The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have begun providing emergency funds to developing and low-income countries across the world to strengthen their efforts to battle the rapidly spreading coronavirus.

IMF & World Bank's appeal to developed countries

Shoot-at-sight orders have been issued against lockdown violators in the Philippines. Meanwhile, the Queen is expected to make a rare TV address on Sunday. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the big global developments for Friday.

Gravitas: Tracking the big developments for April 3 Wuhan Coronavirus

India reported 355 new cases of novel coronavirus on Friday, taking its tally to 2,902. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated.

The total number of deaths reported due to COVID-19 disease rose to 68, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Saturday.

Maharashtra is the worst-hit state with 423 cases. Tamil Nadu is the next most affected state with 411 cases.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Delhi rose to 386.

The Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after several positive cases from across India were linked to the gathering -- including deaths in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana.

An FIR was earlier registered against Tablighi Jamaat head Maulana Saad and others under the Epidemic Disease Act 1897, in the national capital. 
&nbsp;

India reported 355 new cases of novel coronavirus on Friday, taking its tally to 2,902. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated.

India reported 355 new cases of novel coronavirus on Friday, taking its tally to 2,902. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated. The total number of deaths reported due to COVID-19 disease rose to 68, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Saturday. Maharashtra is the worst-hit state with 423 cases. Tamil Nadu is the next most affected state with 411 cases. The number of COVID-19 cases in Delhi rose to 386. The Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after several positive cases from across India were linked to the gathering -- including deaths in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. An FIR was earlier registered against Tablighi Jamaat head Maulana Saad and others under the Epidemic Disease Act 1897, in the national capital.

India reports biggest spike in 24 hrs, coronavirus cases cross 2,900

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the global economy to a standstill. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says the recession that has drawn upon the world is "way worse" than the global financial crisis a decade ago.

The IMF's managing director, Kristalina Georgieva, speaking at a joint news conference with the leader of the World Health Organisation (WHO), called on advanced economies to step up their efforts to help emerging markets and developing countries survive the economic and health impact of the pandemic.

"This is a crisis like no other. We have witnessed the world economy coming to a standstill. We are now in recession. It is way worse than the global financial crisis of 2008-2009," she said on a video conference call.

More than 1 million people worldwide have been infected with COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and more than 53,000 have died.

Georgieva said the IMF was working with the World Bank and WHO to advance their call for China and other official bilateral creditors to suspend debt collections from the poorest countries for at least a year until the pandemic subsides.

Emerging markets and developing economies have been hard hit by the crisis, Georgieva said, noting that nearly $90 billion in investments had already flowed out of emerging markets, far more than during the financial crisis. Some countries are also suffering from sharp drops in commodity prices.

"Helping emerging markets and developing countries will be a main priority for the IMF in coming weeks and months," she said.

The IMF and WHO have called for emergency aid to be used mainly to strengthen health systems, pay doctors and nurses, and buy protective gear.

The IMF has begun disbursing funds to requesting countries, including Rwanda, with requests from two additional African nations to be reviewed on Friday.

The IMF's board in coming days would review a proposal to create a new short-term liquidity line to help provide funds to countries facing problems. Georgieva also urged central banks and particularly the US Federal Reserve to continue offering swap lines to emerging economies.

(with inputs from agencies)

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the global economy to a standstill. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says the recession that has drawn upon the world is "way worse" than the global financial crisis a decade ago.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the global economy to a standstill. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says the recession that has drawn upon the world is "way worse" than the global financial crisis a decade ago. The IMF's managing director, Kristalina Georgieva, speaking at a joint news conference with the leader of the World Health Organisation (WHO), called on advanced economies to step up their efforts to help emerging markets and developing countries survive the economic and health impact of the pandemic. "This is a crisis like no other. We have witnessed the world economy coming to a standstill. We are now in recession. It is way worse than the global financial crisis of 2008-2009," she said on a video conference call. More than 1 million people worldwide have been infected with COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and more than 53,000 have died. Georgieva said the IMF was working with the World Bank and WHO to advance their call for China and other official bilateral creditors to suspend debt collections from the poorest countries for at least a year until the pandemic subsides. Emerging markets and developing economies have been hard hit by the crisis, Georgieva said, noting that nearly $90 billion in investments had already flowed out of emerging markets, far more than during the financial crisis. Some countries are also suffering from sharp drops in commodity prices. "Helping emerging markets and developing countries will be a main priority for the IMF in coming weeks and months," she said. The IMF and WHO have called for emergency aid to be used mainly to strengthen health systems, pay doctors and nurses, and buy protective gear. The IMF has begun disbursing funds to requesting countries, including Rwanda, with requests from two additional African nations to be reviewed on Friday. The IMF's board in coming days would review a proposal to create a new short-term liquidity line to help provide funds to countries facing problems. Georgieva also urged central banks and particularly the US Federal Reserve to continue offering swap lines to emerging economies. (with inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus-induced global downturn worse than financial crisis a decade ago: IMF

The world is battling the coronavirus, the stress is on conducting a maximum number of tests and quarantining those who test positive, but there have been several cases where the patients did not show any symptoms of having the infection.

Such cases remain the biggest threat to the efforts towards breaking the chain of transmission.

In Pakistan, three cases have emerged which once again stress on the importance of testing even those who do not show symptoms for the coronavirus.

On March 29, five Pakistani nationals returned to their homeland from India. This was done through a special arrangement made between the two government even though the borders remain closed.&nbsp;

All these Pakistani nationals were in India since March 8 on a medical visa. The patient received successful treatment for a liver ailment in a prominent hospital in Delhi-NCR and was discharged on March 29.&nbsp;

Till this time the patient or anyone of those accompanying him did not show any symptoms.

They were allowed to return via, the Attari-Wagah border under the special arrangements made by the two governments.

As part of the protocol, all 5 were tested for the novel coronavirus upon their return to Pakistan.

The test reports which came out on March 31, have now shown that 3 of these 5 people are infected with COVID-19.

The confirmation of coronavirus among these people leaves several others in the line of danger.

All the doctors who treated them and the officials who managed their return stand a good chance of contracting the virus.

This particular case has once again brought to fore the issue of whether there is a need for testing even those who are asymptomatic.

And once again the scales are titles towards the argument that tests need to be conducted irrespective of a person showing symptoms or not.

Studies have shown that several patients did not show any symptoms of the coronavirus at the time of admission to the hospital.

A study conducted by the Italian National Health Service has shown that of among the first 3,200 deaths, 5.7 per cent of the patients showed no symptoms when they were admitted to the hospital.

Several nations have mandated that only those showing symptoms will be tested.

This is partly due to the limited number of testing kits available. But could turn out to be a major lapse in the fight against COVID-19.

Not testing the asymptomatics is potentially the biggest roadblock to the efforts of flattening the curve.

China, the place where the first cases were reported seems to have understood this now.&nbsp;

It has begun listing out the numbers and details of asymptomatic patients which later tested positive for the coronavirus.

The aim is to fully wean-off the threat of the coronavirus.

Individuals and institutions need to cooperation and flag these concerns.&nbsp;

The World Health Organisation has time and again stressed on the need to conduct more tests, even on the asymptomatic population.

As WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus said, "tests... tests... and tests... remain the best bet to combat the coronavirus".

The world is battling the coronavirus, the stress is on conducting a maximum number of tests and quarantining those who test positive, but there have been several cases where the patients did not show any symptoms of having the infection.

The world is battling the coronavirus, the stress is on conducting a maximum number of tests and quarantining those who test positive, but there have been several cases where the patients did not show any symptoms of having the infection. Such cases remain the biggest threat to the efforts towards breaking the chain of transmission. In Pakistan, three cases have emerged which once again stress on the importance of testing even those who do not show symptoms for the coronavirus. On March 29, five Pakistani nationals returned to their homeland from India. This was done through a special arrangement made between the two government even though the borders remain closed. All these Pakistani nationals were in India since March 8 on a medical visa. The patient received successful treatment for a liver ailment in a prominent hospital in Delhi-NCR and was discharged on March 29. Till this time the patient or anyone of those accompanying him did not show any symptoms. They were allowed to return via, the Attari-Wagah border under the special arrangements made by the two governments. As part of the protocol, all 5 were tested for the novel coronavirus upon their return to Pakistan. The test reports which came out on March 31, have now shown that 3 of these 5 people are infected with COVID-19. The confirmation of coronavirus among these people leaves several others in the line of danger. All the doctors who treated them and the officials who managed their return stand a good chance of contracting the virus. This particular case has once again brought to fore the issue of whether there is a need for testing even those who are asymptomatic. And once again the scales are titles towards the argument that tests need to be conducted irrespective of a person showing symptoms or not. Studies have shown that several patients did not show any symptoms of the coronavirus at the time of admission to the hospital. A study conducted by the Italian National Health Service has shown that of among the first 3,200 deaths, 5.7 per cent of the patients showed no symptoms when they were admitted to the hospital. Several nations have mandated that only those showing symptoms will be tested. This is partly due to the limited number of testing kits available. But could turn out to be a major lapse in the fight against COVID-19. Not testing the asymptomatics is potentially the biggest roadblock to the efforts of flattening the curve. China, the place where the first cases were reported seems to have understood this now. It has begun listing out the numbers and details of asymptomatic patients which later tested positive for the coronavirus. The aim is to fully wean-off the threat of the coronavirus. Individuals and institutions need to cooperation and flag these concerns. The World Health Organisation has time and again stressed on the need to conduct more tests, even on the asymptomatic population. As WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus said, "tests... tests... and tests... remain the best bet to combat the coronavirus".

