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Coronavirus Live Updates: States Clamp Down After White House’s Dire Warning Coronavirus Live Updates: States Have Emptied Federal Stockpile of Protective Supplies
(32 minutes later)
新冠病毒疫情最新消息新冠病毒疫情最新消息
The federal government has nearly emptied its emergency stockpile of protective medical supplies like masks, gowns and gloves as state governors continue to plea for protective gear for desperate hospital workers, according to a senior administration official.The federal government has nearly emptied its emergency stockpile of protective medical supplies like masks, gowns and gloves as state governors continue to plea for protective gear for desperate hospital workers, according to a senior administration official.
The official said the Federal Emergency Management Agency has delivered more than 11.6 million N95 masks, 5.2 million face shields, 22 million gloves and 7,140 ventilators, exhausting the emergency stockpile.The official said the Federal Emergency Management Agency has delivered more than 11.6 million N95 masks, 5.2 million face shields, 22 million gloves and 7,140 ventilators, exhausting the emergency stockpile.
The official said there was a “tiny slice” of personal protective equipment left over that is being preserved for first responders for the federal government.The official said there was a “tiny slice” of personal protective equipment left over that is being preserved for first responders for the federal government.
While there is no more personal protective equipment in the stockpile left over for the states, the senior official said the administration still has more than 9,400 ventilators ready to be deployed.While there is no more personal protective equipment in the stockpile left over for the states, the senior official said the administration still has more than 9,400 ventilators ready to be deployed.
The dwindling resources have forced the federal government to compete with states and private companies for valuable medical gear across the world. Governors, meanwhile, have continued to try to find ways to scavenge medical supplies for hospital workers exposed to the worsening pandemic.The dwindling resources have forced the federal government to compete with states and private companies for valuable medical gear across the world. Governors, meanwhile, have continued to try to find ways to scavenge medical supplies for hospital workers exposed to the worsening pandemic.
“Really, the only hope for a state at this point is the federal government’s capacity to deliver,” Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said Wednesday, going on to discuss the powers that the Defense Production Act, a Korean War-era law, gives the president to procure vital equipment.“Really, the only hope for a state at this point is the federal government’s capacity to deliver,” Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said Wednesday, going on to discuss the powers that the Defense Production Act, a Korean War-era law, gives the president to procure vital equipment.
“The Defense Production Act gives the president of the United States power to say to a company: you make this,” Mr. Cuomo said, noting that while much of the discussion about the act had been about making ventilators, which are complex to build, it could also be used for other gear, including hospital gowns.“The Defense Production Act gives the president of the United States power to say to a company: you make this,” Mr. Cuomo said, noting that while much of the discussion about the act had been about making ventilators, which are complex to build, it could also be used for other gear, including hospital gowns.
“Look, you have a shortfall on gowns,” he said. “American companies can make gowns — they’re not like wedding gowns, they’re like paper gowns. Make the gowns, make the gloves, make the masks. You know, why are we running out of these basic supplies?”“Look, you have a shortfall on gowns,” he said. “American companies can make gowns — they’re not like wedding gowns, they’re like paper gowns. Make the gowns, make the gloves, make the masks. You know, why are we running out of these basic supplies?”
Even though the Department of Defense used authorities under the Defense Production Act to place hundreds of thousands of order for military equipment, the Trump administration for weeks was reluctant to use the law, until last Friday, when Mr. Trump said he would use it to prioritize an order of ventilators from General Motors.Even though the Department of Defense used authorities under the Defense Production Act to place hundreds of thousands of order for military equipment, the Trump administration for weeks was reluctant to use the law, until last Friday, when Mr. Trump said he would use it to prioritize an order of ventilators from General Motors.
Lizzie Litzow, a spokeswoman for FEMA, said the agency had previously acknowledged the Strategic National Stockpile would not be sufficient to respond to the coronavirus outbreak.Lizzie Litzow, a spokeswoman for FEMA, said the agency had previously acknowledged the Strategic National Stockpile would not be sufficient to respond to the coronavirus outbreak.
She said the administration has $16 billion to help boost the low level of protective gear, which was first reported by the Washington Post.She said the administration has $16 billion to help boost the low level of protective gear, which was first reported by the Washington Post.
“The federal government will exhaust all means to identify and attain medical and other supplies needed to combat the virus,” Ms. Litzow said.“The federal government will exhaust all means to identify and attain medical and other supplies needed to combat the virus,” Ms. Litzow said.
Fears are growing that the global downturn could be far more punishing and long lasting than initially feared — potentially enduring into next year, and even beyond — as governments intensify restrictions on business to halt the spread of the pandemic, and fear of the virus impedes consumer-led economic growth.Fears are growing that the global downturn could be far more punishing and long lasting than initially feared — potentially enduring into next year, and even beyond — as governments intensify restrictions on business to halt the spread of the pandemic, and fear of the virus impedes consumer-led economic growth.
“This is already shaping up as the deepest dive on record for the global economy for over 100 years,” said Kenneth S. Rogoff, a Harvard economist and co-author of “This Time Is Different: Eight Centuries of Financial Folly,” a history of financial crises. “Everything depends on how long it lasts, but if this goes on for a long time, it’s certainly going to be the mother of all financial crises.”“This is already shaping up as the deepest dive on record for the global economy for over 100 years,” said Kenneth S. Rogoff, a Harvard economist and co-author of “This Time Is Different: Eight Centuries of Financial Folly,” a history of financial crises. “Everything depends on how long it lasts, but if this goes on for a long time, it’s certainly going to be the mother of all financial crises.”
Stocks on Wall Street tumbled, with the S&P closing down more than 4 percent, as investors braced for worsening economic conditions ahead.Stocks on Wall Street tumbled, with the S&P closing down more than 4 percent, as investors braced for worsening economic conditions ahead.
In Washington, there was growing concern that the $2 trillion stimulus package enacted last week could be insufficient. Democrats and Republicans in Congress, as well as President Trump, are increasingly looking toward enacting a huge new infrastructure plan that could create thousands of jobs.In Washington, there was growing concern that the $2 trillion stimulus package enacted last week could be insufficient. Democrats and Republicans in Congress, as well as President Trump, are increasingly looking toward enacting a huge new infrastructure plan that could create thousands of jobs.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi and senior Democrats outlined their infrastructure priorities on Wednesday, ranging from expanding rural broadband to rebuilding the nation’s roads and waterways, for what will likely become part of a broader legislative package to help boost the American economy during the spread of the pandemic. Mr. Trump endorsed the prospect of an infrastructure program on Twitter early Tuesday morning, saying that given low interest rates, it should be “VERY BIG & BOLD, Two Trillion Dollars, and be focused solely on jobs and rebuilding the once great infrastructure of our Country!”Speaker Nancy Pelosi and senior Democrats outlined their infrastructure priorities on Wednesday, ranging from expanding rural broadband to rebuilding the nation’s roads and waterways, for what will likely become part of a broader legislative package to help boost the American economy during the spread of the pandemic. Mr. Trump endorsed the prospect of an infrastructure program on Twitter early Tuesday morning, saying that given low interest rates, it should be “VERY BIG & BOLD, Two Trillion Dollars, and be focused solely on jobs and rebuilding the once great infrastructure of our Country!”
