School-going kids across India’s major cities, towns have pretty much been under a lockdown for nearly 100 days owing to the Covid-19 pandemic.

With the rising cases in India’s large cities, uncertainty prevails over the re-opening of schools. During this period, some children have been privileged to continue their formal education virtually and many haven’t been as fortunate.

Educationists point out that while most families are spending time like never before, besides imparting life-skills to children. There are also certain unfortunate cases where the kids face abuse at home and battle hunger in the absence of mid-day meals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/technology-news-microsoft-teams-now-available-for-personal-use-307919" hreflang="en">Microsoft Teams now available for personal use</a>

In a virtual discussion helmed by ParentCircle, educationists looked at the present scenario and the way ahead for re-opening of schools and the practical challenges involved. The panelists included Sheela Rajendra, Dean and Director, PSBB Chennai, Alka Kapur, Principal, MPS New Delhi Simmi Juneja, Principal, DAV Public School Mumbai, Dr. N K Charles, principal, The Vikasa School, Educationist Fatema Agarkar and Nalina Ramalakshmi, Managing Director ParentCircle.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-goes-online-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-290154">Life goes online amid coronavirus pandemic</a>

The panelists were all in agreement that parents are reluctant about schools re-opening and sending the kids back until at least the curve flattens or a vaccine is found. But there also remains the concern of issues differing across cities and towns.

“There are Government schools, government-aided schools, private schools and each would face their own challenges. Not all an afford the up gradation of infrastructure and in many cases government schools have been converted into Covid care facilities. In rural areas there are parents who want schools to re-open due to the mid-day meals that the children used to be served there,'' Alka Kapur pointed out.&nbsp;

On the possible scenario post-reopening, the educationists feel that the best option is to wait and watch, while closely abiding by the guidelines issued by relevant authorities.

“Safety is of utmost importance and we will take the opinion of doctors and the government. Social-distancing doesn’t come naturally to children and we can’t implement it. We could explore options like odd-even, alternate days classes. But schools in cities face specific challenges due to small campuses. Distancing can’t be maintained in buses, entry and exit points and even functioning with 10% strength may mean upto 300-500 students in large schools” said Sheela Rajendra.&nbsp;

With most schools having started online classes, the predominant feeling among educators is that both students and faculty are adapting to virtual learning. “Online classes are surely not an eye-wash. Teachers have never touched these gadgets and our senior teachers are struggling even today. But overcoming these challenges is the collective learning process” Dr. Charles said.&nbsp;

When asked about the need to have online classes for kids below the age of six, Fatema Agarkar told WION, “WHO has said that one hour of engagement ensures social connections. We are not talking about 3 hours long video sessions, but it is about engaging children with different activities - numeracy, language, science, sports, arts, crafts, music etc. In the early years they need attention and we need to focus on holistic learning.”

Collection of fees have been a bone of contention between parents and schools. Especially when it comes to the earlier fees being collected for online classes. However, educationists maintain that online classes involve some investment in technology and infrastructure. “Close to 90% of the revenue goes towards payment of staff salaries. The way ahead is blended learning where it would be a hybrid of in-person classes and remote, digital learning” they agreed.&nbsp;

Amid the uncertainty of schools re-opening anytime soon, the participants requested parents to look at this time with their children as an opportunity for teaching life-skills. “Technology offers a lot of solutions, but there are many who don’t have the resources to attend online classes. We also need a change in attitude from parents where they focus less on grades and more on what is being learnt. By following a daily routine, parents can lead by example and help kids pay more attention in online classes. As parents ourselves, we must have conversations with kids, listen to them and encourage them”, said Nalina Ramalakshmi. 
&nbsp;

School-going kids across India’s major cities, towns have pretty much been under a lockdown for nearly 100 days owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. With the rising cases in India’s large cities, uncertainty prevails over the re-opening of schools.

