The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday voiced concern about the rapid escalation and global spread of COVID-19 cases from the novel coronavirus, which has now reached 205 countries and territories.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that his agency, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) backed debt relief to help developing countries cope with the pandemic`s social and economic consequences.

He also praised India's $22.6 billion economic stimulus plan - announced after a 21-day lockdown imposed last week - to provide free food rations for 800 million disadvantaged people, cash transfers to 204 million poor women and free cooking gas for 80 million households for the next 3 months.

"For developing countries, debt relief is essential to enable them to take care of their people and avoid economic collapse. This is a call from the WHO, the World Bank and IMF - debt relief for developing countries. What we are proposing together is an expedited process to support countries so their economies will not be getting into crisis and their communities will not be really getting into crisis," Tedros said.

China, where the coronavirus outbreak first emerged in December, reported dwindling new infections on Wednesday and disclosed for the first time the number of asymptomatic cases, which could complicate how trends in the outbreak are read.

To this end, Dr Maria ver Kerkhove, a WHO epidemiologist who was part of an international team that went to China in February, said the WHO's definition included laboratory-confirmed cases "regardless of the development of symptoms".

"From data that we have seen from China in particular, we know that individuals who are identified, who are listed as asymptomatic, about 75 per cent of those actually go on to develop symptoms," she said, describing them as having been in a "pre-symptomatic phase".

The outbreak continues to be driven by people who show signs of disease including fever and cough, but it is important for the WHO to capture that "full spectrum of illness", she added. 
&nbsp;

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday voiced concern about the rapid escalation and global spread of COVID-19 cases from the novel coronavirus, which has now reached 205 countries and territories.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday voiced concern about the rapid escalation and global spread of COVID-19 cases from the novel coronavirus, which has now reached 205 countries and territories. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that his agency, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) backed debt relief to help developing countries cope with the pandemic`s social and economic consequences. He also praised India's $22.6 billion economic stimulus plan - announced after a 21-day lockdown imposed last week - to provide free food rations for 800 million disadvantaged people, cash transfers to 204 million poor women and free cooking gas for 80 million households for the next 3 months. "For developing countries, debt relief is essential to enable them to take care of their people and avoid economic collapse. This is a call from the WHO, the World Bank and IMF - debt relief for developing countries. What we are proposing together is an expedited process to support countries so their economies will not be getting into crisis and their communities will not be really getting into crisis," Tedros said. China, where the coronavirus outbreak first emerged in December, reported dwindling new infections on Wednesday and disclosed for the first time the number of asymptomatic cases, which could complicate how trends in the outbreak are read. To this end, Dr Maria ver Kerkhove, a WHO epidemiologist who was part of an international team that went to China in February, said the WHO's definition included laboratory-confirmed cases "regardless of the development of symptoms". "From data that we have seen from China in particular, we know that individuals who are identified, who are listed as asymptomatic, about 75 per cent of those actually go on to develop symptoms," she said, describing them as having been in a "pre-symptomatic phase". The outbreak continues to be driven by people who show signs of disease including fever and cough, but it is important for the WHO to capture that "full spectrum of illness", she added.

COVID-19 deaths rising, debt relief needed for developing nations: WHO

When the governments all over the world have been able to stem the growth of the novel coronavirus to an extent by taking stringent measures, danger, or rather death, continues to lurk at the sea.

A coronavirus-stricken cruise ship has become the bone of contention for the United States. Four people have died on the ship, and one of them reportedly is a British national.

So far two of the four people to have died on the cruise ship, the Zaandam, have been confirmed to have had COVID-19. Nine other people onboard have tested positive and 189 others have reported flu-like symptoms.

The officials at the ship, however, cannot provide any additional medical and health details, due to US law.

The Zaandam originally departed from Buenos Aires on 7 March – a day before the US state department advised people to avoid cruise travel and before any substantial restrictions were in place in Florida. The ship had been scheduled to take several stops along its journey. But since March 15, the Zaandam has been denied entry at a succession of ports.

The Zaandam is carrying more than 200 British nationals. It's sister ship the Rotterdam passed through the Panama canal on Monday after being denied entry to several ports.

US President Donald Trump now has sought the authorities' approval to dock the ships in Florida later this week. Local authorities are, however, in dispute over whether to let passengers disembark, with the state’s hospitals already burdened with coronavirus cases.

The state’s governor is reluctant to allow the more than 1,000 people onboard the Zaandam to disembark, but the US president, Donald Trump, appears set to overrule him.

"I'm going to do what's right not only for us but for humanity," the president said during Tuesday night's White House press briefing.&nbsp;

"These are two big ships and they have a lot of very sick people," he said, referring to the ship, and another Holland America ship said to be ferrying a lot of infected persons.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sailors-do-not-need-to-die-us-warship-captain-reports-coronavirus-cases-in-guam-289833">Also read --&nbsp;'Sailors do not need to die': US warship captain reports coronavirus cases in Guam</a>

In another case, the number of coronavirus cases aboard the aircraft carrier -- the USS Theodore Roosevelt -- has approached 100, leading the ship's commanding officer to issue a stark warning to top Navy leadership about the need to get sailors off the ship.

Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly said 1,273 of the ship's roughly 4,800 crew members have been tested for the virus so far and the Navy was still awaiting the results of some of those tests.