Mr. Trump campaigned in 2016 on a promise to launch a $1 trillion infrastructure initiative, and Democrats and Republicans have long called for such an effort. But the president has clashed with Democrats over how to pay for such a plan, and attempts to transform the bipartisan aspirations into action have fallen short so many times that the phrase “Infrastructure Week” has become something of a joke in Washington.Mr. Trump campaigned in 2016 on a promise to launch a $1 trillion infrastructure initiative, and Democrats and Republicans have long called for such an effort. But the president has clashed with Democrats over how to pay for such a plan, and attempts to transform the bipartisan aspirations into action have fallen short so many times that the phrase “Infrastructure Week” has become something of a joke in Washington.
It remains to be seen whether lawmakers and the White House can reach agreement now, although the crisis has created a new willingness among Republicans to embrace costly and far-reaching government programs of the sort they typically resist.It remains to be seen whether lawmakers and the White House can reach agreement now, although the crisis has created a new willingness among Republicans to embrace costly and far-reaching government programs of the sort they typically resist.
Many Americans are asking for help for the first time in their lives — from nail technicians in Los Angeles to airport workers in Fort Lauderdale, from bartenders in Phoenix to former reality show contestants in Minnesota.Many Americans are asking for help for the first time in their lives — from nail technicians in Los Angeles to airport workers in Fort Lauderdale, from bartenders in Phoenix to former reality show contestants in Minnesota.
“I’ve never had to actually do this,” Dalen Lacy, a 27-year-old father of two, said as he pulled into a food bank in southern Dallas, after he lost his warehouse job and saw his hours at 7-Eleven slashed amid the pandemic. “But I’ve got to do what I’ve got to do for my kids.”“I’ve never had to actually do this,” Dalen Lacy, a 27-year-old father of two, said as he pulled into a food bank in southern Dallas, after he lost his warehouse job and saw his hours at 7-Eleven slashed amid the pandemic. “But I’ve got to do what I’ve got to do for my kids.”
As the first of the month rolled around there were looming questions about which bills households and companies would be able to pay — including the rent.As the first of the month rolled around there were looming questions about which bills households and companies would be able to pay — including the rent.
In just a few weeks, more than 50 start-ups have cut or furloughed roughly 6,000 employees, according to a tally by The New York Times. At ClassPass, which offers a membership program for fitness classes, more than 95 percent of its revenue evaporated in just 10 days as studios and gyms around the world shut down.In just a few weeks, more than 50 start-ups have cut or furloughed roughly 6,000 employees, according to a tally by The New York Times. At ClassPass, which offers a membership program for fitness classes, more than 95 percent of its revenue evaporated in just 10 days as studios and gyms around the world shut down.
And the downturn, and the recent stimulus package passed by Congress, have revived the debate about America’s safety net programs, which the Trump administration has worked in recent years to shrink, and to add more work requirements to.And the downturn, and the recent stimulus package passed by Congress, have revived the debate about America’s safety net programs, which the Trump administration has worked in recent years to shrink, and to add more work requirements to.
The challenges facing the nation, and the world, are far-reaching. The pandemic is above all a public health emergency, and the abrupt halt of commercial activity threatens to impose economic pain so profound and enduring in every region of the world at once that recovery could take years.The challenges facing the nation, and the world, are far-reaching. The pandemic is above all a public health emergency, and the abrupt halt of commercial activity threatens to impose economic pain so profound and enduring in every region of the world at once that recovery could take years.
The secretary general of the United Nations, António Guterres, on Wednesday called the outbreak the greatest test the world has seen since World War II.The secretary general of the United Nations, António Guterres, on Wednesday called the outbreak the greatest test the world has seen since World War II.
This year’s United Nations-sponsored climate talks, widely regarded as the most important climate meeting of the last four years, were postponed on Wednesday because of the coronavirus pandemic. The session, which had been scheduled to take place in Glasgow from Nov. 9 to 19, was postponed to 2021.This year’s United Nations-sponsored climate talks, widely regarded as the most important climate meeting of the last four years, were postponed on Wednesday because of the coronavirus pandemic. The session, which had been scheduled to take place in Glasgow from Nov. 9 to 19, was postponed to 2021.
Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who for weeks has resisted more stringent statewide measures to slow the spread of the virus, on Wednesday ordered the state’s more than 21 million residents to largely stay at home.Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who for weeks has resisted more stringent statewide measures to slow the spread of the virus, on Wednesday ordered the state’s more than 21 million residents to largely stay at home.
Mr. DeSantis, a Republican, relented after a morning telephone call with President Trump, who on Tuesday delivered the gravest projections yet from the White House that up to 240,000 Americans could die from the infection, even with serious restrictions in place.Mr. DeSantis, a Republican, relented after a morning telephone call with President Trump, who on Tuesday delivered the gravest projections yet from the White House that up to 240,000 Americans could die from the infection, even with serious restrictions in place.
The governors of Georgia, Mississippi and Nevada also announced new plans for stay-at-home orders. A vast majority of Americans — more than 290 million people in 37 states and Washington, D.C.— are now under orders or instructions to stay home, or will be in the coming days.The governors of Georgia, Mississippi and Nevada also announced new plans for stay-at-home orders. A vast majority of Americans — more than 290 million people in 37 states and Washington, D.C.— are now under orders or instructions to stay home, or will be in the coming days.
In Florida, Mr. DeSantis said he started coming around to the necessity of a statewide order once the White House dropped its rosier suggestion that measures could be lifted by mid-April and extended national guidelines to combat the virus until April 30.In Florida, Mr. DeSantis said he started coming around to the necessity of a statewide order once the White House dropped its rosier suggestion that measures could be lifted by mid-April and extended national guidelines to combat the virus until April 30.
“When the president did the 30-day extension, to me, that was, ‘People aren’t just going to back to work,’” Mr. DeSantis said at a news conference in Tallahassee, the state capital. “That’s a national pause button.”“When the president did the 30-day extension, to me, that was, ‘People aren’t just going to back to work,’” Mr. DeSantis said at a news conference in Tallahassee, the state capital. “That’s a national pause button.”
The governor’s order, which allows people to leave their homes for “essential activities,” will take effect Thursday at midnight.The governor’s order, which allows people to leave their homes for “essential activities,” will take effect Thursday at midnight.
The coronavirus poses a unique risk for Florida, the third-largest state in the country, where a quarter of the population is older than 60 and the economy relies in large part on an $86 billion-a-year tourism industry fueled by 125 million annual visitors.The coronavirus poses a unique risk for Florida, the third-largest state in the country, where a quarter of the population is older than 60 and the economy relies in large part on an $86 billion-a-year tourism industry fueled by 125 million annual visitors.
Mr. DeSantis, who earlier signed an order requiring a 14-day quarantine of anyone arriving in the state from the New York region, had long resisted issued a statewide stay-at-home order — which meant that some Florida beaches continued to welcome young spring break revelers, who may have helped the virus spread.Mr. DeSantis, who earlier signed an order requiring a 14-day quarantine of anyone arriving in the state from the New York region, had long resisted issued a statewide stay-at-home order — which meant that some Florida beaches continued to welcome young spring break revelers, who may have helped the virus spread.
Mr. DeSantis has also been reluctant to break with Mr. Trump, who helped him win the governorship.Mr. DeSantis has also been reluctant to break with Mr. Trump, who helped him win the governorship.
As recently as Monday, Mr. DeSantis insisted that the only stay-at-home order he had signed, for the state’s four most densely populated counties from Key West to West Palm Beach, would be needed only through April 15.As recently as Monday, Mr. DeSantis insisted that the only stay-at-home order he had signed, for the state’s four most densely populated counties from Key West to West Palm Beach, would be needed only through April 15.
