After 42 days of lockdown, sea promenades, streets and main esplanades in Spain were seen busy again as under 14s were allowed outside for the first time since the government declared a state of emergency on March 14 and shut down most public life and economic activity.

Parents take out kids after six-week confinement in Spain

Residents in Seville celebrated the annual traditional April fair from their balconies on Saturday (April 25), after one of southern Spain's most famous festival, due to start this week, was called off due to coronavirus.

Spain's "Feria de Sevilla" celebrated from balconies under coronavirus lockdown

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-27892-with-872-deaths-click-for-state-wise-status-294960">Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status</a> 
 
PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry.

The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh).

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-to-cms-in-video-conference-nationwide-lockdown-in-india-helping-alot-to-contain-coronavirus-spread-295038/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed.

Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits.

"I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement.

What PM Modi said in the meeting?

<ul>
	<li>Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months.</li>
	<li>Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’.</li>
	<li>PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones.</li>
	<li>We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens.</li>
	<li>We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19.</li>
	<li>Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life.</li>
	<li>CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure.</li>
</ul>

 
Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3.

(With inputs from agencies)

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday.

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry. The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh). According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed. Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits. "I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement. What PM Modi said in the meeting? Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months. Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’. PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones. We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens. We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19. Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life. CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure. Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3. (With inputs from agencies)

Lockdown has yielded positive results, says PM; States want extension with relaxations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The relaxation came as&nbsp;Spain, one of the worst-hit by the global COVID-19 epidemic, registered its lowest daily increase in the coronavirus death toll in more than a month.

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Britain's health ministry on Sunday said 413 more people had died after testing positive for COVID-19 in hospital, taking the death toll to 20,732.

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Hong Kong riot police armed with shields dispersed a crowd of 300 pro-democracy activists holding a singing protest in an upmarket shopping mall on Sunday, despite a ban on public gatherings of more than four people.

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Gasoline sold by state oil company PDVSA - which has a legal monopoly on fuel sales - is essentially free in Venezuela.

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As reports surrounding Kim Jong Un's death circulate, questions about who will be his successor are sprouting in everyone's minds.

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The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment.

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Saudi Arabia on Sunday partially eased a 24-hour curfew in place to combat the coronavirus pandemic, except for in hotspots including the Muslim holy city of Mecca.

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Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte vowed Sunday to reopen schools by September and allow many businesses to resume in a week's time as the country emerges from a near-total shutdown.

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pain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said.

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The COVIDSafe app through phone's Bluetooth wireless signal stores information about people's interactions, and can be accessed by health personnel if a person contracts coronavirus.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Fresh air at last! Spanish children go outdoors for first time in six weeks The relaxation came as Spain, one of the worst-hit by the global COVID-19 epidemic, registered its lowest daily increase in the coronavirus death toll in more than a month.

Fresh air at last! Spanish children go outdoors for first time in six weeks The relaxation came as Spain, one of the worst-hit by the global COVID-19 epidemic, registered its lowest daily increase in the coronavirus death toll in more than a month. UK says coronavirus death toll up by 413 to 20,732 Britain's health ministry on Sunday said 413 more people had died after testing positive for COVID-19 in hospital, taking the death toll to 20,732. Hong Kong police break up pro-democracy singing protest at mall Hong Kong riot police armed with shields dispersed a crowd of 300 pro-democracy activists holding a singing protest in an upmarket shopping mall on Sunday, despite a ban on public gatherings of more than four people. Venezuela's gasoline goes from world's cheapest to steepest as fuel shortages bite Gasoline sold by state oil company PDVSA - which has a legal monopoly on fuel sales - is essentially free in Venezuela. Questions arise over Kim Jong-un's successor as rumours about his death As reports surrounding Kim Jong Un's death circulate, questions about who will be his successor are sprouting in everyone's minds. Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment. Saudi Arabia relaxes coronavirus lockdown except in hotspot Mecca Saudi Arabia on Sunday partially eased a 24-hour curfew in place to combat the coronavirus pandemic, except for in hotspots including the Muslim holy city of Mecca. Coronavirus in Italy: PM Giuseppe Conte vows to reopen schools in September Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte vowed Sunday to reopen schools by September and allow many businesses to resume in a week's time as the country emerges from a near-total shutdown. Spain confirms 288 new coronavirus deaths, lowest in a month pain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said. Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts The COVIDSafe app through phone's Bluetooth wireless signal stores information about people's interactions, and can be accessed by health personnel if a person contracts coronavirus.

Top 10 world news today: UK death toll, Spain relaxes lockdown rules, and more

On foot and with bicycles, skateboards and scooters, Spanish children went outside at last on Sunday, emerging from their homes for the first time after six long weeks of living under one of Europe's strictest coronavirus lockdowns.

The relaxation came as&nbsp;Spain, one of the worst-hit by the global COVID-19 epidemic, registered its lowest daily increase in the coronavirus death toll in more than a month.

Under 14s were allowed outside for the first time since the government declared a state of emergency on March 14 and shut down most public life and economic activity. Children wearing protective masks strolled the streets in Madrid.

Lucia Ibanez, 9, out for a walk with her mother, said she had missed the streets and the park and "feeling the air on your face" during lockdown.

"I never thought I would miss school but I really miss it," she said.

Children will be allowed one hour of supervised outdoor activity per day between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., staying within one kilometre of their home.

Adults can accompany up to three children, who will not be allowed to use playparks or share toys, and must adhere to social distancing guidelines, remaining at least two metres (6.5 feet) from other people.

Schools remain closed.

"To tell you the truth, for me the time flew, it didn't feel long at all. We played a lot, we aren't missing anything thank God so we can't complain," said Tamara Romero, who took her two sons out on their scooters on Sunday morning.

The Health Ministry said on Sunday that 288 more people had died after being diagnosed with the coronavirus, the lowest daily rise in the death toll in the past month and down on Saturday's 378 and Friday's 367.

That brought the total number of deaths to 23,190, while the overall number of cases rose to 207,634.&nbsp;Spain&nbsp;has registered the third-highest number of COVID-19 deaths, after the United States and Italy.

The Health Ministry changed the methodology on Friday for logging cases. It will no longer count antibody tests and will only include positive results from PCR tests, which detect the presence of an active virus.

'No new waves'

Emergency health chief Fernando Simon detailed the health ministry's recommendations for a gradual easing of measures, saying the country must ensure the health system can respond if there is another outbreak.

Spain&nbsp;needs to guard against "new waves" of the illness, he told a news conference, adding the aim is a gradual return to normal. But "it will not be the same normality that we knew a year ago", he said.

A ministry document recommends that regions double their intensive care capacity to cope with possible increases in cases as lockdown measures are eased.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was meeting by teleconference with regional heads on Sunday to discuss the plans.

In a televised address on Saturday night, Sanchez said the lockdown would be further eased, allowing people out to exercise alone from May 2 - if the coronavirus toll continues to fall. People living together will be permitted to take short walks together.

Sanchez also laid out a wider government plan to loosen the lockdown at different speeds across different regions depending on whether they meet with criteria established by the World Health Organization.

On foot and with bicycles, skateboards and scooters, Spanish children went outside at last on Sunday, emerging from their homes for the first time after six long weeks of living under one of Europe's strictest coronavirus lockdowns.

