news--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Got a summer holiday booked? Prepare to fight for your money

Britons with summer holidays booked have been warned they face a `` fight for their money '' as the disruption from the coronavirus pandemic continues .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has warned people it is `` unlikely '' they will be able to take a foreign holiday this summer because of COVID-19 .
And the Foreign Office continues to advise against `` all but essential '' international travel during the coronavirus outbreak .
Rory Boland , editor of Which ?
Travel , has told Sky News the current situation concerning foreign travel from the UK is `` chaotic '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the government against travelling abroad is indefinite , yet some airlines and travel companies are selling flights and holidays due to depart within the next few weeks , with no warning that they are unlikely to go ahead .
`` Even if these flights and holidays are eventually cancelled , customers still face a fight for their money as the number of refund requests being denied or delayed by airlines and holiday companies continues to pile up .
`` The FCO warning against travel must be extended to a definitive date to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when travel will be allowed again , and the aviation regulator and government must stand up for passengers ' rights and start taking action against any airlines that are flouting the law around refunds . ''
So what should you do if you are due to head off on a trip in the coming months ?
Sky News takes a look at the options available to you .
I am due to be going away this summer , should I try and cancel my trip ?
The advice from consumer group Which ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the holiday company or airline to do so , which will entitle you to a full refund .
Companies wo n't send you on holiday while the FCO advice remains in force .
ABTA , the UK travel trade association for tour operators and travel agents , says on its website : `` Our advice to customers with future bookings is to be patient and wait to be contacted by your travel provider .
`` Travel companies are extremely busy , given the pressures of the current crisis , and will be looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far in advance they will offer alternative arrangements or refunds . ''
I have booked a package holiday , what can I do ?
When you are contacted by your travel company , ABTA `` strongly encourages '' you to talk to them about potential alternative arrangements , like rearranging the trip to a later date .
If this is not possible , you are entitled to a refund if you booked a package holiday .
Usually , this would be processed within 14 days .
But the ABTA says many travel companies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process refunds within this timeframe and warn that it may take longer .
You may find it quicker to apply for a refund under your travel insurance policy , if you have one .
Another potential option is for your travel company to offer you a Refund Credit Note ( RCN ) instead of a cash refund .
According to Which ?
, many companies are using these because of fears they could go out of business if they have to refund all their customers .
This can be used to rearrange your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also entitles you to a cash refund at a later date as well .
ABTA says it has the same financial protection as your original booking , although the government has yet to confirm this .
Make sure to check its expiration date , as once this passes you can no longer rearrange your trip or apply for a cash refund .
Research from Which ?
has found that vouchers and RCNs being offered to holidaymakers instead of cash refunds may not be financially protected .
If people accepted them , this would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back if the company later went bust .
The advice from Which ?
is to reject them .
Steve Bax and his wife Kim were looking forward to a two-week break in the Dominican Republic in August before the coronavirus outbreak occurred .
Having paid the initial deposit of £1,600 , they now have to pay the remaining £6,600 cost of their trip next week .
The family , from Walton-on-Thames in Surrey , recently looked at moving the holiday to next August but were quoted an extra £1,700 to shift the date @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three , told Sky News : `` It looks like the only thing we can really do is pay the full amount and either hope that we get the holiday or we can get a full refund .
The 46-year-old added : `` It 's a bit like in order to avoid losing £1,600 , I 've got to hand over £6,000 of my own money .
`` It 's disappointing for the children as well , they were looking forward to it .
`` It would have been good to have something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A Tui spokesperson told Sky News : `` Our holidays departing after 12 June 2020 are currently due to operate as planned , so we ask all customers to make their balance payments as normal .
`` We appreciate that customers may be feeling apprehensive about paying their final balance , so we 'd like to reassure them that all of our package holidays are ATOL protected , so they can pay the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should their holiday be cancelled at a later date , they will have the option to receive a refund credit or cash refund .
`` We have extended our flexible amends programme so customers with bookings between 12 June and 11 July can amend to another date for free .
`` We 're continually reviewing and updating our cancellation and amend policies in line with government guidelines . ''
Can I get a refund for the flights that I have booked ?
If the airline is based in the UK or EU , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or EU airport , they have to offer you the option of a refund or being rerouted if they cancel your flight .
It does not matter what the reason for the cancellation is , or how far in advance it happens .
The refund has to be processed within seven days .
Outside of the EU , the picture is less clear .
It will depend on the airline you have booked with or the terms and conditions of your travel agent .
Are all airlines offering refunds for cancelled flights ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it difficult to claim , with many people struggling to get through on the phone or online , while others are refusing refunds altogether .
Many are offering vouchers for future travel .
People are advised to keep trying or claim through your credit or debit card provider .
My flight has n't been cancelled , what should I do ?
You could wait and see what your airline does , they may opt to cancel further flights as the lockdown and FCO advice remains in force .
If that happens , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can rebook it for a later date if that is workable .
However , there is no guarantee that the situation with COVID-19 will have markedly changed .
It is worth checking with the hotel to see what their situation is , as it will vary from chain to chain , Which ?
says .
Some will have introduced new cancellation and rebooking policies because of the coronavirus .
I 've booked a ferry trip this summer , what should I do ?
If your ferry service gets cancelled , the firm is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journey or a full refund , Which ?
says .
But like with many other travel companies , some operators are issuing credit notices instead .
`` For journeys in late June and beyond , hold off on cancelling or amending your booking for now , as the official advice may change closer to the time of your booking , '' Which ?
advice adds .
Is my cruise still going ahead ?
Probably , Which ?
says .
If you are not comfortable with going , you can ask for a refund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will get one .
Some companies will let you postpone the voyage for anywhere up to two years .
If you want a refund , the advisable course of action is to wait and see , but make sure you know what your rights are if the cruise is cancelled .
These can vary depending on how you booked the cruise , Which ?
notes .

