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Global Coronavirus Cases Surge, Stinging Even Places That Seemed to Have Control Global Coronavirus Cases Surge, Stinging Even Places That Seemed to Have Control
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Follow our live updates of coronavirus cases and deaths globally.Follow our live updates of coronavirus cases and deaths globally.
As the pandemic continues to grow around the world — new cases have risen more than 35 percent since the end of June — troubling resurgences have hit several places that were seen as models of how to respond to the virus.As the pandemic continues to grow around the world — new cases have risen more than 35 percent since the end of June — troubling resurgences have hit several places that were seen as models of how to respond to the virus.
An outbreak in Melbourne, Australia, has rattled officials after extensive testing and early lockdowns had limited outbreaks for months. Hong Kong — where schools, restaurants and malls were able to stay open — has announced new restrictions in the face of its largest outbreak since the beginning of the pandemic. And cases have surged in Tokyo, which has avoided a full lockdown and relied on aggressive contact tracing to contain flare-ups.An outbreak in Melbourne, Australia, has rattled officials after extensive testing and early lockdowns had limited outbreaks for months. Hong Kong — where schools, restaurants and malls were able to stay open — has announced new restrictions in the face of its largest outbreak since the beginning of the pandemic. And cases have surged in Tokyo, which has avoided a full lockdown and relied on aggressive contact tracing to contain flare-ups.
Spain’s reopening has stumbled in the month after it lifted a national lockdown. New cases have quadrupled, with high infection rates among young people, and forced hundreds of thousands of people to return to temporary lockdown.Spain’s reopening has stumbled in the month after it lifted a national lockdown. New cases have quadrupled, with high infection rates among young people, and forced hundreds of thousands of people to return to temporary lockdown.
As governments around the world look to relax rules put in place to combat the virus, the experiences show how difficult it will be to keep outbreaks at bay. And they reflect, in some places, a weakening public tolerance for restrictions as the pandemic drags on.As governments around the world look to relax rules put in place to combat the virus, the experiences show how difficult it will be to keep outbreaks at bay. And they reflect, in some places, a weakening public tolerance for restrictions as the pandemic drags on.
The scattered resurgences are not driving the pandemic. The biggest sources of new infections continue to be the United States, Brazil and India; the director general of the World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, noted this week that almost half of all cases worldwide came from just three countries.The scattered resurgences are not driving the pandemic. The biggest sources of new infections continue to be the United States, Brazil and India; the director general of the World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, noted this week that almost half of all cases worldwide came from just three countries.
But the quick turn for the worse in places that once seemed to have gained the upper hand shows the range of vulnerabilities the virus is able to exploit.But the quick turn for the worse in places that once seemed to have gained the upper hand shows the range of vulnerabilities the virus is able to exploit.
After Spain’s strict lockdown ended, the national government put regional governments in charge of reopening. That led to a patchwork of rules and regulations that varied widely in strictness and enforcement, much as they have in states across the U.S. While the most serious outbreaks have been in northeastern Spain, only two regions — Madrid and the Canary Islands — have not reimposed requirements to wear face masks outdoors.After Spain’s strict lockdown ended, the national government put regional governments in charge of reopening. That led to a patchwork of rules and regulations that varied widely in strictness and enforcement, much as they have in states across the U.S. While the most serious outbreaks have been in northeastern Spain, only two regions — Madrid and the Canary Islands — have not reimposed requirements to wear face masks outdoors.
In Tokyo, where the recent spikes in cases were attributed to young people congregating in nightlife districts, there have been unnerving signs that infections are now spreading to older people, too — as they have in Florida.In Tokyo, where the recent spikes in cases were attributed to young people congregating in nightlife districts, there have been unnerving signs that infections are now spreading to older people, too — as they have in Florida.
In Hong Kong, which succeeded early on by tightening borders and imposing quarantines, the resurgence has forced the government to re-close some businesses, reimpose mask orders and ask some workers to stay home.In Hong Kong, which succeeded early on by tightening borders and imposing quarantines, the resurgence has forced the government to re-close some businesses, reimpose mask orders and ask some workers to stay home.
“Once you loosen the restrictions too much,” warned David Hui, the director of the Stanley Ho Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, “you face a rebound.”“Once you loosen the restrictions too much,” warned David Hui, the director of the Stanley Ho Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, “you face a rebound.”
As the coronavirus rages across the Southern United States, skyrocketing case counts in Texas and Florida have drawn the most national attention, but the virus is also surging in the three states between them along the Gulf Coast: Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi.As the coronavirus rages across the Southern United States, skyrocketing case counts in Texas and Florida have drawn the most national attention, but the virus is also surging in the three states between them along the Gulf Coast: Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi.
Alabama set a daily record for cases on Thursday, with 2,390. Four other states — Hawaii, Indiana, Missouri and New Mexico — also hit their single-day peak for new cases, while Florida and Tennessee had more virus-related deaths than on any other day.Alabama set a daily record for cases on Thursday, with 2,390. Four other states — Hawaii, Indiana, Missouri and New Mexico — also hit their single-day peak for new cases, while Florida and Tennessee had more virus-related deaths than on any other day.
Across the country, more than 69,900 coronavirus cases were announced on Thursday, the third-most of any day in the pandemic.Across the country, more than 69,900 coronavirus cases were announced on Thursday, the third-most of any day in the pandemic.
Louisiana has surpassed New York for the most identified cases per capita, though testing was scarce when cases peaked in New York this spring. And in Mississippi, deaths are increasing at one of the highest rates in the nation.Louisiana has surpassed New York for the most identified cases per capita, though testing was scarce when cases peaked in New York this spring. And in Mississippi, deaths are increasing at one of the highest rates in the nation.
“We’re certainly not where we want to be in Louisiana,” Gov. John Bel Edwards said at a news conference Thursday, noting that the state had surpassed 100,000 total cases.“We’re certainly not where we want to be in Louisiana,” Gov. John Bel Edwards said at a news conference Thursday, noting that the state had surpassed 100,000 total cases.
Mr. Edwards said many hospitals in his state had halted nonemergency surgery to save room for rising numbers of Covid-19 patients.Mr. Edwards said many hospitals in his state had halted nonemergency surgery to save room for rising numbers of Covid-19 patients.
Many hospitals in smaller cities and rural areas have filled their intensive care wards and must transfer patients to bigger cities, said Susan Hassig, associate professor of epidemiology at the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.Many hospitals in smaller cities and rural areas have filled their intensive care wards and must transfer patients to bigger cities, said Susan Hassig, associate professor of epidemiology at the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.
There have been infections in the region since the early stages of the pandemic, Dr. Hassig said, but many went unrecognized, furthering the spread of the virus. “Some of it has always been there — we just weren’t finding it,” she said.There have been infections in the region since the early stages of the pandemic, Dr. Hassig said, but many went unrecognized, furthering the spread of the virus. “Some of it has always been there — we just weren’t finding it,” she said.
And preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus are often ignored. Dr. Hassig noted that at least 30 Mississippi state legislators had tested positive in recent weeks, including many who were still not wearing masks while continuing to hold public events. Practices like that have helped the virus make its way to areas that were initially unaffected, she said, and higher hospitalizations and death rates have followed.And preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus are often ignored. Dr. Hassig noted that at least 30 Mississippi state legislators had tested positive in recent weeks, including many who were still not wearing masks while continuing to hold public events. Practices like that have helped the virus make its way to areas that were initially unaffected, she said, and higher hospitalizations and death rates have followed.
The Gulf Coast states are not alone in setting new case records. California recorded new highs in both deaths and total number of cases on Wednesday, and Missouri, North Dakota and West Virginia recorded their highest daily case numbers, according to a New York Times database. On Thursday, the nation passed four million reported cases since the pandemic began.The Gulf Coast states are not alone in setting new case records. California recorded new highs in both deaths and total number of cases on Wednesday, and Missouri, North Dakota and West Virginia recorded their highest daily case numbers, according to a New York Times database. On Thursday, the nation passed four million reported cases since the pandemic began.
Deaths in Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana have so far largely been among older people, but more young people in the region are becoming infected now, Dr. Hassig said, and otherwise healthy younger people are dying from it as well.Deaths in Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana have so far largely been among older people, but more young people in the region are becoming infected now, Dr. Hassig said, and otherwise healthy younger people are dying from it as well.
Mortality rates have been higher among Black and Hispanic residents, she said, in part because they are, on average, less likely to have jobs they can perform from home and more likely to have underlying health issues than their white neighbors.Mortality rates have been higher among Black and Hispanic residents, she said, in part because they are, on average, less likely to have jobs they can perform from home and more likely to have underlying health issues than their white neighbors.
President Trump on Thursday said he is canceling the portion of the Republican National Convention that was to be held in Jacksonville, Fla., at the end of August, just weeks after he forced party officials to move it there because North Carolina could not guarantee him the crowds he wanted.President Trump on Thursday said he is canceling the portion of the Republican National Convention that was to be held in Jacksonville, Fla., at the end of August, just weeks after he forced party officials to move it there because North Carolina could not guarantee him the crowds he wanted.
“It’s time to cancel the Jacksonville, Fla.,” portion of the event that begins on Aug. 24, Mr. Trump said at a White House briefing.“It’s time to cancel the Jacksonville, Fla.,” portion of the event that begins on Aug. 24, Mr. Trump said at a White House briefing.
Cases have been rising at a steep rate in Florida, and in Jacksonville in particular. The state is crucial to Mr. Trump’s re-election efforts, but even he could not ignore the virus’s spread.Cases have been rising at a steep rate in Florida, and in Jacksonville in particular. The state is crucial to Mr. Trump’s re-election efforts, but even he could not ignore the virus’s spread.
Mr. Trump, who has begun to change his tone on the pandemic (which he continues to call the “China virus”) in the past week — urging the use of masks and other protective measures that he had previously downplayed — said he did not plan to scrap the entire event.Mr. Trump, who has begun to change his tone on the pandemic (which he continues to call the “China virus”) in the past week — urging the use of masks and other protective measures that he had previously downplayed — said he did not plan to scrap the entire event.
“We’re going to do other things, like ‘tele-rallies’ and other, smaller events,” Mr. Trump added. “And I’ll still do a convention speech in a different form, but we won’t do a big, crowded convention, per se. It’s just not the right time for that.”“We’re going to do other things, like ‘tele-rallies’ and other, smaller events,” Mr. Trump added. “And I’ll still do a convention speech in a different form, but we won’t do a big, crowded convention, per se. It’s just not the right time for that.”
Mr. Trump had insisted on moving ahead until Thursday, even after some Republican Senators said that they planned to skip the event. He claimed that officials had tried to tell him they could make it work. “I said, there’s nothing more important in our country than keeping our people safe,” Mr. Trump said.Mr. Trump had insisted on moving ahead until Thursday, even after some Republican Senators said that they planned to skip the event. He claimed that officials had tried to tell him they could make it work. “I said, there’s nothing more important in our country than keeping our people safe,” Mr. Trump said.
