Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: 83% patients in Maharashtra asymptomatic, working to slow down doubling rate, says state health minister

Coronavirus in Pakistan Latest Updates

Imran Khan tests negative for COVID-19

Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Wednesday tested negative for the novel coronavirus, his aide was quoted as saying, as the number of the COVID-19 cases crossed 10,000 in the country.

Khan, 67, agreed for the test after Faisal Edhi, the son of late philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi and chairman of the Edhi Foundation, who met him last week tested positive for the coronavirus.

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Updates

Bihar reports 2 more COVID-19 cases 

Reports on Wednesday said that two new coronavirus cases were reported in Bihar, taking the total number of cases in the state to 143.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates

26 more people test positive for COVID-19 in Indore

The Indore chief medical officer said that 26 more people have tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday, taking the total number of cases in the district to 945 including 53 deaths.

Coronavirus in UK Latest Updates

UK’s COVID-19 toll crosses 18,000

The British government says 759 more people with the coronavirus have died in UK hospitals, taking the total to 18,100. The daily increase reported was lower than the 823 in the previous 24-hour period, AP reported.

The UK’s death toll is the fourth highest in Europe, behind Italy, Spain and France, all of whom have reported more than 20,000 deaths.

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

New York governor says meeting with Trump was ‘productive’

Governor Andrew Cuomo described his meeting with US President Donald Trump as “productive” and the two leaders agreed to double New York’s testing capacity to 40,000 tests a day as the death toll from the Covid-19 surpassed 15,000 in the state.

Cuomo, giving his daily press briefing on the Covid-19 pandemic, said numbers in the state of hospitalizations and intubation are coming down. “We’re in a relatively good place in downstate New York, the curve is on the descent. The question is now how long is that descent. Is it a sudden drop off, is it one week, two weeks, three weeks, six weeks we don’t know, but better to be going down than to be going up,” he said.

(PTI)

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam govt asks private school to cut fees by 50% for March, says report

India Today reported that the Assam government on Wednesday told private schools in the state to cut the fees for March by 50 percent in light of the coronavirus pandemic

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

COVID-19 patient claims Delhi’s LNJP hospital isn’t admitting him

ANI quoted a COVID-19 positive patient as alleging that Delhi’s LNJP hospital is not admitting him for immediate treatment. He also says that he and three other patients walked to the hospital on Wednesday while there are seven more COVID-19 patients at his home.

#WATCH A COVID19 positive patient alleges that Delhi's LNJP hospital is not admitting him for immediate treatment. He also says that he and 3 other patients walked to the hospital today while there are 7 more COVID19 patients at his home. pic.twitter.com/mun0IvsIex

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka govt promulgates Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Ordinance, 2020

Karnataka government has promulgated the Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Ordinance, 2020. The state government has now powers to punish those who obstruct public servants during discharge of their duties.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra minister says 83% cases were asymptomatic

Maharashtra health minister Rajesh Tope said that 83 percent cases in the state were asymptomatic, adding that plasma treatment is likely to be tried in Mumbai.

“Projection rate of Maharashtra is scary, but don’t get scared. We will increase the days of doubling of rate, so this projection won’t be true,” he was quoted as saying.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Bill Gates praises Modi over COVID-19 approach

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “We commend your leadership and the proactive measures you and your government have taken to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 infection rate in India, such as adopting a national lockdown, expanding focused testing to identify hotspots for isolation, quarantining, and care, and significantly increasing health expenditures to strengthen the health system response and promote R&D and digital innovation.”

“I’m glad your government is fully utilizing its exceptional digital capabilities in its COVID-19 response and has launched the Aarogya Setu digital app for coronavirus tracking, contact tracing, and to connect people to health services,” he added.

Gates also said he is grateful to see that PM Modi is seeking to balance public health imperatives with the need to ensure adequate social protection for all Indians.

(ANI)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Mumbai reports 309 new coronavirus cases today

The BMC said that Mumbai reported 309 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, taking the total number of cases to 3,754.

Meanwhile, 10 more deaths were reported on Wednesday, with which the toll in the city rose to 160. A total of 425 people have been discharged so far after recovery, including 17 people in the last 24 hours, the statement added.

Coronavirus in Chhattisgarh Latest Updates

Two COVID-19 patients discharged in Raipur today

AIIMS Raipur said that two more COVID-19 patients were discharged on Wednesday. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state is 36, including eight active cases and 28 discharged.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Australia praises India’s COVID-19 approach

The coronavirus pandemic is stretching much of the world’s governmental capacity and terrorists are likely to exploit the situation including by fostering communal tension, Australian High Commissioner-designate Barry O’Farrell said on Wednesday.

In an address at the National Defence College through video-conference, O’Farrell also said India may be one of the most successful developing countries in managing the pandemic and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s global outreach to deal with it.

He said Modi is also one of the leading voices shaping the G20 into a body instrumental in leading the world into post-COVID-19 recovery, and was an early voice advocating for reforms to the World Health Organisation.

“We’ve seen some remarkable leadership from India since this crisis began. The world is facing an unprecedented health challenge for which no government has a perfect answer,” O’Farrell said.

It’s laudable not just that the Indian government acted so quickly to stem the virus’s spread, but also that it continues working to mitigate the lockdown’s impact on India’s most vulnerable. It’s an enormous challenge for the world’s most populous nation," he added.

(PTI)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra govt to increase surveillance, plasma therapy begins in state

Maharashtra health minister Rajesh Tope said, “We’ve increased surveillance, screening, testing and treatment. We’ve improved our doubling rate of positive patients to 7.1 days. Our aim is to protect everyone and bring mortality rate to zero. We’ve started plasma therapy in the state.”

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

UP govt says Pratapgarh district is COVID-19 frree

The Uttar Pradesh health department said that the state’s Pratapgarh district has become COVID-19-free. Pool testing has been started at RIMS in Saifai. 3,500 RT-PCR tests are being conducted daily in Uttar Pradesh.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi reports 92 new COVID-19 cases, 1 death

The Delhi health department said that 92 new COVID-19 positive cases and one death were reported in the National Capital on Wednesday. The total number of cases in Delhi is now 2,248, and the toll is at 48.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi containment zones rise to 89

The list of COVID-19 ‘containment zones’ in Delhi rose to 89 after two areas in the Lado Sarai area added to the list.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

IMCT asks Bengal govt for presentation on COVID-19 situation in state

ANI reported that Inter-ministerial central team (IMCT) on Wednesday sought a presentation from the West Bengal government on the level of testing, availability of oxygen and ICU beds, and ventilators.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi to address gram panchayats on 24 April

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj on Wednesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address various gram panchayats across the country on 24 April on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, through video-conferencing.

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

Over 100 cases reported in Gujarat today

The Gujarat health department said that 135 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in the state on Wednesday, taking the total number of cases to 2,407 including 179 cured/discharged and 103 deaths.

Corobavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Uttar Pradesh reports 112 new COVID-19 cases today

Reports said that 112 new coronavirus cases were reported in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday. The total number of cases in the state is now 1,455. Of these, 1,255 are active cases, while, 173 have been discharged and 21 have been dead.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Safdarjung nursing officer tests positive for COVID-19

The Safarjung hospital on Wednesday said that a nursing officer has tested positive for COVID-19 at the hospital.

