Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boston-dynamics-spot-robot-helping-doctors-remotely-combat-covid-19-294866" hreflang="en">Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19</a>

COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 868,480 people of that tally have recovered.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-pandemic-new-york-records-lowest-death-toll-since-march-31-294963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States is by far the hardest-hit country in the global pandemic, in terms of both confirmed infections and deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-complaints-of-faulty-kits-by-several-nations-china-confiscates-89-million-face-masks-294838" hreflang="en">Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks</a>

The United States recorded 1,330 more novel coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, according to figures reported late Sunday by the Johns Hopkins University.

The country now has an overall death toll of 55,415, with 964,937 confirmed infections, according to a tally by the Baltimore-based institution at 8:30 pm.

The 24-hour US death toll was 2,494 late Saturday, and 1,258 on Friday evening -- the lowest in nearly three weeks -- as the government struggles to quell the virus.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

Meanwhile, after more than three months of an arduous fight, Wuhan, the city located at the heart of China and epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, has cleared all remaining cases related to the deadly infection in its hospitals, health authorities told Xinhua news agency on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 868,480 people of that tally have recovered. The United States is by far the hardest-hit country in the global pandemic, in terms of both confirmed infections and deaths. Also read: Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks The United States recorded 1,330 more novel coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, according to figures reported late Sunday by the Johns Hopkins University. The country now has an overall death toll of 55,415, with 964,937 confirmed infections, according to a tally by the Baltimore-based institution at 8:30 pm. The 24-hour US death toll was 2,494 late Saturday, and 1,258 on Friday evening -- the lowest in nearly three weeks -- as the government struggles to quell the virus. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. Meanwhile, after more than three months of an arduous fight, Wuhan, the city located at the heart of China and epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, has cleared all remaining cases related to the deadly infection in its hospitals, health authorities told Xinhua news agency on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said.

The dominance of the more virulent L-type coronavirus strain as compared to the S-type one could be behind the high mortality rate in the state, which has reported 133 deaths so far. However, no research has been conducted to confirm this, they said.

A scientist at the state-run Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) said that the novel coronavirus used for genome sequencing recently conducted by it was found to contain the L-type strain.

"Analysis done by scientists abroad has shown that the L-type strain has been dominant where more mortality is reported among coronavirus patients. This strain was found to be more prevalent in Wuhan," director of GBRC, C G Joshi, said.

"The coronavirus sample we collected from a patient for genome sequence contained the L-type strain. This strain has a much higher virulence as compared to the S-strain," he said.

"Variation in coronavirus is in terms of number and percentage of mutations. As per the analysis, the L-type strain is dominant where more mortality is reported. Scientists have earlier found that this strain has caused more deaths," he said.

The GBRC recently succeeded in decoding the entire genome sequence of the novel coronavirus and identified its three new mutations.

Joshi added that the patient from whom the virus sample was collected for sequencing has fully recovered.

So far, no study has been conducted here to establish which strain of coronavirus is predominant in patients here.

Atul Patel, a specialist in infectious diseases, attributed the presence of the L-type strain more than the S- type one in Gujarat is behind high mortality rate.

Patel has said that a little higher presence of the L-type strain, or the original Wuhan strain, could be behind higher death rate in the state.

The state government has also attributed the high mortality among coronavirus patients in the state to comorbidities and high-risk factors.

Heart and lung diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are among common diseases that have been found among Covid-19 patients who passed away in Gujarat.

The risk factors include patients in the age group of above over 60 years and under five years of age and pregnant women, and they account for 90 per cent of patients who passed away, Principal Secretary (Health), Jayanti Ravi had recently said.

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said.

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said. The dominance of the more virulent L-type coronavirus strain as compared to the S-type one could be behind the high mortality rate in the state, which has reported 133 deaths so far. However, no research has been conducted to confirm this, they said. A scientist at the state-run Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) said that the novel coronavirus used for genome sequencing recently conducted by it was found to contain the L-type strain. "Analysis done by scientists abroad has shown that the L-type strain has been dominant where more mortality is reported among coronavirus patients. This strain was found to be more prevalent in Wuhan," director of GBRC, C G Joshi, said. "The coronavirus sample we collected from a patient for genome sequence contained the L-type strain. This strain has a much higher virulence as compared to the S-strain," he said. "Variation in coronavirus is in terms of number and percentage of mutations. As per the analysis, the L-type strain is dominant where more mortality is reported. Scientists have earlier found that this strain has caused more deaths," he said. The GBRC recently succeeded in decoding the entire genome sequence of the novel coronavirus and identified its three new mutations. Joshi added that the patient from whom the virus sample was collected for sequencing has fully recovered. So far, no study has been conducted here to establish which strain of coronavirus is predominant in patients here. Atul Patel, a specialist in infectious diseases, attributed the presence of the L-type strain more than the S- type one in Gujarat is behind high mortality rate. Patel has said that a little higher presence of the L-type strain, or the original Wuhan strain, could be behind higher death rate in the state. The state government has also attributed the high mortality among coronavirus patients in the state to comorbidities and high-risk factors. Heart and lung diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are among common diseases that have been found among Covid-19 patients who passed away in Gujarat. The risk factors include patients in the age group of above over 60 years and under five years of age and pregnant women, and they account for 90 per cent of patients who passed away, Principal Secretary (Health), Jayanti Ravi had recently said.

Wuhan's L-strain may be behind Gujarat's high death rate: Experts

China has dispatched a team to North Korea including medical experts to advise on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to three people familiar with the situation.

The trip by the Chinese doctors and officials comes amid conflicting reports about the health of the North Korean leader. Reuters was unable to immediately determine what the trip by the Chinese team signaled in terms of Kim's health.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reports-on-kims-ailing-health-incorrect-says-trump-294378">Also read:&nbsp;Reports on Kim's ailing health incorrect, says Trump</a>

A delegation led by a senior member of the Chinese Communist Party's International Liaison Department left Beijing for North Korea on Thursday, two of the people said. The department is the main Chinese body dealing with neighbouring North Korea.

The sources declined to be identified given the sensitivity of the matter.

The Liaison Department could not be reached by Reuters for comment late on Friday. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment late on Friday.

Daily NK, a Seoul-based website, reported earlier this week that Kim was recovering after undergoing a cardiovascular procedure on April 12. It cited one unnamed source in North Korea.

South Korean government officials and a Chinese official with the Liaison Department challenged subsequent reports suggesting that Kim was in grave danger after surgery. South Korean officials said they had detected no signs of unusual activity in North Korea.

On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump also downplayed earlier reports that Kim was gravely ill. "I think the report was incorrect," Trump told reporters, but he declined to say if he had been in touch with North Korean officials.

On Friday, a South Korean source told Reuters their intelligence was that Kim was alive and would likely make an appearance soon. The person said he did not have any comment on Kim's current condition or any Chinese involvement.

An official familiar with U.S. intelligence said that Kim was known to have health problems but they had no reason to conclude he was seriously ill or unable eventually to reappear in public.

A U.S. State department spokeswoman had no comment. U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, when asked about Kim's health on Fox News after Trump spoke said, "I don’t have anything I can share with you tonight, but the American people should know we're watching the situation very keenly."

North Korea is one of the world's most isolated and secretive countries, and the health of its leaders is treated as a matter of state security. Reuters has not been able to independently confirm any details on Kim's whereabouts or condition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-capital-witness-panic-buying-of-food-after-strict-covid-19-norms-announced-294205">Also read:&nbsp;North Korean capital witness panic buying of food after strict covid-19 norms announced</a>

North Korea's state media last reported on Kim's whereabouts when he presided over a meeting on April 11. State media did not report that he was in attendance at an event to mark the birthday of his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, on April 15, an important anniversary in North Korea.

Kim, believed to be 36, has disappeared from coverage in North Korean state media before. In 2014, he vanished for more than a month and North Korean state TV later showed him walking with a limp. Speculation about his health has been fanned by his heavy smoking, apparent weight gain since taking power and family history of cardiovascular problems.

When Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, suffered a stroke in 2008, South Korean media reported at the time that Chinese doctors were involved in his treatment along with French physicians.

Last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping made the first state visit in 14 years by a Chinese leader to North Korea, an impoverished state that depends on Beijing for economic and diplomatic support.

China is North Korea's chief ally and the economic lifeline for a country hard-hit by U.N. sanctions, and has a keen interest in the stability of the country with which it shares a long, porous border.

Kim is a third-generation hereditary leader who came to power after his father Kim Jong Il died in 2011 from a heart attack. He has visited China four times since 2018.

Trump held unprecedented summits with Kim in 2018 and 2019 as part of a bid to persuade him to give up North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

China has dispatched a team to North Korea including medical experts to advise on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to three people familiar with the situation.