On foot and with bicycles, skateboards and scooters, Spanish children went outside at last on Sunday, emerging from their homes for the first time after six long weeks of living under one of Europe's strictest coronavirus lockdowns. The relaxation came as Spain, one of the worst-hit by the global COVID-19 epidemic, registered its lowest daily increase in the coronavirus death toll in more than a month. Under 14s were allowed outside for the first time since the government declared a state of emergency on March 14 and shut down most public life and economic activity. Children wearing protective masks strolled the streets in Madrid. Lucia Ibanez, 9, out for a walk with her mother, said she had missed the streets and the park and "feeling the air on your face" during lockdown. "I never thought I would miss school but I really miss it," she said. Children will be allowed one hour of supervised outdoor activity per day between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., staying within one kilometre of their home. Adults can accompany up to three children, who will not be allowed to use playparks or share toys, and must adhere to social distancing guidelines, remaining at least two metres (6.5 feet) from other people. Schools remain closed. "To tell you the truth, for me the time flew, it didn't feel long at all. We played a lot, we aren't missing anything thank God so we can't complain," said Tamara Romero, who took her two sons out on their scooters on Sunday morning. The Health Ministry said on Sunday that 288 more people had died after being diagnosed with the coronavirus, the lowest daily rise in the death toll in the past month and down on Saturday's 378 and Friday's 367. That brought the total number of deaths to 23,190, while the overall number of cases rose to 207,634. Spain has registered the third-highest number of COVID-19 deaths, after the United States and Italy. The Health Ministry changed the methodology on Friday for logging cases. It will no longer count antibody tests and will only include positive results from PCR tests, which detect the presence of an active virus. 'No new waves' Emergency health chief Fernando Simon detailed the health ministry's recommendations for a gradual easing of measures, saying the country must ensure the health system can respond if there is another outbreak. Spain needs to guard against "new waves" of the illness, he told a news conference, adding the aim is a gradual return to normal. But "it will not be the same normality that we knew a year ago", he said. A ministry document recommends that regions double their intensive care capacity to cope with possible increases in cases as lockdown measures are eased. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was meeting by teleconference with regional heads on Sunday to discuss the plans. In a televised address on Saturday night, Sanchez said the lockdown would be further eased, allowing people out to exercise alone from May 2 - if the coronavirus toll continues to fall. People living together will be permitted to take short walks together. Sanchez also laid out a wider government plan to loosen the lockdown at different speeds across different regions depending on whether they meet with criteria established by the World Health Organization.

Fresh air at last! Spanish children go outdoors for first time in six weeks

Spain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said.

The fatalities in the country dropped from 378 on Saturday to take the overall deaths to 23,190, the third-highest death toll after the United States and Italy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-200000-mark-294801">Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark</a>

The health ministry also said that 98,731 people have now recovered from the COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-witnesses-nearly-2500-deaths-in-last-24-hours-toll-over-53000-294797">Coronavirus: US witnesses nearly 2,500 deaths in last 24 hours; toll over 53,000</a>

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on Saturday, announced that lockdown restrictions would be relaxed if coronavirus figures continue to fall. &nbsp;

Unlike other European countries, Spain issued a stringent lockdown on March 14, where children were not allowed to go out and only adults can go outside only to buy food, medicine and take out the dog for a brief walk.

However, from Sunday, children under-14s were permitted to go out once a day for one hour between 9:00 am (0700 GMT) and 9:00 pm, along with one parent, but not more than one kilometre&nbsp;from their home.&nbsp;

Sanchez said on Saturday that everyone in the country would take walks and exercise from next weekend.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Spain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said. The fatalities in the country dropped from 378 on Saturday to take the overall deaths to 23,190, the third-highest death toll after the United States and Italy.

Spain on Sunday reported 288 new coronavirus deaths, the lowest since March 30, health ministry officials said. The fatalities in the country dropped from 378 on Saturday to take the overall deaths to 23,190, the third-highest death toll after the United States and Italy. Also read | Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark The health ministry also said that 98,731 people have now recovered from the COVID-19. Also read | Coronavirus: US witnesses nearly 2,500 deaths in last 24 hours; toll over 53,000 Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on Saturday, announced that lockdown restrictions would be relaxed if coronavirus figures continue to fall. Unlike other European countries, Spain issued a stringent lockdown on March 14, where children were not allowed to go out and only adults can go outside only to buy food, medicine and take out the dog for a brief walk. However, from Sunday, children under-14s were permitted to go out once a day for one hour between 9:00 am (0700 GMT) and 9:00 pm, along with one parent, but not more than one kilometre from their home. Sanchez said on Saturday that everyone in the country would take walks and exercise from next weekend.

Spain confirms 288 new coronavirus deaths, lowest in a month

Harvard Medical School professor, Timothy Springer becomes a billionaire after investing in Moderna, the company discovering the vaccine for the novel coronavirus. The company, returned 17,000 per cent on investment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/while-world-economies-struggle-american-billionaires-get-10-richer-during-coronavirus-pandemic-294358">Also read: While world economies struggle, American billionaires get 10% richer during coronavirus pandemic</a> 
 
The professor believed that he had enough before becoming a billionaire.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-trial-on-humans-starts-in-uk-294384">Also read | COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK</a>

In 2018, Springer said in an interview to media houses that he had sufficient wealth and he needs no more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nears-50000-coronavirus-deaths-more-than-85-lakh-infected-294382">Also read |&nbsp;US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected</a>

Attempts to discovering a vaccine to control the deadly virus surged the stock price of Moderna to more than $51 per share. The company was trading at $17 per share 6 months back. Not only did the stock price of the company increase but the net worth of Springer increased to more than $1 billion, according to data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-have-known-of-coronavirus-in-november-us-renews-accusations-294377">Also read: China may have known of coronavirus in November — US renews accusations</a>

Moderna is among the first few companies to start the trials of its developed vaccine, mRNA-1273, for which the company will be paid over $400 million by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. There are around 70 vaccines in the process currently.

Having a value over $1 billion brings Springer in the list of the wealthiest academics in the US.&nbsp;

The last time when the net worth of the professor surged was when his first venture LeukoSite was taken over by Millennium Pharmaceuticals in 1999 as a part of the $635 million deal. Springer made a profit $100 million that time.

This 1999 incident made Springer an investor and he began putting money in different companies. He had initially bought 17.3 million shares of Moderna for $5 million as a part of his early investment. The value of that investment now stands at over $800 million. When the company went for an initial public offering (IPO), the value of Springer’s stake was about $400 million.&nbsp;

Apart from Moderna, the professor has invested in companies like Selecta Bioscience and Editas Medicine. He also became the founder of Morphic Therrapaeutics and Scholar Rock Holding.

Springer also runs a non-profit organisation called Institute for Protein Innovation to find effective antibodies. Some of the antibodies made by the body will be made open-source.

(With inputs from agencies)

Harvard Medical School professor, Timothy Springer becomes a billionaire after investing in Moderna, the company discovering the vaccine for the novel coronavirus.

Harvard Medical School professor, Timothy Springer becomes a billionaire after investing in Moderna, the company discovering the vaccine for the novel coronavirus. The company, returned 17,000 per cent on investment. Also read: While world economies struggle, American billionaires get 10% richer during coronavirus pandemic The professor believed that he had enough before becoming a billionaire. Also read | COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK In 2018, Springer said in an interview to media houses that he had sufficient wealth and he needs no more. Also read | US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected Attempts to discovering a vaccine to control the deadly virus surged the stock price of Moderna to more than $51 per share. The company was trading at $17 per share 6 months back. Not only did the stock price of the company increase but the net worth of Springer increased to more than $1 billion, according to data. Also read: China may have known of coronavirus in November — US renews accusations Moderna is among the first few companies to start the trials of its developed vaccine, mRNA-1273, for which the company will be paid over $400 million by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. There are around 70 vaccines in the process currently. Having a value over $1 billion brings Springer in the list of the wealthiest academics in the US. The last time when the net worth of the professor surged was when his first venture LeukoSite was taken over by Millennium Pharmaceuticals in 1999 as a part of the $635 million deal. Springer made a profit $100 million that time. This 1999 incident made Springer an investor and he began putting money in different companies. He had initially bought 17.3 million shares of Moderna for $5 million as a part of his early investment. The value of that investment now stands at over $800 million. When the company went for an initial public offering (IPO), the value of Springer’s stake was about $400 million. Apart from Moderna, the professor has invested in companies like Selecta Bioscience and Editas Medicine. He also became the founder of Morphic Therrapaeutics and Scholar Rock Holding. Springer also runs a non-profit organisation called Institute for Protein Innovation to find effective antibodies. Some of the antibodies made by the body will be made open-source. (With inputs from agencies)

Harvard professor becomes a billionaire from stake in company discovering Covid-19 vaccine

US President Donald Trump on Thursday at the press briefing in the White House suggested that medical experts should somehow try to find a way to inject light or disinfectants into the human body to kill coronavirus

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trump-suggests-injection-of-disinfectant-to-treat-coronavirus-294429">Watch: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to treat coronavirus</a> 
 
Trump said, “And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute, there a way we can do something by an injection inside or almost a cleaning. Because you see it gets in the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it’d be interesting to check that. So, that you’re going to have to use medical doctors with, but it sounds interesting to me.”

