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Coronavirus Live Updates: Pandemic Projected to Cost the U.S. Economy $7.9 Trillion Coronavirus Live Updates: Pandemic Projected to Cost the U.S. Economy $7.9 Trillion
(about 2 hours later)
The Congressional Budget Office projected on Monday that the pandemic would inflict a devastating long-term blow to the United States economy, costing $7.9 trillion over the next decade, or a 3 percent loss in “real” gross domestic product.The Congressional Budget Office projected on Monday that the pandemic would inflict a devastating long-term blow to the United States economy, costing $7.9 trillion over the next decade, or a 3 percent loss in “real” gross domestic product.
Without adjusting for inflation, the agency said, the pandemic would cost $16 trillion over the next 10 years. The estimates were an official tally of the damage from the crisis, reflecting expectations of dampened consumer spending and business investment in the years to come. Much of the diminished output was projected to be a result of weaker inflation, as prices for energy and transportation are expected to increase more slowly than they otherwise would have as Americans pull back on travel.Without adjusting for inflation, the agency said, the pandemic would cost $16 trillion over the next 10 years. The estimates were an official tally of the damage from the crisis, reflecting expectations of dampened consumer spending and business investment in the years to come. Much of the diminished output was projected to be a result of weaker inflation, as prices for energy and transportation are expected to increase more slowly than they otherwise would have as Americans pull back on travel.
Phillip L. Swagel, the director of the budget office, cautioned that “an unusually high degree of uncertainty surrounds these economic projections,” because it remained unknown how the pandemic would unfold during the remainder of the year or how social distancing and any future relief measures enacted by the federal government might affect its impact.Phillip L. Swagel, the director of the budget office, cautioned that “an unusually high degree of uncertainty surrounds these economic projections,” because it remained unknown how the pandemic would unfold during the remainder of the year or how social distancing and any future relief measures enacted by the federal government might affect its impact.
Around the world, developing countries, from Angola to Ecuador to Zambia, have also seen their finances shredded by the pandemic.Around the world, developing countries, from Angola to Ecuador to Zambia, have also seen their finances shredded by the pandemic.
The low interest rates of the last decade allowed poor countries to raise money relatively cheaply to finance their growth. As a result, developing countries now owe record amounts of money to investors, governments and others outside their borders: $2.1 trillion for countries ranked as “low income” and “lower-middle income” by the World Bank.The low interest rates of the last decade allowed poor countries to raise money relatively cheaply to finance their growth. As a result, developing countries now owe record amounts of money to investors, governments and others outside their borders: $2.1 trillion for countries ranked as “low income” and “lower-middle income” by the World Bank.
The president of Tanzania has called on “our rich brothers” to cancel his country’s debt. Belarus veered toward a default when a promised $600 million loan from Russia fell through. Lebanon, troubled even before the pandemic, has embarked on its first debt restructuring. And Argentina has defaulted for the ninth time in its history.The president of Tanzania has called on “our rich brothers” to cancel his country’s debt. Belarus veered toward a default when a promised $600 million loan from Russia fell through. Lebanon, troubled even before the pandemic, has embarked on its first debt restructuring. And Argentina has defaulted for the ninth time in its history.
Michigan’s governor on Monday lifted a stay-at-home order for the state’s 10 million residents, as several other U.S. states announced steps to reopen businesses and public spaces.Michigan’s governor on Monday lifted a stay-at-home order for the state’s 10 million residents, as several other U.S. states announced steps to reopen businesses and public spaces.
Effective immediately, the governor said, groups of 100 people or less will be allowed to gather outdoors while social distancing. Restaurants will also be able to open starting Monday, though tables will be required to be six feet apart.Effective immediately, the governor said, groups of 100 people or less will be allowed to gather outdoors while social distancing. Restaurants will also be able to open starting Monday, though tables will be required to be six feet apart.
As the virus persists on a stubborn but uneven path, with meaningful progress in some cities and alarming new outbreaks in others, here is where other states and regions stand:As the virus persists on a stubborn but uneven path, with meaningful progress in some cities and alarming new outbreaks in others, here is where other states and regions stand:
New Jersey’s governor said retail stores there should be able to reopen on June 15, with limits, and restaurants could offer outdoor dining. Hair and nail salons could open June 22.New Jersey’s governor said retail stores there should be able to reopen on June 15, with limits, and restaurants could offer outdoor dining. Hair and nail salons could open June 22.
Louisiana’s governor said the state would begin easing restrictions on Friday, allowing venues including churches, malls, bars and theaters to increase capacity to 50 percent, although distancing measures will be maintained. The mayor of New Orleans said on Twitter that the city would not follow the state’s lead.Louisiana’s governor said the state would begin easing restrictions on Friday, allowing venues including churches, malls, bars and theaters to increase capacity to 50 percent, although distancing measures will be maintained. The mayor of New Orleans said on Twitter that the city would not follow the state’s lead.
Some restaurants in Minnesota opened their doors for customers on Monday after Gov. Tim Walz announced last week that people could be seated for outdoor dining starting Monday as long as social distancing regulations were in place. Salons were also allowed to open with limited capacity.Some restaurants in Minnesota opened their doors for customers on Monday after Gov. Tim Walz announced last week that people could be seated for outdoor dining starting Monday as long as social distancing regulations were in place. Salons were also allowed to open with limited capacity.
Despite ongoing outbreaks in parts of Mississippi, the governor announced that all businesses could reopen and travel restrictions had been lifted. Social-distancing rules remained in effect.Despite ongoing outbreaks in parts of Mississippi, the governor announced that all businesses could reopen and travel restrictions had been lifted. Social-distancing rules remained in effect.
The Midwest is still troubled by persistent outbreaks. Virus hospitalizations are on the rise in Wisconsin. New cases are consistently high in Minnesota, particularly around the Twin Cities, where health officials have warned that the escalating protests could increase the risk of infection.The Midwest is still troubled by persistent outbreaks. Virus hospitalizations are on the rise in Wisconsin. New cases are consistently high in Minnesota, particularly around the Twin Cities, where health officials have warned that the escalating protests could increase the risk of infection.
