Makeshift hospitals pop-up across the globe to handle surge in COVID-19 patients

The government authorities in Turkmenistan have banned the use of the word "coronavirus" and have excluded it from being used by media or medical bulletins while denying the presence of coronavirus in the country. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-800000-death-toll-rises-to-40636-289725">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636</a>

According to media reports, the government is also arresting people for wearing face masks or talking about the pandemic in public.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-lockdown-hardens-as-spain-sees-deadliest-day-289699">Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day</a>

Media houses are calling it a radical move by Central Asian country to suppress all information about the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infection-rate-slows-down-in-australia-289581">Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia</a>

The official brochure of Turkmenistan's Ministry of Health has dropped any mention of the coronavirus in the information section about the prevention of viral diseases.

At a time when governments around the world are working to curb the growing coronavirus pandemic, Turkmenistan's leaders have taken extraordinary steps to suppress information about the virus.

"The Turkmen authorities have lived up to their reputation by adopting this extreme method for eradicating all information about the coronavirus," Jeanne Cavelier, the head of Reporters Without Borders' Eastern Europe and Central Asia desk, said in a Tuesday statement.

Meanwhile, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered.

The government authorities in Turkmenistan have banned the use of the word "coronavirus" and have excluded it from being used by media or medical bulletins while denying the presence of coronavirus in the country.

The government authorities in Turkmenistan have banned the use of the word "coronavirus" and have excluded it from being used by media or medical bulletins while denying the presence of coronavirus in the country. Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636 According to media reports, the government is also arresting people for wearing face masks or talking about the pandemic in public. Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day Media houses are calling it a radical move by Central Asian country to suppress all information about the pandemic. Also read: Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia The official brochure of Turkmenistan's Ministry of Health has dropped any mention of the coronavirus in the information section about the prevention of viral diseases. At a time when governments around the world are working to curb the growing coronavirus pandemic, Turkmenistan's leaders have taken extraordinary steps to suppress information about the virus. "The Turkmen authorities have lived up to their reputation by adopting this extreme method for eradicating all information about the coronavirus," Jeanne Cavelier, the head of Reporters Without Borders' Eastern Europe and Central Asia desk, said in a Tuesday statement. Meanwhile, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered.

This Central Asian country banned the word 'coronavirus' to suppress information about the pandemic

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 8 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-lockdown-hardens-as-spain-sees-deadliest-day-289699">Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day</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. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infection-rate-slows-down-in-australia-289581">Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia</a> 
&nbsp; 
Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 
 
Watch: Coronavirus brought world's most powerful countries to their knees!

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Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

A total of 164,610 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 11,591 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Spain, whose outbreak is the world's second-deadliest after Italy, broke another national record of 849 deaths in one day Tuesday bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 8,189, dampening hopes it could have passed the peak of the crisis that has debilitated the country for weeks.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 8 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day 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.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 8 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day 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. Also read: Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Watch: Coronavirus brought world's most powerful countries to their knees! × Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. A total of 164,610 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 11,591 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. Spain, whose outbreak is the world's second-deadliest after Italy, broke another national record of 849 deaths in one day Tuesday bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 8,189, dampening hopes it could have passed the peak of the crisis that has debilitated the country for weeks.

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636

As India proactively battles coronavirus, flattening the curve of cases seems to be getting difficult with each passing day.

The total number of cases in India has climbed up to 1397 with 35 people reported dead due to COVID-19. At present, there are over 1238 active cases in the country with 123 recovered patients.&nbsp;

However, India's trajectory is flatter than that of the United States.&nbsp; 
 
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Yet, given the volatility in India's daily data, it is too early to say whether the current trajectory will sustain, rise or flatten in the coming days. 
&nbsp; 
Take a look at India's curve, the growth in cases has neither been exponential nor has it flattened out. The curve lies somewhere in the middle.

The US shows an exponential increase in the number of cases, whereas, India remains uniquely placed.

The US is now leading the world in coronavirus cases and several experts feel that Trump’s administration was late in taking the decision.

Although India has conducted a limited number of tests and at the same time, it has a very low percentage of positive cases among those tested with a population of more than one billion, India has not yet seen infections on the scale that the United States is experiencing.&nbsp;

Let’s take a look at the number of cases of both India and the US on specific dates.

On January 30, India had reported its first case where the US had its 7th virus case by March 10, the confirmed cases in India rose to 50 while the US had 937 coronavirus cases.

On March 25, 606 people were reported to have been infected in India whereas, more than 68,000 have already been infected by the deadly virus in the US.

And over the next five days, the number of cases in the US surged to make it the new epicentre of the coronavirus with India's confirmed cases standing at over 1,000.

According to a study by a Washington University, as many as 2,300 patients could be dying in the US every day by April.

With the death toll in the US is soaring, president trump has sealed the nation for an extended shutdown through April. The US Now has more than 140,000 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus and accounts for nearly one if five cases reported worldwide.

As India proactively battles coronavirus, flattening the curve of cases seems to be getting difficult with each passing day. The total number of cases in India has climbed up to 1397 with 35 people reported dead due to COVID-19.

As India proactively battles coronavirus, flattening the curve of cases seems to be getting difficult with each passing day. The total number of cases in India has climbed up to 1397 with 35 people reported dead due to COVID-19. At present, there are over 1238 active cases in the country with 123 recovered patients. However, India's trajectory is flatter than that of the United States. Yet, given the volatility in India's daily data, it is too early to say whether the current trajectory will sustain, rise or flatten in the coming days. Take a look at India's curve, the growth in cases has neither been exponential nor has it flattened out. The curve lies somewhere in the middle. The US shows an exponential increase in the number of cases, whereas, India remains uniquely placed. The US is now leading the world in coronavirus cases and several experts feel that Trump’s administration was late in taking the decision. Although India has conducted a limited number of tests and at the same time, it has a very low percentage of positive cases among those tested with a population of more than one billion, India has not yet seen infections on the scale that the United States is experiencing. Let’s take a look at the number of cases of both India and the US on specific dates. On January 30, India had reported its first case where the US had its 7th virus case by March 10, the confirmed cases in India rose to 50 while the US had 937 coronavirus cases. On March 25, 606 people were reported to have been infected in India whereas, more than 68,000 have already been infected by the deadly virus in the US. And over the next five days, the number of cases in the US surged to make it the new epicentre of the coronavirus with India's confirmed cases standing at over 1,000. According to a study by a Washington University, as many as 2,300 patients could be dying in the US every day by April. With the death toll in the US is soaring, president trump has sealed the nation for an extended shutdown through April. The US Now has more than 140,000 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus and accounts for nearly one if five cases reported worldwide.

Confirmed coronavirus cases growing faster in the United States than India

The Wuhan coronavirus has exposed a leadership crisis in many parts of the world. Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than Pakistan.&nbsp;

The country has 1900 active cases and has recorded 25 deaths — it is among the worst-affected nations in South Asia. But Pakistan is not under a lockdown. 
&nbsp; 
Because their prime minister still hasn't figured out the meaning of one. First, he kept arguing on the difference between a lockdown and a curfew. 
&nbsp; 
Now Imran Khan is indulging in petty politics. The Pakistani prime minister is citing India's example to say why a lockdown won't work.

The Prime Minister’s Office also put this out on Twitter.&nbsp;

“We can see the consequences of India's hasty decision of imposing a complete lockdown. Their government had to apologise for their unplanned decision. We must learn and fight this pandemic with wisdom and not in haste,” Pakistan PMO wrote the micro-blogging site. 
&nbsp; 
In India, there's no debate on whether or not we needed a lockdown. The questions are over implementation. And in some cases, they're fair questions. 
&nbsp; 
Having said that, imperfect implementation is any day better than being told. Use faith to fight the virus. That's what the Pakistani PM is telling his people. 
&nbsp; 
That's his strategy fight with your faith but it's hard to have faith when the govt deputes a scam-accused minister to lead the fight. One who was accused of smuggling 20 million masks. Given the record, faith may be too much to ask for.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
As for India, the prime minister did apologise — not for the lockdown, but the inconvenience, it may have caused to the citizens of India. 
&nbsp; 
Imran Khan got WION banned in Pakistan. But he may want to watch local channels once in a while to understand what is going on. 
&nbsp; 
Geo-news — Pakistan's biggest tv network called out Imran khan's false claims about PM Modi's apology.&nbsp;

And since we're discussing apologies. The Pakistani prime minister owes one to the minority communities in his country. The Hindus and Christians. 
&nbsp; 
There are hundreds of Hindu &amp; Christian families who are being refused medical aid amid the coronavirus crisis. 
&nbsp; 
Due to travel restrictions — many minority-workers have lost their only source of livelihood. Multiple reports of Pakistani NGOs denying food to these workers have emerged. Welfare organisations are giving ration-cards reportedly only to Muslim citizens.

The Wuhan coronavirus has exposed a leadership crisis in many parts of the world. Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than Pakistan. The country has 1900 active cases and has recorded 25 deaths — it is among the worst-affected nations in South Asia.

