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Coronavirus Live Updates: C.D.C. Issues New Return-to-Work Guidelines Coronavirus Live Updates: C.D.C. Issues New Return-to-Work Guidelines
(about 1 hour later)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published new guidelines on Wednesday detailing how essential employees can go back to work even if they have been exposed to people infected by the coronavirus as long as they do not feel sick and follow certain precautions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published new guidelines on Wednesday detailing how essential employees can go back to work even if they have been exposed to people infected by the coronavirus, provided they do not feel sick and follow certain precautions.
Those employees can return if they take their temperature before heading to their workplaces, wear a face mask at all times and practice social distancing while on the job, Dr. Robert Redfield, the C.D.C. director, said at the White House briefing. They should not share headsets or other objects that touch their faces, and they should not congregate in break rooms or crowded areas, he said.Those employees can return if they take their temperature before heading to their workplaces, wear a face mask at all times and practice social distancing while on the job, Dr. Robert Redfield, the C.D.C. director, said at the White House briefing. They should not share headsets or other objects that touch their faces, and they should not congregate in break rooms or crowded areas, he said.
Dr. Redfield said that employers should send workers home immediately if they developed any symptoms. He also said they should increase air exchange in their buildings and clean common surfaces more often. The goal, he said, was to “get these workers back into the critical work force so that we don’t have worker shortages.”Dr. Redfield said that employers should send workers home immediately if they developed any symptoms. He also said they should increase air exchange in their buildings and clean common surfaces more often. The goal, he said, was to “get these workers back into the critical work force so that we don’t have worker shortages.”
The new guidance appears to blend earlier advice. Last week, the C.D.C. urged even healthy Americans to wear masks in public after data showed as many as 25 percent of people infected with the virus were asymptomatic, with an urgency from the White House, businesses, workers and others to kick-start the idled economy. The new guidance appears to blend earlier advice. Last week, the C.D.C. recommended that even healthy Americans wear masks in public after data showed as many as 25 percent of people infected with the virus were asymptomatic, at the urging of the White House, businesses, workers and others to kick-start the idled economy.
Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House’s coronavirus response coordinator, and other government experts suggested at the briefing that the strict measures being taken by Americans to stem the spread of the virus may be leveling new cases in areas like New York, Detroit, Chicago and Boston.Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House’s coronavirus response coordinator, and other government experts suggested at the briefing that the strict measures being taken by Americans to stem the spread of the virus may be leveling new cases in areas like New York, Detroit, Chicago and Boston.
As evidence showed that efforts to reduce the spread were yielding results, Dr. Birx pointed to one of the models used to predict mortality from the University of Washington, which has dropped its estimate to 61,000 deaths from 86,000. She said the model was based on what Americans were doing.As evidence showed that efforts to reduce the spread were yielding results, Dr. Birx pointed to one of the models used to predict mortality from the University of Washington, which has dropped its estimate to 61,000 deaths from 86,000. She said the model was based on what Americans were doing.
“That is what will change the mortality going forward,” she said.“That is what will change the mortality going forward,” she said.
Dr. Birx’s optimism was seconded by Dr. Redfield. But Dr. Birx also emphasized that while cases seemed to be stabilizing, “there is still a significant amount of disease.”Dr. Birx’s optimism was seconded by Dr. Redfield. But Dr. Birx also emphasized that while cases seemed to be stabilizing, “there is still a significant amount of disease.”
New York, the hardest hit state in America, reported its highest number of coronavirus-related deaths in a single day on Wednesday, announcing that another 779 people had died. That brought the virus death toll to 6,268 in New York State, which Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo noted was more than twice as many people as the state had lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.New York, the hardest hit state in America, reported its highest number of coronavirus-related deaths in a single day on Wednesday, announcing that another 779 people had died. That brought the virus death toll to 6,268 in New York State, which Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo noted was more than twice as many people as the state had lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
“I went through 9/11,” he said at his daily briefing. “I thought in my lifetime I wouldn’t have to see anything like that again — nothing that bad, nothing that tragic.”“I went through 9/11,” he said at his daily briefing. “I thought in my lifetime I wouldn’t have to see anything like that again — nothing that bad, nothing that tragic.”
The number of hospitalizations had fallen in recent days, he said, suggesting that social distancing measures were working to flatten the steep curve of the virus’s spread, at least for now. The rates depend not only on the number of new arrivals but also on hospital admission standards.The number of hospitalizations had fallen in recent days, he said, suggesting that social distancing measures were working to flatten the steep curve of the virus’s spread, at least for now. The rates depend not only on the number of new arrivals but also on hospital admission standards.
“If we stop what we are doing, you will see that curve change,” Mr. Cuomo warned.“If we stop what we are doing, you will see that curve change,” Mr. Cuomo warned.
Then he pivoted to a more somber tone. “The bad news isn’t just bad,” he said. “The bad news is actually terrible.”Then he pivoted to a more somber tone. “The bad news isn’t just bad,” he said. “The bad news is actually terrible.”
New Jersey also had a record number of deaths in the past day: Gov. Philip D. Murphy said that 275 people had died there, up from 232 on Tuesday. More people have died in New York and New Jersey — a total of 7,772 — than in the rest of the United States combined.New Jersey also had a record number of deaths in the past day: Gov. Philip D. Murphy said that 275 people had died there, up from 232 on Tuesday. More people have died in New York and New Jersey — a total of 7,772 — than in the rest of the United States combined.