China has dispatched a team to North Korea including medical experts to advise on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to three people familiar with the situation. The trip by the Chinese doctors and officials comes amid conflicting reports about the health of the North Korean leader. Reuters was unable to immediately determine what the trip by the Chinese team signaled in terms of Kim's health. Also read: Reports on Kim's ailing health incorrect, says Trump A delegation led by a senior member of the Chinese Communist Party's International Liaison Department left Beijing for North Korea on Thursday, two of the people said. The department is the main Chinese body dealing with neighbouring North Korea. The sources declined to be identified given the sensitivity of the matter. The Liaison Department could not be reached by Reuters for comment late on Friday. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment late on Friday. Daily NK, a Seoul-based website, reported earlier this week that Kim was recovering after undergoing a cardiovascular procedure on April 12. It cited one unnamed source in North Korea. South Korean government officials and a Chinese official with the Liaison Department challenged subsequent reports suggesting that Kim was in grave danger after surgery. South Korean officials said they had detected no signs of unusual activity in North Korea. On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump also downplayed earlier reports that Kim was gravely ill. "I think the report was incorrect," Trump told reporters, but he declined to say if he had been in touch with North Korean officials. On Friday, a South Korean source told Reuters their intelligence was that Kim was alive and would likely make an appearance soon. The person said he did not have any comment on Kim's current condition or any Chinese involvement. An official familiar with U.S. intelligence said that Kim was known to have health problems but they had no reason to conclude he was seriously ill or unable eventually to reappear in public. A U.S. State department spokeswoman had no comment. U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, when asked about Kim's health on Fox News after Trump spoke said, "I don’t have anything I can share with you tonight, but the American people should know we're watching the situation very keenly." North Korea is one of the world's most isolated and secretive countries, and the health of its leaders is treated as a matter of state security. Reuters has not been able to independently confirm any details on Kim's whereabouts or condition. Also read: North Korean capital witness panic buying of food after strict covid-19 norms announced North Korea's state media last reported on Kim's whereabouts when he presided over a meeting on April 11. State media did not report that he was in attendance at an event to mark the birthday of his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, on April 15, an important anniversary in North Korea. Kim, believed to be 36, has disappeared from coverage in North Korean state media before. In 2014, he vanished for more than a month and North Korean state TV later showed him walking with a limp. Speculation about his health has been fanned by his heavy smoking, apparent weight gain since taking power and family history of cardiovascular problems. When Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, suffered a stroke in 2008, South Korean media reported at the time that Chinese doctors were involved in his treatment along with French physicians. Last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping made the first state visit in 14 years by a Chinese leader to North Korea, an impoverished state that depends on Beijing for economic and diplomatic support. China is North Korea's chief ally and the economic lifeline for a country hard-hit by U.N. sanctions, and has a keen interest in the stability of the country with which it shares a long, porous border. Kim is a third-generation hereditary leader who came to power after his father Kim Jong Il died in 2011 from a heart attack. He has visited China four times since 2018. Trump held unprecedented summits with Kim in 2018 and 2019 as part of a bid to persuade him to give up North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

China sent team including medical experts to advise on North Korea’s Kim, after news of his death surfaces

The sun is only just rising in Berlin but Lothar Kopp, 65, is already standing in line outside a clinic in the district of Reinickendorf.

Along with a handful of mask-clad people standing two metres apart, he is here to give a blood sample -- for antibody tests in the hope of finding out if he has previously contracted the coronavirus and since developed immunity.

"If I've already had corona then I'm not infectious," said Kopp, hoping to test positive for antibodies as it could allow him to visit his elderly mother without the risk of spreading the disease.

As nations around the world look to ease curbs on public life, some experts have mooted the possibility of so-called "immunity passports" to allow those who have antibodies to return to work first.

In Germany, tens of thousands of tests have been performed and large studies are ongoing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/air-pollution-is-linked-to-higher-covid-19-death-rates-says-study-294477">Also read:&nbsp;Air pollution is linked to higher COVID-19 death rates, says study</a>

Elsewhere in the world, efforts are also under way to determine the so-called level of immunity in the population.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said last week that the state will be launching tests "in the most aggressive way in the nation" to find out how many have already had the disease.

In a rush to catch up with testing, the US regulator had even taken the extraordinary decision to allow commercial manufacturers to market their tests without formal authorisation.

But experts including from the World Health Organization have urged caution over the accuracy of the nascent tests.

Among the unknowns of the virus is how long immunity could last -- meaning that even positive antibody tests may not be meaningful for long.

'Nonsense'

Urging prudence, a WHO spokeswoman noted that there is "much discussion" over the antibody tests.

But "once we have validated tests we may still not know how well a positive result correlates with protection against disease or for how long the protection will last," she told AFP.

Matthias Orth, a board member of the Professional Association of German Laboratory Doctors (BDL), said inaccuracies are a big problem.

People can test negative even if they have had COVID-19, he said.

"There are also quite banal coronaviruses that do not cause serious illness, and they can give a positive result."

As for so-called rapid antibody tests -- home kits that extract blood from your finger and promise a result within 15 minutes -- Orth's verdict: "They're nonsense."

More accurate tests will come within weeks, he said, but he stressed that "it's a little too early to give patients a clear statement that they are definitely immune".

70,000 tests

Experts also note that while large-scale studies underway across Europe's biggest economy can serve to determine what proportion of the population has been infected, they cannot say for sure how many people are actually immune given the limitations on current antibodies tests.

Nevertheless, the studies, including one that started in Munich over the weekend with scientists picking 3,000 households at random to test for antibodies, are being closely watched.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-adds-another-feather-to-its-cap-partners-with-germanys-leading-broadcaster-dw-294624">Also read:&nbsp;WION adds another feather to its cap, partners with Germany's leading broadcaster DW</a>

A separate study is ongoing in Gangelt, in the Heinsberg district -- where Germany's first major cluster of infections was uncovered. So far, researchers have determined that 14 percent of the population had previously been infected.

Beyond studies, several pharmaceutical companies in Germany have also begun marketing such antibody tests -- which must be analysed in a laboratory.

And around 70,000 tests have so far been processed by 54 laboratories, according to the ALM association of accredited medical laboratories.

Doctor Ulrike Leimer-Lipke of the Reinickendorf clinic, which has been offering antibody tests since mid-March, said: "I think it makes a lot of sense, because this way we can find out if people have immunity.

"It is very important for people if they have a grandmother or a mother or father who they care for, to know if they are already immune."

The sun is only just rising in Berlin but Lothar Kopp, 65, is already standing in line outside a clinic in the district of Reinickendorf. Along with a handful of mask-clad people standing two metres apart, he is here to give a blood sample -- for antibody tests in the hope of finding out if he has previously contracted the coronavirus and since developed immunity.

The sun is only just rising in Berlin but Lothar Kopp, 65, is already standing in line outside a clinic in the district of Reinickendorf. Along with a handful of mask-clad people standing two metres apart, he is here to give a blood sample -- for antibody tests in the hope of finding out if he has previously contracted the coronavirus and since developed immunity. "If I've already had corona then I'm not infectious," said Kopp, hoping to test positive for antibodies as it could allow him to visit his elderly mother without the risk of spreading the disease. As nations around the world look to ease curbs on public life, some experts have mooted the possibility of so-called "immunity passports" to allow those who have antibodies to return to work first. In Germany, tens of thousands of tests have been performed and large studies are ongoing. Also read: Air pollution is linked to higher COVID-19 death rates, says study Elsewhere in the world, efforts are also under way to determine the so-called level of immunity in the population. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said last week that the state will be launching tests "in the most aggressive way in the nation" to find out how many have already had the disease. In a rush to catch up with testing, the US regulator had even taken the extraordinary decision to allow commercial manufacturers to market their tests without formal authorisation. But experts including from the World Health Organization have urged caution over the accuracy of the nascent tests. Among the unknowns of the virus is how long immunity could last -- meaning that even positive antibody tests may not be meaningful for long. 'Nonsense' Urging prudence, a WHO spokeswoman noted that there is "much discussion" over the antibody tests. But "once we have validated tests we may still not know how well a positive result correlates with protection against disease or for how long the protection will last," she told AFP. Matthias Orth, a board member of the Professional Association of German Laboratory Doctors (BDL), said inaccuracies are a big problem. People can test negative even if they have had COVID-19, he said. "There are also quite banal coronaviruses that do not cause serious illness, and they can give a positive result." As for so-called rapid antibody tests -- home kits that extract blood from your finger and promise a result within 15 minutes -- Orth's verdict: "They're nonsense." More accurate tests will come within weeks, he said, but he stressed that "it's a little too early to give patients a clear statement that they are definitely immune". 70,000 tests Experts also note that while large-scale studies underway across Europe's biggest economy can serve to determine what proportion of the population has been infected, they cannot say for sure how many people are actually immune given the limitations on current antibodies tests. Nevertheless, the studies, including one that started in Munich over the weekend with scientists picking 3,000 households at random to test for antibodies, are being closely watched. Also read: WION adds another feather to its cap, partners with Germany's leading broadcaster DW A separate study is ongoing in Gangelt, in the Heinsberg district -- where Germany's first major cluster of infections was uncovered. So far, researchers have determined that 14 percent of the population had previously been infected. Beyond studies, several pharmaceutical companies in Germany have also begun marketing such antibody tests -- which must be analysed in a laboratory. And around 70,000 tests have so far been processed by 54 laboratories, according to the ALM association of accredited medical laboratories. Doctor Ulrike Leimer-Lipke of the Reinickendorf clinic, which has been offering antibody tests since mid-March, said: "I think it makes a lot of sense, because this way we can find out if people have immunity. "It is very important for people if they have a grandmother or a mother or father who they care for, to know if they are already immune."

Hopes grow for antibody tests, but experts urge caution

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12.

He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray.

But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump.

Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone.

"I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-another-patient-new-zealand-nurse-tells-of-treating-british-pm-for-coronavirus-294210">Also read:&nbsp;'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus</a>

The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers.

But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress.

"I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday.

"When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors."

Growing criticism

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak.

But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures.

In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests.

Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day.

The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes.

While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers.

"The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television.

"This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce."

Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus.

But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-death-toll-drops-in-last-24-hours-as-infection-cases-rise-294338">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise</a>

His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours.

The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment".

