Several countries are under a lockdown, more than three billion people across the world have now confined to their home. In these time of social distancing, these astronauts tell how they deal with self-isolation while in space.

Astronauts on how to cope with self-isolation | Coronavirus Outbreak

A PTI study recently claimed that people can carry and spread the virus even after recovering, or with no symptoms. WION’s Ayushi Agarwal spoke to Lokesh Sharma, an Indian-origin scientist from Yale University working on diagnostic and containment strategies.

Here’s the full interview!

WION: What can you tell us about your research?

Lokesh Sharma: We have been working on various lung infections. We have focused mostly on bacterial and viral lung infections. Since the corona outbreak happened, our focus has been the pandemic. What are the clinical characteristics of the coronavirus and how do these patients respond to these viruses? What is the visual clearance?&nbsp; These are the things that we have been working on.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-spared-by-the-covid-19-inferno-so-far-289274" hreflang="en">Countries spared by the COVID-19 inferno... so far!</a>

WION: What were the three most significant findings?

LS: Our research shows that most of the people who have coronavirus have mild infections if they are young and if they do not have any other diseases. Secondly, even though they do not have severe infections, and even after they resolve their infections, in terms of symptoms, they can still have a persistent viral load and can infect other people.

Third interesting finding, in a different study, is that many people with the infection&nbsp;do not even get symptoms, but had at one point, carried the virus. For this study, we tested 16 patients. In another study where we looked at hundreds of patients and their antibody response, we found that antibody testing may be more sensitive…&nbsp; In another small study,&nbsp;most of the people exhibited symptoms that were&nbsp;not serious enough.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-ripped-apart-by-the-covid-19-pandemic-289245">Countries ripped apart by the COVID-19 pandemic</a>

WION: How should we protect health-care workers from subclinical coronavirus infection?

LS: Healthcare workers are the most vulnerable population and the best way to protect them is to treat every single patient. And by practicing&nbsp;social distance. They must use proper personal protective equipment akin to the N-95 masks, or a complete body suit.&nbsp;

We are diagnosing patients on the phone. So if you do not have any severe issues, people should just talk on the phone and try to not meet the doctor physically.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/architectural-marvels-of-the-world-pay-tribute-to-health-workers-289078">Architectural marvels of the world pay tribute to health workers</a> 
 
WION: Please explain why controlling the spread of the disease has been difficult and how does this study which says that patients may still have symptoms, affect our mitigation strategy?

LS: India has controlled the virus really well so far because India has conducted a really absolutely low number of testing when compared to other countries. So to control it, I think the only thing that works is limitation, (in terms of travel and social contact). I think that is the only effective way until the vaccine comes.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-under-coronavirus-24-hours-around-the-world-in-pictures-288917">Life under coronavirus: 24 hours around the world in pictures</a>

WION: One message that you want to give to Indians?

LS: Just stay at home. Don't come into contact with others, don't believe in traditional medicines, don't believe in drinking urine or something. It will just damage your liver.&nbsp;If you are asymptomatic,&nbsp;stay at home. If you have symptoms, call the doctor and don't go to the hospital. Let them know in advance that you are visiting so they know how to deal with you. If it's controlled within a few weeks, I think things will be much better and we will have more knowledge about how to deal with it and how to contain this virus.

A PTI study recently claimed that people can carry and spread the virus even after recovering, or with no symptoms. WION’s Ayushi Agarwal spoke to Lokesh Sharma, an Indian-origin scientist from Yale University working on diagnostic and containment strategies.

A PTI study recently claimed that people can carry and spread the virus even after recovering, or with no symptoms. WION’s Ayushi Agarwal spoke to Lokesh Sharma, an Indian-origin scientist from Yale University working on diagnostic and containment strategies. Here’s the full interview! WION: What can you tell us about your research? Lokesh Sharma: We have been working on various lung infections. We have focused mostly on bacterial and viral lung infections. Since the corona outbreak happened, our focus has been the pandemic. What are the clinical characteristics of the coronavirus and how do these patients respond to these viruses? What is the visual clearance? These are the things that we have been working on. In pics: Countries spared by the COVID-19 inferno... so far! WION: What were the three most significant findings? LS: Our research shows that most of the people who have coronavirus have mild infections if they are young and if they do not have any other diseases. Secondly, even though they do not have severe infections, and even after they resolve their infections, in terms of symptoms, they can still have a persistent viral load and can infect other people. Third interesting finding, in a different study, is that many people with the infection do not even get symptoms, but had at one point, carried the virus. For this study, we tested 16 patients. In another study where we looked at hundreds of patients and their antibody response, we found that antibody testing may be more sensitive… In another small study, most of the people exhibited symptoms that were not serious enough. In pics: Countries ripped apart by the COVID-19 pandemic WION: How should we protect health-care workers from subclinical coronavirus infection? LS: Healthcare workers are the most vulnerable population and the best way to protect them is to treat every single patient. And by practicing social distance. They must use proper personal protective equipment akin to the N-95 masks, or a complete body suit. We are diagnosing patients on the phone. So if you do not have any severe issues, people should just talk on the phone and try to not meet the doctor physically. In pics: Architectural marvels of the world pay tribute to health workers WION: Please explain why controlling the spread of the disease has been difficult and how does this study which says that patients may still have symptoms, affect our mitigation strategy? LS: India has controlled the virus really well so far because India has conducted a really absolutely low number of testing when compared to other countries. So to control it, I think the only thing that works is limitation, (in terms of travel and social contact). I think that is the only effective way until the vaccine comes. In pics: Life under coronavirus: 24 hours around the world in pictures WION: One message that you want to give to Indians? LS: Just stay at home. Don't come into contact with others, don't believe in traditional medicines, don't believe in drinking urine or something. It will just damage your liver. If you are asymptomatic, stay at home. If you have symptoms, call the doctor and don't go to the hospital. Let them know in advance that you are visiting so they know how to deal with you. If it's controlled within a few weeks, I think things will be much better and we will have more knowledge about how to deal with it and how to contain this virus.

Exclusive: WION in conversation with Lokesh Sharma, an Indian-origin scientist working on COVID-19 diagnosis and mitigation

The COVID-19 outbreak in India could be fast evolving into a humanitarian crisis as the 21-day lockdown in the country has triggered a massive exodus of migrant labourers.

On foot?

Many of them are attempting to travel hundreds of kilometres, some on foot, back to their hometowns.

In the National Capital Region, the situation has snowballed into a mass gathering of migrants at the bus terminus.

Hundreds and thousands of migrants are waiting for the bus which could take them back to their homes.

While India remains in a lockdown, buses remain the only public transport still available, that too with limited coverage and services.

Most of these labourers belong to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

They have set out after hearing rumours that buses were available at the Delhi-UP border.

The situation is the most precarious at Anand Vihar.&nbsp;The bus terminus at Anand Vihar connects Delhi to the eastern belt of India.

Severe overcrowding has taken place at the terminus with migrants choosing to travel back to their hometowns.

The police were seen turning back a large group of such migrant workers.

<img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="97cada8b-6ae9-4bcf-90a4-01f78e835ebf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_23.jpg" />

State and centre kick start relief measures

There were similar scenes at many interstate checkpoints. The Uttar Pradesh government has now arranged for 1,000 buses to ferry the stranded migrant labourers.

The UP state government has also directed officials to ensure proper food and water supply to the labourers.

The Home Ministry has issued a strict advisory to all state governments on the matter.

Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to some chief ministers, urging them to stop this mass exodus immediately.

In the Gautam Buddha Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, as per the administration there will be no house rent for migrant labourers and workers for one month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-automobile-sector-releases-funds-to-aid-containment-of-covid-19-289257" hreflang="en">Indian automobile sector releases funds to aid containment of COVID-19</a>

The central government has also made appeals to migrants to stay wherever they are.

The centre has additionally asked states to ensure that migrant workers are provided food, clean water and other basic amenities, free of cost.

The advisory issued to states calls for a joint approach with NGOs and civil society in the loop.

And most importantly to make sure that the labourers are aware of these measures in the first place.

The Delhi government has made arrangements to provide food to migrant workers at the especially made shelters.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government has made arrangements to feed four lakh people on a daily basis.

He also said that members of the flying squad were going to different places to hand over food packets to the needy.

In Gujarat - the government has warned of police action if labourers are found migrating on foot.

The chief minister has asked all district administrations to make arrangements for free food and accommodation.

<img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="04feaa93-205b-467f-b2c3-64f76a075cee" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2811%29_20.jpg" />

NGOs not far behind

Several NGOs have also stepped in: A food distribution camp has been set up near the Nizamuddin Railway Station in the national capital.

The needy are first provided with hand sanitisers and then provided with food.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/im-with-you-assures-pm-modi-during-his-coronavirus-centred-mann-ki-baat-address-289241" hreflang="en">'I'm with you', assures PM Modi during his coronavirus-centred 'Mann Ki Baat' address</a>

The central government has asked states to undertake regular health check-up drives for the migrants at the relief camps.

States have been allowed to avail any amount of funds from the State Disaster Response Fund.

The COVID-19 outbreak in India could be fast evolving into a humanitarian crisis as the 21-day lockdown in the country has triggered a massive exodus of migrant labourers.

The COVID-19 outbreak in India could be fast evolving into a humanitarian crisis as the 21-day lockdown in the country has triggered a massive exodus of migrant labourers. On foot? Many of them are attempting to travel hundreds of kilometres, some on foot, back to their hometowns. In the National Capital Region, the situation has snowballed into a mass gathering of migrants at the bus terminus. Hundreds and thousands of migrants are waiting for the bus which could take them back to their homes. While India remains in a lockdown, buses remain the only public transport still available, that too with limited coverage and services. Most of these labourers belong to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. They have set out after hearing rumours that buses were available at the Delhi-UP border. The situation is the most precarious at Anand Vihar. The bus terminus at Anand Vihar connects Delhi to the eastern belt of India. Severe overcrowding has taken place at the terminus with migrants choosing to travel back to their hometowns. The police were seen turning back a large group of such migrant workers. State and centre kick start relief measures There were similar scenes at many interstate checkpoints. The Uttar Pradesh government has now arranged for 1,000 buses to ferry the stranded migrant labourers. The UP state government has also directed officials to ensure proper food and water supply to the labourers. The Home Ministry has issued a strict advisory to all state governments on the matter. Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to some chief ministers, urging them to stop this mass exodus immediately. In the Gautam Buddha Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, as per the administration there will be no house rent for migrant labourers and workers for one month. Also read: Indian automobile sector releases funds to aid containment of COVID-19 The central government has also made appeals to migrants to stay wherever they are. The centre has additionally asked states to ensure that migrant workers are provided food, clean water and other basic amenities, free of cost. The advisory issued to states calls for a joint approach with NGOs and civil society in the loop. And most importantly to make sure that the labourers are aware of these measures in the first place. The Delhi government has made arrangements to provide food to migrant workers at the especially made shelters. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government has made arrangements to feed four lakh people on a daily basis. He also said that members of the flying squad were going to different places to hand over food packets to the needy. In Gujarat - the government has warned of police action if labourers are found migrating on foot. The chief minister has asked all district administrations to make arrangements for free food and accommodation. NGOs not far behind Several NGOs have also stepped in: A food distribution camp has been set up near the Nizamuddin Railway Station in the national capital. The needy are first provided with hand sanitisers and then provided with food. Also read: 'I'm with you', assures PM Modi during his coronavirus-centred 'Mann Ki Baat' address The central government has asked states to undertake regular health check-up drives for the migrants at the relief camps. States have been allowed to avail any amount of funds from the State Disaster Response Fund.