Mr. Cuomo said that the staggering death toll could continue to rise even as hospitalization rates were falling, because it reflected people who had been on ventilators for long periods of time.Mr. Cuomo said that the staggering death toll could continue to rise even as hospitalization rates were falling, because it reflected people who had been on ventilators for long periods of time.
And as high as the toll is, it does not account for some people who died in their homes.
During his midday briefing, Mr. Cuomo said it was “a very real possibility” that some people who died at home were not added to the official tally.
He expressed reluctance to offer a timeline on when social gatherings could begin again, when he was asked about New York’s theater industry, which will remain shuttered until at least June. “I wouldn’t use what Broadway thinks as a barometer of anything,” he said.He expressed reluctance to offer a timeline on when social gatherings could begin again, when he was asked about New York’s theater industry, which will remain shuttered until at least June. “I wouldn’t use what Broadway thinks as a barometer of anything,” he said.
New York State now has more confirmed cases than any single country in the world outside of the United States.New York State now has more confirmed cases than any single country in the world outside of the United States.
The homebound and virus wary across the Northern Hemisphere, be it Mr. Trump or cooped up schoolchildren, have clung to the possibility that the pandemic will fade in hot weather, as some viral diseases do.The homebound and virus wary across the Northern Hemisphere, be it Mr. Trump or cooped up schoolchildren, have clung to the possibility that the pandemic will fade in hot weather, as some viral diseases do.
But the National Academy of Sciences, in a public report sent to the White House, has said, in effect: Don’t get your hopes up. After reviewing a variety of research reports, the panel concluded that the number of studies, of varying quality of evidence, simply do not offer a clear forecast of what will happen to the spread of the coronavirus in the summer. It may not diminish significantly.But the National Academy of Sciences, in a public report sent to the White House, has said, in effect: Don’t get your hopes up. After reviewing a variety of research reports, the panel concluded that the number of studies, of varying quality of evidence, simply do not offer a clear forecast of what will happen to the spread of the coronavirus in the summer. It may not diminish significantly.
The report, sent to Kelvin Droegemeier, the director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy at the White House and the acting director of the National Science Foundation, was a brief nine-page communication known as a rapid expert consultation. It was signed by Dr. David Relman of Stanford University, one of the members of the National Academies’ Standing Committee on Emerging Infectious Diseases and 21st Century Health Threats.The report, sent to Kelvin Droegemeier, the director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy at the White House and the acting director of the National Science Foundation, was a brief nine-page communication known as a rapid expert consultation. It was signed by Dr. David Relman of Stanford University, one of the members of the National Academies’ Standing Committee on Emerging Infectious Diseases and 21st Century Health Threats.
It cited a small number of well-controlled laboratory studies that show that high temperature and humidity can diminish the ability of the virus to survive in the environment. But the report noted the studies had limitations that made them less than conclusive.It cited a small number of well-controlled laboratory studies that show that high temperature and humidity can diminish the ability of the virus to survive in the environment. But the report noted the studies had limitations that made them less than conclusive.
The academy also noted that although some reports showed pandemic growth rates peaking in colder conditions, those studies were short and limited. Preliminary findings in one such study by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found fewer Covid-19 cases in warmer climates but arrived at no definitive conclusion.The academy also noted that although some reports showed pandemic growth rates peaking in colder conditions, those studies were short and limited. Preliminary findings in one such study by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found fewer Covid-19 cases in warmer climates but arrived at no definitive conclusion.
The academy report stated, “Given that countries currently in ‘summer’ climates, such as Australia and Iran, are experiencing rapid virus spread, a decrease in cases with increases in humidity and temperature elsewhere should not be assumed.”The academy report stated, “Given that countries currently in ‘summer’ climates, such as Australia and Iran, are experiencing rapid virus spread, a decrease in cases with increases in humidity and temperature elsewhere should not be assumed.”
As the coronavirus preys on the most vulnerable, it is taking root in New York’s sprawling network of group homes for people with special needs. As of Monday, 1,100 developmentally disabled residents in New York State have tested positive for coronavirus, and 105 have died, state officials said, a death rate far higher than in the general population, echoing the toll in some nursing homes.As the coronavirus preys on the most vulnerable, it is taking root in New York’s sprawling network of group homes for people with special needs. As of Monday, 1,100 developmentally disabled residents in New York State have tested positive for coronavirus, and 105 have died, state officials said, a death rate far higher than in the general population, echoing the toll in some nursing homes.
Separately, a study by a large consortium of private service providers found that residents of group homes and similar facilities in New York City and surrounding areas were 5.34 times more likely than the general population to develop Covid-19 and 4.86 times more likely to die from it. What’s more, nearly 10 percent of the homes’ residents were displaying Covid-like symptoms but had not yet been tested, according to the consortium, New York Disability Advocates.Separately, a study by a large consortium of private service providers found that residents of group homes and similar facilities in New York City and surrounding areas were 5.34 times more likely than the general population to develop Covid-19 and 4.86 times more likely to die from it. What’s more, nearly 10 percent of the homes’ residents were displaying Covid-like symptoms but had not yet been tested, according to the consortium, New York Disability Advocates.
A caregiver on Staten Island, who said about 50 colleagues had tested positive, described the challenges faced by those remaining on the job.A caregiver on Staten Island, who said about 50 colleagues had tested positive, described the challenges faced by those remaining on the job.
“One of the individuals here is positive, and his behavior is to get up, to pace, and he wants to give me a hug, shake my hand,” the caregiver said, asking that his name not be used because he was not authorized to speak.“One of the individuals here is positive, and his behavior is to get up, to pace, and he wants to give me a hug, shake my hand,” the caregiver said, asking that his name not be used because he was not authorized to speak.
