news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Euro 2020 postponed until next summer

Euro 2020 is being postponed for a year due to the coronavirus outbreak , UEFA has confirmed .
European football 's governing body said its other tournaments and matches - involving both domestic and international teams in the men 's and women 's game - were also on hold `` until further notice '' .
That means the Champions League and Europa League are paused for the time being .
UEFA said a `` working group '' was being set up to `` examine possibilities '' for the two tournaments , which see Europe 's best clubs face each other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revenue .
The organisers of the French Open have also taken the decision to postpone the tournament because of the outbreak .
The clay court Grand Slam was due to begin on 24 May but will now be played at the end of September .
Euro 2020 was due to be played across Europe in 12 different countries , including England , and is now pencilled in for 11 June - 11 July 2021 .
A UEFA statement said suspending the tournament would help domestic leagues to hopefully finish their seasons .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game is the priority , as well as to avoid placing any unnecessary pressure on national public services involved in staging matches , '' it said .
`` The move will help all domestic competitions , currently on hold due to the COVID-19 emergency , to be completed . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
If people with Euro 2020 tickets can not attend next year , the face value of their tickets and packages will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspension of football in all five of Europe 's top domestic leagues - England , Spain , Italy , France and Germany , along with the Champions League , Europa League and World Cup qualifiers .
Another summer tournament , the Copa America , has also been postponed for 12 months , the South American Football Confederation ( CONMEBOL ) has said .
That tournament had originally been scheduled from 12 June to 12 July in Argentina and Colombia .
The International Olympic Committee is also meeting on Tuesday .
Organisers of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been adamant the sporting festival will go ahead .
Meanwhile , the boss of Formula One has apologised for the last-minute cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix .
The opening round of the new season was called off 90 minutes before the first practice session was due to take place , provoking widespread criticism .
Chase Carey said : `` We apologise to those fans affected by the cancellation in Australia , as well as the postponement of the other races to date .
`` These decisions are being made by Formula One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promoters in rapidly changing and evolving circumstances ... we plan to get the 2020 championship season underway as soon as it 's safe to do so . ''
The Azerbaijan race in June is seen as the most likely starting point .
Growing numbers of sporting events and leagues have been postponed or cancelled since the scale of the outbreak became clear .
On Monday , next month 's Grand National was called off and both rugby codes , union and league , suspended their seasons .
Horse racing will go behind closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , initially until the end of April .
However , the Jockey Club , which runs the Grand National said that was not feasible for the famous Aintree steeplechase .
Football 's National League has suspended matches until at least 3 April , while the Football Association announced it is `` advising that all grassroots football in England is postponed for the foreseeable future '' .
In Scotland , all fixtures have been postponed until the Scottish Football Association and government decide otherwise .
Cricket 's T20 Pakistan Super League announced on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postponed after former England batsman Alex Hales developed symptoms .

Euro 2020 is being postponed for a year due to the coronavirus outbreak, UEFA has confirmed.
European football's governing body said its other tournaments and matches - involving both domestic and international teams in the men's and women's game - were also on hold "until further notice".
That means the Champions League and Europa League are paused for the time being.
UEFA said a "working group" was being set up to "examine possibilities" for the two tournaments, which see Europe's best clubs face each other and are worth tens of millions in revenue.
The organisers of the French Open have also taken the decision to postpone the tournament because of the outbreak.
The clay court Grand Slam was due to begin on 24 May but will now be played at the end of September.
Euro 2020 was due to be played across Europe in 12 different countries, including England, and is now pencilled in for 11 June - 11 July 2021.
A UEFA statement said suspending the tournament would help domestic leagues to hopefully finish their seasons.
"The health of all those involved in the game is the priority, as well as to avoid placing any unnecessary pressure on national public services involved in staging matches," it said.
Advertisement
"The move will help all domestic competitions, currently on hold due to the COVID-19 emergency, to be completed."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
If people with Euro 2020 tickets cannot attend next year, the face value of their tickets and packages will be refunded.
The move follows the suspension of football in all five of Europe's top domestic leagues - England, Spain, Italy, France and Germany, along with the Champions League, Europa League and World Cup qualifiers.
Another summer tournament, the Copa America, has also been postponed for 12 months, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has said.
That tournament had originally been scheduled from 12 June to 12 July in Argentina and Colombia.
The International Olympic Committee is also meeting on Tuesday.
Organisers of this summer's Tokyo games have so far been adamant the sporting festival will go ahead.
Meanwhile, the boss of Formula One has apologised for the last-minute cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix.
The opening round of the new season was called off 90 minutes before the first practice session was due to take place, provoking widespread criticism.
Chase Carey said: "We apologise to those fans affected by the cancellation in Australia, as well as the postponement of the other races to date.
"These decisions are being made by Formula One, the FIA, and our local promoters in rapidly changing and evolving circumstances... we plan to get the 2020 championship season underway as soon as it's safe to do so."
The Azerbaijan race in June is seen as the most likely starting point.
Growing numbers of sporting events and leagues have been postponed or cancelled since the scale of the outbreak became clear.
On Monday, next month's Grand National was called off and both rugby codes, union and league, suspended their seasons.
Horse racing will go behind closed doors at all meetings in Britain from Tuesday, initially until the end of April.
However, the Jockey Club, which runs the Grand National said that was not feasible for the famous Aintree steeplechase.
Football's National League has suspended matches until at least 3 April, while the Football Association announced it is "advising that all grassroots football in England is postponed for the foreseeable future".
Twitter Twitter , 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 Twitter 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 Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
In Scotland, all fixtures have been postponed until the Scottish Football Association and government decide otherwise.
Cricket's T20 Pakistan Super League announced on Tuesday morning that the competition had been postponed after former England batsman Alex Hales developed symptoms.


news--2020-03-14--Coronavirus deaths: What we know about the UK victims

Fifty-five people in the UK have died after testing positive for coronavirus - a rise of 20 from Sunday 's figure of 35 .
There have been 1,543 confirmed cases of COVID-19 , the disease caused by coronavirus .
On Monday , the first death in Wales was announced .
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford said : `` We continue to work hard to respond to this fast changing situation , as the impact of the virus continues to increase in the days and weeks ahead . ''
It has also been announced that a man died in Salisbury Hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his 50s and had underlying health conditions .
Meanwhile , the friends of an 88-year-old church choir singer who died after contracting coronavirus say he got the illness at a restaurant after coming into contact with a skier returning from Italy .
Darrell Blakeley , from Middleton , Greater Manchester , died on Friday at North Manchester General Hospital after contracting COVID-19 .
He was admitted to hospital on 3 March with sepsis , but was placed in quarantine having earlier had contact in a restaurant with `` a skier who had returned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his local church said .
Nick Matthews , from Bristol , has been named as a victim by his wife Mary , who said she was heartbroken to lose her `` life partner and soul mate '' .
On Sunday , NHS England issued statements on behalf of hospital trusts where other patients with coronavirus died .
Barking , Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust said a 72-year-old woman had died after testing positive .
She had significant additional health conditions .
Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust said a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing positive .
He had underlying medical conditions .
George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust said that a woman in her 70s died after testing positive and had underlying medical conditions .
Guy 's and St Thomas ' NHS Foundation Trust said a woman in her 90s had died after testing positive following underlying health conditions .
A Mid Essex Hospital Service NHS Trust spokesman said a woman in her 90s with underlying medical conditions had died .
North Manchester General Hospital said two patients who were being treated for COVID-19 had died .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the other was 88-year-old grandfather Darrell Blakeley , who was described as a `` gracious gentleman '' by friends .
Both patients had underlying health conditions .
Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust confirmed a woman in her 60s who had tested positive died and had underlying medical conditions .
A Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust spokesman said a man in his 80s with underlying medical conditions had died after testing positive .
Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust confirmed a patient in their 80s who tested positive and had underlying medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further details .
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust said a man in his 90s who was being cared for at Queens Medical Centre had tested positive and died .
Here is what we know about previous deaths announced by NHS England .
Barts Health NHS Trust , in London , said two people had died after testing positive for the virus but did not reveal any further details of the patients .
Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust said a man in his late 70s who `` tested positive for COVID-19 '' had died .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said a man in his mid-80s , being cared for at City Hospital , had died .
He had underlying health conditions and his family has been informed , the trust added .
Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust said a man in his 80s , being treated at New Cross Hospital , had died .
University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust said a man being cared for at Leicester Royal Infirmary had died .
He was in his 80s .
Jacqueline Totterdell , chief executive of St George 's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his 90s with `` significant other health conditions '' had died after testing positive for COVID-19 .
The patient had been `` extremely unwell '' , Ms Totterdell added .
North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust said a man in his 80s had died at North Middlesex University Hospital in north London .
Dame Jacqueline Docherty , chief executive of London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust said a man in his 60s had died at Northwick Park Hospital .
The patient had `` underlying health conditions '' , she added .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Countess of Chester Hospital , confirmed a man who had tested positive for COVID-19 had died .
`` The patient was in his 80s and had underlying health conditions , '' she added .
The first patient to die in the UK was a woman in her 70s who had been `` in and out of hospital for non-coronavirus reasons '' , the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading said on 5 March .
She caught the virus in Britain .
A man in his early 80s with underlying health conditions died at Milton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him subsequently went into isolation .
A man in his 60s who had recently returned from Italy was the third person to die in the UK .
Professor Chris Whitty said the patient had `` significant underlying health conditions '' and was being treated at North Manchester General Hospital .
A woman in her 70s , who also had underlying health conditions and was treated in a Wolverhampton hospital , died too .
She is believed to have caught the virus in Britain .
A patient in their 70s with a number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died at St Helier Hospital in Carshalton , south London .
A sixth person died at Watford General Hospital .
West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust said the man was in his early 80s .
A patient aged in their 70s , who had underlying health conditions , died in Dudley in the West Midlands after contracting COVID-19 .
An elderly patient from Nuneaton , who was being treated for a number of serious underlying health conditions , died at the George Eliot Hospital in Warwickshire .
A further two deaths happened in London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unwell with underlying health conditions '' died at Charing Cross Hospital in west London , Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust confirmed .
And a woman in her 60s who had been `` very unwell with significant other health conditions '' died at Queen 's Hospital in east London , Barking , Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust said .
There has also been one death in Scotland .
Chief Medical Officer Catherine Calderwood said the patient was `` an older person who had underlying health conditions '' .
They died in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ includes Edinburgh , Midlothian , East Lothian and West Lothian .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .

Fifty-five people in the UK have died after testing positive for coronavirus - a rise of 20 from Sunday's figure of 35.
There have been 1,543 confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus.
On Monday, the first death in Wales was announced.
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford said: "We continue to work hard to respond to this fast changing situation, as the impact of the virus continues to increase in the days and weeks ahead."
It has also been announced that a man died in Salisbury Hospital after contracting COVID-19.
He was in his 50s and had underlying health conditions.
Meanwhile, the friends of an 88-year-old church choir singer who died after contracting coronavirus say he got the illness at a restaurant after coming into contact with a skier returning from Italy.
Darrell Blakeley, from Middleton, Greater Manchester, died on Friday at North Manchester General Hospital after contracting COVID-19.
He was admitted to hospital on 3 March with sepsis, but was placed in quarantine having earlier had contact in a restaurant with "a skier who had returned from Italy," a statement from his local church said.
Advertisement
On Sunday, 14 deaths were announced.
Nick Matthews, from Bristol, has been named as a victim by his wife Mary, who said she was heartbroken to lose her "life partner and soul mate".
Mr Matthews, 59, had underlying health conditions.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 What is herd immunity?
On Sunday, NHS England issued statements on behalf of hospital trusts where other patients with coronavirus died.
Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust said a 72-year-old woman had died after testing positive. She had significant additional health conditions.
Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust said a man in his 80s had died after testing positive. He had underlying medical conditions.
George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust said that a woman in her 70s died after testing positive and had underlying medical conditions.
Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust said a woman in her 90s had died after testing positive following underlying health conditions.
A Mid Essex Hospital Service NHS Trust spokesman said a woman in her 90s with underlying medical conditions had died.
North Manchester General Hospital said two patients who were being treated for COVID-19 had died. One was a woman in her 70s and the other was 88-year-old grandfather Darrell Blakeley, who was described as a "gracious gentleman" by friends. Both patients had underlying health conditions.
Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust confirmed a woman in her 60s who had tested positive died and had underlying medical conditions.
A Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust spokesman said a man in his 80s with underlying medical conditions had died after testing positive.
Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust confirmed a patient in their 80s who tested positive and had underlying medical conditions had died. It provided no further details.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 'Europe is new epicentre of pandemic' - WHO
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust said a man in his 90s who was being cared for at Queens Medical Centre had tested positive and died.
Here is what we know about previous deaths announced by NHS England.
Barts Health NHS Trust, in London, said two people had died after testing positive for the virus but did not reveal any further details of the patients.
Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust said a man in his late 70s who "tested positive for COVID-19" had died.
Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust said a man in his mid-80s, being cared for at City Hospital, had died.
He had underlying health conditions and his family has been informed, the trust added.
Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust said a man in his 80s, being treated at New Cross Hospital, had died.
University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust said a man being cared for at Leicester Royal Infirmary had died. He was in his 80s.
Jacqueline Totterdell, chief executive of St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in south London, said a man in his 90s with "significant other health conditions" had died after testing positive for COVID-19.
The patient had been "extremely unwell", Ms Totterdell added.
North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust said a man in his 80s had died at North Middlesex University Hospital in north London.
Dame Jacqueline Docherty, chief executive of London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust said a man in his 60s had died at Northwick Park Hospital.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:30 COVID-19: The Scientific Advice
The patient had "underlying health conditions", she added.
Dr Susan Gilby, chief executive of Countess of Chester Hospital, confirmed a man who had tested positive for COVID-19 had died.
"The patient was in his 80s and had underlying health conditions," she added.
The first patient to die in the UK was a woman in her 70s who had been "in and out of hospital for non-coronavirus reasons", the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading said on 5 March.
She caught the virus in Britain.
A man in his early 80s with underlying health conditions died at Milton Keynes Hospital.
Hospital staff who nursed him subsequently went into isolation.
A man in his 60s who had recently returned from Italy was the third person to die in the UK.
Professor Chris Whitty said the patient had "significant underlying health conditions" and was being treated at North Manchester General Hospital.
A woman in her 70s, who also had underlying health conditions and was treated in a Wolverhampton hospital, died too.
She is believed to have caught the virus in Britain.
A patient in their 70s with a number of "significant and long-term health conditions" died at St Helier Hospital in Carshalton, south London.
A sixth person died at Watford General Hospital. West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust said the man was in his early 80s.
A patient aged in their 70s, who had underlying health conditions, died in Dudley in the West Midlands after contracting COVID-19.
An elderly patient from Nuneaton, who was being treated for a number of serious underlying health conditions, died at the George Eliot Hospital in Warwickshire.
A further two deaths happened in London.
An 89-year-old who was "very unwell with underlying health conditions" died at Charing Cross Hospital in west London, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust confirmed.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 COVID-19 'much, much worse than Ebola'
And a woman in her 60s who had been "very unwell with significant other health conditions" died at Queen's Hospital in east London, Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust said.
There has also been one death in Scotland.
Chief Medical Officer Catherine Calderwood said the patient was "an older person who had underlying health conditions".
They died in a hospital covered by NHS Lothian, which includes Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian and West Lothian.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: London worst affected by outbreak - 621 cases, 25 deaths