Pakistan: 3 asymptomatic persons test positive for coronavirus

China on Saturday&nbsp;mourned the thousands of people who have died from coronavirus, terming them "martyrs".

The day of mourning coincided&nbsp;with the start of the annual Qingming tomb-sweeping festival, when millions of Chinese families pay respects to their ancestors.

China flew the national flag at half mast throughout the country and suspending all forms of entertainment. At 10 am (0200 GMT) Beijing time, the country observed three minutes of silence to mourn those who died, including frontline medical workers and doctors. Cars, trains and ships will sound their horns and air raid sirens will wail.

Coronavirus broke out in the wet city of Wuhan in December last year. More than 3,300 people in mainland China have died since then. Some 2,567 people have died in the city of 11 million people, accounting for more than 75 per cent of the country's coronavirus fatalities.

In Wuhan, all traffic lights in urban areas were&nbsp;turned red at 10 am and all road traffic will cease for three minutes.&nbsp;

As of Friday, the total number of nationally confirmed cases stood at 81,639, including 19 new infections, the National Health Commission said.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) termed the coronavirus outbreak as pandemic on March 11. 
&nbsp;

China on Saturday mourned the thousands of people who have died from coronavirus, terming them "martyrs". The day of mourning coincided with the start of the annual Qingming tomb-sweeping festival, when millions of Chinese families pay respects to their ancestors.

China on Saturday mourned the thousands of people who have died from coronavirus, terming them "martyrs". The day of mourning coincided with the start of the annual Qingming tomb-sweeping festival, when millions of Chinese families pay respects to their ancestors. China flew the national flag at half mast throughout the country and suspending all forms of entertainment. At 10 am (0200 GMT) Beijing time, the country observed three minutes of silence to mourn those who died, including frontline medical workers and doctors. Cars, trains and ships will sound their horns and air raid sirens will wail. Coronavirus broke out in the wet city of Wuhan in December last year. More than 3,300 people in mainland China have died since then. Some 2,567 people have died in the city of 11 million people, accounting for more than 75 per cent of the country's coronavirus fatalities. In Wuhan, all traffic lights in urban areas were turned red at 10 am and all road traffic will cease for three minutes. As of Friday, the total number of nationally confirmed cases stood at 81,639, including 19 new infections, the National Health Commission said. The World Health Organisation (WHO) termed the coronavirus outbreak as pandemic on March 11.

China mourns thousands who died from coronavirus in the country

In the wake of the rise in the number of confirmed new coronavirus cases in South Asia, three senior Indian officials said the lockdown would end only after an assessment of the situation in each state, and restrictions would be extended in districts where the coronavirus case spread has continued.

The Central government plans to review the lockdown, set to end on April 14. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said this week the country would pull out of the planned three-week lockdown in a phased manner.&nbsp;

The number of cases in South Asia neared 6,000 despite the restrictions on movement in some cities being tightened. India has been hardest hit by the disease in South Asia with some 2,902 cases, of which 68 have died.

"If people don't obey the rules seriously and cases continue to rise, then there may be no option but to extend the lockdown," Rajesh Tope, the health minister of Maharashtra, told Reuters.&nbsp;

"It could be extended in Mumbai and urban areas of Maharashtra by two weeks."

Maharashtra has 516 confirmed cases of COVID-19 - the disease caused by the coronavirus - and 26 people have died.

Public transport in large metros such as Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi, may only be restored in a phased manner days after the lockdown ends.

HOW TO CONTROL THE CROWD!?

Pakistan and Bangladesh, and India have struggled to convince conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing.

On Friday, Pakistani Muslims at a Karachi mosque clashed with baton-wielding police trying to enforce new curbs on gatherings to prevent Friday prayers and contain coronavirus infections. This came after the government in the southern province of Sindh, home to the financial hub of Karachi, enforced a three-hour curfew on Friday afternoon, in a bid to persuade Muslim worshippers to pray at home.

Pakistan has so far reported 2,547 coronavirus infections, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of the Tablighi Jamaat, an orthodox Muslim proselytising group.

(with inputs from Reuters)

In the wake of the rise in the number of confirmed new coronavirus cases in South Asia, three senior Indian officials said the lockdown would end only after an assessment of the situation in each state, and restrictions would be extended in districts where the coronavirus case spread has continued.

In the wake of the rise in the number of confirmed new coronavirus cases in South Asia, three senior Indian officials said the lockdown would end only after an assessment of the situation in each state, and restrictions would be extended in districts where the coronavirus case spread has continued. The Central government plans to review the lockdown, set to end on April 14. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said this week the country would pull out of the planned three-week lockdown in a phased manner. The number of cases in South Asia neared 6,000 despite the restrictions on movement in some cities being tightened. India has been hardest hit by the disease in South Asia with some 2,902 cases, of which 68 have died. "If people don't obey the rules seriously and cases continue to rise, then there may be no option but to extend the lockdown," Rajesh Tope, the health minister of Maharashtra, told Reuters. "It could be extended in Mumbai and urban areas of Maharashtra by two weeks." Maharashtra has 516 confirmed cases of COVID-19 - the disease caused by the coronavirus - and 26 people have died. Public transport in large metros such as Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi, may only be restored in a phased manner days after the lockdown ends. HOW TO CONTROL THE CROWD!? Pakistan and Bangladesh, and India have struggled to convince conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing. On Friday, Pakistani Muslims at a Karachi mosque clashed with baton-wielding police trying to enforce new curbs on gatherings to prevent Friday prayers and contain coronavirus infections. This came after the government in the southern province of Sindh, home to the financial hub of Karachi, enforced a three-hour curfew on Friday afternoon, in a bid to persuade Muslim worshippers to pray at home. Pakistan has so far reported 2,547 coronavirus infections, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of the Tablighi Jamaat, an orthodox Muslim proselytising group. (with inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus cases in South Asia near 6,000; Indian officials warn of lockdown extension in several parts

Decades old malaria-drug Hydroxychloroquine appears to have some good results in the treatment of coronavirus patients, US president Donald Trump has said.

"We continue to study the effectiveness of Hydroxychloroquine and other therapies in the treatment and prevention of the virus and will keep the American people fully informed in our findings," Trump told reporters during a press briefing at the White House on Friday.

Trump said that it looked as if Hydroxychloroquine is having some good results.

"It's looking like it (Hydroxychloroquine) is having some good results. I hope that would be a phenomenal thing,? Trump said, days after the US Federal and Drug Administration approved the drug being used in the treatment of coronavirus (COVID-19) patients.

The Trump administration has stockpiled millions of doses of Hydroxychloroquine, given the urgency of the situation.

"We have a tremendous supply of it, we ordered in the case that it works and it's going to have some pretty big impacts. We'll see what happens, Trump said.

However, a top member of the White House Task Force on Coronavirus has cautioned against arriving at any conclusion right now as tests in this regard are still underway.

"We still need to do the definitive studies to determine whether any intervention, not just this one, is truly safe and effective," Dr Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told Fox News in an interview.

"But when you don't have that information, it's understandable why people might want to take something anyway even with the slightest hint of being effective," he said.

A COVID-19 patient on Friday attributed her recovery to Hydroxychloroquine.

On day three of her hospitalisation at the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, Schwing Schwing was given Hydroxychloroquine. 
She told the local ABC affiliate that the malaria drug worked.

"I don't know how much of my recovery was due to the cocktail and how much of it was due to the length of the time I was spending recovering, but something certainly shifted," Schwing said.

The US till Friday reported 7,380 deaths and at least 276,500 infections due to the deadly coronavirus, the highest for any country in the world.

 
&nbsp;

Decades old malaria-drug Hydroxychloroquine appears to have some good results in the treatment of coronavirus patients, US president Donald Trump has said. "We continue to study the effectiveness of Hydroxychloroquine and other therapies in the treatment and prevention of the virus and will keep the American people fully informed in our findings," Trump told reporters during a press briefing at the White House on Friday.

Decades old malaria-drug Hydroxychloroquine appears to have some good results in the treatment of coronavirus patients, US president Donald Trump has said. "We continue to study the effectiveness of Hydroxychloroquine and other therapies in the treatment and prevention of the virus and will keep the American people fully informed in our findings," Trump told reporters during a press briefing at the White House on Friday. Trump said that it looked as if Hydroxychloroquine is having some good results. "It's looking like it (Hydroxychloroquine) is having some good results. I hope that would be a phenomenal thing,? Trump said, days after the US Federal and Drug Administration approved the drug being used in the treatment of coronavirus (COVID-19) patients. The Trump administration has stockpiled millions of doses of Hydroxychloroquine, given the urgency of the situation. "We have a tremendous supply of it, we ordered in the case that it works and it's going to have some pretty big impacts. We'll see what happens, Trump said. However, a top member of the White House Task Force on Coronavirus has cautioned against arriving at any conclusion right now as tests in this regard are still underway. "We still need to do the definitive studies to determine whether any intervention, not just this one, is truly safe and effective," Dr Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told Fox News in an interview. "But when you don't have that information, it's understandable why people might want to take something anyway even with the slightest hint of being effective," he said. A COVID-19 patient on Friday attributed her recovery to Hydroxychloroquine. On day three of her hospitalisation at the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, Schwing Schwing was given Hydroxychloroquine. She told the local ABC affiliate that the malaria drug worked. "I don't know how much of my recovery was due to the cocktail and how much of it was due to the length of the time I was spending recovering, but something certainly shifted," Schwing said. The US till Friday reported 7,380 deaths and at least 276,500 infections due to the deadly coronavirus, the highest for any country in the world.

