rouhani's government has refrained from imposing a lockdown on cities but prohibited intercity travel until April 8. Rouhani said this ban would now be extended until April 18.

Low-risk economic activities to resume from April 11 amid coronavirus: Iran's Rouhani

The global death toll due to the lethal coronavirus has surpassed 64,000. Over 708 new COVID-19 deaths have been reported in UK in 24 hours. Despite several warnings from authorities to stay at home, people are not following guidelines.

UK residents hit beaches, parks amid lockdown | Coronavirus Pandemic

Carrie Symonds, the pregnant fiance of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said she had spent the past week in bed with symptoms of the novel coronavirus but after seven days of rest felt stronger and was on the mend.

"I’ve spent the past week in bed with the main symptoms of Coronavirus. I haven’t needed to be tested and, after seven days of rest, I feel stronger and I’m on the mend," Symonds said.

"Being pregnant with Covid-19 is obviously worrying. To other pregnant women, please do read and follow the most up to date guidance which I found to be very reassuring."

Johnson said on Friday he was remaining in isolation with mild symptoms of COVID-19, including a raised temperature, seven days after he first tested positive for the new coronavirus which causes the respiratory disease.

Johnson, 55, and Symonds, now 32, announced in February that they were expecting their first child together and were engaged to be married.

After Johnson last month became the first leader of a major power to announce that he had tested positive, he went into isolation at a flat in Downing Street, though the couple normally live together.

Symonds is the first unmarried partner to live openly with a British leader in recent history.

Carrie Symonds, the pregnant fiance of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said she had spent the past week in bed with symptoms of the novel coronavirus but after seven days of rest felt stronger and was on the mend.

Carrie Symonds, the pregnant fiance of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said she had spent the past week in bed with symptoms of the novel coronavirus but after seven days of rest felt stronger and was on the mend. "I’ve spent the past week in bed with the main symptoms of Coronavirus. I haven’t needed to be tested and, after seven days of rest, I feel stronger and I’m on the mend," Symonds said. "Being pregnant with Covid-19 is obviously worrying. To other pregnant women, please do read and follow the most up to date guidance which I found to be very reassuring." Johnson said on Friday he was remaining in isolation with mild symptoms of COVID-19, including a raised temperature, seven days after he first tested positive for the new coronavirus which causes the respiratory disease. Johnson, 55, and Symonds, now 32, announced in February that they were expecting their first child together and were engaged to be married. After Johnson last month became the first leader of a major power to announce that he had tested positive, he went into isolation at a flat in Downing Street, though the couple normally live together. Symonds is the first unmarried partner to live openly with a British leader in recent history.

UK PM Johnson's pregnant fiance had COVID-19 symptoms but on the mend

On an abandoned sidewalk in Baghdad, under strict government curfew to contain the novel coronavirus, a handful of volunteers with masks and gloves make food packages for needy families.

"What we're doing is a humanitarian duty towards society, and anyone who can afford it should do the same," said Abu Hashim, an Iraqi businessman in his fifties packing non-perishable goods outside a lonely storefront in the Iraqi capital's east.

The health ministry says COVID-19 has killed 56 Iraqis and infected more than 800 others. But many suspect the real numbers to be much higher, as only a few thousand people from a population of 40 million have been tested.

In a bid to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic, authorities have imposed a countrywide lockdown, ordering schools and most shops shut.

While the government is still paying salaries and pensions to millions, Iraq's modest private-sector economy has come to a grinding halt overnight. &nbsp;

Iraq is OPEC's second-biggest oil producer, but is ranked among the 20 most corrupt countries in the world by Transparency International. The World Bank says one in five Iraqis lives under the poverty line.

Sensing that relying on authorities would be unwise, young activists, community figures and local religious leaders have come together to try to support those with no income.

Using donations to buy essentials, like lentils, beans, rice and sugar, they pack supplies in plastic bags, talk their way through checkpoints and distribute them across the city. &nbsp;

'More dangerous than Daesh'

Mustafa Issa, a 31-year-old Iraqi Shiite Muslim who helps distribute food to more than 450 families, told AFP he felt bound by a religious duty to help.