He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus.

Deep recession

There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7.

Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak.

There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark.

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban.

The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries".

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools.

Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown. Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12. He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray. But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump. Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone. "I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters. Also read: 'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers. But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress. "I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday. "When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors." Growing criticism Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak. But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures. In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests. Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day. The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes. While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers. "The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television. "This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce." Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus. But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist. Also read: COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours. The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment". He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus. Deep recession There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7. Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak. There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark. Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban. The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries". Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools. Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Boris Johnson set to return to office as pressure mounts to explain UK virus plan

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products.

In separate statements, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics said they follow strict quality control of their products, asserting that specified guidelines must be followed in the storage of the kits as well in their usages to get accurate results.

India's apex medical research body ICMR on Tuesday advised states to stop using the rapid antibody test kits for next two days till it examines their quality following complaints that they are not fully effective in detecting coronavirus infection.

Last week, India procured 5.5 lakh rapid antibody test kits from these two Chinese firms and they were distributed to several states reporting rising cases of coronavirus infection.

While Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech supplied 3 lakh test kits, Livzon Diagnostics delivered 2.5 lakh.

Livzon Diagnostics, in its statement, said: "We are shocked to receive negative reports from India related to poor accuracy of COVID 19 rapid testing kits made in China including our brand.

We have shown great concern on this issue, and we are willing to coordinate with the related government departments for investigation."

The company said it fulfilled all required quality control standards prescribed by Chinese government and that the company has been exporting the product to at least 10 countries including Brazil, Peru, Columbia and several European nations.

"The test kits should be stored at a temperature between 2 and 30-degree Celsius and should not be frozen. If the storage temperature is too high, the accuracy of the test may be influenced," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rapid-testing-paused-due-to-issues-with-chinese-kits-293997">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Rapid testing paused due to issues with Chinese kits</a>

In its statement, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech said the company has been exporting the kits to more than 70 countries and that the product was validated and approved by the ICMR through National Institute of Virology in Pune.

"In the process of exporting the products to overseas countries, Wondfo fully cooperates with relevant health authorities in each country to carry out various verifications on the sensitivity and specificity of our products," it said.

The statements by the two companies were released to the media by an official of the Chinese embassy here.

At present, the government hospitals have been using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to detect coronavirus from the throat or nasal swab samples of people.

These take around five to six hours to show the results.

In the rapid antibody tests, the blood samples of suspected patients are taken, and it normally takes around 15-30 minutes to give the result.

India has been facing a severe shortage of testing kits in view of rising cases of the coronavirus.

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products.

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products. In separate statements, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics said they follow strict quality control of their products, asserting that specified guidelines must be followed in the storage of the kits as well in their usages to get accurate results. India's apex medical research body ICMR on Tuesday advised states to stop using the rapid antibody test kits for next two days till it examines their quality following complaints that they are not fully effective in detecting coronavirus infection. Last week, India procured 5.5 lakh rapid antibody test kits from these two Chinese firms and they were distributed to several states reporting rising cases of coronavirus infection. While Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech supplied 3 lakh test kits, Livzon Diagnostics delivered 2.5 lakh. Livzon Diagnostics, in its statement, said: "We are shocked to receive negative reports from India related to poor accuracy of COVID 19 rapid testing kits made in China including our brand. We have shown great concern on this issue, and we are willing to coordinate with the related government departments for investigation." The company said it fulfilled all required quality control standards prescribed by Chinese government and that the company has been exporting the product to at least 10 countries including Brazil, Peru, Columbia and several European nations. "The test kits should be stored at a temperature between 2 and 30-degree Celsius and should not be frozen. If the storage temperature is too high, the accuracy of the test may be influenced," it said. Also read: COVID-19: Rapid testing paused due to issues with Chinese kits In its statement, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech said the company has been exporting the kits to more than 70 countries and that the product was validated and approved by the ICMR through National Institute of Virology in Pune. "In the process of exporting the products to overseas countries, Wondfo fully cooperates with relevant health authorities in each country to carry out various verifications on the sensitivity and specificity of our products," it said. The statements by the two companies were released to the media by an official of the Chinese embassy here. At present, the government hospitals have been using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to detect coronavirus from the throat or nasal swab samples of people. These take around five to six hours to show the results. In the rapid antibody tests, the blood samples of suspected patients are taken, and it normally takes around 15-30 minutes to give the result. India has been facing a severe shortage of testing kits in view of rising cases of the coronavirus.

Chinese suppliers of faulty rapid kits say they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain.

Downing Street was forced to deny that Dominic Cummings and another advisor, Ben Warner, were members of the politically independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).

However, following reports in The Guardian newspaper, the government admitted that Cummings had sat in on group meetings, prompting the opposition Labour Party to ask for "answers" over his exact role.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-recuperating-from-covid-19-faces-lockdown-conundrum-294504">Also read:&nbsp;UK PM Johnson, recuperating from COVID-19, faces lockdown conundrum</a>

The row emerged as the government's general COVID-19 approach came under increasing scrutiny and the official death toll approached 20,000 in one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic.

In a statement, a Number 10 spokesman said: "It is not true that Mr Cummings or Dr Warner are 'on' or members of SAGE.

"Mr Cummings and Dr Warner have attended some SAGE meetings and listen to some meetings now they are all virtual.

"They do this in order to understand better the scientific debates concerning this emergency and also to understand better the limits of how science and data can help government decisions."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-death-toll-drops-in-last-24-hours-as-infection-cases-rise-294338">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise</a>

The statement added that it was "factually wrong and damaging to sensible public debate" to suggest the committee's advice was affected by the government.

Until now, membership of the &nbsp;committee, which is a key body in shaping the UK's response to the pandemic, has not been made public.

Labour's health spokesman, John Ashworth told BBC radio on Saturday that his "concern" was "that political advisers have influenced the debate.

"The way to clear this up is for all the minutes to be published; we've called on the government to do this," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-another-patient-new-zealand-nurse-tells-of-treating-british-pm-for-coronavirus-294210">Also read:&nbsp;'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus</a>

The UK government has come under increasing pressure on a number of fronts in recent weeks, including criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers.

Questions have also been asked why it was slow in enforcing a nationwide lockdown to enforce social distancing measures.

There are also growing demands for a government exit strategy from the current lockdown, first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and due for review on May 7, as concerns grow over the huge impact the crisis is having on the economy.

Meanwhile, a new website to offer testing for up to 10 million key workers and their families has been overwhelmed.

On Saturday, health officials announced that as many as 5,000 severely ill coronavirus patients could be treated with plasma from people who have recovered from the illness as part of a new approach.

Figures expected later on Saturday could push Britain's official death toll past 20,000.

The number of deaths for COVID-19 in hospital currently stands at 19,506.

In March, the UK's chief scientific advisor, Sir Patrick Vallance, said keeping the number of UK fatalities to less than 20,000 would be "a good outcome".

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain.

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain. Downing Street was forced to deny that Dominic Cummings and another advisor, Ben Warner, were members of the politically independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). However, following reports in The Guardian newspaper, the government admitted that Cummings had sat in on group meetings, prompting the opposition Labour Party to ask for "answers" over his exact role. Also read: UK PM Johnson, recuperating from COVID-19, faces lockdown conundrum The row emerged as the government's general COVID-19 approach came under increasing scrutiny and the official death toll approached 20,000 in one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic. In a statement, a Number 10 spokesman said: "It is not true that Mr Cummings or Dr Warner are 'on' or members of SAGE. "Mr Cummings and Dr Warner have attended some SAGE meetings and listen to some meetings now they are all virtual. "They do this in order to understand better the scientific debates concerning this emergency and also to understand better the limits of how science and data can help government decisions." Also read: COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise The statement added that it was "factually wrong and damaging to sensible public debate" to suggest the committee's advice was affected by the government. Until now, membership of the committee, which is a key body in shaping the UK's response to the pandemic, has not been made public. Labour's health spokesman, John Ashworth told BBC radio on Saturday that his "concern" was "that political advisers have influenced the debate. "The way to clear this up is for all the minutes to be published; we've called on the government to do this," he said. Also read: 'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus The UK government has come under increasing pressure on a number of fronts in recent weeks, including criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers. Questions have also been asked why it was slow in enforcing a nationwide lockdown to enforce social distancing measures. There are also growing demands for a government exit strategy from the current lockdown, first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and due for review on May 7, as concerns grow over the huge impact the crisis is having on the economy. Meanwhile, a new website to offer testing for up to 10 million key workers and their families has been overwhelmed. On Saturday, health officials announced that as many as 5,000 severely ill coronavirus patients could be treated with plasma from people who have recovered from the illness as part of a new approach. Figures expected later on Saturday could push Britain's official death toll past 20,000. The number of deaths for COVID-19 in hospital currently stands at 19,506. In March, the UK's chief scientific advisor, Sir Patrick Vallance, said keeping the number of UK fatalities to less than 20,000 would be "a good outcome".

Political row hits UK govt as virus death toll nears 20,000

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000.

About 79 per cent of the total coronavirus cases in Pakistan are now locally transmitted, health authorities said.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 13 more patients died due to the novel coronavirus, taking the toll to 237 and another 2,527 recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-pakistan-prepares-for-ramazan-coronavirus-cases-surge-to-over-11500-242-dead-294577">Also read:&nbsp;As Pakistan prepares for Ramazan, coronavirus cases surge to over 11,500; 242 dead</a>

In the last 24 hours, 642 new cases were reported, taking the tally to 11,155 in the country, health officials said.