About 1,000 sailors have been evacuated form the ship and moved ashore to Guam where the ship is currently in port. Some of the sailors will be quarantined in hotel rooms in Guam. 
memo.

Roosevelt had weapons, munitions and expensive aircraft on it. It had a nuclear power plant too, and thereby required a certain amount of people on that ship to maintain the safety and security of the ship.

Last week the Pentagon confirmed three sailors on the Roosevelt had tested positive and that number had risen to 25 two days later.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-records-highest-single-day-death-toll-due-to-coronavirus-at-884-289982">Also read:&nbsp;US records highest single-day death toll due to coronavirus at 884</a>

When the governments all over the world have been able to stem the growth of the novel coronavirus to an extent by taking stringent measures, danger, or rather death, continues to lurk at the sea.

When the governments all over the world have been able to stem the growth of the novel coronavirus to an extent by taking stringent measures, danger, or rather death, continues to lurk at the sea. A coronavirus-stricken cruise ship has become the bone of contention for the United States. Four people have died on the ship, and one of them reportedly is a British national. So far two of the four people to have died on the cruise ship, the Zaandam, have been confirmed to have had COVID-19. Nine other people onboard have tested positive and 189 others have reported flu-like symptoms. The officials at the ship, however, cannot provide any additional medical and health details, due to US law. The Zaandam originally departed from Buenos Aires on 7 March – a day before the US state department advised people to avoid cruise travel and before any substantial restrictions were in place in Florida. The ship had been scheduled to take several stops along its journey. But since March 15, the Zaandam has been denied entry at a succession of ports. The Zaandam is carrying more than 200 British nationals. It's sister ship the Rotterdam passed through the Panama canal on Monday after being denied entry to several ports. US President Donald Trump now has sought the authorities' approval to dock the ships in Florida later this week. Local authorities are, however, in dispute over whether to let passengers disembark, with the state’s hospitals already burdened with coronavirus cases. The state’s governor is reluctant to allow the more than 1,000 people onboard the Zaandam to disembark, but the US president, Donald Trump, appears set to overrule him. "I'm going to do what's right not only for us but for humanity," the president said during Tuesday night's White House press briefing. "These are two big ships and they have a lot of very sick people," he said, referring to the ship, and another Holland America ship said to be ferrying a lot of infected persons. Also read -- 'Sailors do not need to die': US warship captain reports coronavirus cases in Guam In another case, the number of coronavirus cases aboard the aircraft carrier -- the USS Theodore Roosevelt -- has approached 100, leading the ship's commanding officer to issue a stark warning to top Navy leadership about the need to get sailors off the ship. Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly said 1,273 of the ship's roughly 4,800 crew members have been tested for the virus so far and the Navy was still awaiting the results of some of those tests. About 1,000 sailors have been evacuated form the ship and moved ashore to Guam where the ship is currently in port. Some of the sailors will be quarantined in hotel rooms in Guam. memo. Roosevelt had weapons, munitions and expensive aircraft on it. It had a nuclear power plant too, and thereby required a certain amount of people on that ship to maintain the safety and security of the ship. Last week the Pentagon confirmed three sailors on the Roosevelt had tested positive and that number had risen to 25 two days later. Also read: US records highest single-day death toll due to coronavirus at 884

Coronavirus scare looms larger as danger lurks at sea

The United Kingdom has reported the highest number of coronavirus deaths and infections in the last 24 hours. The country has reported 4324 positive cases and 563 deaths due to the deadly coronavirus.

UK struggles to battle COVID-19:  563 deaths in last 24 hours

The coronavirus cases are growing at fast rate, the world is shaken by the sheer magnitude of this outbreak.

Watch: Tracking the coronavirus pandemic

Malaysian government authorities advice to women to wear make-up and avoid nagging their husbands during the coronavirus lockdown has sparked accusations of sexism.

Malaysian government urges women to wear make-up at home

Life goes online amid coronavirus pandemic

The death toll due to coronavirus in the United States touched a new single-day high with 884 fatalities. The number of total death across the United States has now reached 4,475.

Highest rise in daily COVID-19 death toll in US

Russia has sent a cargo plane to the United States which is loaded with aid to fight the coronavirus. Masks and medical equipment has been sent to the US after President Donald Trump excepted an offer of humanitarian aid from Russian President Vladamir Putin. However, the critics are calling this as Russia's PR machinery to escape sanctions. Watch report:

Russia sends masks and medical equipment to US to fight COVID-19

Asian equities fell for a second session today after a warning about the US coronavirus death toll that has investors looking at the safety of dollars and bonds.

Indian markets shut today: Asian stocks slip on fresh virus warning

Around 2000 people have been infected in India and the death toll has climbed to 50 after the Tablighi Jamaat nightmare. In the latest 19 deaths out of the total 50 in India are related to the Tablighi Jamaat. The Health Ministry held a press conference and said that search is on to track all the people who attended the Tablighi Jamaat. PM Modi on the other hand that people of all religions must come together in the fight against the coronavirus.

