As part of its neighbourhood first policy, 6 Indian Navy ships are on standby for assistance to neighbouring countries over COVID crisis. Along with Navy ships, top sources told WION that, 5 medical teams are standby for deployment in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan &amp; Afghanistan if the situation worsens.&nbsp;

On March 30 India sent medical supplies to Nepal. Sources said, Dornier &amp; Mi 17 were used to position medical load at Gorakhpur on Monday &amp; the load was thereafter taken to Nepal by road.

In March, Indian PM Modi had proposed a SAARC meet on the COVID crisis via video conference in which all SAARC heads of state/govt participated barring the Pakistani PM Imran Khan who was represented at a junior level.&nbsp;

India had announced the formation of a COVID emergency fund with a contribution of $10 million in which all SAARC countries barring Pakistan has announced contribution. &nbsp;Sri Lanka contributed $ 5 million, Bangladesh contributed $ 1.5 million, Nepal $ 1 million, Afghanistan $ 1 million, Maldives $ 200,000 and Bhutan $ 100,000 taking the total amount in the COVID-19 Emergency Fund to USD 18.3 million. New Delhi also said, that its rapid response team are at disposal of any SAARC Member country.

Since the SAARC leader meeting, health officials of countries have had a video conference and commerce ministry officials will soon meet via the same format.

As an early responder, India evacuated several South Asian nationals stranded in Wuhan, which was once the epicentre of the COVID crisis. India got back 23 Bangladeshi, 9 Maldivian from Wuhan and 2 Sri Lankans and One Nepali from quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princess off the coast of Japan.

As part of its neighbourhood first policy, 6 Indian Navy ships are on standby for assistance to neighbouring countries over COVID crisis. Along with Navy ships, top sources told WION that, 5 medical teams are standby for deployment in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan & Afghanistan if the situation worsens.

As part of its neighbourhood first policy, 6 Indian Navy ships are on standby for assistance to neighbouring countries over COVID crisis. Along with Navy ships, top sources told WION that, 5 medical teams are standby for deployment in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan & Afghanistan if the situation worsens. On March 30 India sent medical supplies to Nepal. Sources said, Dornier & Mi 17 were used to position medical load at Gorakhpur on Monday & the load was thereafter taken to Nepal by road. In March, Indian PM Modi had proposed a SAARC meet on the COVID crisis via video conference in which all SAARC heads of state/govt participated barring the Pakistani PM Imran Khan who was represented at a junior level. India had announced the formation of a COVID emergency fund with a contribution of $10 million in which all SAARC countries barring Pakistan has announced contribution. Sri Lanka contributed $ 5 million, Bangladesh contributed $ 1.5 million, Nepal $ 1 million, Afghanistan $ 1 million, Maldives $ 200,000 and Bhutan $ 100,000 taking the total amount in the COVID-19 Emergency Fund to USD 18.3 million. New Delhi also said, that its rapid response team are at disposal of any SAARC Member country. Since the SAARC leader meeting, health officials of countries have had a video conference and commerce ministry officials will soon meet via the same format. As an early responder, India evacuated several South Asian nationals stranded in Wuhan, which was once the epicentre of the COVID crisis. India got back 23 Bangladeshi, 9 Maldivian from Wuhan and 2 Sri Lankans and One Nepali from quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princess off the coast of Japan.

COVID-19 crisis: India's navy ships, medical teams on stand by for neighbours

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Thursday reaffirmed that the government has taken several steps to ensure the availability of personal protection equipment (PPE) that is necessary to fight the coronavirus crisis in the country.&nbsp;

<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5f1a212-7c9d-435d-8cc8-469c7bb45d3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/covid-19.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-quarantines-275-foreign-nationals-who-attended-tablighi-jamaat-congregation-289983">Also Read: Delhi Police quarantines 275 foreign nationals who attended Tablighi Jamaat meet</a>

Joint Secretary Lav Agrawal addressed a press conference to brief about the current situation of fight against coronavirus in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-in-icu-europe-awaits-major-crisis-once-coronavirus-ends-289020">Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends</a>

Talking about the coronavirus case of Mumbai's Dharavi slum he said in the particular colony, the building has been sealed and sample collection of all residents of the building is underway. As per protocol, contact tracing is underway.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-812-new-fatalities-in-spain-belgium-death-toll-over-500-289460">Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500</a>

Meanwhile, nine more cases of COVID-19 were reported in Rajasthan with seven in Ramganj, and one each from Jodhpur and Jhunjhunu. There are now 129 coronavirus positive cases in the state.

In Madhya Pradesh, twelve new COVID-19 cases were reported in Indore, taking the total number of cases to 75 in the city. The confirmed total number of cases in the state has risen to 98.

COVID-19 has now infected &nbsp;941,949 people worldwide and &nbsp;47,522 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 202,342 people of that tally have recovered.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Thursday reaffirmed that the government has taken several steps to ensure the availability of personal protection equipment (PPE) that is necessary to fight the coronavirus crisis in the country.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Thursday reaffirmed that the government has taken several steps to ensure the availability of personal protection equipment (PPE) that is necessary to fight the coronavirus crisis in the country. Also Read: Delhi Police quarantines 275 foreign nationals who attended Tablighi Jamaat meet Joint Secretary Lav Agrawal addressed a press conference to brief about the current situation of fight against coronavirus in the country. Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends Talking about the coronavirus case of Mumbai's Dharavi slum he said in the particular colony, the building has been sealed and sample collection of all residents of the building is underway. As per protocol, contact tracing is underway. Also read: Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500 Meanwhile, nine more cases of COVID-19 were reported in Rajasthan with seven in Ramganj, and one each from Jodhpur and Jhunjhunu. There are now 129 coronavirus positive cases in the state. In Madhya Pradesh, twelve new COVID-19 cases were reported in Indore, taking the total number of cases to 75 in the city. The confirmed total number of cases in the state has risen to 98. COVID-19 has now infected 941,949 people worldwide and 47,522 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 202,342 people of that tally have recovered.

