Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live, and will continue to dictate our social lives for the upcoming few months.

Germany, which has been lauded by critics and analysts alike for tackling the virus head on, has made masks mandatory for everyone.

Last week, Germany started relaxing restrictions placed on people. For instance, all shops bigger than 8,600 square feet were allowed to reopen. Additionally, all car dealers and bicycle stores have opened across the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-serious-investigations-against-china-over-coronavirus-says-trump-295192" hreflang="en">'Very serious investigations' against China over coronavirus, says Trump</a>

However, you could end up paying $5,412 for not wearing a mask in the country. As part of its precautionary measures, Germany has imposed fines between $16 to $5,412 for people who are caught not wearing a mask.

Even though some of the country’s 16 states are not imposing any fines, most states that have chosen to impose the fine have varied degrees of fines.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced a slew of measures to ensure relaxations do not lead to a relapse for the country.

She has that face coverings should be worn mandatorily across all public spaces.

''It is recommended that masks be used in public transport and while shopping,'' Merkel had announced on April 15.

As the lockdown continues to make people eager to step out, Merkel had warned against easing restrictions too quickly.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/germany-may-make-work-from-home-a-legal-right-countrys-labour-minister-put-efforts-for-the-same-295033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

When reports came out of some big stores reopening, she warned against hurrying into reopening and said, “their implementation worries me. Partially, they appear to be very bold, maybe too bold." 
 
Just like the US, Germany has a decentralised system, no state can be forced to make masks mandatory. Regardless, every state has decided to uphold the rule, even with varying degrees.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-dismisses-reports-of-plot-to-poison-prague-mayor-295190" hreflang="en">Russia dismisses reports of plot to poison Prague mayor</a>

However, it is not mandatory to wear surgical masks, the basic idea is to cover one’s face.

Research suggests how masks, even though only partially effective in protecting people from the virus, can prevent the transmission of virus if worn by infected people.

In the state of Berlin, masks are not mandatory, and people may board public transport without covering their faces. However, the hardest hit state of Bavaria has made face covering compulsory, with fines of over $5,412 for store owners who fail to enforce social distancing and face covering norms.

Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live, and will continue to dictate our social lives for the upcoming few months. Germany, which has been lauded by critics and analysts alike for tackling the virus head on, has made masks mandatory for everyone.

Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live, and will continue to dictate our social lives for the upcoming few months. Germany, which has been lauded by critics and analysts alike for tackling the virus head on, has made masks mandatory for everyone. Last week, Germany started relaxing restrictions placed on people. For instance, all shops bigger than 8,600 square feet were allowed to reopen. Additionally, all car dealers and bicycle stores have opened across the country. Also read: 'Very serious investigations' against China over coronavirus, says Trump However, you could end up paying $5,412 for not wearing a mask in the country. As part of its precautionary measures, Germany has imposed fines between $16 to $5,412 for people who are caught not wearing a mask. Even though some of the country’s 16 states are not imposing any fines, most states that have chosen to impose the fine have varied degrees of fines. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced a slew of measures to ensure relaxations do not lead to a relapse for the country. She has that face coverings should be worn mandatorily across all public spaces. ''It is recommended that masks be used in public transport and while shopping,'' Merkel had announced on April 15. As the lockdown continues to make people eager to step out, Merkel had warned against easing restrictions too quickly. When reports came out of some big stores reopening, she warned against hurrying into reopening and said, “their implementation worries me. Partially, they appear to be very bold, maybe too bold." Just like the US, Germany has a decentralised system, no state can be forced to make masks mandatory. Regardless, every state has decided to uphold the rule, even with varying degrees. Also read: Russia dismisses reports of plot to poison Prague mayor However, it is not mandatory to wear surgical masks, the basic idea is to cover one’s face. Research suggests how masks, even though only partially effective in protecting people from the virus, can prevent the transmission of virus if worn by infected people. In the state of Berlin, masks are not mandatory, and people may board public transport without covering their faces. However, the hardest hit state of Bavaria has made face covering compulsory, with fines of over $5,412 for store owners who fail to enforce social distancing and face covering norms.

You could pay $5,000 for not wearing a mask in Germany

A country in Central America has historically been marred by gang-related violence and continues to grapple with in-prison violence, closely related to drug gangs.

On Friday, the president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele had announced a 24-hour lockdown of prisons after record 22 murders were witnessed in a single-day! 
 
Additionally, all of the gang members, especially their leaders were put in solitary confinement after the number of murders spiked out of the blue.

“No contact with the outside world. Shops will remain closed and all activities are suspended until further notice,” Bukele said in a tweet.

“Gang leaders will go into solitary confinement”, Bukele added.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5472131a-e7f5-4afc-ac1e-e01102139617" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-6.jpg" /> 
Handout picture released on April 26, 2020 by El Salvador's Presidency press office showing inmates at the Izalco prison | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The investigation into 22 murders is underway, however, authorities believe all the murders are gang-related.

The maximum emergency lockdown has been put in place to ensure that the police investigation may be conducted freely. 
 
This is the highest number recorded in the country in terms of single day murders since Bukele assumed office last June, The Guardian reported. 
 
The number of murders in El Salvador has fallen significantly in the recent years though, under Bukele administration. In the last few months, the country has gone for days without a single murder, a big feat for the country. 
 
The lockdown measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 are among the strictest across the world in the country.

El Salvador has been marred by street gang violence for years. Known as “maras”, these gangs led to the country’s notoriously high homicide rate. In fact, it has remained highest across the Americas.

A country in Central America has historically been marred by gang-related violence and continues to grapple with in-prison violence, closely related to drug gangs.

A country in Central America has historically been marred by gang-related violence and continues to grapple with in-prison violence, closely related to drug gangs. On Friday, the president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele had announced a 24-hour lockdown of prisons after record 22 murders were witnessed in a single-day! Additionally, all of the gang members, especially their leaders were put in solitary confinement after the number of murders spiked out of the blue. “No contact with the outside world. Shops will remain closed and all activities are suspended until further notice,” Bukele said in a tweet. “Gang leaders will go into solitary confinement”, Bukele added. Handout picture released on April 26, 2020 by El Salvador's Presidency press office showing inmates at the Izalco prison | AFP The investigation into 22 murders is underway, however, authorities believe all the murders are gang-related. The maximum emergency lockdown has been put in place to ensure that the police investigation may be conducted freely. This is the highest number recorded in the country in terms of single day murders since Bukele assumed office last June, The Guardian reported. The number of murders in El Salvador has fallen significantly in the recent years though, under Bukele administration. In the last few months, the country has gone for days without a single murder, a big feat for the country. The lockdown measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 are among the strictest across the world in the country. El Salvador has been marred by street gang violence for years. Known as “maras”, these gangs led to the country’s notoriously high homicide rate. In fact, it has remained highest across the Americas.

This small American country witnessed 22 prison homicides in one day!

As the world deals with lockdown blues, people are coming up with strange excuses and strategies to circumvent the rules.

In India, a man bought a huge stock of onions so that he may be able to move from the southern part of the country to its northern state.

The hardest hit continent - Europe has largely remained under lockdown over the last few weeks. However, as the recovery rate starts to improve and the number of infections continue to drop, people are sneaking out and about.

Spain has a loophole in its lockdown rules: people with pets may leave their homes to walk their pets. However, not everybody is walking their pets.

With no clear dictation of what encapsulates pets, people have taken full liberty.

Just on Friday, the Spanish National Police shared an image on Twitter whereby a man was fined for walking an unusual pet… a fish in a bowl! The incident happened in Lograno, a town in northern Spain. He was later penalised by the authorities for breaking the code. 
 
The tweet below translates into "Agents of the police force&nbsp;have found a person for going out to "walk" their fish on the street. Agents spotted him on #Logroño carrying a fish tank against what is stipulated in the RD of the State of Alarm."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Agentes de la <a href="https://twitter.com/policia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@policia</a> han sancionado a una persona por salir a "pasear" a sus peces por la calle. Los agentes le avistaron en <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Logro%C3%B1o?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Logroño</a> portando una pecera en contra de lo estipulado en el RD del Estado de Alarma. 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos</a> <a href="https://t.co/lOFVnDX6Fi">pic.twitter.com/lOFVnDX6Fi</a>
— Policía Nacional (@policia) <a href="https://twitter.com/policia/status/1253594777418776577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 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>

Earlier, on March 25, a man was seen walking his hen. Take a look below!

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoTieneGracia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoTieneGracia</a> 
 
Guardias civiles de <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lanzarote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lanzarote</a> denuncian a una persona por incumplir las medidas de limitación de circulación impuestas en por el estado de alarma paseando una gallina<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos</a> <a href="https://t.co/kZ7vGuTKE5">pic.twitter.com/kZ7vGuTKE5</a>
— Guardia Civil 🇪🇸 (@guardiacivil) <a href="https://twitter.com/guardiacivil/status/1242814616561909761?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>

The police tweeted, "Civil guards of #Lanzarote fined&nbsp;a person for failing to comply with the movement limitation measures imposed by the state of alarm while walking a hen".

In another bizarre incident in Spain, an unidentified citizen in Murcia was seen dressed as a Tyrannosaurus rex. The images went viral on social media!

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
En estado de alarma se permite el paseo de mascotas acompañadas de una persona, siempre con paseos cortos para hacer sus necesidades. 
 
El que tengas complejo de Tyrannosaurus rex no está contemplado.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/qu%C3%A9dateencasa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#quédateencasa</a> <a href="https://t.co/C8dWkrvAdm">pic.twitter.com/C8dWkrvAdm</a>
— Policía Local Murcia (@MurciaPolicia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MurciaPolicia/status/1239659731377098752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 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>

It only gets stranger in the land of Spain: Another person was arrested for walking a toy dog on a leash. Video below:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pedimos SENSATEZ durante el <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EstadoDeEmergencia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EstadoDeEmergencia</a> por culpa del <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. 
 
Estamos ante una situación MUY GRAVE como para andar por la calle intentando engañar a la <a href="https://twitter.com/policia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@policia</a>... NO nos engañas y además serás sancionado. 
 
Es una cuestión de salud pública.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos</a> <a href="https://t.co/67cjOMNdC3">pic.twitter.com/67cjOMNdC3</a>
— JUPOL (@JupolNacional) <a href="https://twitter.com/JupolNacional/status/1239652064004911104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 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>

After this clip went viral, the police announced:&nbsp;"Do not try to deceive us!"

Spain recently decided to extend its lockdown until May 9, to ensure that the slowing rate of infections continues steadily. In Spain alone, over 20,000 people have died of the virus so far. If the lockdown officially ends on May 9, the country would have spent six weeks under lockdown in total.

As the world deals with lockdown blues, people are coming up with strange excuses and strategies to circumvent the rules. In India, a man bought a huge stock of onions so that he may be able to move from the southern part of the country to its northern state.

As the world deals with lockdown blues, people are coming up with strange excuses and strategies to circumvent the rules. In India, a man bought a huge stock of onions so that he may be able to move from the southern part of the country to its northern state. The hardest hit continent - Europe has largely remained under lockdown over the last few weeks. However, as the recovery rate starts to improve and the number of infections continue to drop, people are sneaking out and about. Spain has a loophole in its lockdown rules: people with pets may leave their homes to walk their pets. However, not everybody is walking their pets. With no clear dictation of what encapsulates pets, people have taken full liberty. Just on Friday, the Spanish National Police shared an image on Twitter whereby a man was fined for walking an unusual pet… a fish in a bowl! The incident happened in Lograno, a town in northern Spain. He was later penalised by the authorities for breaking the code. The tweet below translates into "Agents of the police force have found a person for going out to "walk" their fish on the street. Agents spotted him on #Logroño carrying a fish tank against what is stipulated in the RD of the State of Alarm." Agentes de la @policia han sancionado a una persona por salir a "pasear" a sus peces por la calle. Los agentes le avistaron en #Logroño portando una pecera en contra de lo estipulado en el RD del Estado de Alarma. #EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos pic.twitter.com/lOFVnDX6Fi — Policía Nacional (@policia) April 24, 2020 × Earlier, on March 25, a man was seen walking his hen. Take a look below! #NoTieneGracia Guardias civiles de #Lanzarote denuncian a una persona por incumplir las medidas de limitación de circulación impuestas en por el estado de alarma paseando una gallina#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos pic.twitter.com/kZ7vGuTKE5 — Guardia Civil 🇪🇸 (@guardiacivil) March 25, 2020 × The police tweeted, "Civil guards of #Lanzarote fined a person for failing to comply with the movement limitation measures imposed by the state of alarm while walking a hen". In another bizarre incident in Spain, an unidentified citizen in Murcia was seen dressed as a Tyrannosaurus rex. The images went viral on social media! En estado de alarma se permite el paseo de mascotas acompañadas de una persona, siempre con paseos cortos para hacer sus necesidades. El que tengas complejo de Tyrannosaurus rex no está contemplado.#quédateencasa pic.twitter.com/C8dWkrvAdm — Policía Local Murcia (@MurciaPolicia) March 16, 2020 × It only gets stranger in the land of Spain: Another person was arrested for walking a toy dog on a leash. Video below: Pedimos SENSATEZ durante el #EstadoDeEmergencia por culpa del #COVID19. Estamos ante una situación MUY GRAVE como para andar por la calle intentando engañar a la @policia... NO nos engañas y además serás sancionado. Es una cuestión de salud pública.#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos pic.twitter.com/67cjOMNdC3 — JUPOL (@JupolNacional) March 16, 2020 × After this clip went viral, the police announced: "Do not try to deceive us!" Spain recently decided to extend its lockdown until May 9, to ensure that the slowing rate of infections continues steadily. In Spain alone, over 20,000 people have died of the virus so far. If the lockdown officially ends on May 9, the country would have spent six weeks under lockdown in total.

Hens? Fish? Spaniards walk strange 'pets' as country extends lockdown to May 9

Europe was recently the hardest hit by COVID-19 across the globe. Over time, the rate of infection seems to have slowed down. 
 
With strict lockdowns and rigorous testing, the numbers seem to have been brought under control.

However, public anger against lockdown has turned into protests across the globe, based on a pattern which started appearing across the United States as people demanded reopening of the economy. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boston-dynamics-spot-robot-helping-doctors-remotely-combat-covid-19-294866" hreflang="en">Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19</a> 
 
For the first time since the lockdown began, public support for it has fallen below 50 per cent in France, a poll by the Huffington Post has shown. 
 
The French government intends to phase out the reopening process in the country, starting May 11. The proposals will be presented by the government to the Assemblee Nationale and then put forth for voting.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/doorstep-meal-delivery-in-france-cheer-up-isolated-senior-citizens-294276/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the new survey, only 43 per cent of the population now supports the strict enforcement of lockdown. Last week, the lockdown had the support of the majority, with over 51 per cent of the population in its favour. The strict confinement measures in place refer to a complete shutdown of industry and all non-essential services including schools and businesses without which the majority of the population can survive. 
 
