New Zealand no longer has any active cases of COVID-19. Owing to this, all restrictions in the country may be lifted soon.

This marks the first time since February 28 that the country is virtually "infection-free" and&nbsp;has reported zero cases, a streak NZ had been following&nbsp;over the last 17 days with no&nbsp;new cases has been recorded.

Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister is set to announce removal of all coronavirus-related restrictions in view of this. All rules are expected to be lifted, except the strict monitoring of borders.

<a href="wionews.com/world/watch-new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-remains-cool-as-earthquake-strikes-during-live-interview-300831" hreflang="en">Watch: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern remains cool as earthquake strikes during live interview</a>

New Zealand had begun its lockdown as early as March 25, when the wave had just begun in the country. Since then, 22 people have died in the country while 1,500 people have tested positive.

A woman from Auckland in her 50s was the last remaining active coronavirus patient in the country. Currently, she has recovered, and is now the last person in the country to have COVID-19.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/new-zealand-virus-containment-sets-an-example-for-countries-across-the-world-299135/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“The Ministry has been notified by Auckland Regional Public Health that its remaining case has been symptom free for 48 hours and is regarded as recovered,” the&nbsp; government statement said.

“The person has now been released from isolation”, the statement added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-becomes-new-zealands-most-popular-prime-minister-after-covid-19-response-poll-299424" hreflang="en">Jacinda Ardern becomes New Zealand's most popular prime minister after COVID-19 response: Poll</a>

Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, Johns Hopkins University says. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago.

The five worst affected countries according to JHU tracker are: US, Brazil, Russia, United Kingdom, followed by India.

New Zealand no longer has any active cases of COVID-19. Owing to this, all restrictions in the country may be lifted soon. This marks the first time since February 28 that the country is virtually "infection-free" and has reported zero cases, a streak NZ had been following over the last 17 days with no new cases has been recorded.

New Zealand no longer has any active cases of COVID-19. Owing to this, all restrictions in the country may be lifted soon. This marks the first time since February 28 that the country is virtually "infection-free" and has reported zero cases, a streak NZ had been following over the last 17 days with no new cases has been recorded. Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister is set to announce removal of all coronavirus-related restrictions in view of this. All rules are expected to be lifted, except the strict monitoring of borders. Watch: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern remains cool as earthquake strikes during live interview New Zealand had begun its lockdown as early as March 25, when the wave had just begun in the country. Since then, 22 people have died in the country while 1,500 people have tested positive. A woman from Auckland in her 50s was the last remaining active coronavirus patient in the country. Currently, she has recovered, and is now the last person in the country to have COVID-19. “The Ministry has been notified by Auckland Regional Public Health that its remaining case has been symptom free for 48 hours and is regarded as recovered,” the government statement said. “The person has now been released from isolation”, the statement added. Also read: Jacinda Ardern becomes New Zealand's most popular prime minister after COVID-19 response: Poll Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, Johns Hopkins University says. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago. The five worst affected countries according to JHU tracker are: US, Brazil, Russia, United Kingdom, followed by India.

New Zealand's last active patient of coronavirus recovers, country now has zero cases

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has declared the coronavirus pandemic "under control" after the island nation registered an eighth straight day without a death from COVID-19. 
 
It paves the way for an announcement next week on Cuba's strategy to gradually lift its lockdown. 
 
The country of 11.2 million has recorded just under 2,200 cases and 83 deaths from the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chile-tops-2000-dead-from-covid-19-304090" hreflang="en">Chile tops 2,000 dead from COVID-19</a> 
 
With 1,862 people having recovered, Cuba has only 244 active cases. 
 
However, Diaz-Canel said the country could not become complacent given a spate of new infections since May 28.&nbsp; 
 
"This was a week in which the number of active cases and the number of daily cases increased in comparison to the previous weeks in which, as already announced, we were at the tail end of this epidemic," he said on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-almost-700-new-coronavirus-deaths-in-24-hours-304089" hreflang="en">US adds almost 700 new coronavirus deaths in 24 hours</a> 
 
"We need to keep focusing on how we're going to eliminate the residues that remain, especially those associated with the incompetence or poor functioning of any institution, which give rise to events that can provoke a rebound," he added. 
 
In any case, next week "we will be able to inform the people about how we will approach this phase and when we can do so." 
 
Schools and borders remain closed, public transport has been suspended and the wearing of masks in public is mandatory. 
 
But with an economy largely dependent on tourism and external trade, and crippled by a six decades-long US embargo, Cuba can ill afford to remain in lockdown for much longer. 
 
Lockdown has worsened the social situation for millions of Cubans in a country that was already suffering from food and fuel shortages.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has declared the coronavirus pandemic "under control" after the island nation registered an eighth straight day without a death from COVID-19.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has declared the coronavirus pandemic "under control" after the island nation registered an eighth straight day without a death from COVID-19. It paves the way for an announcement next week on Cuba's strategy to gradually lift its lockdown. The country of 11.2 million has recorded just under 2,200 cases and 83 deaths from the virus. Also read: Chile tops 2,000 dead from COVID-19 With 1,862 people having recovered, Cuba has only 244 active cases. However, Diaz-Canel said the country could not become complacent given a spate of new infections since May 28. "This was a week in which the number of active cases and the number of daily cases increased in comparison to the previous weeks in which, as already announced, we were at the tail end of this epidemic," he said on Saturday. Also read: US adds almost 700 new coronavirus deaths in 24 hours "We need to keep focusing on how we're going to eliminate the residues that remain, especially those associated with the incompetence or poor functioning of any institution, which give rise to events that can provoke a rebound," he added. In any case, next week "we will be able to inform the people about how we will approach this phase and when we can do so." Schools and borders remain closed, public transport has been suspended and the wearing of masks in public is mandatory. But with an economy largely dependent on tourism and external trade, and crippled by a six decades-long US embargo, Cuba can ill afford to remain in lockdown for much longer. Lockdown has worsened the social situation for millions of Cubans in a country that was already suffering from food and fuel shortages.

Cuba declares coronavirus pandemic 'under control'

Chile on Sunday reported 653 deaths from COVID-19, bringing its overall toll to 2,290, authorities said. 
 
Health Minister Jaime Manalich said some miscounting pointed out by the WHO in March and April was corrected, in addition to 96 new deaths. 
 
That sent the toll from 1,541 on Saturday to 2,290 one day later, he explained.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-death-toll-tops-400000-us-hardest-hit-with-109802-deaths-304068" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus death toll tops 400,000; US hardest hit with 109,802 deaths</a> 
 
Ninety-six marked a record-high number of deaths reported in a single day, according to Manalich. 
 
Chilean health authorities will also start counting the deaths of people who show symptoms in line with the virus, even if the victim did not undergo a COVID-19 test. 
 
"We are making a methodological change in the way we count people who have died and whose death presumably could be linked to a COVID-19 infection," the minister said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-almost-700-new-coronavirus-deaths-in-24-hours-304089">US adds almost 700 new coronavirus deaths in 24 hours</a> 
 
Meanwhile, a record number of new infections in the last 24 hours, of 6,405, was also reported in Chile, totaling 134,150 infected since the pandemic began in the South American country on March 3. 
 
The virus' spread has come despite a three-week lockdown in the crowded capital, Santiago.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chile on Sunday reported 653 deaths from COVID-19, bringing its overall toll to 2,290, authorities said. Health Minister Jaime Manalich said some miscounting pointed out by the WHO in March and April was corrected, in addition to 96 new deaths.

Chile on Sunday reported 653 deaths from COVID-19, bringing its overall toll to 2,290, authorities said. Health Minister Jaime Manalich said some miscounting pointed out by the WHO in March and April was corrected, in addition to 96 new deaths. That sent the toll from 1,541 on Saturday to 2,290 one day later, he explained. Also read: Global coronavirus death toll tops 400,000; US hardest hit with 109,802 deaths Ninety-six marked a record-high number of deaths reported in a single day, according to Manalich. Chilean health authorities will also start counting the deaths of people who show symptoms in line with the virus, even if the victim did not undergo a COVID-19 test. "We are making a methodological change in the way we count people who have died and whose death presumably could be linked to a COVID-19 infection," the minister said. Also read: US adds almost 700 new coronavirus deaths in 24 hours Meanwhile, a record number of new infections in the last 24 hours, of 6,405, was also reported in Chile, totaling 134,150 infected since the pandemic began in the South American country on March 3. The virus' spread has come despite a three-week lockdown in the crowded capital, Santiago.

Chile tops 2,000 dead from COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic killed 691 people in the United States over the past 24 hours, the lowest number in a week, figures from Johns Hopkins University showed on Sunday. 
 
There have been a total of 110,482 deaths in the country and 1,938,842 cases, the Baltimore-based institutions' real-time tracker reported at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Sunday).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/minneapolis-mayor-jacob-frey-booed-out-of-rally-after-refusing-to-defund-police-304084" hreflang="en">Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey booed out of rally after refusing to defund police</a> 
 
Both the number of cases and death toll are by far the highest in the world.&nbsp; 
 
On a per capita basis, however, several European countries -- including France, Italy and Spain -- have a higher death toll.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-death-toll-tops-400000-us-hardest-hit-with-109802-deaths-304068" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus death toll tops 400,000; US hardest hit with 109,802 deaths</a> 
 
While the United States was suffering around 3,000 deaths a day in mid-April, that number has declined to around 1,000 deaths and 20,000 new cases a day at present. 
 
