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Coronavirus Live Updates: South Carolina and Florida Set Record Highs for Daily Cases — Again Coronavirus Live Updates: South Carolina and Florida Set Record Highs for Daily Cases — Again
(32 minutes later)
key data of the daykey data of the day
As record daily highs for new coronavirus cases were repeatedly set this week in Florida and South Carolina, officials there aimed to mollify alarm while doubling down on calls for greater vigilance, mask-wearing and social distancing. As record daily highs for new coronavirus cases were repeatedly set this week in Florida and South Carolina, officials there aimed to subdue alarm while doubling down on calls for greater vigilance, mask-wearing and social distancing.
Florida, among the hardest hit states, reported 3,822 new cases on Friday, beating the single-day record it set the previous day, and bringing its total number of cases close to 90,000. A total of 3,104 people have died.Florida, among the hardest hit states, reported 3,822 new cases on Friday, beating the single-day record it set the previous day, and bringing its total number of cases close to 90,000. A total of 3,104 people have died.
In South Carolina, the state epidemiologist pleaded with residents to wear masks and practice social distancing after the state identified more than 990 new cases on Thursday. It was the sixth time in 10 days that the state broke its single-day case record.In South Carolina, the state epidemiologist pleaded with residents to wear masks and practice social distancing after the state identified more than 990 new cases on Thursday. It was the sixth time in 10 days that the state broke its single-day case record.
“We understand that what we’re continuing to ask of everyone is not easy and that many are tired of hearing the same warnings and of taking the same daily precautions,” Dr. Linda Bell, the epidemiologist, said in a statement. “Every day that we don’t all do our part, we are extending the duration of illnesses, missed work, hospitalizations and deaths in our state.”“We understand that what we’re continuing to ask of everyone is not easy and that many are tired of hearing the same warnings and of taking the same daily precautions,” Dr. Linda Bell, the epidemiologist, said in a statement. “Every day that we don’t all do our part, we are extending the duration of illnesses, missed work, hospitalizations and deaths in our state.”
The recent spikes in both states come as policymakers across the United States are struggling to find a precarious balance between reopening their battered economies and keeping future outbreaks at bay.The recent spikes in both states come as policymakers across the United States are struggling to find a precarious balance between reopening their battered economies and keeping future outbreaks at bay.
This week, outbreaks have been growing in much of the South and West. Officials in Arizona, Oklahoma and California all reported their highest daily case number on Thursday. And Texas became the sixth state in the nation to surpass 100,000 cases, according to a New York Times database. Cases there have doubled over the past month.This week, outbreaks have been growing in much of the South and West. Officials in Arizona, Oklahoma and California all reported their highest daily case number on Thursday. And Texas became the sixth state in the nation to surpass 100,000 cases, according to a New York Times database. Cases there have doubled over the past month.
On Friday, Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, a Republican, sought to allay concerns about the spike in cases. He attributed the rise to an increase of infections among people under 40, many of whom, he stressed, were asymptomatic and did not pose a strain on hospitals. A majority of deaths in the state were among residents 65 and older, and were centered at long-term care facilities, where he said the number of cases was declining.On Friday, Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, a Republican, sought to allay concerns about the spike in cases. He attributed the rise to an increase of infections among people under 40, many of whom, he stressed, were asymptomatic and did not pose a strain on hospitals. A majority of deaths in the state were among residents 65 and older, and were centered at long-term care facilities, where he said the number of cases was declining.
He said an increase in testing across the state had also contributed to the rise, even as he cautioned that there had been an “erosion of social distancing among the younger population.” “As you test more, you find more,” he said.He said an increase in testing across the state had also contributed to the rise, even as he cautioned that there had been an “erosion of social distancing among the younger population.” “As you test more, you find more,” he said.
The Trump administration has made a misleading claim that the recent jumps are a result of more aggressive testing.The Trump administration has made a misleading claim that the recent jumps are a result of more aggressive testing.
But public health officials point to the easing of restrictions at businesses such as bars and restaurants, and a lack of social distancing among many beach-goers, among other factors, to help explain the rise. Some businesses in the state have had to reclose after employees have fallen ill. Apple on Friday said it was temporarily closing 11 retail stores across four states — Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Arizona — amid the surge in infections.But public health officials point to the easing of restrictions at businesses such as bars and restaurants, and a lack of social distancing among many beach-goers, among other factors, to help explain the rise. Some businesses in the state have had to reclose after employees have fallen ill. Apple on Friday said it was temporarily closing 11 retail stores across four states — Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Arizona — amid the surge in infections.