Coronavirus in India: Total number of cases climb to 2,069; 53 deaths, says Health Ministry

The United States is the worst affected country in the world with more than 2 lakh positive cases. American hospitals are flooded with patients making conditions worse is the shortage of medical equipment, protective gear, and medicines. Watch report:

Fineprint: US becomes the most infected country: New York is the hotspot of coronavirus

On March 8 thousands of women marched through the streets of Paris. They called for greater equality between men and women in France. A week later — the entire country went into lockdown.&nbsp;

These women were confined to their homes to save them from a deadly virus. But they are dealing with a bigger threat behind closed doors. Physical and sexual abuse by their partners and family members.

The French interior ministry has reported a &nbsp;30% jump in cases of domestic violence. In Paris alone — the cases have risen by 36%.

The women say — that financial instability amid the lockdown is making things worse for them.&nbsp;

The French govt has sprung into action. It is bearing the cost of 20,000 hotel bookings for victims of abuse. And has set aside 1 million Euros for organizations that fight domestic violence. The situation in France has put into spotlight stories of horror from around the world.

In Catalonia — the regional government says that emergency calls to its women helplines rose by 20% within a few days of confinement.

In Spain — chilling reports of femicide have emerged. A 35-year-old mother of two was murdered by her partner last week. In Italy, activists say they are receiving desperate texts and emails for help by women who can't step out. In Brazil — women's rights councils have confirmed a 40% surge in cases of domestic abuse in the last month.&nbsp;

In Australia — the prime minister himself has confirmed a 75% rise in Google searches for help amid the lockdown.

In China, rights organisations have reported a threefold increase in domestic violence since the lockdown began.&nbsp;

And in India — 257 cases of domestic abuse have been reported online between 23rd march and 1st april. The lockdown may help keep women safe from the coronavirus. But it has pushed thousands of them into something equally grievous.

During this global health crisis — let's take the responsibility to reach out to our friends and loved ones who you think could be susceptible to abuse at their homes.

On March 8 thousands of women marched through the streets of Paris. They called for greater equality between men and women in France. A week later — the entire country went into lockdown.

On March 8 thousands of women marched through the streets of Paris. They called for greater equality between men and women in France. A week later — the entire country went into lockdown. These women were confined to their homes to save them from a deadly virus. But they are dealing with a bigger threat behind closed doors. Physical and sexual abuse by their partners and family members. The French interior ministry has reported a 30% jump in cases of domestic violence. In Paris alone — the cases have risen by 36%. The women say — that financial instability amid the lockdown is making things worse for them. The French govt has sprung into action. It is bearing the cost of 20,000 hotel bookings for victims of abuse. And has set aside 1 million Euros for organizations that fight domestic violence. The situation in France has put into spotlight stories of horror from around the world. In Catalonia — the regional government says that emergency calls to its women helplines rose by 20% within a few days of confinement. In Spain — chilling reports of femicide have emerged. A 35-year-old mother of two was murdered by her partner last week. In Italy, activists say they are receiving desperate texts and emails for help by women who can't step out. In Brazil — women's rights councils have confirmed a 40% surge in cases of domestic abuse in the last month. In Australia — the prime minister himself has confirmed a 75% rise in Google searches for help amid the lockdown. In China, rights organisations have reported a threefold increase in domestic violence since the lockdown began. And in India — 257 cases of domestic abuse have been reported online between 23rd march and 1st april. The lockdown may help keep women safe from the coronavirus. But it has pushed thousands of them into something equally grievous. During this global health crisis — let's take the responsibility to reach out to our friends and loved ones who you think could be susceptible to abuse at their homes.

Global rise in domestic violence cases as Covid-19 lockdown turns into captivity for many women

The government on Thursday launched a mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus.

According to a ministry official, the app will detect only fresh cases and will send out alerts to only those who have been nearby the infected person.

"The App, called 'AarogyaSetu' joins Digital India for the health and well-being of every Indian. It will enable people to assess themselves the risk of catching the coronavirus infection. It will calculate this based on their interaction with others, using cutting edge Bluetooth technology, algorithms and artificial intelligence," an official statement said.

If a person is clinically tested positive with coronavirus infection, the mobile number of the infected person is included in the register maintained by the health ministry and will be updated on the app as well, an IT ministry official explained.

"Once installed in a smartphone through an easy and user-friendly process, the app detects other devices with AarogyaSetu installed that come in the proximity of that phone. The app can then calculate the risk of infection based on sophisticated parameters if any of these contacts are tested positive," the statement said.

The government has announced a 21 lockdown starting March 24 and appealed to everyone to maintain social distancing to avoid the risk of getting infected with the deadly virus which has killed over 40,000 people globally and 50 in India.

As on date, 2,116 people in the country have been diagnosed with the coronavirus infection out of which there are 150 have been cured or discharged and 1,764 cases remain active.

"The App will help the government take necessary timely steps for assessing the risk of spread of COVID-19 infection, and ensuring isolation where required," the statement said.

The government said that privacy is a priority for the app users and the personal data collected by the app is encrypted and will stay secure on the phone until it is needed for facilitating medical intervention.

