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Protesters Weigh Virus Risks on Crowded Streets Protesters Weigh Virus Risks on Crowded Streets
(about 13 hours later)
[Read our live updates on the Coronavirus pandemic.] [Read our live updates of the Coronavirus pandemic.]
The protests against police brutality and racism that have spread across the United States since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis have spurred fears that they could result in a resurgence of the virus. Concerns have forced people sympathetic to the movement to weigh the risks of attending demonstrations, where there is often little social distancing.The protests against police brutality and racism that have spread across the United States since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis have spurred fears that they could result in a resurgence of the virus. Concerns have forced people sympathetic to the movement to weigh the risks of attending demonstrations, where there is often little social distancing.
“The police violence against black people — that’s a pandemic, too,” said Kelli Ann Thomas, 31, a community organizer who joined protests in Miami. “People are willing to risk their lives, to risk their health, to show solidarity with black people.”“The police violence against black people — that’s a pandemic, too,” said Kelli Ann Thomas, 31, a community organizer who joined protests in Miami. “People are willing to risk their lives, to risk their health, to show solidarity with black people.”
Because of delays between exposure to the virus and symptoms, the effects of the protests on the spread of the virus will not be known for several weeks. But epidemiologists said the protests would almost certainly lead to more cases.Because of delays between exposure to the virus and symptoms, the effects of the protests on the spread of the virus will not be known for several weeks. But epidemiologists said the protests would almost certainly lead to more cases.
Health experts know that the virus is far less likely to be spread outdoors than indoors. And masks reduce the chance of transmitting respiratory droplets that contain the virus. But yelling, shouting and singing can increase how far those droplets are projected. Crowds also increase the risk of transmission. Police tactics such as spraying tear gas — which causes people to cough — herding protesters into smaller areas for crowd control and placing arrested individuals in buses, vans and holding cells also increase the risk of infection.Health experts know that the virus is far less likely to be spread outdoors than indoors. And masks reduce the chance of transmitting respiratory droplets that contain the virus. But yelling, shouting and singing can increase how far those droplets are projected. Crowds also increase the risk of transmission. Police tactics such as spraying tear gas — which causes people to cough — herding protesters into smaller areas for crowd control and placing arrested individuals in buses, vans and holding cells also increase the risk of infection.
Tay Anderson, a protest leader and city school board member in Denver, said he had been worried about the disparate effects of the virus on black Colorado residents as thousands marched through the city and rested shoulder to shoulder on the lawn of the State Capitol in silent demonstrations to decry Mr. Floyd’s death.Tay Anderson, a protest leader and city school board member in Denver, said he had been worried about the disparate effects of the virus on black Colorado residents as thousands marched through the city and rested shoulder to shoulder on the lawn of the State Capitol in silent demonstrations to decry Mr. Floyd’s death.
He put out a call on social media for all protesters to join him in getting tested for the virus on Saturday morning at the Pepsi Center, a concert arena where Denver has been running free, large-scale testing.He put out a call on social media for all protesters to join him in getting tested for the virus on Saturday morning at the Pepsi Center, a concert arena where Denver has been running free, large-scale testing.
“WE ARE STILL IN A PANDEMIC,” he wrote on Twitter.“WE ARE STILL IN A PANDEMIC,” he wrote on Twitter.
In Los Angeles, where city leaders have voiced support for the right of demonstrators to gather, Mayor Eric Garcetti has warned the gatherings could become “super-spreader events” — not unlike during the 1918 flu pandemic when, after the first wave of infections, some cities held parades and large gatherings that led to a second, more deadly wave of infections.In Los Angeles, where city leaders have voiced support for the right of demonstrators to gather, Mayor Eric Garcetti has warned the gatherings could become “super-spreader events” — not unlike during the 1918 flu pandemic when, after the first wave of infections, some cities held parades and large gatherings that led to a second, more deadly wave of infections.
New York officials, including Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, have raised similar concerns. “Express your outrage,” Mr. Cuomo said, referring to the protests. “But be responsible, because the last thing we want to do is see a spike in the number of Covid cases.”New York officials, including Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, have raised similar concerns. “Express your outrage,” Mr. Cuomo said, referring to the protests. “But be responsible, because the last thing we want to do is see a spike in the number of Covid cases.”
As the city proceeds with plans to begin reopening on Monday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Tuesday that he was “very worried” that the virus could be spreading at protests.As the city proceeds with plans to begin reopening on Monday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Tuesday that he was “very worried” that the virus could be spreading at protests.
In interviews and on social media, many public health experts emphasized that police violence against black people in America was also a public health crisis. The anger at economic, social and health disparities fueling the protests, health experts said, was reflected in sharply higher rates of Covid-19 death and illness among black Americans. Several advised a “harm reduction” approach that would allow people to join the demonstrations in as safe a way as possible.In interviews and on social media, many public health experts emphasized that police violence against black people in America was also a public health crisis. The anger at economic, social and health disparities fueling the protests, health experts said, was reflected in sharply higher rates of Covid-19 death and illness among black Americans. Several advised a “harm reduction” approach that would allow people to join the demonstrations in as safe a way as possible.
“Last week, all the news was about Covid; this week, all the news is about the protests,” said Eleanor Murray, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Boston University School of Public Health. “But really, these are two pieces of the same conversation.”“Last week, all the news was about Covid; this week, all the news is about the protests,” said Eleanor Murray, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Boston University School of Public Health. “But really, these are two pieces of the same conversation.”
The Senate voted largely along party lines on Tuesday to confirm Brian D. Miller, a White House lawyer, to be the inspector general in charge of overseeing the Treasury Department’s $500 billion pandemic recovery fund.The Senate voted largely along party lines on Tuesday to confirm Brian D. Miller, a White House lawyer, to be the inspector general in charge of overseeing the Treasury Department’s $500 billion pandemic recovery fund.
The confirmation puts Mr. Miller at the center of the politically charged effort to distribute government money to a broad swath of businesses that have been crippled by the pandemic. And it comes at a moment when Mr. Trump’s management of the bailout is under intense scrutiny.The confirmation puts Mr. Miller at the center of the politically charged effort to distribute government money to a broad swath of businesses that have been crippled by the pandemic. And it comes at a moment when Mr. Trump’s management of the bailout is under intense scrutiny.
In his role as inspector general, Mr. Miller will be required to monitor the flow of government funds and report any wrongdoing to Congress.In his role as inspector general, Mr. Miller will be required to monitor the flow of government funds and report any wrongdoing to Congress.
Mr. Miller was confirmed by a vote of 51 to 40. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama was the only Democrat to join Republicans in voting in favor of the nominee.Mr. Miller was confirmed by a vote of 51 to 40. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama was the only Democrat to join Republicans in voting in favor of the nominee.
