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Coronavirus Live Updates: England to Require Masks Inside Shops and Supermarkets Coronavirus Live Updates: England to Require Masks Inside Shops and Supermarkets
(32 minutes later)
After months of equivocation over mandating face coverings to stop the spread of the coronavirus, the government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain announced on Tuesday that people in England would be required to wear masks inside shops and supermarkets.After months of equivocation over mandating face coverings to stop the spread of the coronavirus, the government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain announced on Tuesday that people in England would be required to wear masks inside shops and supermarkets.
The reversal, set to take effect next week, caps months of dithering over face coverings in England that many scientists found mystifying — and uneasily reminiscent of delays in imposing a lockdown in March, a decision that cost thousands of lives and has left Britain with one of the highest death rates in the world.The reversal, set to take effect next week, caps months of dithering over face coverings in England that many scientists found mystifying — and uneasily reminiscent of delays in imposing a lockdown in March, a decision that cost thousands of lives and has left Britain with one of the highest death rates in the world.
More than 50,000 people in Britain have died from the virus, the third highest total in the world. The majority of the deaths were in England and Mr. Johnson’s government has faced intense criticism for its sometimes laissez-faire approach to public health measures, an attitude that was evident in its reluctance to make face coverings compulsory.More than 50,000 people in Britain have died from the virus, the third highest total in the world. The majority of the deaths were in England and Mr. Johnson’s government has faced intense criticism for its sometimes laissez-faire approach to public health measures, an attitude that was evident in its reluctance to make face coverings compulsory.
In mandating face masks, England followed the path of other European countries, like Germany and Italy, and other parts of the United Kingdom, like Scotland, which had already mandated face coverings. (Each country in the United Kingdom has power over its own public health measures and has moved at different speeds on matters like face coverings and reopening shops.)In mandating face masks, England followed the path of other European countries, like Germany and Italy, and other parts of the United Kingdom, like Scotland, which had already mandated face coverings. (Each country in the United Kingdom has power over its own public health measures and has moved at different speeds on matters like face coverings and reopening shops.)
Many scientists had pleaded for months with Mr. Johnson’s government to heed the growing evidence that masks could help stop the spread of the virus. Unlike in the United States, where feelings about masks often fall along political lines, England’s hesitation stemmed in part from a scientific debate among advisers about the masks’ usefulness.Many scientists had pleaded for months with Mr. Johnson’s government to heed the growing evidence that masks could help stop the spread of the virus. Unlike in the United States, where feelings about masks often fall along political lines, England’s hesitation stemmed in part from a scientific debate among advisers about the masks’ usefulness.
Masks have been mandatory on public transportation in England since mid-June. The government had previously encouraged masks in enclosed spaces, but Mr. Johnson resisted wearing one himself until Friday. As recently as this weekend, the government continued to give contradictory advice, with a prominent minister, Michael Gove, resisting the idea of mandating masks and saying that they were instead a matter of “courtesy and good manners.”Masks have been mandatory on public transportation in England since mid-June. The government had previously encouraged masks in enclosed spaces, but Mr. Johnson resisted wearing one himself until Friday. As recently as this weekend, the government continued to give contradictory advice, with a prominent minister, Michael Gove, resisting the idea of mandating masks and saying that they were instead a matter of “courtesy and good manners.”
The government has indicated that the police, rather than shop owners, will enforce the new rules, with anyone who refuses facing a fine up to 100 pounds, or $125.The government has indicated that the police, rather than shop owners, will enforce the new rules, with anyone who refuses facing a fine up to 100 pounds, or $125.
Leaders in the country’s three most populous states acknowledged on Monday that the outbreaks they have been battling for months were on the rise and may require a return of stricter lockdown measures.Leaders in the country’s three most populous states acknowledged on Monday that the outbreaks they have been battling for months were on the rise and may require a return of stricter lockdown measures.
California, Florida and Texas have reported a total of at least 892,000 cases since the start of the pandemic, according to a New York Times database. On Monday alone there were at least 30,000 new cases recorded across the three states, 18 percent of the world’s daily total. According to a New York Times database, California, Florida and Texas had reported a total of at least 892,000 cases through Monday, when there were at least 30,000 new cases recorded across the three states. On Tuesday, Florida reported 9,194 cases and its single-day record for deaths, 132.
There will be strict new orders in California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom said he would move to close indoor operations statewide for restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, zoos and card rooms. Bars would be forced to close all operations.There will be strict new orders in California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom said he would move to close indoor operations statewide for restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, zoos and card rooms. Bars would be forced to close all operations.
