China reported 45 new coronavirus cases in the mainland for March 28, down from 54 on the previous day, with all but one involving travellers from overseas, the country's health authority said on Sunday.

The number of so-called "imported" cases also fell from 54 on the previous day, data from the National Health Commission showed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-coronavirus-deaths-pass-1000-official-289160">Britain coronavirus deaths pass 1,000: Official</a>

China also reported five new deaths on Saturday, all of which were in Wuhan in Hubei province, where the COVID-19 respiratory illness was first identified. A total of 3,300 people have now died in mainland China, with a reported 81,439 infections.

Saturday marked the fourth consecutive day that Hubei province recorded no new confirmed cases. With traffic restrictions in the province lifted, Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak, is also gradually reopening borders and restarting some local transportation services.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rips-into-lamestream-media-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-in-us-289147" hreflang="en">Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US</a>

The only domestic transmission on Saturday was recorded in central China's Henan province, which borders Hubei.

China reported 45 new coronavirus cases in the mainland for March 28, down from 54 on the previous day, with all but one involving travellers from overseas, the country's health authority said on Sunday.

China reported 45 new coronavirus cases in the mainland for March 28, down from 54 on the previous day, with all but one involving travellers from overseas, the country's health authority said on Sunday. The number of so-called "imported" cases also fell from 54 on the previous day, data from the National Health Commission showed. Also read: Britain coronavirus deaths pass 1,000: Official China also reported five new deaths on Saturday, all of which were in Wuhan in Hubei province, where the COVID-19 respiratory illness was first identified. A total of 3,300 people have now died in mainland China, with a reported 81,439 infections. Saturday marked the fourth consecutive day that Hubei province recorded no new confirmed cases. With traffic restrictions in the province lifted, Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak, is also gradually reopening borders and restarting some local transportation services. Also read: Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US The only domestic transmission on Saturday was recorded in central China's Henan province, which borders Hubei.

China reports smaller number of new daily coronavirus cases

In just 3 months, more than 6 lakh people have now been tested positive for coronavirus disease with over 31,000 fatalities worldwide, few countries have now have managed to contain the virus and reduced deaths caused by it. Now we may have found patient zero, that is one of the earliest of all people who have tested positive for the disease.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Timeline of patient zero's diagnosis

President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he would issue a travel warning for the hard-hit New York area to limit the spread of the coronavirus, backing off from an earlier suggestion that he might try to cut off the region entirely.

"A quarantine will not be necessary," he said on Twitter.

Trump's announcement came as the U.S. death count crossed 2,100, more than double the level from two days ago. The United States has now recorded more than 122,000 cases of the respiratory virus, the most of any country in the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-global-cases-rise-past-600000-says-johns-hopkins-university-289135" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Global cases rise past 600,000, says Johns Hopkins University</a>

Since the virus first appeared in the United States in late January, Trump has vacillated between playing down the risks of infection and urging Americans to take steps to slow its spread.

Trump said on Saturday afternoon that he might impose a ban on travel in and out of New York and parts of New Jersey and Connecticut, the U.S. epicenter of the disease, to protect other states that have yet to bear the brunt. He offered few specifics.

Critics promptly called the idea unworkable, saying it would cause chaos in a region that serves as the economic engine of the eastern United States, accounting for 10 percent of the population and 12 percent of GDP.

"If you started walling off areas all across the country it would be totally bizarre, counter-productive, anti-American," New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said on CNN.

Hours later, Trump dropped the idea, saying he would instead ask the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a "strong Travel Advisory" that would be administered by the three states' governors.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rips-into-lamestream-media-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-in-us-289147" hreflang="en">Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US</a>

The CDC later warned the states' residents against non-essential domestic travel for 14 days. It said the warning did not apply to employees of "critical infrastructure industries" including trucking, public health and financial services.

It was the latest reversal for Trump, who has been reluctant to order U.S. companies to produce much-needed medical supplies, despite the pleas of governors and hospital workers.

Tests to track the disease's progress also remain in short supply, despite repeated White House promises that they would be widely available.

On Saturday, Trump appeared to soften his previous comments calling for the U.S. economy to be reopened by mid-April. "We'll see what happens," he said.

Though Trump has apparently opted not to impose checkpoints on highways and airports leading out of New York, some states have imposed limits of their own.

New Yorkers arriving in Florida and Rhode Island face orders to self-isolate if they intend to stay, and the governors of Pennsylvania and West Virginia have asked visiting New Yorkers to voluntarily self-quarantine.

New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu on Saturday asked all visitors to his state who don't come for work reasons to voluntarily self-quarantine.

