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South Korea reported more recoveries from the coronavirus than new infections on Friday for the first time since its outbreak emerged in January, as a downward trend in daily cases raised hopes that Asia's biggest epidemic outside China may be slowing.

The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) recorded 110 new coronavirus cases on Friday compared with 114 a day earlier, taking the national tally to 7,979. The death toll rose by five to 72 as of late Friday.

In contrast, 177 patients were released from hospitals where they had been isolated for treatment, the KCDC said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-must-work-together-to-combat-coronavirus-pandemic-imf-286112">Countries must work together to combat coronavirus pandemic: IMF</a>

This marks the first time that the daily number of recovered people exceeded that of new infections since South Korea's first patient was confirmed on Jan. 20.

The latest figures are in line with a downward trend in new cases which has raised hopes that the outbreak may be easing in Asia's fourth-largest economy.

The trend is expected to persist, with more self-quarantined patients being discharged in the coming days, KCDC chief Jeong Eun-kyeong said.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-reports-fewer-than-150-new-coronavirus-cases-285413">South Korea reports fewer than 150 new coronavirus cases</a>

But officials urged vigilance after new clusters of infections emerged at a call centre in a crowded part of the capital Seoul, and the fisheries ministry based in the administrative city of Sejong.

"We've managed to turn the corner, but there are concerns about overseas inflows, as well as possible infections at home around such facilities as call centres, computer cafes and karaoke rooms," Prime Minister Chung Sye-Kyun said at a meeting in Daegu.

Of the latest 110 cases, 61 were from the hard-hit southeastern city of Daegu where a fringe Christian church at the centre of the epidemic is located, while 17 and 13 were in Sejong and Seoul, respectively.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-pm-says-turning-point-near-in-coronavirus-fight-285173">South Korean PM says 'turning point' near in coronavirus fight</a>

At least 109 cases so far have been linked to the call centre, operated by an insurance company whose 800-strong workforce is being tested or in quarantine for monitoring. But the rate of increase in new infections has been slowing over the past couple of days.

Seoul city said it plans to carry out extensive checks on some 10,500 computer cafes and karaoke bars as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the virus in crowded workplaces.

"We assess that we've put out a big fire, but cannot lower our guard yet", Mayor Park Won-soon told a briefing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-total-number-of-coronavirus-jumps-to-over-5700-284425">South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700</a>

Global alarm over the coronavirus intensified, with governments from Europe to the United States unveiling new measures aimed at slowing the spread of a disease that has infected almost 135,000 people worldwide.

South Korea said it will subject visitors from France, Germany, Britain, Spain and the Netherlands to reinforced border checks starting Sunday, after imposing similar rules for China, Italy and Iran suffering a major outbreak.

South Korea reported more recoveries from the coronavirus than new infections on Friday for the first time since its outbreak emerged in January, as a downward trend in daily cases raised hopes that Asia's biggest epidemic outside China may be slowing.

South Korea reported more recoveries from the coronavirus than new infections on Friday for the first time since its outbreak emerged in January, as a downward trend in daily cases raised hopes that Asia's biggest epidemic outside China may be slowing. The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) recorded 110 new coronavirus cases on Friday compared with 114 a day earlier, taking the national tally to 7,979. The death toll rose by five to 72 as of late Friday. In contrast, 177 patients were released from hospitals where they had been isolated for treatment, the KCDC said. Also read: Countries must work together to combat coronavirus pandemic: IMF This marks the first time that the daily number of recovered people exceeded that of new infections since South Korea's first patient was confirmed on Jan. 20. The latest figures are in line with a downward trend in new cases which has raised hopes that the outbreak may be easing in Asia's fourth-largest economy. The trend is expected to persist, with more self-quarantined patients being discharged in the coming days, KCDC chief Jeong Eun-kyeong said. Also see: South Korea reports fewer than 150 new coronavirus cases But officials urged vigilance after new clusters of infections emerged at a call centre in a crowded part of the capital Seoul, and the fisheries ministry based in the administrative city of Sejong. "We've managed to turn the corner, but there are concerns about overseas inflows, as well as possible infections at home around such facilities as call centres, computer cafes and karaoke rooms," Prime Minister Chung Sye-Kyun said at a meeting in Daegu. Of the latest 110 cases, 61 were from the hard-hit southeastern city of Daegu where a fringe Christian church at the centre of the epidemic is located, while 17 and 13 were in Sejong and Seoul, respectively. Also read: South Korean PM says 'turning point' near in coronavirus fight At least 109 cases so far have been linked to the call centre, operated by an insurance company whose 800-strong workforce is being tested or in quarantine for monitoring. But the rate of increase in new infections has been slowing over the past couple of days. Seoul city said it plans to carry out extensive checks on some 10,500 computer cafes and karaoke bars as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the virus in crowded workplaces. "We assess that we've put out a big fire, but cannot lower our guard yet", Mayor Park Won-soon told a briefing. Also read: South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700 Global alarm over the coronavirus intensified, with governments from Europe to the United States unveiling new measures aimed at slowing the spread of a disease that has infected almost 135,000 people worldwide. South Korea said it will subject visitors from France, Germany, Britain, Spain and the Netherlands to reinforced border checks starting Sunday, after imposing similar rules for China, Italy and Iran suffering a major outbreak.

South Korea reports more recoveries than coronavirus cases for the first time

Kuwait's religious authorities asked Muslims to pray at home on Friday as Gulf Arab states stepped up measures to fight the spread of the new coronavirus.

Bahrain ordered the release of hundreds of prisoners on Thursday, in one of the biggest pardons since the 2011 uprising against the monarchy, according to the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy (BIRD) which linked the decision to efforts to contain the virus.

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King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued a decree granting pardon for 901 prisoners. A further 585 prisoners will spend the remainder of their sentences in rehabilitation and training programs, the state-run Bahrain news agency reported.

Dozens more cases of coronavirus have been registered in the Gulf Arab states over the past 24 hours. Saudi Arabia reported 17 additional cases taking its total to 62.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-reopens-area-around-kaaba-amid-coronavirus-measures-284944">Saudi Arabia reopens area around Kaaba amid coronavirus measures</a>

More than 700 infections have been reported to Friday in the six-nation Arab Cooperation Council. No deaths have been announced so far. Authorities say most of those infected had travelled to Iran, the regional epicentre of the outbreak, or been in contact with returnees.

Iran reported 429 deaths and a total of 10,075 cases on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-travellers-reassured-on-screening-procedures-for-covid-19-285071">Dubai travellers reassured on screening procedures for COVID-19</a>

Qatar has 262 cases, Bahrain 195 and the United Arab Emirates 85.

In the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways announced the suspension of flights to and from Rome and Milan on Friday, from March 14. The death toll in Italy passed 1,000, in Europe's deadliest outbreak.

Kuwait's religious authorities asked Muslims to pray at home on Friday as Gulf Arab states stepped up measures to fight the spread of the new coronavirus. Bahrain ordered the release of hundreds of prisoners on Thursday, in one of the biggest pardons since the 2011 uprising against the monarchy, according to the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy (BIRD) which linked the decision to efforts to contain the virus.

Kuwait's religious authorities asked Muslims to pray at home on Friday as Gulf Arab states stepped up measures to fight the spread of the new coronavirus. Bahrain ordered the release of hundreds of prisoners on Thursday, in one of the biggest pardons since the 2011 uprising against the monarchy, according to the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy (BIRD) which linked the decision to efforts to contain the virus. Also read: Saudi Arabia locks down province, bans travel with 9 nations over coronavirus King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued a decree granting pardon for 901 prisoners. A further 585 prisoners will spend the remainder of their sentences in rehabilitation and training programs, the state-run Bahrain news agency reported. Dozens more cases of coronavirus have been registered in the Gulf Arab states over the past 24 hours. Saudi Arabia reported 17 additional cases taking its total to 62. Also see: Saudi Arabia reopens area around Kaaba amid coronavirus measures More than 700 infections have been reported to Friday in the six-nation Arab Cooperation Council. No deaths have been announced so far. Authorities say most of those infected had travelled to Iran, the regional epicentre of the outbreak, or been in contact with returnees. Iran reported 429 deaths and a total of 10,075 cases on Thursday. Also read: Dubai travellers reassured on screening procedures for COVID-19 Qatar has 262 cases, Bahrain 195 and the United Arab Emirates 85. In the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways announced the suspension of flights to and from Rome and Milan on Friday, from March 14. The death toll in Italy passed 1,000, in Europe's deadliest outbreak.

Kuwait asks Muslims to pray at home to halt coronavirus spread

Hundreds of thousands of Islamic worshippers gathered in eastern Pakistan this week amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, ignoring government warnings that such events could propagate the disease.

Organisers late Thursday curtailed the annual Tablighi Ijtema congregation, which had drawn people from across the country but cited rainy weather as the cause.

The early closure came after about 250,000 people had already congregated in camps near Lahore since Wednesday for the five-day festival.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-imran-khan-calls-nsc-to-discuss-strategy-to-combat-coronavirus-286062">PM Imran Khan calls NSC to discuss strategy to combat coronavirus</a>

"Most of the people have returned to their homes but still tens of thousands of people are here. They will return today," one of the event's organisers Ehsanullah, who goes by one name, told sources&nbsp;on Friday.

Pakistan has only recorded 21 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus and no deaths, but officials have tested fewer than 500 potential cases in the country of about 215 million, where health care is frequently inadequate.

Many countries are advising against large gatherings in a bid to slow the spread of the highly communicable virus. Some nations like France and Italy&nbsp;have banned them altogether.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pilgrims-returning-from-iran-produce-fake-coronavirus-clearance-certificate-report-285976">Pakistan pilgrims returning from Iran produce 'fake' coronavirus clearance certificate: Report</a>

The federal government has yet to enforce nationwide measures to contain a possible outbreak, leaving provinces to act independently. Organisers of the Tablighi Ijtema were free to ignore government advice to postpone.

"The government asked us to cancel the gathering because of the coronavirus, but our elders and organisers decided that the gathering will proceed as planned," Ehsanullah said.

The movement was founded by religious scholars more than five decades ago and focuses exclusively on preaching Islam.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pushes-ahead-with-psl-2020-despite-coronavirus-fears-285934">Pakistan pushes ahead with PSL 2020 despite coronavirus fears</a>

It usually sees hundreds of camps and sub-camps set up on a dusty site outside Lahore to accommodate people from across Pakistan, giving the gathering a festival feel.

Schools in three of Pakistan's four provinces are closed for March and authorities are conducting basic screenings of passengers arriving by air from overseas.

Prime Minister Imran Khan was set to meet with his national security team later Friday to discuss the global coronavirus crisis.

Hundreds of thousands of Islamic worshippers gathered in eastern Pakistan this week amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, ignoring government warnings that such events could propagate the disease.

