Coronavirus in USA

[Firebat]

BREAKING: American jobless seeking aid rises to nearly 39m

A further 2.4 million Americans sought unemployment benefits last week, despite hopes that easing lockdowns would help the economy.

The new filings brought the total number of claims since mid-March to roughly 38.6 million - roughly a quarter of the workforce.

The weekly figures have been declining since the end of March, but remain extremely high.

Florida and Georgia were among the states with the biggest increases in filings in the week ended 16 May.

 

[MenInG]

After Connecticut lifted some restrictions today, every US state has now partially reopened after a two-month shutdown.

There are huge differences between how different states have reopened, with Maryland allowing outdoor areas like beaches to reopen, while Georgia residents can get a haircut and Oklahoma is allowing people to get tattoos.

The District of Columbia is yet to announce its reopening.

There have now been more than 92,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States.

 

[MenInG]

US reports nearly 23,000 new cases

The number of US coronavirus infections currently stands at 1,551,095, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports.

The latest tally increases the count by 22,860 cases.

The US death toll rose by 1,397 bringing the total to 93,061 Covid-related deaths.

Earlier today, CDC Director Dr Robert Redfield warned the US must be as "over-prepared as possible" for a coming second wave of infections.

 

[MenInG]

Democrats call for flags at half staff when virus toll hits 100,000

Top Democrats have urged President Donald Trump to order flags flown at half staff when the US coronavirus death toll reaches 100,000, saying the salute would reflect a "national expression of grief."

"Our hearts are broken over this great loss" from the pandemic, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer wrote in a letter to the president.

This weekend's observation of Memorial Day, which honors those who died serving in the US military, coincides with the country likely reaching the grim milestone of 100,000 COVID-19 fatalities.

 

[MenInG]

 

[MenInG]

Trump orders US flags lowered to half-mast for virus victims

Donald Trump, the president of the United States, says he will order the US flag to be flown at half-mast over the next three days as the death toll from COVID-19 approaches 100,000.

"I will be lowering the flags on all Federal Buildings and National Monuments to half-staff over the next three days in memory of the Americans we have lost to the CoronaVirus," he said in a Twitter post.

The move follows a request from Democratic leaders to do so to recognise a "sad day of reckoning when we reach 100,000 deaths".

 

[The Viper]

At a White House press briefing, US President Donald Trump called on places of worship to "open right now" and said he had deemed them "essential".

"In America we need more prayer not less," he said, criticising state governors who have allowed liquor stores and abortion clinics to remain open.

It comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issue guidelines for how churches should reopen.

The CDC's 60-page guidelines for businesses, schools mass transit systems and other institutions to reopen - released earlier this month - made no mention of houses of worship.

According to the Washington Post, the initial lack of guidance was due to social conservatives close to Vice-President Mike Pence, who objected to the propriety of the government telling religious leaders what to do.

 

[Saj]

Around 4,300 recovering Covid-19 patients in New York were sent to already vulnerable nursing homes, according to an AP News investigation.

The decision to move patients out of hospitals in order to free up beds for the newly infected was eventually reversed, and is one of several decisions made by the New York government to come under fire in recent days.

“The state has failed to protect the lives of the most vulnerable members of our community,” Democratic State Assemblyman Ron Kim told the Wall Street Journal last week.

“The fact we maintained and pushed Covid-positive patients into facilities that were not equipped to handle them, it was a fatal error.”

On Friday, Governor Andrew Cuomo said there were 109 deaths recorded in the previous 24 hours, up from 105 on Thursday.

He added that the Long Island and Hudson Valley regions look prepared to begin reopening next week, as long as they are able to continue to track and trace any new infections.

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports 1,571,617 coronavirus cases, 94,150 deaths

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Friday reported 1,571,617 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 20,522 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 1,089 to 94,150.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the new coronavirus, as of 4 pm ET on May 21, compared with its count a day earlier. (bit.ly/2SGLijD)

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-h...navirus-cases-94150-deaths-idUKKBN22Y2P9?il=0

 

[MenInG]

Los Angeles dismisses warning over 'unlawful' lockdown

Eric Garcetti, the mayor of Los Angeles, has dismissed a Trump administration warning that the city's continued coronavirus lockdown could be both arbitrary and unlawful.

"We are not guided by politics in this - we are guided by science, we are guided by collaboration," Garcetti told reporters. "There's no games, there's nothing else going on. And that's the way we're going to continue to safely open."

Los Angeles has begun to reopen facilities from beaches and golf courses to restaurants and retail businesses offering curbside pick-up services, but lags behind other parts of California.

 

[MenInG]

The governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, has signed an order easing the US state’s ban on gathering in groups, allowing up to 10 people to assemble as long as they stay at least six feet from each other or wear face masks if they must stand closer.

Cuomo signed the order on Friday night, the Associated Press reports, clearing the way for New Yorkers to gather together in time for the memorial day weekend.

People in New York City were also given the all-clear to visit beaches this weekend, but they may not swim, the city’s mayor, Bill de Blasio, has said.