School-going kids across India’s major cities, towns have pretty much been under a lockdown for nearly 100 days owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. With the rising cases in India’s large cities, uncertainty prevails over the re-opening of schools. During this period, some children have been privileged to continue their formal education virtually and many haven’t been as fortunate. Educationists point out that while most families are spending time like never before, besides imparting life-skills to children. There are also certain unfortunate cases where the kids face abuse at home and battle hunger in the absence of mid-day meals. Also read: Microsoft Teams now available for personal use In a virtual discussion helmed by ParentCircle, educationists looked at the present scenario and the way ahead for re-opening of schools and the practical challenges involved. The panelists included Sheela Rajendra, Dean and Director, PSBB Chennai, Alka Kapur, Principal, MPS New Delhi Simmi Juneja, Principal, DAV Public School Mumbai, Dr. N K Charles, principal, The Vikasa School, Educationist Fatema Agarkar and Nalina Ramalakshmi, Managing Director ParentCircle. Also see: Life goes online amid coronavirus pandemic The panelists were all in agreement that parents are reluctant about schools re-opening and sending the kids back until at least the curve flattens or a vaccine is found. But there also remains the concern of issues differing across cities and towns. “There are Government schools, government-aided schools, private schools and each would face their own challenges. Not all an afford the up gradation of infrastructure and in many cases government schools have been converted into Covid care facilities. In rural areas there are parents who want schools to re-open due to the mid-day meals that the children used to be served there,'' Alka Kapur pointed out. On the possible scenario post-reopening, the educationists feel that the best option is to wait and watch, while closely abiding by the guidelines issued by relevant authorities. “Safety is of utmost importance and we will take the opinion of doctors and the government. Social-distancing doesn’t come naturally to children and we can’t implement it. We could explore options like odd-even, alternate days classes. But schools in cities face specific challenges due to small campuses. Distancing can’t be maintained in buses, entry and exit points and even functioning with 10% strength may mean upto 300-500 students in large schools” said Sheela Rajendra. With most schools having started online classes, the predominant feeling among educators is that both students and faculty are adapting to virtual learning. “Online classes are surely not an eye-wash. Teachers have never touched these gadgets and our senior teachers are struggling even today. But overcoming these challenges is the collective learning process” Dr. Charles said. When asked about the need to have online classes for kids below the age of six, Fatema Agarkar told WION, “WHO has said that one hour of engagement ensures social connections. We are not talking about 3 hours long video sessions, but it is about engaging children with different activities - numeracy, language, science, sports, arts, crafts, music etc. In the early years they need attention and we need to focus on holistic learning.” Collection of fees have been a bone of contention between parents and schools. Especially when it comes to the earlier fees being collected for online classes. However, educationists maintain that online classes involve some investment in technology and infrastructure. “Close to 90% of the revenue goes towards payment of staff salaries. The way ahead is blended learning where it would be a hybrid of in-person classes and remote, digital learning” they agreed. Amid the uncertainty of schools re-opening anytime soon, the participants requested parents to look at this time with their children as an opportunity for teaching life-skills. “Technology offers a lot of solutions, but there are many who don’t have the resources to attend online classes. We also need a change in attitude from parents where they focus less on grades and more on what is being learnt. By following a daily routine, parents can lead by example and help kids pay more attention in online classes. As parents ourselves, we must have conversations with kids, listen to them and encourage them”, said Nalina Ramalakshmi.

Online classes offering mixed experiences, blended-learning is future for schools: Educationists

Second-wave of coronavirus hits countries, 'endless nightmare' looms

Carbon dioxide emissions have fallen dramatically since lockdowns were imposed around the world due to the coronavirus crisis, research has shown.

In early April, coronavirus lockdowns led to a 17 percent reduction worldwide in&nbsp;carbon&nbsp;pollution compared to the same period last year, according to the first peer-reviewed assessment of the pandemic's impact on CO2 emissions, published in Nature Climate Change.

The findings show the world has experienced the sharpest drop in carbon output since records began, with large sections of the global economy brought to a near standstill.

The comprehensive analysis was conducted by scientists from the University of East Anglia, Stanford University in the US, the Cicero Centre in Norway, as well as scientists in the Netherlands, Australia, France and Germany.

Four countries or blocs,&nbsp;China, the United States, the European Union and India, accounted for two-thirds of the downturn across the first four months of 2020, equivalent to more than one billion tonnes of CO2.

When the lockdown was at its most stringent, in some countries emissions fell by just over 26 per cent&nbsp;on average. In the UK, the decline was about 31 per cent, while in Australia emissions fell 28.3 per cent&nbsp;for a period during April.

Emissions from aviation showed a dramatic decline, of about 60 per cent, as international flights between many countries were grounded. Emissions from surface transport fell less sharply, by about 36 per cent. Power generation and industry accounted for about 86 per cent&nbsp;of the total decline in emissions.