The fund that Mr. Miller will be overseeing was created as part of the $2 trillion economic relief package Congress approved in March. It includes money to backstop the Federal Reserve’s emergency lending facilities and funds for loans and grants to support airlines and businesses that are critical to national security. Mr. Trump’s political opponents have already criticized the disbursement of funds as benefiting rich companies over small businesses and have accused the president of corporate cronyism.The fund that Mr. Miller will be overseeing was created as part of the $2 trillion economic relief package Congress approved in March. It includes money to backstop the Federal Reserve’s emergency lending facilities and funds for loans and grants to support airlines and businesses that are critical to national security. Mr. Trump’s political opponents have already criticized the disbursement of funds as benefiting rich companies over small businesses and have accused the president of corporate cronyism.
As part of the legislation, lawmakers created a three-pronged oversight structure. It includes a special inspector general within the Treasury Department, a committee of inspectors general and the Congressional Oversight Commission, which is selected by the majority and minority leaders of the Senate as well as the House Speaker and minority leader.As part of the legislation, lawmakers created a three-pronged oversight structure. It includes a special inspector general within the Treasury Department, a committee of inspectors general and the Congressional Oversight Commission, which is selected by the majority and minority leaders of the Senate as well as the House Speaker and minority leader.
Democrats have been wary of Mr. Miller’s appointment. He worked in the White House Counsel’s Office during Mr. Trump’s impeachment proceedings, and on at least one occasion he stonewalled an oversight request. Mr. Trump has also demonstrated a penchant for firing inspectors general, raising concerns about whether anyone who tries to conduct independent oversight will be stymied.Democrats have been wary of Mr. Miller’s appointment. He worked in the White House Counsel’s Office during Mr. Trump’s impeachment proceedings, and on at least one occasion he stonewalled an oversight request. Mr. Trump has also demonstrated a penchant for firing inspectors general, raising concerns about whether anyone who tries to conduct independent oversight will be stymied.
As the United States begins what is expected to be a slow climb out of lockdowns, economists and researchers are questioning whether the government’s response to help companies will prove sufficient in the longer run.As the United States begins what is expected to be a slow climb out of lockdowns, economists and researchers are questioning whether the government’s response to help companies will prove sufficient in the longer run.
Highly indebted public companies that employ millions of people are largely excluded from direct relief options that Congress, the Federal Reserve and the Treasury have designed to help companies through the pandemic downturn, an analysis from a group of Harvard University economists found.Highly indebted public companies that employ millions of people are largely excluded from direct relief options that Congress, the Federal Reserve and the Treasury have designed to help companies through the pandemic downturn, an analysis from a group of Harvard University economists found.
Policymakers have prioritized getting help to businesses that entered the crisis in good health. That lowers the chances that taxpayers will foot the bill to save big companies that had loaded up on risky debt, and it could help officials to deflect the kind of angry criticism that surrounded 2008 bank and auto company bailouts.Policymakers have prioritized getting help to businesses that entered the crisis in good health. That lowers the chances that taxpayers will foot the bill to save big companies that had loaded up on risky debt, and it could help officials to deflect the kind of angry criticism that surrounded 2008 bank and auto company bailouts.
But it also leaves a large slice of U.S. companies fending for themselves in the sharpest downturn since the Great Depression, leaving them at greater risk of bankruptcy — and their workers at greater risk of job loss.But it also leaves a large slice of U.S. companies fending for themselves in the sharpest downturn since the Great Depression, leaving them at greater risk of bankruptcy — and their workers at greater risk of job loss.
Publicly traded firms that employ about 8.1 million people — about 26 percent of all employment at tracked publicly traded companies — are all or mostly left out of direct government relief, according to research by Samuel Hanson, Jeremy Stein and Adi Sunderam of Harvard, along with Eric Zwick at the University of Chicago.Publicly traded firms that employ about 8.1 million people — about 26 percent of all employment at tracked publicly traded companies — are all or mostly left out of direct government relief, according to research by Samuel Hanson, Jeremy Stein and Adi Sunderam of Harvard, along with Eric Zwick at the University of Chicago.
Some of the firms that government programs miss — like the Gap, Dell Technologies and Kraft Heinz — are household names with huge workforces. If such companies were to run into problems accessing cash, it could precipitate job cuts, the researchers said.Some of the firms that government programs miss — like the Gap, Dell Technologies and Kraft Heinz — are household names with huge workforces. If such companies were to run into problems accessing cash, it could precipitate job cuts, the researchers said.
“We’re trying to flatten the bankruptcy curve, or flatten the financial distress curve,” said Mr. Hanson, who refined the analysis for The New York Times. If a large number of companies go out of business, “it’s likely to be very costly and leave permanent scarring to our productive capacity.”“We’re trying to flatten the bankruptcy curve, or flatten the financial distress curve,” said Mr. Hanson, who refined the analysis for The New York Times. If a large number of companies go out of business, “it’s likely to be very costly and leave permanent scarring to our productive capacity.”
Mr. Trump has relentlessly attacked mail voting, falsely calling it a free-for-all for cheating and a Democratic scheme to rig elections.Mr. Trump has relentlessly attacked mail voting, falsely calling it a free-for-all for cheating and a Democratic scheme to rig elections.
But as eight states and the District of Columbia vote on Tuesday in the biggest Election Day since the virus forced a pause in the primary calendar, it is clear that Mr. Trump’s message has sunk in deeply with Republicans, who have shunned mail ballots.But as eight states and the District of Columbia vote on Tuesday in the biggest Election Day since the virus forced a pause in the primary calendar, it is clear that Mr. Trump’s message has sunk in deeply with Republicans, who have shunned mail ballots.
An unintended result of the president’s fear-mongering about mail ballots could hurt his party’s chances, and his own, Trip Gabriel reports.An unintended result of the president’s fear-mongering about mail ballots could hurt his party’s chances, and his own, Trip Gabriel reports.
In Indiana, Iowa, New Mexico and Pennsylvania — all states that are voting on Tuesday that broadly extended the option to vote by mail this year — a higher share of Democrats than Republicans have embraced mail-in ballots.In Indiana, Iowa, New Mexico and Pennsylvania — all states that are voting on Tuesday that broadly extended the option to vote by mail this year — a higher share of Democrats than Republicans have embraced mail-in ballots.
“If the Republicans aren’t playing the same game, if we’re saying we don’t believe in mail-in voting and are not going to advocate it,” said Lee Snover, the Republican chair of Northampton County in Pennsylvania, “we could be way behind.”“If the Republicans aren’t playing the same game, if we’re saying we don’t believe in mail-in voting and are not going to advocate it,” said Lee Snover, the Republican chair of Northampton County in Pennsylvania, “we could be way behind.”