“She was posted at Gyane HDU (high dependency unit) at the facility. At present,she is admitted in the corona unit of the hospital. Previously, four doctors were also found COVID-19 positive,” the statement siad.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

300 active cases in Bengal so far

The West Bengal said that there are 300 active cases of COVID-19 in West Bengal, of which 79  patients have been cured while 15 others have succumbed to the infection. A total of 7,037 samples have been tested in the state so far.

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

One new COVID-19 case reported in Ranchi

The Jharkhand government said that one more positive case of COVID-19 was reported in Ranchi’s Hindpiri. The total number of cases in Jharkhand rose to 46.

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Updates

No new COVID-19 cases reported in Uttarakhand today

The Uttarakhand government on Wednesday said that no new COVID-19 case was reported in the state for the second consecutive day. The total number of cases stands at 46, out of which 23 patients have recovered.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

431 new COVID-19 cases reported in Maharashtra 

The Maharashtra health department said that 431 new COVID-19 cases and 18 deaths were reported on Wednesday in the state, taking number of cases to 5,649 and deaths to 269 in the state.

Out of the new deaths, 10 reported in Mumbai. 789 patients have recovered from the disease in the state so far.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre to take up labour reforms in ‘big way’

Reports quoted Labour Secretary Heeralal Samariya as saying that labour reforms will be “taken up in a big way”, and that labour codes to be a reality soon.

He said that the labour reforms will be taken in a big way in coming months and labour codes will become a reality soon.

“We are going for the labour reforms and have already got the report from our Parliamentary Standing Committee. Also, we are getting report for the industrial relations code, social security code. In coming months, we will see these codes will become the reality,” he said.

Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates

No COVID-19 toll reported in Chandigarh so far

The Chandigarh administration on Wednesday said that the number of COVID-19 cases stands at 27 in the union territory, including 14 cured patients. No death has been reported due to the infection so far. 529 samples have been tested.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Amarnath Yatra 2020 cancelled over COVID-19 pandemic

ANI reported that this year’s Amarnath Yatra has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Nine new COVID-19 cases reported in Dharavi

Reports said that nine new coronavirus cases were reported in Mumbai’s Dharavi on Wednesday, taking the total cases in the area to 189. The toll stands at 12.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi hails Cabinet’s ordinance on violence against healthcare workers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said, “The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline. It will ensure safety of our professionals. There can be no compromise on their safety!”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India reports 1,486 new COVID-19 cases, total rises to 20,471

The Union health ministry, in its evening update, said that India’s total number of coronavirus cases rose to 20,471 on Wednesday. This includes 15,859 active cases, 3,959 cured/discharged/migrated and 652 deaths.

1.486 new cases and 49 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi to interact with CMs on 27 April

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to interact with the chief ministers of all states via video conference on 27 April, ANI reported.

Coronavirus in Himachal Pradesh Latest Updates

No new COVID-19 case reported in Himachal Pradesh today

The Himachal Pradesh government said that no new case of COVID-19 has been reported in the state on Wednesday. There are 23 active cases in the state, 11 patients have recovered and one person has died.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

11 new COVID-19 cases reported in Kerala today

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 11 people tested positive for COVID-19 in the state on Wednesday. Of these, seven were reported in Kannur, two in Kozhikode, and one each in Kottayam and Malappuram.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

26 new COVID-19 cases reported in Bengal in 24 hours

The West Bengal government on Wednesday said that 26 new coronavirus cases have been reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 300 in the state. No deaths have been reported, and the toll remains at 15.

Reportedly, 79 have been cured and discharged so far, including six in the last 24 hours. 7,037 tests have been conducted so far, including 855 in the past day.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Nine new COVID-19 cases reported in Karnataka today

The Karnataka government said that nine new COVID-19 cases —  two reported in Bengaluru, five in Kalaburagi, two in Mysuru — have been confirmed in the state from Tuesday 5.00 pm to 5.pm on Wednesday.

“The total number of coronavirus cases in the state is now 427, including 131 discharged and 17 deaths,” the statement added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

AAP MP asks Modi to bring back Indians stranded abroad

Bhagwant Mann, AAP Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur, on Wednesday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention for bringing back Indians stranded in foreign counties amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Bhagwant Mann, AAP Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur, writes a letter to PM Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention for bringing back Indians stranded in foreign counties amid #CoronavirusPandemic. pic.twitter.com/BV6BXdKXbf

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates

260 COVID-19 cases reported in Haryana so far

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that so far, 260 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the state, out of which 153 people have recovered and three have died.

“511 tests have been conducted on each 10 lakh people in the state. There is no case in three districts,” he added.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

Telanagana govt says asymptomatic secondary contacts won’t be tested

Telangana Government says ‘Asymptomatic Secondary Contacts’ WILL NOT be tested, instead kept in home quarantine for 28 days (time increased from 14 days.). Only Primary Contacts will be tested and kept in Government Quarantine Centres.

Coronavirus in Nepal Latest Updates

3 new COVID-19 cases reported in Nepal

The Nepal government said that three new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on Wednesday. “They were kept in Army’s quarantine in Tandi. The total number of positive cases rise to 45,” the statement said.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Bengal govt says no COVID-19 testing kits from ICMR available as of today

The West Bengal health ministry, providing the status of the three kinds of COVID-19 testing kits approved by the ICMR in the state, said, “As on 22 April, WBDHFW has 0 kits supplied from ICMR/NICED which can test a COVID-19 patient as per ICMR recommendations. Assuring all citizens that every possible effort is being made to address this situation.”

3. Antigen Kits - Not supplied to hospitals in Bengal.

Thus, as on 22nd Apr, WBDHFW has 0 kits supplied from ICMR/NICED which can test a COVID patient as per ICMR recommendations
Assuring all citizens that every possible effort is being made to address this situation (2/2)

— Department of Health & Family Welfare, West Bengal (@wbdhfw) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

One new COVID-19 case reported in Odisha

One new COVID-19 case was reported from Odisha’s Jajpur on Wednesday, the state information and public relations department said. The total number of cases is now 83, including 50 active cases, 32 recovered, and one death.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

West Bengal govt says claim of less tests being conducted is untrue

West Bengal chief secretary Rajiva Sinha on Wednesday said that “it is not true that we are doing less number of tests”. His statement comes a day after the Centre sent teams to review the COVID-19 situation in the state.

“A total of  7,037 samples have been tested till now. There is a notice to withdraw testing kits, whose fault is it?,” he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MHA tells states to ensure security for healthcare professionals

The MHA on Wednesday wrote to state governments, instructing them to “ensure adequate security to healthcare professionals, medical staff and frontline workers to prevent violence against them”., after the Union Cabinet approved an ordinance making violence against the professionals a non-bailable offence.

“Strict action to be taken against those who obstruct the performance of last rites of COVID-19 warriors succumbing to COVID-19. State governments, UTs requested to appoint Nodal Officers at State/UT level and at district level, who would be available 24*7 to redress any safety issue on the functioning of medical professionals.They should also take immediate and strict action in case any incident of violence takes place.” the statement said.

State Govts/ UTs requested to appoint Nodal Officers at State/UT level&at Dist level, who would be available 24*7 to redress any safety issue on the functioning of medical professionals.They should also take immediate&strict action in case any incident of violence takes place:MHA https://t.co/Ii3SxsTrfU

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Recovery rate improves to 19.36% in India, says Centre

The Union health ministry on Wednesday told the media that the recovery rate is 19.36 percent, up from the around 17 percent on Tuesday.