Looks like Hydroxychloroquine is having some good results on coronavirus patients, says Trump

Good morning! Begin&nbsp;your day with WION's news brief!

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-records-1480-deaths-from-coronavirus-in-24-hours-sets-a-new-record-290507">US records 1,480 deaths from coronavirus in 24 hours, sets a new record</a>

The United States recorded 1,480 deaths from COVID-19 between Thursday and Friday, the worst 24-hour death toll globally since the pandemic began.

<img alt="Coronavirus in USA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="847cd277-471b-4398-8984-c53e2d2c00e1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/corona%20usa%202.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/novel-coronavirus-might-spread-through-normal-breathing-and-speaking-says-scientist-290516">China to mourn thousands who died from coronavirus in the country on Saturday</a>

The novel coronavirus might spread through the air via normal breathing and speaking, a top US scientist said on Friday. The study was conducted in the wake of the country's government recommending the use of face masks for everyone.

<img alt="Coronavirus in China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192c51fa-2eb5-4ddc-a2f4-70fe29749e54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/china%20corona%20re.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-deployed-at-quarantine-centres-housing-suspected-coronavirus-infected-tablighi-jamaat-members-290514">Police deployed at quarantine centres housing suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members</a>

Authorities in Ghaziabad have deployed police at all quarantine and isolation centres housing the suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members. The decision was taken on Friday, a day after a case for obscene behaviour, non-cooperation and other charges was filed against some inmates of an isolation ward for suspected coronavirus patients at a hospital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-deployed-at-quarantine-centres-housing-suspected-coronavirus-infected-tablighi-jamaat-members-290514"><img alt="Tablighi Jamaat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f5d05db-52ba-47e8-af17-9b9f2088f5fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tabligi-jamat.jpg" /></a> 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-mourn-thousands-who-died-from-coronavirus-in-the-country-on-saturday-290511">Novel coronavirus might spread through normal breathing and speaking, says scientist</a>

China has&nbsp;declared Saturday&nbsp;a day of mourning for the thousands of people who have died from coronavirus, terming them "martyrs".

<img alt="Coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93e20d20-2220-4191-9bfc-7fc9d62bdc37" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/135433-untitled-design-38.jpg" />

&nbsp;

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/watch-the-race-to-develop-covid-19-vaccine-290519">Watch: The race to develop COVID-19 vaccine</a>

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Good morning! Begin your day with WION's news brief! US records 1,480 deaths from coronavirus in 24 hours, sets a new record The United States recorded 1,480 deaths from COVID-19 between Thursday and Friday, the worst 24-hour death toll globally since the pandemic began.

Good morning! Begin your day with WION's news brief! US records 1,480 deaths from coronavirus in 24 hours, sets a new record The United States recorded 1,480 deaths from COVID-19 between Thursday and Friday, the worst 24-hour death toll globally since the pandemic began. China to mourn thousands who died from coronavirus in the country on Saturday The novel coronavirus might spread through the air via normal breathing and speaking, a top US scientist said on Friday. The study was conducted in the wake of the country's government recommending the use of face masks for everyone. Police deployed at quarantine centres housing suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members Authorities in Ghaziabad have deployed police at all quarantine and isolation centres housing the suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members. The decision was taken on Friday, a day after a case for obscene behaviour, non-cooperation and other charges was filed against some inmates of an isolation ward for suspected coronavirus patients at a hospital. Novel coronavirus might spread through normal breathing and speaking, says scientist China has declared Saturday a day of mourning for the thousands of people who have died from coronavirus, terming them "martyrs". Watch: The race to develop COVID-19 vaccine ×

Morning News Brief: US records 1,480 deaths from COVID-19 in 24 hours, novel coronavirus might spread through normal breathing and more

At the moment there is no singular cure to coronavirus, medical specialist can only treat symptoms. From potential vaccines to antibody treatment. Watch our report to know more.

Watch: The race to develop COVID-19 vaccine

The United States recorded 1,169 deaths from COVID-19 in last 24 hours, which is the worst 24-hour death toll since the pandemic began. The total number of people who have died since the start of the pandemic in the United States is over 7,000.

COVID-19: 1,169 dead in US in last 24 hours

The novel coronavirus might spread through the air via normal breathing and speaking, a top US scientist said on Friday. The study was conducted in the wake of the country's government recommending the use of face masks for everyone.

"The virus can actually be spread even when people just speak, as opposed to coughing and sneezing," Anthony Fauci, head of infectious diseases at the National Institutes of Health, told Fox News. He added, to this end, the guidance on masks would soon be changed.

Fauci's comments come after the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) sent a letter to the White House on April 1 that summarised the recent research on the subject. It said that though the research isn't yet conclusive, "the results of available studies are consistent with aerosolisation of virus from normal breathing."

As it stands, the official advice is that only sick people need to cover their faces, as well as those caring for them at home. US health agencies have said that the primary pathway of transmission is respiratory droplets, about one millimeter in diameter, expelled by sick people when they sneeze or cough.

But if the virus can be suspended in the ultrafine mist we expel when we exhale, in other words an aerosol, it becomes much harder to prevent its spread. This is an argument in favour of everyone covering their faces.

THE AEROSOL DEBATE

So far, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has been cautious on the airborne threat. In an analysis published on March 29, it wrote that aerosol transmission was only known to occur during particular medical treatments that required assisted breathing.

But a recent NIH funded study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus could become an aerosol and remain airborne for up to three hours.

This triggered a debate as critics said the findings were overblown.

The NAS letter pointed to preliminary research by the University of Nebraska Medical Center that found the genetic code of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, its RNA, were found in hard to reach areas of patients' isolation rooms.

The NAS scientists also pointed to two other studies.

The Hong Kong researchers collected viral samples from patients with the coronavirus and other viral respiratory illnesses, and gave some of the patients face masks. The masks reduced the detection of both droplets and aerosols for coronavirus patients.

The Chinese paper on the other hand raised concerns that personal protective gear used by health care workers could itself be a source of airborne virus.

The novel coronavirus might spread through the air via normal breathing and speaking, a top US scientist said on Friday. The study was conducted in the wake of the country's government recommending the use of face masks for everyone.

The novel coronavirus might spread through the air via normal breathing and speaking, a top US scientist said on Friday. The study was conducted in the wake of the country's government recommending the use of face masks for everyone. "The virus can actually be spread even when people just speak, as opposed to coughing and sneezing," Anthony Fauci, head of infectious diseases at the National Institutes of Health, told Fox News. He added, to this end, the guidance on masks would soon be changed. Fauci's comments come after the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) sent a letter to the White House on April 1 that summarised the recent research on the subject. It said that though the research isn't yet conclusive, "the results of available studies are consistent with aerosolisation of virus from normal breathing." As it stands, the official advice is that only sick people need to cover their faces, as well as those caring for them at home. US health agencies have said that the primary pathway of transmission is respiratory droplets, about one millimeter in diameter, expelled by sick people when they sneeze or cough. But if the virus can be suspended in the ultrafine mist we expel when we exhale, in other words an aerosol, it becomes much harder to prevent its spread. This is an argument in favour of everyone covering their faces. THE AEROSOL DEBATE So far, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has been cautious on the airborne threat. In an analysis published on March 29, it wrote that aerosol transmission was only known to occur during particular medical treatments that required assisted breathing. But a recent NIH funded study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus could become an aerosol and remain airborne for up to three hours. This triggered a debate as critics said the findings were overblown. The NAS letter pointed to preliminary research by the University of Nebraska Medical Center that found the genetic code of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, its RNA, were found in hard to reach areas of patients' isolation rooms. The NAS scientists also pointed to two other studies. The Hong Kong researchers collected viral samples from patients with the coronavirus and other viral respiratory illnesses, and gave some of the patients face masks. The masks reduced the detection of both droplets and aerosols for coronavirus patients. The Chinese paper on the other hand raised concerns that personal protective gear used by health care workers could itself be a source of airborne virus.

Novel coronavirus might spread through normal breathing and speaking, says scientist

Are there nations untouched by coronavirus? Check this out

Authorities in Ghaziabad have deployed police at all quarantine and isolation centres housing the suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members. The decision was taken on Friday, a day after a case for obscene behaviour, non-cooperation and other charges was filed against some inmates of an isolation ward for suspected coronavirus patients at a hospital.

To this end, the police staff in-charge of each centre will also be an inspector-level officer. One sub-inspector will be posted in two shifts of 12 hours each. Besides, two constables and four women police personnel will be deployed (as per the need) during the day, as well as in the night.

A complaint was made by the District Health Department officials in this regard.

As many as 897 Jamaat members have been quarantined at different facilities across Uttar Pradesh.

In addition, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday invoked the National Security Act (NSA)A against six persons from the Tablighi Jamaat, who were in quarantine at MMG District Hospital in Ghaziabad, for misbehaving with the hospital staff and termed them "enemies of humanity".

"They (accused) will not obey the law. Neither they will accept the system as they are the enemies of humanity. What they have done to women health workers is a heinous crime, they are being slapped with the NSA. We will not spare them," said Aditynath in a statement.

In the complaint to the Chief Medical Superintendent, staff members of the Ghaziabad-based MMG Government Hospital had written that many Jamaat members admitted to the isolation ward of the hospital were misbehaving with the employees and the nursing staff.

