Coronavirus Outbreak Highlights: 45-yr-old woman becomes first COVID-19 patient in Tripura; ICMR says over one lakh samples tested

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

One doctor, 11 nurses in Delhi State Cancer Institute tests positive for COVID-19

One more doctor and 11 nursing officers of Delhi State Cancer Institute have tested positive for COVID-19. A total of two doctors and 16 nursing officers of the Institute have tested positive till now, ANI reported.

Coronavirus in Himachal Pradesh Latest Updates

Four new COVID-19 cases reported in Himachal Pradesh today

Four new positive cases of coronavirus were reported in Himachal Pradesh on Monday, taking  the total number of positive cases in the state to 18, said RD Dhiman, Aditional Chief Secretary Health Department, Himachal Pradesh.

Coronavirus in France Latest Updates

France reports 833 new COVID-19 deaths

France on Monday reported 833 new coronavirus deaths, bringing total toll to 8,911, AFP reported.

Coronavirus in UK Latest Updates

Boris Johnson still admitted to hospital as ‘precautionary measure’

UK prime minister Boris Johnson was admitted to a hospital with “persistent symptoms”, including a fever, on Sunday evening, BBC reported. Johnson tested positive for coronavirus at least a week ago. The report said that the admission to a hospital was a “precautionary measure” and that he continues to remain in charge of the UK government.

Earlier on Monday Johnson tweeted about the development.

Last night, on the advice of my doctor, I went into hospital for some routine tests as I’m still experiencing coronavirus symptoms. I’m in good spirits and keeping in touch with my team, as we work together to fight this virus and keep everyone safe.

— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Pinarayi Vijayan writes to Uddhav Thackeray over ‘plight of nurses’ in Mumbai

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan writes to Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray,“I’d like to draw your attention to a situation which has been reported to us regarding plight of nurses in Mumbai.They’re requesting necessary steps be taken to provide PPE and separate accommodation to employees COVID19 positive”.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan writes to Maharashtra CM,"I'd like to draw your attention to a situation which has been reported to us regarding plight of nurses in Mumbai.They're requesting necessary steps be taken to provide PPE&separate accommodation to employees COVID19 positive". pic.twitter.com/HE33a51yUO

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Microbiologist advises against use of Ivermectin

A lot of press on Ivermectin, a head-lice drug with potential activity against the novel coronavirus.

Problems/caveats:
1. Work is in vitro only, in cell lines, not in people
2. Very high singe dose at concentration of 5 uM
3. Unknown toxicity profile
4. Unknown mode of action pic.twitter.com/UHvQOwDfqv

— A.M. (@bhalomanush) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in UK Latest Updates

UK coronavirus toll increases by 439 to 5,373

The United Kingdom coronavirus death toll rose by 439 to 5,373 people as of 1600 GMT on April 5, the health ministry said on Monday.

As of 0800 GMT on April 6, a total of 208,837 people had been tested of which 51,608 were positive, it said.

(Reuters)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Jaslok Hospital suspends OPD department after patient tests positive for COVID-19

A statement released by Mumbai’s Jaslok Hospital said, “The patient who was admitted in the hospital for different illness, with no travel history was tested positive about few days back and we had sensed the need to make diligent checks amongst staff & patients starting then, to ensure safety. In continuation to the precautionary measure, the hospital has suspended its OPD services and elective admissions temporarily only to plan alternatively for a situation like this to be avoided in near future. We have assured the authorities that we will resume right after all measures to eradicate suspect are taken.”

Coronavirus in Tripura Latest Updates

Tripura reports first COVID-19 case

The first COVID-19 positive case was reported in Tripura on Monday, reports said. A 45-year-old woman is reportedly the patient and is admitted in the Agartala Government Medical College hospital. She is from the Gomati district

Alert!

First #COVID19 positive case detected at Tripura. The patient is from Udaipur.

Don't Panic, we are taking proper care of the patient.

Stay Home Stay Safe.

Update at: 8PM / April 6

— Biplab Kumar Deb (@BjpBiplab) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

ANI issues apology for report on Telangana lockdown extention

One of ANI’s editor Ishaan Prakash apologised for the news agency’s inaccurate report on Telangana government’s decision on extending the lockdown in the state.

Earlier, the report said that Telangana chief minister KCR had announed that the nationwide lockdown would be extended till 3 June. Later, they clarified that that KCR had only suggested an extention.

It was a suggestion for an extension not an announcement. Terrible error on our part, sorry all. https://t.co/GOev6JC4re

— ishaan prakash (@ishaan_ANI) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

ICMR says over one lakh samples tested

A total of 1,01,068 samples have been tested till 9 pm on 6 Aprill , ICMR said.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates

63 new COVID-19 cases reported in Madhya Pradesh

Sixty-three new positive coronavirus cases were reported in Madhya Pradesh on Monday including 43 in Bhopal, 16 in Indore, one each in Betul, Vidisha and Ujjain and one more in another district, taking the total number of cases in the state to 256, said Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, Health Commissioner, Madhya Pradesh.

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

32-yr-old tests positive for COVID-19 in Odisha

One 32-year-old man from Odisha’s Kendrapada who had returned from  Dubai on 24 March is confirmed positive for COVID-19.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Tea seller near Thackeray residence tests positive for COVID-19

A vendor who sells tea near ‘Matoshree’, the private residence of Maharashtra chief minster Uddhav Thackeray in suburban Bandra, has been found positive for novel coronavirus infection, a civic body official said on Monday.

As a precautionary measure, the BMC has sprayed disinfectants in the area.

“The vendor run a tea stall in the locality. After he was found positive, contact tracking is going on,” he said.

(PTI)

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Updates

Goa govt to conduct health survey from 11 to 13 April

Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant said that an extensive survey is scheduled to be conducted from 11 to 13 April.

“The health survey will map the travel history of people and check whether anyone is having symptoms like that of COVID-19. Our government servants including teachers and anganwadi workers will visit every house booth-wise. By engaging 7,000 to 8,000 government servants, survey would be conducted on three days.”

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

15 places in Gujarat cluster quarantined, 2 more COVID-19 reported

Gujarat principal secretary Jayanti Ravi said that two more coronavirus positive cases have been detected in Surat, taking the total number of cases in the state to 146. Additionally, 87 cases in the state are of local transmission.

She added that a total of 15 places in Gujarat are cluster quarantined — three places in Surat, two in Vadodara, two in Bhavnagar and eight in Ahmedabad.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Pregnant woman in Mumbai passes away, state toll at 52

A 38-year-old pregnant woman from Mumbai’s Nalasopara who tested positive for coronavirus, passed away on Monday at Nair House, the Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation was quoted as saying by ANI.

Meanwhile, the state health department said that 120 new COVID-19 positive cases and seven deaths were reported in the state on Monday, taking the total number of positive cases in Maharashtra to 868, with 52 deaths.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MPs across party lines come together to form national action group over COVID-19

Members of Parliament across parties have come together with public health experts to form a ’national action group’ to “generate concrete and scalable solutions” to tackle the effect of the pandemic, The Indian Express reported.

