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Coronavirus Live Updates: Efforts to Ramp Up Testing Hampered by Fragmented U.S. Health System Coronavirus Live Updates: Efforts to Ramp Up Testing Hampered by Fragmented U.S. Health System
(32 minutes later)
The inability of the United States to provide broad diagnostic testing, widely seen as a pivotal failing in the nation’s effort to contain the virus, has been traced to the botched rollout by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the tardy response by the Food and Drug Administration, and supply shortages of swabs and masks.The inability of the United States to provide broad diagnostic testing, widely seen as a pivotal failing in the nation’s effort to contain the virus, has been traced to the botched rollout by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the tardy response by the Food and Drug Administration, and supply shortages of swabs and masks.
But the fragmented, poorly organized American health care system has also made it difficult for hospitals and other medical providers to quickly overcome obstacles to testing.But the fragmented, poorly organized American health care system has also made it difficult for hospitals and other medical providers to quickly overcome obstacles to testing.
“It’s still amazing to me, like, how can that be the case, that there is not a more systematic way to address a central need?” said Fyodor Urnov, the scientist who oversaw the transformation of the Innovative Genomics Institute into a clinical laboratory.“It’s still amazing to me, like, how can that be the case, that there is not a more systematic way to address a central need?” said Fyodor Urnov, the scientist who oversaw the transformation of the Innovative Genomics Institute into a clinical laboratory.
In recent days, President Trump has delivered a mixed message on testing, saying on May 11 that in ramping up, “we have met the moment and we have prevailed,” while a few days later, he suggested that testing was “overrated” and that the high number of cases in the United States could be traced to more prevalent testing.In recent days, President Trump has delivered a mixed message on testing, saying on May 11 that in ramping up, “we have met the moment and we have prevailed,” while a few days later, he suggested that testing was “overrated” and that the high number of cases in the United States could be traced to more prevalent testing.
The picture for testing is improving, slowly. The United States is completing more than 300,000 tests a day, double the amount of a month ago, according to the Covid Tracking Project. The picture for testing is improving, slowly. The United States is completing more than 300,000 tests a day, double the amount of a month ago, according to the Covid Tracking Project.
Still, the level of testing in the United States is orders of magnitude less than what many epidemiologists say it should be. The country should be doing at least 900,000 tests a day — and as many as 20 million — to yield an accurate picture of the outbreak, they say. The need for extensive testing is even more acute as many governors have reopened their states before the epidemic has crested. Without sufficient testing it will be hard to identify and contain new outbreaks.Still, the level of testing in the United States is orders of magnitude less than what many epidemiologists say it should be. The country should be doing at least 900,000 tests a day — and as many as 20 million — to yield an accurate picture of the outbreak, they say. The need for extensive testing is even more acute as many governors have reopened their states before the epidemic has crested. Without sufficient testing it will be hard to identify and contain new outbreaks.
Most testing is not done by public health authorities — whose labs have been chronically underfunded — but by hospital laboratories and major for-profit testing companies.Most testing is not done by public health authorities — whose labs have been chronically underfunded — but by hospital laboratories and major for-profit testing companies.
There have been calls for more than a decade to create a national laboratory system that could oversee a testing response in a public health crisis. An effort to create one 10 years ago withered away over time because of a lack of funding.There have been calls for more than a decade to create a national laboratory system that could oversee a testing response in a public health crisis. An effort to create one 10 years ago withered away over time because of a lack of funding.
Mr. Trump visited Michigan on Thursday, paying a visit to a key swing state where the virus has become a polarizing flashpoint just a day after he threatened to withhold federal funding from it for taking steps to make it easier to vote by mail amid the pandemic.Mr. Trump visited Michigan on Thursday, paying a visit to a key swing state where the virus has become a polarizing flashpoint just a day after he threatened to withhold federal funding from it for taking steps to make it easier to vote by mail amid the pandemic.
Michigan has been one of the states hit hardest by the virus. It has also seen a series of small but intense demonstrations against stay-home restrictions, some of which Mr. Trump encouraged, which at one point saw armed protesters enter the State Capitol in Lansing.Michigan has been one of the states hit hardest by the virus. It has also seen a series of small but intense demonstrations against stay-home restrictions, some of which Mr. Trump encouraged, which at one point saw armed protesters enter the State Capitol in Lansing.
The state is critical to Mr. Trump’s hopes of winning re-election, but he has been behind in recent public polling there. The state’s governor, Gretchen Whitmer, is seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party, and her name often comes up in lists of possible running mates for Joseph R. Biden Jr., the presumptive Democratic nominee. The state is critical to Mr. Trump’s hopes of winning re-election, but he has been behind in recent public polling there. The state’s governor, Gretchen Whitmer, is seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party, and her name often comes up in lists of possible running mates for Joseph R. Biden Jr., the presumptive Democratic nominee.
On Wednesday the president threatened to withhold federal funding to Michigan because its Democratic secretary of state was mailing absentee ballot applications to voters, a move he falsely claimed was illegal. Mr. Trump’s threat came as the state was battling a major flood disaster that forced thousands of people to evacuate, and by the end of the day he seemed to back off it, saying “I don’t think it’s going to be necessary.”On Wednesday the president threatened to withhold federal funding to Michigan because its Democratic secretary of state was mailing absentee ballot applications to voters, a move he falsely claimed was illegal. Mr. Trump’s threat came as the state was battling a major flood disaster that forced thousands of people to evacuate, and by the end of the day he seemed to back off it, saying “I don’t think it’s going to be necessary.”
On Thursday, Mr. Trump repeated his concerns but did not make any threats.On Thursday, Mr. Trump repeated his concerns but did not make any threats.
“We don’t want them to do mail-in ballots because it will lead to total election fraud,” Mr. Trump said before he departed for Michigan. (States that vote by mail see little fraud.)“We don’t want them to do mail-in ballots because it will lead to total election fraud,” Mr. Trump said before he departed for Michigan. (States that vote by mail see little fraud.)