After this several doctors warned the public against injecting disinfectant or using UV light.

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Please don't eat tide pods or inject yourself with any kind of disinfectant. 
 
If you do need help with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> issues, we have lots of resources at <a href="https://t.co/C4x8jjWL0x">https://t.co/C4x8jjWL0x</a> 
 
Just don't make a bad situation worse.
— WA Emergency Management (@waEMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/waEMD/status/1253473167017865216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Clorox, Tide Pods, and Lysol will kill the coronavirus. No question about it. But if you are infected, then the coronavirus is inside your cells. If you use any of those disinfectants to kill the coronavirus within your own cells, then you’ll die right along with the coronavirus.
— Eugene Gu, MD (@eugenegu) <a href="https://twitter.com/eugenegu/status/1253495474251694081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Social media platform Twitter also exploded with videos and memes on Trump's statement."Tide Pods" and other household cleaners began trending on Twitter.

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Reaction: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to beat coronavirus and 'clean' the lungs 
 
Theme Music: Curb Your Enthusiasm <a href="https://twitter.com/EricRobinson00?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EricRobinson00</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/clorox?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#clorox</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lysol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lysol</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/birx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#birx</a> <a href="https://t.co/GV7RzB0EJG">pic.twitter.com/GV7RzB0EJG</a>
— The Daily Angle (@thedailyangle) <a href="https://twitter.com/thedailyangle/status/1253506035089838085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/LQmkkBrQ0L">pic.twitter.com/LQmkkBrQ0L</a>
— DeltaCharlie (@DeltaCharlie) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeltaCharlie/status/1253532643301433348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Product junkies, it's y'all time <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TidePods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TidePods</a> <a href="https://t.co/0BmjLtZqlu">pic.twitter.com/0BmjLtZqlu</a>
— RudeYetRight (@RudeYetRight) <a href="https://twitter.com/RudeYetRight/status/1253499612649971712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Thursday at the press briefing in the White House suggested that medical experts should somehow try to find a way to inject light or disinfectants into the human body to kill coronavirus Watch: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to treat coronavirus Trump said, “And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute, there a way we can do something by an injection inside or almost a cleaning.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday at the press briefing in the White House suggested that medical experts should somehow try to find a way to inject light or disinfectants into the human body to kill coronavirus Watch: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to treat coronavirus Trump said, “And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute, there a way we can do something by an injection inside or almost a cleaning. Because you see it gets in the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it’d be interesting to check that. So, that you’re going to have to use medical doctors with, but it sounds interesting to me.” After this several doctors warned the public against injecting disinfectant or using UV light. Please don't eat tide pods or inject yourself with any kind of disinfectant. If you do need help with #COVID19 issues, we have lots of resources at https://t.co/C4x8jjWL0x Just don't make a bad situation worse. — WA Emergency Management (@waEMD) April 23, 2020 × Clorox, Tide Pods, and Lysol will kill the coronavirus. No question about it. But if you are infected, then the coronavirus is inside your cells. If you use any of those disinfectants to kill the coronavirus within your own cells, then you’ll die right along with the coronavirus. — Eugene Gu, MD (@eugenegu) April 24, 2020 × Social media platform Twitter also exploded with videos and memes on Trump's statement."Tide Pods" and other household cleaners began trending on Twitter. Reaction: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to beat coronavirus and 'clean' the lungs Theme Music: Curb Your Enthusiasm @EricRobinson00 #clorox #lysol #birx pic.twitter.com/GV7RzB0EJG — The Daily Angle (@thedailyangle) April 24, 2020 × pic.twitter.com/LQmkkBrQ0L — DeltaCharlie (@DeltaCharlie) April 24, 2020 × Product junkies, it's y'all time #TidePods pic.twitter.com/0BmjLtZqlu — RudeYetRight (@RudeYetRight) April 24, 2020 ×

Don't eat Tide Pods or inject Lysol: Twitter reacts to Trump's idea to combat coronavirus

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with&nbsp;Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country.

These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-rush-to-restart-la-liga-bale-warns-294432">Also read:&nbsp;Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns</a>

Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on&nbsp;the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona&nbsp;delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours. That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country. These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US. Also read: Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain reports lowest number of coronavirus-related deaths in the past month

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-patients-hospitalised-with-covid-19-had-chronic-health-issues-says-study-294411" hreflang="en">Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study</a>

COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nears-50000-coronavirus-deaths-more-than-85-lakh-infected-294382">Also read |&nbsp;US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected</a>

Around 743,419 people of that tally have recovered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harvard-professor-becomes-a-billionaire-from-stake-in-company-discovering-covid-19-vaccine-294398" hreflang="en">Harvard professor becomes a billionaire from stake in company discovering Covid-19 vaccine</a>

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Europe has listed 1,293,822 cases and 115,990 deaths to date,</li>
	<li>US and Canada together have 897,961 cases with 49,377 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Asia 183,577 cases with 7,511 deaths,</li>
	<li>Middle East 141,267 cases with 6,005 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Latin America and the Caribbean 123,517 cases with 6,202 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Africa 26,856 cases with 1,279 deaths&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Oceania 7,950 cases with 98 deaths.</li>
</ul>

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The novel coronavirus has killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States, after one of the deadliest days of the pandemic which saw 3,176 deaths, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.

The deaths were recorded in the 24 hours up to 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), bringing the overall coronavirus death toll in the United States to 49,759, according to the Baltimore-based university.

The US, the worst-hit country in the world, now has 866,646 confirmed cases of coronavirus, up 26,971 from the previous day.

Due to a lack of testing, the actual number of infections is likely to be much higher.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Also read | US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected Around 743,419 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Harvard professor becomes a billionaire from stake in company discovering Covid-19 vaccine A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: Europe has listed 1,293,822 cases and 115,990 deaths to date, US and Canada together have 897,961 cases with 49,377 deaths, Asia 183,577 cases with 7,511 deaths, Middle East 141,267 cases with 6,005 deaths, Latin America and the Caribbean 123,517 cases with 6,202 deaths, Africa 26,856 cases with 1,279 deaths Oceania 7,950 cases with 98 deaths. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The novel coronavirus has killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States, after one of the deadliest days of the pandemic which saw 3,176 deaths, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University. The deaths were recorded in the 24 hours up to 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), bringing the overall coronavirus death toll in the United States to 49,759, according to the Baltimore-based university. The US, the worst-hit country in the world, now has 866,646 confirmed cases of coronavirus, up 26,971 from the previous day. Due to a lack of testing, the actual number of infections is likely to be much higher.

