Ralph McTell has updated his hit song "Streets of London" to reflect coronavirus times. After speaking with a neighbour about how the homeless could self-isolate in the midst of the pandemic, the legendary 1960s British folk music star who plays acoustic guitar decided to write a new verse to reflect this crisis.

Ralph McTell updates hit 'Streets of London' for coronavirus era

Moscow's central shopping mall "TSUM" provided employees with stylish masks with a transparent protective screen, so the boutique shop assistants stay protected while looking stylish.

Luxury Moscow store issues employees with stylish masks

Central London streets remained largely empty on Thursday (March 26) as Britain entered the third day of a virtual lockdown as the government tried to slow the spread of coronavirus.

London streets quiet as Britain adjusts to life under lockdown

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday announced that she has donated a sum of Rs 5 lakh each to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Chief Ministers Relief Funds in a bid to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Sindhu took to social media platform Twitter to make an announcement as she wrote: "I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund" for the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs ) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund" 
for the States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19. <a href="https://twitter.com/TelanganaCMO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TelanganaCMO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AndhraPradeshCM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AndhraPradeshCM</a>
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1/status/1243071265356673026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jos-buttler-hoping-for-shortened-ipl-in-wake-of-covid-19-pandemic-288606">Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Sindhu has been pretty active on social media platforms since the novel coronavirus took almost the entire world under its dreaded wings. The 2016 Rio Olympics silver medallist has been spreading awareness about the novel coronavirus by posting video messages on her social media handles.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Please stay safe <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stayhome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stayhome</a> We are a great nation and in this very difficult time let’s all fight together and overcome this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID%E3%83%BC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVIDー19</a> <a href="https://t.co/QWWzmxnw20">pic.twitter.com/QWWzmxnw20</a>
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1/status/1242755231764500481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-raj-wants-womens-ipl-next-year-says-bcci-shouldnt-wait-forever-288604">Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever</a>

<h2>Athletes stepping in</h2>

Earlier, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly donated rice worth Rs 50 lakh for the underprivileged as India continues to fight against COVID-19. Not only

Ganguly but donations have been coming through all parts of India with South superstar Pawan Kalyan also donating a total sum of Rs 2 crore to combat the spread of COVID-19.

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia even donated his entire salary for six months to Haryana coronavirus relief fund. Whereas former India opener and BJP MP Gautam Gambhir also offered to donate Rs 50 lakh from his Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) fund. Furthermore,

Tennis star Sania Mirza also joined in to raise funds to provide food and basic necessities for the daily wage workers.&nbsp;

Thus far, around 650 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reposted in India as the nation continues to be under a 21-day ‘complete lockdown’. 
&nbsp;

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday announced that she has donated a sum of Rs 5 lakh each to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Chief Ministers Relief Funds in a bid to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday announced that she has donated a sum of Rs 5 lakh each to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Chief Ministers Relief Funds in a bid to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Sindhu took to social media platform Twitter to make an announcement as she wrote: "I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund" for the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19." I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs ) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund" for the States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19. @TelanganaCMO @AndhraPradeshCM — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) March 26, 2020 × ALSO READ: Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic Sindhu has been pretty active on social media platforms since the novel coronavirus took almost the entire world under its dreaded wings. The 2016 Rio Olympics silver medallist has been spreading awareness about the novel coronavirus by posting video messages on her social media handles. Please stay safe #stayhome We are a great nation and in this very difficult time let’s all fight together and overcome this #COVIDー19 pic.twitter.com/QWWzmxnw20 — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) March 25, 2020 × ALSO READ: Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever Athletes stepping in Earlier, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly donated rice worth Rs 50 lakh for the underprivileged as India continues to fight against COVID-19. Not only Ganguly but donations have been coming through all parts of India with South superstar Pawan Kalyan also donating a total sum of Rs 2 crore to combat the spread of COVID-19. Star wrestler Bajrang Punia even donated his entire salary for six months to Haryana coronavirus relief fund. Whereas former India opener and BJP MP Gautam Gambhir also offered to donate Rs 50 lakh from his Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) fund. Furthermore, Tennis star Sania Mirza also joined in to raise funds to provide food and basic necessities for the daily wage workers. Thus far, around 650 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reposted in India as the nation continues to be under a 21-day ‘complete lockdown’.

PV Sindhu donates Rs 5 lakh each to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a complete lockdown in India for three weeks starting from 12 am on March 25 due to the rapid rise in the number of positive cases of COVID-19. The tally of confirmed cases for novel coronavirus crossed the 500-mark in India with over 30 new cases being reported from across the country on Tuesday.&nbsp;

“From 12 AM tonight there will be a complete lockdown across the country. In the view of the current situation, the nationwide complete lockdown will be in place for 21 days — three weeks. If we are not able to manage the upcoming 21 days of nationwide complete lockdown, we will be pushed back 21 years,” PM Modi said on Tuesday evening.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-opens-up-on-fate-of-ipl-2020-says-cant-say-anything-at-the-moment-288269">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment'</a>

“Today India is at the stage where our actions today, will decide that to what extent we can bring down the impact of this disaster. This is the time to strengthen our resolve again and again,” he added.&nbsp;

Reactions from sporting world started to pour in as soon as PM Modi announced that India will be under complete lockdown for three weeks starting from midnight. From Ravichandran Ashwin, who changed his Twitter handle to ‘lets stay indoors India’ to Virat Kohli, Indian sportspersons expressed their thoughts while lauding PM Modi’s move to enforce complete lockdown in a bid curb the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-japan-agree-to-postpone-2020-tokyo-olympics-by-one-year-to-be-held-no-later-than-summer-of-2021-288259">&nbsp;IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021'</a>

<h2>Here's how some of the athletes&nbsp;reacted:</h2>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> ji just announced, the whole country is going into a lockdown starting midnight today for the next 21 days. My request will remain the same, PLEASE STAY AT HOME. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SocialDistancing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SocialDistancing</a> is the only cure for Covid 19.
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1242478162723786753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
3 weeks it is ... let’s stay indoors India. I repeat the consequences of irresponsible community behaviour over the next 3 weeks could cost us 2 decades. Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji. Now let’s follow instructions rather than moaning and giving our own opinions. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirusindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirusindia</a>
— lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1242466620431192065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As advised by our honourable PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji I urge each and everyone to stay at home and do your part to help curb the pandemic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StaySafe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a>
— cheteshwar pujara (@cheteshwar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1/status/1242471789420142592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
All those who asked what can I do for my country... 
This is the time to show your loyalty! Listen to our PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji and STAY INDOORS! 
If we get through the next 21 days, WE WIN!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1242468400607133698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Please Understand the gravity of the situation. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a> and stay healthy. As advised by our Honourable PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji Let us follow a complete lockdown.
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1242474115795013638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
These 21 days are very important in the history of our nation &amp; each one of us can play our part by just staying at our homes and maintaining distance from people. Please adhere to it strictly and we shall overcome this soon <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronavirusLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronavirusLockdown</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1242476582754648069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India, stay safe at home and do your bit to curb this pandemic. <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronavirusLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronavirusLockdown</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayAtHomeSaveLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayAtHomeSaveLives</a> <a href="https://t.co/xWjgLg83PT">pic.twitter.com/xWjgLg83PT</a>
— Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from Home🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1242476079291314176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
(Locked) Down, but not out.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronavirusLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronavirusLockdown</a> <a href="https://t.co/JAYfg8EauC">pic.twitter.com/JAYfg8EauC</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1242466685744902144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Social distancing is extremely critical for each and everyone of us to follow for the next 21 days. Please stay at home &amp; wash your hands regularly, and let’s break the chain. Please don’t panic about essentials, the central &amp; state governments will ensure it<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1242479373438971916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Moreover, the sporting calendar has been left shattered with every major tournaments getting either cancelled or postponed. The biggest news in the sporting world came on Tuesday with the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting postponed to 2021.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a complete lockdown in India for three weeks starting from 12 am on March 25 due to the rapid rise in the number of positive cases of COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a complete lockdown in India for three weeks starting from 12 am on March 25 due to the rapid rise in the number of positive cases of COVID-19. The tally of confirmed cases for novel coronavirus crossed the 500-mark in India with over 30 new cases being reported from across the country on Tuesday. “From 12 AM tonight there will be a complete lockdown across the country. In the view of the current situation, the nationwide complete lockdown will be in place for 21 days — three weeks. If we are not able to manage the upcoming 21 days of nationwide complete lockdown, we will be pushed back 21 years,” PM Modi said on Tuesday evening. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment' “Today India is at the stage where our actions today, will decide that to what extent we can bring down the impact of this disaster. This is the time to strengthen our resolve again and again,” he added. Reactions from sporting world started to pour in as soon as PM Modi announced that India will be under complete lockdown for three weeks starting from midnight. From Ravichandran Ashwin, who changed his Twitter handle to ‘lets stay indoors India’ to Virat Kohli, Indian sportspersons expressed their thoughts while lauding PM Modi’s move to enforce complete lockdown in a bid curb the spread of COVID-19. ALSO READ: IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021' Here's how some of the athletes reacted: As our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri @NarendraModi ji just announced, the whole country is going into a lockdown starting midnight today for the next 21 days. My request will remain the same, PLEASE STAY AT HOME. #SocialDistancing is the only cure for Covid 19. — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 24, 2020 × 3 weeks it is ... let’s stay indoors India. I repeat the consequences of irresponsible community behaviour over the next 3 weeks could cost us 2 decades. Well done @narendramodi ji. Now let’s follow instructions rather than moaning and giving our own opinions. #coronavirusindia — lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) March 24, 2020 × As advised by our honourable PM Shri @narendramodi ji I urge each and everyone to stay at home and do your part to help curb the pandemic #StayHome #StaySafe #IndiaFightsCorona — cheteshwar pujara (@cheteshwar1) March 24, 2020 × All those who asked what can I do for my country... This is the time to show your loyalty! Listen to our PM @narendramodi ji and STAY INDOORS! If we get through the next 21 days, WE WIN!! #IndiaFightsCorona — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) March 24, 2020 × Please Understand the gravity of the situation. #IndiaFightsCorona #StayHomeStaySafe and stay healthy. As advised by our Honourable PM @narendramodi Ji Let us follow a complete lockdown. — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) March 24, 2020 × These 21 days are very important in the history of our nation & each one of us can play our part by just staying at our homes and maintaining distance from people. Please adhere to it strictly and we shall overcome this soon #CoronavirusLockdown — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) March 24, 2020 × India, stay safe at home and do your bit to curb this pandemic. @PMOIndia @narendramodi #CoronavirusLockdown #StayAtHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/xWjgLg83PT — Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from Home🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) March 24, 2020 × (Locked) Down, but not out.#CoronavirusLockdown pic.twitter.com/JAYfg8EauC — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 24, 2020 × Social distancing is extremely critical for each and everyone of us to follow for the next 21 days. Please stay at home & wash your hands regularly, and let’s break the chain. Please don’t panic about essentials, the central & state governments will ensure it#IndiaFightsCorona — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) March 24, 2020 × Moreover, the sporting calendar has been left shattered with every major tournaments getting either cancelled or postponed. The biggest news in the sporting world came on Tuesday with the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting postponed to 2021.

