Days after the coronavirus crisis took hold in Pakistan, Aamir Gill, a cleaner and member of the country's Christian underclass, was fired with no warning or severance by the wealthy family he had helped look after. 
 
Many other Christians -- who live a hand-to-mouth existence in the Islamic country -- have also been laid off and, with little access to government help, are wondering how they will survive. 
 
"We were already untouchables and now due to corona, rich people think the poor might bring it into their homes," Gill told AFP ahead of an uncertain Easter. 
 
Along with two other servants, he worked at a large house in the capital -- mostly to clean up after parties. 
 
"I have no idea how many bedrooms it had but it was big," explained Gill, who lives in Islamabad's Christian slums in a cramped one-room home with his family of four. 
 
"My kids asked me for new Easter dresses and shoes but I have told them we are not going to have Easter this year." 
 
Christians -- who comprise roughly two percent of the population -- occupy one of the lowest rungs in class-obsessed Pakistan.&nbsp; 
 
Most work menial jobs without contracts as street sweepers, cleaners and cooks and live in crowded, multi-generational households where social distancing is all but impossible.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-one-woman-20-others-injured-in-stampede-at-coronavirus-aid-program-291858" hreflang="en">Pakistan: One woman, 20 others injured in stampede at coronavirus aid program</a> 
 
Their worsening plight means the Easter -- which normally marks rebirth, springtime and abundance -- will be filled with "depression and despair", said Haroon Ashraf. 
 
"The coronavirus has snatched away the bit of bread we had," said the 25-year-old, who lost his restaurant job when the virus hit. 
 
Along with his brother, who is also now jobless, he is supporting a family of seven that is squeezed into a two-room flat.&nbsp; 
 
He was hoping to apply for financial relief from the state, but was hindered by being unable to read.

'Layers of marginalisation' 
Pakistan's Christian community largely descended from low-caste Hindus who converted, resulting in persistent caste stigmas and discrimination. 
 
For decades, they have been subjected to violent attacks by Islamists, and tarred with blasphemy allegations that they are mostly helpless to deflect and often result in lynchings. 
 
They often live in impoverished "colonies" in urban centres, including in the capital Islamabad where the slums are sandwiched between the wealthiest neighbourhoods. 
 
The loss of a job or an unexpected medical bill frequently sends families into spiralling debt in the absence of strong safety nets in the deeply impoverished country of 215 million.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-has-pakistan-recorded-a-surge-in-covid-19-cases-291770" hreflang="en">Why has Pakistan recorded a surge in COVID-19 cases?</a> 
 
"In this crisis, where they are confined to crowded spaces with few resources, they cannot be left to face a cruel choice between starvation and infection," said Omar Waraich, deputy regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International. 
 
The pandemic and ensuing lockdown means lively Easter Sunday services and celebrations usually spent in churches inside the maze-like slums will be abandoned. 
 
Christians in Pakistan with smartphones have tuned into online services while others have joined neighbours on their rooftops, where sermons are yelled and hymns are sung in unison. 
 
For Sharoon Shakeel, this Easter season has been ladened with misery after the recent death of his father, followed by losing his job. 
 
"We are running out of food," said Shakeel, who was already in debt from the funeral costs. "How can we celebrate Easter?"

Days after the coronavirus crisis took hold in Pakistan, Aamir Gill, a cleaner and member of the country's Christian underclass, was fired with no warning or severance by the wealthy family he had helped look after.

Days after the coronavirus crisis took hold in Pakistan, Aamir Gill, a cleaner and member of the country's Christian underclass, was fired with no warning or severance by the wealthy family he had helped look after. Many other Christians -- who live a hand-to-mouth existence in the Islamic country -- have also been laid off and, with little access to government help, are wondering how they will survive. "We were already untouchables and now due to corona, rich people think the poor might bring it into their homes," Gill told AFP ahead of an uncertain Easter. Along with two other servants, he worked at a large house in the capital -- mostly to clean up after parties. "I have no idea how many bedrooms it had but it was big," explained Gill, who lives in Islamabad's Christian slums in a cramped one-room home with his family of four. "My kids asked me for new Easter dresses and shoes but I have told them we are not going to have Easter this year." Christians -- who comprise roughly two percent of the population -- occupy one of the lowest rungs in class-obsessed Pakistan. Most work menial jobs without contracts as street sweepers, cleaners and cooks and live in crowded, multi-generational households where social distancing is all but impossible. Also read: Pakistan: One woman, 20 others injured in stampede at coronavirus aid program Their worsening plight means the Easter -- which normally marks rebirth, springtime and abundance -- will be filled with "depression and despair", said Haroon Ashraf. "The coronavirus has snatched away the bit of bread we had," said the 25-year-old, who lost his restaurant job when the virus hit. Along with his brother, who is also now jobless, he is supporting a family of seven that is squeezed into a two-room flat. He was hoping to apply for financial relief from the state, but was hindered by being unable to read. 'Layers of marginalisation' Pakistan's Christian community largely descended from low-caste Hindus who converted, resulting in persistent caste stigmas and discrimination. For decades, they have been subjected to violent attacks by Islamists, and tarred with blasphemy allegations that they are mostly helpless to deflect and often result in lynchings. They often live in impoverished "colonies" in urban centres, including in the capital Islamabad where the slums are sandwiched between the wealthiest neighbourhoods. The loss of a job or an unexpected medical bill frequently sends families into spiralling debt in the absence of strong safety nets in the deeply impoverished country of 215 million. Also read: Why has Pakistan recorded a surge in COVID-19 cases? "In this crisis, where they are confined to crowded spaces with few resources, they cannot be left to face a cruel choice between starvation and infection," said Omar Waraich, deputy regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International. The pandemic and ensuing lockdown means lively Easter Sunday services and celebrations usually spent in churches inside the maze-like slums will be abandoned. Christians in Pakistan with smartphones have tuned into online services while others have joined neighbours on their rooftops, where sermons are yelled and hymns are sung in unison. For Sharoon Shakeel, this Easter season has been ladened with misery after the recent death of his father, followed by losing his job. "We are running out of food," said Shakeel, who was already in debt from the funeral costs. "How can we celebrate Easter?"

Pakistan's Christians face Easter vulnerable and jobless             

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-hits-100000-us-to-overtake-italy-291883" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-day-lockdown-imposed-in-much-of-turkey-coronavirus-death-toll-tops-1000-291891" hreflang="en">Two-day lockdown imposed in much of Turkey, coronavirus death toll tops 1,000</a></h2>

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<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-johnsons-recovery-is-on-track-uk-records-highest-fatalities-291889" hreflang="en">PM Johnson's recovery is on track, UK records highest fatalities</a></h2>

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Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953 Virus-infected Australian cruise shi

Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953 Virus-infected Australian cruise ship arrives at Montevideo port Using his own 'metrics,' Trump says ending US shutdown is biggest decision yet Two-day lockdown imposed in much of Turkey, coronavirus death toll tops 1,000 PM Johnson's recovery is on track, UK records highest fatalities

Morning news brief: Global coronavirus death toll hits record-high, Johnson now walking, and more!

Smoking during a pandemic? You might wanna rethink that idea!

Turns out if you’re smoking marijuana, or as it is&nbsp;generally referred to as “weed”, it could cause severe complications in case a user catches COVID-19, CNN reported.

Not just chronic users, even occasional smokers are at risk of contracting the virus.

The inflammation caused by smoking weed in one’s lungs is akin to bronchitis.

Daily usage of marijuana causes lung damage over time and resembles chronic bronchitis, or Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-teenager-belonging-to-an-isolated-amazonian-tribe-dies-of-coronavirus-291936" hreflang="en">A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus</a>

People who smoke and those who have other chronic lung diseases, alongside asthma are at a higher risk for severe illness due to COVID-19.

Most of these cases need ventilators to continue breathing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-fight-the-gloom-doom-doctors-in-california-flaunt-dance-moves-as-patients-recover-291932" hreflang="en">WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover</a>

Diagnosing the patients with the virus could also prove to be harder if they’re smokers. Most chronic smokers develop what’s called a “smoker’s cough”, which could look similar to dry cough, one of the key symptoms of the virus.

Increasing death toll

The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/using-his-own-metrics-trump-says-ending-us-shutdown-is-biggest-decision-yet-291893" hreflang="en">Using his own 'metrics,' Trump says ending US shutdown is biggest decision yet</a>

This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

As of now, the number of infections stand at roughly 1.6 million. The pandemic has taken the lives of over 100,859 people. Europe remains the hardest hit with 70 per cent deaths recorded there.

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Smoking during a pandemic? You might wanna rethink that idea! Turns out if you’re smoking marijuana, or as it is generally referred to as “weed”, it could cause severe complications in case a user catches COVID-19, CNN reported.

Smoking during a pandemic? You might wanna rethink that idea! Turns out if you’re smoking marijuana, or as it is generally referred to as “weed”, it could cause severe complications in case a user catches COVID-19, CNN reported. Not just chronic users, even occasional smokers are at risk of contracting the virus. The inflammation caused by smoking weed in one’s lungs is akin to bronchitis. Daily usage of marijuana causes lung damage over time and resembles chronic bronchitis, or Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD). Also read: A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus People who smoke and those who have other chronic lung diseases, alongside asthma are at a higher risk for severe illness due to COVID-19. Most of these cases need ventilators to continue breathing. Also read: WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover Diagnosing the patients with the virus could also prove to be harder if they’re smokers. Most chronic smokers develop what’s called a “smoker’s cough”, which could look similar to dry cough, one of the key symptoms of the virus. Increasing death toll The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported. Also read: Using his own 'metrics,' Trump says ending US shutdown is biggest decision yet This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. As of now, the number of infections stand at roughly 1.6 million. The pandemic has taken the lives of over 100,859 people. Europe remains the hardest hit with 70 per cent deaths recorded there. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Smoking pot to kick away pandemic blues? You might wanna rethink that idea!

Western Europe has been battered by the coronavirus outbreak, but Germany remains a bright-spot in the continent.

The fatality rates in Europe are as follows: 10 per cent each in Spain and France. In Italy and Britain it's 12 per cent.

But Germany has a fatality rate of just two per cent.

How did they do this?

Germany has been testing way more people than rest of Europe.

Identifying and isolating patients helped Germany prevent the infection from spreading to more vulnerable age groups.

Germany has the capacity to test 500,000 people every week.

But in countries like UK, this number is much lower at around 300,000.

Germany also had a head start in preparing for the outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-mayor-warns-city-of-serious-test-as-coronavirus-numbers-climb-291922" hreflang="en">Moscow mayor warns city of 'serious test' as coronavirus numbers climb</a>

Italy reached 100 COVID-19 cases on February 23rd while Germany reached the same number almost a week later.

This gave the country a buffer period to chalk out its response.

Germany's patients also seem to be much younger than the rest of Europe.

Just 18 per cent of patients in Germany are older than 60 years.

But in Italy - this demographic accounts for 60 per cent of the patients.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-about-dangers-of-premature-lifting-of-covid-19-restrictions-291921" hreflang="en">WHO warns about dangers of premature lifting of COVID-19 restrictions</a>

As many researches have asserted, older patients are affected disproportionately by this virus.

Through rampant testing and strict social distancing, Germany was able to protect its older age group from the infection.

Something Italy, France and Spain have failed to do.

Health infrastructure

Germany is now reaping the reward for consistently investing in health infrastructure over the years.

There are 34 ventilators for 100,000 people in the country. While Italy has only seven.

There are 621 hospital beds for 100,000 people in Germany, more than double the capacity in Spain and Italy.

Massive public health investment has made this possible.

Germany spends twice as much on public health as its European counterparts.

So when the pandemic came - Germany was ready for it.

Western Europe has been battered by the coronavirus outbreak, but Germany remains a bright-spot in the continent. The fatality rates in Europe are as follows: 10 per cent each in Spain and France.

Western Europe has been battered by the coronavirus outbreak, but Germany remains a bright-spot in the continent. The fatality rates in Europe are as follows: 10 per cent each in Spain and France. In Italy and Britain it's 12 per cent. But Germany has a fatality rate of just two per cent. How did they do this? Germany has been testing way more people than rest of Europe. Identifying and isolating patients helped Germany prevent the infection from spreading to more vulnerable age groups. Germany has the capacity to test 500,000 people every week. But in countries like UK, this number is much lower at around 300,000. Germany also had a head start in preparing for the outbreak. Also read: Moscow mayor warns city of 'serious test' as coronavirus numbers climb Italy reached 100 COVID-19 cases on February 23rd while Germany reached the same number almost a week later. This gave the country a buffer period to chalk out its response. Germany's patients also seem to be much younger than the rest of Europe. Just 18 per cent of patients in Germany are older than 60 years. But in Italy - this demographic accounts for 60 per cent of the patients. Also read: WHO warns about dangers of premature lifting of COVID-19 restrictions As many researches have asserted, older patients are affected disproportionately by this virus. Through rampant testing and strict social distancing, Germany was able to protect its older age group from the infection. Something Italy, France and Spain have failed to do. Health infrastructure Germany is now reaping the reward for consistently investing in health infrastructure over the years. There are 34 ventilators for 100,000 people in the country. While Italy has only seven. There are 621 hospital beds for 100,000 people in Germany, more than double the capacity in Spain and Italy. Massive public health investment has made this possible. Germany spends twice as much on public health as its European counterparts. So when the pandemic came - Germany was ready for it.

