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Live updates: First U.S. death from coronavirus confirmed in Washington state, according to health officials Live updates: First U.S. death from coronavirus confirmed in Washington state, according to health officials
(31 minutes later)
BREAKING: A person diagnosed with coronavirus in King County in Washington state has died, according to health officials on Saturday.BREAKING: A person diagnosed with coronavirus in King County in Washington state has died, according to health officials on Saturday.
In a statement released Saturday, the Washington State Department of Health and Seattle and King County health officials said they would offer more details at a 1 p.m. local time news conference. They will discuss the death and new confirmed cases in the county.In a statement released Saturday, the Washington State Department of Health and Seattle and King County health officials said they would offer more details at a 1 p.m. local time news conference. They will discuss the death and new confirmed cases in the county.
More coronavirus infections were also reported from South Korea to France to Qatar on Saturday after health officials in Washington state, Oregon and California on Friday reported another worrying development: new cases among people who have not traveled recently to countries hit hard by the outbreak or come into contact with anyone known to have the disease, which public health officials refer to as community transmission.More coronavirus infections were also reported from South Korea to France to Qatar on Saturday after health officials in Washington state, Oregon and California on Friday reported another worrying development: new cases among people who have not traveled recently to countries hit hard by the outbreak or come into contact with anyone known to have the disease, which public health officials refer to as community transmission.
The four new cases Friday bring the total number of covid-19 cases detected through the U.S. public health system to 19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.The four new cases Friday bring the total number of covid-19 cases detected through the U.S. public health system to 19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Washington state announced late Friday that a high school student in Snohomish County, just north of Seattle, tested positive for the deadly virus and was in home isolation in a suspected community transmission case. State health officials also said a woman in her 50s in King County tested positive after traveling to Daegu, South Korea, the site of a major coronavirus outbreak. She, too, is in home isolation.Washington state announced late Friday that a high school student in Snohomish County, just north of Seattle, tested positive for the deadly virus and was in home isolation in a suspected community transmission case. State health officials also said a woman in her 50s in King County tested positive after traveling to Daegu, South Korea, the site of a major coronavirus outbreak. She, too, is in home isolation.
Earlier Friday, Oregon health officials reported a presumptive positive test in a Washington County elementary school employee with no known travel history or contact with infected individuals. California also reported a second case of community transmission, in Santa Clara County, after reporting the nation’s first such case, in Solano County, earlier in the week.Earlier Friday, Oregon health officials reported a presumptive positive test in a Washington County elementary school employee with no known travel history or contact with infected individuals. California also reported a second case of community transmission, in Santa Clara County, after reporting the nation’s first such case, in Solano County, earlier in the week.
Here are the latest developments:Here are the latest developments:
Mapping the spread of the coronavirus | What you need to know about the virus | How to prepare for coronavirus in the U.S.Mapping the spread of the coronavirus | What you need to know about the virus | How to prepare for coronavirus in the U.S.
Roughly 2 million tweets peddled conspiracy theories about coronavirus over the three-week period when the outbreak began to spread outside China, according to an unreleased report from an arm of the State Department, raising fresh fears about Silicon Valley’s preparedness to combat a surge of dangerous disinformation online. In a statement released Saturday, the Washington State Department of Health and Seattle and King County health officials confirmed the death and said they would offer more details at a 1 p.m. news conference, local time. They will discuss the death and new confirmed cases in the county.
The wrongful, harmful posts floated a number of hoaxes — suggesting, for example, that coronavirus had been created by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation or was the result of a bioweapon. These and other identified falsehoods represented 7 percent of the total tweets the government studied, and might have been “potentially impactful on the broader social media conversation,” according to the report, which was obtained by The Washington Post on Saturday. “It is a sad day in our state as we learn that a Washingtonian has died from COVID-19,” Washington Gov. Jay Inslee (D) said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to his family and friends. We will continue to work toward a day where no one dies from this virus.”
Inslee said the state departments of health and emergency management are working closely with local officials to strengthen preparedness and response efforts.
“I am committed to keeping Washingtonians healthy, safe and informed,” the governor said.
Roughly 2 million tweets peddled conspiracy theories about the coronavirus over the three-week period since the outbreak began to spread outside China, according to an unreleased report from an arm of the State Department, raising fresh fears about Silicon Valley’s preparedness to combat a surge of dangerous disinformation online.
The wrongful, harmful posts floated a number of hoaxes — suggesting, for example, that the coronavirus had been created by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation or was the result of a bioweapon. These and other identified falsehoods represented 7 percent of the total tweets the government studied, and they might have been “potentially impactful on the broader social media conversation,” according to the report, which was obtained by The Washington Post on Saturday.
Tech firms take a hard line against coronavirus myths. But what about other types of misinformation?Tech firms take a hard line against coronavirus myths. But what about other types of misinformation?
The Global Engagement Center, the propaganda-fighting program at the State Department whose name appears on the document, said it focused its analysis on countries excluding the United States between Jan. 20 and Feb. 10, a period during which the World Health Organization declared coronavirus an international health emergency. In total, the GEC explored 29 million foreign posts, the report said.The Global Engagement Center, the propaganda-fighting program at the State Department whose name appears on the document, said it focused its analysis on countries excluding the United States between Jan. 20 and Feb. 10, a period during which the World Health Organization declared coronavirus an international health emergency. In total, the GEC explored 29 million foreign posts, the report said.
Some of the misinformation exhibited “evidence of inauthentic and coordinated activity,” according to the report, raising the specter that foreign governments or other malicious actors may have deliberately tried to sow fear and discord about the international health emergency — much as Russian agents had done during the 2016 presidential election in the United States.Some of the misinformation exhibited “evidence of inauthentic and coordinated activity,” according to the report, raising the specter that foreign governments or other malicious actors may have deliberately tried to sow fear and discord about the international health emergency — much as Russian agents had done during the 2016 presidential election in the United States.
But the report did not detail fully what led to this conclusion, nor did it attribute the information to a specific government source. Previously, agency officials signaled in public news reports that some of the activity may be tied to agents of the Kremlin, though Russia is not mentioned once in the new study. But the report did not detail fully what led to this conclusion, nor did it attribute the information to a specific government source. Previously, agency officials signaled in public news reports that some of the activity may be tied to agents of the Kremlin, though Russia is not mentioned in the study.
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SEOUL — The windows are sealed shut in the psychiatric ward at South Korea’s Daenam hospital to prevent possible suicide attempts. The patients sleep together on futons in communal rooms. SEOUL — The windows are sealed shut in the psychiatric ward at South Korea’s Daenam Hospital to prevent suicide attempts. The patients sleep together on futons in communal rooms.
And when the coronavirus made its way inside earlier this month, the hospital administrators and South Korean health officials faced a choice. And when the coronavirus made its way inside earlier this month, hospital administrators and South Korean health officials put the psychiatric ward — and its more than 100 patients — on lockdown in an attempt to contain the virus. The hospital is in Cheongdo County, the center of South Korea’s outbreak.