“The MPs include GVL Narsimha Rao (BJP), Jamyang Tshering Namgyal (BJP), Manish Tewari (Congress), Danish Ali (BSP), Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shiv Sena), Mahau Moitra (TMC), Varun Gandhi (BJP) among others,” the report said.

Coronavirus Pandemic Latest Updates

No extension of lockdown in Telangana yet, ANI quotes CMO

In a clarification of the report that the Telangana government was planning to extend the lockdown in the state, ANI quoted the Telangana Chief Minister’s Office as saying that Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao only suggested extension of lockdown for two more weeks after 15 April.

“He took a reference from BCG report which suggested lockdown in India will be good until 3 June. No announcement of extension yet,” the report said.

Earlier, ANI reported that the Telangana government had announced an extension of the lockdown.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

Over 25,000 people under quarantine in Telangana

Telangana chief minister KC Rao said that as of Monday, 25,937 people have been under quarantine, who are all people who have come from abroad.

“There are 308 active positive cases in state now. There are 172 positive cases who have attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi event and through them another 93 people got the virus,” he said.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

Lockdown to continue in Telangana till 3 June

Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao has announced that the lockdown over coronavirus shall continue in the state after 14 April till 3 June.

The 21-day day lockdown as a measure to curb the spread of coronavirus in the country was imposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 24 March and is bound to end on 14 April.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Railways sets up three COVID-19 hospitals in Karnataka

The South Western Railways on Monday said that three fully funcitonal hospitals for COVID-19 treatment had been set up in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubli.

1. At Divisional Railway Hospital in Bengaluru, a 50-bedded hospital with six ICU beds, has become fully operational for those tested positive for COVID-19

2. At Divisional Railway Hospital in Mysuru, 74 beds out of 101 beds are earmarked for COVID-19 patients, with six HDU (High Dependency Unit) beds, six monitors, two ventilators and other essential equipment for emergencies.

3. Central Hospital in Hubli is a 150 bedded hospital, of which 30 bedded isolation block has been earmarked for COVID-19 patients. The 30-bedded isolation block is prepared with eight bedded ICU, four ventilators, six multi-para monitors, Defibrillator, infusion pumps.

Coronavirus in China Latest Updates

China faces new wave of coronavirus infections with rise in imported cases

China stepped up border control measures on Monday as the number of imported coronavirus cases rose sharply to 951 while the asymptomatic cases also surged, raising fears of a second wave of the COVID-19 infections, mainly from Chinese returning home from abroad despite drastic containment efforts, PTI reported.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

Kerala govt to formulate protocol to receive expats after lockdown ends

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, asserting that the state government had a “duty” to help expats, said that authorities will hold talks with people concerned and formulate a plan.

“With the lockdown ending, we will need to ensure protocols for receiving expats who come back to Kerala. The state government will formulate a policy based on the expert committee’s recommendations. We have written a letter to Foreign Minister in this regard and sought his help for expats.”

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

50 new COVID-19  cases reported in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu health secretary Beela Rajesh said that 50 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in the state on Monday, taking the total cases to 621. 48 of the new cases are connected to the Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi, 570 of the total COVID-19 cases are Tablighi Jamaat returnees.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam govt asks Tablighi Jamaat attendees to report by today evening

Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma appealed to attendees of the Tablighi Jamaat event to report their travel history to the authorities.

“If people from Assam, who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi, do not report by today evening, then legal action will be taken against them from tomorrow onwards,” he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

704 new COVID-19 cases, 28 deaths reported in last 24 hours, says Centre

There has been an increase of 704 COVID-19 cases and 28 deaths in the last 24 hours, the biggest rise so far in India, the Union health ministry said. India’s positive cases are at 4,067 (including 3,851 active cases, 318 cured/discharged/migrated people and 111 deaths).

Coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh Latest Updates

266 new COVID-19 cases reported in Andhra Pradesh since yesterday

Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy on Monday held a review of the COVID-19 situation in the state and the measures being taken to contain its spread.

“As many as 266 coronavirus positive cases have detected till 9 am on Monday. 243 of them are those who attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi and their contacts,” said Jawahar Reddy, Andhra Pradesh Medical&Health Department Special Chief Secretary.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

Kerala opens borders for people from neighbouring states  

Kerala reported 13 new COVID-19 positive cases on Monday, of which nine were reported in Kasargod district, two in Malappuram, one in Pathanamthitta and one in Kollam. The total number of positive cases in the state now stands at 327, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said.

“We have opened our borders to people from neighbouring states who require medical facilities in Kerala. 29 people from Bairakuppe in Karnataka have used medical facilities in Wayanad and 44 from Tamil Nadu,” he added.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

12 new COVID-19 cases reported in Karnataka

The Karnataka government said that as of 5 pm on Monday, 12 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of positive cases to 163 in the state. Additionally, the state has reported four deaths while 20 people have recovered.

The health bulletin said that the government is still trying to get details of whether the COVID-19 cases in Mysuru with travel history to Delhi are connected to the Tablighi Jamaat event, adding that one of the 12 new cases from Bangalore Rural attended the event and returned on 20 March.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi govt to distribute ration in 421 govt schools

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the state government will be distributing ration at 421 government schools for people who don’t have ration cards. “Each person will get 4 kilograms wheat  and one kilograms of rice. We aim to give ration to 10 lakh such people and will take more food grains from the Centre if need arises.”

He added, “We are raising the number of COVID-19 tests in Delhi. We have already placed an order for 1 lakh testing kits. 27,000 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits have been allocated to Delhi by the Central government.”

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

20 new COVID-19 cases reported in Delhi, says Kejriwal

Cases of coronavirus in Delhi rose to 532 on Monday after 20 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said. Of the new cases, 10 are attendees of the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the Nizammudin area of the National Capital.

Additionally, he said one patient had died in the last 24 hours and 25 others are on ventilators. The total number of deaths is at 7 now.

“Out of the total number of cases, 330 people are linked to Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi. Around 1,000 samples of are being tested for COVID-19 daily,” he said.

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates

29 of 90 COVID-19 patients recovered in Haryana: CM

Haryana chief minister ML Khattar said that so far there are 90 coronavirus cases in the state. Out of the 90 cases, 29 persons have recovered and one person has passed away.: Haryana CM ML Khattar

Coronavirus in Nepal Latest Updates

Nepal extends lockdown till 15 April

The Nepal government has decided to extend the lockdown over coronavirus in the country till 15 April. Earlier, the lockdown was ordered to be imposed in Nepal till 7 April.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

COVID-19 cases rise to 109 in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir principal secretary Rohit Kansal said that a total of 109 coronavirus cases have been reported in the union territory, with three new cases reported in Kashmir. He also said that 85 of the 103 active cases are in Kashmir and 18 are in Jammu.

