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Coronavirus Live Updates: Trump Administration Expected to Recommend Wearing Cloth Masks Coronavirus Live Updates: Trump Administration Expected to Recommend Wearing Cloth Masks
(32 minutes later)
新冠病毒疫情最新消息新冠病毒疫情最新消息
The Trump administration is expected to announce as soon as Thursday that all Americans should wear cloth masks or other face coverings if they go out in public, based on a forthcoming recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that would mark a shift in federal guidance amid new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who have no symptoms.The Trump administration is expected to announce as soon as Thursday that all Americans should wear cloth masks or other face coverings if they go out in public, based on a forthcoming recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that would mark a shift in federal guidance amid new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who have no symptoms.
Until now, the C.D.C., like the World Health Organization, has advised that ordinary people do not need to wear masks unless they are sick and coughing. Part of the reason was to preserve medical-grade masks, including N95 respirators, for health care workers who desperately need them at a time when they are in continuously short supply.Until now, the C.D.C., like the World Health Organization, has advised that ordinary people do not need to wear masks unless they are sick and coughing. Part of the reason was to preserve medical-grade masks, including N95 respirators, for health care workers who desperately need them at a time when they are in continuously short supply.
But according to a federal official, the C.D.C. will now recommend that everyone wear face coverings in public settings, like pharmacies and grocery stores, to avoid unwittingly spreading the virus. Public health officials have stressed that N95 masks should be saved for front line doctors and nurses, who have been in dire need of protective gear.But according to a federal official, the C.D.C. will now recommend that everyone wear face coverings in public settings, like pharmacies and grocery stores, to avoid unwittingly spreading the virus. Public health officials have stressed that N95 masks should be saved for front line doctors and nurses, who have been in dire need of protective gear.
For weeks, the administration has sent conflicting messages on masks. At first, officials clearly stated that masks should only be worn by sick people. For some time, Mr. Trump has been saying masks might be useful, but scarves would be fine as well. Chinese officials have expressed alarm at how few ordinary Americans are covering their noses and mouths.For weeks, the administration has sent conflicting messages on masks. At first, officials clearly stated that masks should only be worn by sick people. For some time, Mr. Trump has been saying masks might be useful, but scarves would be fine as well. Chinese officials have expressed alarm at how few ordinary Americans are covering their noses and mouths.
Earlier this week, Dr. Robert Redfield, the director of the C.D.C., confirmed in a radio interview that the agency was reviewing its guidelines on who should wear masks. Citing new data that shows high rates of transmission from people who are infected but show no symptoms, he said the guidance on mask wearing was “being critically re-reviewed, to see if there’s potential additional value for individuals that are infected or individuals that may be asymptomatically infected.”Earlier this week, Dr. Robert Redfield, the director of the C.D.C., confirmed in a radio interview that the agency was reviewing its guidelines on who should wear masks. Citing new data that shows high rates of transmission from people who are infected but show no symptoms, he said the guidance on mask wearing was “being critically re-reviewed, to see if there’s potential additional value for individuals that are infected or individuals that may be asymptomatically infected.”
On Wednesday, Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles urged all of that city’s residents to wear homemade, nonmedical face coverings, or even bandannas, when food shopping or doing other essential errands. Health officials in Riverside County, Calif., made a similar recommendation on Tuesday.On Wednesday, Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles urged all of that city’s residents to wear homemade, nonmedical face coverings, or even bandannas, when food shopping or doing other essential errands. Health officials in Riverside County, Calif., made a similar recommendation on Tuesday.
The federal official said the C.D.C.’s revised guidance stemmed from a request by the White House and the task force.The federal official said the C.D.C.’s revised guidance stemmed from a request by the White House and the task force.
When the first cases of the coronavirus were reported in the United States just over a month ago, Mr. Trump mostly dismissed the looming threat, Wall Street chugged ever upward and people set about their business with scant recognition of the calamity that lay ahead. President Trump lashed out at Democrats in Congress on Thursday for announcing the start of oversight investigations into the Trump administration’s response to the coronavirus, accusing them of “conducting these partisan investigations in the middle of a pandemic.”
Speaker Nancy Pelosi said earlier on Thursday that she had created a special select bipartisan committee to oversee all aspects of the government response to the virus, including its distribution of more than $2 trillion in emergency aid. Without citing Ms. Pelosi’s move specifically, the president made clear he objects.
“I want to remind everyone here in our nation’s capital, especially in Congress, that this is not the time for politics, endless partisan investigations,” he said. “Here we go again.”
Mr. Trump repeated the language he often used to describe the investigations into his administration: “You see what happens. It’s a witch hunt after witch hunt after witch hunt. And in the end, the people doing the witch hunt they’ve been losing, and they’ve been losing by a lot.”
The White House then released a letter that Mr. Trump sent to Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the Democratic leader, pressing his attack as the nightly coronavirus task force briefing continued.
“I’ve known you for many years but I never knew how bad a Senator you are for New York until I became president,” Mr. Trump wrote, after complaining about “your ridiculous impeachment hoax.”
When the first cases of the coronavirus were reported in the United States in January, President Trump mostly dismissed the looming threat, Wall Street chugged ever upward and people set about their business with scant recognition of the calamity that lay ahead.
On Thursday, the stunning scope of the economic disaster became clearer as the Labor Department reported the loss of 10 million jobs in just two weeks. Wall Street has seemingly imploded, and the global economy has shuddered as the fallout of the pandemic reaches into every country.On Thursday, the stunning scope of the economic disaster became clearer as the Labor Department reported the loss of 10 million jobs in just two weeks. Wall Street has seemingly imploded, and the global economy has shuddered as the fallout of the pandemic reaches into every country.
Hopes for a dramatic but brief downturn followed by a quick recovery have faded, and in their place are fears that the world may be on the cusp of an economic shock unseen since the Great Depression.Hopes for a dramatic but brief downturn followed by a quick recovery have faded, and in their place are fears that the world may be on the cusp of an economic shock unseen since the Great Depression.
The speed and scale of the job losses is without precedent. Until last month, the worst week for unemployment filings was 695,000 in 1982.The speed and scale of the job losses is without precedent. Until last month, the worst week for unemployment filings was 695,000 in 1982.
Despite the news that 6.6 million people had filed for unemployment benefits last week, the S&P 500 rose more than 2 percent after Mr. Trump said he expected Russia and Saudi Arabia to announce oil production cuts. Oil prices had been hammered as the pandemic all but eliminated travel and demand for energy, and a price war between Saudi and Russia had intensified the decline.Despite the news that 6.6 million people had filed for unemployment benefits last week, the S&P 500 rose more than 2 percent after Mr. Trump said he expected Russia and Saudi Arabia to announce oil production cuts. Oil prices had been hammered as the pandemic all but eliminated travel and demand for energy, and a price war between Saudi and Russia had intensified the decline.
Mr. Trump’s statement led crude oil futures, which had already been climbing on Thursday, to surge, and shares of oil and gas companies also rallied. But by Thursday afternoon the agreement Mr. Trump said he expected had yet to materialize, and analysts said it was unclear whether Moscow and Riyadh were close to such a deal.Mr. Trump’s statement led crude oil futures, which had already been climbing on Thursday, to surge, and shares of oil and gas companies also rallied. But by Thursday afternoon the agreement Mr. Trump said he expected had yet to materialize, and analysts said it was unclear whether Moscow and Riyadh were close to such a deal.