Britons with summer holidays booked have been warned they face a "fight for their money" as the disruption from the coronavirus pandemic continues.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has warned people it is "unlikely" they will be able to take a foreign holiday this summer because of COVID-19.
And the Foreign Office continues to advise against "all but essential" international travel during the coronavirus outbreak.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:07 Travellers to UK expected to face quarantine
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, has told Sky News the current situation concerning foreign travel from the UK is "chaotic".
He said: "The guidance issued by the government against travelling abroad is indefinite, yet some airlines and travel companies are selling flights and holidays due to depart within the next few weeks, with no warning that they are unlikely to go ahead.
"Even if these flights and holidays are eventually cancelled, customers still face a fight for their money as the number of refund requests being denied or delayed by airlines and holiday companies continues to pile up.
"The FCO warning against travel must be extended to a definitive date to give consumers and businesses more clarity on when travel will be allowed again, and the aviation regulator and government must stand up for passengers' rights and start taking action against any airlines that are flouting the law around refunds."
So what should you do if you are due to head off on a trip in the coming months?
Sky News takes a look at the options available to you.
Advertisement
Image: The advice is to be patient and wait to be contacted by your travel provider
I am due to be going away this summer, should I try and cancel my trip?
The advice from consumer group Which? is no.
You should wait for the holiday company or airline to do so, which will entitle you to a full refund.
Companies won't send you on holiday while the FCO advice remains in force.
ABTA, the UK travel trade association for tour operators and travel agents, says on its website: "Our advice to customers with future bookings is to be patient and wait to be contacted by your travel provider.
"Travel companies are extremely busy, given the pressures of the current crisis, and will be looking at imminent departures first and deciding how far in advance they will offer alternative arrangements or refunds."
I have booked a package holiday, what can I do?
When you are contacted by your travel company, ABTA "strongly encourages" you to talk to them about potential alternative arrangements, like rearranging the trip to a later date.
If this is not possible, you are entitled to a refund if you booked a package holiday.
Usually, this would be processed within 14 days. But the ABTA says many travel companies are finding it "impossible" to process refunds within this timeframe and warn that it may take longer.
You may find it quicker to apply for a refund under your travel insurance policy, if you have one.
Another potential option is for your travel company to offer you a Refund Credit Note (RCN) instead of a cash refund.
According to Which?, many companies are using these because of fears they could go out of business if they have to refund all their customers.
This can be used to rearrange your holiday at a later date, but also entitles you to a cash refund at a later date as well.
ABTA says it has the same financial protection as your original booking, although the government has yet to confirm this.
Make sure to check its expiration date, as once this passes you can no longer rearrange your trip or apply for a cash refund.
Image: Empty chairs and tables at a beach restaurant closed due to the coronavirus lockdown in El Rompido, Spain
Should I accept a voucher or credit note?
Research from Which? has found that vouchers and RCNs being offered to holidaymakers instead of cash refunds may not be financially protected.
If people accepted them, this would mean they may not get their money back if the company later went bust.
The advice from Which? is to reject them.
Image: Steve with his wife Kim and children George, Lewis and Harry
Case study: "It's a really tricky dilemma"
Steve Bax and his wife Kim were looking forward to a two-week break in the Dominican Republic in August before the coronavirus outbreak occurred.