And in 30 of California’s hardest hit counties — where 80 percent of the state’s 39 million residents live — even more restrictions were put in place. In those counties, businesses would be forced to close indoor operations for fitness centers, places of worship, noncritical offices, hair salons and barbershops, and malls.And in 30 of California’s hardest hit counties — where 80 percent of the state’s 39 million residents live — even more restrictions were put in place. In those counties, businesses would be forced to close indoor operations for fitness centers, places of worship, noncritical offices, hair salons and barbershops, and malls.
“We’re going back into modification mode of our original stay-at-home order,” Mr. Newsom, a Democrat, said. “This continues to be a deadly disease.”“We’re going back into modification mode of our original stay-at-home order,” Mr. Newsom, a Democrat, said. “This continues to be a deadly disease.”
California’s two largest public school districts, in Los Angeles and San Diego, said on Monday that instruction would be remote-only in the fall.California’s two largest public school districts, in Los Angeles and San Diego, said on Monday that instruction would be remote-only in the fall.
In Texas, a top medical adviser to Gov. Greg Abbott said the state may need to roll back its reopening plans and reinstitute an economic lockdown if cases keep rising.In Texas, a top medical adviser to Gov. Greg Abbott said the state may need to roll back its reopening plans and reinstitute an economic lockdown if cases keep rising.
The adviser, Dr. Mark McClellan, is a physician and an economist at Duke University who is a former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration. He said in an interview that a lockdown in Texas was a “real possibility” that Mr. Abbott may be forced to impose in the next few weeks.The adviser, Dr. Mark McClellan, is a physician and an economist at Duke University who is a former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration. He said in an interview that a lockdown in Texas was a “real possibility” that Mr. Abbott may be forced to impose in the next few weeks.
“I don’t think we have much time, before having to go to a more extreme step,” Dr. McClellan said. Already, the rapid spread has forced Mr. Abbott, a Republican, to reverse course by temporarily pausing the state’s reopening, closing bars again and issuing a mask order for most Texans.“I don’t think we have much time, before having to go to a more extreme step,” Dr. McClellan said. Already, the rapid spread has forced Mr. Abbott, a Republican, to reverse course by temporarily pausing the state’s reopening, closing bars again and issuing a mask order for most Texans.
In Florida, deaths are trending upward and are at their highest seven-day average level of the pandemic. Florida added more cases on Sunday than any state had recorded — 15,300 — and on Monday it reported more than 12,600 additional cases, its second-highest total recorded for a single day.In Florida, deaths are trending upward and are at their highest seven-day average level of the pandemic. Florida added more cases on Sunday than any state had recorded — 15,300 — and on Monday it reported more than 12,600 additional cases, its second-highest total recorded for a single day.
“We have a long road ahead,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said.“We have a long road ahead,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said.
As the virus surges in Florida, more big-name Republicans are taking a wait-and-see approach to the Republican National Convention in Jacksonville next month, or deciding to skip it. The Republican Party, which moved the convention to Florida from Charlotte, N.C., after balking at health precautions there, now finds itself locked into a state with a far bigger virus problem, and planning an event whose attendance is waning as the pandemic escalates.As the virus surges in Florida, more big-name Republicans are taking a wait-and-see approach to the Republican National Convention in Jacksonville next month, or deciding to skip it. The Republican Party, which moved the convention to Florida from Charlotte, N.C., after balking at health precautions there, now finds itself locked into a state with a far bigger virus problem, and planning an event whose attendance is waning as the pandemic escalates.
U.S. roundupU.S. roundup
The back-and-forth closings of many small businesses is forcing some to permanently close.The back-and-forth closings of many small businesses is forcing some to permanently close.
Nearly 66,000 businesses have folded since March 1, according to data from Yelp, which provides a platform for local businesses to advertise their services and has been tracking announcements of closings posted on its site. While it’s not clear how many of the businesses tracked by Yelp are considered small by the federal government’s standards (with 500 or less employees), the company found that businesses were closing permanently at a higher rate than in the previous three months, from June 15 to June 29, the most recent period for which data is available.Nearly 66,000 businesses have folded since March 1, according to data from Yelp, which provides a platform for local businesses to advertise their services and has been tracking announcements of closings posted on its site. While it’s not clear how many of the businesses tracked by Yelp are considered small by the federal government’s standards (with 500 or less employees), the company found that businesses were closing permanently at a higher rate than in the previous three months, from June 15 to June 29, the most recent period for which data is available.
And that may be an undercount. Researchers at Harvard estimated that nearly 110,000 small businesses across the country had decided to shut down permanently between early March and early May, based on data collected in weekly surveys by Alignable, a social media network for small-business owners.And that may be an undercount. Researchers at Harvard estimated that nearly 110,000 small businesses across the country had decided to shut down permanently between early March and early May, based on data collected in weekly surveys by Alignable, a social media network for small-business owners.