But health care professionals worry mass demonstrations against police brutality and racism taking place in cities across the US may lead to a new surge in infections in the coming weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The coronavirus pandemic killed 691 people in the United States over the past 24 hours, the lowest number in a week, figures from Johns Hopkins University showed on Sunday.

The coronavirus pandemic killed 691 people in the United States over the past 24 hours, the lowest number in a week, figures from Johns Hopkins University showed on Sunday. There have been a total of 110,482 deaths in the country and 1,938,842 cases, the Baltimore-based institutions' real-time tracker reported at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Sunday). Also read: Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey booed out of rally after refusing to defund police Both the number of cases and death toll are by far the highest in the world. On a per capita basis, however, several European countries -- including France, Italy and Spain -- have a higher death toll. Also read: Global coronavirus death toll tops 400,000; US hardest hit with 109,802 deaths While the United States was suffering around 3,000 deaths a day in mid-April, that number has declined to around 1,000 deaths and 20,000 new cases a day at present. But health care professionals worry mass demonstrations against police brutality and racism taking place in cities across the US may lead to a new surge in infections in the coming weeks.

US adds almost 700 new coronavirus deaths in 24 hours

The Chief Minister of Delhi, India has begun self-isolating at home after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has fever and also claims to have a sore throat, two of the key symptoms of coronavirus.

According to media reports, his symptoms began showing on Sunday, and has since then cancelled all his meetings and addresses.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/delhi-govt-and-private-hospitals-to-be-reserved-only-for-patients-from-national-capital-cm-kejriwal-304009" hreflang="en">Delhi govt and private hospitals to be reserved only for patients from national capital: CM Kejriwal</a>

On Sunday, Kejriwal appeared at a meeting to discuss coronavirus in Delhi and announced that all Delhi government hospitals along with a few private hospitals will now treat only residents of the city. Central hospitals may treat anyone, he added.

Delhi is the third-hardest hit state in the country, after Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. Until now, the city has over 28,000 positive cases and has recorded over 800 deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/kejriwal-launches-mobile-app-for-updates-on-vacant-beds-in-hospitals-for-covid-19-patients-302589" hreflang="en">Kejriwal launches mobile app for updates on vacant beds in hospitals for COVID-19 patients</a>

Kejriwal is set to get tested for COVID-19 soon.

Meanwhile, India witnessed the highest spike ever in the number of reported cases today, and has moved to the fifth spot globally in terms of the number of cases, leaving behind Spain and Italy, that were once epicentres of the pandemic in Europe.

The Chief Minister of Delhi, India has begun self-isolating at home after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has fever and also claims to have a sore throat, two of the key symptoms of coronavirus.

The Chief Minister of Delhi, India has begun self-isolating at home after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has fever and also claims to have a sore throat, two of the key symptoms of coronavirus. According to media reports, his symptoms began showing on Sunday, and has since then cancelled all his meetings and addresses. Also read: Delhi govt and private hospitals to be reserved only for patients from national capital: CM Kejriwal On Sunday, Kejriwal appeared at a meeting to discuss coronavirus in Delhi and announced that all Delhi government hospitals along with a few private hospitals will now treat only residents of the city. Central hospitals may treat anyone, he added. Delhi is the third-hardest hit state in the country, after Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. Until now, the city has over 28,000 positive cases and has recorded over 800 deaths. Also read: Kejriwal launches mobile app for updates on vacant beds in hospitals for COVID-19 patients Kejriwal is set to get tested for COVID-19 soon. Meanwhile, India witnessed the highest spike ever in the number of reported cases today, and has moved to the fifth spot globally in terms of the number of cases, leaving behind Spain and Italy, that were once epicentres of the pandemic in Europe.

Delhi CM Kejriwal quarantines himself after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19

The US Justice Department sued a Chinese company for selling nearly a half million fake and substandard N95 respirator to US buyers in April as the Covid-19 pandemic swept the country.

US sues Chinese firm for selling 'fake' N95 face masks

Watch today in 'WION In Focus': Some stories related to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

WION In Focus: Some stories related to coronavirus pandemic | COVID-19 | Coronavirus News

President Jair Bolsonaro threatened on Friday to pull Brazil out of the World Health Organization after the U.N. agency warned Latin American governments about the risk of lifting lockdowns before slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus throughout the region.

Bolsonaro threatens to sever ties with WHO as COVID-19 kills 'a Brazilian per minute'

WION In Focus: Some stories related to coronavirus pandemic

The total number of global coronavirus has increased to over 6.6 million, while the death toll has topped 390,000, according to Johns Hopkins University.

As of Friday morning, the overall number of cases stood at &nbsp;6,639,228, while the death toll increased to 391,261, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

The deadly coronavirus, which emerged about five months ago, has sickened more than 1.8 million people and killed at least 107,175 in the United States, according to Hopkins data.&nbsp;

While cases are slowing in hot spots such as New York state, cases are on the rise in places like Florida, Texas and Arizona that removed shelter-in-place orders much earlier.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The total number of global coronavirus has increased to over 6.6 million, while the death toll has topped 390,000, according to Johns Hopkins University. As of Friday morning, the overall number of cases stood at 6,639,228, while the death toll increased to 391,261, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

The total number of global coronavirus has increased to over 6.6 million, while the death toll has topped 390,000, according to Johns Hopkins University. As of Friday morning, the overall number of cases stood at 6,639,228, while the death toll increased to 391,261, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. The deadly coronavirus, which emerged about five months ago, has sickened more than 1.8 million people and killed at least 107,175 in the United States, according to Hopkins data. While cases are slowing in hot spots such as New York state, cases are on the rise in places like Florida, Texas and Arizona that removed shelter-in-place orders much earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases top 6.6 million, death toll soars past 390,000

Nearly 60 per cent of Canadians do not have confidence in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s abilities to prevent a deepening economic crisis amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, an Angus Reid poll revealed. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-still-in-the-emergency-phase-justin-trudeau-297706">Also read: We are still in the emergency phase, says Justin Trudeau</a> 
 
"Many Canadians express doubt about Trudeau’s ability to prevent worsening economic conditions. Asked how much confidence they have in Trudeau to prevent a deepening economic crisis, just over one-in-three (36 per cent) say that they feel confident with him in charge, while 58 per cent are not confident," Angus Reid said on Thursday.

The poll, however, found that a slight majority of Canadians - 52 per cent - entrust Trudeau to prevent more COVID-19-related fatalities.

Besides, Canadians are split regarding the worsening economic conditions versus health risks as 51 per cent of respondents said that they are concerned about the health risks amid the ongoing pandemic, while 49 per cent are vexed about the state of the economy in the coming months.

The novel coronavirus pandemic has had a profound effect on the Canadian economy with nearly a quarter of the labour force employed in February having had their income streams substantially affected and the unemployment rate rising to 13 per cent, according to the federal statistics agency.

Additionally, Statistics Canada announced earlier this week that the Canadian economy contracted by 8.2 per cent in the first quarter of 2020 in their Gross Domestic Product, Income and Expenditure First Quarter Report.

Nearly 60 per cent of Canadians do not have confidence in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s abilities to prevent a deepening economic crisis amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, an Angus Reid poll revealed.

Nearly 60 per cent of Canadians do not have confidence in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s abilities to prevent a deepening economic crisis amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, an Angus Reid poll revealed. Also read: We are still in the emergency phase, says Justin Trudeau "Many Canadians express doubt about Trudeau’s ability to prevent worsening economic conditions. Asked how much confidence they have in Trudeau to prevent a deepening economic crisis, just over one-in-three (36 per cent) say that they feel confident with him in charge, while 58 per cent are not confident," Angus Reid said on Thursday. The poll, however, found that a slight majority of Canadians - 52 per cent - entrust Trudeau to prevent more COVID-19-related fatalities. Besides, Canadians are split regarding the worsening economic conditions versus health risks as 51 per cent of respondents said that they are concerned about the health risks amid the ongoing pandemic, while 49 per cent are vexed about the state of the economy in the coming months. The novel coronavirus pandemic has had a profound effect on the Canadian economy with nearly a quarter of the labour force employed in February having had their income streams substantially affected and the unemployment rate rising to 13 per cent, according to the federal statistics agency. Additionally, Statistics Canada announced earlier this week that the Canadian economy contracted by 8.2 per cent in the first quarter of 2020 in their Gross Domestic Product, Income and Expenditure First Quarter Report.

Nearly 60% of Canadians do not have confidence in Trudeau to prevent economic crisis: Poll

With more than half a million COVID-19 cases, Brazil ranks second in the world with the number of infected people behind the United States.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-yet-again-reports-record-number-of-coronavirus-deaths-303086">Also read: Brazil yet again reports record number of coronavirus deaths</a> 
 
The number of people, who have died of COVID-19 in Brazil, has increased by record 1,473 to 34,021 within the past 24 hours, the national Health Ministry said on late Thursday.

Within the same period, the number of confirmed cases has risen by 30,925 to 614,941.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-coronavirus-more-than-6500000-cases-worldwide-303435/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A day earlier, Brazil reported about 28,633 new cases of the coronavirus disease and 1,349 new fatalities.

President Jair Bolsonaro has fiercely criticized coronavirus stay-at-home measures, even as the number of infections and deaths continues to soar.

The far-right leader has urged businesses to wage “war” on state governors who order business closures, arguing they are needlessly hurting Latin America’s biggest economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

With more than half a million COVID-19 cases, Brazil ranks second in the world with the number of infected people behind the United States. Also read: Brazil yet again reports record number of coronavirus deaths The number of people, who have died of COVID-19 in Brazil, has increased by record 1,473 to 34,021 within the past 24 hours, the national Health Ministry said on late Thursday.