He had forced the Republican National Committee to walk away from Charlotte, N.C., other than the first night, because the state’s Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, would not guarantee him that he could gather large crowds given social distancing.He had forced the Republican National Committee to walk away from Charlotte, N.C., other than the first night, because the state’s Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, would not guarantee him that he could gather large crowds given social distancing.
Mr. Trump made the announcement on a day when Florida reported 173 deaths, a single-day record for the state.Mr. Trump made the announcement on a day when Florida reported 173 deaths, a single-day record for the state.
Farther south, in the Miami area, some local leaders have grown so alarmed that they urged people to consider social distancing — and possibly wearing masks — in their own homes.Farther south, in the Miami area, some local leaders have grown so alarmed that they urged people to consider social distancing — and possibly wearing masks — in their own homes.
“I would tell our residents — and this is voluntary, this is not something that we can mandate — that they should consider, particularly if you have a multigenerational household, that you should consider wearing masks indoors,” Mayor Francis Suarez of Miami said, noting that many new cases were being spread within households. At a separate news conference, Mayor Carlos Gimenez of Miami-Dade County said that “you also need to start maintaining your distance from your loved ones for a while.”“I would tell our residents — and this is voluntary, this is not something that we can mandate — that they should consider, particularly if you have a multigenerational household, that you should consider wearing masks indoors,” Mayor Francis Suarez of Miami said, noting that many new cases were being spread within households. At a separate news conference, Mayor Carlos Gimenez of Miami-Dade County said that “you also need to start maintaining your distance from your loved ones for a while.”
And in Hialeah, the blue-collar city at the heart of the outbreak in the county, hospitals and physicians warned that the situation inside their facilities was worsening, with the city’s mayor, Carlos Hernández, saying, “We have reached a critical situation.”And in Hialeah, the blue-collar city at the heart of the outbreak in the county, hospitals and physicians warned that the situation inside their facilities was worsening, with the city’s mayor, Carlos Hernández, saying, “We have reached a critical situation.”
Key Data of the DayKey Data of the Day
The number of people known to have been infected with the virus in the United States passed four million on Thursday, another grim milestone in a pandemic full of them, according to a New York Times database.The number of people known to have been infected with the virus in the United States passed four million on Thursday, another grim milestone in a pandemic full of them, according to a New York Times database.
And it’s not just cases that are rising. The numbers of hospitalizations and deaths reported in the U.S. each day have also been increasing.And it’s not just cases that are rising. The numbers of hospitalizations and deaths reported in the U.S. each day have also been increasing.
Public health experts have warned that the actual number of people infected is certainly far higher than the number of reported cases, and could be up to 13 times as high in some regions.Public health experts have warned that the actual number of people infected is certainly far higher than the number of reported cases, and could be up to 13 times as high in some regions.
Cases are trending upward in 39 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and are decreasing in only two. In the past week, cases have risen most quickly, relative to population, in Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi. Texas has added more than 10,000 cases each day, on average.Cases are trending upward in 39 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and are decreasing in only two. In the past week, cases have risen most quickly, relative to population, in Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi. Texas has added more than 10,000 cases each day, on average.
More than 143,000 people have died of the virus in the United States, and experts say that the trend in hospitalizations and deaths often lags weeks behind the trend in cases. Even so, according to the Covid Tracking Project, the number of people hospitalized in the country on Thursday approached the high of nearly 60,000 on April 15, when the outbreak was largely concentrated in New York.More than 143,000 people have died of the virus in the United States, and experts say that the trend in hospitalizations and deaths often lags weeks behind the trend in cases. Even so, according to the Covid Tracking Project, the number of people hospitalized in the country on Thursday approached the high of nearly 60,000 on April 15, when the outbreak was largely concentrated in New York.
The United States reported its millionth case on April 28, more than three months after the first reported case. The country passed two million cases 43 days later, on June 10, and passed three million on July 7.The United States reported its millionth case on April 28, more than three months after the first reported case. The country passed two million cases 43 days later, on June 10, and passed three million on July 7.
To curb the rise in new infections and deaths from the coronavirus in Washington, the state’s governor and health secretary announced Thursday renewed restrictions on gatherings at restaurants, bars, weddings, funerals and other businesses.To curb the rise in new infections and deaths from the coronavirus in Washington, the state’s governor and health secretary announced Thursday renewed restrictions on gatherings at restaurants, bars, weddings, funerals and other businesses.
“This is not the easy thing to do, but it is the right thing to do,” the governor, Jay Inslee, said in a statement. “But we know that if we fail to act, we expose people and businesses to even greater risk down the line.”“This is not the easy thing to do, but it is the right thing to do,” the governor, Jay Inslee, said in a statement. “But we know that if we fail to act, we expose people and businesses to even greater risk down the line.”
Mr. Inslee, a Democrat, and the state’s secretary of health, John Wiesman, also announced masks will be required “in all common spaces,” like elevators, hallways, university housing and hotels, effective July 25.Mr. Inslee, a Democrat, and the state’s secretary of health, John Wiesman, also announced masks will be required “in all common spaces,” like elevators, hallways, university housing and hotels, effective July 25.
Currently, masks are required in public spaces when people cannot main social distance.Currently, masks are required in public spaces when people cannot main social distance.
The new restrictions were announced after the state reported a steady rise in new infections. By the end of last month, the seven-day average of new infections in the state was 538, according to a New York Times database. By Wednesday, that number was 920.The new restrictions were announced after the state reported a steady rise in new infections. By the end of last month, the seven-day average of new infections in the state was 538, according to a New York Times database. By Wednesday, that number was 920.
Starting July 30, indoor dining at restaurants and bars will be allowed only for “members of the same household,” according to the statement from Mr. Inslee’s office. Others can dine outdoors or place to-go orders.Starting July 30, indoor dining at restaurants and bars will be allowed only for “members of the same household,” according to the statement from Mr. Inslee’s office. Others can dine outdoors or place to-go orders.
Restaurants must also close “gaming and social areas,” the statement said. And indoor service at bars will be prohibited.Restaurants must also close “gaming and social areas,” the statement said. And indoor service at bars will be prohibited.
Occupancy at indoor movie theaters, currently at 50 percent, will be reduced to 25 percent.Occupancy at indoor movie theaters, currently at 50 percent, will be reduced to 25 percent.
Starting Aug. 6, the size of wedding ceremonies will be limited to either 30 people, or 20 percent of the facility’s indoor occupancy, whichever is smaller. Wedding receptions, though, will be prohibited.Starting Aug. 6, the size of wedding ceremonies will be limited to either 30 people, or 20 percent of the facility’s indoor occupancy, whichever is smaller. Wedding receptions, though, will be prohibited.
The number of people allowed at gyms, fitness studios, indoor pools and tennis facilities will also reduced, starting July 30.The number of people allowed at gyms, fitness studios, indoor pools and tennis facilities will also reduced, starting July 30.
The current moratorium on evictions, Mr. Inslee said, will be extended until Oct. 15. Details on that will be released shortly, he said.The current moratorium on evictions, Mr. Inslee said, will be extended until Oct. 15. Details on that will be released shortly, he said.
GLOBAL ROUNDUPGLOBAL ROUNDUP
After four months without any international visitors, Costa Rica is reopening its borders to tourists, but U.S. citizens aren’t welcome just yet.After four months without any international visitors, Costa Rica is reopening its borders to tourists, but U.S. citizens aren’t welcome just yet.
Five flights a week will be allowed in from the European Union, Britain and Canada starting Aug. 1, Gustavo Segura, the country’s tourism minister, announced Thursday. Tourists will have to fill out an online travel health form, provide proof of a negative coronavirus test taken within the previous 48 hours and buy insurance that would cover medical and quarantine costs.Five flights a week will be allowed in from the European Union, Britain and Canada starting Aug. 1, Gustavo Segura, the country’s tourism minister, announced Thursday. Tourists will have to fill out an online travel health form, provide proof of a negative coronavirus test taken within the previous 48 hours and buy insurance that would cover medical and quarantine costs.
The announcement came minutes after the health minister reported the country’s biggest daily increase in coronavirus cases. More than 13,000 people have been infected in Costa Rica, and 81 have died. There were 768 new cases and 10 deaths on Thursday alone.The announcement came minutes after the health minister reported the country’s biggest daily increase in coronavirus cases. More than 13,000 people have been infected in Costa Rica, and 81 have died. There were 768 new cases and 10 deaths on Thursday alone.
“The decisions we’re announcing today are drops of hope, drops of hope for the more than 600,000 people who directly or indirectly depend on tourism,” Mr. Segura said during the government’s daily virus briefing.“The decisions we’re announcing today are drops of hope, drops of hope for the more than 600,000 people who directly or indirectly depend on tourism,” Mr. Segura said during the government’s daily virus briefing.
The decision to reopen came after months of pleas and protests from business owners, mayors and representatives from the tourism industry. More than 3.1 million tourists — including 1.3 million from the United States — visited Costa Rica in 2019The decision to reopen came after months of pleas and protests from business owners, mayors and representatives from the tourism industry. More than 3.1 million tourists — including 1.3 million from the United States — visited Costa Rica in 2019
Costa Rica’s economy was already faltering before the pandemic hit. The country started the year with a 12.4 percent unemployment rate and its highest budget deficit in decades. Now, after two strict lockdowns, border closures and a patchwork of restrictions across the country, the unemployment rate stands at 20.1 percent, and an estimated 45 percent of the country’s 19,000 restaurants have shut down.Costa Rica’s economy was already faltering before the pandemic hit. The country started the year with a 12.4 percent unemployment rate and its highest budget deficit in decades. Now, after two strict lockdowns, border closures and a patchwork of restrictions across the country, the unemployment rate stands at 20.1 percent, and an estimated 45 percent of the country’s 19,000 restaurants have shut down.
Elsewhere in the world:Elsewhere in the world:
The surge of cases could be slowed if the world’s poorest people receive a temporary basic income, enabling them to stay at home, according to a United Nations report released on Thursday. It would cost at least $199 billion a month to provide fixed-term basic income to 2.7 billion people in 132 developing countries, the report said.The surge of cases could be slowed if the world’s poorest people receive a temporary basic income, enabling them to stay at home, according to a United Nations report released on Thursday. It would cost at least $199 billion a month to provide fixed-term basic income to 2.7 billion people in 132 developing countries, the report said.
South Korea said on Friday that it will begin allowing baseball and soccer teams to start allowing a limited number of fans back into stadiums as soon as Sunday. Under the rules, only 10 percent of the seats would be made available for any given game.South Korea said on Friday that it will begin allowing baseball and soccer teams to start allowing a limited number of fans back into stadiums as soon as Sunday. Under the rules, only 10 percent of the seats would be made available for any given game.
China’s National Health Commission issued new safety guidelines on Thursday for the country’s meat processors, citing outbreaks at plants in the United States, Germany and Britain, and the high risks of transmission in crowded processing plants.China’s National Health Commission issued new safety guidelines on Thursday for the country’s meat processors, citing outbreaks at plants in the United States, Germany and Britain, and the high risks of transmission in crowded processing plants.