Having paid the initial deposit of £1,600, they now have to pay the remaining £6,600 cost of their trip next week.
The family, from Walton-on-Thames in Surrey, recently looked at moving the holiday to next August but were quoted an extra £1,700 to shift the date.
Mr Bax, a father of three, told Sky News: "It looks like the only thing we can really do is pay the full amount and either hope that we get the holiday or we can get a full refund.
"It's a really tricky dilemma."
The 46-year-old added: "It's a bit like in order to avoid losing £1,600, I've got to hand over £6,000 of my own money.
"It's disappointing for the children as well, they were looking forward to it.
"It would have been good to have something to look forward to with the lockdown situation."
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
A Tui spokesperson told Sky News: "Our holidays departing after 12 June 2020 are currently due to operate as planned, so we ask all customers to make their balance payments as normal.
"We appreciate that customers may be feeling apprehensive about paying their final balance, so we'd like to reassure them that all of our package holidays are ATOL protected, so they can pay the balance with confidence.
"And, should their holiday be cancelled at a later date, they will have the option to receive a refund credit or cash refund.
"We have extended our flexible amends programme so customers with bookings between 12 June and 11 July can amend to another date for free.
"We're continually reviewing and updating our cancellation and amend policies in line with government guidelines."
Image: If the airline is based in the UK or EU, or you are flying from a UK or EU airport, you can get a refund if your flight is cancelled
Can I get a refund for the flights that I have booked?
If the airline is based in the UK or EU, or you are flying from a UK or EU airport, they have to offer you the option of a refund or being rerouted if they cancel your flight.
It does not matter what the reason for the cancellation is, or how far in advance it happens.
The refund has to be processed within seven days.
Outside of the EU, the picture is less clear. It will depend on the airline you have booked with or the terms and conditions of your travel agent.
Are all airlines offering refunds for cancelled flights?
The picture is mixed.
Which? reports that some are making it difficult to claim, with many people struggling to get through on the phone or online, while others are refusing refunds altogether.
Many are offering vouchers for future travel.
People are advised to keep trying or claim through your credit or debit card provider.
Image: An empty beach in Benidorm
My flight hasn't been cancelled, what should I do?
You could wait and see what your airline does, they may opt to cancel further flights as the lockdown and FCO advice remains in force.
If that happens, you can claim a refund.
Or you can rebook it for a later date if that is workable.
However, there is no guarantee that the situation with COVID-19 will have markedly changed.
What's the situation with hotels?
It is worth checking with the hotel to see what their situation is, as it will vary from chain to chain, Which? says.
Some will have introduced new cancellation and rebooking policies because of the coronavirus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 Confusion over holiday refunds for consumers
I've booked a ferry trip this summer, what should I do?
If your ferry service gets cancelled, the firm is required to offer you either an alternative journey or a full refund, Which? says.
But like with many other travel companies, some operators are issuing credit notices instead.
"For journeys in late June and beyond, hold off on cancelling or amending your booking for now, as the official advice may change closer to the time of your booking," Which? advice adds.
Is my cruise still going ahead?
Probably, Which? says.
If you are not comfortable with going, you can ask for a refund, but there is no guarantee you will get one.
Some companies will let you postpone the voyage for anywhere up to two years.
If you want a refund, the advisable course of action is to wait and see, but make sure you know what your rights are if the cruise is cancelled.
These can vary depending on how you booked the cruise, Which? notes.