West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. crude benchmark, rose about 25 percent, and Occidental Petroleum was the best performing stock in the S&P 500, with a gain of about 19 percent. Apache rose 15 percent, and Halliburton gained more than 13 percent.West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. crude benchmark, rose about 25 percent, and Occidental Petroleum was the best performing stock in the S&P 500, with a gain of about 19 percent. Apache rose 15 percent, and Halliburton gained more than 13 percent.
The Navy removed the captain of the stricken aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt on Thursday, only days after he implored his superior officers for more help as a coronavirus outbreak spread aboard the ship, Defense Department officials said.The Navy removed the captain of the stricken aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt on Thursday, only days after he implored his superior officers for more help as a coronavirus outbreak spread aboard the ship, Defense Department officials said.
About 100 sailors have been infected so far.About 100 sailors have been infected so far.
In a letter that leaked to the news media on Tuesday, Capt. Brett E. Crozier laid out the dire situation unfolding aboard the warship, with almost 5,000 crew members, and described what he said were the Navy’s failures to provide him with the proper resources to combat the virus by moving sailors off the vessel and disinfecting areas on board.In a letter that leaked to the news media on Tuesday, Capt. Brett E. Crozier laid out the dire situation unfolding aboard the warship, with almost 5,000 crew members, and described what he said were the Navy’s failures to provide him with the proper resources to combat the virus by moving sailors off the vessel and disinfecting areas on board.
Senior Defense Department officials were angry that the letter found its way first to The San Francisco Chronicle, and then to other news outlets, where it was widely reported.Senior Defense Department officials were angry that the letter found its way first to The San Francisco Chronicle, and then to other news outlets, where it was widely reported.
The decision to remove Captain Crozier came on Thursday, officials said.The decision to remove Captain Crozier came on Thursday, officials said.
The carrier is currently docked in Guam.The carrier is currently docked in Guam.
At least 38 states have announced plans for stay-at-home orders that will last for weeks, and governments are now trying to close businesses deemed nonessential that have stayed open.At least 38 states have announced plans for stay-at-home orders that will last for weeks, and governments are now trying to close businesses deemed nonessential that have stayed open.
The arts-and-crafts chain Hobby Lobby drew a rebuke on Wednesday from Colorado officials, who said the retailer must comply with stay-at-home orders and immediately close its stores.The arts-and-crafts chain Hobby Lobby drew a rebuke on Wednesday from Colorado officials, who said the retailer must comply with stay-at-home orders and immediately close its stores.
In a cease-and-desist letter to the company, W. Eric Kuhn, the senior assistant state attorney general, wrote that Hobby Lobby’s reopening of stores violated an order by the governor that compelled all businesses to close unless state officials had classified them as critical.In a cease-and-desist letter to the company, W. Eric Kuhn, the senior assistant state attorney general, wrote that Hobby Lobby’s reopening of stores violated an order by the governor that compelled all businesses to close unless state officials had classified them as critical.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Hobby Lobby is not a ‘critical business,’” Mr. Kuhn wrote.“For the avoidance of doubt, Hobby Lobby is not a ‘critical business,’” Mr. Kuhn wrote.
Ohio’s attorney general, Dave Yost, wrote on Twitter on Wednesday that he had sent a similar letter to Hobby Lobby and that the retailer, which did not respond to requests for comment on Wednesday night, had agreed to close stores in his state. Officials in Indiana and Wisconsin were also scrutinizing the company.Ohio’s attorney general, Dave Yost, wrote on Twitter on Wednesday that he had sent a similar letter to Hobby Lobby and that the retailer, which did not respond to requests for comment on Wednesday night, had agreed to close stores in his state. Officials in Indiana and Wisconsin were also scrutinizing the company.
Other businesses, including small companies, have also tried to remain open, earning the ire of the authorities from coast to coast.Other businesses, including small companies, have also tried to remain open, earning the ire of the authorities from coast to coast.
In Los Angeles, where the city attorney said last week that prosecutors would “work toward gaining compliance,” at least eight businesses have been cited for operating in defiance of government orders.In Los Angeles, where the city attorney said last week that prosecutors would “work toward gaining compliance,” at least eight businesses have been cited for operating in defiance of government orders.
“This is serious, and we cannot allow violations to continue,” Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles said at a news conference on Wednesday, when he said that city officials would shut off power and water to nonessential businesses that remained open after being warned.“This is serious, and we cannot allow violations to continue,” Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles said at a news conference on Wednesday, when he said that city officials would shut off power and water to nonessential businesses that remained open after being warned.
“No one wants to take this step, and we won’t have to as long as you follow the rules,” Mr. Garcetti said.“No one wants to take this step, and we won’t have to as long as you follow the rules,” Mr. Garcetti said.
The authorities have also said that individuals who breach shelter-in-place orders could be punished, like in Maryland, where violators could be imprisoned for up to a year and fined $5,000, and Newark, where officials have issued hundreds of summonses.The authorities have also said that individuals who breach shelter-in-place orders could be punished, like in Maryland, where violators could be imprisoned for up to a year and fined $5,000, and Newark, where officials have issued hundreds of summonses.
“If you are doing people’s hair and you’re not supposed to, if you’re opening up your store and you’re not supposed to, if you’re hanging out on the corner and you infect other people, these things can turn into very serious charges for you,” said Mayor Ras J. Baraka said on Wednesday. “Some people think we’re doing too much, but there’s a lot of people who think we’re not doing enough.”“If you are doing people’s hair and you’re not supposed to, if you’re opening up your store and you’re not supposed to, if you’re hanging out on the corner and you infect other people, these things can turn into very serious charges for you,” said Mayor Ras J. Baraka said on Wednesday. “Some people think we’re doing too much, but there’s a lot of people who think we’re not doing enough.”
On Thursday, Mr. Baraka said that the police would patrol the borders between Newark, Orange, East Orange and Irvington, and other areas, to reduce traffic between the four cities.On Thursday, Mr. Baraka said that the police would patrol the borders between Newark, Orange, East Orange and Irvington, and other areas, to reduce traffic between the four cities.
Officials elsewhere have also pledged to involve the police. In Georgia, where a statewide stay-at-home order is expected to take effect on Friday, Gov. Brian Kemp said that the state patrol was prepared to deal with people who ignored orders from state and local governments.Officials elsewhere have also pledged to involve the police. In Georgia, where a statewide stay-at-home order is expected to take effect on Friday, Gov. Brian Kemp said that the state patrol was prepared to deal with people who ignored orders from state and local governments.
“The reality is that if you do not comply, you are violating the law, and you can face stiff penalties,” Mr. Kemp said.“The reality is that if you do not comply, you are violating the law, and you can face stiff penalties,” Mr. Kemp said.
The C.I.A. has told White House officials since at least February that China is understating its coronavirus numbers — an obfuscation that could have profound impact on health experts’ ability to predict how the virus will spread.The C.I.A. has told White House officials since at least February that China is understating its coronavirus numbers — an obfuscation that could have profound impact on health experts’ ability to predict how the virus will spread.
American officials have long viewed many figures and reports out of China with suspicion. But the intelligence about China’s undercount of its coronavirus death toll played a role in President Trump’s negotiation last week of an apparent détente with President Xi Jinping of China after weeks of rising tensions over the virus.American officials have long viewed many figures and reports out of China with suspicion. But the intelligence about China’s undercount of its coronavirus death toll played a role in President Trump’s negotiation last week of an apparent détente with President Xi Jinping of China after weeks of rising tensions over the virus.
