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Xenophobia Rises in China as Coronavirus Fades: Live Updates Xenophobia Rises in China as Coronavirus Fades: Live Updates
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新冠病毒疫情最新消息新冠病毒疫情最新消息
With confirmed cases of the coronavirus surpassing two million worldwide, the divisions in the approach to fighting the outbreak and outcomes between those countries past the peak and those in the throes of a health crisis are increasingly laid bare. With confirmed cases of the coronavirus surpassing two million worldwide, the divisions in the approach to fighting the outbreak and outcomes between those countries past a peak and those in the throes of a health crisis are increasingly laid bare.
As China, once the center of the epidemic, moves beyond its peak, its success is giving rise to a blend of patriotism, nationalism and xenophobia not seen in decades.As China, once the center of the epidemic, moves beyond its peak, its success is giving rise to a blend of patriotism, nationalism and xenophobia not seen in decades.
In some countries believed to have brought their outbreaks under control, a second wave has emerged. Singapore, long held up as a model of effective containment strategy, announced on Wednesday evening a record jump in coronavirus cases, with most of the 447 new infections in crowded dormitories for migrant laborers. In some countries believed to have brought their outbreaks under control, a second wave has emerged. Singapore, long held up as a model of effective containment strategy, announced on Wednesday evening a record jump in coronavirus cases, with most of the 447 new infections in crowded dormitories for migrant laborers.
Singapore has been lauded for its rigorous contact-tracing program, which identified clusters of local transmission, but the coronavirus spread quickly through crammed residences shared by migrant workers.Singapore has been lauded for its rigorous contact-tracing program, which identified clusters of local transmission, but the coronavirus spread quickly through crammed residences shared by migrant workers.
In the United States, after President Trump asserted that the country was past its peak, the talk turned to plans to ease the economic strain of the outbreak by returning to some level of normalcy. More than 5.2 million workers joined the ranks of the unemployed last week, the Labor Department reported on Thursday. The four-week total is about 22 million — roughly the net number of jobs created since the last recession.In the United States, after President Trump asserted that the country was past its peak, the talk turned to plans to ease the economic strain of the outbreak by returning to some level of normalcy. More than 5.2 million workers joined the ranks of the unemployed last week, the Labor Department reported on Thursday. The four-week total is about 22 million — roughly the net number of jobs created since the last recession.
Public health experts have warned that, with testing still limited, a rush to reopen the nation could exacerbate the spread of the coronavirus. Even as the United States considers easing restrictions, other nations have moved to extend lockdowns. Public health experts have warned that, with testing still limited, a rush to reopen the nation could exacerbate the spread of the coronavirus. Even as the United States considers easing restrictions, other nations have moved to extend lockdowns.
In Australia, where the numbers dropped, officials said restrictions would remain in place for at least a month. Britain was expected on Thursday to announce a three-week extension to its national lockdown. In Australia, where the numbers dropped, officials said restrictions would remain in place for at least a month. Britain was expected on Thursday to announce a three-week extension to its national lockdown.
And even in countries now believed to be past the peak, the true picture of the toll is still emerging. Spain’s death toll, which remains among the highest in the world, is officially closing in on 20,000, but there is evidence that it could be far higher. Many deaths — especially those in nursing homes — were not initially linked to the coronavirus, and the omission has set off a heated political debate. And even in countries now believed to be past the peak, the true picture of the toll is still emerging. Spain’s death toll, which remains among the highest in the world, is officially closing in on 20,000, but there is evidence that it could be far higher. Many deaths — especially those in nursing homes — were not initially linked to the coronavirus, and the omission has set off a heated political debate.
Juan Antonio Alguacil, who leads a Spanish association of funerary employees, said that understanding the full truth was the only way “to heal the moral and psychological wound that this pandemic will leave.”Juan Antonio Alguacil, who leads a Spanish association of funerary employees, said that understanding the full truth was the only way “to heal the moral and psychological wound that this pandemic will leave.”
Japan moved on Thursday to put the entire country to an emergency footing as it seeks to slow the spread of coronavirus before a weeklong national holiday. Experts warned the popular travel period could spread the pathogen to previously unaffected areas and overwhelm the nation’s medical system.Japan moved on Thursday to put the entire country to an emergency footing as it seeks to slow the spread of coronavirus before a weeklong national holiday. Experts warned the popular travel period could spread the pathogen to previously unaffected areas and overwhelm the nation’s medical system.
Last month, the country began to see a steady rise in transmissions, though the virus was first detected in Japan in mid-January. Last month, the country began to see a steady rise in transmissions, though the virus was first detected in Japan in mid-January.
In remarks after a meeting of a special advisory group Thursday night, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that he would call for the entire nation to implement measures limiting movement as the country prepares to enter a weeklong holiday known as Golden Week, typically one of the most popular travel periods each year.In remarks after a meeting of a special advisory group Thursday night, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that he would call for the entire nation to implement measures limiting movement as the country prepares to enter a weeklong holiday known as Golden Week, typically one of the most popular travel periods each year.
“As a way to prevent the illness from becoming rampant, I am requesting that governors urge residents to absolutely avoid unnecessary visits to family, travel and movement across regional borders,” Mr. Abe said.“As a way to prevent the illness from becoming rampant, I am requesting that governors urge residents to absolutely avoid unnecessary visits to family, travel and movement across regional borders,” Mr. Abe said.