The Wuhan coronavirus has exposed a leadership crisis in many parts of the world. Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than Pakistan. The country has 1900 active cases and has recorded 25 deaths — it is among the worst-affected nations in South Asia. But Pakistan is not under a lockdown. Because their prime minister still hasn't figured out the meaning of one. First, he kept arguing on the difference between a lockdown and a curfew. Now Imran Khan is indulging in petty politics. The Pakistani prime minister is citing India's example to say why a lockdown won't work. The Prime Minister’s Office also put this out on Twitter. “We can see the consequences of India's hasty decision of imposing a complete lockdown. Their government had to apologise for their unplanned decision. We must learn and fight this pandemic with wisdom and not in haste,” Pakistan PMO wrote the micro-blogging site. In India, there's no debate on whether or not we needed a lockdown. The questions are over implementation. And in some cases, they're fair questions. Having said that, imperfect implementation is any day better than being told. Use faith to fight the virus. That's what the Pakistani PM is telling his people. That's his strategy fight with your faith but it's hard to have faith when the govt deputes a scam-accused minister to lead the fight. One who was accused of smuggling 20 million masks. Given the record, faith may be too much to ask for. As for India, the prime minister did apologise — not for the lockdown, but the inconvenience, it may have caused to the citizens of India. Imran Khan got WION banned in Pakistan. But he may want to watch local channels once in a while to understand what is going on. Geo-news — Pakistan's biggest tv network called out Imran khan's false claims about PM Modi's apology. And since we're discussing apologies. The Pakistani prime minister owes one to the minority communities in his country. The Hindus and Christians. There are hundreds of Hindu & Christian families who are being refused medical aid amid the coronavirus crisis. Due to travel restrictions — many minority-workers have lost their only source of livelihood. Multiple reports of Pakistani NGOs denying food to these workers have emerged. Welfare organisations are giving ration-cards reportedly only to Muslim citizens.

Coronavirus outbreak exposes leadership crisis in Pakistan

Spain confirmed another 812 deaths in 24 hours from COVID-19 on Monday, bringing the total number of deaths to 7,340, according to health ministry figures.

Your Story: Spain death toll two times more than China

Tightened lockdowns across the planet saw nearly half of humanity told to stay at home in a bid to stem the spiralling coronavirus pandemic, as Spain recorded its deadliest day Tuesday and the United States braced for the full impact of the disease.&nbsp;

The virus has claimed nearly 38,000 lives worldwide in a health crisis that is rapidly reorganising political power, hammering the global economy and the daily existence of some 3.6 billion people.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infection-rate-slows-down-in-australia-289581">Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia</a>

Spain, whose outbreak is the world's second-deadliest after Italy, broke another national record of 849 deaths in one day Tuesday, dampening hopes it could have passed the peak of the crisis that has debilitated the country for weeks.&nbsp;

In battered Italy, flags flew at half-mast during a minute of silence to honour the more than 11,500 people who have perished from the virus, and the health workers still working through nightmarish conditions.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prince-charles-is-now-out-of-virus-isolation-reports-289575">Prince Charles is now out of virus isolation</a>

Although there are signs the spread of infections is slowing in Italy, hundreds are still dying every day, leading authorities to extend a stringent nationwide shutdown despite its crushing economic impact.&nbsp;

Watch: Coronavirus brought world's most powerful countries to their knees!

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In Belgium, a 12-year-old girl infected with COVID-19 was pronounced dead, a rare case of a young person succumbing to the disease, and yet another grim reminder of its reach.&nbsp;

'We need help now'

Across the Atlantic, the United States was preparing for its darkest days after the death toll topped 3,000 out of 163,000 known infections -- the highest case count for any country.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-to-roll-out-application-that-can-track-potential-coronavirus-cases-289585">Ireland to roll out application that can track potential coronavirus cases</a>

Scenes previously unimaginable in peacetime -- such as a field hospital set to open in Central Park -- shook frightened New Yorkers hunkered down in an eerily quiet city.&nbsp;

A US military medical ship with 1,000 beds also docked in Manhattan to relieve pressure on the city's overwhelmed health system.

The city's food banks are seeing a surge of newcomers who have lost income as the world's financial capital shuts down.

"It is my first time," Lina Alba, a 40-year-old single mother of five, said at a food distribution centre run by the New York charity City Harvest.

She worked as a maid in a Manhattan hotel until it closed two weeks ago.&nbsp;

"We need the help now. This is crazy. So we don't know what's gonna happen in a few weeks."

'Challenging times ahead'

In the state of Maryland, alarm bells rang after 67 residents of a retirement home tested positive for the virus, with one 90-year-old man dying at the weekend.&nbsp;

Maryland joined Virginia and Washington DC to become the latest parts of the US to impose stay-at-home orders, putting three-quarters of Americans under some form of lockdown.

President Donald Trump sought to reassure Americans that authorities were ramping up distribution of desperately needed equipment such as ventilators and personal protective gear.

But he also offered a stark warning, saying "challenging times are ahead for the next 30 days" as he acknowledged a potential nationwide stay-at-home order.&nbsp;

"We're sort of putting it all on the line," Trump said, again likening the efforts against coronavirus to a "war."

'I cried getting ready'

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases around is now approaching 38,000 deaths, according to a Johns Hopkins University tracker.

Health systems are in overdrive as exhausted medical professionals make grim decisions about how to distribute limited protective gear and life-saving respirators.&nbsp;

"Waking up this morning I cried. I cried eating breakfast. I cried getting ready," French nurse Elise Cordier confessed on Facebook in a post that revealed the fear and anguish of those on the front line.&nbsp;

But, she said, once in "the hospital locker room, I dried my tears. I breathed in. I breathed out. The people in the hospital beds are crying too, and it is I who am there to dry their tears."

World leaders -- several of whom have been stricken or forced into isolation -- are still grappling for ways to deal with a crisis that is generating economic and social shockwaves unseen since World War II.

Finance ministers and central bankers from the world's 20 major economies were to hold a second round of virtual talks Tuesday to forge a plan for confronting the crisis.&nbsp;

Last week, G20 leaders pledged to inject $5 trillion into the global economy in hopes of heading off a deep recession.

The virus has seen global markets plunging in recent weeks, although trillions of dollars pledged to offset the economic impact have provided some semblance of stability.

Experts in Germany, Europe's economic powerhouse, said the virus would shrink output there this year by up to 5.4 per cent.

'We need the help now'

Amid a global tussle for medical gear, Trump said would send some excess shipments of equipment to hard-hit Italy, France and Spain.

European nations, meanwhile, delivered medical goods to badly-affected Iran in the first transaction under the Instex mechanism set up to bypass US sanctions on Tehran.

The number of cases in Iran has surpassed 44,000, with US sanctions complicating efforts to rein in the virus' spread.&nbsp;

The economic pain of lockdowns is especially acute in impoverished cities in Africa and Asia.

Africa's biggest city Lagos, joined the global stay-at-home, with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari ordering a two-week lockdown for its 20 million people. The measures also apply to the capital Abuja.

"Two weeks is too long. I don't know how we will cope," said student Abdul Rahim, 25, as he helped his sister sell food from a market stall.

Poverty-stricken Zimbabwe also began enforcing a three-week lockdown.

"They need to be fed, but there is nothing to eat," Irene Ruwisi said in the township of Mbare, pointing to her four grandchildren. "How do they expect us to survive?"

Tightened lockdowns across the planet saw nearly half of humanity told to stay at home in a bid to stem the spiralling coronavirus pandemic, as Spain recorded its deadliest day Tuesday and the United States braced for the full impact of the disease.