The survey further shed light on what the citizens expect from the government. 82 per cent of them expect the government to provide free masks to the general population, and more than three quarters want the blanket ban on cultural and sports gatherings to continue.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-complaints-of-faulty-kits-by-several-nations-china-confiscates-89-million-face-masks-294838" hreflang="en">Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks</a> 
 
The public is also in line with the government’s demands to ensure that people work from home. However, school teachers believe that they are being used to improve the general population’s immunity against the virus. 
 
The government has repeatedly asserted the risk of reopening schools and universities too early, and intends to do it in a “progressive and careful” way.

Many who need to access public transport to reach their respective schools and workplaces have expressed fear over what may transpire if they try to venture out too early.

The government intends to make wearing masks on public transport compulsory.

Europe was recently the hardest hit by COVID-19 across the globe. Over time, the rate of infection seems to have slowed down. With strict lockdowns and rigorous testing, the numbers seem to have been brought under control.

Europe was recently the hardest hit by COVID-19 across the globe. Over time, the rate of infection seems to have slowed down. With strict lockdowns and rigorous testing, the numbers seem to have been brought under control. However, public anger against lockdown has turned into protests across the globe, based on a pattern which started appearing across the United States as people demanded reopening of the economy. Also read: Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 For the first time since the lockdown began, public support for it has fallen below 50 per cent in France, a poll by the Huffington Post has shown. The French government intends to phase out the reopening process in the country, starting May 11. The proposals will be presented by the government to the Assemblee Nationale and then put forth for voting. According to the new survey, only 43 per cent of the population now supports the strict enforcement of lockdown. Last week, the lockdown had the support of the majority, with over 51 per cent of the population in its favour. The strict confinement measures in place refer to a complete shutdown of industry and all non-essential services including schools and businesses without which the majority of the population can survive. The survey further shed light on what the citizens expect from the government. 82 per cent of them expect the government to provide free masks to the general population, and more than three quarters want the blanket ban on cultural and sports gatherings to continue. Also read: Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks The public is also in line with the government’s demands to ensure that people work from home. However, school teachers believe that they are being used to improve the general population’s immunity against the virus. The government has repeatedly asserted the risk of reopening schools and universities too early, and intends to do it in a “progressive and careful” way. Many who need to access public transport to reach their respective schools and workplaces have expressed fear over what may transpire if they try to venture out too early. The government intends to make wearing masks on public transport compulsory.

Only 43% of this hard-hit country now supports lockdown measures

German government officials claim that Chinese diplomats reached out to them with requests to put out positive comments about Beijing’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis, as international pressure on the country grows everyday.

This was revealed by the German Interior Ministry recently.

“The German government is aware of individual contacts made by Chinese diplomats with the aim of effecting positive public statements on the coronavirus management by the People’s Republic of China,” said the letter, Reuters reported.

“The federal government has not complied with these requests.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dietary-supplements-may-help-fight-off-viral-diseases-like-covid-19-study-295061" hreflang="en">Dietary supplements may help fight off viral diseases like COVID-19: Study</a>

Dated April 22, the letter was allegedly sent to the Green Party member of parliament Margarete Bause. The Chinese Embassy in Berlin has rejected the claims.

In the last few weeks, China has faced mounting pressure and criticism globally for withholding information about the virus and for fudging numbers. Recently, the authorities increased the death toll of Wuhan by 50 per cent out of the blue.

Increasing pressure

In the midst of this all, China is facing questions from the global community, who are wondering whether China could have averted a global crisis by reporting it early.

Recently, many countries including Australia called for independent query into the virus’ origins. China threatened with consumer retaliation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-still-doesnt-have-enough-ppes-for-doctors-study-295048" hreflang="en">UK still doesn't have enough PPEs for doctors: Study</a>

US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly asserted plans to hold China accountable if any link is found between the authorities and the origin of the virus, and in case of any negligence shown.

Recently, Trump administration stopped its funding of the World Health Organization (WHO) for its late response to the virus.

Given the nature of the virus, which sometimes manifests itself without any symptoms has raised fears of reinfection, as it spreads at a much faster rate than SARS but has a lower fatality rate than it.

German government officials claim that Chinese diplomats reached out to them with requests to put out positive comments about Beijing’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis, as international pressure on the country grows everyday.

German government officials claim that Chinese diplomats reached out to them with requests to put out positive comments about Beijing’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis, as international pressure on the country grows everyday. This was revealed by the German Interior Ministry recently. “The German government is aware of individual contacts made by Chinese diplomats with the aim of effecting positive public statements on the coronavirus management by the People’s Republic of China,” said the letter, Reuters reported. “The federal government has not complied with these requests.” Also read: Dietary supplements may help fight off viral diseases like COVID-19: Study Dated April 22, the letter was allegedly sent to the Green Party member of parliament Margarete Bause. The Chinese Embassy in Berlin has rejected the claims. In the last few weeks, China has faced mounting pressure and criticism globally for withholding information about the virus and for fudging numbers. Recently, the authorities increased the death toll of Wuhan by 50 per cent out of the blue. Increasing pressure In the midst of this all, China is facing questions from the global community, who are wondering whether China could have averted a global crisis by reporting it early. Recently, many countries including Australia called for independent query into the virus’ origins. China threatened with consumer retaliation. Also read: UK still doesn't have enough PPEs for doctors: Study US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly asserted plans to hold China accountable if any link is found between the authorities and the origin of the virus, and in case of any negligence shown. Recently, Trump administration stopped its funding of the World Health Organization (WHO) for its late response to the virus. Given the nature of the virus, which sometimes manifests itself without any symptoms has raised fears of reinfection, as it spreads at a much faster rate than SARS but has a lower fatality rate than it.

China allegedly reached out to Germany seeking 'positive comments' on its COVID-19 protocol

Yahoo! India on Friday released a list of search trends in India before and after the nationwide lockdown was enforced in the country.

The report states that the trends reflect every user’s daily search habits.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-bill-gates-defends-china-calls-blame-game-a-distraction-295021" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Bill Gates defends China, calls blame-game a 'distraction'</a>

Additionally, it took into account not only what the user read, but also based on what they shared with other users.

The words “novel coronavirus” witnessed a jump of over 427 per cent in terms of search pattern across the country. 
 
COVID-19 fever

The top five keywords related to coronavirus included - COVID-19 updates, COVID-19 treatment, COVID-19 death toll, symptoms of COVID-19, and live COVID-19 tracker.

The top overall searches related to the virus included: Lockdown in India, vaccine for coronavirus, social distancing, and Hydroxychloroquine for coronavirus. 
 
Before COVID

Way before COVID-19 gained traction in the country, people in the country were searching for Delhi election results, Delhi riots, Delhi violence, and JNU violence.

The keywords that received most hits earlier were US President Donald Trump, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, and politician Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-has-yielded-positive-results-says-pm-states-want-extension-with-relaxations-295055" hreflang="en">Lockdown has yielded positive results, says PM; States want extension with relaxations</a>

In terms of online tools to ease working from home, Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, and GoToMeeting gained the most steam in the country.

In terms of celebrities, Kanika Kapoor, the singer who had tested positive for the virus and has recovered since then received the most hits online, followed by Priyanka Chopra, Disha Patani, and Deepika Padukone.

Yahoo! India on Friday released a list of search trends in India before and after the nationwide lockdown was enforced in the country. The report states that the trends reflect every user’s daily search habits.

Yahoo! India on Friday released a list of search trends in India before and after the nationwide lockdown was enforced in the country. The report states that the trends reflect every user’s daily search habits. Also read: COVID-19: Bill Gates defends China, calls blame-game a 'distraction' Additionally, it took into account not only what the user read, but also based on what they shared with other users. The words “novel coronavirus” witnessed a jump of over 427 per cent in terms of search pattern across the country. COVID-19 fever The top five keywords related to coronavirus included - COVID-19 updates, COVID-19 treatment, COVID-19 death toll, symptoms of COVID-19, and live COVID-19 tracker. The top overall searches related to the virus included: Lockdown in India, vaccine for coronavirus, social distancing, and Hydroxychloroquine for coronavirus. Before COVID Way before COVID-19 gained traction in the country, people in the country were searching for Delhi election results, Delhi riots, Delhi violence, and JNU violence. The keywords that received most hits earlier were US President Donald Trump, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, and politician Jyotiraditya Scindia. Also read: Lockdown has yielded positive results, says PM; States want extension with relaxations In terms of online tools to ease working from home, Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, and GoToMeeting gained the most steam in the country. In terms of celebrities, Kanika Kapoor, the singer who had tested positive for the virus and has recovered since then received the most hits online, followed by Priyanka Chopra, Disha Patani, and Deepika Padukone.

COVID fever, quite literally? Yahoo! reveals most searched words before and after lockdown in India

United Kingdom’s doctors haven’t been shy in talking about shortages faced by them since the COVID-19 pandemic took over the country.

However, a new research suggests that doctors are still finding it hard to procure personal protection kits even after reaffirmation from authorities over the last few weeks.

Very recently, the Royal College of Physicians condemned the lack of preparedness by calling it “truly terrible” while adding that the lives of frontline workers continues to be at risk due to the non-availability of PPE kits.

A survey undertaken by the college claims that doctors who undertake AGPs (Aerosol-generating procedures) whereby people are asked to expel droplets from their mouths, over 37 per cent don’t have access to a visor while over 31 per cent don’t have full-length gowns.

<img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0aee99d3-2e94-4245-863f-eb3805549121" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_94.jpg" />

To be put in the line of direct particles containing COVID-19, a doctor has to wear a head to toe PPE gear.

The survey witnessed responses by 2,129 doctors, The Guardian reported.

Turns out, over 27 per cent doctors claimed to have no access the kits required to ensure their safety. In the beginning of April, the number was much lower - at 22 per cent.

This could in turn disrupt the treatment process, as doctors may refuse to treat patients in the absence of kits.

Are masks the key?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly asserted that face masks are solely for healthcare workers, not the general public. However, the Chinese authorities have claimed that masks should be worn by everyone at all times.

Many studies have also found that the rate of infection can be lowered by ensuring masks are being worn by both the infected and the non-infected.

“Wearing a medical mask is one of the prevention measures that can limit the spread of certain respiratory viral diseases, including Covid-19. However, the use of a mask alone is insufficient to provide an adequate level of protection, and other measures should also be adopted,” the WHO said.

However, masks are not the straightaway solution, for the frontals of these masks could be infected with the virus and could still infect people when they take it off.

Additionally, the world is currently witnessing a shortage of medical grade masks, putting the lives of healthcare workers at risk. 
 
Doctors fear for their lives

A separate survey claims that over 61 per cent of family doctors in the UK are now refusing to treat patients in the absence of availability of PPEs. Additionally, 74 per cent claim that they fear for their life and health.

Most doctors have switched to online consultations, but many requiring surgeries and hands-on treatment are visiting their doctors.

Although many GP appointments are now being conducted by telephone or video link, some patients are still coming into surgeries for a face-to-face consultation.

United Kingdom’s doctors haven’t been shy in talking about shortages faced by them since the COVID-19 pandemic took over the country. However, a new research suggests that doctors are still finding it hard to procure personal protection kits even after reaffirmation from authorities over the last few weeks.

United Kingdom’s doctors haven’t been shy in talking about shortages faced by them since the COVID-19 pandemic took over the country. However, a new research suggests that doctors are still finding it hard to procure personal protection kits even after reaffirmation from authorities over the last few weeks. Very recently, the Royal College of Physicians condemned the lack of preparedness by calling it “truly terrible” while adding that the lives of frontline workers continues to be at risk due to the non-availability of PPE kits. A survey undertaken by the college claims that doctors who undertake AGPs (Aerosol-generating procedures) whereby people are asked to expel droplets from their mouths, over 37 per cent don’t have access to a visor while over 31 per cent don’t have full-length gowns. To be put in the line of direct particles containing COVID-19, a doctor has to wear a head to toe PPE gear. The survey witnessed responses by 2,129 doctors, The Guardian reported. Turns out, over 27 per cent doctors claimed to have no access the kits required to ensure their safety. In the beginning of April, the number was much lower - at 22 per cent. This could in turn disrupt the treatment process, as doctors may refuse to treat patients in the absence of kits. Are masks the key? The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly asserted that face masks are solely for healthcare workers, not the general public. However, the Chinese authorities have claimed that masks should be worn by everyone at all times. Many studies have also found that the rate of infection can be lowered by ensuring masks are being worn by both the infected and the non-infected. “Wearing a medical mask is one of the prevention measures that can limit the spread of certain respiratory viral diseases, including Covid-19. However, the use of a mask alone is insufficient to provide an adequate level of protection, and other measures should also be adopted,” the WHO said. However, masks are not the straightaway solution, for the frontals of these masks could be infected with the virus and could still infect people when they take it off. Additionally, the world is currently witnessing a shortage of medical grade masks, putting the lives of healthcare workers at risk. Doctors fear for their lives A separate survey claims that over 61 per cent of family doctors in the UK are now refusing to treat patients in the absence of availability of PPEs. Additionally, 74 per cent claim that they fear for their life and health. Most doctors have switched to online consultations, but many requiring surgeries and hands-on treatment are visiting their doctors. Although many GP appointments are now being conducted by telephone or video link, some patients are still coming into surgeries for a face-to-face consultation.

UK still doesn't have enough PPEs for doctors: Study

Amazon has come under fire from French authorities for delivering non-essential products and luxury items during the pandemic.

A new ruling by the French court clearly states that Amazon can now only deliver goods related to medicine and its supplies, products related to hygiene and cleaning, and food items for as long as the pandemic lasts. 
 
Additionally, the court ordered the company to constantly conduct risk assessments of its warehouses, in conjunction with labour unions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/amazon-says-it-may-close-french-warehouses-after-court-ruling-292679" hreflang="en">Amazon says it may close French warehouses after court ruling&nbsp;</a>

The labour unions had recently dragged the mega-company to court for allegedly being unable to protect its employees from exposure to the virus.

The company tweeted in response to the ruling, “We have heard the outcome of our appeal and remain puzzled by the decision. We are currently assessing the implications for our sites as well as for our employees and customers in France.”

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amazon-employees-protest-demand-safety-measures-amidst-covid-19-outbreak-289655/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
If Amazon is found to be in violation of these rulings, the company would be liable to pay $108,000 for every non-essential item it delivers, as per The Versailles Court of Appeals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/amazon-warehouse-recently-visited-by-bezos-records-first-coronavirus-case-291774" hreflang="en">Amazon warehouse recently visited by Bezos records first coronavirus case</a> 
 
The court will revisit its ruling based on the company’s performance next month, and keeping in mind the stage of the pandemic.

Recently, protests erupted across Amazon warehouses in the United States, where employees complained of insufficient precautionary measures, and staged a walkout.

In response to this, Amazon fired the employee who came up with the idea of the walkout. This move invited ire from labour unions across the globe.

