Afghanistan's health ministry on Monday said that the total coronavirus positive cases in the country stood at 367 after 30 new cases were registered in the within the past 24 hours.

Herat confirmed 16 new cases, followed by Kabul (6), Nimruz (3), Kunduz (2), Faryab (2) and Daikundi (1) provinces, as per the Health Ministry data cited by TOLOnews.

Meanwhile, seven people are reported dead from the contagious disease in Afghanistan and 12 others have recovered.

Herat has the highest number of cases — with 239 —, while Kabul is in second place with 57 cases.

Coronavirus has infected more than 1.2 million worldwide and killed close to 70,000, according to the data compiled by the US-based John Hopkins University.

Afghanistan's health ministry on Monday said that the total coronavirus positive cases in the country stood at 367 after 30 new cases were registered in the within the past 24 hours.

Afghanistan's health ministry on Monday said that the total coronavirus positive cases in the country stood at 367 after 30 new cases were registered in the within the past 24 hours. Herat confirmed 16 new cases, followed by Kabul (6), Nimruz (3), Kunduz (2), Faryab (2) and Daikundi (1) provinces, as per the Health Ministry data cited by TOLOnews. Meanwhile, seven people are reported dead from the contagious disease in Afghanistan and 12 others have recovered. Herat has the highest number of cases — with 239 —, while Kabul is in second place with 57 cases. Coronavirus has infected more than 1.2 million worldwide and killed close to 70,000, according to the data compiled by the US-based John Hopkins University.

COVID-19 cases rise to 349 in Afghanistan

Amid rising concerns about the quality of equipment provided by China to other countries, the country yesterday claimed that they have sold over four billion masks in&nbsp;March.

Chinese Customs Official Jin Hai claimed that the country has exported 3.86 billion masks, 37.5 million pieces of protective clothing, 16,000 ventilators and over 2.84 million testing kits since March 1.

Currently, orders from 50 countries have been received by the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e-commerce-giants-issue-face-masks-for-employees-but-is-it-an-effective-barrier-290841">E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier?</a>

Hai further claimed that the export of supplies valued at 10.2 billion Yuan, roughly amounting to USD 1.4 billion.&nbsp;

The Netherlands, the Philippines, Croatia, Turkey, and Spain have recently returned masks and other equipment on account of substandard quality.

Just last week, over 1.3 million masks were shipped to the Netherlands, out of which 600,000 masks were returned.

According to China, the manufacturer, before sending the shipments, had clearly stated that “the masks are non-surgical”.

Additionally, Spain recently sent back thousands of testing kits after finding them faulty.&nbsp;

China hit out to this recently, and claimed that “this did not reflect the full facts”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-your-protective-gear-causing-coronavirus-cross-contamination-290823" hreflang="en">Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?</a>

"In reality there are various factors, such as China having different standards and different usage habits to other countries. Even improper use can lead to doubts over quality," said Jiang Fan, an official with the Ministry of Commerce.

Another spokesperson, from the Foreign Ministry, Hua Chunying urged the Western media to not “politicise” or “hype up” the issue.

Amid the critique, Beijing has increased regulations for medical equipment set for exports. The administration further claimed plans to ensure licensing standards of both China as well as the countries the supplies were headed.

Currently, China is producing over four million testing kits everyday!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

The coronavirus pandemic began in Wuhan, China and has amped up the production of face masks and gloves, with hard-hit countries increasingly running out of supplies.

As of now, over 60,000 have died worldwide!

Amid rising concerns about the quality of equipment provided by China to other countries, the country yesterday claimed that they have sold over four billion masks in March.

Amid rising concerns about the quality of equipment provided by China to other countries, the country yesterday claimed that they have sold over four billion masks in March. Chinese Customs Official Jin Hai claimed that the country has exported 3.86 billion masks, 37.5 million pieces of protective clothing, 16,000 ventilators and over 2.84 million testing kits since March 1. Currently, orders from 50 countries have been received by the country. Also read: E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier? Hai further claimed that the export of supplies valued at 10.2 billion Yuan, roughly amounting to USD 1.4 billion. The Netherlands, the Philippines, Croatia, Turkey, and Spain have recently returned masks and other equipment on account of substandard quality. Just last week, over 1.3 million masks were shipped to the Netherlands, out of which 600,000 masks were returned. According to China, the manufacturer, before sending the shipments, had clearly stated that “the masks are non-surgical”. Additionally, Spain recently sent back thousands of testing kits after finding them faulty. China hit out to this recently, and claimed that “this did not reflect the full facts”. Also read: Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination? "In reality there are various factors, such as China having different standards and different usage habits to other countries. Even improper use can lead to doubts over quality," said Jiang Fan, an official with the Ministry of Commerce. Another spokesperson, from the Foreign Ministry, Hua Chunying urged the Western media to not “politicise” or “hype up” the issue. Amid the critique, Beijing has increased regulations for medical equipment set for exports. The administration further claimed plans to ensure licensing standards of both China as well as the countries the supplies were headed. Currently, China is producing over four million testing kits everyday! Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! The coronavirus pandemic began in Wuhan, China and has amped up the production of face masks and gloves, with hard-hit countries increasingly running out of supplies. As of now, over 60,000 have died worldwide!

