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Coronavirus Live Updates: Trillion-Dollar Stimulus in Doubt as Democrats Press for Changes; Senator Rand Paul Is Infected Coronavirus Live Updates: Trillion-Dollar Stimulus in Doubt as Democrats Press for Changes; Senator Rand Paul Is Infected
(32 minutes later)
新冠病毒疫情最新消息新冠病毒疫情最新消息
Last-minute fighting among lawmakers over the details of a more than $1 trillion economic stabilization package to aid families and businesses devastated by the coronavirus pandemic left the sweeping legislation teetering on the brink on Sunday, with the Republican-controlled Senate pushing ahead toward a vote on the package without a formal compromise with Democrats.Last-minute fighting among lawmakers over the details of a more than $1 trillion economic stabilization package to aid families and businesses devastated by the coronavirus pandemic left the sweeping legislation teetering on the brink on Sunday, with the Republican-controlled Senate pushing ahead toward a vote on the package without a formal compromise with Democrats.
The top four congressional leaders met with Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, to hash out differences over the package, which remains unfinished after days of rapid closed-door negotiations with administration officials and bipartisan groups of senators.The top four congressional leaders met with Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, to hash out differences over the package, which remains unfinished after days of rapid closed-door negotiations with administration officials and bipartisan groups of senators.
They emerged without news of an agreement, but indicated that talks would continue even as Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, planned to move forward with an initial procedural vote on the package during a rare Sunday session in the Senate.They emerged without news of an agreement, but indicated that talks would continue even as Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, planned to move forward with an initial procedural vote on the package during a rare Sunday session in the Senate.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who returned from San Francisco on Saturday to take part in the final stages of negotiations, went so far as to say the House would pursue its own legislation.Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who returned from San Francisco on Saturday to take part in the final stages of negotiations, went so far as to say the House would pursue its own legislation.
“It’s on the Senate side now because that’s their deadline for a vote,” Ms. Pelosi told reporters as she left the meeting. “But we’ll be introducing our own bill and hopefully, it will be compatible with what they discussed in the Senate.”“It’s on the Senate side now because that’s their deadline for a vote,” Ms. Pelosi told reporters as she left the meeting. “But we’ll be introducing our own bill and hopefully, it will be compatible with what they discussed in the Senate.”
But Mr. McConnell said that the leaders “were very close” and “were still talking” after the meeting in his office, which included Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, and Representative Kevin McCarthy, Republican of California, the two minority leaders.But Mr. McConnell said that the leaders “were very close” and “were still talking” after the meeting in his office, which included Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, and Representative Kevin McCarthy, Republican of California, the two minority leaders.
“We’re at the point in the discussion where people will shortly have to say yes or no,” he said. “And I’m confident, given the desire of the country to see an outcome, that we’ll get to yes.”“We’re at the point in the discussion where people will shortly have to say yes or no,” he said. “And I’m confident, given the desire of the country to see an outcome, that we’ll get to yes.”
“Make no mistake about it, we’ll be voting tomorrow,” he added. “I mean, the wheel has to stop at some point.”“Make no mistake about it, we’ll be voting tomorrow,” he added. “I mean, the wheel has to stop at some point.”
Having missed a self-imposed deadline at 5 p.m. on Saturday to strike a full agreement, Republicans began drafting and circulating their own text, which was obtained by The New York Times.Having missed a self-imposed deadline at 5 p.m. on Saturday to strike a full agreement, Republicans began drafting and circulating their own text, which was obtained by The New York Times.
Democrats, for their part, continued to push for stronger protections for workers and raised alarms about the scope of some funding levels and programs. Among the concerns, according to Democratic aides, was the size of a Treasury Department fund and the discretion Mr. Mnuchin and his lieutenants would have to decide who would receive those funds, as well as how quickly the administration would have to disclose loans or loan guarantees made to companies and industries.Democrats, for their part, continued to push for stronger protections for workers and raised alarms about the scope of some funding levels and programs. Among the concerns, according to Democratic aides, was the size of a Treasury Department fund and the discretion Mr. Mnuchin and his lieutenants would have to decide who would receive those funds, as well as how quickly the administration would have to disclose loans or loan guarantees made to companies and industries.
Democrats have also voiced concerns that the bill does not contain enough barriers to prevent industries from laying off their work forces after receiving federal funds, and are pushing for giving grants instead of loans to airlines.Democrats have also voiced concerns that the bill does not contain enough barriers to prevent industries from laying off their work forces after receiving federal funds, and are pushing for giving grants instead of loans to airlines.
The governors of multiple states and other leaders made urgent pleas on Sunday for masks and other protective equipment to help fight the swelling outbreak, imploring the federal government to do more to increase the products’ availability. The governors of multiple states and other leaders made urgent pleas on Sunday for masks and other protective equipment to help fight the swelling outbreak, and in a late afternoon news conference, President Trump listed a number of federal actions but also noted that governors would be leading the fight against the coronavirus.
California officials told hospitals to restrict coronavirus testing, and a hospital in Washington State warned that it could run out of life-preserving ventilators by early next month. ​Washington State’s Department of Health told local leaders that only the highest-priority areas would have access to the government’s reserves of protective equipment, including N95 masks. As the number of known cases in the United States crossed 31,700, California officials told hospitals to restrict coronavirus testing, and a hospital in Washington State warned that it could run out of life-preserving ventilators by early next month. ​Washington State’s Department of Health told local leaders that only the highest-priority areas would have access to the government’s reserves of protective equipment, including N95 masks.
As the number of cases in the United States crossed 29,000, local elected officials across the country have called on President Trump to use his authority under the Defense Production Act to mobilize the private sector to increase the production of scarce goods. Mr. Trump said that the governors of New York, California, and Washington — the three states hardest hit by the virus — would get financial support in deploying National Guard units, and that major disaster declarations were in process for all three states.