“I’ve been really clear about the beaches; they are closed for swimming,” de Blasio said Friday at his daily coronavirus briefing on Friday. “There will not be lifeguards. People are not supposed to go to the beach to swim.”

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of beach season in New York City, with in normal years lifeguards starting duty and swimming permitted.

The main reason the mayor has cited for the swimming ban was to curb the spread of the virus by keeping people off public transport.

 

[Firebat]

 

[MenInG]

Another 84 deaths have been recorded in New York – 62 in hospitals and 22 in nursing homes. It’s “still a tragedy”, says the state governor, Andrew Cuomo, but the figure had been over 100 for the past five days, so this is a significant drop.

He is encouraging everyone to wear a mask. “I am telling you, those masks can save your life. Those masks can save another person’s life,” he said.

He said emergency room health professionals have lower rate of infection than the general public “because the masks work”.

 

[MenInG]

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported 1,595,885 cases of coronavirus, an increase of 24,268. The number of deaths had risen by 1,852 to 96,002.

The figures, which have just been announced, were correct as of 22 May 4pm ET, and compared with the same count a day earlier.

If you’re wondering about any discrepancies, it’s possible that the CDC figures do not reflect cases reported by individual states.

 

[MenInG]

Russia records 153 coronavirus deaths, highest daily toll yet

Russia has reported 153 coronavirus deaths over the past 24 hours, the epidemic's highest daily toll, raising the total number of coronavirus-related deaths to 3,541, the country's coronavirus crisis response centre has said.

It also said 8,599 new cases had been documented, fewer than on the previous day, pushing the total number of infections to 344,481.

 

[Firebat]

US poised to ban travel from Brazil: White House aide

The US is poised to announce a ban on travel from coronavirus-hit Brazil, a top aide to US President Donald Trump has said.

"I think that we'll have a new travel decision today with respect to Brazil and just like we did with the UK and Europe and China, and we hope that'll be temporary," Robert O'Brien, the US national security advisor, said on CBS.

"But because of the situation of Brazil, we're going to take every step necessary protecting American people," he said.

The US had previously cut off travel from China, Europe and Britain as the virus surged in those countries.

 

[Firebat]

New York state daily death toll drop below 100

New York state's daily death toll has dropped below 100 for the first time since late March.

A total of 84 people died in the last 24 hours, Governor Andrew Cuomo said on Saturday, compared with 109 a day before.

During the height of the outbreak in April, more than 1,000 people a day were losing their lives in worst-hit US state.

"In my head, I was always looking to get under 100," Mr Cuomo said.

"It doesn't do good for any of those 84 families that are feeling the pain," he said at his daily briefing, but added that the drop was a sign of "real progress".

Mr Cuomo announced on Friday that groups of up to 10 people could gather "for any lawful purpose" anywhere in the state, including New York City.

But, he added: "If you don't have to be with a group of 10 people don't be with a group of 10 people."

New York state was once the epicentre of the US coronavirus outbreak, with more than 28,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.

The US has the biggest death toll from Covid-19 at 96,000. The UK is second with more than 36,000.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-52786342

 

[Firebat]

NY barber who ignored lockdown tests positive for Covid-19

A New York barber who ignored lockdown restrictions and continued providing haircuts has tested positive for the coronavirus.

Anyone who received a haircut from Broadway in Kingston, New York, in the last three weeks should get tested for Covid-19, officials said.

The barber has not been publicly identified.

"Learning that a barbershop has been operating illicitly for weeks with a Covid-19 positive employee is extraordinarily disheartening," Ulster County Health Commissioner Carol Smith said.

"As much as we would all like to go out and get a professional haircut, this kind of direct contact has the potential to dramatically spread this virus throughout our community and beyond."

New York state was once the epicentre of the US coronavirus outbreak, with more than 28,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.

 

[MenInG]

New York Gov Andrew Cuomo said on Sunday that professional sports leagues in the state can now begin spring training if they follow appropriate health guidelines.

"I believe that sports that can come back without having people in the stadium, without having people in the arena," he said.
Cuomo held his daily press briefing at Jones Beach, about an hour's drive from New York City.

Beaches in the state, though not in New York City, are now open to the public with social distancing measures being enforced.

The new measures come as the state slowly inches forward with its reopening plans.

The governor also said there had been 109 deaths with Covid-19 in the state in the last 24 hours.

The new figure comes a day after he reported the daily death toll had dropped below 100 for the first time since late March amid a broader downward trend.

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports total of 1.6 million coronavirus cases and 97,049 deaths

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday reported 1,622,114 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 26,229 cases from its previous count, and said the number of deaths had risen by 1,047 to 97,049.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the new coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. ET on May 23, compared with its count a day earlier.

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-h...onavirus-cases-and-97049-deaths-idUKKBN2300P1

 

[The Viper]

Coronavirus: US suspends travel from Brazil for foreigners

The US has imposed travel restrictions on foreign nationals who have been to Brazil in the last 14 days.

The South American nation recently became the world's second major hotspot for coronavirus cases.

Brazil currently has more than 347,300 confirmed cases, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

A White House spokeswoman said the restrictions would help ensure new cases are not brought into the US.

