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Coronavirus Live Updates: Stalemate Continues Over U.S. Stimulus Bill Coronavirus Live Updates: Gov. DeWine of Ohio Tests Positive Before a Planned Trump Visit
(32 minutes later)
Gov. Mike DeWine of Ohio tested positive for the virus while being screened to greet Mr. Trump in Cleveland on Thursday, his office said in a statement.
Mr. DeWine, a Republican who has stood out for his studious virus briefings and aggressive response, was tested as part of a standard protocol in order to greet Mr. Trump on the tarmac of Burke Lakefront Airport in Cleveland.
Mr. DeWine, who was not experiencing symptoms, did not meet with the president. He is returning to Columbus, where he will be tested again. He plans to self-isolate in his home for the next 14 days, his office said.
Mr. DeWine is the second governor in the nation known to have tested positive. Gov. Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma received a positive test result last month.
Mr. Trump was scheduled to speak in Cleveland and then tour a Whirlpool plant in Clyde.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
The shadow of a potentially disappointing new monthly jobs report hangs over leading Democrats and Trump administration officials Thursday as they plan to meet again to attempt to bridge their yawning divide on a new economic stimulus bill.The shadow of a potentially disappointing new monthly jobs report hangs over leading Democrats and Trump administration officials Thursday as they plan to meet again to attempt to bridge their yawning divide on a new economic stimulus bill.
The Labor Department will report Friday morning on how many jobs the economy created in July, as America climbs back from the depths of the pandemic recession. Forecasters expect a slowdown from May, when the nascent recovery added 2.7 million jobs, and June, when it added 4.8 million. That’s because the resurgence of the coronavirus has cooled growth in consumer spending and business activity for much of this summer.The Labor Department will report Friday morning on how many jobs the economy created in July, as America climbs back from the depths of the pandemic recession. Forecasters expect a slowdown from May, when the nascent recovery added 2.7 million jobs, and June, when it added 4.8 million. That’s because the resurgence of the coronavirus has cooled growth in consumer spending and business activity for much of this summer.
If Friday’s report shows a drastic slowdown in job creation, while the economy remains down more than 10 million jobs from its pre-pandemic peak in February, pressure will rise on President Trump and congressional leaders to cut a deal to provide additional aid for struggling small businesses, laid-off workers and state and local governments that face large shortfalls in tax revenue amid the crisis.If Friday’s report shows a drastic slowdown in job creation, while the economy remains down more than 10 million jobs from its pre-pandemic peak in February, pressure will rise on President Trump and congressional leaders to cut a deal to provide additional aid for struggling small businesses, laid-off workers and state and local governments that face large shortfalls in tax revenue amid the crisis.
With Mr. Trump threatening to act on his own to provide relief if negotiators cannot reach agreement, Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday suggested that he should do so on at least one issue: reinstating an expired federal eviction moratorium.With Mr. Trump threatening to act on his own to provide relief if negotiators cannot reach agreement, Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday suggested that he should do so on at least one issue: reinstating an expired federal eviction moratorium.
“He can extend the moratorium, and I hope that he does” Ms. Pelosi said in an interview with CNBC. But she took aim at Republicans who she said were refusing to agree to critical aid, saying, “perhaps you mistook them for somebody who gives a damn.”“He can extend the moratorium, and I hope that he does” Ms. Pelosi said in an interview with CNBC. But she took aim at Republicans who she said were refusing to agree to critical aid, saying, “perhaps you mistook them for somebody who gives a damn.”
A better-than-expected jobs number on Friday could sway Mr. Trump — who has said repeatedly that the rebound from recession is well underway, and that the economy will rapidly return to its pre-crisis state — against agreeing to any more of Democrats’ demands on issues like re-upping the now-expired $600-per-week federal supplement for unemployed workers. It could also embolden the faction of the Senate Republican caucus that is pushing for no additional federal deficit spending.A better-than-expected jobs number on Friday could sway Mr. Trump — who has said repeatedly that the rebound from recession is well underway, and that the economy will rapidly return to its pre-crisis state — against agreeing to any more of Democrats’ demands on issues like re-upping the now-expired $600-per-week federal supplement for unemployed workers. It could also embolden the faction of the Senate Republican caucus that is pushing for no additional federal deficit spending.
But some analysts in Washington say even a particularly brutal jobs report could complicate negotiations, because Republicans may cite it as a sign that the additional unemployment benefits that had been in place through the end of July were so generous that they deterred laid-off Americans from returning to work. A string of recent studies have found the opposite: that the additional income from the benefits has propped up consumer spending and boosted the economy, without discouraging workers from taking jobs if offered.But some analysts in Washington say even a particularly brutal jobs report could complicate negotiations, because Republicans may cite it as a sign that the additional unemployment benefits that had been in place through the end of July were so generous that they deterred laid-off Americans from returning to work. A string of recent studies have found the opposite: that the additional income from the benefits has propped up consumer spending and boosted the economy, without discouraging workers from taking jobs if offered.
Negotiations are set to resume at 5 p.m. Thursday.Negotiations are set to resume at 5 p.m. Thursday.
