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

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

Americans on Saturday came to grips with recommendations to wear masks against the coronavirus, while Spain added to hopes that Europe could be turning a corner in the pandemic with a second daily drop in deaths.

China meanwhile came to a standstill as the nation where the virus first appeared held three minutes of silence to mourn the patients and medical staff killed by the outbreak.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-extends-intensive-social-distancing-to-reach-50-daily-covid-19-cases-290573">UK's youngest COVID-19 victim, a 13-yr-old boy, buried without family in attendance</a>

Since COVID-19 emerged late last year, more than 1.1 million people have fallen ill. Nearly 60,000 people have died.

Across China, cars, trains and ships sounded their horns, and air-raid sirens wailed, as flags were flown at half-staff from 10 am (0200 GMT).

"I feel a lot of sorrow about our colleagues and patients who died," said Xu, a nurse who worked on the front lines in the central city of Wuhan, where the virus was initially detected.

"I hope they can rest well in heaven."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-what-our-urban-life-will-look-like-after-the-coronavirus-pandemic-290481">Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic</a>

China, where over 3,000 people have died from the virus, appears to be over the worst of its outbreak and there are signs of normality returning.

But large swathes of the world remain in crisis mode.

Europe accounts for the lion's share of virus fatalities, but America logged another rise in its death toll to bring the total to just over 7,100.

President Donald Trump's administration on Friday suggested widespread use of simple masks or scarves might help slow the spread -- even if the US leader said he himself wouldn't be following the advice.

"It's going to be really a voluntary thing," Trump said. "You don't have to do it and I'm choosing not to do it, but some people may want to do it and that's okay."

Anthony Fauci, head of infectious diseases at the National Institutes of Health, cited "recent information that the virus can actually be spread even when people just speak as opposed to coughing and sneezing."

The World Health Organisation has been more cautious, saying the airborne threat was only known to occur during certain medical treatments.

The US recommendation will likely worsen an already severe shortage of masks in the United States and Europe, which both rely heavily on imports from China.

Officials in New York, the worst affected part of the US, began advising people to wear masks some days ago, and there were signs on the streets that the advice was being heeded.

"I am trying to protect me and my family. If everybody protects themselves, it's better for all of us," Eddie Marrero, a 58-year-old handyman, told AFP.

Hope in Europe

In Europe, Italy and Spain continue to bear the brunt of a pandemic that has kept millions of citizens confined to their homes, closed schools and businesses and overwhelmed healthcare systems.

But official figures suggested unprecedented measures to restrict people's movements were working and that the peak may have hit on the continent.

Spain, which is under a near-total lockdown, on Saturday recorded a second successive daily fall in coronavirus-related deaths with 809 fatalities.

The total number of deaths in the country now stands at 11,744, second only to Italy.

The number of new Spanish cases also slowed at 7,026, taking the total to 124,736.

Spaniard Javier Lara survived after being put on oxygen in an overcrowded intensive care unit -- a shock to a 29-year-old who was athletic and does not smoke.

"I was panicking that my daughter would get infected. When I started showing symptoms, I said I wouldn't hold her or go near her," he said, describing facing death with an eight-week-old as the "worst moment" in his life.

Italy reported late Friday that the daily rise of officially registered infections dropped to a new low of just four per cent, while the number of people who had fully recovered was rising.

"The numbers are improving," said Giuli Gallera, chief medical officer of Italy's worst-hit Lombardy region.

"Our hospitals are starting to breathe."

Easter holidays

European governments have nevertheless warned citizens not to expect a loosening of the restrictions anytime soon.

In Germany, where the death toll rose again on Saturday, Chancellor Angela Merkel said figures showing the virus's spread was slowing "give us a little bit of hope".&nbsp;

"But it is definitely much too early to see a clear trend in that, and it is certainly too early to think in any way about relaxing the strict rules we have given ourselves," she said.

German authorities joined the US and other countries in encouraging citizens to wear self-made masks in public, prompting a flurry of online tutorials and debate about how to maximise protection.

In France, 160,000 police officers and gendarmes fanned out nationwide to ensure people were heeding the confinement rules despite the start of the Easter holidays, when French families traditionally head to the beach, countryside or mountains.

Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said security forces would be carrying out checks "day and night" at stations, on motorways and at tourist destinations.

'Worst yet to come'

There was yet another warning over the fate of the less developed world, especially conflict zones or places with large refugee populations.

"The worst is yet to come," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, referring to countries such as Syria, Libya and Yemen. "The COVID-19 storm is now coming to all these theatres of conflict."&nbsp;

The world economy has been pummelled by the virus and associated lockdowns, with millions more people signing on for unemployment payments in the US.

Financial ratings agency Fitch predicted the US and eurozone economies would shrink this quarter by up to 30 per cent.

Latin America is heading into a "deep recession" with an expected drop of 1.8 to 4.0 per cent in GDP, according to the UN.

Americans on Saturday came to grips with recommendations to wear masks against the coronavirus, while Spain added to hopes that Europe could be turning a corner in the pandemic with a second daily drop in deaths.

Americans on Saturday came to grips with recommendations to wear masks against the coronavirus, while Spain added to hopes that Europe could be turning a corner in the pandemic with a second daily drop in deaths. China meanwhile came to a standstill as the nation where the virus first appeared held three minutes of silence to mourn the patients and medical staff killed by the outbreak. Also read: UK's youngest COVID-19 victim, a 13-yr-old boy, buried without family in attendance Since COVID-19 emerged late last year, more than 1.1 million people have fallen ill. Nearly 60,000 people have died. Across China, cars, trains and ships sounded their horns, and air-raid sirens wailed, as flags were flown at half-staff from 10 am (0200 GMT). "I feel a lot of sorrow about our colleagues and patients who died," said Xu, a nurse who worked on the front lines in the central city of Wuhan, where the virus was initially detected. "I hope they can rest well in heaven." Also read: Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic China, where over 3,000 people have died from the virus, appears to be over the worst of its outbreak and there are signs of normality returning. But large swathes of the world remain in crisis mode. Europe accounts for the lion's share of virus fatalities, but America logged another rise in its death toll to bring the total to just over 7,100. President Donald Trump's administration on Friday suggested widespread use of simple masks or scarves might help slow the spread -- even if the US leader said he himself wouldn't be following the advice. "It's going to be really a voluntary thing," Trump said. "You don't have to do it and I'm choosing not to do it, but some people may want to do it and that's okay." Anthony Fauci, head of infectious diseases at the National Institutes of Health, cited "recent information that the virus can actually be spread even when people just speak as opposed to coughing and sneezing." The World Health Organisation has been more cautious, saying the airborne threat was only known to occur during certain medical treatments. The US recommendation will likely worsen an already severe shortage of masks in the United States and Europe, which both rely heavily on imports from China. Officials in New York, the worst affected part of the US, began advising people to wear masks some days ago, and there were signs on the streets that the advice was being heeded. "I am trying to protect me and my family. If everybody protects themselves, it's better for all of us," Eddie Marrero, a 58-year-old handyman, told AFP. Hope in Europe In Europe, Italy and Spain continue to bear the brunt of a pandemic that has kept millions of citizens confined to their homes, closed schools and businesses and overwhelmed healthcare systems. But official figures suggested unprecedented measures to restrict people's movements were working and that the peak may have hit on the continent. Spain, which is under a near-total lockdown, on Saturday recorded a second successive daily fall in coronavirus-related deaths with 809 fatalities. The total number of deaths in the country now stands at 11,744, second only to Italy. The number of new Spanish cases also slowed at 7,026, taking the total to 124,736. Spaniard Javier Lara survived after being put on oxygen in an overcrowded intensive care unit -- a shock to a 29-year-old who was athletic and does not smoke. "I was panicking that my daughter would get infected. When I started showing symptoms, I said I wouldn't hold her or go near her," he said, describing facing death with an eight-week-old as the "worst moment" in his life. Italy reported late Friday that the daily rise of officially registered infections dropped to a new low of just four per cent, while the number of people who had fully recovered was rising. "The numbers are improving," said Giuli Gallera, chief medical officer of Italy's worst-hit Lombardy region. "Our hospitals are starting to breathe." Easter holidays European governments have nevertheless warned citizens not to expect a loosening of the restrictions anytime soon. In Germany, where the death toll rose again on Saturday, Chancellor Angela Merkel said figures showing the virus's spread was slowing "give us a little bit of hope". "But it is definitely much too early to see a clear trend in that, and it is certainly too early to think in any way about relaxing the strict rules we have given ourselves," she said. German authorities joined the US and other countries in encouraging citizens to wear self-made masks in public, prompting a flurry of online tutorials and debate about how to maximise protection. In France, 160,000 police officers and gendarmes fanned out nationwide to ensure people were heeding the confinement rules despite the start of the Easter holidays, when French families traditionally head to the beach, countryside or mountains. Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said security forces would be carrying out checks "day and night" at stations, on motorways and at tourist destinations. 'Worst yet to come' There was yet another warning over the fate of the less developed world, especially conflict zones or places with large refugee populations. "The worst is yet to come," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, referring to countries such as Syria, Libya and Yemen. "The COVID-19 storm is now coming to all these theatres of conflict." The world economy has been pummelled by the virus and associated lockdowns, with millions more people signing on for unemployment payments in the US. Financial ratings agency Fitch predicted the US and eurozone economies would shrink this quarter by up to 30 per cent. Latin America is heading into a "deep recession" with an expected drop of 1.8 to 4.0 per cent in GDP, according to the UN.