How did Germany manage to prevent an Italy-like situation?

An Australian cruise ship stranded off the coast of Uruguay for two weeks with more than 100 people aboard infected with the new coronavirus arrived at the port of Montevideo on Friday. 
 
Following an agreement between the governments of Uruguay and Australia, about 110 passengers began disembarking from the Greg Mortimer before they were due to be taken along a "sanitary corridor" to Montevideo's international airport, where they will take a medically equipped charter flight to Melbourne. 
 
The Australian and New Zealander tourists -- including people who tested negative and others confirmed ill with the virus -- will be taken on buses with a police escort straight to the runway without entering the terminal. 
 
They are due to take off in the early hours of Saturday. 
 
"If everything goes well, Uruguay will be completing a complex but necessary humanitarian mission," said the country's Foreign Minister Ernesto Talvi. 
 
"We don't consider it an option, but rather an ethical obligation." 
 
Of the 217 people -- passengers and crew -- aboard the ship, 128 have tested positive for the virus. 
 
Aboard the plane, passengers will be "seated by test results and level of care required by passenger," said Australian company Aurore Expeditions, owner of the Greg Mortimer.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mainland-chinas-tally-of-infections-now-stands-at-81953-291886">Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953</a> 
 
The tourists were on an expedition to Antarctica, South Georgia and Elephant Island when their adventure was called off due to the nearest South American countries -- Argentina and Chile -- closing their borders and imposing lockdowns. 
 
The ship traveled to Montevideo as it was the nearest port still open. 
 
It had been anchored in the Rio de la Plata since March 27. 
 
Since then, eight people have been taken from the ship to hospitals in Montevideo with "life-threatening" conditions. 
 
All are in a stable condition and earlier on Friday, Uruguay's foreign ministry told AFP that three Australians undergoing hospital treatment would be allowed to board the flight to Melbourne as they are in sufficiently good health to travel. 
 
Two of those are a couple who were brought ashore and taken to a hospital on Wednesday suffering from pneumonia, while the third person had been receiving clinical attention since last week.

'No human contact' 
Of the other people receiving hospital treatment, two Australians are in intensive care, while a Filipino crew member is due to be released back to quarantine on the boat.

The other two are a British tourist and a second Filipino crew member.

Uruguay's government considers all people aboard the Greg Mortimer to be infected, even if they haven't tested positive for the virus.

"There will be practically no human contact" between the passengers and others during the transfer operation, Talvi said this week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-hits-100000-us-to-overtake-italy-291883" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy</a>

Aurore said it was covering the transfer costs for all passengers and that the New Zealand government was organizing further travel on from Melbourne for its citizens. 
 
After the evacuation, more than 80 crew members and around 20 Europeans and Americans will remain on board the Greg Mortimer. 
 
Those who have tested positive for the virus "will have to wait until they test negative" before heading home via Sao Paulo, Aurore said on Tuesday. 
 
Those who have already tested negative will be allowed to leave in the coming days, provided they pass another test first.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

An Australian cruise ship stranded off the coast of Uruguay for two weeks with more than 100 people aboard infected with the new coronavirus arrived at the port of Montevideo on Friday.

An Australian cruise ship stranded off the coast of Uruguay for two weeks with more than 100 people aboard infected with the new coronavirus arrived at the port of Montevideo on Friday. Following an agreement between the governments of Uruguay and Australia, about 110 passengers began disembarking from the Greg Mortimer before they were due to be taken along a "sanitary corridor" to Montevideo's international airport, where they will take a medically equipped charter flight to Melbourne. The Australian and New Zealander tourists -- including people who tested negative and others confirmed ill with the virus -- will be taken on buses with a police escort straight to the runway without entering the terminal. They are due to take off in the early hours of Saturday. "If everything goes well, Uruguay will be completing a complex but necessary humanitarian mission," said the country's Foreign Minister Ernesto Talvi. "We don't consider it an option, but rather an ethical obligation." Of the 217 people -- passengers and crew -- aboard the ship, 128 have tested positive for the virus. Aboard the plane, passengers will be "seated by test results and level of care required by passenger," said Australian company Aurore Expeditions, owner of the Greg Mortimer. Also read: Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953 The tourists were on an expedition to Antarctica, South Georgia and Elephant Island when their adventure was called off due to the nearest South American countries -- Argentina and Chile -- closing their borders and imposing lockdowns. The ship traveled to Montevideo as it was the nearest port still open. It had been anchored in the Rio de la Plata since March 27. Since then, eight people have been taken from the ship to hospitals in Montevideo with "life-threatening" conditions. All are in a stable condition and earlier on Friday, Uruguay's foreign ministry told AFP that three Australians undergoing hospital treatment would be allowed to board the flight to Melbourne as they are in sufficiently good health to travel. Two of those are a couple who were brought ashore and taken to a hospital on Wednesday suffering from pneumonia, while the third person had been receiving clinical attention since last week. 'No human contact' Of the other people receiving hospital treatment, two Australians are in intensive care, while a Filipino crew member is due to be released back to quarantine on the boat. The other two are a British tourist and a second Filipino crew member. Uruguay's government considers all people aboard the Greg Mortimer to be infected, even if they haven't tested positive for the virus. "There will be practically no human contact" between the passengers and others during the transfer operation, Talvi said this week. Also read: Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy Aurore said it was covering the transfer costs for all passengers and that the New Zealand government was organizing further travel on from Melbourne for its citizens. After the evacuation, more than 80 crew members and around 20 Europeans and Americans will remain on board the Greg Mortimer. Those who have tested positive for the virus "will have to wait until they test negative" before heading home via Sao Paulo, Aurore said on Tuesday. Those who have already tested negative will be allowed to leave in the coming days, provided they pass another test first.

Virus-infected Australian cruise ship arrives at Montevideo port

President Donald Trump said on Friday he faced his biggest decision yet with regard to when to re-open the US&nbsp;economy from its coronavirus shutdown and pledged to listen to health experts when making that determination.

Speaking at a White House coronavirus briefing, Trump said he would unveil a new advisory group next week that would focus on the process of economic opening.

The president, who faced criticism for playing down the threat from the virus in its early stages, has chafed at the devastating economic impact of the strict social distancing measures his administration has recommended. The guidelines are set to stay in place through the end of April.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-johnsons-recovery-is-on-track-uk-records-highest-fatalities-291889">PM Johnson's recovery is on track, UK records highest fatalities</a>

The president will then have to decide whether to extend them or start encouraging people to go back to work and a more normal way of life.

"I'm going to have to make a decision, and I ... hope to God that it's the right decision," Trump said. "It's the biggest decision I've ever had to make."

Trump said the facts would determine the next move, though he reiterated his desire to re-open the economy. Asked what metrics he would use to make his judgment, he pointed at his forehead: "The metrics right here, that's my metrics."

Trump suggested the number of new infections was flattening and the death toll would be lower than initial projections of more than 100,000.

He said he would announce the members of the new advisory council possibly on Tuesday. Some state governors will be appointed.

Trump said the aggressive social distancing and stay-at-home measures taken to combat the coronavirus were showing signs of success, and situations in hot spots such as New Orleans, Louisiana, and Detroit, Michigan, were stabilizing.

U.S. deaths from the virus topped 18,100 on Friday, according to a Reuters tally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mainland-chinas-tally-of-infections-now-stands-at-81953-291886">Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953</a>

But administration officials cautioned it was still too early to ease restrictions, and said the faithful should not gather in churches on the Easter Sunday holiday.

"We know it's difficult in this time of year in particular to avoid gatherings of more than 10, but we're grateful that so many churches, synagogues and places of worship have done just that," Vice President Mike Pence said, urging worshipers "to continue to heed the guidelines."

New U.S. government figures show coronavirus infections will spike during the summer if stay-at-home orders are lifted after 30 days as planned, according to projections first reported by the New York Times and confirmed by a Department of Homeland Security official.

If shelter-in-place orders are lifted after 30 days, the death toll is estimated to reach 200,000, according to the projections, obtained from DHS and the Department of Health and Human Services. Trump said at the briefing that he and his advisers have not seen the new projections.

Trump said he was getting fewer calls from governors urgently seeking equipment and help.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-hits-100000-us-to-overtake-italy-291883" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy</a>

"We're in great shape with ventilators, we're in great shape with protective clothing, we have additional planeloads coming in. But we're not getting any calls from governors at this moment," he said.

Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House task force on the coronavirus, said the United States was starting to flatten the curve the way Italy did, with a lot of the success coming from progress in New York City.

Officials have pointed to declining rates of coronavirus hospitalizations and need for intensive care in hard-hit New York as signs that social distancing measures are paying off.

"But as encouraging as they are, we have not reached the peak. And so every day we need to continue to do what we did yesterday, and the week before and the week before that because that's what in the end is going to take us across the peak and down the other side," Birx said.

President Donald Trump said on Friday he faced his biggest decision yet with regard to when to re-open the US economy from its coronavirus shutdown and pledged to listen to health experts when making that determination.

President Donald Trump said on Friday he faced his biggest decision yet with regard to when to re-open the US economy from its coronavirus shutdown and pledged to listen to health experts when making that determination. Speaking at a White House coronavirus briefing, Trump said he would unveil a new advisory group next week that would focus on the process of economic opening. The president, who faced criticism for playing down the threat from the virus in its early stages, has chafed at the devastating economic impact of the strict social distancing measures his administration has recommended. The guidelines are set to stay in place through the end of April. Also read: PM Johnson's recovery is on track, UK records highest fatalities The president will then have to decide whether to extend them or start encouraging people to go back to work and a more normal way of life. "I'm going to have to make a decision, and I ... hope to God that it's the right decision," Trump said. "It's the biggest decision I've ever had to make." Trump said the facts would determine the next move, though he reiterated his desire to re-open the economy. Asked what metrics he would use to make his judgment, he pointed at his forehead: "The metrics right here, that's my metrics." Trump suggested the number of new infections was flattening and the death toll would be lower than initial projections of more than 100,000. He said he would announce the members of the new advisory council possibly on Tuesday. Some state governors will be appointed. Trump said the aggressive social distancing and stay-at-home measures taken to combat the coronavirus were showing signs of success, and situations in hot spots such as New Orleans, Louisiana, and Detroit, Michigan, were stabilizing. U.S. deaths from the virus topped 18,100 on Friday, according to a Reuters tally. Also read: Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953 But administration officials cautioned it was still too early to ease restrictions, and said the faithful should not gather in churches on the Easter Sunday holiday. "We know it's difficult in this time of year in particular to avoid gatherings of more than 10, but we're grateful that so many churches, synagogues and places of worship have done just that," Vice President Mike Pence said, urging worshipers "to continue to heed the guidelines." New U.S. government figures show coronavirus infections will spike during the summer if stay-at-home orders are lifted after 30 days as planned, according to projections first reported by the New York Times and confirmed by a Department of Homeland Security official. If shelter-in-place orders are lifted after 30 days, the death toll is estimated to reach 200,000, according to the projections, obtained from DHS and the Department of Health and Human Services. Trump said at the briefing that he and his advisers have not seen the new projections. Trump said he was getting fewer calls from governors urgently seeking equipment and help. Also read: Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy "We're in great shape with ventilators, we're in great shape with protective clothing, we have additional planeloads coming in. But we're not getting any calls from governors at this moment," he said. Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House task force on the coronavirus, said the United States was starting to flatten the curve the way Italy did, with a lot of the success coming from progress in New York City. Officials have pointed to declining rates of coronavirus hospitalizations and need for intensive care in hard-hit New York as signs that social distancing measures are paying off. "But as encouraging as they are, we have not reached the peak. And so every day we need to continue to do what we did yesterday, and the week before and the week before that because that's what in the end is going to take us across the peak and down the other side," Birx said.

Using his own 'metrics,' Trump says ending US shutdown is biggest decision yet

Istanbul, Ankara and other major Turkish cities locked down for two days from midnight on Friday to combat the spread of the coronavirus under an Interior Ministry order, as the country's death toll from the pandemic rose above 1,000.

The restrictions were imposed in 31 provinces across the country and scaled up existing curbs, under which people under the age of 20 and over 65 have been told to stay at home.

Ankara has also halted all international flights, restricted domestic travel, closed schools, bars and cafes, and suspended mass prayers. But people have still been going to work to sustain economic activity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mainland-chinas-tally-of-infections-now-stands-at-81953-291886">Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953</a>

"We urge all citizens who live in these 31 provinces to comply with this weekend's lockdown without panicking," the country's communications director Fahrettin Altun wrote on Twitter.

He called on people to maintain their social distance in the brief time before the lockdown went into effect. However, soon after news of the move emerged, many people left their homes to buy food and drink in the country's commercial hub Istanbul, a city of 16 million people.

Earlier on Friday, before the lockdown was announced, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca had urged people to resist the temptation to leave their homes during the weekend as the weather warms.

