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Live updates: Director of Wuhan hospital dies from coronavirus as infections mount in China Live updates: Director of Wuhan hospital dies from coronavirus as infections mount in China
(32 minutes later)
BEIJING — A respected neurologist who was also director of Wuchang Hospital in Wuhan died Tuesday after contracting the novel coronavirus. Liu Zhiming, who was 51, passed away despite a “full effort rescue,” according to a statement from Wuhan’s municipal health commission.BEIJING — A respected neurologist who was also director of Wuchang Hospital in Wuhan died Tuesday after contracting the novel coronavirus. Liu Zhiming, who was 51, passed away despite a “full effort rescue,” according to a statement from Wuhan’s municipal health commission.
His death is the most high-profile since whistleblower Li Wenliang died, sparking an outpouring of public anger and grief, and follows that last week of a nurse, Liu Fan, from the same hospital. A total of eight front line health workers have died, while as many as 3,000 have been infected with the coronavirus.His death is the most high-profile since whistleblower Li Wenliang died, sparking an outpouring of public anger and grief, and follows that last week of a nurse, Liu Fan, from the same hospital. A total of eight front line health workers have died, while as many as 3,000 have been infected with the coronavirus.
The number of coronavirus infections across China continues to rise, although at a slower rate outside the epicenter of Hubei province.The number of coronavirus infections across China continues to rise, although at a slower rate outside the epicenter of Hubei province.
Officials have been sounding a more upbeat note in recent days about the prospects for containing the virus. But a renowned Chinese pulmonologist who predicted a peak this month has since clarified his remarks to say that the peak may be followed by a plateau, rather than an outright fall in cases. Here is what we know so far:Officials have been sounding a more upbeat note in recent days about the prospects for containing the virus. But a renowned Chinese pulmonologist who predicted a peak this month has since clarified his remarks to say that the peak may be followed by a plateau, rather than an outright fall in cases. Here is what we know so far:
● A neurologist and a retired nurse who returned to work have died after becoming infected while treating coronavirus patients in Wuhan, the outbreak’s epicenter. Their deaths bring the total number of medical workers to have succumbed to the virus to eight.● A neurologist and a retired nurse who returned to work have died after becoming infected while treating coronavirus patients in Wuhan, the outbreak’s epicenter. Their deaths bring the total number of medical workers to have succumbed to the virus to eight.
● A Chinese pulmonologist predicted the number of infections will plateau, rather than fall, after hitting a peak later this month.● A Chinese pulmonologist predicted the number of infections will plateau, rather than fall, after hitting a peak later this month.
● The Diamond Princess quarantine will end as scheduled on Wednesday, said Japan’s health minister, as 88 more cases were discovered, bringing the total linked to the ship to 542.● The Diamond Princess quarantine will end as scheduled on Wednesday, said Japan’s health minister, as 88 more cases were discovered, bringing the total linked to the ship to 542.
● A total of 35 Filipino crew members on the cruise ship have tested positive for the coronavirus.● A total of 35 Filipino crew members on the cruise ship have tested positive for the coronavirus.
● China reported 1,886 new coronavirus cases and 98 more deaths in its daily update on the outbreak Tuesday, bringing the death toll in mainland China to 1,868, with 72,436 confirmed cases. The overwhelming majority have been in Hubei province.● China reported 1,886 new coronavirus cases and 98 more deaths in its daily update on the outbreak Tuesday, bringing the death toll in mainland China to 1,868, with 72,436 confirmed cases. The overwhelming majority have been in Hubei province.
With the search for protective face masks reaching critical stages in many virus-hit parts of Asia, a hospital in Japan reported on Tuesday the theft of 6,000 surgical masks.
Four boxes of the masks disappeared from a storage facility at Kobe’s Japanese Red Cross hospital, according to AFP. As the number of virus cases in Japan has nearly doubled in the past few days to 69 cases, masks and other protective gear have sold out across the country. The assumption is that the thieves will seek to resell the masks at far above their current market value.
The situation mirrors that of Hong Kong and other cities around the region where the shortages have extended to toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
The Japanese government has urged factories to boost their facemask output.
HONG KONG — A domestic helper from the Philippines has been infected with the coronavirus, health officials said on Tuesday, bringing the territory’s tally of cases to 61. The patient likely contracted the virus from her employer.
Hong Kong is heavy reliant on domestic workers, who comprise about five percent of the territory’s population, and come from countries including the Philippines and Indonesia. The case marks the first confirmed coronavirus infection of a domestic worker based in the territory.
The Philippines has imposed a ban on its citizens traveling into Hong Kong, which left thousands of workers and domestic helpers stranded. On Tuesday, it reversed the ban, allowing some 25,000 stranded Filipino workers to return home.
Health officials say that the helper had spent over an hour out with 10 friends, raising the risk of more possible infections. Authorities are contacting those individuals.
As the number of coronavirus cases outside China continues to climb, French Health Minister Olivier Véran on Tuesday warned of a possible coronavirus pandemic. While an epidemic is usually restricted to a particular region, a pandemic can affect countries around the world.As the number of coronavirus cases outside China continues to climb, French Health Minister Olivier Véran on Tuesday warned of a possible coronavirus pandemic. While an epidemic is usually restricted to a particular region, a pandemic can affect countries around the world.