They decided to put the psychiatric ward — and its more than 100 patients — on lockdown in an attempt to contain the virus at the hospital in Cheongdo County, the center of South Korea’s outbreak. Of South Korea’s more than 3,150 confirmed cases, 101 were from patients in the psychiatric ward. Seven patients from the ward have died — among a total of 17 around the country. All but two in the psychiatric ward contracted the virus.
Of South Korea's more than 3,150 confirmed cases, 101 were from patients in the psychiatric ward. Seven patients from the ward have died — among a total of 17 around the country. All but two in the psychiatric ward contracted the disease. For South Korea’s public, the actions by hospital overseers touch on difficult issues of ethics and efficacy as the country struggles to cope with the growing health crisis. South Korean officials have vowed not to follow China and impose sweeping citywide lockdowns.
For South Korea’s public, the actions by the hospital overseers touch on difficult issues of ethics and efficacy as the country struggles to cope with the growing health crisis. South Korean officials have vowed not to follow China and impose sweeping citywide lockdowns.
But the hospital’s decision has underscored the challenges facing health-care institutions, nursing homes and other live-in settings if coronavirus flares.But the hospital’s decision has underscored the challenges facing health-care institutions, nursing homes and other live-in settings if coronavirus flares.
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New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Saturday that the Food and Drug Administration has approved a test for New York state’s health laboratories to use to detect the coronavirus.New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Saturday that the Food and Drug Administration has approved a test for New York state’s health laboratories to use to detect the coronavirus.
Laboratories at hospitals as well as state public health laboratories have struggled in recent weeks to use tests they develop without approval from the FDA.Laboratories at hospitals as well as state public health laboratories have struggled in recent weeks to use tests they develop without approval from the FDA.
The U.S. response to covid-19 has been hampered by testing issues. Experts have consequently worried that the small number of U.S. cases may be a reflection of limited testing rather than of the virus’s restricted spread.The U.S. response to covid-19 has been hampered by testing issues. Experts have consequently worried that the small number of U.S. cases may be a reflection of limited testing rather than of the virus’s restricted spread.
Cuomo (D) said he spoke in recent days to Vice President Pence, who heads the White House’s coronavirus response, and urged him to approve the test developed by New York state health officials.Cuomo (D) said he spoke in recent days to Vice President Pence, who heads the White House’s coronavirus response, and urged him to approve the test developed by New York state health officials.
With the approval New York received Saturday, Cuomo said, state officials will begin testing immediately at the Wadsworth laboratory in Albany.With the approval New York received Saturday, Cuomo said, state officials will begin testing immediately at the Wadsworth laboratory in Albany.
“This approval will expedite wait time and improve New York’s ability to more effectively manage the coronavirus situation as it unfolds,” Cuomo said.“This approval will expedite wait time and improve New York’s ability to more effectively manage the coronavirus situation as it unfolds,” Cuomo said.
Across the country, Asian American-owned businesses and restaurants are suffering because of misinformation and xenophobic assumptions about how the novel coronavirus is spreading, creating stigmas not supported by scientific facts.Across the country, Asian American-owned businesses and restaurants are suffering because of misinformation and xenophobic assumptions about how the novel coronavirus is spreading, creating stigmas not supported by scientific facts.
At a news conference Friday outside the U.S. Capitol, members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus condemned racist rhetoric and “fake news” they say is harming people in their home districts.At a news conference Friday outside the U.S. Capitol, members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus condemned racist rhetoric and “fake news” they say is harming people in their home districts.
Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.), who chairs CAPAC, said restaurant owners in her majority-Asian Los Angeles-area district have reported a 50 percent drop in business.Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.), who chairs CAPAC, said restaurant owners in her majority-Asian Los Angeles-area district have reported a 50 percent drop in business.
“The common thread in all of this xenophobia has been the steady flow of misinformation around covid-19 and how it spreads,” Chu said.“The common thread in all of this xenophobia has been the steady flow of misinformation around covid-19 and how it spreads,” Chu said.
Health officials have emphasized that the best way to prevent the spread of the novel virus is to practice good hygiene, which includes frequent hand washing.Health officials have emphasized that the best way to prevent the spread of the novel virus is to practice good hygiene, which includes frequent hand washing.
“Ethnicity is not a risk factor,” Mitch Wolfe, chief medical officer at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said at the news conference.“Ethnicity is not a risk factor,” Mitch Wolfe, chief medical officer at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said at the news conference.
Despite clear guidance from the CDC, misinformed rumors continue to circulate, which is what prompted CAPAC members to issue a letter to their congressional colleagues last week calling on them to “share only confirmed and verifiable information” with their constituents.Despite clear guidance from the CDC, misinformed rumors continue to circulate, which is what prompted CAPAC members to issue a letter to their congressional colleagues last week calling on them to “share only confirmed and verifiable information” with their constituents.
The letter referenced a claim made by Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) without evidence that the virus was created in a Chinese lab. Chu said that false claim only “reinforces a narrative that China is an enemy, which puts Chinese Americans particularly at risk."The letter referenced a claim made by Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) without evidence that the virus was created in a Chinese lab. Chu said that false claim only “reinforces a narrative that China is an enemy, which puts Chinese Americans particularly at risk."
Other lawmakers and advocates at the news conference cited drops in Asian-owned or operated businesses in New York City and Houston.Other lawmakers and advocates at the news conference cited drops in Asian-owned or operated businesses in New York City and Houston.
“Across the country, our chapters are reporting diminished patronage to Asian American-owned businesses, from restaurants to grocery stores, to nail salons and to other places and forcing owners into financial crisis and sending workers home,” said Rita Pin Ahrens, the executive director of Asian American advocacy group OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates.“Across the country, our chapters are reporting diminished patronage to Asian American-owned businesses, from restaurants to grocery stores, to nail salons and to other places and forcing owners into financial crisis and sending workers home,” said Rita Pin Ahrens, the executive director of Asian American advocacy group OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates.
The United States’ response to the coronavirus in recent weeks has been hampered by problems with its testing. Experts have worried that the small number of U.S. cases we are seeing may be a reflection of limited testing, not of the virus’s spread.The United States’ response to the coronavirus in recent weeks has been hampered by problems with its testing. Experts have worried that the small number of U.S. cases we are seeing may be a reflection of limited testing, not of the virus’s spread.
One of the three components in the initial test kit created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wasn’t working properly, preventing some labs from being able to offer it.One of the three components in the initial test kit created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wasn’t working properly, preventing some labs from being able to offer it.
“This has not gone as smoothly as we would have liked,” top CDC official Nancy Messonnier admitted at a news conference on Friday. “Please remember that our laboratories developed this test kit before there were U.S. cases,” she added.“This has not gone as smoothly as we would have liked,” top CDC official Nancy Messonnier admitted at a news conference on Friday. “Please remember that our laboratories developed this test kit before there were U.S. cases,” she added.
