Upon returning to his hometown for fasting month celebration, Abdullah Al-Mabrur went into a 14-day self-isolation in a bamboo forest while helping to clean up a river running through his village.

Indonesian serves self-quarantine in bamboo forest and cleans the river

Opera singer Victoria Robertson is accustomed to performing on stages much bigger than the five foot wide front porch of her San Diego home. But with concert venues closed and work at a standstill due to the coronavirus pandemic, she decided to make the most of it.

San Diego opera singer swaps concert stage for front porch amid coronavirus lockdown

Brazil's indigenous chief Raoni Metuktire asked for financial help to face the COVID-19 pandemic, dubbing the virus a "serious problem."

Brazil's indigenous chief Raoni pleads for financial during COVID-19 crisis

A tiny Austrian lakeside village so picturesque it had to limit throngs of tourists is now longing for visitors to return to its empty lanes.

Do you wanna go to Hallstatt? 'Frozen' village deserted as coronavirus restrictions bite

Spiky and emerald green coronaviruses, made out of sugar icing and cream, decorate the now popular cakes of Ali Mohammed, the owner of a Najaf-based pastry shop.

Iraqis can get a bite of coronavirus-shaped cake decorated with disinfectant

British World War Two veteran Captain Tom Moore is in for a very special 100th birthday on Thursday (April 30) after well-wishers from around the world repaid his record-breaking fundraising efforts by sending tens of thousands of birthday cards.

Birthday tributes flood in for fund-raising British veteran 'Captain Tom'

As the coronavirus cases continue to increase in the US, one can assume that the anxiety levels may be soaring among the citizens. However, according to a survey by The University of Southern California, the researchers found out that Americans are actually spending more time with their partners and children than they did earlier.

Americans, who are known for dining out and spending time out in the world, are now&nbsp;taking "advantage"&nbsp;of the coronavirus lockdown and rediscovering their hobbies and creative dreams.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whatsapp-sues-israeli-firm-over-deep-involvement-in-hacking-phones-295571">Also read:&nbsp;WhatsApp sues Israeli firm over 'deep involvement' in hacking phones</a>

A total of 1000 people took part in a survey titled the "Coronavirus Disruption Project". In this online survey, they were questioned about changes in their lives since the onset of the coronavirus.

The relationship between parents and children seems to have improved in a lot of households, for which the researchers give credit to the changed rules such as relaxed bedtime and TV hours.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nso-snoop-row-how-pegasus-broke-into-whatsapp-260055">Explainer: NSO spygate row - How Pegasus broke into WhatsApp</a>

Talking about improved relationships, almost 35 per cent Americans also said their relationship with their spouse or partner has become better now in the lockdown.

The reason behind this can also be a decrease in the bar activities, leading to drunken nights. The report revealed that out of things that Americans missed, which included visiting friends and relatives, and going out to eat, only 20 per cent Americans missed going to bars. The reduction in the alcohol intake can also be credited to the crashing economy.

As the lockdown has been lifted in certain areas of the country, at least 42 per cent people want to work from home more after the pandemic ends, as they prefer to get rid of their long commutes, and love their relaxed way of dressing rather than the formals.

"For all the silliness, and we probably need a dress etiquette for Zoom... bosses are finding that Zoom works a good chunk of the time," said&nbsp;Jeffrey Cole, the study center's director

More than one-third of Americans reported buying food online for the first time,&nbsp;and 39 per cent intend to continue purchasing more products online once the coronavirus ends.

As the coronavirus cases continue to increase in the US, one can assume that the anxiety levels may be soaring among the citizens. However, according to a survey by The University of Southern California, the researchers found out that Americans are actually spending more time with their partners and children than they did earlier.