'Let's stay indoors India' - From Kohli to Ashwin, sports fraternity reacts as PM Narendra Modi announces complete lockdown for 21 days

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan have donated as many as 4,000 masks to the needy amid the coronavirus pandemic which has left the entire world in a stand-still. While the positive cases of COVID-19 crossed the 430-mark on Monday, the Pathan brothers decided to take a humanitarian step and donate the much-needed masks to the needy in this dire situation.

Pathan, who played 29 Test and 120 ODIs for India, took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of them explaining what they are planning to do in terms of helping the society with the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-postponement-likely-to-get-extended-amid-covid-19-pandemic-report-288071">IPL 2020 postponement likely to get extended amid COVID-19 pandemic: Report</a>

"Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned. But don't gather crowd!@iamyusufpathan #corona it's a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us?" Irfan tweeted on Monday.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned.But don’t gather crowd! <a href="https://twitter.com/iamyusufpathan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamyusufpathan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/corona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#corona</a> it’s a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us... <a href="https://t.co/7oG7Sx4wfF">pic.twitter.com/7oG7Sx4wfF</a>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1242037521183195137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In the video, Irfan explained that the masks have been brought in the name of Mehmood Khan Pathan Charitable Trust – run by his father – while adding that all the masks will be handed over to Vadodara health department in this time of need. He further said that the masks will be distributed to the needy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-bala-devi-extends-stay-in-scotland-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-says-rangers-fc-taking-full-care-288059">EXCLUSIVE: Bala Devi extends stay in Scotland amid coronavirus pandemic, says 'Rangers FC taking full care'</a>

As per the Union health ministry, the number of positive coronavirus cases, in India, have crossed 430 with global death toll crossing the 15,000-mark with close to 3,50,000 confirmed cases.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the sporting calendar has been completely shattered by the global pandemic with every sporting league, across sports, getting cancelled or postponed. There are dark clouds hovering around the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well with Canada on Monday becoming the first nation to pull out its name from the quadrennial event. 
<o:p></o:p>

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan have donated as many as 4,000 masks to the needy amid the coronavirus pandemic which has left the entire world in a stand-still.

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan have donated as many as 4,000 masks to the needy amid the coronavirus pandemic which has left the entire world in a stand-still. While the positive cases of COVID-19 crossed the 430-mark on Monday, the Pathan brothers decided to take a humanitarian step and donate the much-needed masks to the needy in this dire situation. Pathan, who played 29 Test and 120 ODIs for India, took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of them explaining what they are planning to do in terms of helping the society with the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 postponement likely to get extended amid COVID-19 pandemic: Report "Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned. But don't gather crowd!@iamyusufpathan #corona it's a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us?" Irfan tweeted on Monday. Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned.But don’t gather crowd! @iamyusufpathan #corona it’s a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us... pic.twitter.com/7oG7Sx4wfF — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) March 23, 2020 × In the video, Irfan explained that the masks have been brought in the name of Mehmood Khan Pathan Charitable Trust – run by his father – while adding that all the masks will be handed over to Vadodara health department in this time of need. He further said that the masks will be distributed to the needy. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Bala Devi extends stay in Scotland amid coronavirus pandemic, says 'Rangers FC taking full care' As per the Union health ministry, the number of positive coronavirus cases, in India, have crossed 430 with global death toll crossing the 15,000-mark with close to 3,50,000 confirmed cases. Meanwhile, the sporting calendar has been completely shattered by the global pandemic with every sporting league, across sports, getting cancelled or postponed. There are dark clouds hovering around the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well with Canada on Monday becoming the first nation to pull out its name from the quadrennial event.

WATCH: 'Doing our bit for the society' - Irfan and Yusuf Pathan donate face masks amid COVID-19 pandemic

While millions in the Philippines are finding tight restrictions a little difficult, home quarantine would be luxury for the thousands of urban street dwellers who have no homes to go to.

But temporary shelters being set up in the capital Manila are making life a little easier for those whose presence on the streets is in breach of coronavirus lockdown measures, putting them at risk of arrest.

Tents have since last week been set up at one shelter in a Manila gymnasium, where people wearing cloth masks napped on mats or read books, fanning themselves with sheets of cardboard.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-inadequate-testing-techniques-causing-silent-carriers-to-spread-covid-19-288044" hreflang="en">Are inadequate testing techniques causing 'silent carriers' to spread COVID-19?</a>

Not all those were permanently on the streets. Some had travelled from the countryside in search of work, but got stranded when the authorities shut down the capital, a city of at least 13 million people.

Social workers said the conditions were far better than on the streets.

"They are given meals three times a day regularly," said social worker Lourdes Penalosa.

"We have a good supply of diapers for babies and sanitary napkins for the women. They are also allowed to bathe every morning."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-facebooks-mark-zuckerberg-donates-720000-masks-to-health-workers-287990" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg donates 720,000 masks to health workers</a>

The Philippines has reported 462 cases of coronavirus and 33 deaths, but health authorities are concerned that the number of infections could be far greater, with only a limited number of tests carried out.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is seeking emergency powers to allow him to redistribute funds and order private and state-run businesses to help the fight against the spread.

While millions in the Philippines are finding tight restrictions a little difficult, home quarantine would be luxury for the thousands of urban street dwellers who have no homes to go to.

While millions in the Philippines are finding tight restrictions a little difficult, home quarantine would be luxury for the thousands of urban street dwellers who have no homes to go to. But temporary shelters being set up in the capital Manila are making life a little easier for those whose presence on the streets is in breach of coronavirus lockdown measures, putting them at risk of arrest. Tents have since last week been set up at one shelter in a Manila gymnasium, where people wearing cloth masks napped on mats or read books, fanning themselves with sheets of cardboard. Also read: Are inadequate testing techniques causing 'silent carriers' to spread COVID-19? Not all those were permanently on the streets. Some had travelled from the countryside in search of work, but got stranded when the authorities shut down the capital, a city of at least 13 million people. Social workers said the conditions were far better than on the streets. "They are given meals three times a day regularly," said social worker Lourdes Penalosa. "We have a good supply of diapers for babies and sanitary napkins for the women. They are also allowed to bathe every morning." Also read: Coronavirus: Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg donates 720,000 masks to health workers The Philippines has reported 462 cases of coronavirus and 33 deaths, but health authorities are concerned that the number of infections could be far greater, with only a limited number of tests carried out. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is seeking emergency powers to allow him to redistribute funds and order private and state-run businesses to help the fight against the spread.