With more than half a million COVID-19 cases, Brazil ranks second in the world with the number of infected people behind the United States. Also read: Brazil yet again reports record number of coronavirus deaths The number of people, who have died of COVID-19 in Brazil, has increased by record 1,473 to 34,021 within the past 24 hours, the national Health Ministry said on late Thursday. Within the same period, the number of confirmed cases has risen by 30,925 to 614,941. A day earlier, Brazil reported about 28,633 new cases of the coronavirus disease and 1,349 new fatalities. President Jair Bolsonaro has fiercely criticized coronavirus stay-at-home measures, even as the number of infections and deaths continues to soar. The far-right leader has urged businesses to wage “war” on state governors who order business closures, arguing they are needlessly hurting Latin America’s biggest economy. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil cases surge past 600,000 as country's death toll passes Italy

Russia has registered 8,726 COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours (8,831 yesterday), bringing the total count to 449,834, the national coronavirus response centre said on Friday.

"Over the past 24 hours, Russia has confirmed 8,726 COVID-19 cases in 85 regions, of which 3,235 (37.1 per cent) have been detected actively, with people showing no clinical symptoms," the response centre said in a statement.

Russia has so far recorded 449,834 COVID-19 cases in 85 regions (+2 per cent), the centre added.

Of all the new cases, 1,855 have been registered in Moscow, 762 in the Moscow region and 378 in St. Petersburg (compared to yesterday's 1,998, 767 and 375, respectively). Moscow's daily increase is below 2,000 for already three days in a row.

The country's COVID-19 death toll has grown by 144 (169 yesterday) to 5,528.

As many as 8,057 COVID-19 patients have recovered across the country (8,666 yesterday), bringing the total number of cured people to 212,680.

Over 12 million tests to detect COVID-19 have been conducted in the country since the beginning of the outbreak, and 317,000 suspected virus carriers across Russia remain under medical monitoring, Russian public health watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, said.

Russia has registered 8,726 COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours (8,831 yesterday), bringing the total count to 449,834, the national coronavirus response centre said on Friday.

Russia has registered 8,726 COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours (8,831 yesterday), bringing the total count to 449,834, the national coronavirus response centre said on Friday. "Over the past 24 hours, Russia has confirmed 8,726 COVID-19 cases in 85 regions, of which 3,235 (37.1 per cent) have been detected actively, with people showing no clinical symptoms," the response centre said in a statement. Russia has so far recorded 449,834 COVID-19 cases in 85 regions (+2 per cent), the centre added. Of all the new cases, 1,855 have been registered in Moscow, 762 in the Moscow region and 378 in St. Petersburg (compared to yesterday's 1,998, 767 and 375, respectively). Moscow's daily increase is below 2,000 for already three days in a row. The country's COVID-19 death toll has grown by 144 (169 yesterday) to 5,528. As many as 8,057 COVID-19 patients have recovered across the country (8,666 yesterday), bringing the total number of cured people to 212,680. Over 12 million tests to detect COVID-19 have been conducted in the country since the beginning of the outbreak, and 317,000 suspected virus carriers across Russia remain under medical monitoring, Russian public health watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, said.

Russia registers 8,726 COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours:  Response Centre

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Africa has reached 168,464, and at least 4,700 people have died, statistics from the World Health Organization's (WHO) office for the African Region showed on Friday.

"Over 168,464 confirmed #COVID19 cases on the African continent - with more than 73,000 recoveries &amp; 4,700 deaths," the office wrote on Twitter.

Most cases in the region were detected in South Africa with 40,792, Egypt with 28,615 and Nigeria with 11,516. Egypt, South Africa and Algeria account for the highest number of related fatalities with 1,088, 848 and 681 deaths, respectively.

In May, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that Africa was the least affected region in the world in terms of COVID-19 cases and deaths, noting that the continent had 1.5 per cent of the world's reported infections and less than 0.1 per cent of the global deaths from the infection.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Africa has reached 168,464, and at least 4,700 people have died, statistics from the World Health Organization's (WHO) office for the African Region showed on Friday.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Africa has reached 168,464, and at least 4,700 people have died, statistics from the World Health Organization's (WHO) office for the African Region showed on Friday. "Over 168,464 confirmed #COVID19 cases on the African continent - with more than 73,000 recoveries & 4,700 deaths," the office wrote on Twitter. Most cases in the region were detected in South Africa with 40,792, Egypt with 28,615 and Nigeria with 11,516. Egypt, South Africa and Algeria account for the highest number of related fatalities with 1,088, 848 and 681 deaths, respectively. In May, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that Africa was the least affected region in the world in terms of COVID-19 cases and deaths, noting that the continent had 1.5 per cent of the world's reported infections and less than 0.1 per cent of the global deaths from the infection.

Africa's Covid-19 tally exceeds 168,000 cases, deaths reach 4,700: WHO

The anti-China sentiment is growing stronger in the midst of coronavirus pandemic. The impact of this sentiment is now evident in technology too.

Recently, a new smartphone application called “Remove China Apps” surfaced on the Google Play Store.This is a tool to delete all Chinese apps from your phone.

Its developers say it’s for “educational purposes only”, but the app is a byproduct of the global outcry against China. Many countries have now started calling for decreasing their dependence on China, and Chinese products.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boycottchina-trend-gains-traction-302740/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India too, has followed suit with this application, alongside Prime Minister’s calls for a self-reliant India. The border standoff with China in Ladakh is also adding to the anti-China sentiment in the country.&nbsp;From Chinese food to Chinese goods, Indians are now boycotting all things China.

The hashtag #BoycottChina on Twitter now features thousands of posts advocating a complete boycott of Chinese products.

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Chalo China ko haraye.. 
"Sena Degi Bullet se, Aap Dijiye Wallet se"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottMadeInChina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottMadeInChina</a> 
 
All Software in a Week. 
All Hardware in a Year. 
 
"Beginning Today."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottChina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottChina</a> <a href="https://t.co/KmTnfQarvf">pic.twitter.com/KmTnfQarvf</a>
— Krishna Yadav (@Krish206Yadav) <a href="https://twitter.com/Krish206Yadav/status/1266738645886738432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This user posted a lengthy guide, detailing every major Chinese consumer company.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BanTikTokInIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BanTikTokInIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottChina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottChina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottChineseProducts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottChineseProducts</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottMadeInChina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottMadeInChina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottChineseApp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottChineseApp</a> 
 
Use alt. app and promote indian products. 
🧡 
🤍 
💚 🇮🇳 🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/UwviPuroIG">pic.twitter.com/UwviPuroIG</a>
— 𝐌𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 ツ (@Soulful_banda) <a href="https://twitter.com/Soulful_banda/status/1267500462305091590?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This one went a step further. Apart from naming specific Chinese applications, the user even suggested alternatives.

Even Indian film stars have hopped on the trend.

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I am consciously going to stop using everything that is Chinese. As they are a part of most of the things we use, it will take time but I know, one day I’ll be Chinese free. You should try it too ...
— Arshad Warsi (@ArshadWarsi) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArshadWarsi/status/1266660927354494977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Actor Arshad Warsi wrote that he is “consciously going to stop using everything that is Chinese”. He wants his followers to try this too.

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Bilkul. Beshaq. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottChina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottChina</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CKMKB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CKMKB</a>
— Ranvir Shorey (@RanvirShorey) <a href="https://twitter.com/RanvirShorey/status/1266452559734009856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ranvir Shorey was more direct.&nbsp;“Absolutely. Without a doubt” he wrote in Hindi on twitter.

The #BoycottChina campaign only represents the growing public anger against Beijing.

Chinese diplomats tried to counter the angst with social media posts of their own.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EidMubarak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EidMubarak</a> to you all! May this Eid bring joy and love to you and your loved ones. Stay healthy, stay safe! <a href="https://t.co/0UB6kIW7uh">pic.twitter.com/0UB6kIW7uh</a>
— Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1264743944610410496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Chinese ambassador to India has tweeted festive greetings to Indians.

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Heartfelt blessings from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chinese?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chinese</a> students &amp; scholars who used to study in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. They wish all their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> teachers &amp; friends staying healthy &amp; safe, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> join hands &amp; win this battle against epidemic together at an early date. Jai <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> people! <a href="https://t.co/EOLsmMwjcY">pic.twitter.com/EOLsmMwjcY</a>
— Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1263725710192959488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He even shared messages in Hindi from Chinese scholars.

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Glad to share Jackie Chan <a href="https://twitter.com/EyeOfJackieChan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EyeOfJackieChan</a>, famous Chinese movie star's good wishes &amp; support to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. Jia You Yindu! Come on India! Fight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. <a href="https://t.co/l3XJkJRwoO">pic.twitter.com/l3XJkJRwoO</a>
— Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1262607020294733827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Chinese even roped in Jackie Chan to win Indian hearts.

However, it is proving hard to simmer the public anger against China for negligence in the early stages of coronavirus pandemic.

The anti-China sentiment is growing stronger in the midst of coronavirus pandemic. The impact of this sentiment is now evident in technology too. Recently, a new smartphone application called “Remove China Apps” surfaced on the Google Play Store.