Gov. Mike DeWine of Ohio tested positive for the virus while being screened to greet President Trump in Cleveland on Thursday, his office said in a statement.
Mr. DeWine, a Republican who has stood out for his studious coronavirus briefings and aggressive response to the virus, was tested as part of a standard protocol in order to greet Mr. Trump on the tarmac of Burke Lakefront Airport in Cleveland.
Mr. DeWine, who was not experiencing symptoms, did not meet with the president. He is returning to Columbus, where he will be tested again. He plans to self-isolate in his home for the next 14 days, his office said.
Mr. DeWine is the second governor in the nation known to have tested positive for the virus. Gov. Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma received a positive test result last month.
Mr. Trump was scheduled to speak in Cleveland and then tour a Whirlpool plant in Clyde.
A churchgoer who attended a service while he was sick helped spread the virus to 91 other people. A son brushed off symptoms while holding a vigil with his dying father, and five relatives later tested positive. After a man with symptoms attended his brother’s wedding, at least 15 people who were there became ill, including the bride and groom.A churchgoer who attended a service while he was sick helped spread the virus to 91 other people. A son brushed off symptoms while holding a vigil with his dying father, and five relatives later tested positive. After a man with symptoms attended his brother’s wedding, at least 15 people who were there became ill, including the bride and groom.
These clusters of cases in Ohio, cited by Gov. Mike DeWine during a news conference earlier this week, illustrate how readily the virus can seed itself among family members, friends and acquaintances, and not merely pass stranger to stranger. They go to the heart of a problem many Americans every day are grappling with: how to weigh being present at important life events against the danger of contagion. These clusters of cases in Ohio, cited by Mr. DeWine during a news conference earlier this week, illustrate how readily the virus can seed itself among family members, friends and acquaintances, and not merely pass stranger to stranger. They go to the heart of a problem many Americans every day are grappling with: how to weigh being present at important life events against the danger of contagion.
“Just because it’s your family, just because it’s your friends, they could still be carrying the virus,” Mr. DeWine said. “Choosing to not gather for parties or barbecues might feel like you’re not being friendly, but it really is a sign of friendship.”“Just because it’s your family, just because it’s your friends, they could still be carrying the virus,” Mr. DeWine said. “Choosing to not gather for parties or barbecues might feel like you’re not being friendly, but it really is a sign of friendship.”
The governor learned on Thursday that he had caught the virus himself, when he was screened before a planned visit by President Trump.The governor learned on Thursday that he had caught the virus himself, when he was screened before a planned visit by President Trump.
The case of the churchgoer offers a stark example. A contact investigation by the state found that the infected man, 56, attended a service on June 14 and came into contact there with a wide range of people who later developed symptoms, including a 67-year-old woman and a 15-year-old girl — and those people then had contacts of their own. The woman’s husband, also in his 60s, developed symptoms, for example, and the girl’s 54-year-old father may have passed the virus to a 38-year-old co-worker.The case of the churchgoer offers a stark example. A contact investigation by the state found that the infected man, 56, attended a service on June 14 and came into contact there with a wide range of people who later developed symptoms, including a 67-year-old woman and a 15-year-old girl — and those people then had contacts of their own. The woman’s husband, also in his 60s, developed symptoms, for example, and the girl’s 54-year-old father may have passed the virus to a 38-year-old co-worker.
Within three weeks, the state found, 91 people from five counties had developed symptoms of Covid-19, probably stemming directly or indirectly from that one man’s trip to church.Within three weeks, the state found, 91 people from five counties had developed symptoms of Covid-19, probably stemming directly or indirectly from that one man’s trip to church.
“It spread like wildfire,” Mr. DeWine said.“It spread like wildfire,” Mr. DeWine said.
While most coronavirus tests to date have relied on an ultra-accurate procedure called PCR, severe supply shortages have slowed the turnaround of results, stretching to more than a week — or three — in some parts of the United States. That has complicated, if not crippled, efforts to detect and track the spread of the virus.While most coronavirus tests to date have relied on an ultra-accurate procedure called PCR, severe supply shortages have slowed the turnaround of results, stretching to more than a week — or three — in some parts of the United States. That has complicated, if not crippled, efforts to detect and track the spread of the virus.
The best chance to rein in the sprawling outbreaks, experts said, requires widespread adoption of less accurate tests, as long as they are administered quickly and often enough.The best chance to rein in the sprawling outbreaks, experts said, requires widespread adoption of less accurate tests, as long as they are administered quickly and often enough.
“Even if you miss somebody on Day 1,” said Omai Garner, director of clinical microbiology in the U.C.L.A. Health System. “If you test them repeatedly, the argument is, you’ll catch them the next time around.”“Even if you miss somebody on Day 1,” said Omai Garner, director of clinical microbiology in the U.C.L.A. Health System. “If you test them repeatedly, the argument is, you’ll catch them the next time around.”