Home quarantine no option for thousands in Philippines

Dormant carriers of the novel coronavirus COVID-19, or “silent carriers”, as they are being&nbsp; dubbed show no evident symptoms of the virus or display symptoms very later on, may account for almost one-third of the total positive cases, the South China Morning Post reported.

The portal further claimed that these documents were classified.&nbsp;

By the end of February 2020, around 43,000 people had tested positive for the virus in China, but remained asymptomatic.&nbsp;

Even though the authorities had placed them under quarantine, these people were not included in the official tally. During that time, government sources claimed 80,000 were infected.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8eb91d79-86e1-48d1-92b0-92924d5c40eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_108.jpg" /> 
People, wearing face masks as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus, sit at a bus stop in front of an advertisement for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics| AFP</h6>

With the incubation period lasting for as long as three weeks in rare cases, it’s hard to ascertain the role played by silent carriers.

With different tally systems in place, countries have taken different approaches to count their cases.

The World Health Organisation claims that people who test positive with or without symptoms shall be included in the tally of confirmed cases.&nbsp;

South Korea has followed this calculative model. However, China changed its approach starting February 7, and started to include people in the tally only if they displayed considerable symptoms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-lockdown-due-to-coronavirus-is-the-world-staring-at-another-great-depression-287950" hreflang="en">With lockdown due to coronavirus, is the world staring at another Great Depression?</a>

The model followed by China and South Korea includes testing anybody who may have come in contact with a person carrying the coronavirus, which helps in consolidating the numbers accurately.

However, many countries around the globe have opted for testing only people with symptoms, explaining why the number of cases have been rising tremendously in European countries like France and Italy.

The WHO had earlier claimed that the transmission from and among asymptomatic people was “extremely rare”.&nbsp; However, their recent report claims that one to three per cent of coronavirus transmission is caused by asymptomatic patients.

The major gap between cases counted in China and the rest of the world may be due to the different approach at testing patients.

Due to the extensive testing undertaken in South Korea, more than 20 per cent cases were asymptomatic. This could explain how the country was able to effectively contain the spread of the virus.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-dos-and-dont-in-the-situation-of-lockdown-288016/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Italy, which has surpassed the Chinese death toll and is now being called the new epicentre of the virus has almost 44 per cent asymptomatic cases. The intensity of the havoc caused by the virus in the country may be attributed to the fact that majority of the testing is limited to people who show symptoms.

The number of asymptomatic cases and the health risk they post to others may be much higher than anticipated. For instance, Hong Kong recorded 138 cases of the virus, out of which 16 showed no symptoms.

This is in stark contrast to the official data released by China, for they claimed only 889 people were asymptomatic out of the 44,672 cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponing-tokyo-olympics-may-become-inevitable-says-japan-pm-abe-as-coronavirus-emergency-grows-287958" hreflang="en">Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows</a>

Even though the WHO claims that dormant carriers were not a key factor in the transmission, it seems like the role played by such carriers may have been swept under the rug.

Before the virus was identified, it was referred to as a pneumonia outbreak, for the symptoms were similar. A reported obtained by the South China Morning Post claimed that undocumented cases that displayed pneumonia like symptoms were responsible for 79 per cent of the documented cases in Wuhan.

Another study undertaken by the University of Texas at Austin claims that asymptomatic or pre symptomatic patients were responsible for at least ten per cent transmission in 93 Chinese cities.

As of now, based on the Johns Hopkins University tracker, at least 341,000 people have been infected with COVID-19. Around 14,700 have died.

Starting today, more than 750 million people in India have been placed under lockdown until March 31. Restrictions are travel, work, and movement based.

The US recently reported 400 deaths owing to the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-facebooks-mark-zuckerberg-donates-720000-masks-to-health-workers-287990" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg donates 720,000 masks to health workers</a>

Dormant carriers of the novel coronavirus COVID-19, or “silent carriers”, as they are being dubbed show no evident symptoms of the virus or display symptoms very later on, may account for almost one-third of the total positive cases, the South China Morning Post reported.

Dormant carriers of the novel coronavirus COVID-19, or “silent carriers”, as they are being dubbed show no evident symptoms of the virus or display symptoms very later on, may account for almost one-third of the total positive cases, the South China Morning Post reported. The portal further claimed that these documents were classified. By the end of February 2020, around 43,000 people had tested positive for the virus in China, but remained asymptomatic. Even though the authorities had placed them under quarantine, these people were not included in the official tally. During that time, government sources claimed 80,000 were infected. People, wearing face masks as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus, sit at a bus stop in front of an advertisement for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics| AFP With the incubation period lasting for as long as three weeks in rare cases, it’s hard to ascertain the role played by silent carriers. With different tally systems in place, countries have taken different approaches to count their cases. The World Health Organisation claims that people who test positive with or without symptoms shall be included in the tally of confirmed cases. South Korea has followed this calculative model. However, China changed its approach starting February 7, and started to include people in the tally only if they displayed considerable symptoms. Also read: With lockdown due to coronavirus, is the world staring at another Great Depression? The model followed by China and South Korea includes testing anybody who may have come in contact with a person carrying the coronavirus, which helps in consolidating the numbers accurately. However, many countries around the globe have opted for testing only people with symptoms, explaining why the number of cases have been rising tremendously in European countries like France and Italy. The WHO had earlier claimed that the transmission from and among asymptomatic people was “extremely rare”. However, their recent report claims that one to three per cent of coronavirus transmission is caused by asymptomatic patients. The major gap between cases counted in China and the rest of the world may be due to the different approach at testing patients. Due to the extensive testing undertaken in South Korea, more than 20 per cent cases were asymptomatic. This could explain how the country was able to effectively contain the spread of the virus. Italy, which has surpassed the Chinese death toll and is now being called the new epicentre of the virus has almost 44 per cent asymptomatic cases. The intensity of the havoc caused by the virus in the country may be attributed to the fact that majority of the testing is limited to people who show symptoms. The number of asymptomatic cases and the health risk they post to others may be much higher than anticipated. For instance, Hong Kong recorded 138 cases of the virus, out of which 16 showed no symptoms. This is in stark contrast to the official data released by China, for they claimed only 889 people were asymptomatic out of the 44,672 cases. Also read: Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows Even though the WHO claims that dormant carriers were not a key factor in the transmission, it seems like the role played by such carriers may have been swept under the rug. Before the virus was identified, it was referred to as a pneumonia outbreak, for the symptoms were similar. A reported obtained by the South China Morning Post claimed that undocumented cases that displayed pneumonia like symptoms were responsible for 79 per cent of the documented cases in Wuhan. Another study undertaken by the University of Texas at Austin claims that asymptomatic or pre symptomatic patients were responsible for at least ten per cent transmission in 93 Chinese cities. As of now, based on the Johns Hopkins University tracker, at least 341,000 people have been infected with COVID-19. Around 14,700 have died. Starting today, more than 750 million people in India have been placed under lockdown until March 31. Restrictions are travel, work, and movement based. The US recently reported 400 deaths owing to the virus. Also read: Coronavirus: Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg donates 720,000 masks to health workers

Are inadequate testing techniques causing 'silent carriers' to spread COVID-19?

Sri Lankan batting great Kumar Sangakkara has said he is currently in self-quarantine, following his government's guidelines for those recently returning from Europe, which has now become the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The authorities are concerned over people returning from the most-affected COVID-19 countries in Europe not registering with the police and practising isolation.

"I have no symptoms or anything like that, but I'm following government guidelines," Sangakkara told News First.

"I arrived from London over a week ago and the first thing was there was a news bulletin saying that anyone who had travelled from within March 1 to 15 should register themselves with the police and undergo self quarantine. I registered myself with the police."

The former captain said this even as the government confirmed there have been at least three cases of recent returnees attempting to hide the novel coronavirus symptoms from authorities.

Both Sangakkara and his former teammate Mahela Jayawardene have been active on social media, urging Sri Lankans to avoid panic and to exercise proper social distancing, as the country went into curfew on Friday evening.

Sri Lanka has so far reported more than 80 active COVID-19 positive cases in the country.

Across the world, the number of infected has crossed three lakh besides a death toll of more than 14,000 people.

Meanwhile, former Australia pacer Jason Gillespie has also gone into a two-week isolation after returning from the United Kingdom.