“They have a hard time realizing that they need to be isolated, and the psychologists aren’t coming out and talking to him,” he added. “We don’t have training for this. We’re just learning on the fly.”“They have a hard time realizing that they need to be isolated, and the psychologists aren’t coming out and talking to him,” he added. “We don’t have training for this. We’re just learning on the fly.”
Few residences have been hit as hard as one in Bayville, N.Y., on the Long Island Sound, run by the nonprofit CP Nassau. Of its 46 residents, 37 have tested positive and two have died. At least eight staff members have also tested positive.Few residences have been hit as hard as one in Bayville, N.Y., on the Long Island Sound, run by the nonprofit CP Nassau. Of its 46 residents, 37 have tested positive and two have died. At least eight staff members have also tested positive.
“Forgive me if I get emotional,” said Bob McGuire, the longtime executive director of CP Nassau. “People discount people with disabilities and presume they understand them when they don’t know them. They think their lives are not worth the same as yours or mine, and that’s just not true.”“Forgive me if I get emotional,” said Bob McGuire, the longtime executive director of CP Nassau. “People discount people with disabilities and presume they understand them when they don’t know them. They think their lives are not worth the same as yours or mine, and that’s just not true.”
The nation’s largest union representing grocery store and pharmacy workers asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Wednesday to issue “immediate and mandatory guidance” to protect the workers, and others at food processing and meatpacking facilities. The growing number of coronavirus cases has raised interest in state guidelines outlining who should be prioritized for lifesaving medical treatments in an emergency. But certain standards that Alabama had on the books are discriminatory, the federal health department’s Office of Civil Rights said on Wednesday.
In a letter to Dr. Robert Redfield, the C.D.C. director, the international president of the United Food & Commercial Workers International Union asked that the agency require stores to, among other things, limit the number of consumers who enter at any given time, allow employees to wash their hands at least once every 30 minutes and ensure that employees wear masks and gloves while on the job. Alabama’s criteria, contained in a 2010 document that set out the state’s guidance for rationing ventilators in an emergency, suggested that doctors consider withholding advanced treatment based on patients’ intellectual disabilities, with “profound mental retardation” and “moderate to severe dementia” weighing against them. The guidelines also referred to age as a potential category for exclusion, which raised questions of age discrimination, according to the review.
The union president, Anthony Perrone, also asked for the C.D.C.’s help improving safety conditions at food processing facilities — for example, by requiring them to provide protective gear to their workers. The state has agreed to remove all links to the document on its website and not include the contested guidance in its plan for responding to the coronavirus outbreak, the civil rights office said.
“Given the direct health threat faced by these food workers,” Mr. Perrone said in the letter, “we believe it is absolutely critical that the C.D.C. take action before this growing crisis threatens our nation’s food supply.” The quick resolution to a complaint meant that the state would not be subject to a lengthy investigation that might result in a potential loss of federal funds. “It sends a message to other states that they need to review their crisis standards-of-care policies to make sure that they are fully compliant,” Roger Severino, the civil rights office’s director, said in a statement.
The food and commercial workers’ union represents over 900,000 members employed at grocery stores, pharmacies, and food processing and meatpacking plants. Several big supermarket chains have reported deaths of employees from Covid-19; they include workers at a Trader Joe’s in New York, a Giant in Maryland and a Walmart outside Chicago. Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama’s state health officer, said in a statement: “All people deserve compassion and equal respect, and with this in mind, the allocation of care cannot discriminate based on race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, exercise of conscience or religion.”
The C.D.C. did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the letter, and it was unclear if the agency could require such actions. Its guidance is generally not mandatory. Mr. Severino said he was particularly concerned about ventilators being removed from people who still need them in order to free them up for new patients. But he added that guidelines for how to ration care if the number of patients exceeds capacity could be helpful: “People need guidance about what to do in emotionally tough, trying situations.”
Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California said on Wednesday the White House’s request for a quick, $250 billion infusion for loans to small businesses would not pass the House without additional funds for hospitals and states, and other changes demanded by Democrats.Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California said on Wednesday the White House’s request for a quick, $250 billion infusion for loans to small businesses would not pass the House without additional funds for hospitals and states, and other changes demanded by Democrats.
“The bill that they put forth will not get unanimous support in the House — it just won’t,” she said in an interview on NPR, pointing to, among other Democratic requests, a proposal to reserve half of the loan program for businesses owned by farmers, women, people of color and veterans.“The bill that they put forth will not get unanimous support in the House — it just won’t,” she said in an interview on NPR, pointing to, among other Democratic requests, a proposal to reserve half of the loan program for businesses owned by farmers, women, people of color and veterans.
“Why wouldn’t you give them an avenue to participate?” she asked.“Why wouldn’t you give them an avenue to participate?” she asked.
On Wednesday evening Mr. Trump called on Congress to approve more money for the loan program “this week, as soon as possible.”On Wednesday evening Mr. Trump called on Congress to approve more money for the loan program “this week, as soon as possible.”
“I think we have a pretty good understanding with the Democrats, hopefully it’s going to be bipartisan,” he said. “We do not have time for the partisan games, we don’t want that, the obstruction, or totally unrelated agendas.”“I think we have a pretty good understanding with the Democrats, hopefully it’s going to be bipartisan,” he said. “We do not have time for the partisan games, we don’t want that, the obstruction, or totally unrelated agendas.”