Hundreds of thousands of Islamic worshippers gathered in eastern Pakistan this week amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, ignoring government warnings that such events could propagate the disease. Organisers late Thursday curtailed the annual Tablighi Ijtema congregation, which had drawn people from across the country but cited rainy weather as the cause. The early closure came after about 250,000 people had already congregated in camps near Lahore since Wednesday for the five-day festival. Also read: PM Imran Khan calls NSC to discuss strategy to combat coronavirus "Most of the people have returned to their homes but still tens of thousands of people are here. They will return today," one of the event's organisers Ehsanullah, who goes by one name, told sources on Friday. Pakistan has only recorded 21 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus and no deaths, but officials have tested fewer than 500 potential cases in the country of about 215 million, where health care is frequently inadequate. Many countries are advising against large gatherings in a bid to slow the spread of the highly communicable virus. Some nations like France and Italy have banned them altogether. Also see: Pakistan pilgrims returning from Iran produce 'fake' coronavirus clearance certificate: Report The federal government has yet to enforce nationwide measures to contain a possible outbreak, leaving provinces to act independently. Organisers of the Tablighi Ijtema were free to ignore government advice to postpone. "The government asked us to cancel the gathering because of the coronavirus, but our elders and organisers decided that the gathering will proceed as planned," Ehsanullah said. The movement was founded by religious scholars more than five decades ago and focuses exclusively on preaching Islam. Also read: Pakistan pushes ahead with PSL 2020 despite coronavirus fears It usually sees hundreds of camps and sub-camps set up on a dusty site outside Lahore to accommodate people from across Pakistan, giving the gathering a festival feel. Schools in three of Pakistan's four provinces are closed for March and authorities are conducting basic screenings of passengers arriving by air from overseas. Prime Minister Imran Khan was set to meet with his national security team later Friday to discuss the global coronavirus crisis.

250,000 pilgrims mass in Pakistan despite coronavirus warnings

Pakistan is working to protect its citizens from the novel coronavirus and is ready to provide assistance to neighbours if needed, a top government official said on Wednesday, a day after the country reported a new infection, taking the number of confirmed cases to 21.

Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui said the government was monitoring the situation very closely to limit the spread of coronavirus pandemic that has killed nearly 5,000 people.

"On coronavirus, as I said before that the Government of Pakistan is monitoring the situation very closely and will take measures required for the citizens within Pakistan and any assistance we can provide to our neighbouring countries," she said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-imran-khan-calls-nsc-to-discuss-strategy-to-combat-coronavirus-286062">PM Imran Khan calls NSC to discuss strategy to combat coronavirus</a>

Farooqui, however, did not comment on if Pakistan was ready to work with India to combat the deadly virus that first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December last year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday characterised the COVID-19 outbreak as a "pandemic" and expressed deep concern over its "alarming levels" of "spread, severity, as well as inaction".

The virus has claimed 4,925 lives and infected 131,500 people across 116 countries and territories.

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To a question why Pakistan, like other countries, was not taking strict measures such as issuing travel advisories to contain the virus, the spokesperson said each country was taking measures in order to ensure safety of their citizens.

"It is the primary responsibility of those countries to take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Pakistan is also taking all the requisite steps at our borders and airports to ensure the safety of our people and control the spread of coronavirus," she was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pilgrims-returning-from-iran-produce-fake-coronavirus-clearance-certificate-report-285976">Pakistan pilgrims returning from Iran produce 'fake' coronavirus clearance certificate: Report</a>

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has summoned a meeting of National Security Committee to discuss the threat of coronavirus.

The total number of cases in Pakistan rose to 21 after a 31-year-old resident of Gilgit Baltistan was tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday.

Sindh has the highest 15 cases. The Sindh government has announced that all educational institutions will remain closed till May 31 to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Pakistan is working to protect its citizens from the novel coronavirus and is ready to provide assistance to neighbours if needed, a top government official said on Wednesday, a day after the country reported a new infection, taking the number of confirmed cases to 21.

Pakistan is working to protect its citizens from the novel coronavirus and is ready to provide assistance to neighbours if needed, a top government official said on Wednesday, a day after the country reported a new infection, taking the number of confirmed cases to 21. Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui said the government was monitoring the situation very closely to limit the spread of coronavirus pandemic that has killed nearly 5,000 people. "On coronavirus, as I said before that the Government of Pakistan is monitoring the situation very closely and will take measures required for the citizens within Pakistan and any assistance we can provide to our neighbouring countries," she said. Also read: PM Imran Khan calls NSC to discuss strategy to combat coronavirus Farooqui, however, did not comment on if Pakistan was ready to work with India to combat the deadly virus that first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December last year. The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday characterised the COVID-19 outbreak as a "pandemic" and expressed deep concern over its "alarming levels" of "spread, severity, as well as inaction". The virus has claimed 4,925 lives and infected 131,500 people across 116 countries and territories. Also see: Pakistan pushes ahead with PSL 2020 despite coronavirus fears To a question why Pakistan, like other countries, was not taking strict measures such as issuing travel advisories to contain the virus, the spokesperson said each country was taking measures in order to ensure safety of their citizens. "It is the primary responsibility of those countries to take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Pakistan is also taking all the requisite steps at our borders and airports to ensure the safety of our people and control the spread of coronavirus," she was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. Also read: Pakistan pilgrims returning from Iran produce 'fake' coronavirus clearance certificate: Report Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has summoned a meeting of National Security Committee to discuss the threat of coronavirus. The total number of cases in Pakistan rose to 21 after a 31-year-old resident of Gilgit Baltistan was tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday. Sindh has the highest 15 cases. The Sindh government has announced that all educational institutions will remain closed till May 31 to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Pakistan working to protect its citizens, ready to help neighbours to combat coronavirus

The economic cost from the outbreak of coronavirus strain COVID-19 is still uncertain but countries must work together to combat it, IMF spokesman Gerry Rice said.

Speaking to an empty briefing room on Thursday, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) decided not to invite reporters into the regular news briefing as part of an effort to limit gatherings and transmission of the virus.

Taking questions online, Rice said that the forecast will for growth in 2020 will undoubtedly be lower than predicted at the beginning of the year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imfs-chief-economist-gita-gopinath-suggest-ways-to-counter-economic-impact-from-coronavirus-285440">IMF's chief economist Gita Gopinath suggest ways to counter economic impact from coronavirus</a>

"So on the first economic impact, as we have said, under any scenario, the global growth in 2020 will drop below last year`s level, which was 2.9 per cent. How far will it fall? How long? What is our forecast? It is difficult to predict at this point, obviously, given the uncertainty," said Rice.

"It depends, of course, on the spread, the propagation of the outbreak. It depends on the measures taken to respond and how effective they are," he added.

The IMF and World Bank have announced that they will hold their upcoming Spring Meetings in a virtual setting.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-growth-to-fall-below-last-years-level-due-to-coronavirus-imf-284325">Global growth to fall below last year's level due to coronavirus: IMF</a>

Rice committed to releasing all the regular briefings and publications but due to travel restrictions and precautionary measures they will be presented to authorities and the public online.

"What we have been seeing is indeed international cooperation is essential to effectively address the coronavirus outbreak. Again, obviously, this is not a disease. This is not something that stops at national borders. We need to work together," said Rice.

Rice expressed sympathy and condolences for victims of the virus and the IMF has urged coordinated global action.

The IMF has made up to 50 billion dollars available to its members to help contain the economic impact of the virus.

Watch:&nbsp;

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Part of that is the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT), a fund created to help low-income countries deal with disasters.

Rice warned that the CCRT was running low on funds and welcomed a pledge by Britain on Wednesday to help replenish it and urged other countries to follow suit."We have the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust, which is another instrument the IMF has for very poor countries to help them with debt relief.

These are essentially granting for debt relief. And we have called upon our membership," he said.

The economic cost from the outbreak of coronavirus strain COVID-19 is still uncertain but countries must work together to combat it, IMF spokesman Gerry Rice said.

The economic cost from the outbreak of coronavirus strain COVID-19 is still uncertain but countries must work together to combat it, IMF spokesman Gerry Rice said. Speaking to an empty briefing room on Thursday, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) decided not to invite reporters into the regular news briefing as part of an effort to limit gatherings and transmission of the virus. Taking questions online, Rice said that the forecast will for growth in 2020 will undoubtedly be lower than predicted at the beginning of the year. Also read: IMF's chief economist Gita Gopinath suggest ways to counter economic impact from coronavirus "So on the first economic impact, as we have said, under any scenario, the global growth in 2020 will drop below last year`s level, which was 2.9 per cent. How far will it fall? How long? What is our forecast? It is difficult to predict at this point, obviously, given the uncertainty," said Rice. "It depends, of course, on the spread, the propagation of the outbreak. It depends on the measures taken to respond and how effective they are," he added. The IMF and World Bank have announced that they will hold their upcoming Spring Meetings in a virtual setting. Also see: Global growth to fall below last year's level due to coronavirus: IMF Rice committed to releasing all the regular briefings and publications but due to travel restrictions and precautionary measures they will be presented to authorities and the public online. "What we have been seeing is indeed international cooperation is essential to effectively address the coronavirus outbreak. Again, obviously, this is not a disease. This is not something that stops at national borders. We need to work together," said Rice. Rice expressed sympathy and condolences for victims of the virus and the IMF has urged coordinated global action. The IMF has made up to 50 billion dollars available to its members to help contain the economic impact of the virus. Watch: × Part of that is the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT), a fund created to help low-income countries deal with disasters. Rice warned that the CCRT was running low on funds and welcomed a pledge by Britain on Wednesday to help replenish it and urged other countries to follow suit."We have the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust, which is another instrument the IMF has for very poor countries to help them with debt relief. These are essentially granting for debt relief. And we have called upon our membership," he said.

Countries must work together to combat coronavirus pandemic: IMF

The growing outbreak of the novel coronavirus is slowly grasping all the sporting events around the world. The latest league to get suspended in the NBA. The basketball world was shocked when United States' world-famous basketball league NBA got suspended indefinitely after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-italian-sporting-events-including-serie-a-suspended-due-to-coronavirus-outbreak-285360" hreflang="en">All Italian sporting events including Serie A suspended due to coronavirus outbreak</a>

This happened just before the start of Oklahoma City Thunder versus Utah Jazz game. Teams were on the court and were ready to tip-off when the officials had a conversation and asked the players to get back in the locker rooms. It later was revealed that one of the Utah Jazz players was tested positive for coronavirus.

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NBA has suspended the season in the wake of a player testing positive for coronavirus. <a href="https://t.co/Dpqp3VA7TK">pic.twitter.com/Dpqp3VA7TK</a>
— Howard Beck (@HowardBeck) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardBeck/status/1237914340344422400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The league then confirmed the season had been suspended indefinitely while it considered how to deal with the pandemic.

"The NBA is suspending gameplay following the conclusion of tonight’s schedule of games until further notice,” the league said in a statement. “The NBA will use this hiatus to determine next steps for moving forward regarding the coronavirus pandemic."

Reportedly, the two-time defensive player of the year (Rudy Gobert) is doing well and is under the care of health officials in the Oklahoma City.

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Was just on the phone with Rudy. He is doing good man. Lets not panick everyone. Love you all❤️
— Evan Fournier (@EvanFourmizz) <a href="https://twitter.com/EvanFourmizz/status/1237928886501101574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to the ESPN, players of Jazz and Thunder were quarantined in the arena itself, other teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons and the reigning NBA champion Toronto Raptors have been asked to self-quarantine themselves.