Amazon has come under fire from French authorities for delivering non-essential products and luxury items during the pandemic. A new ruling by the French court clearly states that Amazon can now only deliver goods related to medicine and its supplies, products related to hygiene and cleaning, and food items for as long as the pandemic lasts.

Amazon has come under fire from French authorities for delivering non-essential products and luxury items during the pandemic. A new ruling by the French court clearly states that Amazon can now only deliver goods related to medicine and its supplies, products related to hygiene and cleaning, and food items for as long as the pandemic lasts. Additionally, the court ordered the company to constantly conduct risk assessments of its warehouses, in conjunction with labour unions. Also read: Amazon says it may close French warehouses after court ruling The labour unions had recently dragged the mega-company to court for allegedly being unable to protect its employees from exposure to the virus. The company tweeted in response to the ruling, “We have heard the outcome of our appeal and remain puzzled by the decision. We are currently assessing the implications for our sites as well as for our employees and customers in France.” If Amazon is found to be in violation of these rulings, the company would be liable to pay $108,000 for every non-essential item it delivers, as per The Versailles Court of Appeals. Also read: Amazon warehouse recently visited by Bezos records first coronavirus case The court will revisit its ruling based on the company’s performance next month, and keeping in mind the stage of the pandemic. Recently, protests erupted across Amazon warehouses in the United States, where employees complained of insufficient precautionary measures, and staged a walkout. In response to this, Amazon fired the employee who came up with the idea of the walkout. This move invited ire from labour unions across the globe.

French court orders Amazon to pay up for every non-essential delivery

Wuhan, the initial epicentre of COVID-19 in China has now discharged all of its patients. 
 
Over the last few weeks, the number of new patients in the city were declining continuously. Only three new cases have been registered across China with no fresh fatalities.

China’s National Health Commission claims that Wuhan now has zero new patients.

“Thanks to the joint efforts of Wuhan and medical staff from around the country,” said Mi Feng, a spokesman for the commission.

Out of the three new reported cases in the country on Sunday, two were imported infections, ie, they were transmitted or originated from outside China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306">Has Wuhan really recovered?&nbsp;</a>

The third was a case transmitted in the northeastern border town of Heilongjiang, which has recently witnessed a surge in cases in cases as people from Russia make their way back into the country.

After months of lockdown in China, the country is reopening slowly. So far, over 82,000 cases have been recorded in the country, and over 4,633 people have died.

However, authorities are fearful of a second wave. On Sunday, Beijing announced a slew of measures to promote “civilised behaviour”. As part of this, citizens have been advised not to sneeze and cough in public. Additionally, they have been asked not to eat in public and also to don a mask during sickness.

Further, restaurants across the country have been instructed to provide utensils and to stop serving family style meals in favour of individual portions.

All these provisions are expected to come into force starting June 1.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/china-claims-zero-covid-19-cases-in-wuhan-all-patients-discharged-in-wuhan-294910/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the last few weeks, China has faced mounting pressure and criticism globally for withholding information about the virus and for fudging numbers. Recently, the authorities increased the death toll of Wuhan by 50 per cent out of the blue.

Given the nature of the virus, which sometimes manifests itself without any symptoms has raised fears of reinfection, as it spreads at a much faster rate than SARS but has a lower fatality rate than it.

Those who have recovered and underwent 14 days of isolation are now required to be put under observation for an extra seven days, whereby they shall be barred from venturing outside.

The city of Shenzhen now has 461 infections, and anybody entering the city through its ports is forced to undergo quarantine. Over the last month, everyone entering the city was put in 14 days of isolation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-positive-cases-near-3-million-mark-globally-death-toll-passes-2-lacs-294998" hreflang="en">COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs</a>

In the midst of this all, China is facing questions from the global community, who are wondering whether China could have averted a global crisis by reporting it early.

Recently, many countries including Australia called for independent query into the virus’ origins. China threatened with consumer retaliation.

US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly asserted plans to hold China accountable if any link is found between the authorities and the origin of the virus, and in case of any negligence shown.

Recently, Trump administration stopped its funding of the World Health Organization (WHO) for its late response to the virus.

Wuhan, the initial epicentre of COVID-19 in China has now discharged all of its patients. Over the last few weeks, the number of new patients in the city were declining continuously.

Wuhan, the initial epicentre of COVID-19 in China has now discharged all of its patients. Over the last few weeks, the number of new patients in the city were declining continuously. Only three new cases have been registered across China with no fresh fatalities. China’s National Health Commission claims that Wuhan now has zero new patients. “Thanks to the joint efforts of Wuhan and medical staff from around the country,” said Mi Feng, a spokesman for the commission. Out of the three new reported cases in the country on Sunday, two were imported infections, ie, they were transmitted or originated from outside China. Also read: Has Wuhan really recovered? The third was a case transmitted in the northeastern border town of Heilongjiang, which has recently witnessed a surge in cases in cases as people from Russia make their way back into the country. After months of lockdown in China, the country is reopening slowly. So far, over 82,000 cases have been recorded in the country, and over 4,633 people have died. However, authorities are fearful of a second wave. On Sunday, Beijing announced a slew of measures to promote “civilised behaviour”. As part of this, citizens have been advised not to sneeze and cough in public. Additionally, they have been asked not to eat in public and also to don a mask during sickness. Further, restaurants across the country have been instructed to provide utensils and to stop serving family style meals in favour of individual portions. All these provisions are expected to come into force starting June 1. In the last few weeks, China has faced mounting pressure and criticism globally for withholding information about the virus and for fudging numbers. Recently, the authorities increased the death toll of Wuhan by 50 per cent out of the blue. Given the nature of the virus, which sometimes manifests itself without any symptoms has raised fears of reinfection, as it spreads at a much faster rate than SARS but has a lower fatality rate than it. Those who have recovered and underwent 14 days of isolation are now required to be put under observation for an extra seven days, whereby they shall be barred from venturing outside. The city of Shenzhen now has 461 infections, and anybody entering the city through its ports is forced to undergo quarantine. Over the last month, everyone entering the city was put in 14 days of isolation. Also read: COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs In the midst of this all, China is facing questions from the global community, who are wondering whether China could have averted a global crisis by reporting it early. Recently, many countries including Australia called for independent query into the virus’ origins. China threatened with consumer retaliation. US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly asserted plans to hold China accountable if any link is found between the authorities and the origin of the virus, and in case of any negligence shown. Recently, Trump administration stopped its funding of the World Health Organization (WHO) for its late response to the virus.

Wuhan discharges all coronavirus patients, reports zero new cases

A 99-year-old World War II veteran in Britain has set out on achieving a noble goal: to raise money for Britain’s National Health Service.

Captain Tom Moore, who served in India during World War II has set up a fundraising page, and is walking the 82-foot length of his garden back and forth over 100&nbsp;times, while using his walker for support, as he can no longer walk independently.

He envisioned&nbsp;the journey to be completed before April 30. Moore wanted to raise over $1,250 but within less than 24 hours, he raised over $8,750.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today I completed my final 10 laps, and although the mission is complete - I am going to keep on going. 
 
The donations stand at 15.5 MILLION pounds - wow. 
 
Thank you all - now let's continue to support our NHS! 
 
Images by Emma Sohl - Capture The Light Photography<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/walkwithtom?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#walkwithtom</a> <a href="https://t.co/UhDmUD3HCO">pic.twitter.com/UhDmUD3HCO</a>
— Captain Tom Moore (@captaintommoore) <a href="https://twitter.com/captaintommoore/status/1250866513919311878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 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>

Increasing even further, he had raised over $1.25 by last week Tuesday. By Thursday, he had raised over $15 million.

Moore crossed the finish line six after starting his journey. Media reports indicated that the premise was decorated with balloons. Additionally, soldiers from the Yorkshire Regiment formed a guard of honour around him and saluted him.

The NHS is greatly revered in the UK, but remains highly understaffed and underfunded. Moore received tokens of gratitude from healthcare workers across the country.

By Friday, Moore had raised over $23 million. As of today (Monday), Moore has raised over $33 million!

A 99-year-old World War II veteran in Britain has set out on achieving a noble goal: to raise money for Britain’s National Health Service. Captain Tom Moore, who served in India during World War II has set up a fundraising page, and is walking the 82-foot length of his garden back and forth over 100 times, while using his walker for support, as he can no longer walk independently.

A 99-year-old World War II veteran in Britain has set out on achieving a noble goal: to raise money for Britain’s National Health Service. Captain Tom Moore, who served in India during World War II has set up a fundraising page, and is walking the 82-foot length of his garden back and forth over 100 times, while using his walker for support, as he can no longer walk independently. He envisioned the journey to be completed before April 30. Moore wanted to raise over $1,250 but within less than 24 hours, he raised over $8,750. Today I completed my final 10 laps, and although the mission is complete - I am going to keep on going. The donations stand at 15.5 MILLION pounds - wow. Thank you all - now let's continue to support our NHS! Images by Emma Sohl - Capture The Light Photography#walkwithtom pic.twitter.com/UhDmUD3HCO — Captain Tom Moore (@captaintommoore) April 16, 2020 × Increasing even further, he had raised over $1.25 by last week Tuesday. By Thursday, he had raised over $15 million. Moore crossed the finish line six after starting his journey. Media reports indicated that the premise was decorated with balloons. Additionally, soldiers from the Yorkshire Regiment formed a guard of honour around him and saluted him. The NHS is greatly revered in the UK, but remains highly understaffed and underfunded. Moore received tokens of gratitude from healthcare workers across the country. By Friday, Moore had raised over $23 million. As of today (Monday), Moore has raised over $33 million!

99-year-old veteran who served in India during World War II raises over $33 million to help healthcare workers in the UK

During today’s daily briefing, the Health Ministry claimed that at least 80 per cent of the coronavirus positive cases have no or very mild symptoms.

"On the basis of worldwide analysis, out of 100 coronavirus patients, 80 per cent are asymptomatic or show mild symptoms," said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Health and Family Welfare.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/districts-with-no-covid-19-cases-last-14-days-has-increased-to-59-goa-is-coronavirus-free-health-ministry-293580" hreflang="en">Districts with no COVID-19 cases last 14 days has increased to 59, Goa is coronavirus free: Health ministry</a>

“Around 15 per cent patients turn into severe cases and five percent cases turn into critical case”, he further added.

“80 out of 100 people do not show symptoms and therefore chances are that they test positive”, echoed Raman Gangakhedkar, head infectious disease and epidemiology at the Indian Council of Medical Research.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-thanks-police-forces-for-ensuring-lockdown-with-sensitivity-and-professionalism-293587" hreflang="en">President thanks police forces for ensuring lockdown with sensitivity and professionalism</a>

India currently has over 17,656 positive cases of COVID-19. Out of these 559 have died. Maharashtra has the highest number of cases in the country - over 4,200.

(With inputs from agencies)

During today’s daily briefing, the Health Ministry claimed that at least 80 per cent of the coronavirus positive cases have no or very mild symptoms. "On the basis of worldwide analysis, out of 100 coronavirus patients, 80 per cent are asymptomatic or show mild symptoms," said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Health and Family Welfare.

During today’s daily briefing, the Health Ministry claimed that at least 80 per cent of the coronavirus positive cases have no or very mild symptoms. "On the basis of worldwide analysis, out of 100 coronavirus patients, 80 per cent are asymptomatic or show mild symptoms," said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Health and Family Welfare. Also read: Districts with no COVID-19 cases last 14 days has increased to 59, Goa is coronavirus free: Health ministry “Around 15 per cent patients turn into severe cases and five percent cases turn into critical case”, he further added. “80 out of 100 people do not show symptoms and therefore chances are that they test positive”, echoed Raman Gangakhedkar, head infectious disease and epidemiology at the Indian Council of Medical Research. Also read: President thanks police forces for ensuring lockdown with sensitivity and professionalism India currently has over 17,656 positive cases of COVID-19. Out of these 559 have died. Maharashtra has the highest number of cases in the country - over 4,200. (With inputs from agencies)

80 out of 100 people show mild to no symptoms of coronavirus: Health Ministry

The United States is currently under a strong grip of COVID-19, with over 40,000 deaths reported so far - the highest for any country.

President Donald Trump has been holding daily press briefings. Recently, he played a clip of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo praising him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-coronavirus-reinfections-surface-across-countries-what-threats-do-such-lapses-pose-293577" hreflang="en">As coronavirus reinfections surface across countries, what threats do such lapses pose?</a>

Critics were quick to slam him for turning a pandemic briefing into a “campaign ad”, as The Guardian put it.

Andre Cuomo has staunchly criticised Trump’s reaction to the pandemic. His state - New York has witnessed the highest number of cases in the entire country and continues to remain the hardest-hit.

The clips showed Cuomo saying “What the federal government did, working with states ... was a phenomenal accomplishment… These were just extraordinary efforts and acts of mobilisation, and the federal government stepped up and was a great partner, and I’m the first to say it. We needed help and they were there.”

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-pandemic-trump-clashes-with-governors-over-lockdown-293455/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Just two days before the clips emerged, Cuomo launched a scathing attack against Trump and said, “First of all, if he’s sitting home watching TV, maybe he should get up and go to work, right”

“Second, let’s keep emotion and politics out of this and personal ego if we can because this is about the people and our job and let’s try to focus on that”, he further added.

It turns out, Cuomo indeed acknowledged Trump’s quick decision to increase hospital capacity, he did fact-check Trump on his claims that the Javits Center, which had been converted into a hospital, had not been used. Cuomo said that the centre is well in use for patients.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/of-the-great-manchurian-plague-of-1911-and-its-lessons-293564" hreflang="en">Of the Great Manchurian Plague of 1911, and its lessons</a>

“The president doesn’t want to help on testing. I said 11 times, I said the one issue we need help with is testing. He said 11 times: ‘I don’t want to get involved in testing, it’s too complicated, it’s too hard.’ I know it’s too complicated and too hard. That’s why we need help. I can’t do an international supply chain”, Cuomo further added.

“He wants to say: ‘Well I did enough.’ Yeah, none of us have done enough. We haven’t, because it’s not over ... We have a lot more to do and no one can do the posture of ‘Just say thank you for what I’ve done, and I’m now out, I’m not doing anything else. I’ve done my part”, Cuomo said.

Trump is now moving on to reopen the economy and to focus on his reelection campaign, reports suggest.

The United States is currently under a strong grip of COVID-19, with over 40,000 deaths reported so far - the highest for any country. President Donald Trump has been holding daily press briefings.

