The world is struggling to contain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-york-city-from-a-global-cultural-capital-to-a-ghost-town-290305">Coronavirus </a>as it has spread across more than 180 countries. COVID-19 has infected more than 1.4 million people, with over 89000 fatalities around the world, according to John Hopkins University. With around 2.6 billion people around the world in some kind of lockdown, experts believe not enough is being done to stop people from spitting in public places. According to them, the saliva of an infected person can carry the virus for more than 24 hours which makes spitting at public places a great cause of concern. 
&nbsp; 
In India however, public spitting was never a concern for authorities until the coronavirus spread. In a recent press conference on April 5, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary of Union Health Ministry said, “In view of the increasing dangers from the COVID pandemic, ICMR has issued an advisory requesting people to avoid smoking, spitting in public places and consumption of tobacco products in this period.”

In India, in two separate incidents, people were spat upon raising concerns amid coronavirus scare. In a racist attack in Delhi, a man allegedly spat tobacco on a Manipuri Woman and called her “corona”. He was later nabbed by Delhi Police and was put behind the bars. In a separate incident, a 33-year-old man from Meerut, who attended the Tablighi Jamaat Meeting in Delhi last month and had tested positive for COVID-19, spat on a doctor while creating ruckus in a quarantine facility in Kanpur.

Public spitting is just isn’t an Indian problem&nbsp;it seems, such incidents have been reported from many developed countries like New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the USA, Australia, etc. In Australia, reports emerged of how a woman after being stopped for speeding, spat on a police officer while she claimed to be on her way to get tested for Coronavirus. Reports suggested of Xenophobic attacks in America against Asian-Americans being bullied, including being spit on. A man in New Zealand was jailed for three months after spitting at a policeman. The man pleases guilty to aggravated assault against police in a hearing on Thursday at the new Plymouth district court on the country’s north island.

Spitting poses an increased risk of infection among people. So what should one do if you come in contact with someone’s spit?&nbsp; 
 
According to NHS (National Health Service, UK), you should:

*Wash the affected area with soap and lots of running water 
*If there is a wound, encourage the wound to bleed and rinse it thoroughly under running water- but don’t scrub or suck the wound. 
*Wash your nose, eyes, and mouth with lots of cold running water. 
*The next step is to consult your doctor immediately for further steps.

Can fines and jail terms be the way to stop public spitting?

Many countries think so. Countries like New Zealand, Belgium, Australia, France, Norway, etc have imposed heavy fines and jail terms to control public spitting amid coronavirus.

Following is a list of countries that have punishments in place on public spitting or spitting on healthcare workers:

*New Zealand: A person could face 14 years in jail if they spit or cough on another person and infect them with a disease. 
 
Belgium: Offenders could be fined up to €2,400 and could face prison terms of between 3 months and 2&nbsp;years. 
 
Australia: In New South Wales, authorities have introduced a fine of $5000 for spitting or coughing on frontline workers. Offenders could also be awarded a jail term of up to six months. 
 
France: A Mayor in northern France passed an order on April 2 to fine citizens spitting in public. A fine of $74 could be imposed on offenders which can go up to $197 for late payment of the fine. 
 
Saudi Arabia: A man in Saudi Arabia being trialled for spitting in shopping trolleys could face the death penalty as his actions amount to first-degree murder. 
 
Norway: Norwegian Court has sentenced a man to 75 days of prison for threatening to spit on a police officer. He was also sentenced to pay $188 as fine. 
 
Singapore: A man is jailed for spitting and shouting “Corona Corona” at Changi Airport hotel on March 3 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-timeline-from-covid-19s-origin-to-spread-291354">Also Read: Coronavirus timeline: From COVID-19's origin to spread</a>

What's India doing?

In India, Uttar Pradesh was among the first states to slap a ban on selling tobacco products and spitting in public. Telangana became another state to ban spitting in public places as part of COVID-19 containment measures. The health department in a notification issued today declared banning spitting of any chewable tobacco or non-tobacco products in public places. The government, however, has clarified that there is no penalty for violating the order and requested the citizens to act responsibly. 
 
Maharashtra and Gujarat are other states that have imposed a ban on public spitting and declared a fine of Rs 1000 and Rs 500 respectively for offenders violating the ban. Respective authorities in Bengaluru and Vijaywada has also decided to fine people caught in violating the ban with Rs 1000. CM of Odisha, in a public appeal on March 13,&nbsp;urged people from his state to stop spitting “Paan” in a step to fight coronavirus.

Lastly, the solution to this problem lies in our own hands. Authorities can impose fines, put offenders behind the bars, but until people stop using it as a tool to defy public order or violate rules, nothing can stop the menace. 
 
By spreading correct information and challenging mindsets of people, and speaking up when we come across those who are spitting, coughing in public spaces, we may be able to change the habits of at least a few of them.

The world is struggling to contain Coronavirus as it has spread across more than 180 countries. COVID-19 has infected more than 1.4 million people, with over 89000 fatalities around the world, according to John Hopkins University.

The world is struggling to contain Coronavirus as it has spread across more than 180 countries. COVID-19 has infected more than 1.4 million people, with over 89000 fatalities around the world, according to John Hopkins University. With around 2.6 billion people around the world in some kind of lockdown, experts believe not enough is being done to stop people from spitting in public places. According to them, the saliva of an infected person can carry the virus for more than 24 hours which makes spitting at public places a great cause of concern. In India however, public spitting was never a concern for authorities until the coronavirus spread. In a recent press conference on April 5, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary of Union Health Ministry said, “In view of the increasing dangers from the COVID pandemic, ICMR has issued an advisory requesting people to avoid smoking, spitting in public places and consumption of tobacco products in this period.” In India, in two separate incidents, people were spat upon raising concerns amid coronavirus scare. In a racist attack in Delhi, a man allegedly spat tobacco on a Manipuri Woman and called her “corona”. He was later nabbed by Delhi Police and was put behind the bars. In a separate incident, a 33-year-old man from Meerut, who attended the Tablighi Jamaat Meeting in Delhi last month and had tested positive for COVID-19, spat on a doctor while creating ruckus in a quarantine facility in Kanpur. Public spitting is just isn’t an Indian problem it seems, such incidents have been reported from many developed countries like New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the USA, Australia, etc. In Australia, reports emerged of how a woman after being stopped for speeding, spat on a police officer while she claimed to be on her way to get tested for Coronavirus. Reports suggested of Xenophobic attacks in America against Asian-Americans being bullied, including being spit on. A man in New Zealand was jailed for three months after spitting at a policeman. The man pleases guilty to aggravated assault against police in a hearing on Thursday at the new Plymouth district court on the country’s north island. Spitting poses an increased risk of infection among people. So what should one do if you come in contact with someone’s spit? According to NHS (National Health Service, UK), you should: *Wash the affected area with soap and lots of running water *If there is a wound, encourage the wound to bleed and rinse it thoroughly under running water- but don’t scrub or suck the wound. *Wash your nose, eyes, and mouth with lots of cold running water. *The next step is to consult your doctor immediately for further steps. Can fines and jail terms be the way to stop public spitting? Many countries think so. Countries like New Zealand, Belgium, Australia, France, Norway, etc have imposed heavy fines and jail terms to control public spitting amid coronavirus. Following is a list of countries that have punishments in place on public spitting or spitting on healthcare workers: *New Zealand: A person could face 14 years in jail if they spit or cough on another person and infect them with a disease. Belgium: Offenders could be fined up to €2,400 and could face prison terms of between 3 months and 2 years. Australia: In New South Wales, authorities have introduced a fine of $5000 for spitting or coughing on frontline workers. Offenders could also be awarded a jail term of up to six months. France: A Mayor in northern France passed an order on April 2 to fine citizens spitting in public. A fine of $74 could be imposed on offenders which can go up to $197 for late payment of the fine. Saudi Arabia: A man in Saudi Arabia being trialled for spitting in shopping trolleys could face the death penalty as his actions amount to first-degree murder. Norway: Norwegian Court has sentenced a man to 75 days of prison for threatening to spit on a police officer. He was also sentenced to pay $188 as fine. Singapore: A man is jailed for spitting and shouting “Corona Corona” at Changi Airport hotel on March 3 Also Read: Coronavirus timeline: From COVID-19's origin to spread What's India doing? In India, Uttar Pradesh was among the first states to slap a ban on selling tobacco products and spitting in public. Telangana became another state to ban spitting in public places as part of COVID-19 containment measures. The health department in a notification issued today declared banning spitting of any chewable tobacco or non-tobacco products in public places. The government, however, has clarified that there is no penalty for violating the order and requested the citizens to act responsibly. Maharashtra and Gujarat are other states that have imposed a ban on public spitting and declared a fine of Rs 1000 and Rs 500 respectively for offenders violating the ban. Respective authorities in Bengaluru and Vijaywada has also decided to fine people caught in violating the ban with Rs 1000. CM of Odisha, in a public appeal on March 13, urged people from his state to stop spitting “Paan” in a step to fight coronavirus. Lastly, the solution to this problem lies in our own hands. Authorities can impose fines, put offenders behind the bars, but until people stop using it as a tool to defy public order or violate rules, nothing can stop the menace. By spreading correct information and challenging mindsets of people, and speaking up when we come across those who are spitting, coughing in public spaces, we may be able to change the habits of at least a few of them.

Explained: As world battles coronavirus outbreak, here's how spit attacks can land you in trouble

One hundred Italian doctors have succumbed to novel coronavirus since the pandemic reached Italy in February, according to the country's FNOMCeO health association said on Thursday.

One hundred Italian doctors have succumbed to novel coronavirus since the pandemic reached Italy in February, according to the country's FNOMCeO health association said on Thursday. "The number of doctors who have died because of COVID-19 is 100 -- perhaps even 101 at the moment, unfortunately," FNOMCeO spokesman reportedly told AFP. The toll includes retired doctors the government began calling in a month ago to help fight a coronavirus that has officially claimed a world-topping 17,669 lives in Italy. Italian media reports estimate that 30 nurses and nursing assistants have also died of COVID-19. "We can longer allow our doctors, our health workers, to be sent to fight without any protection against the virus," FNOMCeO president Filippo Anelli said on the association's website. "It is an unfair fight." Rome's ISS public health institute estimates that 10 per cent of those infected with the novel coronavirus in Italy work in health care. There were 542 deaths from COVID-19 in Italy on Wednesday, lower than the 604 the day before, taking the total death toll to 17,669. There were 3,693 people in intensive care, down from 3,792 on Tuesday - the fifth daily decline in a row. The decline has raised hopes the virus is on the retreat thanks to a nationwide lockdown, though the number of new cases rose 3,836, compared with 3,039 on Tuesday, to reach 139,422, the third-highest globally behind the United States and Spain. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 100 doctors succumb to COVID-19 as Italy death toll crosses over 17,600

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asked the people to download the 'Aarogya Setu' mobile application, saying it is a fantastic use of technology to combat coronavirus.

"Tracks the spread of COVID-19 and notifies you if someone around you is suffering from it. "Also lists help-desk numbers of various states," the prime minister said in a series of tweets.

Today is the second day in a row Modi tweeted on the mobile application.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Aarogya Setu is an important step in our fight against COVID-19. By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, it’s effectiveness will increase. I urge you all to download it.<a href="https://t.co/VaiPIjhxM2">https://t.co/VaiPIjhxM2</a><a href="https://t.co/8Irj6ApmOQ">https://t.co/8Irj6ApmOQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/L91vaLlCCq">pic.twitter.com/L91vaLlCCq</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1247816258571165697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Responding to tweets by those who have started using the app, he said: "only feeling scared of COVID-19 will not help".

"We have to take the right precautions and fight this pandemic. Aarogya Setu is an important step in that direction," he said.

"By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, its effectiveness will increase," he wrote on Twitter on Wednesday.

He also shared links from where the app can be downloaded from online stores.

The government had on April 2 launched the mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of getting infected with coronavirus and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asked the people to download the 'Aarogya Setu' mobile application, saying it is a fantastic use of technology to combat coronavirus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asked the people to download the 'Aarogya Setu' mobile application, saying it is a fantastic use of technology to combat coronavirus. "Tracks the spread of COVID-19 and notifies you if someone around you is suffering from it. "Also lists help-desk numbers of various states," the prime minister said in a series of tweets. Today is the second day in a row Modi tweeted on the mobile application. Aarogya Setu is an important step in our fight against COVID-19. By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, it’s effectiveness will increase. I urge you all to download it.https://t.co/VaiPIjhxM2https://t.co/8Irj6ApmOQ pic.twitter.com/L91vaLlCCq — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 8, 2020 × Responding to tweets by those who have started using the app, he said: "only feeling scared of COVID-19 will not help". "We have to take the right precautions and fight this pandemic. Aarogya Setu is an important step in that direction," he said. "By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, its effectiveness will increase," he wrote on Twitter on Wednesday. He also shared links from where the app can be downloaded from online stores. The government had on April 2 launched the mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of getting infected with coronavirus and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus. (With inputs from PTI)

PM Modi urges people to download Arogya Setu app to combat COVID-19

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has warned that the situation due to coronavirus pandemic "can further deteriorate" and "hospitals may not be able to cope" with the increasing number of COVID-19 patients, as authorities on Thursday reported 340 new cases, taking the tally to 4,414.