Global coronavirus death toll passes 190,000; US has most fatalities with over 50,000

US President Donald Trump is now offering researchers ideas on how to treat the coronavirus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-viral-drug-being-hailed-as-coronavirus-cure-fails-first-clinical-trial-294417">Also read: Anti-viral drug being hailed as coronavirus cure, fails first clinical trial</a>

President Trump on Thursday during a press conference suggested that injecting disinfectants&nbsp;— may help patients flush the virus from their system.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-eat-tide-pods-or-inject-lysol-twitter-reacts-to-trumps-idea-to-combat-coronavirus-294437">Don't eat Tide Pods or inject Lysol: Twitter reacts to Trump's idea to combat coronavirus</a> 
 
&nbsp;"And then I saw the disinfectant, where it knocks it out in one minute and is there a way we could do something like that by injection inside or almost a cleaning," the president said during his White House press briefing. "As you see it gets in the lungs, it does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it would be interesting to check that."

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"The disinfectant, where it knocks it out in a minute, and is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside, or almost a cleaning. It gets in the lungs" -- Trump seems to suggests that injecting disinfectant inside people could be a treatment for the coronavirus <a href="https://t.co/amis9Rphsm">pic.twitter.com/amis9Rphsm</a>
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1253448500676898818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Afterwards, an official clarified that that wasn't possible and said, "We don't do that within that lab, at our labs."&nbsp;

However, Trump replied: "maybe it works, maybe it doesn't work."&nbsp;

Trump's remarks&nbsp;came after Department of Homeland Security Acting Undersecretary William Bryan addressed research and development at Thursday's White House coronavirus task force briefing.

Meanwhile, Several doctors warned the public against injecting disinfectant or using UV light.

US President Donald Trump is now offering researchers ideas on how to treat the coronavirus. Also read: Anti-viral drug being hailed as coronavirus cure, fails first clinical trial President Trump on Thursday during a press conference suggested that injecting disinfectants — may help patients flush the virus from their system.

US President Donald Trump is now offering researchers ideas on how to treat the coronavirus. Also read: Anti-viral drug being hailed as coronavirus cure, fails first clinical trial President Trump on Thursday during a press conference suggested that injecting disinfectants — may help patients flush the virus from their system. Don't eat Tide Pods or inject Lysol: Twitter reacts to Trump's idea to combat coronavirus "And then I saw the disinfectant, where it knocks it out in one minute and is there a way we could do something like that by injection inside or almost a cleaning," the president said during his White House press briefing. "As you see it gets in the lungs, it does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it would be interesting to check that." "The disinfectant, where it knocks it out in a minute, and is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside, or almost a cleaning. It gets in the lungs" -- Trump seems to suggests that injecting disinfectant inside people could be a treatment for the coronavirus pic.twitter.com/amis9Rphsm — Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 23, 2020 × Afterwards, an official clarified that that wasn't possible and said, "We don't do that within that lab, at our labs." However, Trump replied: "maybe it works, maybe it doesn't work." Trump's remarks came after Department of Homeland Security Acting Undersecretary William Bryan addressed research and development at Thursday's White House coronavirus task force briefing. Meanwhile, Several doctors warned the public against injecting disinfectant or using UV light.

Watch: Trump suggests 'injection' of disinfectant to treat coronavirus

Human trials of a potential coronavirus vaccine will start in the UK from today. The US continues to have a lead in adding new cases to the global tally of Covid-19 infections.

Human trials of a potential coronavirus vaccine will start in the UK from today. The US continues to have a lead in adding new cases to the global tally of Covid-19 infections. COVID-19 has now infected 2,626,929 people worldwide and 183,120 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 710,405 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. Among continents, North America is the most affected at present, accounting for more cases than the combined number for Europe, the previous epicentre of the pandemic, and Asia, where the novel coronavirus was first identified. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: - Europe has listed 1,261,757 cases and 112,855 deaths to date, - US and Canada together have 875,112 cases with 47,973 deaths, - Asia 178,630 cases with 7,389 deaths, - Middle East 137,642 cases with 5,902 deaths, - Latin America and the Caribbean 116,131 cases with 5,797 deaths, - Africa 25,461 cases with 1,223 deaths - Oceania 7,942 cases with 95 deaths.

Coronavirus outbreak: Over 7 lakh coronavirus patients recovered worldwide

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR.&nbsp;

The total number of Coronavirus positive cases presently stands at 21,797. There are 16,454 active cases, while 4258 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll now stands at 681.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/1409-new-covid-19-cases-41-fatalities-in-last-24-hours-in-india-294151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The disease has already spread in over 200 countries around the world, killing lakhs of people. The US, China, and Spain are the worst affected countries in terms of cases and the number of casualties.

Reports say that several new Coronavirus patients have been found to be asymptomatic. In Delhi-NCR, the Gautam Buddha Nagar administration has completely closed Delhi-Noida border. Only essential vehicles will be allowed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR. The total number of Coronavirus positive cases presently stands at 21,797. There are 16,454 active cases, while 4258 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll now stands at 681. The disease has already spread in over 200 countries around the world, killing lakhs of people. The US, China, and Spain are the worst affected countries in terms of cases and the number of casualties. Reports say that several new Coronavirus patients have been found to be asymptomatic. In Delhi-NCR, the Gautam Buddha Nagar administration has completely closed Delhi-Noida border. Only essential vehicles will be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

21,797 COVID-19 cases in India confirmed, says ICMR; 5 lakh samples tested

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said.

"In India, remittances are projected to fall by about 23 per cent in 2020, to USD 64 billion - a striking contrast with the growth of 5.5 per cent and receipts of USD 83 billion seen in 2019," the World Bank said in a report on the impact of COVID-19 on migration and remittances released on Wednesday.

Globally remittances are projected to decline sharply by about 20 per cent this year due to the economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown.

The projected fall, which would be the sharpest decline in recent history, is largely due to a fall in the wages and employment of migrant workers, who tend to be more vulnerable to loss of employment and wages during an economic crisis in a host country, the bank said.

"Remittances are a vital source of income for developing countries. The ongoing economic recession caused by COVID-19 is taking a severe toll on the ability to send money home and makes it all the more vital that we shorten the time to recovery for advanced economies," said World Bank Group President David Malpass.

"Remittances help families afford food, healthcare, and basic needs. As the World Bank Group implements fast, broad action to support countries, we are working to keep remittance channels open and safeguard the poorest communities'' access to these most basic needs," he added.

Remittance flows are expected to fall across all World Bank Group regions, most notably in Europe and Central Asia (27.5 per cent), followed by Sub-Saharan Africa (23.1 per cent), South Asia (22.1 per cent), the Middle East and North Africa (19.6 per cent), Latin America and the Caribbean (19.3 per cent), and East Asia and the Pacific (13 per cent).

In Pakistan, the projected decline is also about 23 per cent, totalling about USD 17 billion, compared with a total of USD 22.5 billion last year, when remittances grew by 6.2 per cent.

In Bangladesh, remittances are projected at USD 14 billion this year, a likely fall of about 22 per cent.

Remittances to Nepal and Sri Lanka are expected to decline by 14 percent and 19 percent, respectively this year.&nbsp;

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said.

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said. "In India, remittances are projected to fall by about 23 per cent in 2020, to USD 64 billion - a striking contrast with the growth of 5.5 per cent and receipts of USD 83 billion seen in 2019," the World Bank said in a report on the impact of COVID-19 on migration and remittances released on Wednesday. Globally remittances are projected to decline sharply by about 20 per cent this year due to the economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown. The projected fall, which would be the sharpest decline in recent history, is largely due to a fall in the wages and employment of migrant workers, who tend to be more vulnerable to loss of employment and wages during an economic crisis in a host country, the bank said. "Remittances are a vital source of income for developing countries. The ongoing economic recession caused by COVID-19 is taking a severe toll on the ability to send money home and makes it all the more vital that we shorten the time to recovery for advanced economies," said World Bank Group President David Malpass. "Remittances help families afford food, healthcare, and basic needs. As the World Bank Group implements fast, broad action to support countries, we are working to keep remittance channels open and safeguard the poorest communities'' access to these most basic needs," he added. Remittance flows are expected to fall across all World Bank Group regions, most notably in Europe and Central Asia (27.5 per cent), followed by Sub-Saharan Africa (23.1 per cent), South Asia (22.1 per cent), the Middle East and North Africa (19.6 per cent), Latin America and the Caribbean (19.3 per cent), and East Asia and the Pacific (13 per cent). In Pakistan, the projected decline is also about 23 per cent, totalling about USD 17 billion, compared with a total of USD 22.5 billion last year, when remittances grew by 6.2 per cent. In Bangladesh, remittances are projected at USD 14 billion this year, a likely fall of about 22 per cent. Remittances to Nepal and Sri Lanka are expected to decline by 14 percent and 19 percent, respectively this year.

