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Coronavirus Has Big Ripple Effect Across Public Health, U.N. Warns: Live Coverage Coronavirus Lockdown May Spur Surge in Mental Illness, U.N. Warns: Live Coverage
(about 1 hour later)
新冠病毒疫情最新消息新冠病毒疫情最新消息
The coronavirus is wreaking havoc on people’s health in ways that at first glance would seem to have little connection to the virus’s devastating primary effects.The coronavirus is wreaking havoc on people’s health in ways that at first glance would seem to have little connection to the virus’s devastating primary effects.
The United Nations is warning of new risks to children and a subsequent plague of mental illness. And national governments are noting the unintended consequences of lockdowns and other restrictions, including a rise in domestic violence. In Mexico, a decision to ban alcohol sales was followed by scores of deaths after people drank tainted homemade alcohol.The United Nations is warning of new risks to children and a subsequent plague of mental illness. And national governments are noting the unintended consequences of lockdowns and other restrictions, including a rise in domestic violence. In Mexico, a decision to ban alcohol sales was followed by scores of deaths after people drank tainted homemade alcohol.
Millions of children are at risk of dying, the United Nations said on Wednesday, not of Covid-19, but of preventable causes. Unable to get care at hospitals that are straining to fight the virus, more than a million children aged 5 or younger will die every six months, UNICEF said in a report.Millions of children are at risk of dying, the United Nations said on Wednesday, not of Covid-19, but of preventable causes. Unable to get care at hospitals that are straining to fight the virus, more than a million children aged 5 or younger will die every six months, UNICEF said in a report.
Young children are also at risk of a serious and potentially deadly inflammatory condition, a new study of which provided the strongest evidence yet that the syndrome is linked to the coronavirus. The condition, called pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome, has been reported in about 100 children in New York, and scores more elsewhere in the United States and in Europe.Young children are also at risk of a serious and potentially deadly inflammatory condition, a new study of which provided the strongest evidence yet that the syndrome is linked to the coronavirus. The condition, called pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome, has been reported in about 100 children in New York, and scores more elsewhere in the United States and in Europe.
And the World Health Organization, the health body that has been working to coordinate global efforts to combat the disease, warned on Thursday of a looming mental illness crisis, the result of “the isolation, the fear, the uncertainty, the economic turmoil,” brought on by the pandemic.And the World Health Organization, the health body that has been working to coordinate global efforts to combat the disease, warned on Thursday of a looming mental illness crisis, the result of “the isolation, the fear, the uncertainty, the economic turmoil,” brought on by the pandemic.
Devora Kestel, the head of the W.H.O.’s mental health department, who presented the report, said the world could expect to see a surge in the severity of mental illness, notably in children and health care workers.Devora Kestel, the head of the W.H.O.’s mental health department, who presented the report, said the world could expect to see a surge in the severity of mental illness, notably in children and health care workers.
“The mental health and well-being of whole societies have been severely impacted by this crisis and are a priority to be addressed urgently,” she said.“The mental health and well-being of whole societies have been severely impacted by this crisis and are a priority to be addressed urgently,” she said.
A government official in France said on Thursday that it would be unacceptable for the French drug giant Sanofi to give the United States early access to any Covid-19 vaccine it develops, after comments by the company’s chief executive suggested that America would be first in line because it helped finance the research.A government official in France said on Thursday that it would be unacceptable for the French drug giant Sanofi to give the United States early access to any Covid-19 vaccine it develops, after comments by the company’s chief executive suggested that America would be first in line because it helped finance the research.
“For us, it would be unacceptable if another country had privileged access under a financial pretext,” Agnès Pannier-Runacher, the junior economy minister, told Sud Radio.“For us, it would be unacceptable if another country had privileged access under a financial pretext,” Agnès Pannier-Runacher, the junior economy minister, told Sud Radio.
Paul Hudson, Sanofi’s chief executive, told Bloomberg News on Wednesday that “the U.S. government has the right to the largest pre-order because it’s invested in taking the risk.”Paul Hudson, Sanofi’s chief executive, told Bloomberg News on Wednesday that “the U.S. government has the right to the largest pre-order because it’s invested in taking the risk.”
Sanofi has received $30 million from an office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Mr. Hudson said.Sanofi has received $30 million from an office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Mr. Hudson said.
“I’ve been campaigning in Europe to say the U.S. will get vaccines first,” he said. “That’s how it will be, because they’ve invested to try and protect their population, to restart their economy.”“I’ve been campaigning in Europe to say the U.S. will get vaccines first,” he said. “That’s how it will be, because they’ve invested to try and protect their population, to restart their economy.”
Sanofi later said in a statement that it was “committed in these unprecedented circumstances to make our vaccine accessible to everyone,” and noted that it has manufacturing plants around the world.Sanofi later said in a statement that it was “committed in these unprecedented circumstances to make our vaccine accessible to everyone,” and noted that it has manufacturing plants around the world.
The issue is a delicate one for President Emmanuel Macron of France, who has said repeatedly that Europe needs to develop its “economic sovereignty” to depend less on the United States and China for strategic technological and medical goods.The issue is a delicate one for President Emmanuel Macron of France, who has said repeatedly that Europe needs to develop its “economic sovereignty” to depend less on the United States and China for strategic technological and medical goods.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Édouard Philippe said on Twitter that“equal access to the vaccine for all is nonnegotiable.”On Thursday, Prime Minister Édouard Philippe said on Twitter that“equal access to the vaccine for all is nonnegotiable.”
Dozens of current and former world leaders signed an open letter on Thursday urging that any coronavirus vaccine not be patented and be shared among all nations.Dozens of current and former world leaders signed an open letter on Thursday urging that any coronavirus vaccine not be patented and be shared among all nations.
About 1.2 million children in more than 100 countries are at risk of dying from preventable causes every six months because health services are overstressed or curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic, UNICEF said this week.