Mr. Abe previously declared a state of emergency in seven prefectures — including its largest metropolitan areas — and called for an 80 percent reduction in person to person contact there. But some areas were left off the initial list, despite having a high case load, leading a number of governors to unilaterally declare measures to stop the transmission. Mr. Abe previously declared a state of emergency in seven prefectures — including its largest metropolitan areas — and called for an 80 percent reduction in person to person contact there. But some areas were left off the initial list, despite having a high case load, leading a number of governors to unilaterally declare measures to stop the transmission.
The prime minister also said that the nation would provide individuals with cash handouts of 100,000 yen, nearly $1,000, in an effort to alleviate economic damage. The emergency declaration will give the governors of each prefecture the authority to call for the closure of businesses and for residents to stay inside. The prime minister also said that the nation would provide individuals with cash handouts of 100,000 yen, nearly $1,000, in an effort to alleviate economic damage. The emergency declaration will give the governors of each prefecture the authority to call for the closure of businesses and for residents to stay inside.
They will, however, have no power to enforce the requests. The Japanese lawmakers have so far declined to implement the kinds of mandatory lockdowns put in place in China, Europe and the United States, with some arguing that the country’s constitution proscribes such measures. Instead, government officials have been put in the position of pleading with businesses to voluntarily close or shorten their hours and for workers to stay home.They will, however, have no power to enforce the requests. The Japanese lawmakers have so far declined to implement the kinds of mandatory lockdowns put in place in China, Europe and the United States, with some arguing that the country’s constitution proscribes such measures. Instead, government officials have been put in the position of pleading with businesses to voluntarily close or shorten their hours and for workers to stay home.
As of late Thursday, Tokyo had the highest number of confirmed infections in the country, with more than 2,500 people testing positive. Although the numbers are still low in comparison to major metropolitan areas like New York or London, Japanese health experts have warned that failure to take proper, timely precautions could lead to a sudden jump cases, plunging the country’s medical system into chaos.As of late Thursday, Tokyo had the highest number of confirmed infections in the country, with more than 2,500 people testing positive. Although the numbers are still low in comparison to major metropolitan areas like New York or London, Japanese health experts have warned that failure to take proper, timely precautions could lead to a sudden jump cases, plunging the country’s medical system into chaos.
Mr. Abe has come under heavy criticism for his on again off again approach, taking dramatic actions such as calling for the country’s schools to close without first consulting experts, then seemingly hanging back as the outbreak worsened.Mr. Abe has come under heavy criticism for his on again off again approach, taking dramatic actions such as calling for the country’s schools to close without first consulting experts, then seemingly hanging back as the outbreak worsened.
As the coronavirus pandemic ravages many countries, China’s success in curbing its own epidemic is giving rise to an increasingly strident blend of patriotism, nationalism and xenophobia, at a pitch many say has not been seen in decades.As the coronavirus pandemic ravages many countries, China’s success in curbing its own epidemic is giving rise to an increasingly strident blend of patriotism, nationalism and xenophobia, at a pitch many say has not been seen in decades.
A restaurant in northern China put up a banner celebrating the virus’s spread in the United States. A widely circulated cartoon showed foreigners being sorted into trash bins. In Beijing and Shanghai, foreigners have been barred from some shops and gyms.A restaurant in northern China put up a banner celebrating the virus’s spread in the United States. A widely circulated cartoon showed foreigners being sorted into trash bins. In Beijing and Shanghai, foreigners have been barred from some shops and gyms.
Perhaps nowhere has xenophobia manifested itself more strongly than in the southern city of Guangzhou, a manufacturing hub with a large African population. After five Nigerians there tested positive for the virus, African residents reported being evicted from their homes and hotels. Perhaps nowhere has xenophobia manifested itself more strongly than in the southern city of Guangzhou, a manufacturing hub with a large African population. After five Nigerians there tested positive for the virus, African residents reported being evicted from their homes and hotels.
They have also been ordered to undergo 14-day quarantines at their own expense, even if they have no recent travel history or have already tested negative. Images shared on social media showed black people forced to sleep on a sidewalk, and a sign banning black people from a McDonald’s.They have also been ordered to undergo 14-day quarantines at their own expense, even if they have no recent travel history or have already tested negative. Images shared on social media showed black people forced to sleep on a sidewalk, and a sign banning black people from a McDonald’s.
Some of the uglier manifestations of nationalism have been fueled by government propaganda, which has pointed to China’s response to the virus as evidence of the governing Communist Party’s superiority.Some of the uglier manifestations of nationalism have been fueled by government propaganda, which has pointed to China’s response to the virus as evidence of the governing Communist Party’s superiority.
Separately on Wednesday, China began a nationwide study of asymptomatic coronavirus carriers as numbers showed that many people who tested positive for the virus did not develop symptoms.Separately on Wednesday, China began a nationwide study of asymptomatic coronavirus carriers as numbers showed that many people who tested positive for the virus did not develop symptoms.
CCTV, the state broadcaster, also reported that a study of asymptomatic carriers was underway in 10 cities, including Wuhan, where the virus first emerged. “The aim of the blood tests is to determine whether there are antibodies for the virus inside the body,” Ding Gangqiang, an official at China’s Center for Disease Control, said on state television. CCTV, the state broadcaster, also reported that a study of asymptomatic carriers was underway in 10 cities, including Wuhan, where the virus first emerged. “The aim of the blood tests is to determine whether there are antibodies for the virus inside the body,” Ding Gangqiang, an official at China’s Center for Disease Control, said on state television.
Like many nations trying to measure the toll of the coronavirus pandemic, Spain has been stymied by unreliable figures.Like many nations trying to measure the toll of the coronavirus pandemic, Spain has been stymied by unreliable figures.