Confirmed cases of COVID-19 increased by 4,747 and 98 people died in the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 1,006, Koca said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-hits-100000-us-to-overtake-italy-291883" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy</a>

Detailing specifics of the lockdown in a subsequent statement, the Interior Ministry said bakeries, pharmacies and health facilities would be among places excluded from the ban, enabling people to meet essential needs.

Strategic energy companies, distribution firms and some petrol stations would also be allowed to keep operating and people working in such places were exempted from the lockdown, it said.

"It is essential that all other citizens remain in their homes aside from the specified exemptions," the statement said.

The new curbs, which extended across provinces from Istanbul and Kocaeli in the northwest to Diyarbakir and Van in the southeast, will remain in force until midnight (2100 GMT) on Sunday, the ministry said.

Istanbul, Ankara and other major Turkish cities locked down for two days from midnight on Friday to combat the spread of the coronavirus under an Interior Ministry order, as the country's death toll from the pandemic rose above 1,000.

Istanbul, Ankara and other major Turkish cities locked down for two days from midnight on Friday to combat the spread of the coronavirus under an Interior Ministry order, as the country's death toll from the pandemic rose above 1,000. The restrictions were imposed in 31 provinces across the country and scaled up existing curbs, under which people under the age of 20 and over 65 have been told to stay at home. Ankara has also halted all international flights, restricted domestic travel, closed schools, bars and cafes, and suspended mass prayers. But people have still been going to work to sustain economic activity. Also read: Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953 "We urge all citizens who live in these 31 provinces to comply with this weekend's lockdown without panicking," the country's communications director Fahrettin Altun wrote on Twitter. He called on people to maintain their social distance in the brief time before the lockdown went into effect. However, soon after news of the move emerged, many people left their homes to buy food and drink in the country's commercial hub Istanbul, a city of 16 million people. Earlier on Friday, before the lockdown was announced, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca had urged people to resist the temptation to leave their homes during the weekend as the weather warms. Confirmed cases of COVID-19 increased by 4,747 and 98 people died in the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 1,006, Koca said. Also read: Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy Detailing specifics of the lockdown in a subsequent statement, the Interior Ministry said bakeries, pharmacies and health facilities would be among places excluded from the ban, enabling people to meet essential needs. Strategic energy companies, distribution firms and some petrol stations would also be allowed to keep operating and people working in such places were exempted from the lockdown, it said. "It is essential that all other citizens remain in their homes aside from the specified exemptions," the statement said. The new curbs, which extended across provinces from Istanbul and Kocaeli in the northwest to Diyarbakir and Van in the southeast, will remain in force until midnight (2100 GMT) on Sunday, the ministry said.

Two-day lockdown imposed in much of Turkey, coronavirus death toll tops 1,000

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now begun to walk as part of his recovery from COVID-19.

His on-track recovery coincided with the deadliest day for the UK in terms of the fatalities.

Over 980 people were killed in 24 hours, taking the national death toll to 9,000.

The number of single day deaths has now exceeded the fatalities reported in Italy, which has been the hardest hit by the virus.

The country has enforced a national lockdown with orders for people to stay at home unless they venture out to buy essentials.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mainland-chinas-tally-of-infections-now-stands-at-81953-291886">Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953</a>

"However warm the weather, however tempting your local beach or park, we need everyone to stay at home because in hospitals across the country NHS staff are battling day and night to keep desperately sick people breathing," health minister Matt Hancock told a news conference, Reuters reported.

Johnson himself was treated by the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). He was admitted on Sunday when his symptoms worsened but has since then shown improvement.

The 55-year-old PM required oxygen support and is now able to undertake short walks, marking an early stage of recovery.

"I was told he was waving his thanks to all of the nurses and doctors he saw as he was moved from the intensive care unit back to the ward," his spokesman said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-hits-100000-us-to-overtake-italy-291883" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy</a>

"The hospital said that he was in extremely good spirits last night."

Johnson was the first world leader to be hospitalised with the coronavirus, forcing him to hand control to foreign minister Dominic Raab.

The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-impact-panic-buying-transport-disruption-and-looming-famine-291861" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus impact: Panic buying, transport disruption and looming famine</a>

This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now begun to walk as part of his recovery from COVID-19. His on-track recovery coincided with the deadliest day for the UK in terms of the fatalities.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now begun to walk as part of his recovery from COVID-19. His on-track recovery coincided with the deadliest day for the UK in terms of the fatalities. Over 980 people were killed in 24 hours, taking the national death toll to 9,000. The number of single day deaths has now exceeded the fatalities reported in Italy, which has been the hardest hit by the virus. The country has enforced a national lockdown with orders for people to stay at home unless they venture out to buy essentials. Also read: Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953 "However warm the weather, however tempting your local beach or park, we need everyone to stay at home because in hospitals across the country NHS staff are battling day and night to keep desperately sick people breathing," health minister Matt Hancock told a news conference, Reuters reported. Johnson himself was treated by the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). He was admitted on Sunday when his symptoms worsened but has since then shown improvement. The 55-year-old PM required oxygen support and is now able to undertake short walks, marking an early stage of recovery. "I was told he was waving his thanks to all of the nurses and doctors he saw as he was moved from the intensive care unit back to the ward," his spokesman said. Also read: Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy "The hospital said that he was in extremely good spirits last night." Johnson was the first world leader to be hospitalised with the coronavirus, forcing him to hand control to foreign minister Dominic Raab. The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported. Also read: Global coronavirus impact: Panic buying, transport disruption and looming famine This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Johnson's recovery is on track, UK records highest fatalities

China on Saturday reported a rise in new coronavirus cases, as authorities try to head off a second wave of COVID-19, particularly from imported and asymptomatic infections, as city and travel restrictions are lifted.

The National Health Commission said 46 new cases were reported on Friday, including 42 involving travellers from overseas, up from 42 cases a day earlier.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-hits-100000-us-to-overtake-italy-291883" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy</a>

The commission said in a statement that 34 new asymptomatic coronavirus cases were reported, down from 47 the previous day.&nbsp;

Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953. The death toll rose by three to 3,339.

Severe travel and transit restrictions imposed since January have helped bring the number of new infections down sharply from the height of the epidemic in February. But policymakers fear a second wave triggered by people entering the country from overseas or asymptomatic patients.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-after-whos-accusations-of-racism-taiwan-responds-291870" hreflang="en">Day after WHO's accusations of racism, Taiwan responds</a>

The northeastern Heilongjiang province has reported a spike in new cases recently due to Chinese nationals entering the province from Russia, where there has been a surge of new coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

Heilongjiang's health authority said on Saturday the province had 22 new imported cases on Friday - all Chinese nationals coming from Russia, and one new local case in the province, in the provincial capital Harbin.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-impact-panic-buying-transport-disruption-and-looming-famine-291861" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus impact: Panic buying, transport disruption and looming famine</a>

Hubei province reported no new cases for the seventh day in a row.

The virus, which first broke out in the Chinese city of Wuhan - the capital of Hubei, in late 2019, has since spread around the world infecting more than 1.56 million people and killing more than 95,000.

China on Saturday reported a rise in new coronavirus cases, as authorities try to head off a second wave of COVID-19, particularly from imported and asymptomatic infections, as city and travel restrictions are lifted.

China on Saturday reported a rise in new coronavirus cases, as authorities try to head off a second wave of COVID-19, particularly from imported and asymptomatic infections, as city and travel restrictions are lifted. The National Health Commission said 46 new cases were reported on Friday, including 42 involving travellers from overseas, up from 42 cases a day earlier. Also read: Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy The commission said in a statement that 34 new asymptomatic coronavirus cases were reported, down from 47 the previous day. Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953. The death toll rose by three to 3,339. Severe travel and transit restrictions imposed since January have helped bring the number of new infections down sharply from the height of the epidemic in February. But policymakers fear a second wave triggered by people entering the country from overseas or asymptomatic patients. Also read: Day after WHO's accusations of racism, Taiwan responds The northeastern Heilongjiang province has reported a spike in new cases recently due to Chinese nationals entering the province from Russia, where there has been a surge of new coronavirus cases. Heilongjiang's health authority said on Saturday the province had 22 new imported cases on Friday - all Chinese nationals coming from Russia, and one new local case in the province, in the provincial capital Harbin. Also read: Global coronavirus impact: Panic buying, transport disruption and looming famine Hubei province reported no new cases for the seventh day in a row. The virus, which first broke out in the Chinese city of Wuhan - the capital of Hubei, in late 2019, has since spread around the world infecting more than 1.56 million people and killing more than 95,000.

Mainland China's tally of infections now stands at 81,953

The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported.

This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

More than half of the world population is currently self-isolating.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-after-whos-accusations-of-racism-taiwan-responds-291870" hreflang="en">Day after WHO's accusations of racism, Taiwan responds</a>

Be it New York or New Delhi, businesses remain closed. Schools have been forced shut and the International Monetary Fund recently claimed that this is the worst economic fallout since the 1930s.

As of now, the number of infections stand at roughly 1.6 million. The pandemic has taken the lives of over 100,859 people. Europe remains the hardest hit with 70 per cent deaths recorded there.

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

<h5><img alt="Nurses and healthcare workers light candles as they mourn and remember their colleagues who died during the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (which causes COVID-19) during a demonstration outside Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan on April 10, 2020 in New York City" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a30457dc-f879-45fb-b53c-fff63b8082cc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_0.jpg" /> 
Nurses and healthcare workers light candles as they mourn and remember their colleagues who died during the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (which causes COVID-19) during a demonstration outside Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan on April 10, 2020 in New York City | AFP 
&nbsp;</h5>

The United States, the current epicentre of the virus recorded 2,000 deaths a day, a first for any country.

The county, overall has witnessed 18,586 deaths and will soon surpass Italy’s death toll of 18,849.

Over half a million cases have been now been confirmed in the US, more than any other country so far.

However, yesterday researchers showed optimism and claimed that the curve was beginning to flatten.

Trump, the President of the United States claimed that the infection rate was “near the peak” and his plans to reopen&nbsp;the US economy “as soon as possible”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-impact-panic-buying-transport-disruption-and-looming-famine-291861" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus impact: Panic buying, transport disruption and looming famine</a>

"Without question it's the biggest decision I've ever had to make," Trump said.

He was wary though, suggesting his awareness of the risks associated with reopening too quickly.

"But you know what? Staying at home leads to death also," he said, while alluding to the economic losses.

(With inputs from agencies)

The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported. This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing.

The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported. This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. More than half of the world population is currently self-isolating. Also read: Day after WHO's accusations of racism, Taiwan responds Be it New York or New Delhi, businesses remain closed. Schools have been forced shut and the International Monetary Fund recently claimed that this is the worst economic fallout since the 1930s. As of now, the number of infections stand at roughly 1.6 million. The pandemic has taken the lives of over 100,859 people. Europe remains the hardest hit with 70 per cent deaths recorded there. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Nurses and healthcare workers light candles as they mourn and remember their colleagues who died during the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (which causes COVID-19) during a demonstration outside Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan on April 10, 2020 in New York City | AFP The United States, the current epicentre of the virus recorded 2,000 deaths a day, a first for any country. The county, overall has witnessed 18,586 deaths and will soon surpass Italy’s death toll of 18,849. Over half a million cases have been now been confirmed in the US, more than any other country so far. However, yesterday researchers showed optimism and claimed that the curve was beginning to flatten. Trump, the President of the United States claimed that the infection rate was “near the peak” and his plans to reopen the US economy “as soon as possible”. Also read: Global coronavirus impact: Panic buying, transport disruption and looming famine "Without question it's the biggest decision I've ever had to make," Trump said. He was wary though, suggesting his awareness of the risks associated with reopening too quickly. "But you know what? Staying at home leads to death also," he said, while alluding to the economic losses. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus global death toll hits 100,000 - US to overtake Italy

At least 20 employees of the Afghan Presidential Palace have tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday.

Sources from the palace informed Tolo News that medics from the Public Health Ministry have begun taking samples from other officials and staff members of the Presidential Palace after the cases were identified.

Doctors said there is a need for more test kits, as testing will slow the spread of the virus in the country.

"We will get the best results if we have enough kits," said Assadullah Esmat, head of the Infectious Diseases Hospital in Kabul.

"By testing more people, we can find patients who have the virus while it is in its incubation period," he added.Nizamuddin Jalil, head of Kabul hospitals, a department of the Ministry of Public Health, said, "Our teams have increased in Kabul and they collect samples from anywhere they get a report, (of a suspected case)."

The Public Health Ministry on Friday reported 37 new cases of the coronavirus, bringing total cases to 521.

At least 20 employees of the Afghan Presidential Palace have tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday. Sources from the palace informed Tolo News that medics from the Public Health Ministry have begun taking samples from other officials and staff members of the Presidential Palace after the cases were identified.

At least 20 employees of the Afghan Presidential Palace have tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday. Sources from the palace informed Tolo News that medics from the Public Health Ministry have begun taking samples from other officials and staff members of the Presidential Palace after the cases were identified. Doctors said there is a need for more test kits, as testing will slow the spread of the virus in the country. "We will get the best results if we have enough kits," said Assadullah Esmat, head of the Infectious Diseases Hospital in Kabul. "By testing more people, we can find patients who have the virus while it is in its incubation period," he added.Nizamuddin Jalil, head of Kabul hospitals, a department of the Ministry of Public Health, said, "Our teams have increased in Kabul and they collect samples from anywhere they get a report, (of a suspected case)." The Public Health Ministry on Friday reported 37 new cases of the coronavirus, bringing total cases to 521.