The complaint stated that the Jamaat members demanded tobacco and cigarettes; did not listen to any instruction given by the doctors and nursing staff; and they kept spitting in the ward. It added the Jamaat members, many of whom are COVID-19 suspects, were seen roaming around in semi-nude condition in front of female nursing staff and singing obscene songs.

On Thursday, an FIR was registered against six persons from Tablighi Jamat who are in quarantine at MMG District Hospital for "walking around the ward without their trousers on and making lewd gestures towards the nurses". The patients have now been shifted to Raj Kumar Goel Institute of Technology and kept under quarantine.

Officials also said the NSA would be slapped on people who attack police enforcing the 21-day lockdown imposed last week to prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic. They added the government would not deploy women health workers and policewomen at hospitals where patients linked to Jamaat are admitted to across Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Authorities in Ghaziabad have deployed police at all quarantine and isolation centres housing the suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members. The decision was taken on Friday, a day after a case for obscene behaviour, non-cooperation and other charges was filed against some inmates of an isolation ward for suspected coronavirus patients at a hospital.

Authorities in Ghaziabad have deployed police at all quarantine and isolation centres housing the suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members. The decision was taken on Friday, a day after a case for obscene behaviour, non-cooperation and other charges was filed against some inmates of an isolation ward for suspected coronavirus patients at a hospital. To this end, the police staff in-charge of each centre will also be an inspector-level officer. One sub-inspector will be posted in two shifts of 12 hours each. Besides, two constables and four women police personnel will be deployed (as per the need) during the day, as well as in the night. A complaint was made by the District Health Department officials in this regard. As many as 897 Jamaat members have been quarantined at different facilities across Uttar Pradesh. In addition, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday invoked the National Security Act (NSA)A against six persons from the Tablighi Jamaat, who were in quarantine at MMG District Hospital in Ghaziabad, for misbehaving with the hospital staff and termed them "enemies of humanity". "They (accused) will not obey the law. Neither they will accept the system as they are the enemies of humanity. What they have done to women health workers is a heinous crime, they are being slapped with the NSA. We will not spare them," said Aditynath in a statement. In the complaint to the Chief Medical Superintendent, staff members of the Ghaziabad-based MMG Government Hospital had written that many Jamaat members admitted to the isolation ward of the hospital were misbehaving with the employees and the nursing staff. The complaint stated that the Jamaat members demanded tobacco and cigarettes; did not listen to any instruction given by the doctors and nursing staff; and they kept spitting in the ward. It added the Jamaat members, many of whom are COVID-19 suspects, were seen roaming around in semi-nude condition in front of female nursing staff and singing obscene songs. On Thursday, an FIR was registered against six persons from Tablighi Jamat who are in quarantine at MMG District Hospital for "walking around the ward without their trousers on and making lewd gestures towards the nurses". The patients have now been shifted to Raj Kumar Goel Institute of Technology and kept under quarantine. Officials also said the NSA would be slapped on people who attack police enforcing the 21-day lockdown imposed last week to prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic. They added the government would not deploy women health workers and policewomen at hospitals where patients linked to Jamaat are admitted to across Uttar Pradesh. (with inputs from agencies)

Police deployed at quarantine centres housing suspected coronavirus-infected Tablighi Jamaat members

According to Morgan Stanley, the US economy is all set to shrink 5.5% in 2020. This would be the the worst decline since 1946.

COVID-19: US economy stares at worst fall since 1946

Shah Rukh Khan and wife Gauri have&nbsp;again extended their help to curb the&nbsp;spread of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-may-have-50000-covid-19-cases-by-april-25-govt-tells-supreme-court-290568">coronavirus</a>.

This time, Khans&nbsp;have offered their personal office in Mumbai for quarantine for children, elderly and women. 
 
On Saturday, BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation)&nbsp;shared the information on their&nbsp;official Twitter handle.&nbsp;"Stronger together. We thank Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan for offering their 4-storey personal office space to help expand our quarantine capacity equipped with essentials for quarantined children, women and elderly, Indeed a thoughtful and timely gesture!" the tweet read.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-salman-khan-to-priyanka-chopra-indian-celebs-help-daily-wage-earners-amid-lockdown-289290" hreflang="en">From Salman Khan to Priyanka Chopra, Indian celebs help daily wage earners amid lockdown</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a> 
 
We thank <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamsrk</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/gaurikhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gaurikhan</a> for offering their 4-storey personal office space to help expand our Quarantine capacity equipped with essentials for quarantined children, women &amp; elderly. 
 
Indeed a thoughtful &amp; timely gesture!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnythingForMumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnythingForMumbai</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NaToCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NaToCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/4p9el14CvF">https://t.co/4p9el14CvF</a>
— माझी Mumbai, आपली BMC (@mybmc) <a href="https://twitter.com/mybmc/status/1246313682906333185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the superstar&nbsp;<a href="Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation">pledged to donate</a> to a number of relief funds&nbsp;to PM initiative PM-CARES&nbsp;fund and the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund to combat the coronavirus.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cooking-washing-doing-dishes-how-celebrities-have-become-more-relatable-in-times-of-self-isolation-290376" hreflang="en">Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation</a> 
Without revealing the amount of money, Shah Rukh&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;shared that his companies -- Kolkata Knight Riders, Red Chillies Entertainment, Meer Foundation, and Red Chillies VFX -- will support the relief efforts for COVID-19.M

Before Shah&nbsp;Rukh Khan, many Bollywood celebrities such as Akshay Kumar to Salman Khan came&nbsp;forward to join the fight against the pandemic. 
 
Meanwhile, India's tally of coronavirus positive cases rose to 2,902, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active cases and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated.&nbsp;

Shah Rukh Khan and wife Gauri have again extended their help to curb the spread of coronavirus. This time, Khans have offered their personal office in Mumbai for quarantine for children, elderly and women.

Shah Rukh Khan and wife Gauri have again extended their help to curb the spread of coronavirus. This time, Khans have offered their personal office in Mumbai for quarantine for children, elderly and women. On Saturday, BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) shared the information on their official Twitter handle. "Stronger together. We thank Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan for offering their 4-storey personal office space to help expand our quarantine capacity equipped with essentials for quarantined children, women and elderly, Indeed a thoughtful and timely gesture!" the tweet read. In pics: From Salman Khan to Priyanka Chopra, Indian celebs help daily wage earners amid lockdown #StrongerTogether We thank @iamsrk & @gaurikhan for offering their 4-storey personal office space to help expand our Quarantine capacity equipped with essentials for quarantined children, women & elderly. Indeed a thoughtful & timely gesture!#AnythingForMumbai#NaToCorona https://t.co/4p9el14CvF — माझी Mumbai, आपली BMC (@mybmc) April 4, 2020 × Earlier, the superstar pledged to donate to a number of relief funds to PM initiative PM-CARES fund and the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund to combat the coronavirus. Also see: Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation Without revealing the amount of money, Shah Rukh on Thursday shared that his companies -- Kolkata Knight Riders, Red Chillies Entertainment, Meer Foundation, and Red Chillies VFX -- will support the relief efforts for COVID-19.M Before Shah Rukh Khan, many Bollywood celebrities such as Akshay Kumar to Salman Khan came forward to join the fight against the pandemic. Meanwhile, India's tally of coronavirus positive cases rose to 2,902, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active cases and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated.

Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri offer Mumbai office for quarantine facility

The US government is now recommending Americans wear cloth face-coverings on a voluntary basis to stem the spread of the coronavirus, President Donald Trump said on Friday, although he said he himself would not use one.

In a daily briefing with reporters, Trump stressed that the recommendation should not be seen as replacing social-distancing measures considered key to slowing the outbreak, which has now claimed more lives in New York state than the September 11, 2001, attacks.

"With the masks, it's going to be really a voluntary thing. You can do it, you don't have to do it. I'm choosing not to do it, but some people may want to do it and that`s OK," Trump said. 
Asked about the reasoning behind his decision, Trump cited his high-profile meetings. "As I greet presidents, prime ministers, dictators, kings, queens ... I don't see it for myself, I just don`t," Trump said.

Trump on Friday signed an order directing his administration to stop the export to other countries of N-95 face masks and other personal protective equipment needed in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement, Trump said his order under the Defense Production Act "is another step in our ongoing fight to prevent hoarding, price gouging, and profiteering by preventing the harmful export of critically needed PPE."

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro told Fox News the measure aims at cracking down on "brokers operating in shady black markets that have been vacuuming up masks and other protective gear here and exporting," and distributors who make money by sending the equipment abroad instead of filling domestic orders.

CHANGE IN RECOMMENDATIONS

The decision to promote mask use comes as state governors and hospitals clamor for scarce supplies of medical-grade masks for first responders. Experts had questioned the administration's decision not to urge widespread mask use, in contrast to other countries hit by the virus.

"What has changed in our recommendation? Well, it's important to know that we now know from recent studies that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms," Surgeon General Jerome Adams said, noting that new evidence points to viral transmission via speaking, in addition to coughing and sneezing.

"Even those who eventually become pre-symptomatic, meaning they will develop symptoms in the future, can transmit the virus to others before they show symptoms," he said.

Trump said the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention is not recommending the use of medical-grade masks for most people. He said Americans can make cloth masks at home.

The 3M Co said on Friday it would make more N95 respirator masks for the United States to fight the pandemic, but warned of the "humanitarian implications" of limiting supply to other countries as Trump directed.

"The narrative that we aren't doing everything we can as a company is just not true," 3M`s chief executive, Mike Roman, told CNBC television in an interview.