The C.I.A. has its own health experts and epidemiologists who work on classified models of the pandemic’s spread, and intelligence officers seek new information to contribute to those models and improve them. But American intelligence agencies have not obtained better numbers about the death toll in China in large measure because the Chinese government itself does not know how damaging the virus has been.The C.I.A. has its own health experts and epidemiologists who work on classified models of the pandemic’s spread, and intelligence officers seek new information to contribute to those models and improve them. But American intelligence agencies have not obtained better numbers about the death toll in China in large measure because the Chinese government itself does not know how damaging the virus has been.
Midlevel bureaucrats in the city of Wuhan, where the virus originated, and elsewhere in China have been lying about infection rates, testing and death counts, fearful that if they report numbers that are too high they will be punished, lose their position or worse, current and former intelligence officials said.Midlevel bureaucrats in the city of Wuhan, where the virus originated, and elsewhere in China have been lying about infection rates, testing and death counts, fearful that if they report numbers that are too high they will be punished, lose their position or worse, current and former intelligence officials said.
White House officials believe that China is a month or so ahead of the United States in how the pandemic will play out. And obtaining a more accurate view of the coronavirus toll in China could be critical to heading off a second wave of the pandemic.White House officials believe that China is a month or so ahead of the United States in how the pandemic will play out. And obtaining a more accurate view of the coronavirus toll in China could be critical to heading off a second wave of the pandemic.
But as intelligence officials harbored their own worries about China, Beijing and Washington recently agreed to hold fire on public sniping over the virus and to look for ways to cooperate to slow the contagion.But as intelligence officials harbored their own worries about China, Beijing and Washington recently agreed to hold fire on public sniping over the virus and to look for ways to cooperate to slow the contagion.
National security officials and China hawks in the State Department are skeptical the détente will last, but several top advisers to Mr. Trump have encouraged restraint.National security officials and China hawks in the State Department are skeptical the détente will last, but several top advisers to Mr. Trump have encouraged restraint.
They argue that the two superpowers need to work together to suppress the virus and resuscitate the global economy, and that Mr. Trump should not jeopardize a trade deal that the two nations reached last December.They argue that the two superpowers need to work together to suppress the virus and resuscitate the global economy, and that Mr. Trump should not jeopardize a trade deal that the two nations reached last December.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced on Thursday that she would form a bipartisan House committee to oversee the Trump administration’s response to the pandemic and the implementation of the more than $2 trillion in government relief provided to confront the crisis.Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced on Thursday that she would form a bipartisan House committee to oversee the Trump administration’s response to the pandemic and the implementation of the more than $2 trillion in government relief provided to confront the crisis.
Representative Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, the majority whip, will lead the committee, which will have subpoena power, meaning it will have authority to demand testimony and documents from Mr. Trump’s team about all aspects of their handling of the virus.Representative Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, the majority whip, will lead the committee, which will have subpoena power, meaning it will have authority to demand testimony and documents from Mr. Trump’s team about all aspects of their handling of the virus.
Ms. Pelosi said the panel would play a vital role in overseeing the largest government stimulus in modern American history.Ms. Pelosi said the panel would play a vital role in overseeing the largest government stimulus in modern American history.
“The committee will be acting before the fact to prevent a lot of waste, fraud and abuse,” Ms. Pelosi said, adding that she planned to reach out to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, to discuss keeping tabs on the stimulus measure and the trillions of dollars in federal money that will be dispersed across the country.“The committee will be acting before the fact to prevent a lot of waste, fraud and abuse,” Ms. Pelosi said, adding that she planned to reach out to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, to discuss keeping tabs on the stimulus measure and the trillions of dollars in federal money that will be dispersed across the country.
“There are things that are so new, and the rest, and we want to make sure there are not exploiters out there,” she said, adding “where there’s money, there’s frequently mischief.” It is not clear how successful such a committee would be in extracting answers from the Trump administration about the broader virus response.“There are things that are so new, and the rest, and we want to make sure there are not exploiters out there,” she said, adding “where there’s money, there’s frequently mischief.” It is not clear how successful such a committee would be in extracting answers from the Trump administration about the broader virus response.
“The committee will be empowered to examine all aspects of the federal response to the coronavirus to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being wisely and efficiently spent to save lives, deliver relief and benefit our economy,” Ms. Pelosi wrote in a letter to Democrats on Thursday.“The committee will be empowered to examine all aspects of the federal response to the coronavirus to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being wisely and efficiently spent to save lives, deliver relief and benefit our economy,” Ms. Pelosi wrote in a letter to Democrats on Thursday.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, asked if the new select committee is necessary, answered curtly: “I don’t.”Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, asked if the new select committee is necessary, answered curtly: “I don’t.”
Mr. Trump has repeatedly described his handling of the pandemic as exemplary, even though it has been plagued by missteps, including equipment shortages and a failure to test people early on that cost the government a crucial month it could have spent working to contain the virus. He has a long record of blocking efforts by Congress to oversee his administration, and in signing the stimulus measure, Mr. Trump suggested that he would have control over what information an inspector general overseeing the $500 billion corporate bailout fund would have to share with lawmakers.Mr. Trump has repeatedly described his handling of the pandemic as exemplary, even though it has been plagued by missteps, including equipment shortages and a failure to test people early on that cost the government a crucial month it could have spent working to contain the virus. He has a long record of blocking efforts by Congress to oversee his administration, and in signing the stimulus measure, Mr. Trump suggested that he would have control over what information an inspector general overseeing the $500 billion corporate bailout fund would have to share with lawmakers.
Representative Kevin McCarthy, Republican of California and the minority leader, told reporters on Thursday that an oversight committee was unnecessary, saying it “seems really redundant.”Representative Kevin McCarthy, Republican of California and the minority leader, told reporters on Thursday that an oversight committee was unnecessary, saying it “seems really redundant.”
The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved the first test for coronavirus antibodies for use in the United States.The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved the first test for coronavirus antibodies for use in the United States.
Currently available tests are designed to find fragments of viral DNA indicating an ongoing infection. An antibody test, on the other hand, tells doctors whether a patient has ever been exposed to the virus — and, having recovered, now may have at least some immunity.Currently available tests are designed to find fragments of viral DNA indicating an ongoing infection. An antibody test, on the other hand, tells doctors whether a patient has ever been exposed to the virus — and, having recovered, now may have at least some immunity.
That is important for several reasons. People with immunity might be able to venture safely from their homes and help shore up the work force. It may be particularly important for doctors and nurses to know whether they have antibodies.That is important for several reasons. People with immunity might be able to venture safely from their homes and help shore up the work force. It may be particularly important for doctors and nurses to know whether they have antibodies.
Antibody testing eventually should give scientists a better sense of how widespread the infection is in the population and help researchers calculate more precisely the fatality rate and the frequency of asymptomatic infections.Antibody testing eventually should give scientists a better sense of how widespread the infection is in the population and help researchers calculate more precisely the fatality rate and the frequency of asymptomatic infections.
Antibody tests already are used in China, Singapore and a handful of other countries. Public Health England has purchased millions of antibody tests and hopes to make them available for home use in the United Kingdom.Antibody tests already are used in China, Singapore and a handful of other countries. Public Health England has purchased millions of antibody tests and hopes to make them available for home use in the United Kingdom.