"Available in 11 languages, the App is ready for pan-India use from day-1 and has a highly scalable architecture," the statement said.

The mobile app has been developed in a public-private partnership to bring the people of India together in a resolute fight against COVID-19, the IT ministry said.

The government on Thursday launched a mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus.

The government on Thursday launched a mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus. According to a ministry official, the app will detect only fresh cases and will send out alerts to only those who have been nearby the infected person. "The App, called 'AarogyaSetu' joins Digital India for the health and well-being of every Indian. It will enable people to assess themselves the risk of catching the coronavirus infection. It will calculate this based on their interaction with others, using cutting edge Bluetooth technology, algorithms and artificial intelligence," an official statement said. If a person is clinically tested positive with coronavirus infection, the mobile number of the infected person is included in the register maintained by the health ministry and will be updated on the app as well, an IT ministry official explained. "Once installed in a smartphone through an easy and user-friendly process, the app detects other devices with AarogyaSetu installed that come in the proximity of that phone. The app can then calculate the risk of infection based on sophisticated parameters if any of these contacts are tested positive," the statement said. The government has announced a 21 lockdown starting March 24 and appealed to everyone to maintain social distancing to avoid the risk of getting infected with the deadly virus which has killed over 40,000 people globally and 50 in India. As on date, 2,116 people in the country have been diagnosed with the coronavirus infection out of which there are 150 have been cured or discharged and 1,764 cases remain active. "The App will help the government take necessary timely steps for assessing the risk of spread of COVID-19 infection, and ensuring isolation where required," the statement said. The government said that privacy is a priority for the app users and the personal data collected by the app is encrypted and will stay secure on the phone until it is needed for facilitating medical intervention. "Available in 11 languages, the App is ready for pan-India use from day-1 and has a highly scalable architecture," the statement said. The mobile app has been developed in a public-private partnership to bring the people of India together in a resolute fight against COVID-19, the IT ministry said.

India launches 'AarogyaSetu' app to assess, alert people about coronavirus patient

The United Kingdom has reported the highest number of coronavirus deaths and infections in the last 24 hours. The country has reported 4324 positive cases and 563 deaths due to the deadly coronavirus.

UK struggles to battle COVID-19:  563 deaths in last 24 hours

The coronavirus cases are growing at fast rate, the world is shaken by the sheer magnitude of this outbreak.

Watch: Tracking the coronavirus pandemic

Malaysian government authorities advice to women to wear make-up and avoid nagging their husbands during the coronavirus lockdown has sparked accusations of sexism.

Malaysian government urges women to wear make-up at home

The death toll due to coronavirus in the United States touched a new single-day high with 884 fatalities. The number of total death across the United States has now reached 4,475.

Highest rise in daily COVID-19 death toll in US

Russia has sent a cargo plane to the United States which is loaded with aid to fight the coronavirus. Masks and medical equipment has been sent to the US after President Donald Trump excepted an offer of humanitarian aid from Russian President Vladamir Putin. However, the critics are calling this as Russia's PR machinery to escape sanctions. Watch report:

Russia sends masks and medical equipment to US to fight COVID-19

Patients infected with COVID-19 can transmit the deadly virus one to three days before showing symptoms of the disease. According to the latest study published by US centers for disease control and prevention. Watch report:

Understanding transmission of COVID-19: US study confirms threat of silent carriers

The coronavirus has affected even the mightiest countries of the world taking the global death toll to 48,276. Now according to some US researchers, there may be a ray of hope. BCG vaccine may offer protection against the deadly coronavirus. Watch report:

India's battle against COVID-19 Pandemic: BCG vaccine to offer COVID-19 protection

The British airways which are in negotiations with Unite Union have already stopped operations and are expected to announce the suspension of 36,000 employees due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis. Watch report:

COVID-19 impact on British airways: 36,000 employees to be suspended

Nepal purchased coronavirus testing kits worth millions of Nepalese rupees from China but soon the advisor to Nepal said that many countries using the same kits are showing unreliable and controversial results.

Government of Nepal rejects China's COVID-19 testing kits

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfares held a press conference on COVID-19 cases in India. The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus has crossed the 1,800-mark with 41 deaths. The authorities have also launched a nationwide search to track down the 6,000 people who attended the Nizamuddin Tablighi Jamaat congregation. On Wednesday 450 fresh cases of infection were reported.

Health Ministry briefs media on COVID-19: 28 new cases, 12 new deaths

Amidst the Global Corona Crisis, India launched an 18-hour operation, operation Sanjeevani to deliver Maldives &nbsp;6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and hospital consumables.&nbsp;

Indian Airforce lifted medicines from airports in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Madurai before delivering to the Maldives. The Indian Army facilitated the transport of these medicines and consumables from warehouses across India to the respective airports.

Indian Envoy to Maldives Sanjay Sudhir on Operation Sanjeevni to the Maldives said, "We have been able to carry Operation Sanjeevani with help of Indian armed forces. It is very important assistance to the Maldives. Maldives has been one of the foremost countries which have received Indian assistance during COVID crisis. It is a growing example of India's neighbourhood first policy and reciprocation of Maldives' India first policy. Friendship in action!"

Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid thanked India for the support and in a tweet said, "Friends &amp; partners indeed! Thank u #India for facilitating the transfer of 6.2 tonnes of medicines procured by STO from Indian cities to #Maldives."