A total of 72 people have died after contracting coronavirus , with 1,950 confirmed cases .
London is the worst-affected part of the country , and Sky News analysis shows 25 deaths have been in the capital .
Ten deaths have also been recorded in the West Midlands .
On Tuesday , the number of fatalities in England increased by 14 .
NHS England said those who died were aged between 45 and 93 and all had underlying health conditions .
As of 9am on Tuesday morning , the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK had risen by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimated 621 cases are in London , representing 32 % of cases nationwide .
The latest figures come after the government ramped up measures against the coronavirus pandemic following new predictions that the UK could otherwise have seen 250,000 deaths .
A new document published by the COVID-19 team at London 's Imperial College - which is advising the government on its coronavirus response - warns the current public health threat is the `` most serious '' from a respiratory virus since the Spanish Flu in 1918 .
They advised the UK adopts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - for a period of potentially 18 months or more - rather than `` mitigation '' .
Modelling of the `` most effective '' mitigation strategy examined had revealed that NHS capacities could be exceeded by at least eightfold - and about 250,000 people could die .
The Imperial team described the suppression of the coronavirus outbreak as `` the only viable strategy at the current time '' - even if the `` social and economic effects of the measures which are needed to achieve this policy goal will be profound '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced a significant escalation of UK measures in response to coronavirus , including advising everyone in the country to avoid pubs , clubs , restaurants and theatres and to only make essential journeys .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker What is the latest coronavirus advice ?
• If you live alone and have a high temperature or a new and continuous cough , you should self-isolate for seven days • If you live in a household with others and have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cough , both yourself and all others in your household should stay isolated together for 14 days • Everyone , including if you are not displaying symptoms yourself and live in a household where no one is displaying symptoms , should stop all unnecessary contact with others and all unnecessary travel • You should work from home where possible and avoid venues such as pubs , clubs , theatres and restaurants • Pay particular attention to the advice if you are over 70 , pregnant , have underlying health problems or live in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 111 helpline if you have mild or moderate illness and instead seek advice online .
But do call if your illness becomes more severe .
Britons have been advised to avoid all non-essential foreign travel for 30 days as the coronavirus pandemic continues .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the `` fast-changing international circumstances '' of the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19 required changes to the official travel advice .
`` The FCO [ Foreign and Commonwealth Office ] will always consider the safety and the security of British nationals , so with immediate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advise British nationals against non-essential travel globally for an initial period of 30 days and of course subject to ongoing review , '' he told MPs in the Commons .
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide now stands at more than 185,000 and there are more than 7,300 deaths .

A total of 72 people have died after contracting coronavirus, with 1,950 confirmed cases.
London is the worst-affected part of the country, and Sky News analysis shows 25 deaths have been in the capital. Ten deaths have also been recorded in the West Midlands.
On Tuesday, the number of fatalities in England increased by 14. NHS England said those who died were aged between 45 and 93 and all had underlying health conditions.
As of 9am on Tuesday morning, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK had risen by 407 over a 24-hour period.
An estimated 621 cases are in London, representing 32% of cases nationwide.
The latest figures come after the government ramped up measures against the coronavirus pandemic following new predictions that the UK could otherwise have seen 250,000 deaths.
A new document published by the COVID-19 team at London's Imperial College - which is advising the government on its coronavirus response - warns the current public health threat is the "most serious" from a respiratory virus since the Spanish Flu in 1918.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:22 Transport for London to reduce service - Khan
They advised the UK adopts a strategy of "epidemic suppression" - for a period of potentially 18 months or more - rather than "mitigation".
Modelling of the "most effective" mitigation strategy examined had revealed that NHS capacities could be exceeded by at least eightfold - and about 250,000 people could die.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 Why did the government change its stance?
The Imperial team described the suppression of the coronavirus outbreak as "the only viable strategy at the current time" - even if the "social and economic effects of the measures which are needed to achieve this policy goal will be profound".
On Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a significant escalation of UK measures in response to coronavirus, including advising everyone in the country to avoid pubs, clubs, restaurants and theatres and to only make essential journeys.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
What is the latest coronavirus advice?
If you live alone and have a high temperature or a new and continuous cough, you should self-isolate for seven days
If you live in a household with others and have a high temperature or a new and continuous cough, both yourself and all others in your household should stay isolated together for 14 days
Everyone, including if you are not displaying symptoms yourself and live in a household where no one is displaying symptoms, should stop all unnecessary contact with others and all unnecessary travel
You should work from home where possible and avoid venues such as pubs, clubs, theatres and restaurants
Pay particular attention to the advice if you are over 70, pregnant, have underlying health problems or live in London
Don't call the NHS 111 helpline if you have mild or moderate illness and instead seek advice online. But do call if your illness becomes more severe.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:23 London landmarks deserted amid outbreak
Britons have been advised to avoid all non-essential foreign travel for 30 days as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the "fast-changing international circumstances" of the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19 required changes to the official travel advice.
"The FCO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] will always consider the safety and the security of British nationals, so with immediate effect I've taken the decision to advise British nationals against non-essential travel globally for an initial period of 30 days and of course subject to ongoing review," he told MPs in the Commons.
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide now stands at more than 185,000 and there are more than 7,300 deaths.


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: O2 network outage as people work from home

The O2 mobile network has suffered an outage as large numbers of people in Britain work from home , with rival networks suggesting issues impacting them are due to O2 's problems .
Britons are working from home to prevent the spread of COVID-19 , the virus caused by coronavirus , with the outbreak now infecting 1,950 people in the country , 71 of whom have died .
The issues apparently resulted from a short-lived network congestion problem which did affect calls made over 3G for the three major networks - O2 , EE and Vodafone .
Telecommunications industry sources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their networks were working fine but would not be reachable from O2 numbers due to issues with that network .
In a statement on its website EE confirmed there were problems making calls for some customers , which it blamed on `` an issue in another operator 's network '' .
`` Work is being done to resolve this as soon as possible .
This is not related to the increase in home working , caused by Coronavirus , '' EE 's statement continued .
Sky News understands Vodafone chaired a NEAT ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call this morning to get technical teams from the operators talking to each other regarding the outage .
A spokesperson for O2 stated : `` Today the industry experienced an issue that meant some calls between different networks were unable to connect .
`` Specifically , O2 , Vodafone and Three were unable to connect to EE and EE customers were unable to connect to O2 , Vodafone and Three .
`` At a time when the country needs connectivity most , it is important we work together rather than pointing fingers before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added , before confirming there would be another NEAT conference call at 2:30pm on Tuesday .
It comes as the government ramps up measures against the coronavirus epidemic following new predictions that the UK could otherwise have seen 250,000 deaths .
A new document published by the COVID-19 team at London 's Imperial College - which is advising the government on its coronavirus response - warns the current public health threat is the `` most serious '' from a respiratory virus since the Spanish Flu in 1918 .
They advised the UK adopts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - for a period of potentially 18 months or more - rather than `` mitigation '' .
On Monday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a significant escalation of UK measures in response to coronavirus , including advising everyone in the country to avoid pubs , clubs , restaurants and theatres and to only make essential journeys The increased traffic has caused a spike in complaints about a wide range of digital services .
Figures compiled by the website Down Detector show complaints about video conference tools Skype and Cisco Webex rising sharply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services from supermarkets included Waitrose and Morrison 's also rose , as did complaints about popular online game Fortnite .
Online working tool Microsoft Teams suffered an outage on Monday morning as a result of an influx of new users .
Labour 's shadow digital minister , Chi Onwurah , a former electrical engineer who worked as head of telecoms technology for communications regulator Ofcom , has written to the government asking what measures it is taking to ensure that telecommunications networks are resilient .
`` As usage levels and traffic patterns shift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` it is critical that there is public and market confidence that the UK 's networks are robust for the period ahead . ''