The new test, made by Cellex Inc., looks for two types of antibodies: immunoglobulin M, made a few days into the course of infection; and immunoglobulin G, made even later but designed specifically to neutralize a particular invader.The new test, made by Cellex Inc., looks for two types of antibodies: immunoglobulin M, made a few days into the course of infection; and immunoglobulin G, made even later but designed specifically to neutralize a particular invader.
But just having antibodies does not guarantee immunity from the coronavirus. Some people who are infected produce powerful immune responses; others do not. And scientists do not know how long immunity to this virus may last.But just having antibodies does not guarantee immunity from the coronavirus. Some people who are infected produce powerful immune responses; others do not. And scientists do not know how long immunity to this virus may last.
Although the new test is approved for diagnosis, antibody tests are not likely to be positive in the early days of infection. New evidence suggests that people are most contagious two to three days before the onset of symptoms.Although the new test is approved for diagnosis, antibody tests are not likely to be positive in the early days of infection. New evidence suggests that people are most contagious two to three days before the onset of symptoms.
Traditional PCR tests, with swabbing of the nose and throat, are more likely to detect a recent coronavirus infection.Traditional PCR tests, with swabbing of the nose and throat, are more likely to detect a recent coronavirus infection.
New York State, whose 2,373 coronavirus deaths have made it the center of America’s outbreak, is in danger of depleting its stockpile of critically needed ventilators in just six days, a somber-sounding Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Thursday.New York State, whose 2,373 coronavirus deaths have made it the center of America’s outbreak, is in danger of depleting its stockpile of critically needed ventilators in just six days, a somber-sounding Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Thursday.
“If a person comes in and needs a ventilator and you don’t have a ventilator, the person dies,” Mr. Cuomo said. “That’s the blunt equation here. And right now we have a burn rate that would suggest we have about six days in the stockpile.”“If a person comes in and needs a ventilator and you don’t have a ventilator, the person dies,” Mr. Cuomo said. “That’s the blunt equation here. And right now we have a burn rate that would suggest we have about six days in the stockpile.”
The lack of ventilators, which are needed for patients who are incapable of breathing on their own, is emerging as one of the biggest looming dangers of the pandemic. Mr. Cuomo said that the state had sent 400 ventilators from its stockpile on Wednesday night to hard-hit hospitals in New York City and another 200 to hospitals in Long Island and Westchester.The lack of ventilators, which are needed for patients who are incapable of breathing on their own, is emerging as one of the biggest looming dangers of the pandemic. Mr. Cuomo said that the state had sent 400 ventilators from its stockpile on Wednesday night to hard-hit hospitals in New York City and another 200 to hospitals in Long Island and Westchester.
That left just 2,200 ventilators in the state’s stockpile, he said — and led state officials to fear that if their projections hold, they will run through them in six days. The state has 92,381 confirmed cases, of whom 13,383 have been hospitalized, 3,396 in intensive care,That left just 2,200 ventilators in the state’s stockpile, he said — and led state officials to fear that if their projections hold, they will run through them in six days. The state has 92,381 confirmed cases, of whom 13,383 have been hospitalized, 3,396 in intensive care,
Mr. Cuomo said that buying more ventilators was proving difficult with so much competition from around the nation, and the world. So he said that hospitals were taking extraordinary measures to get the most out of their existing ventilators, including ending elective surgeries, using the ventilators on anesthesia machines and other devices, and splitting ventilators by connecting two patients to machines that are intended for one.Mr. Cuomo said that buying more ventilators was proving difficult with so much competition from around the nation, and the world. So he said that hospitals were taking extraordinary measures to get the most out of their existing ventilators, including ending elective surgeries, using the ventilators on anesthesia machines and other devices, and splitting ventilators by connecting two patients to machines that are intended for one.
“It’s not easy, it’s not ideal, but it’s better than nothing,” he said.“It’s not easy, it’s not ideal, but it’s better than nothing,” he said.
And Mr. Cuomo questioned how much help the federal government could provide at this point.And Mr. Cuomo questioned how much help the federal government could provide at this point.
“I don’t think the federal government is in a position to provide ventilators to the extent the nation may need them,” he said. “Just assume you are on your own in life.”“I don’t think the federal government is in a position to provide ventilators to the extent the nation may need them,” he said. “Just assume you are on your own in life.”
He did say, however, that “I’m sure the federal government would do anything they can do to help.”He did say, however, that “I’m sure the federal government would do anything they can do to help.”
With supplies dwindling as demand grows, the lack of ventilators is leaving doctors in New York to wrestle with the kind of agonizing choices confronting health care workers daily in Italy and Spain: Who gets one?With supplies dwindling as demand grows, the lack of ventilators is leaving doctors in New York to wrestle with the kind of agonizing choices confronting health care workers daily in Italy and Spain: Who gets one?
The U.S. government has nearly emptied its emergency stockpile of protective medical supplies like masks, gowns and gloves, a senior official said. Some states receiving desperately needed ventilators from the federal government discovered that the machines did not work.The U.S. government has nearly emptied its emergency stockpile of protective medical supplies like masks, gowns and gloves, a senior official said. Some states receiving desperately needed ventilators from the federal government discovered that the machines did not work.
Mr. Cuomo — who noted that, unlike the president, he cannot invoke the Defense Production Act to compel private industry to make critically-needed supplies — made a plea, and an offer, to businesses.Mr. Cuomo — who noted that, unlike the president, he cannot invoke the Defense Production Act to compel private industry to make critically-needed supplies — made a plea, and an offer, to businesses.
He said that the state would pay to help manufacturers switch over to the production of needed hospital gowns, gloves and other equipment.He said that the state would pay to help manufacturers switch over to the production of needed hospital gowns, gloves and other equipment.
“If you have the capacity to make these products, we will purchase them, and we will pay a premium,” he said. “But we need it, like, now.”“If you have the capacity to make these products, we will purchase them, and we will pay a premium,” he said. “But we need it, like, now.”
Mr. Trump said later Thursday that he had ordered his health secretary to use the Defense Production Act to help a half-dozen American companies secure the materials they need to produce more ventilators. The companies listed in the order include General Electric, Hill-Rom, Medtronic, ResMed, Royal Philips, and Vyaire Medical.Mr. Trump said later Thursday that he had ordered his health secretary to use the Defense Production Act to help a half-dozen American companies secure the materials they need to produce more ventilators. The companies listed in the order include General Electric, Hill-Rom, Medtronic, ResMed, Royal Philips, and Vyaire Medical.
It was not immediately clear how the new order would affect the production of ventilators or how quickly the companies would be able to provide the devices to hospitals in hot spots like New York City or New Orleans.It was not immediately clear how the new order would affect the production of ventilators or how quickly the companies would be able to provide the devices to hospitals in hot spots like New York City or New Orleans.
The Defense Production Act has been used to place hundreds of thousands of orders by the Trump administration, but Mr. Trump was long resistant to using it during the pandemic, treating it like a last resort.The Defense Production Act has been used to place hundreds of thousands of orders by the Trump administration, but Mr. Trump was long resistant to using it during the pandemic, treating it like a last resort.
“I am grateful to these and other domestic manufacturers for ramping up their production of ventilators during this difficult time,” Mr. Trump said in a statement released by the White House.“I am grateful to these and other domestic manufacturers for ramping up their production of ventilators during this difficult time,” Mr. Trump said in a statement released by the White House.