Ms. Whitmer eased several virus-related restrictions in the state on Thursday, moving to allow gatherings of up to 10 people, and saying that beginning May 26, retail businesses will be allowed to see customers by appointment. In addition, on May 29, health care and veterinary workers will be allowed to resume some medical and dental procedures.Ms. Whitmer eased several virus-related restrictions in the state on Thursday, moving to allow gatherings of up to 10 people, and saying that beginning May 26, retail businesses will be allowed to see customers by appointment. In addition, on May 29, health care and veterinary workers will be allowed to resume some medical and dental procedures.
The president has repeatedly taken aim at Ms. Whitmer during the pandemic, referring to her as “the woman in Michigan” and at one point egging on protesters looking to ease restrictions by tweeting “Liberate Michigan.”The president has repeatedly taken aim at Ms. Whitmer during the pandemic, referring to her as “the woman in Michigan” and at one point egging on protesters looking to ease restrictions by tweeting “Liberate Michigan.”
Mr. Trump’s political opponents were quick to pounce on his threats to Michigan’s federal aid, and worked to capitalize on them in the politically critical state. William Kristol, a prominent conservative Trump critic, said on Twitter that his group, Defending Democracy Together, was buying airtime in Michigan ahead of the president’s visit to release a new advertisement in defense of safe and secure voting.Mr. Trump’s political opponents were quick to pounce on his threats to Michigan’s federal aid, and worked to capitalize on them in the politically critical state. William Kristol, a prominent conservative Trump critic, said on Twitter that his group, Defending Democracy Together, was buying airtime in Michigan ahead of the president’s visit to release a new advertisement in defense of safe and secure voting.
One outstanding question of the trip is whether Mr. Trump will wear a mask while visiting a Ford plant in Ypsilanti. Ford, which had to temporarily close two newly-reopened North American assembly plants this week after employees tested positive for the virus has said that their policy was for all plant visitors to wear personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of the virus.One outstanding question of the trip is whether Mr. Trump will wear a mask while visiting a Ford plant in Ypsilanti. Ford, which had to temporarily close two newly-reopened North American assembly plants this week after employees tested positive for the virus has said that their policy was for all plant visitors to wear personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of the virus.
Michigan’s attorney general, Dana Nessel, sent the president an open letter asking him to wear a face covering during his visit.Michigan’s attorney general, Dana Nessel, sent the president an open letter asking him to wear a face covering during his visit.
“I ask that while you are on tour you respect the great efforts of the men and women at Ford — and across this state — by wearing a facial covering,” Ms. Nessel, a Democrat, wrote. “It is not just the policy of Ford, by virtue of the governor’s executive orders. It is currently the law of this state. Michigan has been hit especially hard by the virus, with more than 50,000 confirmed cases and 5,000 deaths.”“I ask that while you are on tour you respect the great efforts of the men and women at Ford — and across this state — by wearing a facial covering,” Ms. Nessel, a Democrat, wrote. “It is not just the policy of Ford, by virtue of the governor’s executive orders. It is currently the law of this state. Michigan has been hit especially hard by the virus, with more than 50,000 confirmed cases and 5,000 deaths.”
It was not clear whether Mr. Trump would follow the plant’s rules, as he has refused to don a face mask on previous trips around the country, violating the recommendations of the C.D.C.It was not clear whether Mr. Trump would follow the plant’s rules, as he has refused to don a face mask on previous trips around the country, violating the recommendations of the C.D.C.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said on Thursday it would provide up to $1.2 billion to the drug company AstraZeneca to develop a potential coronavirus vaccine from a laboratory at Oxford.The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said on Thursday it would provide up to $1.2 billion to the drug company AstraZeneca to develop a potential coronavirus vaccine from a laboratory at Oxford.
The deal with AstraZeneca is the fourth and by far the largest vaccine research agreement that the department has disclosed. The money will pay for a clinical trial of the potential vaccine in the United States this summer with about 30,000 volunteers.The deal with AstraZeneca is the fourth and by far the largest vaccine research agreement that the department has disclosed. The money will pay for a clinical trial of the potential vaccine in the United States this summer with about 30,000 volunteers.
The H.H.S. statement said the agency and AstraZeneca “are collaborating to make available at least 300 million doses,” and projected that the first doses could be available as early as October.The H.H.S. statement said the agency and AstraZeneca “are collaborating to make available at least 300 million doses,” and projected that the first doses could be available as early as October.
That is a very accelerated, ambitious timetable. Most public health experts and scientists caution that a viable vaccine that could be mass produced would probably not be available until sometime next year, at the earliest. Infectious disease experts also warn that many candidate vaccines take years to perfect, or fail, and in some cases cause such severe side effects that human trials are halted. Plus, billions of doses would be needed around the world.That is a very accelerated, ambitious timetable. Most public health experts and scientists caution that a viable vaccine that could be mass produced would probably not be available until sometime next year, at the earliest. Infectious disease experts also warn that many candidate vaccines take years to perfect, or fail, and in some cases cause such severe side effects that human trials are halted. Plus, billions of doses would be needed around the world.
AstraZeneca said it was also discussing deals for simultaneous production by other companies, including the giant Serum Institute of India, a major supplier of vaccines to the developing world.AstraZeneca said it was also discussing deals for simultaneous production by other companies, including the giant Serum Institute of India, a major supplier of vaccines to the developing world.
The U.S. is distributing billions of dollars to companies to develop vaccines through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority.The U.S. is distributing billions of dollars to companies to develop vaccines through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority.
In addition to the money for AstraZeneca, the authority, known as Barda, has already agreed to provide up to $483 million to the biotech company Moderna and $500 million to Johnson & Johnson for their separate vaccine efforts. It has also agreed to provide $30 million to a coronavirus vaccine effort by the French company Sanofi. In addition to the money for AstraZeneca, the authority, known as Barda, has already agreed to provide up to $483 million to the biotech company Moderna and $500 million to Johnson & Johnson for their separate vaccine efforts. It has also agreed to provide $30 million to a virus vaccine effort by the French company Sanofi.