This quantity-over-quality strategy has its downsides, and is contingent on an enormous supply of testing kits. Currently, only a handful of speedy tests have been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration for emergency use. But many experts now believe more rapid, frequent testing would be enough to identify those who need immediate medical care — and perhaps even pinpoint those at greatest risk of spreading the disease.This quantity-over-quality strategy has its downsides, and is contingent on an enormous supply of testing kits. Currently, only a handful of speedy tests have been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration for emergency use. But many experts now believe more rapid, frequent testing would be enough to identify those who need immediate medical care — and perhaps even pinpoint those at greatest risk of spreading the disease.
One such option includes antigen testing, which, at its simplest, could provide a fast answer in the same way as pregnancy tests. Users could swab their mouths or noses or spit into a tube, then read the results as colored bars on a strip of paper within minutes. These tests could be done at a doctor’s office, or even at home — no fancy machines or specially trained personnel required — and cost just a few dollars each, perhaps even less. And there would be no delays of a week or longer.One such option includes antigen testing, which, at its simplest, could provide a fast answer in the same way as pregnancy tests. Users could swab their mouths or noses or spit into a tube, then read the results as colored bars on a strip of paper within minutes. These tests could be done at a doctor’s office, or even at home — no fancy machines or specially trained personnel required — and cost just a few dollars each, perhaps even less. And there would be no delays of a week or longer.
The approach is unconventional for lab researchers, who have traditionally valued accuracy above all else. But given the status quo, “Our backs are against the wall, and it’s Hail Mary time,” said Susan Butler-Wu, a clinical microbiologist at the University of Southern California. “We have to try something different.”The approach is unconventional for lab researchers, who have traditionally valued accuracy above all else. But given the status quo, “Our backs are against the wall, and it’s Hail Mary time,” said Susan Butler-Wu, a clinical microbiologist at the University of Southern California. “We have to try something different.”
France and Germany have each recorded a higher number of daily new coronavirus cases this week than either country has seen in months. France reported 1,695 new cases on Wednesday, and Germany on Thursday reported more than 1,000.France and Germany have each recorded a higher number of daily new coronavirus cases this week than either country has seen in months. France reported 1,695 new cases on Wednesday, and Germany on Thursday reported more than 1,000.
The rise in cases for both countries come as other Western European countries, like Spain and Belgium, are also facing surges. And though the numbers are high, they are not on the level of the spikes being seen in the United States.The rise in cases for both countries come as other Western European countries, like Spain and Belgium, are also facing surges. And though the numbers are high, they are not on the level of the spikes being seen in the United States.
Germany’s public health authority, the Robert Koch Institute, said new cases were spread across the country, and were not concentrated in one region as more recent spikes have been.Germany’s public health authority, the Robert Koch Institute, said new cases were spread across the country, and were not concentrated in one region as more recent spikes have been.
In France, which had been seeing a slow resurgence of the pandemic, the 1,242 daily average of cases since the beginning of August has almost reached the level of infections in the first week of May, when the country was still under lockdown. And the number of Covid-19 patients in intensive care units, which had been steadily falling since early April, has risen very slightly in recent days.In France, which had been seeing a slow resurgence of the pandemic, the 1,242 daily average of cases since the beginning of August has almost reached the level of infections in the first week of May, when the country was still under lockdown. And the number of Covid-19 patients in intensive care units, which had been steadily falling since early April, has risen very slightly in recent days.
As numbers began rising last week in Germany, Lothar Wieler, the president of the Robert Koch Institute, had warned that Germans were becoming too lax and failing to uphold the social-distancing and mask-wearing requirements that remain in place.As numbers began rising last week in Germany, Lothar Wieler, the president of the Robert Koch Institute, had warned that Germans were becoming too lax and failing to uphold the social-distancing and mask-wearing requirements that remain in place.
In France, the scientific council that advises President Emmanuel Macron warned that a second wave of infections by the fall was “highly possible” given current trends. The council called on large cities to prepare home-confinement strategies that could be tightened or loosened in step with the evolution of the pandemic.In France, the scientific council that advises President Emmanuel Macron warned that a second wave of infections by the fall was “highly possible” given current trends. The council called on large cities to prepare home-confinement strategies that could be tightened or loosened in step with the evolution of the pandemic.
France has had at least 194,000 coronavirus cases and at least 30,000 deaths, according to a New York Times database. Germany has had at least 213,000 cases and at least 9,100 deaths.France has had at least 194,000 coronavirus cases and at least 30,000 deaths, according to a New York Times database. Germany has had at least 213,000 cases and at least 9,100 deaths.
Nearly 1.2 million workers in the United States filed new claims for state unemployment benefits last week, the government reported on Thursday. It was the lowest weekly total since March, but the nation still topped the extraordinarily high number of one million for 20 straight weeks.Nearly 1.2 million workers in the United States filed new claims for state unemployment benefits last week, the government reported on Thursday. It was the lowest weekly total since March, but the nation still topped the extraordinarily high number of one million for 20 straight weeks.
An additional 656,000 claims were filed by freelancers, part-time workers and others who do not qualify for regular state jobless aid but are eligible for benefits under a separate federal program, the Labor Department said. Unlike the state figures, that number is not seasonally adjusted.An additional 656,000 claims were filed by freelancers, part-time workers and others who do not qualify for regular state jobless aid but are eligible for benefits under a separate federal program, the Labor Department said. Unlike the state figures, that number is not seasonally adjusted.