In recent days, testing capacity has improved.In recent days, testing capacity has improved.
The “Berlin test” was created by researchers in Germany and is being widely used. Hong Kong has its own test. China has another.The “Berlin test” was created by researchers in Germany and is being widely used. Hong Kong has its own test. China has another.
Some have questioned why the United States hasn’t switched to a test being successfully used by other countries with larger numbers of cases.Some have questioned why the United States hasn’t switched to a test being successfully used by other countries with larger numbers of cases.
Still, the good news is that testing in the United States is improving. As of the end of last week, about eight labs reported the original CDC test was working. About 40 public health laboratories in the United States received permission this week to go online with the two working components.Still, the good news is that testing in the United States is improving. As of the end of last week, about eight labs reported the original CDC test was working. About 40 public health laboratories in the United States received permission this week to go online with the two working components.
Announcements then began to trickle in: Massachusetts can now test and Arizona plans to start processing tests Monday. New CDC tests are expected to be sent out next week, prioritizing a small handful of labs that also had trouble with the first component, called N1.Announcements then began to trickle in: Massachusetts can now test and Arizona plans to start processing tests Monday. New CDC tests are expected to be sent out next week, prioritizing a small handful of labs that also had trouble with the first component, called N1.
Even this capacity will be limited. What most clinicians want is a commercial test they can run rapidly, and companies are working toward that goal. Hospital laboratory directors have been extremely frustrated by the rules of a public health emergency, which have made it difficult to increase testing capacity.Even this capacity will be limited. What most clinicians want is a commercial test they can run rapidly, and companies are working toward that goal. Hospital laboratory directors have been extremely frustrated by the rules of a public health emergency, which have made it difficult to increase testing capacity.
That’s why the Food and Drug Administration on Saturday took new steps to expand testing for the coronavirus by speeding up hospitals’ ability to test for the virus. The action followed complaints from hospital laboratories that the previous policy was too burdensome and was slowing their efforts to create and use their own tests.That’s why the Food and Drug Administration on Saturday took new steps to expand testing for the coronavirus by speeding up hospitals’ ability to test for the virus. The action followed complaints from hospital laboratories that the previous policy was too burdensome and was slowing their efforts to create and use their own tests.
Nonetheless, some lab directors say it doesn’t go far enough to ease the red tape holding back U.S. testing.Nonetheless, some lab directors say it doesn’t go far enough to ease the red tape holding back U.S. testing.
Testing is going to be crucial if we want to contain and mitigate the coronavirus’s spread in the United States. But labs — which have been hampered by delays — have limited capacity.Testing is going to be crucial if we want to contain and mitigate the coronavirus’s spread in the United States. But labs — which have been hampered by delays — have limited capacity.
Officials also want to make sure the testing adheres to a high standard to prevent false positives, which would set off panic and sow doubts about the reliability of the testing.Officials also want to make sure the testing adheres to a high standard to prevent false positives, which would set off panic and sow doubts about the reliability of the testing.
That’s why, for weeks, the criteria for testing patients was very narrow — for people with a travel history or close contact with a confirmed case, although exceptions could be made. Then, on Thursday, U.S. officials expanded the criteria to include people with severe respiratory symptoms that had no explanation.That’s why, for weeks, the criteria for testing patients was very narrow — for people with a travel history or close contact with a confirmed case, although exceptions could be made. Then, on Thursday, U.S. officials expanded the criteria to include people with severe respiratory symptoms that had no explanation.
Testing more widely is important because it will determine how far the virus has spread undetected in the United States. There is a plan to expand testing to flu surveillance in five U.S. cities, but the rollout has been delayed by frustrating problems.Testing more widely is important because it will determine how far the virus has spread undetected in the United States. There is a plan to expand testing to flu surveillance in five U.S. cities, but the rollout has been delayed by frustrating problems.
New data from China shows just how widely testing may have to be done to find cases. In Guangdong province, officials said they had tested 320,000 people at fever clinics, but less than 0.5 percent were positive.New data from China shows just how widely testing may have to be done to find cases. In Guangdong province, officials said they had tested 320,000 people at fever clinics, but less than 0.5 percent were positive.
No test is perfect, and in the early days of using a test, laboratories are still gaining field experience that will help inform how the test is used in broader populations.No test is perfect, and in the early days of using a test, laboratories are still gaining field experience that will help inform how the test is used in broader populations.
Steven Hinrichs, director of microbiology and virology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, said he has gotten the original Centers for Disease Control and Prevention test to work and they have identified 14 positive cases in the lab. He is also working for authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a test that could be used in the hospital in a broader set of patients who may not fit the criteria but raise clinical suspicion.Steven Hinrichs, director of microbiology and virology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, said he has gotten the original Centers for Disease Control and Prevention test to work and they have identified 14 positive cases in the lab. He is also working for authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a test that could be used in the hospital in a broader set of patients who may not fit the criteria but raise clinical suspicion.
Even as there’s an urgent need to broaden testing, he emphasized that the test must be held to a high standard.Even as there’s an urgent need to broaden testing, he emphasized that the test must be held to a high standard.
“It’s important for all laboratorians to realize the impact of this test — and they need to be as rigorous for this test as any other, and perhaps even more so,” Hinrichs said. “Can you imagine what a false positive would do in a community when they really didn’t have the disease?”“It’s important for all laboratorians to realize the impact of this test — and they need to be as rigorous for this test as any other, and perhaps even more so,” Hinrichs said. “Can you imagine what a false positive would do in a community when they really didn’t have the disease?”
The Food and Drug Administration on Saturday took new steps to expand testing for the coronavirus by speeding up hospitals’ abilities to test. The action followed complaints from labs that the previous policy was too burdensome and was slowing hospitals’ efforts to create and use their own tests.The Food and Drug Administration on Saturday took new steps to expand testing for the coronavirus by speeding up hospitals’ abilities to test. The action followed complaints from labs that the previous policy was too burdensome and was slowing hospitals’ efforts to create and use their own tests.
Certified hospital labs typically can develop their own tests for in-house use, but the rules of a public health emergency — which are now governing the coronavirus outbreak — mean those tests first need to get “emergency use authorization” from the FDA. The lab officials have repeatedly said the FDA’s emergency use requirements are too onerous.Certified hospital labs typically can develop their own tests for in-house use, but the rules of a public health emergency — which are now governing the coronavirus outbreak — mean those tests first need to get “emergency use authorization” from the FDA. The lab officials have repeatedly said the FDA’s emergency use requirements are too onerous.
Under the policy announced Saturday, the labs can begin using their own tests after validating them and before the FDA has finished reviewing their request for emergency use authorization.Under the policy announced Saturday, the labs can begin using their own tests after validating them and before the FDA has finished reviewing their request for emergency use authorization.