India remittances may fall to $64 billion from $83 billion amid covid-19

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis.

While briefing the press, Vijayan said that the government will deduct the salary of state employees -- ministers, MLAs, members of different boards under the government and members of local self-government bodies for six days every month for the next five months. While those earning less than Rs 20,000 per month would be exempted from the scheme.&nbsp;

"The state is going through a fiscal crisis as the tax collection revenue has fallen drastically and remittances from expatriates have also stopped,” said Vijayan. “Expenses for healthcare services and food safety are unavoidable," he added.

Vijayan also said that the government needs to mop up additional resources within the state and it is a matter of relief that people across different sections of the society have contributed to the Chief Minister`s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis.

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis. While briefing the press, Vijayan said that the government will deduct the salary of state employees -- ministers, MLAs, members of different boards under the government and members of local self-government bodies for six days every month for the next five months. While those earning less than Rs 20,000 per month would be exempted from the scheme. "The state is going through a fiscal crisis as the tax collection revenue has fallen drastically and remittances from expatriates have also stopped,” said Vijayan. “Expenses for healthcare services and food safety are unavoidable," he added. Vijayan also said that the government needs to mop up additional resources within the state and it is a matter of relief that people across different sections of the society have contributed to the Chief Minister`s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it.

The World Health Organization has warned that the coronavirus crisis will not end any time soon.

"Make no mistake: we have a long way to go. This virus will be with us for a long time," Tedros told a virtual press conference.

"Most countries are still in the early stages of their epidemics. And some that were affected early in the pandemic are now starting to see a resurgence in cases."

From Globalisation to economic activities the current crisis could upturn everything we take for granted.&nbsp;

More than 183,120 people around the world have died after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The infection has spread to 2,626,929 people in more than 100 countries and shows no signs of slowing down. The intensity of its impact signals fundamental shifts in the way humans will live and work.&nbsp;

Nations around the world have been scrambling to fight the pandemic while desperately seeking ways to limit the devastating economic fallout. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it.

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it. The World Health Organization has warned that the coronavirus crisis will not end any time soon. "Make no mistake: we have a long way to go. This virus will be with us for a long time," Tedros told a virtual press conference. "Most countries are still in the early stages of their epidemics. And some that were affected early in the pandemic are now starting to see a resurgence in cases." From Globalisation to economic activities the current crisis could upturn everything we take for granted. More than 183,120 people around the world have died after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The infection has spread to 2,626,929 people in more than 100 countries and shows no signs of slowing down. The intensity of its impact signals fundamental shifts in the way humans will live and work. Nations around the world have been scrambling to fight the pandemic while desperately seeking ways to limit the devastating economic fallout. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus crisis is not going away anytime soon: WHO

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it.

Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic,

Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, &nbsp;informing them about the launch of the vaccine program

In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television.

In her program, a letter claiming that this so-called vaccine program would take 3 months minimum to start its trials.

The letter states that the company has offered to do clinical trials on patients in Pakistan first.

It also mentions that China's request for clinical trials and recruitment of test-patients for phase 1 and 2 tests.

According to the claims, if clinical trials are conducted in Pakistan and it turns out successful, then it will be the first nation to get the vaccine on a high-priority basis.

We would like to inform our viewers that nowhere in the world has a vaccine for the coronavirus been developed yet.

It takes several phases of clinical trials before scientific communities declare &nbsp;a vaccine safe for human use

Saadia Afzal is a prominent Pakistani journalist and wife of Faisal, federal minister for water resources.

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it. Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic, Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, informing them about the launch of the vaccine program In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television.

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it. Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic, Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, informing them about the launch of the vaccine program In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television. In her program, a letter claiming that this so-called vaccine program would take 3 months minimum to start its trials. The letter states that the company has offered to do clinical trials on patients in Pakistan first. It also mentions that China's request for clinical trials and recruitment of test-patients for phase 1 and 2 tests. According to the claims, if clinical trials are conducted in Pakistan and it turns out successful, then it will be the first nation to get the vaccine on a high-priority basis. We would like to inform our viewers that nowhere in the world has a vaccine for the coronavirus been developed yet. It takes several phases of clinical trials before scientific communities declare a vaccine safe for human use Saadia Afzal is a prominent Pakistani journalist and wife of Faisal, federal minister for water resources.

China to conduct clinical trials on Pakistani patients for COVID-19 vaccine

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. &nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia".

WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine.

Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. &nbsp;I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context.

WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. &nbsp;We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. &nbsp;India and Australia are part of such global efforts.

WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: &nbsp;The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. &nbsp;Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country.

It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause.

A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. &nbsp;

The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. &nbsp;And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy.

WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia?&nbsp;

Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. &nbsp;To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. &nbsp;Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. &nbsp;We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. &nbsp;Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them.

To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. &nbsp;We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians.

Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. &nbsp;Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations &amp; individuals although there are challenges here.

We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. &nbsp;Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs &amp; Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals.

There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. &nbsp;The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. &nbsp;Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. &nbsp;Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia". WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine. Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context. WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. India and Australia are part of such global efforts. WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? Gitesh Sarma: The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country. It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause. A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy. WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia? Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them. To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians. Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations & individuals although there are challenges here. We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs & Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals. There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Sympathetic to Australia's requirement on medicines, says Indian envoy to Australia

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta.

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air."

The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere.

If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite.

In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta.

Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation.

"After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said.

On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities.

Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart.

In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors.

"This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution.

"We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. "We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air." The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere. If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite. In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta. Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation. "After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said. On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities. Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart. In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors. "This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution. "We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over North India plummets to 20-year-low amid lockdown, says NASA

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-agents-fuelled-panic-in-us-by-spreading-fake-warnings-says-report-294154">Also read: Chinese agents fuelled panic in US by spreading fake warnings, says report</a> 
 
This came after stringent measures were announced for Pyongyang revealed by media filings. There was a shortage mainly for imported fruits and vegetables initially but now it spread to other goods as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-timeline-shifts-three-weeks-earlier-in-wake-of-new-disclosure-294142" hreflang="en">US coronavirus timeline shifts three weeks earlier in wake of new disclosure</a>

Media houses also reported that the price of staple food items was rising after the capital witnessed a steep rise in demand and people indulging in panic buying.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-asymptomatic-cases-increase-to-over-980-294139" hreflang="en">China's asymptomatic cases increase to over 980</a>

North Korea had sealed its border in January when it saw a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in China. Kim’s government claims that the country has no confirmed cases but U.S. is fairly confident that North Korea has cases, seeing a lack in military activities, according to General Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, told to reporters in March.

Shortage of food in North Korea is not new, a famine in the 1990s had killed 10 per cent of the population, according to data.

The United Nation World Food Program warned earlier this week that the pandemic might make things worse leading to starvation in the developing countries. The WFP said that 40 per cent of North Korea is undernourished.&nbsp;

Apart from coronavirus fears, one more reason appears related to this panic buying and that is rumours about leader Kim Jong Un's health.

North Korean state media made no mention of new appearances by leader Kim Jong Un, amid continued international speculation over his health following reports he underwent surgery.&nbsp;

Kim was not present for his grandfather’s and state founder, Kim IL Sung’s birthday celebrations. He has not been since there is rising conjecture of his ill health.

