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Coronavirus Live Updates: Trump to Sign Order Suspending Many Foreign Work Visas, Officials Say Coronavirus Live Updates: Trump to Sign Order Suspending Many Foreign Work Visas, Officials Say
(32 minutes later)
President Trump will sign an executive order temporarily suspending work visas and barring hundreds of thousands of foreigners from coming to work in the United States, part of a broad effort by the administration to dramatically limit entry into the country during the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic, senior administration officials said Monday. President Trump will sign an executive order temporarily suspending work visas and barring more than half a million foreigners from coming to work in the United States, part of a broad effort by the administration to dramatically limit entry into the country during the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic, senior administration officials said Monday.
The restrictions would block entry into the United States under the H-1B visa program for high-skilled workers, and would also affect several other categories of visas. The restrictions would block entry into the United States under the H-1B visa program for high-skilled workers, and would also affect several other categories of visas, although it would exempt health care professionals and farm workers, among other categories. Taken together, officials said the worker visa bans and green card suspensions would prevent 525,000 immigrants from working in the United States between now and the end of the year.
The order, which has been expected for several weeks, is fiercely opposed by a broad swath of businesses — including high tech companies in Silicon Valley, manufacturers, and others — who say it will block their ability to recruit critically needed workers from overseas countries for jobs that Americans are not willing or capable of performing. The order, which has been expected for several weeks, is fiercely opposed by a broad swath of businesses — including high tech companies in Silicon Valley, manufacturers, and others — whose leaders say it will block their ability to recruit critically needed workers from overseas countries for jobs that Americans cannot or will not perform.
Stephen Miller, the architect of the president’s assault on immigration, has pushed for years to limit or eliminate the worker visas, arguing that they harm employment prospects for Americans. In recent months, he has argued that the economic distress caused by the virus has made it even more important to turn off the spigot of foreign entry into the United States. Stephen Miller, the architect of the president’s restrictive immigration policies, has pushed for years to limit or eliminate the worker visas, arguing that they harm employment prospects for Americans. In recent months, he has argued that the economic distress caused by the virus has made it even more important to turn off the spigot of foreign entry into the United States.
In April, the president signed an executive order that suspended for 60 days the issuance of green cards to foreigners looking to live in the United States. But at the time, Mr. Miller and the president bowed to pressure from the business community to avoid imposing limits on the worker visas. In April, the president signed an executive order that suspended for 60 days the issuance of green cards to foreigners looking to live in the United States. But at the time, Mr. Miller and the president bowed to pressure from the business community to avoid imposing limits on worker visas.
Monday’s order extends the green-card prohibition in addition to suspending the issuance of many of the worker visas. In addition, the administration officials said that the president will order new regulations to permanently change worker visas in the future so that foreign job offers go to more highly paid, highly-skilled workers that will compete less with Americans. Monday’s order extends the green-card prohibition in addition to suspending the issuance of many of the worker visas, which will be effective through the end of the year, the officials said. In addition, the administration officials said that the president will order new regulations to permanently change worker visas in the future so that foreign job offers go to more highly paid, highly-skilled workers that will compete less with Americans.
The order includes exceptions for some categories of workers, including health care professionals needed to combat or do research about the virus.
Key Data of the DayKey Data of the Day
As the coronavirus spreads at record speeds around the world, the United States accounted for 20 percent of all the new infections worldwide on Sunday, according to New York Times data, even as the country’s population makes up about 4.3 percent of the world’s. As the virus spreads at record speeds around the world, the United States accounted for 20 percent of all the new infections worldwide on Sunday, according to New York Times data, even as the country’s population makes up about 4.3 percent of the world’s.
New cases continued to surge over the weekend in 22 states, especially in the West and the South. Oklahoma and Missouri reported their largest single-day case increases yet on Sunday, and Florida passed 100,000 total cases, according to the state’s health department.New cases continued to surge over the weekend in 22 states, especially in the West and the South. Oklahoma and Missouri reported their largest single-day case increases yet on Sunday, and Florida passed 100,000 total cases, according to the state’s health department.
In Washington’s Yakima County, where the number of cases has more than doubled in the past month, the situation is dire. Gov. Jay Inslee said the county was at a “breaking point.” With a shortage of hospital beds, patients were being taken to Seattle, more than two hours away, for medical care. Yakima hospitals are also reporting significant staffing shortages because of employees who are sick with the virus or are under a 14-day quarantine after being exposed.In Washington’s Yakima County, where the number of cases has more than doubled in the past month, the situation is dire. Gov. Jay Inslee said the county was at a “breaking point.” With a shortage of hospital beds, patients were being taken to Seattle, more than two hours away, for medical care. Yakima hospitals are also reporting significant staffing shortages because of employees who are sick with the virus or are under a 14-day quarantine after being exposed.
In the wake of another record-setting day for new coronavirus cases, Dr. Michael Ryan, the executive director of W.H.O.’s health emergencies program, said on Monday that increased testing was not driving the surge in cases. In the wake of another record-setting day for new cases, Dr. Michael Ryan, the executive director of W.H.O.’s health emergencies program, said on Monday that increased testing was not driving the surge in cases.
“We do not believe that this is a testing phenomenon,” he said. “Clearly, hospital admissions are also rising in a number of countries, deaths are also rising, and they are not due to increase testing, per se. So there definitely is a shift in the sense that that the virus is now very well established at the global level.”“We do not believe that this is a testing phenomenon,” he said. “Clearly, hospital admissions are also rising in a number of countries, deaths are also rising, and they are not due to increase testing, per se. So there definitely is a shift in the sense that that the virus is now very well established at the global level.”