Tightened lockdowns across the planet saw nearly half of humanity told to stay at home in a bid to stem the spiralling coronavirus pandemic, as Spain recorded its deadliest day Tuesday and the United States braced for the full impact of the disease. The virus has claimed nearly 38,000 lives worldwide in a health crisis that is rapidly reorganising political power, hammering the global economy and the daily existence of some 3.6 billion people. Also read: Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia Spain, whose outbreak is the world's second-deadliest after Italy, broke another national record of 849 deaths in one day Tuesday, dampening hopes it could have passed the peak of the crisis that has debilitated the country for weeks. In battered Italy, flags flew at half-mast during a minute of silence to honour the more than 11,500 people who have perished from the virus, and the health workers still working through nightmarish conditions. Also read: Prince Charles is now out of virus isolation Although there are signs the spread of infections is slowing in Italy, hundreds are still dying every day, leading authorities to extend a stringent nationwide shutdown despite its crushing economic impact. Watch: Coronavirus brought world's most powerful countries to their knees! × In Belgium, a 12-year-old girl infected with COVID-19 was pronounced dead, a rare case of a young person succumbing to the disease, and yet another grim reminder of its reach. 'We need help now' Across the Atlantic, the United States was preparing for its darkest days after the death toll topped 3,000 out of 163,000 known infections -- the highest case count for any country. Also read: Ireland to roll out application that can track potential coronavirus cases Scenes previously unimaginable in peacetime -- such as a field hospital set to open in Central Park -- shook frightened New Yorkers hunkered down in an eerily quiet city. A US military medical ship with 1,000 beds also docked in Manhattan to relieve pressure on the city's overwhelmed health system. The city's food banks are seeing a surge of newcomers who have lost income as the world's financial capital shuts down. "It is my first time," Lina Alba, a 40-year-old single mother of five, said at a food distribution centre run by the New York charity City Harvest. She worked as a maid in a Manhattan hotel until it closed two weeks ago. "We need the help now. This is crazy. So we don't know what's gonna happen in a few weeks." 'Challenging times ahead' In the state of Maryland, alarm bells rang after 67 residents of a retirement home tested positive for the virus, with one 90-year-old man dying at the weekend. Maryland joined Virginia and Washington DC to become the latest parts of the US to impose stay-at-home orders, putting three-quarters of Americans under some form of lockdown. President Donald Trump sought to reassure Americans that authorities were ramping up distribution of desperately needed equipment such as ventilators and personal protective gear. But he also offered a stark warning, saying "challenging times are ahead for the next 30 days" as he acknowledged a potential nationwide stay-at-home order. "We're sort of putting it all on the line," Trump said, again likening the efforts against coronavirus to a "war." 'I cried getting ready' The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases around is now approaching 38,000 deaths, according to a Johns Hopkins University tracker. Health systems are in overdrive as exhausted medical professionals make grim decisions about how to distribute limited protective gear and life-saving respirators. "Waking up this morning I cried. I cried eating breakfast. I cried getting ready," French nurse Elise Cordier confessed on Facebook in a post that revealed the fear and anguish of those on the front line. But, she said, once in "the hospital locker room, I dried my tears. I breathed in. I breathed out. The people in the hospital beds are crying too, and it is I who am there to dry their tears." World leaders -- several of whom have been stricken or forced into isolation -- are still grappling for ways to deal with a crisis that is generating economic and social shockwaves unseen since World War II. Finance ministers and central bankers from the world's 20 major economies were to hold a second round of virtual talks Tuesday to forge a plan for confronting the crisis. Last week, G20 leaders pledged to inject $5 trillion into the global economy in hopes of heading off a deep recession. The virus has seen global markets plunging in recent weeks, although trillions of dollars pledged to offset the economic impact have provided some semblance of stability. Experts in Germany, Europe's economic powerhouse, said the virus would shrink output there this year by up to 5.4 per cent. 'We need the help now' Amid a global tussle for medical gear, Trump said would send some excess shipments of equipment to hard-hit Italy, France and Spain. European nations, meanwhile, delivered medical goods to badly-affected Iran in the first transaction under the Instex mechanism set up to bypass US sanctions on Tehran. The number of cases in Iran has surpassed 44,000, with US sanctions complicating efforts to rein in the virus' spread. The economic pain of lockdowns is especially acute in impoverished cities in Africa and Asia. Africa's biggest city Lagos, joined the global stay-at-home, with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari ordering a two-week lockdown for its 20 million people. The measures also apply to the capital Abuja. "Two weeks is too long. I don't know how we will cope," said student Abdul Rahim, 25, as he helped his sister sell food from a market stall. Poverty-stricken Zimbabwe also began enforcing a three-week lockdown. "They need to be fed, but there is nothing to eat," Irene Ruwisi said in the township of Mbare, pointing to her four grandchildren. "How do they expect us to survive?"

Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day

Spain, Europe's second-worst coronavirus-hit country, announced 812 new deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total toll to 7,340.

Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus has gripped another European country as the death toll in Belgium passes 500 with nearly 12,000 cases.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/princess-maria-teresa-of-spain-becomes-first-royal-to-die-from-covid-19-289232">Princess Maria Teresa of Spain becomes first royal to die from COVID-19</a>

The latest number of deaths in the 24-hour period in Spain is the first decline since Thursday. On Sunday, Spain confirmed 838 deaths.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-announces-record-838-coronavirus-deaths-in-24-hours-289308">Spain announces record 838 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours</a>

The total number of positive cases in Spain stands at 85,195 and the officials hoped that the peak of the outbreak is approaching.&nbsp;

Spain is currently under a near-total lockdown that was imposed on March 14, banning people to go outside their homes except to work, buy food and medicine or look after a sick relative.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday announced stricter lockdown measures, which will force all non-essential workers to stay at home for the next two weeks.

In Belgium, health authorities said on Monday that so far, 513 COVID-19 deaths had been reported and 11,899 people tested positive.&nbsp;

Stressing that the infections in Belgium have not yet peaked, the officials, however, said that patients admitted to hospitals and intensive care units&nbsp;had slowed down in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

Earlier, Belgium extended lockdown measures on Friday for two weeks to April 18 to contain the spread of the virus.

Schools, restaurants and most shops are shut down and the entry to supermarkets is restricted so that social distancing can be maintained.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Spain, Europe's second-worst coronavirus-hit country, announced 812 new deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total toll to 7,340. Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus has gripped another European country as the death toll in Belgium passes 500 with nearly 12,000 cases.

Spain, Europe's second-worst coronavirus-hit country, announced 812 new deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total toll to 7,340. Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus has gripped another European country as the death toll in Belgium passes 500 with nearly 12,000 cases. Also read | Princess Maria Teresa of Spain becomes first royal to die from COVID-19 The latest number of deaths in the 24-hour period in Spain is the first decline since Thursday. On Sunday, Spain confirmed 838 deaths. Also read | Spain announces record 838 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours The total number of positive cases in Spain stands at 85,195 and the officials hoped that the peak of the outbreak is approaching. Spain is currently under a near-total lockdown that was imposed on March 14, banning people to go outside their homes except to work, buy food and medicine or look after a sick relative. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday announced stricter lockdown measures, which will force all non-essential workers to stay at home for the next two weeks. In Belgium, health authorities said on Monday that so far, 513 COVID-19 deaths had been reported and 11,899 people tested positive. Stressing that the infections in Belgium have not yet peaked, the officials, however, said that patients admitted to hospitals and intensive care units had slowed down in the last 24 hours. Earlier, Belgium extended lockdown measures on Friday for two weeks to April 18 to contain the spread of the virus. Schools, restaurants and most shops are shut down and the entry to supermarkets is restricted so that social distancing can be maintained.

Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lockdown-measures-will-be-in-place-for-significant-period-government-289298">UK lockdown measures will be in place for 'significant period': Government</a>

The British government on Sunday said that the coronavirus lockdown could last a "significant" time as a leading expert warned it could be in place until June.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-announces-record-838-coronavirus-deaths-in-24-hours-289308">Spain announces record 838 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours</a>

Spain on Sunday announced another 838 deaths in 24 hours from coronavirus on Sunday, a new daily record bringing the total number of deaths to 6,528, according to health ministry figures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-coronavirus-outbreak-under-control-as-cases-rise-to-1526-289328">Pakistan says coronavirus outbreak under control as cases rise to 1,526</a>

Prime Minister's Adviser on Health Dr Zafar Mirza told the media at the daily press briefing that due to the effective measures by the government, the virus outbreak was under control in Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-trying-to-keep-our-heads-above-water-us-healthcare-workers-fight-shortages-and-fear-289325">'We're trying to keep our heads above water': US healthcare workers fight shortages and fear</a>

U.S. nurses and doctors on the front lines of the battle against the new coronavirus that has infected tens of thousands of Americans and killed hundreds are shellshocked by the damage that the virus wreaks - on patients, their families and themselves.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-security-forces-searching-for-54-escaped-inmates-following-prison-break-289326">Iran security forces searching for 54 escaped inmates following prison break</a>

Iranian security forces are searching for 54 escaped inmates following a prison break over which four guards were arrested, news agency AFP reported quoting&nbsp;Iran's state news agency on Sunday.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

UK lockdown measures will be in place for 'significant period': Government The British government on Sunday said that the coronavirus lockdown could last a "significant" time as a leading expert warned it could be in place until June.

UK lockdown measures will be in place for 'significant period': Government The British government on Sunday said that the coronavirus lockdown could last a "significant" time as a leading expert warned it could be in place until June. Spain announces record 838 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours Spain on Sunday announced another 838 deaths in 24 hours from coronavirus on Sunday, a new daily record bringing the total number of deaths to 6,528, according to health ministry figures. Pakistan says coronavirus outbreak under control as cases rise to 1,526 Prime Minister's Adviser on Health Dr Zafar Mirza told the media at the daily press briefing that due to the effective measures by the government, the virus outbreak was under control in Pakistan. 'We're trying to keep our heads above water': US healthcare workers fight shortages and fear U.S. nurses and doctors on the front lines of the battle against the new coronavirus that has infected tens of thousands of Americans and killed hundreds are shellshocked by the damage that the virus wreaks - on patients, their families and themselves. Iran security forces searching for 54 escaped inmates following prison break Iranian security forces are searching for 54 escaped inmates following a prison break over which four guards were arrested, news agency AFP reported quoting Iran's state news agency on Sunday.

Top world news: UK to extend lockdown, Spain announces record toll, and more

Spanish Princess Maria Teresa of Bourbon-Parma has become the first royal to pass away due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-drops-idea-of-new-york-lockdown-as-us-death-count-crosses-2000-289203">coronavirus</a> complications. 
 
According to the news agency, the 86-year-old was a cousin of Spain`s King Felipe VI. Her brother Prince Sixto Enrique de Borbon, the Duke of Aranjuez, announced on Facebook that she died after contracting COVID-19.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/initiatives-taken-by-global-icons-to-combat-coronavirus-pandemic-287487" hreflang="en">Initiatives taken by global icons&nbsp;to combat coronavirus pandemic</a>

The post reads, "On this afternoon... our sister Maria Teresa de Borbon Parma and Borbon Busset, a victim of the coronavirus COVID-19, died in Paris at the age of eighty-six."Princess Teresa`s death comes weeks after King Felipe VI of Spain tested negative for the virus.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/8-new-web-shows-films-to-watch-as-you-quarantine-at-home-287555">8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home</a> 
 
According to the magazine, Born on July 28, 1933, Princess Maria Teresa studied in France and became a professor at Paris&nbsp;Sorbonne as well as a professor of Sociology at Madrid's Complutense University. 
 