“We believe this policy strikes the right balance during this public health emergency,” FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn said in a statement. “We will continue to help to ensure sound science before clinical testing and follow up with the critical independent review from the FDA, while quickly expanding testing capabilities in the U.S.”“We believe this policy strikes the right balance during this public health emergency,” FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn said in a statement. “We will continue to help to ensure sound science before clinical testing and follow up with the critical independent review from the FDA, while quickly expanding testing capabilities in the U.S.”
He said the agency wasn’t changing its standards for issuing emergency use authorizations, but that it was addressing “critical public health needs” and responding to a “dynamic and evolving situation.”He said the agency wasn’t changing its standards for issuing emergency use authorizations, but that it was addressing “critical public health needs” and responding to a “dynamic and evolving situation.”
But Melissa Miller, director of the clinical microbiology laboratory at the UNC School of Medicine, said the change fell short.But Melissa Miller, director of the clinical microbiology laboratory at the UNC School of Medicine, said the change fell short.
“To still have to file the EUA is disappointing,” she said. She called it “burdensome and unnecessary” given that the labs already are certified to do high-complexity testing.“To still have to file the EUA is disappointing,” she said. She called it “burdensome and unnecessary” given that the labs already are certified to do high-complexity testing.
The FDA policy goes into effect immediately.The FDA policy goes into effect immediately.
The agency said that following the completion of their test validation, the labs should communicate with the FDA, via email, to notify the agency that the test has been validated. Laboratories should submit a completed EUA request within 15 business days of notification.The agency said that following the completion of their test validation, the labs should communicate with the FDA, via email, to notify the agency that the test has been validated. Laboratories should submit a completed EUA request within 15 business days of notification.
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Japanese baseball players put on a show Saturday — only spectators weren’t allowed in to see it.Japanese baseball players put on a show Saturday — only spectators weren’t allowed in to see it.
Japan’s professional baseball body, the Nippon Professional Baseball Organization (NPB), decided Wednesday to keep its opening 2020 games spectator free to limit large gatherings in which coronavirus could spread.Japan’s professional baseball body, the Nippon Professional Baseball Organization (NPB), decided Wednesday to keep its opening 2020 games spectator free to limit large gatherings in which coronavirus could spread.
On Saturday, the Chiba Lotte Marines faced off against the Rakuten Eagles at Japan’s Zozo Marine Stadium in one of six preseason baseball games set to be played in a closed-door and otherwise empty field, the Associated Press reported.On Saturday, the Chiba Lotte Marines faced off against the Rakuten Eagles at Japan’s Zozo Marine Stadium in one of six preseason baseball games set to be played in a closed-door and otherwise empty field, the Associated Press reported.
Fans of Japan’s oldest and most popular team, the Yomiuri Giants, usually fill Tokyo’s 55,000-seat stadium to capacity. Saturday night, the Giants are competing against the Yakult Swallows without any cheers from the stands.Fans of Japan’s oldest and most popular team, the Yomiuri Giants, usually fill Tokyo’s 55,000-seat stadium to capacity. Saturday night, the Giants are competing against the Yakult Swallows without any cheers from the stands.
Japan is slated to host the 2020 Summer Olympics in July, putting extra scrutiny on the country as it struggles to contain the spread of coronavirus. The country has had 941 cases and 11 deaths, though more than 700 of the infections have been from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, according to the AP.Japan is slated to host the 2020 Summer Olympics in July, putting extra scrutiny on the country as it struggles to contain the spread of coronavirus. The country has had 941 cases and 11 deaths, though more than 700 of the infections have been from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, according to the AP.
Japan’s horse racing association also held a spectator-less competition on Saturday. The country’s domestic soccer team, the J-league, has opted instead to postpone 94 matches planned to run through March 15.Japan’s horse racing association also held a spectator-less competition on Saturday. The country’s domestic soccer team, the J-league, has opted instead to postpone 94 matches planned to run through March 15.
The Japan Sumo Association is meeting Sunday to decide whether to continue as planned with a spring tournament scheduled for March 8-22 in Osaka. Authorities already limited Sunday’s Tokyo Marathon to elite runners, a big leap down from the event’s typical 38,000 participants.The Japan Sumo Association is meeting Sunday to decide whether to continue as planned with a spring tournament scheduled for March 8-22 in Osaka. Authorities already limited Sunday’s Tokyo Marathon to elite runners, a big leap down from the event’s typical 38,000 participants.
In Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s coronavirus outbreak, the governing body for the Serie A soccer games announced Thursday that Sunday’s match — one of the biggest of the season — would be one of five upcoming games similarly played in spectator-less stadiums.In Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s coronavirus outbreak, the governing body for the Serie A soccer games announced Thursday that Sunday’s match — one of the biggest of the season — would be one of five upcoming games similarly played in spectator-less stadiums.
France on Saturday banned public gatherings with crowds of 5,000 or more as a preventive measure against the spread of coronavirus after the government announced an additional 16 cases of infection.France on Saturday banned public gatherings with crowds of 5,000 or more as a preventive measure against the spread of coronavirus after the government announced an additional 16 cases of infection.
“All public gatherings of more than 5,000 people in a confined space are temporarily banned across France,” Health Minister Olivier Véran told journalists, Reuters reported.“All public gatherings of more than 5,000 people in a confined space are temporarily banned across France,” Health Minister Olivier Véran told journalists, Reuters reported.
“These measures are temporary and we will likely have to revise them,” he added. “They are restrictive and, paradoxically, we hope they don’t last long, because that means we will have contained the virus’s spread.”“These measures are temporary and we will likely have to revise them,” he added. “They are restrictive and, paradoxically, we hope they don’t last long, because that means we will have contained the virus’s spread.”
Two people in France have died from coronavirus, and there have been 73 confirmed infections. France’s health ministry said Saturday that the country is preparing for an epidemic.Two people in France have died from coronavirus, and there have been 73 confirmed infections. France’s health ministry said Saturday that the country is preparing for an epidemic.
Authorities announced Saturday that they were also postponing the Paris half-marathon, which some 44,000 runners had planed to complete Sunday.Authorities announced Saturday that they were also postponing the Paris half-marathon, which some 44,000 runners had planed to complete Sunday.
Switzerland on Friday also announced a ban on public events with more than 5,000 people, while Italy’s three virus-hit northern regions have temporarily closed schools and universities for the second week.Switzerland on Friday also announced a ban on public events with more than 5,000 people, while Italy’s three virus-hit northern regions have temporarily closed schools and universities for the second week.
The first wave wasn’t that bad. In the spring of 1918, a new strain of influenza hit military camps in Europe on both sides of World War I. Soldiers were affected, but not nearly as severely as they would be later.The first wave wasn’t that bad. In the spring of 1918, a new strain of influenza hit military camps in Europe on both sides of World War I. Soldiers were affected, but not nearly as severely as they would be later.
Britain, France, Germany and other European governments kept it secret. They didn’t want to hand the other side a potential advantage.Britain, France, Germany and other European governments kept it secret. They didn’t want to hand the other side a potential advantage.