Eric Rosengren, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and an influential policy maker within the central bank system, cited the rising caseloads in South Carolina and Florida as he warned of the economic impact of states reopening before the virus is under control.Eric Rosengren, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and an influential policy maker within the central bank system, cited the rising caseloads in South Carolina and Florida as he warned of the economic impact of states reopening before the virus is under control.
Mr. Rosengren said that because of the virus’s continued spread “and the acceleration of new cases in many states, I expect the economic rebound in the second half of the year to be less than was hoped for at the outset of the pandemic.”Mr. Rosengren said that because of the virus’s continued spread “and the acceleration of new cases in many states, I expect the economic rebound in the second half of the year to be less than was hoped for at the outset of the pandemic.”
The World Health Organization issued a dire warning on Friday that the coronavirus pandemic is accelerating, and noted that Thursday was a record for new daily cases — more than 150,000 globally.The World Health Organization issued a dire warning on Friday that the coronavirus pandemic is accelerating, and noted that Thursday was a record for new daily cases — more than 150,000 globally.
“The world is in a new and dangerous phase,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the W.H.O. “Many people are understandably fed up with being at home. Countries are understandably eager to open up their societies and their economies. But the virus is still spreading fast. It is still deadly and most people are still susceptible.”“The world is in a new and dangerous phase,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the W.H.O. “Many people are understandably fed up with being at home. Countries are understandably eager to open up their societies and their economies. But the virus is still spreading fast. It is still deadly and most people are still susceptible.”
If the outbreak was defined early on by a series of shifting epicenters — including Wuhan, China; Iran; northern Italy; Spain; and New York — it is now defined by its wide and expanding scope. According to a New York Times database, 81 nations have seen a growth in new cases over the past two weeks, while only 36 have seen declines.If the outbreak was defined early on by a series of shifting epicenters — including Wuhan, China; Iran; northern Italy; Spain; and New York — it is now defined by its wide and expanding scope. According to a New York Times database, 81 nations have seen a growth in new cases over the past two weeks, while only 36 have seen declines.
Dr. Tedros said that almost half of the new cases that were reported on Thursday came from the Americas. Large numbers of cases are also being reported from Africa, South Asia and the Middle East.Dr. Tedros said that almost half of the new cases that were reported on Thursday came from the Americas. Large numbers of cases are also being reported from Africa, South Asia and the Middle East.
Dr. Tedros urged individuals to continue to maintain distance from others, to cover their noses and mouths with masks when appropriate and wash their hands. He said nations must to continue to find, isolate, test and care for every person infected with the virus, and to test and quarantine every contact. “We call on all countries to exercise extreme vigilance,” he said.Dr. Tedros urged individuals to continue to maintain distance from others, to cover their noses and mouths with masks when appropriate and wash their hands. He said nations must to continue to find, isolate, test and care for every person infected with the virus, and to test and quarantine every contact. “We call on all countries to exercise extreme vigilance,” he said.
But risks are multiplying as nations begin to reopen their economies.But risks are multiplying as nations begin to reopen their economies.
In India, which initially placed all 1.3 billion of its citizens under a lockdown — then moved to reopen even with its strained public health system near the breaking point — officials reported a record number of new cases Wednesday. And the virus is now spreading rapidly in nearby Pakistan and Bangladesh as well.In India, which initially placed all 1.3 billion of its citizens under a lockdown — then moved to reopen even with its strained public health system near the breaking point — officials reported a record number of new cases Wednesday. And the virus is now spreading rapidly in nearby Pakistan and Bangladesh as well.
It took Africa nearly 100 days to reach 100,000 cases, the W.H.O. has noted, but only 19 days to double that tally. South Africa now averages a thousand more new cases each day than it did two weeks ago.It took Africa nearly 100 days to reach 100,000 cases, the W.H.O. has noted, but only 19 days to double that tally. South Africa now averages a thousand more new cases each day than it did two weeks ago.
And some countries where caseloads had appeared to taper — including Israel, Sweden and Costa Rica — are now watching them rise again.And some countries where caseloads had appeared to taper — including Israel, Sweden and Costa Rica — are now watching them rise again.
Scientists generally agree that wearing face masks can help curb the spread of the virus. For politicians and businesses, however, the decision of whether to require masks is growing increasingly contentious, with some viewing the requirements as an essential safety measure while others call them an infringement of personal liberty.Scientists generally agree that wearing face masks can help curb the spread of the virus. For politicians and businesses, however, the decision of whether to require masks is growing increasingly contentious, with some viewing the requirements as an essential safety measure while others call them an infringement of personal liberty.