The O2 mobile network has suffered an outage as large numbers of people in Britain work from home, with rival networks suggesting issues impacting them are due to O2's problems.
Britons are working from home to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the virus caused by coronavirus, with the outbreak now infecting 1,950 people in the country, 71 of whom have died.
The issues apparently resulted from a short-lived network congestion problem which did affect calls made over 3G for the three major networks - O2, EE and Vodafone.
Image: O2 confirmed the network problems on its website
Telecommunications industry sources at rival companies told Sky News that their networks were working fine but would not be reachable from O2 numbers due to issues with that network.
O2 denies this.
In a statement on its website EE confirmed there were problems making calls for some customers, which it blamed on "an issue in another operator's network".
"Work is being done to resolve this as soon as possible. This is not related to the increase in home working, caused by Coronavirus," EE's statement continued.
Sky News understands Vodafone chaired a NEAT (National Emergency Alert for Telecoms) conference call this morning to get technical teams from the operators talking to each other regarding the outage.
A spokesperson for O2 stated: "Today the industry experienced an issue that meant some calls between different networks were unable to connect.
Advertisement
"Specifically, O2, Vodafone and Three were unable to connect to EE and EE customers were unable to connect to O2, Vodafone and Three.
"At a time when the country needs connectivity most, it is important we work together rather than pointing fingers before facts have been determined," they added, before confirming there would be another NEAT conference call at 2:30pm on Tuesday.
It comes as the government ramps up measures against the coronavirus epidemic following new predictions that the UK could otherwise have seen 250,000 deaths.
A new document published by the COVID-19 team at London's Imperial College - which is advising the government on its coronavirus response - warns the current public health threat is the "most serious" from a respiratory virus since the Spanish Flu in 1918.
They advised the UK adopts a strategy of "epidemic suppression" - for a period of potentially 18 months or more - rather than "mitigation".
On Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a significant escalation of UK measures in response to coronavirus, including advising everyone in the country to avoid pubs, clubs, restaurants and theatres and to only make essential journeys
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 Coronavirus hits retailer Laura Ashley
The increased traffic has caused a spike in complaints about a wide range of digital services.
Figures compiled by the website Down Detector show complaints about video conference tools Skype and Cisco Webex rising sharply this morning.
Complaints about online shopping services from supermarkets included Waitrose and Morrison's also rose, as did complaints about popular online game Fortnite.
Online working tool Microsoft Teams suffered an outage on Monday morning as a result of an influx of new users.
Labour's shadow digital minister, Chi Onwurah, a former electrical engineer who worked as head of telecoms technology for communications regulator Ofcom, has written to the government asking what measures it is taking to ensure that telecommunications networks are resilient.
"As usage levels and traffic patterns shift considerably," Ms Onwurah writes, "it is critical that there is public and market confidence that the UK's networks are robust for the period ahead."
Additional reporting by Rowland Manthorpe, technology correspondent


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Mother's shock as nine-month-old son contracts COVID-19

Myroslava Coates ' nine-month-old baby Cassian was diagnosed with coronavirus on Monday .
She and her husband Callum are now self-isolating with him at their home in Manchester .
The concerned mother told Sky News what the whole ordeal has been like .
Cassian 's been poorly for a few days so we took him to the doctors .
He 's had a chest infection before so I think that 's how we got an appointment , it 's been difficult to get them .
When we got there , we had to go through special measures and ring a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in .
The waiting room actually had a big sign up saying `` suspected case '' .
Me and my husband were like `` oh my God '' , then a nurse walked past and said `` yeah , that 's you guys '' .
We went in , then the doctor came in with a mask on , did some basic checks , temperature , checked his ears and said `` yeah , it 's the coronavirus strand '' .
We were n't expecting that .
Cassian had a fever and cold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was talking about .
He 's nine months old so any time they have anything wrong with them it 's horrific but this , we were like `` wow '' .
As bad as it sounds , the first thing we did when we heard was laugh because we just could n't believe this was a thing and that Cass had it .
It 's so sensationalised in the media and you just hear about the worst cases .
We wondered where he caught it because my husband and I are both fine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not express how fantastic and reassuring our GP was .
They said that with children this age they are diagnosing by symptoms .
We were told to go home to self-isolate for two weeks and keep giving him Calpol as if it was a cold .
The doctor said babies pick up what 's going around and at the moment , that 's coronavirus .
The GP said it 's going to be common and we just have to stick to the rules to protect ourselves and others .
People need that reassurance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , but that 's not being provided .
You 're told `` do n't go to your GP , do n't go to hospital unless you 're really sick '' , so obviously there 's a gap there .
I do n't think guidelines have been clear enough .
It 's only yesterday we were all told to self-isolate , when other countries were told that weeks ago .
You just see death rates and things being shut down in that scary way .
People are online , there are reports , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know what 's real and what 's not .
So , as soon as we found out about Cass we put it out there on social media and we 've had a ridiculous amount of messages , mostly from other parents asking `` how did you get tested , my child 's had a cough ? ''
.
But as the doctor said , this is going to be really common .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker We 've been counting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past that soon so we felt like we needed to spread the news that it 's ok , it 's not as horrific as you think it could be .
There are peaks and troughs but thankfully Cassian is over the worst of it .

Myroslava Coates' nine-month-old baby Cassian was diagnosed with coronavirus on Monday.
She and her husband Callum are now self-isolating with him at their home in Manchester.
The concerned mother told Sky News what the whole ordeal has been like.
Cassian's been poorly for a few days so we took him to the doctors. He's had a chest infection before so I think that's how we got an appointment, it's been difficult to get them.
When we got there, we had to go through special measures and ring a certain number for them to let us in. The waiting room actually had a big sign up saying "suspected case".
Image: Cassian is only nine months old
Me and my husband were like "oh my God", then a nurse walked past and said "yeah, that's you guys".
We went in, then the doctor came in with a mask on, did some basic checks, temperature, checked his ears and said "yeah, it's the coronavirus strand".
We weren't expecting that. Cassian had a fever and cold but not the cough and symptoms everyone was talking about.
He's nine months old so any time they have anything wrong with them it's horrific but this, we were like "wow".
Advertisement
Image: Myroslava and Callum Coates' baby Cassian had a fever which turned out to be coronavirus
As bad as it sounds, the first thing we did when we heard was laugh because we just couldn't believe this was a thing and that Cass had it.
It's so sensationalised in the media and you just hear about the worst cases. We wondered where he caught it because my husband and I are both fine.
I did panic but I cannot express how fantastic and reassuring our GP was. They said that with children this age they are diagnosing by symptoms.
We were told to go home to self-isolate for two weeks and keep giving him Calpol as if it was a cold.
The doctor said babies pick up what's going around and at the moment, that's coronavirus.
The GP said it's going to be common and we just have to stick to the rules to protect ourselves and others.
People need that reassurance of someone saying "it's ok", but that's not being provided.
Image: The couple are in isolation with Cassian, but have shown no symptoms
You're told "don't go to your GP, don't go to hospital unless you're really sick", so obviously there's a gap there.
I don't think guidelines have been clear enough.
It's only yesterday we were all told to self-isolate, when other countries were told that weeks ago.
You just see death rates and things being shut down in that scary way.
People are online, there are reports, there's media but we don't know what's real and what's not.
Image: The doctor tested Cassian's ears and temperature then diagnosed him with coronavirus
So, as soon as we found out about Cass we put it out there on social media and we've had a ridiculous amount of messages, mostly from other parents asking "how did you get tested, my child's had a cough?".
But as the doctor said, this is going to be really common.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
We've been counting cases but it's going to go past that soon so we felt like we needed to spread the news that it's ok, it's not as horrific as you think it could be.
There are peaks and troughs but thankfully Cassian is over the worst of it.


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Warning over ibuprofen's effect on COVID-19 sparks debate