News agency in Korea reported that the North Korean President had written a letter to the Syrian president, Bashar-al-Assad.

US officials were told on Monday that Kim was critical after undergoing the cardiovascular surgery last week and was not sure about his current condition. Whereas the South Korean President’s office said that Kim is doing his regular work in the rural parts of the country.

The health conditions of the North Korean President is a protected secret, known only to a few close people. Donald Trump said that he is not aware of Kim’s heath currently but he will reach out to him.&nbsp;

“I assume that Kim Jong-un is still in full control of the Korean nuclear forces and the Korean military forces. I have no reason not to assume that,” said General John Hyten, vice chairman, U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country.

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country. Also read: Chinese agents fuelled panic in US by spreading fake warnings, says report This came after stringent measures were announced for Pyongyang revealed by media filings. There was a shortage mainly for imported fruits and vegetables initially but now it spread to other goods as well. Also read: US coronavirus timeline shifts three weeks earlier in wake of new disclosure Media houses also reported that the price of staple food items was rising after the capital witnessed a steep rise in demand and people indulging in panic buying. Also read: China's asymptomatic cases increase to over 980 North Korea had sealed its border in January when it saw a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in China. Kim’s government claims that the country has no confirmed cases but U.S. is fairly confident that North Korea has cases, seeing a lack in military activities, according to General Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, told to reporters in March. Shortage of food in North Korea is not new, a famine in the 1990s had killed 10 per cent of the population, according to data. The United Nation World Food Program warned earlier this week that the pandemic might make things worse leading to starvation in the developing countries. The WFP said that 40 per cent of North Korea is undernourished. Apart from coronavirus fears, one more reason appears related to this panic buying and that is rumours about leader Kim Jong Un's health. North Korean state media made no mention of new appearances by leader Kim Jong Un, amid continued international speculation over his health following reports he underwent surgery. Kim was not present for his grandfather’s and state founder, Kim IL Sung’s birthday celebrations. He has not been since there is rising conjecture of his ill health. News agency in Korea reported that the North Korean President had written a letter to the Syrian president, Bashar-al-Assad. US officials were told on Monday that Kim was critical after undergoing the cardiovascular surgery last week and was not sure about his current condition. Whereas the South Korean President’s office said that Kim is doing his regular work in the rural parts of the country. The health conditions of the North Korean President is a protected secret, known only to a few close people. Donald Trump said that he is not aware of Kim’s heath currently but he will reach out to him. “I assume that Kim Jong-un is still in full control of the Korean nuclear forces and the Korean military forces. I have no reason not to assume that,” said General John Hyten, vice chairman, U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff.

North Korean capital witness panic buying of food after strict covid-19 norms announced

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said.

The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said.

"We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said.

Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said.

"We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said.

The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests.

"Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said.

"Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday. The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said. The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said. "We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said. Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said. "We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said. The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests. "Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said. "Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

Aggressive evacuation of suspected patients in Dharavi planned: Maharashtra Minister

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month.

According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number.&nbsp;

The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared.&nbsp;

The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8.

If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing.

Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870.

In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number. The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared. The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8. If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing. Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870. In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 25 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-faulty-test-kits-deal-a-body-blow-to-indias-fight-against-wuhan-virus-293858">Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus</a> 
 
COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 &nbsp;people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-treatment-chloroquine-and-hydroxychloroquine-can-cause-heart-problems-292401">COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems</a>

Around 681,477 people of that tally have recovered.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. 
 
COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Europe has listed 1,234,340 cases and 109,381 deaths to date,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>US and Canada together have 841,584 cases with 44,982 deaths,</li>
	<li>Asia 174,020 cases with 7,191 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Middle East 133,221 cases with 5,784 deaths,</li>
	<li>Latin America and the Caribbean 109,739 cases with 5,377 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Africa 24,409 cases with 1,195 deaths</li>
	<li>Oceania 7,927 cases with 91 deaths</li>
</ul>

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The coronavirus death toll in the United States -- the country with the most fatalities in the pandemic -- has climbed by 2,751 in the past 24 hours, the latest tally from Johns Hopkins University showed Tuesday.

The US has recorded more than 800,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, according to the Baltimore-based university, with 44,845 deaths.

Nearly 40,000 new cases were reported between Monday at 8:30 pm local time, and Tuesday at the same time, the university said.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 25 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 25 lacs worldwide on Wednesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic. COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems Around 681,477 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: Europe has listed 1,234,340 cases and 109,381 deaths to date, US and Canada together have 841,584 cases with 44,982 deaths, Asia 174,020 cases with 7,191 deaths, Middle East 133,221 cases with 5,784 deaths, Latin America and the Caribbean 109,739 cases with 5,377 deaths, Africa 24,409 cases with 1,195 deaths Oceania 7,927 cases with 91 deaths The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The coronavirus death toll in the United States -- the country with the most fatalities in the pandemic -- has climbed by 2,751 in the past 24 hours, the latest tally from Johns Hopkins University showed Tuesday. The US has recorded more than 800,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, according to the Baltimore-based university, with 44,845 deaths. Nearly 40,000 new cases were reported between Monday at 8:30 pm local time, and Tuesday at the same time, the university said.

Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday.

The council also informed that around four lakh samples have been collected to date.&nbsp;

“There is only one study that suggests there are 80% cases. Secondly, in the case of asymptomatic, where the symptoms are not very clear, the chances of a patient coming and reporting the case, too, becomes low. I am now saying for the first time that if we look at the number of tests done, so far 31% belong to symptomatic category and the rest 69% would fall under asymptomatic…we can say that for every single case detected there would be two cases that may be termed as asymptomatic," aid Dr R R Gangakhedkar, ICMR head of epidemiology and communicable diseases.

Experts believe that there is a chance that some asymptomatic people may have been carriers of the virus for a while without knowing. However, the numbers are very high in this scenario, otherwise, it would have lead to a higher number of positive cases. The officials also believe that if more testing was needed in such a scenario, the protocols will be revised accordingly.

All cases, even with very mild and mild symptoms, are identified through surveillance and contact tracing. The asymptomatic cases have been divided into three categories: purely asymptomatic, pre-asymptomatic and asymptomatic. The experts explained their pre-emptive approach and told that even in case of mild symptoms, the tests are conducted and taken care of.&nbsp;

As of now, according to data provided by ICMR, over four lakh samples have been tested, out of which 18,601 cases were tested positive.

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday.

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday. The council also informed that around four lakh samples have been collected to date. “There is only one study that suggests there are 80% cases. Secondly, in the case of asymptomatic, where the symptoms are not very clear, the chances of a patient coming and reporting the case, too, becomes low. I am now saying for the first time that if we look at the number of tests done, so far 31% belong to symptomatic category and the rest 69% would fall under asymptomatic…we can say that for every single case detected there would be two cases that may be termed as asymptomatic," aid Dr R R Gangakhedkar, ICMR head of epidemiology and communicable diseases. Experts believe that there is a chance that some asymptomatic people may have been carriers of the virus for a while without knowing. However, the numbers are very high in this scenario, otherwise, it would have lead to a higher number of positive cases. The officials also believe that if more testing was needed in such a scenario, the protocols will be revised accordingly. All cases, even with very mild and mild symptoms, are identified through surveillance and contact tracing. The asymptomatic cases have been divided into three categories: purely asymptomatic, pre-asymptomatic and asymptomatic. The experts explained their pre-emptive approach and told that even in case of mild symptoms, the tests are conducted and taken care of. As of now, according to data provided by ICMR, over four lakh samples have been tested, out of which 18,601 cases were tested positive.

More of asymptomatic positive cases in India, says ICMR

US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade deal with China if Beijing did not honour its provisions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that originated in the country. While China has reported 82,788 novel coronavirus cases, including 4,632 fatalities, the US-registered over 824,600 cases and more than 45,290 deaths -- the highest in the world.