The chief executive of AMC Entertainment Holdings, Adam Aron, drew a swift backlash after he said on Thursday that moviegoers would not be required to wear masks at the company’s theaters when they reopen next month. He said that AMC “did not want to be drawn into a political controversy.”The chief executive of AMC Entertainment Holdings, Adam Aron, drew a swift backlash after he said on Thursday that moviegoers would not be required to wear masks at the company’s theaters when they reopen next month. He said that AMC “did not want to be drawn into a political controversy.”
“We thought it might be counterproductive if we forced mask wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary,” Mr. Aron said in an interview published on Thursday by Variety magazine.“We thought it might be counterproductive if we forced mask wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary,” Mr. Aron said in an interview published on Thursday by Variety magazine.
Then on Friday, AMC reversed itself, saying it had consulted with scientific advisers and would require masks in theaters nationwide when it reopens on July 15.Then on Friday, AMC reversed itself, saying it had consulted with scientific advisers and would require masks in theaters nationwide when it reopens on July 15.
“This announcement prompted an intense and immediate outcry from our customers, and it is clear from this response that we did not go far enough on the usage of masks,” the company said in a statement.“This announcement prompted an intense and immediate outcry from our customers, and it is clear from this response that we did not go far enough on the usage of masks,” the company said in a statement.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema also said on Friday that it would require face masks in its theaters, saying the safety of patrons and workers could not be compromised.Alamo Drafthouse Cinema also said on Friday that it would require face masks in its theaters, saying the safety of patrons and workers could not be compromised.
Similar tensions are playing out nationwide, even as several states are seeing surges in cases.Similar tensions are playing out nationwide, even as several states are seeing surges in cases.
Gov. Gavin Newsom of California on Thursday ordered people to wear face masks in most indoor — and some outdoor — public settings following a spike in cases in the state. This week Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona, which has also seen record numbers of new daily cases, gave mayors the power to require wearing masks. Previously, localities were precluded from drafting more restrictive rules.Gov. Gavin Newsom of California on Thursday ordered people to wear face masks in most indoor — and some outdoor — public settings following a spike in cases in the state. This week Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona, which has also seen record numbers of new daily cases, gave mayors the power to require wearing masks. Previously, localities were precluded from drafting more restrictive rules.
In Tulsa, Okla., people were lining up early for Mr. Trump’s rally on Saturday, the first since the start of the pandemic. The White House press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, said this week that attendees would be given face masks, but using them would be optional. Mr. Trump has eschewed masks in public and Ms. McEnany on Friday said that she would not wear one at the rally.In Tulsa, Okla., people were lining up early for Mr. Trump’s rally on Saturday, the first since the start of the pandemic. The White House press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, said this week that attendees would be given face masks, but using them would be optional. Mr. Trump has eschewed masks in public and Ms. McEnany on Friday said that she would not wear one at the rally.
A Navy investigation has concluded that the two top officers aboard the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt made poor decisions in response to the outbreak of the virus on board the warship, according to a congressional aide. A Navy investigation has concluded that the two top officers aboard the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt made poor decisions in response to the outbreak of the virus on board the warship.
As a result, Capt. Brett E. Crozier, will not be restored to command of the virus-stricken ship, and his boss on board, Rear. Adm. Stuart P. Baker, will have his promotion to two-star admiral put on hold, the aide said. There will be no other punitive action taken against Captain Crozier. As a result of the findings, Capt. Brett E. Crozier, will not be restored to command of the virus-stricken ship, and his boss on board, Rear. Adm. Stuart P. Baker, will have his promotion to two-star admiral put on hold. There will be no other punitive action taken against Captain Crozier.
The conclusions of the investigation are expected to be announced by Navy Secretary Kenneth Braithwaite and Adm. Michael M. Gilday, the chief of naval operations, at a Pentagon news conference on Friday afternoon. The conclusions of the investigation were announced by Navy Secretary Kenneth Braithwaite and Adm. Michael M. Gilday, the chief of naval operations, at a Pentagon news conference.
The decisions mark a reversal for Admiral Gilday, who previously had recommended to his Pentagon superiors that command of the Roosevelt be returned to Captain Crozier, who was relieved in April after he pleaded for more help fighting the outbreak aboard his ship.The decisions mark a reversal for Admiral Gilday, who previously had recommended to his Pentagon superiors that command of the Roosevelt be returned to Captain Crozier, who was relieved in April after he pleaded for more help fighting the outbreak aboard his ship.
The events surrounding Captain Crozier, who has been viewed as a hero by his crew for putting their lives above his career, had seized the attention of the Navy, the military and even the nation.The events surrounding Captain Crozier, who has been viewed as a hero by his crew for putting their lives above his career, had seized the attention of the Navy, the military and even the nation.