A warning about ibuprofen 's effect on COVID-19 symptoms has triggered a debate about whether paracetamol is safer for people with the disease .
Painkillers are running low on many supermarket shelves as coronavirus cases in the UK pass 1,900 and the government warns people they may have to isolate for two weeks .
But French health minister Olivier Veran - a qualified neurologist - has warned ibuprofen and other medicines known as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs ( NSAIDs ) could make things worse .
He tweeted : `` Taking anti-inflammatory drugs ( ibuprofen , cortisone , etc . )
may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If you have a fever , take paracetamol .
If you are already on anti-inflammatory drugs or if in doubt , ask your doctor for advice . ''
Professor Ian Jones , virologist at the University of Reading , said anti-inflammatory drugs `` dampen down the immune system , which may slow the recovery process '' .
Initially , Public Health England ( PHE ) said there was no conclusive evidence that taking ibuprofen is harmful for respiratory infections .
It said most people with coronavirus have mild illnesses and some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help with raised temperature , headache and other pains .
Patients who have been prescribed ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory drugs for long-term health problems should continue to take them , PHE advised .
But the NHS later scrapped guidance telling those self-isolating they could `` take everyday painkillers , such as paracetamol and ibuprofen '' .
It now says there is `` no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus worse '' but `` until we have more information , take paracetamol '' unless a doctor says otherwise or you are already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice of medics .
Other experts have said people with symptoms of the virus are better off choosing paracetamol .
Dr Tom Wingfield , senior lecturer and consultant physician at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine , said paracetamol was `` preferred '' because it is less likely to cause side effects .
`` Side effects associated with NSAIDs such as ibuprofen , especially if taken regularly for a prolonged period , are stomach irritation and stress on the kidneys , which can be more severe in people who already have stomach or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It is not clear from the French minister 's comments whether the advice given is generic 'good practice ' guidance or specifically related to data emerging from cases of COVID-19 , but this might become clear in due course . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Dr Charlotte Warren-Gash , associate professor of epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , called for more research into the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the meantime , for treating symptoms such as fever and sore throat , it seems sensible to stick to paracetamol as first choice , '' she said .
What is the latest coronavirus advice ?
• If you live alone and have a high temperature or a new and continuous cough , you should self-isolate for seven days • If you live in a household with others and have a high temperature or a new and continuous cough , both yourself and all others in your household should stay isolated together for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are not displaying symptoms yourself and live in a household where no one is displaying symptoms , should stop all unnecessary contact with others and all unnecessary travel • You should work from home where possible and avoid venues such as pubs , clubs , theatres and restaurants • Pay particular attention to the advice if you are over 70 , pregnant , have underlying health problems or live in London • Do n't call the NHS 111 helpline if you have mild or moderate illness and instead seek advice online .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ more severe .

A warning about ibuprofen's effect on COVID-19 symptoms has triggered a debate about whether paracetamol is safer for people with the disease.
Painkillers are running low on many supermarket shelves as coronavirus cases in the UK pass 1,900 and the government warns people they may have to isolate for two weeks.
But French health minister Olivier Veran - a qualified neurologist - has warned ibuprofen and other medicines known as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) could make things worse.
He tweeted: "Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, cortisone, etc.) may be a factor in worsening the infection.
"If you have a fever, take paracetamol. If you are already on anti-inflammatory drugs or if in doubt, ask your doctor for advice."
Professor Ian Jones, virologist at the University of Reading, said anti-inflammatory drugs "dampen down the immune system, which may slow the recovery process".
Initially, Public Health England (PHE) said there was no conclusive evidence that taking ibuprofen is harmful for respiratory infections.
It said most people with coronavirus have mild illnesses and some may need to take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with raised temperature, headache and other pains.
Patients who have been prescribed ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory drugs for long-term health problems should continue to take them, PHE advised.
Advertisement
But the NHS later scrapped guidance telling those self-isolating they could "take everyday painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen".
It now says there is "no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus worse" but "until we have more information, take paracetamol" unless a doctor says otherwise or you are already taking ibuprofen or another NSAID on the advice of medics.
Image: The UK has started going into lockdown as people try to 'social distance'
Other experts have said people with symptoms of the virus are better off choosing paracetamol.
Dr Tom Wingfield, senior lecturer and consultant physician at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, said paracetamol was "preferred" because it is less likely to cause side effects.
"Side effects associated with NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, especially if taken regularly for a prolonged period, are stomach irritation and stress on the kidneys, which can be more severe in people who already have stomach or kidney issues," said Dr Wingfield.
"It is not clear from the French minister's comments whether the advice given is generic 'good practice' guidance or specifically related to data emerging from cases of COVID-19, but this might become clear in due course."
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 with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Dr Charlotte Warren-Gash, associate professor of epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, called for more research into the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on people with underlying health conditions.
"In the meantime, for treating symptoms such as fever and sore throat, it seems sensible to stick to paracetamol as first choice," she said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:49 PM urges Britons to avoid pubs, restaurants and theatres
What is the latest coronavirus advice?


news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Leaders agree to close EU's external borders in virus battle

Leaders in the European Union have agreed to close the bloc 's external borders to most non-EU citizens for 30 days to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
Europe has been called the new epicentre of the global outbreak by the World Health Organisation and many countries are already on lockdown , with people 's movement restricted .
Italy has suffered more than 2,500 deaths - the highest number outside China - where COVID-19 , the disease caused by coronavirus , first emerged late last year .
As well as shutting external borders , EU leaders have agreed to set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frontiers to keep goods flowing across the continent .
Ursula von der Leyen , the president of the European Commission , said it would be up to European nations to enforce the closures .
She said : `` The enemy is the virus and now we have to do our utmost to protect our people and to protect our economies .
`` We are ready to do everything that is required .
We will not hesitate to take additional measures as the situation evolves . ''
Under the plans which were originally proposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of EU nationals , diplomats and those on the frontline of dealing with the crisis would be exempt , as would UK citizens .
Also exempt would be freight drivers , Mrs Von der Leyen said , adding : `` The flow of goods to the European Union must continue to secure the supply of goods , including essential items such as medicine , but also food and components that our factories need . ''
On Monday evening , French President Emmanuel Macron announced that from Tuesday new measures in France would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ French people on holiday will be able to come back to France and those living abroad were told to contact embassies and consulates who will help them be repatriated .
The UK 's Foreign Office said the UK is not included in the closure and told Britons in mainland Europe to continually monitor travel advice as it is changing rapidly .
Mr Macron also announced major support for businesses , including not having to pay taxes and bills , so `` not a single French person will be left without resources . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be suspended and any new reforms going through parliament will be halted from Wednesday , he said .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Mr Macron warned the French people that `` movements will be very strongly reduced '' for 15 days after chiding them for not complying with earlier measures drawn up to reduce the spread of coronavirus .
Nationwide restrictions are being enforced on how far people can go from their homes , and for what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' from lunchtime on Tuesday for at least two weeks , Mr Macron said .
He said people will no longer be able to have family get-togethers and `` meeting your friends in the park , the street will no longer be possible '' .
• More than 179,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 7,000 have died • Over 78,000 have recovered , most in China • Spain becomes fourth-most infected country after China , Italy and Iran with more than 9,191 cases and 309 deaths • Canada , Norway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency border closures • Foreign Office advises British nationals against `` all but essential travel '' • UK residents told to avoid `` all necessary contact '' with others and to avoid pubs , theatres and restaurants • US implements strict new measures after cases climb to nearly 4,500 , with at least 82 deaths • McDonald 's , Taco Bell and Starbucks among chains to close seating areas in US • Hong Kong , Greece and New Zealand among countries to quarantine visitors for 14 days • India tightened its borders , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Italy reports jump in infections , up more than 3,000 to 27,980 with 2,158 deaths • Cruise ships stranded in Caribbean , South America and Europe after new border restrictions Mr Macron has demanded all French companies make it possible for employees to work from home from Tuesday .
He said if anybody does not respect the staying at home rules `` sanctions will be imposed '' , but he did not specify what they would be .
Going further than any other government to protect his country 's economy , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a single company , whatever its size , will go bankrupt , not a single French person will be left without resources . ''
The state would provide 300 billion euros ( £329bn ) in loans to companies and is looking into waiving tax payments , he said .
For small companies , he said they will have nothing to pay from a fiscal point of view , with gas , electricity and rent payments to be suspended .
He said partial unemployment benefits will be increased and a solidarity fund will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggestion of support from the regions , for `` entrepreneurs , artisans , craftsman '' , Mr Macron added .
The president also announced widespread support for health professionals , with workers able to use taxis and hotels paid for by the state and their children to be looked after in creches and schools for free .
Masks and hand sanitisers will be provided to every health professional , with the first batch being sent out to pharmacies in the worst-hit regions on Tuesday then other areas on Wednesday .
An army hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opened up for coronavirus patients who will be moved there from the most affected regions to relieve hospitals struggling to cope with the volumes .