She was known for her outspoken views and activist work, which led to her nickname the "Red Princess."A funeral service for the princess was held on Friday in Madrid. 
 
Meanwhile, Prince Charles became the first British royal to be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-charles-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-288441">tested positive</a> for the coronavirus, earlier this week. 
 
The Clarence House confirmed the same the news agency in a statement issued on Wednesday morning that reads, "The Prince of Wales has tested positive for Coronavirus. He has been displaying mild symptoms but otherwise remains in good health and has been working from home throughout the last few days as usual." 
 
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson told the news agency, that Prince Charles&nbsp;mother, Queen Elizabeth II, remains in a healthy condition despite her son testing positive.

Spanish Princess Maria Teresa of Bourbon-Parma has become the first royal to pass away due to coronavirus complications. According to the news agency, the 86-year-old was a cousin of Spain`s King Felipe VI.

Spanish Princess Maria Teresa of Bourbon-Parma has become the first royal to pass away due to coronavirus complications. According to the news agency, the 86-year-old was a cousin of Spain`s King Felipe VI. Her brother Prince Sixto Enrique de Borbon, the Duke of Aranjuez, announced on Facebook that she died after contracting COVID-19. In pics: Initiatives taken by global icons to combat coronavirus pandemic The post reads, "On this afternoon... our sister Maria Teresa de Borbon Parma and Borbon Busset, a victim of the coronavirus COVID-19, died in Paris at the age of eighty-six."Princess Teresa`s death comes weeks after King Felipe VI of Spain tested negative for the virus. Also see: 8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home According to the magazine, Born on July 28, 1933, Princess Maria Teresa studied in France and became a professor at Paris Sorbonne as well as a professor of Sociology at Madrid's Complutense University. She was known for her outspoken views and activist work, which led to her nickname the "Red Princess."A funeral service for the princess was held on Friday in Madrid. Meanwhile, Prince Charles became the first British royal to be tested positive for the coronavirus, earlier this week. The Clarence House confirmed the same the news agency in a statement issued on Wednesday morning that reads, "The Prince of Wales has tested positive for Coronavirus. He has been displaying mild symptoms but otherwise remains in good health and has been working from home throughout the last few days as usual." A Buckingham Palace spokesperson told the news agency, that Prince Charles mother, Queen Elizabeth II, remains in a healthy condition despite her son testing positive.

Princess Maria Teresa of Spain becomes first royal to die from COVID-19

Spain on Sunday announced another 838 deaths in 24 hours from coronavirus on Sunday, a new daily record bringing the total number of deaths to 6,528, according to health ministry figures.

Spain on Sunday announced another 838 deaths in 24 hours from coronavirus on Sunday, a new daily record bringing the total number of deaths to 6,528, according to health ministry figures. The number of confirmed cases in Spain has now reached 78,797 -- after the one-day increase of 9.1 per cent -- as the country battles the world's second most deadly outbreak after Italy, according to AFP. Except for a brief lull recorded on Thursday, Spain's death toll has been rising daily. However, the officials have expressed hope that the peak of the outbreak was approaching officials due to the slower growth rate for both deaths and confirmed cases. Spain also reported Sunday that 14,709 people had been cured of COVID-19, a rise of 19.7 per cent in 24 hours. Like Italy, Spain on Saturday tightened measures to contain the outbreak, ordering a halt to all "non-essential" activities. "All workers in non-essential economic activities must stay at home for two weeks," Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said. (With inputs from AFP)

Spain announces record 838 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths.&nbsp;

Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt. Experts fear that the real pain would begin once the outbreak ends. Take a look at this report.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-border-curbs-disrupt-european-union-food-supplies-industry-287413">Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry</a>

The European Union is already a divided group, with the member countries rarely agreeing on major issues. And the EU is failing to prevent an economic collapse, with most of the members suffering from the crisis.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-calls-for-european-unity-suggests-riskiest-weeks-ahead-286761">Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead</a>

Yesterday, the leaders held a video conference and the finance ministers decided to meet after two weeks. Now, imagine, what could happen in two weeks when Italy today witnessed nearly 1,000 deaths.&nbsp;

Hospitals are overcrowded, morgues are full. There is no place to respectfully bury a body but self-interest becomes most important.&nbsp;

The European Central Bank came to the rescue with a fund worth 750 billion euros, but it was set aside. This could have a major consequence on Italy and Spain, who are severely hit by the outbreak.&nbsp;

If we look at the tourism sector, the European economy thrives on it.&nbsp;

However, the pandemic could keep tourists away from the continent for the rest of the year, leading to losses of nearly 12 billion euros. Italy alone could lose 7.4 billion euros from March to May.&nbsp;

The crisis has also hit the auto industry. Major factories were shut as critical imports couldn't be received from China.&nbsp;

Factories shut down to control the spread also added insult to the injury.&nbsp;

The automakers were already suffering from weak global demand and tough emission compliances.&nbsp;

The auto industry is at the heart of Europe's manufacturing sector, employing almost 14 million people.&nbsp;

The consulting sector, one of the most prosperous industry, was also badly hit by the COVID-19 outbreak.

After earning a record revenue of 45 billion dollars last year, nearly one-third of the total, losses worth 30 billion dollars could be seen by the end of 2020. &nbsp;

A 37 billion euros emergency fund was announced by the EU to support the industries majorly hit, but the associations argue that the compensation is not sufficient.&nbsp;

The situation looks grim in Europe and any recovery could take years. &nbsp;

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths. Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt.

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths. Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt. Experts fear that the real pain would begin once the outbreak ends. Take a look at this report. Also read | Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry The European Union is already a divided group, with the member countries rarely agreeing on major issues. And the EU is failing to prevent an economic collapse, with most of the members suffering from the crisis. Also read | Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead Yesterday, the leaders held a video conference and the finance ministers decided to meet after two weeks. Now, imagine, what could happen in two weeks when Italy today witnessed nearly 1,000 deaths. Hospitals are overcrowded, morgues are full. There is no place to respectfully bury a body but self-interest becomes most important. The European Central Bank came to the rescue with a fund worth 750 billion euros, but it was set aside. This could have a major consequence on Italy and Spain, who are severely hit by the outbreak. If we look at the tourism sector, the European economy thrives on it. However, the pandemic could keep tourists away from the continent for the rest of the year, leading to losses of nearly 12 billion euros. Italy alone could lose 7.4 billion euros from March to May. The crisis has also hit the auto industry. Major factories were shut as critical imports couldn't be received from China. Factories shut down to control the spread also added insult to the injury. The automakers were already suffering from weak global demand and tough emission compliances. The auto industry is at the heart of Europe's manufacturing sector, employing almost 14 million people. The consulting sector, one of the most prosperous industry, was also badly hit by the COVID-19 outbreak. After earning a record revenue of 45 billion dollars last year, nearly one-third of the total, losses worth 30 billion dollars could be seen by the end of 2020. A 37 billion euros emergency fund was announced by the EU to support the industries majorly hit, but the associations argue that the compensation is not sufficient. The situation looks grim in Europe and any recovery could take years.

Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends

The death toll from coronavirus in Spain surged over 5,600 on Saturday after a record 832 people died in 24 hours, and the number of infections soared over 72,000, the government said.

The death toll from coronavirus in Spain surged over 5,600 on Saturday after a record 832 people died in 24 hours, and the number of infections soared over 72,000, the government said. The country has the world's second-highest coronavirus death toll after Italy with 5,690 fatalities. The number of confirmed cases have jumped to 72,248 as the country moves to significantly increase testing. Although Spain's latest figures showed a daily increase of more than 8,000 cases, the rate of new infections appears to be slowing, with officials saying the epidemic appeared to be nearing its peak. Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 2,757 deaths and 21,520 infections, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed, and the regional authorities working to open a second temporary morgue in an unused public building near the airport to house the dead. With undertakers also overwhelmed, the government has authorised the army's involvement in the collection and transport of bodies for the duration of the state of emergency. The latest figures came as Spain marked two weeks since the imposition of an unprecedented national lockdown which will remain in place until at least April 11. Earlier on Saturday, Spain received delivery of 1.2 million masks from China for health workers and those in the transport sector, the government said. The delivery, which arrived at Madrid's Barajas airport, includes some 387,000 surgical masks for healthcare personnel, 75,000 masks for the security forces and more than 725,000 for those in the transport sector, from bus drivers to port and airport staff as well as those working for the postal service.

Spain counts 832 deaths in 24 hours, pushing toll to 5,690

The number of people dying from coronavirus rose to 21,000 on Thursday with 15,000 reports coming from&nbsp;Europe only, according to a by AFP.&nbsp;

From New York to Paris to New Delhi life has ground to standstill with some three billion people confined to their homes as governments scramble to halt the disease's deadly march across the world.&nbsp;

The death toll spiralled upward again in&nbsp;Europe, as fatalities in the United Stated shot past 1,000 and cases in Africa continued to multiply, and already-stretched healthcare systems readied for the worst.&nbsp;

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A total of 15,500 fatalities have been reported across Europe, most of them in Italy (8,165) and Spain (4,089), followed by France with 1,331. With &nbsp;268,191 officially declared cases of infection, Europe is the continent worst hit by the virus that first emerged in China in December.

Spain currently has the world's second-highest death toll from the disease after Italy.