The declaration comes two days after President Trump told supporters at a political rally in Tulsa, Okla., that he had urged U.S. officials to slow down testing for the virus. Mr. Trump has attributed the recent upswing of cases in the United States to increased testing. The declaration comes two days after Mr. Trump told supporters at a political rally in Tulsa, Okla., that he had urged U.S. officials to slow down testing for the virus. Mr. Trump has attributed the recent upswing of cases in the United States to increased testing.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the W.H.O., said on Monday that more than 183,000 new cases worldwide were reported in the last 24-hour period, “easily the most in a single day so far.”Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the W.H.O., said on Monday that more than 183,000 new cases worldwide were reported in the last 24-hour period, “easily the most in a single day so far.”
He also warned countries not to make the virus a political issue, particularly as infections worldwide are on the rise.He also warned countries not to make the virus a political issue, particularly as infections worldwide are on the rise.
“We know the pandemic is so much more than a health crisis — it’s an economic crisis, a social crisis and in many countries a political crisis,” Dr. Tedros said. Though he did not call out specific countries, the virus has become politically contentious in several countries, including the United States, where the White House has begun rolling back its own virus-related precautions, and Brazil.“We know the pandemic is so much more than a health crisis — it’s an economic crisis, a social crisis and in many countries a political crisis,” Dr. Tedros said. Though he did not call out specific countries, the virus has become politically contentious in several countries, including the United States, where the White House has begun rolling back its own virus-related precautions, and Brazil.
Over the weekend, Brazil became the second country to log more than 50,000 virus-related deaths. New cases across the country continue to spike, particularly in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Some epidemiologists say if that trend continues, Brazil could top the United States for the most virus-related deaths by late July.Over the weekend, Brazil became the second country to log more than 50,000 virus-related deaths. New cases across the country continue to spike, particularly in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Some epidemiologists say if that trend continues, Brazil could top the United States for the most virus-related deaths by late July.
The case and death counts in Mexico also continue to rise, prompting officials in Mexico City — which has seen the brunt of the infections — to hold off on plans to reopen malls and outdoor markets.The case and death counts in Mexico also continue to rise, prompting officials in Mexico City — which has seen the brunt of the infections — to hold off on plans to reopen malls and outdoor markets.
In Germany, which was praised for quickly implementing lockdowns and large-scale testing, a recent increase in infections has been tied to the country’s largest pork processing plant, which has recorded more than 1,300 cases among workers. In Germany, which was praised for quickly implementing lockdowns and large-scale testing, a recent increase in infections has been tied to the country’s largest pork processing plant, which has recorded more than 1,300 cases among workers.
Parts of Africa are also becoming global hot spots, after being largely spared from the virus earlier this year. South Africa is now seeing an average of 1,000 new cases a day, and virus-related deaths in Egypt are on the rise.Parts of Africa are also becoming global hot spots, after being largely spared from the virus earlier this year. South Africa is now seeing an average of 1,000 new cases a day, and virus-related deaths in Egypt are on the rise.
global roundupglobal roundup
Germany is scrambling to contain a fast-growing outbreak in the country’s largest pork processing plant.Germany is scrambling to contain a fast-growing outbreak in the country’s largest pork processing plant.
The authorities have confirmed 1,331 new cases among workers at the Tönnies plant in the northwestern town of Rheda-Wiedenbrück in the last week. The surrounding community has been quarantined and schools and day care centers have been closed. State and federal health workers and soldiers had been deployed to carry out large-scale testing.The authorities have confirmed 1,331 new cases among workers at the Tönnies plant in the northwestern town of Rheda-Wiedenbrück in the last week. The surrounding community has been quarantined and schools and day care centers have been closed. State and federal health workers and soldiers had been deployed to carry out large-scale testing.
Some workers blamed a lack of safety measures and space to practice social distancing. A video released in early April, apparently recorded by a worker, showed a crowded cafeteria. The state prosecutor said he was considering opening an investigation.Some workers blamed a lack of safety measures and space to practice social distancing. A video released in early April, apparently recorded by a worker, showed a crowded cafeteria. The state prosecutor said he was considering opening an investigation.
With the new cases, the country’s R0, or “r-naught,” which represents the number of new infections estimated to stem from a single case, shot up to 2.7 on Monday, a number not seen since a nationwide shutdown that started in March lowered the rate. But the national health authority, the Robert Koch Institute, cautioned that the R0 was high precisely because the number of cases remained relatively low.With the new cases, the country’s R0, or “r-naught,” which represents the number of new infections estimated to stem from a single case, shot up to 2.7 on Monday, a number not seen since a nationwide shutdown that started in March lowered the rate. But the national health authority, the Robert Koch Institute, cautioned that the R0 was high precisely because the number of cases remained relatively low.
In other international news:In other international news:
India’s underfunded hospitals have begun to buckle as the country reports more infections per day than any country besides the United States and Brazil. People in desperate need of treatment are being turned away, especially in New Delhi. Scores have died in the streets or in the back of ambulances.India’s underfunded hospitals have begun to buckle as the country reports more infections per day than any country besides the United States and Brazil. People in desperate need of treatment are being turned away, especially in New Delhi. Scores have died in the streets or in the back of ambulances.
A top health official in South Korea, Jeong Eun-kyeong, said that the country had been battling a “second wave” since early May, but that the caseload remained too small to qualify as a true “wave.” South Korea has reported new cases in the double digits in recent weeks, after recording as many as 800 cases a day several months ago.A top health official in South Korea, Jeong Eun-kyeong, said that the country had been battling a “second wave” since early May, but that the caseload remained too small to qualify as a true “wave.” South Korea has reported new cases in the double digits in recent weeks, after recording as many as 800 cases a day several months ago.