The growing outbreak of the novel coronavirus is slowly grasping all the sporting events around the world. The latest league to get suspended in the NBA. The basketball world was shocked when United States' world-famous basketball league NBA got suspended indefinitely after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

The growing outbreak of the novel coronavirus is slowly grasping all the sporting events around the world. The latest league to get suspended in the NBA. The basketball world was shocked when United States' world-famous basketball league NBA got suspended indefinitely after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Also read: All Italian sporting events including Serie A suspended due to coronavirus outbreak This happened just before the start of Oklahoma City Thunder versus Utah Jazz game. Teams were on the court and were ready to tip-off when the officials had a conversation and asked the players to get back in the locker rooms. It later was revealed that one of the Utah Jazz players was tested positive for coronavirus. NBA has suspended the season in the wake of a player testing positive for coronavirus. pic.twitter.com/Dpqp3VA7TK — Howard Beck (@HowardBeck) March 12, 2020 × The league then confirmed the season had been suspended indefinitely while it considered how to deal with the pandemic. "The NBA is suspending gameplay following the conclusion of tonight’s schedule of games until further notice,” the league said in a statement. “The NBA will use this hiatus to determine next steps for moving forward regarding the coronavirus pandemic." Reportedly, the two-time defensive player of the year (Rudy Gobert) is doing well and is under the care of health officials in the Oklahoma City. Was just on the phone with Rudy. He is doing good man. Lets not panick everyone. Love you all❤️ — Evan Fournier (@EvanFourmizz) March 12, 2020 × According to the ESPN, players of Jazz and Thunder were quarantined in the arena itself, other teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons and the reigning NBA champion Toronto Raptors have been asked to self-quarantine themselves.

NBA: Basketball league gets suspended after player tests positive for coronavirus

China eased travel restrictions Thursday on two cities at the epicentre of its coronavirus outbreak as the number of fresh infections dropped to a new low.

Another 11 people died nationwide, the lowest daily increase since late January, bringing the toll in China to 3,169 deaths, according to the National Health Commission.

There were only eight new cases in Wuhan, the central city where the virus first emerged in December before growing into a national crisis and a pandemic.

It is the first time that new cases in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, have fallen to single-digits since figures started to be reported in January.

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"The peak of the epidemic in China has passed," National Health Commission spokesman Mi Feng said at a regular briefing.

"The number of new cases continues to decline and the spread of the epidemic has generally remained at a low level."

With new infections falling dramatically in recent days, authorities this week began to loosen some restrictions on Hubei's 56 million people, who have been under quarantine since late January.

The government in Qianjiang, a city of 1 million, said Thursday it will arrange special transport to take healthy workers to their jobs both inside and outside the province.

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"Workers stranded in Qianjiang can be sent back to their workplaces via a point-to-point transport system, except to Beijing," a circular issued by the city government said.

Hubei has adopted software that tracks a person’s travel history to determine whether they have come into contact with people suspected of carrying the virus and should be quarantined.

People leaving Qianjiang will need a "green health code" indicating they have not come into contact with anyone diagnosed, or else they should have proof of a health assessment, the statement said.

The local government in Shishou, a small city of just over half a million, was also allowing workers to leave.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/self-isolation-is-the-last-resort-for-the-super-rich-preparing-for-coronavirus-285813">Self-isolation is the last resort for the super rich preparing for coronavirus</a>

Healthy people living in low-risk areas of the province can now travel within Hubei. While Wuhan is not included in the loosening of restrictions, some of the city's companies were told they could resume work.

Basically curbed

Elsewhere in the country, only one non-imported case of the illness was recorded, but as virus hotspots emerge overseas, China fears infected people arriving from abroad could undermine its progress in tackling the outbreak.

Six imported cases were reported on Thursday, bringing the total from overseas to 85, health officials said.

Financial centre Shanghai joined Beijing by imposing a 14-day quarantine on anyone arriving from hard-hit countries across Europe, North America and northeast Asia.

A total of 80,793 people have now been diagnosed with the infection in China.

President Xi Jinping said this week during his first visit to Wuhan since the crisis erupted that the spread of the disease has been "basically curbed" in the country.

China eased travel restrictions Thursday on two cities at the epicentre of its coronavirus outbreak as the number of fresh infections dropped to a new low. Another 11 people died nationwide, the lowest daily increase since late January, bringing the toll in China to 3,169 deaths, according to the National Health Commission.

China eased travel restrictions Thursday on two cities at the epicentre of its coronavirus outbreak as the number of fresh infections dropped to a new low. Another 11 people died nationwide, the lowest daily increase since late January, bringing the toll in China to 3,169 deaths, according to the National Health Commission. There were only eight new cases in Wuhan, the central city where the virus first emerged in December before growing into a national crisis and a pandemic. It is the first time that new cases in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, have fallen to single-digits since figures started to be reported in January. Also read: China shuts down Mount Everest due to coronavirus fears "The peak of the epidemic in China has passed," National Health Commission spokesman Mi Feng said at a regular briefing. "The number of new cases continues to decline and the spread of the epidemic has generally remained at a low level." With new infections falling dramatically in recent days, authorities this week began to loosen some restrictions on Hubei's 56 million people, who have been under quarantine since late January. The government in Qianjiang, a city of 1 million, said Thursday it will arrange special transport to take healthy workers to their jobs both inside and outside the province. Also see: Soaps or sanitisers: Which is best to fight coronavirus? "Workers stranded in Qianjiang can be sent back to their workplaces via a point-to-point transport system, except to Beijing," a circular issued by the city government said. Hubei has adopted software that tracks a person’s travel history to determine whether they have come into contact with people suspected of carrying the virus and should be quarantined. People leaving Qianjiang will need a "green health code" indicating they have not come into contact with anyone diagnosed, or else they should have proof of a health assessment, the statement said. The local government in Shishou, a small city of just over half a million, was also allowing workers to leave. Also read: Self-isolation is the last resort for the super rich preparing for coronavirus Healthy people living in low-risk areas of the province can now travel within Hubei. While Wuhan is not included in the loosening of restrictions, some of the city's companies were told they could resume work. Basically curbed Elsewhere in the country, only one non-imported case of the illness was recorded, but as virus hotspots emerge overseas, China fears infected people arriving from abroad could undermine its progress in tackling the outbreak. Six imported cases were reported on Thursday, bringing the total from overseas to 85, health officials said. Financial centre Shanghai joined Beijing by imposing a 14-day quarantine on anyone arriving from hard-hit countries across Europe, North America and northeast Asia. A total of 80,793 people have now been diagnosed with the infection in China. President Xi Jinping said this week during his first visit to Wuhan since the crisis erupted that the spread of the disease has been "basically curbed" in the country.

China virus epicentre eases travel curbs as cases fall

Airlines bore the brunt of a dramatic expansion of the coronavirus crisis on Thursday, as U.S. travel curbs on much of continental Europe deepened the sector's misery and piled more pressure on governments to offer emergency support.

The 30-day restrictions will badly disrupt transatlantic traffic key to the earnings of major European carriers and their U.S. airline partners, analysts warned, as the move hit travel stocks already battered by the virus outbreak.

Those routes account for 20-30% of large European operators' revenue and a majority of profit, Credit Suisse analyst Neil Glynn warned, "highlighting the damage to revenue lines for the coming weeks and potentially well into the summer."

Glynn added: "A ban on travel to the U.S. will likely mean heavier cuts" than the drastic capacity reductions already ordered as airlines scrapped flights - first to China and then to other destinations including Italy as the virus spread.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-bans-arrivals-from-14-countries-including-india-over-coronavirus-fears-285153">Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears</a>

Shares in European and U.S. airlines slumped in turn to new lows, with Delta and United Airlines down more than 13% and American Airlines 7.2% lower.

Air France-KLM was down 9.1% at 1506 GMT, with British Airways parent IAG down 10.7% and Lufthansa 11.5% lower. Troubled Norwegian Air and U.S.-dependent Icelandair both plunged more than 20%.

The U.S. curbs on travel from the 26-country Schengen Area - which excludes Britain and Ireland - are similar to restrictions on China that took effect on Feb. 1 and do not apply to U.S. residents or their immediate family.

"The ban effectively stops travel from the Schengen Area to the USA," said Bernstein analyst Daniel Roeska - predicting a "more substantial" earnings impact than European carriers had suffered from the earlier China flight suspensions.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-travel-from-europe-to-us-in-coronavirus-crisis-285714">Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis</a>

U.S. airlines had already cut flight schedules to Italy and will take another hit from lower demand for flights from major destinations such as France and Germany.

Among them, American Airlines could be relatively spared by its alliance with British Airways (BA) and a higher share of UK traffic, while Air France-KLM partner Delta and Lufthansa ally United Airlines are likely to suffer more, analysts say.

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence defended the travel curbs on Thursday after the European Union complained they had been imposed "unilaterally and without consultation".

The virus has taken root in the United States after spreading from China to Italy, South Korea, Iran and elsewhere.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whole-of-italy-under-coronavirus-lockdown-public-gatherings-banned-285372">Whole of Italy under coronavirus lockdown, public gatherings banned</a>

TOTAL MELTDOWN

Airlines had already been scrambling to respond to a global travel slump that looks increasingly likely to require government aid to avoid widespread insolvencies. The EU will publish new state-aid guidelines on Friday.

Germany may extend loans and other support to airlines, a government official said on Thursday. The French government also stands ready to help Air France-KLM, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said.

"There is a need for measures from many governments," said Norwegian pilots' union president Yngve Carlsen. "This could lead to a total meltdown."

Scandinavian carrier SAS is in talks with the Swedish and Danish governments about potential support measures, a company spokeswoman said.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-could-get-bigger-in-winters-study-285720">&nbsp;Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study</a>

EU airlines have seized on the crisis to push back on green taxes designed to help the bloc meet climate goals - including proposals to end current tax exemptions on jet fuel.

"New fiscal burdens should be postponed until the industry is back on a sound operational and financial footing," lobby group Airlines for Europe said.

CRITICAL TIME

The latest travel clampdown could make coronavirus worse than previous aviation crises including the 9/11 attacks of 2001, UK-based consultant John Strickland said.

"It's coming at the end of the northern hemisphere winter, which is a weak period for airline finances (when) they should be sowing seeds of a strong summer season by getting the bookings in," he said.

Air France-KLM and Lufthansa said they were still studying the implications of the U.S. move for flight schedules. IAG is potentially less impacted thanks to BA's Heathrow base.

There were panicky European airport scenes as travellers scrambled to fly to the United States before the restrictions take effect late on March 13.

The fallout is also spreading fast from travel and tourism to the aerospace and other industries.

Safran, the world's third-biggest aerospace group, sees a growing threat&nbsp;

Airlines bore the brunt of a dramatic expansion of the coronavirus crisis on Thursday, as U.S. travel curbs on much of continental Europe deepened the sector's misery and piled more pressure on governments to offer emergency support.