"STATES WERE TOTALLY UNPREPARED"

"I`m not at all happy with 3M," Trump said when asked about the pushback his order had received from Canada and the company. "I heard what he had to say today. I don`t know the gentleman, but we`re not happy with 3M."

Trump took aim at states as well, saying they should have been better prepared to respond to the pandemic with their own stockpiles of medical supplies, and should not have expected the federal stockpile to meet their needs.

"Many of the states were totally unprepared for this, so we had to go into the federal stockpile," Trump said. "We`re not an ordering clerk. They have to have for themselves." 
"We have been spending a tremendous amount of time, effort and billions and billions of dollars on making sure that they have what they have," he added.

Trump himself initially had downplayed the seriousness of the virus and his administration has drawn fire for its slow response.

Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said at the briefing that the government would use part of the $2.3 trillion stimulus law funding to compensate hospitals for caring for uninsured COVID-19 patients.

Asked if the compensation would include treatment of the 11 million immigrants who are in the country illegally, Trump said: "We'll be talking about that at a different time." He did not elaborate.

In a statement late on Friday, Trump said he intended to nominate Brian Miller, a special assistant to the president and senior associate counsel in the Office of White House Counsel, to be special inspector general for pandemic Recovery at the Department of the Treasury.

The US government is now recommending Americans wear cloth face-coverings on a voluntary basis to stem the spread of the coronavirus, President Donald Trump said on Friday, although he said he himself would not use one.

The US government is now recommending Americans wear cloth face-coverings on a voluntary basis to stem the spread of the coronavirus, President Donald Trump said on Friday, although he said he himself would not use one. In a daily briefing with reporters, Trump stressed that the recommendation should not be seen as replacing social-distancing measures considered key to slowing the outbreak, which has now claimed more lives in New York state than the September 11, 2001, attacks. "With the masks, it's going to be really a voluntary thing. You can do it, you don't have to do it. I'm choosing not to do it, but some people may want to do it and that`s OK," Trump said. Asked about the reasoning behind his decision, Trump cited his high-profile meetings. "As I greet presidents, prime ministers, dictators, kings, queens ... I don't see it for myself, I just don`t," Trump said. Trump on Friday signed an order directing his administration to stop the export to other countries of N-95 face masks and other personal protective equipment needed in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. In a statement, Trump said his order under the Defense Production Act "is another step in our ongoing fight to prevent hoarding, price gouging, and profiteering by preventing the harmful export of critically needed PPE." White House trade adviser Peter Navarro told Fox News the measure aims at cracking down on "brokers operating in shady black markets that have been vacuuming up masks and other protective gear here and exporting," and distributors who make money by sending the equipment abroad instead of filling domestic orders. CHANGE IN RECOMMENDATIONS The decision to promote mask use comes as state governors and hospitals clamor for scarce supplies of medical-grade masks for first responders. Experts had questioned the administration's decision not to urge widespread mask use, in contrast to other countries hit by the virus. "What has changed in our recommendation? Well, it's important to know that we now know from recent studies that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms," Surgeon General Jerome Adams said, noting that new evidence points to viral transmission via speaking, in addition to coughing and sneezing. "Even those who eventually become pre-symptomatic, meaning they will develop symptoms in the future, can transmit the virus to others before they show symptoms," he said. Trump said the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention is not recommending the use of medical-grade masks for most people. He said Americans can make cloth masks at home. The 3M Co said on Friday it would make more N95 respirator masks for the United States to fight the pandemic, but warned of the "humanitarian implications" of limiting supply to other countries as Trump directed. "The narrative that we aren't doing everything we can as a company is just not true," 3M`s chief executive, Mike Roman, told CNBC television in an interview. "STATES WERE TOTALLY UNPREPARED" "I`m not at all happy with 3M," Trump said when asked about the pushback his order had received from Canada and the company. "I heard what he had to say today. I don`t know the gentleman, but we`re not happy with 3M." Trump took aim at states as well, saying they should have been better prepared to respond to the pandemic with their own stockpiles of medical supplies, and should not have expected the federal stockpile to meet their needs. "Many of the states were totally unprepared for this, so we had to go into the federal stockpile," Trump said. "We`re not an ordering clerk. They have to have for themselves." "We have been spending a tremendous amount of time, effort and billions and billions of dollars on making sure that they have what they have," he added. Trump himself initially had downplayed the seriousness of the virus and his administration has drawn fire for its slow response. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said at the briefing that the government would use part of the $2.3 trillion stimulus law funding to compensate hospitals for caring for uninsured COVID-19 patients. Asked if the compensation would include treatment of the 11 million immigrants who are in the country illegally, Trump said: "We'll be talking about that at a different time." He did not elaborate. In a statement late on Friday, Trump said he intended to nominate Brian Miller, a special assistant to the president and senior associate counsel in the Office of White House Counsel, to be special inspector general for pandemic Recovery at the Department of the Treasury.

Trump advises voluntary mask use against coronavirus but won't wear one himself

The United States recorded 1,480 deaths from COVID-19 between Thursday and Friday, the worst 24-hour death toll globally since the pandemic began.

The number of fatalities so far in New York state alone is comparable to the loss of life in the United States in the September 11, 2001 attacks. The figures show that a wave of lethal coronavirus infections expected to overwhelm hospitals, even in relatively affluent, urban areas like New York, has begun to crash down on the United States.

According to the Johns Hopkins University's updated figures, the total number of people who have died since the start of the pandemic in the United States is now 7,406.

In addition, two of the main US coronavirus hot spots on Friday reported their biggest jumps yet in COVID-19 deaths.

New York is in an "extraordinary race against time," Mayor Bill de Blasio told a news briefing on Friday, warning that the city desperately needs reinforcements of medical personnel, supplies and hospital beds. He renewed his call for the federal government to mobilise the US military.

The 24-hour death toll in New York state was 562 by Friday morning, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said, raising its total to 2,935 fatalities since the start of the outbreak.

Another hot spot, Louisiana, reported that the number of its deaths from COVID-19, the highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus, rose from 310 at noon on Thursday to 370 at noon on Friday. That marked the biggest 24-hour increase in fatal cases yet in the Gulf Coast state.

Louisiana's largest city, New Orleans, has emerged as one of the US focal points of a health crisis that has forced much of the country's workforce to stay at home to avoid spreading infection.

In New Orleans, where Mardi Gras celebrations in late February are believed to have spread the virus before social distancing orders were imposed, the outbreak has proven far more lethal than elsewhere in the United States, with a per-capita death rate twice that of New York City.

Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards called for residents to abide by rules requiring them to stay home and avoid social gatherings as the number of infections statewide surpassed 10,000.

In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy ordered all flags lowered to half-staff for as long as the emergency lasts, saying his state was the first to take such a measure.

IMPACT ON ECONOMY

Hundreds of thousands of Americans have lost their jobs due to the pandemic. Economists said actual job losses were far greater but had yet to be reflected in employment figures as much of the economy had only begun to shut down last month.

In addition, the pandemic was posing side-effects even for law enforcement.

New York State Police on Friday reported a 15 per cent increase in incidents of domestic violence in March, compared to the same month in 2019.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States recorded 1,480 deaths from COVID-19 between Thursday and Friday, the worst 24-hour death toll globally since the pandemic began. The number of fatalities so far in New York state alone is comparable to the loss of life in the United States in the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The United States recorded 1,480 deaths from COVID-19 between Thursday and Friday, the worst 24-hour death toll globally since the pandemic began. The number of fatalities so far in New York state alone is comparable to the loss of life in the United States in the September 11, 2001 attacks. The figures show that a wave of lethal coronavirus infections expected to overwhelm hospitals, even in relatively affluent, urban areas like New York, has begun to crash down on the United States. According to the Johns Hopkins University's updated figures, the total number of people who have died since the start of the pandemic in the United States is now 7,406. In addition, two of the main US coronavirus hot spots on Friday reported their biggest jumps yet in COVID-19 deaths. New York is in an "extraordinary race against time," Mayor Bill de Blasio told a news briefing on Friday, warning that the city desperately needs reinforcements of medical personnel, supplies and hospital beds. He renewed his call for the federal government to mobilise the US military. The 24-hour death toll in New York state was 562 by Friday morning, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said, raising its total to 2,935 fatalities since the start of the outbreak. Another hot spot, Louisiana, reported that the number of its deaths from COVID-19, the highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus, rose from 310 at noon on Thursday to 370 at noon on Friday. That marked the biggest 24-hour increase in fatal cases yet in the Gulf Coast state. Louisiana's largest city, New Orleans, has emerged as one of the US focal points of a health crisis that has forced much of the country's workforce to stay at home to avoid spreading infection. In New Orleans, where Mardi Gras celebrations in late February are believed to have spread the virus before social distancing orders were imposed, the outbreak has proven far more lethal than elsewhere in the United States, with a per-capita death rate twice that of New York City. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards called for residents to abide by rules requiring them to stay home and avoid social gatherings as the number of infections statewide surpassed 10,000. In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy ordered all flags lowered to half-staff for as long as the emergency lasts, saying his state was the first to take such a measure. IMPACT ON ECONOMY Hundreds of thousands of Americans have lost their jobs due to the pandemic. Economists said actual job losses were far greater but had yet to be reflected in employment figures as much of the economy had only begun to shut down last month. In addition, the pandemic was posing side-effects even for law enforcement. New York State Police on Friday reported a 15 per cent increase in incidents of domestic violence in March, compared to the same month in 2019.

US records 1,480 deaths from coronavirus in 24 hours, sets a new record

Britain is unlikely to lift its stringent lockdown rules until the end of May, once the spread of the coronavirus has started to slow, a leading government adviser said on Saturday as the death toll rose to 4,313.