Local authorities in Spain on Monday were forced to reimpose lockdown restrictions in some municipalities of Huesca, a northeastern province, after new clusters of infections surfaced, including one among seasonal farm workers. The step back came only a day after Spain lifted a nationwide state of emergency.Local authorities in Spain on Monday were forced to reimpose lockdown restrictions in some municipalities of Huesca, a northeastern province, after new clusters of infections surfaced, including one among seasonal farm workers. The step back came only a day after Spain lifted a nationwide state of emergency.
French schools opened their doors in earnest after weeks of incremental steps, though only two weeks remain before the summer break. Jean-Michel Blanquer, the education minister, told France Inter radio that confinement had been a “global education catastrophe” for students, and vowed that those who had dropped behind during the lockdown would receive special support.French schools opened their doors in earnest after weeks of incremental steps, though only two weeks remain before the summer break. Jean-Michel Blanquer, the education minister, told France Inter radio that confinement had been a “global education catastrophe” for students, and vowed that those who had dropped behind during the lockdown would receive special support.
Thousands of Palestinians, many wearing masks and gloves, gathered in the West Bank to demonstrate against the prospect of Israeli annexation. Mai Kaila, the health minister of the Palestinian Authority, emphasized the urgency of the protest. “Our people know about the dangers of the coronavirus, but they wanted to send a message to the whole international community against annexation,” she said. Hundreds of new virus cases have been recorded in the West Bank in the past week, bringing the total just under 1,000.Thousands of Palestinians, many wearing masks and gloves, gathered in the West Bank to demonstrate against the prospect of Israeli annexation. Mai Kaila, the health minister of the Palestinian Authority, emphasized the urgency of the protest. “Our people know about the dangers of the coronavirus, but they wanted to send a message to the whole international community against annexation,” she said. Hundreds of new virus cases have been recorded in the West Bank in the past week, bringing the total just under 1,000.
NEW YORK ROUNDUPNEW YORK ROUNDUP
Two weeks after it began easing virus restrictions, New York City reached another major milestone on Monday, as offices were allowed to open and as many as 300,000 people were expected to return to work in person.Two weeks after it began easing virus restrictions, New York City reached another major milestone on Monday, as offices were allowed to open and as many as 300,000 people were expected to return to work in person.
Phase 2 of reopening also allows for outdoor dining, some in-store shopping, hair salons, barbershops and real estate work.Phase 2 of reopening also allows for outdoor dining, some in-store shopping, hair salons, barbershops and real estate work.
At his daily briefing on Monday, Mayor Bill de Blasio called it “a giant step for this city.”At his daily briefing on Monday, Mayor Bill de Blasio called it “a giant step for this city.”
“This is where most of our economy is,” he said.“This is where most of our economy is,” he said.
Still, with offices required to limit their maximum capacity to ensure social distancing, the number of people returning to work appeared to be a fraction of those who once jostled elbows on crowded subways and in high-rise elevators.Still, with offices required to limit their maximum capacity to ensure social distancing, the number of people returning to work appeared to be a fraction of those who once jostled elbows on crowded subways and in high-rise elevators.
“It’s nice to get back to kind of normal, even though it’s not 100 percent normal,” said Kiki Boyzuick, 45, who works in human resources in Midtown Manhattan.“It’s nice to get back to kind of normal, even though it’s not 100 percent normal,” said Kiki Boyzuick, 45, who works in human resources in Midtown Manhattan.
On Monday morning, a time when Midtown would typically be crammed with workers, the sidewalks remained largely vacant and the subway cars still felt relatively empty.On Monday morning, a time when Midtown would typically be crammed with workers, the sidewalks remained largely vacant and the subway cars still felt relatively empty.
The mayor said that while some businesses might be reluctant to reopen their offices in the summer, he would encourage them to bring workers back in the fall.The mayor said that while some businesses might be reluctant to reopen their offices in the summer, he would encourage them to bring workers back in the fall.
“The more that people see it’s working, the more people will want to come back,” he said. “I think a lot of businesses will say, ‘We just cannot get done this work as well if people don’t spend more time together.’”“The more that people see it’s working, the more people will want to come back,” he said. “I think a lot of businesses will say, ‘We just cannot get done this work as well if people don’t spend more time together.’”
In a survey conducted this month by the Partnership for New York City, a business group, respondents from 60 companies with Manhattan offices predicted that only 10 percent of their employees would return by Aug. 15.In a survey conducted this month by the Partnership for New York City, a business group, respondents from 60 companies with Manhattan offices predicted that only 10 percent of their employees would return by Aug. 15.
At Fancy Wave Salon in Flushing, Queens, hairstylists wore face shields, gloves and masks as they attended to their clients’ hair. Derrick Chan, the owner, said he was thrilled to reopen.At Fancy Wave Salon in Flushing, Queens, hairstylists wore face shields, gloves and masks as they attended to their clients’ hair. Derrick Chan, the owner, said he was thrilled to reopen.
“We had to pretty much stay home, no income,” he said. “That’s why you have to save up for the rainy days.”“We had to pretty much stay home, no income,” he said. “That’s why you have to save up for the rainy days.”
Here’s what else is happening in the region:Here’s what else is happening in the region:
More riders returned to public transportation during Phase 1 in New York City than transit officials had anticipated. On the subway, daily ridership has climbed to 17 percent of pre-pandemic levels, when ridership exceeded five million. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority expects as many as two million people during Phase 2.More riders returned to public transportation during Phase 1 in New York City than transit officials had anticipated. On the subway, daily ridership has climbed to 17 percent of pre-pandemic levels, when ridership exceeded five million. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority expects as many as two million people during Phase 2.