Americans told to wear masks as Spain sees signs of hope

Our lives have changed so much since the coronavirus outbreak. From the way we buy our food to how we pay for it. The coronavirus has ushered in a series of behaviour changes and most of them are likely to outlive the pandemic and it takes 21 days to build a habit.

Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic.

E-commerce: The pandemic is changing people's purchasing behaviour more consumers are relying on e-commerce platforms. Be it milk, bread or flowers — the orders are all being placed online.&nbsp; 
 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/12/27/79044-untitled-design.jpg?itok=fQIlgF3E" />

There is a rise in traffic, despite shipment delays e-commerce platforms may be struggling to meet the demand, but in the long term, they stand to gain.&nbsp;

Drone delivery: In the absence of delivery agents, packages are being flown to customers. Drone deliveries are soaring to new heights. Strict aviation norms had clipped the wings of this sector. Despite a 300 million dollar-investment, drone deliveries had not taken off. 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/31/135140-untitled-design-2.jpg?itok=h-6pZmHc" /> 
 
The coronavirus has finally unleashed its potential. From Rwanda to China drones are helping millions survive the lockdown.

Digital payments: What government diktats couldn't achieve, the pandemic has made possible. The coronavirus has ushered in a rise in digital payments. 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/16261-gettyimages-474239686-20161227015857.jpg?itok=JXrJZ7dT" /> 
People are wary of touching and exchanging currency so they are resorting to online payments.

Online conferencing: What people are also doing online is meeting and catching up with friends. Online conferences have become a lockdown hit. From governments to private companies to NGOs. 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/26/134459-untitled-design-16.jpg?itok=_dr041PN" /> 
Once people realise that work can be done just as well by meeting online, it's unlikely that they would like to drive down to meeting rooms.

E-learning: Online learning has gone viral. Classrooms have moved to the world wide web and it comes with its own set of perks. Self-discipline, schedule flexibility and personalisation — to name a few. As many countries step into a new academic year, schools may want to shift more of their curriculum online.

Wearable health monitors: There has been a rise in wearable health monitors. Sure, they have been around for a long time. But now, more people are feeling the need to monitor every potential physiological change. 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/25914-untitled%25252520design%25252520%2525287%252529-20170714065430.jpg?itok=yr0s_qul" /> 
It comes with two benefits.first, the assurance that your body is alright and second, if something is amiss— you can be alerted at the earliest possible.

3D manufacturing: Another sector that has been of great help in this pandemic. is 3D manufacturing.From masks to ventilator parts. They are all being made through 3D&nbsp;printers. <img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/20/133800-untitled-design.jpg?itok=XzPZCmAs" /> 
There are travel restrictions. People are working from home and there's a shortage of raw material. In times like these, the 3D manufacturing community has become a saviour in disguise.

Our lives have changed so much since the coronavirus outbreak. From the way we buy our food to how we pay for it. The coronavirus has ushered in a series of behaviour changes and most of them are likely to outlive the pandemic and it takes 21 days to build a habit.

Our lives have changed so much since the coronavirus outbreak. From the way we buy our food to how we pay for it. The coronavirus has ushered in a series of behaviour changes and most of them are likely to outlive the pandemic and it takes 21 days to build a habit. Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic. E-commerce: The pandemic is changing people's purchasing behaviour more consumers are relying on e-commerce platforms. Be it milk, bread or flowers — the orders are all being placed online. There is a rise in traffic, despite shipment delays e-commerce platforms may be struggling to meet the demand, but in the long term, they stand to gain. Drone delivery: In the absence of delivery agents, packages are being flown to customers. Drone deliveries are soaring to new heights. Strict aviation norms had clipped the wings of this sector. Despite a 300 million dollar-investment, drone deliveries had not taken off. The coronavirus has finally unleashed its potential. From Rwanda to China drones are helping millions survive the lockdown. Digital payments: What government diktats couldn't achieve, the pandemic has made possible. The coronavirus has ushered in a rise in digital payments. People are wary of touching and exchanging currency so they are resorting to online payments. Online conferencing: What people are also doing online is meeting and catching up with friends. Online conferences have become a lockdown hit. From governments to private companies to NGOs. Once people realise that work can be done just as well by meeting online, it's unlikely that they would like to drive down to meeting rooms. E-learning: Online learning has gone viral. Classrooms have moved to the world wide web and it comes with its own set of perks. Self-discipline, schedule flexibility and personalisation — to name a few. As many countries step into a new academic year, schools may want to shift more of their curriculum online. Wearable health monitors: There has been a rise in wearable health monitors. Sure, they have been around for a long time. But now, more people are feeling the need to monitor every potential physiological change. It comes with two benefits.first, the assurance that your body is alright and second, if something is amiss— you can be alerted at the earliest possible. 3D manufacturing: Another sector that has been of great help in this pandemic. is 3D manufacturing.From masks to ventilator parts. They are all being made through 3D printers. There are travel restrictions. People are working from home and there's a shortage of raw material. In times like these, the 3D manufacturing community has become a saviour in disguise.

Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic

What exactly is the journey it undertakes once a person catches the infection? We explain to you here:

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. A type of coronavirus causes COVID-19.It spreads through droplets that are released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus then enters the body through the mouth, nose or eyes.

The viral particles begin their journey by travelling to the nasal passages&nbsp;and to the membranes lining the back of the throat. Each cell that gets infected can generate copies of the virus before it dies. Millions of copies of the virus can get created.

The virus then makes its way through the bronchial tubes. &nbsp;and reaches the lungs. At this point. the mucous membranes of the lungs become inflamed. The infection can also spread to other parts of the body apart from the lungs. Cells in the gastrointestinal system can also be affected if the virus travels through the mucous membranes from the nose to the rectum. Diarrhoea and indigestion have been recorded as symptoms in some cases.

The liver can get inflamed as well. As the novel coronavirus continues to attack the lung cells. It can damage the lung sacs and hamper the ability of the lungs to supply oxygen. The infection can cause fluids and dead cells to build up in the lungs leading to pneumonia. This means the patient has difficulty breathing. and might need ventilator support.

In severe cases, the infection can cause what's called acute respiratory distress syndrome when the lungs get filled with too much fluid and the patient cannot survive.

What exactly is the journey it undertakes once a person catches the infection? We explain to you here: COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. A type of coronavirus causes COVID-19.

