Coronavirus brought Belgium its deadliest April since world War 2 last month, according to a new study as the country begins slowly to lift lockdown measures.

A total of 14,790 people died in Belgium last month as COVID-19 swept the nation -- substantially higher than the normal April total of deaths below 9,000, researchers from VUB university in Brussels found.

Not since the Nazi occupation of the 1940s has Belgium seen such a high mortality rate in April, the month when high winter death rates usually drop off with the onset of spring, the researchers found.

"Mortality in Belgium is exceptionally high, reaching unprecedented levels, especially in the period from 1 to 12 April," the university said in a statement.

April 10 saw 639 deaths, "more than double the number that would have been expected for that day".

"April 2020 was the deadliest April since the Second World War, both in absolute numbers and per capita," it said.

There were 15.7 deaths per 1,000 population last month, Professor Patrick Deboosere of the Interface Demography research group that produced the study told AFP.

This compares with 16.3 deaths per 1,000 population in April 1941. 
Belgium has been hit hard by the pandemic, suffering one of the world's highest per capita death tolls, though the virus appears to be easing and lockdown restrictions are starting to be lifted.

The government has also been praised by the World Health Organization for keeping more accurate tolls than some of its neighbours, and the per capita rate may be higher because of this.

Coronavirus brought Belgium its deadliest April since world War 2 last month, according to a new study as the country begins slowly to lift lockdown measures. A total of 14,790 people died in Belgium last month as COVID-19 swept the nation -- substantially higher than the normal April total of deaths below 9,000, researchers from VUB university in Brussels found.

Coronavirus brought Belgium its deadliest April since world War 2 last month, according to a new study as the country begins slowly to lift lockdown measures. A total of 14,790 people died in Belgium last month as COVID-19 swept the nation -- substantially higher than the normal April total of deaths below 9,000, researchers from VUB university in Brussels found. Not since the Nazi occupation of the 1940s has Belgium seen such a high mortality rate in April, the month when high winter death rates usually drop off with the onset of spring, the researchers found. "Mortality in Belgium is exceptionally high, reaching unprecedented levels, especially in the period from 1 to 12 April," the university said in a statement. April 10 saw 639 deaths, "more than double the number that would have been expected for that day". "April 2020 was the deadliest April since the Second World War, both in absolute numbers and per capita," it said. There were 15.7 deaths per 1,000 population last month, Professor Patrick Deboosere of the Interface Demography research group that produced the study told AFP. This compares with 16.3 deaths per 1,000 population in April 1941. Belgium has been hit hard by the pandemic, suffering one of the world's highest per capita death tolls, though the virus appears to be easing and lockdown restrictions are starting to be lifted. The government has also been praised by the World Health Organization for keeping more accurate tolls than some of its neighbours, and the per capita rate may be higher because of this.

Coronavirus gives Belgium deadliest April since World War II: Study

A 10-year-old Indian-American girl scout brought laurels to the country after she was honoured by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump along with other coronavirus crisis heroes for helping the people on the frontlines.

Sravya Annappareddy has been honoured by President Donald Trump for donating cookies to nurses and firefighters and sending personalised greeting cards to healthcare workers fighting COVID-19 pandemic in the US, the worst affected country in the world.

“The men and women we honour today remind us that the bonds that unite us in times of hardship can also raise us to new heights as we reopen and recover and rebuild,” President Trump said in a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden held Friday.

The 10-year-old Telugu girl born in the US was among three girl scouts in that country to be honoured by President Donald Trump on Saturday in White House for applauding COVID front line workers.&nbsp;

Sravya, along with Laila Khan and Lauren Matney from Troop 744 based out of Elkridge, Maryland, donated 100 boxes of Girl Scouts cookies to local firefighters, doctors and nurses.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 10-year-old Indian-American girl scout brought laurels to the country after she was honoured by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump along with other coronavirus crisis heroes for helping the people on the frontlines.

A 10-year-old Indian-American girl scout brought laurels to the country after she was honoured by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump along with other coronavirus crisis heroes for helping the people on the frontlines. Sravya Annappareddy has been honoured by President Donald Trump for donating cookies to nurses and firefighters and sending personalised greeting cards to healthcare workers fighting COVID-19 pandemic in the US, the worst affected country in the world. “The men and women we honour today remind us that the bonds that unite us in times of hardship can also raise us to new heights as we reopen and recover and rebuild,” President Trump said in a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden held Friday. The 10-year-old Telugu girl born in the US was among three girl scouts in that country to be honoured by President Donald Trump on Saturday in White House for applauding COVID front line workers. Sravya, along with Laila Khan and Lauren Matney from Troop 744 based out of Elkridge, Maryland, donated 100 boxes of Girl Scouts cookies to local firefighters, doctors and nurses. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump honours Indian girl for gesture towards coronavirus heroes

India is among 62 nations who have moved a draft resolution demanding evaluation of the World Health Organisation (WHO)`s response towards the novel coronavirus pandemic.

India is among 62 nations who have moved a draft resolution demanding evaluation of the World Health Organisation (WHO)`s response towards the novel coronavirus pandemic. The European Union-led draft resolution on global COVID-19 response is set to be tabled at the upcoming World Health Assembly on Monday. The draft resolution demands initiation "at the earliest appropriate moment to review experience gained and lessons learned from the WHO-coordinated international health response to COVID-19". "We are deeply concerned by the morbidity and mortality caused by COVID-19 pandemic, the negative impacts on physical and mental health and social well-being, the negative impacts on economy and society and the consequent exacerbation of inequalities within and between countries," read the draft. "We express solidarity to all countries affected by the pandemic, as well as condolences and sympathy to all the families of the victims of COVID-19," it added. The resolution says timelines are to be evaluated regarding "recommendations the WHO made to improve global pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response capacity". The global health body has come under criticism not just from the US for its response being "China-centric".

India among 62-nation seeking probe into WHO's COVID-19 response

Maharashtra government has extended the lockdown in the state till May 31, news agency PTI reported quoting an official on Sunday.

Chief Secretary Ajoy Mehta has issued an order notifying extension of the lockdown, the official said.

"The calibrated phase-wise relaxation/lifting of lockdown orders will be notified in due course," the order said. The present lockdown was valid till May 17.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Maharashtra government has extended the lockdown in the state till May 31, news agency PTI reported quoting an official on Sunday. Chief Secretary Ajoy Mehta has issued an order notifying extension of the lockdown, the official said.

Maharashtra government has extended the lockdown in the state till May 31, news agency PTI reported quoting an official on Sunday. Chief Secretary Ajoy Mehta has issued an order notifying extension of the lockdown, the official said. "The calibrated phase-wise relaxation/lifting of lockdown orders will be notified in due course," the order said. The present lockdown was valid till May 17. (With inputs from PTI)

Maharashtra government extends lockdown till May 31

Italy's government on Saturday said that it would allow travel to and from abroad from June 3 as the country tries to turn the clock back on after one of the world's most rigid coronavirus lockdowns.

Italy's government on Saturday said that it would allow travel to and from abroad from June 3 as the country tries to turn the clock back on after one of the world's most rigid coronavirus lockdowns. More than 31,600 Italians have died of COVID-19 since the outbreak came to light on February 21, the third-highest death toll in the world after that of the United States and Britain. The government will allow free travel across the country from that same day. Though some regions had pushed for a swifter rollback, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has insisted on a gradual return to normal to prevent a second wave of infections. In a bid to contain the contagion, Italy was the first European country to impose nationwide restrictions in March, only sanctioning an initial relaxation of the rules on May 4, when it allowed factories and parks to reopen. Shops are due to open on May 18 and the government decided that all movement within individual regions should be allowed that same day, meaning people will be able to visit friends. The inter-regional and foreign travel ban will remain in place until after Italy's June 2 Republic Day holiday, preventing any mass travel over that long-holiday weekend. But all travel curb will be lifted from June 3 -- a major milestone on Italy's road to recovery, with the government hoping to salvage the forthcoming vacation season, when Italians traditionally escape the cities for their annual summer breaks.

Italy to allow travel to and from abroad from June 3 after weeks of lockdown

World Bank on Friday announced $1 billion social protection package for India linked to Govt of India programmes. The package was announced in the wake of the rising coronavirus cases across the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-bank-approves-1-billion-emergency-fund-for-india-to-fight-coronavirus-290252">Also read: World Bank approves $1 billion emergency fund for India to fight coronavirus</a>

This takes the total commitment of the World Bank for India's COVID-19 response to $2 billion. A $1 billion support was announced last month towards immediate support to India’s health sector.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-19-death-toll-rises-to-2649-as-total-cases-reach-81970-298779">Also read: India COVID-19 death toll rises to 2,649 as total cases reach 81,970</a> 
 
This new support will be funded in two phases –&nbsp;an immediate allocation of $750 million for the fiscal year 2020 and a $250 million second tranche that will be made available for the fiscal year 2021.