The virus hit home for Mr. Cuomo this week when his younger brother, Chris Cuomo, the CNN anchor, tested positive. The two brothers spoke by video during the governor’s daily briefing.The virus hit home for Mr. Cuomo this week when his younger brother, Chris Cuomo, the CNN anchor, tested positive. The two brothers spoke by video during the governor’s daily briefing.
“It’s very tough,” the younger Mr. Cuomo said. Then he gently teased his older brother, the governor: “You look like you’ve been cutting your own hair.”“It’s very tough,” the younger Mr. Cuomo said. Then he gently teased his older brother, the governor: “You look like you’ve been cutting your own hair.”
In a grim sign of the epidemic’s growing toll in France, the police said on Thursday that a hall at the world’s largest wholesale food market, near Paris, would be turned into a temporary morgue.In a grim sign of the epidemic’s growing toll in France, the police said on Thursday that a hall at the world’s largest wholesale food market, near Paris, would be turned into a temporary morgue.
More than 5,300 people have died because of the epidemic in France, and the Paris region has been among the hardest-hit areas. Nearly 5,400 people have died because of the epidemic in France. Nearly 60,000 people in France have tested positive for the virus, and over 26,000 of them are hospitalized. Over 6,000 of those are in intensive care, and hospitals in areas that are hardest hit, especially the Paris region, are nearing their maximum capacity.
The police cited “persistent tensions” between hospitals and funeral homes as deaths accelerated. They said coffins would be placed temporarily in the refrigerated hall, which is “offset and isolated” from the rest of the food market, a sprawling 573-acre complex in Rungis.The police cited “persistent tensions” between hospitals and funeral homes as deaths accelerated. They said coffins would be placed temporarily in the refrigerated hall, which is “offset and isolated” from the rest of the food market, a sprawling 573-acre complex in Rungis.
“This location will make it possible to preserve, in conditions that are the most dignified and acceptable from a sanitary standpoint, the caskets of the deceased awaiting burial or cremation, in France or abroad,” the police said.“This location will make it possible to preserve, in conditions that are the most dignified and acceptable from a sanitary standpoint, the caskets of the deceased awaiting burial or cremation, in France or abroad,” the police said.
The morgue is expected to start operating on Friday.The morgue is expected to start operating on Friday.
It was not the first time that the French authorities have used Rungis for a dire health crisis. In 2003, when a brutal heat wave killed thousands of elderly people, 700 bodies were kept in a refrigerated warehouse at the same site.It was not the first time that the French authorities have used Rungis for a dire health crisis. In 2003, when a brutal heat wave killed thousands of elderly people, 700 bodies were kept in a refrigerated warehouse at the same site.
All over the United States, businesses large and small are seeking breathing room from their lenders, landlords and business partners as they face the financial fallout from the coronavirus crisis.All over the United States, businesses large and small are seeking breathing room from their lenders, landlords and business partners as they face the financial fallout from the coronavirus crisis.
The president’s family company is among those looking for help.The president’s family company is among those looking for help.
With some of its golf courses and hotels closed amid the economic lockdown, the Trump Organization has been exploring whether it can delay payments on some of its loans and other financial obligations, according to people familiar with the matter and documents reviewed by The New York Times.With some of its golf courses and hotels closed amid the economic lockdown, the Trump Organization has been exploring whether it can delay payments on some of its loans and other financial obligations, according to people familiar with the matter and documents reviewed by The New York Times.
Representatives of Mr. Trump’s company have recently spoken with Deutsche Bank, the president’s largest creditor, about the possibility of postponing payments on at least some of its loans from the bank.Representatives of Mr. Trump’s company have recently spoken with Deutsche Bank, the president’s largest creditor, about the possibility of postponing payments on at least some of its loans from the bank.
And in Florida, the Trump Organization sought guidance last week from Palm Beach County about whether it expected the company to continue making monthly payments on county land that it leases for a 27-hole golf club.And in Florida, the Trump Organization sought guidance last week from Palm Beach County about whether it expected the company to continue making monthly payments on county land that it leases for a 27-hole golf club.
The discussions with Deutsche Bank and Palm Beach County are preliminary, and it isn’t clear whether Mr. Trump’s company will be able to delay or reduce its payments, according to people briefed on the discussions.The discussions with Deutsche Bank and Palm Beach County are preliminary, and it isn’t clear whether Mr. Trump’s company will be able to delay or reduce its payments, according to people briefed on the discussions.
“These days everybody is working together,” said Eric Trump, the president’s son, who helps manage the family business. “Tenants are working with landlords, landlords are working with banks. The whole world is working together as we fight through this pandemic.”“These days everybody is working together,” said Eric Trump, the president’s son, who helps manage the family business. “Tenants are working with landlords, landlords are working with banks. The whole world is working together as we fight through this pandemic.”
The Trump Organization’s requests put lenders and landlords in the awkward position of having to accede or risk alienating the president.The Trump Organization’s requests put lenders and landlords in the awkward position of having to accede or risk alienating the president.
A nursing home linked to dozens of coronavirus deaths in the Seattle area faces a fine of more than $600,000 after federal inspectors found a range of problems in how the facility handled the outbreak.A nursing home linked to dozens of coronavirus deaths in the Seattle area faces a fine of more than $600,000 after federal inspectors found a range of problems in how the facility handled the outbreak.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said in a letter on Wednesday to the company, Life Care Center of Kirkland, that it may be terminated from Medicare and Medicaid participation if the facility is unable to come into compliance with federal regulations by September. Officials levied a fine of $13,585 per day covering a span of six weeks.The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said in a letter on Wednesday to the company, Life Care Center of Kirkland, that it may be terminated from Medicare and Medicaid participation if the facility is unable to come into compliance with federal regulations by September. Officials levied a fine of $13,585 per day covering a span of six weeks.
Federal officials reported last month that Life Care had failed to notify state officials about the increasing rate of respiratory infections among residents, failed to rapidly identify and manage ill residents and failed to have a backup plan after the facility’s primary clinician fell ill. C.M.S. said those urgent issues have since been resolved, but that Life Care will also need to demonstrate compliance on other issues, including record-keeping and its handling of safety and quality strategies.Federal officials reported last month that Life Care had failed to notify state officials about the increasing rate of respiratory infections among residents, failed to rapidly identify and manage ill residents and failed to have a backup plan after the facility’s primary clinician fell ill. C.M.S. said those urgent issues have since been resolved, but that Life Care will also need to demonstrate compliance on other issues, including record-keeping and its handling of safety and quality strategies.
“If L.C.C. of Kirkland does not correct all deficiencies and return to full compliance by September 16, 2020, then C.M.S. will terminate your facility from participating in the Medicare/Medicaid program,” wrote Patrick Thrift, a C.M.S. enforcement official in Seattle.“If L.C.C. of Kirkland does not correct all deficiencies and return to full compliance by September 16, 2020, then C.M.S. will terminate your facility from participating in the Medicare/Medicaid program,” wrote Patrick Thrift, a C.M.S. enforcement official in Seattle.
The Democratic National Committee on Thursday postponed the party’s national convention because of the coronavirus, moving it from mid-July to mid-August. It is the largest political event to be moved so far because of the pandemic, which has already led to the cancellation of hundreds of state and local conventions from both parties.The Democratic National Committee on Thursday postponed the party’s national convention because of the coronavirus, moving it from mid-July to mid-August. It is the largest political event to be moved so far because of the pandemic, which has already led to the cancellation of hundreds of state and local conventions from both parties.