Is India experiencing a humanitarian crisis alongside the coronavirus pandemic?

A senior health official on Saturday (March 28) said, the United Kingdom will do well if it manages to keep the coronavirus death toll below 20,000. This is after the deadliest day so far of the outbreak, when UK saw the number of fatalities rise to more than 1,000.

UK health official: UK will do well if it manages to keep death toll below 20,000

The fast-growing death toll from coronavirus has crossed 21,000 in Europe, with hardest-hit Italy and Spain both reporting more than 800 deaths each in the past twenty-four hours.

Out of 30,847 lives lost worldwide, more than two-thirds of them have died in European countries where Italy has the highest number of fatalities with 10,023 deaths, followed by Spain that adds 832 new deaths today.

France reports 319 more deaths from the coronavirus pandemic over the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 2314.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-goodwill-gesture-countries-hard-hit-by-covid-19-return-defective-protective-gear-sent-by-china-289279" hreflang="en">'A goodwill gesture?': Countries hard-hit by COVID-19 return defective protective gear sent by China</a>

The daily toll, while severe, is however lower than the 365 new deaths reported on Thursday this week.

The pandemic has also swept into the Scandinavian countries with over 12,000 positive cases and nearly 200 deaths.

Denmark and Norway closed their borders, restaurants and schools weeks ago but Sweden with its unorthodox approach still has its bars and restaurants open.

The death toll in Sweden has reached above 100.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-the-united-states-wasted-a-critical-window-of-opportunity-to-isolate-covid-19-289271">How the United States wasted a critical window of opportunity to isolate COVID-19</a>

Leaders this week have admitted locking horns over the financial fallout that has followed the COVID-19 outbreak.

The European Union is facing perhaps its biggest threat as the coronavirus pandemic exposes divisions among member states.

Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte has warned that the European Union could lose its purpose if it fails to come up with a strong response to the coronavirus threat.

"I want to say that on this I will be inflexible. We are open to any kind of debate. But here we have a meeting with history. The European Union has to prove if it can rise up to the challenge that history is posing", Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-new-york-city-become-the-american-coronavirus-epicentre-289264" hreflang="en">How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre?</a>

Italy and Spain want the EU to start issuing "corona bonds", a form of common debt that governments sell on cheaper interest rates.

But the Netherlands and Germany are sceptical fearing their big spending southern neighbours will exploit the crisis to push for a pooling of eurozone government debts.

The President of the European Commission has begged the member countries to show solidarity&nbsp; but the crisis has only underlined existing divisions.

The fast-growing death toll from coronavirus has crossed 21,000 in Europe, with hardest-hit Italy and Spain both reporting more than 800 deaths each in the past twenty-four hours.

The fast-growing death toll from coronavirus has crossed 21,000 in Europe, with hardest-hit Italy and Spain both reporting more than 800 deaths each in the past twenty-four hours. Out of 30,847 lives lost worldwide, more than two-thirds of them have died in European countries where Italy has the highest number of fatalities with 10,023 deaths, followed by Spain that adds 832 new deaths today. France reports 319 more deaths from the coronavirus pandemic over the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 2314. Also read: 'A goodwill gesture?': Countries hard-hit by COVID-19 return defective protective gear sent by China The daily toll, while severe, is however lower than the 365 new deaths reported on Thursday this week. The pandemic has also swept into the Scandinavian countries with over 12,000 positive cases and nearly 200 deaths. Denmark and Norway closed their borders, restaurants and schools weeks ago but Sweden with its unorthodox approach still has its bars and restaurants open. The death toll in Sweden has reached above 100. Also read: How the United States wasted a critical window of opportunity to isolate COVID-19 Leaders this week have admitted locking horns over the financial fallout that has followed the COVID-19 outbreak. The European Union is facing perhaps its biggest threat as the coronavirus pandemic exposes divisions among member states. Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte has warned that the European Union could lose its purpose if it fails to come up with a strong response to the coronavirus threat. "I want to say that on this I will be inflexible. We are open to any kind of debate. But here we have a meeting with history. The European Union has to prove if it can rise up to the challenge that history is posing", Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte. Also read: How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre? Italy and Spain want the EU to start issuing "corona bonds", a form of common debt that governments sell on cheaper interest rates. But the Netherlands and Germany are sceptical fearing their big spending southern neighbours will exploit the crisis to push for a pooling of eurozone government debts. The President of the European Commission has begged the member countries to show solidarity but the crisis has only underlined existing divisions.

Coronavirus outbreak threatens to destabilise the European Union as cracks start to show

As of Friday (March 27) the coronavirus had infected more than 100,000 people in the United States, now the US is leading the world leader in cases of COVID-19.

US leads the world in COVID-19 confirmed cases

Coronavirus Outbreak: Health Workers at risk in Spain, Italy and UK | WION News | World News The coronavirus death toll has surpassed 8,000 in Italy, erasing some of the hope seen earlier this week when the number of reported deaths seemed to have slowed down.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Health Workers at risk in Spain, Italy and UK

Coronavirus cases in Pakistan reached 1,500 on Saturday. The death toll of the country due to the deadly infection stands at 12.

The first cases of coronavirus were first reported on February 26.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-china-sends-special-plane-to-pakistan-with-doctors-and-relief-aid-289129" hreflang="en">COVID-19: China sends special plane to Pakistan with doctors and relief aid</a>

Pakistan has recorded the highest number of COVID-19 cases in South Asia so far.

In Pakistan, the highest number of cases were reported in Punjab.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-losing-precious-time-to-act-decisively-on-covid-19-outbreak-289125" hreflang="en">Pakistan losing precious time to act decisively on COVID-19 outbreak</a>

Meanwhile, there are 469 people have been tested positive for the deadly virus in Sindh.

Worldwide infections surpassed 640,000 with nearly 30,000 deaths as new cases also stacked up quickly in Europe, according to a tally by John Hopkins University.

Coronavirus cases in Pakistan reached 1,500 on Saturday. The death toll of the country due to the deadly infection stands at 12. The first cases of coronavirus were first reported on February 26.

Coronavirus cases in Pakistan reached 1,500 on Saturday. The death toll of the country due to the deadly infection stands at 12. The first cases of coronavirus were first reported on February 26. Also read: COVID-19: China sends special plane to Pakistan with doctors and relief aid Pakistan has recorded the highest number of COVID-19 cases in South Asia so far. In Pakistan, the highest number of cases were reported in Punjab. Also read: Pakistan losing precious time to act decisively on COVID-19 outbreak Meanwhile, there are 469 people have been tested positive for the deadly virus in Sindh. Worldwide infections surpassed 640,000 with nearly 30,000 deaths as new cases also stacked up quickly in Europe, according to a tally by John Hopkins University.

Pakistan coronavirus cases reach 1500

Spain returns faulty test kits to China | Spain Coronavirus News | World news As Spain’s death toll hit 4,089, the Chinese embassy in Madrid said on Thursday (26 March) that the Spanish government had bought a batch of faulty COVID-19 testing kits from an unauthorised Chinese company.

Spain returns faulty test kits to China | Spain Coronavirus News

As the world grapples with the coronavirus crisis, four countries - Spain, Turkey, Ukraine and the Czech Republic, are all returning made in China testing kits.

Adding up to the list, today, the Netherlands recalled defective masks bought from China.

A resurgent China is exporting medical equipment, testing kits, and face masks around the world as a goodwill gesture.

But, these Chinese kits were found to be substandard and faulty.

Recalls in progress

The Dutch government has ordered a recall of around 600,000 masks out of a shipment of 1.3 million from China after they failed to meet quality standards.

The tests show that the masks failed to protect the face or had defective filters.

Even worse, the defective masks had already been distributed to several hospitals currently battling the COVID-19 outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-new-york-city-become-the-american-coronavirus-epicentre-289264" hreflang="en">How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre?</a>

Spain, the second-worst affected country in the world with more than 65,000 cases and 5,600 deaths, acted in desperation.

"All the countries are fighting to secure domestic production, fighting to get supplies from China", said Maria Jesus Montero, representative of the Spanish government.

Just two days ago, a Spanish government spokesperson Maria Montero said that the country fought a “war” while procuring medical supplies in an overheated Chinese market.

But, the testing kits purchased from a Chinese firm were faulty.

<img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a34cbf16-f32e-4098-889f-38e88b0850c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_33.jpg" />

In Spain, the rate of detection failure among testing kits was 70 per cent, while in Czech Republic, it was 80 per cent.

According to the Spanish newspaper El Pais, these kits could detect only 30 per cent of the cases.

Just a day earlier, Spanish government had passed a 475 million dollar order for emergency medical equipment from China.

The deal is now uncertain, for many countries have complained of mediocre testing kits and material.

Faulty kits and protective gear during this outbreak can be disastrous.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-sees-an-opportunity-its-daily-mask-production-reaches-115-million-289218/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A helping hand?

As of now, China has exported 100,000 kits to the Philippines, over 10,000 each to African countries and Poland.

"This is a tremendous help of China. It is a model for what the rest of the world should be doing. Instead of blaming each other for what's happening, they should all start working together to help each other. And this is concrete proof", the Philippine Foreign Secretary, Teodoro Locsin was quoted saying recently.

Additionally, China has also sent medical teams to several countries, including Serbia. To help out Italy, China has sent not one but three teams so far.

In total, China has extended “help” to over 89 countries and four international organisations.

The state media too, is hard at work to kill negative publicity, saying there is no place for a “smearing game” over products made in China.

But, China is moving towards normalcy while the rest of the world is under a lockdown. Business has resumed in many parts of the country.

Outside Hubei - the original epicentre of the outbreak, 90 per cent of large firms are back at work. But, not without government help. Like most countries, China too has announced a relief package to revive the economy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-permits-companies-to-pollute-freely-amid-covid-19-pandemic-289248" hreflang="en">US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"We have communicated the figure of a totality of 344 billion US Dollars in terms of mainly fiscal measures", the administration announced.

"First and foremost we try to stabilise the Chinese economy and with the measures we have started to take, with the return to work of the workers and the resumption of productive activities by the factories across the country i think the Chinese economy is coming back to life", said Wang Xiaolong, the Director-General of International Economic Affairs of China’s Foreign Ministry.

So, while major countries are still struggling, China has a head start.

China can bounce back quickly by boosting business.

<img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="410bd8a8-f4c6-482c-a35a-b9e2929be8cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%285%29_30.jpg" />

Chinese firms up the ante

Personal protection equipment like masks and face gear. According to a report, almost nine thousand new manufacturers started producing masks in china this year.

China's daily mask production has crossed 115 million.