The&nbsp;first phase&nbsp;of the operation will be implemented countrywide through the&nbsp;Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana&nbsp;(PMGKY).

In the&nbsp;second phase, the program will deepen the social protection package, whereby additional cash and in-kind benefits based on local needs will be extended through state governments and portable social protection delivery systems.

World Bank said that the billion-dollar social protection package was in addition to the previous package of $1 billion allocated to India for COVID-19 emergency response and health systems.

"The World Bank's billion-dollar support for social protection will help India leverage it's PM Garib Kalyan Yojana," said World Bank Country Director (India) Junaid Kamal Ahmad.

In April, the World Bank approved a plan to roll out $160 billion in emergency aid over 15 months to help countries deal with the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Earlier on April 3, The World Bank had approved $1 billion emergency funding for India to help it tackle the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

World Bank on Friday announced $1 billion social protection package for India linked to Govt of India programmes. The package was announced in the wake of the rising coronavirus cases across the country.

World Bank on Friday announced $1 billion social protection package for India linked to Govt of India programmes. The package was announced in the wake of the rising coronavirus cases across the country. Also read: World Bank approves $1 billion emergency fund for India to fight coronavirus This takes the total commitment of the World Bank for India's COVID-19 response to $2 billion. A $1 billion support was announced last month towards immediate support to India’s health sector. Also read: India COVID-19 death toll rises to 2,649 as total cases reach 81,970 This new support will be funded in two phases – an immediate allocation of $750 million for the fiscal year 2020 and a $250 million second tranche that will be made available for the fiscal year 2021. The first phase of the operation will be implemented countrywide through the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY). In the second phase, the program will deepen the social protection package, whereby additional cash and in-kind benefits based on local needs will be extended through state governments and portable social protection delivery systems. World Bank said that the billion-dollar social protection package was in addition to the previous package of $1 billion allocated to India for COVID-19 emergency response and health systems. "The World Bank's billion-dollar support for social protection will help India leverage it's PM Garib Kalyan Yojana," said World Bank Country Director (India) Junaid Kamal Ahmad. In April, the World Bank approved a plan to roll out $160 billion in emergency aid over 15 months to help countries deal with the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic. Earlier on April 3, The World Bank had approved $1 billion emergency funding for India to help it tackle the coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from ANI)

World Bank approves another $1 billion aid to India as social security fund amid covid-19 pandemic

Union Health Ministry on Friday morning said 100 new deaths due to COVID-19 and an additional 3,967 positive cases were reported since Thursday in the country, taking the number of deaths to 2,649 and total cases to 81,970.

Of the total cases, 51,401 are active and 2649 are fatalities so far while at least 27,920 people have recovered from the disease.

Friday marks the 52nd straight day of the ongoing lockdown across the country announced by the central government to contain the spread of the pandemic.

The lockdown, announced on March 25, was on May 1 again extended for the second time until May 17.

Union Health Ministry on Friday morning said 100 new deaths due to COVID-19 and an additional 3,967 positive cases were reported since Thursday in the country, taking the number of deaths to 2,649 and total cases to 81,970.

Union Health Ministry on Friday morning said 100 new deaths due to COVID-19 and an additional 3,967 positive cases were reported since Thursday in the country, taking the number of deaths to 2,649 and total cases to 81,970. Of the total cases, 51,401 are active and 2649 are fatalities so far while at least 27,920 people have recovered from the disease. Friday marks the 52nd straight day of the ongoing lockdown across the country announced by the central government to contain the spread of the pandemic. The lockdown, announced on March 25, was on May 1 again extended for the second time until May 17.

India COVID-19 death toll rises to 2,649 as total cases reach 81,970

The novel coronavirus has killed more than 300,000 people worldwide, mostly in Europe and the United States, since it emerged in China late last year. Also read: Amid COVID-19 , Trump threatens to 'cut off whole relationship with China' Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus have surpassed 4.

The novel coronavirus has killed more than 300,000 people worldwide, mostly in Europe and the United States, since it emerged in China late last year. Also read: Amid COVID-19 , Trump threatens to 'cut off whole relationship with China' Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus have surpassed 4.4 million worldwide as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also Read: US will be first country to receive COVID vaccine, says Sanofi COVID-19 has now infected 4,438,371 people worldwide and 302,115 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,587,780 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The United States has registered the most deaths at 85,194 followed by Britain with 33,614, Italy at 31,368, France at 27,425 and Spain with 27,321 fatalities. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus death toll rises to more than 300,000

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday.&nbsp;

The building was closed after one suspect and one confirmed case of coronavirus was detected. Actions as per protocol, such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress.

"Affected area of Sena Bhawan closed for sanitation and disinfection. Actions as per protocol such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress," the Indian Army said in a statement.

India's coronavirus count on Friday crossed 81,000 cases. According to data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 3,967 new COVID-19 patients and 100 fatalities were reported in the past 24 hours. The total cases in the country have reached 81,970, with 2,649 deaths.

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday.

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday. The building was closed after one suspect and one confirmed case of coronavirus was detected. Actions as per protocol, such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress. "Affected area of Sena Bhawan closed for sanitation and disinfection. Actions as per protocol such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress," the Indian Army said in a statement. India's coronavirus count on Friday crossed 81,000 cases. According to data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 3,967 new COVID-19 patients and 100 fatalities were reported in the past 24 hours. The total cases in the country have reached 81,970, with 2,649 deaths.

Indian Army headquarters partly closed after soldier tests COVID-19 positive

The Supreme Court Friday said courts can't monitor or stop the movement of migrant workers across the country and it is for the government to take necessary action in this regard.

The Centre told the top court that migrant workers across the country were being provided transportation by the government to their destinations but they have to wait for their turn rather than starting walking on foot amid coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic.

A bench headed by Justice L Nageswara Rao refused to entertain an application seeking a direction to the Centre to ask all District Magistrates to identify stranded migrant workers and provide shelter, food to them before ensuring their free transportation to native places because of the recent incident at Aurangabad in which 16 workers were mowed down by a goods train.

The bench, which also comprised Justices S K Kaul and B R Gavai, asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta whether there was any way to stop these migrants workers from walking on the roads.

Mehta said states are providing inter-state transport to the migrant workers but if the people start walking on foot instead of waiting for transportation, then nothing can be done.

He said authorities can only request these people not to start walking on foot as using any force to stop them would be counter-productive.

Mehta told the bench, which was hearing the matter through video-conferencing, that subject to the agreement between state governments everybody would get a chance to travel to their destinations.

Advocate Alakh Alok Srivastava, who had filed the plea, referred to recent incidents of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh where migrant workers were killed in accidents on highways.

"How can we stop it?" the bench observed, adding that states should take necessary action on these issues.

The bench, which said it was not inclined to hear the plea, observed that the court can't monitor who is walking and who is not walking.

Srivastava had filed the plea soon after the Aurangabad incident in which 16 migrant workers, who were returning to Madhya Pradesh and had slept on railway tracks, were mowed down by a goods train.

The interim application, filed in a disposed PIL, had said that the deceased labourers belonged to Shahdol and Umaria districts of Madhya Pradesh and were walking from Jalna in Maharashtra to Aurangabad Railway Station to board trains to reach hometowns.

After walking for several kilometres, they decided to take rest on the railway tracks between Satana and Karmad and were mowed down by a goods train, it had said.

Earlier, the top court had disposed of the PIL seeking migrant workers' welfare during the pandemic and consequential lockdown saying that the Centre and states are taking appropriate steps to provide them relief.

The Supreme Court Friday said courts can't monitor or stop the movement of migrant workers across the country and it is for the government to take necessary action in this regard.

The Supreme Court Friday said courts can't monitor or stop the movement of migrant workers across the country and it is for the government to take necessary action in this regard. The Centre told the top court that migrant workers across the country were being provided transportation by the government to their destinations but they have to wait for their turn rather than starting walking on foot amid coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic. A bench headed by Justice L Nageswara Rao refused to entertain an application seeking a direction to the Centre to ask all District Magistrates to identify stranded migrant workers and provide shelter, food to them before ensuring their free transportation to native places because of the recent incident at Aurangabad in which 16 workers were mowed down by a goods train. The bench, which also comprised Justices S K Kaul and B R Gavai, asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta whether there was any way to stop these migrants workers from walking on the roads. Mehta said states are providing inter-state transport to the migrant workers but if the people start walking on foot instead of waiting for transportation, then nothing can be done. He said authorities can only request these people not to start walking on foot as using any force to stop them would be counter-productive. Mehta told the bench, which was hearing the matter through video-conferencing, that subject to the agreement between state governments everybody would get a chance to travel to their destinations. Advocate Alakh Alok Srivastava, who had filed the plea, referred to recent incidents of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh where migrant workers were killed in accidents on highways. "How can we stop it?" the bench observed, adding that states should take necessary action on these issues. The bench, which said it was not inclined to hear the plea, observed that the court can't monitor who is walking and who is not walking. Srivastava had filed the plea soon after the Aurangabad incident in which 16 migrant workers, who were returning to Madhya Pradesh and had slept on railway tracks, were mowed down by a goods train. The interim application, filed in a disposed PIL, had said that the deceased labourers belonged to Shahdol and Umaria districts of Madhya Pradesh and were walking from Jalna in Maharashtra to Aurangabad Railway Station to board trains to reach hometowns. After walking for several kilometres, they decided to take rest on the railway tracks between Satana and Karmad and were mowed down by a goods train, it had said. Earlier, the top court had disposed of the PIL seeking migrant workers' welfare during the pandemic and consequential lockdown saying that the Centre and states are taking appropriate steps to provide them relief.