The Ministry of National Health Services reported that the number of patients in worst-hit Punjab province was 2,214, Sindh 1,128, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 560, Gilgit-Baltistan 213, Balochistan 212, Islamabad 102 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 28.

According to the ministry, 64 people have died due to the infection, including five in one day. A total of 689 people have recovered. Thirty-one people are in critical condition.

The country is making frantic efforts to tackle the pandemic.

Khan has again warned the people to follow official guidelines on self-isolation or the virus would spread further.

He, however, defended his decision to not impose a total lockdown, saying over 50 million people were below the poverty line in the country and they could die of hunger if such a step is taken.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has warned that the situation due to coronavirus pandemic "can further deteriorate" and "hospitals may not be able to cope" with the increasing number of COVID-19 patients, as authorities on Thursday reported 340 new cases, taking the tally to 4,414.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has warned that the situation due to coronavirus pandemic "can further deteriorate" and "hospitals may not be able to cope" with the increasing number of COVID-19 patients, as authorities on Thursday reported 340 new cases, taking the tally to 4,414. The Ministry of National Health Services reported that the number of patients in worst-hit Punjab province was 2,214, Sindh 1,128, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 560, Gilgit-Baltistan 213, Balochistan 212, Islamabad 102 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 28. According to the ministry, 64 people have died due to the infection, including five in one day. A total of 689 people have recovered. Thirty-one people are in critical condition. The country is making frantic efforts to tackle the pandemic. Khan has again warned the people to follow official guidelines on self-isolation or the virus would spread further. He, however, defended his decision to not impose a total lockdown, saying over 50 million people were below the poverty line in the country and they could die of hunger if such a step is taken.

Imran Khan warns situation 'can further deteriorate' as coronavirus tally reaches 4,457

Indian American Communities have expressed their solidarity with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India’s fight against COVID-19.&nbsp;

Close to 200 Indian American organisations including national, regional, ethnic, cultural, religious, foundations lauded Indian government’s ''proactive initiatives'' to curb the COVID-19 spread in India.&nbsp;

The Indian diaspora organisations wrote, “We salute the efforts of all those individuals who along with international organizations; national governments; and private, public and social sector organizations are working tirelessly often at a huge personal risk to tackle this crisis and save precious human life”.&nbsp;

The Indian diaspora commented the ''mammoth efforts'' of the Indian government and states ''working cohesively'' under Modi for the wide-ranging and timely measures to address this issue and to alleviate the inevitable hardship that they will endure during this time of lock-down.&nbsp;

''We salute the citizens of India for your fortitude, patience, discipline, and social consciousness at this testing time,” they wrote.&nbsp;

Indian American Communities have expressed their solidarity with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India’s fight against COVID-19. Close to 200 Indian American organisations including national, regional, ethnic, cultural, religious, foundations lauded Indian government’s ''proactive initiatives'' to curb the COVID-19 spread in India.

Indian American Communities have expressed their solidarity with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India’s fight against COVID-19. Close to 200 Indian American organisations including national, regional, ethnic, cultural, religious, foundations lauded Indian government’s ''proactive initiatives'' to curb the COVID-19 spread in India. The Indian diaspora organisations wrote, “We salute the efforts of all those individuals who along with international organizations; national governments; and private, public and social sector organizations are working tirelessly often at a huge personal risk to tackle this crisis and save precious human life”. The Indian diaspora commented the ''mammoth efforts'' of the Indian government and states ''working cohesively'' under Modi for the wide-ranging and timely measures to address this issue and to alleviate the inevitable hardship that they will endure during this time of lock-down. ''We salute the citizens of India for your fortitude, patience, discipline, and social consciousness at this testing time,” they wrote.

US Indian diaspora expresses solidarity with PM Modi amid COVID-19 crisis

Singapore’s strict surveillance and quarantine regime helped slow the COVID-19 outbreak when the virus first spread from China in January, but recent rises in locally transmitted cases have raised fresh concerns.

Singapore’s strict surveillance and quarantine regime helped slow the COVID-19 outbreak when the virus first spread from China in January, but recent rises in locally transmitted cases have raised fresh concerns. Singapore reported 142 new infections on Wednesday. Infections are rising sharply and authorities this week introduced tough new curbs. The health ministry on Wednesday reported 142 new cases -- Singapore's biggest daily increase since the outbreak began. Forty of the new cases were linked to foreign worker dormitories. Tens of thousands of blue-collar foreign workers live in close quarters in the city-state. The city-state, which is battling a worsening outbreak, this week quarantined four large dormitory complexes housing tens of thousands of mostly South Asian workers, where more than 200 cases have so far been detected. Infections have also been recorded in a handful of other facilities. "Migrant workers living in crowded quarters, without opportunities to self-isolate and protect themselves, are at particular risk of exposure to the virus," said Rachel Chhoa-Howard, Amnesty's Singapore researcher. Alex Au, vice president of migrant rights group Transient Workers Count Too, called on the government to temporarily house some workers in other locations such as army barracks. "We fear that if the density of the dorms is not lowered... if the men are not thinned out, infections in many of the dorms will rise," he said. Singapore has reported more than 1,600 virus cases including six deaths, relatively low by global standards, and has won praise for its handling of the outbreak. (With inputs from AFP)

Rise in locally transmitted COVID-19 cases raises concern in Singapore 

Iran's health ministry on Thursday reported 117 new deaths from the novel coronavirus taking the death toll to 4,110 in the country. Iran is one of the worst-hit by the disease.

Iran's health ministry on Thursday reported 117 new deaths from the novel coronavirus taking the death toll to 4,110 in the country. Iran is one of the worst-hit by the disease. Ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said another 1,634 people tested positive for the coronavirus in the past 24 hours, bringing the overall number to 66,220. Meanwhile, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appealed the Iranians to pray at home during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. Khamenei called on Iranians to avoid mass gatherings, such as collective prayers, during Ramadan, which starts later this month. "In the absence of public gatherings during Ramadan, such as prayers, speeches... which we are deprived of this year, we should not neglect worship, invocation and humility in our loneliness," he said in a televised speech. "We need to create humility and supplication in our families and in our rooms." (With inputs from AFP)

COVID-19: Iran reports 117 new virus deaths, toll  crosses 4,000

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that a total of 177 people—including 108 foreigners—who had taken part in the Jamaat, had already been put in quarantine in the state.

"108 of those who were at the event (at Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi) from various countries, we have kept them in quarantine, and 69 people who had attended it from Bengal, they are also in quarantine. The state health ministry is directly monitoring the situation," the Chief Minister said.

The foreigners are from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar. Along with the foreigners in quarantine are 69 people from the State who had gone for the Tablighi Jamaat.&nbsp;

“More than 200 people have been put in quarantine here in connection with the Nizamuddin gathering,” said Mamata.

Banerjee said people gathered at Nizamuddin because they were allowed and noted that foreigners were given a visa, and their passports got immigration clearance from the Centre.

Meanwhile, Training his guns at the Centre over the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation held in Delhi last month, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday questioned why the Union Home Ministry should not be held responsible for the spread of coronavirus from the religious meeting.

Deshmukh also alleged that National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Jamaat leader Maulana Saad at 2 am during the period when the congregation was held. He wondered the nature of the “secret” dialogue held between the two. Deshmukh also asked who sent Doval to meet Saad in the late night. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that a total of 177 people—including 108 foreigners—who had taken part in the Jamaat, had already been put in quarantine in the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that a total of 177 people—including 108 foreigners—who had taken part in the Jamaat, had already been put in quarantine in the state. "108 of those who were at the event (at Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi) from various countries, we have kept them in quarantine, and 69 people who had attended it from Bengal, they are also in quarantine. The state health ministry is directly monitoring the situation," the Chief Minister said. The foreigners are from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar. Along with the foreigners in quarantine are 69 people from the State who had gone for the Tablighi Jamaat. “More than 200 people have been put in quarantine here in connection with the Nizamuddin gathering,” said Mamata. Banerjee said people gathered at Nizamuddin because they were allowed and noted that foreigners were given a visa, and their passports got immigration clearance from the Centre. Meanwhile, Training his guns at the Centre over the Tablighi Jamaat’s congregation held in Delhi last month, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday questioned why the Union Home Ministry should not be held responsible for the spread of coronavirus from the religious meeting. Deshmukh also alleged that National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Jamaat leader Maulana Saad at 2 am during the period when the congregation was held. He wondered the nature of the “secret” dialogue held between the two. Deshmukh also asked who sent Doval to meet Saad in the late night. (With inputs from agencies)

Tablighi Jamaat case: 108 foreigners, 69 other attendees quarantined in West Bengal

Famous tourist spots offering virtual tour amid coronavirus pandemic

Odisha has become the first Indian state to extend the coronavirus lockdown. In a statement, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government has decided to extend the lockdown period in Odisha.

The lockdown in the state has been extended until April 30. 
 
"Coronavirus is the biggest threat that the human race has faced in more than a century. Life will not be the same ever. All of us must understand this and face it boldly together. With our sacrifice and with the blessing of Lord Jagannath, this too shall pass," Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik said in the statement.

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Odisha Cabinet headed by CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Naveen_Odisha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naveen_Odisha</a> decided to extend the state lockdown till April 30th &amp; recommended Union Government to extend the national lockdown till then. CM requested the GoI not to start train &amp; air services during the lockdown. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdishaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdishaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/2hjTGqR0y6">pic.twitter.com/2hjTGqR0y6</a>
— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMO_Odisha/status/1248148154161061889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Several other states are yet to take a call on the extension of the lockdown. The decision was taken following a Cabinet meeting. Following the meeting, Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik addressed the people of the state.

A total number of COVID-19 cases in Odisha increased at 42 with one death reported in the state on Wednesday, Sanjay Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary I &amp;PR department, Odisha said.

Odisha has become the first Indian state to extend the coronavirus lockdown. In a statement, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government has decided to extend the lockdown period in Odisha.

Odisha has become the first Indian state to extend the coronavirus lockdown. In a statement, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government has decided to extend the lockdown period in Odisha. The lockdown in the state has been extended until April 30. "Coronavirus is the biggest threat that the human race has faced in more than a century. Life will not be the same ever. All of us must understand this and face it boldly together. With our sacrifice and with the blessing of Lord Jagannath, this too shall pass," Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik said in the statement. Odisha Cabinet headed by CM @Naveen_Odisha decided to extend the state lockdown till April 30th & recommended Union Government to extend the national lockdown till then. CM requested the GoI not to start train & air services during the lockdown. #OdishaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/2hjTGqR0y6 — CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) April 9, 2020 × Several other states are yet to take a call on the extension of the lockdown. The decision was taken following a Cabinet meeting. Following the meeting, Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik addressed the people of the state. A total number of COVID-19 cases in Odisha increased at 42 with one death reported in the state on Wednesday, Sanjay Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary I &PR department, Odisha said.

Life will not be the same ever, says CM Patnaik as Odisha extends lockdown till April 30

The domestic stock markets surged on Thursday with the Sensex gaining over 1,000 points in line with broader Asian markets that gained on hopes that the coronavirus pandemic was nearing its peak globally.

Around 1:20 pm, Sensex was trading at 31,074.98, higher by 1,171.67 points or 3.92% from the previous close of 29,893.96 and Nifty was trading 343.85 points higher at 9,092.60.

Good buying in auto, healthcare and finance stocks also supported the indices. 
 
Among the Sensex stocks, the top gainers were Hero MotoCorp, Maruti Suzuki India and Bajaj Auto, while Hindustan Unilever, Tech Mahindra and IndusInd Bank were the only losers so far.

The domestic stock markets surged on Thursday with the Sensex gaining over 1,000 points in line with broader Asian markets that gained on hopes that the coronavirus pandemic was nearing its peak globally.

The domestic stock markets surged on Thursday with the Sensex gaining over 1,000 points in line with broader Asian markets that gained on hopes that the coronavirus pandemic was nearing its peak globally. Around 1:20 pm, Sensex was trading at 31,074.98, higher by 1,171.67 points or 3.92% from the previous close of 29,893.96 and Nifty was trading 343.85 points higher at 9,092.60. Good buying in auto, healthcare and finance stocks also supported the indices. Among the Sensex stocks, the top gainers were Hero MotoCorp, Maruti Suzuki India and Bajaj Auto, while Hindustan Unilever, Tech Mahindra and IndusInd Bank were the only losers so far.

Sensex stays above 31,000 points, Nifty at 9,070

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was spending a second night in intensive care battling the coronavirus which has infected more than 55,000 across the country and killed nearly 6,200.

"He stayed at work for you... now, pray at home for him," The Sun tabloid splashed across its front page Wednesday while the Daily Express said: "Boris 'will pull through'."

