news--2020-03-02--Coronavirus: Universal Credit claimants affected by COVID-19 spread urged to contact job centres

Universal Credit claimants who might not be able to work or attend inteviews due to the spread of coronavirus are being urged to contact job centres to ensure they do n't face sanctions .
The new welfare system requires most claimants to fulfil a set number of hours of paid work or job hunting in order to receive the monthly financial support .
There are concerns some claimants could have their payout docked if they fail to properly notify job centres about being unable to work due to restrictions on public transport , or having to look after a child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ related to the coronavirus spread .
It is understood job centres are already dealing with cases in which claimants are unable to fulfil work requirements as a result of the impact of COVID-19 , the disease that develops from coronavirus .
Charities are already urging the government to take all steps necessary to ensure Universal Credit is `` flexible enough to accommodate situations like this '' .
A Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) spokesperson said : `` Our staff are ready to support people if they are affected - we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or their Work Coach via their online journal , to explain their situation .
`` Anyone not eligible to receive sick pay is able to claim Universal Credit and/or contributory Employment and Support Allowance . ''
Sky News has obtained a copy of the crib sheet sent to job centres by DWP to assist work coaches dealing with questions about coronavirus .
If a claimant were to say they did not want to attend a meeting with a work coach due to feeling ill with flu-like symptoms , the advice states `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arrangements '' .
It goes on to say : `` If a customer is unable to attend the job centre because they are unwell , the normal arrangements , for example , around excusing signing , should apply . ''
The document also advises that a claimant 's concerns about interacting with other people would not be sufficient grounds for missing an appointment at a job centre and could result in benefits being cut as a result of a sanction .
`` There has been no change to the normal arrangements , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a customer does not attend a scheduled meeting , for example , the normal 'failed to attend ' arrangements will apply . ''
The normal process for a claimant registering an illness which prevents them fulfilling their work requirement is for them to either provide a doctor 's letter to the job centre , or to submit a note to their work coach online via the Universal Credit portal .
In the event an individual is required to self-isolate as a precautionary measure they would be eligible for exemption from work requirements on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specific reference in the DWP 's crib sheet to job centres regarding what to tell claimants who are not ill , but are unable to work due to having to look after children due to school closures or recommendations against using public transport .
However , if a claimant 's working hours were to drop as a result of the impact of coronavirus the system 's design means their payment the following month should increase assuming they meet eligibility criteria .
Individuals who are not currently Universal Credit claimants , but who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their employers , may also be eligible to start a new claim .
Helen Barnard , deputy director of policy and partnerships at the independent Joseph Rowntree Foundation , said : `` The ongoing impact of coronavirus highlights the need for a social security system that is flexible to people 's needs .
`` It 's just not right that anyone who falls ill and is not eligible to receive sick pay must wait up to five weeks for their first Universal Credit payment .
`` As a society that values compassion and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ principles underpin the design and delivery of Universal Credit by making it flexible enough to accommodate situations like this - that means ending the five-week wait .
`` Any claimants affected by the coronavirus should not be penalised for doing the right thing and self-isolating if they are required to do so . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Labour 's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said : `` If you 've been asked to self isolate and you 're on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours contract or temporary work , then you 're literally being asked to make a choice between your health or financial hardship .
`` The government need to make is easier to access statutory sick pay .
`` And also to get sick pay you need a note from your doctor yet people are advised not to visit their doctor .
So things like this urgently need to be looked at by the government . ''
Chair of the Work and Pensions Select Committee Stephen Timms said : `` These are exceptional circumstances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Jobcentres must allow people enough flexibility to follow the Government 's own public health guidance .
`` Otherwise , people at risk of a sanction - as well as people in low paid and precarious jobs - could be forced into putting themselves , and others , at risk . ''
Earlier , Downing Street said the government was `` aware of the issues '' related to the potential impact of coronavirus mitigation measures on low income workers .
Asked if the government would consider modifying statutory sick pay terms , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the need for a GP sick note , the prime minister 's official spokesman said : `` We are prepared to take all reasonable steps . ''

Universal Credit claimants who might not be able to work or attend inteviews due to the spread of coronavirus are being urged to contact job centres to ensure they don't face sanctions.
The new welfare system requires most claimants to fulfil a set number of hours of paid work or job hunting in order to receive the monthly financial support.
There are concerns some claimants could have their payout docked if they fail to properly notify job centres about being unable to work due to restrictions on public transport, or having to look after a child in the event of a school closure related to the coronavirus spread.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 13:31 Coronavirus: How worried should we be?
It is understood job centres are already dealing with cases in which claimants are unable to fulfil work requirements as a result of the impact of COVID-19, the disease that develops from coronavirus.
Charities are already urging the government to take all steps necessary to ensure Universal Credit is "flexible enough to accommodate situations like this".
A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson said: "Our staff are ready to support people if they are affected - we urge them to contact us by phone, or their Work Coach via their online journal, to explain their situation.
"Anyone not eligible to receive sick pay is able to claim Universal Credit and/or contributory Employment and Support Allowance."
Sky News has obtained a copy of the crib sheet sent to job centres by DWP to assist work coaches dealing with questions about coronavirus.
If a claimant were to say they did not want to attend a meeting with a work coach due to feeling ill with flu-like symptoms, the advice states "there is no change to the normal arrangements".
Advertisement
It goes on to say: "If a customer is unable to attend the job centre because they are unwell, the normal arrangements, for example, around excusing signing, should apply."
The document also advises that a claimant's concerns about interacting with other people would not be sufficient grounds for missing an appointment at a job centre and could result in benefits being cut as a result of a sanction.
Image: A copy of the crib sheet sent to job centres by DWP
"There has been no change to the normal arrangements," the DWP advice states.
"If a customer does not attend a scheduled meeting, for example, the normal 'failed to attend' arrangements will apply."
The normal process for a claimant registering an illness which prevents them fulfilling their work requirement is for them to either provide a doctor's letter to the job centre, or to submit a note to their work coach online via the Universal Credit portal.
In the event an individual is required to self-isolate as a precautionary measure they would be eligible for exemption from work requirements on public health grounds.
There is no specific reference in the DWP's crib sheet to job centres regarding what to tell claimants who are not ill, but are unable to work due to having to look after children due to school closures or recommendations against using public transport.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:56 COVID-19 'to become more significant'
However, if a claimant's working hours were to drop as a result of the impact of coronavirus the system's design means their payment the following month should increase assuming they meet eligibility criteria.
Individuals who are not currently Universal Credit claimants, but who are unable to access sufficient sick pay from their employers, may also be eligible to start a new claim.
Helen Barnard, deputy director of policy and partnerships at the independent Joseph Rowntree Foundation, said: "The ongoing impact of coronavirus highlights the need for a social security system that is flexible to people's needs.
"It's just not right that anyone who falls ill and is not eligible to receive sick pay must wait up to five weeks for their first Universal Credit payment.
"As a society that values compassion and justice, we must ensure that these principles underpin the design and delivery of Universal Credit by making it flexible enough to accommodate situations like this - that means ending the five-week wait.
"Any claimants affected by the coronavirus should not be penalised for doing the right thing and self-isolating if they are required to do so."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said: "If you've been asked to self isolate and you're on low pay, or on a zero hours contract or temporary work, then you're literally being asked to make a choice between your health or financial hardship.
"The government need to make is easier to access statutory sick pay.
"And also to get sick pay you need a note from your doctor yet people are advised not to visit their doctor. So things like this urgently need to be looked at by the government."
Chair of the Work and Pensions Select Committee Stephen Timms said: "These are exceptional circumstances and demand an exceptional response from DWP.
"Jobcentres must allow people enough flexibility to follow the Government's own public health guidance.
"Otherwise, people at risk of a sanction - as well as people in low paid and precarious jobs - could be forced into putting themselves, and others, at risk."
Earlier, Downing Street said the government was "aware of the issues" related to the potential impact of coronavirus mitigation measures on low income workers.
Asked if the government would consider modifying statutory sick pay terms, or making recommendations to employers to waive the need for a GP sick note, the prime minister's official spokesman said: "We are prepared to take all reasonable steps."


news--2020-05-06--Coronavirus: Mum who had 50/50 survival chance leaves hospital with newborn