ANI reported that a disinfection tunnel has been installed at the entrance of Government Medical College in Jammu.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu will donate 30 percent of his salary for the next one year towards the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Mumbai Police appeal for Tablighi Jamaat attendees to report travel details

The Mumbai Police and Commissioner of Police tweeted on Monday calling for people who attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi’s Nizammudin on 13 March to report their travel history by calling the BMC’s helpline.

The Tablighi Jamaat event was attended by more than 2,000 people from all over the country and abroad, and has emerged as one of the major hotspots of coronavirus in the country after several people in various states tested positive for the infection.

We request all attendees of Tablighi Markaz at Nizamuddin, New Delhi to report their travel details on @mybmc helpline 1916 & help us in our fight against this pandemic.
Those failing to cooperate will face strict action under IPC, DM Act & Epidemic Act.#TakingOnCorona

— मुंबई पोलीस - Mumbai Police (@MumbaiPolice) April 6, 2020

It’s our request and your responsibility to report your travel details on 1916, the @mybmc helpline, if you attended Tablighi Markaz at Nizamuddin, New Delhi
Those failing to cooperate will face strict action under IPC, DM Act & Epidemic Act.#TakingOnCorona

— पोलीस आयुक्त, बृहन्मुंबई - CP Mumbai Police (@CPMumbaiPolice) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Europe Latest Updates

Coronavirus kills more than 50,000 in Europe, reports AFP

The coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 50,000 people in Europe, mostly in Italy, Spain, France and Britain, according to an AFP tally using official figures on Monday. With a total of 50,209 deaths, Europe is the continent with the most COVID-19 fatalities, out of 675,580 declared cases, the report said.

Hardest-hit Italy has 15,877 deaths and Spain 13,055. France has reported 8,078 fatalities while Britain has 4,934.

Coronavirus Pandemic Latest Updates

Information of WHO protocol on lockdown is fake news

The WHO South-East Asia, which is one of the regional offices of the global organisation, said that it doesn’t prescibe any protocol for lockdowns in any country.

Messages being circulated on social media as WHO protocol for lockdown are baseless and FAKE.
WHO does NOT have any protocols for lockdowns. @MoHFW_INDIA @PIB_India @UNinIndia

— World Health Organization South-East Asia (@WHOSEARO) April 5, 2020

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Centre sent only 3,000 PPEs, says Mamata Banerjee

Mamata Banerjee on Monday said that only 3,000 personal protective equipment (PPE) have been sent by the Centre on Sunday. “I myself arranged 2,27,000 PPEs,” she added.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

55 of 61 COVID-19 cases in Bengal are from 7 families: CM

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said that as of 12 pm on Monday, the total number of active coronavirus cases reported in West Bengal is 61, of which 55 cases are from seven families only.

She added that the state government is setting up a policy making panel for the COVID-19 response and that Nobel laureate Abhijit Banerjee will be engaged.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

42 doctors, 50 staff members put under quarantine in Pune hospital

Jitendra Bhawalkar, dean of the DY Patil Medical College in Pune was quoted as saying that a total of 42 doctors and 50 other medical staff of the hospital have been put under quarantine after a patient involved in an accident, who was being treated at the hospital, was found positive for coronavirus.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre says there isn’t enough hydrocholoroquine for use at community level

Union health ministry joint secretary Lav Aggarwal said, “We have allowed the use of hydroxychloroquine for healthcare workers dealing with COVID-19 patients or high risk contacts of the patients though there is limited evidence of its efficacy. There is not sufficient evidence to use it at community level.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

ICMR orders 5 lakh testing kits

ICMR’s R Gangakhedkar said that an order has been placed for 5 lakh testing kits for the novel coronavirus. He added that 2.5 lakhs kits to be delivered between 8 and 9 April.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Over 25,000 Tablighi Jamaat workers quarantined, says MHA

Home affairs ministry joint secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said that the Centre has quarantined over 25,000 Tablighi Jamaat workers and their contacts. She added that five villages in Haryana have been sealed.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Shein India donates 1 lakh surgical face masks to support Mumbai hospitals

Online fashion brand, Shein India, in association with Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital has pledged to donate 1,00,000 three-ply surgical masks for the safety and health of the medical staff on the frontline of the pandemic.

The surgical masks were handed over to the Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital on 4 April (Saturday). It will be further distributed to healthcare officials and workers as per their medical requirements.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

COVID-19 deaths in India stand at 109, says Centre

The number of COVID-19 deaths stand at 109, with 30 people succumbing to it on Sunday, the Union health ministry said. The statement added that 63 percent of the deaths have been reported among people over 60 years age, 30 percent in age bracket of 40 to 60 years and 7 percent victims were below 40 years age.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Railways have transported sugar, salt, oil across country in 13 days

Health ministry joint secretary Lav Aggarwal said that in the last 13 days, Indian Railways transported sugar through 1,340 wagons, salt through 958 wagons and edible oil through 316 wagons/tanks, to different parts of the country, amid the lockdown over coronavirus.

“During the lockdown over coronavirus, 16.94 lakh metric tonnes of food grains have been transported across India till now. In 13 states, 1.3 lakh metric tonnes of wheat and in eight states, 1.32 lakh metric tonnes of rice have been allotted.

“Rs 1,100 crores have already been released from National Health Mission Funds for the states. Also an additional amount of Rs 3,000 crores has been released today,” he said.

Coronavirus in Himachal Pradesh Latest Updates

Attempt to murder charge for COVID-19 patient who ‘spit on someone’

“If a coronavirus positive person spits on any person, then, he/she will be charged with attempt to murder. If the person who has been spat upon dies, the coronavirus positive person will be charged with murder,” said Himachal Pradesh DGP SR Mardi.

Coronavirus in Himachal Pradesh Latest Updates

One more Tablighi event returnee tests positive in Himachal Pradesh

The Himachal Pradesh Police on Monday said that one more local attendee of the Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi has tested positive in the hilly state, and advised those who travelled from Delhi in state transport buses on 18 March and 4 pm and 9.30 pm, to self quarantine themselves after three other patients had taken the same route.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre says 693 new COVID-19 cases reported in 24 hours

The health ministry on Monday said that 693 new coronavirus cases have been reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total number to 4,067 in India out of which 1,445 cases are related to Tablighi Jamaat congregation held in Delhi on 13 March.

“76 percent cases have been reported in men and 24 percent in women,” said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi says farmers should be assissted during harvest season

In a statement about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual meeting with Union ministers over COVID-19 on Monday, the PMO said, “PM said that government would provide all possible help to farmers in harvesting season. He suggested harnessing technology and encouraging exploration of innovative solutions like using ‘truck aggregators’ to connect farmers with mandis, on the lines of app-based cab services.