Airlines bore the brunt of a dramatic expansion of the coronavirus crisis on Thursday, as U.S. travel curbs on much of continental Europe deepened the sector's misery and piled more pressure on governments to offer emergency support. The 30-day restrictions will badly disrupt transatlantic traffic key to the earnings of major European carriers and their U.S. airline partners, analysts warned, as the move hit travel stocks already battered by the virus outbreak. Those routes account for 20-30% of large European operators' revenue and a majority of profit, Credit Suisse analyst Neil Glynn warned, "highlighting the damage to revenue lines for the coming weeks and potentially well into the summer." Glynn added: "A ban on travel to the U.S. will likely mean heavier cuts" than the drastic capacity reductions already ordered as airlines scrapped flights - first to China and then to other destinations including Italy as the virus spread. Also read: Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears Shares in European and U.S. airlines slumped in turn to new lows, with Delta and United Airlines down more than 13% and American Airlines 7.2% lower. Air France-KLM was down 9.1% at 1506 GMT, with British Airways parent IAG down 10.7% and Lufthansa 11.5% lower. Troubled Norwegian Air and U.S.-dependent Icelandair both plunged more than 20%. The U.S. curbs on travel from the 26-country Schengen Area - which excludes Britain and Ireland - are similar to restrictions on China that took effect on Feb. 1 and do not apply to U.S. residents or their immediate family. "The ban effectively stops travel from the Schengen Area to the USA," said Bernstein analyst Daniel Roeska - predicting a "more substantial" earnings impact than European carriers had suffered from the earlier China flight suspensions. Also see: Trump suspends travel from Europe to US in coronavirus crisis U.S. airlines had already cut flight schedules to Italy and will take another hit from lower demand for flights from major destinations such as France and Germany. Among them, American Airlines could be relatively spared by its alliance with British Airways (BA) and a higher share of UK traffic, while Air France-KLM partner Delta and Lufthansa ally United Airlines are likely to suffer more, analysts say. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence defended the travel curbs on Thursday after the European Union complained they had been imposed "unilaterally and without consultation". The virus has taken root in the United States after spreading from China to Italy, South Korea, Iran and elsewhere. Also read: Whole of Italy under coronavirus lockdown, public gatherings banned TOTAL MELTDOWN Airlines had already been scrambling to respond to a global travel slump that looks increasingly likely to require government aid to avoid widespread insolvencies. The EU will publish new state-aid guidelines on Friday. Germany may extend loans and other support to airlines, a government official said on Thursday. The French government also stands ready to help Air France-KLM, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said. "There is a need for measures from many governments," said Norwegian pilots' union president Yngve Carlsen. "This could lead to a total meltdown." Scandinavian carrier SAS is in talks with the Swedish and Danish governments about potential support measures, a company spokeswoman said. Also see: Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study EU airlines have seized on the crisis to push back on green taxes designed to help the bloc meet climate goals - including proposals to end current tax exemptions on jet fuel. "New fiscal burdens should be postponed until the industry is back on a sound operational and financial footing," lobby group Airlines for Europe said. CRITICAL TIME The latest travel clampdown could make coronavirus worse than previous aviation crises including the 9/11 attacks of 2001, UK-based consultant John Strickland said. "It's coming at the end of the northern hemisphere winter, which is a weak period for airline finances (when) they should be sowing seeds of a strong summer season by getting the bookings in," he said. Air France-KLM and Lufthansa said they were still studying the implications of the U.S. move for flight schedules. IAG is potentially less impacted thanks to BA's Heathrow base. There were panicky European airport scenes as travellers scrambled to fly to the United States before the restrictions take effect late on March 13. The fallout is also spreading fast from travel and tourism to the aerospace and other industries. Safran, the world's third-biggest aerospace group, sees a growing threat

Airline crisis worsens as US puts Europeans in coronavirus quarantine

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday announced a halt on domestic land, sea and air travel to and from Manila, as well as community quarantine measures, in what he called a "lockdown" of the capital to arrest the spread of coronavirus.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-to-declare-public-health-emergency-to-combat-coronavirus-284922"> Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus</a>

Duterte approved a resolution to allow a raft of containment measures including bans on mass gatherings, a month of school closures and quarantining in communities where cases are detected, as well as stopping domestic travel in and out of Manila.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infects-100000-plus-worldwide-21-cases-found-on-ship-off-san-francisco-284865">Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco</a>

It follows confirmation on Saturday of the Philippines' first domestic transmission of the virus, which has killed two people there and infected 53.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday announced a halt on domestic land, sea and air travel to and from Manila, as well as community quarantine measures, in what he called a "lockdown" of the capital to arrest the spread of coronavirus.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday announced a halt on domestic land, sea and air travel to and from Manila, as well as community quarantine measures, in what he called a "lockdown" of the capital to arrest the spread of coronavirus. Also read: Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus Duterte approved a resolution to allow a raft of containment measures including bans on mass gatherings, a month of school closures and quarantining in communities where cases are detected, as well as stopping domestic travel in and out of Manila. Also see: Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco It follows confirmation on Saturday of the Philippines' first domestic transmission of the virus, which has killed two people there and infected 53.

Philippines' Duterte announces 'lockdown' of Manila to fight coronavirus

President of Philippines Rodrigo Duterte will be tested for the novel coronavirus despite not showing any symptoms, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement as two of his key government officials went into quarantine after they came into contact with an infected person.

In response, the Senate building and Philippine central bank were undergoing cleaning, and several officials announced they would isolate themselves as a precaution.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-to-declare-public-health-emergency-to-combat-coronavirus-284922">Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus</a>

Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Nancy Binay said they were having themselves quarantined after meeting with a witness during a committee hearing on March 5, who was confirmed to be infected by the virus.

The precautions are being taken considering the spurt in the number of COVID-19 cases.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infects-100000-plus-worldwide-21-cases-found-on-ship-off-san-francisco-284865">Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco</a>

Central bank Governor Benjamin Diokno, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez and Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade separately announced of going into quarantine as a precautionary measure after meeting with an infected person, according to South China Morning Post.

An inter-agency task force on emerging infectious diseases will meet on Thursday to discuss urgent measures amid the outbreak.

President of Philippines Rodrigo Duterte will be tested for the novel coronavirus despite not showing any symptoms, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement as two of his key government officials went into quarantine after they came into contact with an infected person.

President of Philippines Rodrigo Duterte will be tested for the novel coronavirus despite not showing any symptoms, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement as two of his key government officials went into quarantine after they came into contact with an infected person. In response, the Senate building and Philippine central bank were undergoing cleaning, and several officials announced they would isolate themselves as a precaution. Also read: Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Nancy Binay said they were having themselves quarantined after meeting with a witness during a committee hearing on March 5, who was confirmed to be infected by the virus. The precautions are being taken considering the spurt in the number of COVID-19 cases. Also see: Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco Central bank Governor Benjamin Diokno, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez and Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade separately announced of going into quarantine as a precautionary measure after meeting with an infected person, according to South China Morning Post. An inter-agency task force on emerging infectious diseases will meet on Thursday to discuss urgent measures amid the outbreak.

Philippines President Duterte to undergo Covid-19 testing

According to Juventus, their club's defender was Daniele Rugani tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-italian-sporting-events-including-serie-a-suspended-due-to-coronavirus-outbreak-285360" hreflang="en">All Italian sporting events including Serie A suspended due to coronavirus outbreak</a>

"The footballer, Daniele Rugani, has tested positive for coronavirus-Covid-19 and is currently asymptomatic," Juve said in a statement. "Juventus Football Club is currently activating all the isolation procedures required by law, including those who have had contact with him."

Serie A has been among the major sporting events that have been suspended due to the on-going coronavirus outbreak. Rugani has featured in seven games for Juventus this season, the latest match he played was on February 22 against Spal where the Biancori side won 2-1.

Rugani was an unused substitute for Juventus on their fixture on Sunday against Internazionale. He was seen training with his teammates on Tuesday.

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It’s time to be strong 💪🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LB19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LB19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FinoAllaFine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FinoAllaFine</a> <a href="https://t.co/9J1uvEsDRI">pic.twitter.com/9J1uvEsDRI</a>
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Inter Milan has been quick to act after Rugani's test, they have suspended all competitive activities which includes training due to the outbreak. Inter's Europa fixture with Getafe was suspended after Getafe president refused to travel to Italy.

However, Champions League and International football are excluded in Italy's sporting ban, this means Juventus will be facing Lyon next week.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Monday announced the suspension until April 3 of all sporting events in the country, including the top-flight Serie A football league, as Italy grapples with the coronavirus crisis.

"I am going to sign a decree that can be summarised as follows: I stay at home," Conte announced in a dramatic evening television address.

According to Juventus, their club's defender was Daniele Rugani tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday. Also read: All Italian sporting events including Serie A suspended due to coronavirus outbreak "The footballer, Daniele Rugani, has tested positive for coronavirus-Covid-19 and is currently asymptomatic," Juve said in a statement.

According to Juventus, their club's defender was Daniele Rugani tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday. Also read: All Italian sporting events including Serie A suspended due to coronavirus outbreak "The footballer, Daniele Rugani, has tested positive for coronavirus-Covid-19 and is currently asymptomatic," Juve said in a statement. "Juventus Football Club is currently activating all the isolation procedures required by law, including those who have had contact with him." Serie A has been among the major sporting events that have been suspended due to the on-going coronavirus outbreak. Rugani has featured in seven games for Juventus this season, the latest match he played was on February 22 against Spal where the Biancori side won 2-1. Rugani was an unused substitute for Juventus on their fixture on Sunday against Internazionale. He was seen training with his teammates on Tuesday. It’s time to be strong 💪🏻 #LB19 #FinoAllaFine pic.twitter.com/9J1uvEsDRI — Leonardo Bonucci (@bonucci_leo19) March 10, 2020 × Inter Milan has been quick to act after Rugani's test, they have suspended all competitive activities which includes training due to the outbreak. Inter's Europa fixture with Getafe was suspended after Getafe president refused to travel to Italy. However, Champions League and International football are excluded in Italy's sporting ban, this means Juventus will be facing Lyon next week. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Monday announced the suspension until April 3 of all sporting events in the country, including the top-flight Serie A football league, as Italy grapples with the coronavirus crisis. "I am going to sign a decree that can be summarised as follows: I stay at home," Conte announced in a dramatic evening television address.

Juventus defender Daniele Rugani tested positive for COVID-19

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Thursday it will make available 200 million dollars for companies manufacturing and distributing medicines and other items needed to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Companies manufacturing and distributing products, including medicines and personal protective equipment, are increasingly strained as production and distribution ramp-up to address COVID-19.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-may-cause-61-million-loss-to-pakistan-adb-284934">Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB</a>

The support from ADB, working in partnership with commercial banks, will provide such companies in Asia and the Pacific with additional working capital to meet expansion and other requirements.

"The support will target companies in the supply chain that are critical to fighting the virus," said ADB`s Head of Trade and Supply Chain Finance Steven Beck.

"We are looking to support companies that want to ramp up production and therefore need to engage suppliers," he added.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-likely-to-cost-global-economy-1-trillion-in-2020-285755">COVID-19 likely to cost global economy $1 trillion in 2020</a>

Given that a single pool of supply chain finance is typically used for a subsequent delivery over a period of 120 to 180 days, the 200 million dollar facility could support more than 400 million dollars of financing over the next 12 months.

A total of 50:50 risk sharing from partner commercial banks could boost support under the facility to 800 million dollars over the same period.

The funds will be made available through ADB`s supply chain finance programme and provided to selected companies within weeks.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-could-get-bigger-in-winters-study-285720">Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study</a>

ADB said it is closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on trade finance and is in regular contact with client banks to assess whether additional support is required.