"It's not like when we were under embargo in the 1990s," he said, referring to crippling international sanctions imposed on Iraq under former dictator Saddam Hussein that made even basic foodstuffs unavailable.

"Baghdad is full of food right now, but people can't buy it. One construction worker we support has a family of eight, and suddenly has no income. Another man had sold his cooking gas canister to buy food. A third sold his phone," he said.&nbsp;

In a society that deeply values abundance and generosity, particularly at the dinner table, some are too proud to admit they need help.

"One woman walked halfway across the city to ask for help at another mosque so no one from her own neighbourhood would recognise her," Issa said. &nbsp;

One government official told AFP that almost half the population could be food-poor by May, adding that authorities were studying options for subsidies.

The country imports most of its staples, including rice, meat and wheat. Officials say Iraq's $60 billion in reserves would cover more than a year of food imports, but already prime minister-designate Adnan Zurfi on Saturday expressed worry that the government might have to cut public-sector wages.&nbsp;

Issa was not taking any chances.

"We don't know when this crisis will end. It could go on until July. Some of us are storing goods for later," he said.&nbsp;

"This is more dangerous than Daesh," he added, referring to the Islamic State jihadist group that swept through a third of Iraq in 2014.

That conflict further ravaged Iraq's dilapidated medical infrastructure, and there are fears a spike in COVID-19 cases would overwhelm hospitals. &nbsp;

'Until God saves us'

Iraq, which relies on oil revenues for more than 90 per cent of its state budget, is also facing the lowest crude prices in more than a decade and a paralysed political class unable to reach consensus over a new cabinet. &nbsp;

Some Iraqis are taking public health into their own hands.&nbsp;

Asaad al-Saadi, 40, has turned his Baghdad home into a makeshift workshop, producing face masks to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19. &nbsp;

"I saw the pandemic was spreading quickly and the simplest ways to fight it weren't available," Saadi said.

He bought two sewing machines and now produces around 1,000 masks per day. They are distributed in packs of 10 to needy families.

Saadi is also considering making other kinds of protective gear for under-equipped health workers. &nbsp;

Such grassroots efforts have swept through the provincial capitals of the south, down to the oil-rich port city of Basra. &nbsp;

Some are led by Iraqi women, in a country that remains broadly conservative and where just 15 per cent of working-age women are employed.&nbsp;

Free food, money discretely slipped to desperate Iraqis, landlords suspending rent payments -- initiatives all independent of government or political directives.

Mohammad Jabboury, a farm owner in Iraq's west organising food distributions and urging landlords to lower rents, expressed a sense of obligation towards those less fortunate.

"It's our duty to help those in need until God saves us from this pandemic," he said.

On an abandoned sidewalk in Baghdad, under strict government curfew to contain the novel coronavirus, a handful of volunteers with masks and gloves make food packages for needy families.