“Through FEMA, the federal government will be funding 100 percent of the cost of deploying National Guard units to carry out approved missions to stop the virus, while those governors remain in command,” Mr. Trump said.
Mr. Trump said that he had directed FEMA to supply four large federal medical stations with 1,000 beds for New York, eight large federal medical stations with 2,000 beds for California, and three large federal medical stations and four small federal medical stations with 1,000 beds for the State of Washington.
This appeared to be a partial confirmation of a request made by Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York, who on Saturday requested that FEMA designate four field hospitals, stocked with 250 beds each, to care for people affected by the virus. Locations would include the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan.
As Mr. Trump detailed the deployment of National Guard units and medical supplies to locations across the country, he at times repeated the same facts, and appeared halting at moments as he described a complex list of facts and figures in the millions.
Local elected officials across the country have been calling on President Trump to use his authority under the Defense Production Act to mobilize the private sector to increase the production of scarce goods.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, which reported more than 750 cases, said on CNN’s “State of the Union” that states continued to compete against one another in a race to procure protective gear as it became available.Gov. J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, which reported more than 750 cases, said on CNN’s “State of the Union” that states continued to compete against one another in a race to procure protective gear as it became available.
“This should have been a coordinated effort by the federal government,” said Mr. Pritzker, a Democrat. “It’s a wild — Wild West, I would say, out there.”“This should have been a coordinated effort by the federal government,” said Mr. Pritzker, a Democrat. “It’s a wild — Wild West, I would say, out there.”
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, also a Democrat, said on ABC’s “This Week” that the state needed “clear directive and guidance from the federal government.”Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, also a Democrat, said on ABC’s “This Week” that the state needed “clear directive and guidance from the federal government.”
“Had the federal government really started focusing when it became clear that the whole world was going to be confronting this, we would be in a stronger position right now,” she said. “And that’s an issue I’m not going to belabor because I’ve got to keep solving problems and I would like the federal government to be a partner.”“Had the federal government really started focusing when it became clear that the whole world was going to be confronting this, we would be in a stronger position right now,” she said. “And that’s an issue I’m not going to belabor because I’ve got to keep solving problems and I would like the federal government to be a partner.”
In many cases, state and local officials are trying to strike a balance between sounding the alarm about their supply shortage and withholding sharp criticism of the Trump administration’s role in addressing those shortages as they lean on the federal government to provide critical aid.In many cases, state and local officials are trying to strike a balance between sounding the alarm about their supply shortage and withholding sharp criticism of the Trump administration’s role in addressing those shortages as they lean on the federal government to provide critical aid.
Mr. Pritzker and Gov. Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey, a Democrat, praised the work of the Federal Emergency Management Agency for having fulfilled a fraction of their supply requests.Mr. Pritzker and Gov. Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey, a Democrat, praised the work of the Federal Emergency Management Agency for having fulfilled a fraction of their supply requests.
But Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York said on NBC’s “Meet The Press.” Mr. Trump would “not lift a finger to help his hometown” and repeatedly called for the military to be mobilized.But Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York said on NBC’s “Meet The Press.” Mr. Trump would “not lift a finger to help his hometown” and repeatedly called for the military to be mobilized.
“If the president does not act,” Mr. de Blasio said, “people will die who could have lived otherwise.”“If the president does not act,” Mr. de Blasio said, “people will die who could have lived otherwise.”
On “State of the Union,” Peter T. Gaynor, the F.E.M.A. administrator, said that the federal government was focused on places hit hardest: New York, California and Washington. Other areas not severely affected by the outbreak would simply have to wait. On “State of the Union,” Peter T. Gaynor, the FEMA administrator, said thatareas not severely affected by the outbreak would simply have to wait for federal assistance.
“There’s hundreds of requests — virtually every state in the union looking for the same thing, and it’s not just the demand nationally, it’s a demand globally for these items,” he said.“There’s hundreds of requests — virtually every state in the union looking for the same thing, and it’s not just the demand nationally, it’s a demand globally for these items,” he said.
He added, “If you don’t need it right away, you’re going to be a little bit farther down the list.”He added, “If you don’t need it right away, you’re going to be a little bit farther down the list.”
Mr. Trump has so far declined to to use his authority under the Defense Production Act, Mr. Gaynor said, and is instead using the threat of the act as “leverage to demonstrate that we can.”Mr. Trump has so far declined to to use his authority under the Defense Production Act, Mr. Gaynor said, and is instead using the threat of the act as “leverage to demonstrate that we can.”
Mr. Trump said in a tweet on Sunday that Ford, General Motors and Tesla were being approved to make ventilators and other “metal products.”Mr. Trump said in a tweet on Sunday that Ford, General Motors and Tesla were being approved to make ventilators and other “metal products.”
“Go for it auto execs, lets see how good you are?” Mr. Trump said.“Go for it auto execs, lets see how good you are?” Mr. Trump said.
Pressed on the number of supplies like masks that the government has distributed, Mr. Gaynor declined to say.Pressed on the number of supplies like masks that the government has distributed, Mr. Gaynor declined to say.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, said there were still not enough supplies at hospitals in her district, and argued that places where the epidemic was not as severe could ill afford to wait.Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, said there were still not enough supplies at hospitals in her district, and argued that places where the epidemic was not as severe could ill afford to wait.
“The fact that the president has not really invoked the Defense Production Act for the purposes of emergency manufacturers is going to cost lives,” she said on “State of the Union.”“The fact that the president has not really invoked the Defense Production Act for the purposes of emergency manufacturers is going to cost lives,” she said on “State of the Union.”
A Department of Defense contractor who had tested positive for the coronavirus died on Saturday, the Pentagon said on Sunday.A Department of Defense contractor who had tested positive for the coronavirus died on Saturday, the Pentagon said on Sunday.