The figure is in addition to the 2.5 million children age 5 or younger who already die every six months in 118 low- and middle-income countries. A typhoon packing winds of nearly 100 miles per hour made landfall in the eastern Philippines on Thursday after gathering strength across the Pacific Ocean, prompting evacuations and raising concerns that the nation’s most populous area may still lie in its path.
Put another way, the roughly 13,800 young children who die every day will be joined by more than 6,000 others whose lives could have been saved. Typhoon Vongfong was traveling westward at about 10 m.p.h. when it hit Samar Island in the eastern Philippines at 12:15 p.m., according to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
UNICEF said the estimate was based on a study published in the Lancet Global Health journal by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Thousands were evacuated on Samar Island amid widespread power outages, officials said. There were no immediate reports of deaths.
“Under a worst-case scenario, the global number of children dying before their fifth birthdays could increase for the first time in decades,” Henrietta Fore, UNICEF’s executive director, said in a statement. Forecasters predicted that the storm could dump torrential rains across a wide area of the Philippines, perhaps including Luzon, the country’s largest island. It has a population of 60 million and includes the capital, Manila.
The spillover effects of Covid-19 have also heightened the threat to expectant mothers in these countries. UNICEF said an additional 56,700 maternal deaths could occur within six months, in addition to the 144,000 deaths that already take place in the same countries in that time period. Much of Luzon remains on lockdown because of the coronavirus epidemic. That could complicate emergency efforts should the storm strike the island with particular force.
The 10 countries that could have the largest number of additional child deaths, according to the estimate, are Bangladesh, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Tanzania and Uganda. “Definitely this is going to add to our emergency situation,” said Harry Roque, a spokesman for President Rodrigo Duterte. “While the areas expected to be hit by the typhoon are not heavily ravaged by Covid-19, we have set some guidelines.”
He said families taken to evacuation areas would have to observe strict social-distancing rules. But judging from evacuations during previous typhoons, he conceded, “enforcing that would be a challenge.”
Russia is hailing its medical workers as heroes, their photographs plastered on billboards and their stories glamorized on state TV. But as the country becomes one of the global hot spots of the pandemic, those workers are suffering astonishing levels of infection and death in their ranks.Russia is hailing its medical workers as heroes, their photographs plastered on billboards and their stories glamorized on state TV. But as the country becomes one of the global hot spots of the pandemic, those workers are suffering astonishing levels of infection and death in their ranks.
Thousands have been infected, and more than 180 doctors, nurses, paramedics and other medical workers have died.Thousands have been infected, and more than 180 doctors, nurses, paramedics and other medical workers have died.
Like their colleagues in much of the rest of the world, many of those doctors and nurses are suffering from a shortage of protective gear and equipment. But Russian health workers are also at the mercy of a convoluted, unforgiving bureaucracy that increasingly appears outmatched by the pandemic.Like their colleagues in much of the rest of the world, many of those doctors and nurses are suffering from a shortage of protective gear and equipment. But Russian health workers are also at the mercy of a convoluted, unforgiving bureaucracy that increasingly appears outmatched by the pandemic.
An internal federal government document obtained by The New York Times illuminated Russia’s lack of preparedness. In late March, regional Russian officials were sounding alarm bells about a drastic undersupply of protective equipment and pervasive confusion about how they were supposed to tackle the virus.An internal federal government document obtained by The New York Times illuminated Russia’s lack of preparedness. In late March, regional Russian officials were sounding alarm bells about a drastic undersupply of protective equipment and pervasive confusion about how they were supposed to tackle the virus.
Those problems still have not been fully resolved. Now, six weeks later, even doctors at Moscow’s top hospitals are reporting nearly overwhelming levels of infection among their colleagues.Those problems still have not been fully resolved. Now, six weeks later, even doctors at Moscow’s top hospitals are reporting nearly overwhelming levels of infection among their colleagues.
“I think that, as of today, I know a handful of people who have not been sick,” said Dr. Evgeny Zeltyn, a cardiologist at a Moscow hospital.“I think that, as of today, I know a handful of people who have not been sick,” said Dr. Evgeny Zeltyn, a cardiologist at a Moscow hospital.
Dr. Zeltyn said he had been lucky: He was at work when he collapsed with a fever of 102 degrees. He received treatment right away, spent the night in his hospital as a patient and was back at work within five days.Dr. Zeltyn said he had been lucky: He was at work when he collapsed with a fever of 102 degrees. He received treatment right away, spent the night in his hospital as a patient and was back at work within five days.
“People are fighting,” he said. “People are incredibly tired.”“People are fighting,” he said. “People are incredibly tired.”
The first cases of the coronavirus in crowded refugee camps for Rohingya Muslims in Bangladesh was confirmed on Thursday, raising fears about how quickly disease can spread through one of the world’s most overcrowded and vulnerable communities.The first cases of the coronavirus in crowded refugee camps for Rohingya Muslims in Bangladesh was confirmed on Thursday, raising fears about how quickly disease can spread through one of the world’s most overcrowded and vulnerable communities.
The United Nations refugee agency said that the Bangladeshi government had identified two people who had tested positive at medical clinics in the Rohingya camps, where around 1 million refugees have taken shelter after fleeing decades of persecution in neighboring Myanmar.The United Nations refugee agency said that the Bangladeshi government had identified two people who had tested positive at medical clinics in the Rohingya camps, where around 1 million refugees have taken shelter after fleeing decades of persecution in neighboring Myanmar.
One of the two who tested positive is a refugee while the other is a member of the host population, according to the United Nations refugee agency. A community leader in the camps said that up to 1,900 people who had contact with the pair have been identified and may undergo some form of quarantine.One of the two who tested positive is a refugee while the other is a member of the host population, according to the United Nations refugee agency. A community leader in the camps said that up to 1,900 people who had contact with the pair have been identified and may undergo some form of quarantine.