In a joint statement earlier, Ms. Pelosi and Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the minority leader, said they supported the administration’s request for an additional $250 billion for the small-business loan program. But, they said, $125 billion of those funds should be directed to underserved businesses that might otherwise have trouble securing loans.In a joint statement earlier, Ms. Pelosi and Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the minority leader, said they supported the administration’s request for an additional $250 billion for the small-business loan program. But, they said, $125 billion of those funds should be directed to underserved businesses that might otherwise have trouble securing loans.
The Democratic leaders also said they wanted to add $100 billion for hospitals, community health centers and health systems — in part to shore up testing and the distribution of critical safety gear for health workers on the front lines — as well as $150 billion for state and local governments and a 15 percent increase in food assistance benefits.The Democratic leaders also said they wanted to add $100 billion for hospitals, community health centers and health systems — in part to shore up testing and the distribution of critical safety gear for health workers on the front lines — as well as $150 billion for state and local governments and a 15 percent increase in food assistance benefits.
In the statement, Ms. Pelosi and Mr. Schumer said that after the quick infusion of funds, Congress would need to get to work on another economic relief package to “provide transformational relief as the American people weather this assault on their lives and livelihoods.”In the statement, Ms. Pelosi and Mr. Schumer said that after the quick infusion of funds, Congress would need to get to work on another economic relief package to “provide transformational relief as the American people weather this assault on their lives and livelihoods.”
It was unclear whether Republicans would agree to the additions, although some lawmakers warned against doing anything that could delay an infusion of cash that both parties agree is badly needed for small businesses. Senator John Cornyn, Republican of Texas, said the Democratic proposal amounted to a “shameful threat to block this funding,” although Democrats have made no such threat and said it should be dropped “immediately.”It was unclear whether Republicans would agree to the additions, although some lawmakers warned against doing anything that could delay an infusion of cash that both parties agree is badly needed for small businesses. Senator John Cornyn, Republican of Texas, said the Democratic proposal amounted to a “shameful threat to block this funding,” although Democrats have made no such threat and said it should be dropped “immediately.”
“Our small businesses desperately need help — now,” Mr. Cornyn said.“Our small businesses desperately need help — now,” Mr. Cornyn said.
The Cook County Jail in Chicago, a sprawling facility that is among the largest jails in the nation, has emerged as the largest-known source of U.S. virus infections, according to data compiled by The Times.The Cook County Jail in Chicago, a sprawling facility that is among the largest jails in the nation, has emerged as the largest-known source of U.S. virus infections, according to data compiled by The Times.
At least 353 cases can be linked to the jail — more than have been connected to the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt; a nursing home in Kirkland, Wash.; or the cluster centered in New Rochelle, N.Y.At least 353 cases can be linked to the jail — more than have been connected to the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt; a nursing home in Kirkland, Wash.; or the cluster centered in New Rochelle, N.Y.
The Cook County Sheriff’s Office, which operates the jail, said 238 inmates and 115 staff members had tested positive as of Wednesday. (The jail had previously reported higher numbers for inmates but revised those down on Wednesday.) But because a vast majority of the 5,000 inmates have not been tested, corrections officers have said the numbers are likely to be far higher. In late March, the jail had just two diagnoses.The Cook County Sheriff’s Office, which operates the jail, said 238 inmates and 115 staff members had tested positive as of Wednesday. (The jail had previously reported higher numbers for inmates but revised those down on Wednesday.) But because a vast majority of the 5,000 inmates have not been tested, corrections officers have said the numbers are likely to be far higher. In late March, the jail had just two diagnoses.
The outbreak appears to confirm the concerns of many health officials, who warned that America’s overcrowded and unsanitary jails and prisons could be a major source of spread. Those warnings prompted the authorities across the country to release thousands of inmates to try to slow the infection, save lives and preserve medical resources.The outbreak appears to confirm the concerns of many health officials, who warned that America’s overcrowded and unsanitary jails and prisons could be a major source of spread. Those warnings prompted the authorities across the country to release thousands of inmates to try to slow the infection, save lives and preserve medical resources.
Still, hundreds of diagnoses have been confirmed at local, state and federal correctional facilities — almost certainly an undercount, given a lack of testing and rapid spread — leading to hunger strikes in immigrant detention centers and demands for more protection from prison employee unions.Still, hundreds of diagnoses have been confirmed at local, state and federal correctional facilities — almost certainly an undercount, given a lack of testing and rapid spread — leading to hunger strikes in immigrant detention centers and demands for more protection from prison employee unions.
In Cook County, officials released hundreds of inmates early — all of whom had been convicted of nonviolent crimes like drug possession and disorderly conduct. Judges are continuing to examine the cases of each inmate to determine if bonds can be lowered for certain people. That would allow dozens, perhaps hundreds, more people to be released, officials say.In Cook County, officials released hundreds of inmates early — all of whom had been convicted of nonviolent crimes like drug possession and disorderly conduct. Judges are continuing to examine the cases of each inmate to determine if bonds can be lowered for certain people. That would allow dozens, perhaps hundreds, more people to be released, officials say.
The sheriff, Thomas J. Dart, has set up a quarantine area for those who have tested positive and another to monitor those showing symptoms. The most serious patients are being taken to a hospital.The sheriff, Thomas J. Dart, has set up a quarantine area for those who have tested positive and another to monitor those showing symptoms. The most serious patients are being taken to a hospital.