“This is both a working assumption and a credible risk,” Véran said in an interview with France Inter, a public broadcaster. Véran added that authorities were also monitoring developments in Japan, where the number of coronavirus cases jumped from 33 on Thursday to 65 on Monday. The significant rise in infections prompted a top Japanese official to acknowledge that the virus has entered a “new phase” of local transmission. “This is both a working assumption and a credible risk,” Véran said in an interview with France Inter, a public broadcaster. Véran added that authorities were also monitoring developments in Japan, where the number of coronavirus cases jumped from 33 on Thursday to 69 on Tuesday. The significant rise in infections prompted a top Japanese official to acknowledge that the virus has entered a “new phase” of local transmission.
French Health Minister Véran on Tuesday sought to calm fears that France would not be sufficiently prepared for a similar scenario, even as some analysts warned that many of Europe’s already stretched health care systems could be overwhelmed with large clusters of the virus.French Health Minister Véran on Tuesday sought to calm fears that France would not be sufficiently prepared for a similar scenario, even as some analysts warned that many of Europe’s already stretched health care systems could be overwhelmed with large clusters of the virus.
BEIJING — The London-based bank HSBC warned that pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong and the coronavirus outbreak that began in China pose a threat to its business, as it announced plans to cut 35,000 jobs and annual costs by $4.5 billion in the next three years.BEIJING — The London-based bank HSBC warned that pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong and the coronavirus outbreak that began in China pose a threat to its business, as it announced plans to cut 35,000 jobs and annual costs by $4.5 billion in the next three years.
The cuts would mostly take place in Europe and the United States, HSBC said when releasing its annual results Tuesday. But the bank, which was founded in Hong Kong in 1865 and continues to generate much of its income in Asia, is worried about the challenges in the region.The cuts would mostly take place in Europe and the United States, HSBC said when releasing its annual results Tuesday. But the bank, which was founded in Hong Kong in 1865 and continues to generate much of its income in Asia, is worried about the challenges in the region.
“We continue to monitor the recent coronavirus outbreak, which is causing economic disruption in Hong Kong and mainland China and may impact performance in 2020,” it warned investors in a statement.“We continue to monitor the recent coronavirus outbreak, which is causing economic disruption in Hong Kong and mainland China and may impact performance in 2020,” it warned investors in a statement.
HSBC said the coronavirus had caused significant disruption for staff, suppliers and customers, particularly in mainland China and Hong Kong, since the outbreak took off in January. Authorities responded by shuttering transportation and placing millions of residents under lockdown, while businesses remained closed or devoid of customers over the extended Lunar New Year period.HSBC said the coronavirus had caused significant disruption for staff, suppliers and customers, particularly in mainland China and Hong Kong, since the outbreak took off in January. Authorities responded by shuttering transportation and placing millions of residents under lockdown, while businesses remained closed or devoid of customers over the extended Lunar New Year period.
“Depending on how the situation develops, there is the potential for any associated economic slowdown to impact our expected credit losses in Hong Kong and mainland China,” the bank said in the statement.“Depending on how the situation develops, there is the potential for any associated economic slowdown to impact our expected credit losses in Hong Kong and mainland China,” the bank said in the statement.
“Longer term, it is also possible that we may see revenue reductions from lower lending and transaction volumes, and further credit losses stemming from disruption to customer supply chains,” it said.“Longer term, it is also possible that we may see revenue reductions from lower lending and transaction volumes, and further credit losses stemming from disruption to customer supply chains,” it said.
TOKYO — Japan’s Health Ministry said it had found another 88 cases of the new coronavirus on the Diamond Princess, bringing to 542 the total number of cases linked to the quarantined cruise ship, public broadcaster NHK reported.TOKYO — Japan’s Health Ministry said it had found another 88 cases of the new coronavirus on the Diamond Princess, bringing to 542 the total number of cases linked to the quarantined cruise ship, public broadcaster NHK reported.
Japan completed tests on everyone aboard the ship on Monday, but the final batch of test results are not expected until Wednesday. So far, results are back for 2,404 passengers and crew, out of the 3,711 on board the ship when it was placed in quarantine on Feb. 5.Japan completed tests on everyone aboard the ship on Monday, but the final batch of test results are not expected until Wednesday. So far, results are back for 2,404 passengers and crew, out of the 3,711 on board the ship when it was placed in quarantine on Feb. 5.
Health Minister Katsunobu Kato said earlier on Tuesday that people who have tested negative for the virus would begin to be disembarked from the ship on Wednesday, at the end of the planned 14-day quarantine period, and that process would be completed by Friday.Health Minister Katsunobu Kato said earlier on Tuesday that people who have tested negative for the virus would begin to be disembarked from the ship on Wednesday, at the end of the planned 14-day quarantine period, and that process would be completed by Friday.
Separately Japan announced three more cases of coronavirus in the eastern prefecture of Wakayama on Tuesday, bringing to 69 the total number of cases in the country outside the cruise ship.Separately Japan announced three more cases of coronavirus in the eastern prefecture of Wakayama on Tuesday, bringing to 69 the total number of cases in the country outside the cruise ship.