BYD, a company that normally makes electric cars, says it could make five million masks per day.

Foxconn, the Taiwanese company that makes iPhones, says it can make two million masks per day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-the-united-states-wasted-a-critical-window-of-opportunity-to-isolate-covid-19-289271" hreflang="en">How the United States wasted a critical window of opportunity to isolate COVID-19</a>

New York governor Andrew Cuomo has thanked Huawei for donations.

This is the same Chinese company that the US Government has blacklisted due to security reasons.

Back in business

Foreign companies based in China have reopened with nearly 80 percent of the workforce back at work.

BMW's factories had resumed operations in February itself. Fiat Chrysler has also restarted production. Foxconn has resumed work in its Mainland China factories.

Tesla's factory has reopened too, with help from local authorities.

As the world grapples with the coronavirus crisis, four countries - Spain, Turkey, Ukraine and the Czech Republic, are all returning made in China testing kits. Adding up to the list, today, the Netherlands recalled defective masks bought from China.

As the world grapples with the coronavirus crisis, four countries - Spain, Turkey, Ukraine and the Czech Republic, are all returning made in China testing kits. Adding up to the list, today, the Netherlands recalled defective masks bought from China. A resurgent China is exporting medical equipment, testing kits, and face masks around the world as a goodwill gesture. But, these Chinese kits were found to be substandard and faulty. Recalls in progress The Dutch government has ordered a recall of around 600,000 masks out of a shipment of 1.3 million from China after they failed to meet quality standards. The tests show that the masks failed to protect the face or had defective filters. Even worse, the defective masks had already been distributed to several hospitals currently battling the COVID-19 outbreak. Also read: How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre? Spain, the second-worst affected country in the world with more than 65,000 cases and 5,600 deaths, acted in desperation. "All the countries are fighting to secure domestic production, fighting to get supplies from China", said Maria Jesus Montero, representative of the Spanish government. Just two days ago, a Spanish government spokesperson Maria Montero said that the country fought a “war” while procuring medical supplies in an overheated Chinese market. But, the testing kits purchased from a Chinese firm were faulty. In Spain, the rate of detection failure among testing kits was 70 per cent, while in Czech Republic, it was 80 per cent. According to the Spanish newspaper El Pais, these kits could detect only 30 per cent of the cases. Just a day earlier, Spanish government had passed a 475 million dollar order for emergency medical equipment from China. The deal is now uncertain, for many countries have complained of mediocre testing kits and material. Faulty kits and protective gear during this outbreak can be disastrous. A helping hand? As of now, China has exported 100,000 kits to the Philippines, over 10,000 each to African countries and Poland. "This is a tremendous help of China. It is a model for what the rest of the world should be doing. Instead of blaming each other for what's happening, they should all start working together to help each other. And this is concrete proof", the Philippine Foreign Secretary, Teodoro Locsin was quoted saying recently. Additionally, China has also sent medical teams to several countries, including Serbia. To help out Italy, China has sent not one but three teams so far. In total, China has extended “help” to over 89 countries and four international organisations. The state media too, is hard at work to kill negative publicity, saying there is no place for a “smearing game” over products made in China. But, China is moving towards normalcy while the rest of the world is under a lockdown. Business has resumed in many parts of the country. Outside Hubei - the original epicentre of the outbreak, 90 per cent of large firms are back at work. But, not without government help. Like most countries, China too has announced a relief package to revive the economy. Also read: US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic "We have communicated the figure of a totality of 344 billion US Dollars in terms of mainly fiscal measures", the administration announced. "First and foremost we try to stabilise the Chinese economy and with the measures we have started to take, with the return to work of the workers and the resumption of productive activities by the factories across the country i think the Chinese economy is coming back to life", said Wang Xiaolong, the Director-General of International Economic Affairs of China’s Foreign Ministry. So, while major countries are still struggling, China has a head start. China can bounce back quickly by boosting business. Chinese firms up the ante Personal protection equipment like masks and face gear. According to a report, almost nine thousand new manufacturers started producing masks in china this year. China's daily mask production has crossed 115 million. BYD, a company that normally makes electric cars, says it could make five million masks per day. Foxconn, the Taiwanese company that makes iPhones, says it can make two million masks per day. Also read: How the United States wasted a critical window of opportunity to isolate COVID-19 New York governor Andrew Cuomo has thanked Huawei for donations. This is the same Chinese company that the US Government has blacklisted due to security reasons. Back in business Foreign companies based in China have reopened with nearly 80 percent of the workforce back at work. BMW's factories had resumed operations in February itself. Fiat Chrysler has also restarted production. Foxconn has resumed work in its Mainland China factories. Tesla's factory has reopened too, with help from local authorities.

'A goodwill gesture?': Countries hard-hit by COVID-19 return defective protective gear sent by China

According to health experts, every country has a small window of opportunity to control the COVID-19 infection.

And for the United States, this period was the month of February.

Missed opportunity?

Reports indicate that the US government was slow off the mark even after the first cases were reported.

There was simply no emphasis on testing, which the World Health Organization has repeatedly touted as the most important step in tackling the pandemic.

The coronavirus task force reportedly dedicated just five to ten minutes during every meeting to address the issue of testing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-new-york-city-become-the-american-coronavirus-epicentre-289264" hreflang="en">How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre?</a>

During the whole month of February, when countries like South Korea went on a testing spree, the US remained defiant.There was no large-scale testing during this month.

Those 29 days may have flattened the curve by now.

Only symptomatic people with travel history to virus-hit nations were tested.

The US government completely discounted the possibility of community transmission, so carriers were walking around with no restrictions.

The lack of testing resulted in indiscriminate spreading, with the possibility of isolating the virus becoming more difficult.

<h6><img alt="oo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f601ab0-af37-4db4-8622-7ee4f694d867" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_60.jpg" /> 
A man rides a bike in an empty parking lot during sunset in Santa Monica, California on March 28, 2020, after all Los Angeles County beaches were closed to the public in an effort to stem the growth of COVID19 cases in the novel coronavirus pandemic in Los Angeles County | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Had there been mass testing, local hotspots could have been identified and the locality could have been quarantined.

Even private labs were roped in much later to tackle the outbreak.

Despite Trump's claim that every American can be tested, there is a major shortage of testing kits in the country.

On Monday, the President actually asked South Korea to export as many testing kits as possible to the United States.

Failure of leadership?

It was only on February 26 that Mike Pence, the vice president, was asked to lead the task force.

Until then, the White House consistently downplayed the severity of the situation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-permits-companies-to-pollute-freely-amid-covid-19-pandemic-289248" hreflang="en">US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

On February 28, Trump said the virus would one day disappear like a miracle.

It's been more than 30 days since that statement, and there is no miracle in sight.

According to health experts, every country has a small window of opportunity to control the COVID-19 infection. And for the United States, this period was the month of February.

According to health experts, every country has a small window of opportunity to control the COVID-19 infection. And for the United States, this period was the month of February. Missed opportunity? Reports indicate that the US government was slow off the mark even after the first cases were reported. There was simply no emphasis on testing, which the World Health Organization has repeatedly touted as the most important step in tackling the pandemic. The coronavirus task force reportedly dedicated just five to ten minutes during every meeting to address the issue of testing. Also read: How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre? During the whole month of February, when countries like South Korea went on a testing spree, the US remained defiant.There was no large-scale testing during this month. Those 29 days may have flattened the curve by now. Only symptomatic people with travel history to virus-hit nations were tested. The US government completely discounted the possibility of community transmission, so carriers were walking around with no restrictions. The lack of testing resulted in indiscriminate spreading, with the possibility of isolating the virus becoming more difficult. A man rides a bike in an empty parking lot during sunset in Santa Monica, California on March 28, 2020, after all Los Angeles County beaches were closed to the public in an effort to stem the growth of COVID19 cases in the novel coronavirus pandemic in Los Angeles County | AFP Had there been mass testing, local hotspots could have been identified and the locality could have been quarantined. Even private labs were roped in much later to tackle the outbreak. Despite Trump's claim that every American can be tested, there is a major shortage of testing kits in the country. On Monday, the President actually asked South Korea to export as many testing kits as possible to the United States. Failure of leadership? It was only on February 26 that Mike Pence, the vice president, was asked to lead the task force. Until then, the White House consistently downplayed the severity of the situation. Also read: US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic On February 28, Trump said the virus would one day disappear like a miracle. It's been more than 30 days since that statement, and there is no miracle in sight.

How the United States wasted a critical window of opportunity to isolate COVID-19

In the United States, Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to wreak havoc. The fatalities doubles in just 3 days. Trump said that quarantine will be be necessary. He issues travel curbs on New York instead. The United States of America is still underprepared for COVID-19. Most cities of U.S. still lacks masks & ventilators.

What made New York vulnerable to COVID-19

Among the 50 states in the United States, New York accounts for 43 per cent of all COVID-19 cases. And within the state, New York City is the worst-hit.

Why NYC?

There are numerous reasons why NYC is increasingly becoming the country’s coronavirus hotbed.&nbsp;

The most important reason is the city's massive population. New York is the largest and the most densely populated city in America.

With 27,000 people living per square mile, the city is characterised by crowded subways and bustling streets.

Almost five million people ride the subway every single day.

<img alt="oo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6167f3af-7caa-49af-a2e3-f75c2f496c12" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_116.jpg" />

Social distancing is not a common practice in the city, something that even Mayor Bill de Blasio admitted to.The city has also been testing a lot more than the rest of the country.

It was the first state to call for the services of private labs.

And as experts have concluded, more testing equals identification of more positive cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-permits-companies-to-pollute-freely-amid-covid-19-pandemic-289248" hreflang="en">US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

New York accounts for 25 per cent of all the testing that is being done in the US. 
 
However, community transmission was first reported on March 2, however public gatherings were banned much later. To be precise, the administration took the call after ten days.

Schools too continued to remain open, even after 2,300 confirmed cases.&nbsp;

Global city suffers

New York's pedigree as a global city worked against it.

It is one of the most visited cities in the world, for both business and leisure trips. In 2018, 65 million people visited the city.

And not to mention, the city is home to two of the busiest airports in America.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-the-covid-19-pandemic-threatening-ongoing-vaccination-programmes-289229" hreflang="en">Is the COVID-19 pandemic threatening ongoing vaccination programmes?</a>

Among the 50 states in the United States, New York accounts for 43 per cent of all COVID-19 cases. And within the state, New York City is the worst-hit. Why NYC?

Among the 50 states in the United States, New York accounts for 43 per cent of all COVID-19 cases. And within the state, New York City is the worst-hit. Why NYC? There are numerous reasons why NYC is increasingly becoming the country’s coronavirus hotbed. The most important reason is the city's massive population. New York is the largest and the most densely populated city in America. With 27,000 people living per square mile, the city is characterised by crowded subways and bustling streets. Almost five million people ride the subway every single day. Social distancing is not a common practice in the city, something that even Mayor Bill de Blasio admitted to.The city has also been testing a lot more than the rest of the country. It was the first state to call for the services of private labs. And as experts have concluded, more testing equals identification of more positive cases. Also read: US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic New York accounts for 25 per cent of all the testing that is being done in the US. However, community transmission was first reported on March 2, however public gatherings were banned much later. To be precise, the administration took the call after ten days. Schools too continued to remain open, even after 2,300 confirmed cases. Global city suffers New York's pedigree as a global city worked against it. It is one of the most visited cities in the world, for both business and leisure trips. In 2018, 65 million people visited the city. And not to mention, the city is home to two of the busiest airports in America. Also read: Is the COVID-19 pandemic threatening ongoing vaccination programmes?