The anti-China sentiment is growing stronger in the midst of coronavirus pandemic. The impact of this sentiment is now evident in technology too. Recently, a new smartphone application called “Remove China Apps” surfaced on the Google Play Store.This is a tool to delete all Chinese apps from your phone. Its developers say it’s for “educational purposes only”, but the app is a byproduct of the global outcry against China. Many countries have now started calling for decreasing their dependence on China, and Chinese products. India too, has followed suit with this application, alongside Prime Minister’s calls for a self-reliant India. The border standoff with China in Ladakh is also adding to the anti-China sentiment in the country. From Chinese food to Chinese goods, Indians are now boycotting all things China. The hashtag #BoycottChina on Twitter now features thousands of posts advocating a complete boycott of Chinese products. Chalo China ko haraye.. "Sena Degi Bullet se, Aap Dijiye Wallet se"#BoycottMadeInChina All Software in a Week. All Hardware in a Year. "Beginning Today."#BoycottChina pic.twitter.com/KmTnfQarvf — Krishna Yadav (@Krish206Yadav) May 30, 2020 × This user posted a lengthy guide, detailing every major Chinese consumer company. #BanTikTokInIndia #BoycottChina #BoycottChineseProducts #BoycottMadeInChina #BoycottChineseApp Use alt. app and promote indian products. 🧡 🤍 💚 🇮🇳 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/UwviPuroIG — 𝐌𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 ツ (@Soulful_banda) June 1, 2020 × This one went a step further. Apart from naming specific Chinese applications, the user even suggested alternatives. Even Indian film stars have hopped on the trend. I am consciously going to stop using everything that is Chinese. As they are a part of most of the things we use, it will take time but I know, one day I’ll be Chinese free. You should try it too ... — Arshad Warsi (@ArshadWarsi) May 30, 2020 × Actor Arshad Warsi wrote that he is “consciously going to stop using everything that is Chinese”. He wants his followers to try this too. Bilkul. Beshaq. #BoycottChina. #CKMKB — Ranvir Shorey (@RanvirShorey) May 29, 2020 × Ranvir Shorey was more direct. “Absolutely. Without a doubt” he wrote in Hindi on twitter. The #BoycottChina campaign only represents the growing public anger against Beijing. Chinese diplomats tried to counter the angst with social media posts of their own. #EidMubarak to you all! May this Eid bring joy and love to you and your loved ones. Stay healthy, stay safe! pic.twitter.com/0UB6kIW7uh — Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) May 25, 2020 × The Chinese ambassador to India has tweeted festive greetings to Indians. Heartfelt blessings from #Chinese students & scholars who used to study in #India. They wish all their #Indian teachers & friends staying healthy & safe, #China & #India join hands & win this battle against epidemic together at an early date. Jai #Indian people! pic.twitter.com/EOLsmMwjcY — Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) May 22, 2020 × He even shared messages in Hindi from Chinese scholars. Glad to share Jackie Chan @EyeOfJackieChan, famous Chinese movie star's good wishes & support to #India. Jia You Yindu! Come on India! Fight #COVID19. pic.twitter.com/l3XJkJRwoO — Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) May 19, 2020 × The Chinese even roped in Jackie Chan to win Indian hearts. However, it is proving hard to simmer the public anger against China for negligence in the early stages of coronavirus pandemic.

'Remove China Apps': Tool to delete Chinese apps from phone goes viral in India

Coronavirus cases have crossed 6.5 million mark worldwide, taking positive patients toll to &nbsp;6,513,301 with 386,091 deaths while &nbsp;2,808,183 have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University's report.

United States, Spain, Russia, India, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day.

The US has the highest number of confirmed cases and deaths. It recorded 107,148 deaths and 1,851,530 cases so far. In the US, New York alone counted 30,019 deaths till date.

Meanwhile, WHO on Wednesday resumed the trial of hydroxychloroquine after a temporary halt of research over safety concerns.

"Based on available data, the COVID-19 Solidarity Trial Data Safety and Monitoring Committee recommended there are no reasons to modify the trial protocol. The Executive Group endorsed the continuation of all arms of the trial, including the use of hydroxychloroquine," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus tweeted.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of the new coronavirus a pandemic on March 11.

(With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus cases have crossed 6.5 million mark worldwide, taking positive patients toll to 6,513,301 with 386,091 deaths while 2,808,183 have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University's report.

Coronavirus cases have crossed 6.5 million mark worldwide, taking positive patients toll to 6,513,301 with 386,091 deaths while 2,808,183 have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University's report. United States, Spain, Russia, India, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day. The US has the highest number of confirmed cases and deaths. It recorded 107,148 deaths and 1,851,530 cases so far. In the US, New York alone counted 30,019 deaths till date. Meanwhile, WHO on Wednesday resumed the trial of hydroxychloroquine after a temporary halt of research over safety concerns. "Based on available data, the COVID-19 Solidarity Trial Data Safety and Monitoring Committee recommended there are no reasons to modify the trial protocol. The Executive Group endorsed the continuation of all arms of the trial, including the use of hydroxychloroquine," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus tweeted. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of the new coronavirus a pandemic on March 11. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus cases worldwide cross 6.5 million mark; death toll at 386,091

A new&nbsp;report has exposed China’s criminal negligence in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic which has killed 3,77,404 people globally with over 6&nbsp;million infections.

The Associated Press obtained internal recordings of the World Health Organization (WHO) featuring officials who led the organisation’s immediate response to COVID-19. The recordings are from the early days of the outbreak in China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/coronavirus-epidemic-hasnt-become-less-pathogenic-warns-who-302475" hreflang="en">Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO</a>

Maria Van Kerkhove, an epidemiologist, and the organisation’s technical lead for COVID-19 during one of the internal meetings of the organisation said,”We are going on very minimal information. It is clearly not enough for you to do proper planning.” This statement is believed to have been made in early January, which was a critical phase for the escalation of the virus.

“We are currently at the stage where yes, they are giving it to us 15 minutes before it appears on CCTV”, said Dr Gauden Galea, the WHO’s top official in China, while&nbsp;referring to CCTV, China’s state broadcaster.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-whos-internal-documents-reveal-chinas-cover-up-302741/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

These internal recordings suggest that China wasn’t sharing the complete information about the virus, and when the information came, its flow was very slow. Additionally, it points towards an internal debate within the WHO about China and dealing with the pandemic. 
 
"Shift gears"

AP's&nbsp;report indicates&nbsp;that in the second week of January, WHO’s chief of emergencies, Dr Michael Ryan stepped in. He has been often seen fronting press conferences alongside the WHO Director general, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Dr Michael Ryan can be heard saying it was time to “shift gears” and to apply “more pressure on China".

“This is exactly the same scenario, endlessly trying to get updates from china about what was going on”, Dr Ryan said while referring to the 2002 SARS outbreak which killed 800 people globally.

“The WHO Barely got out of that one with its neck intact given the issues that arose around transparency in southern China”, he said.

Reportedly, Dr Ryan made the statement in the second week of January. A few weeks later, Dr Tedros travelled to Beijing and met President Xi Jinping.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/eu-urges-trump-to-rethink-decision-to-cut-ties-with-who-302043" hreflang="en">EU urges Trump to rethink decision to cut ties with WHO</a>

And when he returned, Dr Tedros said that he was “impressed” with Xi Jinping’s response.

The tapes suggest that his team was raising concerns regarding China withholding information.

The AP Report says that the WHO was trying to coax more information from China, by lauding them in public.

However, this negligence led to infection spreading across the world over 180 countries.

The WHO has shrugged off any charges of lapses, and claimed they don’t want to get involved in politics.

A new report has exposed China’s criminal negligence in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic which has killed 3,77,404 people globally with over 6 million infections.

A new report has exposed China’s criminal negligence in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic which has killed 3,77,404 people globally with over 6 million infections. The Associated Press obtained internal recordings of the World Health Organization (WHO) featuring officials who led the organisation’s immediate response to COVID-19. The recordings are from the early days of the outbreak in China. Also read: Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO Maria Van Kerkhove, an epidemiologist, and the organisation’s technical lead for COVID-19 during one of the internal meetings of the organisation said,”We are going on very minimal information. It is clearly not enough for you to do proper planning.” This statement is believed to have been made in early January, which was a critical phase for the escalation of the virus. “We are currently at the stage where yes, they are giving it to us 15 minutes before it appears on CCTV”, said Dr Gauden Galea, the WHO’s top official in China, while referring to CCTV, China’s state broadcaster. These internal recordings suggest that China wasn’t sharing the complete information about the virus, and when the information came, its flow was very slow. Additionally, it points towards an internal debate within the WHO about China and dealing with the pandemic. "Shift gears" AP's report indicates that in the second week of January, WHO’s chief of emergencies, Dr Michael Ryan stepped in. He has been often seen fronting press conferences alongside the WHO Director general, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Dr Michael Ryan can be heard saying it was time to “shift gears” and to apply “more pressure on China". “This is exactly the same scenario, endlessly trying to get updates from china about what was going on”, Dr Ryan said while referring to the 2002 SARS outbreak which killed 800 people globally. “The WHO Barely got out of that one with its neck intact given the issues that arose around transparency in southern China”, he said. Reportedly, Dr Ryan made the statement in the second week of January. A few weeks later, Dr Tedros travelled to Beijing and met President Xi Jinping. Also read: EU urges Trump to rethink decision to cut ties with WHO And when he returned, Dr Tedros said that he was “impressed” with Xi Jinping’s response. The tapes suggest that his team was raising concerns regarding China withholding information. The AP Report says that the WHO was trying to coax more information from China, by lauding them in public. However, this negligence led to infection spreading across the world over 180 countries. The WHO has shrugged off any charges of lapses, and claimed they don’t want to get involved in politics.

