A charity in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with scientists, is trying to save lives in a new way: by using dogs!

Apparently, they’re trying to understand whether dogs can help in early detection of COVID-19, which has triggered a global pandemic in the last few weeks.

The basic idea is to employ the dogs’ strong sense of smell to zero in on positive cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fighting-coronavirus-singapores-social-distancing-rules-could-lead-to-prison-288790" hreflang="en">Fighting coronavirus: Singapore's social distancing rules could lead to prison</a>

The charity, called Medical Detection Dogs, is collaborating with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), alongside Durham University to ascertain whether dogs could help with detection and save lives.

Earlier evidence suggests that dogs possess capabilities of sniffing out malaria among people, simply based on the distinct odour which is released by people who may be sick. The organisations in question believe that all diseases have a distinct odour.

The dogs shall be trained for six weeks, "to help provide a rapid, non-invasive diagnosis towards the tail end of the epidemic", news agency AFP reported.

Earlier, MDD has successfully trained dogs to detect diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s, and bacterial infections.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32667670-8c69-47a1-9ccb-ff4f7cd7718d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_90.jpg" /> 
Stray dogs in Kolkata, India | AFP 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

Additionally, the canines are able to comprehend changes in temperature of the skin, helping healthcare workers understand if a person has fever.

"In principle, we're sure that dogs could detect COVID-19," said Claire Guest, founder and chief executive of Medical Detection Dogs.

"We are now looking into how we can safely catch the odour of the virus from patients and present it to the dogs… The aim is that dogs will be able to screen anyone, including those who are asymptomatic, and tell us whether they need to be tested”, Guest added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tops-world-in-virus-cases-overtaking-china-and-italy-288788" hreflang="en">US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy</a>

According to Guest, the process shall be “fast, effective, and non-invasive”. Additionally, the resources pooled in from the National Health Service (NHS) will be employed only and if needed.

LSHTM’s head of disease control claims that dogs are capable of detecting diseases like malaria in patients with high accuracy. Furthermore, respiratory diseases change one’s body odour, suggesting that it may be possible to find carriers of COVID-19.

Even though the research is at its early stages, scientists believe that dogs trained to detect people carrying the virus may be employed across airports once the pandemic is over. This will help in avoiding a second wave of the virus.

Over half a million (500,000) cases of the COVID-19 have been registered across the globe. The virus has killed over 22,920 people across 182 countries, the World Health Organization reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-crisis-chinas-role-at-g20-emergency-summit-not-raised-288783" hreflang="en">Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised</a>

A charity in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with scientists, is trying to save lives in a new way: by using dogs! Apparently, they’re trying to understand whether dogs can help in early detection of COVID-19, which has triggered a global pandemic in the last few weeks.

A charity in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with scientists, is trying to save lives in a new way: by using dogs! Apparently, they’re trying to understand whether dogs can help in early detection of COVID-19, which has triggered a global pandemic in the last few weeks. The basic idea is to employ the dogs’ strong sense of smell to zero in on positive cases. Also read: Fighting coronavirus: Singapore's social distancing rules could lead to prison The charity, called Medical Detection Dogs, is collaborating with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), alongside Durham University to ascertain whether dogs could help with detection and save lives. Earlier evidence suggests that dogs possess capabilities of sniffing out malaria among people, simply based on the distinct odour which is released by people who may be sick. The organisations in question believe that all diseases have a distinct odour. The dogs shall be trained for six weeks, "to help provide a rapid, non-invasive diagnosis towards the tail end of the epidemic", news agency AFP reported. Earlier, MDD has successfully trained dogs to detect diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s, and bacterial infections. Stray dogs in Kolkata, India | AFP Additionally, the canines are able to comprehend changes in temperature of the skin, helping healthcare workers understand if a person has fever. "In principle, we're sure that dogs could detect COVID-19," said Claire Guest, founder and chief executive of Medical Detection Dogs. "We are now looking into how we can safely catch the odour of the virus from patients and present it to the dogs… The aim is that dogs will be able to screen anyone, including those who are asymptomatic, and tell us whether they need to be tested”, Guest added. Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy According to Guest, the process shall be “fast, effective, and non-invasive”. Additionally, the resources pooled in from the National Health Service (NHS) will be employed only and if needed. LSHTM’s head of disease control claims that dogs are capable of detecting diseases like malaria in patients with high accuracy. Furthermore, respiratory diseases change one’s body odour, suggesting that it may be possible to find carriers of COVID-19. Even though the research is at its early stages, scientists believe that dogs trained to detect people carrying the virus may be employed across airports once the pandemic is over. This will help in avoiding a second wave of the virus. Over half a million (500,000) cases of the COVID-19 have been registered across the globe. The virus has killed over 22,920 people across 182 countries, the World Health Organization reported. Also read: Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised

Are dogs going to help prevent a global second wave of COVID-19?

They were at the forefront of pursuing glory for the nation as athletes and now some Indian sporting heroes are playing a key role in the raging battle against the COVID-19 pandemic -- manning the streets as police officers persuading people to stay home amid a national lockdown.

T20 World Cup-winning cricketer Joginder Sharma, Commonwealth Games gold medal-winning boxer Akhil Kumar and Asian Games champion kabaddi player Ajay Thakur have one thing in common. They are all full-time police officers, jobs which they got thanks to their sporting accomplishments.

Speaking to PTI, Sharma and Kumar, both Haryana Police officers and good friends, listed the challenges that come with "doing duty" during an unprecedented crisis.

"I have been a DSP since 2007. This is one of a kind challenge for me as a police officer because of the general fear and I can tell you that I have seen quite a few challenges in my years of service," said Sharma, the all-rounder who immortalised himself with the trophy-winning final over against Pakistan in the 2007 T20 World Cup summit clash in South Africa.

<img alt="Joginder Sharma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a38ebc1-6655-47ee-b44f-037098d8f240" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/joginder-sharma.jpg" />

The 36-year-old is currently posted in Hisar as the nation observes a 21-day lockdown till April 14 to combat the pandemic, which has killed more than 24,000 globally.

"Our duty time starts around 6am and we do patrolling, making people aware, send those who are out for fun to their homes, help those in need of essentials or medical aid and take action against those who try to defy without any good reason," Sharma said giving a rundown of his average day. 
Serving with the Gurugram Police as ACP since September last year is Kumar, the flamboyant bantamweight boxer, whose perilously low guard at the peak of his career became the style statement that many in Indian boxing continue to try and emulate.