"Today's action will help ensure foreign nationals who have been in Brazil do not become a source of additional infections in our country," White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany said in a statement.

Non-Americans who have been in Brazil in the two weeks before they request entry to the US will be denied that entry. The restriction will not affect trade between the two countries.

The suspension is to take effect on May 28 at 23:59 EDT (03:59 GMT).

The travel ban will not apply to US citizens, or to the spouse, parent, legal guardian, or child of a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, and most siblings under the age of 21.

"The potential for undetected transmission of the virus by infected individuals seeking to enter the United States from [Brazil] threatens the security of our transportation system and infrastructure and the national security," said the suspension order published by the White House on Sunday.

Earlier on Sunday, White House National security adviser Robert O'Brien told CBS "Face the Nation" that travel restriction for Brazil were expected shortly.

"We hope that'll be temporary, but because of the situation in Brazil, we're going to take every step necessary to protect the American people," Mr O'Brien said.

He added that "we'll take a look at the other countries on a country-by-country basis for sure".

US President Donald Trump suggested earlier this week that he was considering imposing a ban on travel from Brazil.

The US currently leads the world in coronavirus cases. It has over 1.6 million known cases and is nearing 100,000 deaths linked to the virus.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-52793342

 

[Firebat]

US beaches swarmed as deaths near 100,000

At beaches across the United States, social distancing took a back seat to Memorial Day celebrations this past weekend, which marks the unofficial start of summer.

Despite climbing infections and virus deaths - 1.6 million and 97,722, respectively - some Americans opted for crowded gatherings at the country's beaches and boardwalks.

 

[Abdullah719]

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 1,637,456 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 15,342 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 620 to 97,669.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by a new coronavirus, as of 4 pm ET on May 24 versus its previous report a day earlier.

 

[moghul]

As the summer begins in USA, social distancing is down the drain on most of the places. Only a vaccine can save USA from a 2nd surge in coming winter.

 

[MenInG]

Governor Andrew Cuomo rings opening bell to cheers from mask-wearing brokers as New York Stock Exchange trading floor reopens

==

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is about to reopen after being closed since 23 March - with some restrictions.

According to NYSE President Stacey Cunningham, the trading floor won't look like the "iconic images" people think of when they think of the exchange.

She told the BBC that rather than being crowded together and shouting out on the floor, brokers will be fewer in number, wearing protective masks, and will be observing "strict social distancing".

Since it closed, the NYSE has been limited to electronic-only trading.

 

[Saj]

Trump: 'We saved lives'

”Health experts say if we didn’t act the way we did and as swiftly we would have 10 to 25 times the amount of deaths we did,” President Trump says in the White House Rose Garden as the US virus death toll nears 100,000 - the world's highest.

US health officials predicted in March that nearly 2.5m people could have died if no social distancing measures were implemented by states.

Trump has been urging state governors to roll back lockdown measures, despite the still rising toll. Without specifying which powers he would invoke, Mr Trump repeated an assertion that he could overrule governors if he needed to.

 

[Saj]

Pence: 'We will reopen America'

US Vice President Mike Pence has been defending the US response to the coronavirus pandemic, speaking alongside Donald Trump at the White House.

"Because of the co-operation and compassion of the American people - we are getting there," Mr Pence said.

There were just over 500 deaths yesterday in America, a number not seen since March, the vice president said.

Thanking the "tremendous efforts of healthcare workers", Mr Pence added: "We will reopen America."

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports total of 1.68 million coronavirus cases, 99,031 deaths

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Wednesday reported 1,678,843 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 16,429 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 770 to 99,031.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the new coronavirus, as of 4 pm ET on May 26 versus its previous report on Tuesday.

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-h...navirus-cases-99031-deaths-idUKKBN2332VP?il=0

 

[MenInG]

The US has passed 100,000 deaths in the coronavirus outbreak in less than four months.

It has seen more fatalities than any other country, while its 1.69 million confirmed infections account for about 30% of the worldwide total.

The first US infection was reported in Washington state on 21 January.

Globally there have been 5.6 million people recorded as infected and 354,983 deaths since the virus emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year.

The US death toll stands at 100,276, according to Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, which has been tracking the pandemic.

BBC North America editor Jon Sopel says it is almost the same as the number of American servicemen and women killed in Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan over 44 years of fighting.

But on a per capita basis the US ranks ninth in its mortality rate behind the likes of Belgium, the United Kingdom, France and Ireland, according to the university.

Read more on

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-52821090

 

[MenInG]

 

[Firebat]

US jobless claims decline, but still high

This is the eighth week in a row that US jobless claims numbers have declined, but the totals are still historic.

The federal government has expanded jobless benefits to include workers who would not typically be eligible - like self-employed or gig economy workers - but many states have struggled to get payments out quickly.

And millions of workers who are jobless but did not search for a new job in the last year were not included in recent unemployment numbers, according to CNN.