Singing pirates and spinning teacups. Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles. Impossibly chipper employees chirping, “Have a magical day.” Pre-eminent sports venue?Singing pirates and spinning teacups. Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles. Impossibly chipper employees chirping, “Have a magical day.” Pre-eminent sports venue?
Few people would immediately associate Walt Disney World with athletics. But tucked behind oak trees and sabal palms on the edge of the Florida mega-resort is ESPN Wide World of Sports, a 220-acre athletic complex.Few people would immediately associate Walt Disney World with athletics. But tucked behind oak trees and sabal palms on the edge of the Florida mega-resort is ESPN Wide World of Sports, a 220-acre athletic complex.
The N.B.A. has been in negotiations with Disney to restart its season by holding games and practices at the complex, turning it into the capital of the basketball universe. Players, coaches and staff members would also stay at Disney World, where Disney owns 18 hotels, ostensibly providing a protective bubble from the virus.The N.B.A. has been in negotiations with Disney to restart its season by holding games and practices at the complex, turning it into the capital of the basketball universe. Players, coaches and staff members would also stay at Disney World, where Disney owns 18 hotels, ostensibly providing a protective bubble from the virus.
M.L.S. has also been talking to Disney about return-to-play scenarios, but haggling within the league over timing and pay has created speed bumps.M.L.S. has also been talking to Disney about return-to-play scenarios, but haggling within the league over timing and pay has created speed bumps.
Several months of social distancing and stay-at-home orders have resulted in fewer people donating blood, which is now leading to shortages in the United States.Several months of social distancing and stay-at-home orders have resulted in fewer people donating blood, which is now leading to shortages in the United States.
The American Red Cross, which usually has enough blood supplies to meet the nation’s needs for five days, now has less than two days’ worth.The American Red Cross, which usually has enough blood supplies to meet the nation’s needs for five days, now has less than two days’ worth.
For a while, the drop in donations was not critical because supply and demand fell in tandem, as most surgeries were canceled and far fewer people were getting injured in car crashes and other accidents.For a while, the drop in donations was not critical because supply and demand fell in tandem, as most surgeries were canceled and far fewer people were getting injured in car crashes and other accidents.
But now, even as hospitals have resumed elective surgeries and many Americans are venturing out of their homes again, the rate of blood donations has yet to bounce back. The result is what Chris Hrouda, president of biomedical services for the Red Cross, which collects about 40 percent of the country’s blood donations, called a “staggering” drop in supply.But now, even as hospitals have resumed elective surgeries and many Americans are venturing out of their homes again, the rate of blood donations has yet to bounce back. The result is what Chris Hrouda, president of biomedical services for the Red Cross, which collects about 40 percent of the country’s blood donations, called a “staggering” drop in supply.
Hurricane season, which is underway and is projected to be even more devastating than usual, may also increase the need for blood supplies while making it more difficult to collect.Hurricane season, which is underway and is projected to be even more devastating than usual, may also increase the need for blood supplies while making it more difficult to collect.
Further aggravating the shortage is that many hospitals are performing surgeries at a faster clip than before the pandemic, as they work through a backlog of operations.Further aggravating the shortage is that many hospitals are performing surgeries at a faster clip than before the pandemic, as they work through a backlog of operations.
On Sunday, the Red Cross stopped sending hospitals around the country the full amount of blood requested in their standing orders, instead providing just 75 percent of the requests.On Sunday, the Red Cross stopped sending hospitals around the country the full amount of blood requested in their standing orders, instead providing just 75 percent of the requests.
Without an increase in donations in the next week or two, the Red Cross will have to send hospitals just half their requested amounts.Without an increase in donations in the next week or two, the Red Cross will have to send hospitals just half their requested amounts.
At least 15 of the graduating cadets who returned to West Point ahead of President Trump’s commencement speech in June tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a U.S. Army spokeswoman.At least 15 of the graduating cadets who returned to West Point ahead of President Trump’s commencement speech in June tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a U.S. Army spokeswoman.
None of those cadets had coronavirus symptoms, and the virus had not spread from them to any other cadets among the class of 1,106 since they returned to the U.S. Military Academy last week, the spokeswoman, Col. Sunset Belinsky, said on Tuesday. She said that the academy learned that the 15 had the coronavirus after all cadets were tested immediately upon arriving on campus. The cadets who tested positive were immediately isolated.None of those cadets had coronavirus symptoms, and the virus had not spread from them to any other cadets among the class of 1,106 since they returned to the U.S. Military Academy last week, the spokeswoman, Col. Sunset Belinsky, said on Tuesday. She said that the academy learned that the 15 had the coronavirus after all cadets were tested immediately upon arriving on campus. The cadets who tested positive were immediately isolated.
“The Army and West Point have done meticulous planning to ensure the health and safety of the returning cadets of the U.S. Military Academy’s class of 2020,” Colonel Belinsky said. “There is mandatory screening for all, and we’ve had a small number — about 1.5 percent — test positive. This was anticipated.”“The Army and West Point have done meticulous planning to ensure the health and safety of the returning cadets of the U.S. Military Academy’s class of 2020,” Colonel Belinsky said. “There is mandatory screening for all, and we’ve had a small number — about 1.5 percent — test positive. This was anticipated.”
In April, Mr. Trump abruptly said he would speak at West Point after the cadets had already been sent home because of concerns about the coronavirus. The president’s announcement came one day before Vice President Mike Pence delivered the commencement address at the Air Force Academy graduation ceremony in Colorado.In April, Mr. Trump abruptly said he would speak at West Point after the cadets had already been sent home because of concerns about the coronavirus. The president’s announcement came one day before Vice President Mike Pence delivered the commencement address at the Air Force Academy graduation ceremony in Colorado.
The College Board said Tuesday that it would postpone plans to offer an online SAT test for high school students to take at home this year, further muddying a traditional ritual of the college application process that has already been thrown into chaos by the virus.The College Board said Tuesday that it would postpone plans to offer an online SAT test for high school students to take at home this year, further muddying a traditional ritual of the college application process that has already been thrown into chaos by the virus.
After canceling test dates this spring, the board announced in mid-April that it was developing a digital version of the SAT to be introduced if the pandemic continued to require social distancing in the fall, which would make it hard for the nonprofit organization to provide enough testing dates and centers.After canceling test dates this spring, the board announced in mid-April that it was developing a digital version of the SAT to be introduced if the pandemic continued to require social distancing in the fall, which would make it hard for the nonprofit organization to provide enough testing dates and centers.
But in its latest statement, the board said the technological challenges of developing an online test that all students could take had led to the decision to drop it.But in its latest statement, the board said the technological challenges of developing an online test that all students could take had led to the decision to drop it.