"People are generally cooperative and in any case, essential services are being kept open so there is not much panic. I believe only a strict enforcement of lockdown will be able to halt this virus. People are slowly understanding this," said the 2006 CWG gold-medallist, who turned 38 on Friday, a working birthday for him.

<img alt="Akhil Kumar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bc4ea2d-a35d-4d99-9610-c7e938754c7c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/akhil-1-1280x720.jpg" />

The two-time Olympian and Arjuna awardee has also been pooling money with his colleagues, including another boxer-turned-policeman Jitender Kumar, to buy essential food items and sanitizers for the underprivileged.

Jitender, an Asian bronze-medallist, is posted in Rewari.

"We are trying our best. Those who can afford to stay inside can and must but there are those who cannot. Our effort is to ensure that we reach out to as many of such people as possible," Kumar said.

"Hum zameen se jude hain, humein pata hai bhookh kya hoti hai (We are people who have come up after lot of struggle, we know what it means to be hungry)," he added.

Thakur, who was bestowed the Arjuna award and the Padma Shri last year, is a DSP in Himachal Pradesh Police and has been in service since 2017.

The 2014 Asian Games gold-medallist was recently seen patrolling the streets of Bilaspur and has been raising awareness about the health crisis through video messages on his instagram page, which has over two lakh followers.

While being on guard for others, these men in uniform also have to ensure that they remain safe themselves.

"...We carry masks, gloves and sanitizers for our own protection but for us the best protection is if people don't come out on streets unnecessarily," said Sharma.

"My family is in Rohtak, they are always worried for me. My wife and children call me all the time and talk about taking precautions. I salute my wife for managing the house at this time while I am here doing my duty," he added.

Sharma said he has been in Hisar for a few years now and his status of being a World Cup-winner comes in handy while counselling people.

"They respect me for my achievement and sometimes it helps my work when they see my nameplate. When I tell people to not crowd markets for cheap deals, they adhere. I tell them how costly it would be if they catch this infection, that they should not risk a deadly disease for saving a few bucks," said the former all-rounder.

Kumar, on the other hand, favoured tough action against wilful violators.

"There are some who genuinely don't know but there are others who come out despite knowing what it means. I think they should be dealt with sternly, that's the only language they understand," he asserted.

Sharma said most of such wilful violators are youngsters, complaining of boredom.

"I reach out to their parents. That's the best way to make them understand because they are a little unaware of the gravity of the situation," he said. 
Being sportspersons, lessons in patience have been learnt aplenty and that helps them deal with the "frustrations".

"Sewa, Suraksha aur Sahyog (service, security and cooperation) is our force's motto. We are trying to deliver all," said Kumar.

They were at the forefront of pursuing glory for the nation as athletes and now some Indian sporting heroes are playing a key role in the raging battle against the COVID-19 pandemic -- manning the streets as police officers persuading people to stay home amid a national lockdown.

They were at the forefront of pursuing glory for the nation as athletes and now some Indian sporting heroes are playing a key role in the raging battle against the COVID-19 pandemic -- manning the streets as police officers persuading people to stay home amid a national lockdown. T20 World Cup-winning cricketer Joginder Sharma, Commonwealth Games gold medal-winning boxer Akhil Kumar and Asian Games champion kabaddi player Ajay Thakur have one thing in common. They are all full-time police officers, jobs which they got thanks to their sporting accomplishments. Speaking to PTI, Sharma and Kumar, both Haryana Police officers and good friends, listed the challenges that come with "doing duty" during an unprecedented crisis. "I have been a DSP since 2007. This is one of a kind challenge for me as a police officer because of the general fear and I can tell you that I have seen quite a few challenges in my years of service," said Sharma, the all-rounder who immortalised himself with the trophy-winning final over against Pakistan in the 2007 T20 World Cup summit clash in South Africa. The 36-year-old is currently posted in Hisar as the nation observes a 21-day lockdown till April 14 to combat the pandemic, which has killed more than 24,000 globally. "Our duty time starts around 6am and we do patrolling, making people aware, send those who are out for fun to their homes, help those in need of essentials or medical aid and take action against those who try to defy without any good reason," Sharma said giving a rundown of his average day. Serving with the Gurugram Police as ACP since September last year is Kumar, the flamboyant bantamweight boxer, whose perilously low guard at the peak of his career became the style statement that many in Indian boxing continue to try and emulate. "People are generally cooperative and in any case, essential services are being kept open so there is not much panic. I believe only a strict enforcement of lockdown will be able to halt this virus. People are slowly understanding this," said the 2006 CWG gold-medallist, who turned 38 on Friday, a working birthday for him. The two-time Olympian and Arjuna awardee has also been pooling money with his colleagues, including another boxer-turned-policeman Jitender Kumar, to buy essential food items and sanitizers for the underprivileged. Jitender, an Asian bronze-medallist, is posted in Rewari. "We are trying our best. Those who can afford to stay inside can and must but there are those who cannot. Our effort is to ensure that we reach out to as many of such people as possible," Kumar said. "Hum zameen se jude hain, humein pata hai bhookh kya hoti hai (We are people who have come up after lot of struggle, we know what it means to be hungry)," he added. Thakur, who was bestowed the Arjuna award and the Padma Shri last year, is a DSP in Himachal Pradesh Police and has been in service since 2017. The 2014 Asian Games gold-medallist was recently seen patrolling the streets of Bilaspur and has been raising awareness about the health crisis through video messages on his instagram page, which has over two lakh followers. While being on guard for others, these men in uniform also have to ensure that they remain safe themselves. "...We carry masks, gloves and sanitizers for our own protection but for us the best protection is if people don't come out on streets unnecessarily," said Sharma. "My family is in Rohtak, they are always worried for me. My wife and children call me all the time and talk about taking precautions. I salute my wife for managing the house at this time while I am here doing my duty," he added. Sharma said he has been in Hisar for a few years now and his status of being a World Cup-winner comes in handy while counselling people. "They respect me for my achievement and sometimes it helps my work when they see my nameplate. When I tell people to not crowd markets for cheap deals, they adhere. I tell them how costly it would be if they catch this infection, that they should not risk a deadly disease for saving a few bucks," said the former all-rounder. Kumar, on the other hand, favoured tough action against wilful violators. "There are some who genuinely don't know but there are others who come out despite knowing what it means. I think they should be dealt with sternly, that's the only language they understand," he asserted. Sharma said most of such wilful violators are youngsters, complaining of boredom. "I reach out to their parents. That's the best way to make them understand because they are a little unaware of the gravity of the situation," he said. Being sportspersons, lessons in patience have been learnt aplenty and that helps them deal with the "frustrations". "Sewa, Suraksha aur Sahyog (service, security and cooperation) is our force's motto. We are trying to deliver all," said Kumar.