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We have just reached a very sad milestone with the coronavirus pandemic deaths reaching 100,000. To all of the families & friends of those who have passed, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy & love for everything that these great people stood for & represent. God be with you!</p>— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1266000762057953284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

Away from the UK, New York City may enter its first phase of reopening by early June, according to Mayor Bill de Blasio, making it the last region of the state to begin reopening.

The mayor predicted that at least 200,000 people will return to work when construction and wholesale businesses reopen in the city, and that trains and buses will begin to ramp up services before then. Furniture and clothing stores will also be allowed to reopen for kerbside pickup in the first phase, he said.

All businesses will be required to provide to staff PPE and face masks, de Blasio says, outlining for the first time the city's requirements for reopening. Occupancy will be limited to 50% capacity, and any meetings must be limited in size and take place in well-ventilated areas, he continues, adding that bars and restaurants will be among the last businesses to reopen.

Meanwhile, some business owners in the city say they will flout the law and reopen despite continuing lockdown orders.

"We're being punished for trying to put food on our table," Staten Island tanning salon owner Bobby Catone told CBS.

And speaking in Brooklyn on Thursday, Gov Andrew Cuomo said he had signed an executive order allowing businesses to refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask.

New York continues to be the worst-affected state, with New York City being the epicentre. There were 74 deaths in New York on Thursday, Cuomo says - the same number as on Wednesday.

 

[MenInG]

Away from the UK, New York City may enter its first phase of reopening by early June, according to Mayor Bill de Blasio, making it the last region of the state to begin reopening.

The mayor predicted that at least 200,000 people will return to work when construction and wholesale businesses reopen in the city, and that trains and buses will begin to ramp up services before then. Furniture and clothing stores will also be allowed to reopen for kerbside pickup in the first phase, he said.

All businesses will be required to provide to staff PPE and face masks, de Blasio says, outlining for the first time the city's requirements for reopening. Occupancy will be limited to 50% capacity, and any meetings must be limited in size and take place in well-ventilated areas, he continues, adding that bars and restaurants will be among the last businesses to reopen.

Meanwhile, some business owners in the city say they will flout the law and reopen despite continuing lockdown orders.

"We're being punished for trying to put food on our table," Staten Island tanning salon owner Bobby Catone told CBS.

And speaking in Brooklyn on Thursday, Gov Andrew Cuomo said he had signed an executive order allowing businesses to refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask.

New York continues to be the worst-affected state, with New York City being the epicentre. There were 74 deaths in New York on Thursday, Cuomo says - the same number as on Wednesday.

 

[MenInG]

The US has passed 100,000 deaths in the coronavirus outbreak in less than four months, figures from Johns Hopkins University show

There have been more than 5,925,000 confirmed virus cases worldwide, and 357,000 deaths

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson says groups of up to six people will be able to meet outside in England from Monday

Football in England's top-flight is set to restart on 17 June

France's prime minister has announced thereopening of bars and restaurants nationally

Ramzan Kadyrov, strongman leader of the Russian region of Chechnya, says he is "healthy" after a Covid-19 scare

 

[Saj]

Governor Greg Abbott has announced that, from Friday, sports fans will be able to attend outdoor professional sports events in most Texas counties.

In a proclamation, Abbott said that venues would have to be capped to 25% capacity, and received approval from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

But fans will still be banned from attending indoor sporting events, and the rules do not address college and high school sports.

It comes as Texas - America's second-most populous state - rolls out a series of measures to reopen its economy. More than 59,000 confirmed cases have been reported there, making it one of the worst-affected states in the country.

 

[Saj]

A lawyer for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) has admitted in court that the agency is not testing prisoners for Covid-19 before transferring them to other jails unless they are showing symptoms of the illness.

"If the individual is actively ill, if the individual has tested positive or showing symptoms, they are not cleared for travel and they will not be transferred until those issues are resolved,” said assistant US Attorney Dexter Lee in a video court hearing, the Miami Herald reported.

"The problem is that there are individuals who are asymptomatic and they may be positive for coronavirus,” he added.

The ongoing case is over a Florida judge's order that Ice reduce its local prison population to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Immigration advocates argue that Ice found a "loophole" by transferring them to jails in other states.

Several recent outbreaks at Ice detention centres have been traced to recent transfers, according to US media.

According to their website, Ice currently has 25,911 migrant detainees. The website adds that around half of the 2,620 inmates who have been tested were found to be positive.

 

[MenInG]

US President Donald Trump has said the Chinese government's moves to introduce a controversial security law in Hong Kong are a "tragedy".

In a major statement on China, the president announced he would start to end preferential US treatment for the city in trade and travel.

He also said he was "terminating" the US relationship with the World Health Organization over Covid-19.

China has told the West to "stop interfering" in Hong Kong.

The territory, a former British colony, enjoys unique freedoms not seen in mainland China. But many people there see the looming security law as bringing an end to Hong Kong's special status, agreed under a 1997 agreement between China and the UK.

What did President Trump outline?

"China has replaced One Country, Two Systems with One Country, One System", Mr Trump told reporters in the White House's Rose Garden, in a prepared statement that attacked China on several fronts. "This is a tragedy for Hong Kong."