Regarding Phase 3, Mr. de Blasio said Monday the city would wait the state-mandated minimum of two weeks, and that officials would need to see particular evidence of the outbreak easing.Regarding Phase 3, Mr. de Blasio said Monday the city would wait the state-mandated minimum of two weeks, and that officials would need to see particular evidence of the outbreak easing.
“It’s going to be of course a higher bar because to do something here affects so many millions of people,” he said.“It’s going to be of course a higher bar because to do something here affects so many millions of people,” he said.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said Monday on CNN that he was discussing, with the governors of New Jersey and Connecticut, what to do about travelers coming from other states recording increases in cases, even as he described a quarantine by Florida imposed on New Yorkers in March as “more political than anything else.”Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said Monday on CNN that he was discussing, with the governors of New Jersey and Connecticut, what to do about travelers coming from other states recording increases in cases, even as he described a quarantine by Florida imposed on New Yorkers in March as “more political than anything else.”
“I wouldn’t target a specific state,” he said. “I would consider states with the highest transmission rate, that if somebody comes from that state to New York, there’s a period of quarantine where they quarantine themselves to make sure they’re not spreading it.”“I wouldn’t target a specific state,” he said. “I would consider states with the highest transmission rate, that if somebody comes from that state to New York, there’s a period of quarantine where they quarantine themselves to make sure they’re not spreading it.”
In New York State, there were 10 additional virus-related deaths, Mr. Cuomo said Monday. In New Jersey, 27 more people had died, Gov. Philip D. Murphy said.In New York State, there were 10 additional virus-related deaths, Mr. Cuomo said Monday. In New Jersey, 27 more people had died, Gov. Philip D. Murphy said.
Casinos in New Jersey could reopen at 25 percent capacity on July 2, Mr. Murphy said, with other restrictions to be announced soon.Casinos in New Jersey could reopen at 25 percent capacity on July 2, Mr. Murphy said, with other restrictions to be announced soon.
As parts of the country tentatively reopen, clusters of cases have spread from the most widely known locations — like meatpacking plants, nursing homes and prisons — to locations that have gotten far less attention.As parts of the country tentatively reopen, clusters of cases have spread from the most widely known locations — like meatpacking plants, nursing homes and prisons — to locations that have gotten far less attention.
Four people who spent time at Cruisin’ Chubbys Gentlemen’s Club, a Wisconsin strip club, recently tested positive. In Colorado, at least 11 staff members at Eagle Lake Overnight Camp came down with the virus before any campers showed up, leading the camp to close for the rest of the summer.Four people who spent time at Cruisin’ Chubbys Gentlemen’s Club, a Wisconsin strip club, recently tested positive. In Colorado, at least 11 staff members at Eagle Lake Overnight Camp came down with the virus before any campers showed up, leading the camp to close for the rest of the summer.
Other clusters have been linked to fraternity rush parties in Mississippi. Officials said those gatherings appeared to violate rules that ban indoor gatherings of more than 20 people unless social distancing steps are taken.Other clusters have been linked to fraternity rush parties in Mississippi. Officials said those gatherings appeared to violate rules that ban indoor gatherings of more than 20 people unless social distancing steps are taken.
Churches, whose reopenings have been debated, are emerging as sources of major clusters around the country. At least 236 cases were recently linked to Lighthouse Pentecostal Church in Oregon.Churches, whose reopenings have been debated, are emerging as sources of major clusters around the country. At least 236 cases were recently linked to Lighthouse Pentecostal Church in Oregon.
Experts say clusters will likely continue to crop up around the country as people come into more contact with one another.Experts say clusters will likely continue to crop up around the country as people come into more contact with one another.
“Reopening is part of the story,” said Dr. Arnold S. Monto, a professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, who noted that as states get back to business, more people will be at risk. But the virus is also notoriously erratic, he said, leaving certain people more likely to transmit it than others.“Reopening is part of the story,” said Dr. Arnold S. Monto, a professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, who noted that as states get back to business, more people will be at risk. But the virus is also notoriously erratic, he said, leaving certain people more likely to transmit it than others.
“You have individuals who are super spreaders,” he said, not because they are irresponsible, but because there is something different in how their body reacts to the virus. “It’s a biological phenomenon we do not understand.”“You have individuals who are super spreaders,” he said, not because they are irresponsible, but because there is something different in how their body reacts to the virus. “It’s a biological phenomenon we do not understand.”
An unprecedented expansion of federal aid has prevented the rise in poverty that experts predicted this year when the pandemic sent unemployment to the highest level since the Great Depression, two new studies suggest.An unprecedented expansion of federal aid has prevented the rise in poverty that experts predicted this year when the pandemic sent unemployment to the highest level since the Great Depression, two new studies suggest.
The studies carry important caveats. Many Americans have suffered hunger or other hardships amid long delays in receiving the assistance, and much of the aid is scheduled to expire next month. Millions of people have been excluded from receiving any help, especially undocumented migrants, who often have American children.The studies carry important caveats. Many Americans have suffered hunger or other hardships amid long delays in receiving the assistance, and much of the aid is scheduled to expire next month. Millions of people have been excluded from receiving any help, especially undocumented migrants, who often have American children.
Still, the evidence suggests that the programs Congress hastily authorized in March have done much to protect the needy, a finding likely to shape the debate over next steps at a time when 13.3 percent of Americans remain unemployed.Still, the evidence suggests that the programs Congress hastily authorized in March have done much to protect the needy, a finding likely to shape the debate over next steps at a time when 13.3 percent of Americans remain unemployed.
“Right now, the safety net is doing what it’s supposed to do for most families — helping them secure a minimally decent life,” said Zachary Parolin, a member of the Columbia University team forecasting this year’s poverty rate. “Given the magnitude of the employment loss, this is really remarkable.’’“Right now, the safety net is doing what it’s supposed to do for most families — helping them secure a minimally decent life,” said Zachary Parolin, a member of the Columbia University team forecasting this year’s poverty rate. “Given the magnitude of the employment loss, this is really remarkable.’’