'How can we stop it': Supreme Court on plea to monitor migrants walking back to their native states

After a minister in the West Bengal Government triggered a huge row by accusing the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of discriminating against West Bengal and not organising any repatriation flights of Indian nationals from abroad to the State in the Vande Bharat Mission, MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava tweeted late on Thursday night that the “MEA does not discriminate between states” and that the “Vande Bharat Mission is for all stranded Indians, including those from West Bengal”.

The government launched the Vande Bharat mission on May 7 to bring back Indians stranded in various countries due to coronavirus-related restrictions.

"The MEA does not discriminate between states. GOI's Vande Bharat Mission is for all stranded Indians, including those from West Bengal. Over 3,700 of them have registered for repatriation from different parts of the world @MoCA_GoI @HomeSecretaryWB," Srivastava said in a tweet, tagging the post of Chatterjee.

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MEA does not discriminate between states. GOI’s Vande Bharat Mission is for all stranded Indians, including those from West Bengal. Over 3700 of them have registered for repatriation from different parts of the world. (1/2)<a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA_GoI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HomeSecretaryWB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HomeSecretaryWB</a> <a href="https://t.co/CEzU0rCAnM">https://t.co/CEzU0rCAnM</a>
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Chatterjee had tweeted, "Is the MEA asking us to believe that there are enough people to come from Georgia to Gujarat but none want to come to Kolkata? Also, there are enough people to come back to Bihar from Kyrgyzstan but not enough to bring back to Bengal? Stop this injustice !!! #MithyebadiBJP".

Srivastava also said that the Centre will facilitate flights to Kolkata if the state government will confirm arrangements to receive and quarantine. 
 
(With inputs from Agencies)

After a minister in the West Bengal Government triggered a huge row by accusing the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of discriminating against West Bengal and not organising any repatriation flights of Indian nationals from abroad to the State in the Vande Bharat Mission, MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava tweeted late on Thursday night that the “MEA does not discriminate between states” and that the “Vande Bharat Mission is for all stranded Indians, including those from West Bengal”.

After a minister in the West Bengal Government triggered a huge row by accusing the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of discriminating against West Bengal and not organising any repatriation flights of Indian nationals from abroad to the State in the Vande Bharat Mission, MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava tweeted late on Thursday night that the “MEA does not discriminate between states” and that the “Vande Bharat Mission is for all stranded Indians, including those from West Bengal”. The government launched the Vande Bharat mission on May 7 to bring back Indians stranded in various countries due to coronavirus-related restrictions. "The MEA does not discriminate between states. GOI's Vande Bharat Mission is for all stranded Indians, including those from West Bengal. Over 3,700 of them have registered for repatriation from different parts of the world @MoCA_GoI @HomeSecretaryWB," Srivastava said in a tweet, tagging the post of Chatterjee. MEA does not discriminate between states. GOI’s Vande Bharat Mission is for all stranded Indians, including those from West Bengal. Over 3700 of them have registered for repatriation from different parts of the world. (1/2)@MoCA_GoI @HomeSecretaryWB https://t.co/CEzU0rCAnM — Anurag Srivastava (@MEAIndia) May 14, 2020 × Chatterjee had tweeted, "Is the MEA asking us to believe that there are enough people to come from Georgia to Gujarat but none want to come to Kolkata? Also, there are enough people to come back to Bihar from Kyrgyzstan but not enough to bring back to Bengal? Stop this injustice !!! #MithyebadiBJP". Srivastava also said that the Centre will facilitate flights to Kolkata if the state government will confirm arrangements to receive and quarantine. (With inputs from Agencies)

Vande Bharat for all, says MEA after Bengal accuses Centre of discriminating between states

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.3 million worldwide on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected 4,345,646 people worldwide and 297,108 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,547,406 people of that tally have recovered.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The United States logged more than 1,800 deaths on Wednesday, bringing the nation's total to 84,059.

The US president has increasingly looked to pin the blame on China, where the virus first emerged late last year.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization said on Wednesday that the coronavirus that causes Covid-19 could become endemic like HIV, warning against any attempt to predict how long it would keep circulating and calling for a “massive effort” to counter it.

“It is important to put this on the table: this virus may become just another endemic virus in our communities, and this virus may never go away,” WHO emergencies expert Mike Ryan told an online briefing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.3 million worldwide on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,345,646 people worldwide and 297,108 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.3 million worldwide on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,345,646 people worldwide and 297,108 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,547,406 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The United States logged more than 1,800 deaths on Wednesday, bringing the nation's total to 84,059. The US president has increasingly looked to pin the blame on China, where the virus first emerged late last year. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization said on Wednesday that the coronavirus that causes Covid-19 could become endemic like HIV, warning against any attempt to predict how long it would keep circulating and calling for a “massive effort” to counter it. “It is important to put this on the table: this virus may become just another endemic virus in our communities, and this virus may never go away,” WHO emergencies expert Mike Ryan told an online briefing. (With inputs from agencies)

Global Covid-19 cases surge past 4.3 million mark, death toll at 297,108  

Union Health Ministry on Thursday morning said 134 new deaths due to COVID-19 and an additional 3,722 positive cases were reported since Wednesday in the country, taking the number of deaths to 2,549 and total cases to 78,003.

Of the total cases, 49,219 are active and 2,549 are fatalities so far while at least 26,234 people have recovered from the disease.

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Thursday marks the 51st straight day of the ongoing lockdown across the country announced by the central government to contain the spread of the pandemic.

The lockdown, announced on March 25, was on May 1 again extended for the second time until May 17.

Union Health Ministry on Thursday morning said 134 new deaths due to COVID-19 and an additional 3,722 positive cases were reported since Wednesday in the country, taking the number of deaths to 2,549 and total cases to 78,003.

Union Health Ministry on Thursday morning said 134 new deaths due to COVID-19 and an additional 3,722 positive cases were reported since Wednesday in the country, taking the number of deaths to 2,549 and total cases to 78,003. Of the total cases, 49,219 are active and 2,549 are fatalities so far while at least 26,234 people have recovered from the disease. Thursday marks the 51st straight day of the ongoing lockdown across the country announced by the central government to contain the spread of the pandemic. The lockdown, announced on March 25, was on May 1 again extended for the second time until May 17.

India COVID-19 death toll rises to 2,549 as total cases reach 78,003 

Reaching out to Iceland despite the pan India lockdown, New Delhi was able to send its medicine consignment to country earning India lot of praise in the country.