SEOUL — South Korean President Moon Jae-in called for “emergency steps” to brace for economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak, urging his cabinet on Tuesday to “show imagination in policymaking” and “exceed expectations to address the economic emergency.”SEOUL — South Korean President Moon Jae-in called for “emergency steps” to brace for economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak, urging his cabinet on Tuesday to “show imagination in policymaking” and “exceed expectations to address the economic emergency.”
Moon said the coronavirus could have a “bigger and longer-lasting impact” on South Korea’s economy than 2015 outbreak of Middle East respiratory syndrome, which led Seoul to roll out a rate cut and a supplementary budget.Moon said the coronavirus could have a “bigger and longer-lasting impact” on South Korea’s economy than 2015 outbreak of Middle East respiratory syndrome, which led Seoul to roll out a rate cut and a supplementary budget.
Moon’s remark at Tuesday’s cabinet meeting comes days after Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki met with central bank chief Lee Ju-yeol to seek solutions for the virus-hit economy.Moon’s remark at Tuesday’s cabinet meeting comes days after Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki met with central bank chief Lee Ju-yeol to seek solutions for the virus-hit economy.
Following Moon’s urgent call for a solution, investors are speculating that the Bank of Korea could announce a rate cut at next week’s meeting.Following Moon’s urgent call for a solution, investors are speculating that the Bank of Korea could announce a rate cut at next week’s meeting.
On Thursday, Moon said the coronavirus epidemic was “nearing the end,” and urged people to return to regular activities even as he acknowledged the impact of the virus on the economy.On Thursday, Moon said the coronavirus epidemic was “nearing the end,” and urged people to return to regular activities even as he acknowledged the impact of the virus on the economy.
Moon again told the public on Tuesday to “trust the government and follow the health guidelines while resuming normal economic activities.”Moon again told the public on Tuesday to “trust the government and follow the health guidelines while resuming normal economic activities.”
South Korea’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned late Tuesday that the coronavirus outbreak is entering “a new phase,” after three new patients who had not recently traveled overseas were found to have the virus since Sunday.South Korea’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned late Tuesday that the coronavirus outbreak is entering “a new phase,” after three new patients who had not recently traveled overseas were found to have the virus since Sunday.
HONG KONG ­— Singapore on Tuesday earmarked $2.8 billion in relief measures to help stabilize the economy and assist workers as it prepares for an economic downturn over the coronavirus outbreak.HONG KONG ­— Singapore on Tuesday earmarked $2.8 billion in relief measures to help stabilize the economy and assist workers as it prepares for an economic downturn over the coronavirus outbreak.
The measures were announced as part of the budget for 2020, among the biggest annual budgets in years. It follows moves taken by governments in other hard-hit territories, including Hong Kong, to soften the blow of the virus which will have potentially devastating impacts on tourism and retail sectors.The measures were announced as part of the budget for 2020, among the biggest annual budgets in years. It follows moves taken by governments in other hard-hit territories, including Hong Kong, to soften the blow of the virus which will have potentially devastating impacts on tourism and retail sectors.
The tourism, aviation and retail industries will receive additional support, Singapore’s Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said in his budget speech Tuesday, including programs to allow workers to retrain and obtain new skills in different sectors. Heng, who is also deputy prime minister, said that the government is aiming primarily to help workers stay employed.The tourism, aviation and retail industries will receive additional support, Singapore’s Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said in his budget speech Tuesday, including programs to allow workers to retrain and obtain new skills in different sectors. Heng, who is also deputy prime minister, said that the government is aiming primarily to help workers stay employed.
Several countries have warned their citizens to stay away from Singapore, which has among the highest number of coronavirus cases outside of mainland China. As of Monday, 77 cases were confirmed.Several countries have warned their citizens to stay away from Singapore, which has among the highest number of coronavirus cases outside of mainland China. As of Monday, 77 cases were confirmed.
Separately, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday she would increase the territory’s relief fund to $3.6 billion, from $3.2 billion. This represents a new increase, after she doubled funds set aside to tackle the economic impact of the outbreak last week and announced one-off payments to businesses.Separately, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday she would increase the territory’s relief fund to $3.6 billion, from $3.2 billion. This represents a new increase, after she doubled funds set aside to tackle the economic impact of the outbreak last week and announced one-off payments to businesses.
These measures, however, appear to have done little to stem widespread disaffection with the Hong Kong government. A recent poll showed only 7 percent of respondents in Hong Kong were satisfied with the government’s response to the public health crisis.These measures, however, appear to have done little to stem widespread disaffection with the Hong Kong government. A recent poll showed only 7 percent of respondents in Hong Kong were satisfied with the government’s response to the public health crisis.
MANILA — Around 25,000 stranded Filipino workers can now get back to work as Philippine officials eased the travel ban on China’s special administrative regions.MANILA — Around 25,000 stranded Filipino workers can now get back to work as Philippine officials eased the travel ban on China’s special administrative regions.
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Brigido Dulay announced on Twitter that overseas workers in Hong Kong and Macao could now return “subject to certain procedural formalities.”Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Brigido Dulay announced on Twitter that overseas workers in Hong Kong and Macao could now return “subject to certain procedural formalities.”