“Taking it would require three hours of uninterrupted, video-quality internet for each student, which can’t be guaranteed for all,” the board said, adding that it would continue to deliver an online version of the SAT at some schools, but would not “introduce the stress that could result from extended at-home testing in an already disrupted admissions season.”“Taking it would require three hours of uninterrupted, video-quality internet for each student, which can’t be guaranteed for all,” the board said, adding that it would continue to deliver an online version of the SAT at some schools, but would not “introduce the stress that could result from extended at-home testing in an already disrupted admissions season.”
The College Board asked colleges and universities on Tuesday to “show flexibility” to the millions of students who were not able to take the SAT this spring because of cancellations. It asked colleges to extend deadlines for receiving test scores and to give equal consideration to students who were unable to take the test because of the pandemic.The College Board asked colleges and universities on Tuesday to “show flexibility” to the millions of students who were not able to take the SAT this spring because of cancellations. It asked colleges to extend deadlines for receiving test scores and to give equal consideration to students who were unable to take the test because of the pandemic.
Its decision came after the organization had a rocky experience last month introducing a digital version of the Advanced Placement exams, which it also administers. Many students complained that they were not able to submit their answer sheets electronically, and their tests were disqualified.Its decision came after the organization had a rocky experience last month introducing a digital version of the Advanced Placement exams, which it also administers. Many students complained that they were not able to submit their answer sheets electronically, and their tests were disqualified.
The SAT’s rival exam, the ACT, announced on Tuesday that it still planned to offer a remote option in the fall.The SAT’s rival exam, the ACT, announced on Tuesday that it still planned to offer a remote option in the fall.
President Trump’s speech at the Republican National Convention will be moved out of Charlotte, N.C., party officials said Tuesday night, after indications that the entire event might be relocated because of a high-stakes feud with Democratic officials in North Carolina.President Trump’s speech at the Republican National Convention will be moved out of Charlotte, N.C., party officials said Tuesday night, after indications that the entire event might be relocated because of a high-stakes feud with Democratic officials in North Carolina.
President Trump said in a series of tweets on Tuesday evening that because Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, refused to guarantee the use of the Spectrum arena there, “we are now forced to seek another State to host the 2020 Republican National Convention.”President Trump said in a series of tweets on Tuesday evening that because Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, refused to guarantee the use of the Spectrum arena there, “we are now forced to seek another State to host the 2020 Republican National Convention.”
But Republican officials said they could still hold other convention business in Charlotte, so as not to break a formal contract they signed with the city more than two years ago.But Republican officials said they could still hold other convention business in Charlotte, so as not to break a formal contract they signed with the city more than two years ago.
In an implicit condemnation of the social-distancing regulations that Mr. Cooper has insisted upon, Michael Ahrens, communications director of the Republican National Committee, said that “should the governor allow more than 10 people in a room, we still hope to conduct the official business of the convention in Charlotte.”In an implicit condemnation of the social-distancing regulations that Mr. Cooper has insisted upon, Michael Ahrens, communications director of the Republican National Committee, said that “should the governor allow more than 10 people in a room, we still hope to conduct the official business of the convention in Charlotte.”
Party officials were planning to visit Nashville this week to see if the city could work as an alternative host. Other cities under consideration, according to a Republican official familiar with the plans, are Las Vegas, Orlando, Jacksonville and sites in Georgia.Party officials were planning to visit Nashville this week to see if the city could work as an alternative host. Other cities under consideration, according to a Republican official familiar with the plans, are Las Vegas, Orlando, Jacksonville and sites in Georgia.
Updated June 5, 2020Updated June 5, 2020
So far, the evidence seems to show it does. A widely cited paper published in April suggests that people are most infectious about two days before the onset of coronavirus symptoms and estimated that 44 percent of new infections were a result of transmission from people who were not yet showing symptoms. Recently, a top expert at the World Health Organization stated that transmission of the coronavirus by people who did not have symptoms was “very rare,” but she later walked back that statement.So far, the evidence seems to show it does. A widely cited paper published in April suggests that people are most infectious about two days before the onset of coronavirus symptoms and estimated that 44 percent of new infections were a result of transmission from people who were not yet showing symptoms. Recently, a top expert at the World Health Organization stated that transmission of the coronavirus by people who did not have symptoms was “very rare,” but she later walked back that statement.
A study by European scientists is the first to document a strong statistical link between genetic variations and Covid-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus. Having Type A blood was linked to a 50 percent increase in the likelihood that a patient would need to get oxygen or to go on a ventilator, according to the new study.A study by European scientists is the first to document a strong statistical link between genetic variations and Covid-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus. Having Type A blood was linked to a 50 percent increase in the likelihood that a patient would need to get oxygen or to go on a ventilator, according to the new study.
The unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent in May, the Labor Department said on June 5, an unexpected improvement in the nation’s job market as hiring rebounded faster than economists expected. Economists had forecast the unemployment rate to increase to as much as 20 percent, after it hit 14.7 percent in April, which was the highest since the government began keeping official statistics after World War II. But the unemployment rate dipped instead, with employers adding 2.5 million jobs, after more than 20 million jobs were lost in April.The unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent in May, the Labor Department said on June 5, an unexpected improvement in the nation’s job market as hiring rebounded faster than economists expected. Economists had forecast the unemployment rate to increase to as much as 20 percent, after it hit 14.7 percent in April, which was the highest since the government began keeping official statistics after World War II. But the unemployment rate dipped instead, with employers adding 2.5 million jobs, after more than 20 million jobs were lost in April.
Mass protests against police brutality that have brought thousands of people onto the streets in cities across America are raising the specter of new coronavirus outbreaks, prompting political leaders, physicians and public health experts to warn that the crowds could cause a surge in cases. While many political leaders affirmed the right of protesters to express themselves, they urged the demonstrators to wear face masks and maintain social distancing, both to protect themselves and to prevent further community spread of the virus. Some infectious disease experts were reassured by the fact that the protests were held outdoors, saying the open air settings could mitigate the risk of transmission.Mass protests against police brutality that have brought thousands of people onto the streets in cities across America are raising the specter of new coronavirus outbreaks, prompting political leaders, physicians and public health experts to warn that the crowds could cause a surge in cases. While many political leaders affirmed the right of protesters to express themselves, they urged the demonstrators to wear face masks and maintain social distancing, both to protect themselves and to prevent further community spread of the virus. Some infectious disease experts were reassured by the fact that the protests were held outdoors, saying the open air settings could mitigate the risk of transmission.