The government has put Britain into a widespread shutdown, closing pubs, restaurants and nearly all shops, while ordering people to stay home unless absolutely essential to venture out.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/americans-told-to-wear-masks-as-spain-sees-signs-of-hope-290591">Americans told to wear masks as Spain sees signs of hope</a>

The order is designed to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country, which has almost 42,000 confirmed cases. But some experts have started to question whether the shuttering of the economy will cost more lives in the long run.

"We want to move to a situation where at least by the end of May we're able to substitute some less intensive measures, more based on technology and testing, for the complete lockdown we have now," Neil Ferguson, a professor of mathematical biology at Imperial College London, told BBC Radio.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-extends-intensive-social-distancing-to-reach-50-daily-covid-19-cases-290573">UK's youngest COVID-19 victim, a 13-yr-old boy, buried without family in attendance</a>

Britain's death toll from the coronavirus rose by 20% to 4,313 by Friday afternoon with 708 new fatalties recorded, the health ministry said. That compared to a 23% rise on Thursday.

The peak of new cases could come within a week or 10 days, Ferguson said, but adherence to the strict rules will determine how quickly the rate of infections decline after that.

"It is quite finely balanced at the current time," he said, adding that Britain could have quite high levels of infection for "weeks and weeks" if people start to socialise.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-what-our-urban-life-will-look-like-after-the-coronavirus-pandemic-290481">Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic</a>

Britain initially took a restrained approach to the outbreak but Prime Minister Boris Johnson changed tack and imposed stringent social-distancing measures after Ferguson's modelling showed a quarter of a million people in the country could die.

The response has since been hampered by a lack of ventilators and an inability to carry out mass testing to determine whether the public, and particularly health workers, have built up an immunity.

Johnson, who has been in self-isolation after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, has invited opposition party leaders to a briefing next week with medical advisers, including the new leader of the Labour Party, Keir Starmer.

"As party leaders we have a duty to work together at this moment of national emergency," he said.

'Painted into a corned'

Some are questioning the long-term strategy.

A second senior government adviser, the chief pandemic modeller Graham Medley, said he feared Britain had painted itself into a corner, with no clear exit from a strategy that would damage the economic and mental well-being of many people.

Almost one million people have applied for welfare benefits in just two weeks in Britain, according to official data that shows the economy is set for a depression that could be worse than the slump in the 1930s.

"If we carry on with lockdown it buys us more time, we can get more thought put into it, but it doesn't resolve anything - it's a placeholder," Medley told the Times newspaper.

"We've kind of painted ourselves into a corner, because then the question will be, what do we do now? In broad terms are we going to continue to harm children to protect vulnerable people, or not?"

Health Minister Matt Hancock has set a goal of 100,000 tests per day by the end of this month, a tenfold increase that industry leaders have questioned due to shortages of equipment. It is also considering immunity certificates.

Separately the government said it would free prisoners who were deemed to be low risk and were within weeks of release.

Britain is unlikely to lift its stringent lockdown rules until the end of May, once the spread of the coronavirus has started to slow, a leading government adviser said on Saturday as the death toll rose to 4,313.

Britain is unlikely to lift its stringent lockdown rules until the end of May, once the spread of the coronavirus has started to slow, a leading government adviser said on Saturday as the death toll rose to 4,313. The government has put Britain into a widespread shutdown, closing pubs, restaurants and nearly all shops, while ordering people to stay home unless absolutely essential to venture out. Also read: Americans told to wear masks as Spain sees signs of hope The order is designed to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country, which has almost 42,000 confirmed cases. But some experts have started to question whether the shuttering of the economy will cost more lives in the long run. "We want to move to a situation where at least by the end of May we're able to substitute some less intensive measures, more based on technology and testing, for the complete lockdown we have now," Neil Ferguson, a professor of mathematical biology at Imperial College London, told BBC Radio. Also read: UK's youngest COVID-19 victim, a 13-yr-old boy, buried without family in attendance Britain's death toll from the coronavirus rose by 20% to 4,313 by Friday afternoon with 708 new fatalties recorded, the health ministry said. That compared to a 23% rise on Thursday. The peak of new cases could come within a week or 10 days, Ferguson said, but adherence to the strict rules will determine how quickly the rate of infections decline after that. "It is quite finely balanced at the current time," he said, adding that Britain could have quite high levels of infection for "weeks and weeks" if people start to socialise. Also read: Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic Britain initially took a restrained approach to the outbreak but Prime Minister Boris Johnson changed tack and imposed stringent social-distancing measures after Ferguson's modelling showed a quarter of a million people in the country could die. The response has since been hampered by a lack of ventilators and an inability to carry out mass testing to determine whether the public, and particularly health workers, have built up an immunity. Johnson, who has been in self-isolation after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, has invited opposition party leaders to a briefing next week with medical advisers, including the new leader of the Labour Party, Keir Starmer. "As party leaders we have a duty to work together at this moment of national emergency," he said. 'Painted into a corned' Some are questioning the long-term strategy. A second senior government adviser, the chief pandemic modeller Graham Medley, said he feared Britain had painted itself into a corner, with no clear exit from a strategy that would damage the economic and mental well-being of many people. Almost one million people have applied for welfare benefits in just two weeks in Britain, according to official data that shows the economy is set for a depression that could be worse than the slump in the 1930s. "If we carry on with lockdown it buys us more time, we can get more thought put into it, but it doesn't resolve anything - it's a placeholder," Medley told the Times newspaper. "We've kind of painted ourselves into a corner, because then the question will be, what do we do now? In broad terms are we going to continue to harm children to protect vulnerable people, or not?" Health Minister Matt Hancock has set a goal of 100,000 tests per day by the end of this month, a tenfold increase that industry leaders have questioned due to shortages of equipment. It is also considering immunity certificates. Separately the government said it would free prisoners who were deemed to be low risk and were within weeks of release.

Britain set for long lockdown as death toll rises to 4,313

while addressing the leaders of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) member states, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the creation of a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Fund for SAARC.

5 Indian Medical teams on standby to help SAARC countries

A man in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district, who had a foreign-travel history, has tested positive for coronavirus -- days after he organised a funeral feast for 1,500 people. Eleven of his family members have also tested positive for the deadly virus.

To this end, the local authorities have sealed the entire colony -- comprising Ward number 47 in Prem Nagar and surrounding areas -- where the function took place on March 20. This also implies that as many as 26,000 people have been put under quarantine.

The man, identified as Suresh, works as a waiter in Dubai. He came to Morena on March 17.

Suresh developed coronavirus symptoms on March 25, but he visited a hospital four days later. He and his wife tested positive on Thursday.

Ten of his close relatives have also tested positive.

It's said the man was tested in Dubai before his arrival but had no symptoms.

India reported 355 new cases of novel coronavirus on Friday, taking its tally to 2,902. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-biggest-spike-in-24-hrs-coronavirus-cases-cross-2900-290536">Also read: India reports biggest spike in 24 hrs, coronavirus cases cross 2,900</a>

The total number of deaths reported due to COVID-19 disease rose to 68.

Madhya Pradesh has so fare reported over 150 cases.

(with inputs from agencies)

A man in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district, who had a foreign-travel history, has tested positive for coronavirus -- days after he organised a funeral feast for 1,500 people.

A man in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district, who had a foreign-travel history, has tested positive for coronavirus -- days after he organised a funeral feast for 1,500 people. Eleven of his family members have also tested positive for the deadly virus. To this end, the local authorities have sealed the entire colony -- comprising Ward number 47 in Prem Nagar and surrounding areas -- where the function took place on March 20. This also implies that as many as 26,000 people have been put under quarantine. The man, identified as Suresh, works as a waiter in Dubai. He came to Morena on March 17. Suresh developed coronavirus symptoms on March 25, but he visited a hospital four days later. He and his wife tested positive on Thursday. Ten of his close relatives have also tested positive. It's said the man was tested in Dubai before his arrival but had no symptoms. India reported 355 new cases of novel coronavirus on Friday, taking its tally to 2,902. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated. Also read: India reports biggest spike in 24 hrs, coronavirus cases cross 2,900 The total number of deaths reported due to COVID-19 disease rose to 68. Madhya Pradesh has so fare reported over 150 cases. (with inputs from agencies)

Madhya Pradesh man who threw a feast tests positive for coronavirus; 26,000 people put under quarantine

The Central government on Saturday issued an advisory asking people to wear "homemade face covers", particularly when they step out of their houses in order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 2,902 while the death toll increased to 68 on Saturday.

In the 'Advisory on the use of Homemade Protective Cover for Face and Mouth', the government said the use of such masks would help in protecting the community at large, and that certain countries have claimed benefits of homemade face masks for the general public.

The advisory underlined that usage of homemade masks certainly will help in maintaining overall hygiene, while cautioning that "this face cover is not recommended for either health workers or those working with or in contact with COVID 19 patients or are patients themselves as these categories of people are required to wear specified protective gear".

"It is suggested that people who are not suffering from medical conditions or having breathing difficulties may use the handmade reusable face cover, particularly when they step out of their house. This will help in protecting the community at large," it said.

The advisory also has a manual issued by the office of the government's Principal Scientific Advisor on homemade protective cover for face and mouth for curbing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

The manual suggested that "wearing face covers is especially recommended for people living in densely populated areas across India".

"Homemade reusable face covers only reduce the chances of inhaling droplets still in the air from an infected person, they do not give full protection," the manual read, while stressing that such face covers must be washed and cleaned every day.