But in a politically fragmented society, the confusion has led to recrimination and sinister claims, with opposition politicians accusing the fragile coalition government of covering up the real numbers.But in a politically fragmented society, the confusion has led to recrimination and sinister claims, with opposition politicians accusing the fragile coalition government of covering up the real numbers.
“Spaniards deserve a government that doesn’t lie to them,” said Pablo Casado, the leader of the opposition Popular Party.“Spaniards deserve a government that doesn’t lie to them,” said Pablo Casado, the leader of the opposition Popular Party.
Speaking in Parliament last week, Mr. Casado addressed a direct challenge to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez: “Tell us if it is true that the real number of victims could double the official figures.”Speaking in Parliament last week, Mr. Casado addressed a direct challenge to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez: “Tell us if it is true that the real number of victims could double the official figures.”
Officially, Spain’s death toll, which is among the world’s highest, is closing in on 20,000. But there is evidence that it could be far higher, with many deaths — especially those in nursing homes — not properly classified as stemming from the coronavirus.Officially, Spain’s death toll, which is among the world’s highest, is closing in on 20,000. But there is evidence that it could be far higher, with many deaths — especially those in nursing homes — not properly classified as stemming from the coronavirus.
Mr. Sánchez and other officials have rejected accusations that they intentionally underreported fatalities tied to the coronavirus, but the authorities have begun trying again to measure the losses.Mr. Sánchez and other officials have rejected accusations that they intentionally underreported fatalities tied to the coronavirus, but the authorities have begun trying again to measure the losses.
The British government is expected to announce on Thursday that it will prolong its lockdown by at least three weeks, amid signs that the country is nearing the peak of its coronavirus outbreak.The British government is expected to announce on Thursday that it will prolong its lockdown by at least three weeks, amid signs that the country is nearing the peak of its coronavirus outbreak.
Britain is following the lead of other European countries in keeping the restrictions in place, but officials have refused so far to discuss their strategy for starting to reopen the economy.Britain is following the lead of other European countries in keeping the restrictions in place, but officials have refused so far to discuss their strategy for starting to reopen the economy.
The announcement will be made by Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who has taken over the duties of Prime Minister Boris Johnson while he recuperates from a serious case of the virus.The announcement will be made by Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who has taken over the duties of Prime Minister Boris Johnson while he recuperates from a serious case of the virus.
Mr. Raab has signaled for more than a week that Britain would not lift the lockdown on April 16, the date under which the government is mandated to review the measures adopted through emergency legislation.Mr. Raab has signaled for more than a week that Britain would not lift the lockdown on April 16, the date under which the government is mandated to review the measures adopted through emergency legislation.
“Is it time to ease up on the rules?” he said to reporters last week. “We’re not done yet. We’ve got to keep going.”“Is it time to ease up on the rules?” he said to reporters last week. “We’re not done yet. We’ve got to keep going.”
Medical experts agree that the most important prerequisite to lifting the lockdown is more extensive testing, and the government has set a goal of conducting 100,000 tests a day by the end of April. It is currently carrying out less than a fifth of that.Medical experts agree that the most important prerequisite to lifting the lockdown is more extensive testing, and the government has set a goal of conducting 100,000 tests a day by the end of April. It is currently carrying out less than a fifth of that.
Britain’s decision comes as officials expressed hope that the toll from the virus would begin to diminish. Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer, said that there was a “flattening” of the curve in the number of deaths, and that the contagion was “probably reaching the peak overall.”Britain’s decision comes as officials expressed hope that the toll from the virus would begin to diminish. Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer, said that there was a “flattening” of the curve in the number of deaths, and that the contagion was “probably reaching the peak overall.”
Despite signs of progress, the government has been determined not to shift the public debate to what life after the lockdown might look like, and officials have resolutely stuck to their three-sentence mantra: “Stay Home. Protect the N.H.S. Save Lives.”Despite signs of progress, the government has been determined not to shift the public debate to what life after the lockdown might look like, and officials have resolutely stuck to their three-sentence mantra: “Stay Home. Protect the N.H.S. Save Lives.”
The lockdown extension, expected to be for three weeks, would come even as some food and retail businesses signaled a gradual reopening. The sandwich chain Pret A Manger opened 10 shops on Thursday near hospitals in Central and Greater London to help front-line health care workers, a company spokesman said in an email.The shops serve only carryout and delivery orders. Under the government guidelines, restaurants and pubs could stay open to prepare food for carryout or delivery. But many opted to close for the safety of their staff members and customers. The lockdown extension, expected to be for three weeks, would come even as some food and retail businesses signaled a gradual reopening. The sandwich chain Pret A Manger opened 10 shops on Thursday near hospitals in Central and Greater London to help front-line health care workers, a company spokesman said in an email.The shops serve only carryout and delivery orders. Under the government guidelines, restaurants and pubs could stay open to prepare food for carryout or delivery. But many opted to close for the safety of their staff members and customers.
Singapore announced a record jump in coronavirus cases on Wednesday evening, with most of the 447 new confirmed cases coming from crowded dormitories for migrant laborers.Singapore announced a record jump in coronavirus cases on Wednesday evening, with most of the 447 new confirmed cases coming from crowded dormitories for migrant laborers.
While Singapore has been lauded for its rigorous contact-tracing program, which quickly identified clusters of local transmission, the coronavirus spread quickly through residences for migrant laborers, where up to 20 people are crammed in each room with shared kitchens and bathrooms.While Singapore has been lauded for its rigorous contact-tracing program, which quickly identified clusters of local transmission, the coronavirus spread quickly through residences for migrant laborers, where up to 20 people are crammed in each room with shared kitchens and bathrooms.