The Columbia group’s midrange forecast has poverty rising only slightly this year, to 12.7 percent, from 12.5 percent before the virus. Without the March law that provided one-time checks to most Americans and weekly bonuses to the unemployed, it would have reached 16.3 percent, the researchers found. That would have pushed nearly 12 million more people into poverty.The Columbia group’s midrange forecast has poverty rising only slightly this year, to 12.7 percent, from 12.5 percent before the virus. Without the March law that provided one-time checks to most Americans and weekly bonuses to the unemployed, it would have reached 16.3 percent, the researchers found. That would have pushed nearly 12 million more people into poverty.
A separate study analyzing Census Bureau survey data found that incomes rose among needy Americans in April, despite cresting unemployment, as government payments began.A separate study analyzing Census Bureau survey data found that incomes rose among needy Americans in April, despite cresting unemployment, as government payments began.
That study, by researchers at the University of Chicago and Notre Dame, estimated that poverty in April and May fell to 8.6 percent for the previous 12 months, from 10.9 percent in January and February. (They use a different census definition of poverty than the Columbia group.)That study, by researchers at the University of Chicago and Notre Dame, estimated that poverty in April and May fell to 8.6 percent for the previous 12 months, from 10.9 percent in January and February. (They use a different census definition of poverty than the Columbia group.)
Gilead Sciences, an American biopharmaceutical company, will soon start trials of an inhalable version of remdesivir, an antiviral drug that has shown some preliminary promise as a virus treatment, the company said in a statement on Monday.Gilead Sciences, an American biopharmaceutical company, will soon start trials of an inhalable version of remdesivir, an antiviral drug that has shown some preliminary promise as a virus treatment, the company said in a statement on Monday.
Currently, remdesivir is given intravenously, which restricts its use to hospitals. Gilead’s inhalable version of the treatment would be administered through a nebulizer, a device often used to treat asthma patients, that sends a mist of therapeutic liquid into the airway. Gilead scientists hope that a more convenient treatment could be used by patients at various stages of infection.Currently, remdesivir is given intravenously, which restricts its use to hospitals. Gilead’s inhalable version of the treatment would be administered through a nebulizer, a device often used to treat asthma patients, that sends a mist of therapeutic liquid into the airway. Gilead scientists hope that a more convenient treatment could be used by patients at various stages of infection.
Nebulizers are more commonly available than IV equipment, said Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at Columbia University. “Pretty much every outpatient urgent care clinic has them.” She said that the device could potentially be used to immediately treat people who have tested positive but lack symptoms.Nebulizers are more commonly available than IV equipment, said Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at Columbia University. “Pretty much every outpatient urgent care clinic has them.” She said that the device could potentially be used to immediately treat people who have tested positive but lack symptoms.
Remdesivir, which interferes with virus replication, is the first drug to show effectiveness against the coronavirus in human trials. It was given Emergency Use Authorization by the Food and Drug Administration on May 1, allowing physicians to administer the drug to Covid-19 patients. But the drug has not yet been approved, and its safety and efficacy are currently being investigated in several clinical trials.Remdesivir, which interferes with virus replication, is the first drug to show effectiveness against the coronavirus in human trials. It was given Emergency Use Authorization by the Food and Drug Administration on May 1, allowing physicians to administer the drug to Covid-19 patients. But the drug has not yet been approved, and its safety and efficacy are currently being investigated in several clinical trials.
Beginning this week, healthy volunteers will be screened for participation in Phase I trials, which will test for safety. Covid-19 patients are expected to join the lineup as early as August.Beginning this week, healthy volunteers will be screened for participation in Phase I trials, which will test for safety. Covid-19 patients are expected to join the lineup as early as August.
Culture and Sports RoundupCulture and Sports Roundup
The 2021 Golden Globes will take place on Feb. 28, a date that the Oscars abandoned last week in pushing its ceremony back.The 2021 Golden Globes will take place on Feb. 28, a date that the Oscars abandoned last week in pushing its ceremony back.
The Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the small group of journalists that hands out the Globes, had not previously announced a date for its ceremony. The Globes have taken place in January since 1973, in part because the press association likes to set the pace for the Academy Awards race — or at least try. The February slot will allow the Globes to maintain that position.The Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the small group of journalists that hands out the Globes, had not previously announced a date for its ceremony. The Globes have taken place in January since 1973, in part because the press association likes to set the pace for the Academy Awards race — or at least try. The February slot will allow the Globes to maintain that position.
The Oscars were rescheduled for April 25, with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences emphasizing that it selected that date by consulting with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The press association, which collaborates with Dick Clark Productions and NBC to put on the televised Globes ceremony, gave no explanation for its selection.The Oscars were rescheduled for April 25, with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences emphasizing that it selected that date by consulting with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The press association, which collaborates with Dick Clark Productions and NBC to put on the televised Globes ceremony, gave no explanation for its selection.