Gillespie, who is the head coach at Sussex, had been in Cape Town with the team for a pre-season tour, which was cut short as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Sri Lankan batting great Kumar Sangakkara has said he is currently in self-quarantine, following his government's guidelines for those recently returning from Europe, which has now become the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sri Lankan batting great Kumar Sangakkara has said he is currently in self-quarantine, following his government's guidelines for those recently returning from Europe, which has now become the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authorities are concerned over people returning from the most-affected COVID-19 countries in Europe not registering with the police and practising isolation. "I have no symptoms or anything like that, but I'm following government guidelines," Sangakkara told News First. "I arrived from London over a week ago and the first thing was there was a news bulletin saying that anyone who had travelled from within March 1 to 15 should register themselves with the police and undergo self quarantine. I registered myself with the police." The former captain said this even as the government confirmed there have been at least three cases of recent returnees attempting to hide the novel coronavirus symptoms from authorities. Both Sangakkara and his former teammate Mahela Jayawardene have been active on social media, urging Sri Lankans to avoid panic and to exercise proper social distancing, as the country went into curfew on Friday evening. Sri Lanka has so far reported more than 80 active COVID-19 positive cases in the country. Across the world, the number of infected has crossed three lakh besides a death toll of more than 14,000 people. Meanwhile, former Australia pacer Jason Gillespie has also gone into a two-week isolation after returning from the United Kingdom. Gillespie, who is the head coach at Sussex, had been in Cape Town with the team for a pre-season tour, which was cut short as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara in self-quarantine after returning from UK

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty.

Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic.

A grim reality is taking hold in boardrooms around the country and some teams fear they could be forced out of business if football doesn't return until after the summer.

Aware of the growing panic, the Football League agreed a £50 million ($58 million) relief package, based on an early payment of bonuses, television money and an interest-free loan, to assist financially stricken clubs.

But reports this week claimed that will only be enough to tide clubs over for the next four weeks.

Cambridge chief executive officer Ian Mather admits the rescue package may not be enough, with the nightmare prospect of having to lay off staff a possibility.

"These are unprecedented times for all of us in so many different ways," Mather said.

"One of the most concerning features of the situation for everyone is that there is no clarity as to when it will end.

"This (rescue package) is welcome news but the amount we can access is relatively small and it is far from a complete answer to the financial problem we are facing.

"We are looking at ways of reducing our cost base and this will include making some extremely difficult decisions when it comes to our staff."

Without matchday revenue, it is likely that some clubs will ask their players to accept wage cuts if the lockdown continues into the summer.

In Scotland, top-flight outfit Hearts have already told their players and staff to take a 50 percent wage cut in a bid to stay afloat.

<h2>- 'Hit hard' -</h2>

There could be aid on the horizon if television broadcaster Sky Sports are willing to release some of the £119 million they are due to play the Football League next season.

But that remains uncertain and, for now, fear is the over-riding mood across the English game.

Steve Thompson, managing director of Dagenham, believes the fifth tier National League will need a bailout from the British government to survive.

Thompson said clubs in the National League will, between them, require between £15 million and £20 million to keep running and revealed talks are ongoing with the Football Association.

"It is going to require government help. The biggest worry is that so many non-league clubs, they are integral parts of their community. It worries me if these clubs are lost, what will happen going forward," Thompson said.

"There needs to be a concentrated effort. I don't think we can expect a bailout from the Premier League or FA, so it needs to be government led."

It may not be only non-league and lower league teams in England who feel the pinch, with Championship sides Charlton and Blackburn both having endured financial difficulties before the virus.

Millwall are one of the smaller teams in the second tier, with their 13,734 average gate, ranked 18th among the 24 clubs.

The south London side's chief executive Steve Kavanagh said they have already been wounded by the sudden halt to the season.

"We're like all other businesses, we've been hit hard, but our income stream just stopped overnight," Kavanagh said.

"Like everybody else, it will have impacts on us. I'm not going to shy away from that. But hopefully if we can all pull together we can find a way through.&nbsp;

"We've got an owner who's been around a long time and I'm sure will help the club as best he can."

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty. Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic.

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty. Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic. A grim reality is taking hold in boardrooms around the country and some teams fear they could be forced out of business if football doesn't return until after the summer. Aware of the growing panic, the Football League agreed a £50 million ($58 million) relief package, based on an early payment of bonuses, television money and an interest-free loan, to assist financially stricken clubs. But reports this week claimed that will only be enough to tide clubs over for the next four weeks. Cambridge chief executive officer Ian Mather admits the rescue package may not be enough, with the nightmare prospect of having to lay off staff a possibility. "These are unprecedented times for all of us in so many different ways," Mather said. "One of the most concerning features of the situation for everyone is that there is no clarity as to when it will end. "This (rescue package) is welcome news but the amount we can access is relatively small and it is far from a complete answer to the financial problem we are facing. "We are looking at ways of reducing our cost base and this will include making some extremely difficult decisions when it comes to our staff." Without matchday revenue, it is likely that some clubs will ask their players to accept wage cuts if the lockdown continues into the summer. In Scotland, top-flight outfit Hearts have already told their players and staff to take a 50 percent wage cut in a bid to stay afloat. - 'Hit hard' - There could be aid on the horizon if television broadcaster Sky Sports are willing to release some of the £119 million they are due to play the Football League next season. But that remains uncertain and, for now, fear is the over-riding mood across the English game. Steve Thompson, managing director of Dagenham, believes the fifth tier National League will need a bailout from the British government to survive. Thompson said clubs in the National League will, between them, require between £15 million and £20 million to keep running and revealed talks are ongoing with the Football Association. "It is going to require government help. The biggest worry is that so many non-league clubs, they are integral parts of their community. It worries me if these clubs are lost, what will happen going forward," Thompson said. "There needs to be a concentrated effort. I don't think we can expect a bailout from the Premier League or FA, so it needs to be government led." It may not be only non-league and lower league teams in England who feel the pinch, with Championship sides Charlton and Blackburn both having endured financial difficulties before the virus. Millwall are one of the smaller teams in the second tier, with their 13,734 average gate, ranked 18th among the 24 clubs. The south London side's chief executive Steve Kavanagh said they have already been wounded by the sudden halt to the season. "We're like all other businesses, we've been hit hard, but our income stream just stopped overnight," Kavanagh said. "Like everybody else, it will have impacts on us. I'm not going to shy away from that. But hopefully if we can all pull together we can find a way through. "We've got an owner who's been around a long time and I'm sure will help the club as best he can."

Virus chaos leaves English clubs fearing for their future

Israeli bride and groom Roni Ben-Ari and Yonatan Meushar, danced in the near-deserted hall on Wednesday (March 18) with most of their family and friends watching from their screens via livestream.

'Just the two of us': Love in the age of coronavirus

Sixty-eight-year-old great-grandmother, Lucy Mayimela, is worried about the spread of coronavirus. The South African vegetable trader who supports her four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, laughs bitterly at suggestions she heard on the radio - staying at home and self-isolating.

In South Africa's Soweto township, elderly have nowhere to self-isolate

Malaysia on Friday said a 58-year-old man had died from COVID-19, bringing its total number of deaths from coronavirus infection to three.

The case is linked to an Islamic gathering near Kuala Lumpur that was attended by 16,000 people, the health ministry said.

The event, which had participants from over 20 countries, has been linked to nearly 750 cases in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia on Friday said a 58-year-old man had died from COVID-19, bringing its total number of deaths from coronavirus infection to three. The case is linked to an Islamic gathering near Kuala Lumpur that was attended by 16,000 people, the health ministry said.

Malaysia on Friday said a 58-year-old man had died from COVID-19, bringing its total number of deaths from coronavirus infection to three. The case is linked to an Islamic gathering near Kuala Lumpur that was attended by 16,000 people, the health ministry said. The event, which had participants from over 20 countries, has been linked to nearly 750 cases in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia reports third coronavirus death

New York's Times Square wore a deserted look Wednesday (March 18) night - a stark reminder of how the coronavirus outbreak has transformed life in a metropolis where it has claimed nearly two dozens lives in a matter of days.

After dark, an eerie energy descends on the 'city that never sleeps'

This volunteer in Rio de Janeiro is rallying round to help her elderly neighbours, stepping up to run their errands as they isolate themselves to prevent coronavirus spreading.

Brazilians step up to run errands for elderly in quarantine amidst coronavirus fears

With people around the world worried about the coronavirus pandemic and spending hours in line at the supermarket, Hallmark Channel in the U.S. has decided what people need is a bit of Christmas cheer.

Hallmark Channel makes Christmas come early to lift audiences' spirits

Japan's iconic cherry blossom season has bloomed in Tokyo, but this year, streets and parks were empty as people shunned "viewing parties" to stay indoors amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Japanese shun cherry blossom viewing parties due to coronavirus

Pope Francis on Wednesday (March 18) encouraged the faithful to pray especially for medical teams treating coronavirus patients.

Pope Francis asks for spiritual protection for families and medical staff treating coronavirus victims

Actor Matthew McConaughey has posted a video on his Twitter account advising people not to get paranoid during the coronavirus outbreak and expressing his hopes that the virus may have a positive impact on society.