In Israel, cases have risen to new heights, with more than 2,000 new daily infections reported on Wednesday. The Knesset, the Israeli Parliament, passed a law early Thursday that expands the government’s powers in imposing virus restrictions and lessens parliamentary oversight of them. The legislation, which was ratified in a 48-35 vote, was criticized by opposition lawmakers: “Tonight, Israel’s government gave up on its most important partner in dealing with the coronavirus crisis — the Knesset,” Yair Lapid, the head of the opposition, wrote on Twitter.In Israel, cases have risen to new heights, with more than 2,000 new daily infections reported on Wednesday. The Knesset, the Israeli Parliament, passed a law early Thursday that expands the government’s powers in imposing virus restrictions and lessens parliamentary oversight of them. The legislation, which was ratified in a 48-35 vote, was criticized by opposition lawmakers: “Tonight, Israel’s government gave up on its most important partner in dealing with the coronavirus crisis — the Knesset,” Yair Lapid, the head of the opposition, wrote on Twitter.
New cases are on the rise in Romania, which on Wednesday reported over 1,000 — the first time the country passed that daily milestone since the pandemic began. And on Thursday, that number rose further, to 1,112 new cases and 25 deaths, bringing the country’s total case count to 41,275 with 2,126 deaths.New cases are on the rise in Romania, which on Wednesday reported over 1,000 — the first time the country passed that daily milestone since the pandemic began. And on Thursday, that number rose further, to 1,112 new cases and 25 deaths, bringing the country’s total case count to 41,275 with 2,126 deaths.
China’s ruling Communist Party has expelled an outspoken and prominent property tycoon who criticized the country’s authoritarian leader, Xi Jinping, over the nation’s coronavirus response, paving the way for his criminal prosecution.China’s ruling Communist Party has expelled an outspoken and prominent property tycoon who criticized the country’s authoritarian leader, Xi Jinping, over the nation’s coronavirus response, paving the way for his criminal prosecution.
The party announced the expulsion of the tycoon, Ren Zhiqiang, late Thursday, and said that it had seized his assets for “serious violations of discipline and law” that included the possession of golf club memberships. Officials also took aim at Mr. Ren’s family, accusing him of “colluding with his children to accumulate wealth without restraint.”The party announced the expulsion of the tycoon, Ren Zhiqiang, late Thursday, and said that it had seized his assets for “serious violations of discipline and law” that included the possession of golf club memberships. Officials also took aim at Mr. Ren’s family, accusing him of “colluding with his children to accumulate wealth without restraint.”
The moves against Mr. Ren, 69, appeared designed to send a chill over the country’s entrepreneurs and other business leaders and demonstrate the party’s resolve to use him as an example to show that no one was above its demands of unflinching political loyalty.The moves against Mr. Ren, 69, appeared designed to send a chill over the country’s entrepreneurs and other business leaders and demonstrate the party’s resolve to use him as an example to show that no one was above its demands of unflinching political loyalty.
He was accused of “smearing the party and country’s image, distorting the party and the military’s history, being disloyal and dishonest with the party” and of resisting the party’s investigation into him — phrasing that suggests he has refused to admit any wrongdoing.He was accused of “smearing the party and country’s image, distorting the party and the military’s history, being disloyal and dishonest with the party” and of resisting the party’s investigation into him — phrasing that suggests he has refused to admit any wrongdoing.
Mr. Ren, a veteran party member and former chairman of Huayuan Properties, a real estate development company, was detained in March after criticizing Mr. Xi’s response to the coronavirus outbreak. He is likely to face criminal charges in China’s opaque and often- unforgiving legal system.Mr. Ren, a veteran party member and former chairman of Huayuan Properties, a real estate development company, was detained in March after criticizing Mr. Xi’s response to the coronavirus outbreak. He is likely to face criminal charges in China’s opaque and often- unforgiving legal system.
Under Mr. Xi, who rose to power in 2012, the Chinese authorities have investigated or detained scores of lawyers, journalists and scholars who have challenged the party line, often on spurious charges. The crackdown has intensified in recent months, as the party has come under intense criticism for its handling of the coronavirus, its imposition of new national security laws in Hong Kong and the ongoing crackdown on Muslims in the western region of Xinjiang.Under Mr. Xi, who rose to power in 2012, the Chinese authorities have investigated or detained scores of lawyers, journalists and scholars who have challenged the party line, often on spurious charges. The crackdown has intensified in recent months, as the party has come under intense criticism for its handling of the coronavirus, its imposition of new national security laws in Hong Kong and the ongoing crackdown on Muslims in the western region of Xinjiang.
The White House and Senate Republicans neared agreement on Thursday on a new economic rescue proposal that includes another round of stimulus payments to individuals, additional aid to small businesses and a partial extension of enhanced unemployment benefits, according to a summary of the agreement that was circulating on Capitol Hill.The White House and Senate Republicans neared agreement on Thursday on a new economic rescue proposal that includes another round of stimulus payments to individuals, additional aid to small businesses and a partial extension of enhanced unemployment benefits, according to a summary of the agreement that was circulating on Capitol Hill.
The draft summary, which was obtained by The Times, reflects a significant retreat by the White House after days of infighting among Republicans. It does not include a payroll tax cut, a favorite idea of Mr. Trump’s, which administration officials backed away from amid tepid support from Republicans in Congress. It includes $16 billion in funds for new testing that the administration had opposed, and conditions only a portion of education funding on schools reopening.The draft summary, which was obtained by The Times, reflects a significant retreat by the White House after days of infighting among Republicans. It does not include a payroll tax cut, a favorite idea of Mr. Trump’s, which administration officials backed away from amid tepid support from Republicans in Congress. It includes $16 billion in funds for new testing that the administration had opposed, and conditions only a portion of education funding on schools reopening.
Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky and the majority leader, who had hoped to roll out his bill early Thursday, instead spent the morning continuing to negotiate with top White House officials over its central elements.Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky and the majority leader, who had hoped to roll out his bill early Thursday, instead spent the morning continuing to negotiate with top White House officials over its central elements.
“We’re just having a conversation with the leader, hopefully we’ll be able to resolve this,” Mark Meadows, the White House Chief of staff, told reporters as he entered Mr. McConnell’s office Thursday morning.“We’re just having a conversation with the leader, hopefully we’ll be able to resolve this,” Mark Meadows, the White House Chief of staff, told reporters as he entered Mr. McConnell’s office Thursday morning.
Among the final sticking points was the language surrounding the amount of additional benefits that the unemployed would continue to receive after a program providing $600 per week in extra aid expires at month’s end.Among the final sticking points was the language surrounding the amount of additional benefits that the unemployed would continue to receive after a program providing $600 per week in extra aid expires at month’s end.
Republicans agree that they want to slash the jobless payments, which they argue discourage people from returning to work. But while Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a television interview that they would seek to limit the new payments to 70 percent of a worker’s wages, the outline suggests the level could rise to 100 percent.Republicans agree that they want to slash the jobless payments, which they argue discourage people from returning to work. But while Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a television interview that they would seek to limit the new payments to 70 percent of a worker’s wages, the outline suggests the level could rise to 100 percent.
The summary also includes $26 billion for vaccine development and deployment, $20 billion in direct payments to farmers and a total of $105 billion for education, $30 billion of which would be reserved for institutions that reopen. There is no new money for state and local governments to plug budget holes and avert layoffs, but the outline notes that such funds are expected to be added in negotiations with Democrats, who have insisted on hundreds of billions of dollars.The summary also includes $26 billion for vaccine development and deployment, $20 billion in direct payments to farmers and a total of $105 billion for education, $30 billion of which would be reserved for institutions that reopen. There is no new money for state and local governments to plug budget holes and avert layoffs, but the outline notes that such funds are expected to be added in negotiations with Democrats, who have insisted on hundreds of billions of dollars.
The document did not specify who would receive the direct payments or how much the checks would be.The document did not specify who would receive the direct payments or how much the checks would be.
It includes a substantial expansion of a program to aid small businesses, relaxing the terms of a loan program designed to help them maintain their payrolls and creating a new “working capital” loan to cover operating expenses. The proposal would also more heavily restrict the number of businesses who were eligible, including by requiring evidence of steep revenue losses during the recession.It includes a substantial expansion of a program to aid small businesses, relaxing the terms of a loan program designed to help them maintain their payrolls and creating a new “working capital” loan to cover operating expenses. The proposal would also more heavily restrict the number of businesses who were eligible, including by requiring evidence of steep revenue losses during the recession.
Hours before the Yankees and the Washington Nationals were to begin the opening game of the delayed Major League Baseball season on Thursday night, the sport got a stark reminder of the precariousness of playing amid a pandemic: Juan Soto, the 21-year-old Nationals star, tested positive for the virus and was held out of the lineup.Hours before the Yankees and the Washington Nationals were to begin the opening game of the delayed Major League Baseball season on Thursday night, the sport got a stark reminder of the precariousness of playing amid a pandemic: Juan Soto, the 21-year-old Nationals star, tested positive for the virus and was held out of the lineup.
Soto must record two negative tests at least 24 hours apart before he can return. He was asymptomatic, Nationals General Manager Mike Rizzo told reporters, and all the other Washington players were available to take the field on Thursday.Soto must record two negative tests at least 24 hours apart before he can return. He was asymptomatic, Nationals General Manager Mike Rizzo told reporters, and all the other Washington players were available to take the field on Thursday.
Nationals Manager Dave Martinez said that those in closest contact with Soto were tested on Thursday morning and would be again on Friday.Nationals Manager Dave Martinez said that those in closest contact with Soto were tested on Thursday morning and would be again on Friday.
The game between the Yankees and the Nationals, the reigning World Series champions, was the first of two scheduled for Thursday, as M.L.B. began an abbreviated season of 60 games almost four months late. The Yankees won, 4-1, as the game was also abbreviated, ending in the top of the sixth because of rain.The game between the Yankees and the Nationals, the reigning World Series champions, was the first of two scheduled for Thursday, as M.L.B. began an abbreviated season of 60 games almost four months late. The Yankees won, 4-1, as the game was also abbreviated, ending in the top of the sixth because of rain.
President Trump said on Thursday that he would throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Yankee Stadium on Aug. 15, which would be the first time during his presidency that he has participated in the M.L.B. ritual. A person in baseball familiar with the situation confirmed that the president had been invited to throw out the first pitch but said that a date had not been worked out.President Trump said on Thursday that he would throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Yankee Stadium on Aug. 15, which would be the first time during his presidency that he has participated in the M.L.B. ritual. A person in baseball familiar with the situation confirmed that the president had been invited to throw out the first pitch but said that a date had not been worked out.
The announcement came days after the Nationals said that Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the infectious disease expert who has raised concerns about the administration's handling of the virus, would throw out the first pitch at Thursday’s game.The announcement came days after the Nationals said that Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the infectious disease expert who has raised concerns about the administration's handling of the virus, would throw out the first pitch at Thursday’s game.
A prominent Yankee also missed the opener because of the virus. Star relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman tested positive two weeks ago.A prominent Yankee also missed the opener because of the virus. Star relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman tested positive two weeks ago.