As countries return faulty supplies, China claims to have exported 4 million masks in March

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone.&nbsp;

The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000.

The govt authorities are mulling over an action plan based on 'Bhilwara model' to counter the pandemic.&nbsp;

Rajasthan's Bhilwara has reported no new case of coronavirus for last 4-5 days.&nbsp;

The administration in this Rajasthan town became aggressive in tackling the pandemic after six people were found coronavirus positive in Bhilwara (Rajasthan) on March 19.

The health administration officials of the Rajasthan government had set up a medical war room to fight deadly coronavirus pandemic.

They divided the area into three circles. According to the plan, Bhilwara town was&nbsp;divided into 1 Km, 3 Km and 5 Km radius.&nbsp;

Intense surveillance was conducted in 1 Km radius and every home was tested for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Around 6000 teams of doctors were placed for the task. Around 24 lakh people were screened by these teams in a mere 9 days.&nbsp;

Around 18000 people were found to be having cough and cold, they had&nbsp;been moved to the second phase of testing.

The people who came in contact with the doctor who was tested positive for the virus were also tested.

Borders were sealed completely except for essential services. Several hospitals were prepared for emergency cases. Bhilwara and nearby areas were screened for coronavirus. Disinfectants were sprinkled all across the city to kill the virus.&nbsp;

With the recent success of the Bhilwara model of disinfection drive, it is expected that this may get implemented in all of India during or after the lockdown.

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone.

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone. The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000. The govt authorities are mulling over an action plan based on 'Bhilwara model' to counter the pandemic. Rajasthan's Bhilwara has reported no new case of coronavirus for last 4-5 days. The administration in this Rajasthan town became aggressive in tackling the pandemic after six people were found coronavirus positive in Bhilwara (Rajasthan) on March 19. The health administration officials of the Rajasthan government had set up a medical war room to fight deadly coronavirus pandemic. They divided the area into three circles. According to the plan, Bhilwara town was divided into 1 Km, 3 Km and 5 Km radius. Intense surveillance was conducted in 1 Km radius and every home was tested for coronavirus. Around 6000 teams of doctors were placed for the task. Around 24 lakh people were screened by these teams in a mere 9 days. Around 18000 people were found to be having cough and cold, they had been moved to the second phase of testing. The people who came in contact with the doctor who was tested positive for the virus were also tested. Borders were sealed completely except for essential services. Several hospitals were prepared for emergency cases. Bhilwara and nearby areas were screened for coronavirus. Disinfectants were sprinkled all across the city to kill the virus. With the recent success of the Bhilwara model of disinfection drive, it is expected that this may get implemented in all of India during or after the lockdown.

Fighting a pandemic: Bhilwara shows the way!

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone.&nbsp;

The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000.

<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87e5b72c-0575-413d-af12-390d8dbf352f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/covid-19_0.JPG" />

Total cases: &nbsp; &nbsp;4067 
Active: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3666 
Deaths: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;109 
Discharged: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 291

Of the total infections, 3,666 are active cases and 292 have been cured/discharged/migrated people.

The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000. Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone. The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000. Total cases: 4067 Active: 3666 Deaths: 109 Discharged: 291 Of the total infections, 3,666 are active cases and 292 have been cured/discharged/migrated people. The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000. Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan

The world is increasingly falling into the grip of COVID-19, the pandemic which has claimed over 69,000 lives globally.

The epicentre has shifted continents twice, first from China in Asia to European countries like Italy, and then to North America - the United States.

Currently, the US has over 300,000 active cases of the virus, with over 8,000 reported deaths. The toll is expected to increase over the next few weeks before the virus heats its peak in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-african-country-has-released-over-4000-prisoners-through-video-calling-to-limit-covid-19-clusters-290849" hreflang="en">This African country has released over 4,000 prisoners through video-calling to limit COVID-19 clusters!</a>

However, many religious congregations are defying the lockdown and social distancing directives.&nbsp;

In the US state of Louisiana, “Palm Sunday” was celebrated over the weekend. And the coronavirus didn’t stop a suburban church! Palm Sunday refers to the beginning of holy week among Christian churches.

The Life Tabernacle Church defied the stay-at-home orders on Sunday, with the pastor, Tony Spell telling people that there was “nothing to fear but fear itself.”

Besides this, across the area, gatherings of over 1,000 people have been happening in full-swing!

“We’re defying the rules because the commandment of God is to spread the Gospel,” Louisiana pastor Tony Spell said on Saturday.

The state of Louisiana has become one of the virus hotspots in the region, with over 400 deaths and 13,000 active cases.

“They would rather come to church and worship like free people than live like prisoners in their homes,” Spell further said.