Scores of vaccine efforts are underway around the world, and several potential vaccines are now in at least small-scale clinical trials.Scores of vaccine efforts are underway around the world, and several potential vaccines are now in at least small-scale clinical trials.
Mr. Trump reorganized vaccine and treatment efforts after the head of Barda, Rick Bright, protested his ouster as head of the agency a few weeks ago, filing a whistle-blower complaint that contended he had been pressured to seek approval for certain treatments. Just last week, Mr. Trump named Moncef Slaoui, a venture capitalist who was a longtime vaccine executive at GlaxoSmithKline and most recently also a board member for Moderna, to help oversee “Operation Warp Speed,” the federal drive to accelerate ways to combat the virus.Mr. Trump reorganized vaccine and treatment efforts after the head of Barda, Rick Bright, protested his ouster as head of the agency a few weeks ago, filing a whistle-blower complaint that contended he had been pressured to seek approval for certain treatments. Just last week, Mr. Trump named Moncef Slaoui, a venture capitalist who was a longtime vaccine executive at GlaxoSmithKline and most recently also a board member for Moderna, to help oversee “Operation Warp Speed,” the federal drive to accelerate ways to combat the virus.
An additional 2.4 million workers filed first-time claims for unemployment benefits last week, the U.S. government reported Thursday, representing a leveling in the weekly toll that the coronavirus lockdowns have had on the economy. An additional 2.4 million workers filed first-time claims for unemployment benefits last week, the U.S. government reported Thursday, representing a leveling in the weekly toll that the lockdowns have had on the economy.
Still, the number of people losing their jobs remains vast. The latest report, for the period ending May 16, brings the total count of jobless claims over the past nine weeks to more than 38 million.Still, the number of people losing their jobs remains vast. The latest report, for the period ending May 16, brings the total count of jobless claims over the past nine weeks to more than 38 million.
And the pain is widespread. A recent household survey from the Census Bureau found that nearly half of adults said they or a member of their household had lost employment income since mid-March. A recent Federal Reserve study found that approximately 40 percent of workers in households earning less than $40,000 had lost their jobs.And the pain is widespread. A recent household survey from the Census Bureau found that nearly half of adults said they or a member of their household had lost employment income since mid-March. A recent Federal Reserve study found that approximately 40 percent of workers in households earning less than $40,000 had lost their jobs.
While all 50 states have begun the process of reopening, most experts believe the path to economic recovery will be long and potentially halting. Economists who once expected a swift recovery now say unemployment is likely to remain elevated for years.While all 50 states have begun the process of reopening, most experts believe the path to economic recovery will be long and potentially halting. Economists who once expected a swift recovery now say unemployment is likely to remain elevated for years.
Emergency relief and expanded unemployment benefits have helped tide over households. Roughly three-quarters of people who are eligible for a $1,200 stimulus payment from the federal government have received it, according to the Treasury Department.Emergency relief and expanded unemployment benefits have helped tide over households. Roughly three-quarters of people who are eligible for a $1,200 stimulus payment from the federal government have received it, according to the Treasury Department.
Workers who have successfully applied for unemployment benefits are getting an extra $600 a week from the federal government, and most states have begun another program that extends benefits to freelancers, self-employed workers and others who don’t routinely qualify.Workers who have successfully applied for unemployment benefits are getting an extra $600 a week from the federal government, and most states have begun another program that extends benefits to freelancers, self-employed workers and others who don’t routinely qualify.
But many states are struggling to keep up with the overwhelming demand, drawing desperate complaints from people who have been waiting two months or more to receive their first benefit check. Indiana, Wyoming, Hawaii and Missouri are among those with large backlogs of incompletely processed claims. Another is Kentucky, where nearly one in three workers are unemployed.But many states are struggling to keep up with the overwhelming demand, drawing desperate complaints from people who have been waiting two months or more to receive their first benefit check. Indiana, Wyoming, Hawaii and Missouri are among those with large backlogs of incompletely processed claims. Another is Kentucky, where nearly one in three workers are unemployed.
Mr. Trump is continuing to rail against voting by mail, which is increasingly viewed as a necessary option for voting amid a pandemic.Mr. Trump is continuing to rail against voting by mail, which is increasingly viewed as a necessary option for voting amid a pandemic.
His antipathy, however, has done little so far, to slow its growth as an option in both Democratic and Republican states, Michael Wines reports. Eleven of the 16 states that limit who can vote absentee have eased their election rules this spring to let anyone cast an absentee ballot in upcoming primary elections — and in some cases, in November as well. Another state, Texas, is fighting a court order to do so.His antipathy, however, has done little so far, to slow its growth as an option in both Democratic and Republican states, Michael Wines reports. Eleven of the 16 states that limit who can vote absentee have eased their election rules this spring to let anyone cast an absentee ballot in upcoming primary elections — and in some cases, in November as well. Another state, Texas, is fighting a court order to do so.
Four of those 11 states are mailing ballot applications to registered voters. And that doesn’t count 34 other states and the District of Columbia that already allow anyone to cast an absentee ballot, including five states in which vote-by-mail is the preferred method by law.Four of those 11 states are mailing ballot applications to registered voters. And that doesn’t count 34 other states and the District of Columbia that already allow anyone to cast an absentee ballot, including five states in which vote-by-mail is the preferred method by law.
Part of the growth is because of the specter of people voting and getting sick amid the pandemic, as happened in Wisconsin last month. But part reflects the growth of voting by mail as an increasingly desired option even before the coronavirus. In 2016, nearly one in four voters cast absentee or mail ballots, twice the share just 16 years ago, in 2004.Part of the growth is because of the specter of people voting and getting sick amid the pandemic, as happened in Wisconsin last month. But part reflects the growth of voting by mail as an increasingly desired option even before the coronavirus. In 2016, nearly one in four voters cast absentee or mail ballots, twice the share just 16 years ago, in 2004.