Among the measures, Mr Trump said the US would suspend the entry of foreign nationals from China identified by the US as potential security risks. There are fears that this could affect thousands of graduate students.

 

[Firebat]

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports total of 1,737,950 coronavirus cases, 102,785 deaths

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Saturday reported a total 1,737,950 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 18,123 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 1,074 to 102,785.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the new coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. EDT on May 29 versus its previous report released on Friday.

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-h...avirus-cases-102785-deaths-idUKKBN2360QS?il=0

 

[BoomBoomCricket]

The mayor of Atlanta, one of dozens of US cities hit by massive protests after the police killing of George Floyd, has a message for demonstrators: If you were out protesting last night, you probably need to go get a Covid test this week, AP reports.

As emergency orders are lifted and beaches and businesses reopen, add protests to the list of concerns about a possible second wave of coronavirus outbreaks. It’s also an issue from Paris to Hong Kong, where anti-government protesters accuse police of using social distancing rules to break up their rallies.

Health experts fear that silent carriers of the virus who have no symptoms could unwittingly infect others at gatherings with people packed cheek to jowl and cheering and jeering, many without masks.

 

[Firebat]

The US has by far the largest number of cases, with around one third of the global total, according to figures collated by Johns Hopkins University. And with more than 100,000 fatalities, it also has the world's highest death toll.

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports total of 1,761,503 coronavirus cases, 103,700 deaths

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday reported a total 1,761,503 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 23,553 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 915 to 103,700.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the new coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. EDT on May 30 versus its previous report released on Saturday.

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-h...avirus-cases-103700-deaths-idUKKBN2370PT?il=0

 

[MenInG]

There have been concerns that protests in the US following the death in police custody of unarmed black man George Floyd could lead to a rise in Covid-19 cases.

More than 104,000 people have died in the US from the virus, and protests have taken place across the country.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti warned the protests could become "super spreader events", while Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms advised those attending to get tested this week.

Dr Theodore Long, who is leading New York's contact tracing strategy, also advised protesters to get tested. He encouraged people attending rallies to wear a mask, practice proper hygiene and socially distance if possible.

However Dr William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University, told the New York Times that as the protests were outside, the virus would be diluted somewhat. He noted that many of those taking part were young, meaning they are more likely to make a recovery if they contract the virus.

"There was literally a lot of running around, which means they’re exhaling more profoundly, but also passing each other very quickly," he said.

 

[Firebat]

 

[MenInG]

As the US sees yet another night of widespread protests, experts are warning the demonstrations are increasing the risk of a resurgence of the pandemic - even if most of the protesters are wearing masks.

US states are already lifting lockdown measures but the pandemic is by no means under control in the country with the highest infections (more than 6.2 million) and death toll (375,513).

And the pandemic has itself also highlighted the racial divide in the US: the mortality rate is higher among black people than white people, as is the rise in unemployment.

 

[MenInG]

Athlete tests positive for Covid-19 after protest

American football player Amen Ogbongbemiga has said he tested positive for Covid-19 after attending a protest in Tulsa.

The Oklahoma State linebacker said in a tweet that he had been "well protective" of himself and warned others to "take care of yourself" if they were going to protests.

There are fears that the US could see new outbreaks of coronavirus as thousands continue to gather in close proximity as a result of the ongoing protests.

"Based on the way the disease spreads, there is every reason to expect we will see new clusters and potentially new outbreaks moving forward," US Surgeon General Dr Jerome Adams told news site Politico earlier this week.

 

[MenInG]

The USA has recorded 1,045 more deaths and 24,955 new cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said, taking the totals to 106,202 deaths and 1,827,425 cases.

 

[The Viper]

Trump without side effects after two-week course of anti-malaria drug, White House doctor says

U.S. President Donald Trump had no side effects from a two-week course of hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malaria drug that can cause heart problems, after using it as a preventive measure against the coronavirus, his White House physician said on Wednesday.

The results of Trump’s annual physical found that the 73-year-old president remains healthy but picked up a pound and now weighs 244 pounds (110.68 kg) compared to 243 pounds (110.22 kg)last year.

His weight puts him further into the obese range for adults of his height.

Trump, who turns 74 on June 14, is regularly tested for the virus and has been negative each time, according to a summary of results by his physician, Sean Conley.

Trump last month began taking hydroxychloroquine, despite questions about its effectiveness, after two White House aides tested positive for the virus. He told reporters at the time he was taking it just in case it helped fend off the virus.

Conley said no changes were noticed in Trump’s electrocardiogram test as a result of the drug.

“The president completed the regimen safely and without side effects,” Conley said. “He continues to receive regular COVID-19 testing, and to date all results have been negative.”

Trump’s cholesterol was at 167, well in the normal range, as he benefits from taking a cholesterol drug.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-u...ia-drug-white-house-doctor-says-idUKKBN23A371

 

[Firebat]

US unemployment claims slow

New figures show that, over the past week, 1.8 million people made unemployment claims in the US. The rate of increase in joblessness has slowed down, but the number of people out of work still remains very high – since late March 42 million people have filed for benefits.