In the Northeast, the outlook has seesawed in the other direction. In New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, case numbers have plunged significantly in recent days.In the Northeast, the outlook has seesawed in the other direction. In New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, case numbers have plunged significantly in recent days.
Across the United States, new cases are on a small but steady decline, to about 21,000 a day from more than 30,000 at the peak in April.Across the United States, new cases are on a small but steady decline, to about 21,000 a day from more than 30,000 at the peak in April.
But just as some states were making cautious plans to open, curfews were imposed in dozens of cities over the weekend because of the protests that erupted across the country after Mr. Floyd died in police custody in Minnesota.But just as some states were making cautious plans to open, curfews were imposed in dozens of cities over the weekend because of the protests that erupted across the country after Mr. Floyd died in police custody in Minnesota.
The unrest injected a new sense of unease — not only because of the police confrontations and looting in some areas, but also because of fears that the virus was spreading in the crowds.The unrest injected a new sense of unease — not only because of the police confrontations and looting in some areas, but also because of fears that the virus was spreading in the crowds.
After a fourth night of crowded and chaotic protests in New York City against racism and deadly police brutality, the mayor and the governor voiced strong concerns Monday that the demonstrations could set off a second wave of coronavirus infections. It echoed worries by public health officials about the six days of demonstrations across the United States after George Floyd died in police custody in Minneapolis.After a fourth night of crowded and chaotic protests in New York City against racism and deadly police brutality, the mayor and the governor voiced strong concerns Monday that the demonstrations could set off a second wave of coronavirus infections. It echoed worries by public health officials about the six days of demonstrations across the United States after George Floyd died in police custody in Minneapolis.
“You turn on the TV, and you see mass gatherings that could potentially be infecting hundreds and hundreds of people after everything we have done,” Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said.“You turn on the TV, and you see mass gatherings that could potentially be infecting hundreds and hundreds of people after everything we have done,” Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said.
He noted that the state had just hit a big milestone: On Sunday, under 1,000 people tested positive, for the first time since March 16. The percentage of daily positive tests has fallen from over 50 percent to under 2 percent, and the latest daily death toll was 54, down from nearly 800 in April.He noted that the state had just hit a big milestone: On Sunday, under 1,000 people tested positive, for the first time since March 16. The percentage of daily positive tests has fallen from over 50 percent to under 2 percent, and the latest daily death toll was 54, down from nearly 800 in April.
“How many super-spreaders were in that crowd?” Mr. Cuomo asked. “How many young people went home and kissed their mother hello, or shook hands with their father, or hugged their father or their grandfather or their grandmother or their brother or their sister, and spread a virus?”“How many super-spreaders were in that crowd?” Mr. Cuomo asked. “How many young people went home and kissed their mother hello, or shook hands with their father, or hugged their father or their grandfather or their grandmother or their brother or their sister, and spread a virus?”
The convergence of the pandemic and the nationwide demonstrations has forced many political leaders to try to strike a difficult balance between expressing support for the right to protest and safeguarding the public health.The convergence of the pandemic and the nationwide demonstrations has forced many political leaders to try to strike a difficult balance between expressing support for the right to protest and safeguarding the public health.
“If you say, ‘Don’t come out because of the pandemic,’” Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York City said, “We don’t want people to hear about this as, ‘We are not hearing your concerns, or your concerns are not valid, or we don’t have to change things.’”“If you say, ‘Don’t come out because of the pandemic,’” Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York City said, “We don’t want people to hear about this as, ‘We are not hearing your concerns, or your concerns are not valid, or we don’t have to change things.’”
Still, he said, “for those who have made their presence felt, made their voices heard, the safest thing from this point is to stay home.” On Monday afternoon, Mr. Cuomo and Mr. de Blasio said a curfew in New York City would be in effect from 11 p.m. Monday to 5 a.m. Tuesday.Still, he said, “for those who have made their presence felt, made their voices heard, the safest thing from this point is to stay home.” On Monday afternoon, Mr. Cuomo and Mr. de Blasio said a curfew in New York City would be in effect from 11 p.m. Monday to 5 a.m. Tuesday.
More than 100,000 Americans have already died of Covid-19, the disease caused by the virus. People of color have been particularly hard hit, with rates of hospitalizations and deaths among black Americans far exceeding those of white people.More than 100,000 Americans have already died of Covid-19, the disease caused by the virus. People of color have been particularly hard hit, with rates of hospitalizations and deaths among black Americans far exceeding those of white people.
Public health officials urged anyone who does protest to wear face coverings, use hand sanitizer and maintain social distance. Though some experts said that the fact that the protests are held outdoors could reduce the risk of transmission, the leader of New York City’s contact-tracing effort said that everyone who attended a protest should get tested for the virus.Public health officials urged anyone who does protest to wear face coverings, use hand sanitizer and maintain social distance. Though some experts said that the fact that the protests are held outdoors could reduce the risk of transmission, the leader of New York City’s contact-tracing effort said that everyone who attended a protest should get tested for the virus.
Mr. Cuomo noted that New York City was set to reopen on June 8 and that he did not want to endanger that effort. “Protest, just be smart about it,” he said. “With this virus you can do many things now as long as you’re smart about it.”Mr. Cuomo noted that New York City was set to reopen on June 8 and that he did not want to endanger that effort. “Protest, just be smart about it,” he said. “With this virus you can do many things now as long as you’re smart about it.”
Officials elsewhere have slowed reopening because of the protests. Beaches had been scheduled to open on Monday in Miami-Dade County, Fla., but the mayor said they would stay closed until a curfew prompted by the protests is lifted.Officials elsewhere have slowed reopening because of the protests. Beaches had been scheduled to open on Monday in Miami-Dade County, Fla., but the mayor said they would stay closed until a curfew prompted by the protests is lifted.