The number of new claims is down from the stratospheric levels of the pandemic’s early days, but signals the continued damage that the pandemic has inflicted on the American economy.The number of new claims is down from the stratospheric levels of the pandemic’s early days, but signals the continued damage that the pandemic has inflicted on the American economy.
“There is a resurgence of Covid cases around the country that is tempering economic activity and employment gains,” said Kathy Bostjancic, chief U.S. financial economist at Oxford Economics.“There is a resurgence of Covid cases around the country that is tempering economic activity and employment gains,” said Kathy Bostjancic, chief U.S. financial economist at Oxford Economics.
And now that emergency federal benefits have expired, the unemployed will not be receiving the $600-a-week supplement that helped them pay bills through the spring and early summer.And now that emergency federal benefits have expired, the unemployed will not be receiving the $600-a-week supplement that helped them pay bills through the spring and early summer.
Nearly every country has struggled to contain the coronavirus and made mistakes along the way, yet only one affluent nation has suffered a severe, sustained outbreak for more than four months: the United States.Nearly every country has struggled to contain the coronavirus and made mistakes along the way, yet only one affluent nation has suffered a severe, sustained outbreak for more than four months: the United States.
Led by David Leonhardt, a team of New York Times journalists set out to reconstruct the unique failure of the United States, through interviews with scientists and public health experts around the world. The reporting points to two central themes. David writes:Led by David Leonhardt, a team of New York Times journalists set out to reconstruct the unique failure of the United States, through interviews with scientists and public health experts around the world. The reporting points to two central themes. David writes:
First, the United States faced longstanding challenges in confronting a major pandemic. It is a large country at the nexus of the global economy, with a tradition of prioritizing individualism over government restrictions. That tradition is one reason the United States suffers from an unequal health care system that has long produced worse medical outcomes — including higher infant mortality and diabetes rates and lower life expectancy — than in most other rich countries.First, the United States faced longstanding challenges in confronting a major pandemic. It is a large country at the nexus of the global economy, with a tradition of prioritizing individualism over government restrictions. That tradition is one reason the United States suffers from an unequal health care system that has long produced worse medical outcomes — including higher infant mortality and diabetes rates and lower life expectancy — than in most other rich countries.
“As an American, I think there is a lot of good to be said about our libertarian tradition,” Dr. Jared Baeten, an epidemiologist and vice dean at the University of Washington School of Public Health, said. “But this is the consequence — we don’t succeed as well as a collective.”“As an American, I think there is a lot of good to be said about our libertarian tradition,” Dr. Jared Baeten, an epidemiologist and vice dean at the University of Washington School of Public Health, said. “But this is the consequence — we don’t succeed as well as a collective.”
The second major theme is one that public health experts often find uncomfortable to discuss because many try to steer clear of partisan politics. But many agree that the poor results in the United States stem in substantial measure from the performance of the Trump administration.The second major theme is one that public health experts often find uncomfortable to discuss because many try to steer clear of partisan politics. But many agree that the poor results in the United States stem in substantial measure from the performance of the Trump administration.
In no other high-income country — and in only a few countries, period — have political leaders departed from expert advice as frequently and significantly as the Trump administration. President Trump has said the virus was not serious; predicted it would disappear; spent weeks questioning the need for masks; encouraged states to reopen even with large and growing caseloads; and promoted medical disinformation.In no other high-income country — and in only a few countries, period — have political leaders departed from expert advice as frequently and significantly as the Trump administration. President Trump has said the virus was not serious; predicted it would disappear; spent weeks questioning the need for masks; encouraged states to reopen even with large and growing caseloads; and promoted medical disinformation.
A new study in South Korea, published Thursday in JAMA Internal Medicine, offers more definitive proof that people without symptoms carry just as much virus in their nose, throat and lungs as those with symptoms, and for almost as long.A new study in South Korea, published Thursday in JAMA Internal Medicine, offers more definitive proof that people without symptoms carry just as much virus in their nose, throat and lungs as those with symptoms, and for almost as long.
Discussions about asymptomatic spread have been dogged by confusion about people who are “pre-symptomatic” — meaning they eventually become visibly ill — versus the truly asymptomatic, who appear healthy throughout the course of their infection.Discussions about asymptomatic spread have been dogged by confusion about people who are “pre-symptomatic” — meaning they eventually become visibly ill — versus the truly asymptomatic, who appear healthy throughout the course of their infection.
The new study is among the first to clearly distinguish between these two groups. It measured the virus’s genetic material in the patients; the researchers did not follow the chain of transmission or grow live virus, which might have more directly confirmed active infections.The new study is among the first to clearly distinguish between these two groups. It measured the virus’s genetic material in the patients; the researchers did not follow the chain of transmission or grow live virus, which might have more directly confirmed active infections.
Still, experts said the results strongly suggest that asymptomatic people are unwitting broadcasters of the virus.Still, experts said the results strongly suggest that asymptomatic people are unwitting broadcasters of the virus.