Total emissions from industry and energy last year came to a record 37 billion tonnes.&nbsp;

"Population confinement has led to drastic changes in energy use and CO2 emissions," said lead author Corinne Le Quere, a professor at the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of East Anglia.

"These extreme decreases are likely to be temporary, however, as they do not reflect structural changes in the economic, transport or energy systems."

With nearly five million confirmed infections and 320,000 deaths, the COVID-19 pandemic has deflected attention from the climate crisis that dominated global concerns in 2019.

But the climate threat remains, other experts warn.

"This will make barely a dent in the ongoing build-up of&nbsp;carbon&nbsp;dioxide in the atmosphere," said Richard Betts, head of climate impacts research at Britain's Met Office Hadley Centre.

Carbon dioxide emissions have fallen dramatically since lockdowns were imposed around the world due to the coronavirus crisis, research has shown. In early April, coronavirus lockdowns led to a 17 percent reduction worldwide in carbon pollution compared to the same period last year, according to the first peer-reviewed assessment of the pandemic's impact on CO2 emissions, published in Nature Climate Change.

Carbon dioxide emissions have fallen dramatically since lockdowns were imposed around the world due to the coronavirus crisis, research has shown. In early April, coronavirus lockdowns led to a 17 percent reduction worldwide in carbon pollution compared to the same period last year, according to the first peer-reviewed assessment of the pandemic's impact on CO2 emissions, published in Nature Climate Change. The findings show the world has experienced the sharpest drop in carbon output since records began, with large sections of the global economy brought to a near standstill. The comprehensive analysis was conducted by scientists from the University of East Anglia, Stanford University in the US, the Cicero Centre in Norway, as well as scientists in the Netherlands, Australia, France and Germany. Four countries or blocs, China, the United States, the European Union and India, accounted for two-thirds of the downturn across the first four months of 2020, equivalent to more than one billion tonnes of CO2. When the lockdown was at its most stringent, in some countries emissions fell by just over 26 per cent on average. In the UK, the decline was about 31 per cent, while in Australia emissions fell 28.3 per cent for a period during April. Emissions from aviation showed a dramatic decline, of about 60 per cent, as international flights between many countries were grounded. Emissions from surface transport fell less sharply, by about 36 per cent. Power generation and industry accounted for about 86 per cent of the total decline in emissions. Total emissions from industry and energy last year came to a record 37 billion tonnes. "Population confinement has led to drastic changes in energy use and CO2 emissions," said lead author Corinne Le Quere, a professor at the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of East Anglia. "These extreme decreases are likely to be temporary, however, as they do not reflect structural changes in the economic, transport or energy systems." With nearly five million confirmed infections and 320,000 deaths, the COVID-19 pandemic has deflected attention from the climate crisis that dominated global concerns in 2019. But the climate threat remains, other experts warn. "This will make barely a dent in the ongoing build-up of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere," said Richard Betts, head of climate impacts research at Britain's Met Office Hadley Centre.

Lockdowns trigger 'substantial' downfall in global carbon emissions

Life coming back on track as countries begin to ease restrictions

Balcony protests and e-rallies as epidemic curtails May Day demonstrations

Coronavirus lockdown: Confined in homes, people find solace in 'open' cinemas

In battle against COVID-19, India, China and US lose cops as 'frontline soldiers'

While Sweden claims that its resistance to lockdown has worked, the country's coronavirus data has exposed the loopholes its strategy to curb Covid-19 pandemic.

The country has been an outlier and did not join&nbsp;its European neighbors in imposing a lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-coronavirus-end-in-us-uk-france-india-study-predicts-dates-month-295324">When will COVID-19 end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates &amp; month</a>

While schools, restaurants, bars and&nbsp;salons were shut down in other Nordic countries such as Denmark, Norway and Finland,&nbsp;Sweden refused to walk in their steps.

It was accused of creating&nbsp;''herd immunities''&nbsp;and&nbsp;criticized for not imposing a strict lockdown&nbsp;enforced by law.

Herd immunity&nbsp;occurs when a large enough percentage of a population becomes immune to a virus, either through infection or vaccination, thus preventing further spread throughout the group.