Many of the states that have relaxed their rules have done so only for pending primary elections, leaving the possibility that they could refuse to relax them in November. And some conservative groups plan to sue to limit its use. Like Mr. Trump they cite largely undocumented allegations of fraud.Many of the states that have relaxed their rules have done so only for pending primary elections, leaving the possibility that they could refuse to relax them in November. And some conservative groups plan to sue to limit its use. Like Mr. Trump they cite largely undocumented allegations of fraud.
But Daniel A. Smith, a University of Florida political scientist and expert on mail ballots, said it’s unlikely states that allowed mailing voting in primaries will forbid it in November.But Daniel A. Smith, a University of Florida political scientist and expert on mail ballots, said it’s unlikely states that allowed mailing voting in primaries will forbid it in November.
“The horse is out of the barn whether it’s primaries or the general election,” he said. “The optics are such that states will be under enormous pressure to continue to allow mail voting in the fall.”“The horse is out of the barn whether it’s primaries or the general election,” he said. “The optics are such that states will be under enormous pressure to continue to allow mail voting in the fall.”
Mr. Trump said Thursday that he was almost done with his regimen of taking the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as a preventive treatment for the virus, a drug he has made inaccurate or incomplete statements about. It has not been proven effective against the virus, and the Food and Drug Administration warned that its can cause dangerous abnormalities in heart rhythm in coronavirus patients, and should be used only in clinical trials or hospitals where patients can be closely monitored for heart problems. Here is a fact check of his recent claims.Mr. Trump said Thursday that he was almost done with his regimen of taking the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as a preventive treatment for the virus, a drug he has made inaccurate or incomplete statements about. It has not been proven effective against the virus, and the Food and Drug Administration warned that its can cause dangerous abnormalities in heart rhythm in coronavirus patients, and should be used only in clinical trials or hospitals where patients can be closely monitored for heart problems. Here is a fact check of his recent claims.
The coming Atlantic hurricane season is “expected to be a busy one,” with the likelihood of as many as 19 named storms, including as many as six major hurricanes, a federal weather scientist said Thursday. The forecast could be further complicated by the pandemic, which is hobbling relief agencies and could turn evacuation shelters into disease hot spots.The coming Atlantic hurricane season is “expected to be a busy one,” with the likelihood of as many as 19 named storms, including as many as six major hurricanes, a federal weather scientist said Thursday. The forecast could be further complicated by the pandemic, which is hobbling relief agencies and could turn evacuation shelters into disease hot spots.
Gerry Bell, the lead hurricane season forecaster with the climate prediction center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, delivered the forecast as part of the annual announcement of the agency’s hurricane season outlook.Gerry Bell, the lead hurricane season forecaster with the climate prediction center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, delivered the forecast as part of the annual announcement of the agency’s hurricane season outlook.
The pandemic will add to the challenges of the season: There are worries about shelters and how to protect people evacuating without exposing them to the virus. Relevant work forces have been strained, too, with just 38 percent of staff members from the Federal Emergency Management Agency available to be deployed to a disaster zone.The pandemic will add to the challenges of the season: There are worries about shelters and how to protect people evacuating without exposing them to the virus. Relevant work forces have been strained, too, with just 38 percent of staff members from the Federal Emergency Management Agency available to be deployed to a disaster zone.
A spokeswoman for the American Red Cross, which manages most of the country’s shelters, said the organization is “prioritizing individual hotel rooms over congregate shelters.”A spokeswoman for the American Red Cross, which manages most of the country’s shelters, said the organization is “prioritizing individual hotel rooms over congregate shelters.”
But, she said, individual rooms might not be an option in large-scale disasters, so the organization would instead rely on “additional safety precautions” for group shelters, such as health screenings, masks, additional space between cots and extra cleaning and disinfecting.But, she said, individual rooms might not be an option in large-scale disasters, so the organization would instead rely on “additional safety precautions” for group shelters, such as health screenings, masks, additional space between cots and extra cleaning and disinfecting.
The Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through Nov. 30, though the emergence of Tropical Storm Arthur this month made this the sixth year in a row in which a named storm has slipped in before the official beginning of the season.The Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through Nov. 30, though the emergence of Tropical Storm Arthur this month made this the sixth year in a row in which a named storm has slipped in before the official beginning of the season.
The Senate on Thursday raced to reach agreement on legislation to relax the terms of a federal loan program to help small businesses weather the pandemic, pressing to allow companies more time and flexibility to use the money.The Senate on Thursday raced to reach agreement on legislation to relax the terms of a federal loan program to help small businesses weather the pandemic, pressing to allow companies more time and flexibility to use the money.
The bill, which was introduced on Thursday afternoon by Senator Susan Collins, Republican of Maine, would extend from eight weeks to 16 weeks the amount of time businesses would have to spend loans secured under the Paycheck Protection Program. With pressure building to take action on it before the Senate adjourned for a weeklong break, Republican leaders were working to reach consensus to pass it before senators left Washington later Thursday.The bill, which was introduced on Thursday afternoon by Senator Susan Collins, Republican of Maine, would extend from eight weeks to 16 weeks the amount of time businesses would have to spend loans secured under the Paycheck Protection Program. With pressure building to take action on it before the Senate adjourned for a weeklong break, Republican leaders were working to reach consensus to pass it before senators left Washington later Thursday.
“I think that can happen, but it’ll take some cooperation on both sides,” said Senator John Thune of South Dakota, the No. 2 Republican.“I think that can happen, but it’ll take some cooperation on both sides,” said Senator John Thune of South Dakota, the No. 2 Republican.
The program has been plagued by problems, but it has drawn bipartisan support and proved exceedingly popular with businesses, which have flooded the government with requests for assistance. Congress moved last month to inject an additional $320 billion into the program as it ran out of money amid a glut of applications. On Wednesday, Senator Cory Gardner, Republican of Colorado, had threatened to block the Senate from leaving if it did not take action on some form of virus legislation, including making it easier for businesses to receive help.The program has been plagued by problems, but it has drawn bipartisan support and proved exceedingly popular with businesses, which have flooded the government with requests for assistance. Congress moved last month to inject an additional $320 billion into the program as it ran out of money amid a glut of applications. On Wednesday, Senator Cory Gardner, Republican of Colorado, had threatened to block the Senate from leaving if it did not take action on some form of virus legislation, including making it easier for businesses to receive help.