U.S. ROUNDUPU.S. ROUNDUP
As New York City, once the center of the pandemic in the United States, prepares to enter the next phase of reopening on Monday, officials are preaching caution and imploring restless residents to use sound judgment when deciding whether to eat outdoors at a restaurant or go shopping inside a favorite store. As New York City, once the center of the pandemic in the United States, was preparing to enter its next phase of reopening on Monday, officials expressed caution and implored restless residents to use their judgment as they decide whether to participate in more parts of life.
As many as 300,000 employees are expected to return to their jobs next week as office work, in-store retail and several other sectors of the city’s economy restart, with limits, in a major test for a dense city that has already seen people gather in crowds outside bars, in parks and other public places. As many as 300,000 employees are expected to return to their jobs next week as office work, in-store retail, outdoor dining, and several other sectors of the city’s economy restart, with limits, in a major test for a dense city that has already seen people gather in crowds outside bars, in parks and other public places.
Asked Friday for an assessment on exactly how much activity he would deem safe, Mayor Bill de Blasio put the onus on New Yorkers to decide for themselves. Asked Friday for an assessment of exactly how much activity he would deem safe, Mayor Bill de Blasio put the onus on New Yorkers to decide for themselves.
“This is a very personal decision that people need to make, and I’d say to anyone who feels cautious or uncomfortable, listen to that — and less is more, right?” Mr. de Blasio said at his daily news briefing late Friday morning. “We are going through stages — we’re feeling our way.”“This is a very personal decision that people need to make, and I’d say to anyone who feels cautious or uncomfortable, listen to that — and less is more, right?” Mr. de Blasio said at his daily news briefing late Friday morning. “We are going through stages — we’re feeling our way.”
A short time later, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo ended his run of more than 100 consecutive daily news conferences, with an address from his office. After he confirmed that New York City would ease more restrictions on Monday, he showed a montage of New Yorkers during the crisis that featured his own narration.A short time later, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo ended his run of more than 100 consecutive daily news conferences, with an address from his office. After he confirmed that New York City would ease more restrictions on Monday, he showed a montage of New Yorkers during the crisis that featured his own narration.
During his address, Mr. Cuomo warned “Covid isn’t over” — there were 25 additional deaths reported statewide — and said there was more work to be done to contain its spread. But he also struck a reflective and celebratory tone, citing continued low levels of virus-related infections, hospitalizations and deaths and congratulating New Yorkers on their progress.During his address, Mr. Cuomo warned “Covid isn’t over” — there were 25 additional deaths reported statewide — and said there was more work to be done to contain its spread. But he also struck a reflective and celebratory tone, citing continued low levels of virus-related infections, hospitalizations and deaths and congratulating New Yorkers on their progress.
“I’m so incredibly proud of what we all did together, and as a community,” he said. “We reopened the economy and we saved lives.”“I’m so incredibly proud of what we all did together, and as a community,” he said. “We reopened the economy and we saved lives.”
Here’s what else is happening in the U.S.:Here’s what else is happening in the U.S.:
The virus kills by filling the lungs with fluid and robbing the body of oxygen, yet the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, a federal health agency known as BARDA, notified companies and researchers this month that it was halting funding for new treatments for this severe form of Covid-19, the disease caused by the virus.The virus kills by filling the lungs with fluid and robbing the body of oxygen, yet the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, a federal health agency known as BARDA, notified companies and researchers this month that it was halting funding for new treatments for this severe form of Covid-19, the disease caused by the virus.
Two Major League Baseball clubs, the Philadelphia Phillies and the Toronto Blue Jays, and a professional hockey team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, shut down their training facilities in Florida because of the virus.
In Washington, the mayor said that some restrictions in the nation’s capital would ease on Monday, allowing gatherings of up to 50 people, limited indoor dining, and reopening playgrounds and fitness centers.In Washington, the mayor said that some restrictions in the nation’s capital would ease on Monday, allowing gatherings of up to 50 people, limited indoor dining, and reopening playgrounds and fitness centers.
In New Jersey, residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities can begin seeing visitors on June 21, state officials announced. As of Friday, more than 6,150 deaths were reported in long-term care facilities, almost half the total number of deaths in the state. The overall death toll saw the addition of 37 more deaths statewide.In New Jersey, residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities can begin seeing visitors on June 21, state officials announced. As of Friday, more than 6,150 deaths were reported in long-term care facilities, almost half the total number of deaths in the state. The overall death toll saw the addition of 37 more deaths statewide.
Visits must take place outdoors, with everyone wearing masks and remaining six feet apart. Visitors who experience symptoms or test positive within 14 days should contact the facility immediately, state officials said.Visits must take place outdoors, with everyone wearing masks and remaining six feet apart. Visitors who experience symptoms or test positive within 14 days should contact the facility immediately, state officials said.