Nearly half of Singapore’s roughly 3,700 coronavirus cases are among low-wage migrant workers, who have built the gleaming, modern city-state. About 200,000 such workers, many from India and Bangladesh, have been quarantined to their dormitories, with healthy residents gradually being transferred to other housing to prevent community transmission.Nearly half of Singapore’s roughly 3,700 coronavirus cases are among low-wage migrant workers, who have built the gleaming, modern city-state. About 200,000 such workers, many from India and Bangladesh, have been quarantined to their dormitories, with healthy residents gradually being transferred to other housing to prevent community transmission.
After weeks of slow transmission, Singapore began recording a rapid rise in cases in March, as travelers from Europe and the United States brought the virus with them. But no imported cases have been recorded for nearly a week.After weeks of slow transmission, Singapore began recording a rapid rise in cases in March, as travelers from Europe and the United States brought the virus with them. But no imported cases have been recorded for nearly a week.
The rapid spread of the coronavirus among foreign laborer communities has prompted the Singaporean government to vow changes in the way migrants are treated, even if the dormitories met standards set by the International Labor Organization.The rapid spread of the coronavirus among foreign laborer communities has prompted the Singaporean government to vow changes in the way migrants are treated, even if the dormitories met standards set by the International Labor Organization.
“In terms of living conditions for foreign workers, collectively many of us were blind to this, and this has to change,” said Teo Yik Ying, the dean of the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health at the National University of Singapore. “But in Singapore, it will change because we are committed to learning lessons from every epidemic.”“In terms of living conditions for foreign workers, collectively many of us were blind to this, and this has to change,” said Teo Yik Ying, the dean of the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health at the National University of Singapore. “But in Singapore, it will change because we are committed to learning lessons from every epidemic.”
More than two dozen Kenyans held in quarantine on the Kenyatta University campus in the capital, Nairobi, have protested over being held for long periods even after testing negative for the coronavirus and finishing 14-day quarantines.More than two dozen Kenyans held in quarantine on the Kenyatta University campus in the capital, Nairobi, have protested over being held for long periods even after testing negative for the coronavirus and finishing 14-day quarantines.
Some said they were presented with bills in order to be allowed to check out. On social media, those in quarantine posted about being threatened when they complained and about feeling hungry and experiencing anxiety attacks.Some said they were presented with bills in order to be allowed to check out. On social media, those in quarantine posted about being threatened when they complained and about feeling hungry and experiencing anxiety attacks.
The protests at the university dormitory on Wednesday came days after more 30 people escaped another quarantine facility in the country’s northeast. Officials said police officers had colluded to sneak the individuals out of the facility.The protests at the university dormitory on Wednesday came days after more 30 people escaped another quarantine facility in the country’s northeast. Officials said police officers had colluded to sneak the individuals out of the facility.
Kenya’s government, facing criticism for mishandling quarantine measures, has yet to explain why people in quarantine were being asked to pay or were held in isolation for longer periods. The government has also been accused of charging poor workers staying in isolation units and holding individuals in conditions they say caused them mental anguish.Kenya’s government, facing criticism for mishandling quarantine measures, has yet to explain why people in quarantine were being asked to pay or were held in isolation for longer periods. The government has also been accused of charging poor workers staying in isolation units and holding individuals in conditions they say caused them mental anguish.
From the outset, many of those placed into mandatory quarantine complained of mismanagement, lack of information and the poor state of isolation centers.From the outset, many of those placed into mandatory quarantine complained of mismanagement, lack of information and the poor state of isolation centers.
Travelers who returned to the country in late March before the suspension of international flights were among those being held. Passengers who could pay at the time were taken to hotels, while those who couldn’t were ordered to university dormitories or government facilities.Travelers who returned to the country in late March before the suspension of international flights were among those being held. Passengers who could pay at the time were taken to hotels, while those who couldn’t were ordered to university dormitories or government facilities.
The Health Ministry has reported 225 confirmed infections. The Health Ministry has reported 225 confirmed infections.
As Britain prepared on Thursday for its weekly applause session to show support for the National Health Service, a video of immigrant workers and others reciting an antiracist poem is circulating on social media as a powerful plea for tolerance.As Britain prepared on Thursday for its weekly applause session to show support for the National Health Service, a video of immigrant workers and others reciting an antiracist poem is circulating on social media as a powerful plea for tolerance.
The poem, titled “You Clap for Me Now” and written by Darren James Smith, begins by addressing xenophobia and nods to the Brexit campaign that tapped into some Britons’ fears of outsiders flooding the job market.The poem, titled “You Clap for Me Now” and written by Darren James Smith, begins by addressing xenophobia and nods to the Brexit campaign that tapped into some Britons’ fears of outsiders flooding the job market.
The threat, the poem reveals, is the coronavirus — not the immigrant workers who have become essential to treating patients and keeping the economy running during the pandemic.The threat, the poem reveals, is the coronavirus — not the immigrant workers who have become essential to treating patients and keeping the economy running during the pandemic.
“Don’t say go home. Don’t say not here. You know how it feels for home to be a prison. You know how it feels to live in fear,” workers recite.“Don’t say go home. Don’t say not here. You know how it feels for home to be a prison. You know how it feels to live in fear,” workers recite.
Sachini Imbuldeniya, the video’s producer, told The Guardian on Wednesday that she knew immediately on reading the poem that its message had to be shared.Sachini Imbuldeniya, the video’s producer, told The Guardian on Wednesday that she knew immediately on reading the poem that its message had to be shared.