The convention will still be held in Milwaukee, as planned, the week of Aug. 17, officials said, a week before Republicans plan to gather in Charlotte, N.C., to renominate Mr. Trump.The convention will still be held in Milwaukee, as planned, the week of Aug. 17, officials said, a week before Republicans plan to gather in Charlotte, N.C., to renominate Mr. Trump.
The delay comes just hours after the party’s likely nominee, former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., called for rescheduling the convention during an appearance on “The Tonight Show.”The delay comes just hours after the party’s likely nominee, former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., called for rescheduling the convention during an appearance on “The Tonight Show.”
Mr. Trump, under fire for his administration’s failure to respond quickly to the pandemic, lashed out at New York again on Thursday, saying the state’s doctors and hospitals are “never satisfied” with the medical supplies provided by the federal government because of politics.
Even as a new report showed that millions of Americans have been forced from their jobs by the pandemic, and death toll in New York continued to rise, Mr. Trump spent the morning attacking Senator Chuck Schumer and other New York politicians, accusing them of failing to adequately prepare the state’s medical system for a serious outbreak.
In fact, officials in New York, which has become the center of the crisis, have repeatedly said that the federal government needed to do more to provide ventilators, masks and other protective gear to overwhelmed hospitals.
Governors around the country have criticized Mr. Trump for not doing more to centralize the provision of medical equipment. And public health officials have said that the administration’s failure to provide adequate testing in late January and February allowed the virus to spread silently throughout the country.
In a series of tweets on Thursday, Mr. Trump took particular aim at Mr. Schumer, the Senate’s Democratic leader, who had criticized the federal response during an appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” program earlier in the morning.
“Look, the president was way behind the eight ball in so much of this,” Mr. Schumer said. “He didn’t see the need. We were way behind in testing.”
In his tweet, Mr. Trump shot back: “somebody please explain to Cryin’ Chuck Schumer that we do have a military man in charge of distributing goods, a very talented Admiral.”
The president also suggested again — without evidence — that needed supplies were somehow going missing or being hoarded at New York hospitals, adding: “stop complaining & find out where all of these supplies are going.”
Even as he attacked New York’s response, Mr. Trump finished one of his tweets with praise for the governor: “Cuomo working hard.”
Mr. Cuomo, who was asked to respond to Mr. Trump’s comments claiming that New York had gotten off to a “late start” but praising him personally, said, “I don’t know how you square those two statements, I don’t know that you can square those two statements.”
Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s leading expert on infectious diseases, said on the Times podcast “The Daily” on Thursday that the threat of the virus resurging will continue until a vaccine is approved.Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s leading expert on infectious diseases, said on the Times podcast “The Daily” on Thursday that the threat of the virus resurging will continue until a vaccine is approved.
“I believe that in a few months, hopefully, that we’ll get it under control enough that it won’t be as frightening as it is now, but it will not be an absent threat,” he said. “And the threat of resurgence will be something that we need to make sure that we are prepared for.”“I believe that in a few months, hopefully, that we’ll get it under control enough that it won’t be as frightening as it is now, but it will not be an absent threat,” he said. “And the threat of resurgence will be something that we need to make sure that we are prepared for.”
Addressing the delays in testing for the virus across the United States, which left Americans largely blind to the scale of the looming catastrophe until early March, Dr. Fauci said that the government was working to increase capacity.Addressing the delays in testing for the virus across the United States, which left Americans largely blind to the scale of the looming catastrophe until early March, Dr. Fauci said that the government was working to increase capacity.
The government “is right now, today, ramping up to essentially make the private sector the major driving force of the testing,” he said. “Early on, that was not in place. And that’s unfortunate.”The government “is right now, today, ramping up to essentially make the private sector the major driving force of the testing,” he said. “Early on, that was not in place. And that’s unfortunate.”
Dr. Fauci, who has advised presidents from both parties on pandemic responses, has become the explainer-in-chief of the pandemic. Since joining the White House coronavirus task force in late January, he has taken on a public role translating the science behind the crisis for the general public — and clarifying President Trump’s false or misleading claims in press briefings.Dr. Fauci, who has advised presidents from both parties on pandemic responses, has become the explainer-in-chief of the pandemic. Since joining the White House coronavirus task force in late January, he has taken on a public role translating the science behind the crisis for the general public — and clarifying President Trump’s false or misleading claims in press briefings.
“The president has his own style,” Dr. Fauci said. “That’s obvious to the American public.” He added, “I don’t think it would be possible for me to influence another person’s style. I mean, that just doesn’t happen.”“The president has his own style,” Dr. Fauci said. “That’s obvious to the American public.” He added, “I don’t think it would be possible for me to influence another person’s style. I mean, that just doesn’t happen.”
Dr. Fauci also looked ahead, to how he believes the crisis will be seen years from now.Dr. Fauci also looked ahead, to how he believes the crisis will be seen years from now.
“I think it will be remembered as really showing what a great country we are. We have been through, as I’ve said, if you look at the history of our country, some extraordinary ordeals. I mean, world wars and diseases and depressions,” he said. “And we’ve gotten through it. I have a great deal of faith in the spirit of the American people. We’re resilient. We’re going to get over this. And this is going to end.”“I think it will be remembered as really showing what a great country we are. We have been through, as I’ve said, if you look at the history of our country, some extraordinary ordeals. I mean, world wars and diseases and depressions,” he said. “And we’ve gotten through it. I have a great deal of faith in the spirit of the American people. We’re resilient. We’re going to get over this. And this is going to end.”
An experimental stem cell therapy derived from human placentas will begin early testing in patients with coronavirus, a New Jersey biotech company said Thursday.An experimental stem cell therapy derived from human placentas will begin early testing in patients with coronavirus, a New Jersey biotech company said Thursday.
The treatment, being developed by the company Celularity, has not yet been used on any patients with symptoms of Covid-19, but it has caught the attention of Rudy Giuliani, Mr. Trump’s personal lawyer. Mr. Giuliani recently featured an interview with the company founder on his website and said on Twitter that the product has “real potential,” while also criticizing the Food and Drug Administration for not moving more quickly to approve potential remedies.The treatment, being developed by the company Celularity, has not yet been used on any patients with symptoms of Covid-19, but it has caught the attention of Rudy Giuliani, Mr. Trump’s personal lawyer. Mr. Giuliani recently featured an interview with the company founder on his website and said on Twitter that the product has “real potential,” while also criticizing the Food and Drug Administration for not moving more quickly to approve potential remedies.
There is no proven treatment for the respiratory disease, but several experimental approaches, including old malaria drugs and H.I.V. antivirals, are being tested in patients around the world.There is no proven treatment for the respiratory disease, but several experimental approaches, including old malaria drugs and H.I.V. antivirals, are being tested in patients around the world.
The early trial by Celularity — which will primarily evaluate safety, as well as an initial look at efficacy — will test its therapy in up to 86 patients with symptoms. They will receive infusions of the cell therapy, in the hopes it will prevent them from developing the more severe form of the disease, Dr. Robert Hariri, Celularity’s founder and chief executive, said in an interview Wednesday.The early trial by Celularity — which will primarily evaluate safety, as well as an initial look at efficacy — will test its therapy in up to 86 patients with symptoms. They will receive infusions of the cell therapy, in the hopes it will prevent them from developing the more severe form of the disease, Dr. Robert Hariri, Celularity’s founder and chief executive, said in an interview Wednesday.
The therapy involves using stem cells from the placenta — known as “natural killer” cells — that help protect a developing fetus or newborn from viruses that have infected the mother. Celularity has been testing these cells in cancer patients.The therapy involves using stem cells from the placenta — known as “natural killer” cells — that help protect a developing fetus or newborn from viruses that have infected the mother. Celularity has been testing these cells in cancer patients.
Dr. Hariri said the trial, which would not include a placebo control group, will take place at academic medical centers around the country. He said the company expects to see initial results about 30 to 60 days after the first patients receive their dose. If this study is successful, Dr. Hariri said the company would move to a placebo-controlled study that would evaluate the drug’s efficacy against the disease.Dr. Hariri said the trial, which would not include a placebo control group, will take place at academic medical centers around the country. He said the company expects to see initial results about 30 to 60 days after the first patients receive their dose. If this study is successful, Dr. Hariri said the company would move to a placebo-controlled study that would evaluate the drug’s efficacy against the disease.
The balmy port city of Guayaquil, Ecuador, is emerging as an epicenter of Covid-19 in Latin America, but is unprepared for the surge in deaths, leaving officials scrambling to collect bodies.The balmy port city of Guayaquil, Ecuador, is emerging as an epicenter of Covid-19 in Latin America, but is unprepared for the surge in deaths, leaving officials scrambling to collect bodies.
Officially, Ecuador has had 98 deaths because of coronavirus, most of them in Guayaquil, a city where many families have members who work or study in Spain and Italy.Officially, Ecuador has had 98 deaths because of coronavirus, most of them in Guayaquil, a city where many families have members who work or study in Spain and Italy.
But that number is a dramatic undercount, city councilman Andrés Guschmer said on Thursday.But that number is a dramatic undercount, city councilman Andrés Guschmer said on Thursday.
Guayaquil was seeing three or four times the number of deaths it typically sees in a day, he said, adding that the day before they had about 320 deaths.Guayaquil was seeing three or four times the number of deaths it typically sees in a day, he said, adding that the day before they had about 320 deaths.
As the number of deaths surges, corpses remain in the streets or spend days waiting to be picked up from private homes. There is no more wood for coffins, leading one cardboard manufacturer to begin producing cardboard caskets.As the number of deaths surges, corpses remain in the streets or spend days waiting to be picked up from private homes. There is no more wood for coffins, leading one cardboard manufacturer to begin producing cardboard caskets.
“We are so beaten down,” said Mr. Guschmer, who described a collective grief in the normally lively city of fewer than three million people.“We are so beaten down,” said Mr. Guschmer, who described a collective grief in the normally lively city of fewer than three million people.
Latin America has started to see a rapid rise in cases, and many leaders are preparing for an explosion.Latin America has started to see a rapid rise in cases, and many leaders are preparing for an explosion.
In Guayaquil, part of the reason for the backlog is that federal regulation requires each death to be assessed by criminal investigators before the body’s removal, but there are not enough investigators, said Mr. Guschmer, who is in charge of coordinating corpse removal with federal officials.In Guayaquil, part of the reason for the backlog is that federal regulation requires each death to be assessed by criminal investigators before the body’s removal, but there are not enough investigators, said Mr. Guschmer, who is in charge of coordinating corpse removal with federal officials.
He has urged the national government to change the protocol.He has urged the national government to change the protocol.
Jorge Wated, an official working on the national government’s response to the crisis, said on Wednesday that deaths in the city could reach 3,500 in coming months.Jorge Wated, an official working on the national government’s response to the crisis, said on Wednesday that deaths in the city could reach 3,500 in coming months.
Among the dead in Guayaquil are four journalists, several of whom were covering the crisis before they died, said César Ricaurte, the director of a media defense group called Fundamedios.Among the dead in Guayaquil are four journalists, several of whom were covering the crisis before they died, said César Ricaurte, the director of a media defense group called Fundamedios.
There are still a dozen states where governors have resisted issuing stay-at-home orders to try to slow the spread of the virus, though localities in some of them have put their own bans in place. An analysis of cellphone location data by The New York Times found that people in the Southeast and other places that waited to enact such orders have continued to travel widely, potentially exposing more people as the outbreak accelerates.There are still a dozen states where governors have resisted issuing stay-at-home orders to try to slow the spread of the virus, though localities in some of them have put their own bans in place. An analysis of cellphone location data by The New York Times found that people in the Southeast and other places that waited to enact such orders have continued to travel widely, potentially exposing more people as the outbreak accelerates.
A half-dozen of the most populous counties where residents were still traveling widely last week are in Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis did not call for a statewide lockdown until Wednesday. See where America did not stay at home:A half-dozen of the most populous counties where residents were still traveling widely last week are in Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis did not call for a statewide lockdown until Wednesday. See where America did not stay at home:
Facing a drastic drop in the national blood supply amid the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Thursday that it was reducing the amount of time men who have had sex with men should wait before they give blood, from one year to three months.Facing a drastic drop in the national blood supply amid the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Thursday that it was reducing the amount of time men who have had sex with men should wait before they give blood, from one year to three months.
The earlier 12-month waiting period was intensely criticized as discriminatory and antiquated when the F.D.A. introduced it in 2015, as the agency formally ended a decades-old, lifetime prohibition on blood donations from gay and bisexual men. L.G.B.T.Q. advocates applauded the F.D.A.’s move on Thursday, but said they would work to lift the waiting period entirely.The earlier 12-month waiting period was intensely criticized as discriminatory and antiquated when the F.D.A. introduced it in 2015, as the agency formally ended a decades-old, lifetime prohibition on blood donations from gay and bisexual men. L.G.B.T.Q. advocates applauded the F.D.A.’s move on Thursday, but said they would work to lift the waiting period entirely.
The F.D.A. said that based on recent studies, it had “concluded that current policies regarding certain donor eligibility criteria can be modified without compromising the safety of the blood supply.”The F.D.A. said that based on recent studies, it had “concluded that current policies regarding certain donor eligibility criteria can be modified without compromising the safety of the blood supply.”
The agency said the new recommendations would remain in place after the pandemic ends.The agency said the new recommendations would remain in place after the pandemic ends.
More than 1,200 cruise ship passengers who were stranded at sea for weeks while trying to find a port to take them docked in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday afternoon, after local officials debated for days whether the ships would strain local resources.More than 1,200 cruise ship passengers who were stranded at sea for weeks while trying to find a port to take them docked in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday afternoon, after local officials debated for days whether the ships would strain local resources.
Four people died aboard the ship, Holland America’s Zaandam, and dozens more were sick, with nine in the hospital on board the vessel. The ship was supposed to disembark two weeks ago in Chile, but Chile closed its borders. The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, did not want the passengers either.Four people died aboard the ship, Holland America’s Zaandam, and dozens more were sick, with nine in the hospital on board the vessel. The ship was supposed to disembark two weeks ago in Chile, but Chile closed its borders. The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, did not want the passengers either.
Healthy passengers were transferred to a sister ship, the Rotterdam, and both vessels made their way to Florida together. The ships arrived several miles off the Florida coast early Thursday morning, but did not get cleared to enter the port until about 4:30 p.m.Healthy passengers were transferred to a sister ship, the Rotterdam, and both vessels made their way to Florida together. The ships arrived several miles off the Florida coast early Thursday morning, but did not get cleared to enter the port until about 4:30 p.m.
On Wednesday, President Trump said he intervened by calling the governor and imploring him to have compassion for people dying at sea.On Wednesday, President Trump said he intervened by calling the governor and imploring him to have compassion for people dying at sea.
“We are able to help the people on board in a humanitarian way and ensure they are able to go home with their families,” Dale Holness, the Broward County mayor, said in announcing the deal. “We are grateful that we were able to find a solution that benefits everyone.”“We are able to help the people on board in a humanitarian way and ensure they are able to go home with their families,” Dale Holness, the Broward County mayor, said in announcing the deal. “We are grateful that we were able to find a solution that benefits everyone.”
Passengers who live in Florida will be driven home by private car paid for by the Carnival Corporation, which owns Holland America. Others will be taken by shuttle to a tarmac, where a chartered plane awaits.Passengers who live in Florida will be driven home by private car paid for by the Carnival Corporation, which owns Holland America. Others will be taken by shuttle to a tarmac, where a chartered plane awaits.
The company said that 45 people are showing symptoms and will stay on board. The crew will remain on the ship.The company said that 45 people are showing symptoms and will stay on board. The crew will remain on the ship.
For the ambulance crews of Paterson, N.J., a poor, industrial city in the penumbra of pandemic-stricken New York, the outbreak is posing a test like no other. When the Paterson Fire Department allowed New York Times journalists to accompany a 12-hour shift of E.M.T. crews outfitted to respond to potential Covid-19 cases, it offered a glimpse into the chaotic, risk-filled lives of emergency workers who are reaching directly into the jaws of the pandemic.For the ambulance crews of Paterson, N.J., a poor, industrial city in the penumbra of pandemic-stricken New York, the outbreak is posing a test like no other. When the Paterson Fire Department allowed New York Times journalists to accompany a 12-hour shift of E.M.T. crews outfitted to respond to potential Covid-19 cases, it offered a glimpse into the chaotic, risk-filled lives of emergency workers who are reaching directly into the jaws of the pandemic.
“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’d almost rather go to a fire call,” said Brian Hirschmanner, a firefighter and E.M.T. “At least you can see what you’re fighting. And it eventually goes out.”“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’d almost rather go to a fire call,” said Brian Hirschmanner, a firefighter and E.M.T. “At least you can see what you’re fighting. And it eventually goes out.”
As the virus spreads across the world, reaching into every community, fears in Europe are growing that a major outbreak could erupt in makeshift camps that house thousands of migrants. As the virus spreads across the world, reaching into every community, fears in Europe are growing that a major outbreak could erupt in makeshift camps that house thousands of migrants. The Greek authorities on Thursday quarantined residents of a state facility holding around 2,600 refugees after 20 people there tested positive for the virus. Officials conducted tests after a woman at the facility in Ritsona, which hosts around 2,600 people, tested positive for the virus after giving birth at a hospital in Athens.
The Greek authorities on Thursday quarantined residents of a state facility for refugees after 20 people there tested positive for the virus. Officials conducted tests after a woman at the facility in Ritsona, which hosts around 2,600 people, tested positive for the virus after giving birth at a hospital in Athens.
It was the confirmed infection among the tens of thousands of migrants living in camps across Greece. Residents will now be restricted to the area for two weeks while access to health workers will be limited.It was the confirmed infection among the tens of thousands of migrants living in camps across Greece. Residents will now be restricted to the area for two weeks while access to health workers will be limited.
Restrictions were imposed last month on migrant camps on the Aegean Islands, notably the Moria facility on Lesbos, which has around 20,000 people, 10 times its intended capacity. Notis Mitarakis, the Greek migration minister, told Greek radio on Thursday that migrants would be segregated in the event of an outbreak.Restrictions were imposed last month on migrant camps on the Aegean Islands, notably the Moria facility on Lesbos, which has around 20,000 people, 10 times its intended capacity. Notis Mitarakis, the Greek migration minister, told Greek radio on Thursday that migrants would be segregated in the event of an outbreak.
Migrants on the Greek islands are particularly vulnerable to the spread of the virus, as they live in cramped conditions with little sanitation, and medical charities have called for their evacuation.Migrants on the Greek islands are particularly vulnerable to the spread of the virus, as they live in cramped conditions with little sanitation, and medical charities have called for their evacuation.
Doctors Without Borders said it had divided its tiny clinic in the Moria camp into two sections, one for those suspected of carrying the virus and one for general health needs. The German aid organization Mission Lifeline, which has worked extensively in the camps, has urged the governments of Germany and Greece to allow refugees to be evacuated to Berlin.Doctors Without Borders said it had divided its tiny clinic in the Moria camp into two sections, one for those suspected of carrying the virus and one for general health needs. The German aid organization Mission Lifeline, which has worked extensively in the camps, has urged the governments of Germany and Greece to allow refugees to be evacuated to Berlin.
Other European nations have introduced measures to extend protections to migrants amid the outbreak. The government in Portugal temporarily extended residency status to migrants and asylum seekers in the country so that they can gain access to state resources and support. Ireland has put digital protections in place to ensure migrants accessing government support will have their status protected.Other European nations have introduced measures to extend protections to migrants amid the outbreak. The government in Portugal temporarily extended residency status to migrants and asylum seekers in the country so that they can gain access to state resources and support. Ireland has put digital protections in place to ensure migrants accessing government support will have their status protected.
Your home is currently serving as a work space, living space and possibly a school and playground. It wasn’t designed for all these disparate tasks, but there are things you can do to make your home more comfortable for you and your family in these times.Your home is currently serving as a work space, living space and possibly a school and playground. It wasn’t designed for all these disparate tasks, but there are things you can do to make your home more comfortable for you and your family in these times.
Reporting was contributed by Michael Cooper, Alan Blinder, Karen Zraick, Reid J. Epstein, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Emily Cochrane, Andy Newman, Mike Baker, Elian Peltier, Aurelien Breeden, Julie Turkewitz, David Enrich, Ben Protess, Eric Lipton, Megan Specia, Marc Santora, Damien Cave, Austin Ramzy, Michael Wilson, Edward Wong, Ana Swanson, Katie Thomas, Helene Cooper, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, Eric Schmitt, Jan Hoffman, Keith Collins, David Yaffe-Bellany, Neil Vigdor, Andrew Das, Maya Salam, Mihir Zaveri, Julian E. Barnes, Ana Swenson, Raphael Minder, Iliana Magra, Kevin Armstrong, Ben Casselman, Ben Shpigel, Isabel Kershner and Niki Kitsantonis.Reporting was contributed by Michael Cooper, Alan Blinder, Karen Zraick, Reid J. Epstein, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Emily Cochrane, Andy Newman, Mike Baker, Elian Peltier, Aurelien Breeden, Julie Turkewitz, David Enrich, Ben Protess, Eric Lipton, Megan Specia, Marc Santora, Damien Cave, Austin Ramzy, Michael Wilson, Edward Wong, Ana Swanson, Katie Thomas, Helene Cooper, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, Eric Schmitt, Jan Hoffman, Keith Collins, David Yaffe-Bellany, Neil Vigdor, Andrew Das, Maya Salam, Mihir Zaveri, Julian E. Barnes, Ana Swenson, Raphael Minder, Iliana Magra, Kevin Armstrong, Ben Casselman, Ben Shpigel, Isabel Kershner and Niki Kitsantonis.