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Coronavirus Live Updates: Trump Calls Relaxing Restrictions a Major Decision as Projections Warn of a Possible Infection Spike Coronavirus Live Updates: Trump Calls Relaxing Restrictions ‘the Biggest Decision I’ll Ever Make’
(about 1 hour later)
As new federal projections warned of a spike in coronavirus infections if shelter-in-place orders were lifted after only 30 days, President Trump said Friday that the question of when to relax federal social distancing guidelines was “the biggest decision I’ll ever make.”As new federal projections warned of a spike in coronavirus infections if shelter-in-place orders were lifted after only 30 days, President Trump said Friday that the question of when to relax federal social distancing guidelines was “the biggest decision I’ll ever make.”
As a practical matter, the stay-at-home orders that have kept much of the nation hunkered down have been made by governors and mayors at the state and local levels. But many governors were moved to act in part by the federal guidelines meant to slow the spread of the coronavirus.As a practical matter, the stay-at-home orders that have kept much of the nation hunkered down have been made by governors and mayors at the state and local levels. But many governors were moved to act in part by the federal guidelines meant to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Mr. Trump, who has often sounded impatient for the nation — and particularly its economy — to reopen, said that he would listen to the advice of the medical experts before acting, but also said that he would convene a new task force with business leaders on it next week to think about when to act.Mr. Trump, who has often sounded impatient for the nation — and particularly its economy — to reopen, said that he would listen to the advice of the medical experts before acting, but also said that he would convene a new task force with business leaders on it next week to think about when to act.
At a news briefing at the White House on Friday, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said that while he had not seen the new projections warning of what would happen if the guidelines were relaxed too quickly, he assumed that any lifting of restrictions would be an increase in cases, which would heighten the need to be able to identity, isolate and trace them.At a news briefing at the White House on Friday, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said that while he had not seen the new projections warning of what would happen if the guidelines were relaxed too quickly, he assumed that any lifting of restrictions would be an increase in cases, which would heighten the need to be able to identity, isolate and trace them.
“When we decide at a proper time when we’re going to be relaxing some of the restrictions, there’s no doubt that you’re going to see cases,” he said. “I would be so surprised if we did not see cases. The question is how you respond to them.”“When we decide at a proper time when we’re going to be relaxing some of the restrictions, there’s no doubt that you’re going to see cases,” he said. “I would be so surprised if we did not see cases. The question is how you respond to them.”
Mr. Trump said that he was already thinking about dates when the country might reopen — but added that he would defer to health experts.Mr. Trump said that he was already thinking about dates when the country might reopen — but added that he would defer to health experts.
“We’re looking at a date,” he said. “We hope we’re going to be able to fulfill a certain date. But we’re not doing anything until we know that this country is going to be healthy. We don’t want to go back and start doing it over again.”“We’re looking at a date,” he said. “We hope we’re going to be able to fulfill a certain date. But we’re not doing anything until we know that this country is going to be healthy. We don’t want to go back and start doing it over again.”
Asked whether he wanted to ease the social distancing guidelines as soon as May 1, as some reports have indicated, Mr. Trump said that he wanted to reopen the country as soon as possible but that “the facts are going to determine what we do.”Asked whether he wanted to ease the social distancing guidelines as soon as May 1, as some reports have indicated, Mr. Trump said that he wanted to reopen the country as soon as possible but that “the facts are going to determine what we do.”
He said that he would listen to his health experts if they warn him that that would be too soon. “I listen to them about everything,” he said. “I think they are actually surprised.”He said that he would listen to his health experts if they warn him that that would be too soon. “I listen to them about everything,” he said. “I think they are actually surprised.”
“There are two sides,” added Mr. Trump, who at one point had wanted to reopen the country by Easter. “I understand the other side of the argument very well. Because I look at both sides of an argument. I’m listening to them carefully, though.”“There are two sides,” added Mr. Trump, who at one point had wanted to reopen the country by Easter. “I understand the other side of the argument very well. Because I look at both sides of an argument. I’m listening to them carefully, though.”
The new federal projections, obtained by The New York Times, come from the departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services, outlined three scenarios. The first has policymakers doing nothing to mitigate the spread of the virus. The second, labeled “steady state,” assumes schools remain closed until summer, 25 percent of Americans telework from home, and some social distancing continues. The third scenario includes a 30-day shelter in place, on top of those “steady state” restrictions. Local and state guidelines are still likely to play a significant role in how the nation moves forward. In Texas, for example, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said Friday that he wants to see businesses in the state begin to reopen the first week in May.
The new federal projections, obtained by The New York Times, come from the departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services, and outlined three possible situations. The first has policymakers doing nothing to mitigate the spread of the virus. The second, labeled “steady state,” assumes schools remain closed until summer, 25 percent of Americans telework from home, and some social distancing continues. The third scenario includes a 30-day shelter in place, on top of those “steady state” restrictions.
The documents, dated yesterday, contain no dates for when shelter-in-places orders were delivered nor do they contain specific dates for when spikes would hit. The risk they show of easing shelter-in-place orders in effect in most of the country undercut recent statements by Mr. Trump that the United States could be ready to reopen “very, very soon.”The documents, dated yesterday, contain no dates for when shelter-in-places orders were delivered nor do they contain specific dates for when spikes would hit. The risk they show of easing shelter-in-place orders in effect in most of the country undercut recent statements by Mr. Trump that the United States could be ready to reopen “very, very soon.”
The projections foresee a bump in the demand for ventilators — considered a stand-in for serious Covid-19 infection rates — 30 days after stay-at-home orders are issued, a major spike in infections about 100 days after, and peaking 150 days after the initial order. (Assuming further shelter-in-place policies are not implemented to reduce future peaks.) The projections foresee a bump in the demand for ventilators — considered a stand-in for serious Covid-19 infection rates — 30 days after stay-at-home orders are issued, a major spike in infections about 100 days after, and peaking 150 days after the initial order. (Those timelines assume further shelter-in-place policies are not implemented to reduce future peaks.)
For most states that implemented stay-at-home orders in late March, including New York City, Massachusetts and Illinois, that spike would come in mid- to late summer. For places that implemented stay-at-home orders in late March, including New York City, Massachusetts and Illinois, that spike would come in mid- to late summer.
The government’s conclusions are sobering. Without any mitigation, such as school closings, shelter-in-place orders, telework and socially distancing, the death toll from the virus could have reached 300,000. But if the administration lifts the 30-day stay-at-home orders, the death total is estimated to reach 200,000, even if schools remain closed until summer, 25 percent of the country continues to work from home and some social distancing continues. The government’s conclusions are sobering. Without any mitigation, such as school closings, shelter-in-place orders, telework and social distancing, the death toll from the virus could have reached 300,000. But if the administration lifts the 30-day stay-at-home orders, the death total is estimated to reach 200,000, even if schools remain closed until summer, 25 percent of the country continues to work from home and some social distancing continues.
If nothing was done, infection rates would top out at 195 million Americans, and 965,000 people would require hospitalization in an intensive care unit, according to the projections’ “best guess.” But with a 30-day shelter in place and other measures, infections would still reach 160 million and 740,000 would need intensive care.If nothing was done, infection rates would top out at 195 million Americans, and 965,000 people would require hospitalization in an intensive care unit, according to the projections’ “best guess.” But with a 30-day shelter in place and other measures, infections would still reach 160 million and 740,000 would need intensive care.
Seventy people have tested positive for coronavirus at one of San Francisco’s largest homeless shelters, Mayor London Breed said on Friday. The number included two staff members.Seventy people have tested positive for coronavirus at one of San Francisco’s largest homeless shelters, Mayor London Breed said on Friday. The number included two staff members.
The outbreak is the largest reported at a single shelter in the United States and reinforces a major fear in California that the state’s 150,000 homeless people, many of whom have pre-existing respiratory illnesses, are especially vulnerable to the pandemic.The outbreak is the largest reported at a single shelter in the United States and reinforces a major fear in California that the state’s 150,000 homeless people, many of whom have pre-existing respiratory illnesses, are especially vulnerable to the pandemic.
Advocates for the homeless have expressed concern in recent weeks that the city had moved too slowly to use empty hotel rooms to thin out the shelter system. San Francisco has more than 8,000 homeless people.Advocates for the homeless have expressed concern in recent weeks that the city had moved too slowly to use empty hotel rooms to thin out the shelter system. San Francisco has more than 8,000 homeless people.
The outbreak underlined the breathtaking speed that the virus can spread in a congregate setting. The city tested residents of the shelter on Wednesday and again on Friday, said Dr. Grant Colfax, the director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health. “On Wednesday there were five positive cases,” he said. “Today there are 70.” The outbreak underlined the breathtaking speed with which the virus can spread in a congregate setting. The city tested residents of the shelter on Wednesday and again on Friday, said Dr. Grant Colfax, the director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health. “On Wednesday there were five positive cases,” he said. “Today there are 70.”
The outbreak is in contrast to encouraging signs in California that the state’s stay-at-home orders have succeeded in reducing the number hospitalizations. Gov. Gavin Newsom said that he would soon announce how the stay-at-home orders could be modified at his daily briefing.The outbreak is in contrast to encouraging signs in California that the state’s stay-at-home orders have succeeded in reducing the number hospitalizations. Gov. Gavin Newsom said that he would soon announce how the stay-at-home orders could be modified at his daily briefing.
The state reported a 1.1 percent increase in admissions to intensive care units one day after recording a slight decrease. “When we are in single digits, low single digits, that’s a very good day,” Mr. Newsom said.The state reported a 1.1 percent increase in admissions to intensive care units one day after recording a slight decrease. “When we are in single digits, low single digits, that’s a very good day,” Mr. Newsom said.
The governor reported 49 deaths over the past 24 hours, bringing the state’s total to 541.The governor reported 49 deaths over the past 24 hours, bringing the state’s total to 541.
Dr. Mark Ghaly, the secretary of health and human services, displayed charts at the briefing that showed a sharp decline in mobility across the state and a trend-line of hospitalizations well below the worst-case scenarios officials had feared. “We actually see a trend of even better improvement in the number of hospitalizations,” Dr. Ghaly said. Dr. Mark Ghaly, the secretary of health and human services, displayed charts at the briefing that showed a sharp decline in mobility across the state and a trend line of hospitalizations well below the worst-case scenarios officials had feared. “We actually see a trend of even better improvement in the number of hospitalizations,” Dr. Ghaly said.
“This is actually signaling to us that our peak may not be as high.”“This is actually signaling to us that our peak may not be as high.”
Dr. Ghaly said the state was sticking with a projection of hospitalizations peaking in mid- to late May but he acknowledged that other models showed a peak coming earlier. Mr. Newsom said he was encouraged by the data and that the state was working out plans “about how we can go back to the way things used to be.” Dr. Ghaly said the state was sticking with a projection of hospitalizations peaking in mid- to late May, but he acknowledged that other models showed a peak coming earlier. Mr. Newsom said that he was encouraged by the data and that the state was working out plans “about how we can go back to the way things used to be.”
“We have detailed strategies that we are working on that we are very close to making public,” Mr. Newsom said.“We have detailed strategies that we are working on that we are very close to making public,” Mr. Newsom said.
The governor said he remains concerned with the number of cases in nursing homes across the state and had negotiated with the federal government to use the Navy hospital ship Mercy, which is docked in Los Angeles, to care for nursing home patients who need to be evacuated from homes where there are outbreaks. Only patients who are free of the virus will use the ship, he said. The governor said he remained concerned with the number of cases in nursing homes across the state and had negotiated with the federal government to use the Navy hospital ship Mercy, which is docked in Los Angeles, to care for nursing home patients who need to be evacuated from homes where there are outbreaks. Only patients who are free of the virus will use the ship, he said.
Across North America, Europe and elsewhere, factories are idled and workers are in lockdown. At some ports, goods are piling up, while elsewhere container ships sail empty. Dairy farmers are dumping their milk, while grocery store shelves have been picked bare.Across North America, Europe and elsewhere, factories are idled and workers are in lockdown. At some ports, goods are piling up, while elsewhere container ships sail empty. Dairy farmers are dumping their milk, while grocery store shelves have been picked bare.
These disruptions in global trade could grow more noticeable in the months to come, as consumers hoard products and countries clamp down on exports of medical supplies and even food.These disruptions in global trade could grow more noticeable in the months to come, as consumers hoard products and countries clamp down on exports of medical supplies and even food.
Shoppers may see more shortages of unexpected products, including laptops, toilet paper and medicines. Some companies could find themselves lacking raw materials and components, a recipe for further financial trouble.Shoppers may see more shortages of unexpected products, including laptops, toilet paper and medicines. Some companies could find themselves lacking raw materials and components, a recipe for further financial trouble.
So far this year, most of the disruptions have stemmed from factory shutdowns in China, a manufacturing hub for products like electronics and industrial machinery. Laptop exports from China to the United States have plummeted, for instance, just as demand is surging as companies switch to remote work and students are thrust into distance learning.So far this year, most of the disruptions have stemmed from factory shutdowns in China, a manufacturing hub for products like electronics and industrial machinery. Laptop exports from China to the United States have plummeted, for instance, just as demand is surging as companies switch to remote work and students are thrust into distance learning.
But like the virus, which spread from China to the rest of the world, so too will the economic disruptions, which are likely to intensify in months to come. For companies and consumers who have come to rely on being able to ship goods rapidly and seamlessly around the world, the disruptions could come as a shock. But just as the virus spread from China to the rest of the world, so too will the economic disruptions, which are likely to intensify in months to come. For companies and consumers who have come to rely on being able to ship goods rapidly and seamlessly around the world, the disruptions could come as a shock.
“China has shown us how extreme the downturn in industrial activity can be,” said Chris Rogers, a global trade and logistics analyst at Panjiva.“China has shown us how extreme the downturn in industrial activity can be,” said Chris Rogers, a global trade and logistics analyst at Panjiva.
Across the United States and Europe, major manufacturers like Volkswagen and Ford have shuttered, in turn reducing demand for steel, electronics and other components.Across the United States and Europe, major manufacturers like Volkswagen and Ford have shuttered, in turn reducing demand for steel, electronics and other components.
So far, many of the product shortages in the United States and Europe don’t stem from an actual lack of goods, but rather surging demand from consumers, who are stockpiling bleach, toilet paper, diapers and dried beans, unsure what the months to come will hold.So far, many of the product shortages in the United States and Europe don’t stem from an actual lack of goods, but rather surging demand from consumers, who are stockpiling bleach, toilet paper, diapers and dried beans, unsure what the months to come will hold.
Other shortages are occurring as producers of toilet paper, food and other products try to figure out how to rework supply chains that are set up to provide bulk shipments to restaurants and schools to instead meet household demand.Other shortages are occurring as producers of toilet paper, food and other products try to figure out how to rework supply chains that are set up to provide bulk shipments to restaurants and schools to instead meet household demand.
The situation is likely to get worse over the next few months.The situation is likely to get worse over the next few months.
Mike Jette, vice president of consulting services at GEP, which provides supply chain software and strategy for General Mills, Exxon Mobil, Macy’s, Walmart and other major companies, predicted that peak disruption for major companies with international supply chains would likely happen three months from now. Mike Jette, vice president for consulting services at GEP, which provides supply chain software and strategy for General Mills, Exxon Mobil, Macy’s, Walmart and other major companies, predicted that peak disruption for major companies with international supply chains would most likely happen three months from now.
Mr. Jette said that companies making electronics, appliances and other products would exhaust their “safety stock” for components in the coming weeks.Mr. Jette said that companies making electronics, appliances and other products would exhaust their “safety stock” for components in the coming weeks.
New York’s daily death toll continues to be staggering, approaching 800 for a third straight day, and some hospitals are still teetering on the brink of chaos.
But after closing schools, shuttering most businesses and ordering people to stay home, the state has managed to avoid the apocalyptic vision some forecasters were predicting weeks ago.
As the number of intensive care beds being used in the state fell for the first time during the outbreak, according to figures released on Friday, the data showed that 18,569 people in New York were hospitalized with the virus — far below the dire projections that as many as 140,000 hospital beds could be needed as the outbreak peaked.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York has relied on several models in making his decisions, and while each is slightly different, they all convinced him that the wisest course of action was to plan for the worst while hoping for the best.
Whether used to analyze the weather or the stock market, statistical models are often an uneasy mix of guesswork and science, and they have proved to be of variable use in predicting the course of the virus, a calamity that has no real precedent in the past 100 years.
When asked on Friday if he feared losing credibility for trusting some models that have proven to be less than accurate, Mr. Cuomo said no.
“I think my credibility would be affected if I didn’t ask experts for their opinion,” he said.
The governor also said that the discrepancy between the predictions and the actual statistics had been caused by the behavior of New Yorkers themselves. Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus response coordinator, seemed to agree, and congratulated Mr. Cuomo and his counterparts on Friday for having slowed the tide of infections in their states.
“That has dramatically changed because of the impact of what the citizens of New York and New Jersey and across Connecticut and now Rhode Island are doing to really change the course of this pandemic,” Dr. Birx said.
The total number of confirmed cases in New York State rose by nearly 11,000 from Thursday to Friday, the largest single-day increase yet, and now stands at 170,812. The 777 new deaths in New York pushed the state’s death toll to 7,844, and the total for the tristate region of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut over 10,000.
New York is not the only hard-hit state that saw its worst fears fail to materialize. On Wednesday, Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington announced that an Army field hospital that the federal government had built next to CenturyLink Field in Seattle would be removed, as concerns about hospital capacity in the area waned.
“These soldiers uprooted their lives to help Washingtonians when we needed them most,” said Mr. Inslee, who also returned 400 ventilators provided by the federal government. “Since then, it’s become apparent that other states need them more than we do.”
In one of the most far-ranging attempts to halt the spread of the virus, Apple and Google said they were building software into smartphones that would tell people if they were in recent contact with someone who was infected with the virus.In one of the most far-ranging attempts to halt the spread of the virus, Apple and Google said they were building software into smartphones that would tell people if they were in recent contact with someone who was infected with the virus.
The technology giants said they were teaming up to release the tool within several months, building it into the operating systems of the billions of iPhones and Android devices around the world. That would enable the smartphones to constantly log other devices they get close to through the short-range wireless technology Bluetooth, enabling what is known as “contact tracing” of the disease.The technology giants said they were teaming up to release the tool within several months, building it into the operating systems of the billions of iPhones and Android devices around the world. That would enable the smartphones to constantly log other devices they get close to through the short-range wireless technology Bluetooth, enabling what is known as “contact tracing” of the disease.
With the tool, infected people would notify a public health app that they have the coronavirus, which would then alert phones that had recently come into proximity with that infected person’s device.With the tool, infected people would notify a public health app that they have the coronavirus, which would then alert phones that had recently come into proximity with that infected person’s device.
Google and Apple said the tool would protect the privacy of smartphone users and that people would have to opt in to use it. They also said the tool would run in the background constantly if people opt to use it, but added that it would eat up less battery life and be more accurate than third-party apps.Google and Apple said the tool would protect the privacy of smartphone users and that people would have to opt in to use it. They also said the tool would run in the background constantly if people opt to use it, but added that it would eat up less battery life and be more accurate than third-party apps.
The official global death toll from the virus surpassed 100,000 on Friday, with more than 1.5 million confirmed cases — figures that experts warn vastly understate the true extent of the epidemic.The official global death toll from the virus surpassed 100,000 on Friday, with more than 1.5 million confirmed cases — figures that experts warn vastly understate the true extent of the epidemic.
Trouble spots were emerging from Moscow to Jakarta, Indonesia, as the virus reached deeper into places that so far have been spared the worst of the pandemic. And in a sign of the level of despair caused by economies closing down, a bloody melee erupted in a poor area of Nairobi, Kenya, where food was being distributed.Trouble spots were emerging from Moscow to Jakarta, Indonesia, as the virus reached deeper into places that so far have been spared the worst of the pandemic. And in a sign of the level of despair caused by economies closing down, a bloody melee erupted in a poor area of Nairobi, Kenya, where food was being distributed.
Countries like the United States, China and India competed for resources or used them for political ends, undermining calls for global cooperation.Countries like the United States, China and India competed for resources or used them for political ends, undermining calls for global cooperation.
In Pakistan, Muslim worshipers defied the government’s orders not to congregate for Friday Prayers. They gathered at mosques — some of which opened to welcome them, despite government directives to close — and clashed with police. In Pakistan, Muslim worshipers defied the government’s orders not to congregate for Friday Prayers. They gathered at mosques — some of which opened to welcome them, despite government directives to close — and clashed with the police.
Countries in Europe stepped up enforcement of lockdown measures as the Easter weekend approached on Friday, and warned that restrictions on moving and congregating would be extended well into April and possibly longer. The governor of Tokyo, parting ways with a Japanese government that has been criticized for not being vigilant enough, ordered many businesses to close.Countries in Europe stepped up enforcement of lockdown measures as the Easter weekend approached on Friday, and warned that restrictions on moving and congregating would be extended well into April and possibly longer. The governor of Tokyo, parting ways with a Japanese government that has been criticized for not being vigilant enough, ordered many businesses to close.
But at the other extreme, South Korea, which got its outbreak under control early, stuck to its policy of continuing public life as much as possible, and went ahead with planned national elections.But at the other extreme, South Korea, which got its outbreak under control early, stuck to its policy of continuing public life as much as possible, and went ahead with planned national elections.
It might have been the most sanitary mass vote ever conducted. People wore masks and even waiting in line, stood apart from each other. They were required to have their temperatures checked, use hand sanitizer and don gloves before voting.It might have been the most sanitary mass vote ever conducted. People wore masks and even waiting in line, stood apart from each other. They were required to have their temperatures checked, use hand sanitizer and don gloves before voting.
The State Department said it has helped bring back more than 56,000 Americans who were stranded abroad after airlines canceled international flights and nations shut down airports. The vast majority of Americans returned from Central and South America, with the largest number — 6,800 people — coming back from Peru. The State Department said it had helped bring back more than 56,000 Americans who were stranded abroad after airlines canceled international flights and nations shut down airports. A vast majority of Americans returned from Central and South America, with the largest number — 6,800 people — coming back from Peru.
In the United States, Michigan will forbid people from traveling between homes in the state beginning on Saturday, a sweeping expansion of the government’s efforts to contain the virus.In the United States, Michigan will forbid people from traveling between homes in the state beginning on Saturday, a sweeping expansion of the government’s efforts to contain the virus.
Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York and the minority leader, said on Friday that the Trump administration had agreed to bipartisan negotiations with congressional leaders to break a stalemate over providing a $250 billion federal infusion to replenish a fast-depleting loan program for distressed small businesses.
The day after the package stalled in the Senate amid Democratic demands for more funds, Mr. Schumer said he had spoken with Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, about beginning talks to salvage it.
“There’s no reason we can’t come to a bipartisan agreement by early next week,” Mr. Schumer said in a statement on Friday.
In a separate call with Mr. Mnuchin on Friday, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, of California, reiterated Democrats’ demands for the emergency small business funds and pressed for leaders in both parties to work together to negotiate both that measure and any future coronavirus relief legislation, according to her spokesman.
The administration requested quick action to approve the money to bolster a loan program created by the $2 trillion relief law last month for small businesses, known as the Payment Protection Program. But Democrats blocked an effort by Republicans to push it through the Senate on Thursday during a procedural session, demanding conditions on the new funds and additional aid for hospitals, state and local governments and food aid.
The package was to be an interim step as lawmakers look toward a far larger package expected to top $1 trillion to build on the stimulus law, which is likely to be negotiated later this month.
The administration is scrambling to roll out the new stimulus programs. In the call with Mr. Mnuchin on Friday, Ms. Pelosi and Representative Peter DeFazio, Democrat of Oregon and the chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, discussed the launch of the $32 billion airline bailout, which allows airlines to obtain payroll grants.
At the news briefing at the White House, Mr. Trump sounded optimistic. “Despite what you read, you know, there’s back and forth, but we are getting along with the Democrats, they want to see something happen,” he said.
When will life return to normal, or at least a new normal?When will life return to normal, or at least a new normal?
A major answer to the question of when — and how — Americans can return to public places like work and school could depend on something called an antibody test, a blood test that determines whether someone has ever been infected with the coronavirus.A major answer to the question of when — and how — Americans can return to public places like work and school could depend on something called an antibody test, a blood test that determines whether someone has ever been infected with the coronavirus.
People who are believed to be immune may be able to safely return to work, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced that it would begin using antibody tests to see what proportion of the population has already been infected.People who are believed to be immune may be able to safely return to work, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced that it would begin using antibody tests to see what proportion of the population has already been infected.
“Within a period of a week or so, we are going to have a relatively large number of tests available,” Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the government’s top infectious disease expert, said Friday morning on CNN.“Within a period of a week or so, we are going to have a relatively large number of tests available,” Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the government’s top infectious disease expert, said Friday morning on CNN.
He said federal officials were discussing the idea of “certificates of immunity,” which could be issued to people who had previously been infected.He said federal officials were discussing the idea of “certificates of immunity,” which could be issued to people who had previously been infected.
“As we get to the point of considering opening the country,” Dr. Fauci said, “it is very important to understand how much that virus has penetrated society.” Immunity certificates, he said, had “some merit under certain circumstances.”“As we get to the point of considering opening the country,” Dr. Fauci said, “it is very important to understand how much that virus has penetrated society.” Immunity certificates, he said, had “some merit under certain circumstances.”
The idea of providing proof of immunity to allow workers to return to their jobs is being considered in many countries, including Britain and Italy. But as with any test, they are not perfect, and there have been problems with their accuracy.The idea of providing proof of immunity to allow workers to return to their jobs is being considered in many countries, including Britain and Italy. But as with any test, they are not perfect, and there have been problems with their accuracy.
Of the 10,521 public schools in California, Outside Creek Elementary is the lone holdout, a tiny school in a remote rural community in the San Joaquin Valley that is insisting on holding classes for the 21 students from kindergarten through eighth grade who showed up last week.Of the 10,521 public schools in California, Outside Creek Elementary is the lone holdout, a tiny school in a remote rural community in the San Joaquin Valley that is insisting on holding classes for the 21 students from kindergarten through eighth grade who showed up last week.
Derrick Bravo, the school’s superintendent, principal and eighth-grade teacher, said he and the school board did not make the decision lightly.Derrick Bravo, the school’s superintendent, principal and eighth-grade teacher, said he and the school board did not make the decision lightly.
But when Mr. Bravo turned to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for advice, its written guidance seemed to suggest that small schools outside hot spots could remain open if they took precautions.But when Mr. Bravo turned to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for advice, its written guidance seemed to suggest that small schools outside hot spots could remain open if they took precautions.
And then Mr. Bravo thought about the everyday struggles of the families who work the citrus and walnut groves in his community. Nearly every one of his students qualifies for free or subsidized lunches, and remote learning is a fantasy for the many families who cannot afford internet access.And then Mr. Bravo thought about the everyday struggles of the families who work the citrus and walnut groves in his community. Nearly every one of his students qualifies for free or subsidized lunches, and remote learning is a fantasy for the many families who cannot afford internet access.
“We thought about just our rural area and the resources available for our kids,” he said.“We thought about just our rural area and the resources available for our kids,” he said.
As the spread of the virus accelerates across the United States, Outside Creek illustrates the challenge of enforcing uniform social-distancing policies in a country that prizes local control over schools.As the spread of the virus accelerates across the United States, Outside Creek illustrates the challenge of enforcing uniform social-distancing policies in a country that prizes local control over schools.
Under California law, only one official other than Mr. Bravo has the power to close Outside Creek — Governor Newsom, who has repeatedly called on every school in the state to remain closed for the rest of the academic year.Under California law, only one official other than Mr. Bravo has the power to close Outside Creek — Governor Newsom, who has repeatedly called on every school in the state to remain closed for the rest of the academic year.
Yet Mr. Newsom has refrained from confronting Outside Creek. His spokesman would say only this: “School officials should use guidance from federal, state and local public officials in deciding how best to serve students.”Yet Mr. Newsom has refrained from confronting Outside Creek. His spokesman would say only this: “School officials should use guidance from federal, state and local public officials in deciding how best to serve students.”
In New York, still the center of the outbreak in the U.S., 777 more people had died, bringing the state total to 7,844, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Friday during his daily news briefing. While the death toll is sobering, he said there were reasons to be optimistic, with fewer patients in intensive care units and the number of hospitalized patients remaining nearly flat.
“Stay home, because that works. We are flattening the curve,” he said, as officials across the country wrestle with when it will be safe to restart the economy and return to somewhat normal routines. “Now is the time to be smart.”
“Let’s study the data and let’s look at what has happened around the world,” Mr. Cuomo said. “And let’s make sure the best health minds in the country are giving us their best advice.”
Before there is talk of reopening, he said, millions of tests to diagnose people and test for antibodies are needed. He said New York labs were working on these tests but could not produce nearly what is needed and urged the president to use the Defense Production Act to require companies to produce tests in the millions. He said that testing at an “unprecedented scale” was required before people can return to work.
“I don’t have that tool,” he said. “The federal government does.”
With the rising death toll, the city has turned to a potter’s field in the Bronx to bury as many as 25 unclaimed bodies a day in an effort to make space in morgues for new victims.
The tristate region’s death toll pushed past 10,000, with another 1,010 people dying of the virus in New York State and New Jersey.
A few lone, holdout churches plan to defy local and federal officials this Easter weekend and meet for in-person services, despite stay-at-home orders and social distancing guidance from medical professionals.A few lone, holdout churches plan to defy local and federal officials this Easter weekend and meet for in-person services, despite stay-at-home orders and social distancing guidance from medical professionals.
The vast majority of congregations are taking precautions, with many holding services online and innovating new ways of virtual worship. Easter occurs as the pandemic is reaching its peak in many places.The vast majority of congregations are taking precautions, with many holding services online and innovating new ways of virtual worship. Easter occurs as the pandemic is reaching its peak in many places.
But the restrictions over gatherings have frustrated some Christian pastors, particularly conservatives, who say the rules restrict their religious freedom.But the restrictions over gatherings have frustrated some Christian pastors, particularly conservatives, who say the rules restrict their religious freedom.
In Louisiana, Pastor Tony Spell of Life Tabernacle Church, who was recently arrested after holding in-person services, plans to hold Easter services for hundreds of people on Sunday. In Idaho, Ammon Bundy also plans to host hundreds of people for an Easter gathering, according to reports.In Louisiana, Pastor Tony Spell of Life Tabernacle Church, who was recently arrested after holding in-person services, plans to hold Easter services for hundreds of people on Sunday. In Idaho, Ammon Bundy also plans to host hundreds of people for an Easter gathering, according to reports.
Rev. Rodney Howard-Browne, pastor of River at Tampa Bay Church, was recently arrested for “intentionally and repeatedly” defying emergency orders in Florida, after he held in-person services. Rev. Rodney Howard-Browne, pastor of River at Tampa Bay Church, was recently arrested on suspicion of “intentionally and repeatedly” defying emergency orders in Florida, after he held in-person services.
Some Catholics are urging bishops to find ways to hold some form of public mass, and to find safe access for the anointing of the sick.Some Catholics are urging bishops to find ways to hold some form of public mass, and to find safe access for the anointing of the sick.
Elsewhere some churches are planning to celebrate via drive-up services, where congregants do not leave their vehicles. The Vatican will stream an Easter Mass celebrated by Pope Francis at St. Peters Basilica. Joel Osteen, who leads Lakewood Church in Texas, is streaming services with performances by Kanye West and Mariah Carey.Elsewhere some churches are planning to celebrate via drive-up services, where congregants do not leave their vehicles. The Vatican will stream an Easter Mass celebrated by Pope Francis at St. Peters Basilica. Joel Osteen, who leads Lakewood Church in Texas, is streaming services with performances by Kanye West and Mariah Carey.
Mr. Trump said that most pastors had agreed not to hold in-person Easter services, and noted that he planned to watch one on his laptop. He said that he would urge pastors considering violating the social distancing guidelines: “heal our country, lets get healed before we do this.”Mr. Trump said that most pastors had agreed not to hold in-person Easter services, and noted that he planned to watch one on his laptop. He said that he would urge pastors considering violating the social distancing guidelines: “heal our country, lets get healed before we do this.”
Prominent evangelical pastor Rick Warren, of Saddleback Church in California, encouraged pastors across the country to follow the guidelines in a CNN Town Hall Thursday night.Prominent evangelical pastor Rick Warren, of Saddleback Church in California, encouraged pastors across the country to follow the guidelines in a CNN Town Hall Thursday night.
“As shepherds, we are called to protect God’s flock, not just feed it and lead it,” he said. “And if you really love your congregation, tell them to stay at home on Easter.”“As shepherds, we are called to protect God’s flock, not just feed it and lead it,” he said. “And if you really love your congregation, tell them to stay at home on Easter.”
When the federal government began rushing trillions of dollars of assistance to Americans crushed by the pandemic, the hope was that some of the aid would allow businesses to keep workers on the payroll and cushion employees against job losses.
But so far, a staggering number of Americans — more than 16 million — have lost their jobs amid the outbreak. Businesses continue to fail as retailers, restaurants, nail salons and other companies across the country run out of cash and close up shop.
There is a growing agreement among many economists that the government’s efforts were too small and came too late in the fast-moving pandemic to prevent businesses from abandoning their workers. Federal agencies, working in a prescribed partnership with Wall Street, have proved ill equipped to move money quickly to the places it is needed most.
Flooded by requests for help like never before, a federal program that was supposed to deliver emergency relief to small businesses in just three days has run low on funding and nearly frozen up entirely.
The initiative, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, is an expansion of an emergency system run by the Small Business Administration that has for years helped companies after natural disasters like hurricanes, floods and tornadoes.
But in the face of the pandemic, the loan program is drowning in requests. Many applicants have waited weeks for approval, and while the program is supposed to offer loans up to $2 million, many recent applicants said the S.B.A. help line had told them that loans would be capped at $15,000 per borrower.
Federal prosecutors in Boston on Friday said they were opening an investigation into a Massachusetts nursing home where 32 residents have died in just over two weeks, seeking to determine whether its staff failed to provide adequate care before and during the pandemic.Federal prosecutors in Boston on Friday said they were opening an investigation into a Massachusetts nursing home where 32 residents have died in just over two weeks, seeking to determine whether its staff failed to provide adequate care before and during the pandemic.
Of the 32 people who died at the home, 28 tested positive. The virus has also been found in another 69 residents and 68 staff members of the facility, Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, a 247-bed, state-managed facility for veterans about 90 miles west of Boston.Of the 32 people who died at the home, 28 tested positive. The virus has also been found in another 69 residents and 68 staff members of the facility, Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, a 247-bed, state-managed facility for veterans about 90 miles west of Boston.
“We will aggressively investigate recent events at the home and, as needed, require the Commonwealth to adopt reforms to ensure patient safety in the future,” said Andrew Lelling, the U.S. attorney who is jointly carrying out the investigation with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “My condolences to the families of those veterans who died while in the home’s care; we will get to the bottom of what happened here.”“We will aggressively investigate recent events at the home and, as needed, require the Commonwealth to adopt reforms to ensure patient safety in the future,” said Andrew Lelling, the U.S. attorney who is jointly carrying out the investigation with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “My condolences to the families of those veterans who died while in the home’s care; we will get to the bottom of what happened here.”
It is the third inquiry into the home. The state’s governor, Charlie Baker, appointed an independent investigator and its attorney general, Maura Healey, announced her own investigation this week.It is the third inquiry into the home. The state’s governor, Charlie Baker, appointed an independent investigator and its attorney general, Maura Healey, announced her own investigation this week.
Nursing homes have seen some of the deadliest outbreaks in the U.S., with a facility in Kirkland, Wash., reporting 43 virus-related deaths and Indiana health department officials announcing this week that there were 11 deaths tied to an outbreak in a home there.Nursing homes have seen some of the deadliest outbreaks in the U.S., with a facility in Kirkland, Wash., reporting 43 virus-related deaths and Indiana health department officials announcing this week that there were 11 deaths tied to an outbreak in a home there.
A new report on 53 coronavirus patients given the antiviral drug remdesivir sheds little light on whether the drug works.A new report on 53 coronavirus patients given the antiviral drug remdesivir sheds little light on whether the drug works.
The patients were not part of a controlled study, but rather received the drug through a “compassionate use” program in which doctors can request an experimental, unapproved drug for someone who is very ill.The patients were not part of a controlled study, but rather received the drug through a “compassionate use” program in which doctors can request an experimental, unapproved drug for someone who is very ill.
Controlled studies of the drug are being conducted, with results from some expected later this month and in May, according to a statement issued by Gilead, which makes remdesivir and paid for the study.Controlled studies of the drug are being conducted, with results from some expected later this month and in May, according to a statement issued by Gilead, which makes remdesivir and paid for the study.
The drug has been considered a promising candidate to treat coronavirus patients. It was developed for Ebola, but did not work well against that disease. Studies in mice and monkeys have suggested that it could fight the coronavirus, and laboratory tests showed that it could stop the virus from invading cells.The drug has been considered a promising candidate to treat coronavirus patients. It was developed for Ebola, but did not work well against that disease. Studies in mice and monkeys have suggested that it could fight the coronavirus, and laboratory tests showed that it could stop the virus from invading cells.
In the new report, because there was no comparison group of patients with matching symptoms who did not receive the drug, it is impossible to tell whether the remdesivir helped those who were treated.In the new report, because there was no comparison group of patients with matching symptoms who did not receive the drug, it is impossible to tell whether the remdesivir helped those who were treated.
The researchers said that 68 percent of the patients improved, but in an article published on Friday in The New England Journal of Medicine, they wrote, “Measurement of efficacy will require ongoing randomized, placebo-controlled trials of remdesivir therapy.”The researchers said that 68 percent of the patients improved, but in an article published on Friday in The New England Journal of Medicine, they wrote, “Measurement of efficacy will require ongoing randomized, placebo-controlled trials of remdesivir therapy.”
The patients were in hospitals in the United States, Europe, Canada and Japan. Thirty, or 57 percent, were on ventilators. During a median follow-up of 18 days, 17 of the 30 were able to able to come off ventilators. Seven patients died, including six who had been on ventilators, for an overall death rate of 13 percent.The patients were in hospitals in the United States, Europe, Canada and Japan. Thirty, or 57 percent, were on ventilators. During a median follow-up of 18 days, 17 of the 30 were able to able to come off ventilators. Seven patients died, including six who had been on ventilators, for an overall death rate of 13 percent.
The authors note that patients in other reports have had higher death rates, but acknowledge that the patients differed in terms of underlying illnesses and other factors, so were not comparable.The authors note that patients in other reports have had higher death rates, but acknowledge that the patients differed in terms of underlying illnesses and other factors, so were not comparable.
It led to chaotic scenes, heath jitters and long delays in Wisconsin on Tuesday after Republicans went to court to block the Democratic governor’s attempt to postpone its primary. Other states have postponed elections. And with many officials advocating voting by mail during the pandemic, Mr. Trump and some Republican are raising debunked claims about fraud.It led to chaotic scenes, heath jitters and long delays in Wisconsin on Tuesday after Republicans went to court to block the Democratic governor’s attempt to postpone its primary. Other states have postponed elections. And with many officials advocating voting by mail during the pandemic, Mr. Trump and some Republican are raising debunked claims about fraud.
But the election now underway in South Korea highlights a very different approach.But the election now underway in South Korea highlights a very different approach.
To make its voting run smoothly, South Korea has mobilized armies of public servants, including young men doing civic duty in lieu of mandatory military service, to prepare for its parliamentary elections. They have disinfected 14,000 voting stations across the country, and marked waiting lines at three-foot intervals so voters can avoid standing too close to one another.To make its voting run smoothly, South Korea has mobilized armies of public servants, including young men doing civic duty in lieu of mandatory military service, to prepare for its parliamentary elections. They have disinfected 14,000 voting stations across the country, and marked waiting lines at three-foot intervals so voters can avoid standing too close to one another.
Millions of voters are taking advantage of early voting, ahead of the official Election Day next Wednesday. Anyone showing temperature readings higher than 37.5 Celsius (99.5 Fahrenheit) is supposed to be stopped at the gates of polling stations and escorted to a separate area to vote. The voter is then supposed to be sent for testing, and the voting booth disinfected.Millions of voters are taking advantage of early voting, ahead of the official Election Day next Wednesday. Anyone showing temperature readings higher than 37.5 Celsius (99.5 Fahrenheit) is supposed to be stopped at the gates of polling stations and escorted to a separate area to vote. The voter is then supposed to be sent for testing, and the voting booth disinfected.
In Wisconsin, state health officials said Friday that they would track virus cases thought to be tied to this week’s balloting.In Wisconsin, state health officials said Friday that they would track virus cases thought to be tied to this week’s balloting.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services said in a statement that there was “some risk” people had been exposed to the virus while voting or working at the polls.The Wisconsin Department of Health Services said in a statement that there was “some risk” people had been exposed to the virus while voting or working at the polls.
“We hope the extraordinary efforts taken by local clerks, public health, voters and poll workers helped minimize any transmission, but we stand prepared to respond if that isn’t the case,” said Andrea Palm, the state health secretary.“We hope the extraordinary efforts taken by local clerks, public health, voters and poll workers helped minimize any transmission, but we stand prepared to respond if that isn’t the case,” said Andrea Palm, the state health secretary.
If voters or poll workers contracted the virus, the first new cases will most likely start emerging next week, the department said.If voters or poll workers contracted the virus, the first new cases will most likely start emerging next week, the department said.
Wearing a face covering takes some adjustment. To get the most benefit, you need to wear it consistently and correctly. Here are some pointers.Wearing a face covering takes some adjustment. To get the most benefit, you need to wear it consistently and correctly. Here are some pointers.
Reporting contributed by Michael Cooper, Alan Blinder, Eileen Sullivan, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Thomas Fuller, Andy Newman, Matthew Haag, William K. Rashbaum, Ali Watkins, Marc Santora, Tim Arango, Hannah Beech, Choe Sang-Hun, Nick Corasaniti, Stacy Cowley, Stephanie Saul, Matt Stevens, Adeel Hassan, Jim Tankersley, Elizabeth Williamson, Peter S. Goodman, Katie Thomas, Sui-Lee Wee, Denise Grady, Jeffrey Gettleman, Elizabeth Dias, Richard Pérez-Peña, Lara Jakes, Brian Wollitz and Ali DeFazi.Reporting contributed by Michael Cooper, Alan Blinder, Eileen Sullivan, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Thomas Fuller, Andy Newman, Matthew Haag, William K. Rashbaum, Ali Watkins, Marc Santora, Tim Arango, Hannah Beech, Choe Sang-Hun, Nick Corasaniti, Stacy Cowley, Stephanie Saul, Matt Stevens, Adeel Hassan, Jim Tankersley, Elizabeth Williamson, Peter S. Goodman, Katie Thomas, Sui-Lee Wee, Denise Grady, Jeffrey Gettleman, Elizabeth Dias, Richard Pérez-Peña, Lara Jakes, Brian Wollitz and Ali DeFazi.