Adding, "Special thanks to PM @narendramodi &amp; EAM @DrSJaishankar for this timely support! Close cooperation is essential to overcome #COVID19"

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Friends &amp; partners indeed! Thank u <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> for facilitating the transfer of 6.2 tonnes of medicines procured by STO from Indian cities to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a>. Special thanks to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> for this timely support! Close cooperation is essential to overcome <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/GwNNxX8ZiC">pic.twitter.com/GwNNxX8ZiC</a>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1245651569921556480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The medicines include influenza vaccines, anti-viral drugs such as lopinavir and ritonavir which have been used to treat patients with COVID-19 in other countries, medicines for cardiac conditions, kidney ailments, hypertension as well as consumables such as catheters, nebulisers, urine bags and infant feeding tubes.

India has been assisting Maldives during the COVID crisis. New Delhi gifted 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines to the Maldives on March 14, 2020, and also sent a 14-member COVID-19 Rapid Response Team of doctors to enhance preparedness. It had evacuated 9 Maldives nationals from Wuhan which was once the epicentre of the crisis.

Amidst the Global Corona Crisis, India launched an 18-hour operation, operation Sanjeevani to deliver Maldives 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and hospital consumables.

Amidst the Global Corona Crisis, India launched an 18-hour operation, operation Sanjeevani to deliver Maldives 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and hospital consumables. Indian Airforce lifted medicines from airports in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Madurai before delivering to the Maldives. The Indian Army facilitated the transport of these medicines and consumables from warehouses across India to the respective airports. Indian Envoy to Maldives Sanjay Sudhir on Operation Sanjeevni to the Maldives said, "We have been able to carry Operation Sanjeevani with help of Indian armed forces. It is very important assistance to the Maldives. Maldives has been one of the foremost countries which have received Indian assistance during COVID crisis. It is a growing example of India's neighbourhood first policy and reciprocation of Maldives' India first policy. Friendship in action!" Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid thanked India for the support and in a tweet said, "Friends & partners indeed! Thank u #India for facilitating the transfer of 6.2 tonnes of medicines procured by STO from Indian cities to #Maldives." Adding, "Special thanks to PM @narendramodi & EAM @DrSJaishankar for this timely support! Close cooperation is essential to overcome #COVID19" Friends & partners indeed! Thank u #India for facilitating the transfer of 6.2 tonnes of medicines procured by STO from Indian cities to #Maldives. Special thanks to PM @narendramodi & EAM @DrSJaishankar for this timely support! Close cooperation is essential to overcome #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/GwNNxX8ZiC — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) April 2, 2020 × The medicines include influenza vaccines, anti-viral drugs such as lopinavir and ritonavir which have been used to treat patients with COVID-19 in other countries, medicines for cardiac conditions, kidney ailments, hypertension as well as consumables such as catheters, nebulisers, urine bags and infant feeding tubes. India has been assisting Maldives during the COVID crisis. New Delhi gifted 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines to the Maldives on March 14, 2020, and also sent a 14-member COVID-19 Rapid Response Team of doctors to enhance preparedness. It had evacuated 9 Maldives nationals from Wuhan which was once the epicentre of the crisis.

Operation Sanjeevani: India sends 6.2 tonnes of medical assistance to Maldives amidst COVID crisis

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 marks, the government said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-surpasses-1000-in-belgium-290085">Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium</a> 
 
Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-in-icu-europe-awaits-major-crisis-once-coronavirus-ends-289020">Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends</a>

The number of new infections increased by 7.9 per cent, compared with 8.2 per cent on Wednesday and more than 25 per cent at the start of last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-812-new-fatalities-in-spain-belgium-death-toll-over-500-289460">Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500</a>

The daily rise in deaths also slowed to 10.5 per cent on Thursday, virtually unchanged from 10.6 per cent on Wednesday and down from 27 per cent a week ago.

"The data show the curve has stabilised" and the epidemic has entered a "slowdown" phase, Health Minister Salvador Illa said.

Officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next.

Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 4,175 deaths and more than 32,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 marks, the government said.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 marks, the government said. Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed. Also read | Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends The number of new infections increased by 7.9 per cent, compared with 8.2 per cent on Wednesday and more than 25 per cent at the start of last week. Also read | Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500 The daily rise in deaths also slowed to 10.5 per cent on Thursday, virtually unchanged from 10.6 per cent on Wednesday and down from 27 per cent a week ago. "The data show the curve has stabilised" and the epidemic has entered a "slowdown" phase, Health Minister Salvador Illa said. Officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next. Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 4,175 deaths and more than 32,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

Spain deaths top 10,000, infections cross 110,000 mark

According to the study, national differences in impact of coronavirus could be partially explained by the different national policies respect to a TB vaccine called Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine.

Study that projects TB vaccine can protect from COVID-19 is legit?

A report brought new findings on the lethal coronavirus, According to the report, COVID-19 fatality rate ranges between 0.006%-7.8% and the average death rate is 1.38%.

COVID-19 fatality rate ranges between 0.006%-7.8%

UK recorded the highest daily death toll of 381, an increase of twenty-nine per cent as the coronavirus continued to ravage to the country. A 13-year-old boy was among the casualty who died at King's College Hospital in London.

UK: 13-year-old youngest to die of coronavirus

With 376 new cases of COVID-19 reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Health Ministry on Wednesday said the spike does not represent a "national trend" and was primarily due to travel by those who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the national capital.

The Health Ministry in a statement said 1,637 confirmed cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the country as of now.

"During the last 24 hours, 376 new confirmed cases and three new deaths have been reported. 132 persons have been cured /discharged from the hospitals after recovery," the statement said.