news--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: 'Lunatic' Donald Trump 'doesn't care how many die', Robert De Niro says

Donald Trump is a `` lunatic '' who `` does n't care how many people die '' from coronavirus , actor Robert De Niro has said .
The Hollywood star , a long-time critic of the president , told Newsnight it was `` Shakespearean , the whole thing , you 've got a lunatic people are trying to dance around '' .
He went on : `` They 're doing it in the [ Senate ] hearings a little more , trying to say tactfully that this is what will happen , Fauci is doing that ... it 's appalling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re-elected .
He does n't care how many people die . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The US has more than 1.3 million coronavirus cases and over 83,000 deaths , more than any other country , according to Johns Hopkins University , which is tracking the illness .
Asked whether Mr Trump 's base would vote for him anyway , the actor said those supporters were `` deluding themselves '' by believing Mr Trump cared about them .
`` He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the people he pretends to care about are the people he has the most disdain for , '' he added .
New York , where the two-time Oscar winner , 76 , is from , has been the epicentre of the US outbreak , but in contrast to his views on Mr Trump , De Niro heaped praise on New York governor Andrew Cuomo .
He , the actor said , `` has done a great job ... he 's done what Trump should have done but he does n't have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He even said he would like to play Mr Cuomo in a movie about the pandemic .
The city , he said , `` is kind of like a ghost town ... it 's surreal ... then you see other parts of the world , other great big cities of the world , are also in the same situation '' .
`` It 's interesting , it 's kind of like a science fiction movie but it 's real , '' he said .
De Niro has been a frequent critic of Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entered the Oval Office in 2017 .
After the actor yelled `` f*** Trump '' at the Tony Awards in 2018 , the president responded on Twitter .
He said : `` Robert De Niro , a very Low IQ individual , has received too many shots to the head by real boxers in movies .
I watched him last night and truly believe he may be 'punch-drunk ' . ''
Mr Trump has been widely criticised for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic , having made it clear he is keen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having the public return to work as soon as possible .
Dr Anthony Fauci , America 's top leading infectious diseases expert , told a Senate hearing this week that rushing to reopen businesses and schools could have dire consequences .

Donald Trump is a "lunatic" who "doesn't care how many people die" from coronavirus, actor Robert De Niro has said.
The Hollywood star, a long-time critic of the president, told Newsnight it was "Shakespearean, the whole thing, you've got a lunatic people are trying to dance around".
He went on: "They're doing it in the [Senate] hearings a little more, trying to say tactfully that this is what will happen, Fauci is doing that... it's appalling. [Trump] wants to be re-elected. He doesn't care how many people die."
Image: Donald Trump has been widely criticised for his handling of the pandemic
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The US has more than 1.3 million coronavirus cases and over 83,000 deaths, more than any other country, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the illness.
Asked whether Mr Trump's base would vote for him anyway, the actor said those supporters were "deluding themselves" by believing Mr Trump cared about them.
"He doesn't care for those people, and the people he pretends to care about are the people he has the most disdain for," he added.
New York, where the two-time Oscar winner, 76, is from, has been the epicentre of the US outbreak, but in contrast to his views on Mr Trump, De Niro heaped praise on New York governor Andrew Cuomo.
He, the actor said, "has done a great job... he's done what Trump should have done but he doesn't have a clue how to do that".
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He even said he would like to play Mr Cuomo in a movie about the pandemic.
The city, he said, "is kind of like a ghost town... it's surreal... then you see other parts of the world, other great big cities of the world, are also in the same situation".
"It's interesting, it's kind of like a science fiction movie but it's real," he said.
De Niro has been a frequent critic of Mr Trump since the former reality TV star entered the Oval Office in 2017.
After the actor yelled "f*** Trump" at the Tony Awards in 2018, the president responded on Twitter.
He said: "Robert De Niro, a very Low IQ individual, has received too many shots to the head by real boxers in movies. I watched him last night and truly believe he may be 'punch-drunk'."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:32 Pompeo wears stars and stripes mask
Mr Trump has been widely criticised for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, having made it clear he is keen to get the US economy moving again by having the public return to work as soon as possible.
Dr Anthony Fauci, America's top leading infectious diseases expert, told a Senate hearing this week that rushing to reopen businesses and schools could have dire consequences.


news--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Comparing death tolls 'premature', says PM as he dumps international chart from daily b

Coronavirus: Comparing death tolls 'premature', says PM as he dumps international chart from daily briefings after seven weeks

Boris Johnson says death tolls in countries around the world are no longer being released by Downing Street because it is `` premature '' to compare them .
The prime minister was under pressure to explain why the data published at Number 10 coronavirus briefings since 30 March was pulled on Monday .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer challenged him to defend the move after the UK became the country with the highest death toll in Europe and second highest in the world , with at least 33,000 fatalities from COVID-19 .
Mr Johnson said : `` He seeks to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm advised are premature because the correct and final way of making these comparisons will be when we have all the excess death totals for all the relevant countries .
`` We do not yet have that data .
`` I 'm not going to try to pretend to the house that the figures when they are finally confirmed are anything other than stark and deeply , deeply horrifying .
This has been an appalling epidemic .
`` What I can tell the house is that we are getting those numbers down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down , the number of hospital admissions is down . ''
Brandishing a copy of last week 's slide showing the UK 's death toll on a graph along with other countries including the US , Italy , France , Spain , Sweden , Germany and South Korea , Sir Keir said he was `` baffled '' at the prime minister 's answer .
`` It 's not me seeking to draw the comparisons , these are the government slides that have been used for seven weeks to reassure the public .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answer is it 's pretty obvious for seven weeks when we were n't the highest number in Europe they were used for comparison purposes , as soon as we hit that unenviable place they 've been dropped . ''
He added : `` Dropping the comparisons means dropping the learning - that 's the real risk . ''
A Downing Street spokesperson confirmed the prime minister thought there would be a `` time to draw comparisons but now was n't it '' .
They added the `` format and content '' of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throughout this process '' .
Dr Jenny Harries , England 's deputy chief medical officer , said at Wednesday 's news conference `` there is no reason why the death data ca n't be produced here '' .
`` The time to do this on an international scale will be to look back - probably 12 months hence still and then do the comparison , '' she added .
`` It 's always good to keep looking on the way to see if you can learn and we do that . ''

Boris Johnson says death tolls in countries around the world are no longer being released by Downing Street because it is "premature" to compare them.
The prime minister was under pressure to explain why the data published at Number 10 coronavirus briefings since 30 March was pulled on Monday.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer challenged him to defend the move after the UK became the country with the highest death toll in Europe and second highest in the world, with at least 33,000 fatalities from COVID-19.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:20 PM pressed over 10,000 'unexplained deaths'
Mr Johnson said: "He seeks to make comparisons with other countries, which I'm advised are premature because the correct and final way of making these comparisons will be when we have all the excess death totals for all the relevant countries.
"We do not yet have that data.
"I'm not going to try to pretend to the house that the figures when they are finally confirmed are anything other than stark and deeply, deeply horrifying. This has been an appalling epidemic.
"What I can tell the house is that we are getting those numbers down, the number of deaths are coming down, the number of hospital admissions is down."
Brandishing a copy of last week's slide showing the UK's death toll on a graph along with other countries including the US, Italy, France, Spain, Sweden, Germany and South Korea, Sir Keir said he was "baffled" at the prime minister's answer.
"It's not me seeking to draw the comparisons, these are the government slides that have been used for seven weeks to reassure the public.
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"The problem with the prime minister's answer is it's pretty obvious for seven weeks when we weren't the highest number in Europe they were used for comparison purposes, as soon as we hit that unenviable place they've been dropped."
He added: "Dropping the comparisons means dropping the learning - that's the real risk."
A Downing Street spokesperson confirmed the prime minister thought there would be a "time to draw comparisons but now wasn't it".
They added the "format and content" of the Downing Street briefings has been changed "throughout this process".
Dr Jenny Harries, England's deputy chief medical officer, said at Wednesday's news conference "there is no reason why the death data can't be produced here".
"The time to do this on an international scale will be to look back - probably 12 months hence still and then do the comparison," she added.
"It's always good to keep looking on the way to see if you can learn and we do that."


news--2020-05-13--Coronavirus: Uber passengers and drivers will have to wear face masks from Monday

Uber passengers will be required to wear face masks and travel in groups of less than four from Monday .
The company said everyone using its ride-hailing service in the US , Canada , Mexico , Europe and most Latin American and Asian countries will be expected to wear some form of face covering .
The fasce masks rule will also apply to the company 's drivers and delivery workers .
The measures have been put in place as many countries begin to ease restrictions aimed at curbing the coronavirus outbreak .
All passengers will be required to sit in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed on standard Uber rides will be reduced to three from four .
Uber will release updates to its driver and rider app to inform users about the changes , executives said on Wednesday .
Those who repeatedly fail to adhere to the company 's new rules could have their account deactivated .
Drivers will be required to take a selfie with a mask before starting work each day and verify that they do not exhibit any coronavirus symptoms .
They will also have to confirm that they have sanitised their vehicles and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journeys .
Uber 's senior director of product management Sachin Kansal said the company was also looking at adding selfie verifications for customers .
He added that Uber has acquired more than 20 million face masks and distributed around five million of them to date .
According to Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi , the company has allocated more than $ 50m ( £40m ) to buy masks and sanitisers for drivers .
Uber and its smaller US rival Lyft have faced criticism from driver advocacy groups for placing the burden on drivers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last week , Lyft announced it would require drivers and riders to wear face coverings .
When asked whether Uber would provide financial assistance to drivers in need of cleaning supplies Mr Kansal did not give a direct answer , instead saying the company 's thinking was `` constantly evolving '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He also said that drivers were free to pay to install plastic division sheets in their cars .
Meanwhile , Chinese ride-sharing company Didi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cars to protect workers and customers .
Uber announced last week that it has seen a gradual increase in ridership in May from pandemic-induced lows in April .

Uber passengers will be required to wear face masks and travel in groups of less than four from Monday.
The company said everyone using its ride-hailing service in the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe and most Latin American and Asian countries will be expected to wear some form of face covering.
The fasce masks rule will also apply to the company's drivers and delivery workers.
The measures have been put in place as many countries begin to ease restrictions aimed at curbing the coronavirus outbreak.
All passengers will be required to sit in the back and the number of passengers allowed on standard Uber rides will be reduced to three from four.
Uber will release updates to its driver and rider app to inform users about the changes, executives said on Wednesday.
Those who repeatedly fail to adhere to the company's new rules could have their account deactivated.
Drivers will be required to take a selfie with a mask before starting work each day and verify that they do not exhibit any coronavirus symptoms.
They will also have to confirm that they have sanitised their vehicles and agree to roll down windows during car journeys.
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Uber's senior director of product management Sachin Kansal said the company was also looking at adding selfie verifications for customers.
He added that Uber has acquired more than 20 million face masks and distributed around five million of them to date.
According to Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi, the company has allocated more than $50m (£40m) to buy masks and sanitisers for drivers.
Uber and its smaller US rival Lyft have faced criticism from driver advocacy groups for placing the burden on drivers to buy disinfectants and ensure safety.
Last week, Lyft announced it would require drivers and riders to wear face coverings.
When asked whether Uber would provide financial assistance to drivers in need of cleaning supplies Mr Kansal did not give a direct answer, instead saying the company's thinking was "constantly evolving".
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 also said that drivers were free to pay to install plastic division sheets in their cars.
Meanwhile, Chinese ride-sharing company Didi is paying to install plastic barriers in cars to protect workers and customers.
Uber announced last week that it has seen a gradual increase in ridership in May from pandemic-induced lows in April.


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: PC gamers asked to donate GPU time for research