Health Ministry: Tablighi Jamaat meet could be real cause of worry for India

Patients infected with COVID-19 can transmit the deadly virus one to three days before showing symptoms of the disease. According to the latest study published by US centers for disease control and prevention. Watch report:

Understanding transmission of COVID-19: US study confirms threat of silent carriers

Around 2000 people have been infected in India and the death toll has climbed to 50 after the Tablighi Jamaat nightmare. In the latest 19 deaths out of the total 50 in India are related to the Tablighi Jamat. Watch report:

Tablighi meet turns into virus nightmare: COVID-19 cases around 14 states linked to meet

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said he has decided to contribute his two years’ salary as an MP to the Prime Minister-CARES fund to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the country.

The BJP’s Lok Sabha member from East Delhi announced on his Twitter page, urging people to come forward and donate generously.

“People ask what can their country do for them. The real question is what can you do for your country? I am donating my 2 year’s salary to #PMCaresFund. You should come forward too,” Gambhir said.

Gambhir had earlier pledged a month’s salary for the cause and also released Rs 1 crore from his MPLAD fund. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to 50 deaths in the country as per official estimates with close to 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus, which has claimed over 40,000 lives worldwide

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said he has decided to contribute his two years’ salary as an MP to the Prime Minister-CARES fund to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the country.

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said he has decided to contribute his two years’ salary as an MP to the Prime Minister-CARES fund to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the country. The BJP’s Lok Sabha member from East Delhi announced on his Twitter page, urging people to come forward and donate generously. “People ask what can their country do for them. The real question is what can you do for your country? I am donating my 2 year’s salary to #PMCaresFund. You should come forward too,” Gambhir said. Gambhir had earlier pledged a month’s salary for the cause and also released Rs 1 crore from his MPLAD fund. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to 50 deaths in the country as per official estimates with close to 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus, which has claimed over 40,000 lives worldwide

COVID-19: Gautam Gambhir vows to contribute 2 years’ salary to PM CARES Fund

British Public Health authorities are in contact with&nbsp;Germany amid criticism that the UK is significantly lagging behind in its coronavirus testing capacity.

According to Paul&nbsp;Cosford, the organisation's medical director ''we’re in constant discussions with colleagues in Germany&nbsp;and other countries around what they’re doing, where their sources are coming from, what their supply system is.''

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-germany-is-winning-battle-against-the-coronavirus-outbreak-289784">How Germany is winning battle against the coronavirus outbreak</a>

''The country&nbsp;is testing nearly 15,000 people a day and aims to reach 25,000 a day by the middle of April.''

He says only ''about 2,000''&nbsp;frontline National Health Service workers have so far been tested for the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-uk-man-who-coughed-on-a-police-officer-jailed-for-six-months-290008">Coronavirus in UK: Man who coughed on a police officer jailed for six months</a>

Whereas, Germany's leading virologist Christian Drosten said&nbsp;his country is testing 500,000 a week. It&nbsp;is also planning to use cell phone tracking.

It wants to use smartphone location data to track a patient's recent movements and identify those who came in contact with the patient.

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Ministers and public health officials in UK are facing&nbsp;intense pressure to explain why Britain is struggling to match its European neighbour.
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British Public Health authorities are in contact with Germany amid criticism that the UK is significantly lagging behind in its coronavirus testing capacity. According to Paul Cosford, the organisation's medical director ''we’re in constant discussions with colleagues in Germany and other countries around what they’re doing, where their sources are coming from, what their supply system is.

British Public Health authorities are in contact with Germany amid criticism that the UK is significantly lagging behind in its coronavirus testing capacity. According to Paul Cosford, the organisation's medical director ''we’re in constant discussions with colleagues in Germany and other countries around what they’re doing, where their sources are coming from, what their supply system is.'' Also read: How Germany is winning battle against the coronavirus outbreak ''The country is testing nearly 15,000 people a day and aims to reach 25,000 a day by the middle of April.'' He says only ''about 2,000'' frontline National Health Service workers have so far been tested for the virus. Also read: Coronavirus in UK: Man who coughed on a police officer jailed for six months Whereas, Germany's leading virologist Christian Drosten said his country is testing 500,000 a week. It is also planning to use cell phone tracking. It wants to use smartphone location data to track a patient's recent movements and identify those who came in contact with the patient. Ministers and public health officials in UK are facing intense pressure to explain why Britain is struggling to match its European neighbour.

UK health authorities to take Germany's assistance for scaling up coronavirus testing

The coronavirus has affected even the mightiest countries of the world taking the global death toll to 48,276. Now according to some US researchers, there may be a ray of hope. BCG vaccine may offer protection against the deadly coronavirus. Watch report:

India's battle against COVID-19 Pandemic: BCG vaccine to offer COVID-19 protection

The British airways which are in negotiations with Unite Union have already stopped operations and are expected to announce the suspension of 36,000 employees due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis. Watch report:

COVID-19 impact on British airways: 36,000 employees to be suspended

Nepal purchased coronavirus testing kits worth millions of Nepalese rupees from China but soon the advisor to Nepal said that many countries using the same kits are showing unreliable and controversial results.

Government of Nepal rejects China's COVID-19 testing kits

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfares held a press conference on COVID-19 cases in India. The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus has crossed the 1,800-mark with 41 deaths. The authorities have also launched a nationwide search to track down the 6,000 people who attended the Nizamuddin Tablighi Jamaat congregation. On Wednesday 450 fresh cases of infection were reported.