Leaders in the European Union have agreed to close the bloc's external borders to most non-EU citizens for 30 days to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Europe has been called the new epicentre of the global outbreak by the World Health Organisation and many countries are already on lockdown, with people's movement restricted.
Italy has suffered more than 2,500 deaths - the highest number outside China - where COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, first emerged late last year.
As well as shutting external borders, EU leaders have agreed to set up fast-track lanes at countries' internal frontiers to keep goods flowing across the continent.
Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, said it would be up to European nations to enforce the closures.
Image: France shut down all its ski resorts on Saturday evening, with just four hours notice
She said: "The enemy is the virus and now we have to do our utmost to protect our people and to protect our economies.
"We are ready to do everything that is required. We will not hesitate to take additional measures as the situation evolves."
Under the plans which were originally proposed on Monday, long-term residents, family members of EU nationals, diplomats and those on the frontline of dealing with the crisis would be exempt, as would UK citizens.
Also exempt would be freight drivers, Mrs Von der Leyen said, adding: "The flow of goods to the European Union must continue to secure the supply of goods, including essential items such as medicine, but also food and components that our factories need."
Advertisement
On Monday evening, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that from Tuesday new measures in France would see a restriction in border movement.
French people on holiday will be able to come back to France and those living abroad were told to contact embassies and consulates who will help them be repatriated.
The UK's Foreign Office said the UK is not included in the closure and told Britons in mainland Europe to continually monitor travel advice as it is changing rapidly.
Mr Macron also announced major support for businesses, including not having to pay taxes and bills, so "not a single French person will be left without resources."
The second round of municipal elections will be suspended and any new reforms going through parliament will be halted from Wednesday, he said.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Mr Macron warned the French people that "movements will be very strongly reduced" for 15 days after chiding them for not complying with earlier measures drawn up to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
Nationwide restrictions are being enforced on how far people can go from their homes, and for what purpose, with transport "heavily reduced" from lunchtime on Tuesday for at least two weeks, Mr Macron said.
He said people will no longer be able to have family get-togethers and "meeting your friends in the park, the street will no longer be possible".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:49 PM gives fresh coronavirus advice
In other coronavirus developments:
More than 179,000 people have been infected worldwide and more than 7,000 have died
Over 78,000 have recovered, most in China
Spain becomes fourth-most infected country after China, Italy and Iran with more than 9,191 cases and 309 deaths
Canada, Norway and Denmark among countries that have announced emergency border closures
Foreign Office advises British nationals against "all but essential travel"
UK residents told to avoid "all necessary contact" with others and to avoid pubs, theatres and restaurants
US implements strict new measures after cases climb to nearly 4,500, with at least 82 deaths
McDonald's, Taco Bell and Starbucks among chains to close seating areas in US
Hong Kong, Greece and New Zealand among countries to quarantine visitors for 14 days
India tightened its borders, while Greenland and Somalia reported first cases
Italy reports jump in infections, up more than 3,000 to 27,980 with 2,158 deaths
Cruise ships stranded in Caribbean, South America and Europe after new border restrictions
Mr Macron has demanded all French companies make it possible for employees to work from home from Tuesday.
He said if anybody does not respect the staying at home rules "sanctions will be imposed", but he did not specify what they would be.
Going further than any other government to protect his country's economy, the president said: "There's not a single company, whatever its size, will go bankrupt, not a single French person will be left without resources."
The state would provide 300 billion euros (£329bn) in loans to companies and is looking into waiving tax payments, he said.
For small companies, he said they will have nothing to pay from a fiscal point of view, with gas, electricity and rent payments to be suspended.
He said partial unemployment benefits will be increased and a solidarity fund will be created by the state, with a suggestion of support from the regions, for "entrepreneurs, artisans, craftsman", Mr Macron added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:10 Dutch queue for cannabis before lockdown
The president also announced widespread support for health professionals, with workers able to use taxis and hotels paid for by the state and their children to be looked after in creches and schools for free.
Masks and hand sanitisers will be provided to every health professional, with the first batch being sent out to pharmacies in the worst-hit regions on Tuesday then other areas on Wednesday.
An army hospital in the Alsace region will also be opened up for coronavirus patients who will be moved there from the most affected regions to relieve hospitals struggling to cope with the volumes.


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: What's your supermarket doing to fight panic buying and shortages?

Supermarkets are taking steps to prevent panic buying and shortages , as many people prepare to self isolate due to the coronavirus .
They are working on plans to cut cafes , counters and other services to enable a depleted workforce to maintain basic provisions , according to industry sources .
Supermarkets have struggled to keep shelves stocked as shoppers panic-buy some items - despite pleas and reassurances .
Many have introduced limits on products , while others have taken steps to help older people .
Find out what your supermarket is doing amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Restrictions mean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ products .
A spokesperson said : `` So that all our customers can find everything they need , we 're limiting purchases of soap , hand wash , tissues , cleaning products , rice , pasta , UHT milk and pain relief to two of each item . ''
The chain has announced that its stores will reduce their hours to between 6am and 10pm .
It is so they can properly restock overnight .
Tesco also has a five-item per person rule in force online and in store for products such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wipes , children 's medicines , water and tinned vegetables .
Responding to disgruntled shoppers unable to buy toilet roll , Tesco tweeted that it was `` working really hard to main availability of those to help customers '' .
It added : `` We have taken a common-sense approach to make sure everyone can assess [ sic ] essentials and have introduced a maximum purchase limit ( 5 per customer ) on a few items .
`` Any other items outside the restriction will be monitored through the store manager 's discretion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The chain is restricting some hand sanitisers to two bottles per person .
Stores across the country are also reported to be reducing opening hours .
Some stores which had been 24 hours are opening from 7am to 10pm or 11pm , according to LancsLive .
The move is said to be so staff have time to restock shelves emptied by shoppers .
The shorter hours will also allow staff to clean the shop while there are no customers present - helping to fight off the coronavirus .
It has also placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ products '' .
The supermarket giant is also creating 3,500 new jobs as it expands its home delivery service to cope with soaring demand .
It is recruiting around 2,500 pickers and drivers and about 1,000 people to work in distribution centres .
The home delivery boost will see it make more slots available to customers , use another 100 stores for shop picking , set up a call centre for people without access to online shopping and launch a new range of simple-to-order food parcels from 23 March .
: : Listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The supermarket introduced restrictions on online purchases when the stockpiling began but the limits were only imposed on certain anti-bacterial soaps and wipes .
On Tuesday afternoon , its website was down , with a message saying it was due to a `` high volume of visitors '' .
The budget retailer has restricted customers to buying only four items of any one product .
It said the amount is `` still significantly more than most customers would buy in a normal shopping trip and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many customers as possible the opportunity to get what they need , every time they visit '' .
The supermarket chain is reportedly introducing prioritised queuing and assistance from 9am to 11am for older customers .
The move is said to have come into force on Tuesday morning .
A branch of Iceland in Belfast is opening for one hour a day exclusively for older people , allowing customers to stock up on food between 8am and 9am when it is less busy .
Other stores may decide to follow suit , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The online supermarket is unable to take on new customers due to a surge in demand .
All visitors to its website are being put in a virtual queue , which on Tuesday was listed as `` about two hours '' , A statement reads on its website : `` Sorry for the wait .
Demand is very high at the moment so you may have to wait a little longer than usual to access the website .
`` We have no new delivery slots for the next few days so please @ @ @ @ @ @ @ edit an imminent order . ''