Reaching out to Iceland despite the pan India lockdown, New Delhi was able to send its medicine consignment to country earning India lot of praise in the country. A commercial consignment of 50,000 packages of anti-malarial drug Chloroquine, sufficient to treat 25,000 patients were sent by India. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Iceland's capital Reykjavik, India's envoy to Iceland Armstrong Changsan spoke about how Iceland's deCODE Genetics and India's CSIR-IGIB are "examining ways and means to collaborate on scientific research on the pandemic.". Armstrong also spoke about stranded Indians, which are about 10 in number and Indian mission the country is trying to make sure they reach to a destination in any Schengen country from where they can come to India. WION: India-Iceland cooperation on the COVID-19 pandemic is two-fold. T. Armstrong Changsan: At the initial stage, this mission along with Hq MEA helped clear a shipment of 50,000 chloroquine phosphate tablets that got stuck at the end of March due to our lockdown. This involved, movement from the factory in Uttarakhand to Delhi and then clarifications to Customs etc. The shipment finally reached Iceland on 6 April 2020. A few weeks later, we also shipped about 45 million paracetamol tablets to Iceland. Both of these were commercial transactions but nevertheless earned us much goodwill here. Their Permanent Secretary (Mr Sturla Sigurjonsson, who was their first HOM to India back in 2006) even wrote a thank you message. Moving forward, the Icelandic biotech company deCODE Genetics and our CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), New Delhi are examining ways and means to collaborate on scientific research on the pandemic. In the middle of April last month, deCODE had published a paper in the New England Journal of Medicine, about the spread of the COVID pandemic in Iceland. Since the company is renowned for its studies on genetic risk factors and diseases, made possible due to deCODE’s an extensive database of the complete genealogy of Icelanders, going back 1000 years, as well as genetic details and medical records of half the Icelandic population, I had brought the paper to the attention of CSIR and ICMR, and they found it very impressive. Thereafter CSIR-IGIB was identified as the Indian research institute to collaborate with deCODE. I am therefore very happy that even in this northernmost capital of the world, there is cutting edge research, and thus scope for our two countries to work together in tackling this pandemic. The small Icelandic population, with extensive genealogical records, and genetic data and health data being available, makes for an excellent testing lab, so to say, for perhaps finding out why COVID-19 disease manifests in so many ways: from asymptomatic, to mild, to severe, to fatal. WION: How is the Indian mission reaching to stranded Indians in the country, if any? Any plans of repatriation? Any Indian infected with COVID. T. Armstrong Changsan: Only about 10 Indians are stranded here in Iceland who wish to return to India, since they are tourists/some whose work permits are expiring soon. These numbers are rather small for a repatriation/evacuation flight and hence Mission is looking at ways and means of getting them to some other Schengen country from where they will catch the evacuation flight to their respective cities. The challenge here is that Iceland is virtually cut off with just about 3 known flights to Europe (Stockholm on 16 May, and London on 13 and 15 May) in the coming days. In other words, there is just 1 flight to a Schengen country since London requires a separate visa. These limited flights are there only due to the support of the Government of Iceland given to the near-bankrupt airline namely Icelandair. Government support is being extended on a weekly basis and it is unclear whether it will receive further support next week. WION: How has the ground situation in Iceland changed, how have Indian diplomats faring? T. Armstrong Changsan: Fortunately, none of the stranded Indians or Mission’s officials/staff are infected. The Iceland health authorities are ready to test the stranded Indians for the sake of COVID-free documentation before departure. In fact, as you might be aware, out of 1801 confirmed infections in Iceland, 1773 have recovered and there remain 18 persons with infections, with only 2 persons in hospital. 10 fatalities in all. In fact, only 3 cases of infection by the virus have been diagnosed in this month of May. Earlier today, 12 May, the government announced that it expects to start easing restrictions on international arrivals by 15 June 2020; and offer arriving persons the option to do virus testing on arrival and proceed normally without quarantine, or else, they would be required to home-quarantine for 2 weeks. WION: Anything we can learn from Iceland's COVID containment model, even though it has a natural advantage of being a sparsely populated country. T. Armstrong Changsan: Iceland’s containment model is based on what is already known which is large scale testing, tracing and isolation. But the surprising thing here is, about 63% of the tests were done on the general public; that is, random tests, and not the other way around. I think this is quite unique. Although, I am not an expert but there is something more which I would like to share here. It is do with Iceland’s healthcare system which has extensive digitisation of patient records, accessible across the country, across hospitals including private clinics. Prescriptions are also paperless and can be viewed by the pharmacist directly. Allows for remote healthcare, thus preventing a great deal of visits to and crowding at the hospitals, or even clogging hospital telephone lines, while at the same time enabling remote monitoring of sick persons and advising them. Iceland’s national patients portal (heilsuvera.is) is very interactive, and sends out alerts to doctors, nurses and the patient concerned once certain responses to questionnaires trigger certain parameters; it even has the facility for video conferencing with the doctor. This came through very effective in tackling the pandemic and allowing for better, wider and optimal use of the resources of doctors, nurses and other medical staff. Iceland's digitisation of its healthcare system is different from the European healthcare systems, which are perhaps like our big hospitals in which a lot of patient data, etc. is stored in individual hospital software (or even paper files), giving rise to challenges in accessibility at different locations across the country. And since this Icelandic system can be accessed even on a smartphone, perhaps we too could emulate and develop a similar healthcare system backbone in India. And thereby leapfrogging over to a new smartphone-based healthcare system, that allows for optimising the use of the limited number of our doctors and other healthcare professionals.

From Uttarakhand to Reykjavik, India's medicines reach Iceland

The New Development Bank of the BRICS countries has fully disbursed USD one billion emergency assistance loan to India to help it contain the spread of COVID-19 and reduce human, social and economic losses caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The New Development Bank of the BRICS countries has fully disbursed USD one billion emergency assistance loan to India to help it contain the spread of COVID-19 and reduce human, social and economic losses caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The Shanghai-based New Development Bank (NDB) was established by the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) countries in 2014 and is headed by veteran Indian banker K V Kamath. The purpose of the bank is to mobilise resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS countries and other emerging economies and developing nations, complementing the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development. The 'Emergency Assistance Program Loan' to India was approved by the NDB Board of Directors on April 30, and it is aimed at supporting the Indian government to contain the spread of COVID-19 and reduce human, social and economic losses caused by the coronavirus outbreak. "The NDB is fully committed to supporting its member countries in the time of calamity. Emergency Assistance Program Loan to India was approved in quick response to the urgent request and immediate financing needs of the Government of India in fighting COVID-19," Xian Zhu, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of the bank said in a statement issued on Tuesday. The programme's scope of financing includes Healthcare Sector Emergency Response and Strengthening Social Safety Net for expenditures already incurred since January 1, 2020, and the expected public expenditures for onward transmission containment and social safety net associated with COVID-19 up to the March of 2021, it said. It envisages, preventing, detecting, and responding to the threat posed by COVID-19, funding critical healthcare expenditure that will enhance healthcare capacity in India and strengthen national health systems preparedness and providing immediate economic assistance to the vulnerable and affected groups, thus facilitating economic and social recovery. In its Statement on Response to COVID-19 outbreak, the NDB Board of Governors welcomed the establishment of an Emergency Assistance Facility to meet the emergency needs of the member countries of the bank. Emergency loans to the NDB member countries could be used to finance direct expenses related to the fight against COVID-19 outbreak and provide support to governmental measures contributing to economic recovery, it said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced massive new financial incentives on top of the previously announced packages for a combined stimulus of Rs 20 lakh crore. The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 2,415 and the number of cases climbed to 74,281 in India on Wednesday, according to the Union Health Ministry. Globally, the number of cases linked to the disease has crossed 42.61 lakh and the death toll has topped 2.91 lakh.

BRICS' New Development Bank provides USD 1 billion loan to India to fight COVID-19

India registered another 122 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total fatalities due to the novel coronavirus to 2,415, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Wednesday.

The country recorded another 3525 COVID-19 cases during the same period which took the total number to 74281. The MoHFW said that of the 74,281 cases, 47480 were active, 24386 had been cured/discharged/migrated cases and 2415 had passed away.

The coronavirus is slowly moving to the rural belt, with an increasing number of cases being reported from districts that were until recently untouched by Covid-19. In many states, it has resulted in more districts coming under the grip of the virus.

Yesterday, In a big push to revive the COVID-hit economy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced massive new financial incentives on top of the previously announced packages for a combined stimulus of Rs 20 lakh crore, saying the coronavirus crisis has provided India an opportunity to become self-reliant and emerge as the best in the world. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Apart from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) assistance, the government had last month announced a Rs 1.74 lakh crore to provide benefits to the poor, including cash transfers, Rs 50 lakh insurance cover and steps to ensure food security. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
In a televised address to the nation, Modi also said there will be a fourth phase of the lockdown which will be very different from the earlier three phases. The third phase of the 54-day lockdown is scheduled to end on May 17.

(With inputs from agencies)

India registered another 122 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total fatalities due to the novel coronavirus to 2,415, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Wednesday.

India registered another 122 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total fatalities due to the novel coronavirus to 2,415, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Wednesday. The country recorded another 3525 COVID-19 cases during the same period which took the total number to 74281. The MoHFW said that of the 74,281 cases, 47480 were active, 24386 had been cured/discharged/migrated cases and 2415 had passed away. The coronavirus is slowly moving to the rural belt, with an increasing number of cases being reported from districts that were until recently untouched by Covid-19. In many states, it has resulted in more districts coming under the grip of the virus. Yesterday, In a big push to revive the COVID-hit economy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced massive new financial incentives on top of the previously announced packages for a combined stimulus of Rs 20 lakh crore, saying the coronavirus crisis has provided India an opportunity to become self-reliant and emerge as the best in the world. Apart from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) assistance, the government had last month announced a Rs 1.74 lakh crore to provide benefits to the poor, including cash transfers, Rs 50 lakh insurance cover and steps to ensure food security. In a televised address to the nation, Modi also said there will be a fourth phase of the lockdown which will be very different from the earlier three phases. The third phase of the 54-day lockdown is scheduled to end on May 17. (With inputs from agencies)

122 coronavirus deaths in India in 24 hours; over 74,200 total cases so far

India's Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd said on Tuesday it had signed a non-exclusive licensing agreement for selling Gilead Sciences Inc's experimental COVID-19 treatment remdesivir in 127 countries, including India.

The drug earlier this month received the US Food and Drug Administration's emergency use authorization to treat COVID-19 patients.