Punjab reported 4,767 patients, Sindh 3,671, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 1,541, Balochistan 607, Gilgit-Baltistan 300, Islamabad 214 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 55 patients.

So far, 13,365 tests have been done in the country, including 6,839 in the last 24 hours.

The confirmed cases are steadily increasing and the officials have warned that the peak would reach by the end of May or beginning of June.

Addressing the media in Islamabad, Planning Minister Asad Umar said, 'It has been decided that the ongoing restrictions will continue till May 9.' He said the decision was taken in a meeting of the National Coordination Committee, which was chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramzan-pak-govt-acts-against-doctors-advice-294628">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramzan: Pak govt acts against doctor's advice</a>

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday said that 79 per cent of all cases in the country were due to local transmissions.

The government has decided to introduce a track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days.

The whole situation has changed due to local transmission, it had been decided to change the policy to tackle the issue, Executive Director of the National Institute of Health Professor Aamer Ikram was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

'Earlier most of the cases were being reported in those people who were coming from abroad and even cases of local transmission were being reported among those who had come into contact with foreign travellers. However now a majority of cases are being attributed to local transmission of the virus,' he said.

Authorities also urged people to offer prayers at home on Friday when big congregations are held in mosques.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-79-covid-19-cases-in-pakistan-caused-by-local-transmission-294427">Also read:&nbsp;At least 79% COVID-19 cases in Pakistan caused by local transmission</a>

Pakistan has allowed conditional congregational prayers in mosques during Ramzan, endangering the drive to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Minister Umar asked the people to follow the restrictions during Ramzan which will start from Saturday. “The month of Ramzan will be decisive and if succeeded in reinforcing restrictions, the situation could get better after Eid,' he said.

The minister said that the Army was helping the government to tackle the COVID-19 situation. He said cash was being distributed to the poor under the Ehsaas program and it will continue during Ramazan.

'At least Rs 69 billion have been distributed among deserving people under the Ehsaas program,' he said, adding Rs 144 billion will be distributed to the poor.

Meanwhile, Asian Development Bank assured to provide 1.7 billion dollars to Pakistan to fight the impacts of coronavirus.

The assurance was given by the President of the bank during a virtual meeting with Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtiar.

Radio Pakistan reported that the bank will approve USD 800 budget support by June this year.

It will provide the next tranche of USD 900 million by the end of this year.

The budget support will be provided to Pakistan on special concessionary basis.

The Minister for Economic Affairs thanked the Asian Development Bank for extending the financial cooperation to Pakistan.

Earlier, the International Monetary Fund provided USD 1.4 billion under an emergency arrangement to help Pakistan.

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000.

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000. About 79 per cent of the total coronavirus cases in Pakistan are now locally transmitted, health authorities said. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 13 more patients died due to the novel coronavirus, taking the toll to 237 and another 2,527 recovered. Also read: As Pakistan prepares for Ramazan, coronavirus cases surge to over 11,500; 242 dead In the last 24 hours, 642 new cases were reported, taking the tally to 11,155 in the country, health officials said. Punjab reported 4,767 patients, Sindh 3,671, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 1,541, Balochistan 607, Gilgit-Baltistan 300, Islamabad 214 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 55 patients. So far, 13,365 tests have been done in the country, including 6,839 in the last 24 hours. The confirmed cases are steadily increasing and the officials have warned that the peak would reach by the end of May or beginning of June. Addressing the media in Islamabad, Planning Minister Asad Umar said, 'It has been decided that the ongoing restrictions will continue till May 9.' He said the decision was taken in a meeting of the National Coordination Committee, which was chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan. Also read: Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramzan: Pak govt acts against doctor's advice The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday said that 79 per cent of all cases in the country were due to local transmissions. The government has decided to introduce a track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days. The whole situation has changed due to local transmission, it had been decided to change the policy to tackle the issue, Executive Director of the National Institute of Health Professor Aamer Ikram was quoted as saying by the Dawn. 'Earlier most of the cases were being reported in those people who were coming from abroad and even cases of local transmission were being reported among those who had come into contact with foreign travellers. However now a majority of cases are being attributed to local transmission of the virus,' he said. Authorities also urged people to offer prayers at home on Friday when big congregations are held in mosques. Also read: At least 79% COVID-19 cases in Pakistan caused by local transmission Pakistan has allowed conditional congregational prayers in mosques during Ramzan, endangering the drive to curb the spread of coronavirus. Minister Umar asked the people to follow the restrictions during Ramzan which will start from Saturday. “The month of Ramzan will be decisive and if succeeded in reinforcing restrictions, the situation could get better after Eid,' he said. The minister said that the Army was helping the government to tackle the COVID-19 situation. He said cash was being distributed to the poor under the Ehsaas program and it will continue during Ramazan. 'At least Rs 69 billion have been distributed among deserving people under the Ehsaas program,' he said, adding Rs 144 billion will be distributed to the poor. Meanwhile, Asian Development Bank assured to provide 1.7 billion dollars to Pakistan to fight the impacts of coronavirus. The assurance was given by the President of the bank during a virtual meeting with Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtiar. Radio Pakistan reported that the bank will approve USD 800 budget support by June this year. It will provide the next tranche of USD 900 million by the end of this year. The budget support will be provided to Pakistan on special concessionary basis. The Minister for Economic Affairs thanked the Asian Development Bank for extending the financial cooperation to Pakistan. Earlier, the International Monetary Fund provided USD 1.4 billion under an emergency arrangement to help Pakistan.

Coronavirus: Pakistan extends partial lockdown till May 9

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with&nbsp;Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country.

These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-rush-to-restart-la-liga-bale-warns-294432">Also read:&nbsp;Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns</a>

Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on&nbsp;the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona&nbsp;delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours. That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country. These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US. Also read: Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain reports lowest number of coronavirus-related deaths in the past month

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between&nbsp;6 a.m. to 9 p.m.&nbsp;

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Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore &amp; Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&amp;9PM. In Salem&amp;Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 &amp; April 28 between 6 AM &amp; 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami <a href="https://t.co/vJnGL8ZUef">pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1253619843762454529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys.

According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-social-distancing-encouraged-at-tamil-nadu-ministers-event-in-madurai-293995">Also read:&nbsp;No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai</a>

With such a high number of&nbsp;positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are&nbsp;13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore & Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&9PM. In Salem&Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 & April 28 between 6 AM & 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020 × However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths. Also read: No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai With such a high number of positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are 13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19&nbsp;taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had&nbsp;comorbidity of coronary artery disease,&nbsp;was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23.

Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23.

Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-couple-stranded-in-tripura-names-their-newborn-lockdown-293913">Also read:&nbsp;Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'</a>

These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state.&nbsp;

The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.&nbsp;

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32. According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23. Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23. Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said. Also read: Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown' These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state. The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.

Two 60-year-old male patients test positive of coronavirus post-death

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

"I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM.

"It is learnt that a clearance certificate&nbsp;from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read.

The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back&nbsp;the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus.

"To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-government-takes-30-per-cent-cut-in-salary-to-overcome-covid-19-induced-financial-crisis-294132">Also read:&nbsp;Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis</a>

The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions.

"They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said.

Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection. "I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM. "It is learnt that a clearance certificate from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read. The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus. "To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further. Also read: Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions. "They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said. Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala CM requests PM to help bring back the remains of NKRs who died due to non-COVID reasons in Gulf countries

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-patients-hospitalised-with-covid-19-had-chronic-health-issues-says-study-294411" hreflang="en">Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study</a>

COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nears-50000-coronavirus-deaths-more-than-85-lakh-infected-294382">Also read |&nbsp;US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected</a>

Around 743,419 people of that tally have recovered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harvard-professor-becomes-a-billionaire-from-stake-in-company-discovering-covid-19-vaccine-294398" hreflang="en">Harvard professor becomes a billionaire from stake in company discovering Covid-19 vaccine</a>

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Europe has listed 1,293,822 cases and 115,990 deaths to date,</li>
	<li>US and Canada together have 897,961 cases with 49,377 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Asia 183,577 cases with 7,511 deaths,</li>
	<li>Middle East 141,267 cases with 6,005 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Latin America and the Caribbean 123,517 cases with 6,202 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Africa 26,856 cases with 1,279 deaths&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Oceania 7,950 cases with 98 deaths.</li>
</ul>

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The novel coronavirus has killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States, after one of the deadliest days of the pandemic which saw 3,176 deaths, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.

The deaths were recorded in the 24 hours up to 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), bringing the overall coronavirus death toll in the United States to 49,759, according to the Baltimore-based university.

The US, the worst-hit country in the world, now has 866,646 confirmed cases of coronavirus, up 26,971 from the previous day.

Due to a lack of testing, the actual number of infections is likely to be much higher.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Also read | US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected Around 743,419 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Harvard professor becomes a billionaire from stake in company discovering Covid-19 vaccine A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: Europe has listed 1,293,822 cases and 115,990 deaths to date, US and Canada together have 897,961 cases with 49,377 deaths, Asia 183,577 cases with 7,511 deaths, Middle East 141,267 cases with 6,005 deaths, Latin America and the Caribbean 123,517 cases with 6,202 deaths, Africa 26,856 cases with 1,279 deaths Oceania 7,950 cases with 98 deaths. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The novel coronavirus has killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States, after one of the deadliest days of the pandemic which saw 3,176 deaths, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University. The deaths were recorded in the 24 hours up to 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), bringing the overall coronavirus death toll in the United States to 49,759, according to the Baltimore-based university. The US, the worst-hit country in the world, now has 866,646 confirmed cases of coronavirus, up 26,971 from the previous day. Due to a lack of testing, the actual number of infections is likely to be much higher.