Today, DFA Sec Locsin’s advocacy has come true. OFWs returning for work in Hongkong and Macau have been exempted from the outbound travel ban by the IATF-EID, subject to certain procedural formalities. Woohoo!! @teddyboylocsinToday, DFA Sec Locsin’s advocacy has come true. OFWs returning for work in Hongkong and Macau have been exempted from the outbound travel ban by the IATF-EID, subject to certain procedural formalities. Woohoo!! @teddyboylocsin
The announcement comes a day after 131 Hong Kong-based Filipino organizations appealed to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to exempt the city from the ban.The announcement comes a day after 131 Hong Kong-based Filipino organizations appealed to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to exempt the city from the ban.
Feliza Guy Benitez, former chairwoman of the Filipino Migrant Workers’ Union in Hong Kong, warned on Monday that many workers could lose their jobs if they were absent for longer than two weeks. “[We go back] to zero just to process all the application papers and the government won’t even pay for it,” she said.Feliza Guy Benitez, former chairwoman of the Filipino Migrant Workers’ Union in Hong Kong, warned on Monday that many workers could lose their jobs if they were absent for longer than two weeks. “[We go back] to zero just to process all the application papers and the government won’t even pay for it,” she said.
The government promised overseas workers around $200 in financial assistance, but some hardly find it enough after two weeks of being unable to sustain themselves.The government promised overseas workers around $200 in financial assistance, but some hardly find it enough after two weeks of being unable to sustain themselves.
The Philippines sends over 2 million workers around the world, raking in $33.5 billion in remittances last year. At least 6 percent of this workforce is based in Hong Kong. The most vulnerable in this sector are those in household services. The city has around 390,000 foreign domestic helpers, a large fraction of which is composed of Filipinos.The Philippines sends over 2 million workers around the world, raking in $33.5 billion in remittances last year. At least 6 percent of this workforce is based in Hong Kong. The most vulnerable in this sector are those in household services. The city has around 390,000 foreign domestic helpers, a large fraction of which is composed of Filipinos.
Overseas workers organization Migrante International said that around 1,000 other Filipino residents, students, and small business proprietors based in Hong Kong were also affected by the ban.Overseas workers organization Migrante International said that around 1,000 other Filipino residents, students, and small business proprietors based in Hong Kong were also affected by the ban.
Canada has confirmed Tuesday that 32 Canadians on the Diamond Princess cruise ship have tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the Toronto Star.Canada has confirmed Tuesday that 32 Canadians on the Diamond Princess cruise ship have tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the Toronto Star.
There are a total of 256 Canadians on the ship, which has become the second biggest source of infected after China itself with 454 cases on board out of 2,666 passengers and 1,045 crew. The ship has been quarantined for the past two weeks at Japan’s Yokohama port, with those testing positive for the virus being removed to hospitals.There are a total of 256 Canadians on the ship, which has become the second biggest source of infected after China itself with 454 cases on board out of 2,666 passengers and 1,045 crew. The ship has been quarantined for the past two weeks at Japan’s Yokohama port, with those testing positive for the virus being removed to hospitals.
Canada announced earlier it would be evacuating its citizens from the cruise ship, following similar efforts by the United States which flew back more than 328 passengers, including 14 testing positive for the virus.Canada announced earlier it would be evacuating its citizens from the cruise ship, following similar efforts by the United States which flew back more than 328 passengers, including 14 testing positive for the virus.
The Canadian government told the Star that those testing positive would not be evacuated.The Canadian government told the Star that those testing positive would not be evacuated.
BEIJING — Liu Zhiming, a respected neurologist who was also director of Wuchang Hospital in Wuhan, died at age 51 of coronavirus infection on Tuesday, becoming the eighth health worker in China to have lost their lives in the ongoing outbreak.BEIJING — Liu Zhiming, a respected neurologist who was also director of Wuchang Hospital in Wuhan, died at age 51 of coronavirus infection on Tuesday, becoming the eighth health worker in China to have lost their lives in the ongoing outbreak.
According to a notice released by Wuhan’s municipal health commission, Liu was infected at work and died at 10:54 a.m. at Tongji Hospital despite a “full effort rescue.”According to a notice released by Wuhan’s municipal health commission, Liu was infected at work and died at 10:54 a.m. at Tongji Hospital despite a “full effort rescue.”
R.I.P. Liu Zhiming, director of Wuchang Hospital in coronavirus epicenter #Wuhan passed away Tuesday due to #COVID19, becoming the first hospital director to die amid the outbreak that caused over 70,000 infections in #China: reports pic.twitter.com/J2qmDddARNR.I.P. Liu Zhiming, director of Wuchang Hospital in coronavirus epicenter #Wuhan passed away Tuesday due to #COVID19, becoming the first hospital director to die amid the outbreak that caused over 70,000 infections in #China: reports pic.twitter.com/J2qmDddARN
“Since the epidemic broke out, Comrade Liu Zhiming has thrown aside his personal safety and led the staff at Wuchang Hospital to fight the outbreak from the front line,” the notice read, adding that Liu had made “significant contribution” to the prevention and control of the novel coronavirus pneumonia.“Since the epidemic broke out, Comrade Liu Zhiming has thrown aside his personal safety and led the staff at Wuchang Hospital to fight the outbreak from the front line,” the notice read, adding that Liu had made “significant contribution” to the prevention and control of the novel coronavirus pneumonia.