Epidemiologists fear the virus could spread like wildfire through such camps around the world, teeming with millions of people fleeing war, persecution and famine. It has turned up in camps in Syria, South Sudan and Greece’s Aegean Islands.Epidemiologists fear the virus could spread like wildfire through such camps around the world, teeming with millions of people fleeing war, persecution and famine. It has turned up in camps in Syria, South Sudan and Greece’s Aegean Islands.
In Bangladesh, the tented Rohingya encampments spread across landslide-prone hills are already susceptible to disaster and disease. Diphtheria, all but eradicated in most of the world, has raced through them. Marauding elephants have trampled children to death. A fire recently destroyed hundreds of shelters.In Bangladesh, the tented Rohingya encampments spread across landslide-prone hills are already susceptible to disaster and disease. Diphtheria, all but eradicated in most of the world, has raced through them. Marauding elephants have trampled children to death. A fire recently destroyed hundreds of shelters.
A mobile internet ban imposed by the Bangladeshi authorities has made dispersing accurate information difficult. In the Rohingya camps, there is not a single intensive care bed, and fewer than 100 refugees have been tested for the virus, according to the United Nations refugee agency.A mobile internet ban imposed by the Bangladeshi authorities has made dispersing accurate information difficult. In the Rohingya camps, there is not a single intensive care bed, and fewer than 100 refugees have been tested for the virus, according to the United Nations refugee agency.
Bangladesh has reported fewer than 20,000 cases of the coronavirus, but health experts believe the true number is much higher.Bangladesh has reported fewer than 20,000 cases of the coronavirus, but health experts believe the true number is much higher.
“This pandemic could set Bangladesh back by decades,” said Athena Rayburn, who manages the group Save the Children’s efforts to aid the Rohingya.“This pandemic could set Bangladesh back by decades,” said Athena Rayburn, who manages the group Save the Children’s efforts to aid the Rohingya.
It was just two weeks ago that war-ravaged Yemen, the Arab world’s poorest country, reported its first cluster of coronavirus cases. Since then infections appear to have exploded, realizing the worst fears of aid groups.It was just two weeks ago that war-ravaged Yemen, the Arab world’s poorest country, reported its first cluster of coronavirus cases. Since then infections appear to have exploded, realizing the worst fears of aid groups.
Save the Children, the global charity, reported Thursday that at least 385 people had died over the past week with Covid 19-like symptoms in the city of Aden, where the first cluster — five cases — surfaced at the end of April.Save the Children, the global charity, reported Thursday that at least 385 people had died over the past week with Covid 19-like symptoms in the city of Aden, where the first cluster — five cases — surfaced at the end of April.
Several hospitals in Aden have closed, and some medical workers have refused to work because of a lack of protective equipment, Save the Children said. The two main public hospitals are providing only emergency services, and are not admitting patients, it reported.Several hospitals in Aden have closed, and some medical workers have refused to work because of a lack of protective equipment, Save the Children said. The two main public hospitals are providing only emergency services, and are not admitting patients, it reported.
“Our teams on the ground are seeing how people are being sent away from hospitals, breathing heavily or even collapsing,” Mohammed Alshamaa, Save the Children’s director of programs in Yemen, said in a statement. “People are dying because they can’t get treatment that would normally save their lives.”“Our teams on the ground are seeing how people are being sent away from hospitals, breathing heavily or even collapsing,” Mohammed Alshamaa, Save the Children’s director of programs in Yemen, said in a statement. “People are dying because they can’t get treatment that would normally save their lives.”
Earlier Thursday, U.N. officialsalso sounded the alarm. “Humanitarian agencies have every reason to believe that community transmission is taking place across the country,” said Ramesh Rajasingham, the acting deputy emergency relief coordinator.Earlier Thursday, U.N. officialsalso sounded the alarm. “Humanitarian agencies have every reason to believe that community transmission is taking place across the country,” said Ramesh Rajasingham, the acting deputy emergency relief coordinator.
The five-year war in Yemen and the nine-year one in Syria have combined with the pandemic to create especially dire challenges for vulnerable civilian populations, who are often displaced and have limited or no access to food and medical care.The five-year war in Yemen and the nine-year one in Syria have combined with the pandemic to create especially dire challenges for vulnerable civilian populations, who are often displaced and have limited or no access to food and medical care.
The World Food Program, the anti-hunger agency of the United Nations, said on Twitter on Thursday that a record 9.3 million people in Syria are “food insecure” — meaning they regularly don’t have enough to eat. Spiraling prices and the coronavirus have “pushed families beyond their limits,” the agency said.The World Food Program, the anti-hunger agency of the United Nations, said on Twitter on Thursday that a record 9.3 million people in Syria are “food insecure” — meaning they regularly don’t have enough to eat. Spiraling prices and the coronavirus have “pushed families beyond their limits,” the agency said.
Even in hard-hit countries, small fractions of the population have caught the coronavirus so far, new studies in England, Spain and France show — sobering evidence that the world remains far from defeating the contagion.Even in hard-hit countries, small fractions of the population have caught the coronavirus so far, new studies in England, Spain and France show — sobering evidence that the world remains far from defeating the contagion.
Public health officials warn that relaxing social distancing rules risks causing new waves of the pandemic, in part because the vast majority of people may still be susceptible to infection.Public health officials warn that relaxing social distancing rules risks causing new waves of the pandemic, in part because the vast majority of people may still be susceptible to infection.
Scientists say it is likely, though not certain, that people who have had the virus gain some immunity to it. The new findings support experts’ warnings that populations are still far from achieving “herd immunity,” when enough people are resistant to slow its spread.Scientists say it is likely, though not certain, that people who have had the virus gain some immunity to it. The new findings support experts’ warnings that populations are still far from achieving “herd immunity,” when enough people are resistant to slow its spread.
In England, tests performed on more than 10,000 people who were not in hospitals or nursing homes showed that only 0.27 percent were infected. The study, published on Thursday by Britain’s Office for National Statistics, measured only active infections, not people who no longer had the virus in their systems.In England, tests performed on more than 10,000 people who were not in hospitals or nursing homes showed that only 0.27 percent were infected. The study, published on Thursday by Britain’s Office for National Statistics, measured only active infections, not people who no longer had the virus in their systems.