“Stating that lockdown measures and social distancing must go hand in hand, PM said that it’s essential to strategize for emergent conditions once lockdown ends. He asked Ministers to prepare a list of 10 major decisions and 10 priority areas of focus once lockdown ends.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi speaks to Union ministers over COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday interacted with the Union ministers via video conference, the Prime Minister’s Office said. Modi “approved of the leadership of the ministers and said that the continuous feedback provided by them has been effective in strategizing for tackling COVID-19.

“PM said it is imperative that leaders communicate exhaustively with the state and district administration, especially in districts which are hotspots for COVID-19 pandemic, to be apprised of the ground situation and also provide solutions to the emerging problems,” the statement said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Cabinet approves ordinance to slash MPs’ allowance, pension by 30%

The Union Cabinet on Monday approved an ordinance amending the Salary, Allowances and Pension of Members of Parliament Act, 1954, which will result in the reduction of allowances and pension of the politicians by 30 percent from 1 April, 2020 for a year.

Coronavirus in Chhattisgarh Latest Updates

9 of 10 COVID-19 patients in Chhattisgarh have recovered, says govt

Chhattisgarh health minister TS Singh Deo on Monday said that the ninth patient of coronavirus, of a total of 10, in the state has fully recovered. “So now there is only one person in Chhattisgarh who has COVID-19 and he is being looked after by a team of expert doctors, all other patients have been cured.”

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Producer Karim Morani’s daughter tests positive for COVID-19 in Mumbai

Bollywood producer Karim Morani’s daughter Shaza Morani has tested positive for coronavirus. She has been admitted to Mumbai’s Nanavati Hospital. Karim Morani, who has been part of films such as Ra.One and Chennai Express, had sent a text message to his friends before admitting his daughter to the hospital.

“My daughter Shaza has not mingled with any foreign travellers and had no COVID-19 symptoms at all. It is my duty to inform you as we are law-abiding citizens. We are admitting her in Nanavati Hospital to be kept under isolation. The municipal authorities will be here tomorrow at 10:30 pm,” a report in SpotboyE had quoted him as saying.

The Moranis are in self-quarantine at their Juhu residence.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

AirAsia announces free rescheduling on all flights till 31 May

AirAsia India has announced a waiver of all rescheduling fees on current and future bookings for travel until 31 May, 2020. The waiver, announced in the campaign “From A to B, we’ve got your back”, encompasses all flights on the AirAsia India domestic network across points-of-sale, encouraging guests to book even if they are concerned that their plans might change.

In view of the ongoing uncertainty, AirAsia India has extended this offer across channels. In addition, AirAsia India is offering a limited period special discount of up to 10 percent on bookings made 14 days in advance on www.airasia.com and the AirAsia India mobile app using the Promo Code FLYNOW10.

Ankur Garg, Chief Commercial Officer, AirAsia India, said “AirAsia wants to offer our customers a peace of mind where they can go ahead and make travel bookings without worrying about rescheduling charges."

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

PepsiCo India commits over 5 million meals, 25,000 COVID-19 testing kits

PepsiCo India said on Monday that along with its philanthropic arm, the PepsiCo Foundation, it has committed to provide over five million meals to support families impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.

This initiative is part of PepsiCo’s #GiveMealsGiveHope global programme, the company said in a release on Monday. The company is also extending support to the healthcare and diagnostic facilities, supplementing their efforts to combat the pandemic by providing 25,000 COVID-19 testing kits, it said.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam govt to file case against Tablighi Jamaat attendees

Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said that the government will take action against all those who had attended Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi’s Nizamuddin Markaz and test positive for COVID-19.

“As per the lists we received from Centre and local info, we’ve names of 831 people from Assam who attended the Tablighi Jamaat event. 491 samples have been collected. We’ve contacted Mosque Committees to identify remaining people and collect their samples,” said Sarma.

Coronavirus in Singapore Latest Updates

Changi Airport T2 operations to be suspended for 18 months amid outbreak

Operations at Changi Airport Terminal 2 will be suspended for 18 months from 1 May, said Singapore Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan on Monday. “We will save on running costs – for the airport operator, retail tenants, airlines and ground handlers,” Mr Khaw said in Parliament, noting that one terminal is enough to handle the current traffic at the airport.

The escalating coronavirus outbreak has resulted in demand for air travel plunging, with Changi Airport severely affected.

“Importantly, it also allows us to speed up the current upgrading works at T2 and shorten the project time by up to one year,” Mr Khaw said.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

AIIMS Delhi writes to PM over ’targeting of doctor’

Resident Doctor’s Association (RDA) of All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi on Sunday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over ’targeting of doctors for raising genuine concerns related to COVID19 preparedness'.

Resident Doctor's Association (RDA) of All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over 'targeting of doctors for raising genuine concerns related to #COVID19 preparedness'. pic.twitter.com/hEWaiaJQRz

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Update

Doctor in Surat alleges misconduct by neighbours

A woman, who works as a doctor at Surat’s Civil Hospital, accused neighbors of misconduct and recorded a video which showed a man shouting, charging at her and even trying to snatch her phone. The doctor alleged that the misconduct began when she took out her pet dog for a walk and was asked questions about her being infected by coronavirus.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

PM Modi holds virtual Cabinet meet

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a Cabinet meet through video-conferencing to discuss the coutry’s response and preparedness for the coronavirus pandemic. Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh were present in the meet.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a meeting of Council of Ministers via video conferencing. Union Home Minister Amit Shah & Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also present. pic.twitter.com/BposTFEIOS

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Update

26 confirmed cases in Assam so far

Assam’s health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma told reporters that so far the state has reported 26 confirmed coronavirus cases. “We have tested 2,000 samples till date, and the report of 165 samples is to come by this evening,” he said.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

UN chief urges countries to redress domestic violence during pandemic

With more than 1.2 million people infected with the new coronavirus, the UN chief appealed for “peace at home” — all homes — out of concern that domestic violence was rising as the social and financial toll of the pandemic deepened.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described “a horrifying global surge in domestic violence” in recent weeks. Following his call on 23 March for an immediate cease-fire in all armed conflicts, he said it was time to appeal for an end to all violence, “everywhere, now.”

“For many women and girls, the threat looms largest where they should be safest — in their own homes,” Gutteres said in his statement. “And so I make a new appeal today for peace at home — and in homes — around the world. I urge all governments to make the prevention and redress of violence against women a key part of their national response plans for COVID-19.”

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

Coronavirus patients rush to join drug testing studies

Coronavirus patients around the world have been rushing to join remdesivir studies that opened in hospitals in the last few weeks.

Interest has been so great that the US National Institutes of Health is expanding its study, which has nearly reached its initial goal of 440 patients. The drug’s maker, California-based Gilead Sciences, is quickly ramping up its own studies too.

“I would enroll my family in a heartbeat” if the need arose, said Dr Libby Hohmann. To have no approved medicines for COVID-19 now is “kind of terrifying,” she said.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Update

Sangrur district installs hand wash station on pilot basis

The district administration of Sangrur, Punjab, has set up a hand washing drying station at a local administrative complex as a pilot project.