Report reveals collective negligence by China and WHO in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic further hit Germany's labour market in May as companies continued to slash thousands of jobs and put millions of employees on reduced working hours, data showed on Wednesday.

The bleak figures, published by the Labour Office, came as Chancellor Angela Merkel's ruling coalition wrestled over the final details of a stimulus package to help firms and employees in Europe's largest economy recover quickly from the crisis.

The number of people out of work in May rose by 238,000 to 2.875 million in seasonally adjusted terms, the data showed. A Reuters poll had predicted a rise of 200,000.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-panning-use-of-hydroxychloroquine-against-coronavirus-faces-new-questions-302785" hreflang="en">Study panning use of hydroxychloroquine against coronavirus faces new questions</a>

The unemployment rate jumped to 6.3% from 5.8% in April.&nbsp;

"The labour market remains under immense pressure due to the coronavirus pandemic," Labour Office head Detlef Scheele said. But he added that unemployment did not rise as much as in April.

Companies logged requests to put 1.06 million people on reduced working hours under the government's Kurzarbeit short-time working scheme from May 1 to May 27, the office said.

That was in addition to requests for 10.66 million people made in March and April combined, the labour office said, adding that this did not, however, mean that all of those people would actually end up on the scheme.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-global-coronavirus-tally-nears-62-million-with-most-number-of-cases-in-us-302751" hreflang="en">WHO says global coronavirus tally nears 6.2 million with most number of cases in US</a>

"Short-time work has clearly exceeded the level of the 2009 crisis," Scheele said. Around 1.5 million people were on the programme back then.

Short-time work is a form of state aid that allows employers to switch employees to shorter working hours during an economic downturn to keep them on the payroll.

A poll by the Ifo economic institute published on Tuesday showed the number of workers in Germany on reduced hours had risen to 7.3 million as the pandemic affects most sectors.

The coronavirus pandemic further hit Germany's labour market in May as companies continued to slash thousands of jobs and put millions of employees on reduced working hours, data showed on Wednesday.

The coronavirus pandemic further hit Germany's labour market in May as companies continued to slash thousands of jobs and put millions of employees on reduced working hours, data showed on Wednesday. The bleak figures, published by the Labour Office, came as Chancellor Angela Merkel's ruling coalition wrestled over the final details of a stimulus package to help firms and employees in Europe's largest economy recover quickly from the crisis. The number of people out of work in May rose by 238,000 to 2.875 million in seasonally adjusted terms, the data showed. A Reuters poll had predicted a rise of 200,000. Also read: Study panning use of hydroxychloroquine against coronavirus faces new questions The unemployment rate jumped to 6.3% from 5.8% in April. "The labour market remains under immense pressure due to the coronavirus pandemic," Labour Office head Detlef Scheele said. But he added that unemployment did not rise as much as in April. Companies logged requests to put 1.06 million people on reduced working hours under the government's Kurzarbeit short-time working scheme from May 1 to May 27, the office said. That was in addition to requests for 10.66 million people made in March and April combined, the labour office said, adding that this did not, however, mean that all of those people would actually end up on the scheme. Also read: WHO says global coronavirus tally nears 6.2 million with most number of cases in US "Short-time work has clearly exceeded the level of the 2009 crisis," Scheele said. Around 1.5 million people were on the programme back then. Short-time work is a form of state aid that allows employers to switch employees to shorter working hours during an economic downturn to keep them on the payroll. A poll by the Ifo economic institute published on Tuesday showed the number of workers in Germany on reduced hours had risen to 7.3 million as the pandemic affects most sectors.

Coronavirus pushes up German unemployment, short-time work

After Pakistan reported 4,131 new cases of deadly coronavirus, the nationwide tally has jumped to 80,463. In the last 24 hours, 67 deaths have been reported, taking the country’s death toll to 1,688.28,923 patients have so far recovered from the virus.

Of the total cases, Sindh has so far detected 31,086 patients of the coronavirus, Punjab 29,489, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 10,897, Balochistan 4,747, Islamabad 3,188, Gilgit-Baltistan 779 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir reported 289 patients of the viral disease.

"In total 67 patients died in the last 24 hours, taking the tally of deaths to 1,688. Another 28,923 people have fully recovered from the disease," the ministry said in a statement.

The authorities have so far carried out 595,344 tests in the country.

The novel coronavirus emerged in the central China city of Wuhan towards the end of last year and proliferated to almost the whole world within a couple of months. It’s not the fatality, but the infectivity of the new virus – also known as SARS-CoV-2 – that has set off a global frenzy. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

After Pakistan reported 4,131 new cases of deadly coronavirus, the nationwide tally has jumped to 80,463. In the last 24 hours, 67 deaths have been reported, taking the country’s death toll to 1,688.

After Pakistan reported 4,131 new cases of deadly coronavirus, the nationwide tally has jumped to 80,463. In the last 24 hours, 67 deaths have been reported, taking the country’s death toll to 1,688.28,923 patients have so far recovered from the virus. Of the total cases, Sindh has so far detected 31,086 patients of the coronavirus, Punjab 29,489, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 10,897, Balochistan 4,747, Islamabad 3,188, Gilgit-Baltistan 779 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir reported 289 patients of the viral disease. "In total 67 patients died in the last 24 hours, taking the tally of deaths to 1,688. Another 28,923 people have fully recovered from the disease," the ministry said in a statement. The authorities have so far carried out 595,344 tests in the country. The novel coronavirus emerged in the central China city of Wuhan towards the end of last year and proliferated to almost the whole world within a couple of months. It’s not the fatality, but the infectivity of the new virus – also known as SARS-CoV-2 – that has set off a global frenzy. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan reports over 4,000 cases in the last 24 hours; nationwide tally reaches to 80,463

Residents and business owners in cities across the United States swept up broken glass, took stock of looted goods and surveyed the damage on Monday after a sixth straight night of violent protests over racial inequities and excessive police force.&nbsp;

Police and fire departments fought into the night to quell the chaos as fires burned near the White House and shops were looted in New York City and Southern California. The National Guard said it had deployed in 23 states and Washington, D.C.

One person was killed in Louisville, Kentucky, overnight where police and National Guard troops returned fire while trying to disperse a crowd.

"It’s devastating and heartbreaking," Alex Flowers, 30, said as she swept broken glass from the sidewalk outside Wasteland, a used-clothing store in Santa Monica, California, early on Monday. "I came to help clean up the city that has been destroyed and help the business owners and employees."

The unrest, which erupted as the country was reopening after lengthy lockdowns to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus, began with peaceful protests over the death of a black man, George Floyd, in police custody in Minneapolis last Monday.

Video footage showed a white police officer kneeling on the neck of Floyd, 46, for nearly nine minutes before he died. Derek Chauvin, the since-fired 44-year-old police officer involved in the incident, has been charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. He was released on $500,000 bail and is due to appear in court on June 8, according to jail records.&nbsp;

Dozens of cities across the United States remain under curfews at a level not seen since riots following the 1968 assassination of civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr.

There was "significant ongoing" civil unrest in 36 U.S. cities, including smaller ones like Fargo, North Dakota, and Roanoke, Virginia, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said on Monday.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc9ce6cc-49a7-4864-bcee-3e5686217daa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_12.jpg" /> 
Protests in NYC | Reuters</h6>

In the U.S. capital, St. John's Episcopal Church, an historic place near the White House where many U.S. presidents have gone to worship, suffered minor damage while the nearby headquarters of the AFL-CIO labor group was vandalized.

"The looting and destruction of property was expansive," Washington, D.C., Police Chief Peter Newsham told reporters, noting that looting had occurred in the Northeast and Northwest quadrants of the district, as well as upscale Georgetown area.&nbsp;

The city's mayor, Muriel Bowser, announced on Monday a curfew would be in place for two days starting at 7 p.m. and lasting until the morning hours.

'NOT HELPING'

White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany told Fox News that Antifa, an anti-fascist group, was "certainly behind" the violence that had erupted in U.S. cities in recent days and that the country needed "law and order."

U.S. President Donald Trump, who on Sunday branded the group a terrorist organization, was due on Monday to meet his top law enforcement officer behind closed doors and then hold a call with governors, law enforcement and national security officials.

Trump has condemned the killing of Floyd and promised justice but has made no major public statement to address the crisis. He has issued a flurry of tweets, describing protesters as "thugs" and urging mayors and governors to "get tough" and threatened to use the U.S. military.

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Critics accuse the Republican president, who is seeking re-election in a Nov. 3 election, of further stoking conflict and racial tension rather than seeking to bring the country together and address the underlying issues.

"He's not helping ... He is not leading, he is causing further disruption," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms told CNN on Monday. Atlanta, Georgia's capital, was among a string of cities where protests turned violent in recent days.

Tensions in Georgia had been rising over the Feb. 23 death of Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old black man who was shot while jogging. The white father-and-son suspects were not arrested until 74 days later.&nbsp;

The deaths of Arbery and Floyd were the latest in a string of similar incidents involving unarmed black men in recent years that has raised an outcry over racism in law enforcement, and reignited outrage across a politically and racially divided country that has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Many cities affected by the unrest are just restarting some normal economic activity after more than two months of stay-at-home orders aimed at stemming the outbreak, which has killed more than 104,000 people and plunged more than 40 million people into joblessness.&nbsp;

Black people account for 6.8% of the population in Minnesota but 29% of coronavirus cases, according to state and federal data.

Residents and business owners in cities across the United States swept up broken glass, took stock of looted goods and surveyed the damage on Monday after a sixth straight night of violent protests over racial inequities and excessive police force.

Residents and business owners in cities across the United States swept up broken glass, took stock of looted goods and surveyed the damage on Monday after a sixth straight night of violent protests over racial inequities and excessive police force. Police and fire departments fought into the night to quell the chaos as fires burned near the White House and shops were looted in New York City and Southern California. The National Guard said it had deployed in 23 states and Washington, D.C. One person was killed in Louisville, Kentucky, overnight where police and National Guard troops returned fire while trying to disperse a crowd. "It’s devastating and heartbreaking," Alex Flowers, 30, said as she swept broken glass from the sidewalk outside Wasteland, a used-clothing store in Santa Monica, California, early on Monday. "I came to help clean up the city that has been destroyed and help the business owners and employees." The unrest, which erupted as the country was reopening after lengthy lockdowns to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus, began with peaceful protests over the death of a black man, George Floyd, in police custody in Minneapolis last Monday. Video footage showed a white police officer kneeling on the neck of Floyd, 46, for nearly nine minutes before he died. Derek Chauvin, the since-fired 44-year-old police officer involved in the incident, has been charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. He was released on $500,000 bail and is due to appear in court on June 8, according to jail records. Dozens of cities across the United States remain under curfews at a level not seen since riots following the 1968 assassination of civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. There was "significant ongoing" civil unrest in 36 U.S. cities, including smaller ones like Fargo, North Dakota, and Roanoke, Virginia, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said on Monday. Protests in NYC | Reuters In the U.S. capital, St. John's Episcopal Church, an historic place near the White House where many U.S. presidents have gone to worship, suffered minor damage while the nearby headquarters of the AFL-CIO labor group was vandalized. "The looting and destruction of property was expansive," Washington, D.C., Police Chief Peter Newsham told reporters, noting that looting had occurred in the Northeast and Northwest quadrants of the district, as well as upscale Georgetown area. The city's mayor, Muriel Bowser, announced on Monday a curfew would be in place for two days starting at 7 p.m. and lasting until the morning hours. 'NOT HELPING' White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany told Fox News that Antifa, an anti-fascist group, was "certainly behind" the violence that had erupted in U.S. cities in recent days and that the country needed "law and order." U.S. President Donald Trump, who on Sunday branded the group a terrorist organization, was due on Monday to meet his top law enforcement officer behind closed doors and then hold a call with governors, law enforcement and national security officials. Trump has condemned the killing of Floyd and promised justice but has made no major public statement to address the crisis. He has issued a flurry of tweets, describing protesters as "thugs" and urging mayors and governors to "get tough" and threatened to use the U.S. military. Critics accuse the Republican president, who is seeking re-election in a Nov. 3 election, of further stoking conflict and racial tension rather than seeking to bring the country together and address the underlying issues. "He's not helping ... He is not leading, he is causing further disruption," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms told CNN on Monday. Atlanta, Georgia's capital, was among a string of cities where protests turned violent in recent days. Tensions in Georgia had been rising over the Feb. 23 death of Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old black man who was shot while jogging. The white father-and-son suspects were not arrested until 74 days later. The deaths of Arbery and Floyd were the latest in a string of similar incidents involving unarmed black men in recent years that has raised an outcry over racism in law enforcement, and reignited outrage across a politically and racially divided country that has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. Many cities affected by the unrest are just restarting some normal economic activity after more than two months of stay-at-home orders aimed at stemming the outbreak, which has killed more than 104,000 people and plunged more than 40 million people into joblessness. Black people account for 6.8% of the population in Minnesota but 29% of coronavirus cases, according to state and federal data.

Tensions rise in US as fires burn near White House amid riots

Parties in German Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition wrestled on Tuesday over final details of a huge stimulus package to aid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, including whether cash incentives to buy new cars should exclude combustion engines.

Senior members of Merkel's conservative CDU/CSU bloc and the co-governing Social Democrats (SPD) planned to negotiate until 11 p.m. (2100 GMT) on Tuesday and resume on Wednesday after a regular? cabinet meeting, a SPD party spokeswoman said. Initially, a final deal was expected on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-overusing-antibiotics-amid-pandemic-says-it-will-lead-to-more-deaths-302706" hreflang="en">WHO warns against overusing antibiotics amid pandemic, says it will lead to more deaths</a>

"It will take a long time and probably will not end today," SPD co-leader Norbert Walter-Borjans told reporters ahead of the talks as he entered the chancellery, adding that one area of contention was help for lower- and mid-income households.

"And there is a big topic that we need to talk about, namely that from our point of view, there cannot be a purchase incentive for cars with combustion engines," he added.

The CDU/CSU is focused more on helping companies and high earners hit hard by the pandemic.

The fiscal stimulus fund, coming on top of an unprecedented 750 billion-euro ($837 billion) rescue package agreed in March, will include measures worth up to 100 billion euros, government and coalition sources have said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-crisis-wuhan-chinas-punk-capital-loses-its-voice-302705" hreflang="en">Coronavirus crisis: Wuhan, China's punk capital loses its voice</a>

The package is meant to help companies and employees rebound more quickly from a pandemic that is expected to plunge Europe's largest economy into its deepest recession since World War Two.

SPD Finance Minister Olaf Scholz wants the stimulus measures to be "timely, targeted, temporary and transformative".

Among the proposals on the table are cash handouts for families to boost consumption, extra relief for municipalities struggling with lower tax receipts, and further funds for companies with fewer than 250 employees.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-reveals-collective-negligence-by-china-and-who-in-dealing-with-the-coronavirus-pandemic-302695" hreflang="en">Report reveals collective negligence by China and WHO in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic</a>

Economy Minister Peter Altmaier, of the CDU, said the package could encompass a one-off splurge of 5 billion euros for families with children. He also hoped the deal would include measures to foster more digitisation.&nbsp;

However, he added that "some things may not be completely settled tomorrow...We will take things step by step."

Parties in German Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition wrestled on Tuesday over final details of a huge stimulus package to aid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, including whether cash incentives to buy new cars should exclude combustion engines.

Parties in German Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition wrestled on Tuesday over final details of a huge stimulus package to aid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, including whether cash incentives to buy new cars should exclude combustion engines. Senior members of Merkel's conservative CDU/CSU bloc and the co-governing Social Democrats (SPD) planned to negotiate until 11 p.m. (2100 GMT) on Tuesday and resume on Wednesday after a regular? cabinet meeting, a SPD party spokeswoman said. Initially, a final deal was expected on Tuesday. Also read: WHO warns against overusing antibiotics amid pandemic, says it will lead to more deaths "It will take a long time and probably will not end today," SPD co-leader Norbert Walter-Borjans told reporters ahead of the talks as he entered the chancellery, adding that one area of contention was help for lower- and mid-income households. "And there is a big topic that we need to talk about, namely that from our point of view, there cannot be a purchase incentive for cars with combustion engines," he added. The CDU/CSU is focused more on helping companies and high earners hit hard by the pandemic. The fiscal stimulus fund, coming on top of an unprecedented 750 billion-euro ($837 billion) rescue package agreed in March, will include measures worth up to 100 billion euros, government and coalition sources have said. Also read: Coronavirus crisis: Wuhan, China's punk capital loses its voice The package is meant to help companies and employees rebound more quickly from a pandemic that is expected to plunge Europe's largest economy into its deepest recession since World War Two. SPD Finance Minister Olaf Scholz wants the stimulus measures to be "timely, targeted, temporary and transformative". Among the proposals on the table are cash handouts for families to boost consumption, extra relief for municipalities struggling with lower tax receipts, and further funds for companies with fewer than 250 employees. Also read: Report reveals collective negligence by China and WHO in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic Economy Minister Peter Altmaier, of the CDU, said the package could encompass a one-off splurge of 5 billion euros for families with children. He also hoped the deal would include measures to foster more digitisation. However, he added that "some things may not be completely settled tomorrow...We will take things step by step."

German coalition parties put off decision on coronavirus stimulus package

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours.

The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data. 
 
<img alt="Coronavirus cases in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0bc3248-e395-4d89-bcb5-5175bc1cf057" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0206_UPDATED_LINE_GRAPH_INDIA_COVID.jpg" />

<img alt="Coronavirus cases in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="697b4fbf-1399-4be1-bd64-d1a4e4e8619d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0206_UPDATED_MAP_GFX.jpg" /> 
 
As per the latest government guidelines, religious places and places of worship for the public; hotels, restaurants and other hospitality services; and shopping malls; will be opened from June 8 across the country.

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data.

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data. As per the latest government guidelines, religious places and places of worship for the public; hotels, restaurants and other hospitality services; and shopping malls; will be opened from June 8 across the country.

COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against increasing usage of antibiotics against coronavirus. The organisation further added that its usage will lead to more deaths during and after the pandemic the ends.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus suggested&nbsp;that a lot of medicines that were used traditionally to treat bacterial infections are no longer working.

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The organisation fears that this trend will increase. “The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increased use of antibiotics, which ultimately will lead to higher bacterial resistance rates that will impact the burden of disease and deaths during the pandemic and beyond,” Tedros said in a press conference, while adding that not all coronavirus patients require antibiotics to fight the infection.