Even when the majority of churches have been holding services online, many churches continue to defy the orders, in different states like Florida, Texas, California.

“Satan’s trying to keep us apart, he’s trying to keep us from worshipping together. But we’re not going to let him win,” Kelly Burton, the pastor at Lone Star Baptist Church in Lone Star, Texas, said on Facebook.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e-commerce-giants-issue-face-masks-for-employees-but-is-it-an-effective-barrier-290841" hreflang="en">E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier?</a>

Even the chronic denier of coronavirus, President Donald Trump recently warned that “there’s going to be a lot of death” in the country, and asked the citizens to prepare for a big surge in deaths.

As per data from White House, over 1,00,000 to 2,40,000 Americans could be killed due to the pandemic, even with lockdowns in place.

The state of New York remains the hardest-hit, the number of deaths rising everyday, and medical supplies quickly running out!

The world is increasingly falling into the grip of COVID-19, the pandemic which has claimed over 69,000 lives globally. The epicentre has shifted continents twice, first from China in Asia to European countries like Italy, and then to North America - the United States.

The world is increasingly falling into the grip of COVID-19, the pandemic which has claimed over 69,000 lives globally. The epicentre has shifted continents twice, first from China in Asia to European countries like Italy, and then to North America - the United States. Currently, the US has over 300,000 active cases of the virus, with over 8,000 reported deaths. The toll is expected to increase over the next few weeks before the virus heats its peak in the country. Also read: This African country has released over 4,000 prisoners through video-calling to limit COVID-19 clusters! However, many religious congregations are defying the lockdown and social distancing directives. In the US state of Louisiana, “Palm Sunday” was celebrated over the weekend. And the coronavirus didn’t stop a suburban church! Palm Sunday refers to the beginning of holy week among Christian churches. The Life Tabernacle Church defied the stay-at-home orders on Sunday, with the pastor, Tony Spell telling people that there was “nothing to fear but fear itself.” Besides this, across the area, gatherings of over 1,000 people have been happening in full-swing! “We’re defying the rules because the commandment of God is to spread the Gospel,” Louisiana pastor Tony Spell said on Saturday. The state of Louisiana has become one of the virus hotspots in the region, with over 400 deaths and 13,000 active cases. “They would rather come to church and worship like free people than live like prisoners in their homes,” Spell further said. Even when the majority of churches have been holding services online, many churches continue to defy the orders, in different states like Florida, Texas, California. “Satan’s trying to keep us apart, he’s trying to keep us from worshipping together. But we’re not going to let him win,” Kelly Burton, the pastor at Lone Star Baptist Church in Lone Star, Texas, said on Facebook. Also read: E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier? Even the chronic denier of coronavirus, President Donald Trump recently warned that “there’s going to be a lot of death” in the country, and asked the citizens to prepare for a big surge in deaths. As per data from White House, over 1,00,000 to 2,40,000 Americans could be killed due to the pandemic, even with lockdowns in place. The state of New York remains the hardest-hit, the number of deaths rising everyday, and medical supplies quickly running out!

'Not going to let Satan win': Churches in US defy stay-at-home orders to hold services amid coronavirus pandemic

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has rejoined the medical register to help the health service during the coronavirus crisis, a government spokesman said Sunday.

Dr Varadkar "has offered his services to the Health Service Executive for one session a week in areas that are within his scope of practice", a government spokesman said in a statement.

The Irish Times reported Varadkar — who graduated with a medical degree from Dublin's Trinity University in 2003 — is to work assessing patients over the phone.

The son of a doctor and nurse, Varadkar's partner and his two sisters are also practising health workers.

"Many of his family and friends are working in the health service," the spokesman explained. "He wanted to help out even in a small way." As COVID-19 took hold in Ireland last month the HSE made a call for qualified healthcare workers not currently working in the sector to return.

Over 60,000 responded to the recruitment drive, which included a request for medically skilled and general volunteers to aid the health service.

According to the most recent department of health figures released Sunday, there have been 158 coronavirus-related deaths in Ireland. There have been a total of 4,994 confirmed cases across the Republic, the department said.

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has rejoined the medical register to help the health service during the coronavirus crisis, a government spokesman said Sunday.

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has rejoined the medical register to help the health service during the coronavirus crisis, a government spokesman said Sunday. Dr Varadkar "has offered his services to the Health Service Executive for one session a week in areas that are within his scope of practice", a government spokesman said in a statement. The Irish Times reported Varadkar — who graduated with a medical degree from Dublin's Trinity University in 2003 — is to work assessing patients over the phone. The son of a doctor and nurse, Varadkar's partner and his two sisters are also practising health workers. "Many of his family and friends are working in the health service," the spokesman explained. "He wanted to help out even in a small way." As COVID-19 took hold in Ireland last month the HSE made a call for qualified healthcare workers not currently working in the sector to return. Over 60,000 responded to the recruitment drive, which included a request for medically skilled and general volunteers to aid the health service. According to the most recent department of health figures released Sunday, there have been 158 coronavirus-related deaths in Ireland. There have been a total of 4,994 confirmed cases across the Republic, the department said.