The United States is currently under a strong grip of COVID-19, with over 40,000 deaths reported so far - the highest for any country. President Donald Trump has been holding daily press briefings. Recently, he played a clip of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo praising him. Also read: As coronavirus reinfections surface across countries, what threats do such lapses pose? Critics were quick to slam him for turning a pandemic briefing into a “campaign ad”, as The Guardian put it. Andre Cuomo has staunchly criticised Trump’s reaction to the pandemic. His state - New York has witnessed the highest number of cases in the entire country and continues to remain the hardest-hit. The clips showed Cuomo saying “What the federal government did, working with states ... was a phenomenal accomplishment… These were just extraordinary efforts and acts of mobilisation, and the federal government stepped up and was a great partner, and I’m the first to say it. We needed help and they were there.” Just two days before the clips emerged, Cuomo launched a scathing attack against Trump and said, “First of all, if he’s sitting home watching TV, maybe he should get up and go to work, right” “Second, let’s keep emotion and politics out of this and personal ego if we can because this is about the people and our job and let’s try to focus on that”, he further added. It turns out, Cuomo indeed acknowledged Trump’s quick decision to increase hospital capacity, he did fact-check Trump on his claims that the Javits Center, which had been converted into a hospital, had not been used. Cuomo said that the centre is well in use for patients. Also read: Of the Great Manchurian Plague of 1911, and its lessons “The president doesn’t want to help on testing. I said 11 times, I said the one issue we need help with is testing. He said 11 times: ‘I don’t want to get involved in testing, it’s too complicated, it’s too hard.’ I know it’s too complicated and too hard. That’s why we need help. I can’t do an international supply chain”, Cuomo further added. “He wants to say: ‘Well I did enough.’ Yeah, none of us have done enough. We haven’t, because it’s not over ... We have a lot more to do and no one can do the posture of ‘Just say thank you for what I’ve done, and I’m now out, I’m not doing anything else. I’ve done my part”, Cuomo said. Trump is now moving on to reopen the economy and to focus on his reelection campaign, reports suggest.

'Campaign ad': Trump faces backlash for playing 'selective' clips of Cuomo praising him during a coronavirus briefing

Mega-companies like Facebook and Google will now have to share advertising revenues with media companies in Australia.

Australia would now have a compulsory code of conduct for such digital companies. This is part of a bigger plan to deal with the steep decline in advertising triggered by the advent of COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision was announced by Australia’s treasurer Josh Frydenberg.

Back in December 2019, Australian government had directed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to come up with a code among media companies and digital platforms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-coronavirus-reinfections-surface-across-countries-what-threats-do-such-lapses-pose-293577" hreflang="en">As coronavirus reinfections surface across countries, what threats do such lapses pose?</a>

As part of this code, the digital platforms were asked how they pay media companies for using their content, and how industry changes affect the relationship between the two entities, and whether digital companies loop in original content or their own rebranded content.

They would now be liable to share all such data with media companies.

Even though the code was supposed to be finalised in November 2020, it has now been pushed back owing to the mounting decline in ad revenue, triggered by coronavirus.

Australia was one of the first countries to respond to the outbreak and has since then managed to limit its spread.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/of-the-great-manchurian-plague-of-1911-and-its-lessons-293564" hreflang="en">Of the Great Manchurian Plague of 1911, and its lessons</a>

A mandatory could should be in place by July, or at least a pilot draft of it.

The code will include penalties and dispute resolution mechanisms in place.

Media has been adversely affected by the pandemic, especially newspapers and magazines, whereby many small publications have had to shut down temporarily or permanently to avoid incurring long-term losses. Many have also laid off staff and asked others to go on an indefinite leave.

Mega-companies like Facebook and Google will now have to share advertising revenues with media companies in Australia. Australia would now have a compulsory code of conduct for such digital companies.

Mega-companies like Facebook and Google will now have to share advertising revenues with media companies in Australia. Australia would now have a compulsory code of conduct for such digital companies. This is part of a bigger plan to deal with the steep decline in advertising triggered by the advent of COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was announced by Australia’s treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Back in December 2019, Australian government had directed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to come up with a code among media companies and digital platforms. Also read: As coronavirus reinfections surface across countries, what threats do such lapses pose? As part of this code, the digital platforms were asked how they pay media companies for using their content, and how industry changes affect the relationship between the two entities, and whether digital companies loop in original content or their own rebranded content. They would now be liable to share all such data with media companies. Even though the code was supposed to be finalised in November 2020, it has now been pushed back owing to the mounting decline in ad revenue, triggered by coronavirus. Australia was one of the first countries to respond to the outbreak and has since then managed to limit its spread. Also read: Of the Great Manchurian Plague of 1911, and its lessons A mandatory could should be in place by July, or at least a pilot draft of it. The code will include penalties and dispute resolution mechanisms in place. Media has been adversely affected by the pandemic, especially newspapers and magazines, whereby many small publications have had to shut down temporarily or permanently to avoid incurring long-term losses. Many have also laid off staff and asked others to go on an indefinite leave.

As COVID-19 truncates media profits, Australia orders digital platforms to split revenue

As coronavirus appears to have peaked in major countries of the world, the global health infrastructure now faces a new challenge: reinfections!

In South Korea alone, over 163 people who had recovered from the virus have now contracted it again, as per data released by Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).

A similar pattern has been noted in China, especially in Wuhan. However, China has been very secretive about its figures, making it hard to track.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/south-korea-reports-more-recovered-coronavirus-patients-testing-positive-again-292225" hreflang="en">South Korea reports more recovered coronavirus patients testing positive again</a>

In South Korea, the relapse rate is as low as 2.1 per cent (for every 7,829 people), but it still leaves many questions about the virus unanswered.

South Korea has been very rigorously testing its citizens, has one of the highest testing rates, and was the first country to flatten the curve.

Mild symptoms

It’s important to note that people who retest positive may or may not be contagious, for 44 per cent of them showed only mild symptoms.

KCDC’s deputy director Kwon Joon-wook told CNN that there is no clarity on naturally acquired immunity.

Kwon further called it the “most challenging pathogen” faced by humanity in recent decades.

KCDC believed that such reinfections could point to the existence of the remains left by the virus in one’s body, and may have little to do with its transmission.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-country-has-only-four-ventilators-for-its-population-of-12-million-people-293515" hreflang="en">This country has only four ventilators for its population of 12 million people</a>

The virus, then, in essence, could not be alive, as was found by the scientists who undertook retesting.

Zhong Nanshan, one of China’s top doctors also echoed the sentiments. He said that tests that are strong may be picking up “fragments of the disease”, and claims to not be “too worried about the issue”.

Of course, tests are volatile. There could be as many false positives as false negatives.

Precaution is key

Kwon further added that the risk of such relapse cases transmitting may be low, but still suggests people to exercise precaution. South Korea makes it mandatory for patients to test negative for the test twice in a row for them to be able to return home. Even then, they have to isolate for 14 days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-recommended-disinfectants-effective-against-covid-19-says-study-293521">WHO-recommended disinfectants effective against COVID-19, says study</a>

In essence, a lot about this disease remains unknown. And it’s best to practice social distancing and ensure personal hygiene until the rate of infections subsides across the globe.

Additionally, there also seems to be guarantee of people developing antibodies and whether the body could then fight the infection.

As coronavirus appears to have peaked in major countries of the world, the global health infrastructure now faces a new challenge: reinfections! In South Korea alone, over 163 people who had recovered from the virus have now contracted it again, as per data released by Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).

As coronavirus appears to have peaked in major countries of the world, the global health infrastructure now faces a new challenge: reinfections! In South Korea alone, over 163 people who had recovered from the virus have now contracted it again, as per data released by Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). A similar pattern has been noted in China, especially in Wuhan. However, China has been very secretive about its figures, making it hard to track. Also read: South Korea reports more recovered coronavirus patients testing positive again In South Korea, the relapse rate is as low as 2.1 per cent (for every 7,829 people), but it still leaves many questions about the virus unanswered. South Korea has been very rigorously testing its citizens, has one of the highest testing rates, and was the first country to flatten the curve. Mild symptoms It’s important to note that people who retest positive may or may not be contagious, for 44 per cent of them showed only mild symptoms. KCDC’s deputy director Kwon Joon-wook told CNN that there is no clarity on naturally acquired immunity. Kwon further called it the “most challenging pathogen” faced by humanity in recent decades. KCDC believed that such reinfections could point to the existence of the remains left by the virus in one’s body, and may have little to do with its transmission. Also read: This country has only four ventilators for its population of 12 million people The virus, then, in essence, could not be alive, as was found by the scientists who undertook retesting. Zhong Nanshan, one of China’s top doctors also echoed the sentiments. He said that tests that are strong may be picking up “fragments of the disease”, and claims to not be “too worried about the issue”. Of course, tests are volatile. There could be as many false positives as false negatives. Precaution is key Kwon further added that the risk of such relapse cases transmitting may be low, but still suggests people to exercise precaution. South Korea makes it mandatory for patients to test negative for the test twice in a row for them to be able to return home. Even then, they have to isolate for 14 days. Also read: WHO-recommended disinfectants effective against COVID-19, says study In essence, a lot about this disease remains unknown. And it’s best to practice social distancing and ensure personal hygiene until the rate of infections subsides across the globe. Additionally, there also seems to be guarantee of people developing antibodies and whether the body could then fight the infection.

As coronavirus reinfections surface across countries, what threats do such lapses pose?

Turns out, farts are capable of spreading the novel coronavirus, which continues to kill thousands globally everyday.

The virus was discovered in the faeces of more than 50 per cent patients who tested positive for coronavirus.

Ample preexisting research suggests that farts carry tiny particles that are capable of spreading bacteria.

Even though, like all things coronavirus, more research is needed to ascertain the intensity of such infections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-set-to-test-if-covid-19-survivours-blood-plasma-can-be-used-for-treatment-293533" hreflang="en">UK set to test if COVID-19 survivours' blood plasma can be used for treatment</a>

An Australian doctor,&nbsp;Dr Andy Tagg carried out tests on COVID-19 patients and found that 55 per cent of them had the virus present in their stool.

Additionally, it is now well established that asymptomatic carriers may be spreading the disease more than previously thought, making it harder to trace and diagnose.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
What has all this farting talk got to do with the coronavirus? 
 
Well, SARS-CoV-2 can be detected in faeces and has been detected in an asymptomatic individual up to 17 days post-exposure.<a href="https://t.co/6IflYTLFWr">https://t.co/6IflYTLFWr</a> <a href="https://t.co/XuYCmYoEQ7">pic.twitter.com/XuYCmYoEQ7</a>
— Andy Tagg (@andrewjtagg) <a href="https://twitter.com/andrewjtagg/status/1247087554781831168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 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>

The doctor further added that farts are capable of spreading the gaseous bacteria over long distances.

In 2001, two Australian researchers Karl Kruszelnicki and Luke Tennent undertook a research to find out whether farts are capable of spreading diseases.

As part of this, Dr Tennent made a colleague fart into two Petri dishes from five centimetres away. One while wearing pants, and the other without.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-recommended-disinfectants-effective-against-covid-19-says-study-293521" hreflang="en">WHO-recommended disinfectants effective against COVID-19, says study</a>

In the dish which received the spray through the filter of the pants, there was no bacteria growth. However, the other dish had birthed bacteria overnight. Even then, they found that none of this bacteria was harmful.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Dr. K and Luke Tennant volunteered to fart on a petri dish. 
 
There was no growth when the fart was filtered by trousers but with no barrier between agar and arse gut flora proliferated. <a href="https://t.co/7wSEEBwS7N">pic.twitter.com/7wSEEBwS7N</a>
— Andy Tagg (@andrewjtagg) <a href="https://twitter.com/andrewjtagg/status/1247087561438183425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 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 beginning of 2020, when coronavirus was just starting out in the world, the Chinese Centers of Disease Control and Prevention’s wing in Tongzhou district announced that pants act as an effective barrier against farts that carry the novel coronavirus. It further added that farts will not spread the virus if pants are worn.

China’s CDC warned that people who carry the virus and fart without pants on, or if they fart in large amounts, could potentially put others at risk.

So the takeaway is: wear pants, fart safe!

Turns out, farts are capable of spreading the novel coronavirus, which continues to kill thousands globally everyday. The virus was discovered in the faeces of more than 50 per cent patients who tested positive for coronavirus.

Turns out, farts are capable of spreading the novel coronavirus, which continues to kill thousands globally everyday. The virus was discovered in the faeces of more than 50 per cent patients who tested positive for coronavirus. Ample preexisting research suggests that farts carry tiny particles that are capable of spreading bacteria. Even though, like all things coronavirus, more research is needed to ascertain the intensity of such infections. Also read: UK set to test if COVID-19 survivours' blood plasma can be used for treatment An Australian doctor, Dr Andy Tagg carried out tests on COVID-19 patients and found that 55 per cent of them had the virus present in their stool. Additionally, it is now well established that asymptomatic carriers may be spreading the disease more than previously thought, making it harder to trace and diagnose. What has all this farting talk got to do with the coronavirus? Well, SARS-CoV-2 can be detected in faeces and has been detected in an asymptomatic individual up to 17 days post-exposure.https://t.co/6IflYTLFWr pic.twitter.com/XuYCmYoEQ7 — Andy Tagg (@andrewjtagg) April 6, 2020 × The doctor further added that farts are capable of spreading the gaseous bacteria over long distances. In 2001, two Australian researchers Karl Kruszelnicki and Luke Tennent undertook a research to find out whether farts are capable of spreading diseases. As part of this, Dr Tennent made a colleague fart into two Petri dishes from five centimetres away. One while wearing pants, and the other without. Also read: WHO-recommended disinfectants effective against COVID-19, says study In the dish which received the spray through the filter of the pants, there was no bacteria growth. However, the other dish had birthed bacteria overnight. Even then, they found that none of this bacteria was harmful. Dr. K and Luke Tennant volunteered to fart on a petri dish. There was no growth when the fart was filtered by trousers but with no barrier between agar and arse gut flora proliferated. pic.twitter.com/7wSEEBwS7N — Andy Tagg (@andrewjtagg) April 6, 2020 × In the beginning of 2020, when coronavirus was just starting out in the world, the Chinese Centers of Disease Control and Prevention’s wing in Tongzhou district announced that pants act as an effective barrier against farts that carry the novel coronavirus. It further added that farts will not spread the virus if pants are worn. China’s CDC warned that people who carry the virus and fart without pants on, or if they fart in large amounts, could potentially put others at risk. So the takeaway is: wear pants, fart safe!

Could farts transmit COVID-19?

The relationship between North Korea and the United States continues to sour, with both sides issuing constant threats and statements against each other, especially with Donald Trump in power. The presidents holds back no words, and has been constantly critical of North Korea.

Donald Trump had recently claimed to have received a friendly letter from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

However, the Korean side recently denied the existence of any such letter and further attacked Trump for using the relationship between the two countries to further his “selfish” interests.

Just on Saturday, Trump announced in a press briefing that he had received a written note from Kim. “It was a nice note… I think that we’re doing fine”, he had said.

Additionally, Trump claimed that both the countries would have gone to war by now, had it not been for his diplomacy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-absent-on-north-koreas-most-important-holiday-precaution-or-doom-293186" hreflang="en">Kim Jong Un absent on North Korea’s most important holiday: Precaution or doom?</a>

Amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, Trump has referred to himself as a “war time president”. This was countered by Joe Biden, his Democrat rival in this year’s elections, who asked him to “behave like one”.