Punjab: Sangrur district administration has set up a corona virus safety station at a local administrative complex, as a pilot project to combat #COVID19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/SUX9AOO8lC

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Maulana Saad of Tablighi Jamaat served 2nd notice

A second notice was issued to Maulana Saad, the chief of the Tablighi Jamaat Markaz, under Section 91 of the Criminal Procedure Code, Delhi Police sources told ANI.

In the first notice, Maulana Saad was asked for a reply to 26 questions. In response he submitted some documents and information to the cops, but said that given the lockdown, he does not have access to some details.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Update

12 new cases in Karnataka take state tally to 163

Twelve new confirmed cases of coronavirus were reported in Karnataka, taking the state tally to 163, including four deaths and 18 discharged. Of the 12 new cases, three have a history of travel to Delhi.

Coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh Latest Updates

Two COVID-19 deaths in Andhra Pradesh take state toll to 3

Two coronavirus deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh, taking the toll in the state due to the disease to three. The state also recorded 14 new cases since Sunday night, taking the tally to 266.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

16 fresh cases reported in Uttar Pradesh, total nears 300-mark

Sixteen people have tested positive for coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh, taking the total number of cases in the state close to 300. Six samples from Lucknow, eight from Sitapur and two samples sent from Agra have tested positive for the infection.

With the fresh cases, the total in the state reaches 294 and is likely to cross the 300-mark as more reports are expected later in the day.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Yediyurappa to give up one meal in response JP Nadda’s call for solidarity with needy people

Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa said that he would give up one meal in response to a call given by BJP president JP Nadda to party workers on its foundation day to show solidarity with people facing hardships during lockdown

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Priyanka Gandhi urges govt to increase COVID-19 tests 

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi took to Twitter to raise the importance of ramping the rate of testing for the novel coronavirus in India. “Testing not only helps us to identify the infected, its gives valuable information on the severity of the infection, disease clusters and areas that need to be immediately isolated,” said Priyanka.

“Looking at data the rate of testing in India is no where it should be. The next two weeks will determine our future. If testing is not exponentially ramped up we will lose precious time to save lives,” she added.

कोरोना वाइरस के संक्रमण को रोकने का एकमात्र रास्ता ज्यादा से ज्यादा टेस्टिंग है। तभी हम संक्रमित व्यक्ति का ट्रीटमेंट कर सकते हैं।

ज्यादा से ज्यादा टेस्ट करो, ट्रीट करो-यही हमारा मंत्र होना चाहिए।

आप सबसे मेरी गुज़ारिश है-ज्यादा टेस्टिंग के लिए आवाज उठाइए।#TestMoreSaveIndia pic.twitter.com/r8NoZZV6Xu

— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Airtel Payments Bank ties up with Bharti AXA to offer insurance products covering COVID-19

Airtel Payments Bank has partnered with Bharti AXA General Insurance, a joint venture between Bharti Enterprises, and AXA, to offer focused health insurance plans for providing financial protection against COVID-19.

With no pre-medical check-up required, both the products are currently available for Savings bank account customers of Airtel Payments Bank who are not suffering from COVID-19 or its symptoms.

Under the partnership, they have rolled out two different health insurance plans – Bharti AXA Group Health Assure which offers lump sum benefit of Rs 25,000 and Group Hospital Cash which provides daily benefit starting Rs 500 per day. The validity period of these policies is restricted to one year and will be issued on individual name basis only.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

65-year-old man, who tested positive for COVID-19 in preliminary test, died in Amritsar

A 65-year-old man, who tested COVID-19 positive in preliminary test, died on Monday morning in Amritsar. “He was admitted to a hospital on 29 March and had tested negative. COVID-19 infection has not been conclusively confirmed behind his death,” said Punjab Special Chief Secretary KBS Sidhu.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Zoos in India to monitor animals for COVID-19 symptoms 

“Zoos across India are advised to be on high alert and monitor animals 24/7 through CCTV for any symptoms/abnormal behaviour as a precautionary measure in wake of a Tiger in New York’s Bronx Zoo testing positive for COVID-19,” PTI quoted Central Zoo Authority.

A tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York City tested positive for the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus, in the first known case of a human infecting an animal and making it sick, the zoo’s chief veterinarian said on Sunday.

Nadia, the 4-year-old Malayan tiger that tested positive, was screened for the COVID-19 disease after developing a dry cough along with three other tigers and three lions, the Wildlife Conservation Society, which manages the zoo, said in a statement. All of the cats are expected to recover, it said.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates

Elton John launches COVID-19 emergency fund for people with HIV

Veteran musician Elton John has launched a $1 million coronavirus emergency fund to protect individuals with HIV. The 73-year-old singer will be making the donation through his Elton John Aids Foundation.

“Today, I’m proud to announce that my Foundation is launching a USD 1million COVID-19 Emergency Fund to make sure that our frontline partners can respond to the effects of COVID-19 on HIV care for the most marginalised communities around the world. Now and always, I’m committed to not leave anyone affected by HIV behind. Sending love to all of our Foundation’s partners, grantees, supporters, frontline workers and members of our community during this time,” John said in a video posted on Twitter.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

BJP leader in Balrampur resorts to firing in air during candlelight vigil 

District President of Bharatiya Janata Party’s woman wing in Uttar Pradesh’s Balrampur, Manju Tiwari fired shots in air on Sunday while observing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for candlelight vigil at 9 pm.

In the video which went viral on social media, Tiwari could be seen resorting to celebratory firing, flouting the norms of lockdown order.

Video of BJP Mahila Ziladhyaksh Manju Tiwari from Balrampur firing in the air fs part of #9बजे9मिनट . Video uploaded from her own ID which went viral. #bjp #IndiaFightsCoronavirus @balrampurpolice pic.twitter.com/1PBPHMMA9G

— Amil Bhatnagar (@AmilwithanL) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Unity and resolve shown during lights-off exercise in fight against COVID-19: Modi tells BJP workers

The nation experienced the strength of togetherness of 130 crore people of our country on Sunday at 9 pm, said Narendra Modi. “People from every section of society and age group demonstrated this unity and strengthened the resolve in fight against COVID-19,” said the prime minister.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India has set example in tackling COVID-19: Modi

India’s efforts have set an example before the world in tackling the coronavisus pandemic, said Narendra Modi. “India is one of the countries which understood seriousness of this disease and waged a timely war against it. India took several decisions and tried its best to implement them on ground,” said the prime minister.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Be prepared for a long and sustained fight against COVID-19: Modi

“India has worked rapidly with a holistic approach that is being appreciated by not only Indians but also WHO. All countries should come together and fight this, so India had active participation in the meeting of the SAARC countries and the G20 meeting,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi congratulates countrymen for coming together in battling COVID-19 pandemic

“This foundation day of BJP has come at a time when not only the country but also the world is going through a difficult time. Humanity is facing a crisis, our devotion to service of the country creates our path during this challenging time,” said Narendra Modi.