Many of the nation’s governors have spoken in support of the protests, but President Trump, who has been besieged by protests and fires outside the White House, lashed out at them on Monday, warning them that they would look like “jerks” if they didn’t order demonstrators arrested and imprisoned. “You have to dominate,” he told them on a conference call. “If you don’t dominate, you’re wasting your time.”Many of the nation’s governors have spoken in support of the protests, but President Trump, who has been besieged by protests and fires outside the White House, lashed out at them on Monday, warning them that they would look like “jerks” if they didn’t order demonstrators arrested and imprisoned. “You have to dominate,” he told them on a conference call. “If you don’t dominate, you’re wasting your time.”
In New Jersey, Gov. Philip D. Murphy, who, like Mr. Cuomo and Mr. de Blasio, is a Democrat, expressed “solidarity” with the protesters. “It’s one thing to protest what day nail salons are opening,” Mr. Murphy said, “and it’s another to come out, in peaceful protest, overwhelmingly, about somebody who was murdered right before our eyes.”In New Jersey, Gov. Philip D. Murphy, who, like Mr. Cuomo and Mr. de Blasio, is a Democrat, expressed “solidarity” with the protesters. “It’s one thing to protest what day nail salons are opening,” Mr. Murphy said, “and it’s another to come out, in peaceful protest, overwhelmingly, about somebody who was murdered right before our eyes.”
China said on Tuesday that Wuhan, the city where the pandemic began, had reported no new symptomatic or asymptomatic infections on Monday for the second straight day. Sunday was the first day that both tallies were zero since the city’s outbreak began.
Separately, the European Chamber of Commerce in China issued a report decrying the rapid proliferation in recent years of long-haul international flights to and from second-tier and third-tier Chinese cities. That includes Wuhan, where 19 flights left the city in January alone carrying about 4,000 travelers to New York or San Francisco, according to VariFlight, an aviation data company based in China.
The pandemic has resulted in the temporary suspension of almost all of these services, according to the chamber, which focused its analysis on flights last year and prepared most of its report before the pandemic began. Philippe Bardol, the chairman of the chamber’s aviation and aerospace working group, declined to discuss Wuhan specifically.
A New York Times analysis in March found that international flights from Wuhan and other Chinese cities continued as normal through much of January, even as the outbreak moved across the country. Thousands of people flew out of Wuhan to New York, Sydney, Bangkok and other cities. (Bangkok is where the first known overseas case appeared in mid-January, in a 61-year-old woman who had traveled from Wuhan despite having a fever, headache and a sore throat.)
The pandemic has brought new attention to the steep rise in recent years of nonstop flights to the United States from an ever-lengthening list of cities.
Rapid growth in long-haul flights from second-tier and third-tier Chinese cities before the pandemic meant that people who used to change planes in Beijing or Shanghai could fly straight from Europe into smaller cities instead. Mr. Bardol said that eroded the number of passengers and profitability for European carriers on their routes from Europe to Beijing or Shanghai.
Smaller Chinese carriers tend to be headquartered in second-tier or third-tier cities, which often own stakes in the carriers as well and subsidize their new international flights. Before the pandemic hit, these cities wanted more international flights so as to increase tourism and make themselves more viable candidates when big companies chose where to locate their offices.
The Metropolitan Opera said on Monday that the pandemic had forced the company to cancel its fall season, thrusting the Met into one of the gravest crises in its 137-year history and leaving many of its artists, who have not been paid since March, in dire financial straits.The Metropolitan Opera said on Monday that the pandemic had forced the company to cancel its fall season, thrusting the Met into one of the gravest crises in its 137-year history and leaving many of its artists, who have not been paid since March, in dire financial straits.
The announcement by the Met, the largest U.S. performing arts organization, is sure to be watched closely by other presenters who are trying to gauge when it might be safe to invite audiences back for live performances, and how to survive in the meantime.The announcement by the Met, the largest U.S. performing arts organization, is sure to be watched closely by other presenters who are trying to gauge when it might be safe to invite audiences back for live performances, and how to survive in the meantime.
The Met, which last performed live on March 11, now hopes to return with a gala on New Year’s Eve after its longest interruption in more than a century. The gap is projected to cost the company close to $100 million in lost revenues, a figure that will be partly offset by lower costs and emergency fund-raising efforts.The Met, which last performed live on March 11, now hopes to return with a gala on New Year’s Eve after its longest interruption in more than a century. The gap is projected to cost the company close to $100 million in lost revenues, a figure that will be partly offset by lower costs and emergency fund-raising efforts.
A study in contrasts: As theaters around the globe were abruptly shuttered by the pandemic, “The Phantom of the Opera” has been soldiering on in Seoul, South Korea, playing eight shows a week for robust audiences.A study in contrasts: As theaters around the globe were abruptly shuttered by the pandemic, “The Phantom of the Opera” has been soldiering on in Seoul, South Korea, playing eight shows a week for robust audiences.
The musical, with its 126-member company and hundreds of costumes and props, is believed to be the only large-scale English-language production running anywhere in the world. And it has remained open not through social-distancing measures, but an approach grounded in strict hygiene. (The performances are also a testament to South Korea’s rigorous system of test, trace and quarantine, which has kept the virus largely under control.)The musical, with its 126-member company and hundreds of costumes and props, is believed to be the only large-scale English-language production running anywhere in the world. And it has remained open not through social-distancing measures, but an approach grounded in strict hygiene. (The performances are also a testament to South Korea’s rigorous system of test, trace and quarantine, which has kept the virus largely under control.)
The show’s composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber, is arguing that its approach can show the way for the rest of the industry.The show’s composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber, is arguing that its approach can show the way for the rest of the industry.
As airlines and airports around the world do everything they can to instill confidence that it is safe to fly again, uncertainty remains over whether their precautionary measures are sufficient.
Airlines are requiring face masks for passengers and staff members; imposing new cleaning procedures; using social distancing to board flights; blocking middle seats on planes; and, in one case, even prohibiting passengers from lining up to use plane bathrooms.
As to the airports, they are screening passengers’ temperatures through high- and low-tech means; using biometric screening to speed check-in, security and customs and immigration processes; and using autonomous robots to clean terminal floors.
But none of it is consistent. And it’s unclear whether the measures are enough to ensure passengers’ safety.