Indian-origin Irish PM Leo Varadkar to work as a doctor during coronavirus crisis

Many governments across the world fear that prisons pose health hazards during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Many countries have also released several prisoners with negligible offences to prevent clusters from forming in the prison.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-your-protective-gear-causing-coronavirus-cross-contamination-290823" hreflang="en">Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?</a>

Another country to&nbsp;recently join in on the decongestion process is Kenya.&nbsp;

Over the last 30 days, the country has released over 4,800 prisoners across different prisons to ease the potential consequences of a cluster in the prison.

Most states are now taking steps based on the new information that keeps coming in about the pandemic.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Today, Mombasa High Court Presiding Judge, Hon. Eric Ogola, delivered 23 judgements through the use of Skype Conference to the inmates in Shimo La Tewa Prison. <a href="https://t.co/DCsdn4nArj">pic.twitter.com/DCsdn4nArj</a>
— The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kenyajudiciary/status/1244679392271441921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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What’s interesting is how these prisoners were released. With social distancing the new norm, the release sessions were conducted on video chatting applications like Skype and Zoom.

The prioritisation was based on the gravity of the crimes as well as the time left to serve in the prison.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

The majority of 4,800 releases were undertaken online across 39 high court stations, as per information released by CNN.

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Hon Ritah Amwayi of Mombasa County Court dispensing justice through a video conference, linked to Kingorani Remand Prison. She delivered 5 Judgements and 8 rulings. 21 remandees were released. <a href="https://t.co/Jj6FOQAOup">pic.twitter.com/Jj6FOQAOup</a>
— The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kenyajudiciary/status/1245672957726375940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As of now, Kenya, and largely Africa, has remained untouched by the killer virus. With just 110 cases, the country has enforced a dusk to dawn curfew. Nobody is allowed to leave their homes between 7 pm to 5 am.

The first case in the country was reported on March 12, after which all sports, religious, and other mega-events stand cancelled.&nbsp;

Many governments across the world fear that prisons pose health hazards during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many countries have also released several prisoners with negligible offences to prevent clusters from forming in the prison.

Many governments across the world fear that prisons pose health hazards during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many countries have also released several prisoners with negligible offences to prevent clusters from forming in the prison. Also read: Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination? Another country to recently join in on the decongestion process is Kenya. Over the last 30 days, the country has released over 4,800 prisoners across different prisons to ease the potential consequences of a cluster in the prison. Most states are now taking steps based on the new information that keeps coming in about the pandemic. Today, Mombasa High Court Presiding Judge, Hon. Eric Ogola, delivered 23 judgements through the use of Skype Conference to the inmates in Shimo La Tewa Prison. pic.twitter.com/DCsdn4nArj — The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) March 30, 2020 × What’s interesting is how these prisoners were released. With social distancing the new norm, the release sessions were conducted on video chatting applications like Skype and Zoom. The prioritisation was based on the gravity of the crimes as well as the time left to serve in the prison. Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! The majority of 4,800 releases were undertaken online across 39 high court stations, as per information released by CNN. Hon Ritah Amwayi of Mombasa County Court dispensing justice through a video conference, linked to Kingorani Remand Prison. She delivered 5 Judgements and 8 rulings. 21 remandees were released. pic.twitter.com/Jj6FOQAOup — The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) April 2, 2020 × As of now, Kenya, and largely Africa, has remained untouched by the killer virus. With just 110 cases, the country has enforced a dusk to dawn curfew. Nobody is allowed to leave their homes between 7 pm to 5 am. The first case in the country was reported on March 12, after which all sports, religious, and other mega-events stand cancelled.

This African country has released over 4,000 prisoners through video-calling to limit COVID-19 clusters!

The number of people killed by the coronavirus in Canada has jumped by just over 20% to 258 in a day, officials said on Sunday, while Ottawa offered full-time jobs to reservists in the armed forces.

By 11:05 eastern time (1505 GMT), the number of those diagnosed with the coronavirus had risen by almost 12% to 14,426, the public health agency said. The respective figures on Saturday were 214 deaths and 12,924 positive diagnoses.

The outbreak looks set to tip the economy into recession and the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has already announced stimulus measures totalling C$105 billion ($74 billion) in direct spending, or 5% of gross domestic product.

Trudeau said officials were contacting reservists to offer them full-time jobs for the coming months.

"Bolstering the military's ranks will help offset some of the economic consequences of COVID-19 and ensure our communities are well supported," he told a daily briefing.

Canada has around 31,000 reservists, most of whom serve one evening a week and one weekend a month. There are just over 67,000 full-time members of the armed forces.

Trudeau said on Friday that members of the Canadian Rangers, a group of reservists based in remote regions, would be deployed to northern Quebec to help provide healthcare to the isolated aboriginal population.

Late last month, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized the secretaries of homeland security and defence to call up military and Coast Guard reservists to active duty.