“We decided to turn it into a short and shareable video featuring a mixture of first-, second- and third-generation immigrants” living in Britain, she said.“We decided to turn it into a short and shareable video featuring a mixture of first-, second- and third-generation immigrants” living in Britain, she said.
The hashtag #YouClapForMeNow was trending on Twitter in Britain, and the video has been shared by thousands, including politicians, and viewed millions of times on social media.The hashtag #YouClapForMeNow was trending on Twitter in Britain, and the video has been shared by thousands, including politicians, and viewed millions of times on social media.
“London would not be London without those who have chosen to make our city their home,” the city’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, wrote on Twitter. “To everyone putting their lives on the line to keep us safe in the fight against COVID19: thank you.” “London would not be London without those who have chosen to make our city their home,” the city’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, wrote on Twitter. “To everyone putting their lives on the line to keep us safe in the fight against COVID19: thank you.”
Imagine you are at your favorite Starbucks when a text arrives on your cellphone warning you that a person previously found to be infected is also in the same shop.Imagine you are at your favorite Starbucks when a text arrives on your cellphone warning you that a person previously found to be infected is also in the same shop.
That sort of detailed alert regularly arrives on citizens’ smartphones in South Korea. Widespread testing coupled with the country’s super fast internet allows the government to trace individuals’ movements and warn the public of potential dangers in real time.That sort of detailed alert regularly arrives on citizens’ smartphones in South Korea. Widespread testing coupled with the country’s super fast internet allows the government to trace individuals’ movements and warn the public of potential dangers in real time.
As a result, most restaurants, bars, churches — even the airports — remain open, and a national election took place this week. Social distancing and lockdowns do not exist. In a country of 50 million people only 220 have died from the virus, about the number who are felled on a quiet day in New York City.As a result, most restaurants, bars, churches — even the airports — remain open, and a national election took place this week. Social distancing and lockdowns do not exist. In a country of 50 million people only 220 have died from the virus, about the number who are felled on a quiet day in New York City.
But there is a trade-off.But there is a trade-off.
Big Brother is watching, and so is everyone else.Big Brother is watching, and so is everyone else.
Testing is widely available, and anyone who receives a test must also install the tracing app on his or her phone. Those who test positive are made to self-isolate for the duration of the illness. Testing is widely available, and anyone who receives a test must also install the tracing app on his or her phone. Those who test positive are made to self-isolate for the duration of the illness.
The app allows the government to track the locations and contacts of infected people. That information is then used to alert those who have the app on their phones — and that is almost everyone.The app allows the government to track the locations and contacts of infected people. That information is then used to alert those who have the app on their phones — and that is almost everyone.
For those who are being tracked the degree of detail of their movements is stunning.For those who are being tracked the degree of detail of their movements is stunning.
Recently, the residents of the Songpa District in Seoul, the capital, learned that an infected person from another city was visiting their neighborhood. Residents learned when the individual arrived, the hotel in which he stayed, the hospital he waited outside in his car and that he dropped by a 7-Eleven and a kimbap restaurant.Recently, the residents of the Songpa District in Seoul, the capital, learned that an infected person from another city was visiting their neighborhood. Residents learned when the individual arrived, the hotel in which he stayed, the hospital he waited outside in his car and that he dropped by a 7-Eleven and a kimbap restaurant.
They also were able to breath a sigh of relief, knowing exactly when he left town.They also were able to breath a sigh of relief, knowing exactly when he left town.
Even before the coronavirus arrived in Manila, a saying in the capital’s sprawling San Roque slum — “no one dies from a fever” — crystallized the many threats that its residents faced in their daily lives.Even before the coronavirus arrived in Manila, a saying in the capital’s sprawling San Roque slum — “no one dies from a fever” — crystallized the many threats that its residents faced in their daily lives.
Drug-fueled petty crime. Food shortages. Overcrowding and poor sanitation. Fever, body aches and coughs were commonplace long before the virus came.Drug-fueled petty crime. Food shortages. Overcrowding and poor sanitation. Fever, body aches and coughs were commonplace long before the virus came.
President Rodrigo Duterte’s lockdown of Luzon, the Philippines’ largest island and home to Manila, is moving into its second month, plunging San Roque’s people even deeper into poverty as the virus continues to rage. Yet the restrictions have not stopped runny-nosed children from playing tag in the slum’s labyrinth of alleyways, as parents shout halfhearted admonitions to stay away from one another.President Rodrigo Duterte’s lockdown of Luzon, the Philippines’ largest island and home to Manila, is moving into its second month, plunging San Roque’s people even deeper into poverty as the virus continues to rage. Yet the restrictions have not stopped runny-nosed children from playing tag in the slum’s labyrinth of alleyways, as parents shout halfhearted admonitions to stay away from one another.
Home to roughly 6,000 families — conservatively, about 35,000 people — San Roque, in Manila’s northern suburb of Quezon, has for years been home to some of the poorest people on the fringes of Philippine society.Home to roughly 6,000 families — conservatively, about 35,000 people — San Roque, in Manila’s northern suburb of Quezon, has for years been home to some of the poorest people on the fringes of Philippine society.
Frustration over the lockdown recently exploded into violence. An April 1 gathering in San Roque became an impromptu rally, with dozens taking to the streets demanding answers from the government about when they would receive promised relief.Frustration over the lockdown recently exploded into violence. An April 1 gathering in San Roque became an impromptu rally, with dozens taking to the streets demanding answers from the government about when they would receive promised relief.