Narendra Modi addresses BJP workers on saffron party’s Foundation day

Addressing BJP Karyakartas. #BJPat40 https://t.co/aTZDkj3AA4

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

All life insurance companies will process COVID-19 death claims: LIC

Life Insurance Council Monday announced that all life insurers, both public and private, are committed to process any death claim pertaining to COVID-19 at the earliest.

The Council also confirmed that the clause of ‘Force Majeure’ will not apply in case of COVID-19 death claims. This step was taken to reassure customers who had reached out to individual life insurance companies seeking clarity on this clause in their contract as well as to dispel rumours to the contrary. All life insurance companies have also communicated to their customers individually in this regard.

Secretary General , Life Insurance Council, said, “The spiraling global and local impact of COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the fundamental need for life insurance in every household. The life insurance industry is taking every measure to ensure that the disruption caused to policyholders, due to the lockdown is minimal, by providing them uninterrupted support digitally, be it for honoring death claims related to COVID-19 or for servicing their policy. We reiterate that all life insurance companies stand by their customers in these difficult times and the customer should not be swayed by misinformation or misrepresentation.”

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

30 active COVID-19 cases in Bhubaneswar 

Odisha Health and Family Welfare department on Monday informed that the state capital Bhubaneswar has about 30 active coronavirus positive cases.

As the COVID-19 cases surged in the state in the last three days, the health and family welfare department informed that most infections are connected to the first cases confirmed in Surya Nagar and Bomikhal.

The department also mentioned that almost all the cases of Bomikhal involved a single family. Meanwhile, both the clusters sealed and put under active surveillance.

Bhubaneshwar has about 30 active COVID positive cases. Most of them are linked to the first cases confirmed in Surya Nagar and Bomikhal. Almost all cases of Bomikhal are from one family. Both the clusters sealed and put under active surveillance. No need to panic @CMO_Odisha

— H & FW Dept Odisha (@HFWOdisha) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Mumbai’s Wockhardt Hospital declared containment zone after 26 nursing staffers, 3 doctors test positive

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has declared Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai a containment zone after 26 nurses and three doctors tested positive for the novel coronavirus over a week. 

Additional municipal commissioner Suresh Kakani said a team has been set up under the executive health officer to probe how infection spread among so many in a hospital setting. “It is unfortunate that such a big cluster of cases have come from a medical facility. They should have taken precautions,” he said.

The nurses have alleged serious infection control lapses, which the hospital has refuted. Hospital authorities claimed the staff were exposed to a cardiac patient with no history of travel or COVID-19 symptoms, who later tested positive. But nurses have circulated a letter saying two contacts of a COVID-19 patient were admitted to the general ICU, where the staff were on duty without protective gear. It was the same ICU where the cardiac patient was brought later. Both contacts had tested positive.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Yuvraj Singh donates Rs 50 lakh to PM-CARES relief fund

Former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh has offered financial support as India continues to fight its battle against the coronavirus pandemic that has taken lives of over 100 people in the country and has infected more than 4,000.

On Sunday, Yuvraj Singh donated Rs 50 lakh to the PM-Cares Fund and joined India’’s other leading sportspersons who have been making contributions to combat the coronavirus.

Coronavirus in Sinagpore Latest Updates

Singapore quarantines 20,000 migrant workers

Singapore has asked 20,000 foreign workers to stay in their dormitories for 14 days after an increase in the number of coronavirus cases. Two dormitories have been isolated – one with 13,000 workers and 63 cases, and another with 6,800 workers and 28 cases.

The workers will be paid and given three meals a day – but some have complained of overcrowded and dirty conditions.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra BJP MLA violates lockdown order after 200 people gather to celebrate his birthday

Amid the nationwide lockdown, BJP MLA Dadarao Keche in Mahrashtra’s Wardha district flouted the norms of social distancing when two hundred people gathered at his residence to celebrate his birthday on Sunday, The Indian Express reported.

Although Keche denied the allegations, the local sub-divisional officer has issued a notice under various provisions against Keche for violation of rules invoked in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking to The Indian Express Keche said, “I had invited only 21 labourers, who have lost their livelihood due to coronavirus, and distributed food grains to them. After that I left to visit my guru Bhikaram Baba at Ashta around 11 am. But my political adversaries took advantage of the situation to spread the word that I am distributing food grains leading to several people thronging my residence. When I got the information I rushed back and dispersed the crowd with the help of police.”

Coronavirus in Thailand Latest Updates

Thaliand registers three new COVID-19 deaths, 51 confirmed cases

Thailand reported 51 new coronavirus cases and three more deaths on Monday, according to a spokesman for the government’s Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration.

Thirteen of the new cases were that of medical personnel who attended to infected patients or had activities with them, said the spokesman, Taweesin Wisanuyothin.

More than half of the new cases were in Bangkok, he said.

Coronavirus in Germany Latest Updates

Germany’s COVID-19 toll rise by 92 to 1,434 with 95,391 confirmed cases

Germany’s confirmed coronavirus infections rose by 3,677 in the past 24 hours to 95,391 on Monday, the fourth straight drop in the daily rate of new cases, according to data from the Robert Koch Institute for infectious diseases.

The number of new cases was lower than the 5,936 new infections reported on Sunday. The reported death toll rose by 92 to 1,434.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

Fire breaks out in Chennai garbage dump after firecrackers burst in view of PM’s ’lights-off’ exercise 

A fire broke out at a garbage dump in in Ernavur area of Chennai on Sunday night after the firecrackers burst in view of Narendra Modi’s ’lights-off’ exercise fell on it. 

The fire was later doused with the help of three fire tenders. No casualties or injuries were reported.

Tamil Nadu: Fire had broken out at a garbage dump in Ernavur area of Chennai last night after some firecrackers, being burst by people, fell on it. The fire was later doused with the help of three fire tenders. No casualties or injuries were reported. pic.twitter.com/IllTbXpiAt

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

Fresh COVID-19 case in Ranchi takes Jharkhand’s count to four

One more woman from Hindpiri area in Jharkhand’s Ranchi has tested positive for COVID-19. “She was in direct contact of the Malaysian woman, who was the first to test positive in the state. A total positive cases in state is four,” said Jharkhand Health Secretary Nitin Madan Kulkarni.

1 more woman from Hindpiri area, Ranchi tested positive for #COVID19. She was in direct contact of the Malaysian woman (1st positive case in state) who was staying in the area&tested positive earlier. Total positive cases in state is 4: Jharkhand Health Secy Nitin Madan Kulkarni

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Kanika Kapoor tests negative for COVID-19 in sixth report, discharged

Singer Kanika Kapoor, who had earlier tested positive for the novel coronavirus after returning to India from London, has tested negative for the virus in her sixth report.