M.L.B. has put in place extensive health and safety protocols, including barring fans from the games for now, and has had relatively few cases during summer workouts. But the true test will come as teams begin traveling, particularly into hot spots such as Florida, Georgia and Texas.M.L.B. has put in place extensive health and safety protocols, including barring fans from the games for now, and has had relatively few cases during summer workouts. But the true test will come as teams begin traveling, particularly into hot spots such as Florida, Georgia and Texas.
Labs across the United States are facing backlogs in coronavirus testing, leaving anxious patients and their doctors waiting days and sometimes weeks for results, thanks in part to a shortage of tiny pieces of tapered plastic.Labs across the United States are facing backlogs in coronavirus testing, leaving anxious patients and their doctors waiting days and sometimes weeks for results, thanks in part to a shortage of tiny pieces of tapered plastic.
These little disposables, called pipette tips, are needed to quickly and precisely move liquid between vials to process the tests. Pipette tips, which are fed into automated devices, can help researchers blaze through hundreds of tests in a matter of hours, sparing them grueling manual labor.These little disposables, called pipette tips, are needed to quickly and precisely move liquid between vials to process the tests. Pipette tips, which are fed into automated devices, can help researchers blaze through hundreds of tests in a matter of hours, sparing them grueling manual labor.
The recent shortages of pipette tips and other lab supplies are once again stymieing efforts to track and curb the spread of disease at a time when the number of known cases in the United States has topped four million.The recent shortages of pipette tips and other lab supplies are once again stymieing efforts to track and curb the spread of disease at a time when the number of known cases in the United States has topped four million.
The crisis is an eerie echo of the early days of the pandemic, when researchers scrambled to find the swabs and liquids needed to collect and store samples en route to laboratories. And the delays in producing test results hurts the effectiveness of contact tracing.The crisis is an eerie echo of the early days of the pandemic, when researchers scrambled to find the swabs and liquids needed to collect and store samples en route to laboratories. And the delays in producing test results hurts the effectiveness of contact tracing.
Thousands of New Yorkers have had to wait a week or more for results, and at some clinics the median wait time is nine days. Officials have been unable to adequately expand the capacity of state and city government laboratories to test rapidly at a time when they are asking more people to get tested to guard against another large outbreak.Thousands of New Yorkers have had to wait a week or more for results, and at some clinics the median wait time is nine days. Officials have been unable to adequately expand the capacity of state and city government laboratories to test rapidly at a time when they are asking more people to get tested to guard against another large outbreak.
Companies that produce the pipette tips needed for processing test results are slammed with orders. And they are not the only laboratory items in short supply. Dwindling stocks of machines, containers and chemicals needed to extract or amplify the virus’s genetic material have clogged almost every point along the testing workflow.Companies that produce the pipette tips needed for processing test results are slammed with orders. And they are not the only laboratory items in short supply. Dwindling stocks of machines, containers and chemicals needed to extract or amplify the virus’s genetic material have clogged almost every point along the testing workflow.
Another study showing that a malaria drug that was heavily promoted — and even taken — by Mr. Trump did not improve the conditions of patients with Covid-19 was published Thursday in The New England Journal of Medicine.Another study showing that a malaria drug that was heavily promoted — and even taken — by Mr. Trump did not improve the conditions of patients with Covid-19 was published Thursday in The New England Journal of Medicine.
The study of more than 500 people found that taking the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine — with or without an antibiotic, azithromycin — did not lead to better outcomes for virus patients.The study of more than 500 people found that taking the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine — with or without an antibiotic, azithromycin — did not lead to better outcomes for virus patients.
The findings bolstered previous work showing that the drugs are not effective in treating the disease. The Food and Drug Administration revoked its emergency authorization of hydroxychloroquine for use in Covid-19 patients, and has warned that it can cause a host of serious side effects.The findings bolstered previous work showing that the drugs are not effective in treating the disease. The Food and Drug Administration revoked its emergency authorization of hydroxychloroquine for use in Covid-19 patients, and has warned that it can cause a host of serious side effects.
More than 500 people in the study with confirmed Covid-19 were assigned to three groups, spread across 55 hospitals in Brazil. All received standard treatment, but one group received hydroxychloroquine, one received hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin, and one group received neither drug. The study concluded that the patients in the first two groups did not have better clinical outcomes than the group that did not receive either drug.More than 500 people in the study with confirmed Covid-19 were assigned to three groups, spread across 55 hospitals in Brazil. All received standard treatment, but one group received hydroxychloroquine, one received hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin, and one group received neither drug. The study concluded that the patients in the first two groups did not have better clinical outcomes than the group that did not receive either drug.
It also found that patients in the two groups that were given hydroxychloroquine more frequently experienced a heart arrhythmia and had elevated levels of liver enzymes, two potentially harmful side effects of the drug. The clinical trial focused on patients who were hospitalized but were not yet severely ill with Covid-19.It also found that patients in the two groups that were given hydroxychloroquine more frequently experienced a heart arrhythmia and had elevated levels of liver enzymes, two potentially harmful side effects of the drug. The clinical trial focused on patients who were hospitalized but were not yet severely ill with Covid-19.
“I would say overall that it shores up everything we’ve come to understand about these drugs from other randomized studies,” said Dr. Judith Feinberg, vice chair of research in the department of medicine at West Virginia University School of Medicine, who was not involved in the study. “There’s nothing you can point to that says, oh, I’d want my mom to get this.”“I would say overall that it shores up everything we’ve come to understand about these drugs from other randomized studies,” said Dr. Judith Feinberg, vice chair of research in the department of medicine at West Virginia University School of Medicine, who was not involved in the study. “There’s nothing you can point to that says, oh, I’d want my mom to get this.”
U.S. ROUNDUPU.S. ROUNDUP
City and hospital officials in Houston, which has been hammered by the virus, have seen new cases and hospitalizations appear to level off and even dipped slightly.City and hospital officials in Houston, which has been hammered by the virus, have seen new cases and hospitalizations appear to level off and even dipped slightly.
Dr. Esmaeil Porsa, chief executive of Harris Health System, said the organization’s two public hospitals in the Houston area had 24 fewer Covid-19 patients on Wednesday than they had a few days earlier.Dr. Esmaeil Porsa, chief executive of Harris Health System, said the organization’s two public hospitals in the Houston area had 24 fewer Covid-19 patients on Wednesday than they had a few days earlier.
“I’m hoping that this trend is going to continue,” Dr. Porsa said. “It really doesn’t mean that all of a sudden I have a whole bunch of capacity. It just means that my staff gets to take a breather.”“I’m hoping that this trend is going to continue,” Dr. Porsa said. “It really doesn’t mean that all of a sudden I have a whole bunch of capacity. It just means that my staff gets to take a breather.”
The city’s largest medical complex, the Texas Medical Center, also reported a slight decrease.The city’s largest medical complex, the Texas Medical Center, also reported a slight decrease.
“The good news is the numbers aren’t climbing precipitously; the bad news is it’s plateauing at a high level, so it’s still a very serious problem,” said Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He added that it was hard to be optimistic “because there’s still a very aggressive level of transmission in the city and the county.”“The good news is the numbers aren’t climbing precipitously; the bad news is it’s plateauing at a high level, so it’s still a very serious problem,” said Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He added that it was hard to be optimistic “because there’s still a very aggressive level of transmission in the city and the county.”
Dr. Porsa said he found it frustrating that some people did not view the situation as an emergency. “It’s disheartening to see people going about their business as if nothing is happening,” he said. “I see patients on ventilators, patients in a prone position, face down, because we can’t get enough oxygen to them.”Dr. Porsa said he found it frustrating that some people did not view the situation as an emergency. “It’s disheartening to see people going about their business as if nothing is happening,” he said. “I see patients on ventilators, patients in a prone position, face down, because we can’t get enough oxygen to them.”
Elsewhere in the U.S.:Elsewhere in the U.S.:
In Ohio, where cases have been climbing sharply, the governor said that large clusters of cases were being caused by gatherings like pool parties and funerals. Fifty-three cases in Henry County were linked to an event at a local winery, he said. He also pointed to out-of-state travel, citing the example of two women who took a road trip to Texas. One of them began to feel sick on the drive back, he said, but still reported to work at a nursing home afterward; now there are 30 cases there.In Ohio, where cases have been climbing sharply, the governor said that large clusters of cases were being caused by gatherings like pool parties and funerals. Fifty-three cases in Henry County were linked to an event at a local winery, he said. He also pointed to out-of-state travel, citing the example of two women who took a road trip to Texas. One of them began to feel sick on the drive back, he said, but still reported to work at a nursing home afterward; now there are 30 cases there.
The private school in suburban Maryland attended by Mr. Trump’s son will not fully reopen in September out of virus concerns, despite the president’s demand that all students be brought back to U.S. classrooms in the fall. At a briefing on Wednesday, Mr. Trump expressed no unease over his son Barron, 14, or his school-aged grandchildren returning to class. “I am comfortable with that,” he said.The private school in suburban Maryland attended by Mr. Trump’s son will not fully reopen in September out of virus concerns, despite the president’s demand that all students be brought back to U.S. classrooms in the fall. At a briefing on Wednesday, Mr. Trump expressed no unease over his son Barron, 14, or his school-aged grandchildren returning to class. “I am comfortable with that,” he said.
As case numbers rise in Kansas, the Republican-led state Board of Education voted against an executive order from Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, that would have delayed school reopenings until Sept. 8. The vote left individual school boards free to decide when to reopen. Classes begin as soon as Aug. 10.As case numbers rise in Kansas, the Republican-led state Board of Education voted against an executive order from Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, that would have delayed school reopenings until Sept. 8. The vote left individual school boards free to decide when to reopen. Classes begin as soon as Aug. 10.
The actor Mel Gibson spent a week in a California hospital in April after testing positive for the virus, a representative for Gibson said Thursday night. While in the hospital, Mr. Gibson, 64, was treated with the drug remdesivir, the representative said, and since his stay, the actor has tested negative “numerous times.”The actor Mel Gibson spent a week in a California hospital in April after testing positive for the virus, a representative for Gibson said Thursday night. While in the hospital, Mr. Gibson, 64, was treated with the drug remdesivir, the representative said, and since his stay, the actor has tested negative “numerous times.”
After more than three months of declines, the number of people filing new claims for state unemployment benefits in the United States rose last week. The Labor Department reported Thursday another 1.4 million new state applications. The spike comes just days before an extra $600-a-week jobless benefit is set to expire.After more than three months of declines, the number of people filing new claims for state unemployment benefits in the United States rose last week. The Labor Department reported Thursday another 1.4 million new state applications. The spike comes just days before an extra $600-a-week jobless benefit is set to expire.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York again warned on Thursday of rising cases among younger people. Though most of the state’s cases were being diagnosed in older residents, the share of those found in 21- to 30-year-olds increased to 13.2 percent from 9.9 percent over the last two weeks, he said. The U.S. outbreak has more recently seen an increase in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s who are testing positive.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York again warned on Thursday of rising cases among younger people. Though most of the state’s cases were being diagnosed in older residents, the share of those found in 21- to 30-year-olds increased to 13.2 percent from 9.9 percent over the last two weeks, he said. The U.S. outbreak has more recently seen an increase in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s who are testing positive.