Approval of the bill would be a rare bit of bipartisanship as Democrats and Republicans remain sharply at odds over what the next round of pandemic aid should look like — or if there should even be one.Approval of the bill would be a rare bit of bipartisanship as Democrats and Republicans remain sharply at odds over what the next round of pandemic aid should look like — or if there should even be one.
If the United States had begun imposing social-distancing measures one week earlier in March, about 36,000 fewer people would have died in the pandemic, according to new estimates from Columbia University disease modelers. And about 17,000 fewer people in the New York area would have died in the outbreak.If the United States had begun imposing social-distancing measures one week earlier in March, about 36,000 fewer people would have died in the pandemic, according to new estimates from Columbia University disease modelers. And about 17,000 fewer people in the New York area would have died in the outbreak.
And if the country had begun locking down cities and limiting social contact on March 1, two weeks earlier than when most people started staying home, a vast majority of the nation’s deaths — about 83 percent — would have been avoided, the researchers estimated.And if the country had begun locking down cities and limiting social contact on March 1, two weeks earlier than when most people started staying home, a vast majority of the nation’s deaths — about 83 percent — would have been avoided, the researchers estimated.
The enormous cost of waiting to take action reflects the unforgiving dynamics of the outbreak that swept through American cities in early March. Even small differences in timing would have prevented the worst exponential growth, which by April had subsumed New York City, New Orleans and other major cities, the researchers found.The enormous cost of waiting to take action reflects the unforgiving dynamics of the outbreak that swept through American cities in early March. Even small differences in timing would have prevented the worst exponential growth, which by April had subsumed New York City, New Orleans and other major cities, the researchers found.
“It’s a big, big difference,” said Jeffrey Shaman, an epidemiologist at Columbia and the leader of the research team. “That small moment in time, catching it in that growth phase, is incredibly critical in reducing the number of deaths.”“It’s a big, big difference,” said Jeffrey Shaman, an epidemiologist at Columbia and the leader of the research team. “That small moment in time, catching it in that growth phase, is incredibly critical in reducing the number of deaths.”
The findings are based on infectious-disease modeling that gauges how reduced contact between people starting in mid-March slowed transmission of the virus.The findings are based on infectious-disease modeling that gauges how reduced contact between people starting in mid-March slowed transmission of the virus.
On March 16, Mr. Trump urged Americans to limit travel, avoid groups and stay home from school. Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York City closed schools on March 15, and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York issued a stay-at-home order that took effect on March 22.On March 16, Mr. Trump urged Americans to limit travel, avoid groups and stay home from school. Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York City closed schools on March 15, and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York issued a stay-at-home order that took effect on March 22.
But in cities like New York, where the virus arrived early and spread quickly, those actions were too late to avoid a calamity. Dr. Shaman’s team modeled what would have happened if those same changes had taken place one or two weeks earlier and estimated the spread of infections and deaths until May 3.But in cities like New York, where the virus arrived early and spread quickly, those actions were too late to avoid a calamity. Dr. Shaman’s team modeled what would have happened if those same changes had taken place one or two weeks earlier and estimated the spread of infections and deaths until May 3.
The results show that as states reopen — all 50 states had eased restrictions somewhat as of Wednesday — outbreaks can easily get out of control unless officials closely monitor infections and immediately clamp down on new flare-ups.The results show that as states reopen — all 50 states had eased restrictions somewhat as of Wednesday — outbreaks can easily get out of control unless officials closely monitor infections and immediately clamp down on new flare-ups.
And they show that each day that officials waited to impose restrictions in early March came at a great cost.And they show that each day that officials waited to impose restrictions in early March came at a great cost.
When asked about the modeling at his daily briefing on Thursday, Mr. Cuomo cited a lack of early information about the virus, saying that “if this country knew more and knew it earlier, I think we could have saved many, many more lives.”When asked about the modeling at his daily briefing on Thursday, Mr. Cuomo cited a lack of early information about the virus, saying that “if this country knew more and knew it earlier, I think we could have saved many, many more lives.”
The governor did not directly address his own decisions, saying federal agencies or international health organizations should have detected earlier warning signs.The governor did not directly address his own decisions, saying federal agencies or international health organizations should have detected earlier warning signs.
“Now, who should have known?” he said.” It’s above my pay grade as governor of one state.”“Now, who should have known?” he said.” It’s above my pay grade as governor of one state.”
Statewide in New York, another 105 people died, Mr. Cuomo said Thursday, a fourth straight day of fatalities just above 100. More than 28,000 people have died in the state.Statewide in New York, another 105 people died, Mr. Cuomo said Thursday, a fourth straight day of fatalities just above 100. More than 28,000 people have died in the state.
The pandemic has devastated nursing homes in the United States, sickening staff members, ravaging residents and contributing to at least 20 percent of the nation’s Covid-19 death toll. But the virus has been particularly virulent toward African-Americans and Latinos in nursing homes where those groups make up a significant portion of the residents.The pandemic has devastated nursing homes in the United States, sickening staff members, ravaging residents and contributing to at least 20 percent of the nation’s Covid-19 death toll. But the virus has been particularly virulent toward African-Americans and Latinos in nursing homes where those groups make up a significant portion of the residents.
While the virus has been infecting and killing black people in the United States at disproportionately high rates — highlighting what public health researchers say are entrenched inequalities in resources, health and access to care — the nursing home disparities have been felt in cities and suburbs, in large facilities and small, in poorly rated homes and in those with stellar marks. While the virus has been infecting and killing black people in the United States at disproportionately high rates — highlighting what public health researchers say are entrenched inequalities in resources, health and access to care — the nursing home disparities have been felt in cities and suburbs, in large facilities and small, in poorly rated homes and in those with stellar marks.