“There was no letter addressed recently to the US president by the supreme leadership of the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea),” the Korean ministry announced on KCNA, a state run media channel.

“[Their relations] are not an issue to be taken up just for diversion, nor should [they] be misused for meeting selfish purposes,” the ministry pointed out.

Trump and Kim first met in 2018 during a summit in Singapore. The US president has constantly pushed for the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.

But North Korea’s rhetoric continues to intensify. They recently announced plans to hit US hard, and that the time for diplomacy and talks was over.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-tested-more-for-covid-19-than-ten-countries-including-india-293484" hreflang="en">Trump says US tested more for COVID-19 than ten countries, including India</a>

After Kim called for withdrawal of sanctions against his country, which Trump rejected, the relationship between the countries continued to become stressful in 2019.

In the end of March, Trump has sent a letter to Kim and offered assistance in handling coronavirus. According to North Korean media, Trump claimed to have been “impressed” by Kim’s handling of the killer pandemic.

While the US continues to be battered by coronavirus, with over 40,000 deaths recorded so far - the highest for any country. Trump had recently announced that he expects 60,000 people to die in the country.

On the other hand, North Korea denies having any positive cases of coronavirus. However, a North Korean professor recently claimed that the country has many cases, however it’s hard to ascertain the exact number.

The relationship between North Korea and the United States continues to sour, with both sides issuing constant threats and statements against each other, especially with Donald Trump in power.

The relationship between North Korea and the United States continues to sour, with both sides issuing constant threats and statements against each other, especially with Donald Trump in power. The presidents holds back no words, and has been constantly critical of North Korea. Donald Trump had recently claimed to have received a friendly letter from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. However, the Korean side recently denied the existence of any such letter and further attacked Trump for using the relationship between the two countries to further his “selfish” interests. Just on Saturday, Trump announced in a press briefing that he had received a written note from Kim. “It was a nice note… I think that we’re doing fine”, he had said. Additionally, Trump claimed that both the countries would have gone to war by now, had it not been for his diplomacy. Also read: Kim Jong Un absent on North Korea’s most important holiday: Precaution or doom? Amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, Trump has referred to himself as a “war time president”. This was countered by Joe Biden, his Democrat rival in this year’s elections, who asked him to “behave like one”. “There was no letter addressed recently to the US president by the supreme leadership of the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea),” the Korean ministry announced on KCNA, a state run media channel. “[Their relations] are not an issue to be taken up just for diversion, nor should [they] be misused for meeting selfish purposes,” the ministry pointed out. Trump and Kim first met in 2018 during a summit in Singapore. The US president has constantly pushed for the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. But North Korea’s rhetoric continues to intensify. They recently announced plans to hit US hard, and that the time for diplomacy and talks was over. Also read: Trump says US tested more for COVID-19 than ten countries, including India After Kim called for withdrawal of sanctions against his country, which Trump rejected, the relationship between the countries continued to become stressful in 2019. In the end of March, Trump has sent a letter to Kim and offered assistance in handling coronavirus. According to North Korean media, Trump claimed to have been “impressed” by Kim’s handling of the killer pandemic. While the US continues to be battered by coronavirus, with over 40,000 deaths recorded so far - the highest for any country. Trump had recently announced that he expects 60,000 people to die in the country. On the other hand, North Korea denies having any positive cases of coronavirus. However, a North Korean professor recently claimed that the country has many cases, however it’s hard to ascertain the exact number.

North Korea denies sending a 'nice note' to Donald Trump

As the novel coronavirus wreaks havoc across the globe, countries with excess supplies have stepped up humanitarian efforts to ease the global pressure.

Be it India sending medicines like paracetamol across the world, or the Chinese mass-producing face masks.

However, US President Donald Trump recently offered to send ventilators to Iran. Iran was one of the hardest hit countries during the initial global wave last month. Over the last few weeks, the epicentres have continued to shift. First, it was Wuhan. Then Europe and Iran, and now it is the United States, which has recorded 40,000 deaths - the highest for any country.

Trump’s offer was recently rejected Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. He further said that Iran plans to export its own devices “in a few months”.

During a press briefing on Saturday, Trump had offered to send “excess ventilators” to Iran. He said, “If they need ventilators, which they do, I would send them ventilators,” Trump said.

However, he has repeatedly displayed anger at state governors. His senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner went to the extend of saying that “this is the federal reserve” while referring to the states demanding ventilators. The US president has received widespread criticism for dealing with the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-denies-sending-a-nice-note-to-donald-trump-293505" hreflang="en">North Korea denies sending a 'nice note' to Donald Trump</a>

After offering to send ventilators to Iran, Trump added, “ “Right now they just want to survive… they’re loaded up with the plague.”

In his tweet, Zarif said, “Iran will be EXPORTING ventilators in a few months, all you need to do is stop interfering in the affairs of other nations; mine especially.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Iran will be EXPORTING ventilators in a few months, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realdonaldtrump</a>. 
 
All you need to do is stop interfering in the affairs of other nations; mine especially. 
 
And believe me, we do not take advice from ANY American politician.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1251839035057864705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 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>

He made a scalding attack and further said, “And believe me, we do not take advice from ANY American politician.”

Earlier, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had offered a helping hand to Iran, while claiming that the country’s infrastructure was not prepared to deal with an outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-country-has-only-four-ventilators-for-its-population-of-12-million-people-293515" hreflang="en">This country has only four ventilators for its population of 12 million people</a>

After Iran showed signs of recovery and the US became the epicentre, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei referred to the offer as “strange”.

“You are suffering from shortages… If you have anything, use it on yourselves”, he added.

However, Iran has repeatedly said that the US is restricting country’s access to medical supplies via sanctions.

Over 5,000 have died in Iran, while the US death toll is currently over 40,000.

As the novel coronavirus wreaks havoc across the globe, countries with excess supplies have stepped up humanitarian efforts to ease the global pressure. Be it India sending medicines like paracetamol across the world, or the Chinese mass-producing face masks.

As the novel coronavirus wreaks havoc across the globe, countries with excess supplies have stepped up humanitarian efforts to ease the global pressure. Be it India sending medicines like paracetamol across the world, or the Chinese mass-producing face masks. However, US President Donald Trump recently offered to send ventilators to Iran. Iran was one of the hardest hit countries during the initial global wave last month. Over the last few weeks, the epicentres have continued to shift. First, it was Wuhan. Then Europe and Iran, and now it is the United States, which has recorded 40,000 deaths - the highest for any country. Trump’s offer was recently rejected Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. He further said that Iran plans to export its own devices “in a few months”. During a press briefing on Saturday, Trump had offered to send “excess ventilators” to Iran. He said, “If they need ventilators, which they do, I would send them ventilators,” Trump said. However, he has repeatedly displayed anger at state governors. His senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner went to the extend of saying that “this is the federal reserve” while referring to the states demanding ventilators. The US president has received widespread criticism for dealing with the virus. Also read: North Korea denies sending a 'nice note' to Donald Trump After offering to send ventilators to Iran, Trump added, “ “Right now they just want to survive… they’re loaded up with the plague.” In his tweet, Zarif said, “Iran will be EXPORTING ventilators in a few months, all you need to do is stop interfering in the affairs of other nations; mine especially.” Iran will be EXPORTING ventilators in a few months, @realdonaldtrump. All you need to do is stop interfering in the affairs of other nations; mine especially. And believe me, we do not take advice from ANY American politician. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) April 19, 2020 × He made a scalding attack and further said, “And believe me, we do not take advice from ANY American politician.” Earlier, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had offered a helping hand to Iran, while claiming that the country’s infrastructure was not prepared to deal with an outbreak. Also read: This country has only four ventilators for its population of 12 million people After Iran showed signs of recovery and the US became the epicentre, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei referred to the offer as “strange”. “You are suffering from shortages… If you have anything, use it on yourselves”, he added. However, Iran has repeatedly said that the US is restricting country’s access to medical supplies via sanctions. Over 5,000 have died in Iran, while the US death toll is currently over 40,000.

We don't take advice from Americans: Iran rejects Trump's offer of ventilators

Chabahar Port&nbsp;is the&nbsp;link that has helped India in sending its humanitarian aid of 5022 MT&nbsp;wheat consignment to&nbsp;Afghanistan deal during the coronavirus pandemic.The vessel that set sail from Kandla port in Gujarat reached the&nbsp;Shahid Beheshti Port of Chabahar on April 15 2020.

Dr Behruz Aghaei, Chabhar Port General Director on the arrival of Indian aid said, "One of the unique advantages of Chabahar is its transit capabilities. Today, Chabahar is one of the most flourishing southern ports of Iran on the transit domain, which can play a vital role in regional trade connectivity."

The 5022 MT is the first consignment of 75000 MT of wheat India is sending to Afghanistan as a gift. Shipment will be cleared and transited through Milak border to Afghanistan next week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-mediplomacy-russia-says-thanks-to-new-delhi-hcq-sent-to-gulf-293225" hreflang="en">India's coronavirus mediplomacy: Russia says thanks to New Delhi; HCQ sent to Gulf</a>

Afghan Ambassador to Iran&nbsp;Abdol Ghafoor Liwal while expressing his "special thanks to both India and Iran as our friend and neighbouring country for helping transit of shipment" said, "port of Chabahar has very good potential and proper facilities to send Afghanistan&nbsp;cargoes to different destinations in the world"

It must be kept in mind that in the past when India was keen to send aid to Afghanistan via land, Pakistan used to block it. This changed in 2017 when New Delhi first sent wheat aid via Chabahar to Afghanistan, which now has become a norm.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-afghanistan-to-battle-coronavirus-with-crumbling-health-infrastructure-293206" hreflang="en">Now, Afghanistan to battle coronavirus with crumbling health infrastructure</a>

Located in southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman,&nbsp;Chabahar&nbsp;is the home for Iran's only oceanic&nbsp;port.&nbsp;The operation of the&nbsp;Shaheed Beheshti&nbsp;Port&nbsp;at&nbsp;Chabahar&nbsp;was taken over by&nbsp;India&nbsp;Ports Global Co in December 2018.

Meanwhile, Friday saw India sending 100,000 paracetamol and 500,000 hydroxychloroquine tablets to Afghanistan via Ariana Airlines.&nbsp;

Chabahar Port is the link that has helped India in sending its humanitarian aid of 5022 MT wheat consignment to Afghanistan deal during the coronavirus pandemic.

Chabahar Port is the link that has helped India in sending its humanitarian aid of 5022 MT wheat consignment to Afghanistan deal during the coronavirus pandemic.The vessel that set sail from Kandla port in Gujarat reached the Shahid Beheshti Port of Chabahar on April 15 2020. Dr Behruz Aghaei, Chabhar Port General Director on the arrival of Indian aid said, "One of the unique advantages of Chabahar is its transit capabilities. Today, Chabahar is one of the most flourishing southern ports of Iran on the transit domain, which can play a vital role in regional trade connectivity." The 5022 MT is the first consignment of 75000 MT of wheat India is sending to Afghanistan as a gift. Shipment will be cleared and transited through Milak border to Afghanistan next week. Also read: India's coronavirus mediplomacy: Russia says thanks to New Delhi; HCQ sent to Gulf Afghan Ambassador to Iran Abdol Ghafoor Liwal while expressing his "special thanks to both India and Iran as our friend and neighbouring country for helping transit of shipment" said, "port of Chabahar has very good potential and proper facilities to send Afghanistan cargoes to different destinations in the world" It must be kept in mind that in the past when India was keen to send aid to Afghanistan via land, Pakistan used to block it. This changed in 2017 when New Delhi first sent wheat aid via Chabahar to Afghanistan, which now has become a norm. Also read: Now, Afghanistan to battle coronavirus with crumbling health infrastructure Located in southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman, Chabahar is the home for Iran's only oceanic port. The operation of the Shaheed Beheshti Port at Chabahar was taken over by India Ports Global Co in December 2018. Meanwhile, Friday saw India sending 100,000 paracetamol and 500,000 hydroxychloroquine tablets to Afghanistan via Ariana Airlines.

Chabahar plays a central role as India's wheat aid all set to reach Afghanistan

The rush to understand, predict and head off the COVID-19 outbreak has prompted researchers worldwide to create several tools to detect the virus and has driven them to analyse hundreds of ways to avoid the virus.

Professor Rita Singh of Carnegie Melon University in Pittsburgh has created a tool to determine the COVID-19 infection through the sound of a person’s cough, speech or even the sound of breathing.

Currently, most of these efforts are at a stage in which the researchers are gathering speech and coughing recordings are and fed to ai algorithms&nbsp; to determine whether someone has the COVID-19 infection

The COVID-19 voice detector - as professor Singh calls it traces the micro signatures of one’s voice, which are not audible to the untrained listener but are nevertheless present.

Any condition affecting the lungs or the respiratory system – as has been established in the cases of COVID-19 infection - has a palpable effect on voice. The tool is basically a self-learning system that is now trying to learn signatures of a COVID-19 infection in the voice, not just in the cough.

Cough against COVID?

A similar initiative is being carried out by the Mumbai-based Washwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence. Wadhwani’s ‘cough against covid’ mobile application asks users to record the sound of their coughing to conduct a test for COVID-19.

As the disease brings much of the world to a halt, scientists and health experts have called for technology to play a bigger part in tackling the pandemic – which has grown too quickly for conventional containment tools to have an effect.

Where on one side the researchers are working on detecting the infection from sound of cough,&nbsp; another study shows that the two-metre distance considered a safe measure to avoid close contact is not safe enough.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-coronavirus-contact-tracing-technology-and-how-does-it-work-293226" hreflang="en">What is coronavirus contact-tracing technology and how does it work?</a>

Two metres not enough?

A recent study suggests that two metres might not be far enough away if someone lets an uncovered cough loose in your direction.

Explorations by virologists at a Canadian hospital show that cough airflows produced by human subjects is naturally infected with seasonal flu. As per the study, if someone coughs without any protective gear from a couple of metres away, then the cough has reached you and is still moving. The study also shows that as much as 10 per cent of the fine droplets from cough remain suspended in the air even after four seconds. The findings support the calls for a verification of social distancing measures during the ongoing pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-to-develop-covid-19-test-for-screening-employees-293207" hreflang="en">Amazon to develop COVID-19 test for screening employees</a>

Dry, don't blow

A third such UK-based study shows that hands dried on paper towel spread less virus to other surfaces. The researchers deliberately contaminated four people’s hands with a harmless virus and dried them in four different ways. The average surface contamination was more than 10 times higher after contact with jet air dried hands compared with those dried on paper towels.

The rush to understand, predict and head off the COVID-19 outbreak has prompted researchers worldwide to create several tools to detect the virus and has driven them to analyse hundreds of ways to avoid the virus.