China and the US in January signed Phase-1 of the trade deal as the world's two top economic powers move forward to end their bitter tit-for-tat two-year tariff war that had rattled markets and weighed on the global economy.

The deal, which calls on China to buy USD 200 billion worth of US products, is set to move ahead as planned. However, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission in a report said China could invoke a clause in the agreement that allows for fresh trade consultations between the two countries "in the event of a natural disaster or other unforeseeable events". "If that happens, we'll do a termination and we'll do what I can do better than anybody," Trump told reporters on Tuesday during his daily White House press conference on coronavirus.

The president was responding to a question as to how confident he is that the Chinese are not going to invoke the natural disaster clause mentioned in the trade deal.

"There is nobody ever been tougher on China than me," Trump said, reiterating that China had been ripping the US off for years till he was elected as the president.

"Take a look, USD 200 billion, USD 300 billion, USD 400 billion, USD 500 billion a year. How did they ever let a thing like this happen? Now, if you look at this last year, the deficit went way down to the world," he said.

Trump launched the trade war with China in 2018, demanding Beijing to reduce the massive trade deficit, which was USD 375.6 billion in 2017. The two countries so far have imposed additional tariffs on nearly USD half-trillion worth of goods.

The US has imposed tariffs on more than USD 360 billions of Chinese goods, and China has retaliated with tariffs on over USD 110 billions of American products. "Now it's much different. But a lot of things are happening. Great things were happening except all of these sudden out of nowhere came the invisible enemy. We think we know where it came from, and we'll be talking about that probably a lot, but came the invisible enemy. There's nobody tougher than me on China," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade deal with China if Beijing did not honour its provisions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that originated in the country.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade deal with China if Beijing did not honour its provisions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that originated in the country. While China has reported 82,788 novel coronavirus cases, including 4,632 fatalities, the US-registered over 824,600 cases and more than 45,290 deaths -- the highest in the world. China and the US in January signed Phase-1 of the trade deal as the world's two top economic powers move forward to end their bitter tit-for-tat two-year tariff war that had rattled markets and weighed on the global economy. The deal, which calls on China to buy USD 200 billion worth of US products, is set to move ahead as planned. However, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission in a report said China could invoke a clause in the agreement that allows for fresh trade consultations between the two countries "in the event of a natural disaster or other unforeseeable events". "If that happens, we'll do a termination and we'll do what I can do better than anybody," Trump told reporters on Tuesday during his daily White House press conference on coronavirus. The president was responding to a question as to how confident he is that the Chinese are not going to invoke the natural disaster clause mentioned in the trade deal. "There is nobody ever been tougher on China than me," Trump said, reiterating that China had been ripping the US off for years till he was elected as the president. "Take a look, USD 200 billion, USD 300 billion, USD 400 billion, USD 500 billion a year. How did they ever let a thing like this happen? Now, if you look at this last year, the deficit went way down to the world," he said. Trump launched the trade war with China in 2018, demanding Beijing to reduce the massive trade deficit, which was USD 375.6 billion in 2017. The two countries so far have imposed additional tariffs on nearly USD half-trillion worth of goods. The US has imposed tariffs on more than USD 360 billions of Chinese goods, and China has retaliated with tariffs on over USD 110 billions of American products. "Now it's much different. But a lot of things are happening. Great things were happening except all of these sudden out of nowhere came the invisible enemy. We think we know where it came from, and we'll be talking about that probably a lot, but came the invisible enemy. There's nobody tougher than me on China," Trump said.

Trump threatens to terminate trade deal if China does not honour it citing coronavirus crisis

Residents of the New York's Westchester County on Monday sued the World Health Organization, accusing it of gross negligence in covering up and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residents of the New York's Westchester County on Monday sued the World Health Organization, accusing it of gross negligence in covering up and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Three residents of Westchester County accused the WHO of failing to quickly declare a pandemic, monitor China’s response to the original outbreak, provide treatment guidelines, advise members on how to respond including through travel restrictions, and coordinate a global response. The lead plaintiffs in the suit — Richard Kling, a doctor, Steve Rotker, and Gennaro Purchia — claim they were “injured and damaged by WHO’s negligent conduct.” President Trump last week had frozen funds to the United Nations health agency over "mismanaging" the crisis and not acting fast enough as the disease spread worldwide. The US is the biggest single contributor to the United Nations' health agency. Trump had said the virus could have been contained if the WHO had accurately assessed the situation in China, where the virus broke out. World Health Organization(WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus,55, said that there "is nothing hidden from the US from day one" while adding that "there is no secret in WHO". The US has been hit the hardest with the virus with 787,901 confirmed cases and over 42,364 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

New York residents sue World Health Organization over coronavirus response

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces.

One family came to a restaurant in Guangzhou from Wuhan, the initial hotspot of COVID-19 in China and one of them was carrying the virus unknowingly.&nbsp;

Days later, nine others who dined at the restaurant started showing symptoms of coronavirus. The virus travelled through the air conditioner duct at the restaurant and infected three families sitting in the vicinity of each other who never engaged with the other.

According to the expert, the humidity of a building may also affect the spread of infections like COVID-19.

Considering the potential use of air filtration systems, the experts found the majority of viruses, including coronavirus, are too small to capture bugs like SARS-CoV-2 and "no filter system is perfect."&nbsp;

According to experts, the use of Window ACs does not pose any additional risk of coronavirus infection, especially at a time when people are isolated inside their homes with no outside contact.

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces.

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces. One family came to a restaurant in Guangzhou from Wuhan, the initial hotspot of COVID-19 in China and one of them was carrying the virus unknowingly. Days later, nine others who dined at the restaurant started showing symptoms of coronavirus. The virus travelled through the air conditioner duct at the restaurant and infected three families sitting in the vicinity of each other who never engaged with the other. According to the expert, the humidity of a building may also affect the spread of infections like COVID-19. Considering the potential use of air filtration systems, the experts found the majority of viruses, including coronavirus, are too small to capture bugs like SARS-CoV-2 and "no filter system is perfect." According to experts, the use of Window ACs does not pose any additional risk of coronavirus infection, especially at a time when people are isolated inside their homes with no outside contact.

Central air conditioning could raise risks of coronavirus infection

After showing symptoms similar to those of the coronavirus, Egyptian doctor Ahmed Negm went into self-isolation in an old apartment, but before long he was hounded out by fearful neighbours. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-transparent-china-is-about-the-virus-the-better-for-all-german-chancellor-merkel-293640">Also read | More transparent China is about the virus, the better for all, says German Chancellor Merkel</a> 
 
While health workers in many countries are getting cheers and applause for risking their lives in the gruelling battle against the disease, in some parts of the world they face suspicion and hostility. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amid-coronavirus-pandemic-us-benchmark-wti-oil-collapses-to-001-a-barrel-293678">Also read |&nbsp;Amid coronavirus pandemic, US benchmark WTI oil collapses to $0.01 a barrel</a>

Though they are regularly hailed by the North African nation's government and media as Egypt's "white (coated) army", many health personnel have complained of being shunned and mistreated by others in society.&nbsp;

Negm had already tested negative for the virus but, mindful of the fact that he had frequently dealt with suspected cases, decided to go into confinement as a precaution.

As the 31-year-old sealed himself off from the outside world, rumours swirled around his neighbourhood in the northeastern province of Ismailia that he was infected and avoiding treatment.

He was even reported to the police.

Despite explaining his situation to them, the doctor faced continued harassment, snide remarks and pleas from some of his neighbours to leave the area because "there were many children and elderly."

Eventually, Negm moved out.

"People are gripped by panic but they're taking it too far to a point where it feels like a stigma," he told AFP.

"It's as if we have become outcasts."

Egypt's health workers, like those elsewhere, have been stretched thin by the virus, grappling with long hours, soaring caseloads and a high risk of catching the disease themselves.