As the coronavirus cases continue to increase in the US, one can assume that the anxiety levels may be soaring among the citizens. However, according to a survey by The University of Southern California, the researchers found out that Americans are actually spending more time with their partners and children than they did earlier. Americans, who are known for dining out and spending time out in the world, are now taking "advantage" of the coronavirus lockdown and rediscovering their hobbies and creative dreams. Also read: WhatsApp sues Israeli firm over 'deep involvement' in hacking phones A total of 1000 people took part in a survey titled the "Coronavirus Disruption Project". In this online survey, they were questioned about changes in their lives since the onset of the coronavirus. The relationship between parents and children seems to have improved in a lot of households, for which the researchers give credit to the changed rules such as relaxed bedtime and TV hours. Also read: Explainer: NSO spygate row - How Pegasus broke into WhatsApp Talking about improved relationships, almost 35 per cent Americans also said their relationship with their spouse or partner has become better now in the lockdown. The reason behind this can also be a decrease in the bar activities, leading to drunken nights. The report revealed that out of things that Americans missed, which included visiting friends and relatives, and going out to eat, only 20 per cent Americans missed going to bars. The reduction in the alcohol intake can also be credited to the crashing economy. As the lockdown has been lifted in certain areas of the country, at least 42 per cent people want to work from home more after the pandemic ends, as they prefer to get rid of their long commutes, and love their relaxed way of dressing rather than the formals. "For all the silliness, and we probably need a dress etiquette for Zoom... bosses are finding that Zoom works a good chunk of the time," said Jeffrey Cole, the study center's director More than one-third of Americans reported buying food online for the first time, and 39 per cent intend to continue purchasing more products online once the coronavirus ends.

Relationship with spouse better now in lockdown, US survey reveals

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been speculation that this disruptive event will spark a new wave of government activism. The question is- Was Donald Trump's COVID-19 response adequate?

Was Donald Trump's COVID-19 response adequate?

Union Health Ministry of India on Tuesday addresses Press conference over current status of Coronavirus Pandemic. According to ministry, there are 29,435 positive cases and 934 deaths reported so far.

What makes COVID-19 so deadly?

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

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

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

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

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

"We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-coronavirus-chinas-double-standards-on-racism-295179/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said.

"There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-china-curb-the-second-wave-of-coronavirus-pandemic-292430">Can China curb the second wave of coronavirus pandemic?</a>

Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus.

Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that."

"Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about."

"We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial.

"This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world."

There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world.

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast "We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source." "It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said. "There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know." Also read: Can China curb the second wave of coronavirus pandemic? Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus. Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that." "Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about." "We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial. "This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world." There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

'Very serious investigations' against China over coronavirus, says Trump

Members of the Satere Mawe indigenous community living in Manaus in Brazil's Amazon found their livelihoods - the production and sale of handicrafts - halted by government measures meant to stop the spread of the new coronavirus.

Indigenous women make face masks instead of crafts

Israeli couple Osnat Baron and Yaniv Jenger staged a sanitary wedding on Monday (April 27) in an attempt to have their special day while respecting the government's social distancing and hygiene guidelines to battle the spread of coronavirus.

Coronavirus an unwelcome guest as Israelis wed with close family and masks

Health Ministry briefs Media over COVID-19 criris, says '29,435 positive cases, 934 deaths' so far

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world.

"We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source.

"It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said.

"There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know."

Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus.

Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that."

"Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about."

"We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial.

"This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world."

There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world. "We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source. "It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said. "There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know." Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus. Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that." "Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about." "We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial. "This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world." There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

Trump says US may seek damages from China over the virus

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boston-dynamics-spot-robot-helping-doctors-remotely-combat-covid-19-294866" hreflang="en">Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19</a>

COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 868,480 people of that tally have recovered.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-pandemic-new-york-records-lowest-death-toll-since-march-31-294963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States is by far the hardest-hit country in the global pandemic, in terms of both confirmed infections and deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-complaints-of-faulty-kits-by-several-nations-china-confiscates-89-million-face-masks-294838" hreflang="en">Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks</a>

The United States recorded 1,330 more novel coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, according to figures reported late Sunday by the Johns Hopkins University.

The country now has an overall death toll of 55,415, with 964,937 confirmed infections, according to a tally by the Baltimore-based institution at 8:30 pm.

The 24-hour US death toll was 2,494 late Saturday, and 1,258 on Friday evening -- the lowest in nearly three weeks -- as the government struggles to quell the virus.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

Meanwhile, after more than three months of an arduous fight, Wuhan, the city located at the heart of China and epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, has cleared all remaining cases related to the deadly infection in its hospitals, health authorities told Xinhua news agency on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 868,480 people of that tally have recovered. The United States is by far the hardest-hit country in the global pandemic, in terms of both confirmed infections and deaths. Also read: Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks The United States recorded 1,330 more novel coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, according to figures reported late Sunday by the Johns Hopkins University. The country now has an overall death toll of 55,415, with 964,937 confirmed infections, according to a tally by the Baltimore-based institution at 8:30 pm. The 24-hour US death toll was 2,494 late Saturday, and 1,258 on Friday evening -- the lowest in nearly three weeks -- as the government struggles to quell the virus. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. Meanwhile, after more than three months of an arduous fight, Wuhan, the city located at the heart of China and epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, has cleared all remaining cases related to the deadly infection in its hospitals, health authorities told Xinhua news agency on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs

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

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

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

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

As the world deals with lockdown blues, people are coming up with strange excuses and strategies to circumvent the rules.

In India, a man bought a huge stock of onions so that he may be able to move from the southern part of the country to its northern state.

The hardest hit continent - Europe has largely remained under lockdown over the last few weeks. However, as the recovery rate starts to improve and the number of infections continue to drop, people are sneaking out and about.

Spain has a loophole in its lockdown rules: people with pets may leave their homes to walk their pets. However, not everybody is walking their pets.

With no clear dictation of what encapsulates pets, people have taken full liberty.

Just on Friday, the Spanish National Police shared an image on Twitter whereby a man was fined for walking an unusual pet… a fish in a bowl! The incident happened in Lograno, a town in northern Spain. He was later penalised by the authorities for breaking the code. 
 
The tweet below translates into "Agents of the police force&nbsp;have found a person for going out to "walk" their fish on the street. Agents spotted him on #Logroño carrying a fish tank against what is stipulated in the RD of the State of Alarm."

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Agentes de la <a href="https://twitter.com/policia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@policia</a> han sancionado a una persona por salir a "pasear" a sus peces por la calle. Los agentes le avistaron en <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Logro%C3%B1o?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Logroño</a> portando una pecera en contra de lo estipulado en el RD del Estado de Alarma. 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos</a> <a href="https://t.co/lOFVnDX6Fi">pic.twitter.com/lOFVnDX6Fi</a>
— Policía Nacional (@policia) <a href="https://twitter.com/policia/status/1253594777418776577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, on March 25, a man was seen walking his hen. Take a look below!

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoTieneGracia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoTieneGracia</a> 
 
Guardias civiles de <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lanzarote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lanzarote</a> denuncian a una persona por incumplir las medidas de limitación de circulación impuestas en por el estado de alarma paseando una gallina<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos</a> <a href="https://t.co/kZ7vGuTKE5">pic.twitter.com/kZ7vGuTKE5</a>
— Guardia Civil 🇪🇸 (@guardiacivil) <a href="https://twitter.com/guardiacivil/status/1242814616561909761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The police tweeted, "Civil guards of #Lanzarote fined&nbsp;a person for failing to comply with the movement limitation measures imposed by the state of alarm while walking a hen".

In another bizarre incident in Spain, an unidentified citizen in Murcia was seen dressed as a Tyrannosaurus rex. The images went viral on social media!

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En estado de alarma se permite el paseo de mascotas acompañadas de una persona, siempre con paseos cortos para hacer sus necesidades. 
 
El que tengas complejo de Tyrannosaurus rex no está contemplado.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/qu%C3%A9dateencasa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#quédateencasa</a> <a href="https://t.co/C8dWkrvAdm">pic.twitter.com/C8dWkrvAdm</a>
— Policía Local Murcia (@MurciaPolicia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MurciaPolicia/status/1239659731377098752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It only gets stranger in the land of Spain: Another person was arrested for walking a toy dog on a leash. Video below:

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Pedimos SENSATEZ durante el <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EstadoDeEmergencia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EstadoDeEmergencia</a> por culpa del <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. 
 
Estamos ante una situación MUY GRAVE como para andar por la calle intentando engañar a la <a href="https://twitter.com/policia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@policia</a>... NO nos engañas y además serás sancionado. 
 
Es una cuestión de salud pública.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos</a> <a href="https://t.co/67cjOMNdC3">pic.twitter.com/67cjOMNdC3</a>
— JUPOL (@JupolNacional) <a href="https://twitter.com/JupolNacional/status/1239652064004911104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After this clip went viral, the police announced:&nbsp;"Do not try to deceive us!"

Spain recently decided to extend its lockdown until May 9, to ensure that the slowing rate of infections continues steadily. In Spain alone, over 20,000 people have died of the virus so far. If the lockdown officially ends on May 9, the country would have spent six weeks under lockdown in total.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Globally, the number of COVID-19-related deaths has crossed 200,000. The total cases stand at over 2.8 million. Of these, 200,698 patients have died and more than 810,000 have recovered

India battles COVID-19: Health Ministry briefs media over Coronavirus crisis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said.

The dominance of the more virulent L-type coronavirus strain as compared to the S-type one could be behind the high mortality rate in the state, which has reported 133 deaths so far. However, no research has been conducted to confirm this, they said.

A scientist at the state-run Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) said that the novel coronavirus used for genome sequencing recently conducted by it was found to contain the L-type strain.

"Analysis done by scientists abroad has shown that the L-type strain has been dominant where more mortality is reported among coronavirus patients. This strain was found to be more prevalent in Wuhan," director of GBRC, C G Joshi, said.

"The coronavirus sample we collected from a patient for genome sequence contained the L-type strain. This strain has a much higher virulence as compared to the S-strain," he said.

"Variation in coronavirus is in terms of number and percentage of mutations. As per the analysis, the L-type strain is dominant where more mortality is reported. Scientists have earlier found that this strain has caused more deaths," he said.

The GBRC recently succeeded in decoding the entire genome sequence of the novel coronavirus and identified its three new mutations.

Joshi added that the patient from whom the virus sample was collected for sequencing has fully recovered.

So far, no study has been conducted here to establish which strain of coronavirus is predominant in patients here.

Atul Patel, a specialist in infectious diseases, attributed the presence of the L-type strain more than the S- type one in Gujarat is behind high mortality rate.

Patel has said that a little higher presence of the L-type strain, or the original Wuhan strain, could be behind higher death rate in the state.

The state government has also attributed the high mortality among coronavirus patients in the state to comorbidities and high-risk factors.

Heart and lung diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are among common diseases that have been found among Covid-19 patients who passed away in Gujarat.

The risk factors include patients in the age group of above over 60 years and under five years of age and pregnant women, and they account for 90 per cent of patients who passed away, Principal Secretary (Health), Jayanti Ravi had recently said.

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said.

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said. The dominance of the more virulent L-type coronavirus strain as compared to the S-type one could be behind the high mortality rate in the state, which has reported 133 deaths so far. However, no research has been conducted to confirm this, they said. A scientist at the state-run Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) said that the novel coronavirus used for genome sequencing recently conducted by it was found to contain the L-type strain. "Analysis done by scientists abroad has shown that the L-type strain has been dominant where more mortality is reported among coronavirus patients. This strain was found to be more prevalent in Wuhan," director of GBRC, C G Joshi, said. "The coronavirus sample we collected from a patient for genome sequence contained the L-type strain. This strain has a much higher virulence as compared to the S-strain," he said. "Variation in coronavirus is in terms of number and percentage of mutations. As per the analysis, the L-type strain is dominant where more mortality is reported. Scientists have earlier found that this strain has caused more deaths," he said. The GBRC recently succeeded in decoding the entire genome sequence of the novel coronavirus and identified its three new mutations. Joshi added that the patient from whom the virus sample was collected for sequencing has fully recovered. So far, no study has been conducted here to establish which strain of coronavirus is predominant in patients here. Atul Patel, a specialist in infectious diseases, attributed the presence of the L-type strain more than the S- type one in Gujarat is behind high mortality rate. Patel has said that a little higher presence of the L-type strain, or the original Wuhan strain, could be behind higher death rate in the state. The state government has also attributed the high mortality among coronavirus patients in the state to comorbidities and high-risk factors. Heart and lung diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are among common diseases that have been found among Covid-19 patients who passed away in Gujarat. The risk factors include patients in the age group of above over 60 years and under five years of age and pregnant women, and they account for 90 per cent of patients who passed away, Principal Secretary (Health), Jayanti Ravi had recently said.

Wuhan's L-strain may be behind Gujarat's high death rate: Experts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wuhan discharges all coronavirus patients, reports zero new cases

European plane maker Airbus has warned around 1,35,000 of its employees on job cut as it is facing financial impact amid the outbreak of pandemic Coronavirus.

European plane maker Airbus warn its employees on job cut as it faces financial impact

The destroyer with its crew of 350 are off the Pacific coast of South America. Its current mission is related to U.S. counter-drug activities.

Naval destroyer USS Kidd reports rise in virus cases to 33

Cases of the new coronavirus are overwhelming hospitals, morgues and cemeteries across Brazil as Latin America’s largest nation veers closer to becoming one of the world’s pandemic hot spots.

Steep rise in number of cases in Brazil

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday.