The South Korean team analyzed samples taken between March 6 and March 26 from 193 symptomatic and 110 asymptomatic people isolated at a community treatment center. Of the initially asymptomatic patients, 89 — roughly 30 percent of the total — appeared healthy throughout, while 21 developed symptoms.The South Korean team analyzed samples taken between March 6 and March 26 from 193 symptomatic and 110 asymptomatic people isolated at a community treatment center. Of the initially asymptomatic patients, 89 — roughly 30 percent of the total — appeared healthy throughout, while 21 developed symptoms.
The participants in the new study were all isolated when they tested positive for the virus and did not have the opportunity to infect others. Doctors and nurses tracked their temperatures and other symptoms, and tested their sputum — which indicates virus present in the lungs — as well as their noses and throats.The participants in the new study were all isolated when they tested positive for the virus and did not have the opportunity to infect others. Doctors and nurses tracked their temperatures and other symptoms, and tested their sputum — which indicates virus present in the lungs — as well as their noses and throats.
The participants were mostly young, with a median age of just 25. (A study last week found that children, who are mostly mildly infected, also harbor at least as much virus as adults do.)The participants were mostly young, with a median age of just 25. (A study last week found that children, who are mostly mildly infected, also harbor at least as much virus as adults do.)
The study’s estimate that 30 percent of infected people never develop symptoms is in line with findings from other studies. In an television interview on Wednesday, Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, tendered 40 percent as the figure.The study’s estimate that 30 percent of infected people never develop symptoms is in line with findings from other studies. In an television interview on Wednesday, Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, tendered 40 percent as the figure.
Eric M. Garcetti, the mayor of Los Angeles, said on Wednesday that the city could cut off power to homes or businesses that host large gatherings in defiance of public health guidelines.Eric M. Garcetti, the mayor of Los Angeles, said on Wednesday that the city could cut off power to homes or businesses that host large gatherings in defiance of public health guidelines.
Large gatherings in private homes are banned under Los Angeles County’s public health orders because of the pandemic, but there have been a number of reports of parties in recent weeks. One party that drew a large group to a mansion on Mulholland Drive on Monday night devolved into chaos and gunfire after midnight, leaving five people wounded, one of whom later died, the authorities said.Large gatherings in private homes are banned under Los Angeles County’s public health orders because of the pandemic, but there have been a number of reports of parties in recent weeks. One party that drew a large group to a mansion on Mulholland Drive on Monday night devolved into chaos and gunfire after midnight, leaving five people wounded, one of whom later died, the authorities said.
“These large parties are unsafe and can cost Angelenos their lives,” Mr. Garcetti said at a news conference on Wednesday. “That is why, tonight, I am authorizing the city to shut off Los Angeles Department of Water and Power service in the egregious cases in which houses, businesses and other venues are hosting unpermitted large gatherings.”“These large parties are unsafe and can cost Angelenos their lives,” Mr. Garcetti said at a news conference on Wednesday. “That is why, tonight, I am authorizing the city to shut off Los Angeles Department of Water and Power service in the egregious cases in which houses, businesses and other venues are hosting unpermitted large gatherings.”
He said that beginning on Friday night, “if the L.A.P.D. responds and verifies that a large gathering is occurring at a property, and we see these properties reoffending time and time again, they will provide notice and initiate the process to request that D.W.P. shut off service within the next 48 hours.”He said that beginning on Friday night, “if the L.A.P.D. responds and verifies that a large gathering is occurring at a property, and we see these properties reoffending time and time again, they will provide notice and initiate the process to request that D.W.P. shut off service within the next 48 hours.”
He added that this would not apply to small home gatherings, though he urged residents to avoid those, too.He added that this would not apply to small home gatherings, though he urged residents to avoid those, too.
“Some research has shown that 10 percent of people cause 80 percent of the spread,” Mr. Garcetti said. “These super-spreader events and super-spreader people have a disproportionate impact on the lives that we are losing, and we cannot let that happen like we saw on Mullholland Drive on Monday night.”“Some research has shown that 10 percent of people cause 80 percent of the spread,” Mr. Garcetti said. “These super-spreader events and super-spreader people have a disproportionate impact on the lives that we are losing, and we cannot let that happen like we saw on Mullholland Drive on Monday night.”
A surge in coronavirus cases since mid-June in California has prompted officials to reconsider their moves to loosen some restrictions. California surpassed New York last month as the state that has had the highest number of coronavirus cases.A surge in coronavirus cases since mid-June in California has prompted officials to reconsider their moves to loosen some restrictions. California surpassed New York last month as the state that has had the highest number of coronavirus cases.
More than half of Americans who flew in the past year are not ready to do so again, according to a new survey, underscoring the difficulty airlines face in convincing people it is safe for them to get back on planes.More than half of Americans who flew in the past year are not ready to do so again, according to a new survey, underscoring the difficulty airlines face in convincing people it is safe for them to get back on planes.
In the survey of nearly 6,500 travelers conducted by Gallup and the financial firm Franklin Templeton, 52 percent said they were uncomfortable flying.In the survey of nearly 6,500 travelers conducted by Gallup and the financial firm Franklin Templeton, 52 percent said they were uncomfortable flying.