How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre?

Amid the coronavirus pandemic which has now infected over 600,000 people globally, India's auto sector has offered to help the administration and health workers in tackling the outbreak.

Utility vehicle maker Mahindra &amp; Mahindra has announced plans to manufacture low-cost ventilators in its Maharashtra factory. These in-house "Ambu Bag" ventilators will be manufactured for less than ₹7,500. The "Ambu" is an artificial breathing unit, with a prototype bag valve mask equipped with a self-inflating mechanism to aid breathing among ailing patients.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-permits-companies-to-pollute-freely-amid-covid-19-pandemic-289248">US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"We are simultaneously working with an indigenous maker of ICU ventilators. This device is an interim lifesaver and the team estimates it will cost below ₹7,500", Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra tweeted.

M&amp;M is also set to begin manufacturing a face shield based a design pitched by its partner Ford Motor Company based in the United States. This shield is intended for use by health care providers.

Car maker Maruti Suzuki India intends to produce 10,000 ventilators a month. The company said it will work with AgVa Healthcare to rapidly scale up production of life-saving paraphernalia as the demand arises.&nbsp;

"There can be initial difficulties as ventilator manufacturing is a new area for us but we are using all our functions and resources including engineers, designers and supply chains to manufacture them", said RC Bhargava, the Chairman of Maruti Suzuki India.

<h6>&nbsp;<img alt="face shield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c36629d9-73f2-43c7-8e82-a4a982d8fe36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2815%29_20.jpg" /> 
A prototype of the face shield 
&nbsp;</h6>

Krishna Maruti Limited, a joint venture of Maruti Suzuki, would manufacture three-ply masks for supply to the Haryana and Central governments while MSIL's another JV Bharat Seats would make protective clothing required for medical professionals.

South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor has ordered advanced diagnostic testing kits for coronavirus infection from its home country as part of its measures to combat the pandemic. These advanced kits can help serve over 25,000 people.

The doyen of Indian auto sector, Ratan Tata yesterday announced ₹500 crore contribution by Tata Trusts.&nbsp;

The funds will be used for personal protective equipment for the medical personnel, testing kits to increase testing of possible cases, setting up modular treatment facilities for infected patients, and for the knowledge management and training of health workers and the general public.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/clear-we-have-entered-recession-would-be-worse-than-2009-imf-289009">Clear we have entered recession, would be worse than 2009: IMF</a>

This ₹500 crore will be in addition to Tata Sons commitment of ₹1,000 crore in fighting the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

"In this exceptionally difficult period, I believe that urgent emergency resources need to be deployed to cope with the needs of fighting the COVID 19 crisis, which is one of the toughest challenges the human race will face," Tata Trusts chairman Ratan Tata said in a statement.

The country's largest two-wheeler maker Hero MotoCorp has assured its dealers to absorb their unsold BS IV stock. According to estimates, dealers are holding close to 1.5 lakh units of BS-IV stock which remain unsold due to lockdown. With the country accepting BS VI norms from April 1, the dealers won't be able to sell majority of their stock that will lie unsold.

Another two-wheeler major Bajaj Auto has also committed ₹100 crore to assist the administration in containment of the pandemic.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic which has now infected over 600,000 people globally, India's auto sector has offered to help the administration and health workers in tackling the outbreak.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic which has now infected over 600,000 people globally, India's auto sector has offered to help the administration and health workers in tackling the outbreak. Utility vehicle maker Mahindra & Mahindra has announced plans to manufacture low-cost ventilators in its Maharashtra factory. These in-house "Ambu Bag" ventilators will be manufactured for less than ₹7,500. The "Ambu" is an artificial breathing unit, with a prototype bag valve mask equipped with a self-inflating mechanism to aid breathing among ailing patients. Also read: US permits companies to pollute freely amid COVID-19 pandemic "We are simultaneously working with an indigenous maker of ICU ventilators. This device is an interim lifesaver and the team estimates it will cost below ₹7,500", Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra tweeted. M&M is also set to begin manufacturing a face shield based a design pitched by its partner Ford Motor Company based in the United States. This shield is intended for use by health care providers. Car maker Maruti Suzuki India intends to produce 10,000 ventilators a month. The company said it will work with AgVa Healthcare to rapidly scale up production of life-saving paraphernalia as the demand arises. "There can be initial difficulties as ventilator manufacturing is a new area for us but we are using all our functions and resources including engineers, designers and supply chains to manufacture them", said RC Bhargava, the Chairman of Maruti Suzuki India. A prototype of the face shield Krishna Maruti Limited, a joint venture of Maruti Suzuki, would manufacture three-ply masks for supply to the Haryana and Central governments while MSIL's another JV Bharat Seats would make protective clothing required for medical professionals. South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor has ordered advanced diagnostic testing kits for coronavirus infection from its home country as part of its measures to combat the pandemic. These advanced kits can help serve over 25,000 people. The doyen of Indian auto sector, Ratan Tata yesterday announced ₹500 crore contribution by Tata Trusts. The funds will be used for personal protective equipment for the medical personnel, testing kits to increase testing of possible cases, setting up modular treatment facilities for infected patients, and for the knowledge management and training of health workers and the general public. Also read: Clear we have entered recession, would be worse than 2009: IMF This ₹500 crore will be in addition to Tata Sons commitment of ₹1,000 crore in fighting the coronavirus pandemic. "In this exceptionally difficult period, I believe that urgent emergency resources need to be deployed to cope with the needs of fighting the COVID 19 crisis, which is one of the toughest challenges the human race will face," Tata Trusts chairman Ratan Tata said in a statement. The country's largest two-wheeler maker Hero MotoCorp has assured its dealers to absorb their unsold BS IV stock. According to estimates, dealers are holding close to 1.5 lakh units of BS-IV stock which remain unsold due to lockdown. With the country accepting BS VI norms from April 1, the dealers won't be able to sell majority of their stock that will lie unsold. Another two-wheeler major Bajaj Auto has also committed ₹100 crore to assist the administration in containment of the pandemic.

Indian automobile sector releases funds to aid containment of COVID-19

During the G20 summit, none of the leaders raised how China's lapses lead to a pandemic. Instead, Beijing was given a platform to push its exports. On WION Edit, WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how world's most powerful leaders failed to hold China accountable.

WION Edit: How the G20 failed to hold China accountable

As the coronavirus pandemic cripples the global economy, analysts predicted that over 30 million global jobs will be lost. However, this estimate may be incorrect, for India alone will witness a job cut of over 30 million.

A few people on the planet will remain unaffected by the sudden decline in the job market.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cities-facing-major-coronavirus-equipment-shortages-285-million-masks-needed-289072" hreflang="en">US cities facing major coronavirus equipment shortages, 28.5 million masks needed</a>

Jeff Bezos, the world’s richest person is currently richer by $5.5 billion than he was at the beginning of the year.

Just Thursday, his fortune increased by $3.9 billion, the Guardian reported.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/your-story-jeff-bezos-buys-costliest-house-in-la-280739/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Amazon just outperformed everybody and itself during the pandemic, as the company was able to recover all of its losses. Bezos currently owns over 12 per cent of Amazon shares.

Turns out Bezos had sold a big chunk of his Amazon shares in February, before coronavirus wreaked havoc across the globe and shut down businesses.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-ozone-layer-is-healing-289054" hreflang="en">The ozone layer is healing!</a>

As per regulatory filings, he sold $3.4 billion worth of Amazon shares in the first week of February.

Even though there is nothing fishy about this besides the timing, Bezos sold over three per cent of his total holding, which is a bigger chunk than he’s ever sold before.

As the coronavirus pandemic cripples the global economy, analysts predicted that over 30 million global jobs will be lost. However, this estimate may be incorrect, for India alone will witness a job cut of over 30 million.

As the coronavirus pandemic cripples the global economy, analysts predicted that over 30 million global jobs will be lost. However, this estimate may be incorrect, for India alone will witness a job cut of over 30 million. A few people on the planet will remain unaffected by the sudden decline in the job market. Also read: US cities facing major coronavirus equipment shortages, 28.5 million masks needed Jeff Bezos, the world’s richest person is currently richer by $5.5 billion than he was at the beginning of the year. Just Thursday, his fortune increased by $3.9 billion, the Guardian reported. Amazon just outperformed everybody and itself during the pandemic, as the company was able to recover all of its losses. Bezos currently owns over 12 per cent of Amazon shares. Turns out Bezos had sold a big chunk of his Amazon shares in February, before coronavirus wreaked havoc across the globe and shut down businesses. Also read: The ozone layer is healing! As per regulatory filings, he sold $3.4 billion worth of Amazon shares in the first week of February. Even though there is nothing fishy about this besides the timing, Bezos sold over three per cent of his total holding, which is a bigger chunk than he’s ever sold before.

Did Jeff Bezos - the world's richest man, see the coronavirus pandemic coming?

At a time when experts are insisting on social distancing, some countries are resisting a ban on religions gatherings. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why its time to put reason over religion.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak: Time to put reason above religion

After India, the United Kingdom came together to pay tribute to men and women at the frontline of the Coronavirus battle. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how the world is drawing inspiration from India in fighting the Coronavirus.

Gravitas: How the world is drawing inspiration from India

An online petition seeking the resignation of W.H.O boss Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has emerged. The W.H.O. is facing criticism over its role during the coronavirus crisis. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why.

Gravitas: Demand grows for W.H.O Boss' resignation

There are now half a million cases of the Coronavirus around the world. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the 10 big headlines from across the world.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: The big global developments for March 27

The Spanish government had to withdraw 9,000 Coronavirus testing kits it had got from China. The kits turned out to be faulty, as they gave an accurate result only 30% of the time. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: Chinese firms are selling substandard testing kits

The United States has now become the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak which has infected over 500,000 people globally.

However, the country is facing massive shortages of the paraphernalia required to treat the rising number of infections, which is about to reach 100,000 in the US.

A recent survey in the US which asked states about their preparedness in the face of the virus made the grim reality clear. Almost 90 per cent of the US mayors claim that they do not have enough testing kits, face masks, and other protective equipment to deal with the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-ozone-layer-is-healing-289054" hreflang="en">The ozone layer is healing!</a>

An additional 85 per cent said that they simply do not have enough ventilators, the basic tool required to help with respiratory illnesses, like the COVID-19.

The survey, titled “US Conference of Mayors” was published on Friday and recorded data between March 20 and 24.&nbsp;

This data was collated from over 213 American cities spread across 41 states, with a combined population of 42 million.