Don't let coronavirus make us paranoid, advises actor Matthew McConaughey

Komaki Yamashita and her daughter Konoha are both classical Japanese dance students and as they were forced to stay indoors during this period, they have been taking dance lessons from home using webcams and tablets.

Japanese classical dancer offers live-streaming lessons during coronavirus lockdown

Musician John Legend accepted the "Together, at Home" challenge from Chris Martin and performed a free livestreamed concert on Tuesday (March 17) from his home.

John Legend performs with Chrissy Teigen and daugther Luna as audience

At a time when the entire sporting world has come to an unusual halt amid the coronavirus pandemic, players have decided to go into self-isolation in a bid to maintain social distancing as per health advisory. Veteran South African pacer Dale Steyn, who returned back home mid-way from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020, which was postponed just ahead of semi-finals of the tournament, said the matter surrounding the COVID-19 escalated within 24-48 hours and suddenly it became the biggest thing.&nbsp;

With World Health Organisation (WHO) declaring the novel a pandemic, foreign players plying trade in PSL 2020 decided to fly back home even the tournament was called off. Steyn said he didn’t want to break any protocol and leave cricket in Pakistan in jeopardy because of ‘something stupid’ and hence, he followed the advisory.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-cricket-players-and-support-staff-go-into-self-isolation-after-returning-from-australia-287346">New Zealand cricket players and support staff go into self-isolation after returning from Australia</a>

<h2>As the week went on, everything just seemed to escalate</h2>

“It happened really quickly. I was in Pakistan but it was raining [Steyn played for Islamabad United]. We were under that kind of hotel arrest - advised not to go out and wander the streets, which is totally fine; I don't want to break protocol and [have] something happen and be blamed for cricket never being played in Pakistan again because I did something stupid!” Steyn told a leading cricket portal.&nbsp;

“As the week went on, everything just seemed to escalate. In the space of 24-48 hours, we went from nobody talking about coronavirus to, suddenly, everyone had a hand sanitiser and it was the biggest thing,” the veteran Proteas speedster added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-cant-look-beyond-ms-dhoni-if-he-is-fit-and-firing-wasim-jaffer-287325">Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer</a>

Furthermore, Steyn urged everyone to follow the health advisory and maintain personal hygiene. He added by saying that helping yourself is the best possible way to curb the COVID-19.

“Stay healthy, wash your hands, look after yourself, don't be greedy. Right now they are saying old people are really struggling, so if in a position to help, rather help them than help yourself. Pretty simple, really,” Steyn concluded. 
&nbsp;

At a time when the entire sporting world has come to an unusual halt amid the coronavirus pandemic, players have decided to go into self-isolation in a bid to maintain social distancing as per health advisory.

At a time when the entire sporting world has come to an unusual halt amid the coronavirus pandemic, players have decided to go into self-isolation in a bid to maintain social distancing as per health advisory. Veteran South African pacer Dale Steyn, who returned back home mid-way from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020, which was postponed just ahead of semi-finals of the tournament, said the matter surrounding the COVID-19 escalated within 24-48 hours and suddenly it became the biggest thing. With World Health Organisation (WHO) declaring the novel a pandemic, foreign players plying trade in PSL 2020 decided to fly back home even the tournament was called off. Steyn said he didn’t want to break any protocol and leave cricket in Pakistan in jeopardy because of ‘something stupid’ and hence, he followed the advisory. ALSO READ: New Zealand cricket players and support staff go into self-isolation after returning from Australia As the week went on, everything just seemed to escalate “It happened really quickly. I was in Pakistan but it was raining [Steyn played for Islamabad United]. We were under that kind of hotel arrest - advised not to go out and wander the streets, which is totally fine; I don't want to break protocol and [have] something happen and be blamed for cricket never being played in Pakistan again because I did something stupid!” Steyn told a leading cricket portal. “As the week went on, everything just seemed to escalate. In the space of 24-48 hours, we went from nobody talking about coronavirus to, suddenly, everyone had a hand sanitiser and it was the biggest thing,” the veteran Proteas speedster added. ALSO READ: Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer Furthermore, Steyn urged everyone to follow the health advisory and maintain personal hygiene. He added by saying that helping yourself is the best possible way to curb the COVID-19. “Stay healthy, wash your hands, look after yourself, don't be greedy. Right now they are saying old people are really struggling, so if in a position to help, rather help them than help yourself. Pretty simple, really,” Steyn concluded.

'Everything just seemed to escalate...' - Dale Steyn shares his experience in Pakistan amid coronavirus scare

Skepticism is sweeping through the world but the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Thursday backed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) assertion that the upcoming Tokyo Olympics will weather the COVID-19 pandemic and be held on schedule, without a glitch.&nbsp;

The IOC and the Tokyo Games organisers are adamant that the Olympics will start on July 24 as scheduled, despite the coronavirus pandemic crippling health care systems and destroying economies across the world.&nbsp;

"The coronavirus is creating havoc throughout the world but we are hopeful it will be contained in one or two months. It has already been controlled in China, the epicenter of the disease; and we are expecting the Olympics to be held without any hindrance on its scheduled time," a senior IOA office-bearer said.&nbsp;

"But having said that, IOC is our parent body, (so) we will have to abide by what the IOC decides. If the IOC says the Olympics will go on, we will have to participate irrespective of any threat," he said.&nbsp;

The IOC's stance has angered many athletes, who have accused it of putting them at risk. Some officials have also expressed their apprehension. Responding to the criticism, the world body on Wednesday conceded that there are no easy solutions for the current situation.&nbsp;

The pandemic, which has caused more than 8,000 deaths since being discovered in China, has wreaked havoc on Olympic preparations of athletes, including those from India. Several qualifiers have been suspended and training trips abroad are off the table thanks to COVID-19 travel restrictions.&nbsp;

The IOA admitted that country's preparations have been hit hard but should the Games happen, it is nonetheless expecting an unprecedented double-digit medal haul from the athletes. "Yes, it is true our preparations have been hit with many Olympic qualifiers, Test events and preparatory camps abroad being postponed or cancelled because of the coronavirus," the official said.&nbsp;

"But it is not just India, every country is facing the same situation so, the impact is same for every competing nation. So our expectations still remain the same -- 10 or more medals in Tokyo," he asserted. He said the IOA is closely monitoring the situation with all the stakeholders in the country.&nbsp; 
"We are monitoring all our athletes' preparations as well as their well-being. We are also closely working with the Government of India, Tokyo Games orgainsers as well as the IOC in this tough time," he said.&nbsp;

The number of people infected with the highly contagious novel coronavirus has gone past 160 in India with three deaths reported in the country so far. The total number of cases reported worldwide so far stand at more than 218,800. 
<o:p></o:p>

Skepticism is sweeping through the world but the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Thursday backed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) assertion that the upcoming Tokyo Olympics will weather the COVID-19 pandemic and be held on schedule, without a glitch.

Skepticism is sweeping through the world but the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Thursday backed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) assertion that the upcoming Tokyo Olympics will weather the COVID-19 pandemic and be held on schedule, without a glitch. The IOC and the Tokyo Games organisers are adamant that the Olympics will start on July 24 as scheduled, despite the coronavirus pandemic crippling health care systems and destroying economies across the world. "The coronavirus is creating havoc throughout the world but we are hopeful it will be contained in one or two months. It has already been controlled in China, the epicenter of the disease; and we are expecting the Olympics to be held without any hindrance on its scheduled time," a senior IOA office-bearer said. "But having said that, IOC is our parent body, (so) we will have to abide by what the IOC decides. If the IOC says the Olympics will go on, we will have to participate irrespective of any threat," he said. The IOC's stance has angered many athletes, who have accused it of putting them at risk. Some officials have also expressed their apprehension. Responding to the criticism, the world body on Wednesday conceded that there are no easy solutions for the current situation. The pandemic, which has caused more than 8,000 deaths since being discovered in China, has wreaked havoc on Olympic preparations of athletes, including those from India. Several qualifiers have been suspended and training trips abroad are off the table thanks to COVID-19 travel restrictions. The IOA admitted that country's preparations have been hit hard but should the Games happen, it is nonetheless expecting an unprecedented double-digit medal haul from the athletes. "Yes, it is true our preparations have been hit with many Olympic qualifiers, Test events and preparatory camps abroad being postponed or cancelled because of the coronavirus," the official said. "But it is not just India, every country is facing the same situation so, the impact is same for every competing nation. So our expectations still remain the same -- 10 or more medals in Tokyo," he asserted. He said the IOA is closely monitoring the situation with all the stakeholders in the country. "We are monitoring all our athletes' preparations as well as their well-being. We are also closely working with the Government of India, Tokyo Games orgainsers as well as the IOC in this tough time," he said. The number of people infected with the highly contagious novel coronavirus has gone past 160 in India with three deaths reported in the country so far. The total number of cases reported worldwide so far stand at more than 218,800.