Health Ministry briefs media on COVID-19: 28 new cases, 12 new deaths

United States President Donald Trump seems to be in no mood to spare China, especially of his aspersions on it. He on Wednesday cast doubt on the accuracy of official Chinese figures on its coronavirus outbreak. For the unversed, the US lawmakers have been accusing Beijing of a cover up ever since the coronavirus broke out in Wuhan, and when China -- for the first time -- shed light on the asymptomatic cases in the country they cited an intelligence report refuting the data.

The recent remark&nbsp;came after a senior Republican lawmaker cast doubt on Beijing's data and Bloomberg News said a classified US intelligence report had concluded that China had under-reported the total cases and deaths it had suffered.

"How do we know" if they are accurate, Trump asked at a press conference.&nbsp;

"Their numbers seem to be a little bit on the light side."&nbsp;

Trump said he had discussed how China had dealt with the coronavirus outbreak in a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last Friday, but "not so much the numbers".

Trump -- despite all the disagreements -- insisted that "the relationship with China's a good one" and that he remained close to&nbsp;Xi Jinping.

Trump's national security advisor, Robert O`Brien, told the same briefing Washington was "just not (in) the position to confirm any of the numbers that are coming out of China."

"There's lots of public reporting on whether the numbers are too low," he said.

Republicans in Congress have been suspecting of Beijing of misleading the international community on China's infections and deaths that began in late 2019 in the city of Wuhan.

China has publically reported 82,361 confirmed cases and 3,316 deaths as of Wednesday, according to a rolling tracker by Johns Hopkins University.

The Bloomberg report cited unidentified US officials as saying that a classified report, received by the White House last week, concluded that China's public reporting on cases and deaths was intentionally incomplete.

That compares to 206,207 cases and 4,542 deaths in the United States, the country with the world's largest reported outbreak.

Republican Senator Ben Sasse said the claim that the United States has more coronavirus deaths than China is false.

In a statement responding to the report, Michael McCaul, top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said China is "not a trustworthy partner" in the fight against COVID-19.

"They lied to the world about the human-to-human transmission of the virus, silenced doctors and journalists who tried to report the truth, and are now apparently hiding the accurate number of people impacted by this disease," McCaul said.

He and other lawmakers have called on the State Department to launch an investigation into what he called China's "cover up" of the pandemic.

Since Wednesday, China began releasing the data of the asymptomatic cases which numbered more than 1,300 following public concern.

China reported 35 new imported cases of the novel coronavirus while the death toll from the COVID1-9 infections increased to 3,318 after six more fatalities were confirmed on Wednesday from the virus hit Hubei province.

China's National Health Commission (NHC) in its daily report also said 37 new asymptomatic cases of the coronavirus were reported on Wednesday from the Hubei province.

(with inputs from agencies)

United States President Donald Trump seems to be in no mood to spare China, especially of his aspersions on it. He on Wednesday cast doubt on the accuracy of official Chinese figures on its coronavirus outbreak.

United States President Donald Trump seems to be in no mood to spare China, especially of his aspersions on it. He on Wednesday cast doubt on the accuracy of official Chinese figures on its coronavirus outbreak. For the unversed, the US lawmakers have been accusing Beijing of a cover up ever since the coronavirus broke out in Wuhan, and when China -- for the first time -- shed light on the asymptomatic cases in the country they cited an intelligence report refuting the data. The recent remark came after a senior Republican lawmaker cast doubt on Beijing's data and Bloomberg News said a classified US intelligence report had concluded that China had under-reported the total cases and deaths it had suffered. "How do we know" if they are accurate, Trump asked at a press conference. "Their numbers seem to be a little bit on the light side." Trump said he had discussed how China had dealt with the coronavirus outbreak in a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last Friday, but "not so much the numbers". Trump -- despite all the disagreements -- insisted that "the relationship with China's a good one" and that he remained close to Xi Jinping. Trump's national security advisor, Robert O`Brien, told the same briefing Washington was "just not (in) the position to confirm any of the numbers that are coming out of China." "There's lots of public reporting on whether the numbers are too low," he said. Republicans in Congress have been suspecting of Beijing of misleading the international community on China's infections and deaths that began in late 2019 in the city of Wuhan. China has publically reported 82,361 confirmed cases and 3,316 deaths as of Wednesday, according to a rolling tracker by Johns Hopkins University. The Bloomberg report cited unidentified US officials as saying that a classified report, received by the White House last week, concluded that China's public reporting on cases and deaths was intentionally incomplete. That compares to 206,207 cases and 4,542 deaths in the United States, the country with the world's largest reported outbreak. Republican Senator Ben Sasse said the claim that the United States has more coronavirus deaths than China is false. In a statement responding to the report, Michael McCaul, top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said China is "not a trustworthy partner" in the fight against COVID-19. "They lied to the world about the human-to-human transmission of the virus, silenced doctors and journalists who tried to report the truth, and are now apparently hiding the accurate number of people impacted by this disease," McCaul said. He and other lawmakers have called on the State Department to launch an investigation into what he called China's "cover up" of the pandemic. Since Wednesday, China began releasing the data of the asymptomatic cases which numbered more than 1,300 following public concern. China reported 35 new imported cases of the novel coronavirus while the death toll from the COVID1-9 infections increased to 3,318 after six more fatalities were confirmed on Wednesday from the virus hit Hubei province. China's National Health Commission (NHC) in its daily report also said 37 new asymptomatic cases of the coronavirus were reported on Wednesday from the Hubei province. (with inputs from agencies)

Trump does not trust China, says its coronavirus figures are on 'the light side'

China on Thursday slammed US lawmakers for the remarks they had made, doubting China's reporting of coronavirus cases in the country.