Economists are now saying the unemployment rate for May could be higher than 20%, which is twice what it was at the height of the 2008 and 2009 recession. Before the pandemic, the country's job market was at its strongest in half a century.

 

[MenInG]

US authorities urge protesters to get tested

Protesters in the United States should "highly consider" getting tested for coronavirus, said Robert Redfield, director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For several days, people across the US have taken to the streets to protest against police brutality and racial injustice following the killing of another Black man, George Floyd, at the hands of white officers.

"Those individuals that have partaken in these peaceful protests or have been out protesting, and particularly if they're in metropolitan areas that really haven't controlled the outbreak ... we really want those individuals to highly consider being evaluated and get tested," Redfield said before a House of Representatives committee.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo made a similar appeal to demonstrators: “Coronavirus tests are available to all protesters. We ask protesters to be responsible. Wear a mask. Get tested,” he said on Twitter.

 

[iRfaN_LA]

Economy is opening up and stocks are flying high.

 

[Firebat]

US unemployment sees surprise improvement in May

The unemployment rate in the US improved unexpectedly last month raising hopes that economic damage tied to the pandemic will be less harmful than feared.

The unemployment rate fell to 13.3%, down from 14.7% in April, defying forecasts that it would get worse.

Employers added 2.5 million jobs, as states started to loosen restrictions on economic activity.

Hiring was seen in the hospitality, construction and education sectors.

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-52938993

 

[Firebat]

US unemployment sees surprise improvement in May

The unemployment rate in the US improved unexpectedly last month raising hopes that economic damage tied to the pandemic will be less harmful than feared.

The unemployment rate fell to 13.3%, down from 14.7% in April, defying forecasts that it would get worse.

Employers added 2.5 million jobs, as states started to loosen restrictions on economic activity.

Hiring was seen in the hospitality, construction and education sectors.

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-52938993

 

[MenInG]

Trump says US 'largely through' coronavirus pandemic

US President Donald Trump asserted that the country has made it through the worst of the coronavirus pandemic, according to AFP.

“We had the greatest economy in the history of the world. And that strength let us get through this horrible pandemic, largely through, I think we're doing really well,” Trump said at a news briefing called after the release of surprisingly good US job numbers.

“We've made every decision correctly,” Trump said of his handling of the pandemic, which has claimed more than 108,000 lives in the United States.

 

[The Viper]

The White House Correspondents’ Association released a scathing statement about Trump’s press conference this morning, where the president took no questions from reporters.

WHCA president Jonathan Karl, an ABC News reporter, noted that the White House set up reporters’ chairs in a way that violated guidelines on physical distancing.

“The chairs were initially positioned in a way that was consistent with social distancing guidelines but were moved closer together by White House staff shortly before the event started,” Karl said in the statement.

“When we asked for an explanation, the White House press office told us the decision to move the chairs close together was made because ‘It looks better.’”

Karl concluded, “The health of the press corps should not be put in jeopardy because the White House wants reporters to be a prop for a ‘news conference’ where the president refused to answer any questions.”

Trump boasted about the Rose Garden set-up during his remarks, saying to reporters, “Even you, I notice you’re starting to get much closer together, looks much better, not all the way there yet, but you’ll be there soon.” The president did not note that White House officials had made the decision on the set-up.

 

[Saj]

The Universal Studios theme park in Orlando, Florida, has opened its doors to visitors for the first time in almost three months.

New safety guidelines have been put in place, including temperature checks before entry, mandatory face coverings and spacing between visitors on rides.

The park was closed in mid-March due to the spread of coronavirus.

It's not the first major theme park to begin reopening its doors: Shanghai Disneyland began operating again on 11 May, and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will start a phased reopening of its attractions from 11 July.

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports 1,862,656 coronavirus cases

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Friday reported 1,862,656 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 20,555 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 1,035 to 108,064.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by a new coronavirus, as of 4 pm ET on June 4 versus its previous report released on Thursday.

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-h...-1862656-coronavirus-cases-idUKKBN23C2OP?il=0

 

[MenInG]

New York governor Andrew Cuomo is giving his daily press briefing. He says 35 people died of Covid-19 in the state over the last 24 hours, the lowest number in weeks in a state that has seen nearly 25,000 die from the virus.

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports 1,891,690 coronavirus cases

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Saturday reported 1,891,690 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 29,034 cases from its previous count, and said the number of deaths had risen by 1,128 to 109,192.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by a new coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. EDT on June 5 versus its previous report released on Friday which reflected figures from Thursday. (bit.ly/2zcg3qg)

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-h...-1891690-coronavirus-cases-idUKKBN23D0T1?il=0

 

[MenInG]

 

[MenInG]

 

[MenInG]

The coronavirus has killed more than 110,000 people in the United States, according to a Reuters tally on Sunday.

About 1,000 Americans have died on average each day so far in June, down from a peak of 2,000 a day in April, according to the tally of state and county data on Covid-19 deaths.

Total US coronavirus cases are approaching 2 million, the highest in the world followed by Brazil with about 672,000 cases and Russia with about 467,000.