This was supposed to be the busiest summer yet for Governors Island. After 15 years of careful redevelopment, the island off the southern tip of Manhattan had blossomed into a day-trip destination.This was supposed to be the busiest summer yet for Governors Island. After 15 years of careful redevelopment, the island off the southern tip of Manhattan had blossomed into a day-trip destination.
Instead, against the backdrop of the pandemic, the island is producing fresh fruits and vegetables for a city in which one in four residents lack adequate food.Instead, against the backdrop of the pandemic, the island is producing fresh fruits and vegetables for a city in which one in four residents lack adequate food.
At the island’s one-acre teaching garden one recent weekday, seasonal workers, who during a normal summer might be wrangling visitors and students, were packing pints of berries, tying beets into bunches and cooling down several hundred pounds of just-picked greens. All it of was headed to emergency food distributions in the Bronx, Harlem and central and eastern Brooklyn.At the island’s one-acre teaching garden one recent weekday, seasonal workers, who during a normal summer might be wrangling visitors and students, were packing pints of berries, tying beets into bunches and cooling down several hundred pounds of just-picked greens. All it of was headed to emergency food distributions in the Bronx, Harlem and central and eastern Brooklyn.
“We were so preoccupied in past seasons by the work of engaging with these young people that we never gave much thought to producing food,” said Shawn Connell, who manages the garden, on the island’s southeastern shore, on behalf of the environmental organization GrowNYC.“We were so preoccupied in past seasons by the work of engaging with these young people that we never gave much thought to producing food,” said Shawn Connell, who manages the garden, on the island’s southeastern shore, on behalf of the environmental organization GrowNYC.
Most of what they grew was eaten by students, Mr. Connell, 37, said. Some was left to wither and die to show the life cycle of a plant.Most of what they grew was eaten by students, Mr. Connell, 37, said. Some was left to wither and die to show the life cycle of a plant.
“We knew in past seasons we’d been able to grow 10,000 pounds of food, and we thought, You know, that’s a good number to shoot for,” he said. “We’re certainly on track to produce more than that — twice that,” he added.“We knew in past seasons we’d been able to grow 10,000 pounds of food, and we thought, You know, that’s a good number to shoot for,” he said. “We’re certainly on track to produce more than that — twice that,” he added.
Belgium’s prime minister issued broad new mask-wearing requirements on Thursday, including for pedestrians outdoors, and warned of even stricter measures if infections continued to rise in the country.Belgium’s prime minister issued broad new mask-wearing requirements on Thursday, including for pedestrians outdoors, and warned of even stricter measures if infections continued to rise in the country.
The policy change reflects growing European fears of a second wave. As infections declined on the Continent and attention turned to the out-of-control spread in parts of the United States, many Europeans grew more complacent about socializing.The policy change reflects growing European fears of a second wave. As infections declined on the Continent and attention turned to the out-of-control spread in parts of the United States, many Europeans grew more complacent about socializing.
Prime Minister Sophie Wilmès said that visitors to outdoor markets and pedestrians on commercial streets must wear masks. Masks were already mandatory in indoor public spaces. Ms. Wilmès also required restaurants, bars and hotels to collect phone numbers from all customers to help contact-tracing efforts.Prime Minister Sophie Wilmès said that visitors to outdoor markets and pedestrians on commercial streets must wear masks. Masks were already mandatory in indoor public spaces. Ms. Wilmès also required restaurants, bars and hotels to collect phone numbers from all customers to help contact-tracing efforts.
“The future will depend on the behavior of everyone,” Ms. Wilmès said at a news conference. “These are not suggestions, but orders.”“The future will depend on the behavior of everyone,” Ms. Wilmès said at a news conference. “These are not suggestions, but orders.”
Other European countries have also reinstituted some restrictions, including Slovenia and Spain, where regional health officials have urged millions of people in and around Barcelona to stay home.Other European countries have also reinstituted some restrictions, including Slovenia and Spain, where regional health officials have urged millions of people in and around Barcelona to stay home.
Belgium has had one of the world’s highest death tolls in proportion to its population, largely because of outbreaks in nursing homes. A strict lockdown appeared to bring the spread of the virus under control, but after a phased reopening, new cases have begun rising sharply again, with most infections linked to social settings like parties.Belgium has had one of the world’s highest death tolls in proportion to its population, largely because of outbreaks in nursing homes. A strict lockdown appeared to bring the spread of the virus under control, but after a phased reopening, new cases have begun rising sharply again, with most infections linked to social settings like parties.
“The second wave has started,” Marc Van Ranst, a virologist and government adviser, said last week.“The second wave has started,” Marc Van Ranst, a virologist and government adviser, said last week.
The school attended by Mr. Trump’s son will not fully reopen in September out of concern about the virus, despite the president’s demand that all students be brought back to American classrooms in the fall.The school attended by Mr. Trump’s son will not fully reopen in September out of concern about the virus, despite the president’s demand that all students be brought back to American classrooms in the fall.
St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, a private academy in suburban Maryland, said in a letter to parents that it was still weighing whether to adopt a hybrid model for the fall that would allow limited in-person education, or to continue to hold all classes online, as was done in the spring. The school said it would decide early next month.St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, a private academy in suburban Maryland, said in a letter to parents that it was still weighing whether to adopt a hybrid model for the fall that would allow limited in-person education, or to continue to hold all classes online, as was done in the spring. The school said it would decide early next month.
“We are hopeful that public health conditions will support our implementation of the hybrid model in the fall,” said the letter signed by Robert Kosasky, the head of the school, and David Brown, the assistant head.“We are hopeful that public health conditions will support our implementation of the hybrid model in the fall,” said the letter signed by Robert Kosasky, the head of the school, and David Brown, the assistant head.
“As we prepare to make a decision the week of August 10 about how to best begin the school year,” they added, “we will continue to follow guidance of appropriate health officials and refine both our hybrid and distance learning plans.”“As we prepare to make a decision the week of August 10 about how to best begin the school year,” they added, “we will continue to follow guidance of appropriate health officials and refine both our hybrid and distance learning plans.”
If the school does opt for the hybrid model, students in grades 7 through 12 will rotate between on-campus and distance learning, with half of the students learning remotely each week.If the school does opt for the hybrid model, students in grades 7 through 12 will rotate between on-campus and distance learning, with half of the students learning remotely each week.
A number of states have seen partisan wrangling among state and local officials over how fast and how much to reopen schools and businesses and what measures to mandate in fighting the virus. Usually, the fight has involved a reopening-minded Republican governor taking on Democratic mayors and county leaders who want more restrictive policies.A number of states have seen partisan wrangling among state and local officials over how fast and how much to reopen schools and businesses and what measures to mandate in fighting the virus. Usually, the fight has involved a reopening-minded Republican governor taking on Democratic mayors and county leaders who want more restrictive policies.
But in Kansas, it’s the other way around: A Democratic governor, Laura Kelly, has tried to slow down reopenings and tighten restrictions as case numbers rise only to face stiff resistance from Republicans in lower offices.But in Kansas, it’s the other way around: A Democratic governor, Laura Kelly, has tried to slow down reopenings and tighten restrictions as case numbers rise only to face stiff resistance from Republicans in lower offices.
On Wednesday, the state Board of Education, which has a Republican majority, voted against accepting Ms. Kelly’s executive order delaying school reopenings until Sept. 8. The vote left individual school boards free to decide when to reopen; classes can begin as soon as Aug. 10.On Wednesday, the state Board of Education, which has a Republican majority, voted against accepting Ms. Kelly’s executive order delaying school reopenings until Sept. 8. The vote left individual school boards free to decide when to reopen; classes can begin as soon as Aug. 10.
“The cases of Covid-19 in Kansas are at an all-time high and continue to rise,” Ms. Kelly wrote in response. “Our decisions must be informed by public health experts, not politics.”“The cases of Covid-19 in Kansas are at an all-time high and continue to rise,” Ms. Kelly wrote in response. “Our decisions must be informed by public health experts, not politics.”
Ann Mah, a Democratic member of the board who voted in favor of the governor’s order, said she had initially preferred leaving the decision to local school boards, but changed her mind after hearing from worried parents, teachers and superintendents who thought it would be unsafe to reopen now and who said they needed more time to prepare for online instruction.Ann Mah, a Democratic member of the board who voted in favor of the governor’s order, said she had initially preferred leaving the decision to local school boards, but changed her mind after hearing from worried parents, teachers and superintendents who thought it would be unsafe to reopen now and who said they needed more time to prepare for online instruction.
“It was just overwhelming that they wanted a delay,” she said.“It was just overwhelming that they wanted a delay,” she said.
Republican members of the board did not immediately respond to requests for comment.Republican members of the board did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
In late May, after getting heavy criticism from the Republican-controlled state Legislature, Ms. Kelly abandoned a phased reopening plan and instead dropped all statewide orders. Lawmakers had passed a bill to limit her authority and allow individual counties more leeway, but the governor vetoed the measure.Barron, 14, has spent the last three years at St. Andrews. At a briefing on Wednesday, Mr. Trump expressed no unease over Barron or his school-aged grandchildren returning to class. “I am comfortable with that,” he said.In late May, after getting heavy criticism from the Republican-controlled state Legislature, Ms. Kelly abandoned a phased reopening plan and instead dropped all statewide orders. Lawmakers had passed a bill to limit her authority and allow individual counties more leeway, but the governor vetoed the measure.Barron, 14, has spent the last three years at St. Andrews. At a briefing on Wednesday, Mr. Trump expressed no unease over Barron or his school-aged grandchildren returning to class. “I am comfortable with that,” he said.
World Health Organization officials on Thursday roundly rejected reported claims by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that China had undue influence over the body.World Health Organization officials on Thursday roundly rejected reported claims by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that China had undue influence over the body.
“The comments are untrue and unacceptable, and without any foundation, for that matter,” Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the W.H.O.’s director general, said at a news conference in Geneva.“The comments are untrue and unacceptable, and without any foundation, for that matter,” Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the W.H.O.’s director general, said at a news conference in Geneva.
In an interview with Bloomberg Television on Wednesday, Iain Duncan Smith, a Conservative member of Parliament, confirmed a report that the American secretary of state had made disparaging remarks about the W.H.O. Mr. Pompeo said the organization had been “bought” by China, according to The Times of London, which first reported the comments.In an interview with Bloomberg Television on Wednesday, Iain Duncan Smith, a Conservative member of Parliament, confirmed a report that the American secretary of state had made disparaging remarks about the W.H.O. Mr. Pompeo said the organization had been “bought” by China, according to The Times of London, which first reported the comments.
Dr. Tedros lamented what he said was the politicization of the pandemic. “Politics and partisanship have made things worse,” he said. “What is very important is science, solutions and solidarity.”Dr. Tedros lamented what he said was the politicization of the pandemic. “Politics and partisanship have made things worse,” he said. “What is very important is science, solutions and solidarity.”
Updated August 24, 2020 Updated August 27, 2020
The Trump administration has been critical of the W.H.O.’s handling of the pandemic, and it has notified the United Nations it plans to withdraw from the health organization. The United States is the W.H.O.’s largest donor.The Trump administration has been critical of the W.H.O.’s handling of the pandemic, and it has notified the United Nations it plans to withdraw from the health organization. The United States is the W.H.O.’s largest donor.