Deputising for Johnson, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he was "confident he'll pull through, because if there's one thing I know about this prime minister, he's a fighter and he'll be back, leading us through this crisis in short order".

In an update Tuesday evening, the prime minister's spokesman said his "condition is stable and he remains in intensive care for close monitoring."

He earlier said the 55-year-old Conservative leader was receiving "standard oxygen treatment and breathing without any other assistance" and had not required a ventilator.

Johnson is the most high-profile government leader to become infected with COVID-19 and messages of support flooded in from across Britain and the world.

He was admitted to intensive care on Monday evening after spending Sunday night in hospital following concerns he still had a cough and high temperature 10 days after being diagnosed with COVID-19.

His transfer to intensive care is unprecedented for a prime minister during a national emergency.

For many people, it brought home the seriousness of the disease that has so far seen 6,159 deaths in Britain, with a record 786 more reported in a daily update on Tuesday.

'Work goes on'

Despite the record daily death toll, there was more encouraging news with the number of new daily cases remaining at a roughly stable 3,643.

In a round of broadcast interviews, senior minister Michael Gove insisted the "work of government goes on".

He later said he was now staying at home after a family member displayed mild coronavirus symptoms.

Raab chaired the daily coronavirus meeting in the prime minister's place on Tuesday.

"There is a clear plan... the government and the cabinet are working together to implement that plan," Johnson's spokesman said when asked if there was a power vacuum in Britain.

The country does not have a formal constitutional role of deputy prime minister, and experts said Raab would need the support of the rest of the cabinet to make any big decisions.

The most pressing issue is a review expected next week on whether to continue the nationwide lockdown introduced on March 23 to try to stem the spread of COVID-19.

'Enormous shock'

Johnson announced on March 27 that he had coronavirus and went into self-isolation in a flat above his Downing Street office.

But on Monday evening he was moved to intensive care in London's St Thomas' hospital after his condition worsened.

The prime minister has received messages of support from around the world, with US President Donald Trump sending best wishes to his "very good friend" while Russian leader Vladimir Putin said Johnson's "energy, optimism and sense of humour" would see him through.

For some, Johnson's larger-than-life personality has made his hospitalisation all the more shocking.

His biographer Andrew Gimson said Johnson always made him feel upbeat, and "now here he is the stricken one".

"This is an enormous shock, completely unfamiliar territory for all those who know him," he told BBC radio.

Experts said it was not uncommon for coronavirus patients to move to intensive care, but said it showed Johnson's condition was serious.

"There is no doubt this turn of events means Boris Johnson is extremely sick," said Derek Hill, professor of medical imaging at University College London.

Still shaking hands

The British government was criticised for initially refusing to follow other European countries in requiring people to stay home as the virus spread rapidly across the globe.

Johnson himself said in early March that he was still shaking hands with people.

Two weeks ago, he ordered a nationwide lockdown, but parliament continued to sit for several days after and Westminster became a hotspot for the virus.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock and the heir to the throne, Prince Charles, have both been infected, although they have since recovered.

Johnson, who has been prime minister only since July last year, is not known to have any underlying health issues, although he has struggled with his weight.

Johnson's pregnant partner, Carrie Symonds, moved out of Downing Street after some staff fell ill.

But she said on Saturday she had just spent a week in bed with symptoms, although she has not been tested.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was spending a second night in intensive care battling the coronavirus which has infected more than 55,000 across the country and killed nearly 6,200.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was spending a second night in intensive care battling the coronavirus which has infected more than 55,000 across the country and killed nearly 6,200. "He stayed at work for you... now, pray at home for him," The Sun tabloid splashed across its front page Wednesday while the Daily Express said: "Boris 'will pull through'." Deputising for Johnson, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he was "confident he'll pull through, because if there's one thing I know about this prime minister, he's a fighter and he'll be back, leading us through this crisis in short order". In an update Tuesday evening, the prime minister's spokesman said his "condition is stable and he remains in intensive care for close monitoring." He earlier said the 55-year-old Conservative leader was receiving "standard oxygen treatment and breathing without any other assistance" and had not required a ventilator. Johnson is the most high-profile government leader to become infected with COVID-19 and messages of support flooded in from across Britain and the world. He was admitted to intensive care on Monday evening after spending Sunday night in hospital following concerns he still had a cough and high temperature 10 days after being diagnosed with COVID-19. His transfer to intensive care is unprecedented for a prime minister during a national emergency. For many people, it brought home the seriousness of the disease that has so far seen 6,159 deaths in Britain, with a record 786 more reported in a daily update on Tuesday. 'Work goes on' Despite the record daily death toll, there was more encouraging news with the number of new daily cases remaining at a roughly stable 3,643. In a round of broadcast interviews, senior minister Michael Gove insisted the "work of government goes on". He later said he was now staying at home after a family member displayed mild coronavirus symptoms. Raab chaired the daily coronavirus meeting in the prime minister's place on Tuesday. "There is a clear plan... the government and the cabinet are working together to implement that plan," Johnson's spokesman said when asked if there was a power vacuum in Britain. The country does not have a formal constitutional role of deputy prime minister, and experts said Raab would need the support of the rest of the cabinet to make any big decisions. The most pressing issue is a review expected next week on whether to continue the nationwide lockdown introduced on March 23 to try to stem the spread of COVID-19. 'Enormous shock' Johnson announced on March 27 that he had coronavirus and went into self-isolation in a flat above his Downing Street office. But on Monday evening he was moved to intensive care in London's St Thomas' hospital after his condition worsened. The prime minister has received messages of support from around the world, with US President Donald Trump sending best wishes to his "very good friend" while Russian leader Vladimir Putin said Johnson's "energy, optimism and sense of humour" would see him through. For some, Johnson's larger-than-life personality has made his hospitalisation all the more shocking. His biographer Andrew Gimson said Johnson always made him feel upbeat, and "now here he is the stricken one". "This is an enormous shock, completely unfamiliar territory for all those who know him," he told BBC radio. Experts said it was not uncommon for coronavirus patients to move to intensive care, but said it showed Johnson's condition was serious. "There is no doubt this turn of events means Boris Johnson is extremely sick," said Derek Hill, professor of medical imaging at University College London. Still shaking hands The British government was criticised for initially refusing to follow other European countries in requiring people to stay home as the virus spread rapidly across the globe. Johnson himself said in early March that he was still shaking hands with people. Two weeks ago, he ordered a nationwide lockdown, but parliament continued to sit for several days after and Westminster became a hotspot for the virus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock and the heir to the throne, Prince Charles, have both been infected, although they have since recovered. Johnson, who has been prime minister only since July last year, is not known to have any underlying health issues, although he has struggled with his weight. Johnson's pregnant partner, Carrie Symonds, moved out of Downing Street after some staff fell ill. But she said on Saturday she had just spent a week in bed with symptoms, although she has not been tested.

Boris Johnson's 'condition is stable', spends second night in ICU

Pakistan recorded a sudden spike of 577 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of COVID-19 patients to 4,005 on Tuesday.

According to Ministry of National Health Services, Punjab registered the maximum number of 2,004 cases, followed by Sindh 986, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 500, Gilgit-Baltistan 211, Balochistan 202, Islamabad 83 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) 19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/imf-postpones-the-second-review-of-6-billion-bailout-package-for-pakistan-291097" hreflang="en">IMF postpones the second review of USD $6 billion bailout package for Pakistan</a>

So far 54 people died due to the disease, while 429 have recovered. As many as 39,183 people have been tested so far.

At least 50 prisoners in worst-hit Punjab province have tested coronavirus positive.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hundreds-of-abandoned-animals-die-at-pakistan-pet-markets-291094" hreflang="en">Hundreds of abandoned animals die at Pakistan pet markets</a>

Inspector General Prisons Shahid Baig told PTI that some 20 cases have been reported in the camp jail Lahore and the remaining in others.

Baig said the outbreak stemmed from a Pakistani citizen who was arrested over narcotics smuggling in Italy and handed over to Pakistan last month. He was diagnosed on March 23.

The increase in the number of new cases came despite hectic efforts by the government to curtail the spread of the deadly infection.

The government has extended partial lockdown till April 14 and constantly asking people to stay indoors and follow social distancing.

Pakistan recorded a sudden spike of 577 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of COVID-19 patients to 4,005 on Tuesday. According to Ministry of National Health Services, Punjab registered the maximum number of 2,004 cases, followed by Sindh 986, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 500, Gilgit-Baltistan 211, Balochistan 202, Islamabad 83 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) 19.

Pakistan recorded a sudden spike of 577 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of COVID-19 patients to 4,005 on Tuesday. According to Ministry of National Health Services, Punjab registered the maximum number of 2,004 cases, followed by Sindh 986, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 500, Gilgit-Baltistan 211, Balochistan 202, Islamabad 83 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) 19. Also read: IMF postpones the second review of USD $6 billion bailout package for Pakistan So far 54 people died due to the disease, while 429 have recovered. As many as 39,183 people have been tested so far. At least 50 prisoners in worst-hit Punjab province have tested coronavirus positive. Also read: Hundreds of abandoned animals die at Pakistan pet markets Inspector General Prisons Shahid Baig told PTI that some 20 cases have been reported in the camp jail Lahore and the remaining in others. Baig said the outbreak stemmed from a Pakistani citizen who was arrested over narcotics smuggling in Italy and handed over to Pakistan last month. He was diagnosed on March 23. The increase in the number of new cases came despite hectic efforts by the government to curtail the spread of the deadly infection. The government has extended partial lockdown till April 14 and constantly asking people to stay indoors and follow social distancing.

Pakistan records sudden spike of 577 new COVID-19 cases; total 4,005

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread.

Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially."

"Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too," he tweeted.

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Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of corona virus substantially. Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too.
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The chief minister said that he directed all government departments to stop all expenditures except salary.

A drastic cut in expenses is required considering the current revenue status, he added.

The meeting to discuss measures to contain the COVID-19 spread was attended by ministers and top officials of Delhi.

As on Tuesday, the total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital rose to 576, with 51 fresh cases and two deaths being reported in a day, according to the Delhi Health Department.&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread. Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread. Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially." "Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too," he tweeted. Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of corona virus substantially. Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 8, 2020 × The chief minister said that he directed all government departments to stop all expenditures except salary. A drastic cut in expenses is required considering the current revenue status, he added. The meeting to discuss measures to contain the COVID-19 spread was attended by ministers and top officials of Delhi. As on Tuesday, the total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital rose to 576, with 51 fresh cases and two deaths being reported in a day, according to the Delhi Health Department.

Kejriwal says face masks mandatory for people stepping outdoors in Delhi

The total number of coronavirus positive cases in India has risen to 5,194, which includes 4,643 active cases and 401 cured/discharged people. The toll is now at 149.

Over the last 24 hours, 773 new cases and 10 deaths were reported.

Meanwhile, Indian Railways has prepared 40,000 isolation beds in 2,500 coaches.&nbsp;

"They are making 375 isolation beds daily and this is going on across 133 locations across the country," the health ministry official said.

Meanwhile, the home ministry said that the status of essential goods and services is largely satisfactory with Amit Shah reviewing the situation.

The government is ensuring an adequate supply of medical equipment, it said.

The Home Ministry has given direction to take appropriate measures and ensure hoarding and black marketing is not done.

The total number of coronavirus positive cases in India has risen to 5,194, which includes 4,643 active cases and 401 cured/discharged people. The toll is now at 149.

The total number of coronavirus positive cases in India has risen to 5,194, which includes 4,643 active cases and 401 cured/discharged people. The toll is now at 149. Over the last 24 hours, 773 new cases and 10 deaths were reported. Meanwhile, Indian Railways has prepared 40,000 isolation beds in 2,500 coaches. "They are making 375 isolation beds daily and this is going on across 133 locations across the country," the health ministry official said. Meanwhile, the home ministry said that the status of essential goods and services is largely satisfactory with Amit Shah reviewing the situation. The government is ensuring an adequate supply of medical equipment, it said. The Home Ministry has given direction to take appropriate measures and ensure hoarding and black marketing is not done.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Death toll in India rises to 149, confirmed cases at 5,194

Nearly 2,000 people infected with the new coronavirus have died in the United States in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University as of 8:30 pm Tuesday (0030 GMT Wednesday). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-accuses-who-of-bias-toward-china-threatened-to-put-hold-on-us-funding-291237">Also read: Donald Trump accuses WHO of bias toward China, threatened to ‘put hold on’ US funding</a> 
 
The record daily figure of 1,939 brings the total number of deaths in the US to 12,722, which is approaching tolls in the worst-hit countries so far -- Italy with 17,127 dead and Spain with 13,798. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-a-half-million-americans-could-die-top-advisor-peter-navarro-warned-trump-291157" hreflang="en">'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump</a>

President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he blamed the World Health Organization for reacting slowly.

He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China.

"They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said.

Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to the ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency.

Nearly 2,000 people infected with the new coronavirus have died in the United States in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University as of 8:30 pm Tuesday (0030 GMT Wednesday).