However, addressing the daily press briefing to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation in the country, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Agarwal said 386 new positive cases were reported in the last 24 hours and till now there are a total of 1,637 COVID-19 cases in the country.

"I want to highlight that the rise in the number of positive cases does not represent a national trend, but if there will be a failure anywhere, obviously cases will rise," he said as he urged people to follow the guidelines of social distancing and lockdown and avoid congregations and religious gatherings.

He said 154 new positive cases of the disease have been reported due to the transit-related history of those who attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation.

These include 23 new cases from Jammu and Kashmir, 20 from Telangana, 18 from Delhi, 65 from Tamil Nadu, 17 from Andhra Pradesh, nine from Andaman and Nicobar Islands and two from Puducherry.

All the states concerned have been notified and asked to carry out intensive drives of rigorous contact tracing and testing besides sending those with symptoms to quarantine or isolation facilities or hospitals, Agarwal said.

He said around 1,800 people in Delhi connected with the Tablighi Jamaat congregation have been shifted to nine quarantine centres and hospitals.

Giving details about the necessary arrangements being made by the government to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, Agarwal informed reporters that the Indian railways is preparing to set up 3.2 lakh isolation and quarantine beds by modifying 20,000 train coaches.

Modification of 5,000 coaches for the purpose has already begun, he said.

'Lifeline' flights have also been launched by the Civil Aviation ministry to transport testing kits, medicines, masks and other essentials commodities, Agarwal said, adding that 15.4 tonnes of medical supplies have been transported by these flights in the last five days.

Speaking at the same press conference, Raman R Gangakhedkar, the Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said 47,951 tests for COVID-19 have been conducted in the country till date.

There are 126 labs in the ICMR network. "The testing capacity utilisation is about 38 cent as of now," he said.

Besides, 51 private labs have been given the approval to conduct tests for coronavirus infection and 861 people were tested at these facilities on Monday.

Agarwal said that under the orders of the Supreme Court, states have been directed that trained counsellors and/or community group leaders of all religions will visit and provide psychological social support to the migrant workers in relief camps.

As directed by the apex court, for technical queries the Ministry of Health has created an email (technical query. covid19@gov.in) which will provide authentic technical information to queries from institutions like AIIMS, New Delhi and a joint secretary rank officer from the ministry, he said.

In addition, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified that all 24 classes of medical devices shall be regulated as drugs for quality control and price monitoring under the provisions of Drug (Price Control) Order, 2013 with effect from April 1 to ensure that no manufacturer shall increase the MRP of these items more than beyond 10 per cent of MRP in the last 12 months, he said.

With 376 new cases of COVID-19 reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Health Ministry on Wednesday said the spike does not represent a "national trend" and was primarily due to travel by those who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the national capital.

With 376 new cases of COVID-19 reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Health Ministry on Wednesday said the spike does not represent a "national trend" and was primarily due to travel by those who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the national capital. The Health Ministry in a statement said 1,637 confirmed cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the country as of now. "During the last 24 hours, 376 new confirmed cases and three new deaths have been reported. 132 persons have been cured /discharged from the hospitals after recovery," the statement said. However, addressing the daily press briefing to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation in the country, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Agarwal said 386 new positive cases were reported in the last 24 hours and till now there are a total of 1,637 COVID-19 cases in the country. "I want to highlight that the rise in the number of positive cases does not represent a national trend, but if there will be a failure anywhere, obviously cases will rise," he said as he urged people to follow the guidelines of social distancing and lockdown and avoid congregations and religious gatherings. He said 154 new positive cases of the disease have been reported due to the transit-related history of those who attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation. These include 23 new cases from Jammu and Kashmir, 20 from Telangana, 18 from Delhi, 65 from Tamil Nadu, 17 from Andhra Pradesh, nine from Andaman and Nicobar Islands and two from Puducherry. All the states concerned have been notified and asked to carry out intensive drives of rigorous contact tracing and testing besides sending those with symptoms to quarantine or isolation facilities or hospitals, Agarwal said. He said around 1,800 people in Delhi connected with the Tablighi Jamaat congregation have been shifted to nine quarantine centres and hospitals. Giving details about the necessary arrangements being made by the government to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, Agarwal informed reporters that the Indian railways is preparing to set up 3.2 lakh isolation and quarantine beds by modifying 20,000 train coaches. Modification of 5,000 coaches for the purpose has already begun, he said. 'Lifeline' flights have also been launched by the Civil Aviation ministry to transport testing kits, medicines, masks and other essentials commodities, Agarwal said, adding that 15.4 tonnes of medical supplies have been transported by these flights in the last five days. Speaking at the same press conference, Raman R Gangakhedkar, the Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said 47,951 tests for COVID-19 have been conducted in the country till date. There are 126 labs in the ICMR network. "The testing capacity utilisation is about 38 cent as of now," he said. Besides, 51 private labs have been given the approval to conduct tests for coronavirus infection and 861 people were tested at these facilities on Monday. Agarwal said that under the orders of the Supreme Court, states have been directed that trained counsellors and/or community group leaders of all religions will visit and provide psychological social support to the migrant workers in relief camps. As directed by the apex court, for technical queries the Ministry of Health has created an email (technical query. covid19@gov.in) which will provide authentic technical information to queries from institutions like AIIMS, New Delhi and a joint secretary rank officer from the ministry, he said. In addition, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified that all 24 classes of medical devices shall be regulated as drugs for quality control and price monitoring under the provisions of Drug (Price Control) Order, 2013 with effect from April 1 to ensure that no manufacturer shall increase the MRP of these items more than beyond 10 per cent of MRP in the last 12 months, he said.