Jubilant also gets the rights to manufacture the drug and scale up production in nearly all low-income and middle-income countries, as well as some high-income nations.

Gilead has said it was negotiating long-term licenses with several generic drugmakers in India and Pakistan to produce remdesivir for developing countries and that it would provide technology to aid the production.

With no approved treatment for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus, interest in remdesivir has been growing, and the company is being closely watched on the pricing and distribution of the limited supply of the drug.

Not-for-profit Medecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, criticized Gilead for a lack of transparency on the terms of the agreement.

"We believe that instead of business as usual, such agreements should be made public and licenses have to be global including all countries - low, middle and high income," said Leena Menghaney, the South Asia head for MSF's Access Campaign.

Gilead did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the agreement with Jubilant.

The pandemic has killed nearly 286,000 people globally, according to a Reuters tally, and several drugmakers are racing to develop a viable treatment or vaccine to combat the outbreak.

India's Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd said on Tuesday it had signed a non-exclusive licensing agreement for selling Gilead Sciences Inc's experimental COVID-19 treatment remdesivir in 127 countries, including India.

India's Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd said on Tuesday it had signed a non-exclusive licensing agreement for selling Gilead Sciences Inc's experimental COVID-19 treatment remdesivir in 127 countries, including India. The drug earlier this month received the US Food and Drug Administration's emergency use authorization to treat COVID-19 patients. Jubilant also gets the rights to manufacture the drug and scale up production in nearly all low-income and middle-income countries, as well as some high-income nations. Gilead has said it was negotiating long-term licenses with several generic drugmakers in India and Pakistan to produce remdesivir for developing countries and that it would provide technology to aid the production. With no approved treatment for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus, interest in remdesivir has been growing, and the company is being closely watched on the pricing and distribution of the limited supply of the drug. Not-for-profit Medecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, criticized Gilead for a lack of transparency on the terms of the agreement. "We believe that instead of business as usual, such agreements should be made public and licenses have to be global including all countries - low, middle and high income," said Leena Menghaney, the South Asia head for MSF's Access Campaign. Gilead did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the agreement with Jubilant. The pandemic has killed nearly 286,000 people globally, according to a Reuters tally, and several drugmakers are racing to develop a viable treatment or vaccine to combat the outbreak.

India's Jubilant signs licensing deal for US pharma firm Gilead's covid-19 drug

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Switch to offensive mode: Afghan President to troops after 36 killed in twin attacks Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday that he was ordering the military to switch from a defensive mode to an offensive mode after at least 36 people were killed in twin attacks.

Switch to offensive mode: Afghan President to troops after 36 killed in twin attacks Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday that he was ordering the military to switch from a defensive mode to an offensive mode after at least 36 people were killed in twin attacks. READ MORE Coronavirus vaccine might take some time: Top health expert Anthony Fauci Leading US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Tuesday warned Congress that while the federal government is working to help manufacture a vaccine against the new coronavirus, its development "might take some time" to come to market. READ MORE

Morning news brief: Afghanistan to resume offensive operations, firms eye pandemic boom and more

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.2 million worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected &nbsp;4,262,799 people worldwide and 291,981 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around &nbsp;1,493,661 people of that tally have recovered.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The number of COVID-19 cases in the United States reached 1,367,927 as of 23:32 GMT Tuesday, according to the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University. Of note, the death toll reached 82,246, making it the worst-hit country in terms of total infections and deaths.

Of these, hardest-hit New York State reported 27,284 fatalities. New Jersey reported 9,531 deaths, Massachusetts reported 5,141 deaths and Michigan reported 4,674 deaths, data from the CSSE showed.

In Europe, another 627 coronavirus patients died in Britain as of Monday afternoon, bringing the total coronavirus-related death toll in the country to 32,692, the Department of Health and Social Care said Tuesday. The figures include deaths in all settings, including hospitals, care homes and the wider community. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.2 million worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,262,799 people worldwide and 291,981 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.2 million worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,262,799 people worldwide and 291,981 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,493,661 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The number of COVID-19 cases in the United States reached 1,367,927 as of 23:32 GMT Tuesday, according to the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University. Of note, the death toll reached 82,246, making it the worst-hit country in terms of total infections and deaths. Of these, hardest-hit New York State reported 27,284 fatalities. New Jersey reported 9,531 deaths, Massachusetts reported 5,141 deaths and Michigan reported 4,674 deaths, data from the CSSE showed. In Europe, another 627 coronavirus patients died in Britain as of Monday afternoon, bringing the total coronavirus-related death toll in the country to 32,692, the Department of Health and Social Care said Tuesday. The figures include deaths in all settings, including hospitals, care homes and the wider community. (With inputs from agencies)

Global Covid-19 cases surge past 4.2 million mark, death toll at  291,981

COVID-19 has now infected 4,178,156 people worldwide and 286,353 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,456,318 people of that tally have recovered.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The United States continues to control its daily death rate below 900 for the second consecutive day. According to a real-time tally by John Hopkins University, the country has recorded 830 deaths due to coronavirus in the past 24 hours taking the total toll 81,378.

The total cases for coronavirus have gone up till 1,346,723. On Sunday, the United States recorded 776 deaths that were the lowest since March.

But the death rate is climbing slowly which is a concern for the country as few states relax their lockdown.&nbsp;

In the United States, New York continues to be the worst-hit after 26,682 deaths and 337,055 cases.&nbsp;

COVID-19 has now infected 4,178,156 people worldwide and 286,353 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,456,318 people of that tally have recovered.

COVID-19 has now infected 4,178,156 people worldwide and 286,353 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,456,318 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The United States continues to control its daily death rate below 900 for the second consecutive day. According to a real-time tally by John Hopkins University, the country has recorded 830 deaths due to coronavirus in the past 24 hours taking the total toll 81,378. The total cases for coronavirus have gone up till 1,346,723. On Sunday, the United States recorded 776 deaths that were the lowest since March. But the death rate is climbing slowly which is a concern for the country as few states relax their lockdown. In the United States, New York continues to be the worst-hit after 26,682 deaths and 337,055 cases.

Coronavirus global roundup, May 12: Cases surge past 4.1 million mark, death toll at  286,353

Observing that the coronavirus pandemic has shown the existing international system's limitations, India's envoy in the US has said that the world after COVID-19 needs a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity.

Economic growth and human welfare need to go hand in hand and there is a need to ensure equitable, affordable and timely access to health products and technologies for all, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu said in a virtual interaction with The Asia Group hosted by former US Ambassador to India Richard Verma on Monday.

"The current pandemic shows the limitations of the existing international system. In the post-COVID world, we need a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity," Mr Sandhu said.

Indian Pharma companies are global leaders in producing affordable low-cost medicines and vaccines, he said, adding that India is a reliable partner for providing affordable medicines to the US.

"Our long-standing and robust partnership with the US in the area of health and scientific research has further deepened during the time of the pandemic," he said.

Similarly, India has been working with the US private sector in vaccine development. Serum Institute of India has collaborated with Codagenix Inc - a New York based clinical-stage Biotechnology Company - to rapidly co-develop a live-attenuated vaccine against the emergent coronavirus, Mr Sandhu said.

Bharat Biotech, Hyderabad has collaborated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the vaccine company FluGen to develop a vaccine against COVID-19 called CoroFlu, he said. Mr Sandhu said that the containment of the virus and economic recovery will require strong international cooperation to complement the national policy efforts.

India is also working with its international partners, including its neighbours, to combat the pandemic. It has delivered medical supplies and assistance to over 123 partner countries, he said.

"We have taken the lead in the SAARC region through an Emergency Relief corpus with an initial seed fund of USD 10 million. Our Rapid Response Medical Teams have been deployed in the Maldives, Kuwait. Our health experts are sharing best practices through online training for our neighbours and are active in global efforts to develop remedies and vaccines," the Indian diplomat said.

Noting that much has changed in the last few weeks, Sandhu said that the world looks a completely different place as a nation after nation has taken shelter at home to stop the relentless march of the invisible enemy. Understandably, each country has erected its line of defence with the aim to minimise the loss of life.

"The global health crisis has brought in its wake an economic crisis of a scale that has not been seen in a long time.

"Grappling with these twin crises, governments today face an impossible choice between public health and economy. We will need a delicate balancing act. We need to revitalise our economies as well as enhance resilience, scalability and sustainability of our healthcare systems," he added.

Observing that the coronavirus pandemic has shown the existing international system's limitations, India's envoy in the US has said that the world after COVID-19 needs a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity.