Stocks on Wall Street followed global markets higher on Friday, following a turbulent week in which concerns about the growing number of infections around the world led to renewed talk about efforts to prop up economies. Apple said earlier this week that it was going to reopen 10 stores in New York. The stores are open “by appointment” for customers to pick up purchases or for repairs. Apple said more than 200 of its 271 U.S. retail stores have reopened.
The S&P 500 was up about 1 percent. European markets rose about 1 percent. Friday’s gains put the index on track for a gain of more than 3 percent for the week and the month of June. All week long, two competing narratives faced off on Wall Street.
All week long, investors have weighed data showing that the worst of the economic damage from the pandemic might be over against a cascade of news about new and widening outbreaks. Investors were encouraged by signs that business reopenings were having an immediate positive effect on the economy. But they were troubled by the growing number of coronavirus infections around the country.
On Friday, the focus was clearly on recovery: Retailers and airlines were among the best performers on the S&P 500, reflecting bets on a degree of economic optimism. Energy stocks also climbed as crude oil futures crossed above $40 a barrel. But there is growing uncertainty about the future economic picture. The tug-of-war made for a turbulent week, and Friday was no exception. The S&P 500 fell as much as 1 percent in the afternoon, after having started the day with a solid gain.
The push and pull this week has come amid mixed reports on the economy. A Labor Department report Thursday showed that another 1.5 million U.S. workers had filed for state unemployment benefits. The pace of layoffs has slowed in recent weeks but remains elevated. On Tuesday the Commerce Department said that U.S. retail sales rebounded sharply in May, as stores reopened and governments lifted some restrictions. The reversal came after Apple said it would temporarily close some stores in Arizona, Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina, where cases are spiking. The number of new cases is increasing in at least 20 states, an analysis by The New York Times found.
Concerns about another wave of infections put a stop to a market rally from late March to early June, during which the S&P 500 climbed some 45 percent. Many economists expect governments will now make new plans to bolster business in the face of rising coronavirus cases. Apple’s decision had an instant impact on the market: Shares of companies that are likely to benefit from a return to normalcy, like airlines and retailers, immediately gave up their gains. Oil prices also gave up their early gains.
The push and pull this week has come amid mixed reports on the economy. A Labor Department report on Thursday showed that another 1.5 million workers had filed for state unemployment benefits. The pace of layoffs has slowed in recent weeks but remains elevated. On Tuesday, the Commerce Department said that retail sales rebounded sharply in May, as stores reopened and governments lifted some restrictions. But there is growing uncertainty about the economic picture going forward.
Global roundupGlobal roundup
Italian scientists on Friday said they found traces of the virus in samples of sewage water collected in December, further suggesting that the virus was already circulating in the country months before the outbreak at the end of February.Italian scientists on Friday said they found traces of the virus in samples of sewage water collected in December, further suggesting that the virus was already circulating in the country months before the outbreak at the end of February.
Researchers at the Italian National Institute of Health discovered the presence of the RNA of the virus in samples taken in the northern cities of Milan and Turin on Dec. 18, more than two months before the country’s first case was diagnosed on Feb 20. Traces were also found in samples from the city of Bologna, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) south of Milan, on Jan. 29.Researchers at the Italian National Institute of Health discovered the presence of the RNA of the virus in samples taken in the northern cities of Milan and Turin on Dec. 18, more than two months before the country’s first case was diagnosed on Feb 20. Traces were also found in samples from the city of Bologna, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) south of Milan, on Jan. 29.
“We showed that the virus was already circulating,” said Lucia Bonadonna, an official at the institute. “Probably in asymptomatic or little-symptomatic forms before we had our first local case.”“We showed that the virus was already circulating,” said Lucia Bonadonna, an official at the institute. “Probably in asymptomatic or little-symptomatic forms before we had our first local case.”
While the new findings shift the virus’s timeline earlier in Europe, they do not significantly change the pandemic’s known timeline. Chinese officials reported the outbreak in Wuhan on Dec. 31, but later traced cases that emerged as far back as Dec. 1.While the new findings shift the virus’s timeline earlier in Europe, they do not significantly change the pandemic’s known timeline. Chinese officials reported the outbreak in Wuhan on Dec. 31, but later traced cases that emerged as far back as Dec. 1.
Italian scientists and officials have long suspected that the virus had moved undetected in the northern region of Lombardy, an economic hub where there is frequent trade with China, at least weeks before the contagion came to light.Italian scientists and officials have long suspected that the virus had moved undetected in the northern region of Lombardy, an economic hub where there is frequent trade with China, at least weeks before the contagion came to light.