According to ANI, she has been discharged from Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

60-yr-old dies in Kota taking Rajasthan’s COVID-19 toll to 6; confirmed cases at 274

A 60-year-old coronavirus positive patient died at the state-run MBS Hospital in Kota, Rajasthan. The state recorded seven more cases of the virus, an official said on Monday.

The virus has so far claimed six lives in the state and infected 274 people. However, officials maintain that those who died were also suffering from other illness.

“A 60-year-old man with no recent travel history died at MBS Hospital in Kota. He was admitted yesterday and died late night. Eight new cases have come up, including the patient who died,” Additional Chief Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh said.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates

UN chief urges govt to protect women facing domestic violence amid lockdown 

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres late on Sunday urged governments around the world to consider protecting women as part of their response to the deadly novel coronavirus pandemic.

“Violence is not confined to the battlefield. For many women and girls, the threat looms largest where they should be safest. In their own homes,” said Guterres in a statement.

“Over the past weeks as economic and social pressures and fear have grown, we have seen a horrifying global surge in domestic violence. I urge all governments to make the prevention and redress of violence against women a key part of their national response plans for Covid-19,” he added.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

748 test positive in Maharashtra, 45 succumb to infection

Maharashtra on Sunday recorded 113 fresh cases of Covid-19, taking the total number of such people to 748 in the state. Simultaneously, the toll due to coronavirus rose to 45 with 13 more people succumbing to the infection, a health official said.

Of the 113 new cases, 81 are from Mumbai, 18 from Pune, 4 from Aurangabad, 3 from Ahmednagar, two from Kalyan- Dombivli and Thane, one each from Osmanabad and Vasai. Another cases is from neighbouring Gujarat state, as the infected person is undergoing treatment n Maharashtra, he added.

Coronavirus in Japan Latest Updates

Shinzo Abe likely to declare state of emergency in Japan soon, claim local reports

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will declare a state of emergency as early as Tuesday in a bid to stop the coronavirus spreading across the country, the Yomiuri newspaper reported, as the cumulative number of infections topped 1,000 in Tokyo alone.

Abe will likely announce his plans to declare the emergency on Monday, the paper said, while the Kyodo news agency said new measures would likely come into force on Wednesday.

Pressure had been mounting on the government to make the move as the pace of infections continues to accelerate – particularly in the capital – even though it remains slow for now compared with the United States, countries in Europe and China, where thousands have died.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra govt makes masks compulsory for all at Mantralaya

Amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in Mumbai, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maharashtra government announced that wearing face masks was compulsory for all staff, officers and visitors to the state secretariat for the coming few months.

“No entry will be given to anyone without face masks. The decision has been taken in view of prevention of the coronavirus pandemic,” said a statement by the Maharashtra government.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Indonesian national who attended Tablighi Jamaat event tests positive in Prayagraj

An Indonesian national who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Nizamuddin Markaz, Delhi has tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. He is currently under quarantine at a hospital in the district, reported ANI quoting Prayagraj District Administration.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Union Cabinet to meet at 1 pm, says report

The Union Cabinet is expected to meet at 1 pm on Sunday via video conferencing to discuss the coronavirus situation and nationwide lockdown, reported India Today.

Coronavirus in United Kingdom Latest Updates

Queen delivers special COVID-19 address, says ‘we will succeed and meet again’

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, in a rare televised address to the nation, invoked a war-time spirit of self-discipline and resolve to fight the coronavirus pandemic which has killed nearly 5,000 in the country and about 70,000 people globally, assuring Britons that “better days will return”.

The 93-year-old British monarch and Head of the 54-member Commonwealth of nations which includes India, acknowledged the grief, pain and financial difficulties being faced the world over during this “time of disruption” and expressed the hope that the whole world was uniting in a “common endeavour”.

“I hope in the years to come everyone will be able to take pride in how they responded to this challenge,” she said on Sunday, in a four-minute speech recorded earlier this week at Windsor Castle.

“And those who come after us will say that the Britons of this generation were as strong as any. That the attributes of self-discipline, of quiet good-humoured resolve and of fellow-feeling still characterise this country,” she said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

NGOs, politicians distribute essential supplies in Mumbai slums

In a move aimed at curbing the fast-spreading coronavirus, Mumbai-based NGOs and political leaders have started free distribution of essential items to people, particularly those residing in slum pockets.

They are distributing packets containing food grains and other essential items to residents of different localities and urging citizens to strictly follow the lockdown and not venture out of their homes.

Social worker Kunal Sarmarkar said they have so far distributed around 3,000 packets of essential commodities in Bandra East area.

“We are carrying out the distribution while taking due precautionary measures. Earlier, we planned to set up a distribution centre at a ground, but later decided not to do so considering the need for social distancing. Hence, we are making door-to-door distribution, he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi appeals to BJP workers to help the needy on saffron party’s Foundation day

All BJP workers will provide one meal on the occasion of the saffron party’s Foundation Day as a way to show solidarity with people facing hardships during the lockdown due to the novel coronavirus, said Narendra Modi, tweeting the guidelines by party President JP Nadda on 40th Foundation Day of BJP.

जब भी @BJP4India को सेवा करने का मौका मिला, पार्टी ने सुशासन और गरीबों के सशक्तिकरण पर जोर दिया। पार्टी के सिद्धांतों के अनुरूप हमारे कार्यकर्ताओं ने लोगों के जीवन में सकारात्मक बदलाव लाने के लिए परिश्रम की पराकाष्ठा की और समाज सेवा की नई मिसाल भी कायम की। #BJPat40

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 6, 2020

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates

Bhopal registers first COVID-19 death taking Madhya Pradesh toll to 14

A 52-year-old man died of coronavirus in Bhopal, taking the toll in Madhya Pradesh to 14, an official said on Monday. This is the first death of a COVID-19 patient in the state capital, he said.

The man recently tested positive for coronavirus and died at a private hospital where he was undergoing treatment on Sunday night, Bhopal Collector Tarun Pithode said.

“He worked as a watchman at a wholesale vegetable market and was suffering from asthma since long,” Dr Rajesh Sharma from the private hospital said.

Coronavirus in United States Latest Updates

US Navy captain who was fired after seeking help to tackle COVID-19 on his ship tests positive

Captain Brett Crozier, the now-fired US Navy commander who wrote a letter asking for help dealing with a coronavirus outbreak on his ship, has tested positive for COVID-19, The New York Times reported Sunday. 

Crozier had been in command of the USS Theodore Roosevelt until this week, when he was relieved of his duty after he wrote a letter to military leadership to request assistance in responding to a COVID-19 outbreak on the vessel. 

Crozier began to show symptoms of COVID-19 before he was removed from the USS Theodore Roosevelt on Thursday. He is being quarantined on Naval Base Guam.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Govt delays, lockdown behind shortage in high quality protective gear for doctors

Due to the delay in framing proper guidelines and standards for the manufacture of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) — worn by health workers and others who are on the front line to treat coronavirus patients — has caused a a severe shortage in high quality protective suit, said a report in the HuffPost India .