A sharp increase in confirmed coronavirus cases in New York State on Sunday indicated that the state now accounts for roughly 5 percent of coronavirus cases worldwide.A sharp increase in confirmed coronavirus cases in New York State on Sunday indicated that the state now accounts for roughly 5 percent of coronavirus cases worldwide.
The jump stemmed from both the rapid growth of the outbreak and a significant increase in testing in the state. Health officials emphasized that testing was revealing how quickly the virus had spread.The jump stemmed from both the rapid growth of the outbreak and a significant increase in testing in the state. Health officials emphasized that testing was revealing how quickly the virus had spread.
There are now 15,168 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the state, up 4,812 since Saturday, and 114 deaths, Mr. Cuomo said. About 13 percent, or 1,974 people in New York who tested positive for the virus, were hospitalized, Mr. Cuomo said.There are now 15,168 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the state, up 4,812 since Saturday, and 114 deaths, Mr. Cuomo said. About 13 percent, or 1,974 people in New York who tested positive for the virus, were hospitalized, Mr. Cuomo said.
The governor also took issue with what he called the “insensitive” and “arrogant” behavior of New York City residents who continued to gather in parks and other public spaces. Mr. Cuomo indicated that he would give the city 24 hours to come up with a plan to reduce density in these spaces, which he would need to approve.The governor also took issue with what he called the “insensitive” and “arrogant” behavior of New York City residents who continued to gather in parks and other public spaces. Mr. Cuomo indicated that he would give the city 24 hours to come up with a plan to reduce density in these spaces, which he would need to approve.
“I don’t know what I’m saying that people don’t get,” Mr. Cuomo said, suggesting that city officials could close some streets to traffic to give residents more outdoor space.“I don’t know what I’m saying that people don’t get,” Mr. Cuomo said, suggesting that city officials could close some streets to traffic to give residents more outdoor space.
Appearing on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday morning, Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York warned that the city’s hospitals were straining under a deluge of cases, and he again called on President Trump to send more help.Appearing on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday morning, Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York warned that the city’s hospitals were straining under a deluge of cases, and he again called on President Trump to send more help.
“April is going to be worse than March,” he said. “And I fear May will be worse than April.”“April is going to be worse than March,” he said. “And I fear May will be worse than April.”
Also on Sunday, Mr. Cuomo said the Federal Emergency Management Agency would build four hospitals with a total of 1,000 beds at the sprawling Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on Manhattan’s West Side.Also on Sunday, Mr. Cuomo said the Federal Emergency Management Agency would build four hospitals with a total of 1,000 beds at the sprawling Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on Manhattan’s West Side.
Mr. Cuomo also said that he supported continued testing for the virus, and that he wanted the federal government to test people for antibodies indicating they had recovered from the virus, in part to help combat health care worker shortages.Mr. Cuomo also said that he supported continued testing for the virus, and that he wanted the federal government to test people for antibodies indicating they had recovered from the virus, in part to help combat health care worker shortages.
Senator Rand Paul, Republican of Kentucky, has tested positive for coronavirus, his office announced in a statement on Sunday. He is the first senator and the third member of Congress to test positive.Senator Rand Paul, Republican of Kentucky, has tested positive for coronavirus, his office announced in a statement on Sunday. He is the first senator and the third member of Congress to test positive.
Mr. Paul “is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events,” his office said on Twitter, and he has since self-quarantined. His Washington office began operating remotely 10 days ago, the statement said, and “hence virtually no staff has had contact” with him. The statement did not detail how long Mr. Paul had been in quarantine.Mr. Paul “is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events,” his office said on Twitter, and he has since self-quarantined. His Washington office began operating remotely 10 days ago, the statement said, and “hence virtually no staff has had contact” with him. The statement did not detail how long Mr. Paul had been in quarantine.
Two other members of Congress — Representative Mario Diaz-Balart, Republican of Florida and Representative Ben McAdams, Democrat of Utah — have also tested positive for the virus. Over a dozen others have since self-isolated after coming into contact with them or other individuals who had also tested positive for Covid-19. But as the Senate continues to meet in a bid to cut a deal on a massive rescue package, lawmakers have largely taken few precautions to comply with public health guidance. Later on Sunday, both of Utah’s Senators, Mike Lee and Mitt Romney, announced that they would be self-quarantining, citing Mr. Paul’s diagnosis and the advice of the attending physician of the U.S. Congress.
The statement from Mr. Romney’s office said that he had “sat next to Senator Paul for extended periods in recent days.” The statement said Mr. Romney would be tested for the coronavirus even though he was not experiencing symptoms. Mr. Lee’s office said he would not be tested, despite his “exposure to Sen. Paul,” given that he had “no symptoms or other risk factors.”
Two other members of Congress — Representative Mario Diaz-Balart, Republican of Florida and Representative Ben McAdams, Democrat of Utah — have also tested positive for the virus.
Over a dozen others have since self-isolated after coming into contact with them or other individuals who had also tested positive for Covid-19. But as the Senate continues to meet in a bid to cut a deal on a massive rescue package, lawmakers have largely taken few precautions to comply with public health guidance.
At his news conference on Sunday afternoon, Mr. Trump expressed concern for Mr. Paul and for Mr. Diaz-Balart. “He’s been a great friend of mine,” Mr. Trump said of Mr. Paul. “He’s been always there when we needed him, when the country needed him.” He added, “Some people are hitting quite close to home.”
Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said on Sunday that she was going into isolation because her doctor had tested positive for the coronavirus, as the country banned groups of more than two people from gathering, except for families, to fight the outbreak.Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said on Sunday that she was going into isolation because her doctor had tested positive for the coronavirus, as the country banned groups of more than two people from gathering, except for families, to fight the outbreak.