Similar evidence has recently emerged around the world, indicating that by the time the authorities were aware of an outbreak, the virus was already more widespread than initially believed.Similar evidence has recently emerged around the world, indicating that by the time the authorities were aware of an outbreak, the virus was already more widespread than initially believed.
In France, a sample taken from a patient on Dec. 27 tested positive last month. And in California, health officials discovered a virus-linked death on Feb. 6, weeks before the earliest recorded case of U.S. community transmission.In France, a sample taken from a patient on Dec. 27 tested positive last month. And in California, health officials discovered a virus-linked death on Feb. 6, weeks before the earliest recorded case of U.S. community transmission.
In other news from around the world:In other news from around the world:
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan lifted a virus-related ban on domestic travel. Mr. Abe’s government is also in discussions to ease international travel bans for passengers arriving from Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Vietnam.Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan lifted a virus-related ban on domestic travel. Mr. Abe’s government is also in discussions to ease international travel bans for passengers arriving from Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Vietnam.
Britain reduced its Covid-19 alert level to three from four. At Level 3, the virus is considered to remain “in general circulation.” But the change paves the way for a gradual easing of social-distancing measures.Britain reduced its Covid-19 alert level to three from four. At Level 3, the virus is considered to remain “in general circulation.” But the change paves the way for a gradual easing of social-distancing measures.
Spain updated its death toll from the virus for the first time in almost two week. The country’s health ministry said 28,313 people had died, up from 27,136 on June 7. Officials said the intervening time had been used to ensure that all Covid-19 fatalities were properly recorded. Last month, the ministry abruptly reduced its tally by about 2,000, citing testing uncertainties.Spain updated its death toll from the virus for the first time in almost two week. The country’s health ministry said 28,313 people had died, up from 27,136 on June 7. Officials said the intervening time had been used to ensure that all Covid-19 fatalities were properly recorded. Last month, the ministry abruptly reduced its tally by about 2,000, citing testing uncertainties.
South Korea reported 49 more cases, as a second wave of infections continued to spread in the Seoul metropolitan area.South Korea reported 49 more cases, as a second wave of infections continued to spread in the Seoul metropolitan area.
In Canada, a doctor who traveled across a provincial border has been accused of igniting a coronavirus outbreak. ​ ​​The backlash against him has spurred debate over how to balance collective responsibility and individual freedom during a pandemic.In Canada, a doctor who traveled across a provincial border has been accused of igniting a coronavirus outbreak. ​ ​​The backlash against him has spurred debate over how to balance collective responsibility and individual freedom during a pandemic.
Health experts worry that in the race to find drugs and vaccines, a substantial proportion of studies may be excluding older subjects, purposely or inadvertently, even as 80 percent of American deaths have occurred in people over age 65.Health experts worry that in the race to find drugs and vaccines, a substantial proportion of studies may be excluding older subjects, purposely or inadvertently, even as 80 percent of American deaths have occurred in people over age 65.
“A year from now, when these trials are published, I don’t want to see that there’s no one in them over 75,” said Dr. Sharon K. Inouye, a geriatrician at Harvard Medical School and Hebrew SeniorLife. “If they create a drug that works really well in healthy 50- and 60-year-olds, they’ve missed the boat.”“A year from now, when these trials are published, I don’t want to see that there’s no one in them over 75,” said Dr. Sharon K. Inouye, a geriatrician at Harvard Medical School and Hebrew SeniorLife. “If they create a drug that works really well in healthy 50- and 60-year-olds, they’ve missed the boat.”
She and her team have reviewed 241 interventional Covid-19 studies that have been undertaken in the United States and are listed on clinicaltrials.gov, a site maintained by a division of the National Institutes of Health.She and her team have reviewed 241 interventional Covid-19 studies that have been undertaken in the United States and are listed on clinicaltrials.gov, a site maintained by a division of the National Institutes of Health.
They found that 37 of these trials — which test drugs, vaccines and devices — set specific age limits and would not enroll participants older than 75, 80 or 85. A few even excluded those over 65.They found that 37 of these trials — which test drugs, vaccines and devices — set specific age limits and would not enroll participants older than 75, 80 or 85. A few even excluded those over 65.
Another group of 27 trials set no maximum age but used study designs that could nevertheless disqualify many older adults. Some excluded people with illnesses common among the older population, like hypertension or diabetes, even if participants controlled the disease through medication. “Surrogates for age exclusion,” Dr. Inouye said.Another group of 27 trials set no maximum age but used study designs that could nevertheless disqualify many older adults. Some excluded people with illnesses common among the older population, like hypertension or diabetes, even if participants controlled the disease through medication. “Surrogates for age exclusion,” Dr. Inouye said.