On an abandoned sidewalk in Baghdad, under strict government curfew to contain the novel coronavirus, a handful of volunteers with masks and gloves make food packages for needy families. "What we're doing is a humanitarian duty towards society, and anyone who can afford it should do the same," said Abu Hashim, an Iraqi businessman in his fifties packing non-perishable goods outside a lonely storefront in the Iraqi capital's east. The health ministry says COVID-19 has killed 56 Iraqis and infected more than 800 others. But many suspect the real numbers to be much higher, as only a few thousand people from a population of 40 million have been tested. In a bid to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic, authorities have imposed a countrywide lockdown, ordering schools and most shops shut. While the government is still paying salaries and pensions to millions, Iraq's modest private-sector economy has come to a grinding halt overnight. Iraq is OPEC's second-biggest oil producer, but is ranked among the 20 most corrupt countries in the world by Transparency International. The World Bank says one in five Iraqis lives under the poverty line. Sensing that relying on authorities would be unwise, young activists, community figures and local religious leaders have come together to try to support those with no income. Using donations to buy essentials, like lentils, beans, rice and sugar, they pack supplies in plastic bags, talk their way through checkpoints and distribute them across the city. 'More dangerous than Daesh' Mustafa Issa, a 31-year-old Iraqi Shiite Muslim who helps distribute food to more than 450 families, told AFP he felt bound by a religious duty to help. "It's not like when we were under embargo in the 1990s," he said, referring to crippling international sanctions imposed on Iraq under former dictator Saddam Hussein that made even basic foodstuffs unavailable. "Baghdad is full of food right now, but people can't buy it. One construction worker we support has a family of eight, and suddenly has no income. Another man had sold his cooking gas canister to buy food. A third sold his phone," he said. In a society that deeply values abundance and generosity, particularly at the dinner table, some are too proud to admit they need help. "One woman walked halfway across the city to ask for help at another mosque so no one from her own neighbourhood would recognise her," Issa said. One government official told AFP that almost half the population could be food-poor by May, adding that authorities were studying options for subsidies. The country imports most of its staples, including rice, meat and wheat. Officials say Iraq's $60 billion in reserves would cover more than a year of food imports, but already prime minister-designate Adnan Zurfi on Saturday expressed worry that the government might have to cut public-sector wages. Issa was not taking any chances. "We don't know when this crisis will end. It could go on until July. Some of us are storing goods for later," he said. "This is more dangerous than Daesh," he added, referring to the Islamic State jihadist group that swept through a third of Iraq in 2014. That conflict further ravaged Iraq's dilapidated medical infrastructure, and there are fears a spike in COVID-19 cases would overwhelm hospitals. 'Until God saves us' Iraq, which relies on oil revenues for more than 90 per cent of its state budget, is also facing the lowest crude prices in more than a decade and a paralysed political class unable to reach consensus over a new cabinet. Some Iraqis are taking public health into their own hands. Asaad al-Saadi, 40, has turned his Baghdad home into a makeshift workshop, producing face masks to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19. "I saw the pandemic was spreading quickly and the simplest ways to fight it weren't available," Saadi said. He bought two sewing machines and now produces around 1,000 masks per day. They are distributed in packs of 10 to needy families. Saadi is also considering making other kinds of protective gear for under-equipped health workers. Such grassroots efforts have swept through the provincial capitals of the south, down to the oil-rich port city of Basra. Some are led by Iraqi women, in a country that remains broadly conservative and where just 15 per cent of working-age women are employed. Free food, money discretely slipped to desperate Iraqis, landlords suspending rent payments -- initiatives all independent of government or political directives. Mohammad Jabboury, a farm owner in Iraq's west organising food distributions and urging landlords to lower rents, expressed a sense of obligation towards those less fortunate. "It's our duty to help those in need until God saves us from this pandemic," he said.

Iraqis rally to help needy families as virus hits, economy falters

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Dubai has imposed a two-week lockdown to combat the spread. By now, Dubai was under a night curfew along with the rest of United Arab Emirates for about a week 
&nbsp; 
The UAE has more than&nbsp;1, 500 confirmed coronavirus cases, while 10 others are reported to have died.

While announcing the lockdown on Sunday, the country’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management called for strict adherence to the lockdown otherwise, legal action could be taken against the violators. 
&nbsp; 
During the lockdown, essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies will be completely functional. People will be only allowed to leave their homes for essential purposes only and just one family member is permitted to go out at any one time. 
&nbsp; 
People working in vital sectors are exempted from the imposed restrictions. 
&nbsp; 
Under the lockdown measures, Dubai's metro and tram service will be suspended for two weeks. 
&nbsp; 
Bus transportation will be functional for free and taxi rides will be offered at a 50 per cent discount during the lockdown. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;The emirate, which had previously sealed of the Al Ras area that houses a large migrant population, will now conduct extensive medical tests across densely populated areas. 
&nbsp; 
To combat the deadly virus, the country is also holding extensive disinfection drives. Public areas like parks and public transports were disinfected over the night. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;Meanwhile, &nbsp;Saudi Arabia has sealed off seven neighbourhoods of the red sea city of Jeddah as Gulf states tightened measures in big cities to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Saudi Arabia is worst hit in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council.