What exactly is the journey it undertakes once a person catches the infection? We explain to you here: COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. A type of coronavirus causes COVID-19.It spreads through droplets that are released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus then enters the body through the mouth, nose or eyes. The viral particles begin their journey by travelling to the nasal passages and to the membranes lining the back of the throat. Each cell that gets infected can generate copies of the virus before it dies. Millions of copies of the virus can get created. The virus then makes its way through the bronchial tubes. and reaches the lungs. At this point. the mucous membranes of the lungs become inflamed. The infection can also spread to other parts of the body apart from the lungs. Cells in the gastrointestinal system can also be affected if the virus travels through the mucous membranes from the nose to the rectum. Diarrhoea and indigestion have been recorded as symptoms in some cases. The liver can get inflamed as well. As the novel coronavirus continues to attack the lung cells. It can damage the lung sacs and hamper the ability of the lungs to supply oxygen. The infection can cause fluids and dead cells to build up in the lungs leading to pneumonia. This means the patient has difficulty breathing. and might need ventilator support. In severe cases, the infection can cause what's called acute respiratory distress syndrome when the lungs get filled with too much fluid and the patient cannot survive.

How does the coronavirus impact your body?

Repeat, repeat, repeat until you succeed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his public outreach amidst growing coronavirus concerns and the lack of awareness about the pandemic.

Repeat, repeat, repeat until you succeed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his public outreach amidst growing coronavirus concerns and the lack of awareness about the pandemic. It wasn’t an easy task to spread awareness among a population of 130 billion, at the same time avoid creating any panic. The key to the outreach programme was harnessing every mass media platform, activating influencers and repeat messaging of “social distancing”. Not only did PM Narendra Modi make calls to all CMs, healthcare workers, stakeholders from Electronic & print media, sportspeople, etc., he has also been actively promoting initiatives on coronavirus through tweets. A video messsage to my fellow Indians. https://t.co/rcS97tTFrH — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2020 × Prime Minister Modi has been successfully promoting the idea of the fight against Coronavirus as a social and national movement among the people. His call to appreciate Healthcare Workers by applauding them during Janata Curfew was widely accepted across the nation. The suit was followed by other nations like the UK, France, the US, etc. where people came out in their balconies and applauded healthcare and security personnel for working on front-line against the pandemic. It all started with a tweet on March 4th when Prime Minister tweeted and announced that he will not be taking part in Holi events this year. In a tweet, he said, "Experts across the world have advised reducing mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. Hence, this year I have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme." Experts across the world have advised to reduce mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. Hence, this year I have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 4, 2020 × Since then, Prime Minister Modi has done five addresses to the nation on coronavirus, every time repeating the importance of “social distancing” and consequences for not following it. Four out of five times, Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation with a television address and once on “Mann Ki Baat” on the radio. He has also been actively engaging with people on Twitter where has a massive following of 54.8 million followers. Prime Minister Modi has been very careful in choosing the platforms and also, making the best use of every platform to increase his outreach among people and spread awareness about Coronavirus. Coronavirus, the pandemic has now infected more than 1 million people in more than 180 countries and killed more than 54 thousand people, according to John Hopkins University which has been tracking COVID-19 cases. According to the survey conducted by BARC and data measurement firm Nielson, amid the lockdown, television consumption has seen a 37% spike across India, with 622 million watching TV daily for 4 hours 40 minutes. Also, users are now spending 3.8 hours per day on their smartphones, resulting in a spike of 12% of the time spent on smartphones. The report is titled Crisis Consumption: An Insights Series Into TV, Smartphones, and Audiences. The report also suggests how people want to stay informed thus making News as the biggest beneficiary with a 298% surge in viewership. The data indicates why the Prime Minister chose Television as one of the Primary mediums to connect with people. Apart from social media and Television, Prime Minister has also been consistently connecting with people through his monthly radio address with, Mann ki Baat. Through, 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with people across the country on a range of important subjects. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sought the nation's forgiveness for imposing a monumental lockdown on the country but said "we have to win ... and we will win the battle" against the unprecedented menace of coronavirus that has claimed more than 56 lives in India till now. There is a reason why PM chose “Mann Ki Baat” to apologize for the strict measures he took. The reason is its the reach and impact of Prime Minister’s Narendra Modi’s monthly radio broadcast ‘Mann Ki Baat. According to a multi-platform survey conducted by ‘Aakashwani’ in 2018, about 70.8% of the total respondents, or about 7 in every 10 people said, they have listened to Mann Ki Baat.” PM's mass messaging was just not about the mediums but also the vast cross-section of society that the Prime Minister has been addressing. Till now, Prime Minister has engaged with more than a dozen different sections of society from CMs of all states on the 20th of March to today’s video conferencing with sportspersons. In a series of meetings via video conference PM has already met CMs of all states, leaders of Pharma Industry, stakeholders in electronic and print media, stakeholders of leading industries, medical fraternity, radio jockeys, AYUSH practitioners, spiritual leaders, sportspersons, etc. Meeting with influencers of each sector has a captive audience that Prime Minister tried to reach through them. Amid all this, Prime Minister Modi also made a massive global outreach, having spoken to world leaders including Prime Minister of UK, Israel, and Kuwait. He also spoke with Presidents of France, Russia, Afghanistan, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. His outreach also included phone calls to the Crown Princes of Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi. He also initiated a virtual SAARC Summit on the 13th of March and proposed the creation of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of US $10 million for the fund. Then on March 17th, Prime Minister Modi while speaking with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the current G-20 chair, proposed a virtual G-20 leadership meet. PM Modi earlier proposed the same idea to Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia, another G-20 member. The online G-20 session took place on March 26. Prime Minister Modi’s globally-focused approach makes a certain sense. New Delhi is not hesitant to take the lead while fighting a global pandemic. Every time the Indian Prime Minister initiated a meeting or video conference or address to the nation or a global outreach, he kept on repeating the message of how the fight with coronavirus can’t be fought individually. It has to be fought while staying together, staying informed and spreading the word of “social distancing”, not the deadly virus.

PM Modi fighting the coronavirus battle with 'sustained communication'

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411.

The fresh cases included 100 people who attended the religious congregation in Nizamuddin area of Delhi, which has become the country's biggest hotspot for the deadly virus, the state government said while maintaining that there was no community transmission as of now.

Of the 3,684 samples sent for testing so far, 411 have tested positive for the virus while 2,789 were negative and 484 samples under process, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said in a tweet.

Tamil Nadu has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases after Maharashtra which had 423 patients as of Thursday.

Of the total cases, as many as 364 among those who had attended the Delhi meeting last month have tested positive for coronavirus, the government said as it continued the massive contact tracing and containment efforts to check the spread.

In all, samples of 1,103 people from the state who attended, had been sent for testing and all of them have been isolated.

This is the third straight day Tamil Nadu has witnessed a surge in the number of positive cases since the Jamat returnees in the state were brought under the scanner after several deaths were reported in Telangana and other places.

On Wednesday, the state reported 110 positive cases and on Thursday there was a moderate drop to 75 with all but one being returnees from the Tablighi congregation.

Health Secretary Beela Rajesh on Friday told reporters here that of the 102 who tested positive, 100 were Jamat meet returnees, another man had come back from the US and the source for one more person was being ascertained.

To a question on a claim that some had walked away from COVID-19 treatment facilities, she said the government was not aware of any such incident and added adequate police security has been put in place.

All positive patients were stable, none requiring even intensive care and so far there has been one death, she said.

Given the rising number of cases, the government is vigorously implementing containment plan without waiting for a cluster of cases to emerge.

As part of the exercise, 376 samples of people with severe acute respiratory infection was analysed and out of it three tested positive who had contact and it only shows that there was no community transmission of the virus, she said.

More field personnel were being engaged in the containment exercise with the rise in cases and the work includes door to door surveillance as well and lakhs of people have been covered so far, she said.

Considering the number of cases, the top official said self-isolation and social distancing must be followed effectively by people and especially vulnerable sections like those with chronic ailments and immune-compromised conditions must be even more careful.

The government has considered the plea of some positive patients to take treatment in private hospitals and they may do so if they wish, she said adding only up to four were being treated in private facilities as of now in the state.

The active surveillance is on in both the containment (five kilometres around the residences of those infected) and buffer zones (an additional two to three-kilometre radius transcending the containment area) to ascertain those with symptoms like fever.

While 86,342 people are under home quarantine, as many as 105 are in government quarantine facilities.

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411.