Observing that the coronavirus pandemic has shown the existing international system's limitations, India's envoy in the US has said that the world after COVID-19 needs a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity. Economic growth and human welfare need to go hand in hand and there is a need to ensure equitable, affordable and timely access to health products and technologies for all, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu said in a virtual interaction with The Asia Group hosted by former US Ambassador to India Richard Verma on Monday. "The current pandemic shows the limitations of the existing international system. In the post-COVID world, we need a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity," Mr Sandhu said. Indian Pharma companies are global leaders in producing affordable low-cost medicines and vaccines, he said, adding that India is a reliable partner for providing affordable medicines to the US. "Our long-standing and robust partnership with the US in the area of health and scientific research has further deepened during the time of the pandemic," he said. Similarly, India has been working with the US private sector in vaccine development. Serum Institute of India has collaborated with Codagenix Inc - a New York based clinical-stage Biotechnology Company - to rapidly co-develop a live-attenuated vaccine against the emergent coronavirus, Mr Sandhu said. Bharat Biotech, Hyderabad has collaborated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the vaccine company FluGen to develop a vaccine against COVID-19 called CoroFlu, he said. Mr Sandhu said that the containment of the virus and economic recovery will require strong international cooperation to complement the national policy efforts. India is also working with its international partners, including its neighbours, to combat the pandemic. It has delivered medical supplies and assistance to over 123 partner countries, he said. "We have taken the lead in the SAARC region through an Emergency Relief corpus with an initial seed fund of USD 10 million. Our Rapid Response Medical Teams have been deployed in the Maldives, Kuwait. Our health experts are sharing best practices through online training for our neighbours and are active in global efforts to develop remedies and vaccines," the Indian diplomat said. Noting that much has changed in the last few weeks, Sandhu said that the world looks a completely different place as a nation after nation has taken shelter at home to stop the relentless march of the invisible enemy. Understandably, each country has erected its line of defence with the aim to minimise the loss of life. "The global health crisis has brought in its wake an economic crisis of a scale that has not been seen in a long time. "Grappling with these twin crises, governments today face an impossible choice between public health and economy. We will need a delicate balancing act. We need to revitalise our economies as well as enhance resilience, scalability and sustainability of our healthcare systems," he added.

'Need globalisation template based on fairness': Indian envoy on covid-19

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The country reported 263 deaths after today recording 70 deaths the previous day. The total death toll due to the virus has now risen to 26,643, the health ministry said with 177, 094 people infected with the virus. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-spike-in-france-amid-easing-of-lockdown-icu-patients-fall-in-italy-298084">READ MORE</a> 
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Donald Trump abruptly ends press conference on COVID-19 after a heated argument with two women reporters US President Donald Trump abruptly ended his coronavirus press briefing on Monday after getting into a testy exchange with an Asian-American reporter.

Donald Trump abruptly ends press conference on COVID-19 after a heated argument with two women reporters US President Donald Trump abruptly ended his coronavirus press briefing on Monday after getting into a testy exchange with an Asian-American reporter. READ MORE International tourism may decline by 60-80% in 2020 due to Covid-19: UN body The global international agency said the pandemic has already caused a 22 per cent fall in international tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2020. READ MORE Coronavirus cases spike in France amid easing of lockdown; ICU patients fall in Italy The country reported 263 deaths after today recording 70 deaths the previous day. The total death toll due to the virus has now risen to 26,643, the health ministry said with 177, 094 people infected with the virus. READ MORE

Morning News Brief: Trump abruptly ends press meet, World tourism faces crisis and more

US President Donald Trump abruptly ended his coronavirus press briefing on Monday after getting into a testy exchange with an Asian-American reporter.

CBS News reporter Weijia Jiang asked Trump why he continued to insist that the US was doing better than other countries when it came to testing for the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-stocks-rattled-after-donald-trump-says-no-deadline-on-us-china-trade-deal-266025">Also read: Global stocks rattled after Donald Trump says no 'deadline' on US-China trade deal</a> 
 
"Why does that matter?" she asked. "Why is this a global competition when, every day, Americans are still losing their lives?"

"They're losing their lives everywhere in the world," Trump replied. "And maybe that's a question you should ask China. Don't ask me, ask China that question, OK?"

Jiang, who identifies herself in her Twitter bio as a "Chinese born West Virginian," pushed back.

"Sir, why are you saying that to me specifically?" she said, implying it was due to her race.

"I'm saying it to anybody who would ask a nasty question like that," Trump said.

He then attempted to move on to another reporter as Jiang continued to press him about his response.

Trump called on another female reporter but then immediately called on someone else.

When the woman tried to ask her question, Trump abruptly ended the press conference and walked back into the White House.

The internet was quick to rally round Jiang, with the hashtag #StandWithWeijiaJiang soon trending on Twitter.

"I #StandWithWeijiaJiang against Trump's racist tantrums," tweeted "Star Trek" actor and prominent Asian-American activist George Takei.

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I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithWeijiaJiang?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithWeijiaJiang</a> against Trump's racist tantrums.
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeTakei/status/1259985874873454592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Reporter and CNN political analyst April Ryan, who has also been on the receiving end of Trump's words, tweeted: "Welcome to the club! This is sickening! It is his habit!"

Trump, who has never been shy about his dislike for the news media, has often locked horns with journalists during his coronavirus press briefings.

More than 80,000 people have died in the US from the coronavirus pandemic, out of more than 1.3 million cases, according to the latest figures on Monday from Johns Hopkins University, by far the highest death toll of any country.

US President Donald Trump abruptly ended his coronavirus press briefing on Monday after getting into a testy exchange with an Asian-American reporter. CBS News reporter Weijia Jiang asked Trump why he continued to insist that the US was doing better than other countries when it came to testing for the virus.

US President Donald Trump abruptly ended his coronavirus press briefing on Monday after getting into a testy exchange with an Asian-American reporter. CBS News reporter Weijia Jiang asked Trump why he continued to insist that the US was doing better than other countries when it came to testing for the virus. Also read: Global stocks rattled after Donald Trump says no 'deadline' on US-China trade deal "Why does that matter?" she asked. "Why is this a global competition when, every day, Americans are still losing their lives?" "They're losing their lives everywhere in the world," Trump replied. "And maybe that's a question you should ask China. Don't ask me, ask China that question, OK?" Jiang, who identifies herself in her Twitter bio as a "Chinese born West Virginian," pushed back. "Sir, why are you saying that to me specifically?" she said, implying it was due to her race. "I'm saying it to anybody who would ask a nasty question like that," Trump said. He then attempted to move on to another reporter as Jiang continued to press him about his response. Trump called on another female reporter but then immediately called on someone else. When the woman tried to ask her question, Trump abruptly ended the press conference and walked back into the White House. The internet was quick to rally round Jiang, with the hashtag #StandWithWeijiaJiang soon trending on Twitter. "I #StandWithWeijiaJiang against Trump's racist tantrums," tweeted "Star Trek" actor and prominent Asian-American activist George Takei. I #StandWithWeijiaJiang against Trump's racist tantrums. — George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 11, 2020 × Reporter and CNN political analyst April Ryan, who has also been on the receiving end of Trump's words, tweeted: "Welcome to the club! This is sickening! It is his habit!" Trump, who has never been shy about his dislike for the news media, has often locked horns with journalists during his coronavirus press briefings. More than 80,000 people have died in the US from the coronavirus pandemic, out of more than 1.3 million cases, according to the latest figures on Monday from Johns Hopkins University, by far the highest death toll of any country.

Donald Trump abruptly ends press conference on COVID-19 after heated argument with two women reporters

The United States will complete 10 million coronavirus testings this week, United States President Donald Trump said on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-nations-ease-coronavirus-restrictions-is-it-a-risky-gamble-298060">Also Read:&nbsp;As nations ease coronavirus restrictions, is it a risky gamble?</a>

"This week the United States will pass 10 million tests conducted, nearly double the number of any other country. We are testing more people per capita than South Korea, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, Sweden, Finland, and many other countries, in some cases combined," Trump said at a White House briefing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-spike-in-france-amid-easing-of-lockdown-icu-patients-fall-in-italy-298084">Also read: Coronavirus cases spike in France amid easing of lockdown; ICU patients fall in Italy</a> 
 
As of Monday morning, the figure stood at 9 million tests, accelerating by 300,000 per day.

"Three weeks ago we were conducting roughly 150,000 tests per day.&nbsp; 
Now we are doing approximately 300,000 tests per day, a 100 per cent increase, and it will go up substantially from that number," Trump said.

Wide testing for coronavirus is viewed as a necessary prerequisite to reopening the US after quarantines and lockdowns.

In an effort to further ramp up testing, Trump announced the allocation of USD 11 billion to every state, territory, and tribe.

The United States will complete 10 million coronavirus testings this week, United States President Donald Trump said on Monday. Also Read: As nations ease coronavirus restrictions, is it a risky gamble?