In Wichita Falls, Texas, Mick Larkin, the owner of a karaoke club, closed his business permanently when the governor announced a second shuttering of bars to stem the spread of the virus. At the time, Mr. Larkin had purchased $1,000 worth of perishable goods and protective equipment in preparation for reopening.In Wichita Falls, Texas, Mick Larkin, the owner of a karaoke club, closed his business permanently when the governor announced a second shuttering of bars to stem the spread of the virus. At the time, Mr. Larkin had purchased $1,000 worth of perishable goods and protective equipment in preparation for reopening.
In other news from around the United States:In other news from around the United States:
New York will now require travelers from Minnesota, New Mexico, Ohio and Wisconsin to also quarantine for 14 days. Delaware has been removed from the list of such states with accelerating outbreaks, which now number 22, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said Tuesday. New Jersey is also asking travelers from those states to quarantine. Travelers arriving at New York airports starting Tuesday will be required to fill out a form with their personal information and planned whereabouts, or face a $2,000 fine.
Seventeen states and the District of Columbia sued the Trump administration on Monday, seeking to block a new rule that would revoke the visas of foreign students who take classes entirely online in the fall.Seventeen states and the District of Columbia sued the Trump administration on Monday, seeking to block a new rule that would revoke the visas of foreign students who take classes entirely online in the fall.
The pandemic stripped an estimated 5.4 million American workers of their health insurance between February and May, according to a new analysis. The study, to be announced Tuesday by the nonpartisan consumer advocacy group Families USA, found that the estimated increase in uninsured workers was nearly 40 percent higher than the highest previous increase, during the recession of 2008-9, when 3.9 million adults lost insurance.The pandemic stripped an estimated 5.4 million American workers of their health insurance between February and May, according to a new analysis. The study, to be announced Tuesday by the nonpartisan consumer advocacy group Families USA, found that the estimated increase in uninsured workers was nearly 40 percent higher than the highest previous increase, during the recession of 2008-9, when 3.9 million adults lost insurance.
The United States budget deficit grew to a record $864 billion for June as the federal government pumped money into the economy to prop up workers and businesses affected by the pandemic, the Treasury Department said.The United States budget deficit grew to a record $864 billion for June as the federal government pumped money into the economy to prop up workers and businesses affected by the pandemic, the Treasury Department said.
Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, was back at the White House on Monday meeting with Mark Meadows, the chief of staff — but not President Trump — after a weekend in which some of the president’s advisers undercut him in the press.Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, was back at the White House on Monday meeting with Mark Meadows, the chief of staff — but not President Trump — after a weekend in which some of the president’s advisers undercut him in the press.
Researchers are reporting what they say is the first confirmed case of the virus being transmitted during pregnancy from a woman to her baby.Researchers are reporting what they say is the first confirmed case of the virus being transmitted during pregnancy from a woman to her baby.
The baby, born in a Paris hospital in March, developed symptoms of inflammation in his brain, but recovered without treatment, said Dr. Daniele De Luca, who led the research team and is chief of the division of pediatrics and neonatal critical care at Paris Saclay University Hospitals.The baby, born in a Paris hospital in March, developed symptoms of inflammation in his brain, but recovered without treatment, said Dr. Daniele De Luca, who led the research team and is chief of the division of pediatrics and neonatal critical care at Paris Saclay University Hospitals.
The baby, now more than three months old, is “Very much improved, almost clinically normal,” Dr. De Luca said, adding that the mother, who needed oxygen during the delivery, is now completely healthy.The baby, now more than three months old, is “Very much improved, almost clinically normal,” Dr. De Luca said, adding that the mother, who needed oxygen during the delivery, is now completely healthy.
Dr. De Luca said the virus appeared to be transmitted through the placenta of the 23-year-old pregnant woman. Since the pandemic began, there have been isolated cases of newborns testing positive for the virus, but there has not been enough evidence to rule out the possibility that the infants became infected by the mother after they were born, experts said. In this case, Dr. De Luca said, the team was able to test the placenta, amniotic fluid, cord blood and the baby’s blood.Dr. De Luca said the virus appeared to be transmitted through the placenta of the 23-year-old pregnant woman. Since the pandemic began, there have been isolated cases of newborns testing positive for the virus, but there has not been enough evidence to rule out the possibility that the infants became infected by the mother after they were born, experts said. In this case, Dr. De Luca said, the team was able to test the placenta, amniotic fluid, cord blood and the baby’s blood.