Nearly 2,000 people infected with the new coronavirus have died in the United States in the last 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University as of 8:30 pm Tuesday (0030 GMT Wednesday). Also read: Donald Trump accuses WHO of bias toward China, threatened to ‘put hold on’ US funding The record daily figure of 1,939 brings the total number of deaths in the US to 12,722, which is approaching tolls in the worst-hit countries so far -- Italy with 17,127 dead and Spain with 13,798. Also read: 'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump President Donald Trump has defended his response to the crisis, and on Tuesday he blamed the World Health Organization for reacting slowly. He questioned why the WHO had given "such a faulty recommendation," apparently referring to the UN body's advice against curtailing international travel to stop the virus which first spread from China. "They called it wrong. They really missed the call. They could have called it months earlier," he said. Trump has been widely criticized for initially downplaying the virus, which he likened to the ordinary flu and said was under control in the United States, before later accepting that it was a national emergency.

Nearly 2,000 coronavirus deaths in US in the last 24 hours: Report

Air Vice-Marshal Marshal Surat Singh on Tuesday said that Indian Air Force personnel who might have visited the Nizamuddin area in Delhi was quarantined and tested for COVID-19.&nbsp;

''When we came to know that one Air Force personnel might have visited the Nizamuddin area in Delhi, we took immediate measures and ensured that he was quarantined. The test was conducted on this sergeant and the preliminary reports are negative,'' said Air Vice Marshal Surat Singh.&nbsp;

The religious congregation held at the Nizamuddin Markaz had emerged as a prime catalyst for the spread of coronavirus infection across the country. 
&nbsp;

Air Vice-Marshal Marshal Surat Singh on Tuesday said that Indian Air Force personnel who might have visited the Nizamuddin area in Delhi was quarantined and tested for COVID-19.

Air Vice-Marshal Marshal Surat Singh on Tuesday said that Indian Air Force personnel who might have visited the Nizamuddin area in Delhi was quarantined and tested for COVID-19. ''When we came to know that one Air Force personnel might have visited the Nizamuddin area in Delhi, we took immediate measures and ensured that he was quarantined. The test was conducted on this sergeant and the preliminary reports are negative,'' said Air Vice Marshal Surat Singh. The religious congregation held at the Nizamuddin Markaz had emerged as a prime catalyst for the spread of coronavirus infection across the country.

IAF personnel who visited Nizamuddin area was quarantined immediately, says Air Vice-Marshal

While most of us are trying to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, it looks like cybercriminals are not on lockdown. Reports suggest that remote office setups have emerged as a new hotbed for hackers.&nbsp;

They are trying different ways to break into your Wi-Fi networks, online accounts and computers as hacking a home IT System is relatively easier than the ones deployed in office and once hacked, you may lose a lot from your data to money in your bank accounts. Therefore, you are advised to be extra cautious with your online activities.

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&nbsp;

Here are a few tips that can help you fend off cyber attacks.

1. Most commonly, hackers are using coronavirus-related phishing e-mails to attack people. They are playing into people’s fear. Today, people are afraid of COVID-19 and they are trying to get information on the virus from wherever they can. Cybercriminals are exploiting this behaviour to send fake emails and lure users with malicious links.&nbsp;Once you click on these links, hackers can break into your computer and mailbox to get your data. Therefore, avoid opening suspicious e-mails and clicking on unverified coronavirus-related links circulating on social messaging apps, emails, and elsewhere.

2. Create a strong password for your Wi-Fi network and online services such as banking and email accounts. How do you do that? Use a combination of letters, numbers and symbols in your password and keep it long. And that’s not all. Protect your online accounts with multiple layers of security. The best way to do that is by opting for the two-step verification. After all, it’s always better to have more layers of security than one.

3. Don’t forget to update your system. Software companies often roll out new updates with security patches. In other words, a new software update can make your system more secure than the previous version. Therefore, install updates on your desktop or laptop regularly. &nbsp;

4. A weak Wi-Fi network can make it easy for criminals to break into your system. So, secure your Wi-Fi access point carefully. Choose a complex password for your router, reset it every few days and limit the number of connected devices to your network.

5. Last but not least, use a virtual private network. A VPN can help protect the data you exchange with others. VPNs can provide a secure link between employees and organisations. They encrypt data and scan devices for malicious software such as viruses and ransomware.

If you follow these best practices, you can set up a safer work environment at home and reduce your chances of getting attacked by cybercriminals. 
&nbsp;

While most of us are trying to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, it looks like cybercriminals are not on lockdown. Reports suggest that remote office setups have emerged as a new hotbed for hackers.

While most of us are trying to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, it looks like cybercriminals are not on lockdown. Reports suggest that remote office setups have emerged as a new hotbed for hackers. They are trying different ways to break into your Wi-Fi networks, online accounts and computers as hacking a home IT System is relatively easier than the ones deployed in office and once hacked, you may lose a lot from your data to money in your bank accounts. Therefore, you are advised to be extra cautious with your online activities. × Here are a few tips that can help you fend off cyber attacks. 1. Most commonly, hackers are using coronavirus-related phishing e-mails to attack people. They are playing into people’s fear. Today, people are afraid of COVID-19 and they are trying to get information on the virus from wherever they can. Cybercriminals are exploiting this behaviour to send fake emails and lure users with malicious links. Once you click on these links, hackers can break into your computer and mailbox to get your data. Therefore, avoid opening suspicious e-mails and clicking on unverified coronavirus-related links circulating on social messaging apps, emails, and elsewhere. 2. Create a strong password for your Wi-Fi network and online services such as banking and email accounts. How do you do that? Use a combination of letters, numbers and symbols in your password and keep it long. And that’s not all. Protect your online accounts with multiple layers of security. The best way to do that is by opting for the two-step verification. After all, it’s always better to have more layers of security than one. 3. Don’t forget to update your system. Software companies often roll out new updates with security patches. In other words, a new software update can make your system more secure than the previous version. Therefore, install updates on your desktop or laptop regularly. 4. A weak Wi-Fi network can make it easy for criminals to break into your system. So, secure your Wi-Fi access point carefully. Choose a complex password for your router, reset it every few days and limit the number of connected devices to your network. 5. Last but not least, use a virtual private network. A VPN can help protect the data you exchange with others. VPNs can provide a secure link between employees and organisations. They encrypt data and scan devices for malicious software such as viruses and ransomware. If you follow these best practices, you can set up a safer work environment at home and reduce your chances of getting attacked by cybercriminals.

Working from home? 5 tips to stay safe from hackers

The Supreme Court on Wednesday suggested that all COVID-19 tests should be made free of cost to all citizens, and asked the central government to look into creating a mechanism for providing reimbursement for the same to the private labs.

At present, private laboratories charge people to test for the coronavirus, though the same is capped at Rs 4500.

A bench headed by Justice Ashok Bhushan suggested that the test should be conducted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stares-at-extension-of-coronavirus-lockdown-as-cases-cross-5000-291265">free of cost </a>in the identified private laboratories and said that the court will pass appropriate order on the matter.

The apex court was hearing a PIL filed by lawyer and petitioner Shashank Deo Sudhi via video-conferencing.

Sudhi sought a direction to the Centre and other respective authorities to provide free of cost the testing facility for COVID-19 to all citizens in the country.&nbsp;

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-facing-problem-in-supplying-essential-goods-only-15-trucks-are-on-roads-says-transporters-291295">118 laboratories</a> were doing 15,000 test capacity per day and added that 47 private laboratory chains have also been involved for the same.&nbsp;

During the hearing, the court asked the Centre to ensure private labs don`t charge a high amount for the test and suggested that the government can create an effective mechanism for reimbursement from the government for tests.&nbsp;

Mehta said that they will look into the suggestion and will try to devise what can be done best.

Sudhi, on the other hand, submitted that testing of coronavirus is very expensive and therefore the Central government should take all necessary steps to provide free of cost the testing facility for COVID-19 kits and others to all citizens in the country.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Wednesday suggested that all COVID-19 tests should be made free of cost to all citizens, and asked the central government to look into creating a mechanism for providing reimbursement for the same to the private labs.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday suggested that all COVID-19 tests should be made free of cost to all citizens, and asked the central government to look into creating a mechanism for providing reimbursement for the same to the private labs. At present, private laboratories charge people to test for the coronavirus, though the same is capped at Rs 4500. A bench headed by Justice Ashok Bhushan suggested that the test should be conducted free of cost in the identified private laboratories and said that the court will pass appropriate order on the matter. The apex court was hearing a PIL filed by lawyer and petitioner Shashank Deo Sudhi via video-conferencing. Sudhi sought a direction to the Centre and other respective authorities to provide free of cost the testing facility for COVID-19 to all citizens in the country. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that 118 laboratories were doing 15,000 test capacity per day and added that 47 private laboratory chains have also been involved for the same. During the hearing, the court asked the Centre to ensure private labs don`t charge a high amount for the test and suggested that the government can create an effective mechanism for reimbursement from the government for tests. Mehta said that they will look into the suggestion and will try to devise what can be done best. Sudhi, on the other hand, submitted that testing of coronavirus is very expensive and therefore the Central government should take all necessary steps to provide free of cost the testing facility for COVID-19 kits and others to all citizens in the country.

COVID-19 test should be made free of cost for all citizens, Supreme Court suggests

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 14 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-a-half-million-americans-could-die-top-advisor-peter-navarro-warned-trump-291157" hreflang="en">'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,432,577 people worldwide and 82,195 people have been killed due to this pandemic. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-exploit-coronavirus-pandemic-for-sea-disputes-us-warns-china-291057" hreflang="en">Don't 'exploit' coronavirus pandemic for sea disputes: US warns China</a>

Around &nbsp;301,649 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins.

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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.

From New York to Paris to New Delhi life has ground to a standstill with some three billion people confined to their homes as governments scramble to halt the disease's deadly march across the world.&nbsp;

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 14 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: 'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,432,577 people worldwide and 82,195 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 14 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: 'More than a half-million Americans could die': Top advisor Peter Navarro warned Trump According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,432,577 people worldwide and 82,195 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Also read: Don't 'exploit' coronavirus pandemic for sea disputes: US warns China Around 301,649 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 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. From New York to Paris to New Delhi life has ground to a standstill with some three billion people confined to their homes as governments scramble to halt the disease's deadly march across the world.

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,400,000; death toll rises to 82,195

Even as the Indian army in a major anti-infiltration operation neutralised 5 terrorists over the weekend, former top Indian army brass has said that Pakistan is trying to divert attention domestically due to COVID crisis as it continues to use terror as a policy.

Lt Gen BS Jaswal former Army Cdr Northern Command said, "They also have the intention, which is part of the DNA, instrument of state policy to undermine India in whatever manner it can and as such is trying to infiltrate people. We have had encounters in the last couple of day, maybe an intention, to infiltrate people who carry coronavirus into our country."

Explaining, "Within Pakistan also, if you see the kind of people who are being infused into POK, they are the ones, who are within the spectrum of the pandemic, so Pakistan is not behaving very rationally. The advantage which Pakistan is trying to take is, cry baby, cry wolf to the world, we are country of a small economy, the pandemic has hit us, give us. In the same breath, I would like to say, it is high time Pakistan should follow, the Indian model to deal with the pandemic"

Over the weekend, Four soldiers under the command of a Junior Commissioned Officer from one of the most professional Para SF Units were airdropped near the LoC after information on the infiltrators was received. An intense hand to hand battle ensued and all five terrorists were eliminated. In the battle, however, Army lost five of its soldiers, three on the site and two more succumbed while they were airlifted to a nearby military hospital.

Lt Gen Vinod Bhatia, retd Director CENJOWS and former (DGMO) Director General of Military Operations highlighting the how India and Pakistan dealing with the COVID crisis said, "The world is combating COVID, India has played a major role while our neighbour Pakistan has continued the policy of terrorism, the policy of infiltrating terrorist into our territories, to perpetuate terrorism."

Adding, "We have summers coming and Pakistan has realised post 5th August Kashmir has seen relative peace, nothing has happened, and a terrorist has been eliminated and Pakistan tried infiltration. Maybe there is COVID carrier, they could be, hopefully not, but it will be a possibility. Pakistan has to look inwards, fight COVID. It is Pakistan's interest to look after its people." 
 
Former Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff, Satish Dua said "What was peculiar in the encounter is that when they were intercepted, the movement was detected, special forces landed and movement intercepted. In close contact battle, we lost 3 soldiers and 2 succumbed later. What I want to highlight, in these times, when the world is coming to fight the COVID crisis, India also offered help to Pakistan among other SAARC nations, to assist them in the fight against COVID, yet Pakistan continues to push in terrorist. May be Pakistan army has compulsion because this is the first summer after the revocation of article 370 but our counter-infiltration grid is robust and strong."

Several COVID positive cases in Pakistan have crossed 3750 with over 50 deaths even as reports have emerged over the difference in opinion between Pak Federal and Provincial admin concerning lockdown. Reports have also emerged of a number of COVID cases being shifted to Pakistan occupied Kashmir. This is in sharp contrast to what India has been doing, at global front calling a coordinate policy in SAARC and G20. India army has also led the national efforts, with quartine camps being set up in Manesar, Jaislamer, Jodhpur to sending teams of doctor to the Maldives for 14 days.