Speaking at the news conference Thursday, the organization’s technical lead for the pandemic response, Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, said that as an American, she felt obligated to speak out on Dr. Tedros’s behalf.Speaking at the news conference Thursday, the organization’s technical lead for the pandemic response, Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, said that as an American, she felt obligated to speak out on Dr. Tedros’s behalf.
“I have never been more proud to be W.H.O.,” she said.“I have never been more proud to be W.H.O.,” she said.
Dr. Michael Ryan, executive director of the organization’s emergency health program, said, “We are proud, proud to be W. H.O., and we will remain so, and we will serve the vulnerable people of the world, regardless of what is said about us.”Dr. Michael Ryan, executive director of the organization’s emergency health program, said, “We are proud, proud to be W. H.O., and we will remain so, and we will serve the vulnerable people of the world, regardless of what is said about us.”
About as many people are now known to be hospitalized with the virus in the United States as during any other time in the pandemic, matching the previous peak in April.About as many people are now known to be hospitalized with the virus in the United States as during any other time in the pandemic, matching the previous peak in April.
Public health experts say detailed local data on where people are hospitalized — a real-time measure that does not depend on levels of testing — is crucial to understanding the epidemic, but federal officials have not made this data public. The Times gathered data for nearly 50 metropolitan areas, including 15 of the 20 largest cities in the country, from state and local health departments to provide the first detailed national look at where people are falling seriously ill.Public health experts say detailed local data on where people are hospitalized — a real-time measure that does not depend on levels of testing — is crucial to understanding the epidemic, but federal officials have not made this data public. The Times gathered data for nearly 50 metropolitan areas, including 15 of the 20 largest cities in the country, from state and local health departments to provide the first detailed national look at where people are falling seriously ill.
The data, as well as interviews across the country, show a far-reaching crisis. The worst-hit areas in Texas and Florida have approached the peak rates of hospitalization that New York, New Orleans, Chicago and other cities hit in the spring. A wide and growing expanse of hot spots around the country — including Las Vegas, Nashville and Tulsa, Okla. — have worsened over the past two weeks.The data, as well as interviews across the country, show a far-reaching crisis. The worst-hit areas in Texas and Florida have approached the peak rates of hospitalization that New York, New Orleans, Chicago and other cities hit in the spring. A wide and growing expanse of hot spots around the country — including Las Vegas, Nashville and Tulsa, Okla. — have worsened over the past two weeks.
Not every hospital system is overwhelmed, and new treatments have improved the chances of survival for seriously ill people. But experts say a small but significant proportion of those currently hospitalized will die, and those who survive may face serious long-term health issues.Not every hospital system is overwhelmed, and new treatments have improved the chances of survival for seriously ill people. But experts say a small but significant proportion of those currently hospitalized will die, and those who survive may face serious long-term health issues.
Months ago, the urgency of the virus outbreak was concentrated in the New York City area. Now, the scale of the crisis is dispersed and harder to grasp.Months ago, the urgency of the virus outbreak was concentrated in the New York City area. Now, the scale of the crisis is dispersed and harder to grasp.
“There’s this pandemic fatigue,” said Thomas Tsai, an assistant professor of health policy at Harvard University. “All eyes were on New York. Houston is New York now. Miami is New York now. Phoenix is New York now. We need that shared collective urgency.”“There’s this pandemic fatigue,” said Thomas Tsai, an assistant professor of health policy at Harvard University. “All eyes were on New York. Houston is New York now. Miami is New York now. Phoenix is New York now. We need that shared collective urgency.”
Major League Baseball begins a shortened season on Thursday, and the Times columnist Tyler Kepner writes that the only certainty is lots of uncertainty:Major League Baseball begins a shortened season on Thursday, and the Times columnist Tyler Kepner writes that the only certainty is lots of uncertainty:
Baseball makes you wait. That is part of its old-world charm. The story takes time to reveal itself, pitch by pitch, inning by inning, game by game by game by … well, you get the idea. Players weather a rigorous six-month schedule, with few days off. No other professional athletes spend as many days performing.Baseball makes you wait. That is part of its old-world charm. The story takes time to reveal itself, pitch by pitch, inning by inning, game by game by game by … well, you get the idea. Players weather a rigorous six-month schedule, with few days off. No other professional athletes spend as many days performing.
So what will it look like now, after more than four months in hibernation since the coronavirus pandemic shut down spring training in mid-March? We will find out Thursday, when Major League Baseball begins its 60-game schedule with two games: the Yankees at the Nationals in Washington, and the Giants at the Dodgers in Los Angeles.So what will it look like now, after more than four months in hibernation since the coronavirus pandemic shut down spring training in mid-March? We will find out Thursday, when Major League Baseball begins its 60-game schedule with two games: the Yankees at the Nationals in Washington, and the Giants at the Dodgers in Los Angeles.
Get ready for rule changes, extensive safety protocols and a whole lot of unknowns.Get ready for rule changes, extensive safety protocols and a whole lot of unknowns.
“It’s hard for those of us in baseball because we want to be knowledgeable about what’s going on,” said the longtime broadcaster Jim Kaat, 81, who pitched for 25 seasons in the majors, “and sometimes the toughest thing to say is, ‘I don’t know.’”“It’s hard for those of us in baseball because we want to be knowledgeable about what’s going on,” said the longtime broadcaster Jim Kaat, 81, who pitched for 25 seasons in the majors, “and sometimes the toughest thing to say is, ‘I don’t know.’”
The owner of Ann Taylor and Lane Bryant, which just a few years ago was one of the country’s largest clothing retailers for women and girls, filed for bankruptcy on Thursday, after declining sales and high debt were made worse by coronavirus shutdowns.The owner of Ann Taylor and Lane Bryant, which just a few years ago was one of the country’s largest clothing retailers for women and girls, filed for bankruptcy on Thursday, after declining sales and high debt were made worse by coronavirus shutdowns.
The company, Ascena Retail Group, will close “a select number” of Ann Taylor, Lane Bryant, LOFT and Lou & Grey stores as well as all of its Catherines locations, the company said in a Chapter 11 filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Eastern District of Virginia.The company, Ascena Retail Group, will close “a select number” of Ann Taylor, Lane Bryant, LOFT and Lou & Grey stores as well as all of its Catherines locations, the company said in a Chapter 11 filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Eastern District of Virginia.
The pandemic has taken a heavy toll on retailers, especially apparel sellers and other mall-based chains. Ascena, based in Mahwah, N.J., is at least the ninth prominent retailer to file for bankruptcy since early May, following Brooks Brothers, Sur La Table, J. Crew, Neiman Marcus Group, J.C. Penney, Lucky Brand, Stage Stores and GNC.The pandemic has taken a heavy toll on retailers, especially apparel sellers and other mall-based chains. Ascena, based in Mahwah, N.J., is at least the ninth prominent retailer to file for bankruptcy since early May, following Brooks Brothers, Sur La Table, J. Crew, Neiman Marcus Group, J.C. Penney, Lucky Brand, Stage Stores and GNC.
As the number of U.S. cases has grown, another disturbing trend has emerged: landlords commencing eviction proceedings even though the federal CARES Act still protects millions of tenants.As the number of U.S. cases has grown, another disturbing trend has emerged: landlords commencing eviction proceedings even though the federal CARES Act still protects millions of tenants.
The four-month pause in eviction cases imposed by the act is not set to expire until the end of this week. But landlords in Tucson, Ariz., filed dozens of eviction cases last month without waiting for the federal moratorium to end. And advocacy groups say the same thing has happened in other states.The four-month pause in eviction cases imposed by the act is not set to expire until the end of this week. But landlords in Tucson, Ariz., filed dozens of eviction cases last month without waiting for the federal moratorium to end. And advocacy groups say the same thing has happened in other states.
Some state and local governments have also imposed eviction moratoriums, but the CARES Act’s moratorium is the widest, covering as many as 12.3 million renters who live in apartment complexes or in houses financed with a federally backed mortgage. However, the CARES Act does not penalize landlords who violate the moratorium.Some state and local governments have also imposed eviction moratoriums, but the CARES Act’s moratorium is the widest, covering as many as 12.3 million renters who live in apartment complexes or in houses financed with a federally backed mortgage. However, the CARES Act does not penalize landlords who violate the moratorium.
The Private Equity Stakeholder Project, a consumer advocacy group, said it had found more than 100 eviction filings in apparent violation of the CARES Act in Arizona, Florida, Massachusetts and Texas.The Private Equity Stakeholder Project, a consumer advocacy group, said it had found more than 100 eviction filings in apparent violation of the CARES Act in Arizona, Florida, Massachusetts and Texas.
And in a survey of 100 Legal Aid lawyers in 38 states, all but nine said they knew of illegal eviction attempts in their cities.And in a survey of 100 Legal Aid lawyers in 38 states, all but nine said they knew of illegal eviction attempts in their cities.
California recorded new highs in both coronavirus deaths and total number of cases on Wednesday, as troubling data emerged across the United States and more than 1,100 deaths were reported for the second consecutive day.California recorded new highs in both coronavirus deaths and total number of cases on Wednesday, as troubling data emerged across the United States and more than 1,100 deaths were reported for the second consecutive day.
Missouri, North Dakota and West Virginia recorded their highest daily case numbers on Wednesday, while Alabama, Idaho and Texas reported daily death records, according to a Times database.Missouri, North Dakota and West Virginia recorded their highest daily case numbers on Wednesday, while Alabama, Idaho and Texas reported daily death records, according to a Times database.
Nationwide, 69,707 new virus cases were reported on Wednesday. Total confirmed cases in the United States passed four million on Thursday.Nationwide, 69,707 new virus cases were reported on Wednesday. Total confirmed cases in the United States passed four million on Thursday.
And 59,628 people were being treated at hospitals on Wednesday, according to the Covid Tracking Project. That is near the peak of 59,940 on April 15, when the center of the outbreak was New York. Experts have warned that the data likely undercounts both cases and deaths.And 59,628 people were being treated at hospitals on Wednesday, according to the Covid Tracking Project. That is near the peak of 59,940 on April 15, when the center of the outbreak was New York. Experts have warned that the data likely undercounts both cases and deaths.
Some, including President Trump, have said that more testing explains the increase in the number of cases, but The Times has found that the recent rise in cases far outpaces a rise in testing.Some, including President Trump, have said that more testing explains the increase in the number of cases, but The Times has found that the recent rise in cases far outpaces a rise in testing.
After warning on Tuesday the virus would get “worse before it gets better,” Mr. Trump shifted back on Wednesday to saying that virus testing was “overrated” and “makes us look bad.” He accused Democrats of sounding the alarm over the virus for political reasons.After warning on Tuesday the virus would get “worse before it gets better,” Mr. Trump shifted back on Wednesday to saying that virus testing was “overrated” and “makes us look bad.” He accused Democrats of sounding the alarm over the virus for political reasons.
“Watch,” Mr. Trump said, “on Nov. 4, everything will open up.”“Watch,” Mr. Trump said, “on Nov. 4, everything will open up.”