Will social-distancing measures work, for instance, when travelers are sitting on planes for hours with strangers? Temperature checks may identify those already ill, but how do you screen for the virus when, by some estimates, 35 percent of people with it are asymptomatic and 40 percent of transmission occurs before people feel sick?
The International Air Transport Association has laid out what it called a road map for restarting aviation. But it rejected blocking off airplanes’ middle seats because, it said, “the risk of transmission of Covid-19 from one passenger to another passenger on board is very low.”
Robert Crandall, a former president and chairman of American Airlines, called that assertion “nonsense.”
Some technology companies are proposing touchless measures for airports that use biometric facial recognition and mobile technologies for check-in, baggage drop-off, security screening and boarding. But that idea continues to be debated on privacy grounds, at least in the United States and Europe.
A new outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus has flared up in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country that was already contending with the coronavirus as well as the world’s largest measles epidemic.A new outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus has flared up in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country that was already contending with the coronavirus as well as the world’s largest measles epidemic.
Congo’s health ministry said the new Ebola outbreak had killed four people and infected at least two more in Mbandaka, a city of 1.2 million people on the country’s western side. A fifth person died on Monday, according to UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children.Congo’s health ministry said the new Ebola outbreak had killed four people and infected at least two more in Mbandaka, a city of 1.2 million people on the country’s western side. A fifth person died on Monday, according to UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children.
Less than two months ago, Congo was about to declare an official end to an Ebola epidemic on the eastern side of the country that had lasted nearly two years and killed more than 2,275 people. Then, with just two days to go, a new case was found, and the clock was reset.Less than two months ago, Congo was about to declare an official end to an Ebola epidemic on the eastern side of the country that had lasted nearly two years and killed more than 2,275 people. Then, with just two days to go, a new case was found, and the clock was reset.
It is unclear how Ebola emerged in Mbandaka, which is about 700 miles west of the nearly defeated outbreak. Congo has been under travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.It is unclear how Ebola emerged in Mbandaka, which is about 700 miles west of the nearly defeated outbreak. Congo has been under travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Reported cases of the coronavirus have been mostly limited to the capital, Kinshasa, also in the country’s west. Congo has reported 3,049 cases of the coronavirus, including 71 deaths, but testing is limited so the true scale of the outbreak is unknown.Reported cases of the coronavirus have been mostly limited to the capital, Kinshasa, also in the country’s west. Congo has reported 3,049 cases of the coronavirus, including 71 deaths, but testing is limited so the true scale of the outbreak is unknown.
A new analysis of 172 studies, funded by the World Health Organization, confirmed what scientists have said for months: N95 and other respirator masks are far superior to surgical or cloth masks in protecting essential medical workers against the coronavirus.A new analysis of 172 studies, funded by the World Health Organization, confirmed what scientists have said for months: N95 and other respirator masks are far superior to surgical or cloth masks in protecting essential medical workers against the coronavirus.
The results, published on Monday in The Lancet, make it clear that the W.H.O. and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention should recommend that essential workers like nurses and emergency responders wear N95 masks, not just surgical masks, experts said.The results, published on Monday in The Lancet, make it clear that the W.H.O. and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention should recommend that essential workers like nurses and emergency responders wear N95 masks, not just surgical masks, experts said.
“It’s been disappointing that both the W.H.O. and the C.D.C. have suggested that surgical masks are adequate, and they’re clearly not,” said David Michaels, a professor at George Washington University who headed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration under President Barack Obama.“It’s been disappointing that both the W.H.O. and the C.D.C. have suggested that surgical masks are adequate, and they’re clearly not,” said David Michaels, a professor at George Washington University who headed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration under President Barack Obama.
“Reliance on surgical masks has no doubt led to many workers being infected.”“Reliance on surgical masks has no doubt led to many workers being infected.”
N95 masks offered 96 percent protection, the analysis found, while the figure for surgical masks was 77 percent. The findings are particularly important as the country moves to reopen the economy, Dr. Michaels said.N95 masks offered 96 percent protection, the analysis found, while the figure for surgical masks was 77 percent. The findings are particularly important as the country moves to reopen the economy, Dr. Michaels said.
Workers in health care settings are not the only ones at high risk of coronavirus infection: employees in meatpacking plants and some farms are all at high risk of coronavirus infection, and could benefit from N95 masks as well, he said.Workers in health care settings are not the only ones at high risk of coronavirus infection: employees in meatpacking plants and some farms are all at high risk of coronavirus infection, and could benefit from N95 masks as well, he said.
The W.H.O. has not endorsed universal wearing of face masks, although most of its member governments adopted the practice months ago. The organization’s stance has frustrated many public health experts who see masks as a simple, inexpensive and highly effective strategy to help contain the pandemic, especially given that the virus can be transmitted by people who do not know they are ill.The W.H.O. has not endorsed universal wearing of face masks, although most of its member governments adopted the practice months ago. The organization’s stance has frustrated many public health experts who see masks as a simple, inexpensive and highly effective strategy to help contain the pandemic, especially given that the virus can be transmitted by people who do not know they are ill.
“When there is uncertainty and you don’t know everything about a disease, you have to be precautionary, which means you have to assume the worst and provide the best for health care workers,” said Dr. Raina MacIntyre, an epidemiologist at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, who wrote a commentary accompanying the paper.“When there is uncertainty and you don’t know everything about a disease, you have to be precautionary, which means you have to assume the worst and provide the best for health care workers,” said Dr. Raina MacIntyre, an epidemiologist at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, who wrote a commentary accompanying the paper.
Reporters and editors on the health and science desk at The New York Times have compiled their assessments and insights.Reporters and editors on the health and science desk at The New York Times have compiled their assessments and insights.
Here’s What We’ve Learned …Here’s What We’ve Learned …
We’ll have to live with this for a long time.We’ll have to live with this for a long time.
You should be wearing a mask.You should be wearing a mask.
American public health infrastructure needs an update.American public health infrastructure needs an update.
Responding to the virus is extraordinarily expensive.Responding to the virus is extraordinarily expensive.
We have a long way to go to fix virus testing.We have a long way to go to fix virus testing.