Exercise researchers and physicians have some blunt advice for those of us aiming to return to regular exercise now: Start slowly and then rev up your workouts, also slowly. American adults tended to be about 12 percent less active after the stay-at-home mandates began in March than they were in January. But there are steps you can take to ease your way back into regular exercise safely. First, “start at no more than 50 percent of the exercise you were doing before Covid,” says Dr. Monica Rho, the chief of musculoskeletal medicine at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. Thread in some preparatory squats, too, she advises. “When you haven’t been exercising, you lose muscle mass.” Expect some muscle twinges after these preliminary, post-lockdown sessions, especially a day or two later. But sudden or increasing pain during exercise is a clarion call to stop and return home.Exercise researchers and physicians have some blunt advice for those of us aiming to return to regular exercise now: Start slowly and then rev up your workouts, also slowly. American adults tended to be about 12 percent less active after the stay-at-home mandates began in March than they were in January. But there are steps you can take to ease your way back into regular exercise safely. First, “start at no more than 50 percent of the exercise you were doing before Covid,” says Dr. Monica Rho, the chief of musculoskeletal medicine at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. Thread in some preparatory squats, too, she advises. “When you haven’t been exercising, you lose muscle mass.” Expect some muscle twinges after these preliminary, post-lockdown sessions, especially a day or two later. But sudden or increasing pain during exercise is a clarion call to stop and return home.
States are reopening bit by bit. This means that more public spaces are available for use and more and more businesses are being allowed to open again. The federal government is largely leaving the decision up to states, and some state leaders are leaving the decision up to local authorities. Even if you aren’t being told to stay at home, it’s still a good idea to limit trips outside and your interaction with other people.States are reopening bit by bit. This means that more public spaces are available for use and more and more businesses are being allowed to open again. The federal government is largely leaving the decision up to states, and some state leaders are leaving the decision up to local authorities. Even if you aren’t being told to stay at home, it’s still a good idea to limit trips outside and your interaction with other people.
Touching contaminated objects and then infecting ourselves with the germs is not typically how the virus spreads. But it can happen. A number of studies of flu, rhinovirus, coronavirus and other microbes have shown that respiratory illnesses, including the new coronavirus, can spread by touching contaminated surfaces, particularly in places like day care centers, offices and hospitals. But a long chain of events has to happen for the disease to spread that way. The best way to protect yourself from coronavirus — whether it’s surface transmission or close human contact — is still social distancing, washing your hands, not touching your face and wearing masks.Touching contaminated objects and then infecting ourselves with the germs is not typically how the virus spreads. But it can happen. A number of studies of flu, rhinovirus, coronavirus and other microbes have shown that respiratory illnesses, including the new coronavirus, can spread by touching contaminated surfaces, particularly in places like day care centers, offices and hospitals. But a long chain of events has to happen for the disease to spread that way. The best way to protect yourself from coronavirus — whether it’s surface transmission or close human contact — is still social distancing, washing your hands, not touching your face and wearing masks.
Common symptoms include fever, a dry cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of the flu, making detection difficult, but runny noses and stuffy sinuses are less common. The C.D.C. has also added chills, muscle pain, sore throat, headache and a new loss of the sense of taste or smell as symptoms to look out for. Most people fall ill five to seven days after exposure, but symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days.Common symptoms include fever, a dry cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of the flu, making detection difficult, but runny noses and stuffy sinuses are less common. The C.D.C. has also added chills, muscle pain, sore throat, headache and a new loss of the sense of taste or smell as symptoms to look out for. Most people fall ill five to seven days after exposure, but symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days.
If air travel is unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself. Most important: Wash your hands often, and stop touching your face. If possible, choose a window seat. A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window, as people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people. Disinfect hard surfaces. When you get to your seat and your hands are clean, use disinfecting wipes to clean the hard surfaces at your seat like the head and arm rest, the seatbelt buckle, the remote, screen, seat back pocket and the tray table. If the seat is hard and nonporous or leather or pleather, you can wipe that down, too. (Using wipes on upholstered seats could lead to a wet seat and spreading of germs rather than killing them.)If air travel is unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself. Most important: Wash your hands often, and stop touching your face. If possible, choose a window seat. A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window, as people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people. Disinfect hard surfaces. When you get to your seat and your hands are clean, use disinfecting wipes to clean the hard surfaces at your seat like the head and arm rest, the seatbelt buckle, the remote, screen, seat back pocket and the tray table. If the seat is hard and nonporous or leather or pleather, you can wipe that down, too. (Using wipes on upholstered seats could lead to a wet seat and spreading of germs rather than killing them.)
Taking one’s temperature to look for signs of fever is not as easy as it sounds, as “normal” temperature numbers can vary, but generally, keep an eye out for a temperature of 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. If you don’t have a thermometer (they can be pricey these days), there are other ways to figure out if you have a fever, or are at risk of Covid-19 complications.Taking one’s temperature to look for signs of fever is not as easy as it sounds, as “normal” temperature numbers can vary, but generally, keep an eye out for a temperature of 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. If you don’t have a thermometer (they can be pricey these days), there are other ways to figure out if you have a fever, or are at risk of Covid-19 complications.
The C.D.C. has recommended that all Americans wear cloth masks if they go out in public. This is a shift in federal guidance reflecting new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who have no symptoms. Until now, the C.D.C., like the W.H.O., has advised that ordinary people don’t need to wear masks unless they are sick and coughing. Part of the reason was to preserve medical-grade masks for health care workers who desperately need them at a time when they are in continuously short supply. Masks don’t replace hand washing and social distancing.The C.D.C. has recommended that all Americans wear cloth masks if they go out in public. This is a shift in federal guidance reflecting new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who have no symptoms. Until now, the C.D.C., like the W.H.O., has advised that ordinary people don’t need to wear masks unless they are sick and coughing. Part of the reason was to preserve medical-grade masks for health care workers who desperately need them at a time when they are in continuously short supply. Masks don’t replace hand washing and social distancing.
If you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus or think you have, and have a fever or symptoms like a cough or difficulty breathing, call a doctor. They should give you advice on whether you should be tested, how to get tested, and how to seek medical treatment without potentially infecting or exposing others.If you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus or think you have, and have a fever or symptoms like a cough or difficulty breathing, call a doctor. They should give you advice on whether you should be tested, how to get tested, and how to seek medical treatment without potentially infecting or exposing others.
If you’re sick and you think you’ve been exposed to the new coronavirus, the C.D.C. recommends that you call your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms and fears. They will decide if you need to be tested. Keep in mind that there’s a chance — because of a lack of testing kits or because you’re asymptomatic, for instance — you won’t be able to get tested.If you’re sick and you think you’ve been exposed to the new coronavirus, the C.D.C. recommends that you call your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms and fears. They will decide if you need to be tested. Keep in mind that there’s a chance — because of a lack of testing kits or because you’re asymptomatic, for instance — you won’t be able to get tested.