Even as the Indian army in a major anti-infiltration operation neutralised 5 terrorists over the weekend, former top Indian army brass has said that Pakistan is trying to divert attention domestically due to COVID crisis as it continues to use terror as a policy.

Even as the Indian army in a major anti-infiltration operation neutralised 5 terrorists over the weekend, former top Indian army brass has said that Pakistan is trying to divert attention domestically due to COVID crisis as it continues to use terror as a policy. Lt Gen BS Jaswal former Army Cdr Northern Command said, "They also have the intention, which is part of the DNA, instrument of state policy to undermine India in whatever manner it can and as such is trying to infiltrate people. We have had encounters in the last couple of day, maybe an intention, to infiltrate people who carry coronavirus into our country." Explaining, "Within Pakistan also, if you see the kind of people who are being infused into POK, they are the ones, who are within the spectrum of the pandemic, so Pakistan is not behaving very rationally. The advantage which Pakistan is trying to take is, cry baby, cry wolf to the world, we are country of a small economy, the pandemic has hit us, give us. In the same breath, I would like to say, it is high time Pakistan should follow, the Indian model to deal with the pandemic" Over the weekend, Four soldiers under the command of a Junior Commissioned Officer from one of the most professional Para SF Units were airdropped near the LoC after information on the infiltrators was received. An intense hand to hand battle ensued and all five terrorists were eliminated. In the battle, however, Army lost five of its soldiers, three on the site and two more succumbed while they were airlifted to a nearby military hospital. Lt Gen Vinod Bhatia, retd Director CENJOWS and former (DGMO) Director General of Military Operations highlighting the how India and Pakistan dealing with the COVID crisis said, "The world is combating COVID, India has played a major role while our neighbour Pakistan has continued the policy of terrorism, the policy of infiltrating terrorist into our territories, to perpetuate terrorism." Adding, "We have summers coming and Pakistan has realised post 5th August Kashmir has seen relative peace, nothing has happened, and a terrorist has been eliminated and Pakistan tried infiltration. Maybe there is COVID carrier, they could be, hopefully not, but it will be a possibility. Pakistan has to look inwards, fight COVID. It is Pakistan's interest to look after its people." Former Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff, Satish Dua said "What was peculiar in the encounter is that when they were intercepted, the movement was detected, special forces landed and movement intercepted. In close contact battle, we lost 3 soldiers and 2 succumbed later. What I want to highlight, in these times, when the world is coming to fight the COVID crisis, India also offered help to Pakistan among other SAARC nations, to assist them in the fight against COVID, yet Pakistan continues to push in terrorist. May be Pakistan army has compulsion because this is the first summer after the revocation of article 370 but our counter-infiltration grid is robust and strong." Several COVID positive cases in Pakistan have crossed 3750 with over 50 deaths even as reports have emerged over the difference in opinion between Pak Federal and Provincial admin concerning lockdown. Reports have also emerged of a number of COVID cases being shifted to Pakistan occupied Kashmir. This is in sharp contrast to what India has been doing, at global front calling a coordinate policy in SAARC and G20. India army has also led the national efforts, with quartine camps being set up in Manesar, Jaislamer, Jodhpur to sending teams of doctor to the Maldives for 14 days.

Pakistan diverting attention from COVID-19 with old policy of terrorism says former top Indian army brass

Indian authorities have partially lifted the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine, which is being called as a gamechanger drug against COVID by US president.&nbsp;

Sources said, "Depending on the availability of stock after meeting domestic requirements, existing orders will be cleared"

The Department of pharma and &nbsp;MEA will decide on allocations depending on the humanitarian situation and COVID related situation in any foreign country.&nbsp;

On Monday sources told India that, "On basis of domestic supply and taking in consideration importance of diplomatic relations a call will be taken. Its a function of demand and supply. If a scope is present.. but country requirement first"

In an order issued on April 4, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade had announced the total prohibition of the export of hydroxychloroquine &amp; formulations made of hydroxychloroquine "without exception".India has got requests from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug to fight COVID-19.

Several world leaders have personally raised the request with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent conversation they had with him.

From the US to Latin America to Europe, the request has come from several places. Meanwhile, US President said that he may retaliate if India doesn't send HCQ.&nbsp;

He Said, "I know that he(PM Modi) stopped it for other countries...I spoke to him Sunday morning, called him. I said, we appreciate you allowing our supply to come out. If he doesn't allow it to come out, that would be ok. But of course, there may be retaliation. Why would not be there?"

India has also got requests from Gulf countries regarding it.

Late yesterday night, Govt amended Export Policy of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and formulations made from these APIs by removing them from restricted to free category.

Indian authorities have partially lifted the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine, which is being called as a gamechanger drug against COVID by US president. Sources said, "Depending on the availability of stock after meeting domestic requirements, existing orders will be cleared" The Department of pharma and MEA will decide on allocations depending on the humanitarian situation and COVID related situation in any foreign country.

Indian authorities have partially lifted the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine, which is being called as a gamechanger drug against COVID by US president. Sources said, "Depending on the availability of stock after meeting domestic requirements, existing orders will be cleared" The Department of pharma and MEA will decide on allocations depending on the humanitarian situation and COVID related situation in any foreign country. On Monday sources told India that, "On basis of domestic supply and taking in consideration importance of diplomatic relations a call will be taken. Its a function of demand and supply. If a scope is present.. but country requirement first" In an order issued on April 4, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade had announced the total prohibition of the export of hydroxychloroquine & formulations made of hydroxychloroquine "without exception".India has got requests from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug to fight COVID-19. Several world leaders have personally raised the request with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent conversation they had with him. From the US to Latin America to Europe, the request has come from several places. Meanwhile, US President said that he may retaliate if India doesn't send HCQ. He Said, "I know that he(PM Modi) stopped it for other countries...I spoke to him Sunday morning, called him. I said, we appreciate you allowing our supply to come out. If he doesn't allow it to come out, that would be ok. But of course, there may be retaliation. Why would not be there?" India has also got requests from Gulf countries regarding it. Late yesterday night, Govt amended Export Policy of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and formulations made from these APIs by removing them from restricted to free category.

COVID-19 crisis: India partially lifts export ban on hydroxychloroquine; MEA & pharma department to take the final call

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday informed that govt has decided to licence paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all the neighbouring countries, dependent on the country's capabilities.&nbsp;

"In view of the humanitarian aspects of #COVID19 pandemic, it has been decided that India would licence paracetamol &amp; Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all our neighbouring countries who are dependent on our capabilities," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

The Foreign Ministry said that We will also be supplying these essential drugs to some nations who have been particularly badly affected by the pandemic. We would, therefore, discourage any speculation in this regard or any attempts to politicise the matter.

The Foreign Ministry said given the enormity of the COVID-19 pandemic, India has always maintained that the international community "must display strong solidarity and cooperation".

Earlier in the day, the Indian government lifted restrictions on 24 key active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and formulations made from them. The list didn't mention paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in it.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible retaliation if India does not lift its hold on the export of Hydroxychloroquine, the anti-malarial drug being used in the treatment of coronavirus patients.

Trump added he saw no reason why India would not lift the hold on the US order of the medicine.

"I didn't hear that that was his (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) decision. I know that he stopped it for other countries. I spoke to him yesterday. [It was a] very very good talk, and we'll see whether or not that stays I wouldn't be surprised if he would you know because India does very well with the United States," Trump said at a press briefing from the White House, on Monday.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday informed that govt has decided to licence paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all the neighbouring countries, dependent on the country's capabilities.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday informed that govt has decided to licence paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all the neighbouring countries, dependent on the country's capabilities. "In view of the humanitarian aspects of #COVID19 pandemic, it has been decided that India would licence paracetamol & Hydroxychloroquine in appropriate quantities to all our neighbouring countries who are dependent on our capabilities," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. The Foreign Ministry said that We will also be supplying these essential drugs to some nations who have been particularly badly affected by the pandemic. We would, therefore, discourage any speculation in this regard or any attempts to politicise the matter. The Foreign Ministry said given the enormity of the COVID-19 pandemic, India has always maintained that the international community "must display strong solidarity and cooperation". Earlier in the day, the Indian government lifted restrictions on 24 key active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and formulations made from them. The list didn't mention paracetamol and Hydroxychloroquine in it. Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible retaliation if India does not lift its hold on the export of Hydroxychloroquine, the anti-malarial drug being used in the treatment of coronavirus patients. Trump added he saw no reason why India would not lift the hold on the US order of the medicine. "I didn't hear that that was his (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) decision. I know that he stopped it for other countries. I spoke to him yesterday. [It was a] very very good talk, and we'll see whether or not that stays I wouldn't be surprised if he would you know because India does very well with the United States," Trump said at a press briefing from the White House, on Monday.

Coronavirus outbreak: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to other badly-affected nations

The death toll due to novel coronavirus in Spain is nearing 14,000 with 743 people succumbing overnight, but there was still hope the national lockdown might be eased soon.

The death toll due to novel coronavirus in Spain is nearing 14,000 with 743 people succumbing overnight, but there was still hope the national lockdown might be eased soon. Tuesday's toll from the health ministry compared to 637 deaths registered during the previous 24 hours, taking the total to 13,798, the second-highest in the world after Italy, the report added. Still, the proportional daily increase of 5.7% was about half that reported a week ago. "It is normal to have some oscillations ... What matters is to see the trend and the cumulative data," said Maria Jose Sierra, deputy chief of health emergencies, adding that latest data included some delayed notifications from the weekend. Total cases rose to 140,510 - the highest in Europe and second in the world after the United States.

Spain's coronavirus death toll  nears 14,000

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting five measures to save money for the fight against COVID-19, including suspension of Central Vista beautification project and complete ban on media advertisements by government for two years.

She also called for putting on hold foreign visits by the President, Vice president and Union ministers as well as chief ministers of states and bureaucrats, and slashing the government's expenditure budget, other than salaries, pensions and central sector schemes, by 30 per cent.

The suggestions came after Modi reached out to several opposition leaders, including Gandhi, on Monday and sought suggestions from them in fighting the fast-spreading coronavirus, which has claimed at least 114 lives and infected over 4,400 people in the country.

"Austerity measures which can be used to divert much-needed funds to the fight against COVID-19 are the need of the hour. In this spirit, I am writing to offer five concrete suggestions. I am certain you will find value in them," Gandhi said in her letter to the prime minister.

She assured the prime minister of unwavering support of the Congress in meeting the grave challenge of COVID- 19 facing the country.

"Impose a complete ban on media advertisements -- television, print and online -- by the Government and Public Sectors Undertakings (PSU's) for a period of two years. The only exceptions should be advisories for COVID-19 or for issues relating to public health," she said.

Gandhi said the central government currently spends Rs 1,250 crore per year on media advertisements, she said, adding that this will free up a substantial amount to alleviate the economic and social impacts of the virus outbreak.

"Suspend the Rs 20,000 crore 'Central Vista' beautification and construction project forthwith. At a time like this, such an outlay seems self-indulgent to say the least. I am certain that Parliament can function comfortably within the existing historical buildings," Gandhi told Modi.

There is no urgent or pressing requirement that cannot be postponed until this crisis is contained, she noted.

Gandhi said every Indian has made personal sacrifices to fight this disease, but "it is time that the Legislature and the Executive reciprocate this trust and good faith".

BJP leader Subramanian Swamy had yesterday said, "I have welcomed the MPs' pay cut by 30 pc for a year. I also think the Rs 25,000 crore new Parliament building construction should be postponed for a year too."

The Congress president said this sum could instead be allocated towards constructing new hospital infrastructure and diagnostics along with equipping our frontline workers with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) gears and facilities.

She also called for transferring all money under the 'PM Cares' fund to the 'Prime Minister's National Relief Fund' to ensure efficiency, transparency and accountability.

These funds, plus the amount in PM-Cares can be utilised to ensure an immediate food security net for those at the very margins of society.

Gandhi said by reducing 30 per cent expenditure of the Centre, it will yield around Rs 2.5 lakh crore per year which can be allocated towards establishing an economic safety net for migrant workers, labourers, farmers, MSMEs and those in the unorganised sector.

She said an amount of Rs 393 crore was spent for just the Prime Minister and Union Cabinet members' trips in the last five years and the amount can be utilised extensively in measures to combat COVID-19.

She, however, said exceptions on foreign visits can be made in case of special exigencies in national interest to be cleared by the prime minister.