Speaking to the news portal Sanjeev Ralhan, the convenor of the Preventive Wear Manufacturers’ Association of India, said the Modi government’s early inaction has cost vendors precious weeks in which they could have sourced raw materials and machinery. 

When the guidelines finally came in, the country had already been put under a 21-day nationwide lockdown making manufacture and transport a logistical nightmare.

That apart, Ralhan said that the kind of suits the government wants them to manufacture are “practically impossible for us to produce under these circumstances”. Meanwhile, the desperation of health workers have led to the manufacture of sub-standard suits, which they are being forced to use in the absence of proper gear.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

ICMR says rapid tests for COVID-19 in containment zones first

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said the rapid antibody based blood test for COVID-19 will be deployed by this Wednesday in clusters or containment zones and hot spots showing high incidence of confirmed cases.

Raman R Gangakhedkar, head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases Division of the ICMR speaking to The Hindu  said that over all testing for COVID-19 using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), a laboratory technique combining reverse transcription of RNA into DNA, is increasing and that India will be approaching full capacity soon.

“At the same time, we are expecting delivery of Rapid Test kits (blood based) for use in response to COVID-19 situation. By Wednesday this should be up and running,” he said, adding, “We aim to start rapid antibody based blood test in clusters (with containment zones), and in large migration gatherings/evacuees centres.”

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates

Global COVID-19 tally tops 1.2 million 

The global tally of confirmed coronavirus cases has reached 1.27 million and as many 69,456 individuals have lost their lives due to COVID-19, according to according to Johns Hopkins University.

The five countries with most cases as of Sunday: 

1. United States: 337,274 
2. Spain: 131,646 
3. Italy: 128,948 
4. Germany: 100,123 
5. France: 93,780

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India’s COVID-19 tally at 4,288 with 117 deaths, says worldometer

India’s toll from the COVID-19 outbreak surged past 100 with 27 patients succumbing to the infection in the past 24 hours or so, the highest number of casualties reported in a day so far on Sunday.

The number of coronavirus cases also went past 4,000 as states reported 541 fresh cases on Sunday, the fourth straight day of 500-plus infections in the country.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

OLX ad seeks 30,000 crores for Statue of Unity to fight COVID-19, case filed

The Gujarat Police on Sunday registered a case against an unknown person for placing an online advertisement to “sell” the Statue of Unity. The advertisement was placed for Rs 30,000 crore on OLX.

The Statue of Unity, the ad said, was being sold to meet the Gujarat government’s expenses for hospitals and medical infrastructure to fight the coronavirus outbreak in the state.

“Some unknown person placed an advertisement on OLX on Saturday stating he needs to sell the Statue of Unity for Rs 30,000 crore to meet the requirement of money to buy hospitals and healthcare equipment,” a Kevadiya police station official said quoting the FIR.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates

Anti-parasitic drug kills COVID-19 within 48 hrs in lab grown cells: Study

Researchers have found that an anti-parasitic drug already available around the world can kill the novel coronavirus grown in cell cultures within 48 hours, an advance that may lead to the development and trial of a new clinical therapy for COVID-19.

According to the study, published in the journal Antiviral Research, the drug, Ivermectin, stopped the virus, SARS-CoV-2, from growing in cell culture within 48 hours.

“We found that even a single dose could essentially remove all viral RNA by 48 hours and that even at 24 hours there was a really significant reduction in it,” said study co-author Kylie Wagstaff from Monash University in Australia.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates

Oil prices hit an 18-year low​ as doubts grow over output cut deal

Oil prices fell sharply on Monday after a meeting to discuss output cuts between OPEC and its allies was delayed, dimming hopes of swift action to support coronavirus-ravaged energy markets.

US benchmark West Texas Intermediate plunged eight percent at the open in Asia but clawed back some ground and was trading 5.7 percent lower, at USD 26.72 a barrel.

International benchmark Brent crude was down 4.3 percent to trade at USD 32.64 per barrel.

Oil prices have tumbled to levels not seen for years due to the coronavirus pandemic and a price war between Russia and Saudi Arabia, the kingpin of exporting group OPEC.

Business shutdowns, travel restrictions and other measures put in place to contain the virus outbreak have battered demand.

Coronavirus in Pakistan Latest Updates

More than 300 Tablighi Jamaat members test positive for COVID-19 in Pakistan’s Punjab

Over 300 Tablighi Jamaat members have tested positive for the novel coronavirus till Sunday in Pakistan’s Punjab province, amid efforts by authorities to track down and quarantine thousands of people who attended the massive congregation of the Islamic group in March.

Authorities have placed the entire city of Raiwind that houses headquarters of the Pakistani faction of the Jamaat under quarantine and completely restricted the mobility of people within or outside the city.

According to the data released by the primary and secondary health care corona monitoring room on Sunday, over 300 preachers of the Tablighi Jamaat at quarantine centres in different parts of Punjab province have so far been tested positive for COVID-19. Most of them belong to Lahore’s Tablighi Jamaat Markaz that has been turned into quarantine centre.

Coronavirus in United Kingdom Latest Updates

Boris Johnson hospitalized for COVID-19 tests ten days after testing positive 

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been admitted to the hospital for the novel coronavirus-related tests, Downing Street said Sunday, after ten days of testing positive for the virus.

“On the advice of his doctor, the prime minister has tonight been admitted to hospital for tests,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement, adding that the tests were part of a “precautionary step” due to Johnson’s lingering symptoms.

The 55-year-old announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19 on 27 March, describing a cough and a fever in a video posted to Twitter. In an update on Friday, Johnson said that he continued to experience a temperature.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

12 fresh COVID-19 cases in West Bengal bring state tally to 80

As many as 12 people tested positive for COVID-19 in West Bengal on Sunday, taking the total number of such cases in the state to 80, the Union ministry of health and family welfare said in its website.

Till Saturday, the state had registered 68 coronavirus cases. The Union health ministry website mentioned three deaths due to the contagion in the state.

The West Bengal health department had earlier mentioned seven deaths due to the disease, though the state government had confirmed only three.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra reports 26 fresh COVID-19 cases, total rises to 661

As many as 26 new coronavirus patients were reported from Maharashtra on Sunday, taking the total such cases in the state to 661, a health official said.

Out of the 26 cases, 17 were reported from Pune, four from its neighbouring Pimpri Chinchwad township, three from Ahmednagar and two from Aurangabad, he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

COVID-19 tally at 3,577 with 83 deaths

The Union health ministry on Sunday said that 505 new cases of COVID-19 were reported in the country in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 3,577. Further, the total number of deaths has risen to 83.

Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary in the Union health ministry told mediapersons that 267 people have recovered from the infection till now.