If 2020 Tokyo Olympics happen, India will have to participate irrespective of any threat: IOA official

Ester Wienrib rang in her 97th birthday this week with a video call and remote cake-cutting with her great-grandchildren - a cautious celebration as her family tries to avoid exposing her to the coronavirus.

Video calls and birthday candles: Celebrating 97 in the age of coronavirus

The first person in Delhi to be diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (covid-19) has been discharged following two weeks of treatment at a Delhi hospital.&nbsp;

According to the 45-year-old businessman, the treatment is not only smooth but he also referred to the healthcare facilities as ''one of the best in the world'', several media reports indicated.

Amid rumours of inadequate lodging for the infected throughout the country, the man claimed that the isolation ward is not like a prison cell, and has enough sunlight.

Even though the man has recovered, he has been advised to self-quarantine for 14 days.&nbsp;

He's one of the two people who have been recently discharged in Delhi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-maharashtra-surge-to-38-286696" hreflang="en">Coronavirus cases in Maharashtra surge to 38</a>

The man had returned from Italy, Europe on February 25 and developed fever on the following day. When he went to a doctor, he was given medication to treat throat infection, after which his symptoms subsided. However, on the last day of February, the symptoms resurfaced after which he went to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Central Delhi. After testing, he was tagged positive for the infection.&nbsp;

He was later shifted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. Several media reports claim that the doctors reassured him by referring to the ailment like a cough and cold that simply takes longer to cure.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b6e5c40e-c990-42f1-b733-63cd2966efc0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/uuuu%20%281%29.jpg" /> 
Thermal screening of passengers being conducted in the wake of deadly coronavirus, at Guwahati Railway Station, Monday, March 16, 2020 | PTI 
&nbsp;</h6>

Among many claims, he gave an account of the isolation ward and described it as one of the best medical facilities he had ever encountered. Reportedly, all patients are being put in private rooms with attached bathrooms to limit the spread even within the hospital, which is a high-risk zone during any epidemic or pandemic.

Out of the seven people who tested positive for the virus in Delhi, one has died. According to a statement released by the Delhi Health Department, two other people who had tested positive earlier have been released with strict advise to self-quarantine.

The Delhi Health Department has successfully tracked the people who the man may have come in contact with over the last couple of weeks. He threw a birthday party for his son at The Hyatt in New Delhi, where he came in contact with many people. As of now, 105 people have been traced based on his accounts. Out of these, 41 are from Delhi, and 64 from outside the capital city.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/protests-with-gathering-of-over-50-people-will-not-be-allowed-in-delhi-cm-kejriwal-on-coronavirus-outbreak-286675" hreflang="en">Protests with gathering of over 50 people will not be allowed in Delhi: CM Kejriwal on coronavirus outbreak</a>

In China, there were multiple cases of the virus resurfacing in patients who had recovered, one of whom had also died after contracting it for the second time.

Over the weekend, the number of coronavirus cases in the country rose to 114. Maharashtra reported the highest spike, followed by Kerala.&nbsp;

The epicentre of the virus has shifted from China to Europe over the last few weeks and has killed over 6,000 people.

Health officials across the country have been trying to limit the panic surrounding the outbreak by reassuring people that the virus causes only minor illness among 80 per cent cases. The only major cases are among the elderly and people with underlying conditions such as diabetes.&nbsp;

The first person in Delhi to be diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (covid-19) has been discharged following two weeks of treatment at a Delhi hospital. According to the 45-year-old businessman, the treatment is not only smooth but he also referred to the healthcare facilities as ''one of the best in the world'', several media reports indicated.

The first person in Delhi to be diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (covid-19) has been discharged following two weeks of treatment at a Delhi hospital. According to the 45-year-old businessman, the treatment is not only smooth but he also referred to the healthcare facilities as ''one of the best in the world'', several media reports indicated. Amid rumours of inadequate lodging for the infected throughout the country, the man claimed that the isolation ward is not like a prison cell, and has enough sunlight. Even though the man has recovered, he has been advised to self-quarantine for 14 days. He's one of the two people who have been recently discharged in Delhi. Also read: Coronavirus cases in Maharashtra surge to 38 The man had returned from Italy, Europe on February 25 and developed fever on the following day. When he went to a doctor, he was given medication to treat throat infection, after which his symptoms subsided. However, on the last day of February, the symptoms resurfaced after which he went to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Central Delhi. After testing, he was tagged positive for the infection. He was later shifted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. Several media reports claim that the doctors reassured him by referring to the ailment like a cough and cold that simply takes longer to cure. Thermal screening of passengers being conducted in the wake of deadly coronavirus, at Guwahati Railway Station, Monday, March 16, 2020 | PTI Among many claims, he gave an account of the isolation ward and described it as one of the best medical facilities he had ever encountered. Reportedly, all patients are being put in private rooms with attached bathrooms to limit the spread even within the hospital, which is a high-risk zone during any epidemic or pandemic. Out of the seven people who tested positive for the virus in Delhi, one has died. According to a statement released by the Delhi Health Department, two other people who had tested positive earlier have been released with strict advise to self-quarantine. The Delhi Health Department has successfully tracked the people who the man may have come in contact with over the last couple of weeks. He threw a birthday party for his son at The Hyatt in New Delhi, where he came in contact with many people. As of now, 105 people have been traced based on his accounts. Out of these, 41 are from Delhi, and 64 from outside the capital city. Also read: Protests with gathering of over 50 people will not be allowed in Delhi: CM Kejriwal on coronavirus outbreak In China, there were multiple cases of the virus resurfacing in patients who had recovered, one of whom had also died after contracting it for the second time. Over the weekend, the number of coronavirus cases in the country rose to 114. Maharashtra reported the highest spike, followed by Kerala. The epicentre of the virus has shifted from China to Europe over the last few weeks and has killed over 6,000 people. Health officials across the country have been trying to limit the panic surrounding the outbreak by reassuring people that the virus causes only minor illness among 80 per cent cases. The only major cases are among the elderly and people with underlying conditions such as diabetes.

Delhi's first covid-19 patient recovers successfully, hails medical facilities as 'best'

The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged the nations to ramp up testing to contain the spread of coronavirus as more governments impose lockdown, stop travel.

But each test for Covid-19 virus comes at a cost and it's not cheap. There is the infrastructure needed for testing so many people.

India so far has tested the lowest number of people per million.

But it can take a cue from South Korea the world leader in covid-19 testing.

But the high cost of testing is making it extremely difficult. Especially for middle and low-income countries.The WHO has urged world nations to increase the number of people being tested.

But not all nations have been able to scale up testing. India's efforts to carry out covid-19 tests have lagged far behind. The cost of a test on average is Rs 5000-6000.

Apart from its sheer size, India's is also facing a challenge in the density of its population. 420 people live on each square kilometre. That's nearly three times more than that of China.

With just 6 tests per 1 million people, India has one of the lowest testing rates in the world. Italy which is the worst-hit nation outside of China is testing over 1400 per million people. China is testing over 2800 people.

Countries like South Korea and Bahrain are currently doing the maximum number of tests. Clocking about 5000- 6000 per million people.

India has tested over 11000 people while it has 3 lakh diagnostic kits.&nbsp;

India's testing capabilities are underutilised. Only 3% of equipment is being used. Lack of voluntary testing and exclusion of private hospitals are also blamed for the low number of tests.

The central government of India has decided to allow accredited private labs to test for Covid-19.&nbsp;

But there are only about 50 to 60 private labs approved by the national accreditation board for laboratories.

How do we test enough number of people in a population of 1.3 billion? What should India do?&nbsp;

It can take a cue from South Korea which has one of the world's best testing models.

The country's government scaled up its testing services as soon as the outbreak started.&nbsp;

At least, 12,000 people are being tested daily. Not just that The government is even tracking potential carriers using satellite technology.

'Drive-thru' testing facilities have been set up across the country.&nbsp;

Testing takes 10 minutes and people receive test results within a few hours.&nbsp;

South Korea's daily testing rate is higher than India's total number of tests so far. The next 10 days are the most crucial. India faces the threat of being the next Covid-19 hotspot.