Police officers in riot gear and fatigues responded with force, scuffling with protesters and sending 21 people to jail. Mr. Duterte accused Kadamay, a group that advocates for the poor, of inciting the violence, and warned that his government would not be lenient toward those who challenged it.Police officers in riot gear and fatigues responded with force, scuffling with protesters and sending 21 people to jail. Mr. Duterte accused Kadamay, a group that advocates for the poor, of inciting the violence, and warned that his government would not be lenient toward those who challenged it.
So far, there have been no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in San Roque. As of Wednesday, 349 people had died in the Philippines from Covid-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 5,453 infections had been confirmed. But that figure is likely to rise sharply, with the Philippine government having just begun mass testing this week.So far, there have been no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in San Roque. As of Wednesday, 349 people had died in the Philippines from Covid-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 5,453 infections had been confirmed. But that figure is likely to rise sharply, with the Philippine government having just begun mass testing this week.
A social media feud between Chinese nationalists and critics of Beijing over comments shared by Thai celebrities has inspired growing solidarity between internet users in Thailand, Taiwan and Hong Kong, as the coronavirus inflames online debate.A social media feud between Chinese nationalists and critics of Beijing over comments shared by Thai celebrities has inspired growing solidarity between internet users in Thailand, Taiwan and Hong Kong, as the coronavirus inflames online debate.
People in Thailand, Taiwan and Hong Kong have banded together online in recent days in the so-called Milk Tea Alliance — named after the popular sweet drinks — just as Beijing has worked to stave off international criticism over the pandemic, and as longstanding tensions flared between China and its smaller neighbors.People in Thailand, Taiwan and Hong Kong have banded together online in recent days in the so-called Milk Tea Alliance — named after the popular sweet drinks — just as Beijing has worked to stave off international criticism over the pandemic, and as longstanding tensions flared between China and its smaller neighbors.
Pro-Beijing cyberwarriors have taken on a Thai actor, Vachirawit Chivaaree, and the Thai model Weeraya Sukaram, who were both accused of supporting Taiwan and Hong Kong independence — views anathema to Beijing. Ms. Weeraya was also accused of sharing a Twitter message that questioned whether the coronavirus had originated from a Chinese laboratory.Pro-Beijing cyberwarriors have taken on a Thai actor, Vachirawit Chivaaree, and the Thai model Weeraya Sukaram, who were both accused of supporting Taiwan and Hong Kong independence — views anathema to Beijing. Ms. Weeraya was also accused of sharing a Twitter message that questioned whether the coronavirus had originated from a Chinese laboratory.
Mr. Vachirawit, who goes by the name Bright, has since apologized for “liking” photos that listed Hong Kong as a country, but Chinese users on Weibo, a microblogging service, have called for a boycott of his popular TV drama.Mr. Vachirawit, who goes by the name Bright, has since apologized for “liking” photos that listed Hong Kong as a country, but Chinese users on Weibo, a microblogging service, have called for a boycott of his popular TV drama.
The hashtag #MilkTeaAlliance and one in Thai translated as #MilkTeaIsThickerThanBlood have since been widely shared on social media in an unexpected show of unity against authoritarian rule and Beijing’s influence, as internet users on both sides traded barbs, insults and memes.The hashtag #MilkTeaAlliance and one in Thai translated as #MilkTeaIsThickerThanBlood have since been widely shared on social media in an unexpected show of unity against authoritarian rule and Beijing’s influence, as internet users on both sides traded barbs, insults and memes.
The Chinese Embassy in Thailand even joined the fray. In a Facebook message posted on Tuesday, the embassy said the “recent online noises” challenging Beijing’s claims that Taiwan is an inviolable part of greater China “only reflect bias and ignorance.”The Chinese Embassy in Thailand even joined the fray. In a Facebook message posted on Tuesday, the embassy said the “recent online noises” challenging Beijing’s claims that Taiwan is an inviolable part of greater China “only reflect bias and ignorance.”
“The scheme by some particular people to manipulate the issue for the purpose of inflaming and sabotaging the friendship between the Chinese and Thai people will not succeed,” the embassy wrote, attracting thousands of angry emojis and replies.“The scheme by some particular people to manipulate the issue for the purpose of inflaming and sabotaging the friendship between the Chinese and Thai people will not succeed,” the embassy wrote, attracting thousands of angry emojis and replies.
Like a ghost from the medieval past, the bubonic plague still makes occasional, unwelcome appearances in remote regions of the former Soviet Union, where it survives today in wild rodents.Like a ghost from the medieval past, the bubonic plague still makes occasional, unwelcome appearances in remote regions of the former Soviet Union, where it survives today in wild rodents.
Over the centuries, with improved public hygiene, the plague declined as a threat. Today, as a bacterial infection, it is treatable with antibiotics, if caught in time.Over the centuries, with improved public hygiene, the plague declined as a threat. Today, as a bacterial infection, it is treatable with antibiotics, if caught in time.
But the plague was still a lethal menace in the 1920s and also an embarrassment for the Soviet Union, which established a specialized state agency to track and contain it.But the plague was still a lethal menace in the 1920s and also an embarrassment for the Soviet Union, which established a specialized state agency to track and contain it.
Successors to that agency still exist in Russia and in half a dozen other countries that were once Soviet republics and, with their ready quarantine plans and trained personnel, they have become a mainstay of the regional response to the coronavirus.Successors to that agency still exist in Russia and in half a dozen other countries that were once Soviet republics and, with their ready quarantine plans and trained personnel, they have become a mainstay of the regional response to the coronavirus.