The survey report claims that the shortage “has reached crisis proportions”.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3ae3955-36f8-43b0-b195-7b8f1943997c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_26.jpg" /> 
Improvised hospital rooms are seen at the Jacob K&nbsp;Javits Convention Center, which will be partially converted into a hospital for patients affected by the coronavirus&nbsp;disease | AFP</h6>

“Despite their best efforts, most cities do not have and cannot obtain adequate equipment and supplies needed to protect their residents,” the report added.

&nbsp;“This is a life-threatening crisis that will continue unless the federal government does everything in its power to help us safeguard our first responders and health care workers — our first line of defence — and the millions of other public servants in our cities whose work today puts them at risk”, it further added.

The survey further found that there was little difference of shortage supply among cities and towns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-virus-cases-exceed-100000-doctors-decry-scarcity-of-drugs-and-equipment-289041" hreflang="en">As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment</a>

Even though many large cities claimed to have received supplies from state governments, almost two-thirds of the cities still haven’t received any help.

In all, US cities require 28.5 million face masks, 24.4 million items of protection like gowns and gloves, 7.9 million testing kits, and over 139,000 ventilators.

Due to shortages, even distributors and sellers are compelled to increase the prices. A mask which earlier cost 97 cents now costs $5.

A group of doctors and medical workers have requested lawmakers to provide assistance worth $250 billion to cities that are experiencing a sharp shortage.

Recently, at one of the daily coronavirus briefings, President Donald Trump said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency intends to distribute over 9 million N95 masks, 20 million surgical masks, and over 6,000 ventilators.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/help-us-after-deaths-on-coronavirus-hit-ship-guests-clamour-to-leave-289039" hreflang="en">'Help us': After deaths on coronavirus-hit ship, guests clamour to leave</a>

“I have a feeling that a lot of the numbers that are being said in some areas are just bigger than they’re going to be,” Trump said recently in an interview with Fox.

New York state, which is one of the worst-hit places, has demanded 30,000 ventilators. Currently, the state has over 5,000 coronavirus patients.

Donald Trump does not believe they require 30,000 ventilators. “I don’t believe you need 40,000 or 30,000 ventilators,” Trump said.&nbsp;

“You know, you go into major hospitals sometimes they’ll have two ventilators, and now all of a sudden they’re saying, ‘Can we order 30,000 ventilators?'”

The United States has now become the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak which has infected over 500,000 people globally. However, the country is facing massive shortages of the paraphernalia required to treat the rising number of infections, which is about to reach 100,000 in the US.

The United States has now become the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak which has infected over 500,000 people globally. However, the country is facing massive shortages of the paraphernalia required to treat the rising number of infections, which is about to reach 100,000 in the US. A recent survey in the US which asked states about their preparedness in the face of the virus made the grim reality clear. Almost 90 per cent of the US mayors claim that they do not have enough testing kits, face masks, and other protective equipment to deal with the pandemic. Also read: The ozone layer is healing! An additional 85 per cent said that they simply do not have enough ventilators, the basic tool required to help with respiratory illnesses, like the COVID-19. The survey, titled “US Conference of Mayors” was published on Friday and recorded data between March 20 and 24. This data was collated from over 213 American cities spread across 41 states, with a combined population of 42 million. The survey report claims that the shortage “has reached crisis proportions”. Improvised hospital rooms are seen at the Jacob K Javits Convention Center, which will be partially converted into a hospital for patients affected by the coronavirus disease | AFP “Despite their best efforts, most cities do not have and cannot obtain adequate equipment and supplies needed to protect their residents,” the report added. “This is a life-threatening crisis that will continue unless the federal government does everything in its power to help us safeguard our first responders and health care workers — our first line of defence — and the millions of other public servants in our cities whose work today puts them at risk”, it further added. The survey further found that there was little difference of shortage supply among cities and towns. Also read: As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment Even though many large cities claimed to have received supplies from state governments, almost two-thirds of the cities still haven’t received any help. In all, US cities require 28.5 million face masks, 24.4 million items of protection like gowns and gloves, 7.9 million testing kits, and over 139,000 ventilators. Due to shortages, even distributors and sellers are compelled to increase the prices. A mask which earlier cost 97 cents now costs $5. A group of doctors and medical workers have requested lawmakers to provide assistance worth $250 billion to cities that are experiencing a sharp shortage. Recently, at one of the daily coronavirus briefings, President Donald Trump said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency intends to distribute over 9 million N95 masks, 20 million surgical masks, and over 6,000 ventilators. Also read: 'Help us': After deaths on coronavirus-hit ship, guests clamour to leave “I have a feeling that a lot of the numbers that are being said in some areas are just bigger than they’re going to be,” Trump said recently in an interview with Fox. New York state, which is one of the worst-hit places, has demanded 30,000 ventilators. Currently, the state has over 5,000 coronavirus patients. Donald Trump does not believe they require 30,000 ventilators. “I don’t believe you need 40,000 or 30,000 ventilators,” Trump said. “You know, you go into major hospitals sometimes they’ll have two ventilators, and now all of a sudden they’re saying, ‘Can we order 30,000 ventilators?'”

US cities facing major coronavirus equipment shortages, 28.5 million masks needed

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours.

The number of active cases right now stand at 800.

Maharashtra and Gujarat recorded six new cases each, with Madhya Pradesh adding four new cases.

Currently, there are 800 active cases in the country. Out of the total 902, 83 have recovered so far, with eight new recoveries in the last 24 hours.

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India has reportedly lost 19 people to the virus, with no deaths reported today.

27 states and union territories are currently affected throughout the country.

The country is currently in the fourth day of a 21-day-long nationwide lockdown, which has been enforced to tackle the rising number of infections in the country.

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi had said, “If developed countries with the best healthcare couldn’t effectively deal with the virus, how will we? Please stay at home and protect your loved ones, I request to you”, during a national briefing a few days ago.

Kerala currently has the most number of cases with 176, out of which 12 have recovered, with zero deaths reported in the state.

Maharashtra follows suit with 162 cases, with 25 cases of recovery recorded so far.

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The capital city, New Delhi, currently has 33 active cases, with six recoveries reported so far.&nbsp;

The states of Manipur, Mizoram, alongside the union territory of Puducherry have so far recorded the least number of cases: one each!

In the border territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir as well as Ladakh, the number of cases has been rising rapidly. The former has 20 cases now, and the latter accounts for 13 of the nationwide cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases right now stand at 800.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases right now stand at 800. Maharashtra and Gujarat recorded six new cases each, with Madhya Pradesh adding four new cases. Currently, there are 800 active cases in the country. Out of the total 902, 83 have recovered so far, with eight new recoveries in the last 24 hours. Also read: India Lockdown: Kashmiri youths stuck in Haryana's Hisar, Deputy CM Dushyant Chautala extends help India has reportedly lost 19 people to the virus, with no deaths reported today. 27 states and union territories are currently affected throughout the country. The country is currently in the fourth day of a 21-day-long nationwide lockdown, which has been enforced to tackle the rising number of infections in the country. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi had said, “If developed countries with the best healthcare couldn’t effectively deal with the virus, how will we? Please stay at home and protect your loved ones, I request to you”, during a national briefing a few days ago. Kerala currently has the most number of cases with 176, out of which 12 have recovered, with zero deaths reported in the state. Maharashtra follows suit with 162 cases, with 25 cases of recovery recorded so far. Also read: Situation in Iran remains precarious, India asks citizens to stay put The capital city, New Delhi, currently has 33 active cases, with six recoveries reported so far. The states of Manipur, Mizoram, alongside the union territory of Puducherry have so far recorded the least number of cases: one each! In the border territories of Jammu & Kashmir as well as Ladakh, the number of cases has been rising rapidly. The former has 20 cases now, and the latter accounts for 13 of the nationwide cases. (With inputs from agencies)

India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours

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Morning news brief: US House passes coronavirus law, 9000 deaths in Italy, and more!

People in greater Tokyo and the Osaka area in western Japan hunkered down on Saturday as officials urged citizens to stay indoors to prevent a potential emergency, but some were carrying on as normal.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike's plea for the tens of millions of people in the capital and surrounding regions to avoid non-essential, non-urgent outings until April 12, and particularly this weekend, followed a surge in coronavirus infections this week, which she said puts Tokyo on the brink of a state of emergency.

Koike urged the public to avoid the national pastime of congregating to drink and watch the cherry blossoms as they hit their peak in the capital, saying on Friday, "The cherry blossoms will bloom again next year."

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"I realise it's the weekend, but just ask yourself whether or not you can delay what you think you need to do to another day," she said.

Infections in Japan have climbed to more than 1,400, with 47 deaths, excluding those from a cruise ship quarantined last month. Hit early by the coronavirus in its initial spread from China, Japan had seen a more gradual rise than the recent surge in much of Europe and the United States.

This week, however, saw an acceleration that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called "a national crisis".

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Infections on Friday rose by a daily record 102, said public broadcaster NHK. Tokyo reported 40 new cases on Friday, bringing its total to 299.

While those figures are not high for a city of nearly 14 million, with many millions more in neighbouring suburbs, experts warn of a high risk of an explosive rise in infections, since authorities have not been able to track all the contacts of more than half the newest cases.

The government has deployed the military to greater Tokyo's Narita and Haneda airports to assist in virus screenings and the transport of people placed in quarantine, NHK said.

The voluntary calls by Koike and other Japanese leaders for people to stay at home compares with major cities in Italy, Britain, France, Spain, and the United States - the new global epicentre of the virus - where soaring infections have created ghost towns as governments put citizens on lockdown with severe measures restricting personal movement.

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Globally, infections have topped half a million with more than 20,000 deaths. Governments are struggling to decide how far they need to limit personal freedoms to contain the coronavirus, which has spread to more than 100 countries.

In a quiet neighbourhood close to the Japanese prime minister's private residence in central Tokyo, the scene was typical of a Saturday morning. Some people were jogging and walking their dogs. A few stopped to pray at a local shrine. Auto traffic was brisk on local roads.

"I'm a little worried, but I have an appointment today, which is why I'm outside," said a 41-year old man walking down the street, who declined to be named.

"It's not something that I can't cancel, but I do have to meet someone. I will be riding the train later."

People in greater Tokyo and the Osaka area in western Japan hunkered down on Saturday as officials urged citizens to stay indoors to prevent a potential emergency, but some were carrying on as normal.