The testing indicated that “the virus reaches the placenta and replicates there,” Dr. De Luca said. It can then be transmitted to a fetus, who “can get infected and have symptoms similar to adult Covid-19 patients.”The testing indicated that “the virus reaches the placenta and replicates there,” Dr. De Luca said. It can then be transmitted to a fetus, who “can get infected and have symptoms similar to adult Covid-19 patients.”
Dr. Yoel Sadovsky, executive director of Magee-Womens Research Institute at the University of Pittsburgh, who was not involved in the study, said he thought the claim of placental transmission was “fairly convincing.” He said the relatively high levels of virus found in the placenta and the rising levels of virus in the baby, along with the baby’s symptoms “are all consistent with SARS-CoV-2 infection.”Dr. Yoel Sadovsky, executive director of Magee-Womens Research Institute at the University of Pittsburgh, who was not involved in the study, said he thought the claim of placental transmission was “fairly convincing.” He said the relatively high levels of virus found in the placenta and the rising levels of virus in the baby, along with the baby’s symptoms “are all consistent with SARS-CoV-2 infection.”
Still, Dr. Sadovsky said, it is important to note that cases of possible coronavirus transmission in utero appear to be extremely rare. With other viruses, including Zika and rubella, placental infection is much more common, he said. With the coronavirus, “we are trying to understand the opposite: what underlies the relative protection of the fetus and the placenta,” he said.Still, Dr. Sadovsky said, it is important to note that cases of possible coronavirus transmission in utero appear to be extremely rare. With other viruses, including Zika and rubella, placental infection is much more common, he said. With the coronavirus, “we are trying to understand the opposite: what underlies the relative protection of the fetus and the placenta,” he said.
Edgar Sandoval, a New York Times reporter whose family moved to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas in the mid-1990s, writes of his deeply personal ties to the pandemic:Edgar Sandoval, a New York Times reporter whose family moved to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas in the mid-1990s, writes of his deeply personal ties to the pandemic:
As Texas struggles with a fierce new wave of infections that is overloading hospitals and challenging its biggest cities, one of the hardest-hit areas is in the Rio Grande Valley, where the close-knit family culture of generations of border families is one of several things that have helped fuel an alarming new spread.As Texas struggles with a fierce new wave of infections that is overloading hospitals and challenging its biggest cities, one of the hardest-hit areas is in the Rio Grande Valley, where the close-knit family culture of generations of border families is one of several things that have helped fuel an alarming new spread.
Nearly 1 in 10 people infected with the virus in Texas is in Hidalgo County, which on Thursday surpassed its previous record with 1,274 new cases. More than 150 people have died.Nearly 1 in 10 people infected with the virus in Texas is in Hidalgo County, which on Thursday surpassed its previous record with 1,274 new cases. More than 150 people have died.
As soon as the outbreak reached the border, I volunteered to report on the story because I know the area well. My family moved to the Rio Grande Valley in the mid-1990s, when I was 16. My parents, two sisters and their offspring all live on the same block outside of McAllen.As soon as the outbreak reached the border, I volunteered to report on the story because I know the area well. My family moved to the Rio Grande Valley in the mid-1990s, when I was 16. My parents, two sisters and their offspring all live on the same block outside of McAllen.
The virus has struck one of the poorest regions in the country, where most people cannot afford to stay home from work. The Valley, as locals call it, sits on the border with Tamaulipas, Mexico, and is dotted with colonias, orphan communities that have sprung up outside the cities, most without paved roads or sewer connections.The virus has struck one of the poorest regions in the country, where most people cannot afford to stay home from work. The Valley, as locals call it, sits on the border with Tamaulipas, Mexico, and is dotted with colonias, orphan communities that have sprung up outside the cities, most without paved roads or sewer connections.
Seemingly overnight, people’s aunts, uncles, grandmas and cousins are falling victim, one by one.Seemingly overnight, people’s aunts, uncles, grandmas and cousins are falling victim, one by one.
“Three months ago very few knew anyone who had contracted the virus,” said Jim Darling, the mayor of McAllen, the largest city in Hidalgo County. “Now, you can’t find people who don’t know anyone who isn’t infected. It completely flipped.”“Three months ago very few knew anyone who had contracted the virus,” said Jim Darling, the mayor of McAllen, the largest city in Hidalgo County. “Now, you can’t find people who don’t know anyone who isn’t infected. It completely flipped.”
I never expected that I would be part of this story. The day before I boarded a plane from New York, my youngest sister sent me a text message that froze me in place.I never expected that I would be part of this story. The day before I boarded a plane from New York, my youngest sister sent me a text message that froze me in place.