Spain was neutral in the war; when the disease hit there, the government and newspapers reported it accurately. Even the king got sick.Spain was neutral in the war; when the disease hit there, the government and newspapers reported it accurately. Even the king got sick.
Months later, when a bigger, deadlier wave swept across the globe, people thought it had started in Spain, even though it hadn’t. Simply because the Spanish told the truth, the virus was dubbed the “Spanish flu.”Months later, when a bigger, deadlier wave swept across the globe, people thought it had started in Spain, even though it hadn’t. Simply because the Spanish told the truth, the virus was dubbed the “Spanish flu.”
Now, as fears about the coronavirus spread, at least one historian is worried the Trump administration is failing to heed the lesson of one of the world’s worst pandemics: Don’t hide the truth.Now, as fears about the coronavirus spread, at least one historian is worried the Trump administration is failing to heed the lesson of one of the world’s worst pandemics: Don’t hide the truth.
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The head of Italy’s hotel federation on Saturday said the U.S. government’s latest travel advisory, which cautioned Americans to avoid nonessential travel to the nation, could be the “final blow” to his country’s tourism industry.The head of Italy’s hotel federation on Saturday said the U.S. government’s latest travel advisory, which cautioned Americans to avoid nonessential travel to the nation, could be the “final blow” to his country’s tourism industry.
Italy has quickly become Europe’s center for the coronavirus outbreak, now registering 888 confirmed cases — the greatest number outside Asia.Italy has quickly become Europe’s center for the coronavirus outbreak, now registering 888 confirmed cases — the greatest number outside Asia.
“We had already registered a slowdown of Americans coming to Italy in recent days,” Bernabo Bocca, president of hotel federation Federalberghi, said in a statement to the Associated Press. “Now the final blow has arrived.”“We had already registered a slowdown of Americans coming to Italy in recent days,” Bernabo Bocca, president of hotel federation Federalberghi, said in a statement to the Associated Press. “Now the final blow has arrived.”
The Level 3 warning, issued by the U.S. State Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is one step below banning travel to the country altogether.The Level 3 warning, issued by the U.S. State Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is one step below banning travel to the country altogether.
The Associated Press reported that more than 5.6 million Americans visit Italy every year and represent 9 percent of foreign tourists to the country. They infuse a collective 5 billion euros a year into the Italian tourism industry and economy, Federalberghi told the AP.The Associated Press reported that more than 5.6 million Americans visit Italy every year and represent 9 percent of foreign tourists to the country. They infuse a collective 5 billion euros a year into the Italian tourism industry and economy, Federalberghi told the AP.
On Friday, before the CDC’s upgraded travel advisory, the Italian government placed a moratorium on mortgages and delayed deadlines for tax payments in an effort to provide relief to the tourism industry.On Friday, before the CDC’s upgraded travel advisory, the Italian government placed a moratorium on mortgages and delayed deadlines for tax payments in an effort to provide relief to the tourism industry.
Bocca said the move wasn’t enough and called on officials to safeguard the jobs of 1.5 million people who operate more than 300,000 companies across Italy.Bocca said the move wasn’t enough and called on officials to safeguard the jobs of 1.5 million people who operate more than 300,000 companies across Italy.
While there is no vaccine for covid-19, preventive steps and awareness are the best tools to prepare and protect yourself in the event of an outbreak. Learn more here:While there is no vaccine for covid-19, preventive steps and awareness are the best tools to prepare and protect yourself in the event of an outbreak. Learn more here:
Routine care and elective surgeries — such as knee replacements and gallbladder removal — could be scaled back if the coronavirus spawns a pandemic, hospital executives are warning, delivering economic shocks to the hospital system beyond the immediate challenges of protecting health-care workers and dealing with those stricken with the virus.Routine care and elective surgeries — such as knee replacements and gallbladder removal — could be scaled back if the coronavirus spawns a pandemic, hospital executives are warning, delivering economic shocks to the hospital system beyond the immediate challenges of protecting health-care workers and dealing with those stricken with the virus.
Rural hospitals could bear the early brunt. They sit furthest from international airports and urban hubs where outbreaks are more likely, but they are at the tail end of supply chains for vital medical goods such as protective masks and gowns.Rural hospitals could bear the early brunt. They sit furthest from international airports and urban hubs where outbreaks are more likely, but they are at the tail end of supply chains for vital medical goods such as protective masks and gowns.
In addition to preparing for victims and the demands of protecting health-care workers from infection, fragile hospital networks also are readying for disruptions to the bottom line. If the spreading coronavirus puts heavy demand on health systems, billable work that keeps revenue flowing on a weekly basis to hospitals small and large will be curtailed, executives said.In addition to preparing for victims and the demands of protecting health-care workers from infection, fragile hospital networks also are readying for disruptions to the bottom line. If the spreading coronavirus puts heavy demand on health systems, billable work that keeps revenue flowing on a weekly basis to hospitals small and large will be curtailed, executives said.
The hospital industry warned policymakers this week that Congress needs to quickly pass emergency funding for the crisis and direct some of the funding to plug anticipated gaps in hospital operating budgets. In the event of widespread sickness, costs would soar for isolation rooms for infected patients, equipment and training.The hospital industry warned policymakers this week that Congress needs to quickly pass emergency funding for the crisis and direct some of the funding to plug anticipated gaps in hospital operating budgets. In the event of widespread sickness, costs would soar for isolation rooms for infected patients, equipment and training.
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The global coronavirus outbreak dominated headlines this week as it entered the political debate and sent markets tumbling. In response, Americans did what we always do when confronted with something new, big and scary: We dumped our anxieties into the nearest Google search bar.The global coronavirus outbreak dominated headlines this week as it entered the political debate and sent markets tumbling. In response, Americans did what we always do when confronted with something new, big and scary: We dumped our anxieties into the nearest Google search bar.
Here are a number of charts illustrating search terms that saw big jumps this week, which give a sense of our collective coronavirus-related worries, as well as a few hopes.Here are a number of charts illustrating search terms that saw big jumps this week, which give a sense of our collective coronavirus-related worries, as well as a few hopes.
One important caveat about Google trends data: It doesn’t reveal exactly how many people are searching for a given term; it just gives a sense of whether that term has risen or fallen in popularity. So to approximate absolute search volume, presumably popular search terms like “Donald Trump” and “Kim Kardashian” will serve as guide posts.One important caveat about Google trends data: It doesn’t reveal exactly how many people are searching for a given term; it just gives a sense of whether that term has risen or fallen in popularity. So to approximate absolute search volume, presumably popular search terms like “Donald Trump” and “Kim Kardashian” will serve as guide posts.
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As numbers of coronavirus infections continued to rise around the world, governments ramped up travel advisories for citizens and even travel bans on incoming travelers from affected countries.As numbers of coronavirus infections continued to rise around the world, governments ramped up travel advisories for citizens and even travel bans on incoming travelers from affected countries.