Mr. Trump and Republican officials have been pressing North Carolina for reassurances that they can hold a large-scale, traditional convention. But with virus cases growing in North Carolina and hospitalizations still climbing, Mr. Cooper wrote in a letter to Republican officials on Tuesday that “the people of North Carolina do not know what the status of Covid-19 will be in August, so planning for a scaled-down convention with fewer people, social distancing and face coverings is a necessity.”Mr. Trump and Republican officials have been pressing North Carolina for reassurances that they can hold a large-scale, traditional convention. But with virus cases growing in North Carolina and hospitalizations still climbing, Mr. Cooper wrote in a letter to Republican officials on Tuesday that “the people of North Carolina do not know what the status of Covid-19 will be in August, so planning for a scaled-down convention with fewer people, social distancing and face coverings is a necessity.”
The back-and-forth over where to hold Mr. Trump’s nominating convention has been caught up in the partisan battle about whether to reopen the country, and how, and whether to exercise caution or press forward as the country struggles to regain normalcy.The back-and-forth over where to hold Mr. Trump’s nominating convention has been caught up in the partisan battle about whether to reopen the country, and how, and whether to exercise caution or press forward as the country struggles to regain normalcy.
“Governor Cooper is still in Shelter-In-Place Mode, and not allowing us to occupy the arena as originally anticipated and promised,” Mr. Trump said on Twitter. “Would have showcased beautiful North Carolina to the World, and brought in hundreds of millions of dollars, and jobs, for the State.”“Governor Cooper is still in Shelter-In-Place Mode, and not allowing us to occupy the arena as originally anticipated and promised,” Mr. Trump said on Twitter. “Would have showcased beautiful North Carolina to the World, and brought in hundreds of millions of dollars, and jobs, for the State.”
On Tuesday, Ronna McDaniel, the chairwoman of the R.N.C., escalated a feud with North Carolina officials over how to hold the nominating convention, putting the state on notice that there was a strong possibility of moving the event.On Tuesday, Ronna McDaniel, the chairwoman of the R.N.C., escalated a feud with North Carolina officials over how to hold the nominating convention, putting the state on notice that there was a strong possibility of moving the event.
“We have an obligation to our delegates and nominee to begin visiting the multiple cities and states who have reached out in recent days about hosting an historic event to show that America is open for business,” Ms. McDaniel wrote in a letter to Mr. Cooper.“We have an obligation to our delegates and nominee to begin visiting the multiple cities and states who have reached out in recent days about hosting an historic event to show that America is open for business,” Ms. McDaniel wrote in a letter to Mr. Cooper.
A pet dog has been tested and confirmed positive for the coronavirus for the first time in the United States, the Department of Agriculture said on Tuesday.A pet dog has been tested and confirmed positive for the coronavirus for the first time in the United States, the Department of Agriculture said on Tuesday.
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, there have been confirmed infections in the United States of a tiger, a lion and two pet cats. Two dogs tested positive in Hong Kong, but there had been no confirmed dog infections in the United States.Since the outbreak of the pandemic, there have been confirmed infections in the United States of a tiger, a lion and two pet cats. Two dogs tested positive in Hong Kong, but there had been no confirmed dog infections in the United States.
The dog, a German shepherd in New York, is expected to recover.The dog, a German shepherd in New York, is expected to recover.
There was a false alarm in April, when a low amount of the virus was detected in the saliva of Winston, a pug in North Carolina. But the U.S.D.A. laboratory performed its own tests on Winston and released the results on May 27. “No virus was isolated, and there was no evidence of an immune response,” said Joelle Hayden, a U.S.D.A. spokeswoman.There was a false alarm in April, when a low amount of the virus was detected in the saliva of Winston, a pug in North Carolina. But the U.S.D.A. laboratory performed its own tests on Winston and released the results on May 27. “No virus was isolated, and there was no evidence of an immune response,” said Joelle Hayden, a U.S.D.A. spokeswoman.
This time, the German shepherd in New York tested positive at the U.S.D.A.’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories.This time, the German shepherd in New York tested positive at the U.S.D.A.’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories.
One of the dog’s owners has tested positive for coronavirus, and the dog had shown some signs of respiratory illness, the U.S.D.A. said. That prompted testing at a private veterinary facility, and the presumptive positive results were reported to government officials.One of the dog’s owners has tested positive for coronavirus, and the dog had shown some signs of respiratory illness, the U.S.D.A. said. That prompted testing at a private veterinary facility, and the presumptive positive results were reported to government officials.
Those results were confirmed using swabs as well as blood tests for antibodies.Those results were confirmed using swabs as well as blood tests for antibodies.
Another dog in the German shepherd’s household had shown no symptoms but was also tested and found to have coronavirus antibodies, suggested it had been exposed to the virus.Another dog in the German shepherd’s household had shown no symptoms but was also tested and found to have coronavirus antibodies, suggested it had been exposed to the virus.
In its statement on Tuesday, the U.S.D.A noted that “there is currently no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus,” and the risk of animals passing it to humans is considered to be low. It would appear that people with Covid-19 can spread the virus to their pets if they are in close contact, but routine testing for animals is not recommended.In its statement on Tuesday, the U.S.D.A noted that “there is currently no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus,” and the risk of animals passing it to humans is considered to be low. It would appear that people with Covid-19 can spread the virus to their pets if they are in close contact, but routine testing for animals is not recommended.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pets, like humans, should be isolated from members of their household who get sick. There is no need for them to be outfitted with face coverings or wiped down with disinfectants.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pets, like humans, should be isolated from members of their household who get sick. There is no need for them to be outfitted with face coverings or wiped down with disinfectants.
Starting Tuesday, most New York City residents will be required not only to stay at home because of restrictions related to the pandemic, they will also be under a nightly curfew from 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. through Sunday.Starting Tuesday, most New York City residents will be required not only to stay at home because of restrictions related to the pandemic, they will also be under a nightly curfew from 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. through Sunday.
Mayor Bill de Blasio issued an emergency executive order after looting in the city’s central business district on Monday night.Mayor Bill de Blasio issued an emergency executive order after looting in the city’s central business district on Monday night.
The order cites both the threat of the virus and the citywide demonstrations against police brutality, noting that “violent acts have been happening primarily during the hours of darkness.”The order cites both the threat of the virus and the citywide demonstrations against police brutality, noting that “violent acts have been happening primarily during the hours of darkness.”
Those exempt from the curfew include police officers, firefighters, emergency medical workers, homeless people, anyone seeking medical treatment or supplies, and people who do essential work such as food delivery, transit and health care. For others, it is OK to take a pet outside briefly to relieve itself, but food runs to the bodega or walks around the block are prohibited.Those exempt from the curfew include police officers, firefighters, emergency medical workers, homeless people, anyone seeking medical treatment or supplies, and people who do essential work such as food delivery, transit and health care. For others, it is OK to take a pet outside briefly to relieve itself, but food runs to the bodega or walks around the block are prohibited.