But inmates and corrections officers have complained that the jail’s safety measures are inadequate. A protest was held outside the jail on Tuesday. Advocates and family members have also filed a federal lawsuit seeking the early release of older inmates and those who have chronic medical conditions that may make them particularly vulnerable.But inmates and corrections officers have complained that the jail’s safety measures are inadequate. A protest was held outside the jail on Tuesday. Advocates and family members have also filed a federal lawsuit seeking the early release of older inmates and those who have chronic medical conditions that may make them particularly vulnerable.
The union representing corrections officers there has complained that the sheriff’s office failed to provide adequate protective equipment to the jail’s staff and has provided only cursory instruction and training to avoid contracting the virus and limiting its spread.The union representing corrections officers there has complained that the sheriff’s office failed to provide adequate protective equipment to the jail’s staff and has provided only cursory instruction and training to avoid contracting the virus and limiting its spread.
In New York City, jails like Rikers Island are also seeing infection rates grow exponentially. City and state officials have promised the mass release of inmates. But many say they are not moving quickly enough, putting inmates, staff and the city at risk.In New York City, jails like Rikers Island are also seeing infection rates grow exponentially. City and state officials have promised the mass release of inmates. But many say they are not moving quickly enough, putting inmates, staff and the city at risk.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the World Health Organization, made an impassioned plea on Wednesday for global solidarity, warning that politicizing the pandemic was “playing with fire” and that disunity and finger-pointing would result in “many more body bags.”Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the World Health Organization, made an impassioned plea on Wednesday for global solidarity, warning that politicizing the pandemic was “playing with fire” and that disunity and finger-pointing would result in “many more body bags.”
Dr. Tedros’s comments came a day after Mr. Trump falsely claimed that the W.H.O. had “missed the call” on the rising threat in China and threatened to withhold American funding for the organization, which exceeds $400 million annually. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo doubled down on that threat, saying at a news briefing on Wednesday that the United States was re-evaluating its funding to the organization.Dr. Tedros’s comments came a day after Mr. Trump falsely claimed that the W.H.O. had “missed the call” on the rising threat in China and threatened to withhold American funding for the organization, which exceeds $400 million annually. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo doubled down on that threat, saying at a news briefing on Wednesday that the United States was re-evaluating its funding to the organization.
“When there are cracks at the national level and global level, that’s when the virus succeeds,” Dr. Tedros said, though he did not cite Mr. Trump by name. “Please quarantine politicizing Covid. That’s the way if we want to win.”“When there are cracks at the national level and global level, that’s when the virus succeeds,” Dr. Tedros said, though he did not cite Mr. Trump by name. “Please quarantine politicizing Covid. That’s the way if we want to win.”
He added: “We shouldn’t waste time pointing fingers. We need to unite.”He added: “We shouldn’t waste time pointing fingers. We need to unite.”
While some critics have called on Dr. Tedros to resign, he said he was not deterred.While some critics have called on Dr. Tedros to resign, he said he was not deterred.
“We will do everything we can to serve humanity,” Dr. Tedros said. “We’re not angels. We are human beings. So we make mistakes, like other human beings.”“We will do everything we can to serve humanity,” Dr. Tedros said. “We’re not angels. We are human beings. So we make mistakes, like other human beings.”
Seismometers may be built to detect earthquakes, but their mechanical ears hear much more. Even the everyday hum of humanity — people moving about on cars, trains and planes — has a seismically detectable heartbeat.Seismometers may be built to detect earthquakes, but their mechanical ears hear much more. Even the everyday hum of humanity — people moving about on cars, trains and planes — has a seismically detectable heartbeat.
But as billions of people have been instructed to stay home to try to curtail the pandemic’s spread, the roar of urban life has turned into a whisper all over the world. Today, in cities large and small, the thumping pulse of civilization is now barely detectable on many seismograms.But as billions of people have been instructed to stay home to try to curtail the pandemic’s spread, the roar of urban life has turned into a whisper all over the world. Today, in cities large and small, the thumping pulse of civilization is now barely detectable on many seismograms.
“It did make the scale of the shutdowns a bit more real to me,” said Celeste Labedz, a graduate student in geophysics at the California Institute of Technology.“It did make the scale of the shutdowns a bit more real to me,” said Celeste Labedz, a graduate student in geophysics at the California Institute of Technology.
In person, you can see only your neighborhood’s dedication to remaining home. With seismometers, Ms. Labedz said, you can see the collective willingness of millions of the world’s urban dwellers to hunker down.In person, you can see only your neighborhood’s dedication to remaining home. With seismometers, Ms. Labedz said, you can see the collective willingness of millions of the world’s urban dwellers to hunker down.
London is no longer buzzing. Paula Koelemeijer, a seismologist at Royal Holloway, University of London, said the seismometer in her suburban house was clocking a 20 to 25 percent reduction in average weekly noise, compared with the week before Britain began its lockdown.London is no longer buzzing. Paula Koelemeijer, a seismologist at Royal Holloway, University of London, said the seismometer in her suburban house was clocking a 20 to 25 percent reduction in average weekly noise, compared with the week before Britain began its lockdown.
Noise levels on some seismic stations in Los Angeles have dropped to below half of what they normally are, Ms. Labedz said.Noise levels on some seismic stations in Los Angeles have dropped to below half of what they normally are, Ms. Labedz said.
Claudio Satriano, a seismologist at the Paris Institute of Earth Physics, detected a 38 percent drop in the average daytime noise in his city.Claudio Satriano, a seismologist at the Paris Institute of Earth Physics, detected a 38 percent drop in the average daytime noise in his city.