New coronavirus cases in China levelled off after the government imposed a strict lockdown of Wuhan, the epicentre&nbsp;of the disease.

The body count continues to climb in Italy, where authorities have blocked travel across the country and prevented people from leaving their houses for all but essential reasons.

Any travel restrictions, voluntary or not, might be too late.

The number of coronavirus patients in California hospitals increased by more than one-third overnight, Governor Gavin Newsom said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-may-quarantine-new-york-new-jersey-289166" hreflang="en">Trump says he may quarantine New York, New Jersey</a>

Officials in Louisiana, where Mardi Gras celebrations late last month in New Orleans fuelled an outbreak, reported 17 additional deaths and 569 new cases on Saturday.

The disease has proven most fatal among the elderly, but Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said on Saturday that an infant had died in his state.

American healthcare workers are appealing for more protective gear and equipment as they face a surge of patients.

Doctors are also especially concerned about a shortage of ventilators, breathing machines needed for those suffering from COVID-19, the pneumonia-like respiratory ailment caused by the highly contagious novel coronavirus.

Hospitals have also sounded the alarm about scarcities of drugs, oxygen tanks and trained staff.

On Saturday, nurses protested outside the Jacobi Medical Center in New York, saying supervisors asked them to reuse their masks, putting their own health at risk.

One medical trainee at New York Presbyterian Hospital said they were given just one mask.

"It's not the people who are making these decisions that go into the patients' rooms," said the trainee, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he would issue a travel warning for the hard-hit New York area to limit the spread of the coronavirus, backing off from an earlier suggestion that he might try to cut off the region entirely.

President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he would issue a travel warning for the hard-hit New York area to limit the spread of the coronavirus, backing off from an earlier suggestion that he might try to cut off the region entirely. "A quarantine will not be necessary," he said on Twitter. Trump's announcement came as the U.S. death count crossed 2,100, more than double the level from two days ago. The United States has now recorded more than 122,000 cases of the respiratory virus, the most of any country in the world. Also read: COVID-19: Global cases rise past 600,000, says Johns Hopkins University Since the virus first appeared in the United States in late January, Trump has vacillated between playing down the risks of infection and urging Americans to take steps to slow its spread. Trump said on Saturday afternoon that he might impose a ban on travel in and out of New York and parts of New Jersey and Connecticut, the U.S. epicenter of the disease, to protect other states that have yet to bear the brunt. He offered few specifics. Critics promptly called the idea unworkable, saying it would cause chaos in a region that serves as the economic engine of the eastern United States, accounting for 10 percent of the population and 12 percent of GDP. "If you started walling off areas all across the country it would be totally bizarre, counter-productive, anti-American," New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said on CNN. Hours later, Trump dropped the idea, saying he would instead ask the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a "strong Travel Advisory" that would be administered by the three states' governors. Also read: Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US The CDC later warned the states' residents against non-essential domestic travel for 14 days. It said the warning did not apply to employees of "critical infrastructure industries" including trucking, public health and financial services. It was the latest reversal for Trump, who has been reluctant to order U.S. companies to produce much-needed medical supplies, despite the pleas of governors and hospital workers. Tests to track the disease's progress also remain in short supply, despite repeated White House promises that they would be widely available. On Saturday, Trump appeared to soften his previous comments calling for the U.S. economy to be reopened by mid-April. "We'll see what happens," he said. Though Trump has apparently opted not to impose checkpoints on highways and airports leading out of New York, some states have imposed limits of their own. New Yorkers arriving in Florida and Rhode Island face orders to self-isolate if they intend to stay, and the governors of Pennsylvania and West Virginia have asked visiting New Yorkers to voluntarily self-quarantine. New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu on Saturday asked all visitors to his state who don't come for work reasons to voluntarily self-quarantine. New coronavirus cases in China levelled off after the government imposed a strict lockdown of Wuhan, the epicentre of the disease. The body count continues to climb in Italy, where authorities have blocked travel across the country and prevented people from leaving their houses for all but essential reasons. Any travel restrictions, voluntary or not, might be too late. The number of coronavirus patients in California hospitals increased by more than one-third overnight, Governor Gavin Newsom said. Also read: Trump says he may quarantine New York, New Jersey Officials in Louisiana, where Mardi Gras celebrations late last month in New Orleans fuelled an outbreak, reported 17 additional deaths and 569 new cases on Saturday. The disease has proven most fatal among the elderly, but Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said on Saturday that an infant had died in his state. American healthcare workers are appealing for more protective gear and equipment as they face a surge of patients. Doctors are also especially concerned about a shortage of ventilators, breathing machines needed for those suffering from COVID-19, the pneumonia-like respiratory ailment caused by the highly contagious novel coronavirus. Hospitals have also sounded the alarm about scarcities of drugs, oxygen tanks and trained staff. On Saturday, nurses protested outside the Jacobi Medical Center in New York, saying supervisors asked them to reuse their masks, putting their own health at risk. One medical trainee at New York Presbyterian Hospital said they were given just one mask. "It's not the people who are making these decisions that go into the patients' rooms," said the trainee, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Trump drops idea of New York lockdown as US death count crosses 2,000