20 employees of Afghan Presidential Palace test positive for coronavirus

An officer in-charge of Pirabad police station in Orangi Town locality here was attacked by a mob after authorities tried to restrict Friday congregational prayers.

Although, April 10 was the third Friday after the Sindh government imposed a lockdown in view of the coronavirus outbreak, many people still insisted on offering the Friday congregational prayers and violated the government`s directives that have restricted the maximum number of worshippers at the mosques to five, The Express Tribune reported.Sharafat Khan, female SHO of the Pirabad police, reached the Haqqani Mosque in Frontier Colony after being informed that people were gathering there to offer Friday prayers, in violation of the restrictions.

When she asked the people present at the mosque to pray at home, a group of individuals, enraged by the police action, began pelting her with stones. The police officer received minor injuries during the scuffle.A video, now viral on social media, shows a large crowd exiting the mosque as some individuals engaged in a heated argument with the SHO, who bears a bleeding nose.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-christians-face-easter-vulnerable-and-jobless-291905">Pakistan's Christians face Easter vulnerable and jobless</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

"You people have attacked me and also damaged my glasses. A case will be lodged against you," Khan can be heard saying in the video.After more police officials reached the spot, the SHO instructed them to make videos of all those present in order to initiate action against them.

Khan, appointed as the SHO of the Pirabad Police Station 10 days ago, has a reputation of bravery and outstanding performance.

Taking notice of the incident, a judicial magistrate directed the West DIG to take action against the culprits.The police have registered a case against the mosque administration and unidentified men, under sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act as well as charges, including attempted murder and vandalism.

In most areas of the province, the Sindh government`s orders of a complete lockdown from noon to 3 pm on Fridays were strictly enforced.

Utility stores, pharmacies and other shops selling essential goods - normally exempted from the lockdown - also remained closed during this time.The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Pakistan rose to 4,793 on Saturday after new infections were confirmed in the country.The tally in Punjab was the highest with 2,336 cases and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan reported 656 and 220 cases, respectively.

An officer in-charge of Pirabad police station in Orangi Town locality here was attacked by a mob after authorities tried to restrict Friday congregational prayers.

An officer in-charge of Pirabad police station in Orangi Town locality here was attacked by a mob after authorities tried to restrict Friday congregational prayers. Although, April 10 was the third Friday after the Sindh government imposed a lockdown in view of the coronavirus outbreak, many people still insisted on offering the Friday congregational prayers and violated the government`s directives that have restricted the maximum number of worshippers at the mosques to five, The Express Tribune reported.Sharafat Khan, female SHO of the Pirabad police, reached the Haqqani Mosque in Frontier Colony after being informed that people were gathering there to offer Friday prayers, in violation of the restrictions. When she asked the people present at the mosque to pray at home, a group of individuals, enraged by the police action, began pelting her with stones. The police officer received minor injuries during the scuffle.A video, now viral on social media, shows a large crowd exiting the mosque as some individuals engaged in a heated argument with the SHO, who bears a bleeding nose. Also read: Pakistan's Christians face Easter vulnerable and jobless "You people have attacked me and also damaged my glasses. A case will be lodged against you," Khan can be heard saying in the video.After more police officials reached the spot, the SHO instructed them to make videos of all those present in order to initiate action against them. Khan, appointed as the SHO of the Pirabad Police Station 10 days ago, has a reputation of bravery and outstanding performance. Taking notice of the incident, a judicial magistrate directed the West DIG to take action against the culprits.The police have registered a case against the mosque administration and unidentified men, under sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act as well as charges, including attempted murder and vandalism. In most areas of the province, the Sindh government`s orders of a complete lockdown from noon to 3 pm on Fridays were strictly enforced. Utility stores, pharmacies and other shops selling essential goods - normally exempted from the lockdown - also remained closed during this time.The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Pakistan rose to 4,793 on Saturday after new infections were confirmed in the country.The tally in Punjab was the highest with 2,336 cases and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan reported 656 and 220 cases, respectively.

Karachi police official attacked over religious congregation restrictions

With 92 more COVID-19 positive cases in Maharashtra, the state tally of infected people on Saturday climbed to 1,666, recording the highest number of coronavirus cases in India, according to the State Health Department.

Meanwhile, police personnel was deployed in Kalanagar area of Bandra East, which has been sealed and declared a containment zone.

While Maharashtra has crossed the mark of 1600 COVID-19 positive cases, nine districts of the state have remained free of the virus infection, said the State Health Ministry.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-covid-19-cases-shoot-up-to-7447-with-239-deaths-reported-so-far-291920" hreflang="en">Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far</a>

The nine districts with no coronavirus positive patient include Dhule, Nandurbar, Solapur, Parbhani, Nanded, Wardha, Bhandara, Chandrapur and Gadchiroli.Moreover, there are 8 other districts in the state which have so far reported 1 coronavirus positive case each till date.

These districts -- Nashik, Jalgaon, Sindhudurg, Jalna, Hindoo, Beed, Washim and Gondia are expected to become COVID-19 free by Sunday.

With 40 deaths and 1,035 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, India on Saturday witnessed the sharpest ever increase in coronavirus cases, taking the tally of the infected people in the country to 7,447, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare`s latest bulletin on Saturday.Among 7,447 COVID-19 positive cases, 6,565 are active cases, 643 are cured, discharged and migrated, and 239 patients have succumbed to the virus.

With 92 more COVID-19 positive cases in Maharashtra, the state tally of infected people on Saturday climbed to 1,666, recording the highest number of coronavirus cases in India, according to the State Health Department.

With 92 more COVID-19 positive cases in Maharashtra, the state tally of infected people on Saturday climbed to 1,666, recording the highest number of coronavirus cases in India, according to the State Health Department. Meanwhile, police personnel was deployed in Kalanagar area of Bandra East, which has been sealed and declared a containment zone. While Maharashtra has crossed the mark of 1600 COVID-19 positive cases, nine districts of the state have remained free of the virus infection, said the State Health Ministry. Also read: Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far The nine districts with no coronavirus positive patient include Dhule, Nandurbar, Solapur, Parbhani, Nanded, Wardha, Bhandara, Chandrapur and Gadchiroli.Moreover, there are 8 other districts in the state which have so far reported 1 coronavirus positive case each till date. These districts -- Nashik, Jalgaon, Sindhudurg, Jalna, Hindoo, Beed, Washim and Gondia are expected to become COVID-19 free by Sunday. With 40 deaths and 1,035 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, India on Saturday witnessed the sharpest ever increase in coronavirus cases, taking the tally of the infected people in the country to 7,447, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare`s latest bulletin on Saturday.Among 7,447 COVID-19 positive cases, 6,565 are active cases, 643 are cured, discharged and migrated, and 239 patients have succumbed to the virus.

Maharashtra COVID-19 tally reaches 1,666 with 92 new positive cases

Despite a massive spike in cases of COVID-19 across the country, many Indians are hopeful, reveals an online research survey by the psychology department of Panjab University (PU) here on Friday.The survey collected findings based on mapping the psycho-social impact of the COVID-19 upheaval on the homebound people and their coping strategies.

"An overwhelming majority of respondents (96 per cent) reported a positive emotional and mental health, which is the silver lining to the bleak public mood since the virus outbreak," said psychologist Prof Seema Vinayak, who carried out the research investigation, between April 6 and 9.

Close to 400 people of diverse age groups and social strata are having internet access in over a dozen zones across the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-covid-19-cases-shoot-up-to-7447-with-239-deaths-reported-so-far-291920" hreflang="en">Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far</a>

"A new sense of family bonding has acted as a cushion for stress, anxiety and fear arising out of uncertainty, and also upped the happiness quotient of members," added Vinayak.

Much of the positive outlook among people, according to the survey, is a prolonged period of togetherness forced upon the families by the curfew-like stay-at-home norms.Interestingly, elderly respondents, who generally experienced loneliness in normal times due to the busy lives of younger family members, reported a significant surge in their emotional well-being owing to greater interpersonal interactions in homes.

At least two-thirds of respondents reported that enjoying nature, yoga, meditation and physical exercise in the confines of home helped them cope with the stressors of an unabated pandemic and an open-ended lockdown.

Impact on livelihood, uncertainty on academic and professional lives, continued raging of coronavirus and loss of social life emerged as the top-of-the-mind worries among respondents.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/united-states-is-looking-into-extension-of-h1b-visas-for-indians-amid-covid-19-pandemic-291909" hreflang="en">United States is looking into extension of H1B visas for Indians amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Yet, most are high on hope about the post-lockdown future.

Trust in the government`s steps to deal with the virus outbreak, a likely invention of the vaccine, a greater focus on healthcare and increased awareness about hygiene were mentioned as bright spots by three-fourths of the respondents.

According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, at least 132 positive COVID-19 cases have been reported in Punjab as of Saturday. Out of the 132 cases, five patients have recovered and 11 have succumbed to the virus.

Despite a massive spike in cases of COVID-19 across the country, many Indians are hopeful, reveals an online research survey by the psychology department of Panjab University (PU) here on Friday.

Despite a massive spike in cases of COVID-19 across the country, many Indians are hopeful, reveals an online research survey by the psychology department of Panjab University (PU) here on Friday.The survey collected findings based on mapping the psycho-social impact of the COVID-19 upheaval on the homebound people and their coping strategies. "An overwhelming majority of respondents (96 per cent) reported a positive emotional and mental health, which is the silver lining to the bleak public mood since the virus outbreak," said psychologist Prof Seema Vinayak, who carried out the research investigation, between April 6 and 9. Close to 400 people of diverse age groups and social strata are having internet access in over a dozen zones across the country. Also read: Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far "A new sense of family bonding has acted as a cushion for stress, anxiety and fear arising out of uncertainty, and also upped the happiness quotient of members," added Vinayak. Much of the positive outlook among people, according to the survey, is a prolonged period of togetherness forced upon the families by the curfew-like stay-at-home norms.Interestingly, elderly respondents, who generally experienced loneliness in normal times due to the busy lives of younger family members, reported a significant surge in their emotional well-being owing to greater interpersonal interactions in homes. At least two-thirds of respondents reported that enjoying nature, yoga, meditation and physical exercise in the confines of home helped them cope with the stressors of an unabated pandemic and an open-ended lockdown. Impact on livelihood, uncertainty on academic and professional lives, continued raging of coronavirus and loss of social life emerged as the top-of-the-mind worries among respondents. Also read: United States is looking into extension of H1B visas for Indians amid COVID-19 pandemic Yet, most are high on hope about the post-lockdown future. Trust in the government`s steps to deal with the virus outbreak, a likely invention of the vaccine, a greater focus on healthcare and increased awareness about hygiene were mentioned as bright spots by three-fourths of the respondents. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, at least 132 positive COVID-19 cases have been reported in Punjab as of Saturday. Out of the 132 cases, five patients have recovered and 11 have succumbed to the virus.

People hopeful amid COVID-19 crisis, says PU research survey

Airport security Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has made a new necessary plan for air passengers post lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of coronavirus.In the new plan submitted to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), CISF said that when flight operation resumes "passengers reaching timing at the airport two hours before their flight timing with proper protective gear eg; mask, gloves, and sanitisers.

"CISF also urged the civil aviation ministry that sanitiser bottles can be also placed at every exit and entry gates of the airports for passengers and employees.Flying with a seat vacant between every two people could be the `new norms` for air passengers when schedule commercial flights resume, CISF said in the new plan.

According to the officials, the plan is under consideration and the idea behind it is to seek staggering flights to avoid crowding at airports at any time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-covid-19-cases-shoot-up-to-7447-with-239-deaths-reported-so-far-291920" hreflang="en">Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far</a>

"We have proposed a new plan incorporating necessary precaution in view of the change of circumstances due to COVID-19. This has been sent to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) for consideration," GA Ganapathy, Special Director (Airport) of CISF, told ANI.Further, CISF advised all the airlines that, airlines make it clear for the passengers to whom so ever booking tickets they should give details of their home/self-quarantine history.

If any passengers flying after quarantine history, CISF will screening them in isolation checking point where CISF officers are covered full personal protective equipment (PPE) suit.