Additionally, 3,870 people have been cured so far  and the tally of coronavirus cases rose to 19,984 on Wednesday, reports said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

50 new COVID-19 deaths across India, says Centre

The Union health ministry was quoted by reports as saying that in the last 24 hours, 50 new deaths were reported due to coronavirus across India.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

Recruitment of 2,000 doctors begins in Rajasthan

Rajasthan health minister Raghu Sharma said that the process of recruitment of 2,000 doctors has begun in the state as per the announcement of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in the last state budget.

“We will complete the process in the next one and a half months. 735 doctors have recently been recruited and posted in hospitals. Recruitment process of 12,500 General Nursing & Midwife & Auxiliary Nurse Midwife had been completed but posting couldn’t be done due to some litigations. After consultation with Advocate General,the CM has now given orders for posting of 9000 such staff,” he added.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

COVID-19 patients in Punjab first hotspot district recover, says report

At least 18 patients have recovered from the coronavirus infection in Punjab’s first hotspot district, Nawanshahr, The Indian Express reported on Wednesday.

“(The district) formally cured all infected patients after the result of the last novel coronavirus patient — a 16-year-old from Banga subdivision — came negative. As many as 18 patients have been cured and one death was reported from Nawanshahr (Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar) district. It has been almost a month (March 26) since the last positive case was reported from the district. The age of patients varies from a two-year-old to a 78-year-old man.,” the report said.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

25 new COVID-19 cases reported in J&K today

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday said that 25 new coronavirus cases were reported from the union territory on Wednesday. The total number of COVID-19 cases rose to 405. Among the 25 cases, 14 are from Shopian, 6 from Bandipora, 4 from Kupwara and 01 from Baramulla District.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

No active COVID-19 cases in 10 UP districts, says govt

Uttar Pradesh principal secretary (Medical and Health) Amit Mohan Prasad on Wednesday said that there are no COVID-19 active cases in the Pilibhit, Lakihimpur Kheri, Hathras, Bareilly, Prayagraj, Shahjahanpur, Maharajganj, Barabanki, Hardoi and Kaushambhi districts of the state.

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

Odisha govt ’too early’ for praise on COVID-19 approach

The Odisha government responded to the Centre’s praise for having seemingly slowed down the spread of coronavirus in the state, saying that “it is ready for a long battle” against the pandemic.

The state government has adopted a “‘zero transmission’ target against COVID-19 coupled with a proactive approach and multi-pronged strategy”, The Indian Express reported, quoting senior officials as sayign that “there is no room for complacency and they must remain in a state of preparedness for months to come.”

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

COVID-19 patient in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur passes away

A 55-year-old COVID-19 patient, who was a resident of Weir, in the Bharatpur district, who was admitted in the SMS hospital in Jaipur on 18 April passed away on 20 April. She suffered from diabetes, the Rajasthan health department said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre’s health briefings to be reduced to 4 days in a week

Union minister Prakash Javadekar said that the schedule of the Centre’s health briefings will now be limited to 4 days a week, as opposed to the daily briefings that bureaucrats of different ministeries address. He added that press releases and Cabinet briefing will be conducted on alternate days.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

No decision yet on resumption of flight operations, say Centre

Union minister Prakash Javadekar said that the Centre hadn’t taken a decision yet on the resumption of flight operations. An announcement will be made on time as to when it will resume, he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Up to 7 years of jail for those guilty of violence against health workers

Union minister Prakash Javadekar Wednesday said the Centre will not tolerate the attacks on the healthcare workers in the country amid the coronavirus pandemic and has decided to bring an ordinance to make it a punishable offense.

Javadekar said the government will amend the Epidemics Diseases Act, 1897 to make the attacks on healthcare workers a cognisable and punishable offense, under which a violator may be awarded with a jail term of three months to five years with a fine of Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh.

In cases of severe injury to workers, the jail term will be increased to six month to seven years with a fine of Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. If there is damage done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused.

The investigation will be completed within 30 days and the decision will be carried out within one year, he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

JUST IN:  Cabinet approves ordinance to make violence against health workers non-bailable offence

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Cabinet approves ordinance to protect healthcare workers

The Cabinet has approved an ordinance to protect healthcare workers from violence on Wednesday. Those found guilty of attacking healthcare workers will face imprisonment and fine of Rs 50,000 to 2 lakh rupees and carries imprisonment from 3 months to 5 years if anyone found guilty, said Union minister Prakash Javadekar.

In case of serious injures to healthcare workers, the guilty will face imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years.

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Update

Haryana’s recovery rate better than national average, says health minister

Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij claims the doubling rate in the state is 14 days, better than the national average of 7.5 days. “Our recovery rate is 57% whereas it is 16% [average] across India,” he told ANI.

He adds that Haryana had placed orders for 1.1 lakh testing kits from two Chinese firms but it has now been cancelled. “We’ve placed fresh orders for 1 lakh kits from South Korea out of which we’ve received 25,000 kits,” he says. “Prices of these kits are half compared to Chinese kits.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

No violence against healthcare workers will be tolerated, says Javadekar

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar condemned the rising attacks on healthcare workers, during a media address on Wednesday. He said that health workers who are trying to save the country from the epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks. “No incident of violence or harrasamemnt, against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it’ll be implemented after President’s sanction,” he said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Six medics test positive in Bhatia Hospital in Mumbai

Six staff members including a doctor of Bhatia Hospital have tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday. They are currently being treated at the ICU care unit of Bhatia Hospital. They are stable and responding well to the treatment, said the hospital in a statement to ANI.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Update

J&K has second-highest COVID-19 testing rate in India, says Rohit Kansal

Principal Secretary Planning and Information, Jammu and Kashmir, Rohit Kansal on Wednesday said that the testing rate in Jammu and Kashmir is 703 per million, second highest in India. 

So far, the Union Territory has reported 380 COVID-19 positive cases of which 294 are active cases–256 in Kashmir, 38 in Jammu, Kansal informed. 

“The testing rate in Jammu and Kashmir is 703 per million, 2nd highest in India; bracing up to 1000 test in four ICMR accredited labs in UT; this has decreased the doubling rate of infections,” said Kansal. 

Jammu and Kashmir will launch Swasthya Nidhi COVID-19 Health Audit App for 100 per cent surveillance. The pilot project has already started in Jammu District.

More than 6.5 lakh users have installed Aarogya Setu App in Jammu and Kashmir. The Union Territory is amongst first in the country to be alert to the problem but no room for complacency, he added.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

ITBP hands over 2,000 PPE kits, masks to CISF Delhi metro unit

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) on Wednesday handed over 2,000 personal protective equipment kits and masks to the Delhi Metro unit of the CISF for protection against COVID-19, officials said.

The ITBP has set up a special facility at its camp at Saboli in Haryana’s Sonipat district to prepare fabricated personal protective equipment (PPE) and masks for the use of its troops and for other organisations battling the pandemic on ground.

These protection gears are meant for frontline workers of police, paramilitary forces and healthcare workers and not for doctors who treat the COVID-19 affected patients.

“Over 1,000 PPEs and an equal amount of triple-layer face masks were handed over to the CISF metro rail unit today,” an ITBP spokesperson told PTI.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Update

Patients in private hospitals to bear own costs

The Punjab government says patients who go to private hospitals for treatment will have to bear the costs but adds that the hospitals cannot charge them more than the Central Government Health Scheme rates valid in the National Capital Region.