To better understand the disparities in Maryland, California and Illinois, The New York Times teamed up with The Baltimore Sun, KPCC/LAist and The Southern Illinoisan to interview dozens of current and former nursing home workers, residents and their relatives.To better understand the disparities in Maryland, California and Illinois, The New York Times teamed up with The Baltimore Sun, KPCC/LAist and The Southern Illinoisan to interview dozens of current and former nursing home workers, residents and their relatives.
In the suburbs of Baltimore, for example, workers at one nursing home said they were given rain ponchos to protect from infection. Twenty-five employees at the center, where most residents are African-American, tested positive.In the suburbs of Baltimore, for example, workers at one nursing home said they were given rain ponchos to protect from infection. Twenty-five employees at the center, where most residents are African-American, tested positive.
In East Los Angeles, a staff member at a predominantly Latino nursing home where an outbreak emerged said she was given swimming goggles before professional gear could be obtained. She said she later tested positive.In East Los Angeles, a staff member at a predominantly Latino nursing home where an outbreak emerged said she was given swimming goggles before professional gear could be obtained. She said she later tested positive.
The race and ethnicity of the people living in a nursing home was a predictor of whether it was hit with Covid-19. But the Times analysis found that the federal government’s five-star rating system, often used to judge the quality of a nursing home, was not a predictor. Even predominantly black and Latino nursing homes with high ratings were more likely to be affected than were predominantly white nursing homes with low ratings, the data showed.The race and ethnicity of the people living in a nursing home was a predictor of whether it was hit with Covid-19. But the Times analysis found that the federal government’s five-star rating system, often used to judge the quality of a nursing home, was not a predictor. Even predominantly black and Latino nursing homes with high ratings were more likely to be affected than were predominantly white nursing homes with low ratings, the data showed.
More than 60 percent of nursing homes where at least a quarter of the residents are black or Latino have reported at least one case, a Times analysis shows. That is double the rate of homes where black and Latino people make up less than 5 percent of the population.More than 60 percent of nursing homes where at least a quarter of the residents are black or Latino have reported at least one case, a Times analysis shows. That is double the rate of homes where black and Latino people make up less than 5 percent of the population.
Calling for “a national expression of grief,” the Democratic leaders of the House and Senate asked Mr. Trump on Thursday to order flags on all government buildings be lowered to half-staff when the country reaches 100,000 virus-related deaths in the coming days.Calling for “a national expression of grief,” the Democratic leaders of the House and Senate asked Mr. Trump on Thursday to order flags on all government buildings be lowered to half-staff when the country reaches 100,000 virus-related deaths in the coming days.
In a letter to Mr. Trump on Thursday morning, Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California and Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the minority leader, said doing so would be an appropriate gesture at a time when the United States is preparing to honor those it lost to war on Memorial Day.In a letter to Mr. Trump on Thursday morning, Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California and Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the minority leader, said doing so would be an appropriate gesture at a time when the United States is preparing to honor those it lost to war on Memorial Day.
“Respectful of them and the loss to our country, we are writing to request that you order flags to be flown at half-staff on all public buildings in our country on the sad day of reckoning when we reach 100,000 deaths,” they wrote. “It would serve as a national expression of grief so needed by everyone in our country.”“Respectful of them and the loss to our country, we are writing to request that you order flags to be flown at half-staff on all public buildings in our country on the sad day of reckoning when we reach 100,000 deaths,” they wrote. “It would serve as a national expression of grief so needed by everyone in our country.”
More than 93,000 people have now died, according to a tally by The New York Times, and an average of more than 1,000 deaths a day are still being recorded.More than 93,000 people have now died, according to a tally by The New York Times, and an average of more than 1,000 deaths a day are still being recorded.
Mr. Trump has not led any observance of national mourning since the pandemic began claiming American lives by the thousands, and in his recent public comments, he has steered clear of talking about the deaths, focusing instead on the need to reopen the country — a process he describes as a “transition to greatness” — and defending his own handling of the crisis.Mr. Trump has not led any observance of national mourning since the pandemic began claiming American lives by the thousands, and in his recent public comments, he has steered clear of talking about the deaths, focusing instead on the need to reopen the country — a process he describes as a “transition to greatness” — and defending his own handling of the crisis.
Ms. Pelosi can lower flags over the Capitol on her own authority, but it takes an order from the president to lower flags at the White House and on federal buildings around the country.Ms. Pelosi can lower flags over the Capitol on her own authority, but it takes an order from the president to lower flags at the White House and on federal buildings around the country.
New York State is now investigating 157 cases of a severe inflammatory syndrome affecting children that appears to be linked to the virus — a 53 percent increase over the last nine days, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said on Thursday.New York State is now investigating 157 cases of a severe inflammatory syndrome affecting children that appears to be linked to the virus — a 53 percent increase over the last nine days, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said on Thursday.
“The more we look, the more we find it,” he said.“The more we look, the more we find it,” he said.
The condition, which the C.D.C. is calling multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, often appears weeks after infection in children who did not experience first-phase virus symptoms. Instead of targeting the lungs as the primary virus infection does, it causes inflammation throughout the body and can cripple the heart.The condition, which the C.D.C. is calling multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, often appears weeks after infection in children who did not experience first-phase virus symptoms. Instead of targeting the lungs as the primary virus infection does, it causes inflammation throughout the body and can cripple the heart.
A majority of the children in the state found to have the illness so far have tested positive for the virus or antibodies, the governor said. Researchers were now examining whether the infected children were genetically predisposed to the syndrome, he added. As of last week, there were three deaths.A majority of the children in the state found to have the illness so far have tested positive for the virus or antibodies, the governor said. Researchers were now examining whether the infected children were genetically predisposed to the syndrome, he added. As of last week, there were three deaths.