376 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours happened due to Nizamuddin congregation: Government

Police is shifting around 210 people stranded at Majnu-ka-Tila Gurdwara since March 28 due to the national lockdown, to a school in Nehru Vihar.

Earlier, Manjinder S Sirsa, President of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) had requested the Chief Minister of Punjab to help the people stranded at the Gurudwara.

"My earnest request to CM @capt_amarinder Ji - More than 300 people of Punjab are here at Gurdwara Majnu Ka Tila Sahib. They need help from @PunjabGovtIndia to reach their homes. It would be a disaster if any one of them is COVID positive. Kindly respond &amp; take immediate action" he had tweeted.

The Gurdwara had earlier offered to provide quarantine and isolation facilities for the treatment of coronavirus-affected people and allotted 12 neat and sanitised rooms along with round-the-clock service to cater to the needs of the patients.

The total number of coronavirus cases in India climbed to 1637 on Tuesday. The death toll due to the COVID-19 rose to 38 while 133 cases were cured or discharged after treatment, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

Police is shifting around 210 people stranded at Majnu-ka-Tila Gurdwara since March 28 due to the national lockdown, to a school in Nehru Vihar. Earlier, Manjinder S Sirsa, President of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) had requested the Chief Minister of Punjab to help the people stranded at the Gurudwara.

Police is shifting around 210 people stranded at Majnu-ka-Tila Gurdwara since March 28 due to the national lockdown, to a school in Nehru Vihar. Earlier, Manjinder S Sirsa, President of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) had requested the Chief Minister of Punjab to help the people stranded at the Gurudwara. "My earnest request to CM @capt_amarinder Ji - More than 300 people of Punjab are here at Gurdwara Majnu Ka Tila Sahib. They need help from @PunjabGovtIndia to reach their homes. It would be a disaster if any one of them is COVID positive. Kindly respond & take immediate action" he had tweeted. The Gurdwara had earlier offered to provide quarantine and isolation facilities for the treatment of coronavirus-affected people and allotted 12 neat and sanitised rooms along with round-the-clock service to cater to the needs of the patients. The total number of coronavirus cases in India climbed to 1637 on Tuesday. The death toll due to the COVID-19 rose to 38 while 133 cases were cured or discharged after treatment, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

Around 210 people stranded at a Delhi Gurdwara due to lockdown being shifted

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, seeking financial assistance of Rs 25,000 crore to fulfil the state government’s commitments of providing free ration to the people and continuing other welfare schemes amid a dip in the revenue at a time when all businesses are shut due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

In the letter, Banerjee stated that the West Bengal government needs assistance from the Centre to cope with the unprecedented “impasse to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic”. “Our state finances like that of many other states is in a dire situation with practically no revenue flows after the closure of all businesses.

Despite this, we have somehow been able to pay the salaries, wages and pensions of government employees this month though some major states of the country could not do that on full. And even with the massive debt trap left behind by the previous government, we were able to service the debt so far, but future remains uncertain,” Banerjee said in the letter to the prime minister.

“Furthermore, we are required to meet our commitments towards girl child, students, farmers, unorganised workers, weaker sections, minorities, SC, ST and OBCs. We are also having to honour our commitments of providing free ration to almost 9 crore people, who need this so crucially to survive in this perilous time,” she wrote.

Banerjee said the Centre should sanction Rs 25,000 crore to West Bengal and also release the other funds due to the state. “The Centre has already reduced their devolution to our state by over Rs 11,000 crore and were yet to pay Rs 36,000 crore owed by the GoI (Government of India) to our state, she said in the letter.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, seeking financial assistance of Rs 25,000 crore to fulfil the state government’s commitments of providing free ration to the people and continuing other welfare schemes amid a dip in the revenue at a time when all businesses are shut due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, seeking financial assistance of Rs 25,000 crore to fulfil the state government’s commitments of providing free ration to the people and continuing other welfare schemes amid a dip in the revenue at a time when all businesses are shut due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. In the letter, Banerjee stated that the West Bengal government needs assistance from the Centre to cope with the unprecedented “impasse to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic”. “Our state finances like that of many other states is in a dire situation with practically no revenue flows after the closure of all businesses. Despite this, we have somehow been able to pay the salaries, wages and pensions of government employees this month though some major states of the country could not do that on full. And even with the massive debt trap left behind by the previous government, we were able to service the debt so far, but future remains uncertain,” Banerjee said in the letter to the prime minister. “Furthermore, we are required to meet our commitments towards girl child, students, farmers, unorganised workers, weaker sections, minorities, SC, ST and OBCs. We are also having to honour our commitments of providing free ration to almost 9 crore people, who need this so crucially to survive in this perilous time,” she wrote. Banerjee said the Centre should sanction Rs 25,000 crore to West Bengal and also release the other funds due to the state. “The Centre has already reduced their devolution to our state by over Rs 11,000 crore and were yet to pay Rs 36,000 crore owed by the GoI (Government of India) to our state, she said in the letter.