We can’t count on herd immunity to keep us healthy.We can’t count on herd immunity to keep us healthy.
The virus produces more symptoms than expected.The virus produces more symptoms than expected.
We can worry a bit less about infection from surfaces.We can worry a bit less about infection from surfaces.
We can also worry less about a mutating virus.We can also worry less about a mutating virus.
We can’t count on warm weather to defeat the virus.We can’t count on warm weather to defeat the virus.
… And What We Don’t Still Don’t Understand… And What We Don’t Still Don’t Understand
How many people have been infected.How many people have been infected.
The amount of virus it takes to make you sick.The amount of virus it takes to make you sick.
Why some people get so much sicker than others.Why some people get so much sicker than others.
The role of children in spreading the virus.The role of children in spreading the virus.
When or where the virus started spreading.When or where the virus started spreading.
How long you’ll be immune after infection.How long you’ll be immune after infection.
The coronavirus recession has amplified racial inequalities that may only worsen as the economy begins a slow climb toward recovery.The coronavirus recession has amplified racial inequalities that may only worsen as the economy begins a slow climb toward recovery.
Unemployment rates for black workers had dipped to an all-time low just before the pandemic, but that changed swiftly as the virus spread. Now, as Americans face what could be a prolonged stretch of high unemployment and suppressed income growth, black households are confronting the prospect of a widening economic divide.Unemployment rates for black workers had dipped to an all-time low just before the pandemic, but that changed swiftly as the virus spread. Now, as Americans face what could be a prolonged stretch of high unemployment and suppressed income growth, black households are confronting the prospect of a widening economic divide.
Black workers face discrimination in the workplace and often lose work early in a crisis — and their unemployment rate continues to rise even as the labor market for white workers begins to rebound.Black workers face discrimination in the workplace and often lose work early in a crisis — and their unemployment rate continues to rise even as the labor market for white workers begins to rebound.
African-American workers also consistently earn less than white workers, partly because they are more heavily concentrated in low-paying service industries. But it is also true that black Americans continue to be underrepresented in the highest-paying jobs and earn less than comparable whites at every education level.African-American workers also consistently earn less than white workers, partly because they are more heavily concentrated in low-paying service industries. But it is also true that black Americans continue to be underrepresented in the highest-paying jobs and earn less than comparable whites at every education level.
And because they make less, African-American families accumulate less wealth over time. The end result is that they have less money in the bank to make it through extended economic weakness.And because they make less, African-American families accumulate less wealth over time. The end result is that they have less money in the bank to make it through extended economic weakness.
Workers across racial and ethnic groups have seen unemployment soar, but many black workers fall into two fraught categories: They are either essential workers exposed to the virus on the front lines, or they have lost their jobs. Black workers make up 11.9 percent of all employees but 17 percent of front-line workers, one study found. And they are dying of Covid-19 at higher rates than white people because of entrenched inequalities in resources and access to care.Workers across racial and ethnic groups have seen unemployment soar, but many black workers fall into two fraught categories: They are either essential workers exposed to the virus on the front lines, or they have lost their jobs. Black workers make up 11.9 percent of all employees but 17 percent of front-line workers, one study found. And they are dying of Covid-19 at higher rates than white people because of entrenched inequalities in resources and access to care.
Data from two leading health organizations — the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the U.S. and the World Health Organization — show how people with non-coronavirus illnesses have been affected by the pandemic.Data from two leading health organizations — the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the U.S. and the World Health Organization — show how people with non-coronavirus illnesses have been affected by the pandemic.
New York and New Jersey have had more than 44,000 deaths above normal from mid-March to May, according to analysis of data from the C.D.C. While Covid-19 is the leading cause of these excess deaths, more people have also died from other causes like heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease in recent weeks than for the same period in previous years.New York and New Jersey have had more than 44,000 deaths above normal from mid-March to May, according to analysis of data from the C.D.C. While Covid-19 is the leading cause of these excess deaths, more people have also died from other causes like heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease in recent weeks than for the same period in previous years.
The C.D.C. data shows that heart disease — the leading cause of death in the United States — has surged from March 15 until May 2. In New York City, deaths from heart disease were nearly three times the normal, and about 800 deaths above normal rates in the two states have been attributed to diabetes.The C.D.C. data shows that heart disease — the leading cause of death in the United States — has surged from March 15 until May 2. In New York City, deaths from heart disease were nearly three times the normal, and about 800 deaths above normal rates in the two states have been attributed to diabetes.
The W.H.O. collected data from 155 countries over a three-week period and found that the pandemic has disrupted prevention and treatment of diseases like hypertension, diabetes and cancer around the world, endangering the very patients who are most vulnerable to the virus. The disruptions are most severe in low-income countries.The W.H.O. collected data from 155 countries over a three-week period and found that the pandemic has disrupted prevention and treatment of diseases like hypertension, diabetes and cancer around the world, endangering the very patients who are most vulnerable to the virus. The disruptions are most severe in low-income countries.
Treatments of hypertension and diabetes have been interrupted in about half of the countries surveyed. In just over 42 percent, cancer treatments have been disrupted, and in nearly one-third, so have cardiovascular cases.Treatments of hypertension and diabetes have been interrupted in about half of the countries surveyed. In just over 42 percent, cancer treatments have been disrupted, and in nearly one-third, so have cardiovascular cases.
“We already know that people with these noncommunicable diseases are more vulnerable to becoming severely ill or dying from Covid-19,” Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the W.H.O., said on Monday.“We already know that people with these noncommunicable diseases are more vulnerable to becoming severely ill or dying from Covid-19,” Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the W.H.O., said on Monday.
Rehabilitation services, which are crucial to patients recovering from Covid-19, have also been disrupted in about 63 percent of the countries.Rehabilitation services, which are crucial to patients recovering from Covid-19, have also been disrupted in about 63 percent of the countries.
The Hong Kong police halted plans for a vigil on Thursday in memory of the people who died during the 1989 crackdown on the Tiananmen Square protests, citing the need to enforce social-distancing rules.The Hong Kong police halted plans for a vigil on Thursday in memory of the people who died during the 1989 crackdown on the Tiananmen Square protests, citing the need to enforce social-distancing rules.
It is the first time the June 4 vigil, which has been held annually since 1990, has been blocked. Fears about limits on free speech and political expression have grown in Hong Kong after Beijing announced last month that it would impose new national security laws on the semiautonomous city, and some democracy advocates in the city had wondered whether this year’s event might be the last.It is the first time the June 4 vigil, which has been held annually since 1990, has been blocked. Fears about limits on free speech and political expression have grown in Hong Kong after Beijing announced last month that it would impose new national security laws on the semiautonomous city, and some democracy advocates in the city had wondered whether this year’s event might be the last.
The vigil organizers said they still planned to go to Victoria Park, where the event is regularly held, even though they expected the police to break up any gathering. They have asked supporters in Hong Kong and around the world to light candles in their homes or other private places and post the images online.The vigil organizers said they still planned to go to Victoria Park, where the event is regularly held, even though they expected the police to break up any gathering. They have asked supporters in Hong Kong and around the world to light candles in their homes or other private places and post the images online.
The organizing body, the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements in China, also plans to set up booths around the city to observe the event, said Lee Cheuk-yan, the group’s chairman. A handful of churches are to hold special services, he said.The organizing body, the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements in China, also plans to set up booths around the city to observe the event, said Lee Cheuk-yan, the group’s chairman. A handful of churches are to hold special services, he said.
“This is one of the characteristics of Hong Kong. We all came out to support democracy in China in 1989,” Mr. Lee said. “We have continued for 30 years, and people are really shocked that we can be persistent.”“This is one of the characteristics of Hong Kong. We all came out to support democracy in China in 1989,” Mr. Lee said. “We have continued for 30 years, and people are really shocked that we can be persistent.”
Protesters in Hong Kong have regularly been fined in recent weeks for violating social-distancing rules that prevent gatherings of more than eight people. They have accused the police of enforcing the rules against government critics while ignoring gatherings by establishment supporters or large crowds in bar districts.Protesters in Hong Kong have regularly been fined in recent weeks for violating social-distancing rules that prevent gatherings of more than eight people. They have accused the police of enforcing the rules against government critics while ignoring gatherings by establishment supporters or large crowds in bar districts.
Mr. Trump said last week he would begin the process of ending the U.S. relationship with Hong Kong in response to Beijing’s move to impose broad new national security legislation. The Trump administration has provided little details on the timing and scope of the plans, and the Chinese government has cast the plans as the latest attempt by a foreign government to interfere in Hong Kong. Investors have kept a sharp eye on the tensions between the two countries.Mr. Trump said last week he would begin the process of ending the U.S. relationship with Hong Kong in response to Beijing’s move to impose broad new national security legislation. The Trump administration has provided little details on the timing and scope of the plans, and the Chinese government has cast the plans as the latest attempt by a foreign government to interfere in Hong Kong. Investors have kept a sharp eye on the tensions between the two countries.
A U.S. State Department official on Saturday attacked the ruling Communist Party on Twitter for moving to impose national security legislation to quash dissent in Hong Kong, prompting a spokeswoman for the Chinese government to fire back on Twitter saying “I can’t breathe,” a popular refrain among the U.S. protesters.A U.S. State Department official on Saturday attacked the ruling Communist Party on Twitter for moving to impose national security legislation to quash dissent in Hong Kong, prompting a spokeswoman for the Chinese government to fire back on Twitter saying “I can’t breathe,” a popular refrain among the U.S. protesters.
Hong Kong has been widely praised for its success in controlling the spread of the virus. The city, with 7.5 million people, has recorded 1,085 cases and four deaths.Hong Kong has been widely praised for its success in controlling the spread of the virus. The city, with 7.5 million people, has recorded 1,085 cases and four deaths.
Several countries where the pandemic appears to be ebbing marked the beginning of June by easing restrictions. They included South Africa, which lifted its ban on alcohol sales. A drop in murders and traffic accidents had been attributed to the measure, but bootleggers quickly stepped in to meet demand.Several countries where the pandemic appears to be ebbing marked the beginning of June by easing restrictions. They included South Africa, which lifted its ban on alcohol sales. A drop in murders and traffic accidents had been attributed to the measure, but bootleggers quickly stepped in to meet demand.
Other measures that went into effect on Monday:Other measures that went into effect on Monday:
Students were allowed to return to some elementary schools in England, but many parents decided to keep their children home, concerned that the risks remain too high. Schools also resumed in Greece.Students were allowed to return to some elementary schools in England, but many parents decided to keep their children home, concerned that the risks remain too high. Schools also resumed in Greece.
A pigeon race involving 4,000 birds marked the reopening of some sports events in Britain, and it was soon followed by a horse race held without spectators.A pigeon race involving 4,000 birds marked the reopening of some sports events in Britain, and it was soon followed by a horse race held without spectators.
Beaches in Spain reopened, except those near Barcelona, and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao became the country’s first major cultural institution to again allow visitors. Ireland also allowed bathers to return to some beaches.Beaches in Spain reopened, except those near Barcelona, and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao became the country’s first major cultural institution to again allow visitors. Ireland also allowed bathers to return to some beaches.
Cinemas began screening films again in Thailand, although their audiences were limited to 200 people and customers must be separated by at least one empty seat. Portugal also reopened movie theaters along with some other businesses. Bars reopened in the Netherlands, Finland and Norway.Cinemas began screening films again in Thailand, although their audiences were limited to 200 people and customers must be separated by at least one empty seat. Portugal also reopened movie theaters along with some other businesses. Bars reopened in the Netherlands, Finland and Norway.
The Adriatic state of Montenegro, which has declared itself free of the virus, reopened its border to foreigners. The prime minister of Pakistan also lifted restrictions on foreign visitors. Lithuania ended a 14-day quarantine requirement for visitors from dozens of countries.The Adriatic state of Montenegro, which has declared itself free of the virus, reopened its border to foreigners. The prime minister of Pakistan also lifted restrictions on foreign visitors. Lithuania ended a 14-day quarantine requirement for visitors from dozens of countries.
Visitors were allowed into two of Italy’s biggest tourist attractions: the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum.Visitors were allowed into two of Italy’s biggest tourist attractions: the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum.
The police in New Delhi were roundly criticized for their role in anti-Muslim violence this year. Now they’re on the front line of the city’s fight against the virus.The police in New Delhi were roundly criticized for their role in anti-Muslim violence this year. Now they’re on the front line of the city’s fight against the virus.
They are manning hundreds of checkpoints and running patrols across the city. They are often the first to respond to calls for potential cases and coordinate the medical response. They are preparing and serving meals to desperately poor people in many locked-down communities.They are manning hundreds of checkpoints and running patrols across the city. They are often the first to respond to calls for potential cases and coordinate the medical response. They are preparing and serving meals to desperately poor people in many locked-down communities.
The force has used these efforts to rehabilitate its image, which had been tarnished by evidence of police brutality during nationwide protests over a divisive citizenship law.The force has used these efforts to rehabilitate its image, which had been tarnished by evidence of police brutality during nationwide protests over a divisive citizenship law.
The criticism that followed was demoralizing to rank-and-file officers. M.S. Randhawa, a commissioner of the New Delhi police force, said the virus campaign was “a morale booster for the staff.”The criticism that followed was demoralizing to rank-and-file officers. M.S. Randhawa, a commissioner of the New Delhi police force, said the virus campaign was “a morale booster for the staff.”
A billion-dollar program to protect cities from climate change is at risk of failing, the latest example of how the pandemic has disrupted American climate policy.A billion-dollar program to protect cities from climate change is at risk of failing, the latest example of how the pandemic has disrupted American climate policy.
Projects in 13 cities and states, which were part of the Obama administration’s push to protect Americans from climate change after the devastation from Hurricane Sandy, are now in jeopardy because of the pandemic, state and local officials warn. And they need Congress to save those projects.Projects in 13 cities and states, which were part of the Obama administration’s push to protect Americans from climate change after the devastation from Hurricane Sandy, are now in jeopardy because of the pandemic, state and local officials warn. And they need Congress to save those projects.
On Monday, officials are expected to tell lawmakers that the virus will prevent them from meeting the conditions of a $1 billion Obama-era program for large-scale construction projects that defend cities and states against climate-related disasters. That money must be spent by the fall of 2022.On Monday, officials are expected to tell lawmakers that the virus will prevent them from meeting the conditions of a $1 billion Obama-era program for large-scale construction projects that defend cities and states against climate-related disasters. That money must be spent by the fall of 2022.
Missing that deadline, which officials say is likely because of virus-related delays, would mean forfeiting the remaining money, scuttling the projects. States and cities have been moving swiftly in the design phases and to secure permits since the Obama administration awarded the funds in 2016. Officials will ask Congress to extend the deadline for construction by three years, according to a copy of the letter obtained by The New York Times.Missing that deadline, which officials say is likely because of virus-related delays, would mean forfeiting the remaining money, scuttling the projects. States and cities have been moving swiftly in the design phases and to secure permits since the Obama administration awarded the funds in 2016. Officials will ask Congress to extend the deadline for construction by three years, according to a copy of the letter obtained by The New York Times.
“Without an extension, any funds not spent by the deadline will be canceled and projects will remain unfinished,” the letter reads.“Without an extension, any funds not spent by the deadline will be canceled and projects will remain unfinished,” the letter reads.
U.S. stocks posted modest gains on Monday, continuing a recent climb that had left the S&P 500 with its best two-month gain in 11 years.U.S. stocks posted modest gains on Monday, continuing a recent climb that had left the S&P 500 with its best two-month gain in 11 years.
The gains were small, though, and came after a weekend of violence and unrest in the United States. The S&P 500 rose less than half a percent. Shares of some retailers that said they were temporarily closing some stores in response to protests took a hit. Target was down more than 2 percent.The gains were small, though, and came after a weekend of violence and unrest in the United States. The S&P 500 rose less than half a percent. Shares of some retailers that said they were temporarily closing some stores in response to protests took a hit. Target was down more than 2 percent.
European markets closed about 1 percent higher on Monday, though markets in Germany and a number of other countries were closed for a holiday. Asian markets rose strongly, paced by an increase of more than 3 percent in Hong Kong and more than 2 percent in mainland China shares.European markets closed about 1 percent higher on Monday, though markets in Germany and a number of other countries were closed for a holiday. Asian markets rose strongly, paced by an increase of more than 3 percent in Hong Kong and more than 2 percent in mainland China shares.
The rally in stocks has come as investors have bet the worst of the economic damage caused by the pandemic could be over. In another sign of this on Monday, an index of U.S. manufacturing activity rose in May. The index was 43.1 last month, up from 41.5 in April, which was the lowest level in more than a decade, the Institute for Supply Management said. However, it was still below 50, which connotes an economy still in contraction.The rally in stocks has come as investors have bet the worst of the economic damage caused by the pandemic could be over. In another sign of this on Monday, an index of U.S. manufacturing activity rose in May. The index was 43.1 last month, up from 41.5 in April, which was the lowest level in more than a decade, the Institute for Supply Management said. However, it was still below 50, which connotes an economy still in contraction.
Investors were also watching for more details on Mr. Trump’s response to China’s crackdown on Hong Kong. On Friday, Mr. Trump had said the United States would begin rolling back the special trade and financial status it grants to the former British colony but did not go into specifics.Investors were also watching for more details on Mr. Trump’s response to China’s crackdown on Hong Kong. On Friday, Mr. Trump had said the United States would begin rolling back the special trade and financial status it grants to the former British colony but did not go into specifics.
A referendum on changes to Russia’s Constitution that would allow President Vladimir V. Putin to remain in office for another 16 years was rescheduled for July 1, after a long delay because of the pandemic.A referendum on changes to Russia’s Constitution that would allow President Vladimir V. Putin to remain in office for another 16 years was rescheduled for July 1, after a long delay because of the pandemic.