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411. The fresh cases included 100 people who attended the religious congregation in Nizamuddin area of Delhi, which has become the country's biggest hotspot for the deadly virus, the state government said while maintaining that there was no community transmission as of now. Of the 3,684 samples sent for testing so far, 411 have tested positive for the virus while 2,789 were negative and 484 samples under process, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said in a tweet. Tamil Nadu has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases after Maharashtra which had 423 patients as of Thursday. Of the total cases, as many as 364 among those who had attended the Delhi meeting last month have tested positive for coronavirus, the government said as it continued the massive contact tracing and containment efforts to check the spread. In all, samples of 1,103 people from the state who attended, had been sent for testing and all of them have been isolated. This is the third straight day Tamil Nadu has witnessed a surge in the number of positive cases since the Jamat returnees in the state were brought under the scanner after several deaths were reported in Telangana and other places. On Wednesday, the state reported 110 positive cases and on Thursday there was a moderate drop to 75 with all but one being returnees from the Tablighi congregation. Health Secretary Beela Rajesh on Friday told reporters here that of the 102 who tested positive, 100 were Jamat meet returnees, another man had come back from the US and the source for one more person was being ascertained. To a question on a claim that some had walked away from COVID-19 treatment facilities, she said the government was not aware of any such incident and added adequate police security has been put in place. All positive patients were stable, none requiring even intensive care and so far there has been one death, she said. Given the rising number of cases, the government is vigorously implementing containment plan without waiting for a cluster of cases to emerge. As part of the exercise, 376 samples of people with severe acute respiratory infection was analysed and out of it three tested positive who had contact and it only shows that there was no community transmission of the virus, she said. More field personnel were being engaged in the containment exercise with the rise in cases and the work includes door to door surveillance as well and lakhs of people have been covered so far, she said. Considering the number of cases, the top official said self-isolation and social distancing must be followed effectively by people and especially vulnerable sections like those with chronic ailments and immune-compromised conditions must be even more careful. The government has considered the plea of some positive patients to take treatment in private hospitals and they may do so if they wish, she said adding only up to four were being treated in private facilities as of now in the state. The active surveillance is on in both the containment (five kilometres around the residences of those infected) and buffer zones (an additional two to three-kilometre radius transcending the containment area) to ascertain those with symptoms like fever. While 86,342 people are under home quarantine, as many as 105 are in government quarantine facilities.

Tamil Nadu reports 102 more COVID-19 cases, total 411

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62&nbsp;deaths.

Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.&nbsp; 
 
The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection.&nbsp;

"If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman &amp; Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&amp;K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand &amp; UP," he added.

"Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients &amp; their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors &amp; medical staff," he said.

Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare &amp; frontline workers &amp; ensure the security to the medical fraternity.

There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) &amp; 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry

Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"1,580 COVID-19 infected &amp; possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us. The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection. "If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman & Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand & UP," he added. "Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients & their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors & medical staff," he said. Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare & frontline workers & ensure the security to the medical fraternity. There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) & 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu. "1,580 COVID-19 infected & possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus.

The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday.

The market will open at 10 am instead of the current 9 am and closing timings too have been revised to 2 pm for all segments.

The lockdown has adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets, the RBI said.

The market timings have been revised to "minimise these risks" and to ensure that market participants maintain adequate checks and supervisory controls while optimising thin resources and ensuring the safety of personnel, it said.

As per the circular, the timing of the Government Securities (Central Government Securities, State Development Loans and Treasury Bills) market has been revised to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm.

Foreign Currency (FCY)/Indian Rupee (INR) Trades including Forex Derivatives market as well as Rupee Interest Rate Derivatives market too have been changed to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm.

The RBI said the unprecedented situation created by the COVID-19 outbreak has necessitated lockdowns, social distancing, restrictions on the movement of people and non-essential activities, work from home arrangements and business continuity plans.

The resultant dislocations have adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets. Staff and IT resources have been severely affected, posing operational and logistics risks.

"The thinning out of activity is impacting market liquidity and increasing volatility of financial prices," the circular said.

However, all regular banking services for customers, including RTGS, NEFT, e-kuber and other retail payments systems will continue to be available as per extant timings, the RBI added.

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus. The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday.

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus. The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday. The market will open at 10 am instead of the current 9 am and closing timings too have been revised to 2 pm for all segments. The lockdown has adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets, the RBI said. The market timings have been revised to "minimise these risks" and to ensure that market participants maintain adequate checks and supervisory controls while optimising thin resources and ensuring the safety of personnel, it said. As per the circular, the timing of the Government Securities (Central Government Securities, State Development Loans and Treasury Bills) market has been revised to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm. Foreign Currency (FCY)/Indian Rupee (INR) Trades including Forex Derivatives market as well as Rupee Interest Rate Derivatives market too have been changed to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm. The RBI said the unprecedented situation created by the COVID-19 outbreak has necessitated lockdowns, social distancing, restrictions on the movement of people and non-essential activities, work from home arrangements and business continuity plans. The resultant dislocations have adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets. Staff and IT resources have been severely affected, posing operational and logistics risks. "The thinning out of activity is impacting market liquidity and increasing volatility of financial prices," the circular said. However, all regular banking services for customers, including RTGS, NEFT, e-kuber and other retail payments systems will continue to be available as per extant timings, the RBI added.

RBI reduces trading hours for debt, currency markets from April 7

The Young Doctors Association or YDA recently held a protest against the Pakistani government, demanding safety kits for health care staff dealing with suspected coronavirus patients in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

They also raised concerns over no testing kits, masks shortage, no ventilation support and lack of proper isolation wards.

They claimed the government has completely failed to provide these basic requirements in the illegally-occupied region to deal with the crisis.

The protesters also voiced their concern about their salaries which they said are not at par with doctors in other parts of Pakistan.

A protesting doctor said, "Our first demand is Personal Protective Equipment kits, second demand is our salaries. Our allowances should be on par with doctors in Punjab and the Federal. We can continue work only if these demands are addressed".

The protesting doctors warned they will be forced to launch a complete strike and withdraw from their elective services if their demands are not met immediately.

Another protester said, "The public needs to know that Step One, where you will be screened, we do not even have screening kits here. When we get a patient, we can only diagnose on clinical suspicion and most of the patients are rejected. The establishment is fooling around with the public that we do not have any patient burden".

The absence of medical facilities has remained a matter of grave concern since long in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The doctors blamed step-motherly treatment to the illegally-occupied region by Islamabad as the primary cause of their misery.

In PoK, 9 Coronavirus cases are reported whereas in Gilgit Baltistan 190 positive cases are registered.

The Young Doctors Association or YDA recently held a protest against the Pakistani government, demanding safety kits for health care staff dealing with suspected coronavirus patients in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

The Young Doctors Association or YDA recently held a protest against the Pakistani government, demanding safety kits for health care staff dealing with suspected coronavirus patients in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. They also raised concerns over no testing kits, masks shortage, no ventilation support and lack of proper isolation wards. They claimed the government has completely failed to provide these basic requirements in the illegally-occupied region to deal with the crisis. The protesters also voiced their concern about their salaries which they said are not at par with doctors in other parts of Pakistan. A protesting doctor said, "Our first demand is Personal Protective Equipment kits, second demand is our salaries. Our allowances should be on par with doctors in Punjab and the Federal. We can continue work only if these demands are addressed". The protesting doctors warned they will be forced to launch a complete strike and withdraw from their elective services if their demands are not met immediately. Another protester said, "The public needs to know that Step One, where you will be screened, we do not even have screening kits here. When we get a patient, we can only diagnose on clinical suspicion and most of the patients are rejected. The establishment is fooling around with the public that we do not have any patient burden". The absence of medical facilities has remained a matter of grave concern since long in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The doctors blamed step-motherly treatment to the illegally-occupied region by Islamabad as the primary cause of their misery. In PoK, 9 Coronavirus cases are reported whereas in Gilgit Baltistan 190 positive cases are registered.

Doctors in PoK protest over no safety kits to deal with COVID-19 patients

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus.