Mamata writes to Modi, seeks Rs 25,000 cr financial assistance

Lockdowns alone cannot defeat the Wuhan coronavirus. They may prove effective in slowing the virus from spreading. But they cannot stop the disease from making a comeback.&nbsp;

Some nations are already staring at a second wave. What the world needs right now is an infallible remedy. A guaranteed cure.&nbsp;

China claims to have developed one. Chinese scientists say they have found a 'novel way' to combat the novel coronavirus. 
&nbsp; 
And no — it's not a drug or a compound. This new weapon is a nano-material. According to the Chinese state media — nano-materials have proved useful in absorbing and deactivating the coronavirus. 
&nbsp; 
The efficiency they say ranges from 96.5 to 99.9%.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
But any news from China is notoriously difficult to verify. But given the dire straits we are in — for once, let's take the risk of believing what Beijing is telling us. 
&nbsp; 
Because when it comes to scientific development &amp; research — there is no doubt that China is among the front-runners. 
&nbsp; 
The country has a lab with 1500 strains of viruses. It's another thing that we don't know what they use this expertise for. But globally — there is some evidence of nano-materials proving useful in curing deadly diseases.

According to the US National Institute of Health, Nanomaterials are created out of nano-sized particles that exist in nature. They are extracted from carbon or minerals like silver. They are measured in nanometer and cannot be seen with the naked eye. 
&nbsp; 
This technological army is 100,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. So what exactly can these nanomaterials do? 
&nbsp; 
Nanomaterials that are scientifically engineered are used to design pharmaceuticals. They help enhance the effectiveness of therapy. They can target specific dysfunctional organs or decaying body cells. 
&nbsp; 
In China — scientists say that nanomaterials are being used to bind the coronavirus and interrupt its structure through infrared light emissions. 
&nbsp; 
It sounds complicated but this is what it does — the virus is absorbed or deactivated by nanomaterials. 
&nbsp; 
With the effectiveness of almost 100 per cent. This should be great news. But like all things Chinese, it comes with a catch. China hasn't conducted human trials yet. 
&nbsp; 
And haven't even set a date for such trials. Also, the US National Institute of health has attached certain conditions. 
&nbsp; 
The body says 'even well-known nanomaterials may pose a hazard when engineered to nano-size. We know very little about the potential effects on human health and the environment.' 
&nbsp; 
So there are too many question marks. When will the human-trials begin? Will nanomaterials prove useful in defeating the virus in humans? 
&nbsp; 
And more importantly, will China share this cure with the world? 
&nbsp;Or will it try to sell it? The world has suffered enough with substandard and defective Chinese test-kits. 
&nbsp; 
Beijing needs to be certain about what it's telling — and selling the world.

Lockdowns alone cannot defeat the Wuhan coronavirus. They may prove effective in slowing the virus from spreading. But they cannot stop the disease from making a comeback.

Lockdowns alone cannot defeat the Wuhan coronavirus. They may prove effective in slowing the virus from spreading. But they cannot stop the disease from making a comeback. Some nations are already staring at a second wave. What the world needs right now is an infallible remedy. A guaranteed cure. China claims to have developed one. Chinese scientists say they have found a 'novel way' to combat the novel coronavirus. And no — it's not a drug or a compound. This new weapon is a nano-material. According to the Chinese state media — nano-materials have proved useful in absorbing and deactivating the coronavirus. The efficiency they say ranges from 96.5 to 99.9%. But any news from China is notoriously difficult to verify. But given the dire straits we are in — for once, let's take the risk of believing what Beijing is telling us. Because when it comes to scientific development & research — there is no doubt that China is among the front-runners. The country has a lab with 1500 strains of viruses. It's another thing that we don't know what they use this expertise for. But globally — there is some evidence of nano-materials proving useful in curing deadly diseases. According to the US National Institute of Health, Nanomaterials are created out of nano-sized particles that exist in nature. They are extracted from carbon or minerals like silver. They are measured in nanometer and cannot be seen with the naked eye. This technological army is 100,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. So what exactly can these nanomaterials do? Nanomaterials that are scientifically engineered are used to design pharmaceuticals. They help enhance the effectiveness of therapy. They can target specific dysfunctional organs or decaying body cells. In China — scientists say that nanomaterials are being used to bind the coronavirus and interrupt its structure through infrared light emissions. It sounds complicated but this is what it does — the virus is absorbed or deactivated by nanomaterials. With the effectiveness of almost 100 per cent. This should be great news. But like all things Chinese, it comes with a catch. China hasn't conducted human trials yet. And haven't even set a date for such trials. Also, the US National Institute of health has attached certain conditions. The body says 'even well-known nanomaterials may pose a hazard when engineered to nano-size. We know very little about the potential effects on human health and the environment.' So there are too many question marks. When will the human-trials begin? Will nanomaterials prove useful in defeating the virus in humans? And more importantly, will China share this cure with the world? Or will it try to sell it? The world has suffered enough with substandard and defective Chinese test-kits. Beijing needs to be certain about what it's telling — and selling the world.

Coronavirus outbreak: Will China share novel way to combat Covid-19 with the world?

The United States recorded 865 new deaths in just 24 hours due the coronavirus epidemic with the number of confirmed cases surging to 188,547, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre.

US records highest death toll due to coronavirus

Coronavirus Outbreak: TB vaccine to protect from COVID-19?