And the only way it can limit the damage is if it can find ways to test more and more people as soon as possible.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged the nations to ramp up testing to contain the spread of coronavirus as more governments impose lockdown, stop travel.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged the nations to ramp up testing to contain the spread of coronavirus as more governments impose lockdown, stop travel. But each test for Covid-19 virus comes at a cost and it's not cheap. There is the infrastructure needed for testing so many people. India so far has tested the lowest number of people per million. But it can take a cue from South Korea the world leader in covid-19 testing. But the high cost of testing is making it extremely difficult. Especially for middle and low-income countries.The WHO has urged world nations to increase the number of people being tested. But not all nations have been able to scale up testing. India's efforts to carry out covid-19 tests have lagged far behind. The cost of a test on average is Rs 5000-6000. Apart from its sheer size, India's is also facing a challenge in the density of its population. 420 people live on each square kilometre. That's nearly three times more than that of China. With just 6 tests per 1 million people, India has one of the lowest testing rates in the world. Italy which is the worst-hit nation outside of China is testing over 1400 per million people. China is testing over 2800 people. Countries like South Korea and Bahrain are currently doing the maximum number of tests. Clocking about 5000- 6000 per million people. India has tested over 11000 people while it has 3 lakh diagnostic kits. India's testing capabilities are underutilised. Only 3% of equipment is being used. Lack of voluntary testing and exclusion of private hospitals are also blamed for the low number of tests. The central government of India has decided to allow accredited private labs to test for Covid-19. But there are only about 50 to 60 private labs approved by the national accreditation board for laboratories. How do we test enough number of people in a population of 1.3 billion? What should India do? It can take a cue from South Korea which has one of the world's best testing models. The country's government scaled up its testing services as soon as the outbreak started. At least, 12,000 people are being tested daily. Not just that The government is even tracking potential carriers using satellite technology. 'Drive-thru' testing facilities have been set up across the country. Testing takes 10 minutes and people receive test results within a few hours. South Korea's daily testing rate is higher than India's total number of tests so far. The next 10 days are the most crucial. India faces the threat of being the next Covid-19 hotspot. And the only way it can limit the damage is if it can find ways to test more and more people as soon as possible.

Coronavirus outbreak: In a series of shifting epicentres, India needs to improve testing facility to limit the threat

Amazon.com Inc on Monday (March 16) said it would hire 100,000 warehouse and delivery workers in the United States to deal with a surge in online orders, as many consumers have turned to the web to meet their needs during the coronavirus outbreak.

Amazon to hire 100,000 workers, as online orders surge on coronavirus worries

As the world is facing the worst coronavirus outbreak—India has emerged strongly in responding to the crisis so far. Till now, the government of India has rescued 1,497 people, which includes 55 foreign nationals as well.

The deadly coronavirus has crippled large parts of the world, infecting over 1,69,000 and killing more than 6,500 people, mostly in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas.

Porous borders, shortage of medical supplies and lack of awareness have made people more vulnerable to the lethal virus—forcing most countries to respond with strong measures to tackle the pandemic.&nbsp;

India has been highly vigilant and proactive in fighting this global health emergency.

It has managed to keep up its efforts in not just controlling the virus spread, but has also carried out timely rescue and evacuation of stranded citizens.

January 28, 2020. India was one of the first countries to initiate evacuation processes after the news of the virus outbreak in Hubei was reported.&nbsp;

Within a few days, 653 Indians and 7 Maldivians were brought back from Wuhan in two batches of 323 and 330.&nbsp;

All of those rescued were monitored in quarantine either at ITBP Chhawla camp or at Manesar facility in the national capital region.

Neighbourhood first policy has always remained important for India.&nbsp;

Unlike, Pakistan which refused to bring back its own citizens from Wuhan, India has rescued both—its own citizens and nationals from countries.&nbsp;

In its third leg of operations, India brought back 36 nationals belonging to 7 different countries. Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, China, South Africa, USA and Madagascar expressed their gratitude for Delhi's humanitarian action.&nbsp;

India has a massive diaspora. More than 30 million of them living in different continents away from home.&nbsp;

Among them were fisherman from Kerala stranded in Iran, a huge community of labourers in West Asia and Arabia as well.&nbsp;

Collaborating with Tehran, minister of external affairs S Jaishankar and ambassador Dhamu Gaddam evacuated 389 people from Iran — in four batches.

The latest ones to be evacuated were 52 students and a teacher from Tehran.

An Air India flight in Delhi also landed from Tokyo carrying 119 Indians and 5 nationals from Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru—who were earlier quarantined on board the diamond princess, a cruise ship off the Japanese coast.&nbsp;

Another 211 students and 7 foreign nationals were brought to Delhi from Italy—the second most affected country by a novel coronavirus.

The government of India has responded swiftly and effectively in dealing with the first signs of the infection, which has, so far, affected more than 110 people and killed 2.&nbsp;

Apart from carrying out rescue operations, India has also provided 15 tonnes of medical and relief consignment to china.&nbsp;

Prime minister Narendra Modi has interacted with leaders of SAARC countries through a video conference. Allocating an initial fund of $10 million, PM Modi has called for setting up a rapid response team of doctors and experts to fight the coronavirus outbreak which is still in its benign, early stages in India.

As the world is facing the worst coronavirus outbreak—India has emerged strongly in responding to the crisis so far. Till now, the government of India has rescued 1,497 people, which includes 55 foreign nationals as well.

As the world is facing the worst coronavirus outbreak—India has emerged strongly in responding to the crisis so far. Till now, the government of India has rescued 1,497 people, which includes 55 foreign nationals as well. The deadly coronavirus has crippled large parts of the world, infecting over 1,69,000 and killing more than 6,500 people, mostly in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. Porous borders, shortage of medical supplies and lack of awareness have made people more vulnerable to the lethal virus—forcing most countries to respond with strong measures to tackle the pandemic. India has been highly vigilant and proactive in fighting this global health emergency. It has managed to keep up its efforts in not just controlling the virus spread, but has also carried out timely rescue and evacuation of stranded citizens. January 28, 2020. India was one of the first countries to initiate evacuation processes after the news of the virus outbreak in Hubei was reported. Within a few days, 653 Indians and 7 Maldivians were brought back from Wuhan in two batches of 323 and 330. All of those rescued were monitored in quarantine either at ITBP Chhawla camp or at Manesar facility in the national capital region. Neighbourhood first policy has always remained important for India. Unlike, Pakistan which refused to bring back its own citizens from Wuhan, India has rescued both—its own citizens and nationals from countries. In its third leg of operations, India brought back 36 nationals belonging to 7 different countries. Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, China, South Africa, USA and Madagascar expressed their gratitude for Delhi's humanitarian action. India has a massive diaspora. More than 30 million of them living in different continents away from home. Among them were fisherman from Kerala stranded in Iran, a huge community of labourers in West Asia and Arabia as well. Collaborating with Tehran, minister of external affairs S Jaishankar and ambassador Dhamu Gaddam evacuated 389 people from Iran — in four batches. The latest ones to be evacuated were 52 students and a teacher from Tehran. An Air India flight in Delhi also landed from Tokyo carrying 119 Indians and 5 nationals from Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru—who were earlier quarantined on board the diamond princess, a cruise ship off the Japanese coast. Another 211 students and 7 foreign nationals were brought to Delhi from Italy—the second most affected country by a novel coronavirus. The government of India has responded swiftly and effectively in dealing with the first signs of the infection, which has, so far, affected more than 110 people and killed 2. Apart from carrying out rescue operations, India has also provided 15 tonnes of medical and relief consignment to china. Prime minister Narendra Modi has interacted with leaders of SAARC countries through a video conference. Allocating an initial fund of $10 million, PM Modi has called for setting up a rapid response team of doctors and experts to fight the coronavirus outbreak which is still in its benign, early stages in India.

Coronavirus outbreak: India emerges as a proactive nation in fighting global health emergency

One of the biggest industries to be hit by the long-term repercussions of the coronavirus is aviation. Thousands of flights have been cancelled globally, with stringent travel bans in place to contain the outbreak.

However, this helped create a new record!

On March 14, Air Tahiti Nui, a French airline undertook the longest ever passenger flight in terms of distance. The flight covered 15,715 kilometres from Papeete in Tahiti, French Polynesia to the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-the-global-aviation-industry-survive-coronavirus-related-slowdown-286815" hreflang="en">Will the global aviation industry survive coronavirus-related slowdown?</a>

CNN reported that this new record was a result of the travel restrictions in place, especially the ones set up by the United States.

Usually, this route involves a halt at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). 
 
If an aeroplane halts in the US, passengers have to undergo customs before continuing their journey.

<img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1bc68b7-3a31-40e1-ace5-ee90e5f4b9f5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_32.jpg" />

However, owing to current restrictions, this was impractical. So, the aircraft flew directly from Papeete airport to Paris and covered the journey in under 16 hours, making it the world's longest commercial flight, considering the distance which was covered.

The record was previously held by Singapore Airlines, which offers a flight between Singapore and Newark covering a distance of 15,343 kilometres.

An Australian carrier called Qantas tried something different last year. They undertook ''Project Sunrise'', whereby the aircraft flew for 19 hours non-stop between London and Sydney. However, no paying passengers were on board.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aviation-industry-hit-by-coronavirus-286814/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This flight, TN064 is also the world's longest scheduled domestic flight, for it travelled within French territory, from French Polynesia and mainland France.

The aircraft crew included four pilots, and ran the next-generation Boeing 787-9, CNN reported.

Media reports suggest that the aircraft was not at all full, and was able to undertake the full journey without refuelling.