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Swedish Minister for Health and Social Affairs,&nbsp;Lena Hallengren said,&nbsp;"One of the main concerns now in Sweden is to strengthen the protection for those living in care homes for older people."

She also justified the measures taken by saying&nbsp;it was still "far too early to draw any firm conclusions as to the effectiveness of the measures taken in Sweden."

However, as a result of the controversial approach adopted by the country,&nbsp;the death toll in Sweden has now risen significantly higher than many other countries in Europe, reaching more than 21 per 100,000 people, according to figures from&nbsp;Johns Hopkins University.

By contrast, Denmark has recorded more than seven deaths per 100,000 people, and both Norway and Finland less than four.

While Sweden is still struggling to keep a check on its virus cases, Denmark and Norway also have even begun easing restrictions in their respective lockdowns.

While Sweden claims that its resistance to lockdown has worked, the country's coronavirus data has exposed the loopholes its strategy to curb Covid-19 pandemic. The country has been an outlier and did not join its European neighbors in imposing a lockdown.

While Sweden claims that its resistance to lockdown has worked, the country's coronavirus data has exposed the loopholes its strategy to curb Covid-19 pandemic. The country has been an outlier and did not join its European neighbors in imposing a lockdown. Also read: When will COVID-19 end in US, UK, France, India? Study predicts dates & month While schools, restaurants, bars and salons were shut down in other Nordic countries such as Denmark, Norway and Finland, Sweden refused to walk in their steps. It was accused of creating ''herd immunities'' and criticized for not imposing a strict lockdown enforced by law. Herd immunity occurs when a large enough percentage of a population becomes immune to a virus, either through infection or vaccination, thus preventing further spread throughout the group. Also read: EU leaders agree to mobilise €1 trillion as Covid-19 rescue plan Swedish Minister for Health and Social Affairs, Lena Hallengren said, "One of the main concerns now in Sweden is to strengthen the protection for those living in care homes for older people." She also justified the measures taken by saying it was still "far too early to draw any firm conclusions as to the effectiveness of the measures taken in Sweden." However, as a result of the controversial approach adopted by the country, the death toll in Sweden has now risen significantly higher than many other countries in Europe, reaching more than 21 per 100,000 people, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University. By contrast, Denmark has recorded more than seven deaths per 100,000 people, and both Norway and Finland less than four. While Sweden is still struggling to keep a check on its virus cases, Denmark and Norway also have even begun easing restrictions in their respective lockdowns.

Coronavirus cases increase in Sweden after 'resistance' to complete lockdown

Health mistakes to be avoided once global lockdowns are lifted

Messages exchanged from balconies and windows during global lockdown

British street artist Banksy has revealed his first rat infested&nbsp;painting which he&nbsp;made from the confines of his toilet during a lockdown in his country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-coronavirus-cases-pass-2-million-death-toll-rises-to-136908-292768" hreflang="en">Worldwide coronavirus cases pass 2 million; death toll rises to 136,908</a>

The artist took to social media to unveil sharing a series of images of his bathroom covered in his infamous rat sketches with the caption&nbsp;''My wife hates it when I work from home''.&nbsp;

<img alt="Banksy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c18b6a42-76e0-4edc-9ca8-bc2435267175" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/27237690-8223057-image-m-24_1586979231508.jpg" />

The artwork shows rodents knocking the bathroom mirror and creating a mess.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-regrets-us-move-to-halt-funding-urges-unity-against-pandemic-292772">WHO chief regrets US move to halt funding, urges unity against pandemic</a>

The latest creation by the elusive artist from Bristol comes as the UK continues to control the spread of Covid-19 which has now claimed the lives of 12,868.

The comical scene, showed one rat skipping on a roll of toilet paper, causing the tissue to roll down and across the floor. While another rat was seen urinating against the toilet seat.

British street artist Banksy has revealed his first rat infested painting which he made from the confines of his toilet during a lockdown in his country. Also read: Worldwide coronavirus cases pass 2 million; death toll rises to 136,908 The artist took to social media to unveil sharing a series of images of his bathroom covered in his infamous rat sketches with the caption ''My wife hates it when I work from home''.