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Dubai has imposed a two-week lockdown to combat the spread. By now, Dubai was under a night curfew along with the rest of United Arab Emirates for about a week The UAE has more than 1, 500 confirmed coronavirus cases, while 10 others are reported to have died.

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Dubai has imposed a two-week lockdown to combat the spread. By now, Dubai was under a night curfew along with the rest of United Arab Emirates for about a week The UAE has more than 1, 500 confirmed coronavirus cases, while 10 others are reported to have died. While announcing the lockdown on Sunday, the country’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management called for strict adherence to the lockdown otherwise, legal action could be taken against the violators. During the lockdown, essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies will be completely functional. People will be only allowed to leave their homes for essential purposes only and just one family member is permitted to go out at any one time. People working in vital sectors are exempted from the imposed restrictions. Under the lockdown measures, Dubai's metro and tram service will be suspended for two weeks. Bus transportation will be functional for free and taxi rides will be offered at a 50 per cent discount during the lockdown. The emirate, which had previously sealed of the Al Ras area that houses a large migrant population, will now conduct extensive medical tests across densely populated areas. To combat the deadly virus, the country is also holding extensive disinfection drives. Public areas like parks and public transports were disinfected over the night. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has sealed off seven neighbourhoods of the red sea city of Jeddah as Gulf states tightened measures in big cities to contain the spread of the coronavirus. Saudi Arabia is worst hit in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council.

Two-weeks lockdown imposed in Dubai amid COVID-19 spread

Queen Elizabeth II is set to address to the nation and commonwealth countries about the coronavirus pandemic. In the message, the Queen will urge people to rise to the challenge posed by the coronavirus outbreak and will personally thank frontline healthcare staff and other key workers for their efforts during the crisis.

Queen Elizabeth II to address nation over COVID-19

The global death toll due to the lethal coronavirus has surpassed 64,000. Reports suggests that 85% of COVID-19 deaths in Europe has occurred in Spain, Italy, France and United Kingdom.

Over 708 new COVID-19 deaths reported in UK in 24 hours

Spain overtook Italy for the first time on Friday for the number of confirmed coronavirus cases, but the overnight death toll fell from the previous day, providing a small glimmer of hope.

With a total 117,710 confirmed cases, Spain is now second in the number of infections only to the United States, which has a population some seven times larger. Spain`s total death toll now stands at 10,935, second only to Italy`s 13,915 fatalities.

On a more hopeful note, Friday marked the first time in more than a week that the number of deaths fell from the previous day, to 932 fatalities from 950.

"The increase in the number of cases today is 7%, which confirms the reduction trend we`ve been observing," said Maria Jose Sierra, the deputy head of health emergency. That is down from a 20% increase one week ago.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has imposed one of Europe`s strictest lockdowns, leaving only employees in essential sectors such as health free to travel to and from work.&nbsp; 
Restaurants, bars and shops are shuttered, and social gatherings are banned.

Spaniards have been confined to home since March 14, with an initial 15-day period now extended till April 12. The government is now considering a second extension of the lockdown.

The foreign ministry said on Friday it launched an online platform called Aloja that would let Spaniards living abroad get in touch with stranded Spanish travellers and offer them accommodation.

"WE ARE AT MAXIMUM STRESS"

The lockdown has frozen business.

Fashion giant Inditex's logistic centres in Spain - the nerve centre of its global retail empire - are working at minimum activity.

Spain`s largest bank Santander said on Friday it had raised its lending capacity to 90 billion euros ($97 billion) after cancelling its dividend. Banks have been inundated with people seeking mortgage holidays.