Global coronavirus death toll passes 190,000; US has most fatalities with over 50,000

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday.

Seventeen security forces personnel lost their lives while fighting the terrorists in the union territory, they said.

Giving details, a senior official told PTI that the slain terrorists included top commanders of JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen.

He said of the 50 terrorists killed so far this year, 18 were eliminated during the ongoing lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Four terrorists, including district commander of LeT Muzaffar Ahmed Bhat, were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Dialgam area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir on March 15, the official said, adding they belonged to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen outfits

On January 25, three terrorists, including JeM self-styled Kashmir chief Qari Yasir, were killed while three soldiers were injured in an encounter between security forces and ultras in the Tral area of south Kashmir's Pulwama district, he said.

On January 23, another top militant commander Abu Saifullah alias Abu Qasim, an associate of Yasir, was killed in the Khrew area of Pulwama district, the official said.

On April 9, top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander Sajad Nawab Dar was killed by security forces in Sopore in Baramulla district in north Kashmir, he said.

A top Hizbul Mujahideen 'commander' Haroon Wani was killed in a fierce encounter with the security forces in the Gundana area of Doda in Jammu and Kashmir on January 15, he said.

Giving further details, the officer said 18 terrorists were killed during the lockdown in the union territory since March 14.

As many as nine civilians were killed by the terrorists during this year, he said. Besides, seventeen security force personnel were killed during the same period, which includes 13 security personnel, three Special Police officers (SPOs) and one policeman, he added.

As many as 160 terrorists were killed and 102 arrested in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, Director General of Police Dilbag Singh had said earlier.&nbsp;

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday.

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday. Seventeen security forces personnel lost their lives while fighting the terrorists in the union territory, they said. Giving details, a senior official told PTI that the slain terrorists included top commanders of JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen. He said of the 50 terrorists killed so far this year, 18 were eliminated during the ongoing lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus. Four terrorists, including district commander of LeT Muzaffar Ahmed Bhat, were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Dialgam area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir on March 15, the official said, adding they belonged to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen outfits On January 25, three terrorists, including JeM self-styled Kashmir chief Qari Yasir, were killed while three soldiers were injured in an encounter between security forces and ultras in the Tral area of south Kashmir's Pulwama district, he said. On January 23, another top militant commander Abu Saifullah alias Abu Qasim, an associate of Yasir, was killed in the Khrew area of Pulwama district, the official said. On April 9, top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander Sajad Nawab Dar was killed by security forces in Sopore in Baramulla district in north Kashmir, he said. A top Hizbul Mujahideen 'commander' Haroon Wani was killed in a fierce encounter with the security forces in the Gundana area of Doda in Jammu and Kashmir on January 15, he said. Giving further details, the officer said 18 terrorists were killed during the lockdown in the union territory since March 14. As many as nine civilians were killed by the terrorists during this year, he said. Besides, seventeen security force personnel were killed during the same period, which includes 13 security personnel, three Special Police officers (SPOs) and one policeman, he added. As many as 160 terrorists were killed and 102 arrested in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, Director General of Police Dilbag Singh had said earlier.

50 terrorists gunned down in Jammu and Kashmir this year; 18 eliminated during lockdown

Human trials of a potential coronavirus vaccine will start in the UK from today. The US continues to have a lead in adding new cases to the global tally of Covid-19 infections.

Human trials of a potential coronavirus vaccine will start in the UK from today. The US continues to have a lead in adding new cases to the global tally of Covid-19 infections. COVID-19 has now infected 2,626,929 people worldwide and 183,120 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 710,405 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. Among continents, North America is the most affected at present, accounting for more cases than the combined number for Europe, the previous epicentre of the pandemic, and Asia, where the novel coronavirus was first identified. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: - Europe has listed 1,261,757 cases and 112,855 deaths to date, - US and Canada together have 875,112 cases with 47,973 deaths, - Asia 178,630 cases with 7,389 deaths, - Middle East 137,642 cases with 5,902 deaths, - Latin America and the Caribbean 116,131 cases with 5,797 deaths, - Africa 25,461 cases with 1,223 deaths - Oceania 7,942 cases with 95 deaths.

Coronavirus outbreak: Over 7 lakh coronavirus patients recovered worldwide

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR.&nbsp;

The total number of Coronavirus positive cases presently stands at 21,797. There are 16,454 active cases, while 4258 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll now stands at 681.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/1409-new-covid-19-cases-41-fatalities-in-last-24-hours-in-india-294151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The disease has already spread in over 200 countries around the world, killing lakhs of people. The US, China, and Spain are the worst affected countries in terms of cases and the number of casualties.

Reports say that several new Coronavirus patients have been found to be asymptomatic. In Delhi-NCR, the Gautam Buddha Nagar administration has completely closed Delhi-Noida border. Only essential vehicles will be allowed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR. The total number of Coronavirus positive cases presently stands at 21,797. There are 16,454 active cases, while 4258 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll now stands at 681. The disease has already spread in over 200 countries around the world, killing lakhs of people. The US, China, and Spain are the worst affected countries in terms of cases and the number of casualties. Reports say that several new Coronavirus patients have been found to be asymptomatic. In Delhi-NCR, the Gautam Buddha Nagar administration has completely closed Delhi-Noida border. Only essential vehicles will be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

21,797 COVID-19 cases in India confirmed, says ICMR; 5 lakh samples tested

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said.

"In India, remittances are projected to fall by about 23 per cent in 2020, to USD 64 billion - a striking contrast with the growth of 5.5 per cent and receipts of USD 83 billion seen in 2019," the World Bank said in a report on the impact of COVID-19 on migration and remittances released on Wednesday.

Globally remittances are projected to decline sharply by about 20 per cent this year due to the economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown.

The projected fall, which would be the sharpest decline in recent history, is largely due to a fall in the wages and employment of migrant workers, who tend to be more vulnerable to loss of employment and wages during an economic crisis in a host country, the bank said.

"Remittances are a vital source of income for developing countries. The ongoing economic recession caused by COVID-19 is taking a severe toll on the ability to send money home and makes it all the more vital that we shorten the time to recovery for advanced economies," said World Bank Group President David Malpass.

"Remittances help families afford food, healthcare, and basic needs. As the World Bank Group implements fast, broad action to support countries, we are working to keep remittance channels open and safeguard the poorest communities'' access to these most basic needs," he added.

Remittance flows are expected to fall across all World Bank Group regions, most notably in Europe and Central Asia (27.5 per cent), followed by Sub-Saharan Africa (23.1 per cent), South Asia (22.1 per cent), the Middle East and North Africa (19.6 per cent), Latin America and the Caribbean (19.3 per cent), and East Asia and the Pacific (13 per cent).

In Pakistan, the projected decline is also about 23 per cent, totalling about USD 17 billion, compared with a total of USD 22.5 billion last year, when remittances grew by 6.2 per cent.

In Bangladesh, remittances are projected at USD 14 billion this year, a likely fall of about 22 per cent.

Remittances to Nepal and Sri Lanka are expected to decline by 14 percent and 19 percent, respectively this year.&nbsp;

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said.

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said. "In India, remittances are projected to fall by about 23 per cent in 2020, to USD 64 billion - a striking contrast with the growth of 5.5 per cent and receipts of USD 83 billion seen in 2019," the World Bank said in a report on the impact of COVID-19 on migration and remittances released on Wednesday. Globally remittances are projected to decline sharply by about 20 per cent this year due to the economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown. The projected fall, which would be the sharpest decline in recent history, is largely due to a fall in the wages and employment of migrant workers, who tend to be more vulnerable to loss of employment and wages during an economic crisis in a host country, the bank said. "Remittances are a vital source of income for developing countries. The ongoing economic recession caused by COVID-19 is taking a severe toll on the ability to send money home and makes it all the more vital that we shorten the time to recovery for advanced economies," said World Bank Group President David Malpass. "Remittances help families afford food, healthcare, and basic needs. As the World Bank Group implements fast, broad action to support countries, we are working to keep remittance channels open and safeguard the poorest communities'' access to these most basic needs," he added. Remittance flows are expected to fall across all World Bank Group regions, most notably in Europe and Central Asia (27.5 per cent), followed by Sub-Saharan Africa (23.1 per cent), South Asia (22.1 per cent), the Middle East and North Africa (19.6 per cent), Latin America and the Caribbean (19.3 per cent), and East Asia and the Pacific (13 per cent). In Pakistan, the projected decline is also about 23 per cent, totalling about USD 17 billion, compared with a total of USD 22.5 billion last year, when remittances grew by 6.2 per cent. In Bangladesh, remittances are projected at USD 14 billion this year, a likely fall of about 22 per cent. Remittances to Nepal and Sri Lanka are expected to decline by 14 percent and 19 percent, respectively this year.

India remittances may fall to $64 billion from $83 billion amid covid-19

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis.

While briefing the press, Vijayan said that the government will deduct the salary of state employees -- ministers, MLAs, members of different boards under the government and members of local self-government bodies for six days every month for the next five months. While those earning less than Rs 20,000 per month would be exempted from the scheme.&nbsp;

"The state is going through a fiscal crisis as the tax collection revenue has fallen drastically and remittances from expatriates have also stopped,” said Vijayan. “Expenses for healthcare services and food safety are unavoidable," he added.