Younger adults are more willing to travel; only a third of those between the ages of 18 and 34 expressed discomfort with the idea. But older adults, who tend to have more time and money to travel, are far more reluctant. Among those 55 or older, 69 percent said they would not be comfortable taking a flight.Younger adults are more willing to travel; only a third of those between the ages of 18 and 34 expressed discomfort with the idea. But older adults, who tend to have more time and money to travel, are far more reluctant. Among those 55 or older, 69 percent said they would not be comfortable taking a flight.
Unsurprisingly, views on flying vary significantly by political identification. Nearly 60 percent of Democrats said they were uncomfortable flying, compared with 54 percent of independents and just 42 percent of Republicans.Unsurprisingly, views on flying vary significantly by political identification. Nearly 60 percent of Democrats said they were uncomfortable flying, compared with 54 percent of independents and just 42 percent of Republicans.
Even those willing to fly have limits. Although 44 percent said they were comfortable getting on a flight that lasted less than two hours, only 21 percent said they were open to the idea of flying more than six hours, confirming the industry consensus that international travel will take much longer to recover than shorter, domestic trips.Even those willing to fly have limits. Although 44 percent said they were comfortable getting on a flight that lasted less than two hours, only 21 percent said they were open to the idea of flying more than six hours, confirming the industry consensus that international travel will take much longer to recover than shorter, domestic trips.
Travelers are also divided in their willingness to pay to have an empty seat next to them. Just under half said they would not shell out any money for greater distance from others, while 47 percent said they would pay up to $100. That share shrinks as the price of an empty seat rises, though 18 percent said they would spend $250 or more.Travelers are also divided in their willingness to pay to have an empty seat next to them. Just under half said they would not shell out any money for greater distance from others, while 47 percent said they would pay up to $100. That share shrinks as the price of an empty seat rises, though 18 percent said they would spend $250 or more.
Federal health authorities issued a formal warning this week about the dangers of drinking hand sanitizer and alerted poison control centers across the United States to be on the lookout for cases of methanol toxicity after four people died and nearly a dozen became ill.Federal health authorities issued a formal warning this week about the dangers of drinking hand sanitizer and alerted poison control centers across the United States to be on the lookout for cases of methanol toxicity after four people died and nearly a dozen became ill.
“Alcohol-based hand sanitizer products should never be ingested,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday in an advisory.“Alcohol-based hand sanitizer products should never be ingested,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday in an advisory.
From May 1 to June 30, 15 people in Arizona and New Mexico were treated for poisoning after they swallowed alcohol-based hand sanitizer, the agency said, adding that it was not immediately clear if any of the people who were poisoned drank the hand sanitizer for its disinfectant properties. Some adults had consumed it for its alcohol content.From May 1 to June 30, 15 people in Arizona and New Mexico were treated for poisoning after they swallowed alcohol-based hand sanitizer, the agency said, adding that it was not immediately clear if any of the people who were poisoned drank the hand sanitizer for its disinfectant properties. Some adults had consumed it for its alcohol content.
Similar warnings were issued in April after Mr. Trump suggested digesting disinfectants could help fight the virus.Similar warnings were issued in April after Mr. Trump suggested digesting disinfectants could help fight the virus.
Hand sanitizer has become an ubiquitous and often scarce substitute for hand washing during the pandemic. The C.D.C. has recommended the use of ethyl alcohol- or isopropyl alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available.Hand sanitizer has become an ubiquitous and often scarce substitute for hand washing during the pandemic. The C.D.C. has recommended the use of ethyl alcohol- or isopropyl alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available.
Last week, the Food and Drug Administration, which regulates hand sanitizers, announced that it had placed methanol-based products manufactured in Mexico on an import alert because of their toxicity. It also said it was working with retailers to remove those products from marketplaces.Last week, the Food and Drug Administration, which regulates hand sanitizers, announced that it had placed methanol-based products manufactured in Mexico on an import alert because of their toxicity. It also said it was working with retailers to remove those products from marketplaces.
And with a round of new warnings, the agency’s list of hand sanitizers that consumers should avoid grew to 115 products. Some were cautioned against because of methanol content, others because of manufacturing processes or low levels of ethyl alcohol.And with a round of new warnings, the agency’s list of hand sanitizers that consumers should avoid grew to 115 products. Some were cautioned against because of methanol content, others because of manufacturing processes or low levels of ethyl alcohol.
Test results for North Korea’s first suspected coronavirus case were “inconclusive,” a World Health Organization official has said, after the case triggered quarantine orders for more than 3,600 people.Test results for North Korea’s first suspected coronavirus case were “inconclusive,” a World Health Organization official has said, after the case triggered quarantine orders for more than 3,600 people.
North Korea’s state-run news media has said the patient is a man who defected to South Korea three years ago but secretly crossed back to the border city of Kaesong last month. North Korea later declared a “maximum” national emergency and put Kaesong on lockdown.North Korea’s state-run news media has said the patient is a man who defected to South Korea three years ago but secretly crossed back to the border city of Kaesong last month. North Korea later declared a “maximum” national emergency and put Kaesong on lockdown.