The United States will complete 10 million coronavirus testings this week, United States President Donald Trump said on Monday. Also Read: As nations ease coronavirus restrictions, is it a risky gamble? "This week the United States will pass 10 million tests conducted, nearly double the number of any other country. We are testing more people per capita than South Korea, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, Sweden, Finland, and many other countries, in some cases combined," Trump said at a White House briefing. Also read: Coronavirus cases spike in France amid easing of lockdown; ICU patients fall in Italy As of Monday morning, the figure stood at 9 million tests, accelerating by 300,000 per day. "Three weeks ago we were conducting roughly 150,000 tests per day. Now we are doing approximately 300,000 tests per day, a 100 per cent increase, and it will go up substantially from that number," Trump said. Wide testing for coronavirus is viewed as a necessary prerequisite to reopening the US after quarantines and lockdowns. In an effort to further ramp up testing, Trump announced the allocation of USD 11 billion to every state, territory, and tribe.

US to complete 10 million coronavirus tests this week: Donald Trump

Nine personnel of the Border Security Force have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, an official statement said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Among the nine jawans, six are from Delhi, 1 from Kolkata and 2 from Tripura. All of them are under treatment at designated COVID health care hospitals.

Earlier, a CISF ASI posted at the Indian Museum in Kolkata and a head constable rank official posted to guard the Mumbai international airport had died of COVID-19.

The 1.62 lakh personnel strong force tasked primarily to guard civil airports in the country and vital infrastructure in the aerospace and nuclear domain has 66 active cases of the pandemic till now, as per officials.

The CAPFs like the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB -- as per latest data-- have about 758 active cases of the disease.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nine personnel of the Border Security Force have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, an official statement said on Tuesday. Among the nine jawans, six are from Delhi, 1 from Kolkata and 2 from Tripura.

Nine personnel of the Border Security Force have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, an official statement said on Tuesday. Among the nine jawans, six are from Delhi, 1 from Kolkata and 2 from Tripura. All of them are under treatment at designated COVID health care hospitals. Earlier, a CISF ASI posted at the Indian Museum in Kolkata and a head constable rank official posted to guard the Mumbai international airport had died of COVID-19. The 1.62 lakh personnel strong force tasked primarily to guard civil airports in the country and vital infrastructure in the aerospace and nuclear domain has 66 active cases of the pandemic till now, as per officials. The CAPFs like the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB -- as per latest data-- have about 758 active cases of the disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Nine new cases of covid-19 reported in BSF in the past 24 hours

The Wuhan city administration beefing up its measures for preventing and controlling the COVID-19 pandemic and all residents of the capital city of central China's Hubei Province will be required to take nucleic acid tests in the next 10 days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-roundup-may-12-cases-surge-past-41-million-mark-death-toll-at-286353-298150">Coronavirus global roundup, May 12: Cases surge past 4.1 million mark, death toll at 286,353</a> 
 
The decision came after six new cases of coronavirus were reported in Wuhan over the weekend.

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A month after coronavirus lockdown was lifted in the city where the global pandemic began a cluster of new infections seems to be sparking authorities into a wave of mass-testing.

All of the latest cases in Wuhan were previously classified as asymptomatic, people who test positive for the virus and are capable of infecting others but do not show clinical signs.

Hundreds of asymptomatic cases in Wuhan, which was released on April 8 from a months-long lockdown, are being monitored.

On average, the city has conducted about 47,000 nucleic acid tests each day since the lockdown was lifted, Reuters calculations based on reports by Wuhan’s health authority show.

New outbreaks in China in the past two months have mainly developed in residential compounds or hospitals, while the number of asymptomatic cases is not known, as these only appear on the radar when they show up positive during tests.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The Wuhan city administration beefing up its measures for preventing and controlling the COVID-19 pandemic and all residents of the capital city of central China's Hubei Province will be required to take nucleic acid tests in the next 10 days.

The Wuhan city administration beefing up its measures for preventing and controlling the COVID-19 pandemic and all residents of the capital city of central China's Hubei Province will be required to take nucleic acid tests in the next 10 days. Coronavirus global roundup, May 12: Cases surge past 4.1 million mark, death toll at 286,353 The decision came after six new cases of coronavirus were reported in Wuhan over the weekend. A month after coronavirus lockdown was lifted in the city where the global pandemic began a cluster of new infections seems to be sparking authorities into a wave of mass-testing. All of the latest cases in Wuhan were previously classified as asymptomatic, people who test positive for the virus and are capable of infecting others but do not show clinical signs. Hundreds of asymptomatic cases in Wuhan, which was released on April 8 from a months-long lockdown, are being monitored. On average, the city has conducted about 47,000 nucleic acid tests each day since the lockdown was lifted, Reuters calculations based on reports by Wuhan’s health authority show. New outbreaks in China in the past two months have mainly developed in residential compounds or hospitals, while the number of asymptomatic cases is not known, as these only appear on the radar when they show up positive during tests. (With inputs from Reuters)

Wuhan plans citywide nucleic acid testing in next 10 days after new cases emerge

India's COVID-19 tally continued to rise with the total number of confirmed cases touching 67152 on Monday, data on the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website showed.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaWatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaWatch</a> With an addition of 4,213 new cases, the total stands at 67,152. Here is the corona virus update as of 8 am today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeSaveLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeSaveLives</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/DYl6hWwMzY">pic.twitter.com/DYl6hWwMzY</a>
— PIB India #StayHome #StaySafe (@PIB_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India/status/1259728486643625986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Of the total cases in the country, 44029 are active cases while 20917 individuals have been cured and discharged from the hospitals. The death toll has mounted to 2206 while one person has migrated to another country, according to the data released by the Health Ministry.

India added 4,213 new Covid-19 cases over 24 hours, according to the Union Ministry’s 8:00 am update on May 11.

In India, the state of Maharashtra has emerged as the epicentre of the coronavirus spread where the number of cases witnessed a massive spike recently. According to the Health Ministry, Maharashtra has the highest number of cases with over 22,000 positive cases of infection and more than 830 deaths.

Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved 21 institutions for participating in a randomised controlled study to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma to limit complications associated with COVID-19. The sample size of the study is 452. Once 400 patients are enrolled, no more sites will be added. The clinical trial liability insurance has been bought centrally by the ICMR, officials said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally continued to rise with the total number of confirmed cases touching 67152 on Monday, data on the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website showed.

India's COVID-19 tally continued to rise with the total number of confirmed cases touching 67152 on Monday, data on the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website showed. #CoronaWatch With an addition of 4,213 new cases, the total stands at 67,152. Here is the corona virus update as of 8 am today. #StayHomeSaveLives #IndiaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/DYl6hWwMzY — PIB India #StayHome #StaySafe (@PIB_India) May 11, 2020 × Of the total cases in the country, 44029 are active cases while 20917 individuals have been cured and discharged from the hospitals. The death toll has mounted to 2206 while one person has migrated to another country, according to the data released by the Health Ministry. India added 4,213 new Covid-19 cases over 24 hours, according to the Union Ministry’s 8:00 am update on May 11. In India, the state of Maharashtra has emerged as the epicentre of the coronavirus spread where the number of cases witnessed a massive spike recently. According to the Health Ministry, Maharashtra has the highest number of cases with over 22,000 positive cases of infection and more than 830 deaths. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved 21 institutions for participating in a randomised controlled study to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma to limit complications associated with COVID-19. The sample size of the study is 452. Once 400 patients are enrolled, no more sites will be added. The clinical trial liability insurance has been bought centrally by the ICMR, officials said. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases top 67,000; more than 2,200 dead

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-the-time-to-end-lockdown-but-modify-measures-british-prime-minister-boris-johnson-297868">'Not the time to end lockdown, but modify measures': British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> 
 
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In a televised address, Johnson said: "This is not the time simply to end the lockdown this week. Instead, we are taking the first careful steps to modify our measures." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-the-time-to-end-lockdown-but-modify-measures-british-prime-minister-boris-johnson-297868">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-united-states-reports-776-deaths-in-last-24-hours-lowest-since-march-297871">United States reports 776 deaths in last 24 hours; lowest since March</a> 
 
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According to a real-time tally by Johns Hopkins University, the US reported 776 deaths in the past 24 hours bringing the total death toll of the country to 80,562. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-united-states-reports-776-deaths-in-last-24-hours-lowest-since-march-297871">READ MORE</a> 
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'Not the time to end lockdown, but modify measures': British Prime Minister Boris Johnson In a televised address, Johnson said: "This is not the time simply to end the lockdown this week.

'Not the time to end lockdown, but modify measures': British Prime Minister Boris Johnson In a televised address, Johnson said: "This is not the time simply to end the lockdown this week. Instead, we are taking the first careful steps to modify our measures." READ MORE United States reports 776 deaths in last 24 hours; lowest since March According to a real-time tally by Johns Hopkins University, the US reported 776 deaths in the past 24 hours bringing the total death toll of the country to 80,562. READ MORE

Morning News Brief: US death toll passes 80,000, UK to begin lifting lockdown and more

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4 million worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected 4,101,482 people worldwide and 282,700 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,408,771 people of that tally have recovered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-health-expert-warns-coronavirus-still-has-a-long-run-297841" hreflang="en">US health expert warns coronavirus still has a long run</a>

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-faces-increasing-global-backlash-over-coronavirus-outbreak-warns-internal-report-296619">Also read |&nbsp;China faces increasing global backlash over coronavirus outbreak, warns internal report</a>

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The United States recorded 776 coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 79,522, according to the real-time tally by Johns Hopkins University.