The chancellor was informed of her doctor’s infection after a news conference Sunday at which she announced the tough new measures severely limiting social contact. The doctor vaccinated Ms. Merkel against pneumonia on Friday, the chancellor’s office said.The chancellor was informed of her doctor’s infection after a news conference Sunday at which she announced the tough new measures severely limiting social contact. The doctor vaccinated Ms. Merkel against pneumonia on Friday, the chancellor’s office said.
Ms. Merkel said the new social-distancing rules, which would be in place for at least two weeks, were among the strictest that any country had imposed on movement outside the home. They were announced as the number of confirmed cases in Germany rose to more than 23,900 on Sunday, with more than 90 deaths.Ms. Merkel said the new social-distancing rules, which would be in place for at least two weeks, were among the strictest that any country had imposed on movement outside the home. They were announced as the number of confirmed cases in Germany rose to more than 23,900 on Sunday, with more than 90 deaths.
Under the new restrictions, restaurants, which were previously allowed to seat customers during the day at a safe distance from one another, will be allowed to stay open but provide only delivery and takeout services. Hairdressers, massage studios and tattoo parlors must now close their doors.Under the new restrictions, restaurants, which were previously allowed to seat customers during the day at a safe distance from one another, will be allowed to stay open but provide only delivery and takeout services. Hairdressers, massage studios and tattoo parlors must now close their doors.
The announcement came as officials prepared to make 150 billion euros, or more than $160 billion, available to help the country weather the fallout.The announcement came as officials prepared to make 150 billion euros, or more than $160 billion, available to help the country weather the fallout.
The measure is expected to be passed by Ms. Merkel’s government on Monday with Parliament taking it up later in the week.The measure is expected to be passed by Ms. Merkel’s government on Monday with Parliament taking it up later in the week.
Before she announced that she would be self-isolating, Ms. Merkel demonstrated what responsible shopping looked like in times of the coronavirus when she was spotted at her local supermarket in Berlin.Before she announced that she would be self-isolating, Ms. Merkel demonstrated what responsible shopping looked like in times of the coronavirus when she was spotted at her local supermarket in Berlin.
Keeping her distance from other shoppers, a smiling Ms. Merkel dropped cherries, soap, several bottles of wine and toilet paper — one pack — into her shopping cart, photos on social media showed.Keeping her distance from other shoppers, a smiling Ms. Merkel dropped cherries, soap, several bottles of wine and toilet paper — one pack — into her shopping cart, photos on social media showed.
At least 23 inmates died in overnight clashes with guards in a prison called La Modelo, in Bogotá, Colombia, as unrest erupted in 12 other prisons in the country as well.
The authorities portrayed the clashes as an attempted prison break, but prisoners described a protest against the authorities for not doing enough to control the spread of coronavirus.
An inmate speaking from a cellphone inside another Bogotá prison, La Picota, called Saturday’s clashes “a massacre that until now has taken more lives than coronavirus in Colombia.”
“We are trying to launch an SOS,” said the inmate, Oscar Sanchez, adding that the prison was overcrowded, that inmates had not received enough information about how to protect themselves, and that many were worried that they could be infected by guards. “If there is one infection it would be a time bomb,” he said.
Worries are growing around the world about the risks faced by inmates and workers in prisons, where close quarters and strained medical operations can put people at a higher risk of infection.
An inmate at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn tested positive on Saturday for the coronavirus, according to the federal Bureau of Prisons. It is the first known case involving an inmate in the U.S. federal prison system.
Inmates in several French prisons have been protesting over the past few days because of the government’s confinement measures, which have severely restricted access to the outside world, mostly by suspending family visitation rights.
The Syndicat National Pénitentiaire-Force Ouvrière, a prison guard union, said on Sunday that two new incidents had erupted at prisons in Maubeuge and Longuenesse, in northern France, and in Nantes, in the west of the country.
In Venezuela, at least 10 prisoners died last week in a prison called Retén de Cabimas in the state of Zulia, according to Governor Omar Prieto. Several more inmates escaped.
In Brazil, riots at four prisons in São Paulo led to the escape of hundreds of inmates last Tuesday. The riots began after state officials suspended the temporary leave permits of 34,000 prisoners in an effort to prevent widespread contagion of coronavirus behind bars. By Wednesday, officials in São Paulo said they had detained 720 of the prisoners who escaped. It was not clear how many remained at large.
Communities living in warmer places appear to have a comparative advantage to slow the transmission of the coronavirus, according to an early analysis by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
The researchers found that most cases occurred in regions with low temperatures, between 37.4 and 62.6 degrees Fahrenheit (or 3 and 17 degrees Celsius).
“Wherever the temperatures were colder, the number of the cases started increasing quickly,” said Qasim Bukhari, a computational scientist at M.I.T. who is a co-author of the study. “You see this in Europe, even though the health care there is among the world’s best.”
The temperature dependency is also clear within the United States, Dr. Bukhari said. Arizona, Florida and Texas have seen slower outbreak growth compared with Washington, New York and Colorado. Coronavirus cases in California have grown at a rate that falls somewhere in between.
Dr. Bukhari acknowledged that factors like travel restrictions, social distancing measures, variations in the availability of tests and hospital burdens might have affected the number of cases in different locations.
The combination of heat and high humidity that appears to reduce transmission comes mainly in July and August for much of the Northern Hemisphere, Dr. Bukhari cautioned.
“This suggests that even if the spread of the coronavirus decreases at higher humidity, its effect would be limited for regions above 40 degrees North, which includes most of the Europe and North America,” he said.
And because so much is unknown, no one can predict whether the virus will return with ferocity in the fall.
The rapid spread of the coronavirus in the United States is creating twin challenges for police departments around the country: how and when to enforce the new safety regulations, and how to do their regular work during a national health emergency.The rapid spread of the coronavirus in the United States is creating twin challenges for police departments around the country: how and when to enforce the new safety regulations, and how to do their regular work during a national health emergency.