A mother who was feared to have made the `` last phone call '' to her children as she was put on a ventilator has left hospital with her newborn baby .
Kathrine Dawson , 36 , was left fighting for her life after contracting COVID-19 at 32 weeks pregnant , and her daughter Ruby was born already infected with the virus - making the child one of the youngest coronavirus patients in the world .
The pair left Blackpool Victoria Hospital to cheers from NHS staff and were also reunited with Ruby 's father , Stuart , who had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital restrictions .
When Mrs Dawson first began experiencing symptoms at 32 weeks pregnant she was taken to A & E with a suspected chest infection .
A swab revealed she had contracted coronavirus - despite shielding for three weeks - and the decision was taken to deliver the child via caesarean section .
Baby Ruby was born on 1 April .
Mrs Dawson 's condition deteriorated , and she had to make an emotional video call to her husband and two daughters , Grace , five , and Ava , 11 months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It was a bit like saying goodbye , it could have been the last phone call , '' Mr Dawson said .
`` I owe my future to the staff at Blackpool Victoria Hospital .
I thought I was going to be a widow looking after young children on my own , but they saved [ Kathrine 's ] life and Ruby 's life .
`` I could not visit either of them because of the coronavirus and I had 26 days of waiting , worrying and stress . ''
Mrs Dawson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ placed on a ventilator , and doctors expected her chances of survival to be 50/50 .
ICU consultant Dr Jason Cupitt said : `` It was a very challenging case and we were very concerned that she might not make it .
`` She was deeply sedated and we were n't seeing much change , but then , five days later , there was a spark of light at the end of the tunnel as her oxygen levels started to improve . ''
Mr Dawson was given daily updates from the hospital , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ruby 's condition .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He said they were his `` lifeline '' , adding : `` Without those diaries Ruby and I would have been strangers , but when I eventually saw her I felt I knew her . ''
Mrs Dawson was discharged , along with Ruby , after 37 days in hospital .
As they left , staff from the delivery suite , the neonatal unit , A & E and the COVID ITU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into applause .
Dr Cupitt said : `` This was a particularly emotional case for everyone .
Kathrine and Ruby touched everyone 's heart and she is someone I will always remember . ''
Head of midwifery at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , Nicola Parry , added : `` Their story sets everything good about the humanity shown by staff at this Trust and we wish the Dawson family every happiness and health as they go forward in their life together . ''

A mother who was feared to have made the "last phone call" to her children as she was put on a ventilator has left hospital with her newborn baby.
Kathrine Dawson, 36, was left fighting for her life after contracting COVID-19 at 32 weeks pregnant, and her daughter Ruby was born already infected with the virus - making the child one of the youngest coronavirus patients in the world.
The pair left Blackpool Victoria Hospital to cheers from NHS staff and were also reunited with Ruby's father, Stuart, who had been unable to visit them due to hospital restrictions.
Image: The pair were cheered on by NHS staff. Pic: Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
When Mrs Dawson first began experiencing symptoms at 32 weeks pregnant she was taken to A&E with a suspected chest infection.
A swab revealed she had contracted coronavirus - despite shielding for three weeks - and the decision was taken to deliver the child via caesarean section. Baby Ruby was born on 1 April.
Image: Kathrine Dawson and her daughter Ruby both had COVID-19. Pic: Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Mrs Dawson's condition deteriorated, and she had to make an emotional video call to her husband and two daughters, Grace, five, and Ava, 11 months, who were back at home.
"It was a bit like saying goodbye, it could have been the last phone call," Mr Dawson said.
"I owe my future to the staff at Blackpool Victoria Hospital. I thought I was going to be a widow looking after young children on my own, but they saved [Kathrine's] life and Ruby's life.
"I could not visit either of them because of the coronavirus and I had 26 days of waiting, worrying and stress."
Advertisement
Image: Doctors were concerned Kathrine might not make it. Pic: Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Mrs Dawson was put into an induced coma and placed on a ventilator, and doctors expected her chances of survival to be 50/50.
ICU consultant Dr Jason Cupitt said: "It was a very challenging case and we were very concerned that she might not make it.
"She was deeply sedated and we weren't seeing much change, but then, five days later, there was a spark of light at the end of the tunnel as her oxygen levels started to improve."
Mr Dawson was given daily updates from the hospital, including diaries from the neonatal department on Ruby's condition.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He said they were his "lifeline", adding: "Without those diaries Ruby and I would have been strangers, but when I eventually saw her I felt I knew her."
Mrs Dawson was discharged, along with Ruby, after 37 days in hospital.
As they left, staff from the delivery suite, the neonatal unit, A&E and the COVID ITU formed a guard of honour and broke into applause.
Dr Cupitt said: "This was a particularly emotional case for everyone. Kathrine and Ruby touched everyone's heart and she is someone I will always remember."
Head of midwifery at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Nicola Parry, added: "Their story sets everything good about the humanity shown by staff at this Trust and we wish the Dawson family every happiness and health as they go forward in their life together."


news--2020-04-14--Coronavirus: Mum gives birth while in medically induced coma to save her from COVID-19

A mother with coronavirus has given birth while in a medically induced coma .
Angela Primachenko , 27 , from Vancouver , Washington , caught COVID-19 in March and was placed on a ventilator when she was 33 weeks pregnant , according to her twin sister .
The respiratory therapist 's condition deteriorated to the point where doctors put her into a coma at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center and later helped deliver her baby while she was under .
The baby , named Ava , tested negative for COVID-19 but has had to be kept apart from her mother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of her newborn on Sunday , writing : `` Baby Ava is still in the NICU and i still have n't been able to see her in person . ''
The next day , the now mother-of-two announced she had been discharged from hospital , writing : `` 7 days in the hospital .
10 days intubated .
Thousands of prayers later I am home and it feels so good !
!
!
!
! ''
On March 30 , her twin sister launched a fundraiser to help with the medical costs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Oksana Luiten wrote : `` She has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and has been in the ICU for 4 days now ... and is 33 weeks pregnant .
All we want is for Angela to be well , some have asked if there is anything they can do to help , prayers and financial support would be so helpful .
`` Hospital bills are crazy and Angela and David are small business owners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of her stay . ''
Two weeks later , Ms Luiten shared a picture of herself with her sister , writing : `` My twin not only survived COVID-19 but also gave birth while being under an induced coma , I know , we all did n't even know that 's possible .
`` Feels surreal posting a picture with Angela next to me .
The last two weeks I was n't sure if I would ever take a new picture with her.
``

A mother with coronavirus has given birth while in a medically induced coma.
Angela Primachenko, 27, from Vancouver, Washington, caught COVID-19 in March and was placed on a ventilator when she was 33 weeks pregnant, according to her twin sister.
The respiratory therapist's condition deteriorated to the point where doctors put her into a coma at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center and later helped deliver her baby while she was under.
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
The baby, named Ava, tested negative for COVID-19 but has had to be kept apart from her mother temporarily.
Mrs Primachenko shared a photo of her newborn on Sunday, writing: "Baby Ava is still in the NICU and i still haven't been able to see her in person."
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
The next day, the now mother-of-two announced she had been discharged from hospital, writing: "7 days in the hospital. 10 days intubated. Thousands of prayers later I am home and it feels so good!!!!!"
On March 30, her twin sister launched a fundraiser to help with the medical costs, raising almost $50,000 (£39,800) so far.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Oksana Luiten wrote: "She has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and has been in the ICU for 4 days now... and is 33 weeks pregnant. All we want is for Angela to be well, some have asked if there is anything they can do to help, prayers and financial support would be so helpful.
Advertisement
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
"Hospital bills are crazy and Angela and David are small business owners so their insurance does not cover most of her stay."
Two weeks later, Ms Luiten shared a picture of herself with her sister, writing: "My twin not only survived COVID-19 but also gave birth while being under an induced coma, I know, we all didn't even know that's possible.
"Feels surreal posting a picture with Angela next to me. The last two weeks I wasn't sure if I would ever take a new picture with her. "


news--2020-05-07--Coronavirus: Drug dealers 'dress as joggers and use fake NHS ID badges' in lockdown

Drug dealers are dressing as joggers and using fake NHS ID badges to avoid police detection during the coronavirus lockdown , says an expert on gangs .
They are changing their tactics to avoid infection by doing letterbox drops or `` drive-by sales '' and throwing drugs from car windows after arranging deals by phone , Professor Simon Harding claimed .
Money is also being tossed on the back seat during the deals to keep items clean , said the director of the National Centre for Gang Research ( NCGR ) at the University of West London .
Prof Harding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really are heeding government advice on social distancing .
`` But at the same time it is business as usual and as people were panic-buying food , dealers were running bulk deals and selling lockdown party packs . ''
He added : `` Vehicles are being used more often to carry out deals arranged by phone , with products thrown from windows and money chucked on the back seat to keep items clean . ''
Prof Harding said the COVID-19 lockdown is affecting the `` county lines '' gang model - which sees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to move drugs and cash between cities and smaller towns .
The new tactics have also led to a reduction in `` cuckooing '' - where gang members take over the home of a vulnerable person to cut , sort and deal drugs .
This is because it is seen as carrying health risks , he explained .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Sending groups of young lads out to Southend-on-Sea by train to carry drugs is too risky now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around , or hiring local people to do the job , '' said Prof Harding .
`` Street gangs are being forced to find new tactics , such as shifting grooming and recruitment online to social media .
`` This means young people can become ensnared in dangerous gang activity from their phones while their families have no idea and that is a worry . ''
National Crime Agency director general Lynn Owens said last month that prices are going up with fewer drugs entering into the UK .
She said some drug @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key workers by wearing high visibility clothing or operating from supermarket car parks during the lockdown .

Drug dealers are dressing as joggers and using fake NHS ID badges to avoid police detection during the coronavirus lockdown, says an expert on gangs.
They are changing their tactics to avoid infection by doing letterbox drops or "drive-by sales" and throwing drugs from car windows after arranging deals by phone, Professor Simon Harding claimed.
Money is also being tossed on the back seat during the deals to keep items clean, said the director of the National Centre for Gang Research (NCGR) at the University of West London.
Prof Harding said: "On one hand they really are heeding government advice on social distancing.
"But at the same time it is business as usual and as people were panic-buying food, dealers were running bulk deals and selling lockdown party packs."
He added: "Vehicles are being used more often to carry out deals arranged by phone, with products thrown from windows and money chucked on the back seat to keep items clean."
Prof Harding said the COVID-19 lockdown is affecting the "county lines" gang model - which sees young and vulnerable people used as couriers to move drugs and cash between cities and smaller towns.
The new tactics have also led to a reduction in "cuckooing" - where gang members take over the home of a vulnerable person to cut, sort and deal drugs.
This is because it is seen as carrying health risks, he explained.
Advertisement
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"Sending groups of young lads out to Southend-on-Sea by train to carry drugs is too risky now, so increasingly dealers are driving runners around, or hiring local people to do the job," said Prof Harding.
"Street gangs are being forced to find new tactics, such as shifting grooming and recruitment online to social media.
"This means young people can become ensnared in dangerous gang activity from their phones while their families have no idea and that is a worry."
National Crime Agency director general Lynn Owens said last month that prices are going up with fewer drugs entering into the UK.
She said some drug dealers are trying to disguise themselves as key workers by wearing high visibility clothing or operating from supermarket car parks during the lockdown.


news--2020-04-22--Coronavirus: Stephen Hawking's ventilator donated to treat patients in Cambridge

Stephen Hawking 's family have donated his ventilator to the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge to help treat coronavirus patients .
The famous physicist 's daughter , Lucy Hawking , said the NHS had played a `` huge part '' in their lives .
She added that they are `` fully aware of the dedication and commitment of NHS staff '' , and asked everyone to `` support ( them ) in every way possible '' during the COVID-19 outbreak .
She also urged people to take social distancing seriously , saying : `` We all need to do our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Ms Hawking said all the medical equipment her father used that belonged to the NHS was returned after he died at the age of 76 in 2018 .
He had contracted motor neurone disease in 1963 aged 21 .
But there were also some items the professor - whose book A Brief History of Time sold 10m copies - bought for himself .
`` We are now passing them to the NHS in the hope they will help in the fight against COVID-19 , '' his daughter said .
The critical care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been expanded to more than double its usual size to cope with coronavirus admissions .
After being checked by the hospital 's clinical engineering team , Professor Hawking 's ventilator has been added to its fleet .
Additional ventilators have also been supplied by the NHS .
Dr Mike Davies , clinical director for respiratory medicine at Papworth , said : `` It was lovely to hear from the Hawking family again and we are so grateful for them for donating this equipment . ''
Lucy Hawking said : `` Our father received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from both Royal Papworth and Addenbrooke 's Hospitals in Cambridge .
`` As a ventilated patient , Royal Papworth was incredibly important to my father and helped him through some very difficult times .
`` We realised that it would be at the forefront of the COVID-19 epidemic and got in touch with some of our old friends there to ask if we could help . ''
She added : `` As a family , the NHS has always played a huge part in our lives .
`` We are fully aware of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to helping people in need .
`` At this time , we would ask that everyone supports NHS staff in every way possible . ''

Stephen Hawking's family have donated his ventilator to the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge to help treat coronavirus patients.
The famous physicist's daughter, Lucy Hawking, said the NHS had played a "huge part" in their lives.
She added that they are "fully aware of the dedication and commitment of NHS staff", and asked everyone to "support (them) in every way possible" during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Image: Prof Hawking's book A Brief History of Time sold 10m copies
She also urged people to take social distancing seriously, saying: "We all need to do our bit, whatever that may be."
Ms Hawking said all the medical equipment her father used that belonged to the NHS was returned after he died at the age of 76 in 2018. He had contracted motor neurone disease in 1963 aged 21.
But there were also some items the professor - whose book A Brief History of Time sold 10m copies - bought for himself.
"We are now passing them to the NHS in the hope they will help in the fight against COVID-19," his daughter said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 UK 'at the peak' of coronavirus outbreak - Hancock
The critical care department at the Royal Papworth Hospital has been expanded to more than double its usual size to cope with coronavirus admissions.
After being checked by the hospital's clinical engineering team, Professor Hawking's ventilator has been added to its fleet.
Advertisement
Additional ventilators have also been supplied by the NHS.
Dr Mike Davies, clinical director for respiratory medicine at Papworth, said: "It was lovely to hear from the Hawking family again and we are so grateful for them for donating this equipment."
Lucy Hawking said: "Our father received brilliant, dedicated and compassionate medical care from both Royal Papworth and Addenbrooke's Hospitals in Cambridge.
"As a ventilated patient, Royal Papworth was incredibly important to my father and helped him through some very difficult times.
"We realised that it would be at the forefront of the COVID-19 epidemic and got in touch with some of our old friends there to ask if we could help."
She added: "As a family, the NHS has always played a huge part in our lives.
"We are fully aware of the dedication and commitment of NHS staff to helping people in need.
"At this time, we would ask that everyone supports NHS staff in every way possible."


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: US sends hospital ships to combat New York outbreak - but they're not ready

Donald Trump says two hospital ships will be deployed to New York , but one is undergoing maintenence and both lack a medical crew .
Speaking at a now-daily press conference for the coronavirus task-force , Mr Trump said the ships were preparing to head to New York , to support the healthcare system to cope with the influx of patients .
Although they will not be used to treat COVID-19 patients , the ships will help treat other people to allow hospitals to focus on treating those affected by the outbreak - anticipating a further significant rise in coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky 's US partner , has learnt that at least one of the ships , the USNS Comfort , is undergoing maintenance and has no medical crew , despite the president saying they were in `` tip top shape '' and ready for deployment .
The other vessel , the USNS Mercy , also has no sign of a medical crew on board , according to NBC News .
Vice President Mike Pence , who is heading up the task-force , has also asked Americans to put off elective surgeries , to allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak .
Mr Trump also announced he would sign the Defence Production Act , to encourage manufacturers in the US to make up for the shortfall in medical supplies .
`` Right after we finish this conference , I 'll be signing it and it 's prepared to go , '' he said .
• More than 214,000 globally have been confirmed as having COVID-19 and more than 8,700 have died • The UK is closing all schools from Friday • Italy and France both have their highest number of deaths in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to close its external borders for 30 days • Holidaymakers in Spain told to return home as the country shuts all its hotels The US government is also ordering `` thousands and thousands '' of ventilators , according to the president .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Speaking about a potential vaccine , he said that clinical trials had stepped up and that one was now being tested on humans - something the World Health Organisation referred to at its own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the US press conference , the task-force also reiterated its call to young people to listen to government guidelines that called for a 15-day effort to slow the spread of the virus , adding that they could be unwittingly spreading the virus - which can be transmitted by people who are asymptomatic .
It comes the same day as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau agreed with Mr Trump to close the border between their countries to stem the rise in North American coronavirus cases .
The US will also stop all non-essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The number of confirmed cases in the US stands at 7,324 , according to Johns Hopkins University , with 115 deaths .
The country has stopped people travelling in from most of Europe to fight new infections , while many cities have put shut downs in place to limit people 's movements .

Donald Trump says two hospital ships will be deployed to New York, but one is undergoing maintenence and both lack a medical crew.
Speaking at a now-daily press conference for the coronavirus task-force, Mr Trump said the ships were preparing to head to New York, to support the healthcare system to cope with the influx of patients.
Although they will not be used to treat COVID-19 patients, the ships will help treat other people to allow hospitals to focus on treating those affected by the outbreak - anticipating a further significant rise in coronavirus cases.
Image: President Trump has been holding daily press conferences on coronavirus
However, NBC News, Sky's US partner, has learnt that at least one of the ships, the USNS Comfort, is undergoing maintenance and has no medical crew, despite the president saying they were in "tip top shape" and ready for deployment.
The other vessel, the USNS Mercy, also has no sign of a medical crew on board, according to NBC News.
Vice President Mike Pence, who is heading up the task-force, has also asked Americans to put off elective surgeries, to allow hospitals to focus resources on the COVID-19 outbreak.
Mr Trump also announced he would sign the Defence Production Act, to encourage manufacturers in the US to make up for the shortfall in medical supplies.
"Right after we finish this conference, I'll be signing it and it's prepared to go," he said.
Other global coronavirus developments:
Advertisement
More than 214,000 globally have been confirmed as having COVID-19 and more than 8,700 have died
The UK is closing all schools from Friday
from Friday Italy and France both have their highest number of deaths in a day
and France both have their highest number of deaths in a day The European Union has agreed to close its external borders for 30 days
Holidaymakers in Spain told to return home as the country shuts all its hotels
The US government is also ordering "thousands and thousands" of ventilators, according to the president.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Speaking about a potential vaccine, he said that clinical trials had stepped up and that one was now being tested on humans - something the World Health Organisation referred to at its own press conference in Geneva on Wednesday.
At the US press conference, the task-force also reiterated its call to young people to listen to government guidelines that called for a 15-day effort to slow the spread of the virus, adding that they could be unwittingly spreading the virus - which can be transmitted by people who are asymptomatic.
It comes the same day as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau agreed with Mr Trump to close the border between their countries to stem the rise in North American coronavirus cases.
The US will also stop all non-essential travel across its southern border in Mexico.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Coronavirus: Who's most at risk?
The number of confirmed cases in the US stands at 7,324, according to Johns Hopkins University, with 115 deaths.
The country has stopped people travelling in from most of Europe to fight new infections, while many cities have put shut downs in place to limit people's movements.


news--2020-03-17--Nissan suspends Sunderland production as virus takes toll on demand

Nissan has announced that production at its Sunderland plant has been suspended as the coronavirus crisis deepens .
It made the revelation just a day after Vauxhall 's parent firm said it was to temporarily shut down output at its Ellesmere Port and Luton plants .
Nissan , which employs around 7,000 workers at the Wearside plant , said other action could follow given the scale of the disruption to the global economy though it refused to say whether that included the possibility of things like job losses .
Its statement said : `` '' Vehicle production has been suspended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Further measures are currently under study as we assess supply chain disruption and the sudden drop in market demand caused by the COVID-19 emergency '' .
A growing number of car plants are closing down across Europe as measures to fight the spread of COVID-19 take effeect .
The world 's largest car manufacturer said on Tuesday that it was preparing to close its factories to slow the spread of the coronavirus .
Volkswagen warned that it expected 2020 to be a difficult year , as it announced production would temporarily cease at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Italy before the end of this week .
Most of the company 's other factories will begin preparing to suspend production , probably for two or three weeks , VW said .
Chief executive Herbert Diess added : `` Given the present significant deterioration in the sales situation and the heightened uncertainty regarding parts supplies to our plants , production is to be suspended in the near future at factories operated by group brands . ''
Meanwhile , as the virus comes under control in China , VW has reopened most of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Frank Witter said : `` 2020 will be a very difficult year .
`` The corona pandemic presents us with unknown operational and financial challenges .
At the same time , there are concerns about sustained economic impacts . ''
The German car maker owns the Audi , Bentley , Bugatti , Ducati , Lamborghini , Porsche , Seat and Skoda brands It comes after reports that Britain had asked manufacturers including Honda and Ford to help make health equipment such as ventilators .

Nissan has announced that production at its Sunderland plant has been suspended as the coronavirus crisis deepens.
It made the revelation just a day after Vauxhall's parent firm said it was to temporarily shut down output at its Ellesmere Port and Luton plants.
Nissan, which employs around 7,000 workers at the Wearside plant, said other action could follow given the scale of the disruption to the global economy though it refused to say whether that included the possibility of things like job losses.
Image: A Nissan Qashqai on an assembly line in Sunderland
Its statement said: ""Vehicle production has been suspended today in Nissan Sunderland Plant.
"Further measures are currently under study as we assess supply chain disruption and the sudden drop in market demand caused by the COVID-19 emergency".
A growing number of car plants are closing down across Europe as measures to fight the spread of COVID-19 take effeect.
The world's largest car manufacturer said on Tuesday that it was preparing to close its factories to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Volkswagen warned that it expected 2020 to be a difficult year, as it announced production would temporarily cease at plants in Spain, Portugal, Slovakia and Italy before the end of this week.
Most of the company's other factories will begin preparing to suspend production, probably for two or three weeks, VW said.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:16 How to contain a global pandemic
Chief executive Herbert Diess added: "Given the present significant deterioration in the sales situation and the heightened uncertainty regarding parts supplies to our plants, production is to be suspended in the near future at factories operated by group brands."
Meanwhile, as the virus comes under control in China, VW has reopened most of its factories there.
Chief financial officer Frank Witter said: "2020 will be a very difficult year.
"The corona pandemic presents us with unknown operational and financial challenges. At the same time, there are concerns about sustained economic impacts."
The German car maker owns the Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Ducati, Lamborghini, Porsche, Seat and Skoda brands
It comes after reports that Britain had asked manufacturers including Honda and Ford to help make health equipment such as ventilators.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus in London: Why is the outbreak worse in the capital?

London has been hit the worst by the coronavirus outbreak - with 1,221 of the UK 's 3,269 confirmed cases and at 52 of its 144 deaths .
The spread of COVID-19 has all but emptied streets that are normally packed , monuments appear eerily deserted and tourist attractions , museums and theatres continue to close .
People who ca n't work from home are suddenly able to find seats on trains that are normally full , with Tube journeys last week 19 % down on 2019 .
The change follows measures introduced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus .
On Monday , he said London was ahead of other parts of the country and advised people to work from home , avoid pubs and restaurants and keep a safe distance from each other .
He said : `` It is now clear that the peak of the epidemic is coming faster in some parts of the country than in others .
It looks as though London is now a few weeks ahead .
`` So to relieve the pressure on the London health system and to slow the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Londoners now pay special attention to what we are saying about avoiding non-essential contact and to take particularly seriously the advice about working from home and avoiding confined spaces such as pubs and restaurants . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But there are concerns that some in the capital and elsewhere are not taking his advice seriously enough - and a mandatory closure order for places such as pubs is still a possibility .
The worst-affected London boroughs are Southwark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases , and Westminster with 78 confirmed cases .
Dr Simon Clarke , a virology expert and associate professor at the University of Reading , said London 's high numbers were not necessarily down to its large population of almost nine million .
He told Sky News : `` It 's the density of the population , not just the number of people in London - you have to look at the proximity to one another on buses and Tubes .
`` There are more social reasons too - there are more theatres @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for mixing . ''
Dr Clarke used the example of the Italian capital Rome , which has a population of almost three million , and how it has fewer cases than the more densely populated Milan , which has a population of under 1.4 million .
Rome has 678 confirmed cases and Milan has 3,278 .
`` Milan is like the London of Italy , it 's densely populated , '' said Dr Clarke .
He said there was evidence emerging of coronavirus `` hanging in the air '' instead of falling to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's infectious because it 's carried in people 's coughs and sneezes , and there 's some evidence emerging that it might hang in the air in poorly ventilated areas , '' he said .
However , Dr Clarke urged people to `` live your life but be mindful of the risks '' .
`` I will always tell people to live their lives and not live in fear , '' he added .

London has been hit the worst by the coronavirus outbreak - with 1,221 of the UK's 3,269 confirmed cases and at 52 of its 144 deaths.
The spread of COVID-19 has all but emptied streets that are normally packed, monuments appear eerily deserted and tourist attractions, museums and theatres continue to close.
Image: London's famous landmarks are normally thronged with tourists - but not anymore
Image: A rare scene - an empty King's Cross station
People who can't work from home are suddenly able to find seats on trains that are normally full, with Tube journeys last week 19% down on 2019.
The change follows measures introduced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson this week to try to prevent the spread of the virus.
On Monday, he said London was ahead of other parts of the country and advised people to work from home, avoid pubs and restaurants and keep a safe distance from each other.
He said: "It is now clear that the peak of the epidemic is coming faster in some parts of the country than in others. It looks as though London is now a few weeks ahead.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:23 London landmarks deserted amid outbreak
"So to relieve the pressure on the London health system and to slow the spread in London, it is important that Londoners now pay special attention to what we are saying about avoiding non-essential contact and to take particularly seriously the advice about working from home and avoiding confined spaces such as pubs and restaurants."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But there are concerns that some in the capital and elsewhere are not taking his advice seriously enough - and a mandatory closure order for places such as pubs is still a possibility.
Advertisement
The worst-affected London boroughs are Southwark with 82 cases, Lambeth with 81 cases, and Westminster with 78 confirmed cases.
Image: A quiet Westminster Bridge after people were told to avoid non-essential travel
Dr Simon Clarke, a virology expert and associate professor at the University of Reading, said London's high numbers were not necessarily down to its large population of almost nine million.
He told Sky News: "It's the density of the population, not just the number of people in London - you have to look at the proximity to one another on buses and Tubes.
"There are more social reasons too - there are more theatres and pubs and there are more opportunities for mixing."
Image: A virology expert says London's population density has not played in its favour
Dr Clarke used the example of the Italian capital Rome, which has a population of almost three million, and how it has fewer cases than the more densely populated Milan, which has a population of under 1.4 million.
Rome has 678 confirmed cases and Milan has 3,278.
"Milan is like the London of Italy, it's densely populated," said Dr Clarke.
He said there was evidence emerging of coronavirus "hanging in the air" instead of falling to the ground in some places.
"It's infectious because it's carried in people's coughs and sneezes, and there's some evidence emerging that it might hang in the air in poorly ventilated areas," he said.
However, Dr Clarke urged people to "live your life but be mindful of the risks".
"I will always tell people to live their lives and not live in fear," he added.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: Concerns millennial COVID-19 cases could increase as young people become ill

Healthy young people are becoming ill with coronavirus , prompting concerns millennials may be more vulnerable than initially thought .
The US coronavirus task force co-ordinator , Dr Deborah Birx , said she was concerned there would be a `` disproportional '' number of infections among millenials .
The majority of deaths from COVID-19 , which increased to more than 8,700 globally on Wednesday , have been the elderly and those with underlying health conditions .
However , there have been some healthy young people who have died from the virus , including Li Wenliang , 34 , the doctor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to tell medics about the virus in December .
He died in early February after contracting the disease .
Advice from governments around the world , and the World Health Organisation , is that elderly people and those with underlying health conditions are most at risk , with many countries telling them to be more careful and self-isolate .
Dr Birx told a White House briefing on Wednesday : `` There are concerning reports coming out of France and Italy about young people getting very seriously ill. '' It may have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generation , our future generation that will carry us through for the next multiple decades - there may be a disproportional number of infections among that group .
`` We think part of this may be that people heeded the early data coming out of China and coming out of South Korea of the elderly or those with pre-existing medical conditions were a particular risk .
`` And so , even if it 's a rare occurrence , it may be seen more frequently in that group and evident now . ''
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any significant mortality in children '' .
Canada 's health minister also voiced concerns , saying people in their 30s are becoming seriously ill from the virus and are needed ventilators to stay alive .
She said they are seeing the situation in Ontario and also in New York .
A doctor in Belgium said he has treated several seriously sick young patients whose lung scans were `` nothing short of terrifying '' , local media reported .
Dr Ignace Demeyer , who works at a hospital in Aalst , a town near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ages of 30 and 50 are arriving with severe symptoms .
He told the Brussels Times they have `` blank medical records '' with no underlying conditions to make them high risk .
`` They are people who do not smoke , who have no other conditions such as diabetes or heart failure , '' he said .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
He added that all the young patients he has seen have been sick for a week with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few days before reporting a dry cough and shortness of breath and tests show they have very low oxygen levels in their blood for their age .
`` They just walk in , but they are terribly affected by the virus , '' he told VRT News .

Healthy young people are becoming ill with coronavirus, prompting concerns millennials may be more vulnerable than initially thought.
The US coronavirus task force co-ordinator, Dr Deborah Birx, said she was concerned there would be a "disproportional" number of infections among millenials.
The majority of deaths from COVID-19, which increased to more than 8,700 globally on Wednesday, have been the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
Image: Dr Li Wenliang, who died aged 34 of coronavirus, tried to warn others about the disease. Pic: Dr Li Wenliang
However, there have been some healthy young people who have died from the virus, including Li Wenliang, 34, the doctor who was warned by Chinese police for trying to tell medics about the virus in December.
He died in early February after contracting the disease.
Advice from governments around the world, and the World Health Organisation, is that elderly people and those with underlying health conditions are most at risk, with many countries telling them to be more careful and self-isolate.
Dr Birx told a White House briefing on Wednesday: "There are concerning reports coming out of France and Italy about young people getting very seriously ill.
"It may have been that the millennial generation - our largest generation, our future generation that will carry us through for the next multiple decades - there may be a disproportional number of infections among that group.
"We think part of this may be that people heeded the early data coming out of China and coming out of South Korea of the elderly or those with pre-existing medical conditions were a particular risk.
Advertisement
"And so, even if it's a rare occurrence, it may be seen more frequently in that group and evident now."
Image: Dr Deborah Birx said young people in France and Italy are becoming seriously ill with coronavirus
She added that they had "not seen any significant mortality in children".
Canada's health minister also voiced concerns, saying people in their 30s are becoming seriously ill from the virus and are needed ventilators to stay alive.
She said they are seeing the situation in Ontario and also in New York.
A doctor in Belgium said he has treated several seriously sick young patients whose lung scans were "nothing short of terrifying", local media reported.
Dr Ignace Demeyer, who works at a hospital in Aalst, a town near Brussels, said more people between the ages of 30 and 50 are arriving with severe symptoms.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 'We're here': Volunteers mobilise across UK
He told the Brussels Times they have "blank medical records" with no underlying conditions to make them high risk.
"They are people who do not smoke, who have no other conditions such as diabetes or heart failure," he said.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
He added that all the young patients he has seen have been sick for a week with the flu then they feel fine for a few days before reporting a dry cough and shortness of breath and tests show they have very low oxygen levels in their blood for their age.
"They just walk in, but they are terribly affected by the virus," he told VRT News.


news--2020-03-18--Coronavirus: New treatment for critically ill patients to begin trials as soon as next week

Doctors are to begin giving critically ill COVID-19 patients a new treatment as soon as Monday .
The experimental drug , code named SNG001 , will initially be given to patients at Southampton General Hospital as part of the first trial of its kind .
The inhaled treatment has already been shown to improve the recovery of asthma and COPD ( chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ) patients who have other lung infections , such as flu .
Doctors have high hopes that it could also help stop the coronavirus in its tracks .
Tom Wilkinson , professor of respiratory medicine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky News : `` We are hoping that the drug will increase the rate of recovery from infection , that it will increase the protection in the bit of the lungs that are not infected yet and will reduce the number of patients that decline significantly and require intubation and ventilation . ''
The drug is an inhaled formulation of beta-interferon , a naturally occurring protein that orchestrates the body 's anti-viral responses .
Scientists believe it will prevent the coronavirus from taking over lung cells to make further copies of itself .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Around 100 critically-ill patients in up to 10 hospitals will be given SNG001 through a nebuliser device that blows a fine mist deep into the lung .
Professor Wilkinson said the drug could help stop intensive care units being overwhelmed with patients , as they have been in Italy .
`` They are running out of ventilators , '' he said .
`` Anything that can be used to reduce the impact on the services - either by reducing the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severity of illness - allowing patients to leave those units would have an enormous impact on the turnover of patients and the capacity of the health service . ''
The drug has been fast-tracked through the regulatory process , with the clinical trial being approved in days rather than weeks .
Professor Stephen Holgate of the Medical Research Council said older people and those with pre-existing lung disease have reduced immune responses .
He said : `` In the absence of a suitable vaccine , increasing the hosts own immunity to enhance protection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ therapeutic approach . ''
Around 300 clinical trials are under way on drugs and experimental therapies in coronavirus patients .
They include the anti-malarial drug chloroquine , Remdesivir - a drug developed to treat Ebola - and Kaletra , an HIV treatment .
The Department of Health has already taken steps to secure a supply of key drugs - and prevented wholesalers exporting them abroad - in anticipation of high global demand .

Doctors are to begin giving critically ill COVID-19 patients a new treatment as soon as Monday.
The experimental drug, code named SNG001, will initially be given to patients at Southampton General Hospital as part of the first trial of its kind.
The inhaled treatment has already been shown to improve the recovery of asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) patients who have other lung infections, such as flu.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Who is most at risk if they are infected by the coronavirus?
Doctors have high hopes that it could also help stop the coronavirus in its tracks.
Tom Wilkinson, professor of respiratory medicine at the University of Southampton, told Sky News: "We are hoping that the drug will increase the rate of recovery from infection, that it will increase the protection in the bit of the lungs that are not infected yet and will reduce the number of patients that decline significantly and require intubation and ventilation."
Image: Professor Tom Wilkinson hopes the drug will increase the rate of recovery from infection
The drug is an inhaled formulation of beta-interferon, a naturally occurring protein that orchestrates the body's anti-viral responses.
Scientists believe it will prevent the coronavirus from taking over lung cells to make further copies of itself.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Around 100 critically-ill patients in up to 10 hospitals will be given SNG001 through a nebuliser device that blows a fine mist deep into the lung.
Advertisement
Professor Wilkinson said the drug could help stop intensive care units being overwhelmed with patients, as they have been in Italy.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 PM: UK schools to close from Friday
"They are running out of ventilators," he said.
"Anything that can be used to reduce the impact on the services - either by reducing the number of patients requiring ventilation or by reducing the severity of illness - allowing patients to leave those units would have an enormous impact on the turnover of patients and the capacity of the health service."
The drug has been fast-tracked through the regulatory process, with the clinical trial being approved in days rather than weeks.
Professor Stephen Holgate of the Medical Research Council said older people and those with pre-existing lung disease have reduced immune responses.
He said: "In the absence of a suitable vaccine, increasing the hosts own immunity to enhance protection and virus elimination would seem a logical therapeutic approach."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:11 'Just keep laughing' - Dame Judi's virus message
Around 300 clinical trials are under way on drugs and experimental therapies in coronavirus patients.
They include the anti-malarial drug chloroquine, Remdesivir - a drug developed to treat Ebola - and Kaletra, an HIV treatment.
The Department of Health has already taken steps to secure a supply of key drugs - and prevented wholesalers exporting them abroad - in anticipation of high global demand.


news--2020-04-17--Coronavirus: 'Opening Up America Again' - Trump unveils three-phase plan

Donald Trump has unveiled a three-phase plan to help the US return to normal , with one in seven American workers now unemployed .
The president said the guidelines - known as `` Opening Up America Again '' - are designed to ease restrictions in areas with low transmission of the coronavirus .
Before phase one of the plan can begin , a state or region must have seen a downwards trajectory in the number of new COVID-19 cases over 14 days .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must be in force , while hospitals must have enough PPE , beds and ventilators to treat patients .
In phase one of Mr Trump 's plan , schools and bars will remain closed - but larger venues such as cinemas , churches and arenas can start to reopen if strict social distancing measures are in place .
At-risk groups such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions must continue to stay at home , and gatherings of more than 10 people will continue to be prohibited .
During phase two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the vulnerable will still be urged to stay indoors .
Schools can resume lessons and bars can reopen as long as they leave less room for people to stand around .
Social settings of more than 50 people will be prohibited , with employers told to continue encouraging their staff to work from home .
In the third phase , at-risk groups can start to go out in public as long as they follow social distancing measures .
Visitors will be permitted in care homes and hospitals again as long as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their hands frequently .
Offices and other workplaces can also return to normal without restrictions .
There are no set timelines for each of these three phases , and Mr Trump says governors across the US will be allowed to take a different approach in their own states and remain closed if necessary .
During a White House news conference , the president also warned that the US must remain vigilant about new COVID-19 cases coming from abroad , and he acknowledged that infections could flare up in the autumn .
Mr Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to reopen relatively soon , and some could start following the `` Opening Up America Again '' guidelines today .
`` Now that we have passed the peak in new cases , we 're starting our life again , we 're starting rejuvenation of our economy again in a safe , structured and very responsible fashion , '' he added .
The guidelines make clear that returning to normal will be a far longer process than the president initially envisioned , with some federal officials warning that social distancing measures may need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the year to prevent another outbreak .
Sky 's US correspondent Amanda Walker said : `` Donald Trump 's vision was a sort of grand pan-America reopening .
That simply wo n't be the case .
`` This is going to be a protracted situation based on individual states .
It 's quite a high bar to even enter these three phases of starting to reopen .
`` Mr Trump clearly wants to get things back to normal , he 's acknowledging the seriousness of the situation as well , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus that controls the timeline . ''

Donald Trump has unveiled a three-phase plan to help the US return to normal, with one in seven American workers now unemployed.
The president said the guidelines - known as "Opening Up America Again" - are designed to ease restrictions in areas with low transmission of the coronavirus.
Before phase one of the plan can begin, a state or region must have seen a downwards trajectory in the number of new COVID-19 cases over 14 days.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Robust testing programmes for at-risk healthcare workers must be in force, while hospitals must have enough PPE, beds and ventilators to treat patients.
In phase one of Mr Trump's plan, schools and bars will remain closed - but larger venues such as cinemas, churches and arenas can start to reopen if strict social distancing measures are in place.
At-risk groups such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions must continue to stay at home, and gatherings of more than 10 people will continue to be prohibited.
During phase two, non-essential travel can begin to resume, but the vulnerable will still be urged to stay indoors.
Schools can resume lessons and bars can reopen as long as they leave less room for people to stand around.
Advertisement
Social settings of more than 50 people will be prohibited, with employers told to continue encouraging their staff to work from home.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:55 Hydroxychloroquine: Hype or the real deal?
In the third phase, at-risk groups can start to go out in public as long as they follow social distancing measures.
Visitors will be permitted in care homes and hospitals again as long as they follow good hygiene practices and wash their hands frequently.
Offices and other workplaces can also return to normal without restrictions.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 Robot deliveries ramp up during pandemic
There are no set timelines for each of these three phases, and Mr Trump says governors across the US will be allowed to take a different approach in their own states and remain closed if necessary.
During a White House news conference, the president also warned that the US must remain vigilant about new COVID-19 cases coming from abroad, and he acknowledged that infections could flare up in the autumn.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:51 New York emergency workers applaud health staff
Mr Trump also suggested that 29 states should be able to reopen relatively soon, and some could start following the "Opening Up America Again" guidelines today.
"Now that we have passed the peak in new cases, we're starting our life again, we're starting rejuvenation of our economy again in a safe, structured and very responsible fashion," he added.
The guidelines make clear that returning to normal will be a far longer process than the president initially envisioned, with some federal officials warning that social distancing measures may need to be in force until the end of the year to prevent another outbreak.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:07 Tuesday - Trump to reporter: 'You know you are a fake'
Sky's US correspondent Amanda Walker said: "Donald Trump's vision was a sort of grand pan-America reopening. That simply won't be the case.
"This is going to be a protracted situation based on individual states. It's quite a high bar to even enter these three phases of starting to reopen.
"Mr Trump clearly wants to get things back to normal, he's acknowledging the seriousness of the situation as well, but the experts are saying that it's the virus that controls the timeline."


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Black and hispanic people 'twice as likely to die' in US from COVID-19

America is ridden with disparity and extremes .
Race has been at the heart of that story historically and it is raising its ugly head once again during this pandemic .
New data suggests that if you 're black or hispanic in the United States , you 're twice as likely to die from COVID-19 .
`` These are mostly communities that are impoverished , that have poor healthcare access , '' said Uché Blackstock , founder of Advancing Health Equity .
`` It was as if the pre-existing health disparities made them more vulnerable , and then also their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to being sick . ''
In New York state , 17 % of those who die from coronavirus are black , despite representing only 9 % of the population .
And there are stark figures emerging elsewhere - states like Illinois for example .
: :Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Outside Chicago , black Illinoisans are currently dying from COVID-19 at 3.4 times the rate of white residents .
Black residents account for 42 % of coronavirus-related deaths statewide and nearly 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Illinois so far , despite them only accounting for about 14 % of the state population , according to census data .
Dr Anthony Leno , an emergency physician at St Joseph 's Medical Center in Yonkers , New York , says pre-existing medical conditions are contributing to black and hispanic people 's vulnerability to COVID-19 .
`` Anybody who has what we call co-morbid disease - diabetes , hypertension , heart disease , anything like that is more susceptible to this disease and it tends to be more lethal , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are also more likely to be in environments that put them at risk .
On Line 7 in New York , the subway carriages are mostly full of black and latino workers who can not afford the luxury of staying at home , many also living in cramped low-income communities .
In Yonkers , we went on patrol in a diverse borough with Captain AJ Briones , who said he had seen every age and every ethnicity struggling with COVID-19 .
He is working seven-day weeks and thinks space and money are potentially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking at poorer areas where you have a lot of people in a small environment versus , say , someone in a suburban neighbourhood where it 's your family in a home and that 's it , '' he said .
There is no daily data on race , ethnicity and links to COVID-19 , and physicians and campaigners have called on the federal government to release it .
That will be critical in understand what is happening , enabling resources to be allocated proportionately , ultimately saving lives .
But for now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seems people of colour are at the sharpest end of a crisis , in desperate need of more help and acknowledgement .

America is ridden with disparity and extremes.
Race has been at the heart of that story historically and it is raising its ugly head once again during this pandemic.
New data suggests that if you're black or hispanic in the United States, you're twice as likely to die from COVID-19.
"These are mostly communities that are impoverished, that have poor healthcare access," said Uché Blackstock, founder of Advancing Health Equity.
"It was as if the pre-existing health disparities made them more vulnerable, and then also their jobs are exposing them to the public and to being sick."
Image: Hart Island in New York City is being used as a home for mass graves
In New York state, 17% of those who die from coronavirus are black, despite representing only 9% of the population.
And there are stark figures emerging elsewhere - states like Illinois for example.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
::Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Outside Chicago, black Illinoisans are currently dying from COVID-19 at 3.4 times the rate of white residents.
Advertisement
Black residents account for 42% of coronavirus-related deaths statewide and nearly 30% of the 11,256 confirmed cases in Illinois so far, despite them only accounting for about 14% of the state population, according to census data.
Dr Anthony Leno, an emergency physician at St Joseph's Medical Center in Yonkers, New York, says pre-existing medical conditions are contributing to black and hispanic people's vulnerability to COVID-19.
"Anybody who has what we call co-morbid disease - diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, anything like that is more susceptible to this disease and it tends to be more lethal," he said.
But black and latino communities are also more likely to be in environments that put them at risk.
On Line 7 in New York, the subway carriages are mostly full of black and latino workers who cannot afford the luxury of staying at home, many also living in cramped low-income communities.
In Yonkers, we went on patrol in a diverse borough with Captain AJ Briones, who said he had seen every age and every ethnicity struggling with COVID-19.
He is working seven-day weeks and thinks space and money are potentially having an impact.
Image: Captain AJ Briones says every age and every ethnicity is struggling with COVID-19
"You're looking at poorer areas where you have a lot of people in a small environment versus, say, someone in a suburban neighbourhood where it's your family in a home and that's it," he said.
There is no daily data on race, ethnicity and links to COVID-19, and physicians and campaigners have called on the federal government to release it.
That will be critical in understand what is happening, enabling resources to be allocated proportionately, ultimately saving lives.
But for now, once again in America, it seems people of colour are at the sharpest end of a crisis, in desperate need of more help and acknowledgement.


news--2020-04-10--Coronavirus: Worldwide deaths pass 100,000

The number of people worldwide who have died after testing positive for coronavirus has passed 100,000 .
The grim milestone was reached on the day the UK reported its highest single increase since the outbreak began , surpassing the worst 24-hour totals recorded by Spain and Italy .
Those two countries have still seen more deaths from COVID-19 than any others in Europe .
According to Johns Hopkins University , which has been tracking figures recorded by each government , the top five countries with the highest number of coronavirus fatalities are : Due to a lag between confirmed cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away , the number of deaths is expected to continue rising significantly for some weeks to come .
Regarding the situation in the UK , where 19,304 have tested positive for COVID-19 , deputy chief medical officer Professor Jonathan Van-Tam said the country was still in a `` dangerous phase '' .
`` It 's still a dangerous situation , we have to keep taking measures to bring this under control , '' he said .
`` It 's premature to say we are at a peak and the push we are making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance has previously said that keeping the death count under 20,000 would be a `` good result '' .
The US and the UK have seen more deaths than any other countries in recent days , with the rate of increase having been slowing over the past week or so in Italy and Spain .
The countries with the most confirmed cases are : Donald Trump told his latest coronavirus news briefing on Good Friday that the US was now leading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carried out two million tests .
The US president told reporters at the White House that hospital admissions were going down `` substantially '' and suggested the country was `` near the peak '' of its outbreak .
While he said the number of people dying was `` horrible '' , Mr Trump claimed `` thousands of lives '' are being saved because of social distancing measures .
He said the final toll should be `` substantially below '' the 100,000 mark , with his scientific adviser Dr Anthony Fauci having previously indicated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths .
Most of the deaths so far - more than 5,800 - have been in New York , where mass graves have been dug for victims without any family .
New data suggests Americans who are black or hispanic are twice as likely to die from COVID-19 .

The number of people worldwide who have died after testing positive for coronavirus has passed 100,000.
The grim milestone was reached on the day the UK reported its highest single increase since the outbreak began, surpassing the worst 24-hour totals recorded by Spain and Italy.
Those two countries have still seen more deaths from COVID-19 than any others in Europe.
According to Johns Hopkins University, which has been tracking figures recorded by each government, the top five countries with the highest number of coronavirus fatalities are:
Italy - 18,849
US - 18,002
Spain - 15,970
France - 12,210
UK - 8,958
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:11 Inside Spain's coronavirus ICUs
Due to a lag between confirmed cases of the disease and those who pass away, the number of deaths is expected to continue rising significantly for some weeks to come.
Regarding the situation in the UK, where 19,304 have tested positive for COVID-19, deputy chief medical officer Professor Jonathan Van-Tam said the country was still in a "dangerous phase".
"It's still a dangerous situation, we have to keep taking measures to bring this under control," he said.
"It's premature to say we are at a peak and the push we are making with social distancing just has to continue."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance has previously said that keeping the death count under 20,000 would be a "good result".
Advertisement
The US and the UK have seen more deaths than any other countries in recent days, with the rate of increase having been slowing over the past week or so in Italy and Spain.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:39 Children of doctor who died with COVID-19 pay tribute
The countries with the most confirmed cases are:
US - 475,749
Spain - 157,053
Italy - 147,577
Germany - 119,624
France - 118,790
Donald Trump told his latest coronavirus news briefing on Good Friday that the US was now leading the way on coronavirus testing, having carried out two million tests.
The US president told reporters at the White House that hospital admissions were going down "substantially" and suggested the country was "near the peak" of its outbreak.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 Unclaimed virus victims in NY buried in mass grave
While he said the number of people dying was "horrible", Mr Trump claimed "thousands of lives" are being saved because of social distancing measures.
He said the final toll should be "substantially below" the 100,000 mark, with his scientific adviser Dr Anthony Fauci having previously indicated there could be as many as 200,000 deaths.
Most of the deaths so far - more than 5,800 - have been in New York, where mass graves have been dug for victims without any family.
New data suggests Americans who are black or hispanic are twice as likely to die from COVID-19.


news--2020-04-24--Coronavirus: Dyson's £20m ventilator 'no longer required' by the government

A ventilator designed by Dyson to help in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic at a cost of £20m is `` no longer required '' by the government , the vacuum cleaner company has said .
Billionaire entrepreneur Sir James Dyson previously revealed that the `` CoVent '' was developed at the request of the prime minister - who himself caught COVID-19 - and that the government had ordered 10,000 units .
The Wiltshire-based firm responded to a Number 10 appeal for companies to take part in a national effort to increase the number of ventilators to treat patients with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was designed to be used in various settings , including field hospitals and when patients were being transported .
It needed regulatory approval before it could be used on large numbers of patients .
In a message to staff , Sir James said that Dyson had `` welcomed the government 's challenge '' .
He continued : `` Mercifully they are not required , but we do n't regret our contribution to the national effort for one moment .
`` I have some hope that our ventilator may yet help the response in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time and investigation .
`` We have spent around £20 million on this project to date , but we will not accept any public money .
`` The team have worked 24/7 to design and manufacture a sophisticated ventilator in a short timeframe - I hope they can spend this weekend with their families who will not have seen them for weeks . ''
Lung failure can be a complication of the disease and ventilators are used to supply air and crucial oxygen to the patient .
Governments around the world are trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devices that can do this .
A group of companies including Airbus and Ford have teamed up to build ventilators based on two existing designs , with the consortium working to manufacture 20,000 machines ordered by the British government .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Machines to treat sleep disorders are also being used to treat patients .
Doctors at Warrington Hospital have modified devices known as `` black boxes '' , which usually treat sleep apnoea - a condition which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The clinicians say by treating COVID-19 patients early with their `` black boxes '' , it has meant there has been less need for the more intrusive and invasive ventilators , and they 've experienced a far quicker recovery rate .

A ventilator designed by Dyson to help in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic at a cost of £20m is "no longer required" by the government, the vacuum cleaner company has said.
Billionaire entrepreneur Sir James Dyson previously revealed that the "CoVent" was developed at the request of the prime minister - who himself caught COVID-19 - and that the government had ordered 10,000 units.
The Wiltshire-based firm responded to a Number 10 appeal for companies to take part in a national effort to increase the number of ventilators to treat patients with the deadly virus.
Image: James Dyson says his company has spent £20m on the project
The battery-powered machine was designed to be used in various settings, including field hospitals and when patients were being transported.
It needed regulatory approval before it could be used on large numbers of patients.
In a message to staff, Sir James said that Dyson had "welcomed the government's challenge".
He continued: "Mercifully they are not required, but we don't regret our contribution to the national effort for one moment.
"I have some hope that our ventilator may yet help the response in other countries, but that requires further time and investigation.
"We have spent around £20 million on this project to date, but we will not accept any public money.
Advertisement
Image: The government previously appealed for companies to develop ventilators
"The team have worked 24/7 to design and manufacture a sophisticated ventilator in a short timeframe - I hope they can spend this weekend with their families who will not have seen them for weeks."
Lung failure can be a complication of the disease and ventilators are used to supply air and crucial oxygen to the patient.
Governments around the world are trying to boost the number of available breathing devices that can do this.
A group of companies including Airbus and Ford have teamed up to build ventilators based on two existing designs, with the consortium working to manufacture 20,000 machines ordered by the British government.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Machines to treat sleep disorders are also being used to treat patients.
Doctors at Warrington Hospital have modified devices known as "black boxes", which usually treat sleep apnoea - a condition which means breathing stops and starts while sleeping.
The clinicians say by treating COVID-19 patients early with their "black boxes", it has meant there has been less need for the more intrusive and invasive ventilators, and they've experienced a far quicker recovery rate.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Italian army called in as crematorium struggles to cope with deaths

The Italian city of Bergamo , one of the worst-hit by the coronavirus outbreak , is having to transport its dead out of the city as its crematorium is struggling to cope .
Army vehicles have been brought in to move dozens of coffins from Bergamo to other regions , according to Ansa news agency .
The wealthy city , northeast of Milan in Italy 's Lombardy region , has recorded at least 93 coronavirus-related deaths as cases continue to grow relentlessly .
It comes as Italy recorded more total virus deaths than China , at 3,405 - a rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Bergamo , Giorgio Gori , said the true number of related deaths could be higher as many people with COVID-19 symptoms had died before being tested .
`` The crematorium of Bergamo , working at full capacity , 24 hours a day , can cremate 25 dead '' , said a spokesperson for the local authority .
`` It is clear that it could not stand up to the numbers of the past few days . ''
Coffins are now being taken to crematoriums in Modena , Acqui Terme , Domodossola , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Once the bodies have been cremated , the ashes will be brought back to Bergamo .
Reuters journalists witnessed two funerals per hour , over a period of six hours , on Monday .
Many of the deceased were unable to have funerals as the demand is too high , and instead they were taken to a chapel inside a church within the cemetery .
Coffins have already filled up two hospital mortuaries and a cemetery morgue .
Relatives have been allowed to enter the cemetery to pay their respects , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommended amount of distance between each other to prevent the spread of the virus .
Meanwhile , the local newspaper 's daily obituary section has increased from two or three pages to 10 .
The latest developments around the world : • The Chinese city of Wuhan and its surrounding province , the former epicentre of the outbreak , have reported no new cases of COVID-19 • California 's state governor has said more than 60,000 homeless people in the state could contract coronavirus over the next eight weeks , according to modelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an emergency act to overcome shortages of face masks , ventilators and other supplies • Japan has announced it will end its state of emergency today and `` move to a new stage to overcome the crisis '' • Iran reported its biggest jump in coronavirus deaths on Wednesday as another 147 people died , bringing the country 's total number to 1,135 • The United Arab Emirates has barred residents currently outside the country from returning for at least two weeks and banned its residents from going abroad • French health authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , taking the total to 264 - an increase of almost 51 % Earlier this month , a doctor working in a Bergamo hospital issued a stark warning that the `` message of the danger of what is happening '' was not reaching people .
In a Facebook post , Dr Daniele Macchini said : `` The situation is now nothing short of dramatic .
No other words come to mind .
`` The war has literally exploded and the battles are uninterrupted day and night . ''
Italy is the hardest-hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worst-affected region .
The country has been on total lockdown since 9 March , yet experts say the peak of the spread in Italy may not arrive until mid-April in the north .
There has been a glimmer of hope in the small town of Vo , where there has been a trial of blanket testing and imposing strict quarantines on those infected and their contacts .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The mayor of Vo , near Venice , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ registered any new cases since Friday .
`` Testing was vital , it has saved many lives , '' mayor Giuliano Martini was quoted by the country 's media .

The Italian city of Bergamo, one of the worst-hit by the coronavirus outbreak, is having to transport its dead out of the city as its crematorium is struggling to cope.
Army vehicles have been brought in to move dozens of coffins from Bergamo to other regions, according to Ansa news agency.
The wealthy city, northeast of Milan in Italy's Lombardy region, has recorded at least 93 coronavirus-related deaths as cases continue to grow relentlessly.
It comes as Italy recorded more total virus deaths than China, at 3,405 - a rise of 427 on Wednesday.
Image: Italy experienced its largest daily increase in coronavirus deaths on Wednesday
The mayor of Bergamo, Giorgio Gori, said the true number of related deaths could be higher as many people with COVID-19 symptoms had died before being tested.
"The crematorium of Bergamo, working at full capacity, 24 hours a day, can cremate 25 dead", said a spokesperson for the local authority.
"It is clear that it could not stand up to the numbers of the past few days."
Coffins are now being taken to crematoriums in Modena, Acqui Terme, Domodossola, Parma, Piacenza and several other cities.
Once the bodies have been cremated, the ashes will be brought back to Bergamo.
Advertisement
Reuters journalists witnessed two funerals per hour, over a period of six hours, on Monday.
Image: Workers transport a coffin into a cemetery
Image: Bergamo has reportedly seen 1,245 cases of COVID-19
Many of the deceased were unable to have funerals as the demand is too high, and instead they were taken to a chapel inside a church within the cemetery.
Coffins have already filled up two hospital mortuaries and a cemetery morgue.
Relatives have been allowed to enter the cemetery to pay their respects, but only in limited numbers and with the recommended amount of distance between each other to prevent the spread of the virus.
Meanwhile, the local newspaper's daily obituary section has increased from two or three pages to 10.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 Italy: Obituaries show huge surge in virus deaths
The latest developments around the world:
The Chinese city of Wuhan and its surrounding province, the former epicentre of the outbreak, have reported no new cases of COVID-19
California's state governor has said more than 60,000 homeless people in the state could contract coronavirus over the next eight weeks, according to modelling
US President Donald Trump has invoked an emergency act to overcome shortages of face masks, ventilators and other supplies
Japan has announced it will end its state of emergency today and "move to a new stage to overcome the crisis"
Iran reported its biggest jump in coronavirus deaths on Wednesday as another 147 people died, bringing the country's total number to 1,135
The United Arab Emirates has barred residents currently outside the country from returning for at least two weeks and banned its residents from going abroad
French health authorities reported 89 new deaths from coronavirus on Wednesday, taking the total to 264 - an increase of almost 51%
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 Drone footage shows empty Italian roads
Earlier this month, a doctor working in a Bergamo hospital issued a stark warning that the "message of the danger of what is happening" was not reaching people.
In a Facebook post, Dr Daniele Macchini said: "The situation is now nothing short of dramatic. No other words come to mind.
"The war has literally exploded and the battles are uninterrupted day and night."
Italy is the hardest-hit nation outside China, with Lombardy its worst-affected region.
The country has been on total lockdown since 9 March, yet experts say the peak of the spread in Italy may not arrive until mid-April in the north.
There has been a glimmer of hope in the small town of Vo, where there has been a trial of blanket testing and imposing strict quarantines on those infected and their contacts.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The mayor of Vo, near Venice, said the town of 3,300 residents had not registered any new cases since Friday.
"Testing was vital, it has saved many lives," mayor Giuliano Martini was quoted by the country's media.