Addressing governors, LGs and administrators along with President Ram Nath Kovind via video, Naidu also asked them to focus on the arrangements made to ensure harvesting, storage and procurement of agriculture produce in their respective states and Union territories.

He urged them to contact spiritual and religious leaders in their respective regions and advise them to guide their followers to strictly adhere to the guidelines on social distancing and to observe personal hygiene, a statement from the Vice President Secretariat said.

Referring to a “recent avoidable action” which caused widespread adverse impact across the country, Naidu cautioned the governors and Lt governors to treat it as a “wake-up call”.

“No religious congregations should be allowed to take place in your respective states,” he said in an apparent reference to the Tablighi Jamat congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin.

On harvesting season, Naidu urged them to advise the state agencies to ensure smooth movement of farm machinery so that the farmers do not face any hardship.

He also asked them to ensure 100 per cent procurement of the produce. “That is the need of the hour,” the vice president said.

Expressing concern over the incidents of assault on doctors in some states, Naidu described them as unfortunate and condemnable.

He asked the governors to sensitise people on the crucial role being undertaken by doctors, nurses and other frontline warriors such as sanitary staff and police personnel in the battle against COVID-19.

The vice president said such incidents would have a demoralising effect on doctors and others, according to the statement. This is the second time the president and the vice president have interacted with governors, LGs and administrators on coronavirus.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus. Addressing governors, LGs and administrators along with President Ram Nath Kovind via video, Naidu also asked them to focus on the arrangements made to ensure harvesting, storage and procurement of agriculture produce in their respective states and Union territories. He urged them to contact spiritual and religious leaders in their respective regions and advise them to guide their followers to strictly adhere to the guidelines on social distancing and to observe personal hygiene, a statement from the Vice President Secretariat said. Referring to a “recent avoidable action” which caused widespread adverse impact across the country, Naidu cautioned the governors and Lt governors to treat it as a “wake-up call”. “No religious congregations should be allowed to take place in your respective states,” he said in an apparent reference to the Tablighi Jamat congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin. On harvesting season, Naidu urged them to advise the state agencies to ensure smooth movement of farm machinery so that the farmers do not face any hardship. He also asked them to ensure 100 per cent procurement of the produce. “That is the need of the hour,” the vice president said. Expressing concern over the incidents of assault on doctors in some states, Naidu described them as unfortunate and condemnable. He asked the governors to sensitise people on the crucial role being undertaken by doctors, nurses and other frontline warriors such as sanitary staff and police personnel in the battle against COVID-19. The vice president said such incidents would have a demoralising effect on doctors and others, according to the statement. This is the second time the president and the vice president have interacted with governors, LGs and administrators on coronavirus.

Motivate religious leaders to ask their followers not to hold congregations: Venkaiah Naidu tells Governors

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week.

Health experts have warned of an epidemic in South Asia, home to a fifth of the world's population, that could easily overwhelm its weak public health systems.

But authorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, another Muslim majority nation, and even India have struggled to persuade conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing in order to curb the spread of the virus.

The government in Pakistan's southern province of Sindh, home to the country's largest city, Karachi, will enforce a "curfew-like" lockdown for three hours beginning 12 noon Friday to deter people from coming out of their homes for prayers, officials said.

“In the greater interest of saving lives, a decision to ban the prayer congregations at mosques has been taken following a meeting of clerics from all schools of thought. Islamic Sharia allows it,” said Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Sindh's minister for local bodies and information.

Pakistan has reported 2,386 people infected with coronavirus, the highest in South Asia, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of Tablighi Jamaat, a Sunni Muslim group, which had planned a congregation in the city of Lahore last month.

The meeting was postponed but by then hundreds of people had already arrived at the premises and they stayed on.

In Bangladesh, some people were expected to go to mosques even though the government appealed to them to stay at home to reduce the risk of infections.

Bangladesh's top religious body, the Islamic Foundation, said elderly people and those with fever or cough, symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, should offer prayers at home.

Bangladesh, home to 160 million people is one of the world's most densely populated countries. So far it has had 56 cases, including six deaths.

PM MODI'S APPEAL

In India which is under a strict three-week lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to rally people, many of whom have lost their jobs because of the shutdown.

"We are not alone. All 1.3 billion of us are in it together," he said in a video message.

The shutdown, which ends on April 14 has helped stem a big outbreak for now, but it has brought India's economy to a shuddering halt and left millions without work.

Many are struggling for food and water and fleeing cities for their villages in the hinterland, triggering criticism that the government rushed through the shutdown and has hurt the poorest the most.

"I request all of us 1.3 billion Indians to switch off lights in our homes for nine minutes on Sunday, April 5 and to light a lamp or candle or use your mobile flashlights to mark this fight against the coronavirus," Modi said.

India has had 2,069 confirmed infections, of whom 53 have died, low figures by comparison with the United States, China, Italy and Spain.

A fifth of the people who are infected with the coronavirus are either members of the Tablighi Jamaat, which held a gathering in a densely packed Delhi neighbourhood last month or those who came in contact with them later.

Modi said social distancing must be maintained throughout if India were to stop an epidemic which could overwhelm its public health system.

The World Bank on Thursday said it had approved an initial $1.9 billion in emergency funds for coronavirus response operations in 25 developing countries, with more than half the aid earmarked to help fight the fast-spreading disease in India.

"The poorest and most vulnerable countries will likely be hit the hardest," World Bank Group President David Malpas said in a statement.

Following is data on the spread of the coronavirus in South Asia, according to government figures:

* Pakistan has registered 2,386 cases, including 34 deaths.

* India has registered 2,069 cases, including 53 deaths.

* Sri Lanka has registered 151 cases, including three deaths.

* Afghanistan has registered 273 cases, including six deaths.

* Bangladesh has registered 56 cases, including six deaths.

* the Maldives has registered 31 cases and no deaths.

* Nepal has registered six cases and no deaths.

* Bhutan has registered five cases and no deaths

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week.

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week. Health experts have warned of an epidemic in South Asia, home to a fifth of the world's population, that could easily overwhelm its weak public health systems. But authorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, another Muslim majority nation, and even India have struggled to persuade conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing in order to curb the spread of the virus. The government in Pakistan's southern province of Sindh, home to the country's largest city, Karachi, will enforce a "curfew-like" lockdown for three hours beginning 12 noon Friday to deter people from coming out of their homes for prayers, officials said. “In the greater interest of saving lives, a decision to ban the prayer congregations at mosques has been taken following a meeting of clerics from all schools of thought. Islamic Sharia allows it,” said Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Sindh's minister for local bodies and information. Pakistan has reported 2,386 people infected with coronavirus, the highest in South Asia, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of Tablighi Jamaat, a Sunni Muslim group, which had planned a congregation in the city of Lahore last month. The meeting was postponed but by then hundreds of people had already arrived at the premises and they stayed on. In Bangladesh, some people were expected to go to mosques even though the government appealed to them to stay at home to reduce the risk of infections. Bangladesh's top religious body, the Islamic Foundation, said elderly people and those with fever or cough, symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, should offer prayers at home. Bangladesh, home to 160 million people is one of the world's most densely populated countries. So far it has had 56 cases, including six deaths. PM MODI'S APPEAL In India which is under a strict three-week lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to rally people, many of whom have lost their jobs because of the shutdown. "We are not alone. All 1.3 billion of us are in it together," he said in a video message. The shutdown, which ends on April 14 has helped stem a big outbreak for now, but it has brought India's economy to a shuddering halt and left millions without work. Many are struggling for food and water and fleeing cities for their villages in the hinterland, triggering criticism that the government rushed through the shutdown and has hurt the poorest the most. "I request all of us 1.3 billion Indians to switch off lights in our homes for nine minutes on Sunday, April 5 and to light a lamp or candle or use your mobile flashlights to mark this fight against the coronavirus," Modi said. India has had 2,069 confirmed infections, of whom 53 have died, low figures by comparison with the United States, China, Italy and Spain. A fifth of the people who are infected with the coronavirus are either members of the Tablighi Jamaat, which held a gathering in a densely packed Delhi neighbourhood last month or those who came in contact with them later. Modi said social distancing must be maintained throughout if India were to stop an epidemic which could overwhelm its public health system. The World Bank on Thursday said it had approved an initial $1.9 billion in emergency funds for coronavirus response operations in 25 developing countries, with more than half the aid earmarked to help fight the fast-spreading disease in India. "The poorest and most vulnerable countries will likely be hit the hardest," World Bank Group President David Malpas said in a statement. Following is data on the spread of the coronavirus in South Asia, according to government figures: * Pakistan has registered 2,386 cases, including 34 deaths. * India has registered 2,069 cases, including 53 deaths. * Sri Lanka has registered 151 cases, including three deaths. * Afghanistan has registered 273 cases, including six deaths. * Bangladesh has registered 56 cases, including six deaths. * the Maldives has registered 31 cases and no deaths. * Nepal has registered six cases and no deaths. * Bhutan has registered five cases and no deaths

Pakistan, Bangladesh try to stop Friday prayers to avert coronavirus spike

American jazz musician Ellis Marsalis died on Wednesday (April 01) at the age of 85 from complications due to the coronavirus, reports Variety.