After graduating from Wuhan University Medical School in 1991, Liu had emerged as a leading expert on neurosurgery, especially brain tumor, craniocerebral trauma, intraspinal canal diseases, and cerebrovascular diseases.After graduating from Wuhan University Medical School in 1991, Liu had emerged as a leading expert on neurosurgery, especially brain tumor, craniocerebral trauma, intraspinal canal diseases, and cerebrovascular diseases.
Under Liu, Wuchang Hospital grew into a comprehensive institution of nearly 1,000 people and was recognized as a triple-A hospital [highest standard in China] in 2014. It was also one of the designated hospitals for the quarantine and treatment of coronavirus patientsUnder Liu, Wuchang Hospital grew into a comprehensive institution of nearly 1,000 people and was recognized as a triple-A hospital [highest standard in China] in 2014. It was also one of the designated hospitals for the quarantine and treatment of coronavirus patients
The National Health Commission said that more than 1,700 doctors and nurses had been infected as of Feb. 14, although the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention put the number much higher at more than 3,000 medical workers.The National Health Commission said that more than 1,700 doctors and nurses had been infected as of Feb. 14, although the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention put the number much higher at more than 3,000 medical workers.
Another case that has tugged at Chinese heartstrings this week involves Liu Fan, who was a nurse at Wuchang Hospital’s Liyuan Street Community Health Center.Another case that has tugged at Chinese heartstrings this week involves Liu Fan, who was a nurse at Wuchang Hospital’s Liyuan Street Community Health Center.
Liu, who was 59, stopped working four years ago at the designated retirement age of 55 in 2016, came back to work to help fight the virus.Liu, who was 59, stopped working four years ago at the designated retirement age of 55 in 2016, came back to work to help fight the virus.
But she died on Feb. 14 after being infected. A WeChat user nicknamed “Tiantian” posted on the messaging app that Liu Fan was still working on Jan. 26 and without proper equipment.But she died on Feb. 14 after being infected. A WeChat user nicknamed “Tiantian” posted on the messaging app that Liu Fan was still working on Jan. 26 and without proper equipment.
“At the time [she] did not have protective suit, it’s basically like she was ‘streaking.’ As a result, her whole family was infected,” read the post, which was soon deleted by China's censors.“At the time [she] did not have protective suit, it’s basically like she was ‘streaking.’ As a result, her whole family was infected,” read the post, which was soon deleted by China's censors.
Liu Fan’s parents and younger brother have been infected with the novel coronavirus pneumonia, the Beijing News reported this week, and her husband is being quarantined at home as a precaution.Liu Fan’s parents and younger brother have been infected with the novel coronavirus pneumonia, the Beijing News reported this week, and her husband is being quarantined at home as a precaution.
Hospital staff said Liu Fan was an easygoing and extroverted person who was a conscientious and hard-working nurse.Hospital staff said Liu Fan was an easygoing and extroverted person who was a conscientious and hard-working nurse.
“We are also deeply saddened by the loss of such a good nurse,” Wuchang Hospital said in a statement posted on the Weibo microblogging site. “In this battle, the virus was brutal, and we express our deep condolences over comrade Liu Fan’s tragic death.”“We are also deeply saddened by the loss of such a good nurse,” Wuchang Hospital said in a statement posted on the Weibo microblogging site. “In this battle, the virus was brutal, and we express our deep condolences over comrade Liu Fan’s tragic death.”
BEIJING — Social media users in China have slammed a hospital as being “insensitive” and “degrading” to women for encouraging or even forcing female doctors and nurses to shave their head in a gesture of sacrifice.BEIJING — Social media users in China have slammed a hospital as being “insensitive” and “degrading” to women for encouraging or even forcing female doctors and nurses to shave their head in a gesture of sacrifice.
On Feb. 15, the government-run Gansu Daily posted a minute-long video clip on the Weibo microblogging site, showing 15 women doctors and nurses having their heads shaved bald by their male colleagues at Gansu Provincial Maternity and Childcare Hospital. These medical workers were to be sent to Wuhan, the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak, that afternoon after a farewell ceremony where they were meant to show off their new looks.On Feb. 15, the government-run Gansu Daily posted a minute-long video clip on the Weibo microblogging site, showing 15 women doctors and nurses having their heads shaved bald by their male colleagues at Gansu Provincial Maternity and Childcare Hospital. These medical workers were to be sent to Wuhan, the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak, that afternoon after a farewell ceremony where they were meant to show off their new looks.
As the camera panned, some of the women were shown weeping during the ordeal, wiping their tears when putting on their surgical cap and obviously pained to look at their long ponytails that had just been cut off.As the camera panned, some of the women were shown weeping during the ordeal, wiping their tears when putting on their surgical cap and obviously pained to look at their long ponytails that had just been cut off.
“With hair cut short, they are ready to go on the expedition! They are pretty for traveling against the flow [to somewhere dangerous],” the post read, trying to demonstrate how women are willing to make sacrifices and getting hair out of the way to ensure higher efficiency at work.“With hair cut short, they are ready to go on the expedition! They are pretty for traveling against the flow [to somewhere dangerous],” the post read, trying to demonstrate how women are willing to make sacrifices and getting hair out of the way to ensure higher efficiency at work.
A number of comments questioned the necessity of the head-shaving and asked if the women were forced.A number of comments questioned the necessity of the head-shaving and asked if the women were forced.