One after another, a series of states and counties have issued stay-at-home warnings, ordered most businesses to close and banned public gatherings and unnecessary travel, all in hopes of slowing the pandemic.One after another, a series of states and counties have issued stay-at-home warnings, ordered most businesses to close and banned public gatherings and unnecessary travel, all in hopes of slowing the pandemic.
The country exceeded 30,000 known cases on Sunday afternoon, with at least 378 related deaths.The country exceeded 30,000 known cases on Sunday afternoon, with at least 378 related deaths.
Several large police departments in areas under restriction orders, including the San Francisco Bay Area and New York City, have said they would take a soft “education over enforcement” approach, preferring to warn violators than to arrest them.Several large police departments in areas under restriction orders, including the San Francisco Bay Area and New York City, have said they would take a soft “education over enforcement” approach, preferring to warn violators than to arrest them.
“This isn’t martial law,” Chief Eddie Garcia of San Jose, Calif., told The Mercury News.“This isn’t martial law,” Chief Eddie Garcia of San Jose, Calif., told The Mercury News.
National Guard troops have been activated in all 50 states and several U.S. territories, but generally not for law enforcement duties. Rather, they are assisting with logistics, distributing supplies, setting up and operating testing sites, cleaning and securing public buildings and other urgent work.National Guard troops have been activated in all 50 states and several U.S. territories, but generally not for law enforcement duties. Rather, they are assisting with logistics, distributing supplies, setting up and operating testing sites, cleaning and securing public buildings and other urgent work.
The police in New Jersey, after breaking up several weddings, have reportedly arrested two hosts in recent days for holding large gatherings in defiance of the state’s order. But in general, there have been few reports of arrests for virus-related violations.The police in New Jersey, after breaking up several weddings, have reportedly arrested two hosts in recent days for holding large gatherings in defiance of the state’s order. But in general, there have been few reports of arrests for virus-related violations.
“If we see large groups, we’ll go and talk to them, educate them about it, and try and get compliance,” Chief Terence Monahan of the New York Police Department, told NY1.“If we see large groups, we’ll go and talk to them, educate them about it, and try and get compliance,” Chief Terence Monahan of the New York Police Department, told NY1.
Gov. David Ige of Hawaii on Saturday ordered a mandatory 14-day quarantine for everyone arriving in the state, including tourists and returning residents. Hawaii had 48 known cases on Sunday. Mr. Ige said in a Facebook post that failure to follow the order would be punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, up to a year’s imprisonment or both.Gov. David Ige of Hawaii on Saturday ordered a mandatory 14-day quarantine for everyone arriving in the state, including tourists and returning residents. Hawaii had 48 known cases on Sunday. Mr. Ige said in a Facebook post that failure to follow the order would be punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, up to a year’s imprisonment or both.
Police forces across the country said they were also cutting down on other kinds of arrests where possible, to avoid crowding more people into jails.Police forces across the country said they were also cutting down on other kinds of arrests where possible, to avoid crowding more people into jails.
Communities living in warmer places appear to have a comparative advantage to slow the transmission of the coronavirus, according to an early analysis by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
The researchers found that most cases occurred in regions with low temperatures, between 37.4 and 62.6 degrees Fahrenheit (or 3 and 17 degrees Celsius).
“Wherever the temperatures were colder, the number of the cases started increasing quickly,” said Qasim Bukhari, a computational scientist at M.I.T. who is a co-author of the study. “You see this in Europe, even though the health care there is among the world’s best.”
The temperature dependency is also clear within the United States, Dr. Bukhari said. Arizona, Florida and Texas have seen slower outbreak growth compared with Washington, New York and Colorado. Coronavirus cases in California have grown at a rate that falls somewhere in between.
Dr. Bukhari acknowledged that factors like travel restrictions, social distancing measures, variations in the availability of tests and hospital burdens might have affected the number of cases in different locations.
The combination of heat and high humidity that appears to reduce transmission comes mainly in July and August for much of the Northern Hemisphere, Dr. Bukhari cautioned.
“This suggests that even if the spread of the coronavirus decreases at higher humidity, its effect would be limited for regions above 40 degrees North, which includes most of the Europe and North America,” he said.
And because so much is unknown, no one can predict whether the virus will return with ferocity in the fall.
Some 3,500 doctors and other health workers in Spain have tested positive for the coronavirus, accounting for roughly 12 percent of the country’s roughly 28,500 cases, the Spanish health ministry said on Sunday, as authorities moved to extend countrywide emergency measures two more weeks.Some 3,500 doctors and other health workers in Spain have tested positive for the coronavirus, accounting for roughly 12 percent of the country’s roughly 28,500 cases, the Spanish health ministry said on Sunday, as authorities moved to extend countrywide emergency measures two more weeks.
The toll on health workers came amid some reports that hospital staffs had been forced to work without face masks and other basic protective gear. The number of dead in Spain rose by about 400 overnight to reach 1,753 on Sunday.The toll on health workers came amid some reports that hospital staffs had been forced to work without face masks and other basic protective gear. The number of dead in Spain rose by about 400 overnight to reach 1,753 on Sunday.
In the coming days, the Spanish army will also be deployed in greater numbers across the country, including to help transfer patients to hospitals.In the coming days, the Spanish army will also be deployed in greater numbers across the country, including to help transfer patients to hospitals.
“The wave that we’re going to suffer will be very hard, very hard in the coming weeks,” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said in a televised news conference on Sunday.“The wave that we’re going to suffer will be very hard, very hard in the coming weeks,” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said in a televised news conference on Sunday.
The World Health Organization’s top emergency expert said on Sunday that lockdowns could not prevent a resurgence of the virus.The World Health Organization’s top emergency expert said on Sunday that lockdowns could not prevent a resurgence of the virus.