Jazz musician Ellis Marsalis dies of coronavirus complications – Variety

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-has-enough-ventilators-for-only-six-more-days-290333">Also read: New York has enough ventilators for only six more days</a> 
 
According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,018,948 people worldwide and 53,211 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 217,433 people of that tally have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-2069-death-toll-at-53-290248">Also read:&nbsp;Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53</a> 
 
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. A total of 245,573 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. 
 
The total death count due to the virus now stands at 6,058 with 30,000 new cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre. 
 
New York has been hit the hardest in the United States with more than 1,500 deaths and nearing 50,000 positive cases. 
 
As the death toll mounted in the United States, President Trump said health authorities were conducting "100,000 coronavirus tests per day", while adding that it was "more than any other country in the world, both in terms of the raw number and on a per capita basis."

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. Also read: New York has enough ventilators for only six more days According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,018,948 people worldwide and 53,211 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 217,433 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53 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. A total of 245,573 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. The total death count due to the virus now stands at 6,058 with 30,000 new cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre. New York has been hit the hardest in the United States with more than 1,500 deaths and nearing 50,000 positive cases. As the death toll mounted in the United States, President Trump said health authorities were conducting "100,000 coronavirus tests per day", while adding that it was "more than any other country in the world, both in terms of the raw number and on a per capita basis." (With inputs from agencies)

53,000 dead, over 1 million infected with deadly coronavirus globally

The economic crisis spawned by the coronavirus pandemic has produced a wave of grim US data, with likely more to come as millions lose jobs, businesses shutter and spending stops. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-records-highest-one-day-covid-19-death-toll-with-1169-fatalities-290246">Also read: United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities</a> 
 
But at some point, the bottom will be reached.

Given how fast the situation has developed, judging when that happens in real-time will prove challenging for economists who usually depend on monthly, quarterly or yearly trends in data to judge the state of the business cycle.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-bank-allocates-funds-to-fight-coronavirus-290316/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The coronavirus outbreak is not a business cycle event but perhaps a once-in-a-century health crisis where normal choices about where to go and what to spend are influenced by a combination of fear and government edict.

To gauge what is happening using more frequently available information, economists are innovating.

Goldman Sachs economist David Mericle said this week that unemployment claims were still a great guide.

"Jobless claims will be the timeliest hard data point for assessing the depth of the recession and catching the start of the recovery," Mericle wrote, noting that when initial claims start to fall, GDP will likely have stopped shrinking. When ongoing claims, by contrast, have fallen by perhaps a third, it will be evidence the economy is growing again.

This week, initial claims jumped a record 6 million.

Goldman analysts have also combined granular data on things like movie ticket sales and hotel occupancy rates into a bespoke coronavirus tracker. It has been falling fast.

Researchers at the New York Fed, working with Harvard economics professor James Stock, recently released a Weekly Economic Index that provides another view. It combines seven indicators, including unemployment claims but also raw steel production and weekly retail sales information, into an indicator they found closely tracks growth in gross domestic product.

With Thursday's record filings for unemployment insurance, the index is currently pointing to a 6% annual drop in GDP.&nbsp;

The Atlanta Fed's GDPNow "nowcast" of gross domestic growth can be volatile even in normal times. But it is a way to show how government data releases are progressively influencing the estimated growth path of the economy.

For 2020, the "nowcast" had fallen to 1.2% as of Thursday from 3% in mid-February.

The economic crisis spawned by the coronavirus pandemic has produced a wave of grim US data, with likely more to come as millions lose jobs, businesses shutter and spending stops.

The economic crisis spawned by the coronavirus pandemic has produced a wave of grim US data, with likely more to come as millions lose jobs, businesses shutter and spending stops. Also read: United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities But at some point, the bottom will be reached. Given how fast the situation has developed, judging when that happens in real-time will prove challenging for economists who usually depend on monthly, quarterly or yearly trends in data to judge the state of the business cycle. The coronavirus outbreak is not a business cycle event but perhaps a once-in-a-century health crisis where normal choices about where to go and what to spend are influenced by a combination of fear and government edict. To gauge what is happening using more frequently available information, economists are innovating. Goldman Sachs economist David Mericle said this week that unemployment claims were still a great guide. "Jobless claims will be the timeliest hard data point for assessing the depth of the recession and catching the start of the recovery," Mericle wrote, noting that when initial claims start to fall, GDP will likely have stopped shrinking. When ongoing claims, by contrast, have fallen by perhaps a third, it will be evidence the economy is growing again. This week, initial claims jumped a record 6 million. Goldman analysts have also combined granular data on things like movie ticket sales and hotel occupancy rates into a bespoke coronavirus tracker. It has been falling fast. Researchers at the New York Fed, working with Harvard economics professor James Stock, recently released a Weekly Economic Index that provides another view. It combines seven indicators, including unemployment claims but also raw steel production and weekly retail sales information, into an indicator they found closely tracks growth in gross domestic product. With Thursday's record filings for unemployment insurance, the index is currently pointing to a 6% annual drop in GDP. The Atlanta Fed's GDPNow "nowcast" of gross domestic growth can be volatile even in normal times. But it is a way to show how government data releases are progressively influencing the estimated growth path of the economy. For 2020, the "nowcast" had fallen to 1.2% as of Thursday from 3% in mid-February.

When will US economy bottom? Economists hunt for the right view

Spain, Turkey and The Netherlands are returning defective Chinese coronavirus supplies. Defective medical supplies could put lives at risk. Then why is the world still buying from China?

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: Why China's monopoly in global trade must end

Coronavirus cases in Spain surpassed 100,000 mark, a hospital in the northeastern region of Catalonia has been forced to turn its library into an Intensive Care Unit to deal with the influx of COVID-19 patients in critical condition.

Spain: Hospital's library transforms into ICU for coronavirus patients

The cases of assault are rising daily. As no Of coronavirus cases rise. The men and women at the frontline are being ill-treated. It's happening in some of the major cities. Starting from the capital — New Delhi to Bengaluru Hyderabad and Indore.

From cheers for India's healthcare workers. To this, the story has gone from bad to worse in India. Medical workers were shunned, ostracised and left homeless now, they are being beaten.

These men and women on the frontline of the COVID-19 battle. They are living their worst nightmares. The Wuhan coronavirus is killing some of them at work others are falling prey to toxicity back home.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Madhya Pradesh: Locals of Tatpatti Bakhal in Indore pelt stones at health workers who were there to screen people, in wake of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a> outbreak. A case has been registered. (Note-Abusive language) (1.04.2020) <a href="https://t.co/vkfOwYrfxK">pic.twitter.com/vkfOwYrfxK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1245475658798596105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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These images are from Indore in the state of Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;The officials wanted to screen the relatives of a coronavirus victim. Locals pelted stones at them. The healthcare workers were chased away.

In Hyderabad, two COVID-19 patients assaulted a junior doctor. The incident took place at an isolation ward. The patients attacked the medic after one of their relatives succumbed to the coronavirus.