The Union cabinet on Monday decided to cut 30 per cent salary of all MPs for one year and divert MPLADS funds for two years to fund the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The President, the Vice President, governors of states have also voluntarily decided to take a pay cut as a social responsibility.&nbsp;

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting five measures to save money for the fight against COVID-19, including suspension of Central Vista beautification project and complete ban on media advertisements by government for two years.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting five measures to save money for the fight against COVID-19, including suspension of Central Vista beautification project and complete ban on media advertisements by government for two years. She also called for putting on hold foreign visits by the President, Vice president and Union ministers as well as chief ministers of states and bureaucrats, and slashing the government's expenditure budget, other than salaries, pensions and central sector schemes, by 30 per cent. The suggestions came after Modi reached out to several opposition leaders, including Gandhi, on Monday and sought suggestions from them in fighting the fast-spreading coronavirus, which has claimed at least 114 lives and infected over 4,400 people in the country. "Austerity measures which can be used to divert much-needed funds to the fight against COVID-19 are the need of the hour. In this spirit, I am writing to offer five concrete suggestions. I am certain you will find value in them," Gandhi said in her letter to the prime minister. She assured the prime minister of unwavering support of the Congress in meeting the grave challenge of COVID- 19 facing the country. "Impose a complete ban on media advertisements -- television, print and online -- by the Government and Public Sectors Undertakings (PSU's) for a period of two years. The only exceptions should be advisories for COVID-19 or for issues relating to public health," she said. Gandhi said the central government currently spends Rs 1,250 crore per year on media advertisements, she said, adding that this will free up a substantial amount to alleviate the economic and social impacts of the virus outbreak. "Suspend the Rs 20,000 crore 'Central Vista' beautification and construction project forthwith. At a time like this, such an outlay seems self-indulgent to say the least. I am certain that Parliament can function comfortably within the existing historical buildings," Gandhi told Modi. There is no urgent or pressing requirement that cannot be postponed until this crisis is contained, she noted. Gandhi said every Indian has made personal sacrifices to fight this disease, but "it is time that the Legislature and the Executive reciprocate this trust and good faith". BJP leader Subramanian Swamy had yesterday said, "I have welcomed the MPs' pay cut by 30 pc for a year. I also think the Rs 25,000 crore new Parliament building construction should be postponed for a year too." The Congress president said this sum could instead be allocated towards constructing new hospital infrastructure and diagnostics along with equipping our frontline workers with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) gears and facilities. She also called for transferring all money under the 'PM Cares' fund to the 'Prime Minister's National Relief Fund' to ensure efficiency, transparency and accountability. These funds, plus the amount in PM-Cares can be utilised to ensure an immediate food security net for those at the very margins of society. Gandhi said by reducing 30 per cent expenditure of the Centre, it will yield around Rs 2.5 lakh crore per year which can be allocated towards establishing an economic safety net for migrant workers, labourers, farmers, MSMEs and those in the unorganised sector. She said an amount of Rs 393 crore was spent for just the Prime Minister and Union Cabinet members' trips in the last five years and the amount can be utilised extensively in measures to combat COVID-19. She, however, said exceptions on foreign visits can be made in case of special exigencies in national interest to be cleared by the prime minister. The Union cabinet on Monday decided to cut 30 per cent salary of all MPs for one year and divert MPLADS funds for two years to fund the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The President, the Vice President, governors of states have also voluntarily decided to take a pay cut as a social responsibility.

Suspend Central Vista project, stop media advts to save money to fight COVID-19: Sonia Gandhi to PM Modi

The United States on Monday warned China not to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to exert itself in the South China Sea after Vietnam said Beijing sank a trawler.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-wouldnt-there-be-trump-hints-at-retaliation-if-india-doesnt-send-anti-malarial-drug-291003">Also&nbsp;read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug</a> 
 
Amid the global focus on fighting COVID-19, China has ramped up self-described research stations and landed special military aircraft in the dispute-rife sea, according to the State Department.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modern-piracy-did-united-states-reroute-a-shipment-of-face-masks-headed-to-germany-291024">'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany?</a> 
 
"We call on the PRC to remain focused on supporting international efforts to combat the global pandemic, and to stop exploiting the distraction or vulnerability of other states to expand its unlawful claims in the South China Sea," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pain-solitude-fear-stories-of-surviving-covid-19-291005" hreflang="en">Pain, solitude, fear: Stories of surviving COVID-19</a>

Vietnam said last week that it lodged a protest with Beijing after the Chinese Coast Guard "hindered, rammed and sunk" a Vietnamese boat with eight fishermen on board near the Paracel Islands. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/are-animals-next-see-how-many-have-tested-positive-for-covid-19-so-far-290812">Are animals next? See how many have tested positive for COVID-19 so far!</a>

Vietnam - which, like China and Taiwan, claims sovereignty over the Paracel Islands - called in a foreign ministry statement for Beijing to compensate the fishermen, "strictly discipline" the officers responsible and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The United States said it was "seriously concerned" about the episode.

"This incident is the latest in a long string of PRC actions to assert unlawful maritime claims and disadvantage its Southeast Asian neighbours in the South China Sea," Ortagus said.

The United States, which has a growing relationship with Vietnam, has challenged China's claims in the South China Sea - one of the world's busiest waterways and also home to bountiful energy reserves.

China last month accused the United States of a "provocative" act after saying that the USS McCampbell missile destroyer sailed near the Paracel Islands without Beijing's permission.

Tensions have risen sharply in recent years between China and the United States, which has also alleged that Beijing has not promptly controlled SARS-CoV-2, the virus that has now infected more than one million people around the world.

The United States on Monday warned China not to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to exert itself in the South China Sea after Vietnam said Beijing sank a trawler.

The United States on Monday warned China not to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic to exert itself in the South China Sea after Vietnam said Beijing sank a trawler. Also read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug Amid the global focus on fighting COVID-19, China has ramped up self-described research stations and landed special military aircraft in the dispute-rife sea, according to the State Department. 'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany? "We call on the PRC to remain focused on supporting international efforts to combat the global pandemic, and to stop exploiting the distraction or vulnerability of other states to expand its unlawful claims in the South China Sea," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement. Also read: Pain, solitude, fear: Stories of surviving COVID-19 Vietnam said last week that it lodged a protest with Beijing after the Chinese Coast Guard "hindered, rammed and sunk" a Vietnamese boat with eight fishermen on board near the Paracel Islands. Also read: Are animals next? See how many have tested positive for COVID-19 so far! Vietnam - which, like China and Taiwan, claims sovereignty over the Paracel Islands - called in a foreign ministry statement for Beijing to compensate the fishermen, "strictly discipline" the officers responsible and prevent similar occurrences in the future. The United States said it was "seriously concerned" about the episode. "This incident is the latest in a long string of PRC actions to assert unlawful maritime claims and disadvantage its Southeast Asian neighbours in the South China Sea," Ortagus said. The United States, which has a growing relationship with Vietnam, has challenged China's claims in the South China Sea - one of the world's busiest waterways and also home to bountiful energy reserves. China last month accused the United States of a "provocative" act after saying that the USS McCampbell missile destroyer sailed near the Paracel Islands without Beijing's permission. Tensions have risen sharply in recent years between China and the United States, which has also alleged that Beijing has not promptly controlled SARS-CoV-2, the virus that has now infected more than one million people around the world.

Don't 'exploit' coronavirus pandemic for sea disputes: US warns China

Reams are being written about Chinese aid to the world but most of it turned out to be substandard. But here's an island that isn't getting its due -- &nbsp;Taiwan, a country of just 24 million people.

Taiwan is successfully battling the pandemic and helping millions of others to fight. The country is donating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-no-new-coronavirus-deaths-for-first-time-291187">10 million face masks </a>to the world including the US, Spain, Italy and France.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's message to the world is one of solidarity, one that china doesn't appreciate.&nbsp;

When asked about Taiwan's aid, china shot back. Beijing's foreign ministry said they too were donating medical supplies. Sure they were. But here's the difference. Unlike Chinese supplies, aid from Taiwan met quality standards.&nbsp;

Taiwan and China is a David and Goliath story. Taiwan is a tiny island facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-a-half-million-americans-could-die-top-advisor-peter-navarro-warned-trump-291157">mighty China</a> and yet, it is winning the fight against the Wuhan virus much better than China.

&nbsp;In early January, China was scrambling to conceal the coronavirus outbreak. Taiwan, on the other hand, was moving quickly to respond to a potential threat. Taiwan confirmed its first positive case in January and immediately began screening passengers from Wuhan. China was struggling.

The world's second-largest economy had to accept aid from various countries and institutions. Taiwan, on the other hand, had no assistance. It was barred from the world health organisation.&nbsp;

Taiwan deployed its military to help manufacture masks. Today, Taiwan is producing 13 million masks per day. The island is also helping some of the world's richest nation. Taiwan was among the most vulnerable regions outside of China, given its proximity, ties and transport link. But Taiwan has just 376 positive cases of coronavirus and five deaths.

Taiwan has been immensely successful in containing the Wuhan virus. When China was spreading fake news, Taiwan was announcing punishment for spreading disinformation.

When china was pointing fingers at other countries, Taiwan's doctors were collaborating with hospitals across continents. When China was trying to unleash a patent war, Taiwan was offering to work with the US and Europe to develop a vaccine.

Today, China wants the world to believe that autocracies can best combat a pandemic but Taiwan, with its rapid response and transparency, has set a textbook example for every democracy.

Is the WHO listening?

Reams are being written about Chinese aid to the world but most of it turned out to be substandard. But here's an island that isn't getting its due -- Taiwan, a country of just 24 million people.

Reams are being written about Chinese aid to the world but most of it turned out to be substandard. But here's an island that isn't getting its due -- Taiwan, a country of just 24 million people. Taiwan is successfully battling the pandemic and helping millions of others to fight. The country is donating 10 million face masks to the world including the US, Spain, Italy and France. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's message to the world is one of solidarity, one that china doesn't appreciate. When asked about Taiwan's aid, china shot back. Beijing's foreign ministry said they too were donating medical supplies. Sure they were. But here's the difference. Unlike Chinese supplies, aid from Taiwan met quality standards. Taiwan and China is a David and Goliath story. Taiwan is a tiny island facing mighty China and yet, it is winning the fight against the Wuhan virus much better than China. In early January, China was scrambling to conceal the coronavirus outbreak. Taiwan, on the other hand, was moving quickly to respond to a potential threat. Taiwan confirmed its first positive case in January and immediately began screening passengers from Wuhan. China was struggling. The world's second-largest economy had to accept aid from various countries and institutions. Taiwan, on the other hand, had no assistance. It was barred from the world health organisation. Taiwan deployed its military to help manufacture masks. Today, Taiwan is producing 13 million masks per day. The island is also helping some of the world's richest nation. Taiwan was among the most vulnerable regions outside of China, given its proximity, ties and transport link. But Taiwan has just 376 positive cases of coronavirus and five deaths. Taiwan has been immensely successful in containing the Wuhan virus. When China was spreading fake news, Taiwan was announcing punishment for spreading disinformation. When china was pointing fingers at other countries, Taiwan's doctors were collaborating with hospitals across continents. When China was trying to unleash a patent war, Taiwan was offering to work with the US and Europe to develop a vaccine. Today, China wants the world to believe that autocracies can best combat a pandemic but Taiwan, with its rapid response and transparency, has set a textbook example for every democracy. Is the WHO listening?

How 'David' Taiwan triumphed over 'Goliath' China in COVID-19 fight 

A sense of death stalking the hospital ward, fear of dying alone, tearful despair and disarray at home, solitude, anger and the desire to share, or change their life: 12 people from different parts of the world who have survived COVID-19 share emotional and harrowing stories of the pain and fear after catching the virus:

- A painful 'roller coaster' &nbsp;-&nbsp;

With no pre-existing health conditions, South Korean engineering professor Park Hyun, 47, said he'd originally thought the coronavirus was "not my problem" until he developed symptoms and ended up in intensive care in the southern city of Busan.

It had started with a dry cough and sore throat, he said, followed a few days later by shortness of breath so severe he fainted while waiting for a hospital coronavirus test.

It came back positive and he was admitted to hospital where his condition fluctuated wildly every day and several times he thought he would die.&nbsp;

"It was like a roller coaster," he said. "I was feeling like there is a thick plate pressuring my chest and also needles poking my chest."

Some of his symptoms may have been the side effects of his treatment, he believes.&nbsp;

But after eight days and two negative tests, he was discharged.

"I had a very bad situation," Park said. Whenever his condition was slightly better "I was thinking that might be my last time where I can write something in my life," he added.&nbsp;

"So I tried to write something short on Facebook to share with friends."

- 'Death prowls' the ward -

Cardiologist Fabio Biferali spent eight days "isolated from the world" at Rome's Policlinico Umberto I hospital in an orthodontics department that had been converted into an intensive care unit.

Describing the pain he felt as "strange", the 65-year-old said it almost resembled having a little monkey on his back, just like one of his patients had described it to him.

Oxygen therapy is painful and finding a radial artery is difficult, he said. "They would do it up to twice a day. Being a doctor helped me bear the pain. Other patients would desperately shout 'enough' 'enough'."

The hardest part were the nights, alone with his fears.

"I couldn't sleep, anxiety invaded the room... nightmares came, death prowled," he said.&nbsp;

"I was afraid of dying without being able to cling on to the hands of my family and friends, despair overcame me."