Remember these Titans: Indian athletes on cop duty amid COVID-19 lockdown

Canada opposes a plan by the United States to send &nbsp;troops to its northern frontier to catch border jumpers who may be carrying COVID-19, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday. 
 
Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland were responding to a Global News report that said White House officials are discussing such a military deployment to the recently closed border, the world's longest at 8,900 kilometres (5,500 miles). 
 
Amid the coronavirus pandemic it was temporarily shut as of Saturday to all non-essential travellers on both sides, but not cross-border trade.

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"Canada and the United States have the longest unmilitarised border in the world. And it is very much in both of our interests for it to remain that way," Trudeau told a daily briefing. 
 
He said his administration has highlighted to the US that the flow of people and trade "has benefited our two countries and our economies tremendously. And we feel that it needs to remain that way." 
 
Freeland went further, warning: "In Canada's view this is an entirely unnecessary step which we would view as damaging to our (bilateral) relationship." 
 
She noted at a news conference that Washington had yet to make a decision, but added, "We do not believe at all that there would be a public health justification for (the US) to take this action.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
"We've said we don't think this is the right way to treat a trusted friend and a military ally."

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American troops 
An estimated 400,000 people and $2 billion worth of goods normally cross the border each day.&nbsp; 
 
Global News said fewer than 1,000 American troops would be stationed within 30 kilometers (20 miles) of the Canadian frontier, between official border checkpoints, and use sensor technologies to detect irregular crossers. 
 
Under the proposal, the US military would advise American border agents, who would be sent to intercept them. 
 
According to the latest government data, US officials apprehended 4,400 migrants at the Canada-US border in the 12 months to September 30, 2019, compared to 15,700 who crossed irregularly into Canada from the United States during the period.

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The number of coronavirus cases in Canada on Thursday surpassed 4,000 including 39 deaths, according to public health authorities. The number of US cases, meanwhile, topped 83,000, including more than 1,200 deaths, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. 
 
Freeland said Ottawa "forcefully" pushed back against the border proposal, reminding in discussions with US officials that the two nations are "very close military allies," including partners in NORAD and NATO. 
 
She also pointed to the recently ratified US-Mexico-Canada free trade pact and last week's agreement on border restrictions as evidence the two countries can work well together. 
 
"In view of all of these connections and the importance of the (bilateral) relationship, Canada is strongly opposed to this US proposal," she said.

Canada opposes a plan by the United States to send troops to its northern frontier to catch border jumpers who may be carrying COVID-19, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday.

Canada opposes a plan by the United States to send troops to its northern frontier to catch border jumpers who may be carrying COVID-19, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday. Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland were responding to a Global News report that said White House officials are discussing such a military deployment to the recently closed border, the world's longest at 8,900 kilometres (5,500 miles). Amid the coronavirus pandemic it was temporarily shut as of Saturday to all non-essential travellers on both sides, but not cross-border trade. Also read: With 73 new cases, second wave of coronavirus hits Singapore "Canada and the United States have the longest unmilitarised border in the world. And it is very much in both of our interests for it to remain that way," Trudeau told a daily briefing. He said his administration has highlighted to the US that the flow of people and trade "has benefited our two countries and our economies tremendously. And we feel that it needs to remain that way." Freeland went further, warning: "In Canada's view this is an entirely unnecessary step which we would view as damaging to our (bilateral) relationship." She noted at a news conference that Washington had yet to make a decision, but added, "We do not believe at all that there would be a public health justification for (the US) to take this action. "We've said we don't think this is the right way to treat a trusted friend and a military ally." Also read: People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept American troops An estimated 400,000 people and $2 billion worth of goods normally cross the border each day. Global News said fewer than 1,000 American troops would be stationed within 30 kilometers (20 miles) of the Canadian frontier, between official border checkpoints, and use sensor technologies to detect irregular crossers. Under the proposal, the US military would advise American border agents, who would be sent to intercept them. According to the latest government data, US officials apprehended 4,400 migrants at the Canada-US border in the 12 months to September 30, 2019, compared to 15,700 who crossed irregularly into Canada from the United States during the period. Also read: How Chinese propaganda factory has global franchises The number of coronavirus cases in Canada on Thursday surpassed 4,000 including 39 deaths, according to public health authorities. The number of US cases, meanwhile, topped 83,000, including more than 1,200 deaths, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Freeland said Ottawa "forcefully" pushed back against the border proposal, reminding in discussions with US officials that the two nations are "very close military allies," including partners in NORAD and NATO. She also pointed to the recently ratified US-Mexico-Canada free trade pact and last week's agreement on border restrictions as evidence the two countries can work well together. "In view of all of these connections and the importance of the (bilateral) relationship, Canada is strongly opposed to this US proposal," she said.

Canada objects to US plan to post troops at border 

Venezuela reported its first coronavirus death on Thursday after a 47-year-old man with a pre-existing lung disease died, the government said. 
 
The man from the northern Aragua state had previously suffered from an "occupational disease in the lungs," Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez said in a television address. 
 
The patient had been admitted to a private clinic suffering from pneumonia and three days later tested positive for COVID-19, Rodriguez said.

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The South American country has now reported 107 coronavirus cases. 
 
It is under a total lockdown with businesses and schools closed and its borders closed to commercial flights, although cargo arrivals are still allowed. 
 
The pandemic is causing particular concern in Venezuela because its economy has collapsed, with people already suffering shortages of basic necessities such as food and medicine, and the breakdown of public services such as water, electricity and transport. 
 
Meanwhile a "special flight" organized by several European countries left Caracas with more than 360 passengers on board, including 139 Spaniards, 56 Italians, 44 Germans and 26 French nationals.

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They had been visiting Venezuela for business or tourism but got stuck by the government lockdown. 
 