A Spanish study, announced by the government on Wednesday, was different in that it tested for antibodies, not the virus itself, so it measured how many people had been infected at some point, including those who had recovered. It found that about 5 percent of the nation’s population had caught the coronavirus.A Spanish study, announced by the government on Wednesday, was different in that it tested for antibodies, not the virus itself, so it measured how many people had been infected at some point, including those who had recovered. It found that about 5 percent of the nation’s population had caught the coronavirus.
And a study in France, published on Wednesday in the journal Science, estimated that 4.4 percent of that country’s population had been infected.And a study in France, published on Wednesday in the journal Science, estimated that 4.4 percent of that country’s population had been infected.
In all three countries, the great majority of those who have been tested for the virus had symptoms, and they were primarily people in hospitals or nursing homes. The tests are imperfect — infected people often test negative — but in all three countries, significantly less than 1 percent of the population has tested positive.In all three countries, the great majority of those who have been tested for the virus had symptoms, and they were primarily people in hospitals or nursing homes. The tests are imperfect — infected people often test negative — but in all three countries, significantly less than 1 percent of the population has tested positive.
Britain has had more than 33,000 confirmed Covid-19 deaths, the second-most after the United States. France and Spain have each had more than 27,000.Britain has had more than 33,000 confirmed Covid-19 deaths, the second-most after the United States. France and Spain have each had more than 27,000.
Tears have flowed freely this month at a nursing home in Wassenaar, a coastal community in the Netherlands. And — a rarity in the midst of a pandemic — they have been tears of joy.Tears have flowed freely this month at a nursing home in Wassenaar, a coastal community in the Netherlands. And — a rarity in the midst of a pandemic — they have been tears of joy.
As the coronavirus takes a disastrous toll on nursing homes across the world, the Wassenaar residents had an opportunity to see their families in person, though separated by a pane of glass, thanks to the ingenuity of the center’s staff.As the coronavirus takes a disastrous toll on nursing homes across the world, the Wassenaar residents had an opportunity to see their families in person, though separated by a pane of glass, thanks to the ingenuity of the center’s staff.
After nursing homes across the country were closed to visitors in March, Willem Holleman, the nursing home’s director, came up with the idea of installing a cabin in the yard where residents and their family members can meet without a risk of infection. That, he said, “has made all the difference.”After nursing homes across the country were closed to visitors in March, Willem Holleman, the nursing home’s director, came up with the idea of installing a cabin in the yard where residents and their family members can meet without a risk of infection. That, he said, “has made all the difference.”
The cabin, divided by a glass wall, has two entrances. On one side, a nursing home resident walks in with a staff member’s help. On the other side, up to two family members can enter the cabin after disinfecting their hands. An intercom allows the family to communicate.The cabin, divided by a glass wall, has two entrances. On one side, a nursing home resident walks in with a staff member’s help. On the other side, up to two family members can enter the cabin after disinfecting their hands. An intercom allows the family to communicate.
“The first visit in the cabin was very special,” Mr. Holleman said. “Two daughters came to see their mother for the first time after three weeks. All three of them sobbed.”“The first visit in the cabin was very special,” Mr. Holleman said. “Two daughters came to see their mother for the first time after three weeks. All three of them sobbed.”
Over half of Europe’s coronavirus deaths have been in nursing homes, data suggests, and older people are especially vulnerable to the virus. Mr. Holleman said there had been no coronavirus cases at the Wassenaar home, where residents range in age from 75 to 101.Over half of Europe’s coronavirus deaths have been in nursing homes, data suggests, and older people are especially vulnerable to the virus. Mr. Holleman said there had been no coronavirus cases at the Wassenaar home, where residents range in age from 75 to 101.
Mr. Holleman said he was amazed by how the idea had taken off and spread throughout the Netherlands to other nursing homes. For now, the facility allows four half-hour visits per day. All of the slots have been booked up through the end of this month.Mr. Holleman said he was amazed by how the idea had taken off and spread throughout the Netherlands to other nursing homes. For now, the facility allows four half-hour visits per day. All of the slots have been booked up through the end of this month.
“Of course we all prefer to hug each other and walk outside while holding hands,” Mr. Holleman said. “This is second best.”“Of course we all prefer to hug each other and walk outside while holding hands,” Mr. Holleman said. “This is second best.”
Mumbai is India’s most densely populated city. A scraggly peninsula framed by the Arabian Sea and other waterways. A city of outsize dreams and desperate poverty. It is where Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, built a 27-story single-family home, and where “Slumdog Millionaire” was filmed and set.Mumbai is India’s most densely populated city. A scraggly peninsula framed by the Arabian Sea and other waterways. A city of outsize dreams and desperate poverty. It is where Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, built a 27-story single-family home, and where “Slumdog Millionaire” was filmed and set.
Indians call it Maximum City.Indians call it Maximum City.
And as the coronavirus gnaws its way across India, Mumbai has suffered the country’s worst outbreak. The city of 20 million is now responsible for 20 percent of India’s coronavirus infections and nearly 25 percent of the deaths. Hospitals are overflowing. Police officers are exhausted enforcing a stay-at-home curfew.And as the coronavirus gnaws its way across India, Mumbai has suffered the country’s worst outbreak. The city of 20 million is now responsible for 20 percent of India’s coronavirus infections and nearly 25 percent of the deaths. Hospitals are overflowing. Police officers are exhausted enforcing a stay-at-home curfew.
Doctors say the biggest enemy is Mumbai’s density, particularly in the city’s vast slum districts, where social distancing is impossible. People often live eight to a room across miles and miles of informal settlements made of concrete blocks and topped with sheets of rusted iron. As temperatures climb toward 100 degrees Fahrenheit, many can’t help but to spill into the streets.Doctors say the biggest enemy is Mumbai’s density, particularly in the city’s vast slum districts, where social distancing is impossible. People often live eight to a room across miles and miles of informal settlements made of concrete blocks and topped with sheets of rusted iron. As temperatures climb toward 100 degrees Fahrenheit, many can’t help but to spill into the streets.