The airline, however, said that these are one-off measures, only in place until the coronavirus pandemic is in full swing. Most airlines around the world are trying to navigate across the contemporary aviation climate, whereby a lot of bans have crippled the scope of layovers and halts.

The International Air Transport Association has said that the revenue losses due to coronavirus could run as high as 113 billion dollars across the industry this year. 
&nbsp;

One of the biggest industries to be hit by the long-term repercussions of the coronavirus is aviation. Thousands of flights have been cancelled globally, with stringent travel bans in place to contain the outbreak.

One of the biggest industries to be hit by the long-term repercussions of the coronavirus is aviation. Thousands of flights have been cancelled globally, with stringent travel bans in place to contain the outbreak. However, this helped create a new record! On March 14, Air Tahiti Nui, a French airline undertook the longest ever passenger flight in terms of distance. The flight covered 15,715 kilometres from Papeete in Tahiti, French Polynesia to the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris. Also read: Will the global aviation industry survive coronavirus-related slowdown? CNN reported that this new record was a result of the travel restrictions in place, especially the ones set up by the United States. Usually, this route involves a halt at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). If an aeroplane halts in the US, passengers have to undergo customs before continuing their journey. However, owing to current restrictions, this was impractical. So, the aircraft flew directly from Papeete airport to Paris and covered the journey in under 16 hours, making it the world's longest commercial flight, considering the distance which was covered. The record was previously held by Singapore Airlines, which offers a flight between Singapore and Newark covering a distance of 15,343 kilometres. An Australian carrier called Qantas tried something different last year. They undertook ''Project Sunrise'', whereby the aircraft flew for 19 hours non-stop between London and Sydney. However, no paying passengers were on board. This flight, TN064 is also the world's longest scheduled domestic flight, for it travelled within French territory, from French Polynesia and mainland France. The aircraft crew included four pilots, and ran the next-generation Boeing 787-9, CNN reported. Media reports suggest that the aircraft was not at all full, and was able to undertake the full journey without refuelling. The airline, however, said that these are one-off measures, only in place until the coronavirus pandemic is in full swing. Most airlines around the world are trying to navigate across the contemporary aviation climate, whereby a lot of bans have crippled the scope of layovers and halts. The International Air Transport Association has said that the revenue losses due to coronavirus could run as high as 113 billion dollars across the industry this year.

Coronavirus helps set a new record: World's longest scheduled commercial flight ever!

A study undertaken by Chinese researchers claims that kids who contract COVID-19 might display mild symptoms, recover, but still carry the virus. This implies that kids remain active carriers of coronavirus even if their symptoms have subsided or even if they're simply asymptomatic.

The study was published in Nature Medicine on March 13&nbsp;and further reaffirmed the need to shut down schools globally in order to limit the contact of infected children with others.

In the United States, local school districts have suspended all classroom activity. This has been replaced by the online model of schooling.

According to this study, shutting down schools is in the best interests of the society for there's no clarity on whether children could pass the virus to others in the community.

The study was led by Huimin Xia, of Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, in Guangzhou, China. All 745 subjects were babies and children.

The age-range stood between two months to 15 years, and the children were selected based on their "close contact with diagnosed [COVID-19] patients or were members of families with reported familial outbreaks".

<img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a0e2e09-3bbc-4a30-9c85-56ca87fbe8ff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_45.jpg" /> 
Image courtesy: AFP 
 
 
 
Out of the 745, only 10 tested positive for the virus and were admitted to a treatment facility, simply with the aim to protect others around them. It's imperative to note here that none of them showed any significant illness.

Additionally, none of the ten kids showed any severe symptoms. Even in the seven cases that developed fever, nobody exhibited a temperature of over 29 degrees Celsius.

"There were some instances of coughing, sore throat and nasal congestion," the journal news release noted, but "none of the other symptoms commonly seen in adult patients, such as muscle ache and headache."&nbsp;

Further tests like x-rays displayed no signs of pneumonia among the children.

However, children with mild symptoms or no symptoms may still be able to transfer the virus to vulnerable adults.

The worst part is that the kids may sustain the virus for way longer than expected, which makes them a harmful carrier group, especially towards the susceptible groups of populations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-our-healthcare-workers-safe-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic-287036">Are our healthcare workers safe during the coronavirus pandemic?</a>

This was ascertained by the researchers based on the swab results of the kids, which had come out negative. However, their stool still tested positive for the virus, suggesting that a minimal amount of virus might be able to sustain itself for longer inside children.

A peculiar case involved a child's stool testing positive 13 days after they were discharged from the hospital. The kid had tested negative for throat/nose swabs twice.

This brings into question the protocols in place for isolation. Most institutions suggest 14 days of the quarantine period.&nbsp; 
 
"Quarantine timings are currently assessed through the use of nose or throat swabs; however, these results suggest that gastrointestinal-tract testing may help to provide more accurate assessments of treatment effectiveness and recovery", the news release said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attempting-to-disinfect-south-korean-church-officials-mistakenly-infect-people-with-covid-19-287013">Attempting to disinfect, South Korean church officials mistakenly infect people with COVID-19</a>

"It's important to understand that viral shedding [in stool samples] seen in this small study does not equate with the transmission," Glatter said. "While children may still shed virus in their stool, we don't know whether they may still be infectious and serve as a reservoir of ongoing transmission."

Still, "the report suggests that rectal swab testing may be a more sensitive indicator compared to nasal sampling regarding the effectiveness of treatment and when to end quarantine," Glatter added.

A study undertaken by Chinese researchers claims that kids who contract COVID-19 might display mild symptoms, recover, but still carry the virus. This implies that kids remain active carriers of coronavirus even if their symptoms have subsided or even if they're simply asymptomatic.

A study undertaken by Chinese researchers claims that kids who contract COVID-19 might display mild symptoms, recover, but still carry the virus. This implies that kids remain active carriers of coronavirus even if their symptoms have subsided or even if they're simply asymptomatic. The study was published in Nature Medicine on March 13 and further reaffirmed the need to shut down schools globally in order to limit the contact of infected children with others. In the United States, local school districts have suspended all classroom activity. This has been replaced by the online model of schooling. According to this study, shutting down schools is in the best interests of the society for there's no clarity on whether children could pass the virus to others in the community. The study was led by Huimin Xia, of Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, in Guangzhou, China. All 745 subjects were babies and children. The age-range stood between two months to 15 years, and the children were selected based on their "close contact with diagnosed [COVID-19] patients or were members of families with reported familial outbreaks". Image courtesy: AFP Out of the 745, only 10 tested positive for the virus and were admitted to a treatment facility, simply with the aim to protect others around them. It's imperative to note here that none of them showed any significant illness. Additionally, none of the ten kids showed any severe symptoms. Even in the seven cases that developed fever, nobody exhibited a temperature of over 29 degrees Celsius. "There were some instances of coughing, sore throat and nasal congestion," the journal news release noted, but "none of the other symptoms commonly seen in adult patients, such as muscle ache and headache." Further tests like x-rays displayed no signs of pneumonia among the children. However, children with mild symptoms or no symptoms may still be able to transfer the virus to vulnerable adults. The worst part is that the kids may sustain the virus for way longer than expected, which makes them a harmful carrier group, especially towards the susceptible groups of populations. Also read: Are our healthcare workers safe during the coronavirus pandemic? This was ascertained by the researchers based on the swab results of the kids, which had come out negative. However, their stool still tested positive for the virus, suggesting that a minimal amount of virus might be able to sustain itself for longer inside children. A peculiar case involved a child's stool testing positive 13 days after they were discharged from the hospital. The kid had tested negative for throat/nose swabs twice. This brings into question the protocols in place for isolation. Most institutions suggest 14 days of the quarantine period. "Quarantine timings are currently assessed through the use of nose or throat swabs; however, these results suggest that gastrointestinal-tract testing may help to provide more accurate assessments of treatment effectiveness and recovery", the news release said. Also read: Attempting to disinfect, South Korean church officials mistakenly infect people with COVID-19 "It's important to understand that viral shedding [in stool samples] seen in this small study does not equate with the transmission," Glatter said. "While children may still shed virus in their stool, we don't know whether they may still be infectious and serve as a reservoir of ongoing transmission." Still, "the report suggests that rectal swab testing may be a more sensitive indicator compared to nasal sampling regarding the effectiveness of treatment and when to end quarantine," Glatter added.

Can asymptomatic kids sustain coronavirus for longer than adults?

Belgian robotics software firm Zorabots will lend a fleet of video-calling robots to elderly care homes to help residents stay in touch with relatives while they are isolated due to coronavirus precautions.

Video-calling robots to keep elderly connected during COVID-19

covid19

Covid19, News on Covid19, stories on Covid19, articles on Covid19, Covid19 stories at Wion, Covid19 news, Covid19 latest news