North Korea, one of the world’s most isolated countries, has repeatedly said that it has no cases of the virus, but outside experts are skeptical. The local news media said last week that the national caseload was still zero, without providing further details on what happened to the man.North Korea, one of the world’s most isolated countries, has repeatedly said that it has no cases of the virus, but outside experts are skeptical. The local news media said last week that the national caseload was still zero, without providing further details on what happened to the man.
Dr. Edwin Salvador, a W.H.O. representative to North Korea, said in a statement on Thursday that the test results for the man remained “inconclusive.” Extensive contact tracing is underway, he added, with 64 of the man’s first contacts and 3,571 secondary ones under quarantine in government facilities for 40 days.Dr. Edwin Salvador, a W.H.O. representative to North Korea, said in a statement on Thursday that the test results for the man remained “inconclusive.” Extensive contact tracing is underway, he added, with 64 of the man’s first contacts and 3,571 secondary ones under quarantine in government facilities for 40 days.
Dr. Salvador said in a separate statement that hundreds of workers at a North Korean seaport and at the border with the Chinese city of Dandong who came into contact with imported goods have also been quarantined.Dr. Salvador said in a separate statement that hundreds of workers at a North Korean seaport and at the border with the Chinese city of Dandong who came into contact with imported goods have also been quarantined.
North Korea’s authoritarian government has adopted drastic measures against the virus, including sealing its borders in January and closing off business with China, which accounts for 90 percent of its external trade.North Korea’s authoritarian government has adopted drastic measures against the virus, including sealing its borders in January and closing off business with China, which accounts for 90 percent of its external trade.
A coronavirus outbreak could further damage the North’s economy, which is already hobbled by international sanctions, and strain its woefully underequipped public health system. Dr. Salvador said the government had designated 15 laboratories for Covid-19 testing, and that all schools were on an extended summer break.A coronavirus outbreak could further damage the North’s economy, which is already hobbled by international sanctions, and strain its woefully underequipped public health system. Dr. Salvador said the government had designated 15 laboratories for Covid-19 testing, and that all schools were on an extended summer break.
Facebook took down a video posted by the campaign of President Trump on Wednesday in which he claimed children were immune to the coronavirus, a violation of the social network’s rules against misinformation around the virus.Facebook took down a video posted by the campaign of President Trump on Wednesday in which he claimed children were immune to the coronavirus, a violation of the social network’s rules against misinformation around the virus.
It was the first time Facebook had removed a post by Mr. Trump’s campaign for spreading misinformation about the virus, though the social network had previously taken down other ads and posts by the campaign for violating other policies. In June, for example, Facebook took down campaign ads that used a Nazi-related symbol, which broke the company’s rules against organized hate.It was the first time Facebook had removed a post by Mr. Trump’s campaign for spreading misinformation about the virus, though the social network had previously taken down other ads and posts by the campaign for violating other policies. In June, for example, Facebook took down campaign ads that used a Nazi-related symbol, which broke the company’s rules against organized hate.
The video that Mr. Trump’s campaign posted on Wednesday was of an interview held earlier in the day with Fox News. In the clip, he pressed for the opening of schools this fall, arguing that children were “virtually immune” from the coronavirus. That theory is not supported by most medical experts.The video that Mr. Trump’s campaign posted on Wednesday was of an interview held earlier in the day with Fox News. In the clip, he pressed for the opening of schools this fall, arguing that children were “virtually immune” from the coronavirus. That theory is not supported by most medical experts.
Twitter on Wednesday also blocked the Trump campaign’s post with the video, saying it had violated company rules on coronavirus misinformation. The account was barred from posting new tweets until the offending post was removed, a typical procedure, Twitter said. Later Wednesday evening, the video was removed from the Trump campaign account and it had resumed posting.Twitter on Wednesday also blocked the Trump campaign’s post with the video, saying it had violated company rules on coronavirus misinformation. The account was barred from posting new tweets until the offending post was removed, a typical procedure, Twitter said. Later Wednesday evening, the video was removed from the Trump campaign account and it had resumed posting.
Global RoundupGlobal Roundup
Fifty million face masks bought by the British government for the National Health Service in April will not be used because of safety concerns, the BBC reported on Thursday.Fifty million face masks bought by the British government for the National Health Service in April will not be used because of safety concerns, the BBC reported on Thursday.
The masks, which were bought as part of a 252 million-pound contract, ($332 million), use ear loop fastenings instead of head loop fastenings. The government found that they did not fit tightly enough, according to legal documents seen by the BBC.The masks, which were bought as part of a 252 million-pound contract, ($332 million), use ear loop fastenings instead of head loop fastenings. The government found that they did not fit tightly enough, according to legal documents seen by the BBC.
The Department of Health and Social Care said it was unable to comment on the specifics of the case because of continuing legal proceedings but said there was a “robust” process in place to ensure that all orders of personal protective equipment are of high quality and meet strict safety standards.The Department of Health and Social Care said it was unable to comment on the specifics of the case because of continuing legal proceedings but said there was a “robust” process in place to ensure that all orders of personal protective equipment are of high quality and meet strict safety standards.
Ayanda Capital, the supplier of the masks, was not immediately available for comment but told the BBC that the equipment met all the specifications that the government had set out.Ayanda Capital, the supplier of the masks, was not immediately available for comment but told the BBC that the equipment met all the specifications that the government had set out.