The health body also released a new set of guidelines in dealing with antibiotics. According to the release, the organisations suggests against using “antibiotic therapy or prophylaxis” on COVID-19 patients.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-wuhan-finds-no-new-covid-19-cases-in-city-wide-testing-302610" hreflang="en">China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing</a>

Ghebreyesus also referred to antimicrobial resistance as “one of the most urgent challenges of our time”. He additionally said, “It’s clear that the world is losing its ability to use critically important antimicrobial medicines”.

He also addressed the disproportionate access to such medicines, while saying that some continues were overusing antibiotics while many had very limited access to the drugs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-reveals-collective-negligence-by-china-and-who-in-dealing-with-the-coronavirus-pandemic-302695" hreflang="en">Report reveals collective negligence by China and WHO in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic</a>

A new&nbsp;report has exposed China’s criminal negligence in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic which has killed 3,77,404 people globally with over 6&nbsp;million infections.

The Associated Press obtained internal recordings of the World Health Organization (WHO) featuring officials who led the organisation’s immediate response to COVID-19. The recordings are from the early days of the outbreak in China.

The AP Report says that the WHO was trying to coax more information from China, by lauding them in public.

However, this negligence led to infection spreading across the world over 180 countries.

The WHO has shrugged off any charges of lapses, and claimed they don’t want to get involved in politics.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against increasing usage of antibiotics against coronavirus. The organisation further added that its usage will lead to more deaths during and after the pandemic the ends.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against increasing usage of antibiotics against coronavirus. The organisation further added that its usage will lead to more deaths during and after the pandemic the ends. WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus suggested that a lot of medicines that were used traditionally to treat bacterial infections are no longer working. Also read: Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO The organisation fears that this trend will increase. “The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increased use of antibiotics, which ultimately will lead to higher bacterial resistance rates that will impact the burden of disease and deaths during the pandemic and beyond,” Tedros said in a press conference, while adding that not all coronavirus patients require antibiotics to fight the infection. The health body also released a new set of guidelines in dealing with antibiotics. According to the release, the organisations suggests against using “antibiotic therapy or prophylaxis” on COVID-19 patients. Also read: China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing Ghebreyesus also referred to antimicrobial resistance as “one of the most urgent challenges of our time”. He additionally said, “It’s clear that the world is losing its ability to use critically important antimicrobial medicines”. He also addressed the disproportionate access to such medicines, while saying that some continues were overusing antibiotics while many had very limited access to the drugs. Also read: Report reveals collective negligence by China and WHO in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic A new report has exposed China’s criminal negligence in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic which has killed 3,77,404 people globally with over 6 million infections. The Associated Press obtained internal recordings of the World Health Organization (WHO) featuring officials who led the organisation’s immediate response to COVID-19. The recordings are from the early days of the outbreak in China. The AP Report says that the WHO was trying to coax more information from China, by lauding them in public. However, this negligence led to infection spreading across the world over 180 countries. The WHO has shrugged off any charges of lapses, and claimed they don’t want to get involved in politics.

WHO warns against overusing antibiotics amid pandemic, says it will lead to more deaths

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years.

WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high.

WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19.

WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely.

WION: Any plans for repatriation? 
 
Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years. WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high. WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19. WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely. WION: Any plans for repatriation? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

Amid Covid- 19 crisis, life in Pyongyang normal says India's envoy to North Korea

Suspected and confirmed cases of deaths from the coronavirus outbreak in Britain have risen to 48,000, according to official data published Tuesday. 
 
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures tallied all fatalities in which COVID-19 was suspected or mentioned on death certificates up to May 22.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-wuhan-finds-no-new-covid-19-cases-in-city-wide-testing-302610" hreflang="en">China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing</a> 
 
Its figure is significantly higher than the government's latest daily figure of 39,045, which only includes deaths after confirmation of a positive test. 
 
By either measure, the toll is Europe's worst and puts Britain behind only the United States in officially announced deaths, although each country has different reporting lags and methods.&nbsp; 
 
The data also showed there had been 56,308 more deaths in England and Wales than the five-year average since the outbreak took hold in March. 
 
But in the week ending May 22, there were 2,589 mentions of "novel coronavirus" on death certificates in England and Wales -- the lowest since the seven days to March 27. 
 
Britain is one of the last European countries to start easing its stay-at-home restrictions, which were imposed on March 23.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-cases-worldwide-cross-63-million-mark-death-toll-at-377404-302595" hreflang="en">Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404</a> 
 
Some younger children returned to school in England on Monday while some shops were allowed to reopen. 
 
But most stores are closed and restaurants and cafes can only provide take out and delivery service. 
 
Non-essential retail will resume on June 15 if the virus remains contained, according to the government's plan. 
 
The government maintains it is in a position to lift restrictions as infection rates are falling but critics fear it is still too soon, and could trigger a second wave of cases. 
 
The devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are easing restrictions more slowly, and schools remain shut.

Suspected and confirmed cases of deaths from the coronavirus outbreak in Britain have risen to 48,000, according to official data published Tuesday. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures tallied all fatalities in which COVID-19 was suspected or mentioned on death certificates up to May 22.

Suspected and confirmed cases of deaths from the coronavirus outbreak in Britain have risen to 48,000, according to official data published Tuesday. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures tallied all fatalities in which COVID-19 was suspected or mentioned on death certificates up to May 22. Also read: China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing Its figure is significantly higher than the government's latest daily figure of 39,045, which only includes deaths after confirmation of a positive test. By either measure, the toll is Europe's worst and puts Britain behind only the United States in officially announced deaths, although each country has different reporting lags and methods. The data also showed there had been 56,308 more deaths in England and Wales than the five-year average since the outbreak took hold in March. But in the week ending May 22, there were 2,589 mentions of "novel coronavirus" on death certificates in England and Wales -- the lowest since the seven days to March 27. Britain is one of the last European countries to start easing its stay-at-home restrictions, which were imposed on March 23. Also read: Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404 Some younger children returned to school in England on Monday while some shops were allowed to reopen. But most stores are closed and restaurants and cafes can only provide take out and delivery service. Non-essential retail will resume on June 15 if the virus remains contained, according to the government's plan. The government maintains it is in a position to lift restrictions as infection rates are falling but critics fear it is still too soon, and could trigger a second wave of cases. The devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are easing restrictions more slowly, and schools remain shut.

UK says virus-related deaths rise to 48,000

Indonesia has cancelled the haj pilgrimage this year for people in the world's largest Muslim-majority nation due to concerns over the coronavirus, the religious affairs minister said on Tuesday.

Each year hundreds of thousands of Indonesians go on the haj to Saudi Arabia, where Islam's two holiest sites -- Mecca and Medina -- are located. For many Indonesians, the religious pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime event, with the average wait time 20 years due to a quota system, according to the country's cabinet secretariat.

Saudi authorities have already said the haj and umrah pilgrimages -- which attract millions of travellers from around the world -- will remain suspended until further notice.

Fachrul Razi, Indonesia's religious affairs minister, said the decision to cancel hajj this year was made due to concerns over the coronavirus and ongoing travel restrictions.

The quota for Indonesian pilgrims this year was 221,000, with more than 90 per cent already registered to go, according to the religious affairs ministry website.

Dewi, an employee of a telecommunications company in Jakarta and registered to perform the pilgrimage this year, told Reuters that while she had waited six years, she had made peace with the news.

"If that is the decision, I will accept it," said Dewi, who did not want to give her full name. "After all, I believe that everything happens with God's permission."&nbsp;

Indonesia has cancelled the haj pilgrimage this year for people in the world's largest Muslim-majority nation due to concerns over the coronavirus, the religious affairs minister said on Tuesday.

Indonesia has cancelled the haj pilgrimage this year for people in the world's largest Muslim-majority nation due to concerns over the coronavirus, the religious affairs minister said on Tuesday. Each year hundreds of thousands of Indonesians go on the haj to Saudi Arabia, where Islam's two holiest sites -- Mecca and Medina -- are located. For many Indonesians, the religious pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime event, with the average wait time 20 years due to a quota system, according to the country's cabinet secretariat. Saudi authorities have already said the haj and umrah pilgrimages -- which attract millions of travellers from around the world -- will remain suspended until further notice. Fachrul Razi, Indonesia's religious affairs minister, said the decision to cancel hajj this year was made due to concerns over the coronavirus and ongoing travel restrictions. The quota for Indonesian pilgrims this year was 221,000, with more than 90 per cent already registered to go, according to the religious affairs ministry website. Dewi, an employee of a telecommunications company in Jakarta and registered to perform the pilgrimage this year, told Reuters that while she had waited six years, she had made peace with the news. "If that is the decision, I will accept it," said Dewi, who did not want to give her full name. "After all, I believe that everything happens with God's permission."

Country with the largest Muslim population in the world cancels Haj pilgrimage over coronavirus concerns

The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the novel coronavirus outbreak first emerged, found no new cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 300 asymptomatic cases in city-wide testing that began in mid-May, officials said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The city launched its ambitious campaign on May 14, testing 9.9 million people, after a cluster of new cases in the city raised fears of a second wave of infections.&nbsp;

But authorities found no new cases of the disease in the May 14 to June 1 testing, officials told reporters in a briefing, adding that the asymptomatic cases were found to be not infectious.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-cases-worldwide-cross-63-million-mark-death-toll-at-377404-302595" hreflang="en">Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404</a>

China does not count asymptomatic cases, meaning people who are infected with the virus but do not exhibit symptoms of the disease, as confirmed cases.&nbsp;

The coronavirus is believed to have jumped from an animal to people in a market selling wildlife in Wuhan late last year.