People in greater Tokyo and the Osaka area in western Japan hunkered down on Saturday as officials urged citizens to stay indoors to prevent a potential emergency, but some were carrying on as normal. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike's plea for the tens of millions of people in the capital and surrounding regions to avoid non-essential, non-urgent outings until April 12, and particularly this weekend, followed a surge in coronavirus infections this week, which she said puts Tokyo on the brink of a state of emergency. Koike urged the public to avoid the national pastime of congregating to drink and watch the cherry blossoms as they hit their peak in the capital, saying on Friday, "The cherry blossoms will bloom again next year." Also read: Italy tops 9,000 coronavirus deaths, overtakes China in cases "I realise it's the weekend, but just ask yourself whether or not you can delay what you think you need to do to another day," she said. Infections in Japan have climbed to more than 1,400, with 47 deaths, excluding those from a cruise ship quarantined last month. Hit early by the coronavirus in its initial spread from China, Japan had seen a more gradual rise than the recent surge in much of Europe and the United States. This week, however, saw an acceleration that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called "a national crisis". Also read: As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment Infections on Friday rose by a daily record 102, said public broadcaster NHK. Tokyo reported 40 new cases on Friday, bringing its total to 299. While those figures are not high for a city of nearly 14 million, with many millions more in neighbouring suburbs, experts warn of a high risk of an explosive rise in infections, since authorities have not been able to track all the contacts of more than half the newest cases. The government has deployed the military to greater Tokyo's Narita and Haneda airports to assist in virus screenings and the transport of people placed in quarantine, NHK said. The voluntary calls by Koike and other Japanese leaders for people to stay at home compares with major cities in Italy, Britain, France, Spain, and the United States - the new global epicentre of the virus - where soaring infections have created ghost towns as governments put citizens on lockdown with severe measures restricting personal movement. Also read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' Globally, infections have topped half a million with more than 20,000 deaths. Governments are struggling to decide how far they need to limit personal freedoms to contain the coronavirus, which has spread to more than 100 countries. In a quiet neighbourhood close to the Japanese prime minister's private residence in central Tokyo, the scene was typical of a Saturday morning. Some people were jogging and walking their dogs. A few stopped to pray at a local shrine. Auto traffic was brisk on local roads. "I'm a little worried, but I have an appointment today, which is why I'm outside," said a 41-year old man walking down the street, who declined to be named. "It's not something that I can't cancel, but I do have to meet someone. I will be riding the train later."

Tokyo restricts movement to combat virus, some folk carry on as usual

Italy's recorded 919 deaths from coronavirus on Friday, the highest daily toll anywhere in the world, while the number of confirmed cases eclipsed the total in China where the virus first emerged.

Italy was the first Western country to introduce swingeing restrictions on movement after uncovering the outbreak five weeks ago. It has tightened them week by week, banning all non-essential activities until at least next Friday.

Yet only the United States has now recorded more cases, while Italy has suffered almost twice as many deaths as any other nation.

"We haven't reached the peak and we haven't passed it," the chief of the Superior Health Institute, Silvio Brusaferro, told reporters before the data was released.

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Nonetheless, he said there were "signs of a slowdown" in the numbers of infections, which slipped from the previous 24-hour period.

"When the descent begins, how steep it is will depend on our behaviour," Brusaferro said.

Franco Locatelli, head of the council advising the government on health matters, said the existing restrictions on movement were likely to be extended beyond the hoped-for end date of April 3:

"If I had to decide using today's data, I believe it is inevitable these measures will be prolonged."

The number of confirmed cases rose by 5,959 on Friday to 86,498, taking Italy past China, with the death toll at 9,134.

SCHOOL SHUTDOWN EXTENDED

Schools and universities were among the first places to be shut down, closing nationwide on March 5. Education Minister Lucia Azzolina said the closure would have to be extended past April 3.

"Our aim is to ensure that students return to school only when we are completely sure that it is safe," she told the state broadcaster RAI.

The northern region of Lombardy, centred on the financial capital Milan, has accounted for 43% of Italy's known cases and 59% of deaths.

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Once again, the city of Bergamo saw the most new cases on Friday - 602 - with Milan in second place with 547. However, the region as a whole saw a slight dip.

"The infection rate is not growing and I think it is about to fall," said Lombardy Governor Attilio Fontana.

He said testing was being expanded, with people now having to present only a single coronavirus symptom to be swabbed, rather than at least two.

In an open letter, more than 300 doctors and scientists called on the government to let them use their own laboratories to speed up testing and identify the mild and asymptomatic cases that are currently going undetected.

At present, only a few, specialist labs are checking swabs, severely restricting the number of tests and information the true extent of the epidemic.

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"In Italy there is an extraordinary community of researchers who could contribute immediately and very significantly and at zero cost to the current emergency situation," they said.

There was no immediate response from the Health Ministry.

The national federation of doctors, surgeons and orthodontists said on Friday that 46 of their colleagues had died so far, many of them family doctors in northern towns and cities.

Italy's recorded 919 deaths from coronavirus on Friday, the highest daily toll anywhere in the world, while the number of confirmed cases eclipsed the total in China where the virus first emerged.

Italy's recorded 919 deaths from coronavirus on Friday, the highest daily toll anywhere in the world, while the number of confirmed cases eclipsed the total in China where the virus first emerged. Italy was the first Western country to introduce swingeing restrictions on movement after uncovering the outbreak five weeks ago. It has tightened them week by week, banning all non-essential activities until at least next Friday. Yet only the United States has now recorded more cases, while Italy has suffered almost twice as many deaths as any other nation. "We haven't reached the peak and we haven't passed it," the chief of the Superior Health Institute, Silvio Brusaferro, told reporters before the data was released. Also read: As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment Nonetheless, he said there were "signs of a slowdown" in the numbers of infections, which slipped from the previous 24-hour period. "When the descent begins, how steep it is will depend on our behaviour," Brusaferro said. Franco Locatelli, head of the council advising the government on health matters, said the existing restrictions on movement were likely to be extended beyond the hoped-for end date of April 3: "If I had to decide using today's data, I believe it is inevitable these measures will be prolonged." The number of confirmed cases rose by 5,959 on Friday to 86,498, taking Italy past China, with the death toll at 9,134. SCHOOL SHUTDOWN EXTENDED Schools and universities were among the first places to be shut down, closing nationwide on March 5. Education Minister Lucia Azzolina said the closure would have to be extended past April 3. "Our aim is to ensure that students return to school only when we are completely sure that it is safe," she told the state broadcaster RAI. The northern region of Lombardy, centred on the financial capital Milan, has accounted for 43% of Italy's known cases and 59% of deaths. Also read: 'Help us': After deaths on coronavirus-hit ship, guests clamour to leave Once again, the city of Bergamo saw the most new cases on Friday - 602 - with Milan in second place with 547. However, the region as a whole saw a slight dip. "The infection rate is not growing and I think it is about to fall," said Lombardy Governor Attilio Fontana. He said testing was being expanded, with people now having to present only a single coronavirus symptom to be swabbed, rather than at least two. In an open letter, more than 300 doctors and scientists called on the government to let them use their own laboratories to speed up testing and identify the mild and asymptomatic cases that are currently going undetected. At present, only a few, specialist labs are checking swabs, severely restricting the number of tests and information the true extent of the epidemic. Also read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' "In Italy there is an extraordinary community of researchers who could contribute immediately and very significantly and at zero cost to the current emergency situation," they said. There was no immediate response from the Health Ministry. The national federation of doctors, surgeons and orthodontists said on Friday that 46 of their colleagues had died so far, many of them family doctors in northern towns and cities.

Italy tops 9,000 coronavirus deaths, overtakes China in cases

Doctors and nurses on the front lines of the U.S. coronavirus crisis pleaded on Friday for more protective gear and equipment to treat waves of patients expected to overwhelm hospitals as the sum of known U.S. infections climbed well past 100,000, with more than 1,600 dead.

Physicians have called particular attention to a desperate need for additional ventilators, machines that help patients breathe and are widely needed for those suffering from COVID-19, the respiratory ailment caused by the highly contagious novel coronavirus.

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Hospitals in New York City, New Orleans, Detroit and other virus hot spots have also sounded the alarm about scarcities of drugs, medical supplies and trained staff while the number of confirmed U.S. cases rose by about 18,000 on Friday, the highest jump in a single day, to more than 103,000.

That tally kept the United States as the world leader in the number of known infections, having surpassed China and Italy on Thursday.

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"We are scared," said Dr. Arabia Mollette of Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center in Brooklyn. "We're trying to fight for everyone else's life, but we also fight for our lives as well, because we're also at the highest risk of exposure."

The United States ranked sixth in death toll among the hardest hit countries, with at least 1,632 lives lost as of Friday night, a record daily increase of 370 according to a Reuters tabulation of official data. Worldwide, confirmed cases rose above 593,000 with 27,198 deaths, the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center reported.

Even as hospital patient numbers steadily climbed, shortages of key medical supplies abounded.

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One emergency room doctor in Michigan, an emerging epicenter of the pandemic, said he was using one paper face mask for an entire shift due to a shortage and that hospitals in the Detroit area would soon run out of ventilators.

"We have hospital systems here in the Detroit area in Michigan who are getting to the end of their supply of ventilators and have to start telling families that they can't save their loved ones because they don't have enough equipment," the physician, Dr. Rob Davidson, said in a video posted on Twitter.

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Emergency powers

U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday invoked emergency powers to require General Motors Co to start building ventilators after he accused the largest U.S. automaker of "wasting time" during negotiations.

He had previously resisted mounting calls for him to invoke the Defense Production Act, a Korean War-era statute that gives the president broad procurement powers in national emergencies, instead seeking to exert pressure on manufacturers to act voluntarily.

Sophia Thomas, a nurse practitioner at DePaul Community Health Center in New Orleans, where Mardi Gras celebrations late last month fueled an outbreak in Louisiana's largest city, said the numbers of coronavirus patients "have been staggering."

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"We are truly a hotbed of COVID-19 here in New Orleans," she said, adding that her hospital was trying to cope in part by shifting some patients to "telehealth" services that allow them to be evaluated from home.

New York-area doctors say they have had to recycle some protective gear, or resort to the black market.

Dr. Alexander Salerno of Salerno Medical Associates, a general medical practice with offices in northern New Jersey, described going through a "broker" to pay $17,000 for masks and other protective equipment that should have cost about $2,500, and picking them up at an abandoned warehouse.

"You don't get any names. You get just phone numbers to text," Salerno said. "And so you agree to a term. You wire the money to a bank account. They give you a time and an address to come to."

Nurses at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York said they were locking away or hiding N-95 respirator masks, surgical masks and other supplies that are prone to pilfering if left unattended.

"Masks disappear," nurse Diana Torres said. "We hide it all in drawers in front of the nurses' station."

Economic relief

After days of wrangling, the U.S. Congress passed a $2.2 trillion relief package on Friday, sending the bill to Trump, who promptly signed it into law.

In addition to aiding hospitals, the package will send cash to businesses and unemployed workers suffering from the effects of stay-at-home orders that have had the side effect of strangling the economy.

A number of hotels in New York City, including the famed Plaza Hotel, the St. Regis and the Four Seasons, are making rooms available to medical workers fearful of carrying the virus home to their families after work, or to non-critical care patients, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said.

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Marney Gruber, an emergency doctor who works in multiple hospitals around New York City, said commonly used medications were in short supply and hospitals were running out of oxygen tanks.

"These are staples in emergency medicine and ICUs – these are your bread and butter, truly, your very basic essentials," Gruber said.

At least two New York medical schools, New York University and Columbia, have said they will graduate their fourth-year students early so they can begin treating patients with the coronavirus right away.

In the nation's second-largest city, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said cases were spiking, putting the Southern California region on track to match New York City's infection figures in the next five days.

The mayor spoke as he and California's governor, who ordered all coronavirus-related evictions banned through May 31, toured a newly arrived naval hospital ship equipped with 1,000 patient beds at the Port of Los Angeles. Its sister vessel is to be deployed to New York Harbor in the near future.

At the Riverside County Fairground east of Los Angeles, California National Guard troops were setting up a 125-bed medical station to serve residents of the Coachella Valley, an area teeming with elderly retirees considered especially vulnerable to COVID-19.

The US&nbsp;military also is setting up field hospitals in Seattle and New York, the Pentagon said.

Doctors and nurses on the front lines of the U.S. coronavirus crisis pleaded on Friday for more protective gear and equipment to treat waves of patients expected to overwhelm hospitals as the sum of known U.

Doctors and nurses on the front lines of the U.S. coronavirus crisis pleaded on Friday for more protective gear and equipment to treat waves of patients expected to overwhelm hospitals as the sum of known U.S. infections climbed well past 100,000, with more than 1,600 dead. Physicians have called particular attention to a desperate need for additional ventilators, machines that help patients breathe and are widely needed for those suffering from COVID-19, the respiratory ailment caused by the highly contagious novel coronavirus. Also read: 'Help us': After deaths on coronavirus-hit ship, guests clamour to leave Hospitals in New York City, New Orleans, Detroit and other virus hot spots have also sounded the alarm about scarcities of drugs, medical supplies and trained staff while the number of confirmed U.S. cases rose by about 18,000 on Friday, the highest jump in a single day, to more than 103,000. That tally kept the United States as the world leader in the number of known infections, having surpassed China and Italy on Thursday. Also read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' "We are scared," said Dr. Arabia Mollette of Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center in Brooklyn. "We're trying to fight for everyone else's life, but we also fight for our lives as well, because we're also at the highest risk of exposure." The United States ranked sixth in death toll among the hardest hit countries, with at least 1,632 lives lost as of Friday night, a record daily increase of 370 according to a Reuters tabulation of official data. Worldwide, confirmed cases rose above 593,000 with 27,198 deaths, the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center reported. Even as hospital patient numbers steadily climbed, shortages of key medical supplies abounded. Also read: Historic $2.2 trillion coronavirus bill passes US House, becomes law One emergency room doctor in Michigan, an emerging epicenter of the pandemic, said he was using one paper face mask for an entire shift due to a shortage and that hospitals in the Detroit area would soon run out of ventilators. "We have hospital systems here in the Detroit area in Michigan who are getting to the end of their supply of ventilators and have to start telling families that they can't save their loved ones because they don't have enough equipment," the physician, Dr. Rob Davidson, said in a video posted on Twitter. Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends Emergency powers U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday invoked emergency powers to require General Motors Co to start building ventilators after he accused the largest U.S. automaker of "wasting time" during negotiations. He had previously resisted mounting calls for him to invoke the Defense Production Act, a Korean War-era statute that gives the president broad procurement powers in national emergencies, instead seeking to exert pressure on manufacturers to act voluntarily. Sophia Thomas, a nurse practitioner at DePaul Community Health Center in New Orleans, where Mardi Gras celebrations late last month fueled an outbreak in Louisiana's largest city, said the numbers of coronavirus patients "have been staggering." Also read: How coronavirus outbreak triggered another debate on ‘Science vs Religion’ "We are truly a hotbed of COVID-19 here in New Orleans," she said, adding that her hospital was trying to cope in part by shifting some patients to "telehealth" services that allow them to be evaluated from home. New York-area doctors say they have had to recycle some protective gear, or resort to the black market. Dr. Alexander Salerno of Salerno Medical Associates, a general medical practice with offices in northern New Jersey, described going through a "broker" to pay $17,000 for masks and other protective equipment that should have cost about $2,500, and picking them up at an abandoned warehouse. "You don't get any names. You get just phone numbers to text," Salerno said. "And so you agree to a term. You wire the money to a bank account. They give you a time and an address to come to." Nurses at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York said they were locking away or hiding N-95 respirator masks, surgical masks and other supplies that are prone to pilfering if left unattended. "Masks disappear," nurse Diana Torres said. "We hide it all in drawers in front of the nurses' station." Economic relief After days of wrangling, the U.S. Congress passed a $2.2 trillion relief package on Friday, sending the bill to Trump, who promptly signed it into law. In addition to aiding hospitals, the package will send cash to businesses and unemployed workers suffering from the effects of stay-at-home orders that have had the side effect of strangling the economy. A number of hotels in New York City, including the famed Plaza Hotel, the St. Regis and the Four Seasons, are making rooms available to medical workers fearful of carrying the virus home to their families after work, or to non-critical care patients, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said. Also read: Google-parent Alphabet to donate $800 million in response to coronavirus crisis Marney Gruber, an emergency doctor who works in multiple hospitals around New York City, said commonly used medications were in short supply and hospitals were running out of oxygen tanks. "These are staples in emergency medicine and ICUs – these are your bread and butter, truly, your very basic essentials," Gruber said. At least two New York medical schools, New York University and Columbia, have said they will graduate their fourth-year students early so they can begin treating patients with the coronavirus right away. In the nation's second-largest city, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said cases were spiking, putting the Southern California region on track to match New York City's infection figures in the next five days. The mayor spoke as he and California's governor, who ordered all coronavirus-related evictions banned through May 31, toured a newly arrived naval hospital ship equipped with 1,000 patient beds at the Port of Los Angeles. Its sister vessel is to be deployed to New York Harbor in the near future. At the Riverside County Fairground east of Los Angeles, California National Guard troops were setting up a 125-bed medical station to serve residents of the Coachella Valley, an area teeming with elderly retirees considered especially vulnerable to COVID-19. The US military also is setting up field hospitals in Seattle and New York, the Pentagon said.

As US virus cases exceed 100,000, doctors decry scarcity of drugs and equipment

Four passengers have died on a cruise ship off the Pacific coast of Panama and more than 130 others aboard are suffering from influenza-like symptoms, at least two of whom have the coronavirus, the vessel's operator said on Friday.

Holland America Line said in a statement that the MS Zaandam, previously on a South American cruise, was trying to transit the Panama Canal and make its way to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. But Panama's government has denied it access to the canal for sanitary reasons, leaving passengers and crew wondering when they will get home.

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Chris Joiner, 59, a retiree from Ottawa, Ontario, told Reuters the cruise had turned into a "nightmare."

He was worried that he and his wife, Anna, also 59, would be forced to stay aboard for an undetermined time because she had a cough, after cruise operators said they would soon transfer healthy passengers to the Zaandam's sister ship, the Rotterdam, which is now alongside the vessel in Panamanian waters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-22-trillion-coronavirus-bill-passes-us-house-becomes-law-289035" hreflang="en">Historic $2.2 trillion coronavirus bill passes US House, becomes law</a>

"We're isolated. We're stuck on this ship. We can't go anywhere because we're not healthy, I guess," said Joiner, who took a selfie in his cabin with a piece of paper on which he had written "HELP US" in a bid for attention from the media and the Canadian government.

A ship official told passengers on Friday morning via a public address system that one guest had died several days ago, followed by two deaths on Thursday and another overnight, according to a recording heard by Reuters.

The four dead were "older guests," the operator said.

Passengers said the announcement was the first time they had been made aware of the deaths on the 238-meter (781-foot) vessel.

The Zaandam departed Argentina on March 7 and had been scheduled to end its journey in San Antonio, Chile, on March 21. Nobody has disembarked from the ship since it docked in Punta Arenas on the southern coast of Chile nearly two weeks ago.

There are 1,243 guests and 586 crew on board, as well as four doctors and four nurses, the cruise operator said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-in-icu-europe-awaits-major-crisis-once-coronavirus-ends-289020" hreflang="en">Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends</a>

Holland America is owned by Carnival Corp&nbsp;Carnival's Princess Cruises earlier this month said it was suspending voyages for two month, after two of its ocean liners that had been quarantined became hotbeds for coronavirus infections.

"Sitting ducks"

The ship official said a number of patients were tested on Thursday after the ship received virus testing kits. In another public address on Friday afternoon, also heard by Reuters, he said the situation appeared to be improving.

"Some positive news, we have started to see a leveling off of guests reporting symptoms to the medical center," the official said, adding that staff had distributed one surgical mask per person. He urged passengers to keep them clean because he did not know when more would arrive.

Ian Rae, a London-based Scotsman on the ship with his wife, said most passengers were coping "pretty well" despite being in self-isolation since last Sunday.

"It's probably not an awful lot worse than the people back in the UK or anywhere else in the world at the moment," Rae, a 73-year-old grandfather of four, told Reuters by phone.

Rae, who said he and others had informed the UK government of their predicament via email, said he understood there were 229 British passengers on board. Other guests included Americans, Canadians and Australians as well as Germans, Italians, French, Spanish and New Zealanders, he said.

Relatives are getting nervous.

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"It's terrifying that no plan has been made for them and there are British nationals on this ship who need help," Hayley Johnson, whose 90-year-old grandfather and 75-year-old grandmother are on board, wrote on Twitter. Johnson said she was especially worried about her grandmother, a Type 1 diabetic.

All ports along the Zaandam's South American route were closed to cruise ships, Holland America said.

Some 53 guests and 85 crew have reported to the ship's medical center with flu-like symptoms, it added.

"If they can just find a port to dock it would be a huge relief. The fact they're just sitting on board a ship, it's like they're sitting ducks," said Neil Bedford, whose British parents, aged 65 and 63, are on board.

Panama's health ministry has not given permission for the ship to pass through the waterway, said Ricaurte Vasquez, the Panama Canal Authority's administrator. Positive coronavirus tests made on board would mean putting the ship in quarantine, he said.

Four passengers have died on a cruise ship off the Pacific coast of Panama and more than 130 others aboard are suffering from influenza-like symptoms, at least two of whom have the coronavirus, the vessel's operator said on Friday.

Four passengers have died on a cruise ship off the Pacific coast of Panama and more than 130 others aboard are suffering from influenza-like symptoms, at least two of whom have the coronavirus, the vessel's operator said on Friday. Holland America Line said in a statement that the MS Zaandam, previously on a South American cruise, was trying to transit the Panama Canal and make its way to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. But Panama's government has denied it access to the canal for sanitary reasons, leaving passengers and crew wondering when they will get home. Also read: Brazil's Bolsonaro questions coronavirus deaths, says 'sorry, some will die' Chris Joiner, 59, a retiree from Ottawa, Ontario, told Reuters the cruise had turned into a "nightmare." He was worried that he and his wife, Anna, also 59, would be forced to stay aboard for an undetermined time because she had a cough, after cruise operators said they would soon transfer healthy passengers to the Zaandam's sister ship, the Rotterdam, which is now alongside the vessel in Panamanian waters. Also read: Historic $2.2 trillion coronavirus bill passes US House, becomes law "We're isolated. We're stuck on this ship. We can't go anywhere because we're not healthy, I guess," said Joiner, who took a selfie in his cabin with a piece of paper on which he had written "HELP US" in a bid for attention from the media and the Canadian government. A ship official told passengers on Friday morning via a public address system that one guest had died several days ago, followed by two deaths on Thursday and another overnight, according to a recording heard by Reuters. The four dead were "older guests," the operator said. Passengers said the announcement was the first time they had been made aware of the deaths on the 238-meter (781-foot) vessel. The Zaandam departed Argentina on March 7 and had been scheduled to end its journey in San Antonio, Chile, on March 21. Nobody has disembarked from the ship since it docked in Punta Arenas on the southern coast of Chile nearly two weeks ago. There are 1,243 guests and 586 crew on board, as well as four doctors and four nurses, the cruise operator said. Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends Holland America is owned by Carnival Corp Carnival's Princess Cruises earlier this month said it was suspending voyages for two month, after two of its ocean liners that had been quarantined became hotbeds for coronavirus infections. "Sitting ducks" The ship official said a number of patients were tested on Thursday after the ship received virus testing kits. In another public address on Friday afternoon, also heard by Reuters, he said the situation appeared to be improving. "Some positive news, we have started to see a leveling off of guests reporting symptoms to the medical center," the official said, adding that staff had distributed one surgical mask per person. He urged passengers to keep them clean because he did not know when more would arrive. Ian Rae, a London-based Scotsman on the ship with his wife, said most passengers were coping "pretty well" despite being in self-isolation since last Sunday. "It's probably not an awful lot worse than the people back in the UK or anywhere else in the world at the moment," Rae, a 73-year-old grandfather of four, told Reuters by phone. Rae, who said he and others had informed the UK government of their predicament via email, said he understood there were 229 British passengers on board. Other guests included Americans, Canadians and Australians as well as Germans, Italians, French, Spanish and New Zealanders, he said. Relatives are getting nervous. Also read: How coronavirus outbreak triggered another debate on ‘Science vs Religion’ "It's terrifying that no plan has been made for them and there are British nationals on this ship who need help," Hayley Johnson, whose 90-year-old grandfather and 75-year-old grandmother are on board, wrote on Twitter. Johnson said she was especially worried about her grandmother, a Type 1 diabetic. All ports along the Zaandam's South American route were closed to cruise ships, Holland America said. Some 53 guests and 85 crew have reported to the ship's medical center with flu-like symptoms, it added. "If they can just find a port to dock it would be a huge relief. The fact they're just sitting on board a ship, it's like they're sitting ducks," said Neil Bedford, whose British parents, aged 65 and 63, are on board. Panama's health ministry has not given permission for the ship to pass through the waterway, said Ricaurte Vasquez, the Panama Canal Authority's administrator. Positive coronavirus tests made on board would mean putting the ship in quarantine, he said.

'Help us': After deaths on coronavirus-hit ship, guests clamour to leave

The U.S. House of Representatives on Friday approved a $2.2 trillion aid package - the largest in history - to help cope with the economic downturn inflicted by the intensifying coronavirus pandemic, and President Donald Trump quickly signed it into law.

The massive bill passed the Senate and House of Representatives nearly unanimously. The rare bipartisan action underscored how seriously Republican and Democratic lawmakers are taking the global pandemic that has killed more than 1,500 Americans and shaken the nation's medical system.

"Our nation faces an economic and health emergency of historic proportions due to the coronavirus pandemic, the worst pandemic in over 100 years," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said at the close of a three-hour debate before the lower chamber approved the bill. "Whatever we do next, right now we're going to pass this legislation."

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The massive bill also rushes billions of dollars to medical providers on the front lines of the outbreak.

But the bipartisan spirit seemed to end at the White House. Neither Pelosi nor Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer was invited to Trump's all-Republican signing ceremony for the bill, aides said.

Their Republican counterparts, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, did attend, along with three Republican House members.

"This will deliver urgently needed relief to our nation's families, workers and businesses," Trump said. "I really think in a fairly short period of time ... we'll be stronger than ever."

In an statement about signing the bill, Trump rejected aspects of a provision in the law setting up an inspector general to audit some loans and investments.

Asked about the statement, Pelosi told MSNBC: "Congress will exercise its oversight and we will have our panel ... appointed by the House, in real time to make sure we know where those funds are being expended."

She called Trump a "dangerous president" who had chosen to ignore the threat of the coronavirus.

"Our next thrust will be about recovery and how we can create good-paying jobs so that we can take the country into the future in a very strong way," Pelosi said.

The Democratic-led House approved the package on a voice vote, turning back a procedural challenge from Republican Representative Thomas Massie, who had sought to force a formal, recorded vote.

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To keep Massie's gambit from delaying the bill's passage, hundreds of lawmakers from both parties returned to Washington despite the risk of contracting coronavirus. For many, that meant long drives or overnight flights.

One member who spent hours in a car was Republican Representative Greg Pence, the brother of Vice President Mike Pence, whom Trump has put in charge of efforts to handle the coronavirus crisis.

Pence drove the nearly 600 miles (966 km) from his home state, Indiana, to Washington on Thursday. "We can't afford to wait another minute," he said on Twitter.

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'Third-rate grandstander'

Massie wrote on Twitter that he thought the bill contained too much extraneous spending and gave too much power to the Federal Reserve, the U.S. central bank. His fellow lawmakers overruled his request for a recorded vote.

Trump attacked Massie on Twitter, calling him a "third rate Grandstander" and saying he should be thrown out of the Republican party. "He just wants the publicity," wrote the president, who last week began pushing for urgent action on coronavirus after long downplaying the risk.

Democratic and Republican leaders had asked members to return to Washington to ensure there would be enough present to head off Massie's gambit. The session was held under special rules to limit the spread of the disease among members.

At least five members of Congress have tested positive for the coronavirus and more than two dozen have self-quarantined to limit its spread.

The Senate, which approved the bill in a unanimous vote late on Wednesday, has adjourned and is not scheduled to return to Washington until April 20.

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Democratic and Republican House leaders appeared together at a news conference at the Capitol to celebrate the bill's passage - an unusual event for a chamber that is normally sharply divided along partisan lines.

"The virus is here. We did not ask for it, we did not invite it. We did not choose it. But with the passing of the bill you will see that we will fight it together, and we will win together," McCarthy said.

He did not say whether Massie would face any disciplinary measures from the party.

The rescue package is the largest fiscal relief measure ever passed by Congress.

The $2.2 trillion measure includes $500 billion to help hard-hit industries and $290 billion for payments of up to $3,000 to millions of families.

It will also provide $350 billion for small-business loans, $250 billion for expanded unemployment aid and at least $100 billion for hospitals and related health systems.

The number of coronavirus cases in the United States exceeded 100,000 on Friday, according to a Reuters tally, the most of any country.

Adding to the misery, the Labor Department reported the number of Americans filing claims for unemployment benefits surged to 3.28 million, the highest level ever.

The U.S. House of Representatives on Friday approved a $2.2 trillion aid package - the largest in history - to help cope with the economic downturn inflicted by the intensifying coronavirus pandemic, and President Donald Trump quickly signed it into law.

The U.S. House of Representatives on Friday approved a $2.2 trillion aid package - the largest in history - to help cope with the economic downturn inflicted by the intensifying coronavirus pandemic, and President Donald Trump quickly signed it into law. The massive bill passed the Senate and House of Representatives nearly unanimously. The rare bipartisan action underscored how seriously Republican and Democratic lawmakers are taking the global pandemic that has killed more than 1,500 Americans and shaken the nation's medical system. "Our nation faces an economic and health emergency of historic proportions due to the coronavirus pandemic, the worst pandemic in over 100 years," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said at the close of a three-hour debate before the lower chamber approved the bill. "Whatever we do next, right now we're going to pass this legislation." Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends The massive bill also rushes billions of dollars to medical providers on the front lines of the outbreak. But the bipartisan spirit seemed to end at the White House. Neither Pelosi nor Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer was invited to Trump's all-Republican signing ceremony for the bill, aides said. Their Republican counterparts, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, did attend, along with three Republican House members. "This will deliver urgently needed relief to our nation's families, workers and businesses," Trump said. "I really think in a fairly short period of time ... we'll be stronger than ever." In an statement about signing the bill, Trump rejected aspects of a provision in the law setting up an inspector general to audit some loans and investments. Asked about the statement, Pelosi told MSNBC: "Congress will exercise its oversight and we will have our panel ... appointed by the House, in real time to make sure we know where those funds are being expended." She called Trump a "dangerous president" who had chosen to ignore the threat of the coronavirus. "Our next thrust will be about recovery and how we can create good-paying jobs so that we can take the country into the future in a very strong way," Pelosi said. The Democratic-led House approved the package on a voice vote, turning back a procedural challenge from Republican Representative Thomas Massie, who had sought to force a formal, recorded vote. Also read: How coronavirus outbreak triggered another debate on ‘Science vs Religion’ To keep Massie's gambit from delaying the bill's passage, hundreds of lawmakers from both parties returned to Washington despite the risk of contracting coronavirus. For many, that meant long drives or overnight flights. One member who spent hours in a car was Republican Representative Greg Pence, the brother of Vice President Mike Pence, whom Trump has put in charge of efforts to handle the coronavirus crisis. Pence drove the nearly 600 miles (966 km) from his home state, Indiana, to Washington on Thursday. "We can't afford to wait another minute," he said on Twitter. Also read: Google-parent Alphabet to donate $800 million in response to coronavirus crisis 'Third-rate grandstander' Massie wrote on Twitter that he thought the bill contained too much extraneous spending and gave too much power to the Federal Reserve, the U.S. central bank. His fellow lawmakers overruled his request for a recorded vote. Trump attacked Massie on Twitter, calling him a "third rate Grandstander" and saying he should be thrown out of the Republican party. "He just wants the publicity," wrote the president, who last week began pushing for urgent action on coronavirus after long downplaying the risk. Democratic and Republican leaders had asked members to return to Washington to ensure there would be enough present to head off Massie's gambit. The session was held under special rules to limit the spread of the disease among members. At least five members of Congress have tested positive for the coronavirus and more than two dozen have self-quarantined to limit its spread. The Senate, which approved the bill in a unanimous vote late on Wednesday, has adjourned and is not scheduled to return to Washington until April 20. Also read: South Korea reports 146 new coronavirus cases, highest in a week Democratic and Republican House leaders appeared together at a news conference at the Capitol to celebrate the bill's passage - an unusual event for a chamber that is normally sharply divided along partisan lines. "The virus is here. We did not ask for it, we did not invite it. We did not choose it. But with the passing of the bill you will see that we will fight it together, and we will win together," McCarthy said. He did not say whether Massie would face any disciplinary measures from the party. The rescue package is the largest fiscal relief measure ever passed by Congress. The $2.2 trillion measure includes $500 billion to help hard-hit industries and $290 billion for payments of up to $3,000 to millions of families. It will also provide $350 billion for small-business loans, $250 billion for expanded unemployment aid and at least $100 billion for hospitals and related health systems. The number of coronavirus cases in the United States exceeded 100,000 on Friday, according to a Reuters tally, the most of any country. Adding to the misery, the Labor Department reported the number of Americans filing claims for unemployment benefits surged to 3.28 million, the highest level ever.

Historic $2.2 trillion coronavirus bill passes US House, becomes law

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