“What we really need to focus on is finding those who are sick, those who have the virus, and isolate them, find their contacts and isolate them,” the expert, Mike Ryan, said in an interview on the BBC’s “Andrew Marr Show.” “If we don’t put in place the strong public health measures now, when those movement restrictions and lockdowns are lifted, the danger is the disease will jump back up.”“What we really need to focus on is finding those who are sick, those who have the virus, and isolate them, find their contacts and isolate them,” the expert, Mike Ryan, said in an interview on the BBC’s “Andrew Marr Show.” “If we don’t put in place the strong public health measures now, when those movement restrictions and lockdowns are lifted, the danger is the disease will jump back up.”
Among the dead in Spain was Lorenzo Sanz, a former president of the soccer powerhouse Real Madrid, who died on Saturday, becoming the most prominent person to succumb to the virus in Spain to date. Mr. Sanz, 76, led the soccer club from 1995 to 2000. The Madrid region has been the epicenter of the Spanish coronavirus crisis, with more than 800 deaths. Among the dead in Spain was Lorenzo Sanz, a former president of the soccer powerhouse Real Madrid. He died on Saturday, becoming the most prominent person to succumb to the virus in Spain to date. Mr. Sanz, 76, led the soccer club from 1995 to 2000. The Madrid region has been the epicenter of the Spanish coronavirus crisis, with more than 800 deaths.
Italy reported 3,957 new cases on Sunday and the country’s total reached 59,138. There were also 651 deaths, with the total reaching 5,476. But the increases in both numbers were lower than reported a day earlier, and officials hoped that the lockdowns and other restrictive measures were working.Italy reported 3,957 new cases on Sunday and the country’s total reached 59,138. There were also 651 deaths, with the total reaching 5,476. But the increases in both numbers were lower than reported a day earlier, and officials hoped that the lockdowns and other restrictive measures were working.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece on Sunday announced “a ban on all unnecessary movement by citizens across the country.” As of 6 a.m. Monday, only those who are going to or from work, buying food, visiting a doctor or pharmacy, taking brief exercise or walking a pet will be allowed on the streets, Mr. Mitsotakis said. All citizens must carry their police identity cards or passports with them. Greece reported a total of 624 cases.Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece on Sunday announced “a ban on all unnecessary movement by citizens across the country.” As of 6 a.m. Monday, only those who are going to or from work, buying food, visiting a doctor or pharmacy, taking brief exercise or walking a pet will be allowed on the streets, Mr. Mitsotakis said. All citizens must carry their police identity cards or passports with them. Greece reported a total of 624 cases.
A quake struck on Sunday near the Croatian capital, Zagreb, complicating quarantine measures and sending residents pouring into the streets during a partial lockdown. A 15-year-old was reported to be in critical condition and others were injured, news outlets reported. It was the strongest earthquake to hit the city since 1880. Croatia has 235 cases.A quake struck on Sunday near the Croatian capital, Zagreb, complicating quarantine measures and sending residents pouring into the streets during a partial lockdown. A 15-year-old was reported to be in critical condition and others were injured, news outlets reported. It was the strongest earthquake to hit the city since 1880. Croatia has 235 cases.
Uzbekistan, which has reported 42 cases, said the country’s borders with Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan would be closed to everyone except foreign citizens leaving the country and international cargo haulers. From Wednesday, anyone not wearing a mask in a public place will be fined.Uzbekistan, which has reported 42 cases, said the country’s borders with Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan would be closed to everyone except foreign citizens leaving the country and international cargo haulers. From Wednesday, anyone not wearing a mask in a public place will be fined.
In Iran, the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, rejected a reported offer of U.S. assistance, citing an unfounded conspiracy theory that the virus was “created by America.” The country has more than 21,000 cases. The French medical charity M.S.F., or Doctors Without Borders, said it was setting up a 50-bed emergency center to treat severe Covid-19 cases.In Iran, the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, rejected a reported offer of U.S. assistance, citing an unfounded conspiracy theory that the virus was “created by America.” The country has more than 21,000 cases. The French medical charity M.S.F., or Doctors Without Borders, said it was setting up a 50-bed emergency center to treat severe Covid-19 cases.
Cases in the Czech Republic rose to 1,047, Health Ministry data showed, and 15,584 people had been tested as of Saturday.Cases in the Czech Republic rose to 1,047, Health Ministry data showed, and 15,584 people had been tested as of Saturday.
Belgium is heading into “the peak of the epidemic, after which the curve will go down,” the country’s health minister, Maggie de Bock, said on Twitter. There were 3,400 confirmed cases and 75 deaths as of Sunday in the nation of 10 million, which hosts the European Union institutions. Over the weekend, police vans were deployed in Brussels neighborhoods asking people to stay indoors.Belgium is heading into “the peak of the epidemic, after which the curve will go down,” the country’s health minister, Maggie de Bock, said on Twitter. There were 3,400 confirmed cases and 75 deaths as of Sunday in the nation of 10 million, which hosts the European Union institutions. Over the weekend, police vans were deployed in Brussels neighborhoods asking people to stay indoors.
France, one of the countries in Europe hit the hardest, reported 16,018 confirmed cases and 674 deaths on Sunday. French officials said they had ordered more than 250 million face masks. In an interview on French TV on Sunday, Health Minister Olivier Véran announced the first death of a French doctor from the virus. Inmates in several prisons have protested the government’s confinement measures.France, one of the countries in Europe hit the hardest, reported 16,018 confirmed cases and 674 deaths on Sunday. French officials said they had ordered more than 250 million face masks. In an interview on French TV on Sunday, Health Minister Olivier Véran announced the first death of a French doctor from the virus. Inmates in several prisons have protested the government’s confinement measures.
In Pakistan, where Prime Minister Imran Khan has resisted implementing a total lockdown, provincial governments are calling for one that comes with strict measures for those who violate it. Several provinces have sought help from the military, which is setting up temporary medical facilities and deploying doctors to help provide civilian medical services.In Pakistan, where Prime Minister Imran Khan has resisted implementing a total lockdown, provincial governments are calling for one that comes with strict measures for those who violate it. Several provinces have sought help from the military, which is setting up temporary medical facilities and deploying doctors to help provide civilian medical services.