The 1,130 deaths announced on Wednesday across the United States were the highest single-day death total since May 29, with the exception of two anomalous days in June when large numbers of deaths from unknown dates were reported.The 1,130 deaths announced on Wednesday across the United States were the highest single-day death total since May 29, with the exception of two anomalous days in June when large numbers of deaths from unknown dates were reported.
In Texas, which recorded 201 deaths on Wednesday, a steady climb in daily death tolls has matched a similar increase in reported cases.In Texas, which recorded 201 deaths on Wednesday, a steady climb in daily death tolls has matched a similar increase in reported cases.
California recorded at least 155 deaths and 12,162 cases on Wednesday, both records. With more than 422,000 cases, the state has now reported more cases than New York, the early center of the pandemic in the United States.California recorded at least 155 deaths and 12,162 cases on Wednesday, both records. With more than 422,000 cases, the state has now reported more cases than New York, the early center of the pandemic in the United States.
Louisiana, which is in the middle of its second case surge of the pandemic, surpassed New York as the state with the most known cases per capita in the country, though testing was scarce when cases peaked in New York this spring.Louisiana, which is in the middle of its second case surge of the pandemic, surpassed New York as the state with the most known cases per capita in the country, though testing was scarce when cases peaked in New York this spring.
On Thursday, Florida reported 173 deaths, setting its single-day record for coronavirus deaths. The state also recorded more than 10,240 cases.On Thursday, Florida reported 173 deaths, setting its single-day record for coronavirus deaths. The state also recorded more than 10,240 cases.
They worked and lived together at a Michigan convent, some for more than a half century. In the end, 13 Catholic nuns, ranging in age from 69 to 99, would also die in the same way, of Covid-19 and its effects — 12 of them within a month of one another, according to their order.They worked and lived together at a Michigan convent, some for more than a half century. In the end, 13 Catholic nuns, ranging in age from 69 to 99, would also die in the same way, of Covid-19 and its effects — 12 of them within a month of one another, according to their order.
The virus, which preys on the elderly and thrives anywhere people are in close contact, may have posed a particular danger to the sisters, who live communally at the Convent of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in Livonia, Mich.The virus, which preys on the elderly and thrives anywhere people are in close contact, may have posed a particular danger to the sisters, who live communally at the Convent of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in Livonia, Mich.
The deaths cut deep in the communities where the sisters worked in schools, libraries and the medical field, their order, the Felician Sisters, said in a statement.The deaths cut deep in the communities where the sisters worked in schools, libraries and the medical field, their order, the Felician Sisters, said in a statement.
For example, Sister Celine Marie Lesinski, who died at 92, worked for 55 years in education, including 27 years as a librarian. Sister Victoria Marie Indyk, who died at 69, was a nursing professor at Madonna University and was known for leading nurses on mission trips to support the order’s mission in Haiti.For example, Sister Celine Marie Lesinski, who died at 92, worked for 55 years in education, including 27 years as a librarian. Sister Victoria Marie Indyk, who died at 69, was a nursing professor at Madonna University and was known for leading nurses on mission trips to support the order’s mission in Haiti.
More than 6,000 people have died of the virus in nursing homes and other long-term facilities in New York State. That death toll surpasses the number of fatalities in several states, and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo has faced heated attacks from Republicans in Washington and elsewhere over his response to the crisis.More than 6,000 people have died of the virus in nursing homes and other long-term facilities in New York State. That death toll surpasses the number of fatalities in several states, and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo has faced heated attacks from Republicans in Washington and elsewhere over his response to the crisis.
Mr. Cuomo has returned fire, accusing his foes of politicizing a human tragedy and arguing that the blame for the number of deaths lay with infected health care workers, not his own policies.Mr. Cuomo has returned fire, accusing his foes of politicizing a human tragedy and arguing that the blame for the number of deaths lay with infected health care workers, not his own policies.
The death toll has also drawn questions from Mr. Cuomo’s fellow Democrats, who rule the State Legislature and have scheduled hearings on the issue next month.The death toll has also drawn questions from Mr. Cuomo’s fellow Democrats, who rule the State Legislature and have scheduled hearings on the issue next month.
The tension and pain surrounding the topic have bled into the debate over a related bill that is expected to be passed on Thursday by the Legislature.The tension and pain surrounding the topic have bled into the debate over a related bill that is expected to be passed on Thursday by the Legislature.
The bill was initially devised to void a last-minute provision buried into the state budget just before it passed in early April. The provision gave nursing homes and hospitals broad immunity from lawsuits stemming from their failure to protect residents from death or sickness caused by the coronavirus.The bill was initially devised to void a last-minute provision buried into the state budget just before it passed in early April. The provision gave nursing homes and hospitals broad immunity from lawsuits stemming from their failure to protect residents from death or sickness caused by the coronavirus.
The current bill opposing that provision is far weaker than the original effort, with the immunity merely narrowed.The current bill opposing that provision is far weaker than the original effort, with the immunity merely narrowed.
“This is just a first step,” said the bill’s lead sponsor, Assemblyman Ron Kim, of Queens, where nearly 1,000 nursing-home residents died. “We’re coming back after the hearings to see how we can provide retroactive justice for anyone who feels like they’ve been wronged.”“This is just a first step,” said the bill’s lead sponsor, Assemblyman Ron Kim, of Queens, where nearly 1,000 nursing-home residents died. “We’re coming back after the hearings to see how we can provide retroactive justice for anyone who feels like they’ve been wronged.”
Having multiple jobs has become business as usual for millions of Americans. But many cobbled-together employment arrangements, which enabled people to get by when the jobless rate skimmed along at record lows, collapsed after the pandemic froze large sectors of the economy.Having multiple jobs has become business as usual for millions of Americans. But many cobbled-together employment arrangements, which enabled people to get by when the jobless rate skimmed along at record lows, collapsed after the pandemic froze large sectors of the economy.
People who rely on paychecks from different employers are already more likely to have shifting schedules and unpredictable weekly paychecks, low hourly wages and the absence of benefits like sick days and health insurance. And when hard times hit, they are excluded from regular state unemployment benefits.People who rely on paychecks from different employers are already more likely to have shifting schedules and unpredictable weekly paychecks, low hourly wages and the absence of benefits like sick days and health insurance. And when hard times hit, they are excluded from regular state unemployment benefits.
The latest government unemployment figures will be released Thursday. For 17 straight weeks, there have been more than one million new jobless claims, and this morning’s tally is expected to extend that streak. The question is whether the number of claims will grow as lockdown restrictions have been put back in place to stop the virus’s spread.The latest government unemployment figures will be released Thursday. For 17 straight weeks, there have been more than one million new jobless claims, and this morning’s tally is expected to extend that streak. The question is whether the number of claims will grow as lockdown restrictions have been put back in place to stop the virus’s spread.
When economic shutdowns began rolling through the country, Congress focused on the existing unemployment insurance system as the primary vehicle for assistance. Lawmakers moved quickly to fill in some of the holes and created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, a temporary benefit for the ranks of freelancers and part-timers, as well as contract, self-employed and gig workers, who are ineligible for normal state benefits.When economic shutdowns began rolling through the country, Congress focused on the existing unemployment insurance system as the primary vehicle for assistance. Lawmakers moved quickly to fill in some of the holes and created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, a temporary benefit for the ranks of freelancers and part-timers, as well as contract, self-employed and gig workers, who are ineligible for normal state benefits.
The emergency federal program, which expires at the end of the year, provided a lifeline for millions of people, but it has struggled with a slow rollout and complicated rules, as well as overburdened administrators and computers. Organized fraud has further bedeviled the process.The emergency federal program, which expires at the end of the year, provided a lifeline for millions of people, but it has struggled with a slow rollout and complicated rules, as well as overburdened administrators and computers. Organized fraud has further bedeviled the process.
In most states, regular state benefits replace less than half of lost wages, and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefit is half of that average state benefit. What’s more, there are at least 20 million people unemployed but only five million job openings.In most states, regular state benefits replace less than half of lost wages, and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefit is half of that average state benefit. What’s more, there are at least 20 million people unemployed but only five million job openings.
China’s National Health Commission issued new safety guidelines on Thursday for the country’s meat processors, citing coronavirus outbreaks at plants in the United States, Germany and Britain, and the high risks of transmission in enclosed, crowded processing plants.China’s National Health Commission issued new safety guidelines on Thursday for the country’s meat processors, citing coronavirus outbreaks at plants in the United States, Germany and Britain, and the high risks of transmission in enclosed, crowded processing plants.
All imported meat must be certified as having passed nucleic acid tests that check for the virus before it is processed in the country, according to the guidelines. Environmental samples must be collected daily at facilities in medium- and high-risk regions and weekly in low-risk areas.All imported meat must be certified as having passed nucleic acid tests that check for the virus before it is processed in the country, according to the guidelines. Environmental samples must be collected daily at facilities in medium- and high-risk regions and weekly in low-risk areas.
China recently halted imports from a range of overseas suppliers because of virus concerns, including Tyson in the U.S., Tönnies in Germany and three Ecuadorean seafood companies. A worker at a seafood processing plant in the northeastern city of Dalian tested positive for the virus on Wednesday, Chinese state media reported.China recently halted imports from a range of overseas suppliers because of virus concerns, including Tyson in the U.S., Tönnies in Germany and three Ecuadorean seafood companies. A worker at a seafood processing plant in the northeastern city of Dalian tested positive for the virus on Wednesday, Chinese state media reported.
China’s health authorities recorded 22 new confirmed cases on Thursday, including 18 cases in the northwestern region of Xinjiang.China’s health authorities recorded 22 new confirmed cases on Thursday, including 18 cases in the northwestern region of Xinjiang.
The surge of coronavirus cases could be slowed if the world’s poorest people receive a temporary basic income, enabling them to stay at home, according to a United Nations report released on Thursday.The surge of coronavirus cases could be slowed if the world’s poorest people receive a temporary basic income, enabling them to stay at home, according to a United Nations report released on Thursday.
The pandemic is spreading by more than 1.5 million new virus cases a week, but in some places it may not be possible for workers to take measures like isolating. In developing countries, seven out of 10 workers can’t earn money if they are at home, according to the United Nations Development Program report, “Temporary Basic Income: Protecting Poor and Vulnerable People in Developing Countries.”The pandemic is spreading by more than 1.5 million new virus cases a week, but in some places it may not be possible for workers to take measures like isolating. In developing countries, seven out of 10 workers can’t earn money if they are at home, according to the United Nations Development Program report, “Temporary Basic Income: Protecting Poor and Vulnerable People in Developing Countries.”
It would cost at least $199 billion a month to provide fixed-term basic income to 2.7 billion people in 132 developing countries, the report said, allowing these people to pay for their food, and health and education expenses.It would cost at least $199 billion a month to provide fixed-term basic income to 2.7 billion people in 132 developing countries, the report said, allowing these people to pay for their food, and health and education expenses.