“Brother, it looks like all of the Sandovales have Covid,” it read in Spanish.“Brother, it looks like all of the Sandovales have Covid,” it read in Spanish.
Global roundupGlobal roundup
France celebrated public health workers as heroes during Bastille Day celebrations on Tuesday for their role during the pandemic, a day after granting them 8 billion euros ($9.06 billion) in pay raises.France celebrated public health workers as heroes during Bastille Day celebrations on Tuesday for their role during the pandemic, a day after granting them 8 billion euros ($9.06 billion) in pay raises.
The traditional Bastille Day parade down the Champs-Élysées in Paris was canceled because of the pandemic. Instead, after a military parade on the Place de la Concorde, President Emmanuel Macron and his government watched from a platform as doctors, nurses and other workers in their white hospital attire were honored.The traditional Bastille Day parade down the Champs-Élysées in Paris was canceled because of the pandemic. Instead, after a military parade on the Place de la Concorde, President Emmanuel Macron and his government watched from a platform as doctors, nurses and other workers in their white hospital attire were honored.
A military choir sang the Marseillaise, France’s national anthem, and fighter jets streaked the sky with blue, white and red as they flew over. Long minutes of applause followed. Over 800 health workers from around France were also invited to a thank-you reception on Monday night in Paris.
Doctors, nurses, retirement home employees and others were widely praised for their role in the coronavirus crisis, and the French government had promised to address longstanding requests for increased hospital funding, better pay and more staffing.Doctors, nurses, retirement home employees and others were widely praised for their role in the coronavirus crisis, and the French government had promised to address longstanding requests for increased hospital funding, better pay and more staffing.
After seven weeks of intense negotiations with the government, most health care unions and the government struck a deal that gives nurses, aides and other hospital or nursing home workers over $200 in monthly raises, as well as new bonuses for overtime and night work.After seven weeks of intense negotiations with the government, most health care unions and the government struck a deal that gives nurses, aides and other hospital or nursing home workers over $200 in monthly raises, as well as new bonuses for overtime and night work.
The deal also provides 450 million euros for doctors, mostly to increase an existing bonus for those who choose to work only in the public sector. Over all, the deal affects about 1.8 million health workers.The deal also provides 450 million euros for doctors, mostly to increase an existing bonus for those who choose to work only in the public sector. Over all, the deal affects about 1.8 million health workers.
Jean Castex, Mr. Macron’s new prime minister, called the raises a “massive” investment in France’s public health system.
Not all unions signed the deal, and critics said it did not go far enough with structural reforms.
In other news from around the world:In other news from around the world:
The World Health Organization admonished governments on Monday that it said were sending mixed messages to citizens, and for failing to invest in the hard work necessary to combat the pandemic. “Too many countries are headed in the wrong direction,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the organization’s director general. “The virus remains public enemy No. 1, but the actions of many governments and people don’t reflect this.”
An Egyptian journalist who was jailed last month on charges of spreading fake news died from the coronavirus on Monday, officials said, amplifying concerns that the pandemic is spreading inside Egypt’s crammed prisons. The reporter, Mohamed Monir, 65, was detained after appearing on Al Jazeera, the Qatari-owned channel that is banned in Egypt. He was released July 2 after falling ill, and last week he posted a video on Facebook saying he was struggling to breathe.An Egyptian journalist who was jailed last month on charges of spreading fake news died from the coronavirus on Monday, officials said, amplifying concerns that the pandemic is spreading inside Egypt’s crammed prisons. The reporter, Mohamed Monir, 65, was detained after appearing on Al Jazeera, the Qatari-owned channel that is banned in Egypt. He was released July 2 after falling ill, and last week he posted a video on Facebook saying he was struggling to breathe.
A Roman Catholic bishop in India who has been charged with repeatedly raping a nun has tested positive, his spokesman said on Tuesday. The news came a day after the court where he is facing trial in the southern state of Kerala issued an arrest warrant for him, saying he was trying to evade the court proceedings. The bishop, Franco Mulakkal, faces maximum of life in prison.A Roman Catholic bishop in India who has been charged with repeatedly raping a nun has tested positive, his spokesman said on Tuesday. The news came a day after the court where he is facing trial in the southern state of Kerala issued an arrest warrant for him, saying he was trying to evade the court proceedings. The bishop, Franco Mulakkal, faces maximum of life in prison.
President Emmanuel Macron of France said on Tuesday that he wanted to make mask-wearing mandatory in enclosed public spaces, amid growing worries over a possible second wave of infections. He said the government would draw up the new mask-wearing rules in the coming weeks and suggested that they could be enforced starting in August.President Emmanuel Macron of France said on Tuesday that he wanted to make mask-wearing mandatory in enclosed public spaces, amid growing worries over a possible second wave of infections. He said the government would draw up the new mask-wearing rules in the coming weeks and suggested that they could be enforced starting in August.