Vijayan also said that the government needs to mop up additional resources within the state and it is a matter of relief that people across different sections of the society have contributed to the Chief Minister`s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis.

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis. While briefing the press, Vijayan said that the government will deduct the salary of state employees -- ministers, MLAs, members of different boards under the government and members of local self-government bodies for six days every month for the next five months. While those earning less than Rs 20,000 per month would be exempted from the scheme. "The state is going through a fiscal crisis as the tax collection revenue has fallen drastically and remittances from expatriates have also stopped,” said Vijayan. “Expenses for healthcare services and food safety are unavoidable," he added. Vijayan also said that the government needs to mop up additional resources within the state and it is a matter of relief that people across different sections of the society have contributed to the Chief Minister`s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it.

The World Health Organization has warned that the coronavirus crisis will not end any time soon.

"Make no mistake: we have a long way to go. This virus will be with us for a long time," Tedros told a virtual press conference.

"Most countries are still in the early stages of their epidemics. And some that were affected early in the pandemic are now starting to see a resurgence in cases."

From Globalisation to economic activities the current crisis could upturn everything we take for granted.&nbsp;

More than 183,120 people around the world have died after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The infection has spread to 2,626,929 people in more than 100 countries and shows no signs of slowing down. The intensity of its impact signals fundamental shifts in the way humans will live and work.&nbsp;

Nations around the world have been scrambling to fight the pandemic while desperately seeking ways to limit the devastating economic fallout. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it.

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it. The World Health Organization has warned that the coronavirus crisis will not end any time soon. "Make no mistake: we have a long way to go. This virus will be with us for a long time," Tedros told a virtual press conference. "Most countries are still in the early stages of their epidemics. And some that were affected early in the pandemic are now starting to see a resurgence in cases." From Globalisation to economic activities the current crisis could upturn everything we take for granted. More than 183,120 people around the world have died after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The infection has spread to 2,626,929 people in more than 100 countries and shows no signs of slowing down. The intensity of its impact signals fundamental shifts in the way humans will live and work. Nations around the world have been scrambling to fight the pandemic while desperately seeking ways to limit the devastating economic fallout. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus crisis is not going away anytime soon: WHO

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it.

Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic,

Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, &nbsp;informing them about the launch of the vaccine program

In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television.

In her program, a letter claiming that this so-called vaccine program would take 3 months minimum to start its trials.

The letter states that the company has offered to do clinical trials on patients in Pakistan first.

It also mentions that China's request for clinical trials and recruitment of test-patients for phase 1 and 2 tests.

According to the claims, if clinical trials are conducted in Pakistan and it turns out successful, then it will be the first nation to get the vaccine on a high-priority basis.

We would like to inform our viewers that nowhere in the world has a vaccine for the coronavirus been developed yet.

It takes several phases of clinical trials before scientific communities declare &nbsp;a vaccine safe for human use

Saadia Afzal is a prominent Pakistani journalist and wife of Faisal, federal minister for water resources.

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it. Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic, Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, informing them about the launch of the vaccine program In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television.

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it. Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic, Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, informing them about the launch of the vaccine program In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television. In her program, a letter claiming that this so-called vaccine program would take 3 months minimum to start its trials. The letter states that the company has offered to do clinical trials on patients in Pakistan first. It also mentions that China's request for clinical trials and recruitment of test-patients for phase 1 and 2 tests. According to the claims, if clinical trials are conducted in Pakistan and it turns out successful, then it will be the first nation to get the vaccine on a high-priority basis. We would like to inform our viewers that nowhere in the world has a vaccine for the coronavirus been developed yet. It takes several phases of clinical trials before scientific communities declare a vaccine safe for human use Saadia Afzal is a prominent Pakistani journalist and wife of Faisal, federal minister for water resources.

China to conduct clinical trials on Pakistani patients for COVID-19 vaccine

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. &nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia".

WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine.

Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. &nbsp;I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context.

WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. &nbsp;We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. &nbsp;India and Australia are part of such global efforts.

WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: &nbsp;The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. &nbsp;Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country.

It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause.

A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. &nbsp;

The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. &nbsp;And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy.

WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia?&nbsp;

Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. &nbsp;To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. &nbsp;Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. &nbsp;We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. &nbsp;Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them.

To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. &nbsp;We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians.

Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. &nbsp;Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations &amp; individuals although there are challenges here.

We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. &nbsp;Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs &amp; Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals.

There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. &nbsp;The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. &nbsp;Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. &nbsp;Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia". WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine. Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context. WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. India and Australia are part of such global efforts. WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? Gitesh Sarma: The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country. It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause. A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy. WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia? Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them. To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians. Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations & individuals although there are challenges here. We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs & Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals. There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Sympathetic to Australia's requirement on medicines, says Indian envoy to Australia

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta.

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air."

The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere.

If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite.

In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta.

Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation.

"After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said.

On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities.

Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart.

In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors.

"This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution.

"We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. "We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air." The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere. If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite. In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta. Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation. "After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said. On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities. Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart. In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors. "This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution. "We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over North India plummets to 20-year-low amid lockdown, says NASA

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-agents-fuelled-panic-in-us-by-spreading-fake-warnings-says-report-294154">Also read: Chinese agents fuelled panic in US by spreading fake warnings, says report</a> 
 
This came after stringent measures were announced for Pyongyang revealed by media filings. There was a shortage mainly for imported fruits and vegetables initially but now it spread to other goods as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-timeline-shifts-three-weeks-earlier-in-wake-of-new-disclosure-294142" hreflang="en">US coronavirus timeline shifts three weeks earlier in wake of new disclosure</a>

Media houses also reported that the price of staple food items was rising after the capital witnessed a steep rise in demand and people indulging in panic buying.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-asymptomatic-cases-increase-to-over-980-294139" hreflang="en">China's asymptomatic cases increase to over 980</a>

North Korea had sealed its border in January when it saw a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in China. Kim’s government claims that the country has no confirmed cases but U.S. is fairly confident that North Korea has cases, seeing a lack in military activities, according to General Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, told to reporters in March.

Shortage of food in North Korea is not new, a famine in the 1990s had killed 10 per cent of the population, according to data.

The United Nation World Food Program warned earlier this week that the pandemic might make things worse leading to starvation in the developing countries. The WFP said that 40 per cent of North Korea is undernourished.&nbsp;

Apart from coronavirus fears, one more reason appears related to this panic buying and that is rumours about leader Kim Jong Un's health.

North Korean state media made no mention of new appearances by leader Kim Jong Un, amid continued international speculation over his health following reports he underwent surgery.&nbsp;

Kim was not present for his grandfather’s and state founder, Kim IL Sung’s birthday celebrations. He has not been since there is rising conjecture of his ill health.

News agency in Korea reported that the North Korean President had written a letter to the Syrian president, Bashar-al-Assad.

US officials were told on Monday that Kim was critical after undergoing the cardiovascular surgery last week and was not sure about his current condition. Whereas the South Korean President’s office said that Kim is doing his regular work in the rural parts of the country.

The health conditions of the North Korean President is a protected secret, known only to a few close people. Donald Trump said that he is not aware of Kim’s heath currently but he will reach out to him.&nbsp;

“I assume that Kim Jong-un is still in full control of the Korean nuclear forces and the Korean military forces. I have no reason not to assume that,” said General John Hyten, vice chairman, U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country.

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country. Also read: Chinese agents fuelled panic in US by spreading fake warnings, says report This came after stringent measures were announced for Pyongyang revealed by media filings. There was a shortage mainly for imported fruits and vegetables initially but now it spread to other goods as well. Also read: US coronavirus timeline shifts three weeks earlier in wake of new disclosure Media houses also reported that the price of staple food items was rising after the capital witnessed a steep rise in demand and people indulging in panic buying. Also read: China's asymptomatic cases increase to over 980 North Korea had sealed its border in January when it saw a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in China. Kim’s government claims that the country has no confirmed cases but U.S. is fairly confident that North Korea has cases, seeing a lack in military activities, according to General Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, told to reporters in March. Shortage of food in North Korea is not new, a famine in the 1990s had killed 10 per cent of the population, according to data. The United Nation World Food Program warned earlier this week that the pandemic might make things worse leading to starvation in the developing countries. The WFP said that 40 per cent of North Korea is undernourished. Apart from coronavirus fears, one more reason appears related to this panic buying and that is rumours about leader Kim Jong Un's health. North Korean state media made no mention of new appearances by leader Kim Jong Un, amid continued international speculation over his health following reports he underwent surgery. Kim was not present for his grandfather’s and state founder, Kim IL Sung’s birthday celebrations. He has not been since there is rising conjecture of his ill health. News agency in Korea reported that the North Korean President had written a letter to the Syrian president, Bashar-al-Assad. US officials were told on Monday that Kim was critical after undergoing the cardiovascular surgery last week and was not sure about his current condition. Whereas the South Korean President’s office said that Kim is doing his regular work in the rural parts of the country. The health conditions of the North Korean President is a protected secret, known only to a few close people. Donald Trump said that he is not aware of Kim’s heath currently but he will reach out to him. “I assume that Kim Jong-un is still in full control of the Korean nuclear forces and the Korean military forces. I have no reason not to assume that,” said General John Hyten, vice chairman, U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff.

North Korean capital witness panic buying of food after strict covid-19 norms announced

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said.

The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said.

"We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said.

Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said.

"We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said.

The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests.

"Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said.

"Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday. The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said. The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said. "We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said. Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said. "We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said. The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests. "Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said. "Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

Aggressive evacuation of suspected patients in Dharavi planned: Maharashtra Minister

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month.