Trudeau said he had yet to speak to Trump about his demand that exports of respirator masks to Canada be blocked. Trudeau said on Saturday he would not retaliate while noting some Canadian health professionals living along with the US border work in hospitals south of the border.

"We're continuing to engage constructively with the entire American administration to highlight how important it is that goods ... continue to flow both ways," he said.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro told Fox News on Saturday that "some exports" of masks to Canada would continue.

Almost half the cases in Canada are in the province of Quebec, where premier Francois Legault said on Sunday he hoped to see new diagnoses peak in several weeks. He also told reporters he was extending a shutdown of non-essential businesses for another three weeks to May 4.

The number of people killed by the coronavirus in Canada has jumped by just over 20% to 258 in a day, officials said on Sunday, while Ottawa offered full-time jobs to reservists in the armed forces.

The number of people killed by the coronavirus in Canada has jumped by just over 20% to 258 in a day, officials said on Sunday, while Ottawa offered full-time jobs to reservists in the armed forces. By 11:05 eastern time (1505 GMT), the number of those diagnosed with the coronavirus had risen by almost 12% to 14,426, the public health agency said. The respective figures on Saturday were 214 deaths and 12,924 positive diagnoses. The outbreak looks set to tip the economy into recession and the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has already announced stimulus measures totalling C$105 billion ($74 billion) in direct spending, or 5% of gross domestic product. Trudeau said officials were contacting reservists to offer them full-time jobs for the coming months. "Bolstering the military's ranks will help offset some of the economic consequences of COVID-19 and ensure our communities are well supported," he told a daily briefing. Canada has around 31,000 reservists, most of whom serve one evening a week and one weekend a month. There are just over 67,000 full-time members of the armed forces. Trudeau said on Friday that members of the Canadian Rangers, a group of reservists based in remote regions, would be deployed to northern Quebec to help provide healthcare to the isolated aboriginal population. Late last month, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized the secretaries of homeland security and defence to call up military and Coast Guard reservists to active duty. Trudeau said he had yet to speak to Trump about his demand that exports of respirator masks to Canada be blocked. Trudeau said on Saturday he would not retaliate while noting some Canadian health professionals living along with the US border work in hospitals south of the border. "We're continuing to engage constructively with the entire American administration to highlight how important it is that goods ... continue to flow both ways," he said. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro told Fox News on Saturday that "some exports" of masks to Canada would continue. Almost half the cases in Canada are in the province of Quebec, where premier Francois Legault said on Sunday he hoped to see new diagnoses peak in several weeks. He also told reporters he was extending a shutdown of non-essential businesses for another three weeks to May 4.

Canada coronavirus deaths jump 20%, Ottawa offers reservists full-time jobs

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is likely to declare state of emergency to curb the spread of coronavirus as the confirmed number of cases in the country surged to over 4,500, local media reported.

Japan all set to declare state of emergency

Amidst the panic-driven state of all industries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people who simply cannot work from home are being under risk as they head out to work everyday.

E-commerce is one such industry. With calls for people to stay inside, the pressure on online shopping for essential supplies increases.

Even though the World Health Organisation claims that face masks are not efficient in preventing the virus, the head of the Chinese Centers of Disease and Control claimed that countries need to tell all their citizens to wear masks.

Statistically also, countries that have enforced mask-wearing are performing better in terms of containment efforts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-your-protective-gear-causing-coronavirus-cross-contamination-290823" hreflang="en">Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?</a>

Austria and Slovenia recently made wearing masks compulsory.

Advisories to wear masks were issued in Czech Republic, with the US state of New York advising citizens to wear them.

Marks &amp; Spencer recently issued plastic face shields to protect employees.&nbsp;

Another big retail giant to join in is Amazon. Recently, the company told The Daily Telegraph that it had sourced “million of masks” for employees. Starting next week, every employee will don a mask.

Many are left wondering how places like Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea have been able to contain the virus more effectively besides being so close to the epicentre&nbsp;- Wuhan in China.

Countries that advised against using masks, like Italy, Spain, France, and now the US have been hit hard, with many reporting over 1000 deaths a day during the virus’ peak.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

In the UK alone, almost 5,000 are dead, and over 47,000 positive cases.

The US has reported over 8,000 deaths and 311,600 confirmed cases.

The total death toll in countries like South Korea, Japan, and Singapore stands at only 260, tremendously lower than Western countries, and with a bigger population!

Even if the masks may not be helping with protection, they most definitely act as a barrier between the infected and the uninfected. So a person who may not show symptoms but is infected may spread it to others without a mask, but by wearing it, the person is protecting people around them.

The virus spreads primarily through droplets that released into the air while coughing and sneezing. Additionally, new research claims that even talking and breathing around infected people can spread the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imask-apple-starts-producing-protective-facial-gear-to-help-with-coronavirus-crisis-290773" hreflang="en">iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis</a>

Amidst the panic-driven state of all industries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people who simply cannot work from home are being under risk as they head out to work everyday.