While medical staff were covered head to toe in protective gear, Biferali said he found some solace in being able to see their "affectionate" eyes behind the glass masks and hear their voices.&nbsp;

"Many were young, doctors on the front line. It was a moment of hope."

- Going to 'gate of hell and back' -&nbsp;

Wan Chunhui, 44, said he was "terrified" at first but that going to the "gate of hell" and coming back to survive the virus had transformed his outlook on life.

"I think the biggest change for me is that my way of looking at things is different now," said Wan, who spent 17 days at the makeshift Huoshenshan Hospital in the Chinese city of Wuhan, in central Hubei province, where the outbreak began.

"I feel really calm about everything, really calm... I went to the gate of hell and came back. I saw with my own eyes that others failed to recover and died, which has had a big impact on me."

He had initially isolated himself to protect his family after getting a temperature, but, still feverish a couple of days later, he walked an hour to hospital.

Tests were not available but he was prescribed antibiotics and flu medication and asked to quarantine himself at home due to a hospital bed shortage.

"I was terrified at first," he said. "But I went back home, switched to a positive mood, and braced myself for the situation. Anyway it’s pointless to panic," Wan told AFP.

The 44-year-old investor and married father of a nine-year-old daughter already suffered from high blood pressure before the virus.

At home, he began recording his illness in an online diary, but a bad cough set in and he was admitted to hospital.

Hormone therapy helped lower his temperature, although he remained short of breath, but medical supplies were scarce, Wan said, and healthcare workers wore poor-quality protective suits and rubbish bags as shoe covers.

Wan was transferred to one of the two field hospitals built for virus sufferers in Wuhan, a well-supplied centre, he said, where he was treated mostly with Western medicines.

- Keeping the faith -

Song Myung-hee, 72, was afraid of dying alone after being infected during a service at the Shincheonji Church of Jesus in the southern city of Daegu, a secretive religious group at the centre of South Korea's coronavirus outbreak.

She was at the same event as the woman known as Patient 31, a 61-year-old who attended four services before being diagnosed with the virus.

Song was quarantined at home as a precaution but remained asymptomatic for several days before the virus struck suddenly with a severe cough.&nbsp;

"I could not sleep at all," she told AFP. "It lasted for two days. I had to hold a plastic bag at all times because I kept on coughing up phlegm.

"Then my face started swelling. I was scared I might die alone."

Facing an influx, no hospital beds were available at the time in Daegu, so she was taken to Seongnam, 220 kilometres (137 miles) away.

"I was relieved when I entered the hospital room -- because at least there, I knew I wouldn't have died alone," she said.

The Shincheonji Church leader has apologised over its role in the spread of the disease but, despite her family's pleas, Song is resolute about staying a member.

"I'm never leaving my church, it doesn't matter what other people say."

- Comes and goes in waves -&nbsp;

"The best way to describe it is: when you are at a high altitude, you struggle to breathe," said Christine, 28, from South Africa, who suffers from syringomyelia, a disorder affecting the spinal cord.

Two days after being in contact with a sick work colleague, the analyst said she felt the first symptoms and COVID-19 was confirmed.

Her partner, lawyer Dawie, 30, could not take the test because "the system was already under a lot of pressure" but within a few days had the same symptoms.

Self-isolated, the couple who did not wish for their full names to be published, continue to work from home.

Sometimes they wondered if they were overreacting because some days they felt fine, Dawie said.

"Within days, it fluctuates. You get chilled and later on you feel better...The worst for me was last week... I was really short of breath... I called my doctor. She told me to look at the signs showing that I am not getting enough oxygen.&nbsp;

"You should look at your fingernails if they turn blue," he said.

- Despairing at home -&nbsp;

French housewife and mother-of-three Djemila Kerrouche said the worst part was the challenge her three children faced continuing their schoolwork while confined at home.

After developing symptoms, she wore gloves and a mask at home and didn't touch food, she said, but two of the children -- who are aged six, 11 and 19 -- were already coughing.

"My children put themselves under great pressure, they want to succeed at school," said the 47-year-old from Mulhouse in eastern France, which has been badly hit by the pandemic.

"Their teachers give them work as if the situation were normal," she said.

"The big one is preparing for her bac (end of secondary school exam) and I see her cry when she can't manage and I can't hold her in my arms, console her, help her."

"My morale is rock bottom. &nbsp;I can't stop crying..." &nbsp;

- Shock and solitude -&nbsp;

Marisol San Roman, a sociologist and student from Argentina, said she was shocked to find she had the virus and described the "total solitude" of being infected.

She is thought to have caught COVID-19 at a farewell dinner in Madrid after the closure of the Instituto de Empresa business school where she was studying, before returning home to Argentina.

"I'm 25, I'm young, I'm in good health -- it's mad," she said, expressing her shock.

Her 65-year-old father with whom she lives avoided her, leaving her food at the door of her room.&nbsp;

On her own, she treated a lung infection and gauged the oxygen saturation rate in her blood. "Coronavirus is an illness which is lived in solitude, in total solitude," she said.&nbsp;

Her case went viral after she gave Skype interviews to the media, and she said she received several insults via social media for having returned to the country when she was carrying the virus.

She has tried to stop the stigmatisation associated with having it, she said.&nbsp;

On her Instagram account she writes of wanting to be a kind of social conscience, warning people to be aware, that "this isn't a joke, being young doesn't immunise you against anything and that the coronavirus isn't flu".

- Sharing our experience with others -&nbsp;

Entrepreneurs Julia, 27, and Megan, 35, wanted to share what they went through to help others after being among the 50 first cases recorded in South Africa.

They caught the virus, with three other family members, on a ski trip to Switzerland, probably in a bar.

The two women, who didn't want their full names published, are behind the @livingcoronapositive Instagram account, which documents their recovery, responds to questions and aims to "bring some light and positivity to this dark time".

They all experienced different versions of the symptoms; some mild, others lasted a week, they said.

On testing, they said, "having a large earbud stuck down the back of your nose is not pleasant but it's quick".

And their advice, said Megan, is to remember that "stress, anxiety and panic are normal human reactions to something as massive and unknown as this pandemic! So please be kind to your loved ones who feel out-of-control. They need your love and reassurance."

- Anger -&nbsp;

Frenchman Charlie Barres, 29, works in hospitals in his job as a physical educator and worries about the added strain the pandemic is putting on the health system.

"Warnings about the state of the system don't date from yesterday. Not so long ago, the caregivers were on strike... And now, it's blowing up. At the same time, we're on a disaster footing in hospitals," he said.

Married and with a two-year-old son, he was confined at his Paris home after the disease began with chills and a sore throat.

A doctor diagnosed him. "The tests are expensive and they keep them for the complex cases," he said.

After two days of feeling bad, he began to improve gradually. His son has been ill and his wife suffered headaches and a bad throat, he said.

- Patient zero -&nbsp;

Thirty-three-year-old Lorena's aunt was Ecuador's "patient zero", who had returned from holiday in Spain to a family welcome home party with about 30 people in late February in the southwestern city of Babahoyo.

"Already on her arrival, she wasn't well... She told us she had felt feverish during the trip and that a lot of people were coughing" on the plane, Lorena, a teacher, said.

Her 71-year-old aunt was hospitalised in Guayaquil, the epicentre of Ecuador's outbreak, and the virus was confirmed a week later.

When the family, themselves isolated and tested, then saw now-former health minister Catalina Andramuno announce five coronavirus cases during a press conference on TV, they realised "it was us!', Lorena said.

Her aunt later died, and a dozen family members were infected, including Lorena, who has now recovered.

A sense of death stalking the hospital ward, fear of dying alone, tearful despair and disarray at home, solitude, anger and the desire to share, or change their life: 12 people from different parts of the world who have survived COVID-19 share emotional and harrowing stories of the pain and fear after catching the virus: - A painful 'roller coaster' - With no pre-existing health conditions, South Korean engineering professor Park Hyun, 47, said he'd originally thought the coronavirus was "not my problem" until he developed symptoms and ended up in intensive care in the southern city of Busan.

A sense of death stalking the hospital ward, fear of dying alone, tearful despair and disarray at home, solitude, anger and the desire to share, or change their life: 12 people from different parts of the world who have survived COVID-19 share emotional and harrowing stories of the pain and fear after catching the virus: - A painful 'roller coaster' - With no pre-existing health conditions, South Korean engineering professor Park Hyun, 47, said he'd originally thought the coronavirus was "not my problem" until he developed symptoms and ended up in intensive care in the southern city of Busan. It had started with a dry cough and sore throat, he said, followed a few days later by shortness of breath so severe he fainted while waiting for a hospital coronavirus test. It came back positive and he was admitted to hospital where his condition fluctuated wildly every day and several times he thought he would die. "It was like a roller coaster," he said. "I was feeling like there is a thick plate pressuring my chest and also needles poking my chest." Some of his symptoms may have been the side effects of his treatment, he believes. But after eight days and two negative tests, he was discharged. "I had a very bad situation," Park said. Whenever his condition was slightly better "I was thinking that might be my last time where I can write something in my life," he added. "So I tried to write something short on Facebook to share with friends." - 'Death prowls' the ward - Cardiologist Fabio Biferali spent eight days "isolated from the world" at Rome's Policlinico Umberto I hospital in an orthodontics department that had been converted into an intensive care unit. Describing the pain he felt as "strange", the 65-year-old said it almost resembled having a little monkey on his back, just like one of his patients had described it to him. Oxygen therapy is painful and finding a radial artery is difficult, he said. "They would do it up to twice a day. Being a doctor helped me bear the pain. Other patients would desperately shout 'enough' 'enough'." The hardest part were the nights, alone with his fears. "I couldn't sleep, anxiety invaded the room... nightmares came, death prowled," he said. "I was afraid of dying without being able to cling on to the hands of my family and friends, despair overcame me." While medical staff were covered head to toe in protective gear, Biferali said he found some solace in being able to see their "affectionate" eyes behind the glass masks and hear their voices. "Many were young, doctors on the front line. It was a moment of hope." - Going to 'gate of hell and back' - Wan Chunhui, 44, said he was "terrified" at first but that going to the "gate of hell" and coming back to survive the virus had transformed his outlook on life. "I think the biggest change for me is that my way of looking at things is different now," said Wan, who spent 17 days at the makeshift Huoshenshan Hospital in the Chinese city of Wuhan, in central Hubei province, where the outbreak began. "I feel really calm about everything, really calm... I went to the gate of hell and came back. I saw with my own eyes that others failed to recover and died, which has had a big impact on me." He had initially isolated himself to protect his family after getting a temperature, but, still feverish a couple of days later, he walked an hour to hospital. Tests were not available but he was prescribed antibiotics and flu medication and asked to quarantine himself at home due to a hospital bed shortage. "I was terrified at first," he said. "But I went back home, switched to a positive mood, and braced myself for the situation. Anyway it’s pointless to panic," Wan told AFP. The 44-year-old investor and married father of a nine-year-old daughter already suffered from high blood pressure before the virus. At home, he began recording his illness in an online diary, but a bad cough set in and he was admitted to hospital. Hormone therapy helped lower his temperature, although he remained short of breath, but medical supplies were scarce, Wan said, and healthcare workers wore poor-quality protective suits and rubbish bags as shoe covers. Wan was transferred to one of the two field hospitals built for virus sufferers in Wuhan, a well-supplied centre, he said, where he was treated mostly with Western medicines. - Keeping the faith - Song Myung-hee, 72, was afraid of dying alone after being infected during a service at the Shincheonji Church of Jesus in the southern city of Daegu, a secretive religious group at the centre of South Korea's coronavirus outbreak. She was at the same event as the woman known as Patient 31, a 61-year-old who attended four services before being diagnosed with the virus. Song was quarantined at home as a precaution but remained asymptomatic for several days before the virus struck suddenly with a severe cough. "I could not sleep at all," she told AFP. "It lasted for two days. I had to hold a plastic bag at all times because I kept on coughing up phlegm. "Then my face started swelling. I was scared I might die alone." Facing an influx, no hospital beds were available at the time in Daegu, so she was taken to Seongnam, 220 kilometres (137 miles) away. "I was relieved when I entered the hospital room -- because at least there, I knew I wouldn't have died alone," she said. The Shincheonji Church leader has apologised over its role in the spread of the disease but, despite her family's pleas, Song is resolute about staying a member. "I'm never leaving my church, it doesn't matter what other people say." - Comes and goes in waves - "The best way to describe it is: when you are at a high altitude, you struggle to breathe," said Christine, 28, from South Africa, who suffers from syringomyelia, a disorder affecting the spinal cord. Two days after being in contact with a sick work colleague, the analyst said she felt the first symptoms and COVID-19 was confirmed. Her partner, lawyer Dawie, 30, could not take the test because "the system was already under a lot of pressure" but within a few days had the same symptoms. Self-isolated, the couple who did not wish for their full names to be published, continue to work from home. Sometimes they wondered if they were overreacting because some days they felt fine, Dawie said. "Within days, it fluctuates. You get chilled and later on you feel better...The worst for me was last week... I was really short of breath... I called my doctor. She told me to look at the signs showing that I am not getting enough oxygen. "You should look at your fingernails if they turn blue," he said. - Despairing at home - French housewife and mother-of-three Djemila Kerrouche said the worst part was the challenge her three children faced continuing their schoolwork while confined at home. After developing symptoms, she wore gloves and a mask at home and didn't touch food, she said, but two of the children -- who are aged six, 11 and 19 -- were already coughing. "My children put themselves under great pressure, they want to succeed at school," said the 47-year-old from Mulhouse in eastern France, which has been badly hit by the pandemic. "Their teachers give them work as if the situation were normal," she said. "The big one is preparing for her bac (end of secondary school exam) and I see her cry when she can't manage and I can't hold her in my arms, console her, help her." "My morale is rock bottom. I can't stop crying..." - Shock and solitude - Marisol San Roman, a sociologist and student from Argentina, said she was shocked to find she had the virus and described the "total solitude" of being infected. She is thought to have caught COVID-19 at a farewell dinner in Madrid after the closure of the Instituto de Empresa business school where she was studying, before returning home to Argentina. "I'm 25, I'm young, I'm in good health -- it's mad," she said, expressing her shock. Her 65-year-old father with whom she lives avoided her, leaving her food at the door of her room. On her own, she treated a lung infection and gauged the oxygen saturation rate in her blood. "Coronavirus is an illness which is lived in solitude, in total solitude," she said. Her case went viral after she gave Skype interviews to the media, and she said she received several insults via social media for having returned to the country when she was carrying the virus. She has tried to stop the stigmatisation associated with having it, she said. On her Instagram account she writes of wanting to be a kind of social conscience, warning people to be aware, that "this isn't a joke, being young doesn't immunise you against anything and that the coronavirus isn't flu". - Sharing our experience with others - Entrepreneurs Julia, 27, and Megan, 35, wanted to share what they went through to help others after being among the 50 first cases recorded in South Africa. They caught the virus, with three other family members, on a ski trip to Switzerland, probably in a bar. The two women, who didn't want their full names published, are behind the @livingcoronapositive Instagram account, which documents their recovery, responds to questions and aims to "bring some light and positivity to this dark time". They all experienced different versions of the symptoms; some mild, others lasted a week, they said. On testing, they said, "having a large earbud stuck down the back of your nose is not pleasant but it's quick". And their advice, said Megan, is to remember that "stress, anxiety and panic are normal human reactions to something as massive and unknown as this pandemic! So please be kind to your loved ones who feel out-of-control. They need your love and reassurance." - Anger - Frenchman Charlie Barres, 29, works in hospitals in his job as a physical educator and worries about the added strain the pandemic is putting on the health system. "Warnings about the state of the system don't date from yesterday. Not so long ago, the caregivers were on strike... And now, it's blowing up. At the same time, we're on a disaster footing in hospitals," he said. Married and with a two-year-old son, he was confined at his Paris home after the disease began with chills and a sore throat. A doctor diagnosed him. "The tests are expensive and they keep them for the complex cases," he said. After two days of feeling bad, he began to improve gradually. His son has been ill and his wife suffered headaches and a bad throat, he said. - Patient zero - Thirty-three-year-old Lorena's aunt was Ecuador's "patient zero", who had returned from holiday in Spain to a family welcome home party with about 30 people in late February in the southwestern city of Babahoyo. "Already on her arrival, she wasn't well... She told us she had felt feverish during the trip and that a lot of people were coughing" on the plane, Lorena, a teacher, said. Her 71-year-old aunt was hospitalised in Guayaquil, the epicentre of Ecuador's outbreak, and the virus was confirmed a week later. When the family, themselves isolated and tested, then saw now-former health minister Catalina Andramuno announce five coronavirus cases during a press conference on TV, they realised "it was us!', Lorena said. Her aunt later died, and a dozen family members were infected, including Lorena, who has now recovered.