Revenue at Delta Air Lines declined by 88 percent in the second quarter compared to a year earlier, reflecting what its chief executive described as the “truly staggering” toll the pandemic has had on the aviation industry.
Consumers in Europe are going on shopping sprees as their economies reopen, offering hope that a fragile recovery from a deep pandemic-induced recession may be taking hold.Consumers in Europe are going on shopping sprees as their economies reopen, offering hope that a fragile recovery from a deep pandemic-induced recession may be taking hold.
Retail sales in the eurozone, which plunged to record lows while millions were confined, surged 17.8 percent in May compared with the month before, as people fanned out to buy furniture, electronics, clothing and computer equipment, Europe’s statistics agency reported this week. The biggest gains are in France and Germany, where spending has rebounded to near pre-confinement levels.Retail sales in the eurozone, which plunged to record lows while millions were confined, surged 17.8 percent in May compared with the month before, as people fanned out to buy furniture, electronics, clothing and computer equipment, Europe’s statistics agency reported this week. The biggest gains are in France and Germany, where spending has rebounded to near pre-confinement levels.
The current binge has doused some worries that Europeans may feel too shaken to spend again, as happened in China, where many chose to curtail expenditures after losing their jobs or having their pay slashed.The current binge has doused some worries that Europeans may feel too shaken to spend again, as happened in China, where many chose to curtail expenditures after losing their jobs or having their pay slashed.
“Consumers are driving the rebound across much of Europe more than expected,” said Holger Schmieding, the chief economist of Berenberg Bank. “There is a relief that lockdowns are over.”“Consumers are driving the rebound across much of Europe more than expected,” said Holger Schmieding, the chief economist of Berenberg Bank. “There is a relief that lockdowns are over.”
But whether people will keep opening their wallets remains to be seen. Spending is still around 7 percent lower than where it was before the pandemic hit.But whether people will keep opening their wallets remains to be seen. Spending is still around 7 percent lower than where it was before the pandemic hit.
Last week the European Commission warned that the economy would contract 8.7 percent in the eurozone this year, a significantly deeper recession than forecast just two months ago. The commission’s study assumed no second wave of coronavirus that closes Europe’s economies — a possibility it described as a “major risk.”Last week the European Commission warned that the economy would contract 8.7 percent in the eurozone this year, a significantly deeper recession than forecast just two months ago. The commission’s study assumed no second wave of coronavirus that closes Europe’s economies — a possibility it described as a “major risk.”
For now, at least, patrons have not stopped flocking to socially distanced sidewalk tables at cafes and bistros in France. Dutch flower and plant suppliers are reporting record demand as shoppers crowd do-it-yourself stores around Europe to beautify their homes.For now, at least, patrons have not stopped flocking to socially distanced sidewalk tables at cafes and bistros in France. Dutch flower and plant suppliers are reporting record demand as shoppers crowd do-it-yourself stores around Europe to beautify their homes.
In Germany, families are heading to malls to buy new appliances after the government lowered the value-added tax to stimulate sales.In Germany, families are heading to malls to buy new appliances after the government lowered the value-added tax to stimulate sales.
New York, once the center of the pandemic, is facing a disquieting new threat: Can they keep the virus suppressed when cases are surging in nearly 40 states?
That has led New York’s governor, Andrew M. Cuomo, to require travelers from states with outbreaks that meet certain criteria to quarantine for 14 days. On Tuesday, the list grew to include Minnesota, New Mexico, Ohio and Wisconsin while Delaware dropped off, bringing the total to 22 states. New Jersey and Connecticut are also asking travelers from those states to quarantine. And starting Tuesday, travelers arriving at New York airports will be required to fill out a form with their personal information and planned whereabouts, or face a $2,000 fine.
But it is not all clear that restrictions will be followed — or are even enforceable. Tens of thousands of people enter New York daily through its airports, highways and train stations, and compliance depends largely on the whims of travelers.
Mr. Cuomo has warned it is almost inevitable that the virus will seep back into the state, much the way it came to New York through flights from Europe in February. He has also raised concerns that some New Yorkers may let their guard down and blamed local governments for not enforcing mask wearing and social distancing.
Epidemiologists said they were skeptical that his new measures would work.
“I think it’s going to be incredibly hard to keep the virus out of New York State,” said Isaac Weisfuse, a former New York City deputy health commissioner. “I think that these types of travel restrictions may be somewhat helpful, but we should assume that they’re not going to be airtight.”