The nation of 1.3 billion people has been put under one of the world’s tightest lockdowns for the past seven weeks. That has kept reported coronavirus infections relatively low — around 78,000 cases reported so far.The nation of 1.3 billion people has been put under one of the world’s tightest lockdowns for the past seven weeks. That has kept reported coronavirus infections relatively low — around 78,000 cases reported so far.
But India’s testing is also relatively low, so many experts fear that the real number of infections is far higher. Many people still don’t have masks.But India’s testing is also relatively low, so many experts fear that the real number of infections is far higher. Many people still don’t have masks.
For the past eight weeks, Atul Loke, a second-generation newspaper photographer, has been tracking the spread of the coronavirus across Mumbai. His photographs, which can be viewed at the link below, reveal a city under siege.For the past eight weeks, Atul Loke, a second-generation newspaper photographer, has been tracking the spread of the coronavirus across Mumbai. His photographs, which can be viewed at the link below, reveal a city under siege.
The United Nations intended to celebrate its 75th birthday during the annual General Assembly this September. But the meeting — the world’s biggest diplomatic gathering — may instead be held by videoconference because of the coronavirus pandemic.The United Nations intended to celebrate its 75th birthday during the annual General Assembly this September. But the meeting — the world’s biggest diplomatic gathering — may instead be held by videoconference because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Diplomats have been saying privately that they do not see how it would be possible to convene such a meeting if New York, the host city, is still grappling with basic health and safety issues, which seems likely.Diplomats have been saying privately that they do not see how it would be possible to convene such a meeting if New York, the host city, is still grappling with basic health and safety issues, which seems likely.
Dozens of world leaders and thousands of diplomats and other officials would normally descend on the city, with hotels, restaurants and meeting venues booked well in advance for guests, receptions, side-meetings and related events.Dozens of world leaders and thousands of diplomats and other officials would normally descend on the city, with hotels, restaurants and meeting venues booked well in advance for guests, receptions, side-meetings and related events.
Secretary-General António Guterres, who ordered the 193-member organization’s headquarters to be largely vacated two months ago and asked employees to work from home, has suggested that he is looking at different options for this year’s General Assembly, including a drastically scaled-down version augmented by internet videoconferences.Secretary-General António Guterres, who ordered the 193-member organization’s headquarters to be largely vacated two months ago and asked employees to work from home, has suggested that he is looking at different options for this year’s General Assembly, including a drastically scaled-down version augmented by internet videoconferences.
But aides to Mr. Guterres and to the General Assembly’s current president, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande of Nigeria, said they have not ruled out a physical gathering.But aides to Mr. Guterres and to the General Assembly’s current president, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande of Nigeria, said they have not ruled out a physical gathering.
Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesman for Mr. Guterres, said Thursday that Paris Match magazine, which had quoted Mr. Guterres as saying that a meeting of thousands of representatives was “unlikely,” had taken the comment out of context.Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesman for Mr. Guterres, said Thursday that Paris Match magazine, which had quoted Mr. Guterres as saying that a meeting of thousands of representatives was “unlikely,” had taken the comment out of context.
“He did not say that it would not happen,” Mr. Dujarric said at a daily news briefing, which like other U.N. events is now held via videoconference.“He did not say that it would not happen,” Mr. Dujarric said at a daily news briefing, which like other U.N. events is now held via videoconference.
Reem Abaza, a spokeswoman for Mr. Muhammad-Bande, speaking in the same videoconference, also said no decisions had been made. “It’s still too early to know for sure what will happen in September,” she told reporters.Reem Abaza, a spokeswoman for Mr. Muhammad-Bande, speaking in the same videoconference, also said no decisions had been made. “It’s still too early to know for sure what will happen in September,” she told reporters.
The General Assembly has been held every year since the organization’s founding in 1945. The meeting is scheduled to start Sept. 15, and the speeches by world leaders are set to begin Sept. 22.The General Assembly has been held every year since the organization’s founding in 1945. The meeting is scheduled to start Sept. 15, and the speeches by world leaders are set to begin Sept. 22.
Workers at Amazon’s six French warehouses won some concessions from the company in late March: After hundreds of employees threatened to walk out unless the company better protected them from the coronavirus, the internet giant strengthened social distancing measures, provided masks and hand sanitizer and took employee temperatures.Workers at Amazon’s six French warehouses won some concessions from the company in late March: After hundreds of employees threatened to walk out unless the company better protected them from the coronavirus, the internet giant strengthened social distancing measures, provided masks and hand sanitizer and took employee temperatures.
But that was not enough for workers like Jean-François Bérot, who a few weeks later felt like his colleagues were still too close for comfort, putting themselves at risk to fulfill orders for items as trivial as nail polish.But that was not enough for workers like Jean-François Bérot, who a few weeks later felt like his colleagues were still too close for comfort, putting themselves at risk to fulfill orders for items as trivial as nail polish.
“People kept coming to work feeling worried about being exposed to a mortal danger,” said Mr. Bérot, 50, who works at a warehouse south of Paris.“People kept coming to work feeling worried about being exposed to a mortal danger,” said Mr. Bérot, 50, who works at a warehouse south of Paris.
Mr. Bérot’s union successfully sued Amazon last month, in what has become the most high-profile labor showdown the retailer has faced since the coronavirus outbreak. A French court ordered Amazon to stop delivering “nonessential” items as part of measures to protect worker health. The company responded by closing its French warehouses and putting 10,000 employees on paid furlough.Mr. Bérot’s union successfully sued Amazon last month, in what has become the most high-profile labor showdown the retailer has faced since the coronavirus outbreak. A French court ordered Amazon to stop delivering “nonessential” items as part of measures to protect worker health. The company responded by closing its French warehouses and putting 10,000 employees on paid furlough.