It is too early to tell if the former Soviet antiplague centers, as the sites were called, have made any difference in the coronavirus outbreak, which so far has infected more than 24,000 Russians, killing 198.It is too early to tell if the former Soviet antiplague centers, as the sites were called, have made any difference in the coronavirus outbreak, which so far has infected more than 24,000 Russians, killing 198.
At most, the legacy Soviet system helped delay the spread, and it is just one data point in assessing why the coronavirus moved more slowly in Russia, Ukraine and other former Soviet countries than in Western Europe and the United States.At most, the legacy Soviet system helped delay the spread, and it is just one data point in assessing why the coronavirus moved more slowly in Russia, Ukraine and other former Soviet countries than in Western Europe and the United States.
Russia maintains 13 antiplague centers, from the Far East to the Caucasus Mountains, five plague research institutes and multiple field stations. In March, the authorities moved new laboratory equipment into the antiplague center in Moscow to expand its ability to test for the coronavirus.Russia maintains 13 antiplague centers, from the Far East to the Caucasus Mountains, five plague research institutes and multiple field stations. In March, the authorities moved new laboratory equipment into the antiplague center in Moscow to expand its ability to test for the coronavirus.
The Microbe institute, originally dedicated wholly to bubonic plague but later expanded to tackle other infections such as cholera, yellow fever, anthrax and tularemia, models the spread of the coronavirus.The Microbe institute, originally dedicated wholly to bubonic plague but later expanded to tackle other infections such as cholera, yellow fever, anthrax and tularemia, models the spread of the coronavirus.
Valencia, a top soccer team in Spain, was starting to take heat from the local media and some rival teams for what they considered to be an overreaction to the threat posed by a mystery illness that had spread to Europe from Asia.Valencia, a top soccer team in Spain, was starting to take heat from the local media and some rival teams for what they considered to be an overreaction to the threat posed by a mystery illness that had spread to Europe from Asia.
It was Feb. 29. No other team in Spain had yet dared to impose such harsh measures: The club’s first team was to be isolated. There was to be no contact with fans. All interviews, even those deemed mandatory as a part of Spanish soccer’s broadcast contract, would be banned. Employees who did not have a reason to be at the stadium were barred from attending.It was Feb. 29. No other team in Spain had yet dared to impose such harsh measures: The club’s first team was to be isolated. There was to be no contact with fans. All interviews, even those deemed mandatory as a part of Spanish soccer’s broadcast contract, would be banned. Employees who did not have a reason to be at the stadium were barred from attending.
Anil Murthy, the team president and a former diplomat for Singapore, had spoken to friends and family in Asia and knew the coronavirus outbreak was serious and on its way, no matter what the view in Spain was at the time.Anil Murthy, the team president and a former diplomat for Singapore, had spoken to friends and family in Asia and knew the coronavirus outbreak was serious and on its way, no matter what the view in Spain was at the time.
The news media greeted Mr. Murthy with a wave of negative headlines until shortly before the league suspended all activities.The news media greeted Mr. Murthy with a wave of negative headlines until shortly before the league suspended all activities.
Mr. Murthy, who spent almost 16 years working with Singapore’s government, was keeping an eye on what was happening there while the team owner was sending daily updates.Mr. Murthy, who spent almost 16 years working with Singapore’s government, was keeping an eye on what was happening there while the team owner was sending daily updates.
The club’s staff got to work, preparing for the outbreak in part by purchasing protective clothing and equipment.The club’s staff got to work, preparing for the outbreak in part by purchasing protective clothing and equipment.
Since then, 35 percent of Valencia’s first team has tested positive for the coronavirus.Since then, 35 percent of Valencia’s first team has tested positive for the coronavirus.
Australia will consider lifting some restrictions in four weeks if the number of new cases continues to drop and crucial public health benchmarks are met, officials said on Thursday.Australia will consider lifting some restrictions in four weeks if the number of new cases continues to drop and crucial public health benchmarks are met, officials said on Thursday.
Australia remains in “the suppression phase,” said Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Before restrictions can ease, the country will need to extend surveillance measures, improve contact tracing and respond to local outbreaks faster, he said.Australia remains in “the suppression phase,” said Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Before restrictions can ease, the country will need to extend surveillance measures, improve contact tracing and respond to local outbreaks faster, he said.
Research by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine indicates that Australia has one of the best detection rates in the world, with 92 percent of all symptomatic cases identified, said Brendan Murphy, the chief medical officer of Australia. The rate of new daily cases has dropped in the country, but he cautioned that it was too soon to relax.Research by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine indicates that Australia has one of the best detection rates in the world, with 92 percent of all symptomatic cases identified, said Brendan Murphy, the chief medical officer of Australia. The rate of new daily cases has dropped in the country, but he cautioned that it was too soon to relax.
As of Thursday, the country has 6,457 reported cases and 63 people have died, with 42 on ventilators. More than half of those who have contracted the virus have recovered, Mr. Morrison said.As of Thursday, the country has 6,457 reported cases and 63 people have died, with 42 on ventilators. More than half of those who have contracted the virus have recovered, Mr. Morrison said.
Economically, Australians would also need to prepare for some “very sobering news” in the months ahead, he added. “It will be a different world on the other side of the virus.”Economically, Australians would also need to prepare for some “very sobering news” in the months ahead, he added. “It will be a different world on the other side of the virus.”