“Okay, suppose they wanted to save the trouble and get rid of long hair out of their free will, they could have cut it really short, not opted for clean-shaven,” one comment read.“Okay, suppose they wanted to save the trouble and get rid of long hair out of their free will, they could have cut it really short, not opted for clean-shaven,” one comment read.
“What’s rush to cut people’s hair when you haven’t even got other supplies ready for them? Please at least show some respect if you are sending them to the front line,” another posted.“What’s rush to cut people’s hair when you haven’t even got other supplies ready for them? Please at least show some respect if you are sending them to the front line,” another posted.
It is not the first time that hospitals have required front line volunteers to cut their hair or shave the head for the sake of “efficiency.”It is not the first time that hospitals have required front line volunteers to cut their hair or shave the head for the sake of “efficiency.”
Earlier on the same day, the Yellow River Sanmenxia Hospital in Henan province also shaved the long hair off the head of nurses before sending them to Wuhan.Earlier on the same day, the Yellow River Sanmenxia Hospital in Henan province also shaved the long hair off the head of nurses before sending them to Wuhan.
“I don’t want to emphasize the stereotype that all women care about their appearance, but the love for beauty is a common pursuit for a lot of people,” read a blog post titled “Stop using women’s bodies as your propaganda tool,” which has been shared tens of thousands of times on WeChat on Tuesday.“I don’t want to emphasize the stereotype that all women care about their appearance, but the love for beauty is a common pursuit for a lot of people,” read a blog post titled “Stop using women’s bodies as your propaganda tool,” which has been shared tens of thousands of times on WeChat on Tuesday.
“We cherish our hair, whether leaving it long or cutting it short, dyeing into a different color or having a perm. We love it when we look good, and more importantly, it is completely up to our own choice.”“We cherish our hair, whether leaving it long or cutting it short, dyeing into a different color or having a perm. We love it when we look good, and more importantly, it is completely up to our own choice.”
“Don’t try to use the body of women to make cheap tear-jerkers: it’s neither what they need or what we want to see … what we need to see is that people being given the dignity they deserve.”“Don’t try to use the body of women to make cheap tear-jerkers: it’s neither what they need or what we want to see … what we need to see is that people being given the dignity they deserve.”
HONG KONG — Fifty Hong Kong retailers on Tuesday closed their outlets in an effort to pressure landlords into offering rental cuts, with the compounded impact of anti-government protests and the coronavirus outbreak taking a massive toll on the retail, food and beverage industries.HONG KONG — Fifty Hong Kong retailers on Tuesday closed their outlets in an effort to pressure landlords into offering rental cuts, with the compounded impact of anti-government protests and the coronavirus outbreak taking a massive toll on the retail, food and beverage industries.
The retailers, according to the South China Morning Post, include French sportswear brand Lacoste and American outdoor brand Timberland. All in all, about 200 shops operated by those 50 retailers have declared a “no business” day across 14 shopping centers in Hong Kong, the paper reported. Some will be closed for 24 hours while others have announced closures without specifying a time limit.The retailers, according to the South China Morning Post, include French sportswear brand Lacoste and American outdoor brand Timberland. All in all, about 200 shops operated by those 50 retailers have declared a “no business” day across 14 shopping centers in Hong Kong, the paper reported. Some will be closed for 24 hours while others have announced closures without specifying a time limit.
Ashley Micklewright, president and chief executive at Bluebell Group, which distributes luxury brands such as Celine, Marc Jacobs and Victoria’s Secret, said the last seven months of losses have become “unbearable,” according to the paper. An employee from the group told The Washington Post that there are outlets with no recorded sales on some days.Ashley Micklewright, president and chief executive at Bluebell Group, which distributes luxury brands such as Celine, Marc Jacobs and Victoria’s Secret, said the last seven months of losses have become “unbearable,” according to the paper. An employee from the group told The Washington Post that there are outlets with no recorded sales on some days.
“The impact on the business and traffic is far worse than anything we have ever experienced,” Micklewright was quoted as saying.“The impact on the business and traffic is far worse than anything we have ever experienced,” Micklewright was quoted as saying.
Hong Kong, which has no duty on luxury goods, has long relied on travelers from mainland China to boost sales. Arrivals dipped during protests last year, which at times turned violent, but have fallen even more steeply amid the coronavirus outbreak. Retailers want landlords to offer rental relief. Hong Kong is one of the most expensive real estate markets in the world.Hong Kong, which has no duty on luxury goods, has long relied on travelers from mainland China to boost sales. Arrivals dipped during protests last year, which at times turned violent, but have fallen even more steeply amid the coronavirus outbreak. Retailers want landlords to offer rental relief. Hong Kong is one of the most expensive real estate markets in the world.
BEIJING — Zhong Nanshan, the Chinese pulmonologist who is heading a team of experts on managing the novel coronavirus outbreak, has predicted that the number of infections will plateau after hitting a peak in mid- to late-February as migrant workers return to the cities.BEIJING — Zhong Nanshan, the Chinese pulmonologist who is heading a team of experts on managing the novel coronavirus outbreak, has predicted that the number of infections will plateau after hitting a peak in mid- to late-February as migrant workers return to the cities.
Considering factors including human migration as well as China’s compulsory quarantine measures, Zhong’s research team had previously estimated that the total number of infections would reach a peak later this month.Considering factors including human migration as well as China’s compulsory quarantine measures, Zhong’s research team had previously estimated that the total number of infections would reach a peak later this month.