Several southern U.S. states reported sharp increases in Covid-19 infections, with Alabama, South Carolina and Virginia all seeing new cases rise 35% or more in the week ended 31 May compared with the prior week.

Globally, coronavirus cases are approaching 7 million with about 400,000 deaths since the outbreak began.

Of the 20 most severely affected countries, the US ranks eighth based on deaths per capita, according to a Reuters tally. The US has 3.3 fatalities per 10,000 people. Belgium is first with eight deaths per 10,000, followed by the UK, Spain, Italy and Sweden.

 

[The Viper]

CDC reports 1,920,904 coronavirus cases in United States

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday reported 1,920,904 cases of new coronavirus, an increase of 29,214 cases from its previous count, and said COVID-19 deaths in the United States had risen by 709 to 109,901.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. EDT on June 6. Its previous tally was released on Friday. (bit.ly/2UkMHx9)

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-h...onavirus-cases-in-united-states-idUKKBN23E0RJ

 

[MenInG]

The number of deaths from Covid-19 in America has reached 109,846, with confirmed cases now numbering 1,922,054, Johns Hopkins University data reveal.

New York City, the center of America’s Covid-19 outbreak, has suffered at least 21,294 deaths and 211,274 cases, according to the New York Times.

As US coronavirus fatalities are nearing the grim milestone of 110,000, reopening efforts are expanding across America. Meanwhile, ongoing mass protests over the killing of George Floyd have challenged social-distancing guidelines.

Questions over Covid-19 policy are perhaps most pressing in New York City, as it’s expected to start reopening on 8 June. Construction and manufacturing, in addition to retail conducted on the curbside or through in-store drop-off and pick-up, are poised to be permitted.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates New York City’s subways and buses, has announced a 13-point plan. It includes mandatory face coverings, and the provision of masks, as well as intensified cleaning and disinfecting efforts. Service will be increased to enable social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be at stations throughout the system, ABC 7 reports.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio urged every resident to get tested for Covid, especially those who attended recent demonstrations. A mobile testing program is expected to launch in the coming days.

Meanwhile, public safety agencies are bracing for PTSD and trauma-related issues amongst first responders who fought the pandemic, ramping up access to mental health services, the New York Daily News reports.

 

[MenInG]

In the United States, 691 deaths have been linked to the virus over the past 24 hours. That's the lowest number in the past week.

At the peak of the pandemic, in the middle of April, the country had around 3,000 daily deaths.

Overall, there have been more than 110,000 deaths in the US and 1.9 million confirmed infections, according to data from the Johns Hopkins University.

 

[Firebat]

New York begins phase one of reopening

New York City - the area of the US worst-hit by the coronavirus - is beginning to ease its lockdown from today.

As many as 400,000 workers could begin returning to construction jobs, manufacturing sites and retail stores today in the city’s first phase of reopening.

More than 205,000 people have been infected with Covid-19 in the city, and nearly 22,000 have died, with up to 800 people dying in a single day at its peak two months ago.

Earlier, New York state Governor Andrew Cuomo tweeted the following...

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tomorrow is a new day. NYC reopens. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewYorkTough?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewYorkTough</a> <a href="https://t.co/xxz0GKv5Ol">pic.twitter.com/xxz0GKv5Ol</a></p>— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYGovCuomo/status/1269809107592253446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Saj]

As the total US case count creeps toward 2 million, 14 states and Puerto Rico are facing record highs in their seven-day average of new Covid cases, according to the Washington Post.

Some states link the upsurge to improved testing, but many of these states - Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Kentucky, New Mexico, North Carolina, Mississippi, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah - have been among the most aggressive in loosening social distancing restrictions.

In South Carolina, which yesterday set a new record for new cases in a single day, gyms, restaurants and salons are all open for business.

In Florida on Sunday, state officials recorded more than 1,000 new Covid-19 cases for the fifth day in a row, while Arizona now faces a particularly steep rise.

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports 1,956,421 coronavirus cases, 110,925 deaths

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday reported 1,956,421 cases of new coronavirus, an increase of 17,598 cases from its previous count, and said the number of deaths rose by 550 to 110,925.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the new coronavirus, as of 4 pm ET on June 8, versus its previous report released on Monday. (bit.ly/2Uw9aYi)

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-h...avirus-cases-110925-deaths-idUKKBN23G2VN?il=0

 

[MenInG]

US top doctor expresses concerns about protests spreading coronavirus

The US top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci expressed concern that recent mass protests against police brutality and racism would spread the novel coronavirus because of a lack of social distancing.

Fauci, the top US infectious disease expert and member of the White House coronavirus task force, told ABC's "Good Morning America" he isn't surprised that members of the Washington, DC, National Guard who mobilized in response to the protests had tested positive, but he called the development "disturbing."

"The issue of physical separation is important. Masks can help, but it's masks plus physical separation, and when you get congregations like we saw with the demonstrations, like we have said - myself and other health officials - that's taking a risk," Fauci said. "Unfortunately, what we're seeing now is just an example of the kinds of things we were concerned about."