Pain, solitude, fear: Stories of surviving COVID-19

Indian origin doctor and Miss England Bhasha Mukherjee has returned to England to be on the frontline in the fight against coronavirus in the country along with her NHS colleagues.&nbsp;

Mukherjee, who was working for various charities overseas, was in India before she <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnsons-covid-19-symptoms-worsen-shifted-to-intensive-care-291006">returned to the UK</a>.

Mukherjee represented England in the Miss World pageant in December 2019 before taking a break as a junior doctor.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-H_k1AFQdC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">hoping to get back from India to return to work for the @nhswebsite as soon as possible... NHS Doctor @bhasha05 🙏 Advert by @soulful_s . #stayathome #protectthenhs #missenglandstuckinindia #covid_19 #coronavírus #savelives #nhs</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/missenglandnews/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Miss &amp; Mr England Contest</a> (@missenglandnews) on <time datetime="2020-03-24T17:33:06+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 24, 2020 at 10:33am PDT</time>
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Mukherjee was invited to Africa, to Turkey, then to India, Pakistan and several other Asian countries to be an ambassador for various charity work.

She went back to the UK after the situation in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-in-good-spirits-after-being-hospitalised-due-to-covid-19-290908">country became worse</a>. Her colleagues at the Pilgrim Hospital in Boston apprised her of their situation.&nbsp;

"When you are doing all this humanitarian work abroad, you're still expected to put the crown on, get ready... look pretty. I wanted to come back home. I wanted to come and go straight to work," she said.

Mukherjee added, "I felt a sense of this is what I'd got this degree for and what better time to be part of this particular sector than now. It was incredible the way the whole world was celebrating all key workers, and I wanted to be one of those, and I knew I could help. There's no better time for me to be Miss England and helping England at a time of need." (sic)

Before returning to work, Mukherjee is apparently self-isolating for one to two weeks.&nbsp;

She holds a specialization in respiratory medicine.

Indian origin doctor and Miss England Bhasha Mukherjee has returned to England to be on the frontline in the fight against coronavirus in the country along with her NHS colleagues.

Indian origin doctor and Miss England Bhasha Mukherjee has returned to England to be on the frontline in the fight against coronavirus in the country along with her NHS colleagues. Mukherjee, who was working for various charities overseas, was in India before she returned to the UK. Mukherjee represented England in the Miss World pageant in December 2019 before taking a break as a junior doctor. View this post on Instagram hoping to get back from India to return to work for the @nhswebsite as soon as possible... NHS Doctor @bhasha05 🙏 Advert by @soulful_s . #stayathome #protectthenhs #missenglandstuckinindia #covid_19 #coronavírus #savelives #nhs A post shared by Miss & Mr England Contest (@missenglandnews) on Mar 24, 2020 at 10:33am PDT × Mukherjee was invited to Africa, to Turkey, then to India, Pakistan and several other Asian countries to be an ambassador for various charity work. She went back to the UK after the situation in the country became worse. Her colleagues at the Pilgrim Hospital in Boston apprised her of their situation. "When you are doing all this humanitarian work abroad, you're still expected to put the crown on, get ready... look pretty. I wanted to come back home. I wanted to come and go straight to work," she said. Mukherjee added, "I felt a sense of this is what I'd got this degree for and what better time to be part of this particular sector than now. It was incredible the way the whole world was celebrating all key workers, and I wanted to be one of those, and I knew I could help. There's no better time for me to be Miss England and helping England at a time of need." (sic) Before returning to work, Mukherjee is apparently self-isolating for one to two weeks. She holds a specialization in respiratory medicine.

Miss England Bhasha Mukherjee returns to UK to join NHS in fight against COVID-19 

The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can remain infectious on face masks for up to a week, and last on banknotes, stainless steel and plastic surfaces for days, according to a study.

However, the virus can be killed by household disinfectants, bleach or frequent hand washing with soap and water, said the researchers from the University of Hong Kong (HKU).

The study found that the COVID-19 virus can stick to stainless steel and plastic surfaces for up to four days, and to the outer layer of a face mask for a week, Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported on Monday.

The report, published in The Lancet journal, adds to a growing body of research about the stability of SARS-CoV-2 -- as the novel coronavirus is formally known -- and what can be done to prevent its transmission.

"SARS-CoV-2 can be highly stable in a favourable environment, but it is also susceptible to standard disinfection methods," said the researchers, including Leo Poon Litman and Malik Peiris, both from HKU's School of Public Health.

The researchers tested how long the virus could remain infectious at room temperature on a variety of surfaces.

On printing and tissue paper it lasted less than three hours, while on treated wood and cloth, it had disappeared by the second day.

On glass and banknotes, the virus was still evident on the second day, but had gone by the fourth, while on stainless steel and plastic it was present for between four and seven days.

"Strikingly," the researchers said, there was still a detectable level of infection on the outer layer of a surgical face mask after seven days. 
"This is exactly why it is very important if you are wearing a surgical mask you don't touch the outside of the mask," Peiris said.

"Because you can contaminate your hands and if you touch your eyes you could be transferring the virus to your eyes," he was quoted by SCMP.

On all surfaces, the concentration of the virus reduced quite rapidly over time, the study said.

The researchers said that the results did "not necessarily reflect the potential to pick up the virus from casual contact," as the presence of the virus in the study was detected by laboratory tools, not fingers and hands as would be the case in everyday life.

A study by American researchers on the environmental stability of the coronavirus published last month in the journal Nature also concluded that it can remain infectious on some surfaces for days.

They found the virus was present on plastic and steel for up to 72 hours, but did not last more than four hours on copper or 24 hours on cardboard.

The findings from HKU add to the conversation about public health and hygiene, and what kinds of precautions people should take when bringing items like groceries into their homes.

Poon said hand washing remains at the top of the list, and it was theoretically possible for tins of food to carry enough live virus to cause an infection, but that the exact risk is yet to be established.

"If you want to protect yourself just maintain good hygiene, wash your hands often and try not to touch your face, your mouth or nose without cleaning first," he said.

People who were particularly concerned might prefer to leave non-perishable items in their shopping bags in the kitchen for a day before handling them, he said.

"That would reduce the viral concentration a lot. But the most important message is wash your hands," he said.&nbsp;

The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can remain infectious on face masks for up to a week, and last on banknotes, stainless steel and plastic surfaces for days, according to a study.

The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can remain infectious on face masks for up to a week, and last on banknotes, stainless steel and plastic surfaces for days, according to a study. However, the virus can be killed by household disinfectants, bleach or frequent hand washing with soap and water, said the researchers from the University of Hong Kong (HKU). The study found that the COVID-19 virus can stick to stainless steel and plastic surfaces for up to four days, and to the outer layer of a face mask for a week, Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported on Monday. The report, published in The Lancet journal, adds to a growing body of research about the stability of SARS-CoV-2 -- as the novel coronavirus is formally known -- and what can be done to prevent its transmission. "SARS-CoV-2 can be highly stable in a favourable environment, but it is also susceptible to standard disinfection methods," said the researchers, including Leo Poon Litman and Malik Peiris, both from HKU's School of Public Health. The researchers tested how long the virus could remain infectious at room temperature on a variety of surfaces. On printing and tissue paper it lasted less than three hours, while on treated wood and cloth, it had disappeared by the second day. On glass and banknotes, the virus was still evident on the second day, but had gone by the fourth, while on stainless steel and plastic it was present for between four and seven days. "Strikingly," the researchers said, there was still a detectable level of infection on the outer layer of a surgical face mask after seven days. "This is exactly why it is very important if you are wearing a surgical mask you don't touch the outside of the mask," Peiris said. "Because you can contaminate your hands and if you touch your eyes you could be transferring the virus to your eyes," he was quoted by SCMP. On all surfaces, the concentration of the virus reduced quite rapidly over time, the study said. The researchers said that the results did "not necessarily reflect the potential to pick up the virus from casual contact," as the presence of the virus in the study was detected by laboratory tools, not fingers and hands as would be the case in everyday life. A study by American researchers on the environmental stability of the coronavirus published last month in the journal Nature also concluded that it can remain infectious on some surfaces for days. They found the virus was present on plastic and steel for up to 72 hours, but did not last more than four hours on copper or 24 hours on cardboard. The findings from HKU add to the conversation about public health and hygiene, and what kinds of precautions people should take when bringing items like groceries into their homes. Poon said hand washing remains at the top of the list, and it was theoretically possible for tins of food to carry enough live virus to cause an infection, but that the exact risk is yet to be established. "If you want to protect yourself just maintain good hygiene, wash your hands often and try not to touch your face, your mouth or nose without cleaning first," he said. People who were particularly concerned might prefer to leave non-perishable items in their shopping bags in the kitchen for a day before handling them, he said. "That would reduce the viral concentration a lot. But the most important message is wash your hands," he said.

COVID-19 virus can last on face masks for a week, banknotes for days: Study

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 13 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,841 people worldwide and over 75,000 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 285,437 people of that tally have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University.

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.

A total of 368,449 citizens are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths.

Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 13 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,841 people worldwide and over 75,000 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 13 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,841 people worldwide and over 75,000 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 285,437 people of that tally have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University. 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. A total of 368,449 citizens are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Global death toll from coronavirus tops 75,000

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