The rush to understand, predict and head off the COVID-19 outbreak has prompted researchers worldwide to create several tools to detect the virus and has driven them to analyse hundreds of ways to avoid the virus. Professor Rita Singh of Carnegie Melon University in Pittsburgh has created a tool to determine the COVID-19 infection through the sound of a person’s cough, speech or even the sound of breathing. Currently, most of these efforts are at a stage in which the researchers are gathering speech and coughing recordings are and fed to ai algorithms to determine whether someone has the COVID-19 infection The COVID-19 voice detector - as professor Singh calls it traces the micro signatures of one’s voice, which are not audible to the untrained listener but are nevertheless present. Any condition affecting the lungs or the respiratory system – as has been established in the cases of COVID-19 infection - has a palpable effect on voice. The tool is basically a self-learning system that is now trying to learn signatures of a COVID-19 infection in the voice, not just in the cough. Cough against COVID? A similar initiative is being carried out by the Mumbai-based Washwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence. Wadhwani’s ‘cough against covid’ mobile application asks users to record the sound of their coughing to conduct a test for COVID-19. As the disease brings much of the world to a halt, scientists and health experts have called for technology to play a bigger part in tackling the pandemic – which has grown too quickly for conventional containment tools to have an effect. Where on one side the researchers are working on detecting the infection from sound of cough, another study shows that the two-metre distance considered a safe measure to avoid close contact is not safe enough. Also read: What is coronavirus contact-tracing technology and how does it work? Two metres not enough? A recent study suggests that two metres might not be far enough away if someone lets an uncovered cough loose in your direction. Explorations by virologists at a Canadian hospital show that cough airflows produced by human subjects is naturally infected with seasonal flu. As per the study, if someone coughs without any protective gear from a couple of metres away, then the cough has reached you and is still moving. The study also shows that as much as 10 per cent of the fine droplets from cough remain suspended in the air even after four seconds. The findings support the calls for a verification of social distancing measures during the ongoing pandemic. Also read: Amazon to develop COVID-19 test for screening employees Dry, don't blow A third such UK-based study shows that hands dried on paper towel spread less virus to other surfaces. The researchers deliberately contaminated four people’s hands with a harmless virus and dried them in four different ways. The average surface contamination was more than 10 times higher after contact with jet air dried hands compared with those dried on paper towels.

Cough against COVID? Yes, this app tests you for coronavirus through the sound of you coughing

With the COVID-19 pandemic showing no signs of slowing its spread, governments across the world are trying to use mobile technology to trace people thought to have the virus. But how do these mobile contact-tracing apps work, and can they help in flattening the curve?

Nearly 2.14 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally.

More than 200 countries across the world have declared a war on this invisible enemy. But no one has managed to defeat it yet.

Coronavirus can only be contained if those infected are successfully isolated and treated. And this is where bluetooth-driven contact-tracing apps can come in handy.

So what is this technology about?

<ul>
	<li>The first step is obviously to download the app. The user then needs to update his or her COVID-19 status.</li>
	<li>These apps use the phone’s bluetooth technology to determine if a given user came in close proximity with an infected person.</li>
	<li>If it happens, it alerts the user with a notification and urges him to get tested and self-isolate.</li>
	<li>In principle, this system is more efficient than traditional contact-tracing methods that require the concerned staff to interview patients about their travels.</li>
	<li>Many countries have already adopted this technology,&nbsp;and others are likely to follow suit.</li>
</ul>

Singapore is the first country to have implemented contact-tracing via bluetooth with an app called “trace together.”

India’s Arogya Setu app also works on the same technology.

Other countries such as Israel, China, and South Korea are also using similar apps to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

Tech giants like Apple and Google are working on new tools to make app-based tracing more effective.

The companies say their technology could enable apps to monitor contacts for a 14-day period.

Eventually, the process of digital tracing could help authorities relax lockdowns in some parts and enable more selective quarantines.

In other words, it can help decision makers determine which areas are relatively safer. 
 
Is it effective?

<ul>
	<li>Researchers say that digital tracing can be effective only if 60 per cent of the population downloads the app and updates their status.</li>
	<li>Experts believe that contact tracing is helpful only in countries where mass testing is available.</li>
	<li>There are privacy-related concerns around contact-tracing apps. Privacy advocates worry that such a database could be a hackers’ goldmine.</li>
	<li>Some researchers say contact-tracing can be implemented while protecting privacy. Although this will vary from app to app in each country.</li>
</ul>

The technology looks promising, but it needs the support of users to be effective.

With the COVID-19 pandemic showing no signs of slowing its spread, governments across the world are trying to use mobile technology to trace people thought to have the virus.

With the COVID-19 pandemic showing no signs of slowing its spread, governments across the world are trying to use mobile technology to trace people thought to have the virus. But how do these mobile contact-tracing apps work, and can they help in flattening the curve? Nearly 2.14 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally. More than 200 countries across the world have declared a war on this invisible enemy. But no one has managed to defeat it yet. Coronavirus can only be contained if those infected are successfully isolated and treated. And this is where bluetooth-driven contact-tracing apps can come in handy. So what is this technology about? The first step is obviously to download the app. The user then needs to update his or her COVID-19 status. These apps use the phone’s bluetooth technology to determine if a given user came in close proximity with an infected person. If it happens, it alerts the user with a notification and urges him to get tested and self-isolate. In principle, this system is more efficient than traditional contact-tracing methods that require the concerned staff to interview patients about their travels. Many countries have already adopted this technology, and others are likely to follow suit. Singapore is the first country to have implemented contact-tracing via bluetooth with an app called “trace together.” India’s Arogya Setu app also works on the same technology. Other countries such as Israel, China, and South Korea are also using similar apps to contain the spread of the deadly virus. Tech giants like Apple and Google are working on new tools to make app-based tracing more effective. The companies say their technology could enable apps to monitor contacts for a 14-day period. Eventually, the process of digital tracing could help authorities relax lockdowns in some parts and enable more selective quarantines. In other words, it can help decision makers determine which areas are relatively safer. Is it effective? Researchers say that digital tracing can be effective only if 60 per cent of the population downloads the app and updates their status. Experts believe that contact tracing is helpful only in countries where mass testing is available. There are privacy-related concerns around contact-tracing apps. Privacy advocates worry that such a database could be a hackers’ goldmine. Some researchers say contact-tracing can be implemented while protecting privacy. Although this will vary from app to app in each country. The technology looks promising, but it needs the support of users to be effective.

What is coronavirus contact-tracing technology and how does it work?

While the death toll is rising due to COVID-19, China’s economy is now feeling the effects.

It has contracted by 6.8 percent, for the first time in more than 40 years.

This drop came in the first three months of 2020. The last time something like this was seen was in the year 1976.

The Chinese economy survived the Tiananmen Square crackdown, the SARS epidemic, and the global financial crisis of 2008.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-to-develop-covid-19-test-for-screening-employees-293207" hreflang="en">Amazon to develop COVID-19 test for screening employees</a>

China doesn't see a real recovery until the end of this year. The huge decline wipes out a six percent expansion.

Around the same time last year, China's growth rate was 6.4 percent.

The SARS outbreak happened in 2003, it caused some fluctuation in China's economy.

 
More than a fluctuation

The COVID-19 virus is causing much more than a fluctuation.

Not just because of the slowdown in economic activity at home, but also because of the new challengers in the global market.

Japan is one of them.

Prime minister Shinzo Abe has announced plans to build an economy&nbsp; that is not dependent on China.

His economic relief package sends the same message.

Japan is ready to spend a little more than two billion dollars.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/independent-researchers-explore-ways-to-detect-and-prevent-coronavirus-293185" hreflang="en">Independent researchers explore ways to detect and prevent coronavirus</a>

The fund will be given to Japanese businesses - who are ready to move back from China.

Another 215 million dollars will be made available to those - who want to move to other countries.

Such proposals are worrying China.

"Heated debate"

A report in the Nikkei Asian Review says that a "heated debate" is underway in China's political circles.

Leaders of the Communist Party in Beijing are concerned about companies withdrawing from china.

Soon after Japan announced its plans - the Chinese leadership went into the huddle. President Xi Jinping called a meeting.

He met with his fellow members of the Politburo Standing Committee - the highest decision making body of China.

It’s a group of seven men&nbsp;that control the destiny of China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-thermal-scanning-tech-could-save-millions-of-lives-during-the-covid-19-crisis-293175" hreflang="en">New thermal scanning tech could save millions of lives during the COVID-19 crisis</a>

Reports say that Jinping instructed the group to assume the worst, and be prepared.

The politburo usually meets once a week. The agenda or the content of internal discussions - rarely comes out.

But this time around, a press release was issued.

The Chinese state media reported that the standing committee "analysed the COVID-19 situation and economic performance at home and abroad."

The coronavirus outbreak has reduced the world's appetite for Chinese goods.

Two-fold challenge

For Beijing, the economic challenge is two fold.

First, bring the factories online. Resume normal business activity.

Two, keep the businessmen in China!

China has signalled that a significant economic stimulus is on its way.

While the death toll is rising due to COVID-19, China’s economy is now feeling the effects. It has contracted by 6.8 percent, for the first time in more than 40 years.

While the death toll is rising due to COVID-19, China’s economy is now feeling the effects. It has contracted by 6.8 percent, for the first time in more than 40 years. This drop came in the first three months of 2020. The last time something like this was seen was in the year 1976. The Chinese economy survived the Tiananmen Square crackdown, the SARS epidemic, and the global financial crisis of 2008. Also read: Amazon to develop COVID-19 test for screening employees China doesn't see a real recovery until the end of this year. The huge decline wipes out a six percent expansion. Around the same time last year, China's growth rate was 6.4 percent. The SARS outbreak happened in 2003, it caused some fluctuation in China's economy. More than a fluctuation The COVID-19 virus is causing much more than a fluctuation. Not just because of the slowdown in economic activity at home, but also because of the new challengers in the global market. Japan is one of them. Prime minister Shinzo Abe has announced plans to build an economy that is not dependent on China. His economic relief package sends the same message. Japan is ready to spend a little more than two billion dollars. Also read: Independent researchers explore ways to detect and prevent coronavirus The fund will be given to Japanese businesses - who are ready to move back from China. Another 215 million dollars will be made available to those - who want to move to other countries. Such proposals are worrying China. "Heated debate" A report in the Nikkei Asian Review says that a "heated debate" is underway in China's political circles. Leaders of the Communist Party in Beijing are concerned about companies withdrawing from china. Soon after Japan announced its plans - the Chinese leadership went into the huddle. President Xi Jinping called a meeting. He met with his fellow members of the Politburo Standing Committee - the highest decision making body of China. It’s a group of seven men that control the destiny of China. Also read: New thermal scanning tech could save millions of lives during the COVID-19 crisis Reports say that Jinping instructed the group to assume the worst, and be prepared. The politburo usually meets once a week. The agenda or the content of internal discussions - rarely comes out. But this time around, a press release was issued. The Chinese state media reported that the standing committee "analysed the COVID-19 situation and economic performance at home and abroad." The coronavirus outbreak has reduced the world's appetite for Chinese goods. Two-fold challenge For Beijing, the economic challenge is two fold. First, bring the factories online. Resume normal business activity. Two, keep the businessmen in China! China has signalled that a significant economic stimulus is on its way.

How is the Chinese economy's shrinkage reconfiguring the global economy?

Economic activity has come to a grinding halt around the world. India too, is reeling for the ill-effects of coronavirus-induced slowdown.

India could grow by less than two percent this year.

Empty streets are the new normal as stores are shut and flights grounded. Additionally, all restaurants and cinemas are empty.

India's growth rate was slowing even before coronavirus entered the country, but the pandemic could push India closer to a recession.

The coronavirus is not just a health emergency for the government, it has triggered one of the worst economic downturns.

One that is bound to impact incomes and salaries, the crisis has already led to layoffs.

Reports say, people have been asked to leave in IT, media and startup companies. Potentially, millions of jobs are at risk.

This includes India's estimated 120 million migrant labourers.

A trend?

The numbers may be speculative right now. But they do signal the trend.

The virus will drag the economy down, and the Indian government hopes to contain the damage.

Last month, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced a 1.7 lakh crore relief package.

One that was primarily targeted at those who were hit the hardest.

Now, reports claim that the government could be working on a second stimulus package.

The Reserve Bank of India too, is doing its bit. On Friday, it announced a slew of measures.

“Now in order to encourage the banks to deploy these surplus funds in investments and loans in productive sectors of the economy it has been decided to reduce the fixed repo rate, reserve repo rate”, said Reserve Bank of India, Governor, Shaktikanta Das.

The reverse repo rate has been reduced by 25 basis points to 3.75 percent. This is the rate at which the RBI borrows funds from banks.

The cut is an attempt to discourage banks from parking cash with the central bank.

RBI has cut its key rates for a second time in three weeks. These moves could boost lending to businesses.

But experts believe that the Indian government needs to do more.

Many believe that a second stimulus package is no longer just a possibility, it is inevitable.

Economic activity has come to a grinding halt around the world. India too, is reeling for the ill-effects of coronavirus-induced slowdown. India could grow by less than two percent this year.

Economic activity has come to a grinding halt around the world. India too, is reeling for the ill-effects of coronavirus-induced slowdown. India could grow by less than two percent this year. Empty streets are the new normal as stores are shut and flights grounded. Additionally, all restaurants and cinemas are empty. India's growth rate was slowing even before coronavirus entered the country, but the pandemic could push India closer to a recession. The coronavirus is not just a health emergency for the government, it has triggered one of the worst economic downturns. One that is bound to impact incomes and salaries, the crisis has already led to layoffs. Reports say, people have been asked to leave in IT, media and startup companies. Potentially, millions of jobs are at risk. This includes India's estimated 120 million migrant labourers. A trend? The numbers may be speculative right now. But they do signal the trend. The virus will drag the economy down, and the Indian government hopes to contain the damage. Last month, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced a 1.7 lakh crore relief package. One that was primarily targeted at those who were hit the hardest. Now, reports claim that the government could be working on a second stimulus package. The Reserve Bank of India too, is doing its bit. On Friday, it announced a slew of measures. “Now in order to encourage the banks to deploy these surplus funds in investments and loans in productive sectors of the economy it has been decided to reduce the fixed repo rate, reserve repo rate”, said Reserve Bank of India, Governor, Shaktikanta Das. The reverse repo rate has been reduced by 25 basis points to 3.75 percent. This is the rate at which the RBI borrows funds from banks. The cut is an attempt to discourage banks from parking cash with the central bank. RBI has cut its key rates for a second time in three weeks. These moves could boost lending to businesses. But experts believe that the Indian government needs to do more. Many believe that a second stimulus package is no longer just a possibility, it is inevitable.

Coronavirus could push India closer to a recession: More so than previously thought

In a bid to kick start the economy, Amazon has started to develop a test for COVID-19.