Wall Street is back in selling mode.Wall Street is back in selling mode.
Faced with grim new projections of the potential scale and economic ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic, investors dumped stocks on Wednesday. The S&P 500 fell more than 4 percent, bringing its decline over two days to 6 percent.Faced with grim new projections of the potential scale and economic ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic, investors dumped stocks on Wednesday. The S&P 500 fell more than 4 percent, bringing its decline over two days to 6 percent.
The drop, which followed a sell-off in Europe and Asia, came after President Trump said at a news conference on Tuesday that the United States would face a “very, very painful two weeks.” U.S. government scientists projected that the outbreak could kill up to 240,000 people in the country. On Wednesday, the United Nations warned of “enhanced instability, enhanced unrest and enhanced conflict.”The drop, which followed a sell-off in Europe and Asia, came after President Trump said at a news conference on Tuesday that the United States would face a “very, very painful two weeks.” U.S. government scientists projected that the outbreak could kill up to 240,000 people in the country. On Wednesday, the United Nations warned of “enhanced instability, enhanced unrest and enhanced conflict.”
The economic readings continue to worsen as well. On Wednesday, surveys of manufacturing and factory activity in the United States, Europe and Japan showed activity slowing to levels not seen in a decade or more. In the United States, factory orders and employment measures fell to their lowest since 2009, the Institute for Supply Management said.The economic readings continue to worsen as well. On Wednesday, surveys of manufacturing and factory activity in the United States, Europe and Japan showed activity slowing to levels not seen in a decade or more. In the United States, factory orders and employment measures fell to their lowest since 2009, the Institute for Supply Management said.
Fears are growing that the global downturn could be far more punishing and long lasting than initially feared — potentially enduring into next year, and even beyond — as governments intensify restrictions on business to halt the spread of the pandemic, and fear of the virus impedes consumer-led economic growth.Fears are growing that the global downturn could be far more punishing and long lasting than initially feared — potentially enduring into next year, and even beyond — as governments intensify restrictions on business to halt the spread of the pandemic, and fear of the virus impedes consumer-led economic growth.
“The market is sort of steeling itself for the onslaught of bad news over the next couple weeks,” said Julian Emanuel, chief equity and derivatives strategist at the brokerage firm BTIG. “There was an expectation that April 30 was perhaps a doable date in terms of reopening the economy. I think the market is trading today as if that date is more like the end of May.”“The market is sort of steeling itself for the onslaught of bad news over the next couple weeks,” said Julian Emanuel, chief equity and derivatives strategist at the brokerage firm BTIG. “There was an expectation that April 30 was perhaps a doable date in terms of reopening the economy. I think the market is trading today as if that date is more like the end of May.”
On Thursday, the U.S. government will report how many people filed for unemployment last week, and the data could show as many as 5 million workers lost their jobs as people stay home and factories shut down.On Thursday, the U.S. government will report how many people filed for unemployment last week, and the data could show as many as 5 million workers lost their jobs as people stay home and factories shut down.
With the outbreak not projected to peak in New York, the hardest-hit state, until the end of April, when it threatens to overwhelm the healthcare system, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo made another plea Wednesday for help from the federal government.With the outbreak not projected to peak in New York, the hardest-hit state, until the end of April, when it threatens to overwhelm the healthcare system, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo made another plea Wednesday for help from the federal government.
At a news conference where he announced that another 391 people in the state had died of the virus over the last day, bringing the state’s total to 1,941, and the tri-state region’s to 2,381, Mr. Cuomo said that the state was still struggling to get the ventilators and other medical supplies it needs.At a news conference where he announced that another 391 people in the state had died of the virus over the last day, bringing the state’s total to 1,941, and the tri-state region’s to 2,381, Mr. Cuomo said that the state was still struggling to get the ventilators and other medical supplies it needs.
“Really, the only hope for a state at this point is the federal government’s capacity to deliver,” Mr. Cuomo said, going on to discuss the powers that the Defense Production Act, a Korean War-era law, gives the president to procure vital equipment.“Really, the only hope for a state at this point is the federal government’s capacity to deliver,” Mr. Cuomo said, going on to discuss the powers that the Defense Production Act, a Korean War-era law, gives the president to procure vital equipment.
In recent days a chorus of governors from across the political spectrum have publicly challenged the Trump administration’s assertion that the United States is well stocked and well prepared to test people for the virus and care for the sickest patients. In many cases, the governors said, the country’s patchwork approach had left them bidding against one another for supplies.In recent days a chorus of governors from across the political spectrum have publicly challenged the Trump administration’s assertion that the United States is well stocked and well prepared to test people for the virus and care for the sickest patients. In many cases, the governors said, the country’s patchwork approach had left them bidding against one another for supplies.
Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland, a Republican, said on Tuesday that his state was “flying blind” in the fight against the coronavirus because officials did not have enough tests. When asked during an NPR interview about Mr. Trump’s recent comments suggesting that a chronic lack of test kits was no longer a problem in the United States, Mr. Hogan did not mince words: “Yeah, that’s just not true.”Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland, a Republican, said on Tuesday that his state was “flying blind” in the fight against the coronavirus because officials did not have enough tests. When asked during an NPR interview about Mr. Trump’s recent comments suggesting that a chronic lack of test kits was no longer a problem in the United States, Mr. Hogan did not mince words: “Yeah, that’s just not true.”
Gov. Ned Lamont of Connecticut, a Democrat, said on Tuesday that it was “disturbing” to learn that a national stockpile of medical supplies was running empty.Gov. Ned Lamont of Connecticut, a Democrat, said on Tuesday that it was “disturbing” to learn that a national stockpile of medical supplies was running empty.
“We are on our own,” he said.“We are on our own,” he said.
As the crisis has grown more dire across the country, Mr. Cuomo’s briefings, which have become a daily staple of the national news and raised his political profile, have taken on a broader purview.As the crisis has grown more dire across the country, Mr. Cuomo’s briefings, which have become a daily staple of the national news and raised his political profile, have taken on a broader purview.
On Wednesday, the governor again emphasized the regional coordination between his state, New Jersey and Connecticut, before noting that the virus was spreading more rapidly in other states, including California, Michigan and Florida.On Wednesday, the governor again emphasized the regional coordination between his state, New Jersey and Connecticut, before noting that the virus was spreading more rapidly in other states, including California, Michigan and Florida.
And he urged Americans even in states that had not yet been hit hard by the virus to take it seriously.And he urged Americans even in states that had not yet been hit hard by the virus to take it seriously.
“So, to the extent people watch their nightly news in Kansas and say, well, this is a New York problem, that’s not what these numbers say. It says it’s a New York problem today. Tomorrow, it’s a Kansas problem and a Texas problem and a New Mexico problem.”“So, to the extent people watch their nightly news in Kansas and say, well, this is a New York problem, that’s not what these numbers say. It says it’s a New York problem today. Tomorrow, it’s a Kansas problem and a Texas problem and a New Mexico problem.”