Achim Steiner, administrator of the United Nations Development Program, said the introduction of a temporary basic income might have seemed impossible a few months ago, but “unprecedented times call for unprecedented social and economic measures.”Achim Steiner, administrator of the United Nations Development Program, said the introduction of a temporary basic income might have seemed impossible a few months ago, but “unprecedented times call for unprecedented social and economic measures.”
“Bailouts and recovery plans cannot only focus on big markets and big business,” he said in a statement.“Bailouts and recovery plans cannot only focus on big markets and big business,” he said in a statement.
Adding that up to 100 million more people have so far been forced into extreme poverty this year, the report suggested that countries could pay for this measure by repurposing the funds they would use to service their debt.Adding that up to 100 million more people have so far been forced into extreme poverty this year, the report suggested that countries could pay for this measure by repurposing the funds they would use to service their debt.
Two cafeterias used by White House staff members were closed, and contact tracing was conducted, after an employee tested positive for the coronavirus, a Trump administration official said on Wednesday.Two cafeterias used by White House staff members were closed, and contact tracing was conducted, after an employee tested positive for the coronavirus, a Trump administration official said on Wednesday.
The cafeterias are in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building and the New Executive Office Building, which are part of the White House complex and are next to the West Wing.The cafeterias are in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building and the New Executive Office Building, which are part of the White House complex and are next to the West Wing.
It was not immediately clear whether the employee was a cafeteria worker, and the White House did not say what kind of symptoms the person showed.It was not immediately clear whether the employee was a cafeteria worker, and the White House did not say what kind of symptoms the person showed.
The White House notified employees about measures in an email and said that there was no need for them to self-quarantine, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to speak publicly about the situation.The White House notified employees about measures in an email and said that there was no need for them to self-quarantine, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to speak publicly about the situation.
In May, a military aide who had contact with President Trump tested positive for the virus, as did Katie Miller, the press secretary for Vice President Mike Pence.In May, a military aide who had contact with President Trump tested positive for the virus, as did Katie Miller, the press secretary for Vice President Mike Pence.
Texas Republicans have long sparred with one another, with feisty internal disputes over gun rights, bathroom bills and other culture-war issues. But since the spring, as the coronavirus began to take hold across the state, it has been an all-out battle of red versus red.Texas Republicans have long sparred with one another, with feisty internal disputes over gun rights, bathroom bills and other culture-war issues. But since the spring, as the coronavirus began to take hold across the state, it has been an all-out battle of red versus red.
This month, Republican groups in eight counties censured the governor, a Republican, after he issued a statewide mask order, saying that it infringed on their rights, a stunning rebuke for a politician who until now has been the most popular Republican in the state. This also made Greg Abbott the first Republican governor of Texas in modern times to be officially reprimanded by a group of Republican county leaders.This month, Republican groups in eight counties censured the governor, a Republican, after he issued a statewide mask order, saying that it infringed on their rights, a stunning rebuke for a politician who until now has been the most popular Republican in the state. This also made Greg Abbott the first Republican governor of Texas in modern times to be officially reprimanded by a group of Republican county leaders.
As Texas has become one of the largest coronavirus hot spots in the country, Mr. Abbott has struggled to find the best approach to control it. Some Republicans have urged him to go faster in reopening businesses, and have pushed him to keep them open despite the recent increase in cases in the state. At the same time, many public health officials and Democratic leaders have pushed him to do more to stop the rising tide of infections, hospitalizations and deaths from the virus across the state.As Texas has become one of the largest coronavirus hot spots in the country, Mr. Abbott has struggled to find the best approach to control it. Some Republicans have urged him to go faster in reopening businesses, and have pushed him to keep them open despite the recent increase in cases in the state. At the same time, many public health officials and Democratic leaders have pushed him to do more to stop the rising tide of infections, hospitalizations and deaths from the virus across the state.
After cases related to bars began to spike, Mr. Abbott ordered them closed in late June. For weeks, he said the government should not mandate mask-wearing, but then he reversed course before the Fourth of July weekend and put in place an order for most Texans to wear face coverings in public.After cases related to bars began to spike, Mr. Abbott ordered them closed in late June. For weeks, he said the government should not mandate mask-wearing, but then he reversed course before the Fourth of July weekend and put in place an order for most Texans to wear face coverings in public.
“There’s just a division between what politically your base is wanting you to do, and what is the right thing to do,” said Mari Woodlief, a Republican political consultant in Dallas. “He did the right thing, but it was not what his base wanted him to do.”“There’s just a division between what politically your base is wanting you to do, and what is the right thing to do,” said Mari Woodlief, a Republican political consultant in Dallas. “He did the right thing, but it was not what his base wanted him to do.”
After more than three months of slow declines, the number of people filing new claims for state unemployment benefits in the United States rose last week. The Labor Department reported Thursday another 1.4 million new state applications.After more than three months of slow declines, the number of people filing new claims for state unemployment benefits in the United States rose last week. The Labor Department reported Thursday another 1.4 million new state applications.
The spike comes just days before an extra $600-a-week jobless benefit is set to expire.The spike comes just days before an extra $600-a-week jobless benefit is set to expire.
An additional 975,000 claims were filed by freelancers, part-time workers and others who do not qualify for regular state jobless aid but are eligible for benefits under an emergency federal program, the Labor Department announced. Unlike the state figures, that number is not seasonally adjusted.An additional 975,000 claims were filed by freelancers, part-time workers and others who do not qualify for regular state jobless aid but are eligible for benefits under an emergency federal program, the Labor Department announced. Unlike the state figures, that number is not seasonally adjusted.
The stubbornly high rate of new weekly claims more than four months into the pandemic “suggests that the nature of the downturn has changed from early on,” said Ernie Tedeschi, a policy economist at Evercore ISI. It may mean that businesses are shutting down again as cases surge in some places, or that funds from emergency small business loans through the Paycheck Protection Program are running out, he said — or worse, something more fundamental.The stubbornly high rate of new weekly claims more than four months into the pandemic “suggests that the nature of the downturn has changed from early on,” said Ernie Tedeschi, a policy economist at Evercore ISI. It may mean that businesses are shutting down again as cases surge in some places, or that funds from emergency small business loans through the Paycheck Protection Program are running out, he said — or worse, something more fundamental.
“It might be that businesses are running through their first line of credit,” he said, “and now they’re facing the music of an economy that has recovered a little bit but not nearly enough.”“It might be that businesses are running through their first line of credit,” he said, “and now they’re facing the music of an economy that has recovered a little bit but not nearly enough.”
During the worst of the Great Recession in 2008-9, the weekly number of claims never exceeded 700,000. Since mid-March, new state unemployment applications have yet to fall below a million.During the worst of the Great Recession in 2008-9, the weekly number of claims never exceeded 700,000. Since mid-March, new state unemployment applications have yet to fall below a million.
Congressional lawmakers and the White House are negotiating a roughly $1 trillion relief package that would include extending some benefits for unemployed workers.Congressional lawmakers and the White House are negotiating a roughly $1 trillion relief package that would include extending some benefits for unemployed workers.
NEW YORK ROUNDUPNEW YORK ROUNDUP
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York again warned on Thursday of rising cases among younger people. Though most of the state’s cases were being diagnosed in older residents, the share of those found in 21- to 30-year-olds increased to 13.2 percent from 9.9 percent over the last two weeks, he said. The U.S. outbreak has more recently seen an increase in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s who are testing positive.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York again warned on Thursday of rising cases among younger people. Though most of the state’s cases were being diagnosed in older residents, the share of those found in 21- to 30-year-olds increased to 13.2 percent from 9.9 percent over the last two weeks, he said. The U.S. outbreak has more recently seen an increase in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s who are testing positive.
The governor attributed the state’s spike in part to the number of younger people gathering to socialize, including attending parties and drinking at restaurants and bars. On Tuesday, the state’s liquor authority issued new guidance requiring bars and restaurants to serve “a substantial item” with alcohol — not a bag of chips or pretzels, as some establishments had been doing.The governor attributed the state’s spike in part to the number of younger people gathering to socialize, including attending parties and drinking at restaurants and bars. On Tuesday, the state’s liquor authority issued new guidance requiring bars and restaurants to serve “a substantial item” with alcohol — not a bag of chips or pretzels, as some establishments had been doing.
“This is not the time to fight for your right to party,” Mr. Cuomo said.“This is not the time to fight for your right to party,” Mr. Cuomo said.
Elsewhere in New York:Elsewhere in New York:
In New York City, the mayor said Thursday that eight public swimming pools are scheduled to open Friday, with seven more next week. There will be social distancing measures to prevent overcrowding in locker rooms and to ensure visitors are wearing face coverings when not inside the pool.In New York City, the mayor said Thursday that eight public swimming pools are scheduled to open Friday, with seven more next week. There will be social distancing measures to prevent overcrowding in locker rooms and to ensure visitors are wearing face coverings when not inside the pool.
More than 6,000 people have died of the virus in nursing homes and other long-term facilities across the state. That death toll surpasses the number of fatalities in several states, and the governor has faced heated attacks from Republicans in Washington and elsewhere over his response to the crisis. The tension and pain surrounding the issue bled into the debate over a related bill that was passed on Thursday by the Legislature.More than 6,000 people have died of the virus in nursing homes and other long-term facilities across the state. That death toll surpasses the number of fatalities in several states, and the governor has faced heated attacks from Republicans in Washington and elsewhere over his response to the crisis. The tension and pain surrounding the issue bled into the debate over a related bill that was passed on Thursday by the Legislature.
Reporting was contributed by Peter Baker, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Julia Calderone, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Keith Collins, Matthew Conlen, Michael Cooper, Julia Echikson, Nicholas Fandos, Manny Fernandez, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Gillian Friedman, Lazaro Gamio, Kit Gillet, Michael Gold, Joseph Goldstein, Matthew Goldstein, J. David Goodman, Maggie Haberman, Christine Hauser, Josh Keller, Juliana Kim, Tyler Kepner, Iliana Magra, Sapna Maheshwari, Patricia Mazzei, Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio, Jesse McKinley, Sarah Mervosh, Raphael Minder, Azi Paybarah, Katie Rogers, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley, Katie Thomas, Lucy Tompkins, Alexander Villegas, Daniel Victor, Neil Vigdor, James Wagner, David Waldstein, Allyson Waller, Katherine J. Wu, Elaine Yu and Jeanna Smialek.Reporting was contributed by Peter Baker, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Julia Calderone, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Keith Collins, Matthew Conlen, Michael Cooper, Julia Echikson, Nicholas Fandos, Manny Fernandez, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Gillian Friedman, Lazaro Gamio, Kit Gillet, Michael Gold, Joseph Goldstein, Matthew Goldstein, J. David Goodman, Maggie Haberman, Christine Hauser, Josh Keller, Juliana Kim, Tyler Kepner, Iliana Magra, Sapna Maheshwari, Patricia Mazzei, Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio, Jesse McKinley, Sarah Mervosh, Raphael Minder, Azi Paybarah, Katie Rogers, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley, Katie Thomas, Lucy Tompkins, Alexander Villegas, Daniel Victor, Neil Vigdor, James Wagner, David Waldstein, Allyson Waller, Katherine J. Wu, Elaine Yu and Jeanna Smialek.