Additionally, car travel in Manhattan will be banned below 96th Street during curfew hours, except for local residents, essential workers, buses and truck deliveries.Additionally, car travel in Manhattan will be banned below 96th Street during curfew hours, except for local residents, essential workers, buses and truck deliveries.
In other news from the New York metropolitan region:In other news from the New York metropolitan region:
New York City is now offering universal, free testing at its 150 testing sites, the mayor’s office announced Tuesday. Previously, testing was available only to people who had symptoms, people who had contact with someone who tested positive, or essential workers.New York City is now offering universal, free testing at its 150 testing sites, the mayor’s office announced Tuesday. Previously, testing was available only to people who had symptoms, people who had contact with someone who tested positive, or essential workers.
New York reported an additional 58 virus deaths — the eighth straight day with under 100 fatalities — while New Jersey reported 51 deaths and Connecticut eight deaths.New York reported an additional 58 virus deaths — the eighth straight day with under 100 fatalities — while New Jersey reported 51 deaths and Connecticut eight deaths.
In New Jersey, the number of children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome, which appears related to the virus, has increased to 32, with nine new cases in the past week. Seven children remained hospitalized. In New York, state officials are investigating 190 reported cases and three deaths from the syndrome.In New Jersey, the number of children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome, which appears related to the virus, has increased to 32, with nine new cases in the past week. Seven children remained hospitalized. In New York, state officials are investigating 190 reported cases and three deaths from the syndrome.
Two more parts of New York, the Buffalo region and the Albany region, are entering a second reopening phase this week in which offices and many retail stores and salons can open, with restrictions, and restaurants can offer outdoor dining.Two more parts of New York, the Buffalo region and the Albany region, are entering a second reopening phase this week in which offices and many retail stores and salons can open, with restrictions, and restaurants can offer outdoor dining.
Global RoundupGlobal Roundup
Spain did not announce any new Covid-19 deaths on Monday or Tuesday, a first since the start of the outbreak. The news came with a caveat, however: How to tally deaths has been a topic of heated debate in Spain, and several regional governments did include new deaths in their own counts.Spain did not announce any new Covid-19 deaths on Monday or Tuesday, a first since the start of the outbreak. The news came with a caveat, however: How to tally deaths has been a topic of heated debate in Spain, and several regional governments did include new deaths in their own counts.
Here’s a look at what else is happening around the globe:Here’s a look at what else is happening around the globe:
A dozen passengers on a Qatar Airways flight from Doha tested positive for the virus when they landed in Athens, and the Greek authorities said all 91 passengers aboard the flight would be quarantined. The episode highlighted the challenges that European nations will face as they try to reopen their borders and salvage the economically crucial summer tourist season.A dozen passengers on a Qatar Airways flight from Doha tested positive for the virus when they landed in Athens, and the Greek authorities said all 91 passengers aboard the flight would be quarantined. The episode highlighted the challenges that European nations will face as they try to reopen their borders and salvage the economically crucial summer tourist season.
Officials in Bangladesh said that a Rohingya Muslim had died of the virus on May 31 in a refugee camp, escalating fears about how quickly an outbreak might ravage a community confined to tightly packed tents and shacks.Officials in Bangladesh said that a Rohingya Muslim had died of the virus on May 31 in a refugee camp, escalating fears about how quickly an outbreak might ravage a community confined to tightly packed tents and shacks.
An outbreak at the Pasteur Institute in Dakar, Senegal, a research center whose work has been crucial in efforts to contain the virus in West Africa, has killed at least one staff member.An outbreak at the Pasteur Institute in Dakar, Senegal, a research center whose work has been crucial in efforts to contain the virus in West Africa, has killed at least one staff member.
A preliminary analysis by Public Health England concluded that black people were most likely to be diagnosed with the coronavirus and that deaths have been highest among black and Asian people.A preliminary analysis by Public Health England concluded that black people were most likely to be diagnosed with the coronavirus and that deaths have been highest among black and Asian people.
British lawmakers returned on Tuesday to find themselves obeying pre-pandemic rules that require voting in person. So a line of members of Parliament waiting to vote stretched around an ancient hall, out through a cobbled courtyard and along an underground passage before snaking around an atrium to the cafeteria — all told, it was over half a mile in length.British lawmakers returned on Tuesday to find themselves obeying pre-pandemic rules that require voting in person. So a line of members of Parliament waiting to vote stretched around an ancient hall, out through a cobbled courtyard and along an underground passage before snaking around an atrium to the cafeteria — all told, it was over half a mile in length.
The Hong Kong government extended restrictions on public gatherings and travelers as the city recorded new local infections. Rules limiting gatherings to no more than 8 people were extended to June 18. A 14-day quarantine will remain in effect for arrivals from mainland China, Macau and Taiwan until July 7, and for other travelers until Sept. 18.The Hong Kong government extended restrictions on public gatherings and travelers as the city recorded new local infections. Rules limiting gatherings to no more than 8 people were extended to June 18. A 14-day quarantine will remain in effect for arrivals from mainland China, Macau and Taiwan until July 7, and for other travelers until Sept. 18.
The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the virus first emerged, has completed a sweeping push to test almost all of its 11 million residents in the span of a few weeks, Chinese officials said on Tuesday.The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the virus first emerged, has completed a sweeping push to test almost all of its 11 million residents in the span of a few weeks, Chinese officials said on Tuesday.
Black Americans in China are caught in a wave of xenophobia stemming from the coronavirus — and getting little help from the State Department.Black Americans in China are caught in a wave of xenophobia stemming from the coronavirus — and getting little help from the State Department.
Citing the pandemic, the Indonesian government will not allow its citizens to travel to Mecca, Saudi Arabia to attend this year’s hajj, which is supposed to begin in late July. The nation with the world’s biggest population of Muslims, Indonesia sends the largest number of pilgrims on the hajj each year. The Saudis have not yet decided whether it will proceed as planned.Citing the pandemic, the Indonesian government will not allow its citizens to travel to Mecca, Saudi Arabia to attend this year’s hajj, which is supposed to begin in late July. The nation with the world’s biggest population of Muslims, Indonesia sends the largest number of pilgrims on the hajj each year. The Saudis have not yet decided whether it will proceed as planned.
In an unusual attempt to save two of the top events in American tennis during the pandemic, the United States Tennis Association has proposed staging a doubleheader in New York.In an unusual attempt to save two of the top events in American tennis during the pandemic, the United States Tennis Association has proposed staging a doubleheader in New York.
The move, under consideration by the men’s and women’s tours, could allow foreign players to remain in one place for the duration of their stay in the United States and establish a safer bubble for competitors similar to proposals by the N.B.A. and other sports leagues.The move, under consideration by the men’s and women’s tours, could allow foreign players to remain in one place for the duration of their stay in the United States and establish a safer bubble for competitors similar to proposals by the N.B.A. and other sports leagues.