The U.S. State Department raised its travel advisory for Italy to level three, urging citizens to reconsider all nonessential travel. Italy is the center of Europe’s coronavirus outbreak, with 888 confirmed cases.The U.S. State Department raised its travel advisory for Italy to level three, urging citizens to reconsider all nonessential travel. Italy is the center of Europe’s coronavirus outbreak, with 888 confirmed cases.
Russian officials on Saturday urged citizens not to leave the country. Kuwaiti health officials have also discouraged traveling, as the small Gulf country grapples with 45 confirmed cases of the virus. Saudi Arabia likewise urged its citizens to cancel all nonessential travel to Lebanon, where four coronavirus cases have been confirmed.Russian officials on Saturday urged citizens not to leave the country. Kuwaiti health officials have also discouraged traveling, as the small Gulf country grapples with 45 confirmed cases of the virus. Saudi Arabia likewise urged its citizens to cancel all nonessential travel to Lebanon, where four coronavirus cases have been confirmed.
“In order to consider yourself protected today, first of all, possible future trips outside the native country need to be reduced as much as possible,” Anna Popova, a Russian public health official, told local news affiliates, according to Reuters.“In order to consider yourself protected today, first of all, possible future trips outside the native country need to be reduced as much as possible,” Anna Popova, a Russian public health official, told local news affiliates, according to Reuters.
Kuwait has evacuated hundreds of citizens from Iran, the regional focal point of the virus outbreak in the Middle East. The two latest cases involved people who had entered Kuwait from Iran, according to the Kuwaiti health ministry.Kuwait has evacuated hundreds of citizens from Iran, the regional focal point of the virus outbreak in the Middle East. The two latest cases involved people who had entered Kuwait from Iran, according to the Kuwaiti health ministry.
Following the case of a woman who tested positive for the virus who had recently returned to Australia from Iran, the Australian government is imposing a travel ban on Iran to begin March 1.Following the case of a woman who tested positive for the virus who had recently returned to Australia from Iran, the Australian government is imposing a travel ban on Iran to begin March 1.
After that date, Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt told reporters Saturday, Australian travelers returning from Iran will be required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days after their arrival.After that date, Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt told reporters Saturday, Australian travelers returning from Iran will be required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days after their arrival.
All non-citizens, non-permanent residents and those who are not family of Australian citizens and permanent residents will be denied entry into the country unless their departure from Iran occurred more than 14 days before their arrival date in Australia.All non-citizens, non-permanent residents and those who are not family of Australian citizens and permanent residents will be denied entry into the country unless their departure from Iran occurred more than 14 days before their arrival date in Australia.
Travelers who fit this category will be required to spend 14 days in another country before being granted permission to enter Australia.Travelers who fit this category will be required to spend 14 days in another country before being granted permission to enter Australia.
“There is likely at this stage a high level of undetected cases, and therefore those cases won’t be intercepted or identified on departure from Iran,” Hunt said.“There is likely at this stage a high level of undetected cases, and therefore those cases won’t be intercepted or identified on departure from Iran,” Hunt said.
BAGHDAD — Qatar announced its first case of coronavirus Saturday, days after the country’s ruler ordered the evacuation of its citizens from Iran.BAGHDAD — Qatar announced its first case of coronavirus Saturday, days after the country’s ruler ordered the evacuation of its citizens from Iran.
The country’s state-run news agency did not provide further details about the individual’s background or travel history.The country’s state-run news agency did not provide further details about the individual’s background or travel history.
The Qatari government announced Thursday that it had completed the evacuation of its citizens from Iran, the focal point of the region’s outbreak. “A hotel has been set up as a quarantine facility to be used by the Qatari citizens for a 14 day period and will be cared for and monitored by medical,” the Government Communications Office said. “They have arrived in Doha.”The Qatari government announced Thursday that it had completed the evacuation of its citizens from Iran, the focal point of the region’s outbreak. “A hotel has been set up as a quarantine facility to be used by the Qatari citizens for a 14 day period and will be cared for and monitored by medical,” the Government Communications Office said. “They have arrived in Doha.”
Qatar is one of a growing number of Middle Eastern states to publicly announce the detection of coronavirus, and Iraq said Friday a sixth citizen had tested positive.Qatar is one of a growing number of Middle Eastern states to publicly announce the detection of coronavirus, and Iraq said Friday a sixth citizen had tested positive.
Although the Baghdad government has ordered a temporary shuttering of public spaces including cafes and cinemas, the capital’s streets were still busy Friday night as residents wore protective masks but did not stay home.Although the Baghdad government has ordered a temporary shuttering of public spaces including cafes and cinemas, the capital’s streets were still busy Friday night as residents wore protective masks but did not stay home.
The arrival of coronavirus in Baghdad has even delayed the formation of a new government: Parliament announced last week that a planned vote on the new cabinet would not be possible Saturday, since the chamber was being disinfected.The arrival of coronavirus in Baghdad has even delayed the formation of a new government: Parliament announced last week that a planned vote on the new cabinet would not be possible Saturday, since the chamber was being disinfected.
PARIS — France confirmed 19 additional cases of coronavirus late Friday, bringing the national total to 57. Health officials warned that an epidemic was now imminent.PARIS — France confirmed 19 additional cases of coronavirus late Friday, bringing the national total to 57. Health officials warned that an epidemic was now imminent.
“We are preparing for an epidemic,” French Health Minister Olivier Véran said. He added that “we are now moving to stage two. The virus is circulating in our country and we must stop its spread.”“We are preparing for an epidemic,” French Health Minister Olivier Véran said. He added that “we are now moving to stage two. The virus is circulating in our country and we must stop its spread.”
Twenty additional cases had been confirmed in France late Thursday; the new 19 cases were diagnosed in the 24 hours since then.Twenty additional cases had been confirmed in France late Thursday; the new 19 cases were diagnosed in the 24 hours since then.
Authorities on Saturday were still struggling to identify the initial source of an outbreak in the Oise region north of Paris, with particular attention being paid to links between the Creil military base in that region and the nearby Charles de Gaulle international airport, one of the busiest passenger airports in Europe.Authorities on Saturday were still struggling to identify the initial source of an outbreak in the Oise region north of Paris, with particular attention being paid to links between the Creil military base in that region and the nearby Charles de Gaulle international airport, one of the busiest passenger airports in Europe.
On Friday, France’s Le Monde newspaper, citing airport security officials, reported that one airport worker who lives in the Val d’Oise region had tested positive for the virus.On Friday, France’s Le Monde newspaper, citing airport security officials, reported that one airport worker who lives in the Val d’Oise region had tested positive for the virus.
The rapidly growing numbers of coronavirus cases come at a time of general malaise among public health workers in France. Earlier this year, hundreds of hospital department heads resigned over complaints about insufficient resources and staffing.The rapidly growing numbers of coronavirus cases come at a time of general malaise among public health workers in France. Earlier this year, hundreds of hospital department heads resigned over complaints about insufficient resources and staffing.