However, he warned that a decrease might not ensue immediately after that.However, he warned that a decrease might not ensue immediately after that.
“We are not clear if we have seen that peak yet, and we need to wait and observe a few more days,” Zhong said in Guangzhou on Monday afternoon during a remote conference with a team of intensive care doctors in Wuhan.“We are not clear if we have seen that peak yet, and we need to wait and observe a few more days,” Zhong said in Guangzhou on Monday afternoon during a remote conference with a team of intensive care doctors in Wuhan.
“A peak number doesn’t equal the ‘turning point’ … and new peaks could probably appear with the returning of migrant workers.”“A peak number doesn’t equal the ‘turning point’ … and new peaks could probably appear with the returning of migrant workers.”
Zhong, who has been widely seen as a heroic figure for his contribution to controlling the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, in 2002-2003, remains concerned about the high death rate and new coronavirus infections in Wuhan.Zhong, who has been widely seen as a heroic figure for his contribution to controlling the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, in 2002-2003, remains concerned about the high death rate and new coronavirus infections in Wuhan.
“The biggest problem right now is that human-to-human transmission in Wuhan has not been fully stopped and is still on the rise despite all the efforts we have made,” he said, adding that his team has been developing an immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody testing kit for diagnosis, which would have a higher accuracy rate than the nucleic acid tests in use now.“The biggest problem right now is that human-to-human transmission in Wuhan has not been fully stopped and is still on the rise despite all the efforts we have made,” he said, adding that his team has been developing an immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody testing kit for diagnosis, which would have a higher accuracy rate than the nucleic acid tests in use now.
Zhong said that the high fatality rate in Wuhan is due to cross infections and a failure to treat mild cases in the early stage.Zhong said that the high fatality rate in Wuhan is due to cross infections and a failure to treat mild cases in the early stage.
However, he said that the situation is going to “look up” with stricter quarantine measures in Wuhan and the implementation of early prevention, early detection, and early quarantine in other areas.However, he said that the situation is going to “look up” with stricter quarantine measures in Wuhan and the implementation of early prevention, early detection, and early quarantine in other areas.
SEOUL — South Korea is sending a presidential jet on Tuesday to evacuate its citizens onboard the Diamond Princess cruise liner docked in Japan, a Seoul government official said.SEOUL — South Korea is sending a presidential jet on Tuesday to evacuate its citizens onboard the Diamond Princess cruise liner docked in Japan, a Seoul government official said.
Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said Seoul will fly out passengers on the quarantined ship “because health and lives of our people is the primary concern amid the rising number of coronavirus infections on the Diamond Princess.”Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said Seoul will fly out passengers on the quarantined ship “because health and lives of our people is the primary concern amid the rising number of coronavirus infections on the Diamond Princess.”
Kim said at a briefing on Tuesday that four South Korean citizens and the Japanese spouse of one of them will fly back to Seoul early Wednesday.Kim said at a briefing on Tuesday that four South Korean citizens and the Japanese spouse of one of them will fly back to Seoul early Wednesday.
The four out of 14 South Koreans in the quarantined cruise ship expressed intention to return to South Korea, Kim said. He added none of the 14 has symptoms related to the coronavirus.The four out of 14 South Koreans in the quarantined cruise ship expressed intention to return to South Korea, Kim said. He added none of the 14 has symptoms related to the coronavirus.
The five evacuees will undergo a 14-day quarantine in South Korea.The five evacuees will undergo a 14-day quarantine in South Korea.
South Korea has previously sent three charter planes to Wuhan to evacuate its citizens and their Chinese family members.South Korea has previously sent three charter planes to Wuhan to evacuate its citizens and their Chinese family members.
The country's health authorities confirmed a new case of coronavirus infection on Tuesday, bringing the national tally to 31.The country's health authorities confirmed a new case of coronavirus infection on Tuesday, bringing the national tally to 31.
TOKYO — The 14-day quarantine period for all passengers remaining on the Diamond Princess will end as scheduled on Wednesday, Japanese Health Minister Katsunori Kato said Tuesday.TOKYO — The 14-day quarantine period for all passengers remaining on the Diamond Princess will end as scheduled on Wednesday, Japanese Health Minister Katsunori Kato said Tuesday.
The remaining passengers will be notified on Wednesday of their latest coronavirus test results, and those who test negative will be free to disembark from the cruise ship, which is moored off the Japanese port of Yokohama. They will come off the ship in the order that they are tested, so it might take until Friday for everyone to leave.The remaining passengers will be notified on Wednesday of their latest coronavirus test results, and those who test negative will be free to disembark from the cruise ship, which is moored off the Japanese port of Yokohama. They will come off the ship in the order that they are tested, so it might take until Friday for everyone to leave.
“Everyone feels they want to go home soon. We would like to prepare for that and ensure that they will return home smoothly,” Kato told reporters in Tokyo.“Everyone feels they want to go home soon. We would like to prepare for that and ensure that they will return home smoothly,” Kato told reporters in Tokyo.