It also stressed that social distancing must be maintained.

The proposed guide is meant to provide a simple outline of best practices to make, use and reuse face covers to enable NGOs and individuals make face protection covers themselves.

According to the manual, any used cotton cloth can be used to make face covers. The colour of the fabric does not matter but one must ensure that the fabric is washed well in boiling water for 5 minutes and dried well before making the face cover.

It also listed the procedures of making such homemade masks while asking people to ensure that it fits the face well and there are no gaps on the sides.

In the manual, the government urges people to wash hands thoroughly before wearing the face cover, switch to another fresh one as the face cover becomes damp or humid, and never reuse it without cleaning.

"Never share the face cover with anyone. Every member in a family should have separate face cover," the manual stated.

It also mentioned how such masks should be cleaned and sanitised everyday.

In the US, President Donald Trump has asked all citizens to voluntary use non-medical masks as an additional public health measure to fight the deadly coronavirus while keeping medical-grade masks available for health workers.

The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that Americans wear basic cloth or fabric masks that can be either purchased online or simply made at home.

The Central government on Saturday issued an advisory asking people to wear "homemade face covers", particularly when they step out of their houses in order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The Central government on Saturday issued an advisory asking people to wear "homemade face covers", particularly when they step out of their houses in order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. The number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 2,902 while the death toll increased to 68 on Saturday. In the 'Advisory on the use of Homemade Protective Cover for Face and Mouth', the government said the use of such masks would help in protecting the community at large, and that certain countries have claimed benefits of homemade face masks for the general public. The advisory underlined that usage of homemade masks certainly will help in maintaining overall hygiene, while cautioning that "this face cover is not recommended for either health workers or those working with or in contact with COVID 19 patients or are patients themselves as these categories of people are required to wear specified protective gear". "It is suggested that people who are not suffering from medical conditions or having breathing difficulties may use the handmade reusable face cover, particularly when they step out of their house. This will help in protecting the community at large," it said. The advisory also has a manual issued by the office of the government's Principal Scientific Advisor on homemade protective cover for face and mouth for curbing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The manual suggested that "wearing face covers is especially recommended for people living in densely populated areas across India". "Homemade reusable face covers only reduce the chances of inhaling droplets still in the air from an infected person, they do not give full protection," the manual read, while stressing that such face covers must be washed and cleaned every day. It also stressed that social distancing must be maintained. The proposed guide is meant to provide a simple outline of best practices to make, use and reuse face covers to enable NGOs and individuals make face protection covers themselves. According to the manual, any used cotton cloth can be used to make face covers. The colour of the fabric does not matter but one must ensure that the fabric is washed well in boiling water for 5 minutes and dried well before making the face cover. It also listed the procedures of making such homemade masks while asking people to ensure that it fits the face well and there are no gaps on the sides. In the manual, the government urges people to wash hands thoroughly before wearing the face cover, switch to another fresh one as the face cover becomes damp or humid, and never reuse it without cleaning. "Never share the face cover with anyone. Every member in a family should have separate face cover," the manual stated. It also mentioned how such masks should be cleaned and sanitised everyday. In the US, President Donald Trump has asked all citizens to voluntary use non-medical masks as an additional public health measure to fight the deadly coronavirus while keeping medical-grade masks available for health workers. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that Americans wear basic cloth or fabric masks that can be either purchased online or simply made at home.

Coronavirus: Govt issues advisory asking people to wear 'homemade face covers'

COVID-19 death toll in NY more than 9/11 fatalities

The global battle to acquire supplies | Coronavirus News | COVID-19 cases Individual governments have defended decisions to keep medical equipment at home, arguing they must take care of their medical workers and patients first

The global battle to acquire supplies

An Indian-American non-profit body has launched an initiative to protect the underprivileged communities in India against the coronavirus pandemic and help them emerge stronger through the resulting social and economic crisis.

The American India Foundation (AIF), which was founded in 2001 in the aftermath of the devastating Gujarat earthquake, on Friday said it will use its existing "service delivery platforms" comprising frontline health workers, teachers, community mobilisers and local self-governments to contribute to the COVID-19 preparedness and response and strengthen India's healthcare system.

"We believe that India's poor, who have limited access to the right information, healthcare and are predominantly employed or self-employed in the unorganised sector, are expected to bear a disproportionate brunt of the economic fallout of this unprecedented health emergency," AIF Chief Executive Officer Nishant Pandey said, launching the intervention framework for COVID-19 response.

"In the medium to long term, the impact of job losses, disruption in children's education and social isolation might turn out to be greater than those from the health emergency," he said, adding that the organisation will try to ensure that the communities with the greatest needs are not affected the hardest during this crisis.

The AIF's intervention framework for COVID-19 response includes behaviour change communication, promoting community preparedness and building long-term resilience of communities.

The AIF has earlier worked in the relief needs and reconstruction efforts in several catastrophes in India, including the 2001 Bhuj earthquake, 2004 Tsunami, 2008 Bihar flood, 2013 Uttarakhand flood, 2014 Kashmir flood, 2015 Chennai flood and 2018 Kerala flood. 
The organisation claims that it has so far impacted lives of 5.6 million of India's poor in 24 states.

An Indian-American non-profit body has launched an initiative to protect the underprivileged communities in India against the coronavirus pandemic and help them emerge stronger through the resulting social and economic crisis.

An Indian-American non-profit body has launched an initiative to protect the underprivileged communities in India against the coronavirus pandemic and help them emerge stronger through the resulting social and economic crisis. The American India Foundation (AIF), which was founded in 2001 in the aftermath of the devastating Gujarat earthquake, on Friday said it will use its existing "service delivery platforms" comprising frontline health workers, teachers, community mobilisers and local self-governments to contribute to the COVID-19 preparedness and response and strengthen India's healthcare system. "We believe that India's poor, who have limited access to the right information, healthcare and are predominantly employed or self-employed in the unorganised sector, are expected to bear a disproportionate brunt of the economic fallout of this unprecedented health emergency," AIF Chief Executive Officer Nishant Pandey said, launching the intervention framework for COVID-19 response. "In the medium to long term, the impact of job losses, disruption in children's education and social isolation might turn out to be greater than those from the health emergency," he said, adding that the organisation will try to ensure that the communities with the greatest needs are not affected the hardest during this crisis. The AIF's intervention framework for COVID-19 response includes behaviour change communication, promoting community preparedness and building long-term resilience of communities. The AIF has earlier worked in the relief needs and reconstruction efforts in several catastrophes in India, including the 2001 Bhuj earthquake, 2004 Tsunami, 2008 Bihar flood, 2013 Uttarakhand flood, 2014 Kashmir flood, 2015 Chennai flood and 2018 Kerala flood. The organisation claims that it has so far impacted lives of 5.6 million of India's poor in 24 states.

COVID-19: Indo-American body launches initiative for underprivileged communities in India

A 13-year-old boy who died after contracting the novel coronavirus became the UK's youngest virus-related fatality. What's sadder is he was laid to rest without the presence of his family members as they were in self-isolation.

Ismail Mohamed Abdulwahab from Brixton, south London, died alone at King's College Hospital on Monday. He was buried at the Eternal Gardens at Kemnal Park Cemetery in Chislehurst, southeast London, on Friday.

The Metro newspaper said, in a report, his mother and six siblings could not attend the funeral after a younger brother and an older sister also began displaying symptoms of the virus.

Ismail had tested positive for coronavirus a day after he was admitted to hospital on March 26. The teenager had no apparent underlying health conditions. His lungs failed and he had a cardiac arrest.

The UK has so far reported 38,690 coronavirus cases with 3,611 deaths.

A 13-year-old boy who died after contracting the novel coronavirus became the UK's youngest virus-related fatality. What's sadder is he was laid to rest without the presence of his family members as they were in self-isolation.

A 13-year-old boy who died after contracting the novel coronavirus became the UK's youngest virus-related fatality. What's sadder is he was laid to rest without the presence of his family members as they were in self-isolation. Ismail Mohamed Abdulwahab from Brixton, south London, died alone at King's College Hospital on Monday. He was buried at the Eternal Gardens at Kemnal Park Cemetery in Chislehurst, southeast London, on Friday. The Metro newspaper said, in a report, his mother and six siblings could not attend the funeral after a younger brother and an older sister also began displaying symptoms of the virus. Ismail had tested positive for coronavirus a day after he was admitted to hospital on March 26. The teenager had no apparent underlying health conditions. His lungs failed and he had a cardiac arrest. The UK has so far reported 38,690 coronavirus cases with 3,611 deaths.

UK's youngest COVID-19 victim, a 13-yr-old boy, buried without family in attendance

A Pakistan Senator from Prime Minister Imran Khan's People's Party has urged the United Nations to form a high-powered commission to prove whether the COVID-19 was man-made or a naturally grown virus.

The Senator and former Interior Minister, Rehman Malik wrote a letter to UN Secretay General Antonio Guterres on Saturday and made public in a video press conference. He proposed the commission formation under the UN Convention on Biological Weapons, 1975.

The commission should present its report to Guterres in three months, Malik said adding that its ''terms of reference'' (ToR) should include recommendations to prevent future breakouts of such viruses, and international standards for coordination in case of a breakout.

The deadly coronavirus pandemic had stirred up the worst global crisis since World War II, he also said.

Pakistan has so far recorded 2,708 coronavirus cases with 40 deaths. While 130 others have recovered so far.