#COVID19 patients, who go to private hospitals for their own treatment, shall the bear the cost from their own pocket. However, no private hospital shall charge them exceeding CGHS (NCR rates) valid in NCR Delhi: Punjab's principal health secretary Anurag Agarwal pic.twitter.com/d7HDjixLOh

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Update

Assam reports no new cases in past week

No new case of COVID-19 has been reported in the state in last seven days, announced Assam Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Maharashtra health minister, IMCT visit quarantine facility at Dharavi transit camp

Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope and the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Wednesday visited the quarantine facility at Dharavi transit camp.

A total of 180 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported till now from the Dharavi area in Mumbai, with several people under quarantine. Maharashtra remains the worst-hit State with 5,218 COVID-19 positive cases, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.  It has reported 251 deaths, the highest fatality rate among the states.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

47 COVID-19 patients in Mumbai were referred by fever clinics, says BMC

As many as 47 coronavirus cases out of the total 3,451 detected so far in Mumbai are of patients referred by fever clinics of the city civic body, an official said on Wednesday. Mumbai is one of the worst coronavirus affected cities in the country as it has till now reported 3,451 COVID-19 cases and 151 deaths.

After the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) found a number of patients coming from slum areas, it set up some fever OPDs (Out Patient Departments) to reach out to a larger population.

“A close analysis of the total cases from Mumbai revealed that most of the patients were already quarantined, while some 47 patients referred by the fever clinics later tested positive for coronavirus,” a senior BMC official said.

“This is the main reason why we are still not calling it community spread because, in most of the cases, contacts were traced,” another official said. The BMC-run small hospitals have an advantage of proximity. The doctors and patients there know each other.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Centre recommends increasing bed facilities in Mumbai

Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope on Wednesday said the Central committee has recommended an increase in the capacity of quarantine facility in Mumbai from 1,200 beds to 2,000, in light of the rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in the city.

An inter-ministerial central team (IMCT) arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday for a two-day visit to assess the state’s preparedness to fight the coronavirus outbreak.

“The Central Committee has also asked us to provide minimum oxygen supply to patients undergoing treatment, as it will help ease their breathing distress if any,” the minister said.

In keeping with the committee’s directives, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been asked to arrange for more beds and increase testing across Mumbai, Tope said, adding that tents can also be put up in open grounds if needed.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Rahul Gandhi seeks suggestions for MSME stimulus package

The Congress party on Wednesday has sought suggestions from the public on what a MSME economic stimulus package should cover. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweets, “COVID-19 has devastated our micro, small and medium businesses.”

#COVID19 has devastated our micro, small & medium businesses (MSME). The Congress party needs your help. Send us suggestions & ideas for what a MSME economic stimulus package should cover on: https://t.co/kP2NZ6TNUK

or our social media platforms. #HelpSaveSmallBusinesses pic.twitter.com/UwLEPrnWdB

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Update

SOPs for pregnant women issued for red zone areas in Kashmir

The authorities have come up with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for pregnant women in the COVID-19 red zone areas across Kashmir, even as restrictions to combat the coronavirus threat continued in the Valley on Wednesday.

As per the laid down procedures, the pregnant women in red zones will be enlisted and their check-up will be managed at the recently established health centres in red and buffer zones, officials said.

The proper birth plan will be executed by ANM and ASHA workers under the supervision of concerned block medical officers as per the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), they said.

The pregnant ladies have been strictly advised to attend anti-natal check-ups at the recently established health centres by ASHAs and their cadres both in red and buffer zones, they added.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

2,156 COVID-19 cases in Delhi, says Satyendar Jain

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Wednesday that there are a total 2,156 coronavirus cases in the national capital including 611 who have recovered from the disease.

“As of today, there are a total of 2156 positive cases in Delhi, 75 of these were found yesterday. A total of 611 people – 28 percent of these patients have recovered. 27 patients are in ICU and 5 on the ventilator,” Jain told ANI.

The health minister said that several reports are coming about journalists testing positive for the infection. “Several journalists in Maharashtra have tested positive for COVID-19. They are at high-risk. We will conduct their tests. Those who want can get tested,” Jain said.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Update

Army sets up two COVID-19 hospitals in J&K

The Army is setting up two COVID-19 hospitals, one each in Srinagar and Jammu, as it assured full cooperation to the civil administration in combating the pandemic, an official spokesman said.

While efforts are on to set up a 250-bed hospital at Rangreth in Srinagar, another 100-bed COVID-19 care centre will come up at the Army Public School Domana within the next two to three days, he said.

The spokesman said Financial Commissioner (Health and Medical Education) Atal Dulloo chaired a meeting along with senior officer of northern command Major Gen Hari Mohan Iyer here to review the arrangements for setting up the hospitals.

He said Director Health Services, Kashmir was directed to provide every support regarding the men and machinery and other equipment to make the hospital at Rangreth functional in the shortest possible time.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

231 pilgrims land in Leh airport after being evacuated from Iran

A group of 231 pilgrims from Ladakh who were evacuated from Iran were flown to Leh in an Indian Air Force flight. The pilgrims are currently undergoing screening at the Leh airport, after which they will be put under institutional quarantine in Leh and Kargil, says Jamyang Namgyal, BJP MP from Ladakh.

231 pilgrims of Ladakh evacuated from Iran completed quarantaine in Jodhpur are reached Leh by @IAF_MCC Flight. They are being screened at Leh Airport & will be under quarantine in Ladakh.

My gratitute to all especially Sh. @narendramodi @PMOIndia for his dynamic leadership. pic.twitter.com/3R6rJPZ5U1

— Jamyang Tsering Namgyal (@jtnladakh) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Safety of doctors non-negotiable, says Amit Shah

Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said the safety of doctors at their workplace is non-negotiable and that the government is committed to their cause while appealing to them to reconsider their proposed protest, prompting the IMA to withdraw its stir. Interacting with a group of doctors and representatives of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Shah along with Health Minister Harsh Vardhan​ assured them security. 

Safety and dignity of our doctors at their work place is non-negotiable. It is our collective responsibility to ensure conducive atmosphere for them at all times.

I have assured doctors that Modi govt is committed to their cause and appealed to reconsider their proposed protest. pic.twitter.com/AJcxghGRkx

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Update

Vice Prez calls Tamil Nadu CM, discusses handling of COVID-19

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu​ on Wednesday held a telephonic discussion with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami over the state’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government said.

Naidu enquired about the various steps taken to contain the deadly virus, an official release said. The Vice President “lauded the government’s various initiatives (in this connection) and said they be taken forward effectively,” it said.

One of the worst affected Indian states, Tamil Nadu has so far reported 1,596 positive cases of coronavirus including 18 deaths. A total of 635 people have been discharged after treatment.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Govt asks major ports to defer rentals, waive charges, penalties

Noting a drop in export-import (EXIM) cargo due to supply chain disruptions on account of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has asked India’s all 12 major ports to defer the lease rentals and licence fees-related charges for April, May, and June.

They have been asked to waive rentals in proportion to the cargo drop and not to levy penalties.

In a letter, the shipping ministry has asked the ports to provide relief in the form of exemptions/ remission of charges to the shipping liners, exporters, importers, logistics providers and other stakeholders hit by the coronavirus outbreak.

The relief measures are aimed at boosting EXIM cargo by supporting and rebuilding the logistics chain.