Peru, which on Thursday extended its lockdown and border closures until April 12, likewise authorized the departure of tourists on especially arranged flights. 
 
Around 400 Canadians and more than 300 Americans are due to be repatriated from Thursday, their embassies in Peru announced.

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Some 200 Canadians queued outside the country's diplomatic mission in the capital Lima waiting to board buses to take them to the city's military hospital, from where they were due to board a flight to take them home. 
 
Peru has recorded 580 coronavirus cases and nine deaths. 
 
It has closed schools and universities, imposed a nighttime curfew and a ban on all road traffic.

Venezuela reported its first coronavirus death on Thursday after a 47-year-old man with a pre-existing lung disease died, the government said. The man from the northern Aragua state had previously suffered from an "occupational disease in the lungs," Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez said in a television address.

Venezuela reported its first coronavirus death on Thursday after a 47-year-old man with a pre-existing lung disease died, the government said. The man from the northern Aragua state had previously suffered from an "occupational disease in the lungs," Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez said in a television address. The patient had been admitted to a private clinic suffering from pneumonia and three days later tested positive for COVID-19, Rodriguez said. Also read: With 73 new cases, second wave of coronavirus hits Singapore The South American country has now reported 107 coronavirus cases. It is under a total lockdown with businesses and schools closed and its borders closed to commercial flights, although cargo arrivals are still allowed. The pandemic is causing particular concern in Venezuela because its economy has collapsed, with people already suffering shortages of basic necessities such as food and medicine, and the breakdown of public services such as water, electricity and transport. Meanwhile a "special flight" organized by several European countries left Caracas with more than 360 passengers on board, including 139 Spaniards, 56 Italians, 44 Germans and 26 French nationals. Also read: People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept They had been visiting Venezuela for business or tourism but got stuck by the government lockdown. Peru, which on Thursday extended its lockdown and border closures until April 12, likewise authorized the departure of tourists on especially arranged flights. Around 400 Canadians and more than 300 Americans are due to be repatriated from Thursday, their embassies in Peru announced. Also read: How Chinese propaganda factory has global franchises Some 200 Canadians queued outside the country's diplomatic mission in the capital Lima waiting to board buses to take them to the city's military hospital, from where they were due to board a flight to take them home. Peru has recorded 580 coronavirus cases and nine deaths. It has closed schools and universities, imposed a nighttime curfew and a ban on all road traffic.

Venezuela records first coronavirus death

In a massive development, British PM Boris Johnson confirmed on Twitter that he is infected with novel coronavirus on Friday. Boris Johnson said "over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus" in a tweet.

WION Dispatch: UK PM Boris Johnson tests positive for coronavirus

Those who have coronavirus symptoms, must maintain distance from their family members and ensure that the infection is not transmitted to other people, says Dr Sameer Kulkarni, Faculty Director, Paras Hospital, Gurugram

Experts on WION: Don't panic - Dr Sameer Kulkarni lists dos and don'ts in case you have symptoms

News Alert: Boris Johnson tests positive of COVID-19

The Labor Department reported Thursday that Americans are filing for unemployment benefits, the number surged to 3.3 million last week, which happens to be the highest number ever recorded.

Coronavirus Outbreak: 3.3 mn Americans file for unemployment | WION News

Europe continues to remain worst affected continent. The coronavirus pandemic has now killed more than 15,500 people in Europe.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Europe continues to remain worst affected continent

China has drastically cut its international flight routes and bar entry to returning foreigners based in the country to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Coronavirus Outbreak: China drastically cuts international flights

While social distancing has shut out most people from outdoor activities - athletes, fitness fanatics, and coaches have taken to the internet to help people work-out from home.

Coronavirus outbreak has forced people to stay indoors, but some fitness fanatics haven't shut shop. Fitness instructor Joe Wicks is conducting online classes for children and their parents at home.

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"Well, what I really liked, is when I put it out there, obviously it's aimed at children, but if you are an unfit parent or adult and you're not really active, they're actually really great exercises for you because you start moving", Wicks told Reuters.

“This isn't just a Monday to Friday flash in the pan thing. My subscribers have gone up. They've doubled. I've got nearly 2 million subscribers, so I want to keep generating content that's free, that's accessible", he added.&nbsp;

Not just online

A fitness trainer in Hamburg brought people to their balconies for a 30-minute exercise routine.

One father even managed to combine fitness with childcare. Coronavirus pandemic has brought focus back on health, fitness and immunity.&nbsp;

Important to stay fit

Being physically active not only strengthens the immune system by reducing the risk of chronic diseases but also flushes bacteria out of the lungs thereby decreasing the chances of getting a cold, flu or other illness.

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In fact, a large study showed that mild to moderate exercise – performed about three times a week – reduced the risk of dying during the Hong Kong Flu outbreak in 1998.

Reasons to exercise at home:

<ul>
	<li>It strengthens the immune system</li>
	<li>Exercising reduces risk of chronic diseases&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Working out flushes bacteria out of the lungs</li>
	<li>It decreases chances of getting cold &amp; flu</li>
	<li>Exercising reduced risk of dying during 1998 hong kong flu outbreak</li>
</ul>

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Here’s what you could do:

<ul>
	<li>Three times per week, perform mild to moderate exercise for not more than 20-45 minutes</li>
	<li>Workout at home with a sharp focus on cardio-vascular exercises like spot running, skipping, jumping jacks, push ups, plank taps etc</li>
	<li>Do not over-exercise, shorten or skip workouts if you feel unwell</li>
	<li>Avoid training partners who are sneezing or coughing</li>
	<li>Wash your hands often before and after exercise</li>
	<li>Eat and sleep well to boost your immune system</li>
</ul>

Exercise away!

While social distancing has shut out most people from outdoor activities - athletes, fitness fanatics, and coaches have taken to the internet to help people work-out from home.

While social distancing has shut out most people from outdoor activities - athletes, fitness fanatics, and coaches have taken to the internet to help people work-out from home. Coronavirus outbreak has forced people to stay indoors, but some fitness fanatics haven't shut shop. Fitness instructor Joe Wicks is conducting online classes for children and their parents at home. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic sets the stage for unprecedented global economic losses "Well, what I really liked, is when I put it out there, obviously it's aimed at children, but if you are an unfit parent or adult and you're not really active, they're actually really great exercises for you because you start moving", Wicks told Reuters. “This isn't just a Monday to Friday flash in the pan thing. My subscribers have gone up. They've doubled. I've got nearly 2 million subscribers, so I want to keep generating content that's free, that's accessible", he added. Not just online A fitness trainer in Hamburg brought people to their balconies for a 30-minute exercise routine. One father even managed to combine fitness with childcare. Coronavirus pandemic has brought focus back on health, fitness and immunity. Important to stay fit Being physically active not only strengthens the immune system by reducing the risk of chronic diseases but also flushes bacteria out of the lungs thereby decreasing the chances of getting a cold, flu or other illness. Also read: Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers? In fact, a large study showed that mild to moderate exercise – performed about three times a week – reduced the risk of dying during the Hong Kong Flu outbreak in 1998. Reasons to exercise at home: It strengthens the immune system Exercising reduces risk of chronic diseases Working out flushes bacteria out of the lungs It decreases chances of getting cold & flu Exercising reduced risk of dying during 1998 hong kong flu outbreak Also read: Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone? Here’s what you could do: Three times per week, perform mild to moderate exercise for not more than 20-45 minutes Workout at home with a sharp focus on cardio-vascular exercises like spot running, skipping, jumping jacks, push ups, plank taps etc Do not over-exercise, shorten or skip workouts if you feel unwell Avoid training partners who are sneezing or coughing Wash your hands often before and after exercise Eat and sleep well to boost your immune system Exercise away!

Staying fit in the time of a killer pandemic!

Life under coronavirus: 24 hours around the world in pictures

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise, experts say global job losses as a result of the crisis would far exceed the 25 million estimated just days ago.

Earlier today, the number of COVID-19 cases in the US surpassed the count in Italy and China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-new-testing-kits-solve-the-mystery-of-covid-19-transmission-by-silent-carriers-288909" hreflang="en">Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers?</a>

Unemployed America?

People applying for unemployment benefits in the US have gone up.

3.3 million Americans filed claims for unemployment last week as large parts of the US economy continued to remain shut. The surge in weekly applications was a stunning reminder of the damage the viral outbreak is inflicting on the economy. Requests for unemployment aid generally reflect the pace and intensity of layoffs.

"Well, this number of new claims for unemployment benefits is truly unprecedented and it represents the unprecedented nature of what we're going through right now. During the financial crisis and great recession, the highest or maximum number of new claims for unemployment benefits we saw was approaching, let's say, the 700,000 mark. So, we've done several times over that record number", Mark Hamrick, Senior Economic Analyst at Bankrate.Com, told Reuters.

Thousands of businesses have been shut as people’s movement remains restricted. The layoffs are sure to accelerate as the US Economy slides into a recession, with most employers cutting jobs to save expenses.&nbsp;

Some economists say that the unemployment rate in the US could reach 13 per cent by May.

Statistically, nearly a third of US workers could lose their jobs in the midst of this pandemic.

These numbers project a much bigger loss than even the Great Recession, whereby the unemployment rate reached ten per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-reopen-war-bunker-as-a-coronavirus-containment-zone-288880" hreflang="en">Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone?</a>

Germany too?

On the other side of the pond in Germany, researchers say that unemployment could top three million if the coronavirus crisis deepens.It is also expected that Germany’s economy will shrink by two per cent this year.

Countries across the world are struggling to contain the pandemic which has brought economic activity to an eerie halt.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shifting-discourse-mexican-protesters-demand-blanket-closure-of-border-with-us-as-covid-19-cases-rise-288868" hreflang="en">Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise</a>

Millions to be unemployed in India?

In India, where a 21-day nationwide lockdown has been announced, industry groups have warned that job losses could run into tens of millions. It is estimated that 38 million jobs could be lost in the tourism and hospitality sector alone.&nbsp;

In a bid to reduce financial losses, many companies have given employees the option to work from home.

Experts believe that the outbreak of coronavirus has the potential to make the concept of work from home a more common practice, thereby shifting the workplace dynamics.

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise, experts say global job losses as a result of the crisis would far exceed the 25 million estimated just days ago.

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise, experts say global job losses as a result of the crisis would far exceed the 25 million estimated just days ago. Earlier today, the number of COVID-19 cases in the US surpassed the count in Italy and China. Also read: Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers? Unemployed America? People applying for unemployment benefits in the US have gone up. 3.3 million Americans filed claims for unemployment last week as large parts of the US economy continued to remain shut. The surge in weekly applications was a stunning reminder of the damage the viral outbreak is inflicting on the economy. Requests for unemployment aid generally reflect the pace and intensity of layoffs. "Well, this number of new claims for unemployment benefits is truly unprecedented and it represents the unprecedented nature of what we're going through right now. During the financial crisis and great recession, the highest or maximum number of new claims for unemployment benefits we saw was approaching, let's say, the 700,000 mark. So, we've done several times over that record number", Mark Hamrick, Senior Economic Analyst at Bankrate.Com, told Reuters. Thousands of businesses have been shut as people’s movement remains restricted. The layoffs are sure to accelerate as the US Economy slides into a recession, with most employers cutting jobs to save expenses. Some economists say that the unemployment rate in the US could reach 13 per cent by May. Statistically, nearly a third of US workers could lose their jobs in the midst of this pandemic. These numbers project a much bigger loss than even the Great Recession, whereby the unemployment rate reached ten per cent. Also read: Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone? Germany too? On the other side of the pond in Germany, researchers say that unemployment could top three million if the coronavirus crisis deepens.It is also expected that Germany’s economy will shrink by two per cent this year. Countries across the world are struggling to contain the pandemic which has brought economic activity to an eerie halt. Also read: Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise Millions to be unemployed in India? In India, where a 21-day nationwide lockdown has been announced, industry groups have warned that job losses could run into tens of millions. It is estimated that 38 million jobs could be lost in the tourism and hospitality sector alone. In a bid to reduce financial losses, many companies have given employees the option to work from home. Experts believe that the outbreak of coronavirus has the potential to make the concept of work from home a more common practice, thereby shifting the workplace dynamics.

Coronavirus pandemic sets the stage for unprecedented global economic losses

WION spoke to Dr. Prakriti Poddar on the COVID-19 virus that is spreading in India like wildfire. Watch the video to know what she advises.

Experts on WION: Dr Prakriti Poddar speaks to WION on COVID-19

South Africa came under a nationwide military-patrolled lockdown on Friday, joining other African countries imposing strict curfews and shutdowns in an attempt to halt the spread of the coronavirus across the continent.

Some 57 million people are to be restricted to their homes during South Africa's three-week total lockdown which began at midnight.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-under-lockdown-due-to-coronavirus-288385">Countries under lockdown due to coronavirus</a>

Kenya, Rwanda and Mali are some of the African countries that have imposed restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus, which has been confirmed to have infected 3,203 people and killed 87.

Although Africa's toll is far lower than in Europe, the United States and the Middle East, health experts say the world's poorest continent is especially vulnerable and the figures likely fall far short of the reality.

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-third-of-humanity-under-coronavirus-lockdown-288458">One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown</a>

Donning camouflage uniform complete with a cap, President Cyril Ramaphosa saw off soldiers before they deployed from a military base in Soweto township outside economic hub Johannesburg.

"I send you out to go and defend our people against coronavirus," Ramaphosa said. &nbsp;

"This is unprecedented, not only in our democracy but also in the history of our country, that we will have a lockdown for 21 days to go out and wage war against an invisible enemy coronavirus," he said.&nbsp;

During South Africa's shutdown there will be no jogging, dog-walking or sale of alcohol across the country, which so far has the highest number of detected infections in sub-Saharan Africa at 927, with Ramaphosa projecting it could reach 1,500 "within a few days".

Nigeria's government warned Thursday that Africa's most populous nation could soon see an "exponential" increase in infections unless contacts of confirmed cases are tracked down quicker.

South Africa came under a nationwide military-patrolled lockdown on Friday, joining other African countries imposing strict curfews and shutdowns in an attempt to halt the spread of the coronavirus across the continent.

South Africa came under a nationwide military-patrolled lockdown on Friday, joining other African countries imposing strict curfews and shutdowns in an attempt to halt the spread of the coronavirus across the continent. Some 57 million people are to be restricted to their homes during South Africa's three-week total lockdown which began at midnight. Also see: Countries under lockdown due to coronavirus Kenya, Rwanda and Mali are some of the African countries that have imposed restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus, which has been confirmed to have infected 3,203 people and killed 87. Although Africa's toll is far lower than in Europe, the United States and the Middle East, health experts say the world's poorest continent is especially vulnerable and the figures likely fall far short of the reality. Also read: One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown Donning camouflage uniform complete with a cap, President Cyril Ramaphosa saw off soldiers before they deployed from a military base in Soweto township outside economic hub Johannesburg. "I send you out to go and defend our people against coronavirus," Ramaphosa said. "This is unprecedented, not only in our democracy but also in the history of our country, that we will have a lockdown for 21 days to go out and wage war against an invisible enemy coronavirus," he said. During South Africa's shutdown there will be no jogging, dog-walking or sale of alcohol across the country, which so far has the highest number of detected infections in sub-Saharan Africa at 927, with Ramaphosa projecting it could reach 1,500 "within a few days". Nigeria's government warned Thursday that Africa's most populous nation could soon see an "exponential" increase in infections unless contacts of confirmed cases are tracked down quicker.

South Africa begins 'unprecedented' military-patrolled lockdown

Researchers in the United Kingdom have developed a new type of test which can detect COVID-19 in less than 30 minutes.&nbsp;

The test has been developed in collaboration between Brunel University and the University of Surrey.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-pompeo-trump-refrains-from-calling-coronavirus-chinese-virus-288882" hreflang="en">After Pompeo, Trump refrains from calling coronavirus, 'Chinese virus'</a>

Pocket-friendly and effective

The technology is based on hand-held hardware which costs a little over $120. The swab kit itself costs $5 per person, TechCrunch reported.

Similar techniques have been long used in the Philippines to test chickens for viral infections. Now, it is being employed to test even humans!

Mass production of the kits shall be underway soon.

However, this does not imply that the kits will be readily available to use. In fact, pending regulations from regulatory bodies like the FDA are necessary.

However, researches displayed confidence in the response they’re expecting across the health bodies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-to-categorise-american-counties-based-on-coronavirus-risk-288855" hreflang="en">White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk</a>

They also believe that it could be available for use within a few weeks.

<h6><img alt="yyy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c18c21a-69a2-40ec-92e6-762b2635d5ac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2813%29_16.jpg" /> 
A researcher works on the diagnosis of suspected coronavirus COVID-19 cases in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, on March 26, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

These kits save a lot of time and money by diagnosing the patient on a smartphone, eliminating the need of a lab-based approach, whereby the nasal or throat swabs are connected to a hardware which is battery-operated.

Such methods of on-site testing and diagnoses have been employed by companies like Cepheid and Mesa Biotech. However, their machines require a trip to the lab, which are expensive and shoot up the testing costs.

The only edge this new testing method has over pre-existing modes is its cost-friendliness, for it runs on hardware that is not exorbitantly priced.

The best part: it can test up to six people at one go!&nbsp;

Such ready-to-go tests could help decrease the panic across all professional arenas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-the-chinese-virus-or-wuhan-virus-only-coronavirus-china-288816" hreflang="en">Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China</a>

What makes it different from other testing methods?

Similar tests have been developed and are currently in use across Europe and China. However, those have a drawback: they only respond to the presence of antibodies, ie, their diagnosis is based on the body’s reaction to the virus.

However, this test, can effectively identify viral DNA even in the absence of antibodies, which makes it more reliable.

With many organisations claiming that dormant carriers (asymptomatic patients) can use this to ascertain their status and avoid risking infection to at-risk groups.

With no clear idea of how many dormant carriers are responsible for the transmission, this could provide some really useful data on the transmission of COVID-19.

Researchers in the United Kingdom have developed a new type of test which can detect COVID-19 in less than 30 minutes. The test has been developed in collaboration between Brunel University and the University of Surrey.