The case, now headed to the French Supreme Court, will test Amazon’s ability to sidestep the demands of workers who are fulfilling a sudden surge in orders amid the pandemic.The case, now headed to the French Supreme Court, will test Amazon’s ability to sidestep the demands of workers who are fulfilling a sudden surge in orders amid the pandemic.
Wuhan, the Chinese city where the coronavirus pandemic began, has announced an ambitious plan to test all of its 11 million residents for the virus in the coming days, a campaign that will be closely watched by governments elsewhere.Wuhan, the Chinese city where the coronavirus pandemic began, has announced an ambitious plan to test all of its 11 million residents for the virus in the coming days, a campaign that will be closely watched by governments elsewhere.
While some residents have been supportive, others are concerned or angry about being asked to join long lines outdoors and risk becoming infected. Even though the lockdown in Wuhan has lifted, many residents have still chosen to stay home as much as possible.While some residents have been supportive, others are concerned or angry about being asked to join long lines outdoors and risk becoming infected. Even though the lockdown in Wuhan has lifted, many residents have still chosen to stay home as much as possible.
And at least one senior expert said it was unnecessary to test every resident in Wuhan, given the low number of cases in the city.And at least one senior expert said it was unnecessary to test every resident in Wuhan, given the low number of cases in the city.
The testing drive, which is likely to require the mobilization of thousands of medical and other workers, shows the ruling Communist Party’s resolve to prevent a second wave of infections as it tries to restart China’s economy. The plan was announced this week after Wuhan reported six coronavirus cases, breaking a streak of more than a month without any new confirmed infections.The testing drive, which is likely to require the mobilization of thousands of medical and other workers, shows the ruling Communist Party’s resolve to prevent a second wave of infections as it tries to restart China’s economy. The plan was announced this week after Wuhan reported six coronavirus cases, breaking a streak of more than a month without any new confirmed infections.
The city’s goal of testing every resident is unrivaled in scale and in the speed at which Wuhan apparently plans to carry it out.The city’s goal of testing every resident is unrivaled in scale and in the speed at which Wuhan apparently plans to carry it out.
Some countries, like South Korea and Germany, have aggressively tested and traced infections, albeit at much lower levels than Wuhan is trying. In the United States, the rate of testing is still far short of the three million to five million tests per week that experts say will be necessary to safely reopen the country.Some countries, like South Korea and Germany, have aggressively tested and traced infections, albeit at much lower levels than Wuhan is trying. In the United States, the rate of testing is still far short of the three million to five million tests per week that experts say will be necessary to safely reopen the country.
With the number of daily new coronavirus cases falling in Japan after four weeks of a nationwide state of emergency, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday that he would lift restrictions in 39 of the country’s 47 prefectures.With the number of daily new coronavirus cases falling in Japan after four weeks of a nationwide state of emergency, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Thursday that he would lift restrictions in 39 of the country’s 47 prefectures.
But the state of emergency — which gives local governors the power to close schools, encourage people to stay indoors and request that businesses close temporarily — will remain in place for the country’s eight most populated areas, including Tokyo and Osaka. Kyoto and the northernmost island, Hokkaido, will also remain under the emergency declaration.But the state of emergency — which gives local governors the power to close schools, encourage people to stay indoors and request that businesses close temporarily — will remain in place for the country’s eight most populated areas, including Tokyo and Osaka. Kyoto and the northernmost island, Hokkaido, will also remain under the emergency declaration.
Mr. Abe said he would review the state of emergency for the remaining prefectures next week to determine whether it could be lifted before the end of the month.Mr. Abe said he would review the state of emergency for the remaining prefectures next week to determine whether it could be lifted before the end of the month.
He declared the emergency last month, through May 7, and later extended it until the end of this month.He declared the emergency last month, through May 7, and later extended it until the end of this month.
Japan has reported a total of 16,079 infections and 687 deaths from the coronavirus. On Thursday, the health ministry reported 57 new cases for the nation and 19 deaths.Japan has reported a total of 16,079 infections and 687 deaths from the coronavirus. On Thursday, the health ministry reported 57 new cases for the nation and 19 deaths.
Mr. Abe urged residents not to let their guard down after the emergency declaration is lifted. He asked that people continue to wash hands, abide by social distancing guidelines and wear masks when going out. He also asked residents to avoid crowds in enclosed, poorly ventilated places and refrain from visiting places like nightclubs, karaoke parlors and live music halls.Mr. Abe urged residents not to let their guard down after the emergency declaration is lifted. He asked that people continue to wash hands, abide by social distancing guidelines and wear masks when going out. He also asked residents to avoid crowds in enclosed, poorly ventilated places and refrain from visiting places like nightclubs, karaoke parlors and live music halls.
“We will have to create a new model in daily life from now on, and today is the start of that,” he said. He added that if infections begin to rise significantly again, “unfortunately we might have to resort to a second declaration of a state of emergency.”“We will have to create a new model in daily life from now on, and today is the start of that,” he said. He added that if infections begin to rise significantly again, “unfortunately we might have to resort to a second declaration of a state of emergency.”
Warning of “the darkest winter in modern times,” a whistle-blower, ousted as head of a federal agency working on a coronavirus vaccine, told Congress on Thursday that the pandemic could “get worse and be prolonged.”Warning of “the darkest winter in modern times,” a whistle-blower, ousted as head of a federal agency working on a coronavirus vaccine, told Congress on Thursday that the pandemic could “get worse and be prolonged.”
“The window is closing to address this pandemic because we still do not have a standard, centralized, coordinated plan to take this nation through this response,” Dr. Rick Bright, told a House health subcommittee.“The window is closing to address this pandemic because we still do not have a standard, centralized, coordinated plan to take this nation through this response,” Dr. Rick Bright, told a House health subcommittee.
The country needs a national strategy for widespread testing, and for production and distribution of a vaccine on a scale beyond the ability of any one company, he said. He added that his superiors were indifferent to his warnings early this year of inadequate supplies.The country needs a national strategy for widespread testing, and for production and distribution of a vaccine on a scale beyond the ability of any one company, he said. He added that his superiors were indifferent to his warnings early this year of inadequate supplies.