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Update

Bihar reports 5 new patients as state’s case count rises to 131

Five more COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Bihar on Wednesday.  Three cases were registered in Patna, 1 in Bihar Sharif and 1 in East Champaran. “Contact tracing is being done. The total number of positive cases in the state stands at 131.” Sanjay Kumar, Principal Secretary, Health Dept, Bihar told ANI.

Coronavirus in Pakistan Latest Update

Imran Khan to test for COVID-19, say reports

Multiple reports say that Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan will be tested for COVID-19 on Wednesday as a precautionary measure. This comes after Pakistani social worker and head of charity group Edhi Foundation, Faisal Edhi tested positive for COVID-19. Edhi had met Khan recently.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

WATCH:  Clash erupts between vegetable vendors, cops in Aligarh

#WATCH Aligarh: A clash broke out between Police & a group of people in the city today. Circle Officer says, "Vegetable sellers were quarreling among themselves when shops were being closed. When Police intervened, people started pelting stones at them." (Note: abusive language) pic.twitter.com/Dw9pTWeScH

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Update

4 scribes isolated after having lunch with home-quarantined MLA

Four media persons working for vernacular news channels have been quarantined in Telangana after it was learnt that they had lunch at the residence of an MLA, who is under home quarantine in neighbouring Gadwal town recently, a senior government official said on Wednesday.

Gadwal town headquarters of Jogulamba-Gadwal district was declared as Red Zone by the Centre due to considerable number of COVID-19 cases.

Sources close to the development said another five who also had lunch with the MLA will also be quarantined.

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Update

Install equipment at COVID-19 hospitals within a week: Nainital HC

The Nainital High Court asked the state government to install required equipment at COVID-19 dedicated hospitals which lack these facilities within 7 days. The matter will be heard on 29 April.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

Clash erupts between vegetable vendors, cops in Aligarh

A clash broke out between the police and a group of people in Aligarh. The Circle Officer told ANI , “Vegetable sellers were quarreling among themselves when shops were being closed. When the police intervened, people started pelting stones at them.”

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Aviation ministry employee tests positive for COVID-19 positive

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that one of its employees has tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday. He had last attended office on 15 April and the ministry has asked all those who had come in contact with the coronavirus positive employee to go into self isolation.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Health ministry cancels daily briefing

The daily Union Health Ministry media briefing, scheduled to be held at 4 pm, has been cancelled for today. Sources told ANI that the briefing was cancelled because there is a cabinet meeting and the subsequent briefing this evening which will carry the health ministry-related information. Additional information will be given in press releases.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases rose to 19,984 and 640 deaths have been reported so far.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Update

Seven new cases reported in Karnataka

Seven new positive cases or coronavirus were been reported in Karnataka, taking the total to 425. The number of deaths stands at 17 and 129 people have been discharged after treatment.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

IMA withdraws protest

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) withdrew their protest after their meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan via video-conferencing.

As per an IMA statement, Shah assured the doctors’ body that the Centre will come out with relevant legislations to ensure the safety and dignity of doctors and health care givers.

Taking serious note of obstructions to the cremation of a Chennai doctor who died of Covid-19, the IMA warned of “appropriate retaliatory measures” if the authorities fail to stop such incidents. The statement called for a ‘white alert’ on 22 April, and a Black Day on 23 April.

Coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh Latest Update

Andhra Pradesh registers 56 new cases

Coronavirus cases increased to 813 in Andhra Pradesh with the addition of 56 new cases on Wednesday and 2 deaths as the toll goes up to 24, according to a government bulletin, reported PTI.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Update

COVID-19 patient gives birth to baby in Howrah, both stable

A COVID-19 patient in West Bengal’s Howrah district gave birth to a baby and the health condition of both of them is stable, hospital authorities said on Wednesday.

The pregnant woman was admitted to the Sanjiban Hospital in the Fuleswar area on 13 April and she later tested positive for the deadly infection, said its Director Subhasis Mitra.

The woman, a resident of Howrah city, gave birth to the baby boy around 8 pm on Monday, he said. She had no complications while giving birth, in a relief to the doctors, Mitra said.

The baby’s weight is 2.7 kg, he said, adding that the conditions of both the mother and the child are stable. The woman spoke to her husband through video call on Tuesday, Mitra said.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

CRPF jawan tests positive for COVID-19; admitted to Delhi hospital

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan, part of a battalion deployed in Jammu and Kashmir, has tested positive for COVID-19 in the national capital, a senior official said on Wednesday.

The jawan, working as a nursing assistant, has been admitted to an isolation ward in a Delhi hospital, he said.

The official said the constable was asked to undertake a coronavirus test in Delhi at the end of his leave period on 7 April before joining his unit, as per the standard operating procedure.

He was already in 14-day quarantine and his result was reported positive on Tuesday, the official added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Broadcast ministry issues notice to journalists reporting on COVID-19

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Wednesday issued an advisory to media persons covering COVID-19 and travelling to containment zones and hotspots. “It is advised that all such media persons may take due health and related precautions while performing their duties,” the advisory says. “Further, the management of media houses is requested to take necessary care of their field staff as well as office staff.”

Media persons are covering incidents relating to COVID19 in the country involving travel to containment zones, hotspots&other affected areas. It's advised that all such media persons may take health&related precautions while performing duties: Ministry of Information&Broadcasting pic.twitter.com/oxWobViY5M

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Japan Latest Update

Tokyo Olympic staffer tests positive for COVID-19

A staff member of the Tokyo Olympic organizing committee has tested positive for COVID-19. Tokyo organizers issued a statement Wednesday saying it was a male employee in his 30’s who worked at the headquarters building in a part of Tokyo known as Harumi, reports The Associated Press.

Organizers said he was in quarantine at home and gave no further details. The Tokyo Olympics were postponed last month until 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The committee employs about 3,500 people, and organizers say about 90% have been working from home for the last several weeks.Organizers said the area in which he worked would be disinfected, and people who worked nearby have been told to stay home.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to deliver online address on Sunday

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will deliver an online address on Sunday on the current situation in wake of the COVID-19 crisis, the Sangh said on Wednesday.

According to senior functionaries of the Sangh, this is for the first time in its history that such an address of its head is being held through a virtual platform.

In a tweet, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh said, Bhagwat will address on ‘Current Situation and Our Role’ on 26 April at 5 pm. “All of you are invited to join this session along with family members and well-wishers,” the Sangh said.

An online address by Pu. Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohanji Bhagwat on the subject "Current Situation and Our Role" is being organised on 26th April 2020, 5 p.m. by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Nagpur. All of you are invited to join this session along with family members & well-wishers. pic.twitter.com/wiriXSXLso

— RSS (@RSSorg) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Maharashtra registers 553 new cases, 19 deaths in past 24 hours

On Wednesday, 553 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in the last 24 hours in Maharashtra as the total number of positive cases in the state stands at 5229, reports ANI. 19 more deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours as the total death in the state rises to 251, said Public Health Dept, Government of Maharashtra.

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Update

Five more COVID-19 patients die in Gujarat; state toll rises to 95

Five more patients succumbed to coronavirus in Gujarat, taking the death toll in the state to 95, a health department official said on Wednesday. Four of the deaths were reported from Ahmedabad, while one person from Valsad died at a hospital in Surat, principal secretary (health) Jayanti Ravi said.