Several White House officials this week have denied any attempts to undermine Dr. Fauci for his stark analysis of the pandemic. But Dan Scavino, the White House deputy chief of staff for communications and one of Mr. Trump’s most trusted advisers, undercut that message with an insulting Facebook cartoon.Several White House officials this week have denied any attempts to undermine Dr. Fauci for his stark analysis of the pandemic. But Dan Scavino, the White House deputy chief of staff for communications and one of Mr. Trump’s most trusted advisers, undercut that message with an insulting Facebook cartoon.
On Sunday evening, Mr. Scavino posted a rendering of Dr. Fauci that likened him to a faucet, with water drops labeled with messages considered antithetical to White House policy — “Schools stay closed this fall!” “Indefinite lockdown!” “Shut up and obey!”On Sunday evening, Mr. Scavino posted a rendering of Dr. Fauci that likened him to a faucet, with water drops labeled with messages considered antithetical to White House policy — “Schools stay closed this fall!” “Indefinite lockdown!” “Shut up and obey!”
“At least you know if I’m going to disagree with a colleague, such as yourself, it’s done publicly — and not cowardly, behind journalists with leaks,” Mr. Scavino wrote in a caption accompanying the post. “See you tomorrow!”“At least you know if I’m going to disagree with a colleague, such as yourself, it’s done publicly — and not cowardly, behind journalists with leaks,” Mr. Scavino wrote in a caption accompanying the post. “See you tomorrow!”
The cartoon contained errors: Dr. Fauci has publicly said he favors returning children back to school but that decisions should be made by taking the level of cases in each district into account, and he has argued against more widespread lockdowns after pushing for an extensive one earlier this year.The cartoon contained errors: Dr. Fauci has publicly said he favors returning children back to school but that decisions should be made by taking the level of cases in each district into account, and he has argued against more widespread lockdowns after pushing for an extensive one earlier this year.
The cartoon was drawn by the artist Ben Garrison, whose work is often promoted by alt-right figures. Last year, Mr. Garrison was disinvited from a White House gathering of the president’s social media fans because his work contains anti-Semitic messaging.The cartoon was drawn by the artist Ben Garrison, whose work is often promoted by alt-right figures. Last year, Mr. Garrison was disinvited from a White House gathering of the president’s social media fans because his work contains anti-Semitic messaging.
Mr. Scavino posted the cartoon one day after The Washington Post published a story that detailed how officials have kept Dr. Fauci from television interviews, and have accused Dr. Fauci of being wrong in their behind-the-scenes communications with reporters. On Tuesday, the White House declined to comment on Mr. Scavino’s post.Mr. Scavino posted the cartoon one day after The Washington Post published a story that detailed how officials have kept Dr. Fauci from television interviews, and have accused Dr. Fauci of being wrong in their behind-the-scenes communications with reporters. On Tuesday, the White House declined to comment on Mr. Scavino’s post.
Revenue at Delta Air Lines declined by 88 percent in the second quarter compared to a year earlier, reflecting what its chief executive described as the “truly staggering” toll the pandemic has had on the aviation industry. That decline contributed to a $5.7 billion quarterly loss, compared to last year’s $1.4 billion profit. More than 1,000 employees of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have signed a letter calling for the agency to address “a pervasive and toxic culture of racial aggressions, bullying and marginalization” against Black employees.
“Given the combined effects of the pandemic and associated financial impact on the global economy, we continue to believe that it will be more than two years before we see a sustainable recovery,” Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive, said in a statement. Dated June 30 and addressed to the director of the C.D.C., Dr. Robert R. Redfield, the letter said, “After decades of well-meaning, yet underfunded, diversity and inclusion efforts, we have seen scant progress in addressing the very real challenges Black employees experience at C.D.C.”
The company’s quarterly losses were driven by a 93 percent decline in passengers, though they included a more than $2 billion write-down associated with investments in a trio of troubled foreign carriers: Latam Airlines Group, Grupo Aeroméxico and Virgin Atlantic. The pandemic has both highlighted and exacerbated racial inequities in the United States.
More than 45,000 employees have taken temporary voluntary unpaid leave. Last week, United Airlines said it could furlough as many as 36,000 workers when federal stimulus funding for payroll runs out at the end of September. Delta has not yet detailed what impact the expiration of funds may have, though it did warn nearly 2,600 pilots last week that they could be furloughed. The letter comes as the C.D.C. is confronting the most urgent public health emergency in its 74-year history. The federal response to the coronavirus pandemic has been characterized as slow and ineffectual, and some have criticized the C.D.C. for its failure to anticipate and explain the pandemic’s effect on Black and Latino people.
Stocks fell on Tuesday amid a re-tightening of restrictions on businesses and fresh data showing slower-than-expected economic activity. The S&P 500 fell about half a percent in early trading. European markets were broadly lower, most by more than 1 percent and stocks in Asia also fell. At the same time, widespread demonstrations for racial justice following the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade and others at the hands of the police have prompted people and institutions across the country to acknowledge and confront enduring forms of racial discrimination.
The letter listed seven grievances and dozens of requests. It called for the agency to publicly acknowledge that systemic racism is a public health crisis, expand internship and fellowship opportunities to students at historically Black colleges and universities, and adopt mandatory implicit bias training.
A C.D.C. spokesman said Dr. Redfield has already responded to the letter but did not provide any details.
As many U.S. courthouses try to reopen, people who work in the courts are coming down with the virus, forcing the buildings to close again.As many U.S. courthouses try to reopen, people who work in the courts are coming down with the virus, forcing the buildings to close again.
In St. Louis, the federal courthouse closed Monday after a security guard tested positive and that person’s contacts had to be quarantined. In the Atlanta suburb of Gwinnett County, Ga., an employee came down with the virus, shutting the clerk’s office for two weeks. And in Kanawha County, W.Va., the court clerk’s office was shuttered abruptly on Monday after a worker tested positive.In St. Louis, the federal courthouse closed Monday after a security guard tested positive and that person’s contacts had to be quarantined. In the Atlanta suburb of Gwinnett County, Ga., an employee came down with the virus, shutting the clerk’s office for two weeks. And in Kanawha County, W.Va., the court clerk’s office was shuttered abruptly on Monday after a worker tested positive.
“This emergency makes it unsafe for court personnel, attorneys, parties, and others to be at or near the Kanawha County Circuit Clerk’s office until negative test results are obtained for remaining employees,” the chief judge there said in an emergency order.“This emergency makes it unsafe for court personnel, attorneys, parties, and others to be at or near the Kanawha County Circuit Clerk’s office until negative test results are obtained for remaining employees,” the chief judge there said in an emergency order.
In Johnson County, Kan., where new infections are being reported at twice the rate they were two weeks ago, cases among court employees and their acquaintances prompted the chief judge to call off this week’s in-person hearings.In Johnson County, Kan., where new infections are being reported at twice the rate they were two weeks ago, cases among court employees and their acquaintances prompted the chief judge to call off this week’s in-person hearings.
“We must be cautious and responsible to minimize exposure to ourselves, our staff and the public who use the courthouse facilities expecting to be safe,” court officials said in a statement. “We must remember we are still dealing with a highly contagious and unpredictable disease.“We must be cautious and responsible to minimize exposure to ourselves, our staff and the public who use the courthouse facilities expecting to be safe,” court officials said in a statement. “We must remember we are still dealing with a highly contagious and unpredictable disease.
As the pandemic continues, many parents, struggling to balance work and child care, are hiring nannies again. But some parents are looking for new qualifications, including whether a caregiver had the virus, is willing to relocate or has teaching experience.As the pandemic continues, many parents, struggling to balance work and child care, are hiring nannies again. But some parents are looking for new qualifications, including whether a caregiver had the virus, is willing to relocate or has teaching experience.
Reporting was contributed by Liz Alderman, Sarah Almukhtar, Pam Belluck, Aurelien Breeden, Niraj Chokshi, Reid J. Epstein, Nicholas Fandos, Manny Fernandez, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Emily Flitter, Jacey Fortin, Kimiko de Freytas-Tamura, Michael Gold, Dana Goldstein, Erica L. Green, Shawn Hubler, Miriam Jordan, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Dan Levin, Patricia Mazzei, Constant Méheut, David Montgomery, Benjamin Mueller, Azi Paybarah, Alan Rappeport, Nate Schweber, Michael D. Shear, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Mitch Smith, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley, Declan Walsh, Noah Weiland and Sameer Yasir.Reporting was contributed by Liz Alderman, Sarah Almukhtar, Pam Belluck, Aurelien Breeden, Niraj Chokshi, Reid J. Epstein, Nicholas Fandos, Manny Fernandez, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Emily Flitter, Jacey Fortin, Kimiko de Freytas-Tamura, Michael Gold, Dana Goldstein, Erica L. Green, Shawn Hubler, Miriam Jordan, Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Dan Levin, Patricia Mazzei, Constant Méheut, David Montgomery, Benjamin Mueller, Azi Paybarah, Alan Rappeport, Nate Schweber, Michael D. Shear, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Mitch Smith, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley, Declan Walsh, Noah Weiland and Sameer Yasir.