According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number.&nbsp;

The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared.&nbsp;

The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8.

If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing.

Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870.

In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number. The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared. The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8. If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing. Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870. In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 25 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-faulty-test-kits-deal-a-body-blow-to-indias-fight-against-wuhan-virus-293858">Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus</a> 
 
COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 &nbsp;people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-treatment-chloroquine-and-hydroxychloroquine-can-cause-heart-problems-292401">COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems</a>

Around 681,477 people of that tally have recovered.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. 
 
COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Europe has listed 1,234,340 cases and 109,381 deaths to date,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>US and Canada together have 841,584 cases with 44,982 deaths,</li>
	<li>Asia 174,020 cases with 7,191 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Middle East 133,221 cases with 5,784 deaths,</li>
	<li>Latin America and the Caribbean 109,739 cases with 5,377 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Africa 24,409 cases with 1,195 deaths</li>
	<li>Oceania 7,927 cases with 91 deaths</li>
</ul>

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The coronavirus death toll in the United States -- the country with the most fatalities in the pandemic -- has climbed by 2,751 in the past 24 hours, the latest tally from Johns Hopkins University showed Tuesday.

The US has recorded more than 800,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, according to the Baltimore-based university, with 44,845 deaths.

Nearly 40,000 new cases were reported between Monday at 8:30 pm local time, and Tuesday at the same time, the university said.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 25 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 25 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic. COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems Around 681,477 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: Europe has listed 1,234,340 cases and 109,381 deaths to date, US and Canada together have 841,584 cases with 44,982 deaths, Asia 174,020 cases with 7,191 deaths, Middle East 133,221 cases with 5,784 deaths, Latin America and the Caribbean 109,739 cases with 5,377 deaths, Africa 24,409 cases with 1,195 deaths Oceania 7,927 cases with 91 deaths The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The coronavirus death toll in the United States -- the country with the most fatalities in the pandemic -- has climbed by 2,751 in the past 24 hours, the latest tally from Johns Hopkins University showed Tuesday. The US has recorded more than 800,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, according to the Baltimore-based university, with 44,845 deaths. Nearly 40,000 new cases were reported between Monday at 8:30 pm local time, and Tuesday at the same time, the university said.

Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday.

The council also informed that around four lakh samples have been collected to date.&nbsp;

“There is only one study that suggests there are 80% cases. Secondly, in the case of asymptomatic, where the symptoms are not very clear, the chances of a patient coming and reporting the case, too, becomes low. I am now saying for the first time that if we look at the number of tests done, so far 31% belong to symptomatic category and the rest 69% would fall under asymptomatic…we can say that for every single case detected there would be two cases that may be termed as asymptomatic," aid Dr R R Gangakhedkar, ICMR head of epidemiology and communicable diseases.

Experts believe that there is a chance that some asymptomatic people may have been carriers of the virus for a while without knowing. However, the numbers are very high in this scenario, otherwise, it would have lead to a higher number of positive cases. The officials also believe that if more testing was needed in such a scenario, the protocols will be revised accordingly.

All cases, even with very mild and mild symptoms, are identified through surveillance and contact tracing. The asymptomatic cases have been divided into three categories: purely asymptomatic, pre-asymptomatic and asymptomatic. The experts explained their pre-emptive approach and told that even in case of mild symptoms, the tests are conducted and taken care of.&nbsp;

As of now, according to data provided by ICMR, over four lakh samples have been tested, out of which 18,601 cases were tested positive.

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday.

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday. The council also informed that around four lakh samples have been collected to date. “There is only one study that suggests there are 80% cases. Secondly, in the case of asymptomatic, where the symptoms are not very clear, the chances of a patient coming and reporting the case, too, becomes low. I am now saying for the first time that if we look at the number of tests done, so far 31% belong to symptomatic category and the rest 69% would fall under asymptomatic…we can say that for every single case detected there would be two cases that may be termed as asymptomatic," aid Dr R R Gangakhedkar, ICMR head of epidemiology and communicable diseases. Experts believe that there is a chance that some asymptomatic people may have been carriers of the virus for a while without knowing. However, the numbers are very high in this scenario, otherwise, it would have lead to a higher number of positive cases. The officials also believe that if more testing was needed in such a scenario, the protocols will be revised accordingly. All cases, even with very mild and mild symptoms, are identified through surveillance and contact tracing. The asymptomatic cases have been divided into three categories: purely asymptomatic, pre-asymptomatic and asymptomatic. The experts explained their pre-emptive approach and told that even in case of mild symptoms, the tests are conducted and taken care of. As of now, according to data provided by ICMR, over four lakh samples have been tested, out of which 18,601 cases were tested positive.

More of asymptomatic positive cases in India, says ICMR

US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade deal with China if Beijing did not honour its provisions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that originated in the country. While China has reported 82,788 novel coronavirus cases, including 4,632 fatalities, the US-registered over 824,600 cases and more than 45,290 deaths -- the highest in the world.

China and the US in January signed Phase-1 of the trade deal as the world's two top economic powers move forward to end their bitter tit-for-tat two-year tariff war that had rattled markets and weighed on the global economy.

The deal, which calls on China to buy USD 200 billion worth of US products, is set to move ahead as planned. However, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission in a report said China could invoke a clause in the agreement that allows for fresh trade consultations between the two countries "in the event of a natural disaster or other unforeseeable events". "If that happens, we'll do a termination and we'll do what I can do better than anybody," Trump told reporters on Tuesday during his daily White House press conference on coronavirus.

The president was responding to a question as to how confident he is that the Chinese are not going to invoke the natural disaster clause mentioned in the trade deal.

"There is nobody ever been tougher on China than me," Trump said, reiterating that China had been ripping the US off for years till he was elected as the president.

"Take a look, USD 200 billion, USD 300 billion, USD 400 billion, USD 500 billion a year. How did they ever let a thing like this happen? Now, if you look at this last year, the deficit went way down to the world," he said.

Trump launched the trade war with China in 2018, demanding Beijing to reduce the massive trade deficit, which was USD 375.6 billion in 2017. The two countries so far have imposed additional tariffs on nearly USD half-trillion worth of goods.

The US has imposed tariffs on more than USD 360 billions of Chinese goods, and China has retaliated with tariffs on over USD 110 billions of American products. "Now it's much different. But a lot of things are happening. Great things were happening except all of these sudden out of nowhere came the invisible enemy. We think we know where it came from, and we'll be talking about that probably a lot, but came the invisible enemy. There's nobody tougher than me on China," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade deal with China if Beijing did not honour its provisions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that originated in the country.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade deal with China if Beijing did not honour its provisions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that originated in the country. While China has reported 82,788 novel coronavirus cases, including 4,632 fatalities, the US-registered over 824,600 cases and more than 45,290 deaths -- the highest in the world. China and the US in January signed Phase-1 of the trade deal as the world's two top economic powers move forward to end their bitter tit-for-tat two-year tariff war that had rattled markets and weighed on the global economy. The deal, which calls on China to buy USD 200 billion worth of US products, is set to move ahead as planned. However, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission in a report said China could invoke a clause in the agreement that allows for fresh trade consultations between the two countries "in the event of a natural disaster or other unforeseeable events". "If that happens, we'll do a termination and we'll do what I can do better than anybody," Trump told reporters on Tuesday during his daily White House press conference on coronavirus. The president was responding to a question as to how confident he is that the Chinese are not going to invoke the natural disaster clause mentioned in the trade deal. "There is nobody ever been tougher on China than me," Trump said, reiterating that China had been ripping the US off for years till he was elected as the president. "Take a look, USD 200 billion, USD 300 billion, USD 400 billion, USD 500 billion a year. How did they ever let a thing like this happen? Now, if you look at this last year, the deficit went way down to the world," he said. Trump launched the trade war with China in 2018, demanding Beijing to reduce the massive trade deficit, which was USD 375.6 billion in 2017. The two countries so far have imposed additional tariffs on nearly USD half-trillion worth of goods. The US has imposed tariffs on more than USD 360 billions of Chinese goods, and China has retaliated with tariffs on over USD 110 billions of American products. "Now it's much different. But a lot of things are happening. Great things were happening except all of these sudden out of nowhere came the invisible enemy. We think we know where it came from, and we'll be talking about that probably a lot, but came the invisible enemy. There's nobody tougher than me on China," Trump said.

Trump threatens to terminate trade deal if China does not honour it citing coronavirus crisis

Residents of the New York's Westchester County on Monday sued the World Health Organization, accusing it of gross negligence in covering up and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residents of the New York's Westchester County on Monday sued the World Health Organization, accusing it of gross negligence in covering up and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Three residents of Westchester County accused the WHO of failing to quickly declare a pandemic, monitor China’s response to the original outbreak, provide treatment guidelines, advise members on how to respond including through travel restrictions, and coordinate a global response. The lead plaintiffs in the suit — Richard Kling, a doctor, Steve Rotker, and Gennaro Purchia — claim they were “injured and damaged by WHO’s negligent conduct.” President Trump last week had frozen funds to the United Nations health agency over "mismanaging" the crisis and not acting fast enough as the disease spread worldwide. The US is the biggest single contributor to the United Nations' health agency. Trump had said the virus could have been contained if the WHO had accurately assessed the situation in China, where the virus broke out. World Health Organization(WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus,55, said that there "is nothing hidden from the US from day one" while adding that "there is no secret in WHO". The US has been hit the hardest with the virus with 787,901 confirmed cases and over 42,364 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

New York residents sue World Health Organization over coronavirus response

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces.