The 21-year-old victim from Valsad was also suffering from brain tumour, she said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Uddhav Thackeray seeks guidelines from Centre on migrant workers

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav​ Thackeray has demanded that the Centre issue guidelines by this month-end on sending the migrant workers to their native places in the wake of the coronavirus-enforced lockdown.

Speaking to the central team led by additional secretary Manoj Joshi through video conference on Tuesday evening, Thackeray said his government has opened shelter camps for over six lakh migrant labourers and they are being looked after well.

But, these people want to go back to their native places and are also protesting some times, he pointed out.

“If the central government feels the coronavirus spread will be more from 30 April till 15 May, it should consider if the stranded labourers can be sent back to their homes before that. If it is possible, guidelines in this regard should be issued,” Thackeray said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

No Muslim arrested for Palghar lynching incident, says Anil Deshmukh

Maharashtra Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday said none of the 101 people arrested in connection with the Palghar lynching case is a Muslim, and accused the opposition of giving a communal colour over the incident.

“None of the accused arrested in connection with the incident is a Muslim. It is unfortunate that communal politics is being played following the incident, Deshmukh said in his address via Facebook.

Without naming anyone, he said, “Some people are seeing ‘Mungerilal ke haseen sapne’ (pipedream)…it is not the time to play politics, but fight coronavirus collectively.”

The incident took place on the night of 16 April when three men – two seers and their driver – were going from Mumbai in a car towards Surat in Gujarat to attend a funeral.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Amit Shah interacts with IMA doctors via video conferencing

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan interacted with doctors and Indian Medical Association (IMA) through video conferencing on Wednesday.

Shah appreciated their good work and assured them of their safety. He further appealed to them to not do even symbolic protest candle light protests as proposed by them today. 

#WATCH Delhi: Union HM Amit Shah & Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan interacted with Indian Medical Association doctors through video conferencing today. HM assured them security & appealed to them to not to do even symbolic protest as proposed by them, govt is with them. pic.twitter.com/kuiB8vsxWC

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Anil Deshmukh requests CBI to take custody of DHFL promoters Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawans

Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Wednesday said the state government has requested the CBI to take the custody of DHFL promoters Kapil Wadhawan and Dheeraj Wadhawan, who allegedly violated the lockdown norms and travelled to Mahabaleshwar earlier this month.

After the Wadhawan brothers and 21 others, including their family members, reached Mahabaleshwar hill town, they were quarantined there by the Satara district administration.

In a Facebook address, Deshmukh said he has requested the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take the custody of Wadhawans after their quarantine period ends at 2 pm on Wednesday.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Rupee plummets to all-time low of 76.88 against US dollar in early trade

The Indian rupee plummeted to an all-time low of 76.88 against the US dollar in opening trade on Wednesday, amid strengthening of the US dollar overseas and rise in coronavirus cases in the country. On 16 April, rupee had slumped to 76.87 against US dollar.

Forex traders said the weakness in the rupee was largely due to strengthening of the US dollar against a basket of currencies as investors fled to safe haven greenback amid weakening risk appetite in the markets.

The rupee opened weak at 76.86 at the interbank forex market and then fell further to 76.88, down 5 paise over its last close.

The rupee had settled at 76.83 against the US dollar on Tuesday.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Update

Chennai doctor’s widow appeals to CM to shift his body to Kilpauk Cemetary

The wife of a doctor and coronavirus victim has made a teary-eyed appeal to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami for a decent burial for her husband after the authorities hurriedly finished the job due to stiff opposition from neighbours, reports News18.

Dr Simon Hercules was unceremoniously lowered into a shallow grave at Velangadu in Chennai after an ambulance driver and a sanitary inspector ferrying the body came under severe attack from locals who feared the burial might lead to spread of the infection.

The 55-year-old doctor, who ran New Hope in Chetpet, was a renowned practitioner in his locality. Dr Hercules had contracted the disease while treating COVID-19 patients. Making an appeal to the CM with folded hands, his wife Anandi Simon said, “This was his last wish.”

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

53-year-old Pune patient succumbs to coronavirus

A 53-year-old coronavirus patient succumbed to the disease on Tuesday night, reports ANI. The death toll in the Pune district rises to 55 according to health officials.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Jitendra Awhad shifted to Forti in Mulund from Thane hospital

Maharashtra cabinet minister Jitendra Awhad has been admitted to Fortis hospital, in Mulund early Wednesday morning, reports CNN-News18. The MLA from NCP had been self-quarantined at his residence for some days now. A hospital official confirmed to The Indian Express he was brought to the hospital this morning, but declined to comment further. He has been admitted as a precautionary measure on Tuesday and will require to further check up for COVID-19.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Update

Panel to examine if privacy of personal, sensitive data of patients protected

Amid opposition charges, the Kerala government has constituted a two-member committee to examine whether the privacy of personal and sensitive data of COVID-19 patients from the state has been protected under an agreement entered by it with a US-based IT firm.

The panel headed by former Special IT Secretary M Madhavan Nambiar and former health secretary Rajeev Sadanandan, will also ascertain whether adequate procedures were followed while finalising the arrangements with the private company, Sprinklr.

The Opposition Congress has been levelling charges that the collection of data by the US firm violated the fundamental rights of the patients

In its order, the state government said it had initiated steps to set up a Data Analytics platform to integrate data from various sources available in the government to meet the “exigency of a massive and unprecedented surge of an epidemic”.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

Delhi’s Azadpur market reports first coronavirus death

A 57-year-old seller at Delhi’s Azadpur Mandi died due to coronavirus yesterday. Some sellers told ANI, “The block (where his shop was) is sealed and no one is there. Sellers at that side have asked to barricade their shops and no one be allowed to go there unnecessarily.”

Azadpur Market reported its first COVID-19 related death y'day when a 57-yr-old seller died. Some sellers say, "The block (where his shop was) is sealed, no one is there. Sellers at that side have asked that their shops be barricaded&no one be allowed to come there unnecessarily" https://t.co/RpTJXo1tSJ

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

Trump threatens to terminate trade deal with China

US President Donald Trump has threatened to terminate the trade deal with China if Beijing did not honour its provisions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic that originated in the country.

While China has reported 82,788 novel coronavirus cases, including 4,632 fatalities, the US-registered over 824,600 cases and more than 45,290 deaths — the highest in the world.

China and the US in January signed Phase-1 of the trade deal as the world’s two top economic powers move forward to end their bitter tit-for-tat two-year tariff war that had rattled markets and weighed on the global economy.

The deal, which calls on China to buy USD 200 billion worth of US products, is set to move ahead as planned. However, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission in a report said China could invoke a clause in the agreement that allows for fresh trade consultations between the two countries “in the event of a natural disaster or other unforeseeable events”.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Six SRPF jawans test positive in Hingoli district

Six State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) jawans have tested positive in Maharashtra’s Hingoli district, a health official said on Tuesday. They were recently deployed in Mumbai and were quarantined four days ago after return, the official said.

“Two units of SRPF jawans returned from Mumbai after being posted there for 45 days, so it was decided to quarantine them as a precaution,” said Civil Surgeon Dr Kishor Prasad Shrivas.

“194 jawans were quarantined at SRPF hospital of Hingoli. Reports of 101 jawans are now available. Out of them 95 are negative and six are positive,” he said.