In his annual letter, CEO Jeff Bezos said that “regular testing will both help keep people safe and help get the economy back up and running."

He added that they need to undertake "vastly more testing capacity" than currently available.

To achieve the goals Bezos has assembled a team of employees to conjure the tools for successful testing of COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-thermal-scanning-tech-could-save-millions-of-lives-during-the-covid-19-crisis-293175">New thermal scanning tech could save millions of lives during COVID-19 crisis</a>

Amazon will begin testing "small numbers" of its employees soon, CNN reported.

"We are not sure how far we will get in the relevant time frame, but we think it's worth trying, and we stand ready to share anything we learn," Bezos wrote.

The company has recently invited ire owing to its treatment of critics within its workforce, who were then fired.

Bezos recently showed reinforced his focus on ensuring the safety of his employees.

Apparently, over 150 “significant process changes” have been made it its regular operations and networking.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/independent-researchers-explore-ways-to-detect-and-prevent-coronavirus-293185" hreflang="en">Independent researchers explore ways to detect and prevent coronavirus</a>

These include regular temperature checks, increased sanitation of facilities and offering personal protection equipment, like masks, to its employees.

So far, numerous Amazon facilities have registered cases of COVID-19. Washington, California, and New York have reported cases, where centres have been closed.

After Amazon decided to keep warehouses open, many employees staged walkout protests.

To meet the pressure in demand, Amazon recently hired over 200,000 new workers.

In a bid to kick start the economy, Amazon has started to develop a test for COVID-19. In his annual letter, CEO Jeff Bezos said that “regular testing will both help keep people safe and help get the economy back up and running.

In a bid to kick start the economy, Amazon has started to develop a test for COVID-19. In his annual letter, CEO Jeff Bezos said that “regular testing will both help keep people safe and help get the economy back up and running." He added that they need to undertake "vastly more testing capacity" than currently available. To achieve the goals Bezos has assembled a team of employees to conjure the tools for successful testing of COVID-19. Also read: New thermal scanning tech could save millions of lives during COVID-19 crisis Amazon will begin testing "small numbers" of its employees soon, CNN reported. "We are not sure how far we will get in the relevant time frame, but we think it's worth trying, and we stand ready to share anything we learn," Bezos wrote. The company has recently invited ire owing to its treatment of critics within its workforce, who were then fired. Bezos recently showed reinforced his focus on ensuring the safety of his employees. Apparently, over 150 “significant process changes” have been made it its regular operations and networking. Also read: Independent researchers explore ways to detect and prevent coronavirus These include regular temperature checks, increased sanitation of facilities and offering personal protection equipment, like masks, to its employees. So far, numerous Amazon facilities have registered cases of COVID-19. Washington, California, and New York have reported cases, where centres have been closed. After Amazon decided to keep warehouses open, many employees staged walkout protests. To meet the pressure in demand, Amazon recently hired over 200,000 new workers.

Amazon to develop COVID-19 test for screening employees

Kim Jong-Un absent on country’s most important holiday: Precaution or doom?

North Korea’s most important holiday - the Day of the Sun falls on April 15, in honour of the country’s founding father Kim II Sung.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/independent-researchers-explore-ways-to-detect-and-prevent-coronavirus-293185" hreflang="en">Independent researchers explore ways to detect and prevent coronavirus</a>

Millions across the country celebrate birth of their founding leader. North Korea usually goes big on the day and has marked it with satellite launches and military parades in the first.

However, something was amiss this year. The Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un was no where to be seen on the country’s most auspicious day.

Is North Korea being overly protective of its leader or is something wrong with him?

For a country with no reported cases of coronavirus so far, a precautionary measure so extreme feels a little far-fetched.

The last time a leadermmissed something of such importance, he had experienced a stroke.

So, is he ok?

According to CNN, no North Korean media reported his absence/presence at the Day of the Sun festivities.&nbsp;

KCNA, North Korea’s state run news outlet reported that “senior officials” had undertaken the visit to Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where Kim II Sung and his son Kim Jong II are on display.

Analysts believe that this absence marks an unprecedented deviation from custom, for he has never skipped such meetings since he took charge of the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-thermal-scanning-tech-could-save-millions-of-lives-during-the-covid-19-crisis-293175" hreflang="en">New thermal scanning tech could save millions of lives during the COVID-19 crisis</a>

In 2008, Kim Jong II had missed North Korea’s 60th anniversary parade. It later turned out that he had experienced a stroke. His health then continued to deteriorate until his death in 2011.

In 2014, Kim Jong Un had disappeared which raised questions about his health. A few days later, it turned out that he a cyst removed from his ankle.

North Korea’s claim of zero coronavirus cases in the country has been disputed by all analysts. And many believe that it could be the likely cause of his absence.

The country has closed its borders to tourists and has quarantined all foreign diplomats, who all eventually left.

Kim Jong-Un absent on country’s most important holiday: Precaution or doom? North Korea’s most important holiday - the Day of the Sun falls on April 15, in honour of the country’s founding father Kim II Sung.

Kim Jong-Un absent on country’s most important holiday: Precaution or doom? North Korea’s most important holiday - the Day of the Sun falls on April 15, in honour of the country’s founding father Kim II Sung. Also read: Independent researchers explore ways to detect and prevent coronavirus Millions across the country celebrate birth of their founding leader. North Korea usually goes big on the day and has marked it with satellite launches and military parades in the first. However, something was amiss this year. The Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un was no where to be seen on the country’s most auspicious day. Is North Korea being overly protective of its leader or is something wrong with him? For a country with no reported cases of coronavirus so far, a precautionary measure so extreme feels a little far-fetched. The last time a leadermmissed something of such importance, he had experienced a stroke. So, is he ok? According to CNN, no North Korean media reported his absence/presence at the Day of the Sun festivities. KCNA, North Korea’s state run news outlet reported that “senior officials” had undertaken the visit to Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where Kim II Sung and his son Kim Jong II are on display. Analysts believe that this absence marks an unprecedented deviation from custom, for he has never skipped such meetings since he took charge of the country. Also read: New thermal scanning tech could save millions of lives during the COVID-19 crisis In 2008, Kim Jong II had missed North Korea’s 60th anniversary parade. It later turned out that he had experienced a stroke. His health then continued to deteriorate until his death in 2011. In 2014, Kim Jong Un had disappeared which raised questions about his health. A few days later, it turned out that he a cyst removed from his ankle. North Korea’s claim of zero coronavirus cases in the country has been disputed by all analysts. And many believe that it could be the likely cause of his absence. The country has closed its borders to tourists and has quarantined all foreign diplomats, who all eventually left.

Kim Jong Un absent on North Korea’s most important holiday: Precaution or doom?

China had recently employed thermal imaging technology to find coronavirus symptoms among patients.

According to Tech Crunch, the could soon be makings its way to the United States.

A start-up based in Hangzhou is talking to companies to sell its “T1 glasses”.

China’s economy has been hit hard by the pandemic, and its companies are working to come up with quick diagnosis technology to avert further damage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-once-chinas-coronavirus-epicentre-raises-death-toll-by-50-293040">Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50%</a>

The T1 thermal glasses are capable of detecting the temperatures of over 2000 people within two minutes, within the distance of over three metres.

According to media reports, the device is equipped with a Qualcomm CPU, a 12 megapixel camera and offer augmented reality features. It can also record live images and videos.

<h6><img alt="Attendees stand before a screen showing an infrared thermal image during a ceremony by Taiwan’s Ministry Of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) to donate thermal scanning devices to its diplomatic allies at the MOFA in Taipei on April 15, 2020. Taiwan donated some 100 infrared thermal scanners to fifteen of its diplomatic allies." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d500805-5277-4b1a-ad39-07771466f0d0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-5_1.jpg" /> 
A picture taken on January 21, 2020 shows thermal scanning equipment set up in Hankou railway station in Wuhan, in China's central Hubei province | AFP</h6>

The startup plans to set an office in San Francisco, after which the tech will be rolled out to industries in need, especially healthcare.

According to Tech Crunch, the company is now in talks with American hospitals and municipalities to start shipping the glasses.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-belarus-president-calls-coronavirus-psychosis-organisations-step-up-mobilisation-efforts-293165">As Belarus' president calls coronavirus 'psychosis', organisations step-up!</a>

The technology could serve as a measure for pre-testing whereby, the people with symptoms could be identified and further referred for testing.

As per reports, the glasses connect via USB. However, the American administration has amped-up its anti-China rhetoric, which could halt it gaining traction in the West.

China had recently employed thermal imaging technology to find coronavirus symptoms among patients. According to Tech Crunch, the could soon be makings its way to the United States.

China had recently employed thermal imaging technology to find coronavirus symptoms among patients. According to Tech Crunch, the could soon be makings its way to the United States. A start-up based in Hangzhou is talking to companies to sell its “T1 glasses”. China’s economy has been hit hard by the pandemic, and its companies are working to come up with quick diagnosis technology to avert further damage. Also read: Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50% The T1 thermal glasses are capable of detecting the temperatures of over 2000 people within two minutes, within the distance of over three metres. According to media reports, the device is equipped with a Qualcomm CPU, a 12 megapixel camera and offer augmented reality features. It can also record live images and videos. A picture taken on January 21, 2020 shows thermal scanning equipment set up in Hankou railway station in Wuhan, in China's central Hubei province | AFP The startup plans to set an office in San Francisco, after which the tech will be rolled out to industries in need, especially healthcare. According to Tech Crunch, the company is now in talks with American hospitals and municipalities to start shipping the glasses. Also read: As Belarus' president calls coronavirus 'psychosis', organisations step-up! The technology could serve as a measure for pre-testing whereby, the people with symptoms could be identified and further referred for testing. As per reports, the glasses connect via USB. However, the American administration has amped-up its anti-China rhetoric, which could halt it gaining traction in the West.

New thermal scanning tech could save millions of lives during the COVID-19 crisis

Belarus has a peculiar problem - the President Alexander Lukashenko refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of COVID-19, along the lines of Brazilian, Mexican, and American leaders.

The aforementioned countries are now experiencing high infections everyday.

Owing to the government’s denial, volunteers in Belarus have taken up crowdfunding to help country deal with the crisis, The Guardian reported

The country responded to the virus very late, and did not back down from hosting Europe’s only active football league.

The president has referred to the pandemic as a “psychosis”.

<h6><img alt="oppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="760ed96e-ebe8-44db-aabf-54ebfd455641" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_3.jpg" /> 
Football players attend the match of the Belarus Championship between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020. Belarus continue its championship despite all the leagues in Europe cancelled it to curb the spread of the COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. As most people in Europe are confined to their homes, life goes on as usual in Belarus where even football is continuing -- though fears are growing over the leader's contentious response to COVID-19 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

“No one in the country will die from coronavirus,” Lukashenko said.

Owing to this denial clubbed with shortage of life-saving paraphernalia, a mask now costs over £12. As of now, an NGO has raised over £100,000. Over 27,000 respirators have been distributed, alongside protective gear.

Belarus boasts a population of 9.5 million people and has so far reported over 4200 positive cases, with over 40 deaths.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8399175f-a925-42ac-812b-02b7708b7e13" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_0.jpg" /> 
A woman installs dummies to replace audience due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 caused by the novel coronavirus during the Belarus Championship football match between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Many independent campaigns have sprouted up in the country to ease the pressure created by the pandemic.

Organisations and individuals are using all possible tactics, including 3D printers.

Belarus has a peculiar problem - the President Alexander Lukashenko refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of COVID-19, along the lines of Brazilian, Mexican, and American leaders.

Belarus has a peculiar problem - the President Alexander Lukashenko refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of COVID-19, along the lines of Brazilian, Mexican, and American leaders. The aforementioned countries are now experiencing high infections everyday. Owing to the government’s denial, volunteers in Belarus have taken up crowdfunding to help country deal with the crisis, The Guardian reported The country responded to the virus very late, and did not back down from hosting Europe’s only active football league. The president has referred to the pandemic as a “psychosis”. Football players attend the match of the Belarus Championship between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020. Belarus continue its championship despite all the leagues in Europe cancelled it to curb the spread of the COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. As most people in Europe are confined to their homes, life goes on as usual in Belarus where even football is continuing -- though fears are growing over the leader's contentious response to COVID-19 | AFP “No one in the country will die from coronavirus,” Lukashenko said. Owing to this denial clubbed with shortage of life-saving paraphernalia, a mask now costs over £12. As of now, an NGO has raised over £100,000. Over 27,000 respirators have been distributed, alongside protective gear. Belarus boasts a population of 9.5 million people and has so far reported over 4200 positive cases, with over 40 deaths. A woman installs dummies to replace audience due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 caused by the novel coronavirus during the Belarus Championship football match between FC Dynamo-Brest and FC Isloch in the town of Brest, some 370 km southwest of Minsk, on April 12, 2020 | AFP Many independent campaigns have sprouted up in the country to ease the pressure created by the pandemic. Organisations and individuals are using all possible tactics, including 3D printers.

As Belarus' president calls coronavirus 'psychosis', organisations step-up mobilisation efforts

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a potential outbreak?

Turns out, the Obama administration had been pushing for a universal healthcare infrastructure to globally deal with a potentially “air borne” pandemic, similar to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

“We have to put in place an infrastructure,&nbsp; not just at home but also globally. That allows us to see it quickly, isolate it quickly, respond to it quickly”, he said in a briefing. 
 
"We must be ready"

Obama warned in 2014, that we must be ready to deal with an epidemic.

“So that if and when a new strain of flu, like the Spanish flu, crops up, five years or a decade from now - we’ve made the investment - and we’re further along to be able to catch it”, the former president had asserted.

Obama called for more pandemic preparedness following the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, which was then seen as a global threat. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-time-of-coronavirus-this-is-the-safest-place-in-us-293140">In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US</a>

“The funding we’re asking for is needed to keep strengthening our capacity here at home so we can respond to any future Ebola cases.. It’s needed to help us partner with other countries to prevent and deal with future outbreaks and threats before they become epidemics”, Obama had said.

He added how the world had got lucky in terms of the Swine Flu, which had subsided on its own.

“We were lucky with H1N1 that it did not prove to be more deadly. We can’t say we’re lucky with Ebola because obviously it’s having a devastating effect tin West africa, but it is not airborne in its transmission”, he had said.

However, coronavirus is airborne, and is way more deadly than any epidemic seen in recent history.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
If this had happened under Obama's watch we wouldn't have the most cases in the world right now <a href="https://t.co/uv51QJZrci">pic.twitter.com/uv51QJZrci</a>
— Quentin Quarantino 😷 (@ShawnInArizona) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShawnInArizona/status/1249950517339377664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 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>

Airborne mayhem

“There may and likely will come a time in which we have both an airborne disease that is deadly“, he said predicted. Looks like his prophecy turned out to be true.

“It’s not just insurance, it is knowing that down the road, we’re gonna continue to have problems like this - particularly in a globalised world”. 
 