British street artist Banksy has revealed his first rat infested painting which he made from the confines of his toilet during a lockdown in his country. Also read: Worldwide coronavirus cases pass 2 million; death toll rises to 136,908 The artist took to social media to unveil sharing a series of images of his bathroom covered in his infamous rat sketches with the caption ''My wife hates it when I work from home''. The artwork shows rodents knocking the bathroom mirror and creating a mess. Also read: WHO chief regrets US move to halt funding, urges unity against pandemic The latest creation by the elusive artist from Bristol comes as the UK continues to control the spread of Covid-19 which has now claimed the lives of 12,868. The comical scene, showed one rat skipping on a roll of toilet paper, causing the tissue to roll down and across the floor. While another rat was seen urinating against the toilet seat.

Banksy unveils first rat infested painting made inside his bathroom during lockdown

Global pandemic taking lives of people worldwide. US becomes the nation with maximum fatality, followed by Italy and other countries of Europe. Scientists and researchers are working days and nights to find the cure for this disease.

Is lockdown the best effective vaccine against COVID-19?

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday a suspension of US funding to the World Health Organisation because he said it had covered up the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak in China before it spread around the world.

Trump told a press conference he was instructing his administration to halt funding while "a review is conducted to assess the World Health Organisation's role in severely mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-governor-says-hospitalization-covid-19-infections-down-while-taking-a-dig-at-king-trump-292515" hreflang="en">New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump'</a>

According to Trump, the WHO prevented transparency over the outbreak and the United States, the UN body's biggest funder which provided $400 million last year, will now "discuss what we do with all that money that goes to the WHO."

"With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have deep concerns whether America's generosity has been put to the best use possible."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-say-trump-has-little-power-to-restart-us-economy-292451" hreflang="en">Experts say Trump has little power to restart US&nbsp;economy</a>

Trump's attack on the WHO reflects his belief that the organisation is biased toward China and colluded to prevent the United States' main economic rival from having to be open about the unfolding health disaster.

He says this cost other countries crucial time to prepare and delayed decisions to stop international travel.

"The WHO's attack on travel restrictions put political correctness above life-saving measures," he said.

"Had the WHO done its job to get medical experts into China to objectively assess the situation on the ground and to call out China's lack of transparency, the outbreak could have been contained at its source with very little death," he said.&nbsp;

"This would have saved thousands of lives and avoided worldwide economic damage. Instead, the WHO willingly took China's assurances to face value... and defended the actions of the Chinese government," he said.

Critics have pointed out that for weeks after the coronavirus epidemic began unfolding, Trump frequently praised Beijing's response and downplayed the danger it posed at home.

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday a suspension of US funding to the World Health Organisation because he said it had covered up the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak in China before it spread around the world.

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday a suspension of US funding to the World Health Organisation because he said it had covered up the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak in China before it spread around the world. Trump told a press conference he was instructing his administration to halt funding while "a review is conducted to assess the World Health Organisation's role in severely mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus." Also read: New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump' According to Trump, the WHO prevented transparency over the outbreak and the United States, the UN body's biggest funder which provided $400 million last year, will now "discuss what we do with all that money that goes to the WHO." "With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have deep concerns whether America's generosity has been put to the best use possible." Also read: Experts say Trump has little power to restart US economy Trump's attack on the WHO reflects his belief that the organisation is biased toward China and colluded to prevent the United States' main economic rival from having to be open about the unfolding health disaster. He says this cost other countries crucial time to prepare and delayed decisions to stop international travel. "The WHO's attack on travel restrictions put political correctness above life-saving measures," he said. "Had the WHO done its job to get medical experts into China to objectively assess the situation on the ground and to call out China's lack of transparency, the outbreak could have been contained at its source with very little death," he said. "This would have saved thousands of lives and avoided worldwide economic damage. Instead, the WHO willingly took China's assurances to face value... and defended the actions of the Chinese government," he said. Critics have pointed out that for weeks after the coronavirus epidemic began unfolding, Trump frequently praised Beijing's response and downplayed the danger it posed at home.

Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation

US President Donald Trump has instructed his administration to temporarily halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-funding-halt-to-world-health-organisation-292533">Also read: Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation</a>

Trump said the WHO had "failed in its basic duty and it must be held accountable". He said it promoted China's "disinformation" about the virus that likely led to a wider outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-governor-says-hospitalization-covid-19-infections-down-while-taking-a-dig-at-king-trump-292515" hreflang="en">New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump'</a>

The United States is the biggest overall donor to the Geneva-based WHO, contributing more than $400 million in 2019, roughly 15% of its budget.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-say-trump-has-little-power-to-restart-us-economy-292451" hreflang="en">Experts say Trump has little power to restart US&nbsp;economy</a>

CHINA'S FOREIGN MINISTRY&nbsp;

China urged the United States to fulfil its obligations to the WHO. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said the coronavirus pandemic, which has infected nearly 2 million people globally, was at a critical stage and that the US decision would affect all countries.&nbsp;

GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER HEIKO MAAS

"Apportioning blame doesn't help. The virus knows no borders," Maas said on Twitter on Wednesday.

"We have to work closely together against #COVID19. One of the best investments is to strengthen the @UN, especially the under-funded @WHO, for example for developing and distributing tests and vaccines."&nbsp;

AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

Dr Patrice Harris called it "a dangerous step in the wrong direction that will not make defeating COVID-19 easier" and urged Trump to reconsider. UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES 
"Not the time" to reduce resources for WHO operations. 
"Now is the time for unity and the international community to work together in solidarity to stop this virus and its shattering consequences," he said.&nbsp;

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR HEALTH SECURITY

"The move sends the wrong message during the middle of a pandemic," said Dr Amesh Adalja, an infectious diseases expert and senior scholar.

Adalja said the WHO does make mistakes, as it did in delaying the response to the Ebola outbreak in 2013 and 2014 in West Africa. He said reforms may be needed, but that work needs to take place after the pandemic has passed.

"It's not the middle of a pandemic that you do this type of thing," he said.

Adalja said the WHO collects information about where the virus is active in every county in the world, which the United States needs to help guide decisions about when to open borders.&nbsp;

US CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION&nbsp;

Directed requests for comment to the White House.&nbsp;

&nbsp;PROTECT OUR CARE&nbsp;

"This is nothing more than a transparent attempt by President Trump to distract from his history downplaying the severity of the coronavirus crisis and his administration’s failure to prepare our nation," said Chair Leslie Dach, who served as the global Ebola coordinator for the US Department of Health and Human Services.

"To be sure, the World Health Organization is not without fault but it is beyond irresponsible to cut its funding at the height of a global pandemic. This move will undoubtedly make Americans less safe." 
Protect Our Care is a US organisation working to protect affordable coverage for all Americans.&nbsp;

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

"This virus doesn't need passports. In a few short months, it has travelled to all of the continents of the world except Antarctica. If there were ever an event that showed us how we need to work tougher as a global community, this is it," said Dr William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert.&nbsp;

CHAIRMAN, US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

"With each passing day of this worsening crisis, the president is showing us his political playbook: blame the WHO, blame China, blame his political opponents, blame his predecessors - do whatever it takes to deflect from the fact that his administration mismanaged this crisis and it’s now costing thousands of American lives," Democratic representative Eliot Engel.&nbsp;

NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER JACINDA ARDERN

"At a time like this when we need to be sharing information and we need to have advice we can rely on, the WHO has provided that. We will continue to support it and continue to make our contributions," she said.&nbsp;

AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER SCOTT MORRISON

Morrison said he sympathised with Trump's criticisms of the WHO, especially its support of re-opening China's "wet markets", where freshly slaughtered animals are sold and where the outbreak first appeared in the city of Wuhan late last year.

"But that said, the WHO also as an organisation does a lot of important work including here in our region in the Pacific and we work closely with them," Morrison said.

"We are not going to throw the baby out with the bathwater here, but they are also not immune from criticism and immune from doing things better."

US President Donald Trump has instructed his administration to temporarily halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