Dr. Bright was removed last month as head of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, and moved to a narrower position at the National Institutes of Health. He had clashed with Trump administration officials over a malaria drug that the president has promoted, despite a lack of evidence, as a Covid-19 treatment.Dr. Bright was removed last month as head of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, and moved to a narrower position at the National Institutes of Health. He had clashed with Trump administration officials over a malaria drug that the president has promoted, despite a lack of evidence, as a Covid-19 treatment.
He filed a whistle-blower complaint with the Office of Special Counsel, which has found “reasonable grounds” that Dr. Bright was improperly retaliated against.He filed a whistle-blower complaint with the Office of Special Counsel, which has found “reasonable grounds” that Dr. Bright was improperly retaliated against.
Mr. Trump said on Twitter Thursday that Dr. Bright “should no longer be working for our government,” and later described him as “nothing more than a really unhappy disgruntled person.”Mr. Trump said on Twitter Thursday that Dr. Bright “should no longer be working for our government,” and later described him as “nothing more than a really unhappy disgruntled person.”
Also on Thursday, the government reported that almost three million people filed new unemployment claims last week, bringing the eight-week total to 36.5 million. Until March, there had never been more than 700,000 such filings in a week.Also on Thursday, the government reported that almost three million people filed new unemployment claims last week, bringing the eight-week total to 36.5 million. Until March, there had never been more than 700,000 such filings in a week.
And Senator Richard M. Burr, Republican of North Carolina, temporarily stepped down as chairman of the Intelligence Committee on Thursday, amid an investigation into whether he traded on nonpublic information in selling hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of stocks before the market crashed.And Senator Richard M. Burr, Republican of North Carolina, temporarily stepped down as chairman of the Intelligence Committee on Thursday, amid an investigation into whether he traded on nonpublic information in selling hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of stocks before the market crashed.
Here’s what else is happening in the U.S.:Here’s what else is happening in the U.S.:
The White House threatened to veto a $3 trillion pandemic relief bill that Democrats were planning to push through the House on Friday, and Republicans urged their members to reject a measure that they said was a nonstarter. Even as they prepared to muscle it through the House, Democrats were making last-minute revisions to the bill, including a provision to ban nonprofit organizations that had engaged in election activities, like contributing to a political campaign, from receiving loans.
McDonald’s distributed a 59-page guide to its franchisees outlining procedures for reopening restaurants. Among other measures, the guide calls for all “high-touch” areas to be disinfected every 30 minutes. So far, fewer than 100 McDonald’s locations have opened dining rooms in the states where that is already allowed.McDonald’s distributed a 59-page guide to its franchisees outlining procedures for reopening restaurants. Among other measures, the guide calls for all “high-touch” areas to be disinfected every 30 minutes. So far, fewer than 100 McDonald’s locations have opened dining rooms in the states where that is already allowed.
Alaska’s Copper River fishing season brings an influx of workers, and a possible escalation of coronavirus cases. The state’s leading industry, oil and gas, has suffered losses and now Alaska’s $5.6 billion seafood industry is at risk.Alaska’s Copper River fishing season brings an influx of workers, and a possible escalation of coronavirus cases. The state’s leading industry, oil and gas, has suffered losses and now Alaska’s $5.6 billion seafood industry is at risk.
Burundi has expelled four top World Health Organization officials days before a crucial general election, amid criticism that the country has not done enough to curb the coronavirus pandemic.Burundi has expelled four top World Health Organization officials days before a crucial general election, amid criticism that the country has not done enough to curb the coronavirus pandemic.
The county’s foreign ministry declared four W.H.O. officials — including Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the U.N. agency’s top representative in the country — “persona non grata.” The authorities did not give a reason for expelling the experts, but said that they had to leave Burundi by Friday.The county’s foreign ministry declared four W.H.O. officials — including Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the U.N. agency’s top representative in the country — “persona non grata.” The authorities did not give a reason for expelling the experts, but said that they had to leave Burundi by Friday.
The central African nation has come under intense criticism for its handling of the coronavirus, with Human Rights Watch accusing it of taking a “denial and deflection approach.” From the onset, the authorities cited divine intervention to explain the delayed arrival of the virus in the country, saying that “Burundi is an exception, because it is a country that has put God first.”The central African nation has come under intense criticism for its handling of the coronavirus, with Human Rights Watch accusing it of taking a “denial and deflection approach.” From the onset, the authorities cited divine intervention to explain the delayed arrival of the virus in the country, saying that “Burundi is an exception, because it is a country that has put God first.”
Burundi — which will go to the polls on Wednesday to choose a president, lawmakers and local officials — has reported just 27 cases and one death from Covid-19. Health experts have called those numbers suspiciously low, especially as cases spike in neighboring Tanzania, which has also been accused of not reporting the virus’s true toll.Burundi — which will go to the polls on Wednesday to choose a president, lawmakers and local officials — has reported just 27 cases and one death from Covid-19. Health experts have called those numbers suspiciously low, especially as cases spike in neighboring Tanzania, which has also been accused of not reporting the virus’s true toll.
The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania said in a statement on Wednesday that the risk of contracting the coronavirus in the commercial city of Dar es Salaam was “extremely high.”The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania said in a statement on Wednesday that the risk of contracting the coronavirus in the commercial city of Dar es Salaam was “extremely high.”
For the novelist Maaza Mengiste, the coronavirus lockdowns and stay-at-home measures that have taken hold around the world have brought back the sense of exile she felt when she and her family fled Ethiopia in the 1970s.For the novelist Maaza Mengiste, the coronavirus lockdowns and stay-at-home measures that have taken hold around the world have brought back the sense of exile she felt when she and her family fled Ethiopia in the 1970s.