Asked if the decision to keep the passengers on board was appropriate, Kato did not give a direct answer. “To be accurate, we are not making them stay on board, but are conducting a quarantine. They were asking to enter into Japan, and we have been taking necessary measures. That is all,” Kato said, according to NHK, the public broadcaster.Asked if the decision to keep the passengers on board was appropriate, Kato did not give a direct answer. “To be accurate, we are not making them stay on board, but are conducting a quarantine. They were asking to enter into Japan, and we have been taking necessary measures. That is all,” Kato said, according to NHK, the public broadcaster.
Separately, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said he thought it was appropriate for Japan to quarantine the passengers on board the ship, even as infections skyrocketed in the confined space.Separately, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said he thought it was appropriate for Japan to quarantine the passengers on board the ship, even as infections skyrocketed in the confined space.
He cited the words of gratitude expressed by the U.S. government and a number of U.S. passengers who decided to stay despite an opportunity for an early departure.He cited the words of gratitude expressed by the U.S. government and a number of U.S. passengers who decided to stay despite an opportunity for an early departure.
As of Monday, a total of 454 passengers and crew members have tested positive for the virus, and most of them have disembarked.As of Monday, a total of 454 passengers and crew members have tested positive for the virus, and most of them have disembarked.
Singapore Airlines, the city-state’s flag carrier, said Tuesday it would temporarily cut back on flights, including to Los Angeles, Sydney and London, citing weak demand for travel due to the coronavirus outbreak.Singapore Airlines, the city-state’s flag carrier, said Tuesday it would temporarily cut back on flights, including to Los Angeles, Sydney and London, citing weak demand for travel due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The airline’s performance is a bellwether for Asia’s aviation industry, which is already taking a severe hit as the deadly outbreak and the travel and quarantine restrictions imposed by countries in response deter would-be travelers. In China, a major source of tourism arrivals, millions of people remain under lockdown as the death toll continues to climb.The airline’s performance is a bellwether for Asia’s aviation industry, which is already taking a severe hit as the deadly outbreak and the travel and quarantine restrictions imposed by countries in response deter would-be travelers. In China, a major source of tourism arrivals, millions of people remain under lockdown as the death toll continues to climb.
Flights affected were scheduled between March and May, and span a range of cities and continents: Paris, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Seoul, Tokyo, Sydney and Mumbai, to name a few. Singapore Airlines had already cut back on flights to mainland China and semiautonomous Hong Kong, Singapore’s rival for the title of Asia’s financial capital.Flights affected were scheduled between March and May, and span a range of cities and continents: Paris, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Seoul, Tokyo, Sydney and Mumbai, to name a few. Singapore Airlines had already cut back on flights to mainland China and semiautonomous Hong Kong, Singapore’s rival for the title of Asia’s financial capital.
Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific has eliminated most of its flights to mainland China, and reduced overall capacity by about 40 percent. These flight cuts, Cathay said, will likely drag on into April. The airline’s chief customer and commercial officer, Ronald Lam, described this year’s Lunar New Year holiday period as the “most challenging” period the airline has experienced, and says the carrier is seeing “continued cancellations of bookings.”Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific has eliminated most of its flights to mainland China, and reduced overall capacity by about 40 percent. These flight cuts, Cathay said, will likely drag on into April. The airline’s chief customer and commercial officer, Ronald Lam, described this year’s Lunar New Year holiday period as the “most challenging” period the airline has experienced, and says the carrier is seeing “continued cancellations of bookings.”
MANILA — A total of 35 Filipino crew members on the Diamond Princess cruise ship docked in Japan have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday.MANILA — A total of 35 Filipino crew members on the Diamond Princess cruise ship docked in Japan have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday.
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Brigido Dulay told CNN Philippines that crew members will have to undergo a separate period of isolation after passengers disembark on Wednesday.Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Brigido Dulay told CNN Philippines that crew members will have to undergo a separate period of isolation after passengers disembark on Wednesday.
“The Filipino crew are the most exposed because they have to move around the ship. They have to service the passengers,” said Dulay. “What was told to us was [the crew] will now undergo a separate quarantine, so that’s another 14 days.”“The Filipino crew are the most exposed because they have to move around the ship. They have to service the passengers,” said Dulay. “What was told to us was [the crew] will now undergo a separate quarantine, so that’s another 14 days.”
It is unclear how this development will affect Philippine government plans to repatriate more than 500 Filipino crew on board.It is unclear how this development will affect Philippine government plans to repatriate more than 500 Filipino crew on board.
Other crew members told The Washington Post about dire conditions on the ship, as they were not segregated and forced to continue working.Other crew members told The Washington Post about dire conditions on the ship, as they were not segregated and forced to continue working.
Victoria Lavado, whose father is on board, said on Monday she worried for him as she was concerned that infected crew members could “still mix” with others on board.Victoria Lavado, whose father is on board, said on Monday she worried for him as she was concerned that infected crew members could “still mix” with others on board.
“It took a long time before they received safety masks and they are still forced to work as if it is business as usual,” Lavado said, according to a statement by Migrante International, an organization that advocates for the welfare of overseas Filipino workers. “We really want the Duterte government to work on medical repatriation for my father and for the other Filipino seafarers.”“It took a long time before they received safety masks and they are still forced to work as if it is business as usual,” Lavado said, according to a statement by Migrante International, an organization that advocates for the welfare of overseas Filipino workers. “We really want the Duterte government to work on medical repatriation for my father and for the other Filipino seafarers.”