Punjab -- the hotspot of the viral infection in Pakistan -- reported a total of 1,072 cases, followed by Sindh at 839, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 343, Balochistan 175, Gilgit-Baltistan 193, Islamabad 75 and 11 cases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). 
&nbsp;

A Pakistan Senator from Prime Minister Imran Khan's People's Party has urged the United Nations to form a high-powered commission to prove whether the COVID-19 was man-made or a naturally grown virus.

A Pakistan Senator from Prime Minister Imran Khan's People's Party has urged the United Nations to form a high-powered commission to prove whether the COVID-19 was man-made or a naturally grown virus. The Senator and former Interior Minister, Rehman Malik wrote a letter to UN Secretay General Antonio Guterres on Saturday and made public in a video press conference. He proposed the commission formation under the UN Convention on Biological Weapons, 1975. The commission should present its report to Guterres in three months, Malik said adding that its ''terms of reference'' (ToR) should include recommendations to prevent future breakouts of such viruses, and international standards for coordination in case of a breakout. The deadly coronavirus pandemic had stirred up the worst global crisis since World War II, he also said. Pakistan has so far recorded 2,708 coronavirus cases with 40 deaths. While 130 others have recovered so far. Punjab -- the hotspot of the viral infection in Pakistan -- reported a total of 1,072 cases, followed by Sindh at 839, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 343, Balochistan 175, Gilgit-Baltistan 193, Islamabad 75 and 11 cases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Pak Senator asks UN to probe whether COVID-19 is man-made or naturally grown virus

Fifteen Indians have died globally due to COVID-19 crisis, with a maximum number in the US at 6 followed by 5 in Italy. Two Indians have died in UAE, while one each in Iran and Egypt.

Fifteen Indians have died globally due to COVID-19 crisis, with a maximum number in the US at 6 followed by 5 in Italy. Two Indians have died in UAE, while one each in Iran and Egypt. The authorities have begun the process of repatriation of bodies. Meanwhile, the maximum number of Indians infected with COVID-19 is in Iran's Qom city where a quarantine centre has been created by the Indian mission in Iran. One Indian national in Sweden had committed suicide after getting COVID-19 positive report. Globally, India has evacuated more than 2500 of its citizens from 4 countries including China, Japan, Iran and Italy over the deadly COVID-19 crisis. Last week PM Modi had a video conference with Indian envoys across the world over the COVID-19 crisis. In the meet that lasted for 75 minutes, PM Modi complimented Heads of Missions for their "efforts to evacuate Indians stranded abroad" and "also to address other problems Indians might face abroad, including arranging shelter, where necessary and feasible" said a PMO release. During the meet, the Heads of Beijing, Washington DC, Tehran, Rome, Berlin, Kathmandu, Abu Dhabi, Kabul, Male, and Seoul missions spoke to PM Modi shared their perspectives about the on-ground situation The US seems to have become the epicentre of the crisis, after Europe with nearly 1500 deaths in the country in the 24 hours period between Thursday and Friday. The number of people dead in the US due to COVID is over 7000. The pandemic which started in China has spread across the world has infected more than 1,000,000 around the world with 50,000 deaths globally.

15 Indians die globally due to coronavirus

The entire region of Delhi and Rajasthan is grappling with the coronavirus challenge posed by the return of Tablighi Jamaat members from their congregation with cases reported from new areas being linked to them.

In at least five districts of Rajasthan, the first cases can be traced either to Tablighi Jamaat members or their contacts. The state has so far reported a total of 198 coronavirus positive cases, according to officials.

As many as 41 people who returned to the state after attending the Tablighi Jamaat's Nizamuddin Markaz, or their contacts, have tested positive for the virus since Wednesday.

The cases related to Tablighi Jamaat were first reported in Tonk where four people, who had attended the event in mid-March, tested positive on Wednesday.

Coronavirus has spread to 18 of the state's 33 districts.

The first cases in five districts -- Tonk, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Dausa and Bikaner - were related to Jamaat people.

Rajasthan Police has been able to trace 703 people related to the Jamaat so far. They have been home-quarantined or isolated in hospitals and the work of contact-tracing is underway.

Out of 703, 381 are from other states and 10 are from Nepal.

In Rajasthan, the maximum of positive cases (55) are from Jaipur and 13 of them are Tablighi Jamaat people. Most of the rest cases are from Ramganj locality. Bhilwara (27) and Jhunjhunu (15) follow Jaipur.

In Jhunjhunu, seven out of 15 are related to Jamaat.

The presence and movement of Jamaat people is high in Shekhawati region (which comprises Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar and nearby areas), Alwar, Bharatpur and nearby areas which are dominated by the Meo community people, and in Tonk, which has a sizeable Muslim population.

People from Jamaat have also been traced in Hanumangarh, Ganganagar, Karauli, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaipur and Dausa districts also.

DELHI

Out of the total 386 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in the national capital, 259 are from Markaz Nizamuddin.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Saturday said Delhi was facing a shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and requires 50,000 kits on an urgent basis.

In the last two days, 600 people linked to Markaz Nizamuddin have been quarantined in Delhi and efforts are underway to trace all their contacts.

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare's latest bulletin, there are 2902 positive COVID-19 cases in India, including 2650 active cases, 184 cured and discharged and 83 deaths.

(with inputs from agencies)

The entire region of Delhi and Rajasthan is grappling with the coronavirus challenge posed by the return of Tablighi Jamaat members from their congregation with cases reported from new areas being linked to them.

The entire region of Delhi and Rajasthan is grappling with the coronavirus challenge posed by the return of Tablighi Jamaat members from their congregation with cases reported from new areas being linked to them. In at least five districts of Rajasthan, the first cases can be traced either to Tablighi Jamaat members or their contacts. The state has so far reported a total of 198 coronavirus positive cases, according to officials. As many as 41 people who returned to the state after attending the Tablighi Jamaat's Nizamuddin Markaz, or their contacts, have tested positive for the virus since Wednesday. The cases related to Tablighi Jamaat were first reported in Tonk where four people, who had attended the event in mid-March, tested positive on Wednesday. Coronavirus has spread to 18 of the state's 33 districts. The first cases in five districts -- Tonk, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Dausa and Bikaner - were related to Jamaat people. Rajasthan Police has been able to trace 703 people related to the Jamaat so far. They have been home-quarantined or isolated in hospitals and the work of contact-tracing is underway. Out of 703, 381 are from other states and 10 are from Nepal. In Rajasthan, the maximum of positive cases (55) are from Jaipur and 13 of them are Tablighi Jamaat people. Most of the rest cases are from Ramganj locality. Bhilwara (27) and Jhunjhunu (15) follow Jaipur. In Jhunjhunu, seven out of 15 are related to Jamaat. The presence and movement of Jamaat people is high in Shekhawati region (which comprises Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar and nearby areas), Alwar, Bharatpur and nearby areas which are dominated by the Meo community people, and in Tonk, which has a sizeable Muslim population. People from Jamaat have also been traced in Hanumangarh, Ganganagar, Karauli, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaipur and Dausa districts also. DELHI Out of the total 386 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in the national capital, 259 are from Markaz Nizamuddin. Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Saturday said Delhi was facing a shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and requires 50,000 kits on an urgent basis. In the last two days, 600 people linked to Markaz Nizamuddin have been quarantined in Delhi and efforts are underway to trace all their contacts. According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare's latest bulletin, there are 2902 positive COVID-19 cases in India, including 2650 active cases, 184 cured and discharged and 83 deaths. (with inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Rajasthan, Delhi grapple with Tablighi Jamaat challenge

With millions in lockdown, nature is rebooting itself. Conservationists in the United States are expecting an increase in bird activity. WION's Palki Sharma gets you more.

Gravitas: Why the bird population is expected to rise

Pakistan's coronavirus cases rose to 2,708 on Saturday with COVID-19 claiming 40 lives, while 130 patients have recovered.

Punjab -- the hotspot of the viral infection in Pakistan -- reported a total of 1,072 cases, followed by Sindh at 839, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 343, Balochistan 175, Gilgit-Baltistan 193, Islamabad 75 and 11 cases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

On Friday, the World Bank approved USD 200 million in aid to Pakistan to help deal with the impact of the novel coronavirus.

According to Radio Pakistan, the project titled "Pandemic Response Effectiveness in Pakistan", will support the government to prepare and respond to the disease and strengthen national systems for public health preparedness.

In addition, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday announced a massive package to the construction sector to restart economy. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's coronavirus cases rose to 2,708 on Saturday with COVID-19 claiming 40 lives, while 130 patients have recovered. Punjab -- the hotspot of the viral infection in Pakistan -- reported a total of 1,072 cases, followed by Sindh at 839, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 343, Balochistan 175, Gilgit-Baltistan 193, Islamabad 75 and 11 cases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Pakistan's coronavirus cases rose to 2,708 on Saturday with COVID-19 claiming 40 lives, while 130 patients have recovered. Punjab -- the hotspot of the viral infection in Pakistan -- reported a total of 1,072 cases, followed by Sindh at 839, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 343, Balochistan 175, Gilgit-Baltistan 193, Islamabad 75 and 11 cases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). On Friday, the World Bank approved USD 200 million in aid to Pakistan to help deal with the impact of the novel coronavirus. According to Radio Pakistan, the project titled "Pandemic Response Effectiveness in Pakistan", will support the government to prepare and respond to the disease and strengthen national systems for public health preparedness. In addition, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday announced a massive package to the construction sector to restart economy.

Pakistan's COVID-19 tally surpasses 2,700, Punjab crosses 1,000-mark

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