Mr. Cuomo said that playgrounds in New York City would be ordered closed, because people were not following social distancing rules, but that parks and other open spaces would remain open. And he spoke in emotional terms about learning that his younger brother, Chris Cuomo, the CNN anchor, had the coronavirus. He explained that even though he knew that statistics suggest that his brother would not require hospitalization, it unsettled him.Mr. Cuomo said that playgrounds in New York City would be ordered closed, because people were not following social distancing rules, but that parks and other open spaces would remain open. And he spoke in emotional terms about learning that his younger brother, Chris Cuomo, the CNN anchor, had the coronavirus. He explained that even though he knew that statistics suggest that his brother would not require hospitalization, it unsettled him.
“Even though that’s what all the numbers say, when he told me he had the coronavirus, it scared me,’’ Governor Cuomo said. “It frightened me. Why? Because we still don’t know. We still don’t know. And even if there’s just a one percent, two percent chance — it’s frightening. It is frightening. It frightened me.”“Even though that’s what all the numbers say, when he told me he had the coronavirus, it scared me,’’ Governor Cuomo said. “It frightened me. Why? Because we still don’t know. We still don’t know. And even if there’s just a one percent, two percent chance — it’s frightening. It is frightening. It frightened me.”
As Iran struggles with a devastating coronavirus outbreak, a broken economy and a severe shortage of medical equipment, it says that American trade sanctions are taking Iranian lives and has called for the United States to lift them on humanitarian grounds.As Iran struggles with a devastating coronavirus outbreak, a broken economy and a severe shortage of medical equipment, it says that American trade sanctions are taking Iranian lives and has called for the United States to lift them on humanitarian grounds.
Iran’s plea is gaining traction around the globe, winning support from allies like Russia and China, but also the European Union, the United Nations secretary general, rights groups and nearly three dozen members of Congress, who have appealed to the Trump administration to suspend the sanctions for as long as Iran is battling the coronavirus.Iran’s plea is gaining traction around the globe, winning support from allies like Russia and China, but also the European Union, the United Nations secretary general, rights groups and nearly three dozen members of Congress, who have appealed to the Trump administration to suspend the sanctions for as long as Iran is battling the coronavirus.
Iran has confirmed more than 47,000 cases and more than 3,000 deaths, although public health experts estimate the real toll to be several times higher.Iran has confirmed more than 47,000 cases and more than 3,000 deaths, although public health experts estimate the real toll to be several times higher.
“We had always said the sanctions are unjust but coronavirus revealed this injustice to the world,” Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said in a recent video message, which he began by removing a surgical mask from his face with blue latex gloves. He called the sanctions “economic terrorism.”“We had always said the sanctions are unjust but coronavirus revealed this injustice to the world,” Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said in a recent video message, which he began by removing a surgical mask from his face with blue latex gloves. He called the sanctions “economic terrorism.”
The issue raises questions about the collision of punishing American sanctions with a deadly pandemic, including whether Iran is trying to exploit the crisis to achieve a long-held goal of lifting sanctions, and whether the United States is using the virus to squeeze Iran beyond what sanctions alone could do.The issue raises questions about the collision of punishing American sanctions with a deadly pandemic, including whether Iran is trying to exploit the crisis to achieve a long-held goal of lifting sanctions, and whether the United States is using the virus to squeeze Iran beyond what sanctions alone could do.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a tweet on Saturday that Iran’s “effort to lift U.S. sanctions isn’t about fighting the pandemic. It’s about cash for the regime leaders.”Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a tweet on Saturday that Iran’s “effort to lift U.S. sanctions isn’t about fighting the pandemic. It’s about cash for the regime leaders.”
As cases and deaths mount in Brazil, President Jair Bolsonaro has remained defiant, the last notable holdout among major world leaders in denying the severity of the coronavirus.As cases and deaths mount in Brazil, President Jair Bolsonaro has remained defiant, the last notable holdout among major world leaders in denying the severity of the coronavirus.
Brazilians, he declared last week, are uniquely suited to weather the pandemic because they can be dunked in raw sewage and “don’t catch a thing.” On Sunday, defying guidelines issued by his own health ministry, he visited a busy commercial district in Brasília, the capital, where he called on all but elderly Brazilians to get back to work.Brazilians, he declared last week, are uniquely suited to weather the pandemic because they can be dunked in raw sewage and “don’t catch a thing.” On Sunday, defying guidelines issued by his own health ministry, he visited a busy commercial district in Brasília, the capital, where he called on all but elderly Brazilians to get back to work.
Several world leaders — among them Mr. Trump and Prime Minister Boris Johnson — were slow to grasp the danger of the virus, and reluctant to embrace economically painful social distancing measures.Several world leaders — among them Mr. Trump and Prime Minister Boris Johnson — were slow to grasp the danger of the virus, and reluctant to embrace economically painful social distancing measures.
But Mr. Bolsonaro remains the highest profile figure eschewing the scientific consensus on measures required to keep health care systems from being overwhelmed.But Mr. Bolsonaro remains the highest profile figure eschewing the scientific consensus on measures required to keep health care systems from being overwhelmed.
His handling of the crisis has led to consternation across the country’s political spectrum as congressional leaders, editorial boards and the head of the Supreme Court have essentially beseeched Brazilians to ignore their president. A movement to impeach Mr. Bolsonaro is gaining popular support, with Brazilians banging pots from their windows nightly to repudiate their president.His handling of the crisis has led to consternation across the country’s political spectrum as congressional leaders, editorial boards and the head of the Supreme Court have essentially beseeched Brazilians to ignore their president. A movement to impeach Mr. Bolsonaro is gaining popular support, with Brazilians banging pots from their windows nightly to repudiate their president.
“He has demonstrated that he is unfit to be president,” said Maria Hermínia Tavares de Almeida, a political scientist at the University of São Paulo. “He remains in power for one very simple reason: No one wants to create a political crisis to oust him in the midst of a health emergency.”“He has demonstrated that he is unfit to be president,” said Maria Hermínia Tavares de Almeida, a political scientist at the University of São Paulo. “He remains in power for one very simple reason: No one wants to create a political crisis to oust him in the midst of a health emergency.”
A dangerous overreaction of the immune system in some coronavirus patients is pointing to potentially useful drug treatments.A dangerous overreaction of the immune system in some coronavirus patients is pointing to potentially useful drug treatments.
Doctors in China reported this week that the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine helped to speed the recovery of a small number of patients who were mildly ill.Doctors in China reported this week that the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine helped to speed the recovery of a small number of patients who were mildly ill.
Cough, fever and pneumonia went away faster, and the disease seemed less likely to turn severe in people who received hydroxychloroquine than in a comparison group not given the drug. The new study involved just 62 patients and was not peer-reviewed, but it did have a control group.Cough, fever and pneumonia went away faster, and the disease seemed less likely to turn severe in people who received hydroxychloroquine than in a comparison group not given the drug. The new study involved just 62 patients and was not peer-reviewed, but it did have a control group.
It’s not yet clear how the drug could be helping, but hydroxychloroquine is known to dial back an overactive immune system. In laboratory studies, it can also stop the virus from invading cells.It’s not yet clear how the drug could be helping, but hydroxychloroquine is known to dial back an overactive immune system. In laboratory studies, it can also stop the virus from invading cells.