Scientists are now able to better hear the planet’s natural tectonic soundtrack. With the volume of humanity reduced, “we can detect smaller earthquakes, just like how it’s easier to hear a phone ring in a library than at a rock concert,” Ms. Labedz said.Scientists are now able to better hear the planet’s natural tectonic soundtrack. With the volume of humanity reduced, “we can detect smaller earthquakes, just like how it’s easier to hear a phone ring in a library than at a rock concert,” Ms. Labedz said.
Students at the University of Chicago are organizing a tuition strike, threatening to withhold their payments for the spring quarter if the school doesn’t give them a hefty discount.Students at the University of Chicago are organizing a tuition strike, threatening to withhold their payments for the spring quarter if the school doesn’t give them a hefty discount.
That cry is being heard on other campuses as well, as students complain that online classes don’t measure up to the real thing and say they shouldn’t have to pay the full load for a subpar experience, especially at a time when more are facing financial uncertainties.That cry is being heard on other campuses as well, as students complain that online classes don’t measure up to the real thing and say they shouldn’t have to pay the full load for a subpar experience, especially at a time when more are facing financial uncertainties.
While a number of colleges are offering refunds of room and board charges, students in a number of schools are asking them to lower tuition as well.While a number of colleges are offering refunds of room and board charges, students in a number of schools are asking them to lower tuition as well.
At the New School in New York City, students have called for a boycott of online classes this week if the school didn’t refund part of their spring tuition. Students at Stanford, the University of California at Berkeley and New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts have all started online petitions calling for partial refunds.At the New School in New York City, students have called for a boycott of online classes this week if the school didn’t refund part of their spring tuition. Students at Stanford, the University of California at Berkeley and New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts have all started online petitions calling for partial refunds.
In Chicago, an ad hoc group of undergraduate and graduate students is calling for the institution to cut tuition by half and eliminate fees for as long as the pandemic continues. The group has collected more than 1,400 signatures on a petition.In Chicago, an ad hoc group of undergraduate and graduate students is calling for the institution to cut tuition by half and eliminate fees for as long as the pandemic continues. The group has collected more than 1,400 signatures on a petition.
“Students are extremely vulnerable,” Julia Attie, a senior who is one of the organizers, said in an email. “Many are experiencing severe financial and housing insecurity.”“Students are extremely vulnerable,” Julia Attie, a senior who is one of the organizers, said in an email. “Many are experiencing severe financial and housing insecurity.”
Undergraduate tuition for the spring term, which began this week, is more than $19,000 and is due on April 29. The total annual cost of attendance at the University of Chicago, including tuition, housing and other costs, is more than $80,000, one of the highest in the country. The university guarantees free tuition for families with incomes under $125,000.Undergraduate tuition for the spring term, which began this week, is more than $19,000 and is due on April 29. The total annual cost of attendance at the University of Chicago, including tuition, housing and other costs, is more than $80,000, one of the highest in the country. The university guarantees free tuition for families with incomes under $125,000.
The university said that it was already being forced to take austerity measures because of the crisis.The university said that it was already being forced to take austerity measures because of the crisis.
In an email to faculty and staff on Tuesday, Robert Zimmer, the university’s president, said it was pivoting from focusing on health issues raised by the virus to looking at financial issues. Mr. Zimmer said that the university expected a weakened endowment, reduced alumni donations and a higher demand for financial aid, all of which would take a toll.In an email to faculty and staff on Tuesday, Robert Zimmer, the university’s president, said it was pivoting from focusing on health issues raised by the virus to looking at financial issues. Mr. Zimmer said that the university expected a weakened endowment, reduced alumni donations and a higher demand for financial aid, all of which would take a toll.
Mr. Zimmer predicted that the financial effect of the pandemic was “likely to be as great as or even greater than in the financial crisis of 2008-09.”Mr. Zimmer predicted that the financial effect of the pandemic was “likely to be as great as or even greater than in the financial crisis of 2008-09.”
The nation’s largest union representing grocery store and pharmacy workers asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Wednesday to issue “immediate and mandatory guidance” to protect the workers, and others at food processing and meatpacking facilities.
In a letter to Dr. Robert Redfield, the C.D.C. director, the international president of the United Food & Commercial Workers International Union asked that the agency require stores to, among other things, limit the number of consumers who enter at any given time, allow employees to wash their hands at least once every 30 minutes and ensure that employees wear masks and gloves while on the job.
The union president, Anthony Perrone, also asked for the C.D.C.’s help improving safety conditions at food processing facilities — for example, by requiring them to provide protective gear to their workers.
“Given the direct health threat faced by these food workers,” Mr. Perrone said in the letter, “we believe it is absolutely critical that the C.D.C. take action before this growing crisis threatens our nation’s food supply.”
The food and commercial workers’ union represents over 900,000 members employed at grocery stores, pharmacies, and food processing and meatpacking plants. Several big supermarket chains have reported deaths of employees from Covid-19; they include workers at a Trader Joe’s in New York, a Giant in Maryland and a Walmart outside Chicago.
The C.D.C. did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the letter, and it was unclear if the agency could require such actions. Its guidance is generally not mandatory.
Gov. Gavin Newsom of California said on Wednesday that the state would spend $1.4 billion on personal protective equipment for medical personnel, supermarket workers, employees of the Department of Motor Vehicles and any other “front-line employees walking the streets.”Gov. Gavin Newsom of California said on Wednesday that the state would spend $1.4 billion on personal protective equipment for medical personnel, supermarket workers, employees of the Department of Motor Vehicles and any other “front-line employees walking the streets.”