“We are facing an epidemic that will affect the whole system and will very quickly impose a reorganization of care,” Xavier Lescure, an infectious disease specialist at Bichat hospital, one of the three designated coronavirus treatment hospitals in the Paris region, told Le Monde.“We are facing an epidemic that will affect the whole system and will very quickly impose a reorganization of care,” Xavier Lescure, an infectious disease specialist at Bichat hospital, one of the three designated coronavirus treatment hospitals in the Paris region, told Le Monde.
ISTANBUL — Iran on Saturday confirmed more than 200 new cases of the coronavirus — as well as nine deaths — amid a widening outbreak that has put other Mideast nations at risk.ISTANBUL — Iran on Saturday confirmed more than 200 new cases of the coronavirus — as well as nine deaths — amid a widening outbreak that has put other Mideast nations at risk.
At least 205 new infections appeared in Iran in the last 24 hours, including in provinces with no previous known cases, bringing the total number of patients to 593, Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur said.At least 205 new infections appeared in Iran in the last 24 hours, including in provinces with no previous known cases, bringing the total number of patients to 593, Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur said.
The death toll from the virus, which causes the disease known as covid-19, rose to 43, Jahanpur said. Iran has suffered the highest number of deaths from virus outside of China, where it originated in December. It was first detected in the Iranian holy city of Qom earlier this month.The death toll from the virus, which causes the disease known as covid-19, rose to 43, Jahanpur said. Iran has suffered the highest number of deaths from virus outside of China, where it originated in December. It was first detected in the Iranian holy city of Qom earlier this month.
Jahanpur and other officials have warned citizens that the number of cases will rise in the coming days and weeks. In Iran, several senior officials have also been infected, including a vice president, the deputy health minister and as many as four parliamentarians. A former ambassador to the Vatican also died this week after contracting the virus.Jahanpur and other officials have warned citizens that the number of cases will rise in the coming days and weeks. In Iran, several senior officials have also been infected, including a vice president, the deputy health minister and as many as four parliamentarians. A former ambassador to the Vatican also died this week after contracting the virus.
Authorities suspended the activities of parliament, banned Friday prayers in multiple cities and shuttered schools and theaters in an effort to contain the outbreak.Authorities suspended the activities of parliament, banned Friday prayers in multiple cities and shuttered schools and theaters in an effort to contain the outbreak.
TOKYO — Acknowledging widespread public criticism of the government’s handling of the coronavirus epidemic, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said it had been a “tough” but necessary decision to request schools across the country to close in March and also promised to expand and enhance virus testing capacity.TOKYO — Acknowledging widespread public criticism of the government’s handling of the coronavirus epidemic, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said it had been a “tough” but necessary decision to request schools across the country to close in March and also promised to expand and enhance virus testing capacity.
“We understand that people have various views and criticism to any decisions made by the government that would directly affect your lives,” Abe said at a televised news conference on Saturday. “Of course, we need to sincerely listen to your voices. However, as the prime minister of Japan, I need to protect the lives and health of the people.”“We understand that people have various views and criticism to any decisions made by the government that would directly affect your lives,” Abe said at a televised news conference on Saturday. “Of course, we need to sincerely listen to your voices. However, as the prime minister of Japan, I need to protect the lives and health of the people.”
Abe reiterated the government’s view that the next one to two weeks are a critical time to curb the speed at which the new coronavirus will spread around Japan and said the government “must never allow a mass infection” of children at school.Abe reiterated the government’s view that the next one to two weeks are a critical time to curb the speed at which the new coronavirus will spread around Japan and said the government “must never allow a mass infection” of children at school.
“The closure of schools will put a burden on parents, especially families with small children,” he said. “I understand the difficulties these people will have to go through, yet we need to put children’s health and safety first.”“The closure of schools will put a burden on parents, especially families with small children,” he said. “I understand the difficulties these people will have to go through, yet we need to put children’s health and safety first.”
Abe pledged additional spending to tackle the impact of the virus, as well as an expansion of child care services.Abe pledged additional spending to tackle the impact of the virus, as well as an expansion of child care services.
Abe’s government has also been widely criticized for a shortage of virus tests, which has left doctors around the country unable to get tests for patients they believe could be infected.Abe’s government has also been widely criticized for a shortage of virus tests, which has left doctors around the country unable to get tests for patients they believe could be infected.
Abe vowed to increase testing capacity so anyone who doctors felt needed a test could obtain one and also pledged to roll out a new test in March that could give results in 15 minutes. He said three drugs are being used to treat patients with the virus.Abe vowed to increase testing capacity so anyone who doctors felt needed a test could obtain one and also pledged to roll out a new test in March that could give results in 15 minutes. He said three drugs are being used to treat patients with the virus.
“All those drugs have been confirmed to have efficacy to a certain degree in the basic study using new coronavirus,” he said. “Therefore, we will use them with the consent of patients so as to develop therapeutic drugs as soon as possible.”“All those drugs have been confirmed to have efficacy to a certain degree in the basic study using new coronavirus,” he said. “Therefore, we will use them with the consent of patients so as to develop therapeutic drugs as soon as possible.”
Japan has more than 200 confirmed coronavirus cases, not including more than 700 people from the Diamond Princess, but medical experts believe the real number of infections is significantly higher.Japan has more than 200 confirmed coronavirus cases, not including more than 700 people from the Diamond Princess, but medical experts believe the real number of infections is significantly higher.
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BAGHDAD — Saudi Arabia urged citizens Saturday not to travel to Lebanon, after the number of confirmed coronavirus edged steadily upward.BAGHDAD — Saudi Arabia urged citizens Saturday not to travel to Lebanon, after the number of confirmed coronavirus edged steadily upward.
In a statement, the Saudi Embassy in Beirut asked Saudi nationals to postpone non-urgent travel and, if in Lebanon, stay away from crowded places, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency.In a statement, the Saudi Embassy in Beirut asked Saudi nationals to postpone non-urgent travel and, if in Lebanon, stay away from crowded places, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency.
Lebanon confirmed its fourth coronavirus on Friday, with Beirut’s Rafik Hariri Hospital describing the individual as a Syrian national, now in quarantine. It was unclear whether she had recently traveled to China or Iran, where many other cases appear to have been contracted.Lebanon confirmed its fourth coronavirus on Friday, with Beirut’s Rafik Hariri Hospital describing the individual as a Syrian national, now in quarantine. It was unclear whether she had recently traveled to China or Iran, where many other cases appear to have been contracted.
Lebanon is in the throes of its worst economic crisis since its civil war and the downturn has hit the health care system hard. As foreign reserves evaporate, doctors have staged sit-ins at hospitals to warn that lifesaving medicines are in short supply. Health care professionals have also pointed to an increasing shortage of medical equipment.Lebanon is in the throes of its worst economic crisis since its civil war and the downturn has hit the health care system hard. As foreign reserves evaporate, doctors have staged sit-ins at hospitals to warn that lifesaving medicines are in short supply. Health care professionals have also pointed to an increasing shortage of medical equipment.