ADB's response to COVID-19 to date includes two million dollars announced on February 7 to enhance detection, prevention and response in China and the Greater Mekong Subregion; another two million dollars announced on February 26 to support response in all its developing members; and an 18.6 million dollar private-sector loan signed on February 25 to Wuhan, China-based pharmaceutical distributor Jointown Pharmaceutical Group to support the continued supply of essential medicines and personal protective equipment.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Thursday it will make available 200 million dollars for companies manufacturing and distributing medicines and other items needed to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Thursday it will make available 200 million dollars for companies manufacturing and distributing medicines and other items needed to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Companies manufacturing and distributing products, including medicines and personal protective equipment, are increasingly strained as production and distribution ramp-up to address COVID-19. Also read: Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB The support from ADB, working in partnership with commercial banks, will provide such companies in Asia and the Pacific with additional working capital to meet expansion and other requirements. "The support will target companies in the supply chain that are critical to fighting the virus," said ADB`s Head of Trade and Supply Chain Finance Steven Beck. "We are looking to support companies that want to ramp up production and therefore need to engage suppliers," he added. Also see: COVID-19 likely to cost global economy $1 trillion in 2020 Given that a single pool of supply chain finance is typically used for a subsequent delivery over a period of 120 to 180 days, the 200 million dollar facility could support more than 400 million dollars of financing over the next 12 months. A total of 50:50 risk sharing from partner commercial banks could boost support under the facility to 800 million dollars over the same period. The funds will be made available through ADB`s supply chain finance programme and provided to selected companies within weeks. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study ADB said it is closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on trade finance and is in regular contact with client banks to assess whether additional support is required. ADB's response to COVID-19 to date includes two million dollars announced on February 7 to enhance detection, prevention and response in China and the Greater Mekong Subregion; another two million dollars announced on February 26 to support response in all its developing members; and an 18.6 million dollar private-sector loan signed on February 25 to Wuhan, China-based pharmaceutical distributor Jointown Pharmaceutical Group to support the continued supply of essential medicines and personal protective equipment.

ADB to provide $200 million to support strained supply chains in fight against COVID-19

Cambodia has found three British nationals infected with the coronavirus on a tourist boat on the Mekong River, bringing its tally of cases to five, the Ministry of Health said on Thursday.

A 73-year old British tourist and his 69-year old wife on the boat, which the ministry identified as Viking Cruise Journey, docked in Kampong Cham province, north of the capital, Phnom Penh, tested positive on Wednesday, the ministry said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-could-get-bigger-in-winters-study-285720">Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study</a>

A 65-year old British woman from the boat had tested positive on Monday, the ministry said in a statement.

The tourist vessel had travelled up the Mekong river from neighbouring Vietnam, it said.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-likely-to-cost-global-economy-1-trillion-in-2020-285755"> COVID-19 likely to cost global economy $1 trillion in 2020</a>

Cambodia had earlier reported two virus infections in a Cambodian and a Chinese citizen. The Chinese man recovered and went home.

The ministry said 61 people from the vessel had tested negative and had been put in isolation on land and were being monitored.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-what-is-the-difference-between-epidemic-and-pandemic-285784">Coronavirus: What is the difference between epidemic and pandemic?</a>

The British Embassy in Cambodia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Cambodia has found three British nationals infected with the coronavirus on a tourist boat on the Mekong River, bringing its tally of cases to five, the Ministry of Health said on Thursday.

Cambodia has found three British nationals infected with the coronavirus on a tourist boat on the Mekong River, bringing its tally of cases to five, the Ministry of Health said on Thursday. A 73-year old British tourist and his 69-year old wife on the boat, which the ministry identified as Viking Cruise Journey, docked in Kampong Cham province, north of the capital, Phnom Penh, tested positive on Wednesday, the ministry said. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak could get bigger in winters: Study A 65-year old British woman from the boat had tested positive on Monday, the ministry said in a statement. The tourist vessel had travelled up the Mekong river from neighbouring Vietnam, it said. Also see: COVID-19 likely to cost global economy $1 trillion in 2020 Cambodia had earlier reported two virus infections in a Cambodian and a Chinese citizen. The Chinese man recovered and went home. The ministry said 61 people from the vessel had tested negative and had been put in isolation on land and were being monitored. Also read: Coronavirus: What is the difference between epidemic and pandemic? The British Embassy in Cambodia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Three Britons have coronavirus on cruise on Cambodia's Mekong

A total of 71 Chinese workers engaged at a construction site in Nepal have been placed under quarantine after their return to the Himalayan nation from China, an official said on Wednesday.

The Chinese workers, who returned to Nepal between March 4 and 6 from Chengdu and Beijing after celebrating the Chinese New Year, have been kept in isolation at the Pokhara Regional Airport project where they work.

"They had already been quarantined in China for 14 days before embarking for Nepal. As neither we nor the workers wanted to take any chances, we decided to place them in quarantine again," said airport project manager Binesh Munkarmi.

The workers' temperature is being checked three times a day, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-issues-travel-advisory-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-284200">Nepal issues travel advisory amid coronavirus outbreak</a>

"We've informed the Province Health Directorate about the quarantine of Chinese workers. So far, everyone's is normal," Munkarmi said.

Earlier, 36 Chinese workers of the airport project were also quarantined after their return from China.

Munkarmi said a total of 190 Chinese workers, including the 36 who underwent quarantine, had been deployed for work.

Gandaki Province Health Directorate Director Binod Sharma said his office was keeping a close eye on the condition of the Chinese workers engaged at the airport construction site.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-bans-arrivals-from-14-countries-including-india-over-coronavirus-fears-285153">Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears</a>

"We'd visited the project site on Sunday morning. All workers are in good health," he said.

Sharma informed his office was also monitoring the health of Chinese workers employed at other projects, such as Nawalpur's Hongshi Cement Factory, Narayangadh-Butwal road section and Nyadi Hydropower Project.

China has been investing heavily in Nepal in the last few years to enhance the connectivity and infrastructure.

The two countries signed eight agreements in 2018 for developing major infrastructure projects in the land-locked Himalayan nation to further deepen the bilateral ties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-paper-defiant-after-china-slams-virus-criticism-281858">Nepal paper defiant after China slams virus criticism</a>

The deadly coronavirus that first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December last year has claimed over 4,200 lives and infected more than 117,330 people across 107 countries and territories.

China remains the hardest-hit with more than 80,000 infections and 3,000 deaths.

The World Health Organisation raised the global virus risk to maximum level after the outbreak spread to sub-Saharan Africa and stock markets around the world plummeted.

A total of 71 Chinese workers engaged at a construction site in Nepal have been placed under quarantine after their return to the Himalayan nation from China, an official said on Wednesday.

A total of 71 Chinese workers engaged at a construction site in Nepal have been placed under quarantine after their return to the Himalayan nation from China, an official said on Wednesday. The Chinese workers, who returned to Nepal between March 4 and 6 from Chengdu and Beijing after celebrating the Chinese New Year, have been kept in isolation at the Pokhara Regional Airport project where they work. "They had already been quarantined in China for 14 days before embarking for Nepal. As neither we nor the workers wanted to take any chances, we decided to place them in quarantine again," said airport project manager Binesh Munkarmi. The workers' temperature is being checked three times a day, he said. Also read: Nepal issues travel advisory amid coronavirus outbreak "We've informed the Province Health Directorate about the quarantine of Chinese workers. So far, everyone's is normal," Munkarmi said. Earlier, 36 Chinese workers of the airport project were also quarantined after their return from China. Munkarmi said a total of 190 Chinese workers, including the 36 who underwent quarantine, had been deployed for work. Gandaki Province Health Directorate Director Binod Sharma said his office was keeping a close eye on the condition of the Chinese workers engaged at the airport construction site. Also see: Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears "We'd visited the project site on Sunday morning. All workers are in good health," he said. Sharma informed his office was also monitoring the health of Chinese workers employed at other projects, such as Nawalpur's Hongshi Cement Factory, Narayangadh-Butwal road section and Nyadi Hydropower Project. China has been investing heavily in Nepal in the last few years to enhance the connectivity and infrastructure. The two countries signed eight agreements in 2018 for developing major infrastructure projects in the land-locked Himalayan nation to further deepen the bilateral ties. Also read: Nepal paper defiant after China slams virus criticism The deadly coronavirus that first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December last year has claimed over 4,200 lives and infected more than 117,330 people across 107 countries and territories. China remains the hardest-hit with more than 80,000 infections and 3,000 deaths. The World Health Organisation raised the global virus risk to maximum level after the outbreak spread to sub-Saharan Africa and stock markets around the world plummeted.

Chinese workers quarantined at construction site in Nepal

This is how American Universities are tackling coronavirus

Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister

Postponing or cancelling the Tokyo Olympics is "inconceivable", Japan's Olympic minister said as the new coronavirus outbreak raises fears the event could be scrapped.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cancelling-tokyo-olympics-inconceivable-japan-minister-285590"> Read More</a>

COVID-19: Thailand restricts visitor visas to limit virus spread

Thailand will temporarily suspend issuing visas on arrival to visitors from 19 countries and territories, including China, to contain the spread of the coronavirus, its interior minister said on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-thailand-restricts-visitor-visas-to-limit-virus-spread-285602">Read More</a>

'No difference between what the Nazis did': Turkey President Erdogan hits out at Greece

"We will not just retaliate (against) even the smallest attack here (in Idlib), we will give a much harsher response," the Turkey president told lawmakers in Parliament, adding, "Turkish soldiers, the sons of this nation, are never in need of the cruel Assad's protection, so let that be known." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-difference-between-what-the-nazis-did-turkey-president-erdogan-hits-out-at-greece-285620">Read More</a>

People don't need college degree to work at Tesla: Elon Musk

A college degree is still not a necessity to work in Tesla according to its CEO, Elon Musk. He had previously said the same statement in his 2014 interview with the German automotive publication Auto Bild.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-dont-need-college-degree-to-work-at-tesla-elon-musk-285611"> Read More</a>

Second person declared cured of HIV, with no trace of infection in 30 months

Adam Castillejo — the now 40-year-old "London Patient" — was first diagnosed with HIV in 2003, according to The New York Times. He had stopped undergoing anti-retroviral therapy more than 30 months ago and revealed his identity on Monday (March 9). <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-person-declared-cured-of-hiv-with-no-trace-of-infection-in-30-months-285609">Read More</a>

Turkey urges Russia to address Syria truce violations

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-urges-russia-to-address-syria-truce-violations-285597">Read More</a>

Malaysian PM calls on Mahathir to endorse new government

Malaysia's new prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, extended an olive branch on Wednesday to the leader he recently replaced, veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad, calling on him to endorse the new government after weeks of political tension. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-calls-on-mahathir-to-endorse-new-government-285594">Read More</a>

Child sex conviction 'wrong', says lawyers of ex- Vatican treasurer Pell

Lawyers for disgraced ex-Vatican treasurer and Cardinal George Pell claimed that he remains behind bars for child sex abuse based on "wrong" and "egregious" legal decisions, as they concluded a last-ditch appeal in Australia's top court. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-sex-conviction-wrong-says-lawyers-of-ex-vatican-treasurer-pell-285592">Read More</a>

Netanyahu rival Benny Gantz set for official protection after threats

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's challenger Benny Gantz is to receive state protection following online threats, a domestic security agency announced on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-rival-benny-gantz-set-for-official-protection-after-threats-285589">Read More</a>

PAF's F-16 jet crashes in Islamabad during Pakistan Day parade rehearsals

An F-16 fighter jet belonging to the Pakistan Air Force crashed in Islamabad on Wednesday while carrying out rehearsals for the country's Republic Day parade to be held on March 23.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pafs-f-16-jet-crashes-in-islamabad-during-pakistan-day-parade-rehearsals-285562"> Read More</a>

Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister Postponing or cancelling the Tokyo Olympics is "inconceivable", Japan's Olympic minister said as the new coronavirus outbreak raises fears the event could be scrapped.

Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister Postponing or cancelling the Tokyo Olympics is "inconceivable", Japan's Olympic minister said as the new coronavirus outbreak raises fears the event could be scrapped. Read More COVID-19: Thailand restricts visitor visas to limit virus spread Thailand will temporarily suspend issuing visas on arrival to visitors from 19 countries and territories, including China, to contain the spread of the coronavirus, its interior minister said on Wednesday. Read More 'No difference between what the Nazis did': Turkey President Erdogan hits out at Greece "We will not just retaliate (against) even the smallest attack here (in Idlib), we will give a much harsher response," the Turkey president told lawmakers in Parliament, adding, "Turkish soldiers, the sons of this nation, are never in need of the cruel Assad's protection, so let that be known." Read More People don't need college degree to work at Tesla: Elon Musk A college degree is still not a necessity to work in Tesla according to its CEO, Elon Musk. He had previously said the same statement in his 2014 interview with the German automotive publication Auto Bild. Read More Second person declared cured of HIV, with no trace of infection in 30 months Adam Castillejo — the now 40-year-old "London Patient" — was first diagnosed with HIV in 2003, according to The New York Times. He had stopped undergoing anti-retroviral therapy more than 30 months ago and revealed his identity on Monday (March 9). Read More Turkey urges Russia to address Syria truce violations Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad. Read More Malaysian PM calls on Mahathir to endorse new government Malaysia's new prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, extended an olive branch on Wednesday to the leader he recently replaced, veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad, calling on him to endorse the new government after weeks of political tension. Read More Child sex conviction 'wrong', says lawyers of ex- Vatican treasurer Pell Lawyers for disgraced ex-Vatican treasurer and Cardinal George Pell claimed that he remains behind bars for child sex abuse based on "wrong" and "egregious" legal decisions, as they concluded a last-ditch appeal in Australia's top court. Read More Netanyahu rival Benny Gantz set for official protection after threats Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's challenger Benny Gantz is to receive state protection following online threats, a domestic security agency announced on Tuesday. Read More PAF's F-16 jet crashes in Islamabad during Pakistan Day parade rehearsals An F-16 fighter jet belonging to the Pakistan Air Force crashed in Islamabad on Wednesday while carrying out rehearsals for the country's Republic Day parade to be held on March 23. Read More

Top 10 world news today: Coronavirus cloud on Tokyo Olympics, Pakistan Air Force F-16 jet crashes and more!

Iran on Wednesday reported 63 new deaths from the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours even as the total death toll due to the deadly virus jumped to 4,377 around the world.

Iran on Wednesday reported 63 new deaths from the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours even as the total death toll due to the deadly virus jumped to 4,377 around the world. The total number of Coronavirus Cases across the world has reached 121,176 while 66,904 people have recovered from the deadly disease, according to worldometers.info. The death toll number 63 is the highest single-day toll since it announced the first deaths from the outbreak. "Based on new lab results, we have identified 958 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection in the country, bringing the total number of cases to 9,000," health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said in a televised news conference. Watch | UK Health Minister Nadine Dorries diagnosed with Coronavirus × "Unfortunately in the past 24 hours, we have had reports of 63 deaths and overall 354 have lost their lives" to the virus, he added. The outbreak of the coronavirus in Iran is one of the deadliest outside China, where the disease originated. The capital Tehran had the most new infections with 256 cases. The central province of Isfahan followed with 170, and Semnan, to the east of Tehran, had 63. Belgium has reported its first coronavirus-related death while the eighth Briton died of the novel coronavirus. Meanwhile, the president of the European Central Bank has warned that the outbreak will spark an economic downturn in Europe similar to the 2008 financial crash unless EU governments provide financial support for their economies. The US President Trump to announce 'major' steps to aid US economy amid coronavirus fear.

COVID-19: Iran announces 63 new deaths as coronavirus toll jumps to 4,377 worldwide

Thailand will temporarily suspend issuing visas on arrival to visitors from 19 countries and territories, including China, to contain the spread of the coronavirus, its interior minister said on Wednesday.

The suspensions were the latest measures imposed in the tourism-reliant Southeast Asian country, which has reported 59 cases of the virus and one death so far. Globally, over 113,000 people have been infected in over 100 countries.

"People from any country who want to come will need to apply for a visa with our embassies," Minister of Interior Anupong Paochinda told reporters.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-immigration-officers-at-bangkok-airport-diagnosed-with-covid-19-285587">Thai immigration officers at Bangkok airport diagnosed with COVID-19</a>

"Thai embassies everywhere will ensure that no sick people will travel to Thailand."

Visa on Arrival (VoA) will be suspended for nationals of all 19 countries and territories previously eligible, including Bulgaria, Bhutan, China, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, and Vanuatu, according to a list provided to reporters by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Visa exemptions will be cancelled for South Korea, Italy and Hong Kong, Anupong said.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-india-temporarily-bars-entry-to-nationals-of-france-germany-spain-suspends-visa-facilities-285535">Coronavirus outbreak: India temporarily bars entry to nationals of France, Germany, Spain; suspends visa facilities</a>

"These measures will solve the problem of foreigners arriving from risky zones," he said.

Anupong said he would start the process immediately but it was not immediately clear when they will be effective.

A foreign ministry official said visa applicants will need to present medical certificates and insurance as part of the screening at Thai embassies.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-health-minister-nadine-dorries-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-285519">British health minister Nadine Dorries tests positive for coronavirus</a>

Last week, Thailand designated South Korea, China, Macao, Hong Kong, Italy and Iran as "dangerous communicable disease areas."

Thai authorities urged people arriving from the six places to self-quarantine for 14 days.

Thailand will temporarily suspend issuing visas on arrival to visitors from 19 countries and territories, including China, to contain the spread of the coronavirus, its interior minister said on Wednesday.

Thailand will temporarily suspend issuing visas on arrival to visitors from 19 countries and territories, including China, to contain the spread of the coronavirus, its interior minister said on Wednesday. The suspensions were the latest measures imposed in the tourism-reliant Southeast Asian country, which has reported 59 cases of the virus and one death so far. Globally, over 113,000 people have been infected in over 100 countries. "People from any country who want to come will need to apply for a visa with our embassies," Minister of Interior Anupong Paochinda told reporters. Also read: Thai immigration officers at Bangkok airport diagnosed with COVID-19 "Thai embassies everywhere will ensure that no sick people will travel to Thailand." Visa on Arrival (VoA) will be suspended for nationals of all 19 countries and territories previously eligible, including Bulgaria, Bhutan, China, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, and Vanuatu, according to a list provided to reporters by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Visa exemptions will be cancelled for South Korea, Italy and Hong Kong, Anupong said. Also see: Coronavirus outbreak: India temporarily bars entry to nationals of France, Germany, Spain; suspends visa facilities "These measures will solve the problem of foreigners arriving from risky zones," he said. Anupong said he would start the process immediately but it was not immediately clear when they will be effective. A foreign ministry official said visa applicants will need to present medical certificates and insurance as part of the screening at Thai embassies. Also read: British health minister Nadine Dorries tests positive for coronavirus Last week, Thailand designated South Korea, China, Macao, Hong Kong, Italy and Iran as "dangerous communicable disease areas." Thai authorities urged people arriving from the six places to self-quarantine for 14 days.

COVID-19: Thailand restricts visitor visas to limit virus spread

Coronavirus fear leads to empty shelves in supermarkets

Twelve more people have tested positive for coronavirus -- six in Kerala and three each in Karnataka and Pune, state authorities said on Tuesday as the total cases went up to 59.

Twelve more people have tested positive for coronavirus -- six in Kerala and three each in Karnataka and Pune, state authorities said on Tuesday as the total cases went up to 59. The health ministry said the total number of confirmed cases has risen to 50, adding the rest are being retested for confirmation. Once the fresh cases declared by the state governments are taken into account, the figure will go up to 59. In Karnataka, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa said four persons have been confirmed for coronavirus, including three new cases. In Pune also, three persons tested positive, a day after two cases were reported. Announcing the latest cases in Kerala at a media interaction in Thiruvananthapuram after a special cabinet meeting held to discuss the coronavirus situation, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said at least 1,116 people are under observation -- 149 in isolation wards of various hospitals and 967 under home quarantine. The fresh cases are friends and relatives of an Italy-returned couple and their son who had on Saturday tested positive for the deadly virus along with two other kin staying with them at their home in Rane in Pathanamthitta district, Health Minister K K Shailaja, who was also present, said. The aged parents of the couple are among the six latest positive cases, she said. In Karnataka, a software engineer who returned from the US on March 1 tested positive on Monday, becoming the first COVID-19 patient in the state. According to health department officials, his wife and daughter too tested positive for the virus on Tuesday. Another person, who had travelled from America via London and arrived in Bengaluru on March 8, also tested positive, they said. State Health Minister Sriramulu said the family members of the four persons have been quarantined. Using a hashtag of #CoronaVirusOutBreak, the minister said, "I appeal to the people to make sure that this disease does not spread further."

12 more COVID-19 cases in Kerala, Karnataka, Pune; total cases in India jumps to 59 

Three more positive COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Karnataka taking the tally to four, state Health Minister B Sriramulu on Tuesday informed.

Their family members have been isolated and their health is being monitored.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-five-new-cases-of-covid-19-in-kerala-total-confirmed-cases-in-india-now-39-284972">Coronavirus in India: Five new cases of COVID-19 in Kerala, total confirmed cases in India now 39</a> 
&nbsp; 
"I urge citizens to take precautionary measures and co-operate in preventing the spread of this infection," Sriramulu said.

As on Monday, the national tally of persons affected by the coronavirus is 45.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-in-karnataka-records-first-coronavirus-case-285312"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-in-karnataka-records-first-coronavirus-case-285312">Bengaluru in Karnataka records first coronavirus case</a>

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in the past 24 hours, one positive case from Kerala, two from Pune, and three from Bengaluru have been confirmed.

Apart from the ICMR, National Institute of Virology in Pune, 51 Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories, and National Centre for Disease Control, New Delhi are carrying out tests for COVID-19.

Three more positive COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Karnataka taking the tally to four, state Health Minister B Sriramulu on Tuesday informed. Their family members have been isolated and their health is being monitored.

Three more positive COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Karnataka taking the tally to four, state Health Minister B Sriramulu on Tuesday informed. Their family members have been isolated and their health is being monitored. Also Read: Coronavirus in India: Five new cases of COVID-19 in Kerala, total confirmed cases in India now 39 "I urge citizens to take precautionary measures and co-operate in preventing the spread of this infection," Sriramulu said. As on Monday, the national tally of persons affected by the coronavirus is 45. Also Read: Bengaluru in Karnataka records first coronavirus case According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in the past 24 hours, one positive case from Kerala, two from Pune, and three from Bengaluru have been confirmed. Apart from the ICMR, National Institute of Virology in Pune, 51 Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories, and National Centre for Disease Control, New Delhi are carrying out tests for COVID-19.

Four positive COVID-19 cases confirmed in Karnataka

Saying he felt "caged," Pope Francis delivered his Sunday blessing over the internet from inside the Vatican on Sunday instead of from a window to stop crowds gathering during Italy's coronavirus outbreak.

He did, however, go to the window and wave silently to a mere several hundred people in the huge square, which often draws tens of thousands. Most kept a safe distance from each other as they watched the pope deliver the address on four mega-screens.

"It's a bit strange this Angelus prayer today with the pope caged in the library, but I see you and I am close to you," he said.

It was the first time that Francis had skipped giving the blessing and reading an address from the window since his election in 2013, apart from times he was travelling outside Rome.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-accepts-resignation-of-cardinal-barbarin-over-sex-abuse-case-284809">&nbsp;Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case</a>

Francis appeared to have recovered from a cold that forced him to skip a Lenten retreat with senior Vatican officials near Rome last week.

"I am close in prayer to people who are suffering because of the current coronavirus epidemic as well as to all those who are taking care of them," he said, speaking while standing in the frescoed room which is used mostly for private audiences.

He encouraged the faithful "to live this difficult moment with the strength of faith, the certainty of hope and the fervour of charity". The window was then opened and he waved briefly and silently.

Some pilgrims had come a long way hoping to get the blessing directly.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tourism-industry-across-the-world-takes-a-hit-as-covid-19-spreads-more-widely-284923">Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely &nbsp;</a>

"I am bitterly disappointed," said Pamela Kennedy, 66, of Yukon, Oklahoma, who was in the square with her husband, Bill.

"We started planning this trip a couple of years ago to mark our 20th wedding anniversary and the 20th anniversary of my becoming Catholic," she told Reuters.

Italy has imposed a virtual lockdown across a swathe of its wealthy north, including the financial capital Milan, in its latest attempt to contain a growing outbreak of coronavirus. The government has also imposed other restrictions throughout the country, such as the closing of museums.

A Vatican source said the Vatican museums, which get six million visitors a year, would be closed as of Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-reports-its-first-coronavirus-case-284754">Vatican reports its first coronavirus case</a>

During his address, Francis also appealed for an end to the conflict in northwest Syria, where nearly a million people have been displaced in a three-month Russian-backed offensive by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces.

"We should not take our eyes off this humanitarian crisis," Francis said.

Saying he felt "caged," Pope Francis delivered his Sunday blessing over the internet from inside the Vatican on Sunday instead of from a window to stop crowds gathering during Italy's coronavirus outbreak.

Saying he felt "caged," Pope Francis delivered his Sunday blessing over the internet from inside the Vatican on Sunday instead of from a window to stop crowds gathering during Italy's coronavirus outbreak. He did, however, go to the window and wave silently to a mere several hundred people in the huge square, which often draws tens of thousands. Most kept a safe distance from each other as they watched the pope deliver the address on four mega-screens. "It's a bit strange this Angelus prayer today with the pope caged in the library, but I see you and I am close to you," he said. It was the first time that Francis had skipped giving the blessing and reading an address from the window since his election in 2013, apart from times he was travelling outside Rome. Also read: Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case Francis appeared to have recovered from a cold that forced him to skip a Lenten retreat with senior Vatican officials near Rome last week. "I am close in prayer to people who are suffering because of the current coronavirus epidemic as well as to all those who are taking care of them," he said, speaking while standing in the frescoed room which is used mostly for private audiences. He encouraged the faithful "to live this difficult moment with the strength of faith, the certainty of hope and the fervour of charity". The window was then opened and he waved briefly and silently. Some pilgrims had come a long way hoping to get the blessing directly. Also see: Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely "I am bitterly disappointed," said Pamela Kennedy, 66, of Yukon, Oklahoma, who was in the square with her husband, Bill. "We started planning this trip a couple of years ago to mark our 20th wedding anniversary and the 20th anniversary of my becoming Catholic," she told Reuters. Italy has imposed a virtual lockdown across a swathe of its wealthy north, including the financial capital Milan, in its latest attempt to contain a growing outbreak of coronavirus. The government has also imposed other restrictions throughout the country, such as the closing of museums. A Vatican source said the Vatican museums, which get six million visitors a year, would be closed as of Monday. Also read: Vatican reports its first coronavirus case During his address, Francis also appealed for an end to the conflict in northwest Syria, where nearly a million people have been displaced in a three-month Russian-backed offensive by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces. "We should not take our eyes off this humanitarian crisis," Francis said.

Feeling 'caged' by coronavirus alarm, Pope delivers Sunday address over internet

Iran has released approximately 70,000 prisoners because of the coronavirus outbreak in the country, Iranian judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday, according to Mizan, the news site of the judiciary.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/number-of-confirmed-coronavirus-cases-in-pakistan-reaches-7-285131">Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Pakistan reaches 7</a>

"The release of the prisoners, to the point where it doesn't create insecurity in society ... will continue," he said.

Watch: 

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Raisi did not specify if or when those released would need to return to jail.

Iran has released approximately 70,000 prisoners because of the coronavirus outbreak in the country, Iranian judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday, according to Mizan, the news site of the judiciary.

Iran has released approximately 70,000 prisoners because of the coronavirus outbreak in the country, Iranian judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday, according to Mizan, the news site of the judiciary. Also read: Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Pakistan reaches 7 "The release of the prisoners, to the point where it doesn't create insecurity in society ... will continue," he said. Watch: × Raisi did not specify if or when those released would need to return to jail.

Iran releases about 70,000 prisoners because of coronavirus: Judiciary Chief

The chief executive of Groupe ADP, the company which runs Paris' two main international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, has tested positive for the coronavirus, the group said Monday.

Augustin de Romanet tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, the company said, adding that his "state of health is not a cause for concern and does not prevent him from carrying out his functions."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-air-suspends-flights-to-europe-until-further-notice-report-285101"> Iran Air suspends flights to Europe until further notice: Report</a>

His contacts were being investigated while the CEO would stay at home for the next two weeks in self-isolation.

The two Paris airports are among the busiest air hubs in the world, with over 100 million people passing through every year.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infects-100000-plus-worldwide-21-cases-found-on-ship-off-san-francisco-284865">Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco</a>

With more than 1,100 recorded cases and 19 deaths so far, France is the second-worst affected European country after its neighbour Italy, which has imposed a sweeping lockdown on the most hard-hit northern regions.

The chief executive of Groupe ADP, the company which runs Paris' two main international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, has tested positive for the coronavirus, the group said Monday.

The chief executive of Groupe ADP, the company which runs Paris' two main international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, has tested positive for the coronavirus, the group said Monday. Augustin de Romanet tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, the company said, adding that his "state of health is not a cause for concern and does not prevent him from carrying out his functions." Also read: Iran Air suspends flights to Europe until further notice: Report His contacts were being investigated while the CEO would stay at home for the next two weeks in self-isolation. The two Paris airports are among the busiest air hubs in the world, with over 100 million people passing through every year. Also see: Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco With more than 1,100 recorded cases and 19 deaths so far, France is the second-worst affected European country after its neighbour Italy, which has imposed a sweeping lockdown on the most hard-hit northern regions.

Paris airport chief tests positive for coronavirus

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has intensified the practice of cleaning all its trains in the wake of a recent coronavirus outbreak in the country, according to an official press release.

"The practice has been intensified in the wake of recent coronavirus outbreak and subsequent directives by Delhi Chief Minister with special emphasis on locations like hand railings, train doors, etc where hands come in direct contact inside the trains," read the official press release.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-airport-takes-measures-to-tackle-coronavirus-scare-285242"> Delhi airport takes measures to tackle coronavirus scare</a>

"Emphasis on cleaning has also been intensified in lifts, escalators, handrailings alongside staircases, etc as well," it added.

The Centre on Monday confirmed that 43 cases of novel coronavirus infection have been reported in India so far.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-green-tribunal-stops-biometric-attendance-amid-coronavirus-scare-285192">National Green Tribunal stops biometric attendance amid coronavirus scare</a>

There have been no deaths in India due to COVID-19.

The four new cases of the virus have been reported since Sunday- one each from Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu.

The deadly coronavirus which originated from China`s Wuhan has caused the deaths of over 3800 people globally.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has intensified the practice of cleaning all its trains in the wake of a recent coronavirus outbreak in the country, according to an official press release.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has intensified the practice of cleaning all its trains in the wake of a recent coronavirus outbreak in the country, according to an official press release. "The practice has been intensified in the wake of recent coronavirus outbreak and subsequent directives by Delhi Chief Minister with special emphasis on locations like hand railings, train doors, etc where hands come in direct contact inside the trains," read the official press release. Also read: Delhi airport takes measures to tackle coronavirus scare "Emphasis on cleaning has also been intensified in lifts, escalators, handrailings alongside staircases, etc as well," it added. The Centre on Monday confirmed that 43 cases of novel coronavirus infection have been reported in India so far. Also see: National Green Tribunal stops biometric attendance amid coronavirus scare There have been no deaths in India due to COVID-19. The four new cases of the virus have been reported since Sunday- one each from Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu. The deadly coronavirus which originated from China`s Wuhan has caused the deaths of over 3800 people globally.

Delhi Metro intensifies cleaning of all its trains amid coronavirus outbreak

In the wake of coronavirus outbreak scare, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stopped biometric marking of attendance at its Delhi office.

"To prevent coronavirus, in terms of the advisory of Delhi Government issued to various departments/offices, marking of attendance on biometric machines and use of the same is being stopped in National Green Tribunal (Principal Bench), New Delhi with immediate effect till 31.03.2020," NGT`s Registrar General Ashu Garg said.

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The directive further stated that attendance during this period is to be marked manually with arrival and departure time under the supervision of the concerned supervising officer.

The notification also said that this was done with the approval of the competent authority.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/number-of-confirmed-coronavirus-cases-in-pakistan-reaches-7-285131">Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Pakistan reaches 7</a>

The central government had on March 6 requested all ministries and departments to discontinue their biometric attendance system in the wake of the spread of coronavirus in the national capital.

"In view of coronavirus, all Ministries/Departments are requested to exempt their employees to mark biometric attendance in Aadhaar-based Biometric Attendance System till 31 March 2020. However, all employees are required to mark their attendance in a register," Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions stated.

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So far 40 positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in India.

Global deaths due to coronavirus outbreak have risen above 3,300.

The deadly virus that originated in China late last year, continues to spread around the world.

In the wake of coronavirus outbreak scare, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stopped biometric marking of attendance at its Delhi office. "To prevent coronavirus, in terms of the advisory of Delhi Government issued to various departments/offices, marking of attendance on biometric machines and use of the same is being stopped in National Green Tribunal (Principal Bench), New Delhi with immediate effect till 31.

In the wake of coronavirus outbreak scare, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stopped biometric marking of attendance at its Delhi office. "To prevent coronavirus, in terms of the advisory of Delhi Government issued to various departments/offices, marking of attendance on biometric machines and use of the same is being stopped in National Green Tribunal (Principal Bench), New Delhi with immediate effect till 31.03.2020," NGT`s Registrar General Ashu Garg said. Also read: Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears The directive further stated that attendance during this period is to be marked manually with arrival and departure time under the supervision of the concerned supervising officer. The notification also said that this was done with the approval of the competent authority. Also see: Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Pakistan reaches 7 The central government had on March 6 requested all ministries and departments to discontinue their biometric attendance system in the wake of the spread of coronavirus in the national capital. "In view of coronavirus, all Ministries/Departments are requested to exempt their employees to mark biometric attendance in Aadhaar-based Biometric Attendance System till 31 March 2020. However, all employees are required to mark their attendance in a register," Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions stated. Watch: × So far 40 positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in India. Global deaths due to coronavirus outbreak have risen above 3,300. The deadly virus that originated in China late last year, continues to spread around the world.

National Green Tribunal stops biometric attendance amid coronavirus scare

NASA's Ames Research Center in California said late on Sunday it would make its employees work from home until further notice after one tested positive for coronavirus.

The agency said it received confirmation on Sunday of an employee testing positive for COVID-19.

"We believe the exposure at the centre has been limited, but out of an abundance of caution... Ames Research Center will temporarily go to a mandatory telework status until further notice," the agency said in a statement.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-long-term-political-fallout-of-coronavirus-285202">The long-term political fallout of Coronavirus</a>

Further guidance will be provided to employees who do not have the equipment to work from home or who work in labs or other facilities requiring similar technical equipment, according to the statement.

Only essential personnel will be allowed access to the facility to safeguard life, property and critical mission functions, a CBS News affiliate reported.

The facility, located at Moffett Field in California, is one of ten NASA field centres. It conducts research and development in aeronautics, exploration technology and science.

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The number of confirmed coronavirus cases had risen to 114 statewide in California as of Sunday, including two passengers aboard the cruise ship Grand Princess who tested positive two days earlier.

Globally, more than 110,000 people have been infected by the virus and over 3,800 have died, according to a Reuters tally of government announcements.

NASA's Ames Research Center in California said late on Sunday it would make its employees work from home until further notice after one tested positive for coronavirus.

NASA's Ames Research Center in California said late on Sunday it would make its employees work from home until further notice after one tested positive for coronavirus. The agency said it received confirmation on Sunday of an employee testing positive for COVID-19. "We believe the exposure at the centre has been limited, but out of an abundance of caution... Ames Research Center will temporarily go to a mandatory telework status until further notice," the agency said in a statement. Also read: The long-term political fallout of Coronavirus Further guidance will be provided to employees who do not have the equipment to work from home or who work in labs or other facilities requiring similar technical equipment, according to the statement. Only essential personnel will be allowed access to the facility to safeguard life, property and critical mission functions, a CBS News affiliate reported. The facility, located at Moffett Field in California, is one of ten NASA field centres. It conducts research and development in aeronautics, exploration technology and science. Watch: × The number of confirmed coronavirus cases had risen to 114 statewide in California as of Sunday, including two passengers aboard the cruise ship Grand Princess who tested positive two days earlier. Globally, more than 110,000 people have been infected by the virus and over 3,800 have died, according to a Reuters tally of government announcements.

NASA Ames tells employees to work from home after one tests positive for coronavirus

A Chinese company says it has developed the country's first facial recognition technology that can identify people when they are wearing a mask, as most are these days because of the coronavirus, and help in the fight against the disease.

China employs some of the world's most sophisticated systems of electronic surveillance, including facial recognition.

But the coronavirus, which emerged in Hubei province late last year, has resulted in almost everyone wearing a surgical mask outdoors in the hope of warding off the virus - posing a particular problem for surveillance.

&nbsp;

Now Hanwang Technology Ltd, which also goes by the English name Hanvon, said it has come up technology that can successfully recognise people even when they are wearing masks.

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"If connected to a temperature sensor, it can measure body temperature while identifying the person's name, and then the system would process the result, say, if it detects a temperature over 38 degrees," Hanwang Vice President Huang Lei told Reuters in an interview.

The Beijing-based firm said a team of 20 staff used core technology developed over the past 10 years, a sample database of about 6 million unmasked faces and a much smaller database of masked faces, to develop the technology,

The team began work on the system in January, as the coronavirus outbreak gathered pace, and began rolling it out to the market after just a month.

It sells two main types of products that use the technology. One performs "single-channel" recognition that is best used at, for example, entrances to office buildings.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-number-of-confirmed-cases-soar-to-43-new-cases-from-up-delhi-jammu-kerala-285216"> COVID-19: Number of confirmed cases soar to 43; new cases from UP, Delhi, Jammu, Kerala</a>

The other, more powerful, the product is a "multi-channel" recognition system that uses "multiple surveillance cameras".

It can identify everyone in a crowd of up to 30 people "within a second", Huang says.

"When wearing a mask, the recognition rate can reach about 95%, which can ensure that most people can be identified," Huang said, adding the success rate for people without the mask is about 99.5%.

LOSING FACIAL INFORMATION

A big customer, not surprisingly, is the Ministry of Public Security, which runs the police.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-pm-says-turning-point-near-in-coronavirus-fight-285173">South Korean PM says 'turning point' near in coronavirus fight</a>

Using Hanwang's technology, the ministry can cross-reference images with its own database of names and other information and then identify and track people as they move about, Huang said.

"It can detect crime suspects, terrorists or make reports or warnings," he said.

But the system struggles to identify people with both a mask and sunglasses, he said.

"In this situation, all of the key facial information is lost. In such cases recognition is tough," Huang said.

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The company has about 200 clients in Beijing using the technology, including the police, and expect scores more across 20 provinces to start installing it soon, Huang said.

It is not immediately clear how Chinese citizens are reacting to this new technology.

When it comes to other surveillance tools being used in the fight against the coronavirus, there has been some grumbling on social media but most people seem to be accepting extra intrusion, or even embracing it, as a means to deal with the health emergency.

<img alt="Coronavirus mask" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4a6e946d-eade-4cbf-ac70-5f0334572824" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2812%29.jpg" />

Although domestic customers have been driving Hanwang's business, Huang also said he expected more foreign interest, as the virus spreads around the world and more people wear face masks.

"It not only benefits Chinese people but also when the technology is applied globally, it can benefit the world," he said.

A Chinese company says it has developed the country's first facial recognition technology that can identify people when they are wearing a mask, as most are these days because of the coronavirus, and help in the fight against the disease.

A Chinese company says it has developed the country's first facial recognition technology that can identify people when they are wearing a mask, as most are these days because of the coronavirus, and help in the fight against the disease. China employs some of the world's most sophisticated systems of electronic surveillance, including facial recognition. But the coronavirus, which emerged in Hubei province late last year, has resulted in almost everyone wearing a surgical mask outdoors in the hope of warding off the virus - posing a particular problem for surveillance. Now Hanwang Technology Ltd, which also goes by the English name Hanvon, said it has come up technology that can successfully recognise people even when they are wearing masks. Also read: Shanghai Disneyland resumes some resort ops as coronavirus infections slow "If connected to a temperature sensor, it can measure body temperature while identifying the person's name, and then the system would process the result, say, if it detects a temperature over 38 degrees," Hanwang Vice President Huang Lei told Reuters in an interview. The Beijing-based firm said a team of 20 staff used core technology developed over the past 10 years, a sample database of about 6 million unmasked faces and a much smaller database of masked faces, to develop the technology, The team began work on the system in January, as the coronavirus outbreak gathered pace, and began rolling it out to the market after just a month. It sells two main types of products that use the technology. One performs "single-channel" recognition that is best used at, for example, entrances to office buildings. Also see: COVID-19: Number of confirmed cases soar to 43; new cases from UP, Delhi, Jammu, Kerala The other, more powerful, the product is a "multi-channel" recognition system that uses "multiple surveillance cameras". It can identify everyone in a crowd of up to 30 people "within a second", Huang says. "When wearing a mask, the recognition rate can reach about 95%, which can ensure that most people can be identified," Huang said, adding the success rate for people without the mask is about 99.5%. LOSING FACIAL INFORMATION A big customer, not surprisingly, is the Ministry of Public Security, which runs the police. Also read: South Korean PM says 'turning point' near in coronavirus fight Using Hanwang's technology, the ministry can cross-reference images with its own database of names and other information and then identify and track people as they move about, Huang said. "It can detect crime suspects, terrorists or make reports or warnings," he said. But the system struggles to identify people with both a mask and sunglasses, he said. "In this situation, all of the key facial information is lost. In such cases recognition is tough," Huang said. Watch: × The company has about 200 clients in Beijing using the technology, including the police, and expect scores more across 20 provinces to start installing it soon, Huang said. It is not immediately clear how Chinese citizens are reacting to this new technology. When it comes to other surveillance tools being used in the fight against the coronavirus, there has been some grumbling on social media but most people seem to be accepting extra intrusion, or even embracing it, as a means to deal with the health emergency. Although domestic customers have been driving Hanwang's business, Huang also said he expected more foreign interest, as the virus spreads around the world and more people wear face masks. "It not only benefits Chinese people but also when the technology is applied globally, it can benefit the world," he said.

China firm develops system to recognise faces behind coronavirus masks

In the wake of recent coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Airport on Monday said that the airport is taking all necessary precautions to combat the virus.

The statement read,&nbsp;"The Delhi Airport is taking precautions to stay safe and keep the coronavirus away from our doorstep."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-number-of-confirmed-cases-soar-to-43-new-cases-from-up-delhi-jammu-kerala-285216">COVID-19: Number of confirmed cases soar to 43; new cases from UP, Delhi, Jammu, Kerala</a>

The Twitter handle of Delhi Airport also attached some photographs on the precautions being taken at the airport.

The statement added, "Now is the time to prepare for COVID-19. Simple precautions and planning can make a big difference."

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Glimpses of Delhi Airport taking precautions to stay safe and keep <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> away from our doorstep. Now is the time to prepare for COVID-19. Simple precautions and planning can make a big difference.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirusindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirusindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavid19</a> <a href="https://t.co/EfxUgZpDZv">pic.twitter.com/EfxUgZpDZv</a>
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1236914992244391936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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There were 43 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country.

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The outbreak has caused the deaths of over 3300 people across the globe.

In the wake of recent coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Airport on Monday said that the airport is taking all necessary precautions to combat the virus. The statement read, "The Delhi Airport is taking precautions to stay safe and keep the coronavirus away from our doorstep.

In the wake of recent coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Airport on Monday said that the airport is taking all necessary precautions to combat the virus. The statement read, "The Delhi Airport is taking precautions to stay safe and keep the coronavirus away from our doorstep." Also read: COVID-19: Number of confirmed cases soar to 43; new cases from UP, Delhi, Jammu, Kerala The Twitter handle of Delhi Airport also attached some photographs on the precautions being taken at the airport. The statement added, "Now is the time to prepare for COVID-19. Simple precautions and planning can make a big difference." Glimpses of Delhi Airport taking precautions to stay safe and keep #coronavirus away from our doorstep. Now is the time to prepare for COVID-19. Simple precautions and planning can make a big difference.#coronavirusindia #Coronavid19 pic.twitter.com/EfxUgZpDZv — Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) March 9, 2020 × There were 43 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country. Watch: × The outbreak has caused the deaths of over 3300 people across the globe.

Delhi airport takes measures to tackle coronavirus scare

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