US President Donald Trump has instructed his administration to temporarily halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation Trump said the WHO had "failed in its basic duty and it must be held accountable". He said it promoted China's "disinformation" about the virus that likely led to a wider outbreak. Also read: New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump' The United States is the biggest overall donor to the Geneva-based WHO, contributing more than $400 million in 2019, roughly 15% of its budget. Also read: Experts say Trump has little power to restart US economy CHINA'S FOREIGN MINISTRY China urged the United States to fulfil its obligations to the WHO. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said the coronavirus pandemic, which has infected nearly 2 million people globally, was at a critical stage and that the US decision would affect all countries. GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER HEIKO MAAS "Apportioning blame doesn't help. The virus knows no borders," Maas said on Twitter on Wednesday. "We have to work closely together against #COVID19. One of the best investments is to strengthen the @UN, especially the under-funded @WHO, for example for developing and distributing tests and vaccines." AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT Dr Patrice Harris called it "a dangerous step in the wrong direction that will not make defeating COVID-19 easier" and urged Trump to reconsider. UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES "Not the time" to reduce resources for WHO operations. "Now is the time for unity and the international community to work together in solidarity to stop this virus and its shattering consequences," he said. JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR HEALTH SECURITY "The move sends the wrong message during the middle of a pandemic," said Dr Amesh Adalja, an infectious diseases expert and senior scholar. Adalja said the WHO does make mistakes, as it did in delaying the response to the Ebola outbreak in 2013 and 2014 in West Africa. He said reforms may be needed, but that work needs to take place after the pandemic has passed. "It's not the middle of a pandemic that you do this type of thing," he said. Adalja said the WHO collects information about where the virus is active in every county in the world, which the United States needs to help guide decisions about when to open borders. US CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION Directed requests for comment to the White House. PROTECT OUR CARE "This is nothing more than a transparent attempt by President Trump to distract from his history downplaying the severity of the coronavirus crisis and his administration’s failure to prepare our nation," said Chair Leslie Dach, who served as the global Ebola coordinator for the US Department of Health and Human Services. "To be sure, the World Health Organization is not without fault but it is beyond irresponsible to cut its funding at the height of a global pandemic. This move will undoubtedly make Americans less safe." Protect Our Care is a US organisation working to protect affordable coverage for all Americans. VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER "This virus doesn't need passports. In a few short months, it has travelled to all of the continents of the world except Antarctica. If there were ever an event that showed us how we need to work tougher as a global community, this is it," said Dr William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert. CHAIRMAN, US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE "With each passing day of this worsening crisis, the president is showing us his political playbook: blame the WHO, blame China, blame his political opponents, blame his predecessors - do whatever it takes to deflect from the fact that his administration mismanaged this crisis and it’s now costing thousands of American lives," Democratic representative Eliot Engel. NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER JACINDA ARDERN "At a time like this when we need to be sharing information and we need to have advice we can rely on, the WHO has provided that. We will continue to support it and continue to make our contributions," she said. AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER SCOTT MORRISON Morrison said he sympathised with Trump's criticisms of the WHO, especially its support of re-opening China's "wet markets", where freshly slaughtered animals are sold and where the outbreak first appeared in the city of Wuhan late last year. "But that said, the WHO also as an organisation does a lot of important work including here in our region in the Pacific and we work closely with them," Morrison said. "We are not going to throw the baby out with the bathwater here, but they are also not immune from criticism and immune from doing things better."

Dangerous step in the wrong direction: Global reaction to Trump withdrawing WHO funding

Virus-stricken British Prime Minister Boris Johnson thanked medics for saving his life after leaving hospital on Easter Sunday, as hundreds of millions of Christians observed the holiday under lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

More than half of humanity is confined at home as governments scramble to stop the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 112,500 lives around the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-video-message-uk-pm-says-medics-saved-his-life-as-he-battled-covid-19-292134" hreflang="en">In video message, UK PM says medics saved his life as he battled COVID-19</a>

More than 1.8 million people have been infected but glimmers of hope were emerging that the worst may be behind -- especially in Europe, where hard-hit Italy recorded its lowest death toll in three weeks and fatalities fell in France.

Johnson, the highest-profile leader to contract the virus characterised by high fevers and coughing, voiced confidence that Britain would beat the pandemic in a candid video message after he was&nbsp;discharged from a state-run National Health Service (NHS)&nbsp;hospital.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britons-lose-ps18-million-as-cyber-conning-becomes-rampant-in-the-country-292068" hreflang="en">Britons lose £1.8 million as cyber-conning becomes rampant in the country</a>

"I hope they won't mind if I mention in particular two nurses who stood by my bedside for 48 hours when things could have gone either way," said 55-year-old Johnson, who was admitted on April 5 to a London hospital where he spent three days in intensive care.

In a suit and tie but visibly worn, Johnson said he was discharged after "a week in which the NHS has saved my life, no question."&nbsp;

Even as Johnson headed to a country estate to rest before returning to work, Britain passed the grim milestone of 10,000 deaths.