In just 3 months, more than 6 lakh people have now been tested positive for coronavirus disease with over 31,000 fatalities worldwide, few countries have now have managed to contain the virus and reduced deaths caused by it.

Coronavirus Outbreak: More than 6 lakh tested positive for coronavirus

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is self-isolating at 10 Downing Street after testing positive for coronavirus, will write to every UK household to urge people to stay at home.

Johnson, who has described his symptoms as mild, is leading the government's response to the crisis, chairing meetings by video conference. The health minister, Matt Hancock, has also tested positive and is working from home.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-coronavirus-deaths-surges-by-889-in-a-day-to-10023-289174" hreflang="en">Italy coronavirus deaths surges by 889 in a day to 10,023</a>

"We know things will get worse before they get better," Johnson will write in his letter, which will be sent to 30 million households across the United Kingdom starting from next week.

"But we are making the right preparations, and the more we all follow the rules, the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal," he will say, according to a statement from Downing Street.

Britain has reported 17,089 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 1,019 deaths. The peak of the epidemic in the country is expected to come in a few weeks.

After initially taking relatively modest steps compared with other European nations, Johnson ramped up his response to coronavirus in the past week, ordering pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops to close and making social distancing compulsory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-coronavirus-deaths-pass-1000-official-289160" hreflang="en">Britain coronavirus deaths pass 1,000: Official</a>

In his letter, he will thank all those working for the state-funded National Health Service (NHS), which provides free healthcare to everyone living in the United Kingdom and inspires huge respect across society.

"It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors, nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour," Johnson will say.

"Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS – and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable.

"That is why, at this moment of national emergency, I urge you, please, to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-global-cases-rise-past-600000-says-johns-hopkins-university-289135" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Global cases rise past 600,000, says Johns Hopkins University</a>

The letter will come with a leaflet containing the government's advice on hand washing, rules on leaving the house, guidance for those self-isolating with symptoms or shielding vulnerable people, and explanations of symptoms.

The letter and leaflet are part of the government's public information campaign on coronavirus, and are expected to cost 5.8 million pounds ($7 million) to print and distribute.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is self-isolating at 10 Downing Street after testing positive for coronavirus, will write to every UK household to urge people to stay at home.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is self-isolating at 10 Downing Street after testing positive for coronavirus, will write to every UK household to urge people to stay at home. Johnson, who has described his symptoms as mild, is leading the government's response to the crisis, chairing meetings by video conference. The health minister, Matt Hancock, has also tested positive and is working from home. Also read: Italy coronavirus deaths surges by 889 in a day to 10,023 "We know things will get worse before they get better," Johnson will write in his letter, which will be sent to 30 million households across the United Kingdom starting from next week. "But we are making the right preparations, and the more we all follow the rules, the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal," he will say, according to a statement from Downing Street. Britain has reported 17,089 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 1,019 deaths. The peak of the epidemic in the country is expected to come in a few weeks. After initially taking relatively modest steps compared with other European nations, Johnson ramped up his response to coronavirus in the past week, ordering pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops to close and making social distancing compulsory. Also read: Britain coronavirus deaths pass 1,000: Official In his letter, he will thank all those working for the state-funded National Health Service (NHS), which provides free healthcare to everyone living in the United Kingdom and inspires huge respect across society. "It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors, nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour," Johnson will say. "Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS – and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable. "That is why, at this moment of national emergency, I urge you, please, to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives." Also read: COVID-19: Global cases rise past 600,000, says Johns Hopkins University The letter will come with a leaflet containing the government's advice on hand washing, rules on leaving the house, guidance for those self-isolating with symptoms or shielding vulnerable people, and explanations of symptoms. The letter and leaflet are part of the government's public information campaign on coronavirus, and are expected to cost 5.8 million pounds ($7 million) to print and distribute.

At home with coronavirus, Johnson writes to the nation

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

pandemic

Pandemic, News on Pandemic, stories on Pandemic, articles on Pandemic, Pandemic stories at Wion, Pandemic news, Pandemic latest news