Hua Chunying, spokerperson to Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, during a daily briefing, China has been open and transparent about the coronavirus outbreak that began in the country late last year. She said the United States should "stop politicising a health issue and instead focus on the safety of its people."

"Regarding international public health security, the most qualified judges are the World Health Organization and related experts in infectious diseases and medical control, not a few politicians who are full of lies," Hua stressed.&nbsp;

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday cast doubt on the accuracy of official Chinese figures on its coronavirus outbreak. For the unversed, the US lawmakers have been accusing Beijing of a cover up ever since the coronavirus broke out in Wuhan, and when China -- for the first time -- shed light on the asymptomatic cases in the country they cited an intelligence report refuting the data.

"How do we know" if they are accurate, Trump asked at a press conference.&nbsp;

"Their numbers seem to be a little bit on the light side."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-does-not-trust-china-says-its-coronavirus-figures-are-on-the-light-side-290000">Also read: Trump does not trust China, says its coronavirus figures are on 'the light side'</a>

Since Wednesday, China began releasing the data of the asymptomatic cases which numbered more than 1,300 following public concern.

China reported 35 new imported cases of the novel coronavirus while the death toll from the COVID1-9 infections increased to 3,318 after six more fatalities were confirmed on Wednesday from the virus hit Hubei province.

China's National Health Commission (NHC) in its daily report also said 37 new asymptomatic cases of the coronavirus were reported on Wednesday from the Hubei province. 
&nbsp;

China on Thursday slammed US lawmakers for the remarks they had made, doubting China's reporting of coronavirus cases in the country. Hua Chunying, spokerperson to Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, during a daily briefing, China has been open and transparent about the coronavirus outbreak that began in the country late last year.

China on Thursday slammed US lawmakers for the remarks they had made, doubting China's reporting of coronavirus cases in the country. Hua Chunying, spokerperson to Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, during a daily briefing, China has been open and transparent about the coronavirus outbreak that began in the country late last year. She said the United States should "stop politicising a health issue and instead focus on the safety of its people." "Regarding international public health security, the most qualified judges are the World Health Organization and related experts in infectious diseases and medical control, not a few politicians who are full of lies," Hua stressed. United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday cast doubt on the accuracy of official Chinese figures on its coronavirus outbreak. For the unversed, the US lawmakers have been accusing Beijing of a cover up ever since the coronavirus broke out in Wuhan, and when China -- for the first time -- shed light on the asymptomatic cases in the country they cited an intelligence report refuting the data. "How do we know" if they are accurate, Trump asked at a press conference. "Their numbers seem to be a little bit on the light side." Also read: Trump does not trust China, says its coronavirus figures are on 'the light side' Since Wednesday, China began releasing the data of the asymptomatic cases which numbered more than 1,300 following public concern. China reported 35 new imported cases of the novel coronavirus while the death toll from the COVID1-9 infections increased to 3,318 after six more fatalities were confirmed on Wednesday from the virus hit Hubei province. China's National Health Commission (NHC) in its daily report also said 37 new asymptomatic cases of the coronavirus were reported on Wednesday from the Hubei province.

China slams US' remarks on COVID-19 data, information

According to the study, national differences in impact of coronavirus could be partially explained by the different national policies respect to a TB vaccine called Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine.

Study that projects TB vaccine can protect from COVID-19 is legit?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a video conference with all chief ministers to discuss ways to check the spread of coronavirus. This was the first video interaction after he enforced a pan-India lockdown on March 24.

The issues discussed in the meeting were contact tracing of those feared to be exposed to the deadly virus and isolation of those who test positive of the virus.

Issues such as spread of coronavirus, movement of migrants, availability of essentials and contact tracing of Tablighi Jamat participants also came up for discussion.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and top bureaucrats were present along with the prime minister.

This is for the second time the prime minister held a video conference with the chief ministers after the spread of coronavirus, and the first after the 21-day lockdown came into force.

On March 20 also, PM Modi interacted with the CMs.

According to the health ministry, death toll due to coronavirus touched 50 on Thursday. Total number of positive cases has risen to 1,965 in the country.

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a video conference with all chief ministers to discuss ways to check the spread of coronavirus. This was the first video interaction after he enforced a pan-India lockdown on March 24.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a video conference with all chief ministers to discuss ways to check the spread of coronavirus. This was the first video interaction after he enforced a pan-India lockdown on March 24. The issues discussed in the meeting were contact tracing of those feared to be exposed to the deadly virus and isolation of those who test positive of the virus. Issues such as spread of coronavirus, movement of migrants, availability of essentials and contact tracing of Tablighi Jamat participants also came up for discussion. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and top bureaucrats were present along with the prime minister. This is for the second time the prime minister held a video conference with the chief ministers after the spread of coronavirus, and the first after the 21-day lockdown came into force. On March 20 also, PM Modi interacted with the CMs. According to the health ministry, death toll due to coronavirus touched 50 on Thursday. Total number of positive cases has risen to 1,965 in the country.

PM Modi holds video conference with chief ministers over coronavirus

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday praised India's efforts in combating COVID-19, saying the USD 22.6-billion economic stilmulus plan would benefit millions of poor who have been affected by 21-day countrywide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus.