Supermarkets are taking steps to prevent panic buying and shortages, as many people prepare to self isolate due to the coronavirus.
They are working on plans to cut cafes, counters and other services to enable a depleted workforce to maintain basic provisions, according to industry sources.
Supermarkets have struggled to keep shelves stocked as shoppers panic-buy some items - despite pleas and reassurances.
Many have introduced limits on products, while others have taken steps to help older people.
Find out what your supermarket is doing amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Sainsbury's
Restrictions mean customers can only buy two of certain products.
A spokesperson said: "So that all our customers can find everything they need, we're limiting purchases of soap, hand wash, tissues, cleaning products, rice, pasta, UHT milk and pain relief to two of each item."
Image: Like others, Sainsbury's has introduced restrictions on certain products
Tesco
The chain has announced that its stores will reduce their hours to between 6am and 10pm.
It is so they can properly restock overnight.
Advertisement
Tesco also has a five-item per person rule in force online and in store for products such as dried pasta, long life milk, wipes, children's medicines, water and tinned vegetables.
Responding to disgruntled shoppers unable to buy toilet roll, Tesco tweeted that it was "working really hard to main availability of those to help customers".
Image: Tesco is said to be planning to cut hours at larger stores
It added: "We have taken a common-sense approach to make sure everyone can assess [sic] essentials and have introduced a maximum purchase limit (5 per customer) on a few items.
"Products include: anti-bac gel, wipes, sprays, bleach, dried pasta, UHT milk, tinned veg, kids medications & water.
"Any other items outside the restriction will be monitored through the store manager's discretion to ensure fairness to all customers."
Asda
The chain is restricting some hand sanitisers to two bottles per person.
Stores across the country are also reported to be reducing opening hours.
Some stores which had been 24 hours are opening from 7am to 10pm or 11pm, according to LancsLive.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Shoppers empty shelves at Lidl
The move is said to be so staff have time to restock shelves emptied by shoppers.
The shorter hours will also allow staff to clean the shop while there are no customers present - helping to fight off the coronavirus.
Morrisons
It has also placed a maximum order amount on "essential products".
The supermarket giant is also creating 3,500 new jobs as it expands its home delivery service to cope with soaring demand.
It is recruiting around 2,500 pickers and drivers and about 1,000 people to work in distribution centres.
The home delivery boost will see it make more slots available to customers, use another 100 stores for shop picking, set up a call centre for people without access to online shopping and launch a new range of simple-to-order food parcels from 23 March.
Waitrose
The supermarket introduced restrictions on online purchases when the stockpiling began but the limits were only imposed on certain anti-bacterial soaps and wipes.
On Tuesday afternoon, its website was down, with a message saying it was due to a "high volume of visitors".
Aldi
The budget retailer has restricted customers to buying only four items of any one product.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:57 Coronavirus: What you need to know
It said the amount is "still significantly more than most customers would buy in a normal shopping trip and we hope this temporary restriction will give as many customers as possible the opportunity to get what they need, every time they visit".
Lidl
The supermarket chain is reportedly introducing prioritised queuing and assistance from 9am to 11am for older customers.
The move is said to have come into force on Tuesday morning.
Iceland
A branch of Iceland in Belfast is opening for one hour a day exclusively for older people, allowing customers to stock up on food between 8am and 9am when it is less busy.
Other stores may decide to follow suit, but there is no company-wide policy so far.
Ocado
Image: Ocado customers are being put in a virtual queue
The online supermarket is unable to take on new customers due to a surge in demand.
All visitors to its website are being put in a virtual queue, which on Tuesday was listed as "about two hours",
A statement reads on its website: "Sorry for the wait. Demand is very high at the moment so you may have to wait a little longer than usual to access the website.
"We have no new delivery slots for the next few days so please only wait if you are trying to edit an imminent order."


news--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: How many people have recovered from COVID-19? The numbers explained

More than 79,000 people around the world have recovered from COVID-19 , out of 182,000 confirmed cases of the disease .
The virus has caused or contributed to the deaths of over 7,000 people , while the remaining 96,000 cases are still active .
`` More or less anyone can get this virus , '' says microbiologist Dr Simon Clarke from the University of Reading .
`` And the vast majority of people will have a relatively mild but unpleasant time of it .
`` But those people who get it more seriously , the elderly and people with clinically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well . ''
In the UK at least 52 people are known to have recovered from the disease , according to figures from Public Health England .
However , the true number of people who have recovered from the virus is likely to be higher .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
This is because people who experience mild symptoms , and are able to self-isolate without requiring medical assistance , are no longer being tested for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their illness nor their recovery is included in the official statistics released by authorities .
The Department of Health and Social Care are not currently collecting figures on the number of people self-isolating , or testing all suspected cases , because of resources .
This means it is impossible to say how many other people may already have had and recovered from COVID-19 in the UK .
`` We do n't know what the true infection rate is , '' says Dr Clarke .
`` If we 're effectively underestimating the infection rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of infections . ''
At the moment the total number of official recoveries in the UK is relatively small , as it takes time to recover from the disease and the vast majority of cases were only diagnosed recently .
But the figure should grow significantly over the coming weeks , as happened in China as the country began to to get the outbreak under control .
There , the number of people recovering from the disease eventually grew larger than the number of new cases , and the same should become true @ @ @ @ @ @

More than 79,000 people around the world have recovered from COVID-19, out of 182,000 confirmed cases of the disease.
The virus has caused or contributed to the deaths of over 7,000 people, while the remaining 96,000 cases are still active.
"More or less anyone can get this virus," says microbiologist Dr Simon Clarke from the University of Reading. "And the vast majority of people will have a relatively mild but unpleasant time of it.
"But those people who get it more seriously, the elderly and people with clinically morbidity, most of those will recover as well."
In the UK at least 52 people are known to have recovered from the disease, according to figures from Public Health England.
However, the true number of people who have recovered from the virus is likely to be higher.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
This is because people who experience mild symptoms, and are able to self-isolate without requiring medical assistance, are no longer being tested for the coronavirus.
As a result neither their illness nor their recovery is included in the official statistics released by authorities.
Advertisement
The Department of Health and Social Care are not currently collecting figures on the number of people self-isolating, or testing all suspected cases, because of resources.
This means it is impossible to say how many other people may already have had and recovered from COVID-19 in the UK.
"We don't know what the true infection rate is," says Dr Clarke.
"If we're effectively underestimating the infection rate, then we will overestimate the lethality of infections."
At the moment the total number of official recoveries in the UK is relatively small, as it takes time to recover from the disease and the vast majority of cases were only diagnosed recently.
But the figure should grow significantly over the coming weeks, as happened in China as the country began to to get the outbreak under control.
There, the number of people recovering from the disease eventually grew larger than the number of new cases, and the same should become true in other countries with time.


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Britons advised to avoid all non-essential foreign travel for 30 days

Britons have been advised to avoid all non-essential foreign travel for 30 days as the coronavirus pandemic continues .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the `` fast-changing international circumstances '' of the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus , required changes to the official travel advice .
It comes as the number of confirmed cases in the UK reached 1,950 - up 407 in the last 24 hours - and another 14 people died , taking the figure to 71 .
`` UK travellers abroad now face widespread international border restrictions and lockdowns in various @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Commons .
`` The FCO [ Foreign and Commonwealth Office ] will always consider the safety and the security of British nationals , so with immediate effect I 've taken the decision to advise British nationals against non-essential travel globally for an initial period of 30 days and of course subject to ongoing review . ''
Britons who travel abroad should be `` fully aware of the increased risks of doing so '' , the FCO said .
`` That includes the risk that they may not be able to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place .
`` Anyone still considering travel to be realistic about the level of disruption they are willing and able to endure , and to make decisions in light of the unprecedented conditions we face . ''
At this stage , the FCO is not currently advising all British people abroad to return home , except for a small number of countries already contained in its travel advice .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
`` However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that flights may be cancelled at short notice or other travel restrictions may be put in place by foreign governments , '' the department warned .
The global picture has seen 430 changes to Foreign Office travel advice in the last week - more than in the whole of 2019 .
Mr Raab told MPs : `` This decision has been taken based on the domestic measures introduced in the UK alongside the changes to border and a range of other restrictions which are now being taken right around the world .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures across other countries is unprecedented , some of those decisions are being made without notice .
`` In some countries , even in countries or particular areas where there have n't yet been any reported cases of COVID-19 , local authorities are nonetheless imposing restrictions on movement and again doing so with little or sometimes no notice . ''
The announcement comes after the European Union unveiled plans for a 30-day ban on non-residents entering the bloc , restrictions that are not expected to apply to Britons .
Airlines have cancelled thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the majority of their planes in recent days .
Tim Alderslade , chief executive of trade body Airlines UK , said the Foreign Office 's decision was `` no surprise given recent developments '' but warned it will cause `` yet more uncertainty with demand set to plummet still further '' .
Labour 's Emily Thornberry said Britain had been part of a `` failure of global leadership and co-ordination '' in its response to COVID-19 .
The shadow foreign secretary said changes to Foreign Office travel advice have been `` so slow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ground , adding that consular support has also been `` out of step '' with demand .
She called for clearer guidance from the government on what constitutes essential travel .
Ms Thornberry cited the experience of her constituent Tom , who is one of 65 nationals stuck in Peru , a nation that has closed its borders .
She said : `` Tom 's flight today to Britain is cancelled and his calls to our embassy in Lima have not been answered .
`` And why is that ?
Because the embassy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 days just when its services were needed most .
`` The secretary of state said in his statement that our consular teams are working around the clock to provide the best information to UK nationals , well I 'm afraid that simply is n't the case in Tom 's experience . ''
Ms Thornberry said the government `` can not keep passing the buck to others '' , particularly on repatriation .
She added : `` Why were there no clear protocols already in place on the plans for evacuation and repatriation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as this , and if those protocols were in place , why were they not followed ?
Ms Thornberry concluded : `` When the dust settles on this crisis , as we all hope it eventually will , we will reflect on what has been a chronic failure of global leadership and co-ordination in which our own government has sadly been one of the parties . ''
Mr Raab , in his reply , said : `` Ultimately , the way travel advice is given by the Foreign Office is that the decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual decision .
`` Travellers may have urgent , particularly exceptional business , family or commercial or otherwise , and circumstances differ .
But what we are doing is strongly advising against travel globally . ''
Mr Raab said the government is `` liaising with the tour operators and airlines '' and added : `` Given the volume , we do n't have precise numbers , but the volume of people , British nationals who are abroad , not permanently , not living abroad necessarily , but travelling abroad - to expect that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think would be unrealistic .
`` What we do do is make sure we 're in a position to protect the most vulnerable . ''