Amidst the panic-driven state of all industries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people who simply cannot work from home are being under risk as they head out to work everyday. E-commerce is one such industry. With calls for people to stay inside, the pressure on online shopping for essential supplies increases. Even though the World Health Organisation claims that face masks are not efficient in preventing the virus, the head of the Chinese Centers of Disease and Control claimed that countries need to tell all their citizens to wear masks. Statistically also, countries that have enforced mask-wearing are performing better in terms of containment efforts. Also read: Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination? Austria and Slovenia recently made wearing masks compulsory. Advisories to wear masks were issued in Czech Republic, with the US state of New York advising citizens to wear them. Marks & Spencer recently issued plastic face shields to protect employees. Another big retail giant to join in is Amazon. Recently, the company told The Daily Telegraph that it had sourced “million of masks” for employees. Starting next week, every employee will don a mask. Many are left wondering how places like Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea have been able to contain the virus more effectively besides being so close to the epicentre - Wuhan in China. Countries that advised against using masks, like Italy, Spain, France, and now the US have been hit hard, with many reporting over 1000 deaths a day during the virus’ peak. Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! In the UK alone, almost 5,000 are dead, and over 47,000 positive cases. The US has reported over 8,000 deaths and 311,600 confirmed cases. The total death toll in countries like South Korea, Japan, and Singapore stands at only 260, tremendously lower than Western countries, and with a bigger population! Even if the masks may not be helping with protection, they most definitely act as a barrier between the infected and the uninfected. So a person who may not show symptoms but is infected may spread it to others without a mask, but by wearing it, the person is protecting people around them. The virus spreads primarily through droplets that released into the air while coughing and sneezing. Additionally, new research claims that even talking and breathing around infected people can spread the virus. Also read: iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis

E-commerce giants issue face masks for employees, but is it an effective barrier?

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,278 on Monday as Imran Khan's govt scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease.

Over 300 Tablighi Jamaat members and total 20, 000 people related to the event have been quarantined till Sunday in Pakistan’s Punjab province, amid efforts by authorities to track down and quarantine thousands of people who attended a massive congregation of the group last month.&nbsp;

A large number of preachers of Pakitan's Tablighi Jamaat who had attended a major congregation in early March in its headquarters in Lahore have been tracked down across the country and placed in quarantine centres.

According to Pakistani media, "more than 100,000 people” attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Lahore.

The event was organised in Lahore between March 10 and 12, had been described as being a "super-spreader" of coronavirus.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, The biggest COVID-19 hotspot in India has been the Tablighi Jamaat Markaz in Nizamuddin, New Delhi where a congregation of thousands of people took place between 1-15 March.

On Sunday, during the daily press briefing Lav Agarwal, a senior official in the Union ministry of health and family welfare, said that due to the Tablighi Jamaat event, coronavirus cases were rising in India every four days. Agarwal said that “had the incident not happened, the case doubling rate in the country would have been 7.4 days". 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,278 on Monday as Imran Khan's govt scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease. Over 300 Tablighi Jamaat members and total 20, 000 people related to the event have been quarantined till Sunday in Pakistan’s Punjab province, amid efforts by authorities to track down and quarantine thousands of people who attended a massive congregation of the group last month.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,278 on Monday as Imran Khan's govt scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease. Over 300 Tablighi Jamaat members and total 20, 000 people related to the event have been quarantined till Sunday in Pakistan’s Punjab province, amid efforts by authorities to track down and quarantine thousands of people who attended a massive congregation of the group last month. A large number of preachers of Pakitan's Tablighi Jamaat who had attended a major congregation in early March in its headquarters in Lahore have been tracked down across the country and placed in quarantine centres. According to Pakistani media, "more than 100,000 people” attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Lahore. The event was organised in Lahore between March 10 and 12, had been described as being a "super-spreader" of coronavirus. Meanwhile, The biggest COVID-19 hotspot in India has been the Tablighi Jamaat Markaz in Nizamuddin, New Delhi where a congregation of thousands of people took place between 1-15 March. On Sunday, during the daily press briefing Lav Agarwal, a senior official in the Union ministry of health and family welfare, said that due to the Tablighi Jamaat event, coronavirus cases were rising in India every four days. Agarwal said that “had the incident not happened, the case doubling rate in the country would have been 7.4 days". (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus in Pakistan: 20,000 quarantined as 300 Tablighi Jamaat members test positive

With coronavirus wreaking havoc across the globe, strict lockdowns and social distancing measures have been enforced to contain the pandemic.

However, frontline workers, especially in the healthcare industry continue to be at the highest risk of contracting the virus!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

Even as panic-stricken people hoard masks and gloves, cross-contamination is a very real threat and danger.

For instance, when people wear gloves in public places, the risk of cross contamination multiplies tremendously.

How does it work?