What was the doctor's fault? Nothing.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Karnataka: An Asha worker, Krishnaveni says she was attacked in Byatarayanapura, Bengaluru while collecting data on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a>. Says, "The problem started when an announcement was made against us from a mosque, whoever made that announcement should be arrested".(April 1) <a href="https://t.co/9jBT9q7K0L">pic.twitter.com/9jBT9q7K0L</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1245612562730737667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This health worker was manhandled in neighbouring Karnataka. She was going door to door. Spreading awareness about the coronavirus. But some &nbsp;Bengaluru residents attacked her. They snatched her bag and mobile phone. The health worker says she has never faced such harassment in her entire career.

In Delhi, some Tablighi jamaat attendees misbehaved with doctors. Authorities say the attendees spit at the doctors attending to them at a quarantine facility.

Across India, medical staff are being attacked for doing their jobs. They are being assaulted for risking their lives for others.

This is India, more than 2000 COVID-19 cases and counting. As India fights the coronavirus. Some are fighting the ones who can save us from it.

The cases of assault are rising daily. As no Of coronavirus cases rise. The men and women at the frontline are being ill-treated. It's happening in some of the major cities.

The cases of assault are rising daily. As no Of coronavirus cases rise. The men and women at the frontline are being ill-treated. It's happening in some of the major cities. Starting from the capital — New Delhi to Bengaluru Hyderabad and Indore. From cheers for India's healthcare workers. To this, the story has gone from bad to worse in India. Medical workers were shunned, ostracised and left homeless now, they are being beaten. These men and women on the frontline of the COVID-19 battle. They are living their worst nightmares. The Wuhan coronavirus is killing some of them at work others are falling prey to toxicity back home. #WATCH Madhya Pradesh: Locals of Tatpatti Bakhal in Indore pelt stones at health workers who were there to screen people, in wake of #Coronavirus outbreak. A case has been registered. (Note-Abusive language) (1.04.2020) pic.twitter.com/vkfOwYrfxK — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2020 × These images are from Indore in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The officials wanted to screen the relatives of a coronavirus victim. Locals pelted stones at them. The healthcare workers were chased away. In Hyderabad, two COVID-19 patients assaulted a junior doctor. The incident took place at an isolation ward. The patients attacked the medic after one of their relatives succumbed to the coronavirus. What was the doctor's fault? Nothing. #WATCH Karnataka: An Asha worker, Krishnaveni says she was attacked in Byatarayanapura, Bengaluru while collecting data on #coronavirus. Says, "The problem started when an announcement was made against us from a mosque, whoever made that announcement should be arrested".(April 1) pic.twitter.com/9jBT9q7K0L — ANI (@ANI) April 2, 2020 × This health worker was manhandled in neighbouring Karnataka. She was going door to door. Spreading awareness about the coronavirus. But some Bengaluru residents attacked her. They snatched her bag and mobile phone. The health worker says she has never faced such harassment in her entire career. In Delhi, some Tablighi jamaat attendees misbehaved with doctors. Authorities say the attendees spit at the doctors attending to them at a quarantine facility. Across India, medical staff are being attacked for doing their jobs. They are being assaulted for risking their lives for others. This is India, more than 2000 COVID-19 cases and counting. As India fights the coronavirus. Some are fighting the ones who can save us from it.

Violence against healthcare workers: A rising pandemic

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus approached one million around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-deaths-top-10000-infections-cross-110000-mark-290118">Also read: Spain deaths top 10,000, infections cross 110,000 mark</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 981,221 people worldwide and 50,230 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 204,605 people of that tally have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-surpasses-1000-in-belgium-290085">Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium</a>

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. A total of 226,374 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-in-icu-europe-awaits-major-crisis-once-coronavirus-ends-289020">Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends</a>

Belgium has also reported a sharp rise in the number of coronavirus fatalities on Thursday as health officials confirmed the death toll surpassing 1,000. So far, 1001 people died and 15,348 infected in the country of 11.4 million, as told by officials in a press conference.&nbsp;

Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus approached one million around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus approached one million around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Spain deaths top 10,000, infections cross 110,000 mark According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 981,221 people worldwide and 50,230 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 204,605 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium 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. A total of 226,374 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends Belgium has also reported a sharp rise in the number of coronavirus fatalities on Thursday as health officials confirmed the death toll surpassing 1,000. So far, 1001 people died and 15,348 infected in the country of 11.4 million, as told by officials in a press conference. Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed.

Global coronavirus cases near a million; death toll rises to 50,230

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spain registered a leap of 302,265 jobless claims in March, the biggest on record, due to the "extraordinary impact" of the coronavirus pandemic, the labour ministry said Thursday.

"This is a historic figure," Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz told a news conference called to discuss the figures.

"We are facing an absolutely exceptional situation," she added.

Spain, the eurozone's fourth-largest economy, imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 14 to fight the coronavirus, with people allowed out only to go to work, buy food, seek medical care and briefly walk their dog.

Restrictions have since been tightened, with non-essential workers in the nation of around 47 million people asked to stay at home from March 29.&nbsp;

The pandemic "changed the trend" in unemployment figures for March, after only 2,857 workers filled jobless claims in the first 12 days of the month, the ministry said in a statement.

The services sector recorded the most job losses, with 206,016 jobless claims in a country where tourism accounts for around 12 per cent of national output.&nbsp;

Tourism worldwide has been hammered by the pandemic, as governments imposed travel restrictions and airlines grounded scores of flights.

But all sectors of the economy took a hit with nearly 60,000 construction workers filing jobless claims and 6,520 people who work in agriculture.

Meanwhile, the number of unemployed in Spain hit 3.54 million in March, the labour ministry said.

The monthly figure is a different measure from the quarterly unemployment rate, which is based on surveys and stood at 13.8 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2019, according to national statistics institute INE.

That is the second-highest jobless rate in the eurozone after Greece.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 mark.

Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy

Spain registered a leap of 302,265 jobless claims in March, the biggest on record, due to the "extraordinary impact" of the coronavirus pandemic, the labour ministry said Thursday.

Spain registered a leap of 302,265 jobless claims in March, the biggest on record, due to the "extraordinary impact" of the coronavirus pandemic, the labour ministry said Thursday. "This is a historic figure," Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz told a news conference called to discuss the figures. "We are facing an absolutely exceptional situation," she added. Spain, the eurozone's fourth-largest economy, imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 14 to fight the coronavirus, with people allowed out only to go to work, buy food, seek medical care and briefly walk their dog. Restrictions have since been tightened, with non-essential workers in the nation of around 47 million people asked to stay at home from March 29. The pandemic "changed the trend" in unemployment figures for March, after only 2,857 workers filled jobless claims in the first 12 days of the month, the ministry said in a statement. The services sector recorded the most job losses, with 206,016 jobless claims in a country where tourism accounts for around 12 per cent of national output. Tourism worldwide has been hammered by the pandemic, as governments imposed travel restrictions and airlines grounded scores of flights. But all sectors of the economy took a hit with nearly 60,000 construction workers filing jobless claims and 6,520 people who work in agriculture. Meanwhile, the number of unemployed in Spain hit 3.54 million in March, the labour ministry said. The monthly figure is a different measure from the quarterly unemployment rate, which is based on surveys and stood at 13.8 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2019, according to national statistics institute INE. That is the second-highest jobless rate in the eurozone after Greece. The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 mark. Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy

Spain posts record rise in jobless claims in March

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Wuhan coronavirus cases are blowing up. Not in China but around the world. China used to be the epicentre of this outbreak but not anymore. The worst-hit country is now America.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-death-toll-hits-9053-as-virus-cases-pass-100000-289896">Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000</a>

With the highest number of cases. The Wuhan virus has killed more people in America, than in 9/11 or the Vietnam war.

And New York, not Wuhan, is the world's worst-hit city. Tonight on gravitas - we will take you inside the new epicentre of the Wuhan virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-records-highest-single-day-death-toll-as-trump-says-painful-two-weeks-ahead-289801">Also Read:&nbsp;US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

In New York City, forklifts are being used to lift body bags. The bodies of victims are being loaded into refrigerated trucks. These are makeshift morgues.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fears-second-wave-of-coronavirus-infections-reports-on-asymptomatic-cases-289838">Also read:&nbsp;China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases</a>

There are more than 75 thousand confirmed cases in New York, that's way more than Wuhan. More than one thousand people have died. And - New York doesn't know what to do with the dead bodies.

A hospital in Brooklyn moved a dead body inside a refrigerated truck. The death toll is expected to rise. So hospitals are preparing for it.

A hospital in Manhattan has created a makeshift morgue outside its facility. They have erected tents to keep the dead bodies.&nbsp;

Every day, the situation is getting worse. New York is unable to keep up with the growing number of cases.

So, makeshift arrangements are being made. China built a hospital in less than two weeks. New Yorkers is erecting tents. This one is in the iconic central park. The most visited urban park in the united states.

These tents are supposed to serve as an emergency field hospital.No one is safe from the coronavirus. From the poor to the rich.

On Tuesday, this crisis took a personal turn for the governor of New York Andrew Cuomo. His brother &nbsp;— and news anchor Chris Cuomo tested positive. The city that never sleeps is being forced to stay inside. New York authorities say they will build eight temporary hospitals.

But, it might be too late. The hospitals are overwhelmed. Doctors are running short of supplies. The people are sacred.

On Monday — dozens of workers at Amazon staged a walkout. They are demanding better safeguards against the coronavirus. Online delivery is in high demand. But the workers do not feel safe on the job. Health workers too are worried about their safety. A nurse, working in a new york hospital says the situation is out of control.

The Wuhan coronavirus cases are blowing up. Not in China but around the world. China used to be the epicentre of this outbreak but not anymore. The worst-hit country is now America.

The Wuhan coronavirus cases are blowing up. Not in China but around the world. China used to be the epicentre of this outbreak but not anymore. The worst-hit country is now America. Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000 With the highest number of cases. The Wuhan virus has killed more people in America, than in 9/11 or the Vietnam war. And New York, not Wuhan, is the world's worst-hit city. Tonight on gravitas - we will take you inside the new epicentre of the Wuhan virus. Also Read: US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead In New York City, forklifts are being used to lift body bags. The bodies of victims are being loaded into refrigerated trucks. These are makeshift morgues. Also read: China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases There are more than 75 thousand confirmed cases in New York, that's way more than Wuhan. More than one thousand people have died. And - New York doesn't know what to do with the dead bodies. A hospital in Brooklyn moved a dead body inside a refrigerated truck. The death toll is expected to rise. So hospitals are preparing for it. A hospital in Manhattan has created a makeshift morgue outside its facility. They have erected tents to keep the dead bodies. Every day, the situation is getting worse. New York is unable to keep up with the growing number of cases. So, makeshift arrangements are being made. China built a hospital in less than two weeks. New Yorkers is erecting tents. This one is in the iconic central park. The most visited urban park in the united states. These tents are supposed to serve as an emergency field hospital.No one is safe from the coronavirus. From the poor to the rich. On Tuesday, this crisis took a personal turn for the governor of New York Andrew Cuomo. His brother — and news anchor Chris Cuomo tested positive. The city that never sleeps is being forced to stay inside. New York authorities say they will build eight temporary hospitals. But, it might be too late. The hospitals are overwhelmed. Doctors are running short of supplies. The people are sacred. On Monday — dozens of workers at Amazon staged a walkout. They are demanding better safeguards against the coronavirus. Online delivery is in high demand. But the workers do not feel safe on the job. Health workers too are worried about their safety. A nurse, working in a new york hospital says the situation is out of control.

Coronavirus deaths in the US cross 9/11 toll; New York the new epicentre

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

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

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

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

World-renowned virologist Gita Ramjee has become the first Indian-origin South African to have died after contracting the novel coronavirus that has killed five people in the country. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Ramjee, a stellar vaccine scientist and an HIV prevention research leader, had returned from London a week ago but reportedly showed no symptoms of COVID-19. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Ramjee, 64, was the Clinical Trials Unit Principal Investigator and Unit Director of the HIV Prevention Research Unit of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) offices in Durban. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
"We are deeply saddened to inform you of the tragic passing of Prof Gita Ramjee in hospital today," said a statement issued by SAMRC President and CEO Glenda Gray. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
"Prof Ramjee died of COVID-19 related complications," Gray added. 
&nbsp; 
In 2018, Ramjee was presented with the Outstanding Female Scientist Award in Lisbon by the European Development Clinical Trials Partnerships (EDCTP) for her lifetime commitment to finding new HIV prevention methods, which are conducive to the lifestyles, circumstances and perceived risk factors that South African women are faced with. 
&nbsp; 
"This award is an acknowledgement of the unwavering determination by a global community to forever change the trajectory of the HIV/AIDS epidemic," she had said at the time. 
&nbsp; 
"Professor Gita Ramjee is a towering HIV prevention research leader whose work continues to contribute immensely to the global response to curb the HIV/AIDS epidemic," Gray had said after the Indian-origin scientist received the award. 
&nbsp; 
Ramjee was married to pharmacist Pravin Ramjee, a South African of Indian descent. 
&nbsp; 
Her funeral arrangements have not been announced. Attendance at funerals in South Africa is highly restricted and requires permits as the country is going through a 21-day nationwide lockdown announced last week by President Cyril Ramaphosa. 
&nbsp; 
Five South Africans have died from COVID-19 since Sunday, the third day of the lockdown. Over 13,50 cases have been reported in the country so far. 
&nbsp; 
The South African government on Tuesday announced that it will double to 10,000 the teams going door-to-door to test people for COVID-19, mainly in the overcrowded Black townships created during the apartheid era. 
&nbsp; 
On Sunday evening, in a national broadcast, Ramaphosa cautioned thousands of South Africans who have not been taking the lockdown seriously. 
&nbsp; 
The death toll from the rapidly-spreading coronavirus pandemic has risen to 41,654 and over 850,580 people have been infected by the deadly virus, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

World-renowned virologist Gita Ramjee has become the first Indian-origin South African to have died after contracting the novel coronavirus that has killed five people in the country.

World-renowned virologist Gita Ramjee has become the first Indian-origin South African to have died after contracting the novel coronavirus that has killed five people in the country. Ramjee, a stellar vaccine scientist and an HIV prevention research leader, had returned from London a week ago but reportedly showed no symptoms of COVID-19. Ramjee, 64, was the Clinical Trials Unit Principal Investigator and Unit Director of the HIV Prevention Research Unit of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) offices in Durban. "We are deeply saddened to inform you of the tragic passing of Prof Gita Ramjee in hospital today," said a statement issued by SAMRC President and CEO Glenda Gray. "Prof Ramjee died of COVID-19 related complications," Gray added. In 2018, Ramjee was presented with the Outstanding Female Scientist Award in Lisbon by the European Development Clinical Trials Partnerships (EDCTP) for her lifetime commitment to finding new HIV prevention methods, which are conducive to the lifestyles, circumstances and perceived risk factors that South African women are faced with. "This award is an acknowledgement of the unwavering determination by a global community to forever change the trajectory of the HIV/AIDS epidemic," she had said at the time. "Professor Gita Ramjee is a towering HIV prevention research leader whose work continues to contribute immensely to the global response to curb the HIV/AIDS epidemic," Gray had said after the Indian-origin scientist received the award. Ramjee was married to pharmacist Pravin Ramjee, a South African of Indian descent. Her funeral arrangements have not been announced. Attendance at funerals in South Africa is highly restricted and requires permits as the country is going through a 21-day nationwide lockdown announced last week by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Five South Africans have died from COVID-19 since Sunday, the third day of the lockdown. Over 13,50 cases have been reported in the country so far. The South African government on Tuesday announced that it will double to 10,000 the teams going door-to-door to test people for COVID-19, mainly in the overcrowded Black townships created during the apartheid era. On Sunday evening, in a national broadcast, Ramaphosa cautioned thousands of South Africans who have not been taking the lockdown seriously. The death toll from the rapidly-spreading coronavirus pandemic has risen to 41,654 and over 850,580 people have been infected by the deadly virus, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

Indian-origin HIV scientist Gita Ramjee dies from coronavirus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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