Mortuaries have been overwhelmed, prompting regional authorities to set up a third improvised facility at an ice rink near Madrid on Friday, adapting the 1,800 square-metre space to receive corpses.

Soldiers and firefighters set up an emergency hospital on Friday in a sports centre in the Catalan town of Sabadell. The government has set up more than a dozen of these field hospitals around the country to treat patients.

"We are at the limit, we are at maximum stress," said Catalan regional government chief Quim Torra in an interview with Reuters. The region is Spain`s most populous and second worst-hit after Madrid.

More than 4,400 people have died in the Madrid region, data showed on Friday. The dead include people in the region`s overwhelmed nursing homes, which house some 50,000 people in the most vulnerable age bracket. 
&nbsp;

Spain overtook Italy for the first time on Friday for the number of confirmed coronavirus cases, but the overnight death toll fell from the previous day, providing a small glimmer of hope.

Spain overtook Italy for the first time on Friday for the number of confirmed coronavirus cases, but the overnight death toll fell from the previous day, providing a small glimmer of hope. With a total 117,710 confirmed cases, Spain is now second in the number of infections only to the United States, which has a population some seven times larger. Spain`s total death toll now stands at 10,935, second only to Italy`s 13,915 fatalities. On a more hopeful note, Friday marked the first time in more than a week that the number of deaths fell from the previous day, to 932 fatalities from 950. "The increase in the number of cases today is 7%, which confirms the reduction trend we`ve been observing," said Maria Jose Sierra, the deputy head of health emergency. That is down from a 20% increase one week ago. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has imposed one of Europe`s strictest lockdowns, leaving only employees in essential sectors such as health free to travel to and from work. Restaurants, bars and shops are shuttered, and social gatherings are banned. Spaniards have been confined to home since March 14, with an initial 15-day period now extended till April 12. The government is now considering a second extension of the lockdown. The foreign ministry said on Friday it launched an online platform called Aloja that would let Spaniards living abroad get in touch with stranded Spanish travellers and offer them accommodation. "WE ARE AT MAXIMUM STRESS" The lockdown has frozen business. Fashion giant Inditex's logistic centres in Spain - the nerve centre of its global retail empire - are working at minimum activity. Spain`s largest bank Santander said on Friday it had raised its lending capacity to 90 billion euros ($97 billion) after cancelling its dividend. Banks have been inundated with people seeking mortgage holidays. Mortuaries have been overwhelmed, prompting regional authorities to set up a third improvised facility at an ice rink near Madrid on Friday, adapting the 1,800 square-metre space to receive corpses. Soldiers and firefighters set up an emergency hospital on Friday in a sports centre in the Catalan town of Sabadell. The government has set up more than a dozen of these field hospitals around the country to treat patients. "We are at the limit, we are at maximum stress," said Catalan regional government chief Quim Torra in an interview with Reuters. The region is Spain`s most populous and second worst-hit after Madrid. More than 4,400 people have died in the Madrid region, data showed on Friday. The dead include people in the region`s overwhelmed nursing homes, which house some 50,000 people in the most vulnerable age bracket.

Spain overtakes Italy in coronavirus cases, death rate slows

Instead of prioritising the fight against the Coronavirus, Pakistan is pushing the UN Security Council to discuss the Kashmir issue. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Pakistan wants UNSC to discuss Kashmir | Wuhan Coronavirus

Two US lawmakers have come up with a bill, that would allow the Trump administration the power to sanction Chinese officials. The bill is named after Dr. Li Wenliang - the first coronavirus whistleblower. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Will the US sanction Chinese officials? | Wuhan Coronavirus

In the 24 hours through 12 a.m. on Friday, 562 people, died from the virus in New York State, bringing the total death toll to nearly 3,000, double

COVID-19 deaths surge in New York City

The Wuhan Coronavirus has now infected more than 1 million people in 181 countries and regions. India is reporting more than 2,000 active cases. WION's Palki Sharma brings you the latest numbers.

Gravitas: More than one million people infected | Wuhan Coronavirus

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