In New York City, nearly one in four people does not have enough food, Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday. Officials said the city would boost the amount of food it distributes to 1.5 million meals daily by next week; 32 million meals have been handed out already in the crisis.In New York City, nearly one in four people does not have enough food, Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday. Officials said the city would boost the amount of food it distributes to 1.5 million meals daily by next week; 32 million meals have been handed out already in the crisis.
Before the virus hit, the mayor said, officials believed that “somewhere over a million people in the city” needed food more at some point in the year. That number is now thought to be two million or more, he said.Before the virus hit, the mayor said, officials believed that “somewhere over a million people in the city” needed food more at some point in the year. That number is now thought to be two million or more, he said.
Separately, the family of every public school student in New York City will soon receive more than $400 per student to help pay for food while school buildings are shut down, regardless of income, through a federal relief program.Separately, the family of every public school student in New York City will soon receive more than $400 per student to help pay for food while school buildings are shut down, regardless of income, through a federal relief program.
Airports this Memorial Day weekend are likely to be far emptier than usual, but people who are planning to fly will find lots of changes to every part of the screening process.Airports this Memorial Day weekend are likely to be far emptier than usual, but people who are planning to fly will find lots of changes to every part of the screening process.
At security lines, signs and other markings will remind passengers to keep their distance. The Transportation Security Administration said Thursday that its agents will wear masks, gloves and, in some cases, eye protection. Passengers will be asked to scan their own boarding passes and place any food in their luggage in a separate bin during screening to limit cross contamination.At security lines, signs and other markings will remind passengers to keep their distance. The Transportation Security Administration said Thursday that its agents will wear masks, gloves and, in some cases, eye protection. Passengers will be asked to scan their own boarding passes and place any food in their luggage in a separate bin during screening to limit cross contamination.
“In the interest of T.S.A. front line workers and traveler health, T.S.A. is committed to making prudent changes to our screening processes to limit physical contact and increase physical distance as much as possible,” David Pekoske, the agency’s administrator, said in a statement.“In the interest of T.S.A. front line workers and traveler health, T.S.A. is committed to making prudent changes to our screening processes to limit physical contact and increase physical distance as much as possible,” David Pekoske, the agency’s administrator, said in a statement.
Most normal rules remain in place, but the T.S.A. said it would relax one: Passengers will now be allowed to bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer with them on their journey.Most normal rules remain in place, but the T.S.A. said it would relax one: Passengers will now be allowed to bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer with them on their journey.
Airlines are also making changes. Travelers who need to check a bag or print a ticket, for example, might find a sneeze guard separating them from a ticketing agent, a precaution being taken in some locations by United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. If they opt to use a kiosk instead, passengers may end up interacting with one that works without any need for contact at all.Airlines are also making changes. Travelers who need to check a bag or print a ticket, for example, might find a sneeze guard separating them from a ticketing agent, a precaution being taken in some locations by United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. If they opt to use a kiosk instead, passengers may end up interacting with one that works without any need for contact at all.
As many cities and towns across the country turn to modified and scaled-down ways of celebrating Memorial Day, including a “Virtual Flag Garden” in Massachusetts and services to be recorded and streamed to parts of Minnesota, at least one county in Pennsylvania will be going ahead with its usual tradition.As many cities and towns across the country turn to modified and scaled-down ways of celebrating Memorial Day, including a “Virtual Flag Garden” in Massachusetts and services to be recorded and streamed to parts of Minnesota, at least one county in Pennsylvania will be going ahead with its usual tradition.
In Berks County, Pa., veterans groups and volunteers will plant an estimated 50,000 flags at the graves of fallen veterans, after the state waived certain restrictions meant to curb the spread of the coronavirus.In Berks County, Pa., veterans groups and volunteers will plant an estimated 50,000 flags at the graves of fallen veterans, after the state waived certain restrictions meant to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
And following pressure on Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration, a nearby flag-making company is now permitted to distribute its flags to the groups, The Reading Eagle reported. The company had previously been denied a waiver.And following pressure on Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration, a nearby flag-making company is now permitted to distribute its flags to the groups, The Reading Eagle reported. The company had previously been denied a waiver.
Berks County is not alone. In Mohave Valley, Ariz., Desert Lawn Funeral Home, Crematory and Memorial Gardens announced it will be going ahead with its Memorial Day service, despite ceremonies in surrounding cities and towns being cancelled, the Mohave Valley Desert News reported.Berks County is not alone. In Mohave Valley, Ariz., Desert Lawn Funeral Home, Crematory and Memorial Gardens announced it will be going ahead with its Memorial Day service, despite ceremonies in surrounding cities and towns being cancelled, the Mohave Valley Desert News reported.
“We will not forego this tradition,” Janelle Summerlin, a spokeswoman for the funeral home and cemetery, told the news organization. “We’ve been doing it for 30-plus years.”“We will not forego this tradition,” Janelle Summerlin, a spokeswoman for the funeral home and cemetery, told the news organization. “We’ve been doing it for 30-plus years.”
Traditionally, every Memorial Day weekend, Boys and Girl Scouts and other groups have placed American flags and wreaths at the graves of fallen veterans. But this year, the Department of Veterans Affairs said it would not allow public events during the holiday at V.A. cemeteries across the country because of concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.Traditionally, every Memorial Day weekend, Boys and Girl Scouts and other groups have placed American flags and wreaths at the graves of fallen veterans. But this year, the Department of Veterans Affairs said it would not allow public events during the holiday at V.A. cemeteries across the country because of concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.
The National Cemetery Administration, which falls under the V.A.’s jurisdiction, also said it planned to adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines for social distancing and limiting the size of gatherings.The National Cemetery Administration, which falls under the V.A.’s jurisdiction, also said it planned to adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines for social distancing and limiting the size of gatherings.
Families and friends of fallen veterans will be still allowed to visit gravesites to place individual flags and flowers.Families and friends of fallen veterans will be still allowed to visit gravesites to place individual flags and flowers.