The figure was the lowest daily tally since March, with 24-hour totals in recent weeks ranging from 1,000 to 2,500.

The country -- hardest hit by the pandemic in terms of the number of fatalities -- has now confirmed a total of 1,329,072 cases, the Baltimore-based school reported.

There are at least 1,328,201 cases of coronavirus in the United States and at least 79,508 people have died in the US from the virus.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday said that there will be no immediate end to coronavirus lockdown in the country.&nbsp;

The United Kingdom and Russia are struggling to contain the spread of the virus as the number of cases rose to 2,19,183 (31,855 deaths) and 2,09,688 (1,915 deaths) respectively. However, few relaxations in the lockdown of the UK are expected soon.

After months of no new positive case, Wuhan, the alleged epicentre of the virus, has reported new positive cases, taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 82,918 and 4,633 fatalities.

A total of 201 countries have been infected by the virus in the past 6 months.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4 million worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,101,482 people worldwide and 282,700 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4 million worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,101,482 people worldwide and 282,700 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,408,771 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: US health expert warns coronavirus still has a long run A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. Also read | China faces increasing global backlash over coronavirus outbreak, warns internal report The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The United States recorded 776 coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 79,522, according to the real-time tally by Johns Hopkins University. The figure was the lowest daily tally since March, with 24-hour totals in recent weeks ranging from 1,000 to 2,500. The country -- hardest hit by the pandemic in terms of the number of fatalities -- has now confirmed a total of 1,329,072 cases, the Baltimore-based school reported. There are at least 1,328,201 cases of coronavirus in the United States and at least 79,508 people have died in the US from the virus. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday said that there will be no immediate end to coronavirus lockdown in the country. The United Kingdom and Russia are struggling to contain the spread of the virus as the number of cases rose to 2,19,183 (31,855 deaths) and 2,09,688 (1,915 deaths) respectively. However, few relaxations in the lockdown of the UK are expected soon. After months of no new positive case, Wuhan, the alleged epicentre of the virus, has reported new positive cases, taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 82,918 and 4,633 fatalities. A total of 201 countries have been infected by the virus in the past 6 months.

Global Covid-19 cases surge past 4 million mark, death toll at 282,700

United States Vice President Mike Pence is not planning to undergo self-quarantine after his aide tested positive for coronavirus, said his spokesperson, adding that Pence plans to be in at the White House on Monday.

Devin O'Malley, the vice president's spokesman, said Pence "will continue to follow the advice of the White House Medical Unit and is not in quarantine," CNN reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-faces-increasing-global-backlash-over-coronavirus-outbreak-warns-internal-report-296619">Also read |&nbsp;China faces increasing global backlash over coronavirus outbreak, warns internal report</a>

"Additionally, Vice President Pence has tested negative every single day and plans to be at the White House tomorrow," O'Malley said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-us-china-cold-war-now-begun-295905">Also read |&nbsp;Has the US-China cold war now begun?</a>

Another official said that Pence schedule will probably be on the lighter side for the next few days but he is not doing a full self-isolation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-torn-over-us-china-trade-deal-as-officials-push-to-fulfill-its-terms-297563">Also read |&nbsp;Trump 'torn' over US-China trade deal as officials push to fulfill its terms</a>

This comes after Katie Miller, the vice president's press secretary, was notified Friday about the result of her coronavirus test, Washington Post reported. She is the second White House to be tested positive for lethal infection.

On Thursday, the White House acknowledged the positive test result for a member of the U.S. military who works on the White House campus and added that Trump and Pence had since tested negative.

There are at least 1,328,201 cases of coronavirus in the United States and at least 79,508 people have died in the US from the virus.

United States Vice President Mike Pence is not planning to undergo self-quarantine after his aide tested positive for coronavirus, said his spokesperson, adding that Pence plans to be in at the White House on Monday.

United States Vice President Mike Pence is not planning to undergo self-quarantine after his aide tested positive for coronavirus, said his spokesperson, adding that Pence plans to be in at the White House on Monday. Devin O'Malley, the vice president's spokesman, said Pence "will continue to follow the advice of the White House Medical Unit and is not in quarantine," CNN reported. Also read | China faces increasing global backlash over coronavirus outbreak, warns internal report "Additionally, Vice President Pence has tested negative every single day and plans to be at the White House tomorrow," O'Malley said in a statement. Also read | Has the US-China cold war now begun? Another official said that Pence schedule will probably be on the lighter side for the next few days but he is not doing a full self-isolation. Also read | Trump 'torn' over US-China trade deal as officials push to fulfill its terms This comes after Katie Miller, the vice president's press secretary, was notified Friday about the result of her coronavirus test, Washington Post reported. She is the second White House to be tested positive for lethal infection. On Thursday, the White House acknowledged the positive test result for a member of the U.S. military who works on the White House campus and added that Trump and Pence had since tested negative. There are at least 1,328,201 cases of coronavirus in the United States and at least 79,508 people have died in the US from the virus.

US Vice President Mike Pence 'won't self-quarantine' despite his staffer testing COVID-19 positive

Doubts have emerged over the future of COVID resolution at United National Security council as US last week "broke silence procedure" on it and it is unclear how France and Tunisia who are the "penholders" intend to go forward with the draft.

"It will take a bit more time. if the US had not broken silence probably another of the P5 would have. COVID Still under discussion", told a diplomatic source from New York to WION. 
 
“Breaking the silence” is standard diplomatic language and not just in UNSC to describe when a party or parties does not agree with the text or some parts of the text. If there is usually a deadline and when no-one breaks the silence before then, it means there is consensus.&nbsp;

UNSC member countries are hopeful that some solution will come out soon. Another source from New York told WION "Discussions on the COVID-19 resolution are ongoing".

Currently, a Franco-Tunisian resolution is on the table with both the countries being the penholder for the draft on COVID. 
 
The US-China tiff on the COVID resolution continues especially in the context of WHO and the emergence of COVID crisis which was first reported in China in December of 2019.&nbsp;

"The problem is with the language in the text mentioning WHO that the US don’t agree on", a 3rd source told WION.&nbsp;

The former President of the United Nations Security Council has said "differences over the role of the World Health Organization" has "stalled" any outcomes over COVID resolution at the core UN body. Speaking exclusively to WION last week, Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic to the United Nations Ambassador José Singer Weisinger, "Security Council can’t remain silent" and "cannot remain inactive towards the response."&nbsp;

While the first case of COVID was first reported China's Wuhan in December, it was only during the Presidency of the Dominican Republic in the month of April that it was formally discussed.&nbsp;

&nbsp;President of UNSC decides the agenda of the body and it is president for a period of one month. All 15 countries rotationally become the president of UNSC each month, with Estonia being the President for the current month.

Doubts have emerged over the future of COVID resolution at United National Security council as US last week "broke silence procedure" on it and it is unclear how France and Tunisia who are the "penholders" intend to go forward with the draft.

Doubts have emerged over the future of COVID resolution at United National Security council as US last week "broke silence procedure" on it and it is unclear how France and Tunisia who are the "penholders" intend to go forward with the draft. "It will take a bit more time. if the US had not broken silence probably another of the P5 would have. COVID Still under discussion", told a diplomatic source from New York to WION. “Breaking the silence” is standard diplomatic language and not just in UNSC to describe when a party or parties does not agree with the text or some parts of the text. If there is usually a deadline and when no-one breaks the silence before then, it means there is consensus. UNSC member countries are hopeful that some solution will come out soon. Another source from New York told WION "Discussions on the COVID-19 resolution are ongoing". Currently, a Franco-Tunisian resolution is on the table with both the countries being the penholder for the draft on COVID. The US-China tiff on the COVID resolution continues especially in the context of WHO and the emergence of COVID crisis which was first reported in China in December of 2019. "The problem is with the language in the text mentioning WHO that the US don’t agree on", a 3rd source told WION. The former President of the United Nations Security Council has said "differences over the role of the World Health Organization" has "stalled" any outcomes over COVID resolution at the core UN body. Speaking exclusively to WION last week, Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic to the United Nations Ambassador José Singer Weisinger, "Security Council can’t remain silent" and "cannot remain inactive towards the response." While the first case of COVID was first reported China's Wuhan in December, it was only during the Presidency of the Dominican Republic in the month of April that it was formally discussed. President of UNSC decides the agenda of the body and it is president for a period of one month. All 15 countries rotationally become the president of UNSC each month, with Estonia being the President for the current month.

United National Security Council covid resolution in limbo

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