Researchers in the United Kingdom have developed a new type of test which can detect COVID-19 in less than 30 minutes. The test has been developed in collaboration between Brunel University and the University of Surrey. Also read: After Pompeo, Trump refrains from calling coronavirus, 'Chinese virus' Pocket-friendly and effective The technology is based on hand-held hardware which costs a little over $120. The swab kit itself costs $5 per person, TechCrunch reported. Similar techniques have been long used in the Philippines to test chickens for viral infections. Now, it is being employed to test even humans! Mass production of the kits shall be underway soon. However, this does not imply that the kits will be readily available to use. In fact, pending regulations from regulatory bodies like the FDA are necessary. However, researches displayed confidence in the response they’re expecting across the health bodies. Also read: White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk They also believe that it could be available for use within a few weeks. A researcher works on the diagnosis of suspected coronavirus COVID-19 cases in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, on March 26, 2020 | AFP These kits save a lot of time and money by diagnosing the patient on a smartphone, eliminating the need of a lab-based approach, whereby the nasal or throat swabs are connected to a hardware which is battery-operated. Such methods of on-site testing and diagnoses have been employed by companies like Cepheid and Mesa Biotech. However, their machines require a trip to the lab, which are expensive and shoot up the testing costs. The only edge this new testing method has over pre-existing modes is its cost-friendliness, for it runs on hardware that is not exorbitantly priced. The best part: it can test up to six people at one go! Such ready-to-go tests could help decrease the panic across all professional arenas. Also read: Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China What makes it different from other testing methods? Similar tests have been developed and are currently in use across Europe and China. However, those have a drawback: they only respond to the presence of antibodies, ie, their diagnosis is based on the body’s reaction to the virus. However, this test, can effectively identify viral DNA even in the absence of antibodies, which makes it more reliable. With many organisations claiming that dormant carriers (asymptomatic patients) can use this to ascertain their status and avoid risking infection to at-risk groups. With no clear idea of how many dormant carriers are responsible for the transmission, this could provide some really useful data on the transmission of COVID-19.

Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers?

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country.

The bunker, “National Management Centre” as it is officially called was built ten years ago, Reuters reported. This was at the peak of worries about Iran’s nuclear programme and its increasing contact with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Islamist movement and a Palestinian militant group, Hamas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shifting-discourse-mexican-protesters-demand-blanket-closure-of-border-with-us-as-covid-19-cases-rise-288868" hreflang="en">Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise</a>

The facility has living quarters and facilities of command, which can be directly accessed from the government complex in Jerusalem.

“This (bunker) is another tool for managing, controlling, oversight and tracking the coronavirus",an Israeli official who requested anonymity told Reuters.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-coronavirus-ventilators-are-required-288773/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We understand that this crisis will accompany us for an extended period of time yet”, the source further said.

However, Naftali Bennett, the Defence Minister, during an interview on radio said that the bunker is irrelevant to the crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-to-categorise-american-counties-based-on-coronavirus-risk-288855" hreflang="en">White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk</a>

“We are not under a missile attack that would require us to be underground”, Bennett said.

Earlier, the Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz joked about the bunker on the radio. “The bunker protects from bombs, not microbes”, he had&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

3,035 Israelis have so far tested positive for the coronavirus, with the majority of cases mild and 79 recoveries. Ten patients have died and 49 are critical.

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country.

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country. The bunker, “National Management Centre” as it is officially called was built ten years ago, Reuters reported. This was at the peak of worries about Iran’s nuclear programme and its increasing contact with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Islamist movement and a Palestinian militant group, Hamas. Also read: Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise The facility has living quarters and facilities of command, which can be directly accessed from the government complex in Jerusalem. “This (bunker) is another tool for managing, controlling, oversight and tracking the coronavirus",an Israeli official who requested anonymity told Reuters. “We understand that this crisis will accompany us for an extended period of time yet”, the source further said. However, Naftali Bennett, the Defence Minister, during an interview on radio said that the bunker is irrelevant to the crisis. Also read: White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk “We are not under a missile attack that would require us to be underground”, Bennett said. Earlier, the Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz joked about the bunker on the radio. “The bunker protects from bombs, not microbes”, he had said. 3,035 Israelis have so far tested positive for the coronavirus, with the majority of cases mild and 79 recoveries. Ten patients have died and 49 are critical.

Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone?

Relish world's best coastlines to fight lockdown blues

Chinese warships have been buzzing around the Strait of Taiwan. Taiwan's leader Tsai Ing-wen has raised an alarm about China's military manoeuvres. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why military escalation during a pandemic may prove disastrous.

Gravitas: China flexing military muscle in Taiwan

Some world leaders continue to call the Wuhan Coronavirus a 'flu' and are downplaying the severity of this disease. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a list of the high-profile deniers.

Gravitas: Exposing the Coronavirus deniers

More than four lakh people around the world have been infected with the coronavirus. In this special report, WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you personal accounts of the patients & the doctors fighting the deadly disease.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: Voices of Patients & Doctors

Uncertainty looms over the global sporting calendar. How will multiple sporting events be accommodated in 2021? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: No clarity yet on 2021 Olympics

Fearing an outbreak of COVID-19 in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan, the local authorities and residents have demanded strict restrictions for any traffic movement from Pakistan into the region.

Demands have been raised after seeing the rising number of positive Coronavirus cases in all provinces of Pakistan and attempts by Pakistan Army to bring them at quarantine centres set up in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan.

Sources reveal that hundreds of people got stuck at Kohala border of PoK and Punjab on Thursday after the restrictions imposed by the local authorities.

In a letter written to Commissioner, Mirpur division, the locals have raised the issue of Coronavirus positive patients from Gujrat and Jhelum cities of Punjab province to be brought into PoK.

The letter said, "It has been observed that people from Gujrat and Jhelum districts of Punjab are coming to Bhimber town of PoK. It is requested that a complete entry ban be imposed from Pakistan to PoK".

Recently, there were massive protests by locals in Mirpur city of PoK after the Pakistan Army start occupying plazas (mansions) and private hospitals to convert them into Quarantine centres for COVID-19 patients from Punjab and other provinces.

Junaid Qureshi, a Kashmiri Researcher told ANI,&nbsp;"From East to West, the world is fighting this pandemic by social-distancing, lockdowns, research for medicines and vaccines and economic packages and stimuli for its citizens, and at the same time, Pakistan is disposing of its citizens in its colony, which puts the very underdeveloped region of Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the people living there at great risk of facing catastrophic health and economic consequences".

The situation is turning grim in Gilgit Baltistan where a total of 84 positive COVID-19 patients sparked fear among the locals.

The occupied region is affected by the presence of a large number of Chinese, who are engaged in the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

The number of confirmed Coronavirus cases in Pakistan jumped to 1,102 Thursday morning after new cases were reported in Balochistan, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In Punjab province, the number of positive cases stands at 323.