To explain simply, you go to a grocery store, mind you - you have hand gloves on! Then you pick up an item, put it in the trolley. You touch the trolley in the process. Then you touch some fruits. Later you touch the door while leaving. Then all those germs that you picked up during the process, you take them home with you. You touch your car door with the same gloves and open your front door with the same gloves on!&nbsp;

Scary, isn’t it?

After witnessing such contamination, a former health worker, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/69501899/videos/10100252201408846/">Molly Lixey decided to make a video</a> about how people are inadvertently contaminating more surfaces in the attempt of protecting themselves.

Lixey explained cross-contamination by using paint!&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/divided-in-the-time-of-a-pandemic-coronavirus-separates-lovers-friends-at-swiss-german-border-fences-290765" hreflang="en">Divided in the time of a pandemic: Coronavirus separates lovers, friends at Swiss-German border fences</a>

She stimulated a chain of contact and used paint to symbolise the germs she may have spread or picked up in the process. After touching an item, she attends a phone call, thereby attaching germs to her cellular device, without knowing so!

As she pretends to move across a grocery store stimulation, she picks up more paint, ie, germs, to represent how dangerously easy it is to trigger a chain of spreading germs!

As she picks up her phone and puts it across her cheek, the germs have now successfully found a way to her face, which is primarily how COVID-19 spreads.

So what should you do?

Even after all this contamination, one gets rid of the gloves, it will still remain lodged on some familiar surface, a phone? Headphones? Honestly, it could be anything.

In essence, wearing protective gear is very important, but frequent hand washing and sanitation plays a key role in limiting the clench of COVID-19!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imask-apple-starts-producing-protective-facial-gear-to-help-with-coronavirus-crisis-290773" hreflang="en">iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis</a>

Additionally, one must disinfect their phones multiple times over the day, especially if they’re going out to buy supplies.

Even though earlier research claimed that the virus spreads only through coughing or sneezing, it turns out that it can spread simply by breathing, making everybody more vulnerable to the contagion!

Exercise caution and disinfect regularly, if you really want to steer away the killer virus!

With coronavirus wreaking havoc across the globe, strict lockdowns and social distancing measures have been enforced to contain the pandemic. However, frontline workers, especially in the healthcare industry continue to be at the highest risk of contracting the virus!

With coronavirus wreaking havoc across the globe, strict lockdowns and social distancing measures have been enforced to contain the pandemic. However, frontline workers, especially in the healthcare industry continue to be at the highest risk of contracting the virus! Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! Even as panic-stricken people hoard masks and gloves, cross-contamination is a very real threat and danger. For instance, when people wear gloves in public places, the risk of cross contamination multiplies tremendously. How does it work? To explain simply, you go to a grocery store, mind you - you have hand gloves on! Then you pick up an item, put it in the trolley. You touch the trolley in the process. Then you touch some fruits. Later you touch the door while leaving. Then all those germs that you picked up during the process, you take them home with you. You touch your car door with the same gloves and open your front door with the same gloves on! Scary, isn’t it? After witnessing such contamination, a former health worker, Molly Lixey decided to make a video about how people are inadvertently contaminating more surfaces in the attempt of protecting themselves. Lixey explained cross-contamination by using paint! In pics: Divided in the time of a pandemic: Coronavirus separates lovers, friends at Swiss-German border fences She stimulated a chain of contact and used paint to symbolise the germs she may have spread or picked up in the process. After touching an item, she attends a phone call, thereby attaching germs to her cellular device, without knowing so! As she pretends to move across a grocery store stimulation, she picks up more paint, ie, germs, to represent how dangerously easy it is to trigger a chain of spreading germs! As she picks up her phone and puts it across her cheek, the germs have now successfully found a way to her face, which is primarily how COVID-19 spreads. So what should you do? Even after all this contamination, one gets rid of the gloves, it will still remain lodged on some familiar surface, a phone? Headphones? Honestly, it could be anything. In essence, wearing protective gear is very important, but frequent hand washing and sanitation plays a key role in limiting the clench of COVID-19! Also read: iMask? Apple starts producing protective facial gear to help with coronavirus crisis Additionally, one must disinfect their phones multiple times over the day, especially if they’re going out to buy supplies. Even though earlier research claimed that the virus spreads only through coughing or sneezing, it turns out that it can spread simply by breathing, making everybody more vulnerable to the contagion! Exercise caution and disinfect regularly, if you really want to steer away the killer virus!

Is your protective gear causing coronavirus cross-contamination?

A 36-year-old man was arrested in Chunabhatti in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday for allegedly uploading a post on Facebook claiming the novel coronavirus outbreak was a government conspiracy and that people should not reveal information to authorities. An official identified him as Shamim Iftekhar Khan, a resident of Qureshi Nagar in Kurla East.

“His Facebook post claimed the virus does not exist and it was a conspiracy to target certain communities by the government. He also asked people not to give information to authorities during surveys in connection with the outbreak,” he said.

He was arrested under sections 188 (disobedience of an order promulgated by a public servant) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) of IPC, and provisions of Disaster Management Act, the Chunabatti police station official said.