It also did not say how the February date would affect eligibility of film and television series, which normally adheres to the calendar year. The window for best picture consideration at the coming Oscars was extended to Feb. 28 instead of Dec. 31 to make up for pandemic shutdowns of theaters. In other culture and sports news:It also did not say how the February date would affect eligibility of film and television series, which normally adheres to the calendar year. The window for best picture consideration at the coming Oscars was extended to Feb. 28 instead of Dec. 31 to make up for pandemic shutdowns of theaters. In other culture and sports news:
The P.G.A. Championship announced that golf’s first major championship this year would proceed without spectators Aug. 6 to 9 at T.P.C. Harding Park in San Francisco. Originally scheduled for May, the event would be the first golf major of 2020 contested without fans, but potentially not the last. The U.S. Open, which had been set for mid-June until it was moved to Sept. 17 to 20, has also discussed a fan-free event.The P.G.A. Championship announced that golf’s first major championship this year would proceed without spectators Aug. 6 to 9 at T.P.C. Harding Park in San Francisco. Originally scheduled for May, the event would be the first golf major of 2020 contested without fans, but potentially not the last. The U.S. Open, which had been set for mid-June until it was moved to Sept. 17 to 20, has also discussed a fan-free event.
The Orlando Pride withdrew on Monday from the National Women’s Soccer League Challenge Cup after several staff members and players tested positive for the coronavirus. The team, which did not say how many people were affected, said that no one displayed symptoms.
An exhibition tennis tournament organized by the top-ranked men’s player, Novak Djokovic, is causing panic in Zadar, the small coastal town in Croatia that had no confirmed infections until it hosted a leg of the competition. One of the players, Grigor Dimitrov, revealed on Sunday that he had tested positive and three more infections have been confirmed: the player Borna Coric and two coaches. The tournament had none of the expected protocols — no one wore face masks, and social distancing was not enforced in the stands, where many fans sat shoulder to shoulder.An exhibition tennis tournament organized by the top-ranked men’s player, Novak Djokovic, is causing panic in Zadar, the small coastal town in Croatia that had no confirmed infections until it hosted a leg of the competition. One of the players, Grigor Dimitrov, revealed on Sunday that he had tested positive and three more infections have been confirmed: the player Borna Coric and two coaches. The tournament had none of the expected protocols — no one wore face masks, and social distancing was not enforced in the stands, where many fans sat shoulder to shoulder.
Wednesday is the deadline for N.B.A. players to notify their teams whether they wish to withdraw from participation when play resumes July 7 at the Walt Disney World Resort. The rate of confirmed cases in Orange County, Fla., where the resort is, has risen significantly over the last week, and many players are still wrestling with fears that returning to full-time basketball could divert the momentum built up by their participation in the Black Lives Matter movement. There is also concern that players will face an increased risk of injury after what has been, for many, the longest break from usual play.Wednesday is the deadline for N.B.A. players to notify their teams whether they wish to withdraw from participation when play resumes July 7 at the Walt Disney World Resort. The rate of confirmed cases in Orange County, Fla., where the resort is, has risen significantly over the last week, and many players are still wrestling with fears that returning to full-time basketball could divert the momentum built up by their participation in the Black Lives Matter movement. There is also concern that players will face an increased risk of injury after what has been, for many, the longest break from usual play.
The Critics’ Choice Association on Monday said that its 26th annual ceremony would take place on March 7 with Taye Diggs as the host. The Critics’ Choice Awards, broadcast by the CW, typically takes place in January.The Critics’ Choice Association on Monday said that its 26th annual ceremony would take place on March 7 with Taye Diggs as the host. The Critics’ Choice Awards, broadcast by the CW, typically takes place in January.
The United Nations General Assembly will conduct its annual meeting virtually for the first time this September, and world leaders are expected to deliver their speeches via prerecorded video statements, the president of the 193-member organization said Monday.The United Nations General Assembly will conduct its annual meeting virtually for the first time this September, and world leaders are expected to deliver their speeches via prerecorded video statements, the president of the 193-member organization said Monday.
But the president, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande of Nigeria, did not rule out the possibility that some leaders may choose to speak in person despite the challenges raised by the pandemic this year, the 75th anniversary of the U.N.’s founding.But the president, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande of Nigeria, did not rule out the possibility that some leaders may choose to speak in person despite the challenges raised by the pandemic this year, the 75th anniversary of the U.N.’s founding.
The annual General Assembly is the world’s biggest single international diplomatic gathering, with dozens of heads of state and government customarily converging at the U.N. headquarters in New York. This year the meeting starts Sept. 15, and leaders are scheduled to take turns speaking starting Sept. 22.The annual General Assembly is the world’s biggest single international diplomatic gathering, with dozens of heads of state and government customarily converging at the U.N. headquarters in New York. This year the meeting starts Sept. 15, and leaders are scheduled to take turns speaking starting Sept. 22.
A few weeks ago, Mr. Muhammad-Bande said it would be impossible for the General Assembly to hold its session in the usual way. But it wasn’t until Monday that he announced how world leaders were expected to make their statements.A few weeks ago, Mr. Muhammad-Bande said it would be impossible for the General Assembly to hold its session in the usual way. But it wasn’t until Monday that he announced how world leaders were expected to make their statements.
At a news conference, Mr. Muhammad-Bande said further details of how the event will be conducted will be finalized in the next few days — and he suggested that some leaders may still deliver their remarks live in the General Assembly hall.At a news conference, Mr. Muhammad-Bande said further details of how the event will be conducted will be finalized in the next few days — and he suggested that some leaders may still deliver their remarks live in the General Assembly hall.
For those who do not, he encouraged them to submit their prerecorded speeches early — and not to make any last-minute changes.For those who do not, he encouraged them to submit their prerecorded speeches early — and not to make any last-minute changes.
“We want to make sure there are no hitches,” he said.“We want to make sure there are no hitches,” he said.
The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to avoid nine hand sanitizer products manufactured in Mexico because, it said, they may contain methanol, a substance that can be toxic if absorbed through the skin or ingested.The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to avoid nine hand sanitizer products manufactured in Mexico because, it said, they may contain methanol, a substance that can be toxic if absorbed through the skin or ingested.
