Published in: The Daily Star

Date: 3 May 2020

Nearly 239,000 deaths

More than 238,810 people have died worldwide since the epidemic surfaced in China in December, according to an AFP tally at 1100 GMT yesterday based on official sources. In all, more than 3.3 million cases have now been reported in 195 countries and territories. In the United States, which has the highest toll, 65,068 people have died. Italy is the second hardest-hit country, with 28,236 dead, followed by the United Kingdom with 27,510, Spain 25,100 and France 24,594.

Green light for Remdesivir

American authorities approve an experimental drug for emergency use on patients, in the latest step in the global push to find viable treatments and a vaccine. Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, is given the green light after a major trial finds it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients.

Blood pressure not a factor

In reassuring news for millions of people, three major studies say commonly used blood pressure medicines do not heighten susceptibility to infection, or increase the risk of becoming seriously ill with the disease.

Spaniards allowed outside

Spain’s nearly 47 million people, under strict lockdown since March 14, are allowed outside for walks or sport. Many restrictions remain however. In towns of more than 5,000 inhabitants, children and the elderly cannot leave home at the same times.

Europe cases passes 1.5m 

Over 1.5 million cases of coronavirus have been recorded in Europe, just under half the worldwide total, according to an AFP tally at 0850 GMT yesterday. With at least 1,506,853 infections, including 140,260 deaths, Europe is the hardest-hit continent.

Sri Lanka extends lockdown

Sri Lanka on Friday extended its anti-virus lockdown for a second time, through May 11, as health authorities warned that the crisis was not yet under control in the island nation. The South Asian country has officially recorded 690 infections and seven deaths.

Cases surge in Russia       

Russia yesterday reported its largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. New infections jumped by 9,623 to 124,054 cases. Fifty seven people died over the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 1,222.

France extends emergency

France yesterday decided to extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus for another two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran said. A proposal to go before parliament from Monday says the lifting this month of the emergency, which began on March 24, would “be premature” and “could see a risk of the outbreak” intensifying.

Source:

https://www.thedailystar.net/world/news/coronavirus-pandemic-latest-updates-1898956