A 36-year-old man was arrested in Chunabhatti in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday for allegedly uploading a post on Facebook claiming the novel coronavirus outbreak was a government conspiracy and that people should not reveal information to authorities.

A 36-year-old man was arrested in Chunabhatti in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday for allegedly uploading a post on Facebook claiming the novel coronavirus outbreak was a government conspiracy and that people should not reveal information to authorities. An official identified him as Shamim Iftekhar Khan, a resident of Qureshi Nagar in Kurla East. “His Facebook post claimed the virus does not exist and it was a conspiracy to target certain communities by the government. He also asked people not to give information to authorities during surveys in connection with the outbreak,” he said. He was arrested under sections 188 (disobedience of an order promulgated by a public servant) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) of IPC, and provisions of Disaster Management Act, the Chunabatti police station official said.

Mumbai man claims coronavirus a govt conspiracy in Facebook post, arrested

Amid a nationwide lockdown to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India has set an example for the world by effectively battling coronavirus.&nbsp;

"India's efforts have set an example before the world in tackling Coronavisus Pandemic. India is one of the countries which understood the seriousness of this disease&amp;waged a timely war against it. India took several decisions&amp;tried its best to implement them on the ground. India has worked rapidly with a holistic approach that is being appreciated by not only Indians but also WHO. All countries should come together and fight this, so India had active participation in the meeting of the SAARC countries and the G20 meeting," he said.

PM Modi was speaking on the occasion of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 40th Foundation Day.&nbsp;

"This foundation day of BJP has come at a time when not only the country but also the world is going through a difficult time. Humanity is facing a crisis, our devotion to service of the country creates our path during this challenging time," &nbsp;he said.

Amid a nationwide lockdown to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India has set an example for the world by effectively battling coronavirus.

Amid a nationwide lockdown to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India has set an example for the world by effectively battling coronavirus. "India's efforts have set an example before the world in tackling Coronavisus Pandemic. India is one of the countries which understood the seriousness of this disease&waged a timely war against it. India took several decisions&tried its best to implement them on the ground. India has worked rapidly with a holistic approach that is being appreciated by not only Indians but also WHO. All countries should come together and fight this, so India had active participation in the meeting of the SAARC countries and the G20 meeting," he said. PM Modi was speaking on the occasion of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 40th Foundation Day. "This foundation day of BJP has come at a time when not only the country but also the world is going through a difficult time. Humanity is facing a crisis, our devotion to service of the country creates our path during this challenging time," he said.

India's fight against coronavirus sets distinct example for world: PM Modi

COVID-19 is hitting refugees camps, these camps could become the worst victims of coronavirus pandemic. Indiscriminate in targeting its victims, COVID-19 exposes the needs of tens of millions of refugees and displaced persons in destitute camps in Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Bangladesh and shantytowns across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Overcrowded migrant camps at high risk of contracting COVID-19

The US President Donald Trump requested Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to supply Hydroxychloroquine tablets to the United States, so that the drug can be used to treat COVID-19 patients.

US seeks India's help amid coronavirus outbreak

The US President Donald Trump told Americans to brace for a big spike in COVID-19 fatalities in the coming days, as the country faces what he called the toughest two weeks of the pandemic.

COVID-19: Donald Trump warns of toughest two weeks

The global death toll due to the lethal coronavirus has surpassed 64,000. Over 708 new COVID-19 deaths have been reported in UK in 24 hours. Despite several warnings from authorities to stay at home, people are not following guidelines.

UK residents hit beaches, parks amid lockdown | Coronavirus Pandemic

Queen Elizabeth II is set to address to the nation and commonwealth countries about the coronavirus pandemic. In the message, the Queen will urge people to rise to the challenge posed by the coronavirus outbreak and will personally thank frontline healthcare staff and other key workers for their efforts during the crisis.

Queen Elizabeth II to address nation over COVID-19

The global death toll due to the lethal coronavirus has surpassed 64,000. Reports suggests that 85% of COVID-19 deaths in Europe has occurred in Spain, Italy, France and United Kingdom.

Over 708 new COVID-19 deaths reported in UK in 24 hours

In the 24 hours through 12 a.m. on Friday, 562 people, died from the virus in New York State, bringing the total death toll to nearly 3,000, double

COVID-19 deaths surge in New York City

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have begun providing emergency funds to developing and low-income countries across the world to strengthen their efforts to battle the rapidly spreading coronavirus.

IMF & World Bank's appeal to developed countries

At the moment there is no singular cure to coronavirus, medical specialist can only treat symptoms. From potential vaccines to antibody treatment. Watch our report to know more.

Watch: The race to develop COVID-19 vaccine

The United States recorded 1,169 deaths from COVID-19 in last 24 hours, which is the worst 24-hour death toll since the pandemic began. The total number of people who have died since the start of the pandemic in the United States is over 7,000.

COVID-19: 1,169 dead in US in last 24 hours

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