One day after announcing that the state had reached agreements to buy 200 million masks a month from factories in Asia, Mr. Newsom and other officials described a broad effort that includes the purchase of gowns, face masks and other equipment.One day after announcing that the state had reached agreements to buy 200 million masks a month from factories in Asia, Mr. Newsom and other officials described a broad effort that includes the purchase of gowns, face masks and other equipment.
“We made a big, bold bet on a new strategy, and it is bearing fruit,” Mr. Newsom said.“We made a big, bold bet on a new strategy, and it is bearing fruit,” Mr. Newsom said.
As part of the plan, the state is contracting with a company to sterilize 80,000 N95 masks daily. The masks can be used about 20 times before being discarded.As part of the plan, the state is contracting with a company to sterilize 80,000 N95 masks daily. The masks can be used about 20 times before being discarded.
Mr. Newsom also announced one of the state’s highest death tolls: 68 people died over the past 24 hours, bringing California’s total deaths to about 450.Mr. Newsom also announced one of the state’s highest death tolls: 68 people died over the past 24 hours, bringing California’s total deaths to about 450.
Amid nationwide concern about the disproportionate number of nonwhite people who have died from the virus, Mr. Newsom said preliminary data did not show that trend in California.Amid nationwide concern about the disproportionate number of nonwhite people who have died from the virus, Mr. Newsom said preliminary data did not show that trend in California.
He said Latinos made up 30 percent of the state’s cases and 29 percent of the deaths; Asians made up 14 percent of cases and 16 percent of deaths; and black residents made up 6 percent of cases and 3 percent of the deaths. But he offered the caveat that the state has ethnicity data for only about one-third of cases.He said Latinos made up 30 percent of the state’s cases and 29 percent of the deaths; Asians made up 14 percent of cases and 16 percent of deaths; and black residents made up 6 percent of cases and 3 percent of the deaths. But he offered the caveat that the state has ethnicity data for only about one-third of cases.
Wall Street resumed its rally on Wednesday. With a more than 3 percent gain, the S&P 500 is now up about 23 percent from its March 23 low.Wall Street resumed its rally on Wednesday. With a more than 3 percent gain, the S&P 500 is now up about 23 percent from its March 23 low.
The market has been steadily climbing since it hit that bottom, a rebound that began after the Federal Reserve and lawmakers in Washington took unprecedented steps to protect the world’s largest economy from a collapse amid the pandemic. Stocks are still down about 19 percent from their late February high.The market has been steadily climbing since it hit that bottom, a rebound that began after the Federal Reserve and lawmakers in Washington took unprecedented steps to protect the world’s largest economy from a collapse amid the pandemic. Stocks are still down about 19 percent from their late February high.
To some extent, the recent gains reflect Wall Street’s fear of missing out on the rebound that many analysts predicted would eventually come.To some extent, the recent gains reflect Wall Street’s fear of missing out on the rebound that many analysts predicted would eventually come.
“If you wait until the coast is clear you will have missed a huge part of the gains,” said Matt Maley, chief market strategist at Miller Tabak a trading and asset management firm. “And professional investors can’t afford to do that.”“If you wait until the coast is clear you will have missed a huge part of the gains,” said Matt Maley, chief market strategist at Miller Tabak a trading and asset management firm. “And professional investors can’t afford to do that.”
For now, though, it is big money managers — not mom-and-pop retail investors — who are in on the action. Hedge fund traders and mutual fund managers have swooped into the market, driving sharp gains for blue-chip shares that have been battered by the market sell-off.For now, though, it is big money managers — not mom-and-pop retail investors — who are in on the action. Hedge fund traders and mutual fund managers have swooped into the market, driving sharp gains for blue-chip shares that have been battered by the market sell-off.
Still, the market’s recent optimism is set against a grim backdrop of economic and human catastrophe that continues to play out — and which threatens to undercut any rally at a moment’s notice.Still, the market’s recent optimism is set against a grim backdrop of economic and human catastrophe that continues to play out — and which threatens to undercut any rally at a moment’s notice.
A new report on weekly jobless claims on Thursday is certain to show millions more Americans are out of work. The two prior reports recorded more than 10 million claims for unemployment in late March.A new report on weekly jobless claims on Thursday is certain to show millions more Americans are out of work. The two prior reports recorded more than 10 million claims for unemployment in late March.
There is no proof that any drug can cure or prevent infection with the coronavirus. But in the face of an exploding pandemic with a frightening death toll, people are desperate for a bit of hope.There is no proof that any drug can cure or prevent infection with the coronavirus. But in the face of an exploding pandemic with a frightening death toll, people are desperate for a bit of hope.
The drug that has received the most attention is hydroxychloroquine, which Mr. Trump has repeatedly recommended, despite warnings from his own health officials that there is little data to support its widespread use as a treatment against the virus.The drug that has received the most attention is hydroxychloroquine, which Mr. Trump has repeatedly recommended, despite warnings from his own health officials that there is little data to support its widespread use as a treatment against the virus.
With so many mixed messages, here are answers to common questions about the drug, including what it is, how it is being used, what studies show and what its potential side effects are.With so many mixed messages, here are answers to common questions about the drug, including what it is, how it is being used, what studies show and what its potential side effects are.
Demand for food assistance in the United States is rising at an unprecedented rate, as millions of Americans find themselves out of work and school closures mean that many families who counted on them for free or subsidized meals need to turn elsewhere.Demand for food assistance in the United States is rising at an unprecedented rate, as millions of Americans find themselves out of work and school closures mean that many families who counted on them for free or subsidized meals need to turn elsewhere.
The surge in need is coming just as food banks face shortages of both donated food and volunteer workers.The surge in need is coming just as food banks face shortages of both donated food and volunteer workers.
It’s a nationwide phenomena:It’s a nationwide phenomena:
At Food Bank for the Heartland in Omaha, the amount of food donated for March dropped by nearly half. The food bank typically purchases $73,000 of food in a month this time of year but has spent $675,000 in the past four weeks.At Food Bank for the Heartland in Omaha, the amount of food donated for March dropped by nearly half. The food bank typically purchases $73,000 of food in a month this time of year but has spent $675,000 in the past four weeks.
In Washington State and Louisiana, the National Guard has been called in to help pack food boxes and ensure that the distributions run smoothly.In Washington State and Louisiana, the National Guard has been called in to help pack food boxes and ensure that the distributions run smoothly.
Feeding America, the nation’s largest network of food banks, with more than 200 affiliates, has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.Feeding America, the nation’s largest network of food banks, with more than 200 affiliates, has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Stacy Dean, vice president for food assistance policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a left-leaning research organization in Washington, D.C. She has studied food security for more than a quarter century. “People love the phrase ‘the perfect storm,’” she added, “but nothing is built for this.”“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Stacy Dean, vice president for food assistance policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a left-leaning research organization in Washington, D.C. She has studied food security for more than a quarter century. “People love the phrase ‘the perfect storm,’” she added, “but nothing is built for this.”
And here’s what else is happening in the global fight against the virus: As many as 150 royals inside Saudi Arabia are believed to have contracted it, including members of the family’s lesser branches, according to a person close to the family.
For generations Jewish families have gathered for the first night of Passover to recount the 10 plagues from the Book of Exodus — frogs, pestilence, death — and to remember how God delivered the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt thousands of years ago.For generations Jewish families have gathered for the first night of Passover to recount the 10 plagues from the Book of Exodus — frogs, pestilence, death — and to remember how God delivered the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt thousands of years ago.
Jews observed the Seder in the fifth century B.C. on the Egyptian island of Elephantine, and they observed it in 1943 as German troops liquidated the Warsaw ghetto. And on Wednesday in homes across the United States, families will once again light candles at the Seder table and ask why this night is different from all other nights.Jews observed the Seder in the fifth century B.C. on the Egyptian island of Elephantine, and they observed it in 1943 as German troops liquidated the Warsaw ghetto. And on Wednesday in homes across the United States, families will once again light candles at the Seder table and ask why this night is different from all other nights.
Of course, with a literal plague in their midst, families cannot meet in person this year and may even tweak their Haggadahs — the text that is annually read aloud — to reflect the moment. But the power of Passover remains, perhaps even more so as a symbol of perseverance.Of course, with a literal plague in their midst, families cannot meet in person this year and may even tweak their Haggadahs — the text that is annually read aloud — to reflect the moment. But the power of Passover remains, perhaps even more so as a symbol of perseverance.
The Times asked families around the country to share reflections on the Passover story in this moment. Their words speak to the power of memory, the meaning of plague, and how crockpots and cookbooks can connect us with loved ones of generations past and future.The Times asked families around the country to share reflections on the Passover story in this moment. Their words speak to the power of memory, the meaning of plague, and how crockpots and cookbooks can connect us with loved ones of generations past and future.
Reporting was contributed by Alan Blinder, Eileen Sullivan, Reed Abelson, Michael Cooper, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Elizabeth Dias, Caitlin Dickerson, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Andy Newman, Jack Nicas, Stacy Cowley, Colin Moynihan, J. David Goodman, Jack Healy, Sabrina Tavernise, Robert Gebeloff, Weiyi Cai, Danny Hakim, Adeel Hassan, David E. Sanger, Emily Cochrane, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Conor Dougherty, Marc Santora, Dan Levin, Matt Stevens, Charlie Savage, Peter Baker, Timothy Williams, Danielle Ivory, William Grimes, Lisa Friedman, Julia Echikson, Patricia Mazzei, Nicholas Kulish, John Eligon, Audra D. S. Burch, Dionne Searcey, Richard A. Oppel Jr., Vanessa Swales, Nicholas Fandos, Anemona Hartocollis, Thomas Fuller, Abby Goodnough, Peter Baker and Reed Abelson. Reporting was contributed by Reed Abelson, Peter Baker, Alan Blinder, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Audra D. S. Burch, Weiyi Cai, Emily Cochrane, Michael Cooper, Stacy Cowley, Elizabeth Dias, Caitlin Dickerson, Conor Dougherty, Julia Echikson, John Eligon, Nicholas Fandos, Lisa Friedman, Thomas Fuller, Robert Gebeloff, J. David Goodman, Abby Goodnough, William Grimes, Danny Hakim, Anemona Hartocollis, Adeel Hassan, Jack Healy, Danielle Ivory, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Nicholas Kulish, Dan Levin, Patricia Mazzei, Colin Moynihan, Andy Newman, Jack Nicas, Richard A. Oppel Jr., David E. Sanger, Marc Santora, Charlie Savage, Dionne Searcey, Matt Stevens, Eileen Sullivan, Vanessa Swales, Sabrina Tavernise and Timothy Williams.