"What India is doing now, as I said in my statement, is very, very important. During an economic shutdown, there will economic consequences on the country at large," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, at the organisation's headquarters in Geneva.

Ghebreyesus acknowledged the fact that the lockdown has triggered supply constraints for essential items and panic buying, leaving the poor and daily labourers most vulnerable. He, however, said the stimulus plan would provide free food rations to at least 800 million disadvantaged people, cash transfers to 204 million poor women and free cooking gas for 80 million households for the next three months.

Under the scheme, the government aims to distribute 5 kg of wheat or rice for each person free of cost every month, with 1 kg of pulses for every low-income family, helping to feed about 800 million poor people over the next three months. India also intends to hand out free cooking gas cylinders to 83 million poor families, a one-time cash transfer of USD 13.31 to 30 million senior citizens and USD 6.65 a month to about 200 million poor women for next three months.

"But more importantly, individuals who live on daily subsistence who give their labour for their daily bread have been affected the most due to the lockdown. And that's why India is taking measures like package which will cover few million individuals during the difficult times.

"And that's the kind of support, we say, should be given. Many developing countries will struggle to implement social welfare programmes of this nature."

The total number of coronavirus cases in India climbed to 1965 on Thursday after 131 people confirmed positive in the past 12 hours, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Globally, more than 44,000 people have died, about 900,000 have been diagnosed with the virus, and some 190,000 have recovered. 
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The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday praised India's efforts in combating COVID-19, saying the USD 22.6-billion economic stilmulus plan would benefit millions of poor who have been affected by 21-day countrywide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday praised India's efforts in combating COVID-19, saying the USD 22.6-billion economic stilmulus plan would benefit millions of poor who have been affected by 21-day countrywide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus. "What India is doing now, as I said in my statement, is very, very important. During an economic shutdown, there will economic consequences on the country at large," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, at the organisation's headquarters in Geneva. Ghebreyesus acknowledged the fact that the lockdown has triggered supply constraints for essential items and panic buying, leaving the poor and daily labourers most vulnerable. He, however, said the stimulus plan would provide free food rations to at least 800 million disadvantaged people, cash transfers to 204 million poor women and free cooking gas for 80 million households for the next three months. Under the scheme, the government aims to distribute 5 kg of wheat or rice for each person free of cost every month, with 1 kg of pulses for every low-income family, helping to feed about 800 million poor people over the next three months. India also intends to hand out free cooking gas cylinders to 83 million poor families, a one-time cash transfer of USD 13.31 to 30 million senior citizens and USD 6.65 a month to about 200 million poor women for next three months. "But more importantly, individuals who live on daily subsistence who give their labour for their daily bread have been affected the most due to the lockdown. And that's why India is taking measures like package which will cover few million individuals during the difficult times. "And that's the kind of support, we say, should be given. Many developing countries will struggle to implement social welfare programmes of this nature." The total number of coronavirus cases in India climbed to 1965 on Thursday after 131 people confirmed positive in the past 12 hours, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Globally, more than 44,000 people have died, about 900,000 have been diagnosed with the virus, and some 190,000 have recovered.

Coronavirus: WHO praises India's USD 22.6 billion economic stimulus plan

Patients infected with COVID-19 can transmit the deadly virus one to three days before the emergence of symptoms, according to the latest study published by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Patients infected with COVID-19 can transmit the deadly virus one to three days before the emergence of symptoms, according to the latest study published by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The study looked at 243 cases reported in Singapore between January 23 and March 16. This is the second study of its kind that highlights the threat of silent carriers or asymptomatic patients in the fight against COVID-19. In pics: Here is a guide to key coronavirus terms On January 23, Singapore recorded its first case of COVID-19. By March 16, the island city-state had recorded 243 cases, including 157 locally-acquired cases. Among the 243 cases, researchers identified seven groups of people, who could have transmitted the virus before displaying symptoms. They were further classified into four groups based on the date of exposure to a COVID-19 patient. Then, researchers checked the date on which these four groups of people had developed symptoms. That’s the time period researchers were looking for -- the time period between contraction and showing symptoms. In pics: Famous politicians who got tested for or have contracted coronavirus In the next step, researchers checked if these patients had come in contact with anyone during that period. The conclusion: some COVID-19 positive patients had started transmitting the deadly virus to others one to three days before they started showing symptoms. According to the researchers, this presymptomatic transmission increases the challenges in the fight against COVID-19. "The possibility of presymptomatic transmission increases the challenges of containment measures," said the research report. In pics: Did Russia have prior knowledge of coronavirus pandemic? Under the current system, officials trace all the persons who may have come in contact with an infected person. mostly, after the infected person starts displaying symptoms. However, researchers have an advice to public health officials. "Public health officials conducting contact tracing should strongly consider including a period before symptom onset to account for the possibility of presymptomatic transmission," said the research report. That means: trace all the people who may have been exposed to the infected person one or three days before symptoms began to show. There is another concern. With the focus currently on testing only people who show symptoms, the researchers expect asymptomatic illness to go under-detected. For the first time since the outbreak, China has reported the number of asymptomatic cases -- that’s people testing positive for COVID-19 without showing any symptoms. The current count stands at 1,300 confirmed cases. But, according to the south china morning post, the number could be as high as 40,000. So far, we have recorded over 9,30,000 confirmed cases and over 47,000 deaths across the world. According to the researchers of this study, the potential for presymptomatic transmission underscores the importance of social distancing -- including the avoidance of congregate settings -- to reduce COVID-19 spread. Additionally, officials will need to carry out testing and contact tracing in greater numbers.