There is a long history of older people being excluded from clinical trials, even when the diseases in question disproportionately affected this group.There is a long history of older people being excluded from clinical trials, even when the diseases in question disproportionately affected this group.
“Ideally, the patients enrolled in a randomized clinical trial reflect the demographics of the disease,” said Dr. Mark Sloan, a hematologist leading a Covid-19 drug study at Boston Medical Center, in an email. “Unfortunately, this is seldom the case.”“Ideally, the patients enrolled in a randomized clinical trial reflect the demographics of the disease,” said Dr. Mark Sloan, a hematologist leading a Covid-19 drug study at Boston Medical Center, in an email. “Unfortunately, this is seldom the case.”
Mr. Trump on Friday rebuked Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, for expressing concern over the safety of resuming professional football this fall.Mr. Trump on Friday rebuked Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, for expressing concern over the safety of resuming professional football this fall.
On Thursday, Dr. Fauci told CNN that the National Football League would need to replicate the kind of safety “bubble” planned by professional basketball and soccer leagues to safely resume play.On Thursday, Dr. Fauci told CNN that the National Football League would need to replicate the kind of safety “bubble” planned by professional basketball and soccer leagues to safely resume play.
“Unless players are essentially in a bubble — insulated from the community and they are tested nearly every day — it would be very hard to see how football is able to be played this fall,” Dr. Fauci said.“Unless players are essentially in a bubble — insulated from the community and they are tested nearly every day — it would be very hard to see how football is able to be played this fall,” Dr. Fauci said.
He added that a “second wave” of the virus could mean that football is not played this year.He added that a “second wave” of the virus could mean that football is not played this year.
In response, Mr. Trump wrote on Twitter on Friday that “Tony Fauci has nothing to do with N.F.L. Football. They are planning a very safe and controlled opening.”In response, Mr. Trump wrote on Twitter on Friday that “Tony Fauci has nothing to do with N.F.L. Football. They are planning a very safe and controlled opening.”
The president added, in a dig a players who kneel before games to protest racism, “however, if they don’t stand for our National Anthem and our Great American Flag, I won’t be watching!!!”The president added, in a dig a players who kneel before games to protest racism, “however, if they don’t stand for our National Anthem and our Great American Flag, I won’t be watching!!!”
The N.F.L.’s training camp is set to begin on Monday, with its first preseason game scheduled for Aug. 6 in a stadium adjacent to the pro football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.The N.F.L.’s training camp is set to begin on Monday, with its first preseason game scheduled for Aug. 6 in a stadium adjacent to the pro football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
“Dr. Fauci has identified the important health and safety issues we and the N.F.L. Players Association, together with our joint medical advisors, are addressing to mitigate the health risk to players, coaches and other essential personnel,” Dr. Allen Sills, the N.F.L.’s chief medical officer, told CNN in a statement on Thursday.“Dr. Fauci has identified the important health and safety issues we and the N.F.L. Players Association, together with our joint medical advisors, are addressing to mitigate the health risk to players, coaches and other essential personnel,” Dr. Allen Sills, the N.F.L.’s chief medical officer, told CNN in a statement on Thursday.
As China tries to stifle the new outbreak in Beijing, it is applying something often alien to the instincts of the country’s rulers: restraint.As China tries to stifle the new outbreak in Beijing, it is applying something often alien to the instincts of the country’s rulers: restraint.
Beijing’s leaders are trying to stamp out the latest outbreak, now at 183 infections after 25 more were announced on Friday. But they are not placing the entire city, and its nascent economic revival, under heavy-handed restrictions.Beijing’s leaders are trying to stamp out the latest outbreak, now at 183 infections after 25 more were announced on Friday. But they are not placing the entire city, and its nascent economic revival, under heavy-handed restrictions.
The approach contrasts with China’s earlier efforts to contain the virus in the central province of Hubei and its capital city, Wuhan, where the epidemic broke out late last year. For over two months, the city of 11 million was under a tight lockdown that required support from tens of thousands of doctors, party officials and security personnel. The lockdown helped control the outbreak but also stalled the economy.The approach contrasts with China’s earlier efforts to contain the virus in the central province of Hubei and its capital city, Wuhan, where the epidemic broke out late last year. For over two months, the city of 11 million was under a tight lockdown that required support from tens of thousands of doctors, party officials and security personnel. The lockdown helped control the outbreak but also stalled the economy.
If successful, the new approach being taken in Beijing could be a bellwether for how China may handle future outbreaks, which many experts say are almost certain.If successful, the new approach being taken in Beijing could be a bellwether for how China may handle future outbreaks, which many experts say are almost certain.