Fears are mounting the virus could cause an even greater shock than the Great Depression, with the latest unemployment figures out of the US breaking records as businesses across the world's biggest economy are pinched by the pandemic.&nbsp;

Five patients, one bed

Hard-hit Italy and Spain are living through nightmarish scenarios feared around the globe: health services buckling under the strain of mounting caseloads. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pandemic-will-cut-global-investment-flows-more-than-feared-un-288745">Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says&nbsp;UN</a>

Medical workers are now facing painstaking choices.&nbsp;

"If I've got five patients and only one bed, I have to choose who gets it," Sara Chinchilla, a pediatrician at a hospital near Madrid, told AFP.

"People are dying who could be saved but there's no space in intensive care."

More than 4,000 have died in Spain and over 56,000 are infected.&nbsp;

Health care facilities in Britain could face a similar strain.&nbsp;

The National Health Service said London's hospitals are facing a "continuous tsunami" of seriously ill COVID-19 patients, despite a lockdown imposed this week.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the country could be just a few weeks behind Italy's curve.&nbsp;

Countries are now facing the twin challenge of stemming infections and dealing with the sick while trying to tend to a global economy facing the most devastating recession in living memory.

In a sign of the economic impact, some 3.3 million people in the US filed unemployment claims last week -- the highest number ever recorded.&nbsp;

Bars, shops, hotels and schools have shut across the country -- in line with measures already rolled out across Europe -- and around half the US population is under lockdown.

President Donald Trump, who is seeking reelection in November, said he would decide soon whether unaffected parts of the country can get back to work.

"I'm not going to do anything rash or hastily," he said, adding that he hoped for a recommendation by Easter.

Priests at risk

The global lockdown -- which also hemmed in India's huge population this week -- tightened further on Thursday as Russia announced it was grounding all international flights, while Moscow's mayor ordered the closure of cafes, shops and parks.

Tokyo's millions of citizens have been told to stay home too, just days after the city was forced to postpone the 2020 Olympic Games for a year.

China meanwhile said it was barring entry to most foreigners, fearing that imported cases were undermining the successes it has claimed in bringing domestic transmissions way down.

And South Africa braced for a nationwide lockdown Thursday as its cases climbed to more than 900 -- about a third of Africa's 2,975 cases. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The impact of the virus has stretched well beyond frontline health workers, with billions trapped in their homes and facing what experts say could be lasting psychological harm.

In virus-stricken Italy, clergy members have been among the worst affected. Out of Italy's more than 7,500 deaths, 67 have been priests.

"A priest is always close to the people. For good or bad, it's his raison d'etre," said Monsignor Giulio Dellavite, secretary-general of the diocese of Bergamo, the hardest-hit area in Italy's north.

'Encouraging signs'

But offering a glimmer of hope, both Italy and Spain have seen lower daily rates of new infections this week.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization said there were "encouraging signs" after Italy's latest numbers were released, but warned it was "still too early to say whether the pandemic is peaking".

Even in China, there were signs of cautious optimism.&nbsp;

A two-month-old lockdown has started to ease up in Hubei province, coronavirus ground zero.&nbsp;

But life was still far from normal: banners warn that playing cards together is "suicide" and guards yelled at crowds of people to separate.&nbsp;

The disease has also reached high profile figures, including Britain's heir to the throne Prince Charles who tested positive. &nbsp;

And Pope Francis reportedly tested negative for coronavirus after a person in his residence was said to have contracted it.

The number of people dying from coronavirus rose to 21,000 on Thursday with 15,000 reports coming from Europe only, according to a by AFP. From New York to Paris to New Delhi life has ground to standstill with some three billion people confined to their homes as governments scramble to halt the disease's deadly march across the world.

The number of people dying from coronavirus rose to 21,000 on Thursday with 15,000 reports coming from Europe only, according to a by AFP. From New York to Paris to New Delhi life has ground to standstill with some three billion people confined to their homes as governments scramble to halt the disease's deadly march across the world. The death toll spiralled upward again in Europe, as fatalities in the United Stated shot past 1,000 and cases in Africa continued to multiply, and already-stretched healthcare systems readied for the worst. Also read: Twitter roasts Jeff Bezos after he asks for public donations in Amazon relief fund A total of 15,500 fatalities have been reported across Europe, most of them in Italy (8,165) and Spain (4,089), followed by France with 1,331. With 268,191 officially declared cases of infection, Europe is the continent worst hit by the virus that first emerged in China in December. Spain currently has the world's second-highest death toll from the disease after Italy. Fears are mounting the virus could cause an even greater shock than the Great Depression, with the latest unemployment figures out of the US breaking records as businesses across the world's biggest economy are pinched by the pandemic. Five patients, one bed Hard-hit Italy and Spain are living through nightmarish scenarios feared around the globe: health services buckling under the strain of mounting caseloads. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN Medical workers are now facing painstaking choices. "If I've got five patients and only one bed, I have to choose who gets it," Sara Chinchilla, a pediatrician at a hospital near Madrid, told AFP. "People are dying who could be saved but there's no space in intensive care." More than 4,000 have died in Spain and over 56,000 are infected. Health care facilities in Britain could face a similar strain. The National Health Service said London's hospitals are facing a "continuous tsunami" of seriously ill COVID-19 patients, despite a lockdown imposed this week. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the country could be just a few weeks behind Italy's curve. Countries are now facing the twin challenge of stemming infections and dealing with the sick while trying to tend to a global economy facing the most devastating recession in living memory. In a sign of the economic impact, some 3.3 million people in the US filed unemployment claims last week -- the highest number ever recorded. Bars, shops, hotels and schools have shut across the country -- in line with measures already rolled out across Europe -- and around half the US population is under lockdown. President Donald Trump, who is seeking reelection in November, said he would decide soon whether unaffected parts of the country can get back to work. "I'm not going to do anything rash or hastily," he said, adding that he hoped for a recommendation by Easter. Priests at risk The global lockdown -- which also hemmed in India's huge population this week -- tightened further on Thursday as Russia announced it was grounding all international flights, while Moscow's mayor ordered the closure of cafes, shops and parks. Tokyo's millions of citizens have been told to stay home too, just days after the city was forced to postpone the 2020 Olympic Games for a year. China meanwhile said it was barring entry to most foreigners, fearing that imported cases were undermining the successes it has claimed in bringing domestic transmissions way down. And South Africa braced for a nationwide lockdown Thursday as its cases climbed to more than 900 -- about a third of Africa's 2,975 cases. The impact of the virus has stretched well beyond frontline health workers, with billions trapped in their homes and facing what experts say could be lasting psychological harm. In virus-stricken Italy, clergy members have been among the worst affected. Out of Italy's more than 7,500 deaths, 67 have been priests. "A priest is always close to the people. For good or bad, it's his raison d'etre," said Monsignor Giulio Dellavite, secretary-general of the diocese of Bergamo, the hardest-hit area in Italy's north. 'Encouraging signs' But offering a glimmer of hope, both Italy and Spain have seen lower daily rates of new infections this week. The World Health Organization said there were "encouraging signs" after Italy's latest numbers were released, but warned it was "still too early to say whether the pandemic is peaking". Even in China, there were signs of cautious optimism. A two-month-old lockdown has started to ease up in Hubei province, coronavirus ground zero. But life was still far from normal: banners warn that playing cards together is "suicide" and guards yelled at crowds of people to separate. The disease has also reached high profile figures, including Britain's heir to the throne Prince Charles who tested positive. And Pope Francis reportedly tested negative for coronavirus after a person in his residence was said to have contracted it.

Coronavirus pandemic: Global death toll mount to 21,000; Europe remains the worst-hit

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday that the Group of Seven powers were united in opposing China's coronavirus "disinformation," but European allies emphasized cooperation to fight the global pandemic.

Foreign ministers from the major industrialized democracies spoke about the crisis by videoconference, scrapping a meeting scheduled in Pittsburgh, but any hope of showing a common front was eroded by the absence of a joint statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-to-hold-crisis-talks-as-virus-toll-tops-21000-288591" hreflang="en">World leaders to hold crisis talks as virus toll tops 21,000</a>

Pompeo, a sharp critic of Beijing who has gone&nbsp;on the offensive over what he calls the "Wuhan virus," said he shared a common view with the top diplomats of the other G7 countries -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.

"Every one of the nations that were at that meeting this morning was deeply aware of the disinformation campaign that the Chinese Communist Party is engaged in to try and deflect from what has really taken place," Pompeo told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-tops-21000-globally-288590" hreflang="en">Coronavirus death toll tops 21,000 globally</a>

Pompeo said that China "has been and continues to be engaged in" a campaign through&nbsp;social media that has included conspiracy theories of US involvement.

"This is crazy talk," he said.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman infuriated President Donald Trump's administration by suggesting on Twitter that US troops brought the virus to Wuhan, the metropolis where it was first detected late last year.&nbsp;

Scientists widely believe the COVID-19 virus came from a Wuhan meat market that butchered exotic animals.

The virus has killed more than 21,000 people globally, but Beijing has appeared to bring it under control and has sent aid overseas -- including 40 tons of medical supplies to US ally Italy, which has the world's highest death toll.

Pompeo minimized China's efforts and pointed to a US Air Force cargo plane's aid delivery to Italy as well as private US charity efforts.

China is "now making small sales of product around the world and claiming that they are now the white hat in what has taken place," Pompeo said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday that the Group of Seven powers were united in opposing China's coronavirus "disinformation," but European allies emphasized cooperation to fight the global pandemic.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday that the Group of Seven powers were united in opposing China's coronavirus "disinformation," but European allies emphasized cooperation to fight the global pandemic. Foreign ministers from the major industrialized democracies spoke about the crisis by videoconference, scrapping a meeting scheduled in Pittsburgh, but any hope of showing a common front was eroded by the absence of a joint statement. Also read: World leaders to hold crisis talks as virus toll tops 21,000 Pompeo, a sharp critic of Beijing who has gone on the offensive over what he calls the "Wuhan virus," said he shared a common view with the top diplomats of the other G7 countries -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. "Every one of the nations that were at that meeting this morning was deeply aware of the disinformation campaign that the Chinese Communist Party is engaged in to try and deflect from what has really taken place," Pompeo told reporters. Also read: Coronavirus death toll tops 21,000 globally Pompeo said that China "has been and continues to be engaged in" a campaign through social media that has included conspiracy theories of US involvement. "This is crazy talk," he said. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman infuriated President Donald Trump's administration by suggesting on Twitter that US troops brought the virus to Wuhan, the metropolis where it was first detected late last year. Scientists widely believe the COVID-19 virus came from a Wuhan meat market that butchered exotic animals. The virus has killed more than 21,000 people globally, but Beijing has appeared to bring it under control and has sent aid overseas -- including 40 tons of medical supplies to US ally Italy, which has the world's highest death toll. Pompeo minimized China's efforts and pointed to a US Air Force cargo plane's aid delivery to Italy as well as private US charity efforts. China is "now making small sales of product around the world and claiming that they are now the white hat in what has taken place," Pompeo said.

Pompeo attacks Chinese virus campaign at G7 as Europeans seek cooperation

The Coronavirus cases in Italy seems to have stabilized over the past few days. The infection rate fell to a record low of 7.5%, giving hope that the worst is possibly over. Watch report:

Your Story: Daily infection rate falls to record low in Italy

Spain is now becoming the worst affected places from coronavirus across the world. Exactly 20 days ago Spain had reported just 8 COVID-19 deaths, but in the last 24 hours Spain has surpassed the death toll of China. Watch report:

Spain surpasses China's coronavirus death toll

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has donated one million euros to his native country Spain to help fight the novel coronavirus. 
&nbsp; 
Guardiola has donated this amount to a medical college in Spain so that the authorities could buy the medical supplies to contain the global pandemic.&nbsp;

"Medical equipment that is currently lacking in health centres in Catalonia," the body said in a statement.

FC Barcelona's captain Lionel Messi has also donated a certain amount to a clinic in Barcelona, the hospital took to Twitter saying: "Thank you, Leo, for your support and commitment."

Spain has been one of the hot-bed for the new coronavirus, it has been the second worst-hit country after Italy in Europe.&nbsp;

More than 380,000 cases have been registered worldwide. Additionally, over 16,500 have died. The global tally of the recovered patients so far stands at 100,000.

According to the Spanish prime minister’s office, the country currently has over 39,673 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The virus has killed 2,696 people in the country.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has donated one million euros to his native country Spain to help fight the novel coronavirus. Guardiola has donated this amount to a medical college in Spain so that the authorities could buy the medical supplies to contain the global pandemic.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has donated one million euros to his native country Spain to help fight the novel coronavirus. Guardiola has donated this amount to a medical college in Spain so that the authorities could buy the medical supplies to contain the global pandemic. "Medical equipment that is currently lacking in health centres in Catalonia," the body said in a statement. FC Barcelona's captain Lionel Messi has also donated a certain amount to a clinic in Barcelona, the hospital took to Twitter saying: "Thank you, Leo, for your support and commitment." Spain has been one of the hot-bed for the new coronavirus, it has been the second worst-hit country after Italy in Europe. More than 380,000 cases have been registered worldwide. Additionally, over 16,500 have died. The global tally of the recovered patients so far stands at 100,000. According to the Spanish prime minister’s office, the country currently has over 39,673 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The virus has killed 2,696 people in the country.

Coronavirus: Pep Guardiola donates one million euros to medical college in Spain

Spain coronavirus death toll overtook China on Wednesday with 738 new deaths reported in the country; the final number now stands at 3,434, the government said.

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-spain-virus-death-toll-rises-by-514-to-2696-288261"> spiralling number of deaths came as Spain entered the 11th day</a> of an unprecedented lockdown to try and rein in the COVID-19 epidemic that has now infected 47,610 people, the health ministry said.

There have been more than 81,200 cases of COVID-19 in China and 3,281 deaths from the virus. However, due to the strict measures including lockdown and travel restrictions, the number of cases has fallen dramatically over the last month while the rest of the world still battles with coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-ice-palace-to-become-a-temporary-morgue-as-coronavirus-kills-over-2600-288280">Spain's 'Ice Palace' to become a temporary morgue as coronavirus kills over 2,600</a>

However, there has been a surge in numbers of imported cases in China which has fuelled anxiety among the citizens about a possible second wave of infections outbreak as the country seems to take control of the situation.

Meanwhile, in Spain, the Madrid region has suffered the brunt of the epidemic with recording 57 per cent of the total infection cases.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-state-accounts-for-over-5-of-global-coronavirus-cases-numbers-expected-to-increase-288271" hreflang="en">New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase</a>

With the city's funeral services completely overwhelmed, Madrid officials have commandeered the Palacio de Hielo ice skating rink to serve as a temporary morgue in order to handle the surge in deaths.&nbsp;

The Spanish capital has also transformed part of a giant exhibition centre into a temporary field hospital with 1,500 beds and an intensive care unit which could be expanded take in up to 5,500 patients.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Spain coronavirus death toll overtook China on Wednesday with 738 new deaths reported in the country; the final number now stands at 3,434, the government said. The spiralling number of deaths came as Spain entered the 11th day of an unprecedented lockdown to try and rein in the COVID-19 epidemic that has now infected 47,610 people, the health ministry said.

Spain coronavirus death toll overtook China on Wednesday with 738 new deaths reported in the country; the final number now stands at 3,434, the government said. The spiralling number of deaths came as Spain entered the 11th day of an unprecedented lockdown to try and rein in the COVID-19 epidemic that has now infected 47,610 people, the health ministry said. There have been more than 81,200 cases of COVID-19 in China and 3,281 deaths from the virus. However, due to the strict measures including lockdown and travel restrictions, the number of cases has fallen dramatically over the last month while the rest of the world still battles with coronavirus. Also read: Spain's 'Ice Palace' to become a temporary morgue as coronavirus kills over 2,600 However, there has been a surge in numbers of imported cases in China which has fuelled anxiety among the citizens about a possible second wave of infections outbreak as the country seems to take control of the situation. Meanwhile, in Spain, the Madrid region has suffered the brunt of the epidemic with recording 57 per cent of the total infection cases. Also read: New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase With the city's funeral services completely overwhelmed, Madrid officials have commandeered the Palacio de Hielo ice skating rink to serve as a temporary morgue in order to handle the surge in deaths. The Spanish capital has also transformed part of a giant exhibition centre into a temporary field hospital with 1,500 beds and an intensive care unit which could be expanded take in up to 5,500 patients. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain overtakes China virus toll with 3,434 deaths: Government

The death toll in Italy has witnessed a spike yet again. Italy has reported 743 new deaths in the last 24 hours. Similarly, France has seen a big leap in the number of deaths due to the COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. With new 240 deaths, the death toll in France stand at 1,100.

Italy witnesses spike in COVID-19 death toll yet again

China's imported virus cases spike as fears grow of second wave

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Another 514 people have died in Spain over the past 24 hours, raising the death toll to 2,696, as the number of infections surged towards 40,000, the government said Tuesday.&nbsp;

As the health authorities step up the number of tests, the number of people who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 rose by nearly 20 percent to 39,673, the health ministry said.

Reports: Death toll of Spain surpasses that of Italy due to COVID-19, increment of 27% in deaths

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At the same time, the death toll showed an increase of 23.5 percent over the figures from Monday.

The new figures came as the government of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was to seek parliamentary approval to extend the state of emergency for an extra two weeks, until April 11, in a bid to slow the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/coronavirus-outbreak-the-conversation-we-should-have-with-our-loved-ones-now-288068">Coronavirus outbreak: The conversation we should have with our loved ones now</a>

Officials are hoping the rate of infections will peak within the coming days.&nbsp;

The Madrid region has suffered the brunt of the epidemic with 12,352 infection,&nbsp;just under a third of the total, and 1,535 deaths, or 57 percent of the national figure.&nbsp;

With the city's funeral services completely overwhelmed, Madrid officials have commandeered the Palacio de Hielo ice skating rink to serve as a temporary morgue in order to handle the surge in deaths.&nbsp;

The Spanish capital has also transformed part of a giant exhibition centre into a temporary field hospital with 1,500 beds and an intensive care unit which could be expanded take in up to 5,500 patients.&nbsp;

Another 514 people have died in Spain over the past 24 hours, raising the death toll to 2,696, as the number of infections surged towards 40,000, the government said Tuesday.

Another 514 people have died in Spain over the past 24 hours, raising the death toll to 2,696, as the number of infections surged towards 40,000, the government said Tuesday. As the health authorities step up the number of tests, the number of people who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 rose by nearly 20 percent to 39,673, the health ministry said. Reports: Death toll of Spain surpasses that of Italy due to COVID-19, increment of 27% in deaths At the same time, the death toll showed an increase of 23.5 percent over the figures from Monday. The new figures came as the government of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was to seek parliamentary approval to extend the state of emergency for an extra two weeks, until April 11, in a bid to slow the spread of the virus. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: The conversation we should have with our loved ones now Officials are hoping the rate of infections will peak within the coming days. The Madrid region has suffered the brunt of the epidemic with 12,352 infection, just under a third of the total, and 1,535 deaths, or 57 percent of the national figure. With the city's funeral services completely overwhelmed, Madrid officials have commandeered the Palacio de Hielo ice skating rink to serve as a temporary morgue in order to handle the surge in deaths. The Spanish capital has also transformed part of a giant exhibition centre into a temporary field hospital with 1,500 beds and an intensive care unit which could be expanded take in up to 5,500 patients.

COVID-19: Spain virus death toll rises by 514 to 2,696

France Parliament declares State health emergency in this pandemic situation. Lockdown in France, Spain and Italy may extend for two weeks more.

France Declares State Health Emergency

Spain&nbsp;on Sunday announced 394 new&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;caused by the novel coronavirus, raising to 1,720 the official death toll in Europe's worst-hit country after Italy, a&nbsp;30&nbsp;percent&nbsp;increase over the previous&nbsp;day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-coronavirus-deaths-jump-by-almost-800-government-shuts-most-workplaces-287839" hreflang="en">Italy coronavirus deaths jump by almost 800, government shuts most workplaces</a>

The number of confirmed cases of the disease rose by 3,646, or 14.6&nbsp;per cent, to 28,572, according to health ministry figures, with officials warning infections will rise further in the coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-coronavirus-death-toll-surpass-1300-close-to-25000-infections-health-ministry-287800" hreflang="en">Spain's coronavirus death toll surpass 1,300; close to 25,000 infections: Health ministry</a>

With 1,785 being treated in intensive care units for the&nbsp;virus, there is mounting concern about overcrowding at hospitals.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez warned late on Saturday that&nbsp;Spain's outbreak, already among the harshest in the world, would continue to worsen.

"We must prepare ourselves emotionally and psychologically for very hard days ahead," he told the nation in a televised address late on Saturday.

"We have yet to receive the impact of the strongest, most damaging wave, which will test our material and moral capacities to the limit, as well as our spirit as a society," he added.

Spain&nbsp;has issued lockdown orders for its roughly 46 million residents who are only permitted to leave their homes for essential work, food shopping, medical reasons or to walk the dog.&nbsp;

Spain on Sunday announced 394 new deaths caused by the novel coronavirus, raising to 1,720 the official death toll in Europe's worst-hit country after Italy, a 30 percent increase over the previous day.

Spain on Sunday announced 394 new deaths caused by the novel coronavirus, raising to 1,720 the official death toll in Europe's worst-hit country after Italy, a 30 percent increase over the previous day. Also read: Italy coronavirus deaths jump by almost 800, government shuts most workplaces The number of confirmed cases of the disease rose by 3,646, or 14.6 per cent, to 28,572, according to health ministry figures, with officials warning infections will rise further in the coming days. Also read: Spain's coronavirus death toll surpass 1,300; close to 25,000 infections: Health ministry With 1,785 being treated in intensive care units for the virus, there is mounting concern about overcrowding at hospitals. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez warned late on Saturday that Spain's outbreak, already among the harshest in the world, would continue to worsen. "We must prepare ourselves emotionally and psychologically for very hard days ahead," he told the nation in a televised address late on Saturday. "We have yet to receive the impact of the strongest, most damaging wave, which will test our material and moral capacities to the limit, as well as our spirit as a society," he added. Spain has issued lockdown orders for its roughly 46 million residents who are only permitted to leave their homes for essential work, food shopping, medical reasons or to walk the dog.

Spain reports virus deaths up 30 per cent in one day

The death toll in Spain due to coronavirus climbed to 1,326 on Saturday after the health ministry reported 324 deaths. While the number of confirmed infections rose to 24,926 from 19,980 in the previous rally.

The continuously rising number of infections in Spain has put the country into the top four worst-hit countries in the world. Apart from Spain, Iran, Italy and China&nbsp;are the worst affected by the deadly virus which first originated in Chinese city Wuhan.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-death-toll-soars-to-1566-in-iran-total-infections-exceed-20000-287762">Coronavirus pandemic - Death toll soars to 1,566 in Iran; total infections exceed 20,000</a> 
 
According to reports, over the past seven days, the number of deaths has risen ten-fold.&nbsp;

On Friday, minister of health, Salvador Illa said the country is yet to reach its peak before it could expected a downward spiral.

"Worst days are still to come," lla said.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-temporarily-freed-85000-prisoners-including-political-ones-amid-coronavirus-286933">&nbsp;Iran has temporarily freed 85,000 prisoners, including political ones, amid coronavirus</a>

Meanwhile, Madrid and Barcelona announced on Friday they would set up field hospitals in their biggest exhibition halls to deal with the anticipated growth in the number of patients.&nbsp;

In Madrid, the IFEMA conference centre would be fitted with 5,500 hospital beds, part of it dedicated to an intensive care unit, while a section of the Fira de Barcelona centre would be similarly equipped, city authorities said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-one-billion-people-confined-to-homes-globally-to-curb-virus-287796">Nearly one billion people confined to homes globally to curb virus</a>

Over the last few hours, a total of 2,640 troops had disinfected the country's main airports and ports along with retirement homes and prisons, General Miguel Angel Villarroya, chief of the defence staff, told the same news conference.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll in Spain due to coronavirus climbed to 1,326 on Saturday after the health ministry reported 324 deaths. While the number of confirmed infections rose to 24,926 from 19,980 in the previous rally.

The death toll in Spain due to coronavirus climbed to 1,326 on Saturday after the health ministry reported 324 deaths. While the number of confirmed infections rose to 24,926 from 19,980 in the previous rally. The continuously rising number of infections in Spain has put the country into the top four worst-hit countries in the world. Apart from Spain, Iran, Italy and China are the worst affected by the deadly virus which first originated in Chinese city Wuhan. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic - Death toll soars to 1,566 in Iran; total infections exceed 20,000 According to reports, over the past seven days, the number of deaths has risen ten-fold. On Friday, minister of health, Salvador Illa said the country is yet to reach its peak before it could expected a downward spiral. "Worst days are still to come," lla said. Also read: Iran has temporarily freed 85,000 prisoners, including political ones, amid coronavirus Meanwhile, Madrid and Barcelona announced on Friday they would set up field hospitals in their biggest exhibition halls to deal with the anticipated growth in the number of patients. In Madrid, the IFEMA conference centre would be fitted with 5,500 hospital beds, part of it dedicated to an intensive care unit, while a section of the Fira de Barcelona centre would be similarly equipped, city authorities said. Also read: Nearly one billion people confined to homes globally to curb virus Over the last few hours, a total of 2,640 troops had disinfected the country's main airports and ports along with retirement homes and prisons, General Miguel Angel Villarroya, chief of the defence staff, told the same news conference. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain's coronavirus death toll surpass 1,300; close to 25,000 infections: Health ministry

Spain on Thursday announced that deaths from the <a href="http://13.235.153.162/node/287097/edit?destination=/admin/content%3Ftitle%3Ditaly%26type%3Dstories%26status%3DAll%26langcode%3DAll%26created%255Bmin%255D%3D%26created%255Bmax%255D%3D">novel coronavirus </a>had jumped by nearly 30 per cent over the past 24 hours to 767. 
 
The number of people who have contracted the disease has meanwhile grown by around 25 per cent to 17,147, according to health ministry figures, bringing Spain's tally near that of Iran, the world's third most affected country after China and Italy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/italy-spain-grapple-with-coronavirus-epidemic-as-death-toll-rises-287087" hreflang="en">Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises</a> 
 
The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 is expected to rise significantly in the coming days as testing for the virus becomes more readily available in the country of around 46 million people.&nbsp; 
 
Madrid remains the worst-hit area, accounting for 6,777 cases, or 40 per cent of the total infections in Spain, while the number of deaths in the capital rose to 498 -- around two-thirds of the national total.

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Regional authorities in Madrid on Thursday transformed a hotel into a hospital for patients with mild cases of coronavirus to try to keep the health system from being overwhelmed by the pandemic.

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Nationwide there were 939 people with the virus in intensive care units. As elsewhere in the world, elderly people account for the bulk of the infections. Roughly 33 per cent are over the age of 65, said Fernando Simon, the health ministry's emergencies coordinator. 
 
Spain has since Saturday been on a nearly total lockdown to try to curb the spread of the disease, with people allowed outside only to go to work, buy food and medicine, seek medical care or look after an elderly person. 
 
Police said 48 people had been arrested across the country over the past 24 hours for breaking the rules restricting the freedom of movement.

Spain on Thursday announced that deaths from the novel coronavirus had jumped by nearly 30 per cent over the past 24 hours to 767. The number of people who have contracted the disease has meanwhile grown by around 25 per cent to 17,147, according to health ministry figures, bringing Spain's tally near that of Iran, the world's third most affected country after China and Italy.

Spain on Thursday announced that deaths from the novel coronavirus had jumped by nearly 30 per cent over the past 24 hours to 767. The number of people who have contracted the disease has meanwhile grown by around 25 per cent to 17,147, according to health ministry figures, bringing Spain's tally near that of Iran, the world's third most affected country after China and Italy. Also read: Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 is expected to rise significantly in the coming days as testing for the virus becomes more readily available in the country of around 46 million people. Madrid remains the worst-hit area, accounting for 6,777 cases, or 40 per cent of the total infections in Spain, while the number of deaths in the capital rose to 498 -- around two-thirds of the national total. Also read: Italian actor Luca Franzese was quarantined with sister's dead body amid COVID-19 lockdown Regional authorities in Madrid on Thursday transformed a hotel into a hospital for patients with mild cases of coronavirus to try to keep the health system from being overwhelmed by the pandemic. Nationwide there were 939 people with the virus in intensive care units. As elsewhere in the world, elderly people account for the bulk of the infections. Roughly 33 per cent are over the age of 65, said Fernando Simon, the health ministry's emergencies coordinator. Spain has since Saturday been on a nearly total lockdown to try to curb the spread of the disease, with people allowed outside only to go to work, buy food and medicine, seek medical care or look after an elderly person. Police said 48 people had been arrested across the country over the past 24 hours for breaking the rules restricting the freedom of movement.

Coronavirus outbreak: Spain virus death toll soars nearly 30 per cent to 767

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At the age of 21, Francisco Garcia, the coach of the youth team at Malaga-based club Atletico Portada Alta died of the novel coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/were-being-treated-like-guinea-pigs-wayne-rooney-slams-fa-for-delayed-decisions-during-coronavirus-286663" hreflang="en">'Were being treated like guinea pigs', Wayne Rooney slams FA for delayed decisions during coronavirus</a>

Garcia was suffering from an unknown pre-existing health condition, he suffered from a form of leukaemia (blood cancer) which made his battle against coronavirus difficult. The young Spaniard was informed about cancer after going into the hospital with the symptoms of coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/five-members-of-valencia-fc-doing-well-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-286632" hreflang="en">Five members of Valencia FC 'doing well' after testing positive for COVID-19</a>

According to a local Spanish newspaper, Garcia, who found it difficult to breathe, was initially told that he had coronavirus and pneumonia and was asked to take further medical assistance. Later on, he was told that he had leukaemia.

According to his doctors, Francisco would have survived if he had not been suffering from leukaemia.

The club released a statement paying tribute to its former coach: "We want to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and close friends of our coach Francisco Garcia who has left us, unfortunately. Now, what do we do without you, Francis? How are we going to continue conquering ... in the league? We don't know how, but we will surely do it for you. We will not forget you, rest in peace, phenomenon. Until forever."

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La Liga announced Spain's top two divisions will be suspended for at least two weeks after Spanish club Real Madrid's players were put in quarantine.

Garcia is possibly the youngest victim in Europe to die of the global pandemic, the youngest individual to die in Italy was a 38-year-old man who died last week, while China’s youngest victim was a 36-year-old male.

Spain has been the second-worst hit European nation with deaths over 300.

Spain is Europe's second most coronavirus-affected country after Italy and the latest jump in cases came after the government imposed a near-total nationwide lockdown, prohibiting people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or purchase food.

At the age of 21, Francisco Garcia, the coach of the youth team at Malaga-based club Atletico Portada Alta died of the novel coronavirus. Also read: 'Were being treated like guinea pigs', Wayne Rooney slams FA for delayed decisions during coronavirus Garcia was suffering from an unknown pre-existing health condition, he suffered from a form of leukaemia (blood cancer) which made his battle against coronavirus difficult.

At the age of 21, Francisco Garcia, the coach of the youth team at Malaga-based club Atletico Portada Alta died of the novel coronavirus. Also read: 'Were being treated like guinea pigs', Wayne Rooney slams FA for delayed decisions during coronavirus Garcia was suffering from an unknown pre-existing health condition, he suffered from a form of leukaemia (blood cancer) which made his battle against coronavirus difficult. The young Spaniard was informed about cancer after going into the hospital with the symptoms of coronavirus. Also read: Five members of Valencia FC 'doing well' after testing positive for COVID-19 According to a local Spanish newspaper, Garcia, who found it difficult to breathe, was initially told that he had coronavirus and pneumonia and was asked to take further medical assistance. Later on, he was told that he had leukaemia. According to his doctors, Francisco would have survived if he had not been suffering from leukaemia. The club released a statement paying tribute to its former coach: "We want to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and close friends of our coach Francisco Garcia who has left us, unfortunately. Now, what do we do without you, Francis? How are we going to continue conquering ... in the league? We don't know how, but we will surely do it for you. We will not forget you, rest in peace, phenomenon. Until forever." Desde el Atlético Portada Alta queremos manifestar nuestro más profundo pésame a la familia, amigos y allegados de... Posted by Atlético Portada Alta on Sunday, 15 March 2020 × La Liga announced Spain's top two divisions will be suspended for at least two weeks after Spanish club Real Madrid's players were put in quarantine. Garcia is possibly the youngest victim in Europe to die of the global pandemic, the youngest individual to die in Italy was a 38-year-old man who died last week, while China’s youngest victim was a 36-year-old male. Spain has been the second-worst hit European nation with deaths over 300. Spain is Europe's second most coronavirus-affected country after Italy and the latest jump in cases came after the government imposed a near-total nationwide lockdown, prohibiting people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or purchase food.

Coronavirus: Spanish youth team coach Francisco Garcia dies at 21

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Spain reported over 100 new coronavirus deaths with the number of people infected increasing&nbsp;by a third to 7,753, health officials said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Spain is Europe's second most coronavirus-affected country after Italy and the latest jump in cases came after the government imposed a near-total nationwide lockdown, prohibiting people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or purchase food.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-counts-1500-new-coronavirus-cases-in-one-day-286412">Spain counts 1,500 new coronavirus cases in one day</a>

The country's death toll now stands at 288.&nbsp;

In pics |&nbsp;Italy: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/italy-a-glance-at-countrys-unprecedented-coronavirus-lockdown-286511">A glance at country's unprecedented coronavirus lockdown</a>

Just hours after Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced the lockdown, his wife tested positive for the COVID-19.&nbsp;

Sanchez and his wife Begona Gomez are currently well and at their official residence after the imposition of latest measures, a government statement said.&nbsp;

The lockdown was a part of a 15-day state of emergency declared by the Spanish government on Saturday.&nbsp;

This is the second time in Spain's history that an emergency has been imposed since the country returned to democracy following the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

In 2010, air traffic controllers' strike led to country declaring an emergency for the first time.&nbsp;

The Spanish prime minister warned Friday that the number of infections could rose to 10,000 in the coming days in the country.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Spain reported over 100 new coronavirus deaths with the number of people infected increasing by a third to 7,753, health officials said on Sunday. Spain is Europe's second most coronavirus-affected country after Italy and the latest jump in cases came after the government imposed a near-total nationwide lockdown, prohibiting people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or purchase food.

Spain reported over 100 new coronavirus deaths with the number of people infected increasing by a third to 7,753, health officials said on Sunday. Spain is Europe's second most coronavirus-affected country after Italy and the latest jump in cases came after the government imposed a near-total nationwide lockdown, prohibiting people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or purchase food. Also read | Spain counts 1,500 new coronavirus cases in one day The country's death toll now stands at 288. In pics | Italy: A glance at country's unprecedented coronavirus lockdown Just hours after Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced the lockdown, his wife tested positive for the COVID-19. Sanchez and his wife Begona Gomez are currently well and at their official residence after the imposition of latest measures, a government statement said. The lockdown was a part of a 15-day state of emergency declared by the Spanish government on Saturday. This is the second time in Spain's history that an emergency has been imposed since the country returned to democracy following the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975. In 2010, air traffic controllers' strike led to country declaring an emergency for the first time. The Spanish prime minister warned Friday that the number of infections could rose to 10,000 in the coming days in the country.

Coronavirus: Spain reports 100 new deaths in last 24 hours

Spain confirmed more than 1,500 new cases of coronavirus between Friday and Saturday raising its total to 5,753 cases, the second-highest number in Europe after Italy.

The country was expected to declare a state of alert on Saturday to try to mobilise resources to combat the virus, which has so far killed 136 people in Spain.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-governments-across-the-world-shutting-down-offices-for-disinfection-286000">Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection</a>

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was due to speak at a cabinet meeting at 1300 GMT to announce the state of alert and new measures expected to limit the movement of people.

On Friday said the government would adopt a series of extraordinary measures in order "to mobilise all the resources of state to better protect the health of all of its citizens".

Watch: 

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The number of cases in Spain has increased tenfold since Sunday, and bars, restaurants and all sporting and cultural institutions have been closed.

The Madrid region, which is the country's worst-hit with nearly 3,000 cases, has ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses.

Spain confirmed more than 1,500 new cases of coronavirus between Friday and Saturday raising its total to 5,753 cases, the second-highest number in Europe after Italy.

Spain confirmed more than 1,500 new cases of coronavirus between Friday and Saturday raising its total to 5,753 cases, the second-highest number in Europe after Italy. The country was expected to declare a state of alert on Saturday to try to mobilise resources to combat the virus, which has so far killed 136 people in Spain. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was due to speak at a cabinet meeting at 1300 GMT to announce the state of alert and new measures expected to limit the movement of people. On Friday said the government would adopt a series of extraordinary measures in order "to mobilise all the resources of state to better protect the health of all of its citizens". Watch: × The number of cases in Spain has increased tenfold since Sunday, and bars, restaurants and all sporting and cultural institutions have been closed. The Madrid region, which is the country's worst-hit with nearly 3,000 cases, has ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses.

Spain counts 1,500 new coronavirus cases in one day

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