He had earlier written in an oped in New York Times back in 2005 - “We recommend that this administration work with Congress, public health officials, the pharmaceutical industry, foreign governments, and international organisations to create a permanent framework for curtailing the spread of future infectious diseases”.

“I cannot think of a better example of an area where we should all agree than passing this emergency funding to fight Ebola and to set up some of the public health infrastructure in the world to deal with potential outbreaks in the future”.

Trump's denial

The incumbent US president Donald Trump had received reports about the seriousness of COVID-19 as early as March but continued to discount those well into March.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-orders-to-print-trumps-name-on-stimulus-cheques-293080" hreflang="en">US treasury orders to print Trump’s name on stimulus cheques</a>

At a briefing he said that the virus would go away by April because of the heat. But it has now killed over 30,000 people in the United States alone.

According to new projections, 100,000-240,000 people are expected to die of the virus in the US alone.

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a potential outbreak? Turns out, the Obama administration had been pushing for a universal healthcare infrastructure to globally deal with a potentially “air borne” pandemic, similar to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a potential outbreak? Turns out, the Obama administration had been pushing for a universal healthcare infrastructure to globally deal with a potentially “air borne” pandemic, similar to the ongoing coronavirus crisis. “We have to put in place an infrastructure, not just at home but also globally. That allows us to see it quickly, isolate it quickly, respond to it quickly”, he said in a briefing. "We must be ready" Obama warned in 2014, that we must be ready to deal with an epidemic. “So that if and when a new strain of flu, like the Spanish flu, crops up, five years or a decade from now - we’ve made the investment - and we’re further along to be able to catch it”, the former president had asserted. Obama called for more pandemic preparedness following the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, which was then seen as a global threat. Also read: In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US “The funding we’re asking for is needed to keep strengthening our capacity here at home so we can respond to any future Ebola cases.. It’s needed to help us partner with other countries to prevent and deal with future outbreaks and threats before they become epidemics”, Obama had said. He added how the world had got lucky in terms of the Swine Flu, which had subsided on its own. “We were lucky with H1N1 that it did not prove to be more deadly. We can’t say we’re lucky with Ebola because obviously it’s having a devastating effect tin West africa, but it is not airborne in its transmission”, he had said. However, coronavirus is airborne, and is way more deadly than any epidemic seen in recent history. If this had happened under Obama's watch we wouldn't have the most cases in the world right now pic.twitter.com/uv51QJZrci — Quentin Quarantino 😷 (@ShawnInArizona) April 14, 2020 × Airborne mayhem “There may and likely will come a time in which we have both an airborne disease that is deadly“, he said predicted. Looks like his prophecy turned out to be true. “It’s not just insurance, it is knowing that down the road, we’re gonna continue to have problems like this - particularly in a globalised world”. He had earlier written in an oped in New York Times back in 2005 - “We recommend that this administration work with Congress, public health officials, the pharmaceutical industry, foreign governments, and international organisations to create a permanent framework for curtailing the spread of future infectious diseases”. “I cannot think of a better example of an area where we should all agree than passing this emergency funding to fight Ebola and to set up some of the public health infrastructure in the world to deal with potential outbreaks in the future”. Trump's denial The incumbent US president Donald Trump had received reports about the seriousness of COVID-19 as early as March but continued to discount those well into March. Also read: US treasury orders to print Trump’s name on stimulus cheques At a briefing he said that the virus would go away by April because of the heat. But it has now killed over 30,000 people in the United States alone. According to new projections, 100,000-240,000 people are expected to die of the virus in the US alone.

Did former United States President Barack Obama predict the seriousness of a coronavirus-like pandemic in 2014?

For the second year in a row, Twitter CEO and billionaire Jack Dorsey has taken a salary of $.140. 
 
Recently, the CEO had announced to donate $1 billion towards coronavirus relief. 
 
In 2017, Dorsey earned nothing, which increased to $1.40 in 2019.

"At his own recommendation to the compensation committee and consistent with his compensation in 2018, Mr. Dorsey elected to forgo any compensation for 2019 other than a base salary of $1.40," Twitter said in an SEC filing.

Additionally, the filing touted it “is a testament to his commitment to and belief in Twitter's long-term value creation potential".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-the-time-of-coronavirus-this-is-the-safest-place-in-us-293140" hreflang="en">In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US</a> 
 
When Dorsey resumed control of Twitter in 2015, his salary added up to one cent for each character out of the 140 that users were permitted to include. 
 
It is expected that his salary would rise to $2.80 eventually as Twitter has increased the limit of characters to 280 per tweet.

Based on Forbes numbers, Dorsey is worth $3.9 billion, mostly because of this role as CEO of a company called Square, which is about financial services and mobile payment.

It was from this company that Dorsey had set aside $1 billion to fight COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-first-coronavirus-victim-was-a-holocaust-survivor-293106" hreflang="en">Israel's first coronavirus victim was a Holocaust survivor</a>

"Simply: I own a lot more Square. And I'll need to pace the sales over some time. The impact this money will have should benefit both companies over the long-term because it's helping the people we want to serve," Dorsey recently tweeted. 
 
Dorsey claims to have funded organisations with potential impact in the past, with funding running up to over $40 million.

He also runs a non-profit organisation with musician Rihanna. “The Clara Lionel Foundation” (CLF) has been able to set aside $4.2 million to help victims of domestic violence during the coronavirus pandemic.

In Los Angeles alone, the CLF has committed $2.1 million to assist victims of violence at home.

For the second year in a row, Twitter CEO and billionaire Jack Dorsey has taken a salary of $.140. Recently, the CEO had announced to donate $1 billion towards coronavirus relief.

For the second year in a row, Twitter CEO and billionaire Jack Dorsey has taken a salary of $.140. Recently, the CEO had announced to donate $1 billion towards coronavirus relief. In 2017, Dorsey earned nothing, which increased to $1.40 in 2019. "At his own recommendation to the compensation committee and consistent with his compensation in 2018, Mr. Dorsey elected to forgo any compensation for 2019 other than a base salary of $1.40," Twitter said in an SEC filing. Additionally, the filing touted it “is a testament to his commitment to and belief in Twitter's long-term value creation potential". Also read: In the time of coronavirus, this is the 'safest place' in US When Dorsey resumed control of Twitter in 2015, his salary added up to one cent for each character out of the 140 that users were permitted to include. It is expected that his salary would rise to $2.80 eventually as Twitter has increased the limit of characters to 280 per tweet. Based on Forbes numbers, Dorsey is worth $3.9 billion, mostly because of this role as CEO of a company called Square, which is about financial services and mobile payment. It was from this company that Dorsey had set aside $1 billion to fight COVID-19. Also read: Israel's first coronavirus victim was a Holocaust survivor "Simply: I own a lot more Square. And I'll need to pace the sales over some time. The impact this money will have should benefit both companies over the long-term because it's helping the people we want to serve," Dorsey recently tweeted. Dorsey claims to have funded organisations with potential impact in the past, with funding running up to over $40 million. He also runs a non-profit organisation with musician Rihanna. “The Clara Lionel Foundation” (CLF) has been able to set aside $4.2 million to help victims of domestic violence during the coronavirus pandemic. In Los Angeles alone, the CLF has committed $2.1 million to assist victims of violence at home.

Twitter CEO Dorsey takes a salary of $1.40 - second year in a row!

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angry-trump-denies-plan-to-axe-coronavirus-doctor-but-signals-new-fights-292340">Angry Trump denies plan to axe coronavirus doctor but signals new fights</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/04/14/136730-untitled-design-5.jpg?itok=eegjhyD3" />

Trump, who on Sunday fueled speculation by retweeting a critical comment with the hashtag #FireFauci, sought to draw a line under the latest White House turmoil.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angry-trump-denies-plan-to-axe-coronavirus-doctor-but-signals-new-fights-292340">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-approves-debt-relief-for-25-poor-countries-to-help-them-address-coronavirus-pandemic-292341">IMF approves debt relief for 25 poor countries to help them address coronavirus pandemic</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/21336-imfm-20170418014512.jpg?itok=sg00iG6I" /> 
The fund together with the World Bank have called for rich nations to stop collecting debt payments from poor countries from May 1 through June 2021.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-approves-debt-relief-for-25-poor-countries-to-help-them-address-coronavirus-pandemic-292341">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-extends-lockdown-as-countries-see-hope-of-virus-peak-292347">France extends lockdown as countries see hope of virus peak</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/04/13/136613-corona-paris.jpg?itok=JCuHlLBT" />

France reported a slight increase in hospital deaths Monday though still below its record numbers of last week and a slight dip in intensive care patients for a fifth day running. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-extends-lockdown-as-countries-see-hope-of-virus-peak-292347">READ MORE</a> 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-fights-covid-19-stunning-revelations-by-trumps-advisor-292360/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-to-announce-norms-for-lifting-lockdown-292358/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Angry Trump denies plan to axe coronavirus doctor but signals new fights Trump, who on Sunday fueled speculation by retweeting a critical comment with the hashtag #FireFauci, sought to draw a line under the latest White House turmoil.

Angry Trump denies plan to axe coronavirus doctor but signals new fights Trump, who on Sunday fueled speculation by retweeting a critical comment with the hashtag #FireFauci, sought to draw a line under the latest White House turmoil.READ MORE IMF approves debt relief for 25 poor countries to help them address coronavirus pandemic The fund together with the World Bank have called for rich nations to stop collecting debt payments from poor countries from May 1 through June 2021.READ MORE France extends lockdown as countries see hope of virus peak France reported a slight increase in hospital deaths Monday though still below its record numbers of last week and a slight dip in intensive care patients for a fifth day running. READ MORE

Morning news brief: IMF approves debt relief for poor countries, France extends lockdown and more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-1800000-death-toll-rises-to-114247-292159">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,800,000; death toll rises to 114,247</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/04/10/136333-coronavirususa.jpg?itok=fxS6hX4C" />

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-1800000-death-toll-rises-to-114247-292159">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-could-start-reopening-in-may-says-top-virus-advisor-292153">US could start reopening in May, says top virus advisor</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/04/12/136607-usa-corona.jpg?itok=PuY54Pdz" />

The United States may be ready to start gradually reopening next month, the government's top infectious diseases expert said Sunday, as signs grew that the coronavirus pandemic was peaking.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-could-start-reopening-in-may-says-top-virus-advisor-292153">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-johnson-leaves-hospital-as-millions-mark-easter-in-lockdown-292147">UK's Johnson leaves hospital as millions mark Easter in lockdown</a> 
 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/09/132118-untitled-design-2020-03-09t134609235.jpg?itok=ED6_gm1c" />

More than half of humanity is confined at home as governments scramble to stop the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 112,500 lives around the world. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-johnson-leaves-hospital-as-millions-mark-easter-in-lockdown-292147">READ MORE</a> 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-may-prepare-covid-19-vaccine-by-september-292155/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-attempts-to-ward-off-covid-19-blame-292154/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,800,000; death toll rises to 114,247 The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,800,000; death toll rises to 114,247 The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.READ MORE US could start reopening in May, says top virus advisor The United States may be ready to start gradually reopening next month, the government's top infectious diseases expert said Sunday, as signs grew that the coronavirus pandemic was peaking.READ MORE UK's Johnson leaves hospital as millions mark Easter in lockdown More than half of humanity is confined at home as governments scramble to stop the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 112,500 lives around the world. READ MORE

Morning news brief:  Global cases surpass 18 lacs, US could start reopening in May and more

Many researches across the globe have reiterated the need of giving special care to the elderly, as they are the most vulnerable demographic. As peaks in many countries have shown, old folks, especially those with underlying conditions of the heart and kidney are not likely to survive the infection.

A statement by the European Union chief has rung in similar sentiments, but tiptoeing on precautionary measures.

Ursula von der Leyen recently said that elderly people may have to be kept isolated for the entire year for effective protection.

“Without a vaccine, we have to limit as much as possible contact with the elderly,” she said to a Germany daily Bild.

“I know it’s difficult and that isolation is a burden, but it is a question of life or death, we have to remain disciplined and patient”, Leyen added.

“Children and young people will enjoy more freedom of movement earlier than elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions,” she said.

<h6><img alt="[p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bdc6ba44-0e49-426c-b86b-c1497226c2f7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Add%20a%20little%20bit%20of%20body%20text-6.jpg" /> 
Gilberte Troquet, 92, poses in her house as she wears a makeshift mask, in Montigny-Le-Chartif, western France, on April 8, 2020, on the 23rd day of a lockdown in France to stop the spread of the COVID-19 caused by the novel coronavirus | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

While talking about a potential vaccine, Leyen claimed that she was hopeful of a European lab successfully developing one before the end of this year.

For quick vaccination, authorities worldwide have amped up talks with production groups so that they may be prepared to mass-produce vaccines for the global population.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-elderly-population-faces-high-risk-shutdown-makes-them-vulnerable-289353/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The coronavirus pandemic has infected 1.7 million people and killed more than 107,000 around the world so far, according to the latest tally by the Johns Hopkins University.

In the United States alone, there are over half a million cases. The US state of New York currently has more cases than any other country.

Additionally, the US recently overtook Italy and logged the highest number of coronavirus related deaths in a country ever!

Many researches across the globe have reiterated the need of giving special care to the elderly, as they are the most vulnerable demographic. As peaks in many countries have shown, old folks, especially those with underlying conditions of the heart and kidney are not likely to survive the infection.

Many researches across the globe have reiterated the need of giving special care to the elderly, as they are the most vulnerable demographic. As peaks in many countries have shown, old folks, especially those with underlying conditions of the heart and kidney are not likely to survive the infection. A statement by the European Union chief has rung in similar sentiments, but tiptoeing on precautionary measures. Ursula von der Leyen recently said that elderly people may have to be kept isolated for the entire year for effective protection. “Without a vaccine, we have to limit as much as possible contact with the elderly,” she said to a Germany daily Bild. “I know it’s difficult and that isolation is a burden, but it is a question of life or death, we have to remain disciplined and patient”, Leyen added. “Children and young people will enjoy more freedom of movement earlier than elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions,” she said. Gilberte Troquet, 92, poses in her house as she wears a makeshift mask, in Montigny-Le-Chartif, western France, on April 8, 2020, on the 23rd day of a lockdown in France to stop the spread of the COVID-19 caused by the novel coronavirus | AFP While talking about a potential vaccine, Leyen claimed that she was hopeful of a European lab successfully developing one before the end of this year. For quick vaccination, authorities worldwide have amped up talks with production groups so that they may be prepared to mass-produce vaccines for the global population. The coronavirus pandemic has infected 1.7 million people and killed more than 107,000 around the world so far, according to the latest tally by the Johns Hopkins University. In the United States alone, there are over half a million cases. The US state of New York currently has more cases than any other country. Additionally, the US recently overtook Italy and logged the highest number of coronavirus related deaths in a country ever!

Elderly may have to self-isolate for the entire year, or until a vaccine is ready

disease

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