Medical staff in several hospitals in Cairo and other provinces have been infected.&nbsp;

Four doctors have died out of 43 who fell ill, according to the country's doctors union.

Health workers account for some 13 percent of Egypt's total confirmed COVID-19 cases, which have risen above 3,000 including more than 200 fatalities, according to the World Health Organization.

- 'Worthless apology' -&nbsp; 
 
Even after death, one doctor who had caught the virus was targeted by fearful villagers who protested against her burial in Daqahliya province in the Nile Delta.

Authorities dispersed the hours-long demonstration and arrested 23 people as part of an investigation into what the public prosecutor described as "an act of terror".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli deplored the "disgraceful" act and urged healthcare workers to "pay no heed".

A nurse in the same province who had tested positive for the virus said she and other infected healthcare workers were contacted by strangers after their names and contact details were widely shared on social media.

"Many called to support and pray for us … but others accused us of spreading the virus and of being the source of infection," she said, wearing a mask, her voice quivering in a video posted online.

"We're exhausted. Have mercy on us. Our spirits have been destroyed."

Dina Abdelsalam, a doctor in Ismailia province, said her neighbours publicly smeared her because she works at a hospital which receives suspected coronavirus cases.

After recently moving to a new apartment to keep away from her family as a precaution, she said she was startled by her neighbours shouting in the street, accusing her of "bringing the disease" to the area.

The police intervened and her neighbours eventually apologised.

But for Abdelsalam their apology was "worthless" after they treated her like a "suspected (criminal)".

"We (medics) are suffering," she said in an online video, "and you are making it worse."

- 'Grievously detrimental' -

Other doctors from Cairo, the northern city of Alexandria and elsewhere have complained on Facebook of being refused taxi rides or food delivery due to fears of contagion.

Such treatment of healthcare workers "can make an already challenging situation far more difficult," the WHO representative in Egypt, Jean Jabbour, told AFP.&nbsp;

"Targeting essential providers ... will weaken our fight against COVID-19 and can prove grievously detrimental for the entire nation."

And as complaints surged, local media reported that lawmakers are mulling criminalising the "bullying" of medical workers.

At the same time many Egyptians appeared in recent online videos to be ignoring rules on social distancing aimed at reducing the risk of contagion in the country of 100 million people.

"They are taking it out on us instead of abandoning habits that will more likely expose them to the disease," said pharmacist Heba al-Feky, who was recently forced out of a taxi for being a health worker.&nbsp;

After showing symptoms similar to those of the coronavirus, Egyptian doctor Ahmed Negm went into self-isolation in an old apartment, but before long he was hounded out by fearful neighbours.

After showing symptoms similar to those of the coronavirus, Egyptian doctor Ahmed Negm went into self-isolation in an old apartment, but before long he was hounded out by fearful neighbours. Also read | More transparent China is about the virus, the better for all, says German Chancellor Merkel While health workers in many countries are getting cheers and applause for risking their lives in the gruelling battle against the disease, in some parts of the world they face suspicion and hostility. Also read | Amid coronavirus pandemic, US benchmark WTI oil collapses to $0.01 a barrel Though they are regularly hailed by the North African nation's government and media as Egypt's "white (coated) army", many health personnel have complained of being shunned and mistreated by others in society. Negm had already tested negative for the virus but, mindful of the fact that he had frequently dealt with suspected cases, decided to go into confinement as a precaution. As the 31-year-old sealed himself off from the outside world, rumours swirled around his neighbourhood in the northeastern province of Ismailia that he was infected and avoiding treatment. He was even reported to the police. Despite explaining his situation to them, the doctor faced continued harassment, snide remarks and pleas from some of his neighbours to leave the area because "there were many children and elderly." Eventually, Negm moved out. "People are gripped by panic but they're taking it too far to a point where it feels like a stigma," he told AFP. "It's as if we have become outcasts." Egypt's health workers, like those elsewhere, have been stretched thin by the virus, grappling with long hours, soaring caseloads and a high risk of catching the disease themselves. Medical staff in several hospitals in Cairo and other provinces have been infected. Four doctors have died out of 43 who fell ill, according to the country's doctors union. Health workers account for some 13 percent of Egypt's total confirmed COVID-19 cases, which have risen above 3,000 including more than 200 fatalities, according to the World Health Organization. - 'Worthless apology' - Even after death, one doctor who had caught the virus was targeted by fearful villagers who protested against her burial in Daqahliya province in the Nile Delta. Authorities dispersed the hours-long demonstration and arrested 23 people as part of an investigation into what the public prosecutor described as "an act of terror". Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli deplored the "disgraceful" act and urged healthcare workers to "pay no heed". A nurse in the same province who had tested positive for the virus said she and other infected healthcare workers were contacted by strangers after their names and contact details were widely shared on social media. "Many called to support and pray for us … but others accused us of spreading the virus and of being the source of infection," she said, wearing a mask, her voice quivering in a video posted online. "We're exhausted. Have mercy on us. Our spirits have been destroyed." Dina Abdelsalam, a doctor in Ismailia province, said her neighbours publicly smeared her because she works at a hospital which receives suspected coronavirus cases. After recently moving to a new apartment to keep away from her family as a precaution, she said she was startled by her neighbours shouting in the street, accusing her of "bringing the disease" to the area. The police intervened and her neighbours eventually apologised. But for Abdelsalam their apology was "worthless" after they treated her like a "suspected (criminal)". "We (medics) are suffering," she said in an online video, "and you are making it worse." - 'Grievously detrimental' - Other doctors from Cairo, the northern city of Alexandria and elsewhere have complained on Facebook of being refused taxi rides or food delivery due to fears of contagion. Such treatment of healthcare workers "can make an already challenging situation far more difficult," the WHO representative in Egypt, Jean Jabbour, told AFP. "Targeting essential providers ... will weaken our fight against COVID-19 and can prove grievously detrimental for the entire nation." And as complaints surged, local media reported that lawmakers are mulling criminalising the "bullying" of medical workers. At the same time many Egyptians appeared in recent online videos to be ignoring rules on social distancing aimed at reducing the risk of contagion in the country of 100 million people. "They are taking it out on us instead of abandoning habits that will more likely expose them to the disease," said pharmacist Heba al-Feky, who was recently forced out of a taxi for being a health worker.

Virus turns health workers in Egypt into 'outcasts'

Spain saw a slight increase in the daily virus death toll on Tuesday, with 430 people dying in the past 24 hours, health ministry data showed. So far, 21,282 people have succumbed to the pandemic in Spain, which has suffered the third-highest number of deaths in the world after the United States and Italy.

Spain saw a slight increase in the daily virus death toll on Tuesday, with 430 people dying in the past 24 hours, health ministry data showed. So far, 21,282 people have succumbed to the pandemic in Spain, which has suffered the third-highest number of deaths in the world after the United States and Italy. Officials say the numbers tend to go up slightly on Tuesdays following a slight delay in receiving data from the regions on deaths that have occurred over the weekend. On Monday, Spain registered 399 deaths overnight in what was the lowest figure in four weeks. The number of confirmed cases now stands at 204,178, the second-highest number in the world after the United States which has registered more than 750,000 infections. Medical staff have been particularly exposed in Spain given the lack of protective equipment when the epidemic first took hold, with 31,788 cases among healthcare workers -- just over 15 per cent of the total, the figures showed. But the number of people who have gotten over the disease has also risen with Spain counting 82,518 recoveries. Spanish health officials believe the epidemic peaked on April 2 when 950 people died over 24 hours, nearly three weeks after the government imposed a strict lockdown, effectively confining almost 47 million citizens at home to slow the spread of the virus. The March 14 lockdown has been twice extended with the government saying it would move for a fresh extension until May 9, although conditions are to be slightly eased on April 27 to allow children to spend some time outside.

Spain sees slight hike in daily toll with 430 deaths

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