So it was a welcome reprieve when she was asked to participate in and help curate a virtual literary festival focused on connection — specifically, between writers of African origin and readers throughout the continent and globe.So it was a welcome reprieve when she was asked to participate in and help curate a virtual literary festival focused on connection — specifically, between writers of African origin and readers throughout the continent and globe.
“I jumped at the chance,” she said in a phone interview from Zurich. “Doing this online breaks a lot of boundaries that felt insurmountable.”“I jumped at the chance,” she said in a phone interview from Zurich. “Doing this online breaks a lot of boundaries that felt insurmountable.”
Afrolit Sans Frontieres, a series of hourlong readings and question-and-answer sessions held entirely on Facebook and Instagram, kicked off on March 23 and returned for a second edition in April. A third is scheduled to begin on May 25, to coincide with Africa Day, and a fourth is already in the works. In the face of the pandemic, with countless book fairs, tours and other literary events canceled or postponed, Afrolit stands out as a gathering where hundreds of readers can hear from authors and talk to them about sometimes difficult or taboo subjects.Afrolit Sans Frontieres, a series of hourlong readings and question-and-answer sessions held entirely on Facebook and Instagram, kicked off on March 23 and returned for a second edition in April. A third is scheduled to begin on May 25, to coincide with Africa Day, and a fourth is already in the works. In the face of the pandemic, with countless book fairs, tours and other literary events canceled or postponed, Afrolit stands out as a gathering where hundreds of readers can hear from authors and talk to them about sometimes difficult or taboo subjects.
The South African writer Zukiswa Wanner, who was inspired to create the festival after watching John Legend’s at-home concert on Instagram, is determined to use this moment to center the work of African writers. “It’s like a writing master class and a festival in one,” Wanner, the award-winning author of nine books, said in a phone interview from Nairobi.The South African writer Zukiswa Wanner, who was inspired to create the festival after watching John Legend’s at-home concert on Instagram, is determined to use this moment to center the work of African writers. “It’s like a writing master class and a festival in one,” Wanner, the award-winning author of nine books, said in a phone interview from Nairobi.
As concerns mount over children with a serious and potentially deadly inflammatory condition, a new study sheds light on the illness’s distinctive characteristics and provides the strongest evidence yet that the syndrome is linked to the coronavirus.As concerns mount over children with a serious and potentially deadly inflammatory condition, a new study sheds light on the illness’s distinctive characteristics and provides the strongest evidence yet that the syndrome is linked to the coronavirus.
The condition, called multisystem inflammatory syndrome, has been reported in about 100 children in New York State, including three who died, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said this week. Cases have been reported in other states, including Louisiana, Mississippi and California, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said they would soon issue an alert asking doctors to report cases of children with symptoms of the syndrome.The condition, called multisystem inflammatory syndrome, has been reported in about 100 children in New York State, including three who died, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said this week. Cases have been reported in other states, including Louisiana, Mississippi and California, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said they would soon issue an alert asking doctors to report cases of children with symptoms of the syndrome.
There have also been at least 50 cases reported in Europe, including in France, Switzerland, Spain and Britain, where at least one death has been attributed to the syndrome.There have also been at least 50 cases reported in Europe, including in France, Switzerland, Spain and Britain, where at least one death has been attributed to the syndrome.
In the new study, published on Wednesday in the journal Lancet, doctors in Italy compared 10 cases of the illness with cases of a similar, rare condition in children called Kawasaki disease.In the new study, published on Wednesday in the journal Lancet, doctors in Italy compared 10 cases of the illness with cases of a similar, rare condition in children called Kawasaki disease.
The authors found that over the five years before the coronavirus pandemic, 19 children with Kawasaki disease were treated at the Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, which has an advanced pediatric department, in the country’s Bergamo Province.The authors found that over the five years before the coronavirus pandemic, 19 children with Kawasaki disease were treated at the Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, which has an advanced pediatric department, in the country’s Bergamo Province.
But this year, from February 18 to April 20 alone, the hospital — which is at the epicenter of Italy’s coronavirus outbreak — treated 10 children with similar hyper-inflammatory symptoms.But this year, from February 18 to April 20 alone, the hospital — which is at the epicenter of Italy’s coronavirus outbreak — treated 10 children with similar hyper-inflammatory symptoms.
That suggests a cluster driven by the coronavirus pandemic, the authors said, especially since overall hospital admissions during this time were much lower than usual.That suggests a cluster driven by the coronavirus pandemic, the authors said, especially since overall hospital admissions during this time were much lower than usual.
Reporting and research were contributed by Mike Baker, David Yaffe-Bellany, Liz Alderman, Hannah Beech, Pam Belluck, Aurelien Breeden, Lauretta Charlton, Niraj Chokshi, Lynsey Chutel, Abdi Latif Dahir, Jeffrey Gettleman, Rick Gladstone, Russell Goldman, Jason Gutierrez, Yonette Joseph, Raphael Minder, Alex Marshall, Claire Moses, Elian Peltier, Richard Pérez-Peña, Motoko Rich, Siobhan Roberts, Adam Satariano, Kirk Semple, Megan Specia, Anton Troianovski, Shalini Venugopa, Vivian Wang, Sui-Lee Wee, Ceylan Yeginsu, Wang Yiwei, and Karen Zraick.Reporting and research were contributed by Mike Baker, David Yaffe-Bellany, Liz Alderman, Hannah Beech, Pam Belluck, Aurelien Breeden, Lauretta Charlton, Niraj Chokshi, Lynsey Chutel, Abdi Latif Dahir, Jeffrey Gettleman, Rick Gladstone, Russell Goldman, Jason Gutierrez, Yonette Joseph, Raphael Minder, Alex Marshall, Claire Moses, Elian Peltier, Richard Pérez-Peña, Motoko Rich, Siobhan Roberts, Adam Satariano, Kirk Semple, Megan Specia, Anton Troianovski, Shalini Venugopa, Vivian Wang, Sui-Lee Wee, Ceylan Yeginsu, Wang Yiwei, and Karen Zraick.