One family came to a restaurant in Guangzhou from Wuhan, the initial hotspot of COVID-19 in China and one of them was carrying the virus unknowingly.&nbsp;

Days later, nine others who dined at the restaurant started showing symptoms of coronavirus. The virus travelled through the air conditioner duct at the restaurant and infected three families sitting in the vicinity of each other who never engaged with the other.

According to the expert, the humidity of a building may also affect the spread of infections like COVID-19.

Considering the potential use of air filtration systems, the experts found the majority of viruses, including coronavirus, are too small to capture bugs like SARS-CoV-2 and "no filter system is perfect."&nbsp;

According to experts, the use of Window ACs does not pose any additional risk of coronavirus infection, especially at a time when people are isolated inside their homes with no outside contact.

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces.

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces. One family came to a restaurant in Guangzhou from Wuhan, the initial hotspot of COVID-19 in China and one of them was carrying the virus unknowingly. Days later, nine others who dined at the restaurant started showing symptoms of coronavirus. The virus travelled through the air conditioner duct at the restaurant and infected three families sitting in the vicinity of each other who never engaged with the other. According to the expert, the humidity of a building may also affect the spread of infections like COVID-19. Considering the potential use of air filtration systems, the experts found the majority of viruses, including coronavirus, are too small to capture bugs like SARS-CoV-2 and "no filter system is perfect." According to experts, the use of Window ACs does not pose any additional risk of coronavirus infection, especially at a time when people are isolated inside their homes with no outside contact.

Central air conditioning could raise risks of coronavirus infection

After showing symptoms similar to those of the coronavirus, Egyptian doctor Ahmed Negm went into self-isolation in an old apartment, but before long he was hounded out by fearful neighbours. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-transparent-china-is-about-the-virus-the-better-for-all-german-chancellor-merkel-293640">Also read | More transparent China is about the virus, the better for all, says German Chancellor Merkel</a> 
 
While health workers in many countries are getting cheers and applause for risking their lives in the gruelling battle against the disease, in some parts of the world they face suspicion and hostility. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amid-coronavirus-pandemic-us-benchmark-wti-oil-collapses-to-001-a-barrel-293678">Also read |&nbsp;Amid coronavirus pandemic, US benchmark WTI oil collapses to $0.01 a barrel</a>

Though they are regularly hailed by the North African nation's government and media as Egypt's "white (coated) army", many health personnel have complained of being shunned and mistreated by others in society.&nbsp;

Negm had already tested negative for the virus but, mindful of the fact that he had frequently dealt with suspected cases, decided to go into confinement as a precaution.

As the 31-year-old sealed himself off from the outside world, rumours swirled around his neighbourhood in the northeastern province of Ismailia that he was infected and avoiding treatment.

He was even reported to the police.

Despite explaining his situation to them, the doctor faced continued harassment, snide remarks and pleas from some of his neighbours to leave the area because "there were many children and elderly."

Eventually, Negm moved out.

"People are gripped by panic but they're taking it too far to a point where it feels like a stigma," he told AFP.

"It's as if we have become outcasts."

Egypt's health workers, like those elsewhere, have been stretched thin by the virus, grappling with long hours, soaring caseloads and a high risk of catching the disease themselves.

Medical staff in several hospitals in Cairo and other provinces have been infected.&nbsp;

Four doctors have died out of 43 who fell ill, according to the country's doctors union.

Health workers account for some 13 percent of Egypt's total confirmed COVID-19 cases, which have risen above 3,000 including more than 200 fatalities, according to the World Health Organization.

- 'Worthless apology' -&nbsp; 
 
Even after death, one doctor who had caught the virus was targeted by fearful villagers who protested against her burial in Daqahliya province in the Nile Delta.

Authorities dispersed the hours-long demonstration and arrested 23 people as part of an investigation into what the public prosecutor described as "an act of terror".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli deplored the "disgraceful" act and urged healthcare workers to "pay no heed".

A nurse in the same province who had tested positive for the virus said she and other infected healthcare workers were contacted by strangers after their names and contact details were widely shared on social media.

"Many called to support and pray for us … but others accused us of spreading the virus and of being the source of infection," she said, wearing a mask, her voice quivering in a video posted online.

"We're exhausted. Have mercy on us. Our spirits have been destroyed."

Dina Abdelsalam, a doctor in Ismailia province, said her neighbours publicly smeared her because she works at a hospital which receives suspected coronavirus cases.

After recently moving to a new apartment to keep away from her family as a precaution, she said she was startled by her neighbours shouting in the street, accusing her of "bringing the disease" to the area.

The police intervened and her neighbours eventually apologised.

But for Abdelsalam their apology was "worthless" after they treated her like a "suspected (criminal)".

"We (medics) are suffering," she said in an online video, "and you are making it worse."

- 'Grievously detrimental' -

Other doctors from Cairo, the northern city of Alexandria and elsewhere have complained on Facebook of being refused taxi rides or food delivery due to fears of contagion.

Such treatment of healthcare workers "can make an already challenging situation far more difficult," the WHO representative in Egypt, Jean Jabbour, told AFP.&nbsp;

"Targeting essential providers ... will weaken our fight against COVID-19 and can prove grievously detrimental for the entire nation."

And as complaints surged, local media reported that lawmakers are mulling criminalising the "bullying" of medical workers.

At the same time many Egyptians appeared in recent online videos to be ignoring rules on social distancing aimed at reducing the risk of contagion in the country of 100 million people.

"They are taking it out on us instead of abandoning habits that will more likely expose them to the disease," said pharmacist Heba al-Feky, who was recently forced out of a taxi for being a health worker.&nbsp;

After showing symptoms similar to those of the coronavirus, Egyptian doctor Ahmed Negm went into self-isolation in an old apartment, but before long he was hounded out by fearful neighbours.

After showing symptoms similar to those of the coronavirus, Egyptian doctor Ahmed Negm went into self-isolation in an old apartment, but before long he was hounded out by fearful neighbours. Also read | More transparent China is about the virus, the better for all, says German Chancellor Merkel While health workers in many countries are getting cheers and applause for risking their lives in the gruelling battle against the disease, in some parts of the world they face suspicion and hostility. Also read | Amid coronavirus pandemic, US benchmark WTI oil collapses to $0.01 a barrel Though they are regularly hailed by the North African nation's government and media as Egypt's "white (coated) army", many health personnel have complained of being shunned and mistreated by others in society. Negm had already tested negative for the virus but, mindful of the fact that he had frequently dealt with suspected cases, decided to go into confinement as a precaution. As the 31-year-old sealed himself off from the outside world, rumours swirled around his neighbourhood in the northeastern province of Ismailia that he was infected and avoiding treatment. He was even reported to the police. Despite explaining his situation to them, the doctor faced continued harassment, snide remarks and pleas from some of his neighbours to leave the area because "there were many children and elderly." Eventually, Negm moved out. "People are gripped by panic but they're taking it too far to a point where it feels like a stigma," he told AFP. "It's as if we have become outcasts." Egypt's health workers, like those elsewhere, have been stretched thin by the virus, grappling with long hours, soaring caseloads and a high risk of catching the disease themselves. Medical staff in several hospitals in Cairo and other provinces have been infected. Four doctors have died out of 43 who fell ill, according to the country's doctors union. Health workers account for some 13 percent of Egypt's total confirmed COVID-19 cases, which have risen above 3,000 including more than 200 fatalities, according to the World Health Organization. - 'Worthless apology' - Even after death, one doctor who had caught the virus was targeted by fearful villagers who protested against her burial in Daqahliya province in the Nile Delta. Authorities dispersed the hours-long demonstration and arrested 23 people as part of an investigation into what the public prosecutor described as "an act of terror". Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli deplored the "disgraceful" act and urged healthcare workers to "pay no heed". A nurse in the same province who had tested positive for the virus said she and other infected healthcare workers were contacted by strangers after their names and contact details were widely shared on social media. "Many called to support and pray for us … but others accused us of spreading the virus and of being the source of infection," she said, wearing a mask, her voice quivering in a video posted online. "We're exhausted. Have mercy on us. Our spirits have been destroyed." Dina Abdelsalam, a doctor in Ismailia province, said her neighbours publicly smeared her because she works at a hospital which receives suspected coronavirus cases. After recently moving to a new apartment to keep away from her family as a precaution, she said she was startled by her neighbours shouting in the street, accusing her of "bringing the disease" to the area. The police intervened and her neighbours eventually apologised. But for Abdelsalam their apology was "worthless" after they treated her like a "suspected (criminal)". "We (medics) are suffering," she said in an online video, "and you are making it worse." - 'Grievously detrimental' - Other doctors from Cairo, the northern city of Alexandria and elsewhere have complained on Facebook of being refused taxi rides or food delivery due to fears of contagion. Such treatment of healthcare workers "can make an already challenging situation far more difficult," the WHO representative in Egypt, Jean Jabbour, told AFP. "Targeting essential providers ... will weaken our fight against COVID-19 and can prove grievously detrimental for the entire nation." And as complaints surged, local media reported that lawmakers are mulling criminalising the "bullying" of medical workers. At the same time many Egyptians appeared in recent online videos to be ignoring rules on social distancing aimed at reducing the risk of contagion in the country of 100 million people. "They are taking it out on us instead of abandoning habits that will more likely expose them to the disease," said pharmacist Heba al-Feky, who was recently forced out of a taxi for being a health worker.

Virus turns health workers in Egypt into 'outcasts'

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