Australia had previously enjoyed the world’s longest economic boom, with nearly three decades without a recession. Now, with the employment rate expected to double to 10 percent by the end of June, the government has approved $200 billion in stimulus measures.Australia had previously enjoyed the world’s longest economic boom, with nearly three decades without a recession. Now, with the employment rate expected to double to 10 percent by the end of June, the government has approved $200 billion in stimulus measures.
President Trump is set to issue new federal guidelines on distancing measures on Thursday in a bid to move the country closer to reopening for business, even as public health officials warned that it was far too early for any widespread return to public life.President Trump is set to issue new federal guidelines on distancing measures on Thursday in a bid to move the country closer to reopening for business, even as public health officials warned that it was far too early for any widespread return to public life.
The health experts’ main concern is that the country is not conducting enough testing to track the coronavirus in a way that would let Americans return to work safely. And with supply shortages rampant, many tests are still restricted to people who meet specific criteria. The health experts’ main concern is that the country is not conducting enough testing to track the coronavirus in a way that would let Americans return to work safely. And with supply shortages rampant, many tests are still restricted to people who meet specific criteria.
Here’s what else is happening in the United States:Here’s what else is happening in the United States:
Some workers are starting to protest the movement restrictions. Thousands of demonstrators in cars jammed the streets around the Michigan State Capitol on Wednesday, and dozens of people in Frankfort, Ky., shouted through a window as Gov. Andy Beshear provided a virus update.Some workers are starting to protest the movement restrictions. Thousands of demonstrators in cars jammed the streets around the Michigan State Capitol on Wednesday, and dozens of people in Frankfort, Ky., shouted through a window as Gov. Andy Beshear provided a virus update.
After an anonymous tip, the New Jersey police discovered 17 bodies inside a nursing home that has been hit hard by the virus.After an anonymous tip, the New Jersey police discovered 17 bodies inside a nursing home that has been hit hard by the virus.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said on Wednesday that, starting Friday, New York would require people to cover their faces in public where they could not keep six feet from others, including settings like buses, subway trains, sidewalks and grocery stores. Those who violate the rule could face fines.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said on Wednesday that, starting Friday, New York would require people to cover their faces in public where they could not keep six feet from others, including settings like buses, subway trains, sidewalks and grocery stores. Those who violate the rule could face fines.
Ivanka Trump, President Trump’s eldest daughter and a senior White House adviser, has not followed the federal guidelines advising against discretionary travel, leaving Washington even as she has publicly thanked people for staying home. Ms. Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, a senior White House adviser, also traveled with their three children to a Trump golf club in New Jersey for the first night of Passover. Ivanka Trump, President Trump’s eldest daughter and a senior White House adviser, has not followed the federal guidelines advising against discretionary travel, leaving Washington even as she has publicly thanked people for staying home. Ms. Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, a senior White House adviser, also traveled with their three children to a Trump golf club in New Jersey for the first night of Passover.
Residents of a village in northern India attacked medical workers and police officers who were carrying out health screenings, officials said on Thursday.Residents of a village in northern India attacked medical workers and police officers who were carrying out health screenings, officials said on Thursday.
Saurabh Jorawal, a local official in the state of Bihar, where the attack occurred, said that villagers in East Champaran threw stones at workers on Wednesday, injuring at least five people, some of them seriously.Saurabh Jorawal, a local official in the state of Bihar, where the attack occurred, said that villagers in East Champaran threw stones at workers on Wednesday, injuring at least five people, some of them seriously.
“We sent in more police, and they arrested 44 people from the village,” Mr. Jorawal said.“We sent in more police, and they arrested 44 people from the village,” Mr. Jorawal said.
As fears of a rapid viral spread rise in India, health care workers have reported being assaulted, spat at and threatened with sexual violence for treating coronavirus patients.As fears of a rapid viral spread rise in India, health care workers have reported being assaulted, spat at and threatened with sexual violence for treating coronavirus patients.
India has reported more than 12,000 infections and 414 deaths.India has reported more than 12,000 infections and 414 deaths.
Police officials said that people in the area were ignoring distancing guidelines and other government restrictions urging all 1.3 billion Indians to stay inside amid a nationwide lockdown that will last until at least May 3.Police officials said that people in the area were ignoring distancing guidelines and other government restrictions urging all 1.3 billion Indians to stay inside amid a nationwide lockdown that will last until at least May 3.
Officials have faced staggering challenges enforcing the lockdown, which has shut most businesses, leaving millions of Indians dependent on food subsidies and other government handouts to survive.Officials have faced staggering challenges enforcing the lockdown, which has shut most businesses, leaving millions of Indians dependent on food subsidies and other government handouts to survive.
Reporting was contributed by Iliana Magra, Ben Dooley, Kai Schultz, Tiffany May, Hari Kumar, Vivian Wang, Amy Qin, Raphael Minder, Elaine Yu, Isabella Kwai, Su-Hyun Lee, Rod Nordland, Megan Specia, Abdi Latif Dahir, Hannah Beech, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Choe Sang-Hun, Andrew E. Kramer, Austin Ramzy, Stephen Castle, Jason Gutierrez, Yonette Joseph and Tariq Panja.Reporting was contributed by Iliana Magra, Ben Dooley, Kai Schultz, Tiffany May, Hari Kumar, Vivian Wang, Amy Qin, Raphael Minder, Elaine Yu, Isabella Kwai, Su-Hyun Lee, Rod Nordland, Megan Specia, Abdi Latif Dahir, Hannah Beech, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Choe Sang-Hun, Andrew E. Kramer, Austin Ramzy, Stephen Castle, Jason Gutierrez, Yonette Joseph and Tariq Panja.