India observed its first so-called people’s curfew on Sunday, with millions staying indoors and emerging only for a few minutes at 5 p.m. to ring bells and bang on steel plates. The country has reported around 350 cases, relatively low for its population of 1.3 billion. The authorities also shut down metro lines and interstate passenger trains on Sunday.India observed its first so-called people’s curfew on Sunday, with millions staying indoors and emerging only for a few minutes at 5 p.m. to ring bells and bang on steel plates. The country has reported around 350 cases, relatively low for its population of 1.3 billion. The authorities also shut down metro lines and interstate passenger trains on Sunday.
Afghanistan on Sunday confirmed its first coronavirus death — a 40-year-old man in northern Balkh Province — as the total number of confirmed cases in the country rose to 34. Testing remains extremely low. With as many as 15,000 people arriving daily from Iran, one of the worst-hit countries, Afghanistan remains extremely vulnerable.Afghanistan on Sunday confirmed its first coronavirus death — a 40-year-old man in northern Balkh Province — as the total number of confirmed cases in the country rose to 34. Testing remains extremely low. With as many as 15,000 people arriving daily from Iran, one of the worst-hit countries, Afghanistan remains extremely vulnerable.
Officials in the densely populated Gaza Strip reported the first two coronavirus cases, two Palestinian men who had been in Pakistan and then entered Gaza via Egypt. Aid workers fear a public health disaster.Officials in the densely populated Gaza Strip reported the first two coronavirus cases, two Palestinian men who had been in Pakistan and then entered Gaza via Egypt. Aid workers fear a public health disaster.
At the Vatican, Pope Francis on Sunday called for a moment of collective prayer: He asked all Christians to recite the Lord’s Prayer together at noon on March 25. “Let’s remain united,” the pope said, “and be close to those who are alone and in greatest need.” He blessed an empty St. Peter’s Square.At the Vatican, Pope Francis on Sunday called for a moment of collective prayer: He asked all Christians to recite the Lord’s Prayer together at noon on March 25. “Let’s remain united,” the pope said, “and be close to those who are alone and in greatest need.” He blessed an empty St. Peter’s Square.
Several Americans who were among hundreds evacuated to the United States on Friday after being exposed to the coronavirus during a two-week cruise have reported severe symptoms.Several Americans who were among hundreds evacuated to the United States on Friday after being exposed to the coronavirus during a two-week cruise have reported severe symptoms.
“I never made it home — I collapsed at the airport,” said one of the evacuees, Jennifer Catron, a wedding photographer from Fredericksburg, Va.“I never made it home — I collapsed at the airport,” said one of the evacuees, Jennifer Catron, a wedding photographer from Fredericksburg, Va.
More than 300 cruise passengers from the United States and Canada were taken off the ship, Carnival’s Costa Luminosa, in Marseille on Friday and boarded a chartered flight to Atlanta. The trans-Atlantic cruise, which originated in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., had been turned away from ports in several countries before it finally docked in Marseille.More than 300 cruise passengers from the United States and Canada were taken off the ship, Carnival’s Costa Luminosa, in Marseille on Friday and boarded a chartered flight to Atlanta. The trans-Atlantic cruise, which originated in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., had been turned away from ports in several countries before it finally docked in Marseille.
Several passengers who has been onboard the ship on earlier legs of the cruise had fallen ill with the coronavirus, and two died.Several passengers who has been onboard the ship on earlier legs of the cruise had fallen ill with the coronavirus, and two died.
On Sunday, the Carnival cruise line sent the evacuees an email marked “urgent,” notifying them that three of their fellow passengers on the flight from Marseille to Atlanta had tested positive for the illness in France.On Sunday, the Carnival cruise line sent the evacuees an email marked “urgent,” notifying them that three of their fellow passengers on the flight from Marseille to Atlanta had tested positive for the illness in France.
The passengers were screened on arrival in Atlanta by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Georgia health authorities. Those without fevers were released to make their way home on commercial flights, despite having been in close quarters for up to 24 hours with infected people.The passengers were screened on arrival in Atlanta by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Georgia health authorities. Those without fevers were released to make their way home on commercial flights, despite having been in close quarters for up to 24 hours with infected people.
“Several people who have left the ship and were considered safe by the C.D.C. are getting worse,” said Kelly Edge, a passenger from Miami. She said that her doctor had told her she almost certainly had the virus.“Several people who have left the ship and were considered safe by the C.D.C. are getting worse,” said Kelly Edge, a passenger from Miami. She said that her doctor had told her she almost certainly had the virus.
Other passengers have also posted on Facebook that they now had high fevers.Other passengers have also posted on Facebook that they now had high fevers.
In a statement on Friday, the C.D.C. said its “shared goal is to ensure the health and safety of the passengers and crew onboard” the ship. It did not explain why the evacuated passengers had not been quarantined.In a statement on Friday, the C.D.C. said its “shared goal is to ensure the health and safety of the passengers and crew onboard” the ship. It did not explain why the evacuated passengers had not been quarantined.
Carnival did not respond to a request for comment on Sunday about the new reports of illness.Carnival did not respond to a request for comment on Sunday about the new reports of illness.
President Trump sent a letter to North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, expressing willingness to help the North battle the coronavirus, according to North Korea, which responded by expressing gratitude.
“I would like to extend sincere gratitude to the U.S. president for sending his invariable faith to the Chairman,” Kim Yo-jong, the North Korean leader’s sister and policy aide, said in a statement carried by the North’s state-run Korean​ Central​ News Agency. Ms. Kim lauded Mr. Trump’s decision to write the letter as “a good judgment and proper action.”