COVID-19 can spread 1 to 3 days before symptoms emerge: Study

Researchers in Australia's National Science Agency have begun testing vaccines for COVID-19. The trials are expected to take three months and will be conducted on ferrets to determine if either of the two vaccines are safe and effective.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) on Thursday announced it has commenced the first stage of testing at the Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL) in Geelong, 75 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Beginning vaccine candidate testing at CSIRO is a critical milestone in the fight against COVID-19, made possible by collaboration both within Australia and across the globe," Larry Marshall, the chief executive of the CSIRO, said in a media release.

"CSIRO researchers are working around-the-clock to combat this disease which is affecting so many -- whether it's at the AAHL or at our state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing facility -- we will keep working until this viral enemy is defeated."

CSIRO will also evaluate how to best administer the vaccines. Even if they are found to be effective and safe it could take 12 to 18 months for them to be rolled out around the world.

A lab-grown version of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, was in January moved from Melbourne to the AAHL.

"We have been studying SARS-CoV-2 since January and getting ready to test the first vaccine candidates as soon as they are available," Trevor Drew, the Director of the AAHL, said.

"We are carefully balancing operating at speed with the critical need for safety in response to this global public health emergency," he added.Globally, more than 44,000 people have died, about 900,000 have been diagnosed with the virus, and some 190,000 have recovered, according to data collected by Johns Hopkins University.

Researchers in Australia's National Science Agency have begun testing vaccines for COVID-19. The trials are expected to take three months and will be conducted on ferrets to determine if either of the two vaccines are safe and effective.

Researchers in Australia's National Science Agency have begun testing vaccines for COVID-19. The trials are expected to take three months and will be conducted on ferrets to determine if either of the two vaccines are safe and effective. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) on Thursday announced it has commenced the first stage of testing at the Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL) in Geelong, 75 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, Xinhua news agency reported. "Beginning vaccine candidate testing at CSIRO is a critical milestone in the fight against COVID-19, made possible by collaboration both within Australia and across the globe," Larry Marshall, the chief executive of the CSIRO, said in a media release. "CSIRO researchers are working around-the-clock to combat this disease which is affecting so many -- whether it's at the AAHL or at our state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing facility -- we will keep working until this viral enemy is defeated." CSIRO will also evaluate how to best administer the vaccines. Even if they are found to be effective and safe it could take 12 to 18 months for them to be rolled out around the world. A lab-grown version of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, was in January moved from Melbourne to the AAHL. "We have been studying SARS-CoV-2 since January and getting ready to test the first vaccine candidates as soon as they are available," Trevor Drew, the Director of the AAHL, said. "We are carefully balancing operating at speed with the critical need for safety in response to this global public health emergency," he added.Globally, more than 44,000 people have died, about 900,000 have been diagnosed with the virus, and some 190,000 have recovered, according to data collected by Johns Hopkins University.

Researchers in Australia begin testing coronavirus vaccines

Forced to cancel her 104th birthday celebrations due to the coronavirus outbreak, Ruth Gallivan's neighbors and friends in San Diego decided to bring the party to her by holding a surprise, drive-by, birthday party outside the centenarian's house.

Drive-by birthday party for 104-year-old WWII veteran in San Diego

Over the past week, the United States has become the new epicentre of the global coronavirus pandemic. New York alone accounts for roughly a quarter of the 1,00,000 infections in the whole United States. And more than 500 people have now died of the virus here.

The impact of the pandemic is still not at its peak, and yet the medical facilities are at a breaking point.

The United States has also overtaken China as the country with the most infections in the world.

But, contrary to this, New York has not yet been put under a lockdown -- one of the major reasons why the infection rate grew exponentially.

New York is the most densely populated city in the US, with some 27,000 residents per square mile. A lockdown could have helped people practise precaution.

Domestic flights are still operational. US President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence had earlier said domestic travel restrictions were an option to stop the spread of coronavirus, especially in "hot spots'' and areas where cases are out of control.

But they haven't announced any flight restrictions in New York or other states nor publically broached the subject recently, beyond reminding people they should avoid non-essential travel.&nbsp;

As a result, flights in the US are resorting to their own shutdown, prompting Trump to say he was mulling a ban on domestic flights.

Trump said on Wednesday that his administration was considering halting some domestic flights and rail lines between coronavirus “hot spots,” or cities where COVID-19 has hit hard.&nbsp;

“I am looking where flights are going into hot spots. Some of those flights I didn’t like from the beginning,” Trump said at a White House briefing on the pandemic.

“Closing up every single flight on every single airline, that’s a very, very, very rough decision. But we are thinking of hot spots, where you go from spot to spot, both hot.”

A national lockdown, however, looks like a far cry. When asked about the possibility, Trump said a national stay-at-home order wasn't needed because "you to give a little bit of flexibility" in states or regions where the coronavirus hasn't been as big a problem. He cited the Midwest and Alaska as examples.