Fearing an outbreak of COVID-19 in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan, the local authorities and residents have demanded strict restrictions for any traffic movement from Pakistan into the region.

Fearing an outbreak of COVID-19 in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan, the local authorities and residents have demanded strict restrictions for any traffic movement from Pakistan into the region. Demands have been raised after seeing the rising number of positive Coronavirus cases in all provinces of Pakistan and attempts by Pakistan Army to bring them at quarantine centres set up in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan. Sources reveal that hundreds of people got stuck at Kohala border of PoK and Punjab on Thursday after the restrictions imposed by the local authorities. In a letter written to Commissioner, Mirpur division, the locals have raised the issue of Coronavirus positive patients from Gujrat and Jhelum cities of Punjab province to be brought into PoK. The letter said, "It has been observed that people from Gujrat and Jhelum districts of Punjab are coming to Bhimber town of PoK. It is requested that a complete entry ban be imposed from Pakistan to PoK". Recently, there were massive protests by locals in Mirpur city of PoK after the Pakistan Army start occupying plazas (mansions) and private hospitals to convert them into Quarantine centres for COVID-19 patients from Punjab and other provinces. Junaid Qureshi, a Kashmiri Researcher told ANI, "From East to West, the world is fighting this pandemic by social-distancing, lockdowns, research for medicines and vaccines and economic packages and stimuli for its citizens, and at the same time, Pakistan is disposing of its citizens in its colony, which puts the very underdeveloped region of Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the people living there at great risk of facing catastrophic health and economic consequences". The situation is turning grim in Gilgit Baltistan where a total of 84 positive COVID-19 patients sparked fear among the locals. The occupied region is affected by the presence of a large number of Chinese, who are engaged in the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. The number of confirmed Coronavirus cases in Pakistan jumped to 1,102 Thursday morning after new cases were reported in Balochistan, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In Punjab province, the number of positive cases stands at 323.

COVID-19: PoK and Gilgit Baltistan asks for travel ban from Pakistan

Why aggressive testing is required to fight the Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak? Why hospitals dealing with coronavirus patients need to be equipped with ventilators? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you answers.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: Ventilators are required

Retired healthcare workers are returning to duties as lockdowns intensify across the world. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you the 10 big developments from across the world for Thursday.

Gravitas: Coronavirus Tracker: The big global developments for March 26

Amazon Inc and a research programme run by Bill Gates are joining hands to pick up and deliver coronavirus testing kits in the largest city in the US state of Washington - Seattle.

A group of medical, public health, and research organisations constitute the Seattle Coronavirus Assessment Network. They’re collectively trying to understand how the infection is spreading virally in the region by taking nasal swabs from people across King County and Seattle.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-to-hire-100000-workers-as-online-orders-surge-on-coronavirus-worries-286971" hreflang="en">Amazon to hire 100,000 workers as online orders surge on coronavirus worries</a>

One of the worst coronavirus-hit places in the US includes King County in the state of Washington.

The CDC or the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 33,453 positive cases of coronavirus in the country on Monday. Earlier, there were 18,185 cases of coronavirus in the country.&nbsp;

The death toll has also increased from 199 to 400.

The infrastructure and logistical support will be provided to employees by Amazon Care, which is responsible for medical care, Reuters reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-former-amazon-executive-turns-off-alexa-smart-speaker-when-he-needs-privacy-281316" hreflang="en">Former Amazon executive says he turns off Alexa when he needs privacy</a>

Such shipments require special handling, which only&nbsp;United Parcel Service and FedEx can undertake in the US. Such parcels require temperature control. However, Reuters reported that there is no clarity of a partnership with either of the logistical conglomerates.

According to media reports, this move shall remain limited to Amazon Care and will not extend to the wider delivery network.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amazon Inc and a research programme run by Bill Gates are joining hands to pick up and deliver coronavirus testing kits in the largest city in the US state of Washington - Seattle.

Amazon Inc and a research programme run by Bill Gates are joining hands to pick up and deliver coronavirus testing kits in the largest city in the US state of Washington - Seattle. A group of medical, public health, and research organisations constitute the Seattle Coronavirus Assessment Network. They’re collectively trying to understand how the infection is spreading virally in the region by taking nasal swabs from people across King County and Seattle. Also read: Amazon to hire 100,000 workers as online orders surge on coronavirus worries One of the worst coronavirus-hit places in the US includes King County in the state of Washington. The CDC or the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 33,453 positive cases of coronavirus in the country on Monday. Earlier, there were 18,185 cases of coronavirus in the country. The death toll has also increased from 199 to 400. The infrastructure and logistical support will be provided to employees by Amazon Care, which is responsible for medical care, Reuters reported. Also read: Former Amazon executive says he turns off Alexa when he needs privacy Such shipments require special handling, which only United Parcel Service and FedEx can undertake in the US. Such parcels require temperature control. However, Reuters reported that there is no clarity of a partnership with either of the logistical conglomerates. According to media reports, this move shall remain limited to Amazon Care and will not extend to the wider delivery network. (With inputs from agencies)

Amazon partners with research group backed by Bill Gates to deliver COVID-19 testing kits

The World Health Organisation has lauded India's efforts in taking early steps in combating the novel coronavirus. It said that it is very good for India to take these early steps before the situation becomes worse. WHO has also listed six steps to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Watch report:

WHO lists six steps to combat coronavirus pandemic, Lauds India for taking early steps

Many are hoping that the summer will help contain the Coronavirus. But will the rise in temperatures actually stop the virus from spreading further? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you what the experts say.

Gravitas: Can heat slow down Coronavirus spread?

The Senate on March 25 approved a $2 trillion stimulus package to provide a start to an economy reeling from the coronavirus pandemic. The United States has emerged as a hotbed for COVID-19 with several cases increasing every day. Watch report:

Coronavirus: US Senate passes $2 trillion stimulus bill:  Direct payments into individuals

In the latest coming in Maharashtra has recorded two more coronavirus cases Jammu and Kashmir has recorded one more death and one person has been tested positive of COVID-19 in West Bengal. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country has risen to 649 and the death toll stands at 13.

Coronavirus cases in India rise to 649,| Death toll rise to 13

In Spain, elderly people have been found dead and abandoned in nursing homes. The elderly are the most vulnerable to the Wuhan Coronavirus. With no cure in sight, how can the community lend a helping hand? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: India's elderly population faces high risk

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