 

[The Viper]

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 950 more deaths and 17,376 new cases, taking the official totals in the USA to 112,133 and 1,973,797, respectively.

 

[Saj]

New Yorkers experiencing homelessness and sleeping in shelters during the coronavirus outbreak were disproportionately vulnerable to death or illness, a report from the Coalition for the Homeless has found.

As of 1 June, the Covid mortality rate in New York City overall was 200 deaths per 100,000 people. Among those sleeping in shelters, this figure was 321 deaths per 100,000 people.

And according to the coalition, the number of coronavirus-related deaths among homeless New Yorkers sleeping in shelters in April 2020 was 157% higher than the number of deaths from all causes among this same group during an average month in 2019.

As of 31 May, there were 926 confirmed Covid-19 cases across some 179 shelters.

 

[MenInG]

Where is the worst-affected state in the US?

As the US passes two million confirmed cases, here are the worst-affected states, via the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Not all states report cases in the same way, and the data counts New York City separately from the wider New York state.

1. New York City - 209,716

2. New York - 171,789

3. New Jersey - 164,796

4. California - 133,489

5. Illinois - 129,936

6. Massachusetts - 103,889

7. Texas - 77,253

8. Pennsylvania - 76,846

9. Michigan- 64,998

10. Florida - 64,448

 

[Firebat]

US reports 1.5 million new jobless claims

The US Labor Department reports more than 1.5 million Americans applied for unemployment benefits in the last week.

It's a drop from the week before, when 1.8m claims were filed, but remains high. It marks the second week to see less than 2m jobless applications since mid-March.

More than 40 million Americans lost their jobs over the last few months, as areas shutdown seeking to stop the spread of coronavirus.

In May, the market improved unexpectedly, with businesses beginning to rehire as states started to roll back some of the tough measures put in place to control the virus' spread.

 

[Firebat]

US treasury secretary: We can't shut down economy again

Shutting down the US economy for a second time to slow the spread of coronavirus is not a viable option, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has said.

"We can't shut down the economy again. I think we've learned that if you shut down the economy, you're going to create more damage," Mnuchin told CNBC.

"And not just economic damage. There are other areas and we've talked about this - medical problems and everything else that get put on hold."

Mnuchin said he thought President Donald Trump's actions had been "very prudent", adding: "But I think we've learned a lot."

Latest US unemployment figures show that a further 1.5 million people lost their jobs in the past week. It brings the total number of unemployment benefit claims since mid-March to 44.2 million.

 

[MenInG]

 

[MenInG]

Cases are rising in nearly half of US states, according to an analysis by the US news agency the Associated Press, even as lockdowns begin to be rolled back across the country.

In Arizona, hospitals have been told to prepare for the worst; Texas has more hospitalised COVID-19 patients than at any time before; and the governor of North Carolina said recent jumps caused him to rethink plans to reopen schools or businesses.

The AP analysed data compiled by The Covid Tracking Project, a volunteer organisation that collects coronavirus testing data in the US. It found that in 21 states as of Monday, the rolling seven-day average of new cases per capita was higher than the average seven days earlier.

Among those states with rising cases were Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma, and Texas - all states where the US president, Donald Trump, this week said he is planning to hold rallies that may draw thousands of people.

Jay Butler, who oversees coronavirus response work at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said: “It is a disaster that spreads. It’s not like there’s an entire continental seismic shift and everyone feels the shaking all at once.”

 

[MenInG]

More now on the slump in US financial markets on fears that an increase in coronavirus cases would hurt the economic recovery.

It comes a day after the US central bank said the country faced a long road to recovery.

The three main financial indexes saw their worst day in weeks, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down more than 5% at midday.

European shares also dropped, with the UK's FTSE 100 sinking about 4%.

Economists have warned that people will stay home voluntarily if they are afraid of getting sick.

 

[MenInG]

Texas, the second-most populous state in the US, reported 2,504 new cases of Covid-19 on Wednesday.

It is the most reported in a day in the state since the pandemic began and marks a spike following the US Memorial Day holiday weekend at the end of May.

The state's previous record-high was 1,949 new cases on 31 May, the Texas Tribune reports.

Wednesday was also the third consecutive day that the number of Texans sent to hospital for Covid-19 rose, with over 2,100 people requiring hospital care.

Texas had one of the quickest reopening policies in the nation: stores, restaurants and theatres reopened, albeit with limited capacity, on 1 May, even though the state had seen rising case counts at the time.

Since then, bars, aquariums, rodeos, bingo halls and bowling alleys have also been allowed to open.

Businesses continue to reopen in the state, and on Friday, as phase three begins, restaurants will be able to operate at 75% capacity.

 

[The Viper]

U.S. CDC reports 1,994,283 coronavirus cases

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday reported 1,994,283 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 20,486 cases from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 834 to 112,967.

The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by a new coronavirus, as of 4 pm ET on June 10, versus its previous report on Wednesday.(bit.ly/3cUcwKI)

The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.

https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-h...ports-1994283-coronavirus-cases-idUKKBN23I2WK