Johnson, like US President Donald Trump, had initially resisted stringent measures such as shutting down public places.

The United States has since recorded the world's highest death toll at more than 22,020.

Virus-stricken British Prime Minister Boris Johnson thanked medics for saving his life after leaving hospital on Easter Sunday, as hundreds of millions of Christians observed the holiday under lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Virus-stricken British Prime Minister Boris Johnson thanked medics for saving his life after leaving hospital on Easter Sunday, as hundreds of millions of Christians observed the holiday under lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. More than half of humanity is confined at home as governments scramble to stop the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 112,500 lives around the world. Also read: In video message, UK PM says medics saved his life as he battled COVID-19 More than 1.8 million people have been infected but glimmers of hope were emerging that the worst may be behind -- especially in Europe, where hard-hit Italy recorded its lowest death toll in three weeks and fatalities fell in France. Johnson, the highest-profile leader to contract the virus characterised by high fevers and coughing, voiced confidence that Britain would beat the pandemic in a candid video message after he was discharged from a state-run National Health Service (NHS) hospital. Also read: Britons lose £1.8 million as cyber-conning becomes rampant in the country "I hope they won't mind if I mention in particular two nurses who stood by my bedside for 48 hours when things could have gone either way," said 55-year-old Johnson, who was admitted on April 5 to a London hospital where he spent three days in intensive care. In a suit and tie but visibly worn, Johnson said he was discharged after "a week in which the NHS has saved my life, no question." Even as Johnson headed to a country estate to rest before returning to work, Britain passed the grim milestone of 10,000 deaths. Johnson, like US President Donald Trump, had initially resisted stringent measures such as shutting down public places. The United States has since recorded the world's highest death toll at more than 22,020.

UK's Johnson leaves hospital as millions mark Easter in lockdown

Pope Francis prayed for tens of thousands of coronavirus victims in an unprecedented livestream Easter Sunday message delivered from a hauntingly empty Vatican to a world under lockdown.

The 83-year-old pontiff spoke softly at a ceremony attended by just a handful of priests and a small choir that was spaced out across the expansive marble floor of Saint Peter's Basilica.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-over-21300-coronavirus-deaths-us-spends-easter-sunday-on-lockdown-292129" hreflang="en">With over 21,300 coronavirus deaths, US spends Easter Sunday on lockdown</a>

"For many, this is an Easter of solitude lived amid the sorrow and hardship that the pandemic is causing, from physical suffering to economic difficulties," Francis said.

The pandemic raging outside the Vatican's locked gates has killed more than 110,000 people and left billions confined to their homes.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/observing-good-friday-during-a-global-lockdown-291734" hreflang="en">Observing Good Friday during a global lockdown</a>

Most of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics were in forced confinement as the pope spoke, and few of the world's churches were open on Christianity's holiest day.

In his homily, the pope called for a global ceasefire and debt relief for the poorest countries.

His message was livestreamed for the first time, a bow to technology in the face of a new illness that has transformed society and altered the way religion is observed.

Around the globe, others followed his advice and found creative solutions.

Pope Francis prayed for tens of thousands of coronavirus victims in an unprecedented livestream Easter Sunday message delivered from a hauntingly empty Vatican to a world under lockdown.

Pope Francis prayed for tens of thousands of coronavirus victims in an unprecedented livestream Easter Sunday message delivered from a hauntingly empty Vatican to a world under lockdown. The 83-year-old pontiff spoke softly at a ceremony attended by just a handful of priests and a small choir that was spaced out across the expansive marble floor of Saint Peter's Basilica. Also read: With over 21,300 coronavirus deaths, US spends Easter Sunday on lockdown "For many, this is an Easter of solitude lived amid the sorrow and hardship that the pandemic is causing, from physical suffering to economic difficulties," Francis said. The pandemic raging outside the Vatican's locked gates has killed more than 110,000 people and left billions confined to their homes. Also see:Observing Good Friday during a global lockdown Most of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics were in forced confinement as the pope spoke, and few of the world's churches were open on Christianity's holiest day. In his homily, the pope called for a global ceasefire and debt relief for the poorest countries. His message was livestreamed for the first time, a bow to technology in the face of a new illness that has transformed society and altered the way religion is observed. Around the globe, others followed his advice and found creative solutions.

Pope marks 'Easter of solitude' in virus lockdown

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