“As per the information I have received, the condition of all six is stable. They will be shifted to Hingoli civil hospital,” he added.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Woman police constable posted at Maharashtra CM’s official residence tests positive

A woman police constable posted at ‘Varsha’, the official residence of Maharashtra Chief Minister, tested positive for coronavirus on Tuesday, a senior official said. Also, a male constable at the official residence of Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Devendra Fadnavis has tested positive, according to a civic official.

The Varsha bungalow in south Mumbai is currently unoccupied as Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray lives in his family residence in suburban Bandra. “A woman constable has tested positive for COVID-19. We have hospitalised her while contact-tracing is going on,” said a senior IAS official.

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

US will have second wave of coronavirus, says health official

A second wave of the novel coronavirus will hit the US later this year with even more difficult ramifications than the current COVID-19 crisis that has claimed more than 45,000 lives and infected over 824,000 people in the country, a top American health official has warned.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert Redfield told The Washington Post that the US will have the flu epidemic and the coronavirus epidemic at the same time.

If the first wave of the coronavirus outbreak and the flu season had peaked at the same time, it could have been “really, really difficult in terms of health capacity,” he said. Luckily, the arrival of the novel coronavirus in the United States came as the regular flu season was waning, he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

On Earth Day, PM gives a big shout out to COVID-19 warriors

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday gave a big shout out to those at the forefront of the fight against coronavirus disease COVID-19. He tweeted the appreciation while greeting the people on Earth Day.

The Earth day is observed on 22 April in order to create awareness about pollution and to celebrate the environment of our planet. This year is a special occasion as it marks the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day. The theme of the day this year is ‘Climate Action’.

On International Day of Mother Earth, we all express gratitude to our planet for the abundance of care & compassion. Let us pledge to work towards a cleaner, healthier & more prosperous planet.

A shout out to all those working at the forefront to defeat COVID-19. #EarthDay2020

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Indian indices opened flat today on the back of weak global cues

At 9.17 am IST, the Sensex was down 3.38 points or 0.01 percent at 30,633.33. The Nifty was down 11.80 points or 0.13 percent at 8,969.65. About 376 shares advanced, 419 declined and 34 remained unchanged.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Update

Rajasthan registers 64 new cases

64 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Rajasthan, as of 9 am on Wednesday. The total cases in the state now at 1799, including 274 recovered, 97 discharged and 26 deaths, said Rajasthan Health Department.

Coronavirus in China Latest Update

China steps-up testing at borders as imported coronavirus cases cross 1,600

China has reported 30 new COVID-19 cases, a majority of them are the Chinese returning from abroad, taking the number of imported infections in the country to 1,610, the health officials said on Wednesday, as the authorities stepped-up the testing and treatment facilities in all border regions.

The death toll due to the novel coronavirus remains 4,632 with no new fatalities were reported on Tuesday, while the overall confirmed cases climbed to 82,788, of which 1,005 patients are still being treated and 77,151 have been discharged, China’s National Health Commission (NHC) said.

China’s imported cases have risen to 1,610 with 30 new cases, including 23 imported infections. Of the total imported cases, 811 people are being treated with 41 in severe conditions, it said.

A total of 42 new asymptomatic cases, including seven from abroad, were reported on Tuesday, taking the total to 991 asymptomatic cases. All of them were under medical observation, the NHC said in a report.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Maharashtra minister in hospital for precautionary check-up

Maharashtra Housing Minister Jitendra Awhad, who had quarantined himself after some of his security staff tested positive for novel coronavirus, on Tuesday got admitted in a private hospital in neighbouring Thane city, reported PTI.

The NCP MLA from Mumbra Kalwa has been in quarantine since 13 April as a precautionary measure, and had said at the time that his samples had tested negative for the virus.

“He had completed over a week in self-quarantine and today approached the hospital as part of precautionary check- up,” an NCP functionary close to the development said.

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Update

Bihar officer suspended for issuing travel pass to BJP MLA

A civil servant in Bihar was suspended for issuing a travel pass to a BJP MLA who recently travelled to Kota to bring back his daughter, triggering a major controversy.

According to a notification issued by the state’s general administration department late Tuesday, Anu Kumar, the Sub Divisional Officer, Sadar, Nawada district was suspended with immediate effect for issuing the pass in favor of Anil Singh who represents the Hisua Assembly segment.

The notification said Kumar has been found guilty of negligence in issuing the pass facilitating inter-state travel, which must not have been issued except in extraordinary circumstances during the lockdown period.

Further disciplinary action has been recommended against the SDO who shall be attached to the office of the Divisional Commissioner, Magadh Division, during the period of his suspension, the notification added.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

AMU doctor suspended for ’negligence’ as COVID-19 patient dies

The Aligarh District Administration on Tuesday suspended a doctor at Aligarh Muslim University’s (AMU) Jawaharlal Lal Nehru Medical College for alleged medical negligence, following the first death due to the novel coronavirus disease in the district.

The deceased identified as Merajuddin was a 55-year-old man who was admitted to the hospital on Sunday evening with breathing problems. First, he was shifted to the isolation ward on 19 April and then later placed on a ventilator. The medical college did not inform the district administration and Merajuddin was tested positive for the disease the next day.

Speaking about the case to ANI, Aligarh District Magistrate Chandra Bhushan said that the district health department alleged that the hospital authorities did not inform about the case in time, and the delay could lead to the exposure of several people. Moreover, two corona positive cases were also detected in the district on Tuesday.

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

$500 billion coronavirus aid package passes US Senate

The US Senate on Tuesday unanimously approved $484 billion in fresh relief for the US economy and hospitals hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, sending the measure to the House of Representatives for final passage later this week, reports Reuters.

The bill, approved on a voice vote by the handful of senators present in the near-empty chamber, was hurried along shortly after congressional leaders and the White House brokered an agreement.

The House is expected to vote on Thursday on what would be the fourth coronavirus-response law. Taken together, the four measures amount to about $3 trillion in aid since last month to confront a crisis that has killed more than 43,000 Americans.

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Update

Odisha confirms three new cases 

Health officials on Wednesday confirmed three more coronavirus cases in Odisha, taking the total number of cases to 82, including 30 cured/discharged and one death, reports ANI.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

India reports 50 deaths, 1,383 new cases in past 24 hrs

India reported 50 deaths and 1383 new cases reported in the last 24 hours as the country’s total number of positive cases stands at 19,984 (including 3870 cured/discharged/migrated and 640 deaths).

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Update

Hindpiri now a containment zone

Health officials on Wednesday have identified Hindpiri area in Ranchi as a new coronavirus containment zone after one case was reported from the region, reports ANI. The total number of positive cases in Jharkhand stands at 46 with two deaths.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Update

West Bengal writes letter to MHA, assures cooperation to central teams 

West Bengal writes letter to MHA, assures cooperation to central teams visiting the state to assess lockdown situation. “It is not a fact that central teams have not been provided any cooperation by West Bengal govt. This is to convey my highest assurances for implementation of central govt order, directions of SC” said WB chief secretary to Union home secretary.

The letter also noted that the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT)  had arrived without any prior consultation with the state government and, therefore, “there was neither such opportunity to provide any logistic support as envisaged in the order dated 19 April 2020 nor the team asked for any help.

IMCT had arrived without any prior consultation with us and, therefore, there was neither such opportunity to provide any logistic support as envisaged in the order dated 19th April 2020 nor the team asked for any help: WB Chief Secy to Union Home Secy, in a letter dated April 21 pic.twitter.com/vHNuD1gEBD

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

CCEA to meet at PM’s residence today

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will meet at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence – 7, Lok Kalyan Marg – on Wednesday, reports ANI. It will be followed by a Cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister’s residence. This comes amid nationwide lockdown in the wake of COVID-19.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Maharashtra remains worst-affected state, followed by Gujarat

With 5,218 confirmed cases so far, Maharashtra is the worst-affected state in the country. The Union Health Ministry data suggests that while 722 COVID-19 patients have recovered, 251 have died.

At 2,178, Gujarat now has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases in the country. According to data from the Union Health Ministry, the state’s tally has surpassed that of Delhi. While 139 patients have recovered, 90 have died.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

India registers 19,984 cases and 640 deaths

Total confirmed COVID-19 cases in India have risen to 19,984, according to the latest update from the Union Health Ministry. This number includes cases involving foreign nationals, patients who have recovered and the toll.

The toll in India due to the novel virus has risen to 640. The reported active COVID-19 cases in India now stand at 15,474 and as many as 3,870 COVID-19 patients have been cured and discharged so far

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

IMA asks medics to light candle today; demands ordinance from govt

The Indian Medical Association has demanded the Centre bring in a law on an urgent basis to protect medical professionals from attacks on duty, amid rising incidents of violence against healthcare workers on the frontline of the fight against COVID-19.

Calling for a nation-wide ‘White Alert’, the IMA has asked doctors and hospitals across the country to light candles on Wednesday as a protest against such attacks. “Light a candle with white coat. White Alert is only a warning,” the IMA said in a letter addressed to its doctors and hospitals.

“The COVID-19 has only made us acutely aware of our helplessness against mindless abuse and violence. Stigma and social boycott are everywhere. Harassment by the administration is nothing but violence by the state.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

Delhi-Noida border to remain closed until further notice

In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, the Delhi-Gautam Buddha Nagar(Noida) border has been closed, with a few exemptions.

“As per the medical department advice, in the larger public interest, as a preventive measure to fight COVID-19, we are closing Delhi-GB Nagar/Noida border completely,” Gautam Buddha Nagar District Magistrate Suhas LY said in a tweet on 21 April.

Among those exempted from the travel restrictions are officials involved in COVID-19 related work with necessary passes, light/heavy vehicles involved in the transportation of goods, ambulance services, journalists/ media persons carrying valid passes issued by concerned authorities.

Dear residents,
As per the medical department advice, in the larger public interest, as a preventive measure to fight Covid 19, we are closing Delhi-GB nagar/Noida border completely, with following specified exceptions. You are kindly requested to cooperate. StayHome StaySafe🙏 pic.twitter.com/es4ap51XVW

— DM G.B. Nagar (@dmgbnagar) April 21, 2020

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Update

Families with no rations cards to get Rs 1,000 assistance, says Nitish Kumar

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said that assistance of Rs 1,000 will be provided to all families that do not have ration cards but were identified by self-help groups of ‘Jeevika’ in the state.

The state government has earlier decided to provide Rs 1,000 to each ration card-holding family in the state following the enforcement of lockdown.

Kumar directed Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar to inform all the district magistrates and sub-divisional magistrates to provide the assistance of Rs 1,000 to each of the family which does not have ration card but has been identified by the Jeevika groups, according to an official release.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

South Korean firm starts production for rapid antibody testing kits in India

A South Korean firm has started production of the COVID-19 rapid antibody testing kits in its Indian subsidiary plant to meet the growing demand of the medical equipment in India and other parts of the world, a press release issued by the Indian embassy here said on Tuesday.

SD Biosensor Healthcare Pvt Ltd is producing the test kits with a capacity of 500,000 tests per week and the first batch was rolled out on 19 April, it said. Its Indian subsidiary is located in Manesar, Gurgaon.

“This is an excellent example of India’s ‘Make in India for the World’ as the company plans to ramp up production to meet growing demand in India as well as other parts of the world,” the press release said.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Update

West Bengal’s toll now at 15

Three more persons died of COVID-19 in West Bengal, taking the death toll due to the disease to 15 in the state, Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said on Tuesday. In the last 24 hours, 29 fresh COVID-19 cases were reported, raising the number of active cases in the state to 274, he said.

“These 29 cases were reported from Kolkata, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Nadia, Hooghly and Paschim Burdwan districts,” Sinha said.

No COVID-19 patient was discharged from any of the hospitals in West Bengal in the last 24 hours, he said, adding that 713 samples were tested in the state during the period.

The number of people who have contracted the deadly virus in West Bengal is 359, according to state authorities, while the figure mentioned on the Union health and family welfare ministry’s website is 392.

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

Trump suspends issuing of new Green Cards for 60 days

President Donald Trump has said that he will halt issuing of new Green Cards or legal permanent residency for the next 60 days as part of his executive order to temporarily suspend immigration into the US.

However, the move will not have any impact on those entering the country on a temporary basis, Trump said.

Many have interpreted that those on non-immigrant work visas like H-1B will not be impacted. Seasonal immigrant workers for agricultural purposes too will not be impacted.

In any case, the executive order to be signed by Trump today will impact a large number Indian Americans, who are waiting to get a green card.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Hospital fact-finding committee says allegations levelled by patient’s family not true

A fact-finding committee of a Delhi government hospital looking into the allegations levelled by family members of a male coronavirus patient that he was “not attended properly” at the facility, has rejected the claims.

The daughter of the patient, in a video posted on Twitter, had alleged that her father was made to wait unduly long in the ambulance while being shifted from a private facility to the LNJP Hospital here, a dedicated COVID-19 facility.

She also claimed that the man was not served any food after his admission on April 18 and was fed only the next morning.

The LNJP Hospital had constituted a fact-finding panel, which looked into the matter and came to a conclusion that the “allegations are not ingrained in facts and stemming from the emotional distress” of discovering a family member to be affected by the coronavirus pandemic, the report said.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

After sealing border with Delhi, Noida admin issues advisory on media passes

The Gautam Buddh Nagar administration on Wednesday asked media houses located in Noida and Delhi to send details of their personnel who need to travel between the two cities during the lockdown imposed due to COVID-19 outbreak.

The details of the most important representatives of the media houses could be sent by 12 pm on Wednesday (April 22) on the email ids — cahqgbn@gmail.com and diogautambudhnagar@gmail.com, the administration said in a statement issued at around 1.30 am on Wednesday.

The administration had banned the movement of people between Noida and Delhi, except those involved in COVID-19-related services like ambulances, goods transportation and media, from Tuesday night.

“Media houses in Noida and Delhi should prepare a list of their representatives who stay in Delhi and work in Noida or stay in Noida but work in Delhi. The list should be e-mailed by 12 pm on April 22 (Wednesday),” according to the statement.

“Media representatives who live and work in Noida and do not need to travel to Delhi should not be included in the list,” the advisory said, adding that such media personnel can move around in Noida if they have a press identity card issued by their organisation.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Update

Special flight to Canada leaves Amritsar

A special flight to Montreal, Canada via Doha with 243 passengers on board (all Canadians) departs from Amritsar International Airport on Wednesday morning, said KBS Sidhu, Special Chief Secretary, Punjab.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Cases in India near 19,000 mark; toll now at 603

The Union health ministry, in its daily press briefing, said that the toll from COVID-19 in India rose to 603 on Tuesday, while the number of cases rose to 18,985. Of them, 15,122 are active cases while 3,260 patients have recovered, the ministry added.