Over the past week, the United States has become the new epicentre of the global coronavirus pandemic. New York alone accounts for roughly a quarter of the 1,00,000 infections in the whole United States.

Over the past week, the United States has become the new epicentre of the global coronavirus pandemic. New York alone accounts for roughly a quarter of the 1,00,000 infections in the whole United States. And more than 500 people have now died of the virus here. The impact of the pandemic is still not at its peak, and yet the medical facilities are at a breaking point. The United States has also overtaken China as the country with the most infections in the world. But, contrary to this, New York has not yet been put under a lockdown -- one of the major reasons why the infection rate grew exponentially. New York is the most densely populated city in the US, with some 27,000 residents per square mile. A lockdown could have helped people practise precaution. Domestic flights are still operational. US President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence had earlier said domestic travel restrictions were an option to stop the spread of coronavirus, especially in "hot spots'' and areas where cases are out of control. But they haven't announced any flight restrictions in New York or other states nor publically broached the subject recently, beyond reminding people they should avoid non-essential travel. As a result, flights in the US are resorting to their own shutdown, prompting Trump to say he was mulling a ban on domestic flights. Trump said on Wednesday that his administration was considering halting some domestic flights and rail lines between coronavirus “hot spots,” or cities where COVID-19 has hit hard. “I am looking where flights are going into hot spots. Some of those flights I didn’t like from the beginning,” Trump said at a White House briefing on the pandemic. “Closing up every single flight on every single airline, that’s a very, very, very rough decision. But we are thinking of hot spots, where you go from spot to spot, both hot.” A national lockdown, however, looks like a far cry. When asked about the possibility, Trump said a national stay-at-home order wasn't needed because "you to give a little bit of flexibility" in states or regions where the coronavirus hasn't been as big a problem. He cited the Midwest and Alaska as examples.

New epicentre of coronavirus, New York is far from a lockdown

Here is a guide to key coronavirus terms

A report brought new findings on the lethal coronavirus, According to the report, COVID-19 fatality rate ranges between 0.006%-7.8% and the average death rate is 1.38%.

COVID-19 fatality rate ranges between 0.006%-7.8%

China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases of coronavirus -- down from 48 a day earlier. Then on Wednesday, the country reported a fall in the new cases, with almost all cases imported from overseas.

All but one of the cases were imported, bringing the total number of imported cases to 806.

Another 130 asymptomatic cases were reported, with a total of 1,367 such cases under observation as of March 31.

There was one reported new case of a local infection, in Guangdong province.

China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases of coronavirus -- down from 48 a day earlier. Then on Wednesday, the country reported a fall in the new cases, with almost all cases imported from overseas.

China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases of coronavirus -- down from 48 a day earlier. Then on Wednesday, the country reported a fall in the new cases, with almost all cases imported from overseas. All but one of the cases were imported, bringing the total number of imported cases to 806. Another 130 asymptomatic cases were reported, with a total of 1,367 such cases under observation as of March 31. There was one reported new case of a local infection, in Guangdong province.

China reports 36 new coronavirus cases

Animals contracting coronavirus was a hearsay till now. But not anymore. A pet cat has tested positive for coronavirus in Hong Kong after its owner was confirmed with having the novel virus.

The city’s Agricultural and Fisheries department, however, in a notice cautioned that the animal had not shown any signs of the disease. Authorities said the cat would continue to be monitored and examined.

The World Health Organisation (WHO), however, states on their website that there is no evidence that a dog, cat or any pet can transmit COVID-19. The department also added there is currently no evidence that pet animals can be a source of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, and owners should not abandon their pets.

The cat is the third animal to test positive&nbsp;in Hong Kong,&nbsp;following&nbsp;earlier cases&nbsp;in which&nbsp;two&nbsp;dogs&nbsp;tested weak positive&nbsp;or positive&nbsp;during repeated tests for the virus.&nbsp;

Samples collected from the cat’s mouth, nose and&nbsp;rectum&nbsp;tested positive for the virus after it was sent to quarantine on March 30.

There has only been one other reported case of coronavirus in a cat, in Belgium, which is believed to have become infected from its owner, according to a statement from the Hong Kong Veterinary Association.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Animals contracting coronavirus was a hearsay till now. But not anymore. A pet cat has tested positive for coronavirus in Hong Kong after its owner was confirmed with having the novel virus.

Animals contracting coronavirus was a hearsay till now. But not anymore. A pet cat has tested positive for coronavirus in Hong Kong after its owner was confirmed with having the novel virus. The city’s Agricultural and Fisheries department, however, in a notice cautioned that the animal had not shown any signs of the disease. Authorities said the cat would continue to be monitored and examined. The World Health Organisation (WHO), however, states on their website that there is no evidence that a dog, cat or any pet can transmit COVID-19. The department also added there is currently no evidence that pet animals can be a source of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, and owners should not abandon their pets. The cat is the third animal to test positive in Hong Kong, following earlier cases in which two dogs tested weak positive or positive during repeated tests for the virus. Samples collected from the cat’s mouth, nose and rectum tested positive for the virus after it was sent to quarantine on March 30. There has only been one other reported case of coronavirus in a cat, in Belgium, which is believed to have become infected from its owner, according to a statement from the Hong Kong Veterinary Association. (with inputs from Reuters)

Pet cat 'tests positive' for coronavirus in Hong Kong

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