"Whatever budget has been given to us, we must spend it pragmatically avoiding any wasteful expenditure. We don't see any major drop in our operational preparedness as far as the three services are concerned," the CDS told ANI in an exclusive interview.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicotine-to-help-fight-coronavirus-french-authorities-limit-sale-of-product-294565">Also read:&nbsp;Nicotine to help fight coronavirus? French authorities limit sale of product</a>

General Rawat said COVID-19 has taught us a lesson to be self-reliant."COVID-19 has taught us a lesson that time has come to be self-reliant. In times of crisis, nations will have to live by themselves. In fact, a country like India, when we are looking at becoming a regional power, we will have to support other nations and not be dependent on others," the CDS said.

Stressing that it becomes very important for the country to start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing, the CDS said: "That is why it becomes very important that we start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing through Make in India and make sure that whatever we are importing, gradually we should start depending on Make in India. If we start depending on Make in India, we will also reduce our ab initio holdings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-pandemic-gods-wrath-for-obscenity-nudity-pak-cleric-294784">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus pandemic God's wrath for obscenity, nudity: Pak cleric</a>

"Pointing out as to how the health industry in the country has come forward during these challenging times, the CDS said: "The scientists and other agencies involved in medical research have come up with innovative ideas to produce medical equipment in the country which we were so far importing to help us tide over COVID-19 has been amazing."

"There is a very major lesson for us. We have been importing our weapons and ammunition from abroad but I think if we can give this challenge to our industry, academia and research and development organisation. I think if we can start manufacturing our own weapon, ammunition in the country, we may not have to be dependent on imports," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-we-will-get-a-million-ppes-from-singapore-indian-envoy-294796">Also read:&nbsp;EXCLUSIVE- We will get a million PPEs from Singapore: Indian envoy</a>

The CDS said he was quite sure that the defence manufacturing in the country can also move at the same pace provided "we have faith in our industry and research organisations".

"We are able to do their handholding and are able to move forward.

"General Rawat said gradually we have to start looking that most of the major components are made in India.

"I am also happy to inform that we are making our own guns, we are making our own air defence systems and small arms. You will be happy to know that the Air Chief has now placed a demand for 83 Light Combat Aircraft to be produced by the HAL. We do know that they have a lot of import content in them but gradually we have to start looking at how to ensure that most of the major components are made in India," he said.

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday.

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday. "Whatever budget has been given to us, we must spend it pragmatically avoiding any wasteful expenditure. We don't see any major drop in our operational preparedness as far as the three services are concerned," the CDS told ANI in an exclusive interview. Also read: Nicotine to help fight coronavirus? French authorities limit sale of product General Rawat said COVID-19 has taught us a lesson to be self-reliant."COVID-19 has taught us a lesson that time has come to be self-reliant. In times of crisis, nations will have to live by themselves. In fact, a country like India, when we are looking at becoming a regional power, we will have to support other nations and not be dependent on others," the CDS said. Stressing that it becomes very important for the country to start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing, the CDS said: "That is why it becomes very important that we start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing through Make in India and make sure that whatever we are importing, gradually we should start depending on Make in India. If we start depending on Make in India, we will also reduce our ab initio holdings. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic God's wrath for obscenity, nudity: Pak cleric "Pointing out as to how the health industry in the country has come forward during these challenging times, the CDS said: "The scientists and other agencies involved in medical research have come up with innovative ideas to produce medical equipment in the country which we were so far importing to help us tide over COVID-19 has been amazing." "There is a very major lesson for us. We have been importing our weapons and ammunition from abroad but I think if we can give this challenge to our industry, academia and research and development organisation. I think if we can start manufacturing our own weapon, ammunition in the country, we may not have to be dependent on imports," he said. Also read: EXCLUSIVE- We will get a million PPEs from Singapore: Indian envoy The CDS said he was quite sure that the defence manufacturing in the country can also move at the same pace provided "we have faith in our industry and research organisations". "We are able to do their handholding and are able to move forward. "General Rawat said gradually we have to start looking that most of the major components are made in India. "I am also happy to inform that we are making our own guns, we are making our own air defence systems and small arms. You will be happy to know that the Air Chief has now placed a demand for 83 Light Combat Aircraft to be produced by the HAL. We do know that they have a lot of import content in them but gradually we have to start looking at how to ensure that most of the major components are made in India," he said.

Armed Forces capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them: CDS Gen Bipin Rawat

The new reports bring unknown facts to light, suggesting the COVID-19 could be spreading in the United States since December. Watch this video to know more.

Facts suggest coronavirus spreading in US since December 2019

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