With a squeegee in his left latex-gloved hand and a plastic spray bottle with a solution of vinegar, water and glass cleaner in his right, a young man stood alone on a Baltimore street corner and waited for the traffic lights to turn red.With a squeegee in his left latex-gloved hand and a plastic spray bottle with a solution of vinegar, water and glass cleaner in his right, a young man stood alone on a Baltimore street corner and waited for the traffic lights to turn red.
As soon as it did, he tried to clean windshields for a small donation.As soon as it did, he tried to clean windshields for a small donation.
The young man, Evay, who asked that his last name be withheld, was a food runner and buser at a restaurant on Baltimore’s Harbor East front. But like many dining establishments around the country, it was forced to shutter to slow the spread of the virus.The young man, Evay, who asked that his last name be withheld, was a food runner and buser at a restaurant on Baltimore’s Harbor East front. But like many dining establishments around the country, it was forced to shutter to slow the spread of the virus.
Now Evay relies on washing car windows to pay for food and rent. Before the virus hit, he could make almost $200 cleaning the windows, but now, on a good day, he makes half that.Now Evay relies on washing car windows to pay for food and rent. Before the virus hit, he could make almost $200 cleaning the windows, but now, on a good day, he makes half that.
While Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland, a Republican, has started reopening parts of the state, Baltimore’s mayor, Bernard C. “Jack” Young, a Democrat, has said that the city will keep its stay-at-home order in place for now.While Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland, a Republican, has started reopening parts of the state, Baltimore’s mayor, Bernard C. “Jack” Young, a Democrat, has said that the city will keep its stay-at-home order in place for now.
Mr. Young also said this week that the city’s summer jobs program for young people would have to be cut in half, and offer many jobs virtually.Mr. Young also said this week that the city’s summer jobs program for young people would have to be cut in half, and offer many jobs virtually.
Many of Baltimore’s squeegee workers aren’t in high school, so they don’t qualify for the free lunches made available to the community by local school districts.Many of Baltimore’s squeegee workers aren’t in high school, so they don’t qualify for the free lunches made available to the community by local school districts.
The Mayor’s Office of Children and Family Success is trying to help by hiring squeegee workers to deliver the free meals. The initiative is part of the “Earn As You Grow” piece of what the office calls the Squeegee Alternative Plan. The pay is $50 a day, or $250 per week.The Mayor’s Office of Children and Family Success is trying to help by hiring squeegee workers to deliver the free meals. The initiative is part of the “Earn As You Grow” piece of what the office calls the Squeegee Alternative Plan. The pay is $50 a day, or $250 per week.
Washing car windows at intersections is not illegal in Baltimore, but some city officials have tried to ban it. The police aren’t targeting the workers during the lockdown, one officer said, though they may be asked to disperse if they are in large groups.Washing car windows at intersections is not illegal in Baltimore, but some city officials have tried to ban it. The police aren’t targeting the workers during the lockdown, one officer said, though they may be asked to disperse if they are in large groups.
Evay said an officer asked him to move, telling him he was not supposed to be outside unless he was going to work. “I said, ‘I am going to work.’”Evay said an officer asked him to move, telling him he was not supposed to be outside unless he was going to work. “I said, ‘I am going to work.’”
In many states, the beaches are open or opening for Memorial Day weekend. It’s exciting news, but no activity is going to be risk-free. Here are some things to remember when planning a beach day: Know the rules, consider your beach’s geography, stay moving or far away, use your own gear and check out the restroom facilities when you arrive.In many states, the beaches are open or opening for Memorial Day weekend. It’s exciting news, but no activity is going to be risk-free. Here are some things to remember when planning a beach day: Know the rules, consider your beach’s geography, stay moving or far away, use your own gear and check out the restroom facilities when you arrive.
The latest outbreak in China is concentrated in Jilin, a northeastern province of 27 million people near the borders with Russia and North Korea. Jilin has reported only about 130 cases and two deaths, but experts there have warned of a potential “big explosion.”The latest outbreak in China is concentrated in Jilin, a northeastern province of 27 million people near the borders with Russia and North Korea. Jilin has reported only about 130 cases and two deaths, but experts there have warned of a potential “big explosion.”
The humble bicycle is the surprise star of lockdown. With youth sports on hold, car traffic down 75 percent or more throughout the United States and cooped-up children doing parkour on the living room furniture, family bike rides have never sounded better. Here are some tips for a safe and successful trip.The humble bicycle is the surprise star of lockdown. With youth sports on hold, car traffic down 75 percent or more throughout the United States and cooped-up children doing parkour on the living room furniture, family bike rides have never sounded better. Here are some tips for a safe and successful trip.
Reporting was contributed by Karen Barrow, Katie Benner, Julie Bosman, Niraj Chokshi, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Michael Cooper, Andrew Das, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Christopher Flavelle, Chaseedaw Giles, James Glanz, Matthew Goldstein, Abby Goodnough, Kathleen Gray, Maggie Haberman, Sheila Kaplan, Annie Karni, David Kirkpatrick, Andy Newman, Azi Paybarah, Linda Qiu, William K. Rashbaum, Campbell Robertson, John Schwartz, Anna Schaverien, Lauren Sloss, Kaly Soto, Chris Stanford, Alexandra Stevenson, Eileen Sullivan, Vanessa Swales, Katie Thomas and Benjamin Weiser.Reporting was contributed by Karen Barrow, Katie Benner, Julie Bosman, Niraj Chokshi, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Michael Cooper, Andrew Das, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Christopher Flavelle, Chaseedaw Giles, James Glanz, Matthew Goldstein, Abby Goodnough, Kathleen Gray, Maggie Haberman, Sheila Kaplan, Annie Karni, David Kirkpatrick, Andy Newman, Azi Paybarah, Linda Qiu, William K. Rashbaum, Campbell Robertson, John Schwartz, Anna Schaverien, Lauren Sloss, Kaly Soto, Chris Stanford, Alexandra Stevenson, Eileen Sullivan, Vanessa Swales, Katie Thomas and Benjamin Weiser.