Britons have been advised to avoid all non-essential foreign travel for 30 days as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the "fast-changing international circumstances" of the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, required changes to the official travel advice.
It comes as the number of confirmed cases in the UK reached 1,950 - up 407 in the last 24 hours - and another 14 people died, taking the figure to 71.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 Coronavirus: Central London deserted
"UK travellers abroad now face widespread international border restrictions and lockdowns in various countries," Mr Raab told MPs in the Commons.
"The FCO [Foreign and Commonwealth Office] will always consider the safety and the security of British nationals, so with immediate effect I've taken the decision to advise British nationals against non-essential travel globally for an initial period of 30 days and of course subject to ongoing review."
Britons who travel abroad should be "fully aware of the increased risks of doing so", the FCO said.
"That includes the risk that they may not be able to get home, if travel restrictions are put in place.
"Anyone still considering travel to be realistic about the level of disruption they are willing and able to endure, and to make decisions in light of the unprecedented conditions we face."
At this stage, the FCO is not currently advising all British people abroad to return home, except for a small number of countries already contained in its travel advice.
Advertisement
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
"However, British people should keep in mind that flights may be cancelled at short notice or other travel restrictions may be put in place by foreign governments," the department warned.
The global picture has seen 430 changes to Foreign Office travel advice in the last week - more than in the whole of 2019.
Mr Raab told MPs: "This decision has been taken based on the domestic measures introduced in the UK alongside the changes to border and a range of other restrictions which are now being taken right around the world.
"The speed and the range of those measures across other countries is unprecedented, some of those decisions are being made without notice.
"In some countries, even in countries or particular areas where there haven't yet been any reported cases of COVID-19, local authorities are nonetheless imposing restrictions on movement and again doing so with little or sometimes no notice."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:22 Transport for London to reduce service - Khan
The announcement comes after the European Union unveiled plans for a 30-day ban on non-residents entering the bloc, restrictions that are not expected to apply to Britons.
Airlines have cancelled thousands of flights and revealed plans to ground the majority of their planes in recent days.
Tim Alderslade, chief executive of trade body Airlines UK, said the Foreign Office's decision was "no surprise given recent developments" but warned it will cause "yet more uncertainty with demand set to plummet still further".
Labour's Emily Thornberry said Britain had been part of a "failure of global leadership and co-ordination" in its response to COVID-19.
The shadow foreign secretary said changes to Foreign Office travel advice have been "so slow" to match the situation on the ground, adding that consular support has also been "out of step" with demand.
She called for clearer guidance from the government on what constitutes essential travel.
Ms Thornberry cited the experience of her constituent Tom, who is one of 65 nationals stuck in Peru, a nation that has closed its borders.
She said: "Tom's flight today to Britain is cancelled and his calls to our embassy in Lima have not been answered.
"And why is that? Because the embassy itself has decided to close down for 15 days just when its services were needed most.
"The secretary of state said in his statement that our consular teams are working around the clock to provide the best information to UK nationals, well I'm afraid that simply isn't the case in Tom's experience."
Ms Thornberry said the government "cannot keep passing the buck to others", particularly on repatriation.
She added: "Why were there no clear protocols already in place on the plans for evacuation and repatriation on the event of an outbreak such as this, and if those protocols were in place, why were they not followed?
Ms Thornberry concluded: "When the dust settles on this crisis, as we all hope it eventually will, we will reflect on what has been a chronic failure of global leadership and co-ordination in which our own government has sadly been one of the parties."
Mr Raab, in his reply, said: "Ultimately, the way travel advice is given by the Foreign Office is that the decision on whether to travel nonetheless remains an individual decision.
"Travellers may have urgent, particularly exceptional business, family or commercial or otherwise, and circumstances differ. But what we are doing is strongly advising against travel globally."
Mr Raab said the government is "liaising with the tour operators and airlines" and added: "Given the volume, we don't have precise numbers, but the volume of people, British nationals who are abroad, not permanently, not living abroad necessarily, but travelling abroad - to expect that the government can repatriate them all I think would be unrealistic.
"What we do do is make sure we're in a position to protect the most vulnerable."


news--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Son finds way around lockdown to talk to elderly dad

A man has beaten the coronavirus lockdown at his elderly father 's care home in a touching moment that has gone viral .
A picture of the two chatting on the phone while separated by the US facility 's window has been shared more than 700,000 times after being posted online by a member of staff .
Care worker Sandy Hamiliton was on shift when she witnessed the moment between the father who lives at the home in Minnesota and his son , who visits every day .
The elderly man is seen sitting in an armchair inside his room @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - as they spoke on the phone to one another .
She posted it to Facebook , saying : `` My assisted living is on lockdown so he comes every day to see his dad and they talk through the phone , sweetest thing ever . ''
Sandy said she got consent to share the photo on social media , which has also been liked more than 120,000 times and commented on 17,000 times .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Espinosa wrote : `` Just beautiful !
!
!
What a good son !
example to all .
Pure Love . ''
Lisa Davenport called it `` memories that can never be taken away from you .
Precious !
Love this ! ''
Kortni Evans described it as `` the best thing I ever saw in my life ... awww seriously tearing up I 'm pathetic . ''
The number of US cases has risen to nearly 4,500 , with at least 82 deaths .
Overnight , US president Donald Trump urged people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as he struck a sombre note in his latest televised news conference .
• Globally more than 182,000 are infected and over 7,000 have died • 55 people in the UK have died after contracting COVID-19 • French President Emmanuel Macron has announced Europe 's borders will close at lunchtime for 30 days • Virgin Atlantic has asked staff to take unpaid leave for eight weeks due to the pandemic • Actor Idris Elba says he has tested positive for COVID-19

A man has beaten the coronavirus lockdown at his elderly father's care home in a touching moment that has gone viral.
A picture of the two chatting on the phone while separated by the US facility's window has been shared more than 700,000 times after being posted online by a member of staff.
Care worker Sandy Hamiliton was on shift when she witnessed the moment between the father who lives at the home in Minnesota and his son, who visits every day.
The elderly man is seen sitting in an armchair inside his room while his son sits outside the window - as they spoke on the phone to one another.
She posted it to Facebook, saying: "My assisted living is on lockdown so he comes every day to see his dad and they talk through the phone, sweetest thing ever."
Sandy said she got consent to share the photo on social media, which has also been liked more than 120,000 times and commented on 17,000 times.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Social media user Elizabeth Espinosa wrote: "Just beautiful!!! What a good son! example to all. Pure Love."
Lisa Davenport called it "memories that can never be taken away from you. Precious! Love this!"
Advertisement
Kortni Evans described it as "the best thing I ever saw in my life... awww seriously tearing up I'm pathetic."
The number of US cases has risen to nearly 4,500, with at least 82 deaths.
Overnight, US president Donald Trump urged people to avoid gatherings of more than 10, as he struck a sombre note in his latest televised news conference.
In other coronavirus developments: