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Coronavirus Clusters Across Asia Show Fleeting Face of Victory: Live Coverage Coronavirus Clusters Across Asia Show Fleeting Face of Victory: Live Coverage
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新冠病毒疫情最新消息新冠病毒疫情最新消息
As the world confronts the pandemic, several nations in Asia have been hailed for curbing the spread within their borders. But in the face of the coronavirus, victory can be elusive and fleeting.As the world confronts the pandemic, several nations in Asia have been hailed for curbing the spread within their borders. But in the face of the coronavirus, victory can be elusive and fleeting.
And as several countries makes moves to lift measures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus, officials from the World Health Organization are urging governments and the public to maintain “extreme vigilance” to avoid a new wave of infections. And as several countries make moves to lift measures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus, officials from the World Health Organization are urging governments and the public to maintain “extreme vigilance” to avoid a new wave of infections.
Singapore, once a model for its speed and efficiency in tracing the contacts of infected people, has seen its cases balloon to more than 23,000 as the virus spread in dormitories for foreign workers.Singapore, once a model for its speed and efficiency in tracing the contacts of infected people, has seen its cases balloon to more than 23,000 as the virus spread in dormitories for foreign workers.
Officials in Wuhan, the Chinese city where the outbreak began and which celebrated its recent emergence from more than two months in lockdown, said it would test all 11 million residents after six new cases were confirmed this week.Officials in Wuhan, the Chinese city where the outbreak began and which celebrated its recent emergence from more than two months in lockdown, said it would test all 11 million residents after six new cases were confirmed this week.
The new cluster of cases, the first recorded there since April, were linked to a man who fell sick in March but was not tested. He recovered, then fell ill again last month.The new cluster of cases, the first recorded there since April, were linked to a man who fell sick in March but was not tested. He recovered, then fell ill again last month.
In the north of China, the city of Shulan near the Russian border has been declared “high-risk” after 15 people were infected, cases that were traced to a 45-year-old woman. But how she caught the virus is still unclear.In the north of China, the city of Shulan near the Russian border has been declared “high-risk” after 15 people were infected, cases that were traced to a 45-year-old woman. But how she caught the virus is still unclear.
And in South Korea, which has been a pioneer in using technology for contact tracing, more than 100 new cases have emerged after an infected man visited bars and clubs in a Seoul nightlife district. The mayor ordered nightspots closed indefinitely.And in South Korea, which has been a pioneer in using technology for contact tracing, more than 100 new cases have emerged after an infected man visited bars and clubs in a Seoul nightlife district. The mayor ordered nightspots closed indefinitely.
The United States has yet to curb its outbreak, but already scientists are warning that the feared “second wave” could instead consist of a series of smaller waves breaking soon across the country.The United States has yet to curb its outbreak, but already scientists are warning that the feared “second wave” could instead consist of a series of smaller waves breaking soon across the country.
On Monday, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the W.H.O., warned that only a “slow, steady lifting of lockdowns” could ease economic pressure while keeping infections at bay.On Monday, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the W.H.O., warned that only a “slow, steady lifting of lockdowns” could ease economic pressure while keeping infections at bay.
“Until there’s a vaccine, a comprehensive package of measures is our most effective set of tools against the virus,” he said.“Until there’s a vaccine, a comprehensive package of measures is our most effective set of tools against the virus,” he said.
Five patients died in a fire in an intensive care unit at a St. Petersburg hospital Tuesday morning, Russian news agencies reported, the second deadly fire at a hospital in the country treating coronavirus patients.Five patients died in a fire in an intensive care unit at a St. Petersburg hospital Tuesday morning, Russian news agencies reported, the second deadly fire at a hospital in the country treating coronavirus patients.
The preliminary cause: an overloaded ventilator. A coronavirus hospital also caught fire in Moscow on Saturday, killing one of the patients.The preliminary cause: an overloaded ventilator. A coronavirus hospital also caught fire in Moscow on Saturday, killing one of the patients.
The tragedy came as Russia’s weekslong national lockdown ended on Tuesday — even as the country continued to report more new daily cases than any other except the United States.The tragedy came as Russia’s weekslong national lockdown ended on Tuesday — even as the country continued to report more new daily cases than any other except the United States.
In Moscow, the epicenter of Russia’s outbreak, construction and manufacturing workers were allowed to return, though citywide shelter-in-place orders otherwise remained in place and masks and gloves were required in public places. The region of Karelia in northwestern Russia let hair and beauty salons reopen, while Kaliningrad on the Baltic coast opened malls and barbershops.In Moscow, the epicenter of Russia’s outbreak, construction and manufacturing workers were allowed to return, though citywide shelter-in-place orders otherwise remained in place and masks and gloves were required in public places. The region of Karelia in northwestern Russia let hair and beauty salons reopen, while Kaliningrad on the Baltic coast opened malls and barbershops.
The moves came after President Vladimir V. Putin said Monday that Russia’s “non-working” period would end, and left the next steps on what that meant up to regional governors to decide. Critics said that Mr. Putin’s move came too soon, with the coronavirus continuing to spread rapidly in many locations.The moves came after President Vladimir V. Putin said Monday that Russia’s “non-working” period would end, and left the next steps on what that meant up to regional governors to decide. Critics said that Mr. Putin’s move came too soon, with the coronavirus continuing to spread rapidly in many locations.
Russia reported 10,899 new cases on Tuesday, for a total of 232,243 — putting it on pace to overtake Spain by the end of the day as the country other than the United States with the highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases, according to statistics compiled by The New York Times.Russia reported 10,899 new cases on Tuesday, for a total of 232,243 — putting it on pace to overtake Spain by the end of the day as the country other than the United States with the highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases, according to statistics compiled by The New York Times.
India’s carbon dioxide emissions have dropped for the first time in four decades, reflecting the impact of an economic slowdown from the coronavirus lockdown and a broader weakening of demand for fossil fuels on the subcontinent, experts say.India’s carbon dioxide emissions have dropped for the first time in four decades, reflecting the impact of an economic slowdown from the coronavirus lockdown and a broader weakening of demand for fossil fuels on the subcontinent, experts say.
Researchers at Carbon Brief, an environmental website that tracks climate and energy policy, found that the emissions fell around 15 percent in March and likely dropped another 30 percent in April.Researchers at Carbon Brief, an environmental website that tracks climate and energy policy, found that the emissions fell around 15 percent in March and likely dropped another 30 percent in April.
Lower electricity consumption during a nationwide lockdown, which started in March, along with a surge in competition among renewable energy sources, has cut demand for thermal power.Lower electricity consumption during a nationwide lockdown, which started in March, along with a surge in competition among renewable energy sources, has cut demand for thermal power.
Coal-fired power generation, which is linked with higher air pollution, fell 31 percent in the first three weeks of April, according to government data compiled by Carbon Brief.Coal-fired power generation, which is linked with higher air pollution, fell 31 percent in the first three weeks of April, according to government data compiled by Carbon Brief.
The supply of energy from renewables remained relatively stable during the lockdown, rising about 6 percent in March and dropping only slightly in April.The supply of energy from renewables remained relatively stable during the lockdown, rising about 6 percent in March and dropping only slightly in April.
India is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases on the planet. Just five years ago, the country built a series of coal-fired power plants, more than doubling its capacity and drawing ire from climate activists.India is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases on the planet. Just five years ago, the country built a series of coal-fired power plants, more than doubling its capacity and drawing ire from climate activists.
But as the cost of solar power fell, the country canceled many coal projects, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledging that 40 percent of India’s electricity capacity would come from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.But as the cost of solar power fell, the country canceled many coal projects, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledging that 40 percent of India’s electricity capacity would come from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
South Korean epidemiologists face a hurdle in their efforts to identify and test nearly 2,000 people who may have visited nightclubs that are the nexus of a new coronavirus outbreak. Many of the people are believed to be gay men who fear being outed in a society where prejudices against sexual and other minorities remain widespread.South Korean epidemiologists face a hurdle in their efforts to identify and test nearly 2,000 people who may have visited nightclubs that are the nexus of a new coronavirus outbreak. Many of the people are believed to be gay men who fear being outed in a society where prejudices against sexual and other minorities remain widespread.
A 29-year-old man tested positive for the virus last Wednesday. While investigating his potential contacts, officials learned that on May 2 he had visited three nightclubs frequented by gay people in Itaewon, a popular nightlife district in Seoul. That triggered a frantic campaign to trace and test Itaewon nightclub visitors. So far, 7,000 people have been tested, with 102 cases found among club visitors and their contacts.A 29-year-old man tested positive for the virus last Wednesday. While investigating his potential contacts, officials learned that on May 2 he had visited three nightclubs frequented by gay people in Itaewon, a popular nightlife district in Seoul. That triggered a frantic campaign to trace and test Itaewon nightclub visitors. So far, 7,000 people have been tested, with 102 cases found among club visitors and their contacts.
The daily caseload has not exploded, as some feared it might. But it has climbed from three a week ago to 34 on Sunday, 35 on Monday and 27 on Tuesday.The daily caseload has not exploded, as some feared it might. But it has climbed from three a week ago to 34 on Sunday, 35 on Monday and 27 on Tuesday.
Seoul’s mayor, Park Won-soon, this week offered free and anonymous tests to address the concerns that gay people might be outed. Under that policy, people can get tested by submitting their telephone numbers, but not their names. The number of people tested jumped from 3,500 on Sunday to 6,500 on Monday, Mr. Park said.Seoul’s mayor, Park Won-soon, this week offered free and anonymous tests to address the concerns that gay people might be outed. Under that policy, people can get tested by submitting their telephone numbers, but not their names. The number of people tested jumped from 3,500 on Sunday to 6,500 on Monday, Mr. Park said.
Officials collected the names and telephone numbers of 5,500 people who had visited five Itaewon nightclubs between late April and early this month. Under Covid-19 preventive measures, nightclub visitors are asked to write down their names and cellphone numbers before entering.Officials collected the names and telephone numbers of 5,500 people who had visited five Itaewon nightclubs between late April and early this month. Under Covid-19 preventive measures, nightclub visitors are asked to write down their names and cellphone numbers before entering.
But nearly 2,000 people on the nightclubs’ rosters could not be reached, said Yoon Tae-ho, a senior disease-control official, on Tuesday. Officials feared that many of the names and telephone numbers might be fake. They were using credit card transaction records and cellphone location data to try to trace people who may have been in the nightclubs.But nearly 2,000 people on the nightclubs’ rosters could not be reached, said Yoon Tae-ho, a senior disease-control official, on Tuesday. Officials feared that many of the names and telephone numbers might be fake. They were using credit card transaction records and cellphone location data to try to trace people who may have been in the nightclubs.
South Korea has reported a total of 10,936 Covid-19 cases, including 258 deaths.South Korea has reported a total of 10,936 Covid-19 cases, including 258 deaths.
As several countries in Europe and Asia lift some measures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus, officials from the World Health Organization are urging governments and the public to maintain “extreme vigilance” to avoid a new wave of infections.As several countries in Europe and Asia lift some measures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus, officials from the World Health Organization are urging governments and the public to maintain “extreme vigilance” to avoid a new wave of infections.
On Monday, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the U.N. agency’s director general, warned that only a “slow, steady lifting of lockdowns” could ease economic pressure while keeping new waves of infections at bay.On Monday, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the U.N. agency’s director general, warned that only a “slow, steady lifting of lockdowns” could ease economic pressure while keeping new waves of infections at bay.
Dr. Tedros, during a daily news conference from the W.H.O. headquarters in Geneva, warned that the restrictions that countries around the world imposed earlier this year were the best weapons against the virus, at least for now.Dr. Tedros, during a daily news conference from the W.H.O. headquarters in Geneva, warned that the restrictions that countries around the world imposed earlier this year were the best weapons against the virus, at least for now.
“Until there’s a vaccine, a comprehensive package of measures is our most effective set of tools against the virus,” he said.“Until there’s a vaccine, a comprehensive package of measures is our most effective set of tools against the virus,” he said.
There have been more than four million confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide and 285,000 deaths since the start of the pandemic. While some children returned to schools in Australia and Germany on Monday, and people in France and Spain were allowed to gather outside, the W.H.O. warned that ignoring precautionary rules would inevitably lead to more infections.There have been more than four million confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide and 285,000 deaths since the start of the pandemic. While some children returned to schools in Australia and Germany on Monday, and people in France and Spain were allowed to gather outside, the W.H.O. warned that ignoring precautionary rules would inevitably lead to more infections.
In France, drinking alcohol was banned on Paris canals and riverbanks on Monday, after throngs of people were seen drinking along the Canal Saint-Martin, a popular spot, as the country eased strict confinement rules. Germany, despite an aggressive policy of testing and tracing infections, has seen an increase in cases since measures were eased last week.In France, drinking alcohol was banned on Paris canals and riverbanks on Monday, after throngs of people were seen drinking along the Canal Saint-Martin, a popular spot, as the country eased strict confinement rules. Germany, despite an aggressive policy of testing and tracing infections, has seen an increase in cases since measures were eased last week.
With its offer of free health care to all, based on need, Britain’s National Health Service embodies qualities that the British like to think represent the best of their nation. Even before the virus struck, the health service, though struggling, was probably still Britain’s most respected institution.With its offer of free health care to all, based on need, Britain’s National Health Service embodies qualities that the British like to think represent the best of their nation. Even before the virus struck, the health service, though struggling, was probably still Britain’s most respected institution.
Now, with the health workers risking, and sometimes losing, their lives while the government is accused of mishandling the coronavirus pandemic, the health service — which was regarded before the crisis as deeply troubled after 10 years of austerity and neglect — has become a rallying point for the nation.Now, with the health workers risking, and sometimes losing, their lives while the government is accused of mishandling the coronavirus pandemic, the health service — which was regarded before the crisis as deeply troubled after 10 years of austerity and neglect — has become a rallying point for the nation.
Premier League soccer players have organized a fund for donations, the street artist Banksy hung artwork at a hospital in Southampton, and a 100-year-old World War II veteran, Capt. Tom Moore, raised more than 30 million pounds (about $37 million) with a charity walk.Premier League soccer players have organized a fund for donations, the street artist Banksy hung artwork at a hospital in Southampton, and a 100-year-old World War II veteran, Capt. Tom Moore, raised more than 30 million pounds (about $37 million) with a charity walk.
Britons have trusted in the N.H.S. since 1948, when it was created by a Labour government after World War II to forge a country that would eradicate the “five evils”: want, disease, squalor, ignorance and idleness.Britons have trusted in the N.H.S. since 1948, when it was created by a Labour government after World War II to forge a country that would eradicate the “five evils”: want, disease, squalor, ignorance and idleness.
Paid for through general taxation and payroll deductions, treatment is delivered to all without money changing hands, with a few exceptions such as dentistry and small charges for some medication. With about 1.5 million employees, the N.H.S. is the world’s fifth biggest employer by one account.Paid for through general taxation and payroll deductions, treatment is delivered to all without money changing hands, with a few exceptions such as dentistry and small charges for some medication. With about 1.5 million employees, the N.H.S. is the world’s fifth biggest employer by one account.
In the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, expenditure was squeezed during years of austerity, leaving the N.H.S. ill-prepared for the current pandemic, scrambling to expand its intensive care capacity and even to secure supplies of basic equipment like gowns and masks.In the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, expenditure was squeezed during years of austerity, leaving the N.H.S. ill-prepared for the current pandemic, scrambling to expand its intensive care capacity and even to secure supplies of basic equipment like gowns and masks.
But at its moment of crisis, the one thing Britain’s health service does not lack is the support of its population. As a source of national pride, it ranked first and significantly above the royal family in one 2016 survey.But at its moment of crisis, the one thing Britain’s health service does not lack is the support of its population. As a source of national pride, it ranked first and significantly above the royal family in one 2016 survey.
The city of Wuhan, where the coronavirus emerged late last year, has ordered that all residents be tested in the next 10 days after six new cases were reported in one neighborhood, according to a state media report.The city of Wuhan, where the coronavirus emerged late last year, has ordered that all residents be tested in the next 10 days after six new cases were reported in one neighborhood, according to a state media report.
Wuhan, with a population of 11 million, has already tested large numbers of residents. Many employers required that their workers be tested before returning to their jobs last month. The new round of testing reinforces fears that the outbreak can re-emerge from hidden cases.Wuhan, with a population of 11 million, has already tested large numbers of residents. Many employers required that their workers be tested before returning to their jobs last month. The new round of testing reinforces fears that the outbreak can re-emerge from hidden cases.
The notice ordering the testing, which has not been made public, was reported by The Paper, a state media outlet.The notice ordering the testing, which has not been made public, was reported by The Paper, a state media outlet.
An 89-year-old man was confirmed to be infected on Saturday, the first new confirmed case in the city since early April. He was tested last week after feeling unwell. Five other cases were announced on Monday, including the man’s wife, 81, and four others who live in their neighborhood. The five are all asymptomatic.An 89-year-old man was confirmed to be infected on Saturday, the first new confirmed case in the city since early April. He was tested last week after feeling unwell. Five other cases were announced on Monday, including the man’s wife, 81, and four others who live in their neighborhood. The five are all asymptomatic.
Wuhan imposed a lockdown on Jan. 23 and only lifted it on April 8.Wuhan imposed a lockdown on Jan. 23 and only lifted it on April 8.
More than 3,800 people have died in the city, according to the official tally. China has faced questions about the accuracy of its coronavirus numbers and whether it has divulged the true extent of its outbreak.More than 3,800 people have died in the city, according to the official tally. China has faced questions about the accuracy of its coronavirus numbers and whether it has divulged the true extent of its outbreak.
The head of the street committee for the area with the new cluster was removed from office for poor management after the cases were reported, the state-run Xinhua news service reported.The head of the street committee for the area with the new cluster was removed from office for poor management after the cases were reported, the state-run Xinhua news service reported.
China has begun to reopen after a widespread lockdown put in place to control the coronavirus. But flare-ups of new cases have persisted. Parts of northeast China increased controls last month after a spate of new cases that were traced to people returning from Russia.China has begun to reopen after a widespread lockdown put in place to control the coronavirus. But flare-ups of new cases have persisted. Parts of northeast China increased controls last month after a spate of new cases that were traced to people returning from Russia.
And on Sunday, Shulan in Jilin Province declared that it was at “high risk” from the epidemic after a rash of at least 15 infections around the area that started with a woman who was reported to have no history of contact with known cases.And on Sunday, Shulan in Jilin Province declared that it was at “high risk” from the epidemic after a rash of at least 15 infections around the area that started with a woman who was reported to have no history of contact with known cases.
“Neighbours,” a long-running Australian soap opera, returned to production in late April under coronavirus restrictions and became one of the first TV shows in the world to have its cast and crew return to set, if at a distance.“Neighbours,” a long-running Australian soap opera, returned to production in late April under coronavirus restrictions and became one of the first TV shows in the world to have its cast and crew return to set, if at a distance.
Now, they stand five feet apart, cannot hold hands, kiss or simulate a brawl, but still hope to convey the same heightened conflict, intimacy and drama that the show’s fans have come to love.Now, they stand five feet apart, cannot hold hands, kiss or simulate a brawl, but still hope to convey the same heightened conflict, intimacy and drama that the show’s fans have come to love.
The series, which has run for 35 years and aired more than 8,300 episodes, had been on a monthlong hiatus because of social distancing measures that have halted the production of television and films in Australia and around the globe.The series, which has run for 35 years and aired more than 8,300 episodes, had been on a monthlong hiatus because of social distancing measures that have halted the production of television and films in Australia and around the globe.
But as Australia charges toward its goal of totally eliminating the virus within its borders, “Neighbours” is likely to be one of the first scripted series in the English-speaking world, at least, to return to the set after being halted because of coronavirus restrictions.But as Australia charges toward its goal of totally eliminating the virus within its borders, “Neighbours” is likely to be one of the first scripted series in the English-speaking world, at least, to return to the set after being halted because of coronavirus restrictions.
As such, it could set an important precedent for the global screen industry as it tries to figure out how a phased reintroduction to shooting television series and films might work.As such, it could set an important precedent for the global screen industry as it tries to figure out how a phased reintroduction to shooting television series and films might work.
In Australia, the coronavirus shutdown has cost the country’s film and television industry more than $325 million, according to the interest group Screen Producers Australia.In Australia, the coronavirus shutdown has cost the country’s film and television industry more than $325 million, according to the interest group Screen Producers Australia.
A disaster in China kills thousands of people, putting the Communist Party in a delicate spot. At first, the authorities cannot help but acknowledge the magnitude of the calamity, giving journalists wide berth to cover the crisis and allowing enraged antigovernment postings to remain online.A disaster in China kills thousands of people, putting the Communist Party in a delicate spot. At first, the authorities cannot help but acknowledge the magnitude of the calamity, giving journalists wide berth to cover the crisis and allowing enraged antigovernment postings to remain online.
But soon enough, old instincts kick in. News outlets are muzzled. Grieving families are silenced. Efforts to hold officials accountable are suppressed.But soon enough, old instincts kick in. News outlets are muzzled. Grieving families are silenced. Efforts to hold officials accountable are suppressed.
The anniversary of the earthquake that struck Sichuan Province on May 12, 2008, carries special relevance this year, as China grapples with another devastating tragedy.The anniversary of the earthquake that struck Sichuan Province on May 12, 2008, carries special relevance this year, as China grapples with another devastating tragedy.
The central government appears to be keeping the coronavirus outbreak largely under control within China’s borders. But it has deflected or downplayed questions about its initial response to the virus, in a pattern that seems much unchanged since the 2008 quake, China’s deadliest in decades.The central government appears to be keeping the coronavirus outbreak largely under control within China’s borders. But it has deflected or downplayed questions about its initial response to the virus, in a pattern that seems much unchanged since the 2008 quake, China’s deadliest in decades.
Twelve years ago, nearly 70,000 people died after the earthquake wrecked buildings and roads in Sichuan and sent boulders careening down mountains and hillsides. A large number of the victims were schoolchildren, raising questions about building standards and corruption in the area.Twelve years ago, nearly 70,000 people died after the earthquake wrecked buildings and roads in Sichuan and sent boulders careening down mountains and hillsides. A large number of the victims were schoolchildren, raising questions about building standards and corruption in the area.
The government eventually acknowledged that a rush to build schools probably led to shoddy construction. Still, officials tried to stifle unapproved commemorations that could have rekindled uncomfortable questions about why so many people died. Official memorial ceremonies, by contrast, focused on the heroism of the rescue effort and the speed of the reconstruction.The government eventually acknowledged that a rush to build schools probably led to shoddy construction. Still, officials tried to stifle unapproved commemorations that could have rekindled uncomfortable questions about why so many people died. Official memorial ceremonies, by contrast, focused on the heroism of the rescue effort and the speed of the reconstruction.
Three months after the authorities virtually shut down China to stop the coronavirus outbreak, its workers have returned to their jobs with the aim of restarting the country’s vast growth machine without igniting another outbreak. If Chinese factories and offices can successfully restart without major infections, they could serve as a model for President Trump and other leaders who want to get their economies back on track.Three months after the authorities virtually shut down China to stop the coronavirus outbreak, its workers have returned to their jobs with the aim of restarting the country’s vast growth machine without igniting another outbreak. If Chinese factories and offices can successfully restart without major infections, they could serve as a model for President Trump and other leaders who want to get their economies back on track.
Many of the new rules are obvious: Use disinfectants and masks and keep your distance from colleagues. But some call for tracking and nudging employees in ways that workers in other countries may find unacceptable, including use of government-sanctioned health tracking apps. At the same time, local authorities have set up a confusing patchwork of rules that differ from city to city.Many of the new rules are obvious: Use disinfectants and masks and keep your distance from colleagues. But some call for tracking and nudging employees in ways that workers in other countries may find unacceptable, including use of government-sanctioned health tracking apps. At the same time, local authorities have set up a confusing patchwork of rules that differ from city to city.
Everyone agrees on one thing: There is no going back to life before the pandemic.Everyone agrees on one thing: There is no going back to life before the pandemic.
“Life will not become like it was before,” said Johann Wieland, the chief executive officer of BMW’s joint venture in China, which employs 20,500 people. “This is what we have to learn.”“Life will not become like it was before,” said Johann Wieland, the chief executive officer of BMW’s joint venture in China, which employs 20,500 people. “This is what we have to learn.”
Major companies are asking workers to change personal habits. Foxconn, the Taiwanese electronics giant that makes iPhone and other Western-branded gear in vast Chinese factories, has advised employees to avoid public transportation.Major companies are asking workers to change personal habits. Foxconn, the Taiwanese electronics giant that makes iPhone and other Western-branded gear in vast Chinese factories, has advised employees to avoid public transportation.
Shifting rules from place to place have snarled logistics and supply chains, however. While restrictions have eased since China sharply limited movement around the country earlier in the outbreak, local authorities, especially where sporadic infections have emerged, still sometimes erect temporary barriers.Shifting rules from place to place have snarled logistics and supply chains, however. While restrictions have eased since China sharply limited movement around the country earlier in the outbreak, local authorities, especially where sporadic infections have emerged, still sometimes erect temporary barriers.
To stay safe, many employers have embraced government-endorsed and newly built-in health code functions in some of China’s most popular smartphone apps like Alipay and WeChat. One of the first services built to gauge a person’s infection risk, the health code function tracks travel to see whether the user has been to areas with high infections, though the creators and the Chinese government have not disclosed full details about how it works. When prompted by health workers, police officers or security personnel, a person would display a code colored red, yellow or green.To stay safe, many employers have embraced government-endorsed and newly built-in health code functions in some of China’s most popular smartphone apps like Alipay and WeChat. One of the first services built to gauge a person’s infection risk, the health code function tracks travel to see whether the user has been to areas with high infections, though the creators and the Chinese government have not disclosed full details about how it works. When prompted by health workers, police officers or security personnel, a person would display a code colored red, yellow or green.
The State Administration for Market Regulation, a business standards regulator, is creating a database of health data collected from citizens during the outbreak. But the system, which would use QR codes, is still in its early days and has already had glitches.The State Administration for Market Regulation, a business standards regulator, is creating a database of health data collected from citizens during the outbreak. But the system, which would use QR codes, is still in its early days and has already had glitches.
As businesses open and restrictions ease in parts of the United States, scientists say a much-feared “second wave” of infection may not wait until fall and instead may become a series of wavelets breaking unpredictably across the country.As businesses open and restrictions ease in parts of the United States, scientists say a much-feared “second wave” of infection may not wait until fall and instead may become a series of wavelets breaking unpredictably across the country.
Most states that are reopening have not met even minimal criteria set by public health experts for doing so safely, and in some, coronavirus cases are rising. A resurgence in infections may not become apparent for two or three weeks, when some people would need hospitalization.Most states that are reopening have not met even minimal criteria set by public health experts for doing so safely, and in some, coronavirus cases are rising. A resurgence in infections may not become apparent for two or three weeks, when some people would need hospitalization.
The question now, scientists say, is whether the nation can minimize the damage.The question now, scientists say, is whether the nation can minimize the damage.
Evidence is mounting that masks — if worn in public places, by everyone — are far more effective at stopping transmission than was previously realized. While testing remains inadequate, home-use nasal swabs and saliva tests are on the way and may provide a clearer picture of where the virus is.Evidence is mounting that masks — if worn in public places, by everyone — are far more effective at stopping transmission than was previously realized. While testing remains inadequate, home-use nasal swabs and saliva tests are on the way and may provide a clearer picture of where the virus is.
Employers are moving to design safer workplaces. A modestly effective antiviral treatment has been found. Laboratories around the world are racing toward the grail — a vaccine — at an unprecedented pace.Employers are moving to design safer workplaces. A modestly effective antiviral treatment has been found. Laboratories around the world are racing toward the grail — a vaccine — at an unprecedented pace.
And scientists are also learning more about the virus.And scientists are also learning more about the virus.
A new study published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics paints the most detailed picture yet of American children who were treated in intensive care units as the pandemic was taking hold.A new study published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics paints the most detailed picture yet of American children who were treated in intensive care units as the pandemic was taking hold.
The study looked at 48 cases from 14 hospitals in patients under 21, in late March and early April. Two patients died. Eighteen were placed on ventilators and two remain on the breathing machines more than a month later, said Dr. Lara S. Shekerdemian, chief of critical care at Texas Children’s Hospital, and an author of the study.The study looked at 48 cases from 14 hospitals in patients under 21, in late March and early April. Two patients died. Eighteen were placed on ventilators and two remain on the breathing machines more than a month later, said Dr. Lara S. Shekerdemian, chief of critical care at Texas Children’s Hospital, and an author of the study.
The study both reinforces the evidence that only a small percentage of children will be severely affected by the virus, but they can become devastatingly ill.The study both reinforces the evidence that only a small percentage of children will be severely affected by the virus, but they can become devastatingly ill.
None of the study’s subjects were stricken by the new mysterious inflammatory syndrome linked to the coronavirus that can cause life-threatening cardiac issues in children.None of the study’s subjects were stricken by the new mysterious inflammatory syndrome linked to the coronavirus that can cause life-threatening cardiac issues in children.
President Trump abruptly ended his Rose Garden news conference on Monday shortly after a Chinese-American reporter pressed him on why he suggested she “go ask China” in response to her question on virus death rates.President Trump abruptly ended his Rose Garden news conference on Monday shortly after a Chinese-American reporter pressed him on why he suggested she “go ask China” in response to her question on virus death rates.
On Tuesday morning, Mr. Trump seemed to defend the action when he posted the message “Fake Journalists!” on Twitter in response to a post from one of his lawyers praising his actions.On Tuesday morning, Mr. Trump seemed to defend the action when he posted the message “Fake Journalists!” on Twitter in response to a post from one of his lawyers praising his actions.
Weijia Jiang, a White House correspondent for CBS News, asked Mr. Trump why he had created a “global competition” by claiming that the United States had done far better than any other country on testing its citizens for the virus.Weijia Jiang, a White House correspondent for CBS News, asked Mr. Trump why he had created a “global competition” by claiming that the United States had done far better than any other country on testing its citizens for the virus.
“Well,” Mr. Trump responded, “they’re losing their lives everywhere in the world, and maybe that’s a question you should ask China.”“Well,” Mr. Trump responded, “they’re losing their lives everywhere in the world, and maybe that’s a question you should ask China.”
Ms. Jiang, who had been leaning into a contact-free microphone to ask her question, lowered her face mask and paused for a couple seconds before asking, “Sir, why are you saying that to me, specifically?”Ms. Jiang, who had been leaning into a contact-free microphone to ask her question, lowered her face mask and paused for a couple seconds before asking, “Sir, why are you saying that to me, specifically?”
In a recent interview, Mr. Trump complained that Ms. Jiang and another reporter were not behaving like Donna Reed, an actress famous for her portrayals as a consummate housewife. Mr. Trump has targeted Ms. Jiang in recent days for her tough line of questioning in news briefings, including gruffly telling her to “keep your voice down” in past exchanges.In a recent interview, Mr. Trump complained that Ms. Jiang and another reporter were not behaving like Donna Reed, an actress famous for her portrayals as a consummate housewife. Mr. Trump has targeted Ms. Jiang in recent days for her tough line of questioning in news briefings, including gruffly telling her to “keep your voice down” in past exchanges.
The next reporter he called on, Kaitlan Collins of CNN, has engaged in similar back-and-forth exchanges with Mr. Trump. Ms. Collins tried to ask Mr. Trump a question after briefly ceding her turn at the microphone to let Ms. Jiang follow up, but Mr. Trump tried to move on to another reporter.The next reporter he called on, Kaitlan Collins of CNN, has engaged in similar back-and-forth exchanges with Mr. Trump. Ms. Collins tried to ask Mr. Trump a question after briefly ceding her turn at the microphone to let Ms. Jiang follow up, but Mr. Trump tried to move on to another reporter.
After Ms. Collins remained at the microphone and twice tried to ask her question, Mr. Trump abruptly ended his news conference and left the Rose Garden.After Ms. Collins remained at the microphone and twice tried to ask her question, Mr. Trump abruptly ended his news conference and left the Rose Garden.
The rate of coronavirus spread in Germany remained slightly and stubbornly above a crucial threshold for eventually taming the epidemic, officials said on Monday, even as many schools and stores across the country were allowed to reopen.The rate of coronavirus spread in Germany remained slightly and stubbornly above a crucial threshold for eventually taming the epidemic, officials said on Monday, even as many schools and stores across the country were allowed to reopen.
Epidemiologists carefully watch how many people, on average, an infected person spreads the virus to — a number known as the reproduction or R factor. If the figure is below 1.0, it suggests the number of active cases is declining; a number above 1.0 indicates cases are increasing.Epidemiologists carefully watch how many people, on average, an infected person spreads the virus to — a number known as the reproduction or R factor. If the figure is below 1.0, it suggests the number of active cases is declining; a number above 1.0 indicates cases are increasing.
The latest R factor was estimated at 1.07, the Robert Koch Institute, Germany’s primary disease control agency, said on Monday — the third day in a row the figure was above the threshold of 1.0, although it was down slightly from 1.1 on Saturday and 1.13 on Sunday.The latest R factor was estimated at 1.07, the Robert Koch Institute, Germany’s primary disease control agency, said on Monday — the third day in a row the figure was above the threshold of 1.0, although it was down slightly from 1.1 on Saturday and 1.13 on Sunday.
But calculations by different experts can vary based on how they account for unknown factors, and any one estimate has a high degree of uncertainty. The Koch Institute said there was a 95 percent likelihood that Monday’s true figure was somewhere from 0.88 to 1.29.But calculations by different experts can vary based on how they account for unknown factors, and any one estimate has a high degree of uncertainty. The Koch Institute said there was a 95 percent likelihood that Monday’s true figure was somewhere from 0.88 to 1.29.
In April, after reporting that it had pushed the R factor well below 1.0, Germany began easing restrictions on public life, which officials warned would cause infections to rise, as they have.In April, after reporting that it had pushed the R factor well below 1.0, Germany began easing restrictions on public life, which officials warned would cause infections to rise, as they have.
“The increase in the estimated R-value makes it necessary to monitor developments very closely in the coming days,” the Koch Institute said on Monday.“The increase in the estimated R-value makes it necessary to monitor developments very closely in the coming days,” the Koch Institute said on Monday.
Chancellor Angela Merkel has explained that the goal is to remain under 1.0, because even a rate as low as 1.1, if unchecked, would overwhelm the health care system by October. Ms. Merkel has said restrictions can be reimposed if the numbers worsen.Chancellor Angela Merkel has explained that the goal is to remain under 1.0, because even a rate as low as 1.1, if unchecked, would overwhelm the health care system by October. Ms. Merkel has said restrictions can be reimposed if the numbers worsen.
Germany went ahead with its second phase of loosening restrictions on Monday in all but three regions where the number of new infections was deemed too high.Germany went ahead with its second phase of loosening restrictions on Monday in all but three regions where the number of new infections was deemed too high.
The chancellor and governors of the country’s 16 states agreed last week on a plan that would allow regions with low numbers to restart their economies and allow groups of people from two separate households to meet in public, while observing social distancing rules.The chancellor and governors of the country’s 16 states agreed last week on a plan that would allow regions with low numbers to restart their economies and allow groups of people from two separate households to meet in public, while observing social distancing rules.
Reporting and research was contributed by Kai Schultz, Livia Albeck-Ripka, Anton Troianovski, Alexandra Stevenson, Cao Li, Keith Bradsher, Elian Peltier, Megan Specia, Choe Sang-Hun, Clifford Krauss, Raymond Zhong, Wang Yiwei, Melissa Eddy, Dan Bilefsky, Donald G. McNeil Jr., Neil Vigdor, Maggie Haberman, Michael D. Shear, Austin Ramzy and Stephen Castle.Reporting and research was contributed by Kai Schultz, Livia Albeck-Ripka, Anton Troianovski, Alexandra Stevenson, Cao Li, Keith Bradsher, Elian Peltier, Megan Specia, Choe Sang-Hun, Clifford Krauss, Raymond Zhong, Wang Yiwei, Melissa Eddy, Dan Bilefsky, Donald G. McNeil Jr., Neil Vigdor, Maggie Haberman, Michael D. Shear, Austin Ramzy and Stephen Castle.