The coronavirus outbreak has remained one step ahead of world governments but a new study from the Netherlands could very well tilt the scales in our favour.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-death-toll-hits-9053-as-virus-cases-pass-100000-289896">Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000</a>

On March 5, scientists found traces of the novel coronavirus at a wastewater facility in the city of Amersfoort.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-records-highest-single-day-death-toll-as-trump-says-painful-two-weeks-ahead-289801">Also Read:&nbsp;US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

This discovery was made before the first cases were reported in the city. So, virus traces in wastewater could serve as an early warning system for governments across the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-warns-of-global-instability-and-conflict-as-death-toll-rises-to-43291-289909">Also read: UN warns of global instability and conflict as death toll rises to 43,291</a> 
 
Sewage surveillance is by no means a new practice. Authorities have been using this technique to monitor the usage of illegal drugs among its citizens.&nbsp;

In some cases, sewage surveillance can also help discover the emergence of new viruses, like in Amersfoort.&nbsp;

This technique can also tell us more about the severity of the impending outbreak. The presence of more virus traces indicates that the infection has spread to a large portion of the population.&nbsp;

Scientists who were part of this study, feel that countries like China and South Korea would do well to start sewage surveillance.&nbsp;

These are countries bracing for a possible second wave of infections. In the Netherlands, sewage surveillance gave the government a couple of weeks to prepare for the outbreak.&nbsp;

For an infection that is growing exponentially, a couple of weeks could very well be the difference between life and death.

The coronavirus outbreak has remained one step ahead of world governments but a new study from the Netherlands could very well tilt the scales in our favour. Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000 On March 5, scientists found traces of the novel coronavirus at a wastewater facility in the city of Amersfoort.

The coronavirus outbreak has remained one step ahead of world governments but a new study from the Netherlands could very well tilt the scales in our favour. Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000 On March 5, scientists found traces of the novel coronavirus at a wastewater facility in the city of Amersfoort. Also Read: US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead This discovery was made before the first cases were reported in the city. So, virus traces in wastewater could serve as an early warning system for governments across the city. Also read: UN warns of global instability and conflict as death toll rises to 43,291 Sewage surveillance is by no means a new practice. Authorities have been using this technique to monitor the usage of illegal drugs among its citizens. In some cases, sewage surveillance can also help discover the emergence of new viruses, like in Amersfoort. This technique can also tell us more about the severity of the impending outbreak. The presence of more virus traces indicates that the infection has spread to a large portion of the population. Scientists who were part of this study, feel that countries like China and South Korea would do well to start sewage surveillance. These are countries bracing for a possible second wave of infections. In the Netherlands, sewage surveillance gave the government a couple of weeks to prepare for the outbreak. For an infection that is growing exponentially, a couple of weeks could very well be the difference between life and death.

Sewage water may give an early warning signal about Covid-19 circulation: Study

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that coronavirus pandemic is the worst global crisis since World War II and it could trigger conflicts around the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-death-toll-hits-9053-as-virus-cases-pass-100000-289896">Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000</a> 
 
"The combination of the two facts and the risk that it contributes to enhanced instability, enhanced unrest, and enhanced conflict are things that make us believe that this is the most challenging crisis we have faced since the Second World War," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-records-highest-single-day-death-toll-as-trump-says-painful-two-weeks-ahead-289801">Also Read:&nbsp;US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus have surpassed 8 lacs worldwide as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fears-second-wave-of-coronavirus-infections-reports-on-asymptomatic-cases-289838">Also read:&nbsp;China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 185,194 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infection cases and reported a record surge in unemployment.

A total of 189,633 &nbsp;people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, Spain and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 12,428 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

In Spain, the coronavirus death toll surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said.&nbsp;

Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that coronavirus pandemic is the worst global crisis since World War II and it could trigger conflicts around the world.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that coronavirus pandemic is the worst global crisis since World War II and it could trigger conflicts around the world. Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000 "The combination of the two facts and the risk that it contributes to enhanced instability, enhanced unrest, and enhanced conflict are things that make us believe that this is the most challenging crisis we have faced since the Second World War," he said. Also Read: US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus have surpassed 8 lacs worldwide as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 185,194 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infection cases and reported a record surge in unemployment. A total of 189,633 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, Spain and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 12,428 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. In Spain, the coronavirus death toll surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said. Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136.

UN warns of global instability and conflict as death toll rises to 43,291

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/follow-covid-19-guidelines-for-next-30-days-its-a-matter-of-life-and-death-trump-tells-americans-289801">Also read: Follow COVID-19 guidelines for next 30 days, it's a matter of life and death: Trump tells Americans</a>

Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fears-second-wave-of-coronavirus-infections-reports-on-asymptomatic-cases-289838">Also read:&nbsp;China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases</a>

But on a day-to-day basis, the rate of new infections continued its downward trend, showing an increase of just over 8.0 per cent, compared with nearly 11 per cent on Tuesday, health ministry figures showed.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306" target="_blank">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a>&nbsp;

And the death rate has also slowed, from 27 per cent a week ago to 10.5 per cent on Wednesday, with officials saying the data appear to show the epidemic is reaching its peak.&nbsp;

But officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of at least a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next.

Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 3,865 deaths and nearly 30,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said. Also read: Follow COVID-19 guidelines for next 30 days, it's a matter of life and death: Trump tells Americans Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136. Also read: China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases But on a day-to-day basis, the rate of new infections continued its downward trend, showing an increase of just over 8.0 per cent, compared with nearly 11 per cent on Tuesday, health ministry figures showed. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? And the death rate has also slowed, from 27 per cent a week ago to 10.5 per cent on Wednesday, with officials saying the data appear to show the epidemic is reaching its peak. But officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of at least a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next. Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 3,865 deaths and nearly 30,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000

China has now re-opened businesses in Wuhan city as the lockdown ends. China has been changing its counting methods. The world is now questioning China's intentions.

China: Businesses re-open in Wuhan as lockdown ends

Studies suggests that strong social distancing, isolation & lockdown averted thousands of deaths in Europe. These non-medical interventions helped in curbing viral spread of coronavirus, eased the burden of countries health care systems.

COVID-19: Over 120,000 deaths averted in 11 countries

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