Russia is the third hardest-hit country after the United States and Brazil. Moscow, the capital, has accounted for more than 40 percent of total reported infections, which numbered 414,878 on Monday, and more than half the deaths in the country.Russia is the third hardest-hit country after the United States and Brazil. Moscow, the capital, has accounted for more than 40 percent of total reported infections, which numbered 414,878 on Monday, and more than half the deaths in the country.
To calm concerns that the Kremlin was gambling with public health in pursuit of its political agenda, Anna Popova, the head of the state agency leading efforts against the virus, spoke at a video conference of officials along with Mr. Putin and offered assurances that holding the referendum on July 1 would be safe for the public.To calm concerns that the Kremlin was gambling with public health in pursuit of its political agenda, Anna Popova, the head of the state agency leading efforts against the virus, spoke at a video conference of officials along with Mr. Putin and offered assurances that holding the referendum on July 1 would be safe for the public.
The head of the Central Election Commission, Alla Pamfilova, suggested that the vote could be spread over six days to avoid crowds at polling stations.The head of the Central Election Commission, Alla Pamfilova, suggested that the vote could be spread over six days to avoid crowds at polling stations.
Moscow city authorities on Monday also helped to prepare the way for the vote, the centerpiece of the Kremlin’s political plans for the year. After nine weeks in lockdown, Moscow reopened parks, shopping malls, car dealerships and many other businesses but restricted entry to people wearing masks and gloves.Moscow city authorities on Monday also helped to prepare the way for the vote, the centerpiece of the Kremlin’s political plans for the year. After nine weeks in lockdown, Moscow reopened parks, shopping malls, car dealerships and many other businesses but restricted entry to people wearing masks and gloves.
Bad weather and confusion over the rules kept many residents indoors nonetheless, and provoked mockery on social media.Bad weather and confusion over the rules kept many residents indoors nonetheless, and provoked mockery on social media.
The experimental antiviral drug remdesivir may be as effective in treating coronavirus patients when given for five days instead of the usual 10, its maker, Gilead Sciences, announced on Monday.The experimental antiviral drug remdesivir may be as effective in treating coronavirus patients when given for five days instead of the usual 10, its maker, Gilead Sciences, announced on Monday.
Because supplies of the drug are limited, infectious disease experts have been hoping that a shorter course would be just as effective.Because supplies of the drug are limited, infectious disease experts have been hoping that a shorter course would be just as effective.
The Food and Drug Administration has granted an emergency authorization to remdesivir, allowing doctors to prescribe it even though the drug is not yet formally approved. The authorization came after a large federal trial showed the medication sped recovery in seriously ill patients who received it intravenously for 10 days.The Food and Drug Administration has granted an emergency authorization to remdesivir, allowing doctors to prescribe it even though the drug is not yet formally approved. The authorization came after a large federal trial showed the medication sped recovery in seriously ill patients who received it intravenously for 10 days.
The data indicate that remdesivir is not a miracle drug. But it is the only treatment that a large, controlled trial has shown helps hospitalized Covid-19 patients.The data indicate that remdesivir is not a miracle drug. But it is the only treatment that a large, controlled trial has shown helps hospitalized Covid-19 patients.
The small study by Gilead has not yet been published nor peer-reviewed. It also did not involve the use of a placebo, as is normally the case.The small study by Gilead has not yet been published nor peer-reviewed. It also did not involve the use of a placebo, as is normally the case.
The study involved 584 moderately ill Covid-19 patients who were hospitalized but who did not have pneumonia. All the patients were given standard-of-care treatment. But 191 were randomly assigned to receive remdesivir for five days, while 194 were given the drug for 10 days.The study involved 584 moderately ill Covid-19 patients who were hospitalized but who did not have pneumonia. All the patients were given standard-of-care treatment. But 191 were randomly assigned to receive remdesivir for five days, while 194 were given the drug for 10 days.
The researchers measured clinical improvement and found that the five-day course of treatment was modestly better than the usual patient care alone. The 10-day course was not measurably better than normal care, perhaps because of side effects.The researchers measured clinical improvement and found that the five-day course of treatment was modestly better than the usual patient care alone. The 10-day course was not measurably better than normal care, perhaps because of side effects.
Reporting was contributed by Ian Austen, Julie Bosman, Emily Cochrane, Michael Cooper, Stacy Cowley, Antonio de Luca, Jeffrey Gettleman, Christina Goldbaum, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Christopher Flavelle, Jacey Fortin, Jack Healy, Andrew Higgins, Caroline Kim, Patrick Kingsley, Gina Kolata, Hari Kumar, Su-Hyun Lee, Jane L. Levere, Denise Lu, Apoorva Mandavilli, Raphael Minder, Andy Newman, Matt Phillips, Roni Caryn Rabin, Alan Rappeport, Rick Rojas, David E. Sanger, Eric Schmitt, Jennifer Schuessler, Dionne Searcey, Karan Deep Singh, Mitch Smith, Eileen Sullivan, Umi Syam, Dave Taft, Carlos Tejada, Mary Williams Walsh, Edward Wong, Ceylan Yeginsu and Karen Zraick. Reporting was contributed by Ian Austen, Julie Bosman, Keith Bradsher, Emily Cochrane, Michael Cooper, Stacy Cowley, Antonio de Luca, Jeffrey Gettleman, Christina Goldbaum, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Christopher Flavelle, Jacey Fortin, Jack Healy, Andrew Higgins, Jin Wu, Caroline Kim, Patrick Kingsley, Gina Kolata, Hari Kumar, Su-Hyun Lee, Jane L. Levere, Denise Lu, Apoorva Mandavilli, Raphael Minder, Andy Newman, Matt Phillips, Roni Caryn Rabin, Alan Rappeport, Rick Rojas, David E. Sanger, Eric Schmitt, Jennifer Schuessler, Dionne Searcey, Karan Deep Singh, Mitch Smith, Eileen Sullivan, Umi Syam, Dave Taft, Carlos Tejada, Mary Williams Walsh, Edward Wong, Ceylan Yeginsu and Karen Zraick.