The central Chinese city, capital of Hubei province, was placed under a lockdown on Jan. 23. It was lifted on April 8.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/divorce-that-creates-a-billionaire-chinese-couple-parting-ways-with-a-settlement-of-32-billion-302587" hreflang="en">Divorce that creates a billionaire: Chinese couple parting ways with a settlement of $3.2 billion</a>

It was the hardest hit of any Chinese city and accounts for the majority of the 4,634 deaths and total of 83,022 infections reported in mainland China.&nbsp;

The cost of the city-wide testing effort was about 900 million yuan ($126 million).

The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the novel coronavirus outbreak first emerged, found no new cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 300 asymptomatic cases in city-wide testing that began in mid-May, officials said on Tuesday.

The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the novel coronavirus outbreak first emerged, found no new cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 300 asymptomatic cases in city-wide testing that began in mid-May, officials said on Tuesday. The city launched its ambitious campaign on May 14, testing 9.9 million people, after a cluster of new cases in the city raised fears of a second wave of infections. But authorities found no new cases of the disease in the May 14 to June 1 testing, officials told reporters in a briefing, adding that the asymptomatic cases were found to be not infectious. Also read: Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404 China does not count asymptomatic cases, meaning people who are infected with the virus but do not exhibit symptoms of the disease, as confirmed cases. The coronavirus is believed to have jumped from an animal to people in a market selling wildlife in Wuhan late last year. The central Chinese city, capital of Hubei province, was placed under a lockdown on Jan. 23. It was lifted on April 8. Also read: Divorce that creates a billionaire: Chinese couple parting ways with a settlement of $3.2 billion It was the hardest hit of any Chinese city and accounts for the majority of the 4,634 deaths and total of 83,022 infections reported in mainland China. The cost of the city-wide testing effort was about 900 million yuan ($126 million).

China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing

Around 6.3 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

On Tuesday, the cases stood at &nbsp;6,274,136, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 375,711 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world.

The United States has recorded the most deaths of any country, with 105,160, ahead of Britain with 39,045, Italy with 33,475, Brazil with 29,937 and France at 28,833.

China is reporting five new cases of the coronavirus, all brought by Chinese citizens from outside the country. No new deaths were reported on Tuesday while 73 people remain in treatment for COVID-19 and 373 are under monitoring and isolation for showing signs of the virus or having tested positive for it without showing symptoms. China has recorded a total of 4,634 deaths among 83,022 cases of the disease. 
 
(With inputs from Agencies)

Around 6.3 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

Around 6.3 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University. On Tuesday, the cases stood at 6,274,136, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 375,711 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world. The United States has recorded the most deaths of any country, with 105,160, ahead of Britain with 39,045, Italy with 33,475, Brazil with 29,937 and France at 28,833. China is reporting five new cases of the coronavirus, all brought by Chinese citizens from outside the country. No new deaths were reported on Tuesday while 73 people remain in treatment for COVID-19 and 373 are under monitoring and isolation for showing signs of the virus or having tested positive for it without showing symptoms. China has recorded a total of 4,634 deaths among 83,022 cases of the disease. (With inputs from Agencies)

Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404

The World Health Organization (WHO) should have enough information in 24 hours to decide whether to continue suspending its trial of hydroxychloroquine for use against coronavirus, its chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said on Monday.

Her comments come a week after the UN body paused its large study of the anti-malarial drug to treat COVID-19 due to concerns it increased death rates and irregular heartbeats in patients.

The move prompted several European governments to ban the use of the drug, also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus and promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump to help combat the disease.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-epidemic-hasnt-become-less-pathogenic-warns-who-302475" hreflang="en">Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO</a>

Sanofi on Friday temporarily stopped recruiting new COVID-19 patients for its two clinical trials of the drug and said it would no longer supply it to treat COVID-19 until safety concerns are cleared up.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization said today that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-pm-nikol-pashinyan-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-as-cases-rise-302365">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;has "not become less pathogenic, it is not the case at all".

"We need to be exceptionally careful not to create a sense that, all of a sudden, the virus, by its own volition, has now decided to be less pathogenic," WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said at a virtual briefing.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization (WHO) should have enough information in 24 hours to decide whether to continue suspending its trial of hydroxychloroquine for use against coronavirus, its chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said on Monday.

The World Health Organization (WHO) should have enough information in 24 hours to decide whether to continue suspending its trial of hydroxychloroquine for use against coronavirus, its chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said on Monday. Her comments come a week after the UN body paused its large study of the anti-malarial drug to treat COVID-19 due to concerns it increased death rates and irregular heartbeats in patients. The move prompted several European governments to ban the use of the drug, also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus and promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump to help combat the disease. Also read: Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO Sanofi on Friday temporarily stopped recruiting new COVID-19 patients for its two clinical trials of the drug and said it would no longer supply it to treat COVID-19 until safety concerns are cleared up. The World Health Organization said today that the coronavirus has "not become less pathogenic, it is not the case at all". "We need to be exceptionally careful not to create a sense that, all of a sudden, the virus, by its own volition, has now decided to be less pathogenic," WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said at a virtual briefing.

WHO will decide on its hydroxychloroquine trial suspension in 24 hours

The United States is currently witnessing nationwide protests against the murder of George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis on suspected usage on a counterfeit currency note.

As protests become fiercer and spread across the country, many officials in the government fear a rising wave of infections owing to the protests.

After Floyd, 46, was killed during an arrest by four police officers last Monday, which stirred protests focused on police brutality against African Americans in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-really-played-out-between-the-police-and-george-floyd-in-his-final-moments-302473" hreflang="en">What really played out between the police and George Floyd in his final moments</a>

As of now, the US has over 1.8 million coronavirus infections and has recorded 104,000 deaths. The country does not have universal healthcare, and reports have indicated that the rate of infections and fatality is much higher among minorities.

During the protests, people were seen close to each other, many without masks.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/curfew-imposed-in-several-us-states-more-than-2500-protestors-arrested-302477/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, this has stirred paranoia among leaders, who are asking the protesters to “protest the right way”, by keeping in mind the social distancing guidelines in place against the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’m concerned that we had mass gatherings on our streets when we just lifted a stay-at-home order and what that could mean for spikes in coronavirus cases later,” Muriel Bowser, the mayor of Washington DC, claimed in a press conference on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/racism-haunts-america-as-african-americans-struggle-for-equality-302462" hreflang="en">Racism haunts America as African-Americans struggle for equality</a>

“I’m so concerned about it that I’m urging everybody to consider their exposure, if they need to isolate from their family members when they go home and if they need to be tested … because we have worked very hard to blunt the curve”, he added.

Protests outside the White House forced President Trump into his protective bunker, while people clashed with his security services. Washington DC has witnessed violent protests for several days now.

“While I saw some people with masks last night, others didn’t… I saw some people social distancing, other people were right on top of each other. So we don’t want to compound this deadly virus and the impact it’s had on our community”, Bowser&nbsp;added.

Many leaders have echoed the sentiment. Larry Hogan, the governor of Maryland, and Keisha Lance-Bottoms, the mayor of Atlanta agreed with Bowser.

Lance-Bottoms said she was “extremely concerned” about a resurgence of coronavirus cases.

The mayor of New York Bill de Blasio extended his support to the people’s right to demonstrate, but added that the protests signify an uncertain future.

The United States is currently witnessing nationwide protests against the murder of George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis on suspected usage on a counterfeit currency note.

The United States is currently witnessing nationwide protests against the murder of George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis on suspected usage on a counterfeit currency note. As protests become fiercer and spread across the country, many officials in the government fear a rising wave of infections owing to the protests. After Floyd, 46, was killed during an arrest by four police officers last Monday, which stirred protests focused on police brutality against African Americans in the country. Also read: What really played out between the police and George Floyd in his final moments As of now, the US has over 1.8 million coronavirus infections and has recorded 104,000 deaths. The country does not have universal healthcare, and reports have indicated that the rate of infections and fatality is much higher among minorities. During the protests, people were seen close to each other, many without masks. However, this has stirred paranoia among leaders, who are asking the protesters to “protest the right way”, by keeping in mind the social distancing guidelines in place against the coronavirus pandemic. “I’m concerned that we had mass gatherings on our streets when we just lifted a stay-at-home order and what that could mean for spikes in coronavirus cases later,” Muriel Bowser, the mayor of Washington DC, claimed in a press conference on Sunday. Also read: Racism haunts America as African-Americans struggle for equality “I’m so concerned about it that I’m urging everybody to consider their exposure, if they need to isolate from their family members when they go home and if they need to be tested … because we have worked very hard to blunt the curve”, he added. Protests outside the White House forced President Trump into his protective bunker, while people clashed with his security services. Washington DC has witnessed violent protests for several days now. “While I saw some people with masks last night, others didn’t… I saw some people social distancing, other people were right on top of each other. So we don’t want to compound this deadly virus and the impact it’s had on our community”, Bowser added. Many leaders have echoed the sentiment. Larry Hogan, the governor of Maryland, and Keisha Lance-Bottoms, the mayor of Atlanta agreed with Bowser. Lance-Bottoms said she was “extremely concerned” about a resurgence of coronavirus cases. The mayor of New York Bill de Blasio extended his support to the people’s right to demonstrate, but added that the protests signify an uncertain future.

Leaders in US fear new coronavirus infections as people defy social distancing norms to protest

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