The proposal would move the Western & Southern Open, a combined men’s and women’s event near Cincinnati, to the U.S.T.A. Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. But it would keep its general window on the calendar, leading into the U.S. Open, which would be held at the same venue. The Western & Southern Open is currently scheduled for Aug. 17 to 23 while the main draw of the U.S. Open is slated for Aug. 31 to Sept. 13. Spectators would likely be barred.The proposal would move the Western & Southern Open, a combined men’s and women’s event near Cincinnati, to the U.S.T.A. Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. But it would keep its general window on the calendar, leading into the U.S. Open, which would be held at the same venue. The Western & Southern Open is currently scheduled for Aug. 17 to 23 while the main draw of the U.S. Open is slated for Aug. 31 to Sept. 13. Spectators would likely be barred.
It is far from certain that either tournament can be played this year, but the maneuver is designed to help draw the needed support of government and public health officials. It is also unclear, especially given quarantine guidelines, whether enough players would be prepared to travel to New York, one of the disease’s epicenters.It is far from certain that either tournament can be played this year, but the maneuver is designed to help draw the needed support of government and public health officials. It is also unclear, especially given quarantine guidelines, whether enough players would be prepared to travel to New York, one of the disease’s epicenters.
Beyond cinema, the drive-in format never really found a place within live-event culture. But amid a pandemic, its time has perhaps come.Beyond cinema, the drive-in format never really found a place within live-event culture. But amid a pandemic, its time has perhaps come.
Across Europe, pastors have set up drive-in churches, and promoters have set up drive-in concerts and drive-in plays. In an era of social distancing, it turns out there are few better distancing devices than a car door.Across Europe, pastors have set up drive-in churches, and promoters have set up drive-in concerts and drive-in plays. In an era of social distancing, it turns out there are few better distancing devices than a car door.
Few have embraced this concept like the owners of Index, a family-run nightclub in Schüttorf, a small German town just east of the Dutch border, where Dopebwoy, a Dutch rapper, played last Friday.Few have embraced this concept like the owners of Index, a family-run nightclub in Schüttorf, a small German town just east of the Dutch border, where Dopebwoy, a Dutch rapper, played last Friday.
Index has been one of the pioneers of the lockdown drive-in, holding a drive-in disco every weekend since early May. Revelers arrive at the club in their cars, park in the adjacent parking lot and then stay behind their wheels to watch performances from singers and D.J.s.Index has been one of the pioneers of the lockdown drive-in, holding a drive-in disco every weekend since early May. Revelers arrive at the club in their cars, park in the adjacent parking lot and then stay behind their wheels to watch performances from singers and D.J.s.
The events have proved surprisingly popular, despite lacking most of the physical experiences generally deemed essential to a successful club night. It’s a good thing, too, because nightclubs like Index are not expecting to reopen their dance floors until 2021.The events have proved surprisingly popular, despite lacking most of the physical experiences generally deemed essential to a successful club night. It’s a good thing, too, because nightclubs like Index are not expecting to reopen their dance floors until 2021.
“This feels like Saturday again!” said Ronan Zwaagstra, a 19-year-old student attending Dopebwoy’s show in his hatchback.“This feels like Saturday again!” said Ronan Zwaagstra, a 19-year-old student attending Dopebwoy’s show in his hatchback.
Then he paused.Then he paused.
“But without the drinking.”“But without the drinking.”
Another pause.Another pause.
“Or the dancing.”“Or the dancing.”
But he likes the drive-in club experience so much that he drives nearly 60 miles to attend, and crosses a national border in the process. (Travel between the Netherlands and Germany has been less tightly regulated than other European borders during the pandemic.)But he likes the drive-in club experience so much that he drives nearly 60 miles to attend, and crosses a national border in the process. (Travel between the Netherlands and Germany has been less tightly regulated than other European borders during the pandemic.)
Can people still flirt in a disco without a dance floor?Can people still flirt in a disco without a dance floor?
“Yes,” said Jenny Kollak, 24, a bank manager. “Oh yes.”“Yes,” said Jenny Kollak, 24, a bank manager. “Oh yes.”
People write their numbers on balloons and hold them up to people in nearby cars.People write their numbers on balloons and hold them up to people in nearby cars.
Or, said Ms. Kollak: “We scream at them. They scream at us.”Or, said Ms. Kollak: “We scream at them. They scream at us.”
Virtual repairs can help you fix what’s broken without exposing yourself to the virus, while interior design shops can help you upgrade your look without an in-person visit. Or take matters into your own hands and organize your closet.Virtual repairs can help you fix what’s broken without exposing yourself to the virus, while interior design shops can help you upgrade your look without an in-person visit. Or take matters into your own hands and organize your closet.
Reporting was contributed by Ian Austen, Anne Barnard, Brooks Barnes, Hannah Beech, Julie Bosman, Graham Bowley, Alan Burdick, Stephen Castle, Christopher Clarey, Michael Cooper, Maria Cramer, Nicholas Fandos, Christopher Flavelle, Luis Ferré Sadurní, Jacey Fortin, Trip Gabriel, David Gonzalez, James Gorman, Amy Harmon, Anemona Hartocollis, Mike Ives, Julia Jacobs, Annie Karni, Patrick Kingsley, Ruth Maclean, Jacob Meschke, Raphael Minder, Andy Newman, Adam Nossiter, Richard C. Paddock, Azi Paybarah, Eduardo Porter, Roni Caryn Rabin, Alan Rappeport, Dagny Salas, Jeanna Smialek, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Matina Stevis-Gridneff, Vivian Wang, Elizabeth Williamson, Devin Yalkin, Elaine Yu and Karen Zraick.Reporting was contributed by Ian Austen, Anne Barnard, Brooks Barnes, Hannah Beech, Julie Bosman, Graham Bowley, Alan Burdick, Stephen Castle, Christopher Clarey, Michael Cooper, Maria Cramer, Nicholas Fandos, Christopher Flavelle, Luis Ferré Sadurní, Jacey Fortin, Trip Gabriel, David Gonzalez, James Gorman, Amy Harmon, Anemona Hartocollis, Mike Ives, Julia Jacobs, Annie Karni, Patrick Kingsley, Ruth Maclean, Jacob Meschke, Raphael Minder, Andy Newman, Adam Nossiter, Richard C. Paddock, Azi Paybarah, Eduardo Porter, Roni Caryn Rabin, Alan Rappeport, Dagny Salas, Jeanna Smialek, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Matina Stevis-Gridneff, Vivian Wang, Elizabeth Williamson, Devin Yalkin, Elaine Yu and Karen Zraick.