A particular immune-system overreaction, called a cytokine storm, has become all too common in the coronavirus pandemic. Cytokines are molecules that signal cells to marshal an immune response. Usually, the stronger this immune response, the stronger the chance of vanquishing the infection, which is partly why younger people are less vulnerable over all to coronavirus. But in some cases, the immune system continues to release cytokines that keep the body on an exhausting full alert. In their misguided bid to keep the body safe, these cytokines attack multiple organs including the lungs and liver, and may eventually lead to death.A particular immune-system overreaction, called a cytokine storm, has become all too common in the coronavirus pandemic. Cytokines are molecules that signal cells to marshal an immune response. Usually, the stronger this immune response, the stronger the chance of vanquishing the infection, which is partly why younger people are less vulnerable over all to coronavirus. But in some cases, the immune system continues to release cytokines that keep the body on an exhausting full alert. In their misguided bid to keep the body safe, these cytokines attack multiple organs including the lungs and liver, and may eventually lead to death.
A growing number of doctors say tocilizumab, a drug sometimes used to soothe an immune system in distress, has helped some coronavirus patients recover. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently granted approval to the pharmaceutical company Roche to test the drug in hundreds of people with coronavirus infection.A growing number of doctors say tocilizumab, a drug sometimes used to soothe an immune system in distress, has helped some coronavirus patients recover. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently granted approval to the pharmaceutical company Roche to test the drug in hundreds of people with coronavirus infection.
Doctors are also looking at a drug called anakinra, which mutes one type of cytokine. They could also turn to corticosteroids, which broadly turn down the entire immune response.Doctors are also looking at a drug called anakinra, which mutes one type of cytokine. They could also turn to corticosteroids, which broadly turn down the entire immune response.
President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines threatened on Wednesday to have the police and the military shoot people protesting the nation’s lockdown orders affecting millions of people.President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines threatened on Wednesday to have the police and the military shoot people protesting the nation’s lockdown orders affecting millions of people.
“Now is the time to set an example to everybody,” he said in a late-night address. “I am not used to being challenged. Not me. Let this be a warning to all. Follow the government this time. It is critical that we have order.”“Now is the time to set an example to everybody,” he said in a late-night address. “I am not used to being challenged. Not me. Let this be a warning to all. Follow the government this time. It is critical that we have order.”
Mr. Duterte has locked down the Philippines’ largest and most populous island, Luzon, restricting travel to and from the region, which includes Manila, the capital. Most of the island’s 50 million people have been ordered to stay home, and most work and school has been suspended.Mr. Duterte has locked down the Philippines’ largest and most populous island, Luzon, restricting travel to and from the region, which includes Manila, the capital. Most of the island’s 50 million people have been ordered to stay home, and most work and school has been suspended.
Earlier Wednesday, the police arrested about 20 people from a poor community who had defied the lockdown measures to protest for access to food and other essentials.Earlier Wednesday, the police arrested about 20 people from a poor community who had defied the lockdown measures to protest for access to food and other essentials.
“My orders to the police and the military, including to the village chiefs, is that if a commotion breaks out and they put up a fight that puts your life in danger, shoot them dead,” Mr. Duterte said.“My orders to the police and the military, including to the village chiefs, is that if a commotion breaks out and they put up a fight that puts your life in danger, shoot them dead,” Mr. Duterte said.
The threat of violence follows years of similar warnings from Mr. Duterte, who has overseen a drug war that has left at least 6,600 people dead, an official toll that human rights groups say grossly understates the real tally.The threat of violence follows years of similar warnings from Mr. Duterte, who has overseen a drug war that has left at least 6,600 people dead, an official toll that human rights groups say grossly understates the real tally.
Five weeks ago, when there were 60 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the United States, Mr. Trump expressed little alarm. “This is a flu,” he said. “This is like a flu.” He was still likening it to an ordinary flu as late as Friday.Five weeks ago, when there were 60 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the United States, Mr. Trump expressed little alarm. “This is a flu,” he said. “This is like a flu.” He was still likening it to an ordinary flu as late as Friday.
By Tuesday, however, with more than 187,000 recorded cases in the United States and more Americans having been killed by the virus than by the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, the president’s assessment had rather drastically changed. “It’s not the flu,” he said. “It’s vicious.”By Tuesday, however, with more than 187,000 recorded cases in the United States and more Americans having been killed by the virus than by the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, the president’s assessment had rather drastically changed. “It’s not the flu,” he said. “It’s vicious.”
The grim-faced president who appeared in the White House briefing room for more than two hours on Tuesday evening beside charts showing death projections of hellacious proportions was coming to grips with a reality he had long refused to accept. At a minimum, the charts predicted that 100,000 to 240,000 Americans would die — and only if the nation abided by stringent social restrictions that would choke the economy and impoverish millions.The grim-faced president who appeared in the White House briefing room for more than two hours on Tuesday evening beside charts showing death projections of hellacious proportions was coming to grips with a reality he had long refused to accept. At a minimum, the charts predicted that 100,000 to 240,000 Americans would die — and only if the nation abided by stringent social restrictions that would choke the economy and impoverish millions.
A crisis that Mr. Trump had repeatedly asserted was “under control” and hoped would “miraculously” disappear has come to consume his presidency, presenting him with a challenge that he seems only now to be seeing more clearly.A crisis that Mr. Trump had repeatedly asserted was “under control” and hoped would “miraculously” disappear has come to consume his presidency, presenting him with a challenge that he seems only now to be seeing more clearly.
The numbers publicly outlined on Tuesday had forced him over the weekend to reverse his plan to reopen the country by Easter, but they were hardly new or surprising. Experts have been warning of a possibility like this for weeks. But more than ever before, Mr. Trump seemed to acknowledge them.The numbers publicly outlined on Tuesday had forced him over the weekend to reverse his plan to reopen the country by Easter, but they were hardly new or surprising. Experts have been warning of a possibility like this for weeks. But more than ever before, Mr. Trump seemed to acknowledge them.
“I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead,” the president said, the starkest such effort he has made to prepare the country for the expected wave of disease and death. “We’re going to go through a very tough two weeks.”“I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead,” the president said, the starkest such effort he has made to prepare the country for the expected wave of disease and death. “We’re going to go through a very tough two weeks.”
As many as 25 percent of people infected with the coronavirus may not show symptoms, complicating strategies to limit the pandemic’s spread and prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reconsider its guidelines on who should wear masks.As many as 25 percent of people infected with the coronavirus may not show symptoms, complicating strategies to limit the pandemic’s spread and prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reconsider its guidelines on who should wear masks.
The agency has repeatedly said that ordinary citizens do not need to wear masks unless they are feeling sick or caring for someone who is. But as we learn more about the virus, a growing number of experts are challenging the official guidance and saying that there is probably some benefit to covering our faces in public.The agency has repeatedly said that ordinary citizens do not need to wear masks unless they are feeling sick or caring for someone who is. But as we learn more about the virus, a growing number of experts are challenging the official guidance and saying that there is probably some benefit to covering our faces in public.
And with the new data on people who may be infected without ever feeling sick, or who are transmitting the virus for a couple of days before feeling ill, the C.D.C. director, Robert Redfield, told a National Public Radio member station Tuesday that the guidance on masks was “being critically re-reviewed.”And with the new data on people who may be infected without ever feeling sick, or who are transmitting the virus for a couple of days before feeling ill, the C.D.C. director, Robert Redfield, told a National Public Radio member station Tuesday that the guidance on masks was “being critically re-reviewed.”
With any vaccine still in early development, the best way to mitigate the pandemic is still social distancing, experts said. Because people may be passing the virus on to others even when they feel fine, asking only unwell people to stay home is unlikely to be enough.With any vaccine still in early development, the best way to mitigate the pandemic is still social distancing, experts said. Because people may be passing the virus on to others even when they feel fine, asking only unwell people to stay home is unlikely to be enough.
There are now indications that the virus can be transmitted via aerosols, which can travel farther than the large droplets the World Health Organization and the C.D.C. have emphasized. The virus is still most likely to be expelled with a cough or a sneeze, as far as eight meters (about 26 feet), according to one study. But studies on influenza and other respiratory viruses, including other coronaviruses, have shown that people can release aerosols containing the virus simply by breathing or talking.There are now indications that the virus can be transmitted via aerosols, which can travel farther than the large droplets the World Health Organization and the C.D.C. have emphasized. The virus is still most likely to be expelled with a cough or a sneeze, as far as eight meters (about 26 feet), according to one study. But studies on influenza and other respiratory viruses, including other coronaviruses, have shown that people can release aerosols containing the virus simply by breathing or talking.
“I think increasing evidence suggests the virus is spread not just through droplets but through aerosols,” said Dr. Gerardo Chowell, an epidemiologist at Georgia State University. “It would make a lot of sense to encourage at the very least face mask use in enclosed spaces including supermarkets.”“I think increasing evidence suggests the virus is spread not just through droplets but through aerosols,” said Dr. Gerardo Chowell, an epidemiologist at Georgia State University. “It would make a lot of sense to encourage at the very least face mask use in enclosed spaces including supermarkets.”
With federal officials worried that hospitals could run out of masks for medical professionals, some have counseled using items like scarves.With federal officials worried that hospitals could run out of masks for medical professionals, some have counseled using items like scarves.
“Cover your face with cloth — however you want to do that,” said Shan Soe-Lin, a lecturer at the Yale Jackson Institute for Global Affairs who was a co-author of a widely shared article about the need to cover faces. “Cover your face pretty thoroughly from your mouth to your nose to prevent large aerosol droplets coming out or going in.”“Cover your face with cloth — however you want to do that,” said Shan Soe-Lin, a lecturer at the Yale Jackson Institute for Global Affairs who was a co-author of a widely shared article about the need to cover faces. “Cover your face pretty thoroughly from your mouth to your nose to prevent large aerosol droplets coming out or going in.”
Dr. Soe-Lin said she believes an added benefit of a mask is that it serves as a constant reminder against touching your face, a major way that the virus is spread. But no face covering, whether it’s homemade or a medical mask, makes you invincible. Pulling a mask on and off or fidgeting with it will lessen its effectiveness. And in theory, fiddling with your mask could contaminate it. Always remove a mask by the ear loops or the tie — never the part that covers your face.Dr. Soe-Lin said she believes an added benefit of a mask is that it serves as a constant reminder against touching your face, a major way that the virus is spread. But no face covering, whether it’s homemade or a medical mask, makes you invincible. Pulling a mask on and off or fidgeting with it will lessen its effectiveness. And in theory, fiddling with your mask could contaminate it. Always remove a mask by the ear loops or the tie — never the part that covers your face.
Wimbledon, the oldest Grand Slam tennis tournament, was canceled for 2020 in the latest disruption for the sporting world by the pandemic.Wimbledon, the oldest Grand Slam tennis tournament, was canceled for 2020 in the latest disruption for the sporting world by the pandemic.
The tournament’s organizers said Wednesday that restrictions on mass gatherings, travel and the strain on medical services while Britain is under lockdown made it impossible to prepare for the tournament properly without putting people at risk.The tournament’s organizers said Wednesday that restrictions on mass gatherings, travel and the strain on medical services while Britain is under lockdown made it impossible to prepare for the tournament properly without putting people at risk.
Postponing was also ruled out because “the people, supplies and services legally required to stage The Championships would not be available at any point this summer,” organizers said.Postponing was also ruled out because “the people, supplies and services legally required to stage The Championships would not be available at any point this summer,” organizers said.
Wimbledon was founded in 1877 and is one of Britain’s most well-known cultural institutions. It had previously been called off only during World War I and World War II.Wimbledon was founded in 1877 and is one of Britain’s most well-known cultural institutions. It had previously been called off only during World War I and World War II.
The decision to cancel the tournament, which was scheduled from June 29 to July 12, is also expected to result in cancellation of the preliminary grass-court season.The decision to cancel the tournament, which was scheduled from June 29 to July 12, is also expected to result in cancellation of the preliminary grass-court season.
It was the latest summer highlight to be canceled, as it became clear that the pandemic would upend life for longer than originally hoped. In Germany, the Bayreuth Festival — which draws opera lovers from around the world each summer to hear the works of Richard Wagner in the theater he had built — called off this summer’s festival, where it had planned to introduce a new production of his epic “Ring” cycle.It was the latest summer highlight to be canceled, as it became clear that the pandemic would upend life for longer than originally hoped. In Germany, the Bayreuth Festival — which draws opera lovers from around the world each summer to hear the works of Richard Wagner in the theater he had built — called off this summer’s festival, where it had planned to introduce a new production of his epic “Ring” cycle.
Two weeks ago, amid the global coronavirus pandemic, about 70 students from the University of Texas at Austin partied in Mexico on spring break. The students, all in their 20s, flew on a chartered plane to Cabo San Lucas, and some returned on separate commercial flights to Texas.Two weeks ago, amid the global coronavirus pandemic, about 70 students from the University of Texas at Austin partied in Mexico on spring break. The students, all in their 20s, flew on a chartered plane to Cabo San Lucas, and some returned on separate commercial flights to Texas.
Now, 28 of them have tested positive for the virus and are self-isolating. Dozens more are under quarantine and are being monitored and tested, university officials said Wednesday.Now, 28 of them have tested positive for the virus and are self-isolating. Dozens more are under quarantine and are being monitored and tested, university officials said Wednesday.
The Austin outbreak is the latest group of college students who ignored social-distancing guidelines, went on traditional spring-break trips and have now tested positive for the coronavirus. Many of them appeared to be under the mistaken impression that young people were not as vulnerable to the coronavirus as older people. Students at the University of Tampa, the University of Wisconsin at Madison and other colleges have tested positive after returning from spring break trips to Florida, Alabama, Tennessee and elsewhere.The Austin outbreak is the latest group of college students who ignored social-distancing guidelines, went on traditional spring-break trips and have now tested positive for the coronavirus. Many of them appeared to be under the mistaken impression that young people were not as vulnerable to the coronavirus as older people. Students at the University of Tampa, the University of Wisconsin at Madison and other colleges have tested positive after returning from spring break trips to Florida, Alabama, Tennessee and elsewhere.
The defiant attitude, at a time when millions of Americans were hunkered down at home and staying away from school, work and relatives, was embodied by Brady Sluder, a young man on spring break in Miami who declared on a packed beach in a widely shared television interview: “If I get corona, I get corona. At the end of the day, I’m not going to let it stop me from partying.” Mr. Sluder later issued an apology on Instagram.The defiant attitude, at a time when millions of Americans were hunkered down at home and staying away from school, work and relatives, was embodied by Brady Sluder, a young man on spring break in Miami who declared on a packed beach in a widely shared television interview: “If I get corona, I get corona. At the end of the day, I’m not going to let it stop me from partying.” Mr. Sluder later issued an apology on Instagram.
In Austin, health officials with the city government and the university have contacted every young person who was on the chartered plane, using flight manifests from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the authorities said. City health officials used the case to urge residents of all ages to stay home and to avoid nonessential travel. Four of the 28 students who tested positive had not shown any symptoms of coronavirus.In Austin, health officials with the city government and the university have contacted every young person who was on the chartered plane, using flight manifests from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the authorities said. City health officials used the case to urge residents of all ages to stay home and to avoid nonessential travel. Four of the 28 students who tested positive had not shown any symptoms of coronavirus.
The Trump administration has decided against reopening the Affordable Care Act’s Healthcare.gov marketplaces to new customers, despite broad layoffs and growing fears that people will be uninsured for the coronavirus.The Trump administration has decided against reopening the Affordable Care Act’s Healthcare.gov marketplaces to new customers, despite broad layoffs and growing fears that people will be uninsured for the coronavirus.
The option to reopen markets, in what is known as a special enrollment period, would have made it easier for people who have recently lost jobs or who had already been uninsured to obtain health insurance. The administration has established such special enrollment periods in the past, typically in the wake of natural disasters.The option to reopen markets, in what is known as a special enrollment period, would have made it easier for people who have recently lost jobs or who had already been uninsured to obtain health insurance. The administration has established such special enrollment periods in the past, typically in the wake of natural disasters.
The administration had been considering the action for several weeks, and Mr. Trump mentioned such conversations in a recent news briefing. But according to a White House official, those discussions are now over. The news of the decision was previously reported by Politico.The administration had been considering the action for several weeks, and Mr. Trump mentioned such conversations in a recent news briefing. But according to a White House official, those discussions are now over. The news of the decision was previously reported by Politico.
Under current law, people who lose job-based insurance already qualify to enroll for health insurance on the marketplaces, but are required to provide proof that they lost their coverage. A special enrollment period would have made it easier for such people to enroll, because it would not require that paperwork. It also would have provided a new option for people who chose not to buy health insurance this year but want it now.Under current law, people who lose job-based insurance already qualify to enroll for health insurance on the marketplaces, but are required to provide proof that they lost their coverage. A special enrollment period would have made it easier for such people to enroll, because it would not require that paperwork. It also would have provided a new option for people who chose not to buy health insurance this year but want it now.
Eleven states and the District of Columbia have established special enrollment periods to allow people to obtain new insurance coverage. Those states control their own marketplaces. But federal action would have been required to allow customers to re-enter the markets in the 37 states with markets run by Healthcare.gov.Eleven states and the District of Columbia have established special enrollment periods to allow people to obtain new insurance coverage. Those states control their own marketplaces. But federal action would have been required to allow customers to re-enter the markets in the 37 states with markets run by Healthcare.gov.
One patient had lymphoma and heart failure. Another was 85 years old with metastatic cancer. A third was 83 and had dementia and lung disease. All were critically ill with the coronavirus, and, a doctor said, all were hooked up to ventilators in recent weeks at a major Manhattan hospital.One patient had lymphoma and heart failure. Another was 85 years old with metastatic cancer. A third was 83 and had dementia and lung disease. All were critically ill with the coronavirus, and, a doctor said, all were hooked up to ventilators in recent weeks at a major Manhattan hospital.
But soon, patients such as those might not receive such aggressive treatment.But soon, patients such as those might not receive such aggressive treatment.
As people with the virus overwhelm New York City hospitals, doctors have stepped up pressure on state health officials to give them a rare and unsettling power: the right to withhold care from patients who are not likely to recover.As people with the virus overwhelm New York City hospitals, doctors have stepped up pressure on state health officials to give them a rare and unsettling power: the right to withhold care from patients who are not likely to recover.
Dwindling supplies mean there might not be enough ventilators or other equipment for everyone, and many doctors say they are growing increasingly uneasy with treating every patient equally. They believe medical workers soon might need to make difficult choices about treatment.Dwindling supplies mean there might not be enough ventilators or other equipment for everyone, and many doctors say they are growing increasingly uneasy with treating every patient equally. They believe medical workers soon might need to make difficult choices about treatment.
“Usually, the standard is to intubate and do CPR and do all those things,” said Dr. Angela Mills, the chief of emergency medicine services at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center. “There’s no question about it; that will not most likely be sustainable.”“Usually, the standard is to intubate and do CPR and do all those things,” said Dr. Angela Mills, the chief of emergency medicine services at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center. “There’s no question about it; that will not most likely be sustainable.”
New York is the center of the coronavirus in the United States, but doctors have wrestled with questions over whether, and how, to ration care from the beginning of the global outbreak. In China, many patients with Covid-19 were initially turned away from hospitals, and in Italy, hospitals have given younger, healthier patients priority for ventilators over older, sicker adults.New York is the center of the coronavirus in the United States, but doctors have wrestled with questions over whether, and how, to ration care from the beginning of the global outbreak. In China, many patients with Covid-19 were initially turned away from hospitals, and in Italy, hospitals have given younger, healthier patients priority for ventilators over older, sicker adults.
The problem is a grim and wrenching one, and the experience of doctors in New York could signal what is to come for their colleagues in other states, which have begun dusting off triage plans.The problem is a grim and wrenching one, and the experience of doctors in New York could signal what is to come for their colleagues in other states, which have begun dusting off triage plans.
The New York chapter of the American College of Physicians, a national organization of internists, wrote to Governor Cuomo last week, asking that he issue an executive order granting doctors immunity from liability for the decisions they make “when the need for allocation of ventilators results in some patients being denied access.”The New York chapter of the American College of Physicians, a national organization of internists, wrote to Governor Cuomo last week, asking that he issue an executive order granting doctors immunity from liability for the decisions they make “when the need for allocation of ventilators results in some patients being denied access.”
Mr. Cuomo has repeatedly said he does not want to allow hospitals to ration care. No hospital has yet run out of ventilators, he has said. Some hospitals are experimenting with putting multiple people on one machine.Mr. Cuomo has repeatedly said he does not want to allow hospitals to ration care. No hospital has yet run out of ventilators, he has said. Some hospitals are experimenting with putting multiple people on one machine.
States across the country are re-examining triage plans. The New York Times reviewed triage strategy documents, some of which are being revised as more information emerges, from Alabama, Arizona, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah and Washington State to see what factors they propose to use to decide which patients get potentially life-saving treatments.States across the country are re-examining triage plans. The New York Times reviewed triage strategy documents, some of which are being revised as more information emerges, from Alabama, Arizona, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah and Washington State to see what factors they propose to use to decide which patients get potentially life-saving treatments.
The plans struggle to address a range of ethical issues, and also matters of social equality, and how much legal force these plans carry varies. People with underlying medical problems may get ranked lower, yet low-income people and people of color often have more health problems because they cannot afford top-notch care.The plans struggle to address a range of ethical issues, and also matters of social equality, and how much legal force these plans carry varies. People with underlying medical problems may get ranked lower, yet low-income people and people of color often have more health problems because they cannot afford top-notch care.
One underlying assumption: They should only be implemented if other measures fail.One underlying assumption: They should only be implemented if other measures fail.
“When the system is at risk of becoming overwhelmed, the goal then becomes to conserve, substitute, adapt and reuse,” said a report released Sunday by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.“When the system is at risk of becoming overwhelmed, the goal then becomes to conserve, substitute, adapt and reuse,” said a report released Sunday by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.
Making these life and death choices, it said, should be done “only in the most extreme of circumstances.”Making these life and death choices, it said, should be done “only in the most extreme of circumstances.”
Laundry, grocery shopping, even walking the dog is fraught with challenges these days. The key to accomplish any essential task is a little preparation, levelheaded thinking and a lot of hand washing before and after. (A few anti-bacterial wipes can’t hurt either.)Laundry, grocery shopping, even walking the dog is fraught with challenges these days. The key to accomplish any essential task is a little preparation, levelheaded thinking and a lot of hand washing before and after. (A few anti-bacterial wipes can’t hurt either.)
While political leaders have locked their borders, scientists have been shattering theirs, creating a global collaboration unlike any in history. Never before, researchers say, have so many experts in so many countries focused simultaneously on a single topic and with such urgency. Nearly all research, other than anything related to coronavirus, has ground to a halt.While political leaders have locked their borders, scientists have been shattering theirs, creating a global collaboration unlike any in history. Never before, researchers say, have so many experts in so many countries focused simultaneously on a single topic and with such urgency. Nearly all research, other than anything related to coronavirus, has ground to a halt.
Normal imperatives like academic credit have been set aside. Online repositories make studies available months ahead of journals. Researchers have identified and shared hundreds of viral genome sequences. More than 200 clinical trials have been started, bringing together hospitals and laboratories around the globe.Normal imperatives like academic credit have been set aside. Online repositories make studies available months ahead of journals. Researchers have identified and shared hundreds of viral genome sequences. More than 200 clinical trials have been started, bringing together hospitals and laboratories around the globe.
On a recent morning, for example, scientists at the University of Pittsburgh discovered that a ferret exposed to Covid-19 particles had developed a high fever — a potential advance toward animal vaccine testing. Under ordinary circumstances, they would have started work on an academic journal article.On a recent morning, for example, scientists at the University of Pittsburgh discovered that a ferret exposed to Covid-19 particles had developed a high fever — a potential advance toward animal vaccine testing. Under ordinary circumstances, they would have started work on an academic journal article.
“But you know what? There is going to be plenty of time to get papers published,” said Paul Duprex, a virologist leading the university’s vaccine research. Within two hours, he said, he had shared the findings with scientists around the world on a World Health Organization conference call. “It is pretty cool, right? You cut the crap, for lack of a better word, and you get to be part of a global enterprise.”“But you know what? There is going to be plenty of time to get papers published,” said Paul Duprex, a virologist leading the university’s vaccine research. Within two hours, he said, he had shared the findings with scientists around the world on a World Health Organization conference call. “It is pretty cool, right? You cut the crap, for lack of a better word, and you get to be part of a global enterprise.”
Dr. Duprex’s lab in Pittsburgh is collaborating with the Pasteur Institute in Paris and the Austrian drug company Themis Bioscience. The consortium has received funding from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation, a Norway-based organization financed by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and a group of governments, and is in talks with the Serum Institute of India, one of the largest vaccine manufacturers in the world.Dr. Duprex’s lab in Pittsburgh is collaborating with the Pasteur Institute in Paris and the Austrian drug company Themis Bioscience. The consortium has received funding from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation, a Norway-based organization financed by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and a group of governments, and is in talks with the Serum Institute of India, one of the largest vaccine manufacturers in the world.
Senator Bernie Sanders called Wednesday for Wisconsin, the only state forging ahead with an in-person primary this month, to postpone. His comments came a day after his rival, former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., said it was “hard to envision” the Democratic National Convention taking place in July as scheduled.Senator Bernie Sanders called Wednesday for Wisconsin, the only state forging ahead with an in-person primary this month, to postpone. His comments came a day after his rival, former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., said it was “hard to envision” the Democratic National Convention taking place in July as scheduled.
The uncertainty in the political calendar has rippled around the country. Also on Wednesday, West Virginia became the 15th state to postpone its nominating contest, from May 12 to June 9, bringing the number of states that have done so to 15.The uncertainty in the political calendar has rippled around the country. Also on Wednesday, West Virginia became the 15th state to postpone its nominating contest, from May 12 to June 9, bringing the number of states that have done so to 15.
In Wisconsin, where the primary is scheduled for April 7, Republican lawmakers have blocked a proposal from Gov. Tony Evers to send out mailed ballots. Mr. Evers is planning to deploy the National Guard to work at polling places.In Wisconsin, where the primary is scheduled for April 7, Republican lawmakers have blocked a proposal from Gov. Tony Evers to send out mailed ballots. Mr. Evers is planning to deploy the National Guard to work at polling places.
In a statement, Mr. Sanders said that the state should follow the advice of public health experts to promote social distancing.In a statement, Mr. Sanders said that the state should follow the advice of public health experts to promote social distancing.
“People should not be forced to put their lives on the line to vote,” Mr. Sanders said.“People should not be forced to put their lives on the line to vote,” Mr. Sanders said.
Before the coronavirus upended the campaign, Sanders aides were looking toward Wisconsin as a key state for the senator. But a poll published Wednesday showed Mr. Biden with a big lead there.Before the coronavirus upended the campaign, Sanders aides were looking toward Wisconsin as a key state for the senator. But a poll published Wednesday showed Mr. Biden with a big lead there.
Reporting was contributed by Michael Cooper, Alan Blinder, Karen Zraick, Margot Sanger-Katz, Motoko Rich, Peter Baker, Sarah Mervosh, Tariro Mzezewa, Katie Rogers, Patricia Mazzei, Maggie Haberman, Stephanie Saul, Sydney Ember, Dave Montgomery, Manny Fernandez, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, Farnaz Fassihi, Marc Santora, Megan Specia, Iliana Magra, Ernesto Londoño, Apoorva Mandavilli, Mike Baker, Sheri Fink, Joseph Goldstein, Michael Rothfeld, Benjamin Weiser, Alan Yuhas, Abby Goodnough, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Somini Sengupta, Knvul Sheikh, Manuela Andreoni, Letícia Casado, Laura Chang, Denise Grady, Austin Ramzy, Keith Bradsher, Andrew Das, Michael D. Shear, Elian Peltier, Raphael Minder, David D. Kirkpatrick, Kate Kelly, Peter Eavis, Mujib Mashal, Matt Apuzzo, Christopher Clarey, Mohammed Hadi, Erin Griffiths, Tara Parker-Pope, Andy Newman, and Chris Horton. Reporting was contributed by Michael Cooper, Alan Blinder, Karen Zraick, Margot Sanger-Katz, Motoko Rich, Peter Baker, Sarah Mervosh, Tariro Mzezewa, Katie Rogers, Patricia Mazzei, Maggie Haberman, Stephanie Saul, Sydney Ember, Dave Montgomery, Manny Fernandez, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, Farnaz Fassihi, Marc Santora, Megan Specia, Iliana Magra, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Somini Sengupta, Ernesto Londoño, Apoorva Mandavilli, Mike Baker, Sheri Fink, Joseph Goldstein, Michael Rothfeld, Benjamin Weiser, Alan Yuhas, Abby Goodnough, Knvul Sheikh, Manuela Andreoni, Letícia Casado, Laura Chang, Denise Grady, Austin Ramzy, Keith Bradsher, Andrew Das, Michael D. Shear, Elian Peltier, Raphael Minder, David D. Kirkpatrick, Kate Kelly, Peter Eavis, Mujib Mashal, Matt Apuzzo, Christopher Clarey, Mohammed Hadi, Erin Griffiths, Tara Parker-Pope, Andy Newman, and Chris Horton.