In the early stages of the pandemic, the government came under fierce criticism over shortages of personal protective equipment, particularly respirator masks that protect health workers from inhaling harmful materials.In the early stages of the pandemic, the government came under fierce criticism over shortages of personal protective equipment, particularly respirator masks that protect health workers from inhaling harmful materials.
“Throughout this global pandemic, we have been working tirelessly to deliver PPE to protect people on the front line,” a government spokesman said, adding, “Over 2.4 billion items have been delivered, and more than 30 billion have been ordered from U.K.-based manufacturers and international partners to provide a continuous supply, which meets the needs of health and social care staff both now and in the future.”“Throughout this global pandemic, we have been working tirelessly to deliver PPE to protect people on the front line,” a government spokesman said, adding, “Over 2.4 billion items have been delivered, and more than 30 billion have been ordered from U.K.-based manufacturers and international partners to provide a continuous supply, which meets the needs of health and social care staff both now and in the future.”
In other news from around the world:In other news from around the world:
A leaked report by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment seems to support the theory that the coronavirus can be transmitted through the air. The case, in Maassluis, in the western Netherlands, is one the clearest examples of a warning by 239 experts that the virus is airborne.A leaked report by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment seems to support the theory that the coronavirus can be transmitted through the air. The case, in Maassluis, in the western Netherlands, is one the clearest examples of a warning by 239 experts that the virus is airborne.
In Britain, the economic collapse caused by the virus has put millions of economic futures in doubt. More than nine million people have been furloughed, or 29 percent of the country’s work force, and 2.8 million have filed unemployment claims. Some fields, such as hospitality or live entertainment, seem especially uncertain, leaving some people in a quandary: Wait for business and employment to pick up, or leave behind a job and career and try something new?In Britain, the economic collapse caused by the virus has put millions of economic futures in doubt. More than nine million people have been furloughed, or 29 percent of the country’s work force, and 2.8 million have filed unemployment claims. Some fields, such as hospitality or live entertainment, seem especially uncertain, leaving some people in a quandary: Wait for business and employment to pick up, or leave behind a job and career and try something new?
A pastor from Canada, who contracted the virus in Myanmar after preaching that Christians were immune to it, was sentenced to three months in prison on Thursday for violating the country’s strict rule against large gatherings. A Canadian pastor who contracted the virus in Myanmar after preaching that Christians were immune to it was sentenced to three months of prison with hard labor on Thursday for violating the country’s strict rule against large gatherings. The Myanmar-born preacher, David Lah, was found guilty of attending a 27-day Christian gathering in Yangon, the country’s largest city, that began in March and is blamed for spreading the virus to around 70 people.
The Myanmar-born preacher, David Lah, was found guilty of attending a 27-day Christian gathering in Yangon, the country’s largest city, that began in March and is blamed for spreading the virus to at least 72 people.
At the time, the government had prohibited gatherings of five or more people in an effort to contain the virus. The limit on gatherings was raised last week to 15.
The spring gathering, where Mr. Lah was a featured speaker, is Myanmar’s biggest known coronavirus cluster so far. Mr. Lah was diagnosed with Covid-19 days after it ended.
In one of his sermons at the gathering, he claimed that the coronavirus had leaked from a “nuclear biological weapon” but that those who believed in God would be spared.
“For anyone who hears the word of God,” he said, “that disease will never come and infect you.”
One of Myanmar’s two vice presidents, U Henry Van Thio, was tested for the disease after meeting separately with Mr. Lah, the authorities said. His test result was negative.
Mr. Lah, who has been imprisoned since May 20 awaiting trial, will be released in two weeks. U Wai Tun, who organized the event and played drums there, was also convicted and sentenced to three months.
Christians, who make up 6 percent of Myanmar’s population, are the largest religious minority in the predominantly Buddhist nation.
As of Thursday, Myanmar had reported 357 coronavirus cases and 6 deaths. Its testing rate — 2,219 per million people — is among the lowest in the world.
Reporting was contributed by Geneva Abdul, Emily Bobrow, Luke Broadwater, Julia Calderone, Niraj Chokshi, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Melissa Eddy, Thomas Erdbrink, Jacey Fortin, Sheera Frenkel, Maggie Haberman, Cecilia Kang, David Leonhardt, Constant Méheut, Sarah Mervosh, Saw Nang, Richard C. Paddock, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley, Neil Vigdor, Katherine J. Wu, Ceylan Yeginsu and Elaine Yu.Reporting was contributed by Geneva Abdul, Emily Bobrow, Luke Broadwater, Julia Calderone, Niraj Chokshi, Emily Cochrane, Patricia Cohen, Melissa Eddy, Thomas Erdbrink, Jacey Fortin, Sheera Frenkel, Maggie Haberman, Cecilia Kang, David Leonhardt, Constant Méheut, Sarah Mervosh, Saw Nang, Richard C. Paddock, Eileen Sullivan, Jim Tankersley, Neil Vigdor, Katherine J. Wu, Ceylan Yeginsu and Elaine Yu.