Airlines crew will offer sanitisers to every onboard passenger, as per the plan.Passenger flight operations in India are suspended from March 25, due to coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/united-states-is-looking-into-extension-of-h1b-visas-for-indians-amid-covid-19-pandemic-291909" hreflang="en">United States is looking into extension of H1B visas for Indians amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

As of now, there is no clarity from the government to resume flights operation. Minister of Civil Aviation (MoCA) Hardeep Puri tweeted, "The current Lockdown on both domestic &amp; international passenger flights is till April 15. A decision to restart the flights after this period remains to be taken. If required, we will have to assess the situation on a case by case basis"

Civil Aviation Ministry, Airport Authority Of India (AAI), Director General Of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other stakeholders are working together on how to resume the operation post lockdown.&nbsp;

Airport security Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has made a new necessary plan for air passengers post lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Airport security Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has made a new necessary plan for air passengers post lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of coronavirus.In the new plan submitted to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), CISF said that when flight operation resumes "passengers reaching timing at the airport two hours before their flight timing with proper protective gear eg; mask, gloves, and sanitisers. "CISF also urged the civil aviation ministry that sanitiser bottles can be also placed at every exit and entry gates of the airports for passengers and employees.Flying with a seat vacant between every two people could be the `new norms` for air passengers when schedule commercial flights resume, CISF said in the new plan. According to the officials, the plan is under consideration and the idea behind it is to seek staggering flights to avoid crowding at airports at any time. Also read: Indian COVID-19 cases shoot-up to 7447 with 239 deaths reported so far "We have proposed a new plan incorporating necessary precaution in view of the change of circumstances due to COVID-19. This has been sent to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) for consideration," GA Ganapathy, Special Director (Airport) of CISF, told ANI.Further, CISF advised all the airlines that, airlines make it clear for the passengers to whom so ever booking tickets they should give details of their home/self-quarantine history. If any passengers flying after quarantine history, CISF will screening them in isolation checking point where CISF officers are covered full personal protective equipment (PPE) suit. Airlines crew will offer sanitisers to every onboard passenger, as per the plan.Passenger flight operations in India are suspended from March 25, due to coronavirus. Also read: United States is looking into extension of H1B visas for Indians amid COVID-19 pandemic As of now, there is no clarity from the government to resume flights operation. Minister of Civil Aviation (MoCA) Hardeep Puri tweeted, "The current Lockdown on both domestic & international passenger flights is till April 15. A decision to restart the flights after this period remains to be taken. If required, we will have to assess the situation on a case by case basis" Civil Aviation Ministry, Airport Authority Of India (AAI), Director General Of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other stakeholders are working together on how to resume the operation post lockdown.

CISF carves out new plan for flying during coronavirus pandemic

Asia’s favourite beach destination Phuket now resembles a ghost town.

The city, which has emerged as Thailand’s COVID-19 hotspot has the highest infection rate per capita out of the 77 provinces in Thailand, CNN reported.

For 100,000 people in Phuket, there are 38.95 cases.

The government has stepped up testing in a bid to contain the virus from spreading. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smoking-pot-to-kick-away-pandemic-blues-you-might-wanna-rethink-that-idea-291940" hreflang="en">Smoking pot to kick away pandemic blues? You might wanna rethink that idea!</a>

On April 9, restrictions were announced for the whole island for 14 days, with strict orders to stay indoors between April 13-26.

"The move makes Phuket the first province in Thailand to impose a total lockdown of all areas, in its sustained effort to stop the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019," says a statement from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

"With the exceptions of medical and emergency personnel and logistics workers, all 17 sub-districts are sealed off to ensure minimum mobilization of people and vehicles”, it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-teenager-belonging-to-an-isolated-amazonian-tribe-dies-of-coronavirus-291936" hreflang="en">A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus</a>

The Phuket International Airpot has also shut down, with no non-essential flights being allowed to take off or land until April 30.

The island connects to the mainland via a bridge. To further reduce the transmission, all entry and exit points have been sealed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-fight-the-gloom-doom-doctors-in-california-flaunt-dance-moves-as-patients-recover-291932" hreflang="en">WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover</a>

Additionally, all beaches, bars, and shops have been closed until further notice.

A curfew has been put in place from dusk to dawn - 10 PM to 4 Am everyday, and everybody venturing out has to compulsorily wear masks.

Asia’s favourite beach destination Phuket now resembles a ghost town. The city, which has emerged as Thailand’s COVID-19 hotspot has the highest infection rate per capita out of the 77 provinces in Thailand, CNN reported.

Asia’s favourite beach destination Phuket now resembles a ghost town. The city, which has emerged as Thailand’s COVID-19 hotspot has the highest infection rate per capita out of the 77 provinces in Thailand, CNN reported. For 100,000 people in Phuket, there are 38.95 cases. The government has stepped up testing in a bid to contain the virus from spreading. Also read: Smoking pot to kick away pandemic blues? You might wanna rethink that idea! On April 9, restrictions were announced for the whole island for 14 days, with strict orders to stay indoors between April 13-26. "The move makes Phuket the first province in Thailand to impose a total lockdown of all areas, in its sustained effort to stop the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019," says a statement from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. "With the exceptions of medical and emergency personnel and logistics workers, all 17 sub-districts are sealed off to ensure minimum mobilization of people and vehicles”, it added. Also read: A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus The Phuket International Airpot has also shut down, with no non-essential flights being allowed to take off or land until April 30. The island connects to the mainland via a bridge. To further reduce the transmission, all entry and exit points have been sealed. WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover Additionally, all beaches, bars, and shops have been closed until further notice. A curfew has been put in place from dusk to dawn - 10 PM to 4 Am everyday, and everybody venturing out has to compulsorily wear masks.

Asia's favourite beach destination shuts down to contain coronavirus transmission

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the whole world to a standstill, with emergency health workers being put at the forefront of fighting the virus.

With the number of deaths increasing everyday, gloom has eclipsed the world.

However, a few health workers in California are finding joy in the little things!

An intensive care unit (ICU) at the Ronald Reagon UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California have found a way to deal with the despair: every time a patient is taken off ventilator support, they perform a dance routine.

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In our fight against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ventilators?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ventilators</a> &amp; breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced &amp; took a moment for ourselves. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HealthcareHeroes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HealthcareHeroes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllInThisTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllInThisTogether</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARDS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARDS</a> <a href="https://t.co/7XzqpzAo8B">pic.twitter.com/7XzqpzAo8B</a>
— Desiree (@HungryDes) <a href="https://twitter.com/HungryDes/status/1247369358705176577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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They recently shared clips of them dancing on Twitter after two of their patients showed signs of recovery.

Taking to Twitter, Dr Nida Qadir said, “Yes, patients do recover from #COVID19 #ARDS. And yes, my #ICU team does do an #extubation dance every time we liberate someone from a #Ventilator."

"In our fight against #COVID19 remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off #ventilators &amp; breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced &amp; took a moment for ourselves. #HealthcareHeroes #AllInThisTogether #ARDS”, one of the doctors tweeted.

Watch the video below:

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Yes, patients do recover from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARDS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARDS</a>. And yes, my <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICU</a> team does do an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/extubation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#extubation</a> dance every time we liberate someone from a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ventilator?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ventilator</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARDSAvengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARDSAvengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bestteamever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bestteamever</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/uclaimchiefs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uclaimchiefs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLAHealth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UCLAHealth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/atscommunity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atscommunity</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GiladJaffe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GiladJaffe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HungryDes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HungryDes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NoCoughEng?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NoCoughEng</a> <a href="https://t.co/axgV7pOTXU">pic.twitter.com/axgV7pOTXU</a>
— Nida Qadir, MD (@NidaQadirMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/NidaQadirMD/status/1246953772657631235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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So far the video is nearing 8 lakh views with over 30,000 likes.

A twitter user&nbsp;responded to their video and said, “Taking 2 people, both of whom probably have dozens of others praying for them, off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ventilators?src=hashtag_click">#ventilators</a> is not a small win. It's HUGE. You guys are awesome! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/keepcelebrating?src=hashtag_click">#keepcelebrating</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BIGwins?src=hashtag_click">#BIGwins</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThanksHealthHeroes?src=hashtag_click">#ThanksHealthHeroes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SomeGoodNews?src=hashtag_click">#SomeGoodNews</a>”

Another user said, “Lovely. Keep those dances coming!”

The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported.

This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the whole world to a standstill, with emergency health workers being put at the forefront of fighting the virus. With the number of deaths increasing everyday, gloom has eclipsed the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the whole world to a standstill, with emergency health workers being put at the forefront of fighting the virus. With the number of deaths increasing everyday, gloom has eclipsed the world. However, a few health workers in California are finding joy in the little things! An intensive care unit (ICU) at the Ronald Reagon UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California have found a way to deal with the despair: every time a patient is taken off ventilator support, they perform a dance routine. In our fight against #COVID19 remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off #ventilators & breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced & took a moment for ourselves. #HealthcareHeroes #AllInThisTogether #ARDS pic.twitter.com/7XzqpzAo8B — Desiree (@HungryDes) April 7, 2020 × They recently shared clips of them dancing on Twitter after two of their patients showed signs of recovery. Taking to Twitter, Dr Nida Qadir said, “Yes, patients do recover from #COVID19 #ARDS. And yes, my #ICU team does do an #extubation dance every time we liberate someone from a #Ventilator." "In our fight against #COVID19 remember it’s OK for our frontline workers to celebrate the small wins. Yesterday we had 2 patients come off #ventilators & breath on their own! So, we smiled, we danced & took a moment for ourselves. #HealthcareHeroes #AllInThisTogether #ARDS”, one of the doctors tweeted. Watch the video below: Yes, patients do recover from #COVID19 #ARDS. And yes, my #ICU team does do an #extubation dance every time we liberate someone from a #Ventilator. #ARDSAvengers #coronavirus #bestteamever @uclaimchiefs @UCLAHealth @atscommunity @GiladJaffe @HungryDes @NoCoughEng pic.twitter.com/axgV7pOTXU — Nida Qadir, MD (@NidaQadirMD) April 6, 2020 × So far the video is nearing 8 lakh views with over 30,000 likes. A twitter user responded to their video and said, “Taking 2 people, both of whom probably have dozens of others praying for them, off #ventilators is not a small win. It's HUGE. You guys are awesome! #keepcelebrating #BIGwins #ThanksHealthHeroes #SomeGoodNews” Another user said, “Lovely. Keep those dances coming!” The coronavirus pandemic has now killed over 100,000 around the world, AFP reported. This coincided with the festival of Easter whereby churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

WATCH: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt dance moves as patients recover

Coronavirus has now reached uncharted territories: indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin are now threatened by the killer pandemic as the first death among tribes was reported yesterday.

A 15-year-boy from an isolated tribe called “Yanomami” passed away recently, as per Brazil’s Ministry of Health.

The boy was put in the intensive care unit of Roraima General Hospital in Boa Vista on April 3 after he was tested positive.

Even then, the hospital has not released the exact cause of his death yet.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-to-fight-the-gloom-doom-doctors-in-california-flaunt-dance-moves-as-patients-recover-291932">To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt moves as patients recover</a>

His test status was revealed on Wednesday during a press conference.

"Today we had a confirmed case in the Yanomami, which concerns us a lot. This is a government concern for indigenous health”, the ministry spokesperson said.

The Amazon basin has numerous rainforests and is filled with mountains stretching from northern Brazil to souther Venezuela.

One of the most isolated tribes in South America, the Yanomami have 38,000 members.

According to the Socio-Environmental Institute, the virus was transmitted to the tribe from miners who had visited indigenous territory illegally, CNN reported.

"Today, without a doubt, the main vector for the spread of COVID-19 inside the Yanomami Indigenous Territory is the more than 20,000 illegal miners that go in and out of the territory without any control," ISA’s statement redad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-apple-and-google-collaboration-to-trace-covid-19-carriers-in-the-works-291916" hreflang="en">In a first, Apple and Google collaboration to trace COVID-19 carriers in the works</a>

"The Yanomami, as many other indigenous people, are among the groups most vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19 and should be urgently protected, under the risk of genocide with the complicity of the Brazilian State”, it added.

This is the third indigenous death related to COVID-19.

Coronavirus has now reached uncharted territories: indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin are now threatened by the killer pandemic as the first death among tribes was reported yesterday.

Coronavirus has now reached uncharted territories: indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin are now threatened by the killer pandemic as the first death among tribes was reported yesterday. A 15-year-boy from an isolated tribe called “Yanomami” passed away recently, as per Brazil’s Ministry of Health. The boy was put in the intensive care unit of Roraima General Hospital in Boa Vista on April 3 after he was tested positive. Even then, the hospital has not released the exact cause of his death yet. Also read: To fight the gloom-doom, doctors in California flaunt moves as patients recover His test status was revealed on Wednesday during a press conference. "Today we had a confirmed case in the Yanomami, which concerns us a lot. This is a government concern for indigenous health”, the ministry spokesperson said. The Amazon basin has numerous rainforests and is filled with mountains stretching from northern Brazil to souther Venezuela. One of the most isolated tribes in South America, the Yanomami have 38,000 members. According to the Socio-Environmental Institute, the virus was transmitted to the tribe from miners who had visited indigenous territory illegally, CNN reported. "Today, without a doubt, the main vector for the spread of COVID-19 inside the Yanomami Indigenous Territory is the more than 20,000 illegal miners that go in and out of the territory without any control," ISA’s statement redad. Also read: In a first, Apple and Google collaboration to trace COVID-19 carriers in the works "The Yanomami, as many other indigenous people, are among the groups most vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19 and should be urgently protected, under the risk of genocide with the complicity of the Brazilian State”, it added. This is the third indigenous death related to COVID-19.

A teenager belonging to an isolated Amazonian tribe dies of coronavirus

As the novel coronavirus COVID-19 continues to kill hundreds on a daily basis, the world has increasingly been put under lockdown.

As directed by health agencies worldwide, millions of individuals are practising social distancing and staying indoors.

However, to stay indoors means our dependency on the internet increases.

The internet is used globally to engage, entertain, and to educate. However, in the absence of any physical movement, the demand for online gratification increases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-biomedical-agency-claims-covid-19-vaccine-could-be-ready-in-11-months-287684" hreflang="en">Russia's Biomedical Agency claims COVID-19 vaccine could be ready in 11 months</a>

Whether it is to “Netflix and Chill”, work-related video conferences, or exercising with an online fitness coach, the internet is the only tool harnessing one’s creativity within the confines of four walls during the coronavirus pandemic.

As more people are limiting social contact, while seeking productivity at the same, the internet is bearing the brunt of the overwhelming demand.

With millions using the internet at the same time, the speed has been compromised.

Netflix recently announced that it will reduce the streaming quality in Europe to avoid a breakdown of the internet. For the next 30 days, Netflix is reducing the bitrate of all its content.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-the-world-is-dealing-with-social-isolation-during-wuhan-coronavirus-287462/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This announcement came after pleas by the European Union to users. They had asked people not to watch, and companies not to run content in high definition during the pandemic.

The European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services Thierry Breton recently tweeted and requested people to switch to standard definition on all streaming platforms.

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Pour sécuriser l'accès à Internet pour tous, passons à la définition standard lorsque la HD n'est pas nécessaire.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SwitchToStandard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SwitchToStandard</a>
— Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThierryBreton/status/1240365222487109636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Facebook also recently admitted that its services are facing “big surges” that are pushing the service to the limit.

As the global workforce is under pressure to work from home, the internet is being strained to the hilt.

India is attempting a voluntary curfew this Sunday as endorsed by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.

With such developments, internet speeds in India could also be hit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-crucial-step-towards-vaccine-powered-by-ai-supercomputer-287500">COVID-19: Crucial step towards vaccine powered by AI supercomputer</a>

Based on data released by telecom regulators, the average monthly wireless data usage for every user currently stands at 10.37 gigabytes.&nbsp;

Owing to the sudden spike in demand, the consumption in India could rise by 15 per cent in the next two quarters if people continue to work from home.

Many experts have reiterated that the infrastructure in India is incapable of handling the surge in demand.

The modern world is now witnessing its biggest stay-at-home social experiment to contain the pandemic which has killed over 10,000 worldwide.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-kills-over-5000-in-europe-number-likely-to-increase-overnight-287648">Coronavirus kills over 5,000 in Europe; number likely to increase overnight</a>

Video calls that drop regularly, slowdown in buffer speeds, and more is expected globally.

As per data from the Johns Hopkins University coronavirus tracker, over 10,000 people have been killed worldwide. Additionally, over 244,500 people remain infected globally.

As per the numbers released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 196 positive cases have been reported in India so far. Four deaths have been locally recorded, with 22 people being marked as ''cured/discharged''. Additionally, India has so far screened over&nbsp;14,59,993 people at airports across the country.

As the novel coronavirus COVID-19 continues to kill hundreds on a daily basis, the world has increasingly been put under lockdown. As directed by health agencies worldwide, millions of individuals are practising social distancing and staying indoors.

As the novel coronavirus COVID-19 continues to kill hundreds on a daily basis, the world has increasingly been put under lockdown. As directed by health agencies worldwide, millions of individuals are practising social distancing and staying indoors. However, to stay indoors means our dependency on the internet increases. The internet is used globally to engage, entertain, and to educate. However, in the absence of any physical movement, the demand for online gratification increases. Also read: Russia's Biomedical Agency claims COVID-19 vaccine could be ready in 11 months Whether it is to “Netflix and Chill”, work-related video conferences, or exercising with an online fitness coach, the internet is the only tool harnessing one’s creativity within the confines of four walls during the coronavirus pandemic. As more people are limiting social contact, while seeking productivity at the same, the internet is bearing the brunt of the overwhelming demand. With millions using the internet at the same time, the speed has been compromised. Netflix recently announced that it will reduce the streaming quality in Europe to avoid a breakdown of the internet. For the next 30 days, Netflix is reducing the bitrate of all its content. This announcement came after pleas by the European Union to users. They had asked people not to watch, and companies not to run content in high definition during the pandemic. The European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services Thierry Breton recently tweeted and requested people to switch to standard definition on all streaming platforms. Pour sécuriser l'accès à Internet pour tous, passons à la définition standard lorsque la HD n'est pas nécessaire.#SwitchToStandard — Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) March 18, 2020 × Facebook also recently admitted that its services are facing “big surges” that are pushing the service to the limit. As the global workforce is under pressure to work from home, the internet is being strained to the hilt. India is attempting a voluntary curfew this Sunday as endorsed by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. With such developments, internet speeds in India could also be hit. Also read: COVID-19: Crucial step towards vaccine powered by AI supercomputer Based on data released by telecom regulators, the average monthly wireless data usage for every user currently stands at 10.37 gigabytes. Owing to the sudden spike in demand, the consumption in India could rise by 15 per cent in the next two quarters if people continue to work from home. Many experts have reiterated that the infrastructure in India is incapable of handling the surge in demand. The modern world is now witnessing its biggest stay-at-home social experiment to contain the pandemic which has killed over 10,000 worldwide. Also read: Coronavirus kills over 5,000 in Europe; number likely to increase overnight Video calls that drop regularly, slowdown in buffer speeds, and more is expected globally. As per data from the Johns Hopkins University coronavirus tracker, over 10,000 people have been killed worldwide. Additionally, over 244,500 people remain infected globally. As per the numbers released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 196 positive cases have been reported in India so far. Four deaths have been locally recorded, with 22 people being marked as ''cured/discharged''. Additionally, India has so far screened over 14,59,993 people at airports across the country.

Coronavirus versus the internet: Who will win?

With severe travel restrictions in China during the coronavirus outbreak, it seemed that most people would miss this year's cherry blossom season. Botanical gardens in Shanghai remain closed to contain the virus that has caused the COVID-19 disease, but you can still enjoy them on the internet.

Cherry blossoms online after virus closes parks

Children in Vladivostok, Russia have recently created drawings to show their support for the Chinese medical workers and patients who are fighting the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Russian children draw for Chinese doctors, patients in COVID-19 fight

The coronavirus outbreak has killed 490 people in China. The number of infected cases rose to 24,324 as the virus continued to spread in China.

Two deaths were reported outside China with Hong Kong being the latest where a&nbsp;39-year-old man who had visited Wuhan died on Tuesday. Another man had earlier died due to the virus in the Philippines.

Additionally, new cases were reported on a Japanese cruise ship which now remains under quarantine. 
 
On Tuesday, the Chinese National Health Commission claimed new 65 deaths were recorded, which shot up the death toll to 490&nbsp;in China.

<h6><img alt="ooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61247084-42cc-4b8c-bf16-b317c7ab5163" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_18.jpg" /> 
This handout from the Royal Thai Navy taken and released on February 4, 2020 shows navy officials in protective suits standing beside a plane that brought Thai nationals back from Wuhan, the epicentre of the novel coronavirus outbreak</h6>

The virus continues to affect Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak and its surrounding areas with the city placed on lockdown.

At least 3,887 new cases were confirmed in mainland China, shooting up the total figure of the infection to 24,324.

A few hours ago, ten people on a cruise ship at the Japanese port of Yokohama tested positive for the virus. However, the figure is expected to increase incrementally as the screening process of others on board the ship is underway. Japan's health minister expects the number of cases to increase.

<img alt="ooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc9d9c3b-0f0e-4464-8ac2-cec648d65b28" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/127111-untitled-design-15_0.jpg" />

The Carnival Corp ship, which is carrying 3,700 passengers has been quarantined until the screening process is complete. 273 people were tested on the ship, with ten new cases registered.&nbsp;

According to the World Health Organisation, 176 more cases have been reported in other countries and regions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-what-is-n95-face-mask-278590">Coronavirus: What is N95 face mask?</a>

The coronavirus outbreak has killed 490 people in China. The number of infected cases rose to 24,324 as the virus continued to spread in China. Two deaths were reported outside China with Hong Kong being the latest where a 39-year-old man who had visited Wuhan died on Tuesday.

The coronavirus outbreak has killed 490 people in China. The number of infected cases rose to 24,324 as the virus continued to spread in China. Two deaths were reported outside China with Hong Kong being the latest where a 39-year-old man who had visited Wuhan died on Tuesday. Another man had earlier died due to the virus in the Philippines. Additionally, new cases were reported on a Japanese cruise ship which now remains under quarantine. On Tuesday, the Chinese National Health Commission claimed new 65 deaths were recorded, which shot up the death toll to 490 in China. This handout from the Royal Thai Navy taken and released on February 4, 2020 shows navy officials in protective suits standing beside a plane that brought Thai nationals back from Wuhan, the epicentre of the novel coronavirus outbreak The virus continues to affect Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak and its surrounding areas with the city placed on lockdown. At least 3,887 new cases were confirmed in mainland China, shooting up the total figure of the infection to 24,324. A few hours ago, ten people on a cruise ship at the Japanese port of Yokohama tested positive for the virus. However, the figure is expected to increase incrementally as the screening process of others on board the ship is underway. Japan's health minister expects the number of cases to increase. The Carnival Corp ship, which is carrying 3,700 passengers has been quarantined until the screening process is complete. 273 people were tested on the ship, with ten new cases registered. According to the World Health Organisation, 176 more cases have been reported in other countries and regions. Also read: Coronavirus: What is N95 face mask?

China's coronavirus death toll rises to 490, over 24,000 infected

A recent survey suggested that 8.6 million people claimed sick days last year because they thought their jobs were ''too painful'', &nbsp;the BBC reported.

February 3 is considered National Sickie Day, whereby most people are likely to call in sick.&nbsp;

According to research, the numbers may be owing to work culture, colleagues, and workload.&nbsp;

The report also added that about 12 million workers went to work while sick.

An international technology company called ''Insight'' undertook the research and warned of ''serious issues within organisations' culture'', while endorsing flexible hours for working.

The survey took into account 1,250 adults done over a week in January.

The survey intends to reflect a picture of the working population, which currently stands at 33 million.&nbsp;

"Employers have a duty of care to their employees to look after their safety and wellbeing, and this includes their physical and mental health," said Tom Neil, Acas Senior Adviser to the BBC.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="635bd7a0-8319-4a5b-b55d-d9d367fc978b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_62.jpg" /> 
People taking precaution in New York City in the midst of a coronavirus outbreak | AFP</h6>

"For people to be able to be honest about how they feel at work, good work practices including having an inclusive culture and effective people management are key", Neil added.

According to the survey data, a quarter of respondents had taken an off day last year owing to workspace dissatisfaction.

Many felt overworked and claimed that bureaucratic roadblocks made effective work difficult.

Almost 37 per cent&nbsp;respondents had gone to work even on a sick day. This can be attributed to many being unable to afford unpaid sick leave. A big chunk also claimed that they feared being judged by their employer.

About a fifth of the responders, reflective of 6.5 million people, stressed on the need to allow working from home on sick days.&nbsp;

An estimated 215,000 people called in sick on the first Monday of February last year, a common phenomenon yearly, as more people call sick on this day than any other.

However, this was disputed by an employment law firm Elas. According to them, the top ten days for absence all fell on a Monday, with September 16 witnessing most sick call-ins.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7550577-e96f-43ba-a690-48b303abf7fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_51.jpg" /> 
Masks are seen on a production line manufacturing masks at a factory in Shanghai, China | AFP</h6>

As BBC reported, stomach trouble accounted for the majority of cases (24 per cent), followed by cold and cough (16 per cent), with people skipping work owing to a headache at 7 per cent.&nbsp;

As per the data of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, the number of sick days for an average employee dropped to 5.9 last year, lowest in the institute's 19-year-old history of conducting surveys.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-coronavirus-rises-to-361-as-man-dies-in-philippines-278197">Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines</a>

A recent survey suggested that 8.6 million people claimed sick days last year because they thought their jobs were ''too painful'', the BBC reported. February 3 is considered National Sickie Day, whereby most people are likely to call in sick.

A recent survey suggested that 8.6 million people claimed sick days last year because they thought their jobs were ''too painful'', the BBC reported. February 3 is considered National Sickie Day, whereby most people are likely to call in sick. According to research, the numbers may be owing to work culture, colleagues, and workload. The report also added that about 12 million workers went to work while sick. An international technology company called ''Insight'' undertook the research and warned of ''serious issues within organisations' culture'', while endorsing flexible hours for working. The survey took into account 1,250 adults done over a week in January. The survey intends to reflect a picture of the working population, which currently stands at 33 million. "Employers have a duty of care to their employees to look after their safety and wellbeing, and this includes their physical and mental health," said Tom Neil, Acas Senior Adviser to the BBC. People taking precaution in New York City in the midst of a coronavirus outbreak | AFP "For people to be able to be honest about how they feel at work, good work practices including having an inclusive culture and effective people management are key", Neil added. According to the survey data, a quarter of respondents had taken an off day last year owing to workspace dissatisfaction. Many felt overworked and claimed that bureaucratic roadblocks made effective work difficult. Almost 37 per cent respondents had gone to work even on a sick day. This can be attributed to many being unable to afford unpaid sick leave. A big chunk also claimed that they feared being judged by their employer. About a fifth of the responders, reflective of 6.5 million people, stressed on the need to allow working from home on sick days. An estimated 215,000 people called in sick on the first Monday of February last year, a common phenomenon yearly, as more people call sick on this day than any other. However, this was disputed by an employment law firm Elas. According to them, the top ten days for absence all fell on a Monday, with September 16 witnessing most sick call-ins. Masks are seen on a production line manufacturing masks at a factory in Shanghai, China | AFP As BBC reported, stomach trouble accounted for the majority of cases (24 per cent), followed by cold and cough (16 per cent), with people skipping work owing to a headache at 7 per cent. As per the data of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, the number of sick days for an average employee dropped to 5.9 last year, lowest in the institute's 19-year-old history of conducting surveys. Also read: Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines

Today is National Sickie Day: 8.6 million claimed sick days last year due to 'painful' jobs

China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus.

In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff. It was also the first country to impose a ban on Chinese travellers. These details were given out by Hua Chunying, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-could-ncov-have-been-controlled-278239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"All it has done could only create and spread fear, which is a bad example," Hua added.

China is expecting other countries to make judgements and respond to the crisis reasonably and based on scientific evidence.&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a42700-7701-408f-a6b7-ad5a7350a6e7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_69.jpg" /> 
A man wearing a mask walks past a military poster at the Financial Street in central Beijing, China, as the country is hit by an outbreak of the new&nbsp;coronavirus | Reuters</h6>

&nbsp;

The US is evacuating from China. The first evacuation took place on January 28 from the central city of Wuhan.

On January 30, after the announcement of mass evacuations by governments worldwide, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a global emergency. This coincided with the travel advisory released by the US State Department. 
 
"It is precisely developed countries like the United States with strong epidemic prevention capabilities and facilities that have taken the lead in imposing excessive restrictions contrary to WHO recommendations," Hua said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-ignored-early-reports-of-mysterious-coronavirus-by-doctor-report-278301">Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor</a>

(With inputs from Reuters)

China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus. In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff.

China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus. In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff. It was also the first country to impose a ban on Chinese travellers. These details were given out by Hua Chunying, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry. "All it has done could only create and spread fear, which is a bad example," Hua added. China is expecting other countries to make judgements and respond to the crisis reasonably and based on scientific evidence. A man wearing a mask walks past a military poster at the Financial Street in central Beijing, China, as the country is hit by an outbreak of the new coronavirus | Reuters The US is evacuating from China. The first evacuation took place on January 28 from the central city of Wuhan. On January 30, after the announcement of mass evacuations by governments worldwide, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a global emergency. This coincided with the travel advisory released by the US State Department. "It is precisely developed countries like the United States with strong epidemic prevention capabilities and facilities that have taken the lead in imposing excessive restrictions contrary to WHO recommendations," Hua said. Also read: Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor (With inputs from Reuters)

US propagating fear about coronavirus, claims China

A virus akin to SARS that recently hit China <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-probes-mystery-pneumonia-outbreak-amid-sars-fears-271264">mysteriously</a> has taken the lives of two people with more than hundreds likely to be infected, reported AFP.

The virus also causes pneumonia which has infected at least 41 people in China. The first signs of the virus appeared around a seafood market in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

According to a study published by scientists at the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis at the Imperial College in London, the number of affected could run into thousands.

Watch:&nbsp;At least 59 people infected with mysterious virus in China, Beijing rules out SARS threat

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-at-least-59-people-infected-with-mysterious-virus-in-china-beijing-rules-out-sars-threat-272807/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Centre, which also advises world health bodies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated a ''total of 1,723 cases'' in Wuhan by January 12.

"For Wuhan to have exported three cases to other countries would imply there would have to be many more cases than have been reported," Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the authors of the report, told the BBC.

The infection no longer remains within the Chinese borders, with cases appearing in Thailand and Japan as well. In the former, two were infected, while one person has been affected in the latter so far. According to researchers, this was traced via international flight traffic data from Wuhan's airport. 
 
"I am substantially more concerned than I was a week ago.... [but it is] too early to be alarmist", Ferguson added.&nbsp;

Ferguson further added that it was "unlikely" that the infection was a product of animal exposure.

"People should be considering the possibility of substantial human-to-human transmission more seriously than they have so far," he added.

As of now, two people have known to be killed by the strange virus, which originates from the same pathogen family as the SARS virus.

Global health authorities have reaffirmed the lesser risk associated with the infection.

<img alt="Wuhan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d372eb52-ce72-4c79-98eb-577db8e2822a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_46.jpg" />

<h6>Image: Members of staff of the Wuhan Hygiene Emergency Response Team conduct searches on the closed Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in the city of Wuhan, in the Hubei Province, on January 11, 2020, where the Wuhan health commission said that the man who died from a respiratory illness had purchased goods | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

However, attempts to stop it from spreading have been put into action. For example, in Hong Kong, the authorities have improved their screening mechanism. This includes temperature checkpoints for travellers coming from the Chinese mainland.&nbsp;

The United States will also start screening flights arriving from Wuhan at San Francisco as well as New York City, along with Los Angeles.

Recently, Indian authorities also issued an advisory for people planning to travel to China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-from-sars-family-may-be-cause-of-mysterious-pneumonia-cases-in-china-who-273068">New coronavirus from SARS family may be cause of mysterious pneumonia cases in China: WHO</a>

(With inputs from AFP)

A virus akin to SARS that recently hit China mysteriously has taken the lives of two people with more than hundreds likely to be infected, reported AFP. The virus also causes pneumonia which has infected at least 41 people in China.

A virus akin to SARS that recently hit China mysteriously has taken the lives of two people with more than hundreds likely to be infected, reported AFP. The virus also causes pneumonia which has infected at least 41 people in China. The first signs of the virus appeared around a seafood market in the Chinese city of Wuhan. According to a study published by scientists at the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis at the Imperial College in London, the number of affected could run into thousands. Watch: At least 59 people infected with mysterious virus in China, Beijing rules out SARS threat The Centre, which also advises world health bodies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated a ''total of 1,723 cases'' in Wuhan by January 12. "For Wuhan to have exported three cases to other countries would imply there would have to be many more cases than have been reported," Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the authors of the report, told the BBC. The infection no longer remains within the Chinese borders, with cases appearing in Thailand and Japan as well. In the former, two were infected, while one person has been affected in the latter so far. According to researchers, this was traced via international flight traffic data from Wuhan's airport. "I am substantially more concerned than I was a week ago.... [but it is] too early to be alarmist", Ferguson added. Ferguson further added that it was "unlikely" that the infection was a product of animal exposure. "People should be considering the possibility of substantial human-to-human transmission more seriously than they have so far," he added. As of now, two people have known to be killed by the strange virus, which originates from the same pathogen family as the SARS virus. Global health authorities have reaffirmed the lesser risk associated with the infection. Image: Members of staff of the Wuhan Hygiene Emergency Response Team conduct searches on the closed Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in the city of Wuhan, in the Hubei Province, on January 11, 2020, where the Wuhan health commission said that the man who died from a respiratory illness had purchased goods | AFP However, attempts to stop it from spreading have been put into action. For example, in Hong Kong, the authorities have improved their screening mechanism. This includes temperature checkpoints for travellers coming from the Chinese mainland. The United States will also start screening flights arriving from Wuhan at San Francisco as well as New York City, along with Los Angeles. Recently, Indian authorities also issued an advisory for people planning to travel to China. Also read: New coronavirus from SARS family may be cause of mysterious pneumonia cases in China: WHO (With inputs from AFP)

Mysterious SARS-like virus in China has affected 'hundreds': Report

A severe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-dengue-outbreak-49000-cases-registered-262821">dengue outbreak</a> has claimed the lives of at least 120 people and affected over 87,000 others across 11 districts in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</a>, health officials said here on Monday.

Secretary of the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) Haritha Aluthge told the local Daily Mirror that the GMOA had informed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-appoints-16-member-interim-cabinet-263904">new Health Minister</a> Pavithra Wanniarachchi and the Secretary to the Ministry of Health about the seriousness of the issue as over 10 districts were affected by the rapid spread of the disease.

The continuous rains in many parts of the island were considered as one of the leading reasons for the spread of the virus.

Haritha was quoted as saying that while Colombo, Gampaha, in the outskirts of the capital city, as well as Kandy, in the central hills, were the worst affected districts, with almost 50 per cent of the total cases reported.

The case of the outbreak was reported from the Jaffna district in the northern region of the country.

In <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sky-is-limit-as-inaugural-flight-bridges-distance-between-chennai-and-jaffna-256557">Jaffna </a>alone, 7,000 dengue cases have been reported so far this year. Medical experts said that the number of deaths recorded so far this year was "alarming," in comparison to 58 deaths reported last year.

Medical experts further urged the people to seek immediate attention if they suffered symptoms of high fever, uncontrolled vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and reduced urinary.

"All fever patients need rest and should refrain from attending work or school," said epidemiologists, adding that dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) can be fatal.

Medical experts also urged pregnant women to seek hospital admission immediately on the first day of fever.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-citing-violence-and-dengue-cuts-2018-tourist-arrivals-target-134074">Last year</a>, over 48,000 people were affected by the mosquito-borne virus in Sri Lanka, with the National Dengue Control Unit launching several programmes to eradicate mosquito breeding grounds in several districts of the island country.

A severe dengue outbreak has claimed the lives of at least 120 people and affected over 87,000 others across 11 districts in Sri Lanka, health officials said here on Monday.

A severe dengue outbreak has claimed the lives of at least 120 people and affected over 87,000 others across 11 districts in Sri Lanka, health officials said here on Monday. Secretary of the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) Haritha Aluthge told the local Daily Mirror that the GMOA had informed new Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi and the Secretary to the Ministry of Health about the seriousness of the issue as over 10 districts were affected by the rapid spread of the disease. The continuous rains in many parts of the island were considered as one of the leading reasons for the spread of the virus. Haritha was quoted as saying that while Colombo, Gampaha, in the outskirts of the capital city, as well as Kandy, in the central hills, were the worst affected districts, with almost 50 per cent of the total cases reported. The case of the outbreak was reported from the Jaffna district in the northern region of the country. In Jaffna alone, 7,000 dengue cases have been reported so far this year. Medical experts said that the number of deaths recorded so far this year was "alarming," in comparison to 58 deaths reported last year. Medical experts further urged the people to seek immediate attention if they suffered symptoms of high fever, uncontrolled vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and reduced urinary. "All fever patients need rest and should refrain from attending work or school," said epidemiologists, adding that dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) can be fatal. Medical experts also urged pregnant women to seek hospital admission immediately on the first day of fever. Last year, over 48,000 people were affected by the mosquito-borne virus in Sri Lanka, with the National Dengue Control Unit launching several programmes to eradicate mosquito breeding grounds in several districts of the island country.

Dengue kills 120 in Sri Lanka, affects over 87,000 others

Former Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctors-have-advised-shifting-nawaz-sharif-to-us-for-treatment-pml-n-267225">Nawaz Sharif</a> is likely to fly to the United States for the treatment of his ailment there, according to family sources. 
 
Sharif, a former three-time prime minister, is currently receiving treatment at the Harvey Clinic in London. He is currently residing at Avenfield flats owned by his son Hasan Nawaz since November 20, The Dawn reported. 
 
Sharif has been diagnosed with an immune system disorder that has caused a low platelet count. Sources said that the treatment of his ailment was not available in London and hence, the former prime minister has to be shifted to the US for further medical treatment. 
 
"The medical tests conducted in London revealed that blood supply to a part of Nawaz Sharif's brain was obstructed causing low platelet count issue and the surgical procedure facility required to treat it was available only in Boston, US," they were quoted as saying. 
 
The ailing PML-N leader had arrived in the UK in an air ambulance accompanied by his younger brother and party president Shehbaz Sharif and personal physician Dr Adnan Malik. Nawaz was allowed to fly abroad after the Lahore High Court had ordered the federal government to strike off his name from the Exit Control List (ECL) for four weeks. 
 
On October 27, the Islamabad High Court had granted an eight-week bail on medical grounds to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-undergoes-check-up-at-london-bridge-hospital-264538">Sharif</a>, who is serving a seven-year jail term in the Al-Azizia corruption case. 
 
However, the 69-year-old former leader has rejected the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government's condition for submitting an indemnity bond as a guarantee for returning to Pakistan after his treatment. 
 
Shehbaz Sharif gave an undertaking in the court that he would ensure his brother's return based on a certification by doctors that he was fit to travel to Pakistan. 
 
Earlier in the day, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/court-to-hear-nawaz-sharifs-appeal-against-al-azizia-reference-on-monday-264328">shifting Sharif from London to the US</a> will be challenging for the medical team considering his current health condition. 
 
She also said that the medical reports of the former prime minister revealed that there was an 88 per cent blockage in arteries circulating blood to his brain. 
 
Meanwhile, a group of senior PML-N leaders is in London and were briefed on Sharif's condition by his personal physician, after the delegation was not allowed to meet the ailing party supremo.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is likely to fly to the United States for the treatment of his ailment there, according to family sources. Sharif, a former three-time prime minister, is currently receiving treatment at the Harvey Clinic in London.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is likely to fly to the United States for the treatment of his ailment there, according to family sources. Sharif, a former three-time prime minister, is currently receiving treatment at the Harvey Clinic in London. He is currently residing at Avenfield flats owned by his son Hasan Nawaz since November 20, The Dawn reported. Sharif has been diagnosed with an immune system disorder that has caused a low platelet count. Sources said that the treatment of his ailment was not available in London and hence, the former prime minister has to be shifted to the US for further medical treatment. "The medical tests conducted in London revealed that blood supply to a part of Nawaz Sharif's brain was obstructed causing low platelet count issue and the surgical procedure facility required to treat it was available only in Boston, US," they were quoted as saying. The ailing PML-N leader had arrived in the UK in an air ambulance accompanied by his younger brother and party president Shehbaz Sharif and personal physician Dr Adnan Malik. Nawaz was allowed to fly abroad after the Lahore High Court had ordered the federal government to strike off his name from the Exit Control List (ECL) for four weeks. On October 27, the Islamabad High Court had granted an eight-week bail on medical grounds to Sharif, who is serving a seven-year jail term in the Al-Azizia corruption case. However, the 69-year-old former leader has rejected the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government's condition for submitting an indemnity bond as a guarantee for returning to Pakistan after his treatment. Shehbaz Sharif gave an undertaking in the court that he would ensure his brother's return based on a certification by doctors that he was fit to travel to Pakistan. Earlier in the day, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said that shifting Sharif from London to the US will be challenging for the medical team considering his current health condition. She also said that the medical reports of the former prime minister revealed that there was an 88 per cent blockage in arteries circulating blood to his brain. Meanwhile, a group of senior PML-N leaders is in London and were briefed on Sharif's condition by his personal physician, after the delegation was not allowed to meet the ailing party supremo.

Nawaz Sharif likely to be flown to United States on December 16 for further treatment

A three-month-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-ruling-party-makes-fresh-push-for-anwar-to-take-over-as-pm-266959">Malaysian infant</a> has been diagnosed with polio, the first case reported in the country in nearly three decades, a top health official said on Sunday.

The baby boy from Tuaran in Malaysia's Sabah state on Borneo island tested positive for polio on Friday after being admitted to hospital with a fever and muscle weakness, Director General of Health Noor Hisham Abdullah said in a statement.

"The patient is being treated in an isolation ward and is in stable condition, but still requires assistance to breathe," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-pushes-for-two-term-limit-for-prime-ministers-265975">Malaysia was declared polio-free in 2000</a>, after reporting its last known case of the disease in 1992. Its resurgence comes just months after the Philippines, north of Borneo, reported its first cases of polio since 1993 in September.

Noor Hisham said tests showed the child was infected with a polio strain that shared genetic links with the virus detected in the Philippine cases.

Checks in the area where the baby lived showed 23 of 199 children between 2 and 15 had not received the polio vaccine, he said.

"This is a worrying situation as the spread of the disease ... can only be stopped with polio immunisation," he said, adding vaccination rates needed to be above 95% to prevent infection.

There is no cure for polio, which invades the nervous system and can cause irreversible paralysis within hours, but it can be prevented with vaccines.

The virus spreads rapidly among children, especially in unsanitary conditions in underdeveloped or war-torn regions where healthcare access is limited.

Afghanistan and Pakistan are the last countries where the disease is endemic.

Noor Hisham said faecal samples from the infected child's close contacts and his surroundings had been collected in a bid to detect the poliovirus.

The authorities have also stepped up monitoring of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) cases, a common sign of acute polio, he said.

Noor Hisham advised parents to ensure their children were fully vaccinated.

In recent years, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-malaysians-muslims-handed-jail-terms-for-skipping-friday-prayers-266178">Malaysia has faced a challenge</a> convincing some parents to immunise their children. In 2016, five children died from diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable disease, prompting an outcry&nbsp;among health officials.

A three-month-old Malaysian infant has been diagnosed with polio, the first case reported in the country in nearly three decades, a top health official said on Sunday.

A three-month-old Malaysian infant has been diagnosed with polio, the first case reported in the country in nearly three decades, a top health official said on Sunday. The baby boy from Tuaran in Malaysia's Sabah state on Borneo island tested positive for polio on Friday after being admitted to hospital with a fever and muscle weakness, Director General of Health Noor Hisham Abdullah said in a statement. "The patient is being treated in an isolation ward and is in stable condition, but still requires assistance to breathe," he said. Malaysia was declared polio-free in 2000, after reporting its last known case of the disease in 1992. Its resurgence comes just months after the Philippines, north of Borneo, reported its first cases of polio since 1993 in September. Noor Hisham said tests showed the child was infected with a polio strain that shared genetic links with the virus detected in the Philippine cases. Checks in the area where the baby lived showed 23 of 199 children between 2 and 15 had not received the polio vaccine, he said. "This is a worrying situation as the spread of the disease ... can only be stopped with polio immunisation," he said, adding vaccination rates needed to be above 95% to prevent infection. There is no cure for polio, which invades the nervous system and can cause irreversible paralysis within hours, but it can be prevented with vaccines. The virus spreads rapidly among children, especially in unsanitary conditions in underdeveloped or war-torn regions where healthcare access is limited. Afghanistan and Pakistan are the last countries where the disease is endemic. Noor Hisham said faecal samples from the infected child's close contacts and his surroundings had been collected in a bid to detect the poliovirus. The authorities have also stepped up monitoring of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) cases, a common sign of acute polio, he said. Noor Hisham advised parents to ensure their children were fully vaccinated. In recent years, Malaysia has faced a challenge convincing some parents to immunise their children. In 2016, five children died from diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable disease, prompting an outcry among health officials.

Malaysia records first case of polio after three decades

The death toll from a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/samoa-measles-outbreak-kills-20-mostly-children-264050">measles outbreak</a> in Samoa has risen to 60 on Wednesday&nbsp;in the latest flare-up of a global epidemic of the virus.

The vast majority of deaths were of children, with 52 out of the 60 aged four or under dying from the disease, according to a government update.

Nineteen-year-old mother Elsie Lolesio lost her one-year-old daughter Noel, only three days apart from the death of her one-year-old nephew Fatau'u Junior. They are buried next to each other.

Lanuola Naseri buried her only son on Wednesday, with the help of donations that allowed her to purchase him a suit and shirt for his funeral.

There are now more than <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/samoa-measles-vaccine-now-mandatory-to-limit-deadly-outbreak-262803">4,000 cases of measles</a> recorded in the island nation's deeply religious population of around 200,000.

Watch: Global measles cases three times higher than last year

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-measles-cases-three-times-higher-than-last-year-who-246340/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Neighbouring New Zealand and a number of other countries and organisations, including the UN&nbsp;agency UNICEF, have delivered thousands of vaccines, medical supplies and have sent medical personnel to help with the outbreak.

Measles, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-measles-cases-three-times-higher-than-last-year-who-246324">a highly contagious virus</a> that spreads easily through coughing and sneezing, has been reported also in other Pacific nations, including Tonga and Fiji, but there have been no reports of deaths and the countries have greater vaccination coverage.

Tonga's ministry of health said in a statement late last week that there were 394 cases of suspected measles identified, but only eight people required hospitalisation.

Measles cases are rising worldwide, even in wealthy nations such as Germany and the United States, as parents shun immunisation for philosophical or religious reasons, or fears, debunked by doctors, that such vaccines could cause autism.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll from a measles outbreak in Samoa has risen to 60 on Wednesday in the latest flare-up of a global epidemic of the virus. The vast majority of deaths were of children, with 52 out of the 60 aged four or under dying from the disease, according to a government update.

The death toll from a measles outbreak in Samoa has risen to 60 on Wednesday in the latest flare-up of a global epidemic of the virus. The vast majority of deaths were of children, with 52 out of the 60 aged four or under dying from the disease, according to a government update. Nineteen-year-old mother Elsie Lolesio lost her one-year-old daughter Noel, only three days apart from the death of her one-year-old nephew Fatau'u Junior. They are buried next to each other. Lanuola Naseri buried her only son on Wednesday, with the help of donations that allowed her to purchase him a suit and shirt for his funeral. There are now more than 4,000 cases of measles recorded in the island nation's deeply religious population of around 200,000. Watch: Global measles cases three times higher than last year Neighbouring New Zealand and a number of other countries and organisations, including the UN agency UNICEF, have delivered thousands of vaccines, medical supplies and have sent medical personnel to help with the outbreak. Measles, a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through coughing and sneezing, has been reported also in other Pacific nations, including Tonga and Fiji, but there have been no reports of deaths and the countries have greater vaccination coverage. Tonga's ministry of health said in a statement late last week that there were 394 cases of suspected measles identified, but only eight people required hospitalisation. Measles cases are rising worldwide, even in wealthy nations such as Germany and the United States, as parents shun immunisation for philosophical or religious reasons, or fears, debunked by doctors, that such vaccines could cause autism. (With inputs from agencies)

Samoan measles outbreak kills 60 including 52 children

&nbsp;

Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who underwent an appendicitis surgery last week in Kathmandu claims that he is doing much better.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In a video posted on his Twitter handle, Oli said, "My treatment went very well and my health is improving gradually. As you can see, I am now able to sit and speak and am doing fine at the moment." 
 
Oli, who is admitted at the Manmohan Cardiothoracic, Vascular and Transplant Centre in Kathmandu, said that he still watched the opening ceremony of the 13th South Asian Games, whose host country is Nepal this time. 
 
He was rushed to the hospital on Tuesday morning after complains of stomach ache.

The PM was kept on the ventilator after undergoing surgery. But his condition significantly improved which is why he was taken off the ventilator. 
 
Additionally, Oli is also undergoing regular dialysis as his transplanted kidney has stopped functioning. He had undergone a kidney transplant in India back in 2007 after both of his kidneys failed.

In the last few weeks, the Nepal Prime Minister underwent four cycles of hemodialysis at Grande International Hospital.

(With inputs from sources)

&nbsp;

Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who underwent an appendicitis surgery last week in Kathmandu claims that he is doing much better. In a video posted on his Twitter handle, Oli said, "My treatment went very well and my health is improving gradually.

Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who underwent an appendicitis surgery last week in Kathmandu claims that he is doing much better. In a video posted on his Twitter handle, Oli said, "My treatment went very well and my health is improving gradually. As you can see, I am now able to sit and speak and am doing fine at the moment." Oli, who is admitted at the Manmohan Cardiothoracic, Vascular and Transplant Centre in Kathmandu, said that he still watched the opening ceremony of the 13th South Asian Games, whose host country is Nepal this time. He was rushed to the hospital on Tuesday morning after complains of stomach ache. The PM was kept on the ventilator after undergoing surgery. But his condition significantly improved which is why he was taken off the ventilator. Additionally, Oli is also undergoing regular dialysis as his transplanted kidney has stopped functioning. He had undergone a kidney transplant in India back in 2007 after both of his kidneys failed. In the last few weeks, the Nepal Prime Minister underwent four cycles of hemodialysis at Grande International Hospital. (With inputs from sources)

My health condition is gradually improving: Nepalese PM Oli

Over 49,000 people have been tested positive for dengue in Pakistan, setting a new record of the infection in the country. 
 
The surge in the number of cases was reported in the last 15 days. Moreover, fatalities by the infection have reached 79, Dawn reported. 
 
Expressing no concern, the authorities have said that surge is due to improved mechanism to record the number of cases. The spokesperson for the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS), Sajid Shah, said,&nbsp;"This year an unprecedented number of dengue cases has been reported across the globe. Besides, the mechanism of recording the cases has improved across the country." 
 
Out of 49,587 cases, 13,173 cases were reported from Islamabad, 13,251 from Sindh, 9,855 from Punjab, 7,776 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 3,217 cases from Balochistan.

Besides, 1,690 cases were reported from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir while 625 cases were placed in the 'other' category.

Also known as 'dandy fever', dengue is one of the world's leading mosquito-borne illnesses taking scores of lives globally every year.

Over 49,000 people have been tested positive for dengue in Pakistan, setting a new record of the infection in the country. The surge in the number of cases was reported in the last 15 days.

Over 49,000 people have been tested positive for dengue in Pakistan, setting a new record of the infection in the country. The surge in the number of cases was reported in the last 15 days. Moreover, fatalities by the infection have reached 79, Dawn reported. Expressing no concern, the authorities have said that surge is due to improved mechanism to record the number of cases. The spokesperson for the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS), Sajid Shah, said, "This year an unprecedented number of dengue cases has been reported across the globe. Besides, the mechanism of recording the cases has improved across the country." Out of 49,587 cases, 13,173 cases were reported from Islamabad, 13,251 from Sindh, 9,855 from Punjab, 7,776 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 3,217 cases from Balochistan. Besides, 1,690 cases were reported from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir while 625 cases were placed in the 'other' category. Also known as 'dandy fever', dengue is one of the world's leading mosquito-borne illnesses taking scores of lives globally every year.

Pakistan: Dengue outbreak, 49,000 cases registered

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