In the letter, Mr. Trump “wished the family of the Chairman and our people well-being,” Ms. Kim said, referring to her brother by one of his official titles. She said Mr. Trump had also expressed a desire to move relations between the two countries forward.
The White House confirmed that Mr. Trump had sent Mr. Kim a letter but did not comment on its specifics.
The International Olympic Committee, faced with mounting pressure to postpone the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, said Sunday that it would decide within four weeks whether to delay or scale down the Games.The International Olympic Committee, faced with mounting pressure to postpone the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, said Sunday that it would decide within four weeks whether to delay or scale down the Games.
The committee reiterated the position of its president, Thomas Bach, that canceling the Games altogether was not an option, and it sought to address complaints that the committee had not been transparent in how or when a decision would be made.The committee reiterated the position of its president, Thomas Bach, that canceling the Games altogether was not an option, and it sought to address complaints that the committee had not been transparent in how or when a decision would be made.
For weeks, Olympics leaders had resolved to go forward with the Games, which are scheduled to open on July 24 and run through Aug. 9, despite the pandemic and the growing restrictions that athletes face on training as lockdowns have been announced in their home countries.For weeks, Olympics leaders had resolved to go forward with the Games, which are scheduled to open on July 24 and run through Aug. 9, despite the pandemic and the growing restrictions that athletes face on training as lockdowns have been announced in their home countries.
Norway’s national Olympic committee, in a statement on Friday, became the first to clearly state a preference that the Olympics to be delayed until the global pandemic can be brought under control. The Brazilian Olympic committee on Saturday also endorsed postponing the Games until next year.Norway’s national Olympic committee, in a statement on Friday, became the first to clearly state a preference that the Olympics to be delayed until the global pandemic can be brought under control. The Brazilian Olympic committee on Saturday also endorsed postponing the Games until next year.
In the United States, whose companies invest a significant portion of the money that funds the Olympics, U.S.A. Swimming and U.S.A. Track & Field, the governing bodies for those sports, have called for a one-year delay. Together, those sports typically account for most of the United States’ medals.In the United States, whose companies invest a significant portion of the money that funds the Olympics, U.S.A. Swimming and U.S.A. Track & Field, the governing bodies for those sports, have called for a one-year delay. Together, those sports typically account for most of the United States’ medals.
Italy has imposed a lockdown, deployed the army and risked its economy to try to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Yet its toll is growing more staggering by the day: By Sunday the country had more than 53,500 cases and over 4,800 deaths, surpassing China as the country with the highest death toll.
Italy’s struggle is increasingly being seen as a tragic warning for other countries to heed, in part because it is paying the price of early mixed messages by scientists and politicians. The people who have died in staggering numbers recently were mostly infected during the confusion of a week or two ago.
The government has sent in the army to enforce the lockdown in Lombardy, the northern region at the center of the outbreak, where bodies have piled up in churches. On Friday night, the authorities tightened the nationwide lockdown, closing parks, banning outdoor activities including walking or jogging far from home.
On Saturday night, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced another drastic step in response to what he called the country’s most difficult crisis since World War II: Italy will close its factories and all production that is not absolutely essential, an enormous economic sacrifice intended to contain the virus and protect lives.
“The state is here,” he said in an effort to reassure the public.
If Italy’s experience shows anything, it is that measures to isolate affected areas and limit the movement of the broader population need to be taken early, put in place with absolute clarity and then strictly enforced.
Reporting was contributed by Katrin Bennhold, Niki Kitsantonis, Austin Ramzy, David M. Halbfinger, Katrin Bennhold, Iyad Abuheweila, Matina Stevis-Gridneff, Choe Sang-Hun, Damien Cave, Jeffrey Gettleman, Mujib Mashal, Fahim Abed, Joe Orovic, Iliana Magra, Yonette Joseph, Maggie Haberman, Motoko Rich, Alan Rappeport, Emily Cochrane, Katie Rogers, Knvul Sheikh, Mariel Padilla, Vanessa Friedman, Jessica Testa, Kate Taylor, Matt Futterman, Amelia Nierenberg, Mike Baker, Sheri Fink, Derrick Bryson Taylor, Niraj Chokshi, Aurelien Breeden, Melissa Eddy, Raphael Minder, Joanna Berendt, Jason Horowitz, Elisabetta Povoledo, Maria Abi-Habib, Tim Arango, Michael Levenson, Emily Badger, Kevin Quealy, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Matt Stevens, Katie Van Syckle, Jesse McKinley, Vanessa Swales, Jim Tankersley, Catie Edmondson, Shaila DeWan, Chris Cameron and Julie Turkewitz.Reporting was contributed by Katrin Bennhold, Niki Kitsantonis, Austin Ramzy, David M. Halbfinger, Katrin Bennhold, Iyad Abuheweila, Matina Stevis-Gridneff, Choe Sang-Hun, Damien Cave, Jeffrey Gettleman, Mujib Mashal, Fahim Abed, Joe Orovic, Iliana Magra, Yonette Joseph, Maggie Haberman, Motoko Rich, Alan Rappeport, Emily Cochrane, Katie Rogers, Knvul Sheikh, Mariel Padilla, Vanessa Friedman, Jessica Testa, Kate Taylor, Matt Futterman, Amelia Nierenberg, Mike Baker, Sheri Fink, Derrick Bryson Taylor, Niraj Chokshi, Aurelien Breeden, Melissa Eddy, Raphael Minder, Joanna Berendt, Jason Horowitz, Elisabetta Povoledo, Maria Abi-Habib, Tim Arango, Michael Levenson, Emily Badger, Kevin Quealy, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Matt Stevens, Katie Van Syckle, Jesse McKinley, Vanessa Swales, Jim Tankersley, Catie Edmondson, Shaila DeWan, Chris Cameron and Julie Turkewitz.