In an advisory dated Friday, the agency said it had tested samples of two products, Lavar Gel and CleanCare No Germ, and found they had 81 percent and 28 percent methanol, also known as wood alcohol.In an advisory dated Friday, the agency said it had tested samples of two products, Lavar Gel and CleanCare No Germ, and found they had 81 percent and 28 percent methanol, also known as wood alcohol.
“Methanol is not an acceptable ingredient for hand sanitizers and should not be used due to its toxic effects,” the agency said.“Methanol is not an acceptable ingredient for hand sanitizers and should not be used due to its toxic effects,” the agency said.
The F.D.A. said on June 17 that it had recommended that the manufacturer, Eskbiochem SA de CV of Mexico, remove its products from the market, but that so far the company had not responded.The F.D.A. said on June 17 that it had recommended that the manufacturer, Eskbiochem SA de CV of Mexico, remove its products from the market, but that so far the company had not responded.
An Eskbiochem representative, Alexander Escamillo, said the manufacturer learned of the agency warning only on Monday.“We would never do that, send a toxic chemical maliciously,” Mr. Escamillo said, adding that the company would take action against a person who had been involved in shipping the sanitizer. An Eskbiochem representative, Alexander Escamillo, said the manufacturer learned of the agency warning only on Monday. “We would never do that, send a toxic chemical maliciously,” Mr. Escamillo said, adding that the company would take action against a person who had been involved in shipping the sanitizer.
The F.D.A. recommended that anyone exposed to hand sanitizers with methanol seek immediate treatment. Substantial methanol exposure can lead to nausea, vomiting, headaches, permanent blindness and seizures, among other harmful effects.The F.D.A. recommended that anyone exposed to hand sanitizers with methanol seek immediate treatment. Substantial methanol exposure can lead to nausea, vomiting, headaches, permanent blindness and seizures, among other harmful effects.
The psychological fallout from the pandemic has yet to fully show itself, but some experts have forecast a torrent of new disorders.The psychological fallout from the pandemic has yet to fully show itself, but some experts have forecast a torrent of new disorders.
The World Health Organization has warned of “a massive increase in mental health conditions” stemming from anxiety and isolation.The World Health Organization has warned of “a massive increase in mental health conditions” stemming from anxiety and isolation.
Digital platforms like Crisis Text Line and Talkspace reported spikes in activity throughout the spring.Digital platforms like Crisis Text Line and Talkspace reported spikes in activity throughout the spring.
And more than half of American adults said that the pandemic had worsened their mental health, according to a recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation.And more than half of American adults said that the pandemic had worsened their mental health, according to a recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation.
History, however, suggests that the troubles may not persist over the long term.History, however, suggests that the troubles may not persist over the long term.
Psychiatrists and therapists who work with people in the wake of earthquakes, hurricanes and other disasters note that surges in anxiety and helplessness are natural reactions but that they seldom become traumatic or chronic.Psychiatrists and therapists who work with people in the wake of earthquakes, hurricanes and other disasters note that surges in anxiety and helplessness are natural reactions but that they seldom become traumatic or chronic.
“In most disasters, the vast majority of people do well,” said Dr. Steven Southwick, a professor of psychiatry at Yale who has worked with survivors after cataclysms like mass shootings. “Very few people understand how resilient they really are until faced with extraordinary circumstances.”“In most disasters, the vast majority of people do well,” said Dr. Steven Southwick, a professor of psychiatry at Yale who has worked with survivors after cataclysms like mass shootings. “Very few people understand how resilient they really are until faced with extraordinary circumstances.”
Living through a pandemic isn’t like surviving a sudden, quick natural catastrophe. It is more like a psychological marathon than a sprint.Living through a pandemic isn’t like surviving a sudden, quick natural catastrophe. It is more like a psychological marathon than a sprint.
And so, temporarily at least, a wave of new mental health problems may indeed arise, especially if cases explode again or if the economic downturn becomes still worse.And so, temporarily at least, a wave of new mental health problems may indeed arise, especially if cases explode again or if the economic downturn becomes still worse.
State-funded universities have always striven to keep their state’s brightest students at home, knowing that many of those who leave their communities will never return.State-funded universities have always striven to keep their state’s brightest students at home, knowing that many of those who leave their communities will never return.
Now, as the pandemic erodes the economy and civil unrest sweeps the country, colleges are seeing success in their efforts to reverse years of brain drain, with students responding to a new focus on basics like family and community over prestige.Now, as the pandemic erodes the economy and civil unrest sweeps the country, colleges are seeing success in their efforts to reverse years of brain drain, with students responding to a new focus on basics like family and community over prestige.
Take New Jersey, long a big exporter of college students.Take New Jersey, long a big exporter of college students.
This spring, 10 public college and university presidents set up the New Jersey Scholar Corps, their version of a pandemic Peace Corps. The goal was to persuade New Jersey students studying in other states to return, by offering expedited application review and volunteer opportunities.This spring, 10 public college and university presidents set up the New Jersey Scholar Corps, their version of a pandemic Peace Corps. The goal was to persuade New Jersey students studying in other states to return, by offering expedited application review and volunteer opportunities.
At one of the 10, Montclair State University, 16 students applied to transfer back from out of state, and half have accepted offers of admission, with others in the works. Over all, the in-state acceptance rate at Montclair State is up almost 2 percent over last year.At one of the 10, Montclair State University, 16 students applied to transfer back from out of state, and half have accepted offers of admission, with others in the works. Over all, the in-state acceptance rate at Montclair State is up almost 2 percent over last year.
“We are at the moment when we can get the attention of families who historically overlooked their in-state opportunities, and perhaps begin to change the mind-set,” said Joseph A. Brennan, vice president of communications and marketing.“We are at the moment when we can get the attention of families who historically overlooked their in-state opportunities, and perhaps begin to change the mind-set,” said Joseph A. Brennan, vice president of communications and marketing.
The University of Kansas, too, has been getting more transfer students from other four-year institutions.The University of Kansas, too, has been getting more transfer students from other four-year institutions.
“In many instances, those are students from Kansas who went away to institutions who then are coming back to Kansas,” Matt Melvin, vice provost for enrollment management, said. “We always see some of that, but it seems more pronounced because of the pandemic.” “In many instances, those are students from Kansas who went away to institutions who then are coming back to Kansas,” said Matt Melvin, the vice provost for enrollment management. “We always see some of that, but it seems more pronounced because of the pandemic.”
President Aleksandr G. Lukashenko of Belarus, who has been in power for 26 years, was once praised by a large segment of the population for keeping the country stable — and avoiding the turmoil and mass unemployment seen across much of the former Soviet Union in the 1990s.President Aleksandr G. Lukashenko of Belarus, who has been in power for 26 years, was once praised by a large segment of the population for keeping the country stable — and avoiding the turmoil and mass unemployment seen across much of the former Soviet Union in the 1990s.
Now Mr. Lukashenko faces a groundswell of criticism, particularly over his mishandling of the pandemic. He is so unsettled by a surge of discontent and support for prospective rivals in the Aug. 9 election that he has turned his propaganda machine on Moscow, long his closest ally and principal benefactor.Now Mr. Lukashenko faces a groundswell of criticism, particularly over his mishandling of the pandemic. He is so unsettled by a surge of discontent and support for prospective rivals in the Aug. 9 election that he has turned his propaganda machine on Moscow, long his closest ally and principal benefactor.
Despite only patchy testing, Belarus has reported over 58,000 cases, compared with about 32,000 in neighboring Poland, which has four times its population. Mr. Lukashenko has spent weeks criticizing lockdowns elsewhere, calling them a “frenzy and psychosis.”Despite only patchy testing, Belarus has reported over 58,000 cases, compared with about 32,000 in neighboring Poland, which has four times its population. Mr. Lukashenko has spent weeks criticizing lockdowns elsewhere, calling them a “frenzy and psychosis.”
“There are no viruses here,” he said in March, gesturing to a crowded arena after playing in an amateur ice hockey tournament. “Do you see any of them flying around? I don’t see them either.”“There are no viruses here,” he said in March, gesturing to a crowded arena after playing in an amateur ice hockey tournament. “Do you see any of them flying around? I don’t see them either.”
Last month, Mr. Lukashenko pressed on with his own Victory Day parade, saying it was better to “die standing up than live kneeling down.”Last month, Mr. Lukashenko pressed on with his own Victory Day parade, saying it was better to “die standing up than live kneeling down.”
By contrast, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia bowed to health warnings and put off a big military parade in Red Square to celebrate the Red Army’s defeat of Nazi Germany. (It was rescheduled for Wednesday.)By contrast, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia bowed to health warnings and put off a big military parade in Red Square to celebrate the Red Army’s defeat of Nazi Germany. (It was rescheduled for Wednesday.)
Maryna Rakhlei, an Eastern Europe expert at the German Marshall Fund in Berlin, said that Mr. Lukashenko’s troubles were largely the result of widespread fatigue among citizens about his long time in office and his poor response to the virus.Maryna Rakhlei, an Eastern Europe expert at the German Marshall Fund in Berlin, said that Mr. Lukashenko’s troubles were largely the result of widespread fatigue among citizens about his long time in office and his poor response to the virus.
“The situation threatens to spin out of control for Lukashenko,” Ms. Rakhlei said. “He is not really able to silence the protests as they are largely on social media and spread like forest fire.”“The situation threatens to spin out of control for Lukashenko,” Ms. Rakhlei said. “He is not really able to silence the protests as they are largely on social media and spread like forest fire.”
As communities begin to reopen, many people are wondering when it will be safe for babysitters and housekeepers to return to work. Here are some tips on how domestic employees and their employers can stay safe.As communities begin to reopen, many people are wondering when it will be safe for babysitters and housekeepers to return to work. Here are some tips on how domestic employees and their employers can stay safe.
Reporting was contributed by Ian Austen, Brooks Barnes, Aurelien Breeden, Christopher Clarey, Choe Sang-Hun, Troy Closson, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Jeffrey Gettleman, Rick Gladstone, Michael Gold, James Gorman, Andrew Higgins, Annie Karni, Jeré Longman, Iliana Magra, Raphael Minder, Joe Orovic, Matt Phillips, Tariq Panja, Suhasini Raj, Adam Rasgon, Dagny Salas, Christopher F. Schuetze, Nate Schweber, Daniel E. Slotnik, Megan Specia, Mitch Smith, Marc Stein, Eileen Sullivan, Lucy Tomkins, Neil Vigdor, Katherine J. Wu, Mihir Zaveri and Karen Zraick. Reporting was contributed by Ian Austen, Brooks Barnes, Aurelien Breeden, Christopher Clarey, Choe Sang-Hun, Troy Closson, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Jeffrey Gettleman, Rick Gladstone, Michael Gold, James Gorman, Andrew Higgins, Ben Hubbard, Annie Karni, Jeré Longman, Iliana Magra, Raphael Minder, Joe Orovic, Matt Phillips, Tariq Panja, Suhasini Raj, Adam Rasgon, Dagny Salas, Christopher F. Schuetze, Nate Schweber, Michael D. Shear, Daniel E. Slotnik, Megan Specia, Mitch Smith, Marc Stein, Eileen Sullivan, Lucy Tomkins, Neil Vigdor, Katherine J. Wu, Mihir Zaveri and Karen Zraick.