The Lebanese government has been slow to react to the spread of coronavirus, only stopping flights from affected countries on Friday, a week after the first case was confirmed there. Shortly afterward, Lebanon’s education ministry announced Friday that it would close all universities and schools until March 8, as a precautionary measure.The Lebanese government has been slow to react to the spread of coronavirus, only stopping flights from affected countries on Friday, a week after the first case was confirmed there. Shortly afterward, Lebanon’s education ministry announced Friday that it would close all universities and schools until March 8, as a precautionary measure.
“In the interest of the health of students and their families ... the minister of education Dr. Tarek Majzoub requests all educational institutions including kindergartens, schools, high schools, vocational institutions and universities to close,” the education ministry said in a statement.“In the interest of the health of students and their families ... the minister of education Dr. Tarek Majzoub requests all educational institutions including kindergartens, schools, high schools, vocational institutions and universities to close,” the education ministry said in a statement.
South Korean health officials on Saturday reported the country’s biggest single-day increase in new coronavirus cases since infections there began to surge earlier this month.South Korean health officials on Saturday reported the country’s biggest single-day increase in new coronavirus cases since infections there began to surge earlier this month.
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it had confirmed 594 new cases, bringing the country’s total number of infections to nearly 3,000. Before Saturday, South Korea had not tallied more than 334 new cases in a single day, according to the KCDC.The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it had confirmed 594 new cases, bringing the country’s total number of infections to nearly 3,000. Before Saturday, South Korea had not tallied more than 334 new cases in a single day, according to the KCDC.
Seventeen people have died from the novel virus in South Korea, and 27 have recovered, according to the country’s health officials.Seventeen people have died from the novel virus in South Korea, and 27 have recovered, according to the country’s health officials.
Nearly all of the new cases came from the sprawling southeastern city of Daegu, where earlier in February officials linked a sudden burst of infections to an obscure church.Nearly all of the new cases came from the sprawling southeastern city of Daegu, where earlier in February officials linked a sudden burst of infections to an obscure church.
South Korean vice health minister Kim Kang-lip said the country has reached a “critical moment” in stopping the spread of the virus, and advised citizens to refrain from going outside or taking part in public events this weekend, as Reuters reported.South Korean vice health minister Kim Kang-lip said the country has reached a “critical moment” in stopping the spread of the virus, and advised citizens to refrain from going outside or taking part in public events this weekend, as Reuters reported.
BEIJING — Taiwan on Saturday reported five new confirmed coronavirus cases, including nurses and a cleaner working at a hospital and a woman who began showing symptoms while traveling through the Middle East.BEIJING — Taiwan on Saturday reported five new confirmed coronavirus cases, including nurses and a cleaner working at a hospital and a woman who began showing symptoms while traveling through the Middle East.
Including the five, Taiwan’s case count now stands at 39.Including the five, Taiwan’s case count now stands at 39.
Three nurses became infected while treating a coronavirus patient at an emergency ward, and one of the nurses came in contact with the cleaner, who subsequently contracted the disease, Taiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Center said.Three nurses became infected while treating a coronavirus patient at an emergency ward, and one of the nurses came in contact with the cleaner, who subsequently contracted the disease, Taiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Center said.
In a statement, the command center did not positively pinpoint where the fifth case, a woman in her 60s, contracted the illness but noted that she was in the United Arab Emirates and Egypt between Jan. 29 and Feb. 21, when she began coughing. Authorities are now following up with other people she traveled with.In a statement, the command center did not positively pinpoint where the fifth case, a woman in her 60s, contracted the illness but noted that she was in the United Arab Emirates and Egypt between Jan. 29 and Feb. 21, when she began coughing. Authorities are now following up with other people she traveled with.
The Emirates, a regional transportation hub with a significant population of Chinese businesspeople, has seen a slight uptick in cases, with the total reaching 21 on Friday. Several of its other cases include travelers from Iran, where officials have reported at least 245 cases.The Emirates, a regional transportation hub with a significant population of Chinese businesspeople, has seen a slight uptick in cases, with the total reaching 21 on Friday. Several of its other cases include travelers from Iran, where officials have reported at least 245 cases.
BEIJING — China reported its lowest manufacturing numbers on record for the month of February, as the epidemic-stricken economy ground to an unprecedented standstill.BEIJING — China reported its lowest manufacturing numbers on record for the month of February, as the epidemic-stricken economy ground to an unprecedented standstill.
China’s National Statistics Bureau said Saturday that the Purchasing Managers’ Index plummeted to 35.7, a reading below the previous record low of 38.8 in November 2008, during the global financial crisis. Any reading below 50 signals that manufacturing activity contracted.China’s National Statistics Bureau said Saturday that the Purchasing Managers’ Index plummeted to 35.7, a reading below the previous record low of 38.8 in November 2008, during the global financial crisis. Any reading below 50 signals that manufacturing activity contracted.
Aside from languishing factories, the services industry also reported record-low activity, the statistics bureau reported.Aside from languishing factories, the services industry also reported record-low activity, the statistics bureau reported.
“There was a plunge in demand for consumer industries,” the bureau said, noting a deep freeze in restaurants, transportation and tourism.“There was a plunge in demand for consumer industries,” the bureau said, noting a deep freeze in restaurants, transportation and tourism.
The extent of the historic drop will likely fuel fears that China will struggle to mount a swift economic recovery, with knock-on effects for the rest of the world. China’s factories remain at the heart of the global supply chain.The extent of the historic drop will likely fuel fears that China will struggle to mount a swift economic recovery, with knock-on effects for the rest of the world. China’s factories remain at the heart of the global supply chain.
Chinese monetary authorities have promised to take drastic action to jump-start the economy, including breaking ground on massive new infrastructure projects. The government is also pressuring banks to pump out loans and landlords to forgive late payments to help businesses back on their feet.Chinese monetary authorities have promised to take drastic action to jump-start the economy, including breaking ground on massive new infrastructure projects. The government is also pressuring banks to pump out loans and landlords to forgive late payments to help businesses back on their feet.
Chinese manufacturers say they have had difficulty staffing factories with their rural employees reluctant to return to work and in some cases even running into logistical difficulties, such as quarantine controls and roadblocks erected by fearful communities.Chinese manufacturers say they have had difficulty staffing factories with their rural employees reluctant to return to work and in some cases even running into logistical difficulties, such as quarantine controls and roadblocks erected by fearful communities.
In recent weeks, the state railway and other transportation authorities have been chartering trains and buses to shuttle workers from the countryside back to factories. An economic planning official said this week that three-fourths of industrial firms have restarted production.In recent weeks, the state railway and other transportation authorities have been chartering trains and buses to shuttle workers from the countryside back to factories. An economic planning official said this week that three-fourths of industrial firms have restarted production.