“You cannot expect people to accept the pain for too long,” said Yanzhong Huang, a senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations who has closely followed China’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. “Because then you have unemployment problems and even emotional stresses that could all have huge implications for social and political stability.”“You cannot expect people to accept the pain for too long,” said Yanzhong Huang, a senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations who has closely followed China’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. “Because then you have unemployment problems and even emotional stresses that could all have huge implications for social and political stability.”
City officials say their cautious approach is bearing fruit: the number of new cases per day is already dropping. Officials in Beijing appear increasingly confident that they have caught the outbreak before it could spin out of control through untraceable infections.City officials say their cautious approach is bearing fruit: the number of new cases per day is already dropping. Officials in Beijing appear increasingly confident that they have caught the outbreak before it could spin out of control through untraceable infections.
Around the United States, but mostly in small towns in the West, hundreds of professional rodeos have been canceled — hard blows to tradition and economies. In many places, the rodeo is the biggest event on the annual calendar.Around the United States, but mostly in small towns in the West, hundreds of professional rodeos have been canceled — hard blows to tradition and economies. In many places, the rodeo is the biggest event on the annual calendar.
Stonyford, Calif., can feel like the middle of nowhere. But it could always count on a few crowded days every year during its annual rodeo, when the town’s population swells into the thousands.Stonyford, Calif., can feel like the middle of nowhere. But it could always count on a few crowded days every year during its annual rodeo, when the town’s population swells into the thousands.
Not this year. There was no 77th Stonyford Rodeo.Not this year. There was no 77th Stonyford Rodeo.
Some rodeos, like Stonyford, with $18,000 in prize money, are relatively small affairs. Others are immense undertakings filled with concerts, carnivals and livestock shows — and $1 million or more in payouts.Some rodeos, like Stonyford, with $18,000 in prize money, are relatively small affairs. Others are immense undertakings filled with concerts, carnivals and livestock shows — and $1 million or more in payouts.
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the governing body of about 700 annual rodeos, estimates that about half will not take place in 2020. Those still on the schedule are working with fingers crossed, some moving dates to buy more time.The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the governing body of about 700 annual rodeos, estimates that about half will not take place in 2020. Those still on the schedule are working with fingers crossed, some moving dates to buy more time.
“Covid-19 has impacted the entire country, every business you can think of,” said George Taylor, chief executive of the association. “Our business is a representation of that, but also represents a loss of community — something that brings these small towns together.”“Covid-19 has impacted the entire country, every business you can think of,” said George Taylor, chief executive of the association. “Our business is a representation of that, but also represents a loss of community — something that brings these small towns together.”
Rodeos hold a unique spot in the American sports landscape. They are not a league, but a loose coalition of community events, usually run by nonprofit organizations and volunteers.Rodeos hold a unique spot in the American sports landscape. They are not a league, but a loose coalition of community events, usually run by nonprofit organizations and volunteers.
In late May, when Gov. Mark Gordon of Wyoming tearfully announced the cancellation of July’s Cheyenne Frontier Days for the first time in the event’s 124-year history, he was surrounded by representatives of other canceled Wyoming rodeos. They were socially distanced, wearing masks and cowboy hats.In late May, when Gov. Mark Gordon of Wyoming tearfully announced the cancellation of July’s Cheyenne Frontier Days for the first time in the event’s 124-year history, he was surrounded by representatives of other canceled Wyoming rodeos. They were socially distanced, wearing masks and cowboy hats.
Reporting was contributed by Brooks Barnes, Keith Bradsher, John Branch, Emma Bubola, Chris Buckley, Nancy Coleman, Maria Cramer, Michael Crowley, Gillian Friedman, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, Jenny Gross, Sarah Kliff, Jesse McKinley, Raphael Minder, Elian Peltier, Motoko Rich, Eric Schmitt, Jeanna Smialek, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Paula Span, Matt Stevens, Katie Thomas, Neil Vigdor, Daisuke Wakabayashi, David Waldstein and Mihir Zaveri. Reporting was contributed by Brooks Barnes, Keith Bradsher, John Branch, Emma Bubola, Chris Buckley, Nancy Coleman, Maria Cramer, Michael Crowley, Gillian Friedman, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, Jenny Gross, Mohammed Hadi, Sarah Kliff, Jesse McKinley, Raphael Minder, Elian Peltier, Motoko Rich, Eric Schmitt, Jeanna Smialek, Mitch Smith, Kaly Soto, Paula Span, Matt Stevens, Katie Thomas, Neil Vigdor, Daisuke Wakabayashi, David Waldstein and Mihir Zaveri.