PC gamers are being asked to donate some of their computing power to an international effort researching diseases including the novel coronavirus , as well as cancer and Alzheimer 's .
There have now been more than 156,000 confirmed cases globally as the coronavirus continues to spread , with over 5,800 confirmed deaths following COVID-19 diagnoses .
In addition to trying not to transmit the virus by regularly washing their hands and self-isolating if they show any symptoms , PC gamers can also contribute to cutting-edge research .
Simply by installing software which runs in the background of their computer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other activities , the gamers could be helping develop a treatment for the virus .
The Folding @ home ( F @ h ) project is a distributed computing research programme which uses the idle resources of thousands of volunteers ' personal computers to simulate the molecular dynamics of protein folding .
Some of the most powerful equipment which normal people have to hand are graphics processing units ( GPUs ) , a particular kind of computer chip designed for gaming .
GPUs are capable of performing a lot of simple mathematical operations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operations needed to simulate the complex environment inside human cells .
The simulations are necessary because protein folding is one of the most complicated areas in biology .
The molecules fold into three-dimensional structures which determine chemical reactions in human cells , and by extension and in aggregate , therefore the whole human body .
Even though scientists have sequenced the entire human genome , which is the blueprint for all of the proteins in the human body , the sequence itself does n't explain how proteins take on a particular shape and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enzyme or an antibody .
The Folding @ home project , based in the Pande Lab at Stanford University , and led by Dr Greg Bowman , is investigating the implications of what happens when this folding goes wrong in diseases ranging from cancer and diabetes to Alzheimer 's , and now COVID-19 .
In the case of Alzheimer 's disease , when proteins misfold then they can clump together and collect in the brain , from where they are believed to cause the symptoms of the disease .
Some of the computations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include simulating the different ways in which the proteins can fold , potentially revealing key structural information about them which new medicines can treat .
Proteins are also essential to the functioning of many viruses , including Ebola and the Zika virus .
The researchers are aiming to examine how specific proteins in the coronavirus would be disrupted , potentially preventing the virus from replicating within the human body .
Contributing is n't limited to those with powerful PCs either , according to a community announcement shared with gamers on a Reddit forum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hardware they possess , has a chance to help the research for , and , perhaps , make a big difference in the life of other people , '' the post said .
`` Who knows if we ourselves , or our children wo n't benefit from these researches ?
Every little bit can help !
It 's effectively making it so scientists get faster access to information . ''

PC gamers are being asked to donate some of their computing power to an international effort researching diseases including the novel coronavirus, as well as cancer and Alzheimer's.
There have now been more than 156,000 confirmed cases globally as the coronavirus continues to spread, with over 5,800 confirmed deaths following COVID-19 diagnoses.
In addition to trying not to transmit the virus by regularly washing their hands and self-isolating if they show any symptoms, PC gamers can also contribute to cutting-edge research.
Simply by installing software which runs in the background of their computer while they continue to use it for other activities, the gamers could be helping develop a treatment for the virus.
The Folding@home (F@h) project is a distributed computing research programme which uses the idle resources of thousands of volunteers' personal computers to simulate the molecular dynamics of protein folding.
Some of the most powerful equipment which normal people have to hand are graphics processing units (GPUs), a particular kind of computer chip designed for gaming.
GPUs are capable of performing a lot of simple mathematical operations very quickly, such as the many operations needed to simulate the complex environment inside human cells.
The simulations are necessary because protein folding is one of the most complicated areas in biology. The molecules fold into three-dimensional structures which determine chemical reactions in human cells, and by extension and in aggregate, therefore the whole human body.
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Even though scientists have sequenced the entire human genome, which is the blueprint for all of the proteins in the human body, the sequence itself doesn't explain how proteins take on a particular shape and perform their functions, whether as an enzyme or an antibody.
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The Folding@home project, based in the Pande Lab at Stanford University, and led by Dr Greg Bowman, is investigating the implications of what happens when this folding goes wrong in diseases ranging from cancer and diabetes to Alzheimer's, and now COVID-19.
In the case of Alzheimer's disease, when proteins misfold then they can clump together and collect in the brain, from where they are believed to cause the symptoms of the disease.
Some of the computations which gaming GPUs will be working on include simulating the different ways in which the proteins can fold, potentially revealing key structural information about them which new medicines can treat.
Proteins are also essential to the functioning of many viruses, including Ebola and the Zika virus.
The researchers are aiming to examine how specific proteins in the coronavirus would be disrupted, potentially preventing the virus from replicating within the human body.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:04 This is what happens during lockdown
Contributing isn't limited to those with powerful PCs either, according to a community announcement shared with gamers on a Reddit forum.
"Everyone, no matter the hardware they possess, has a chance to help the research for, and, perhaps, make a big difference in the life of other people," the post said.
"Who knows if we ourselves, or our children won't benefit from these researches? Every little bit can help! It's effectively making it so scientists get faster access to information."


news--2020-03-14--Coronavirus face masks: Dark web drug dealers rush to meet demand

Cyber criminals are now selling potentially counterfeit surgical face masks on dark web marketplaces in a rush to exploit the supply shortage resulting from the outbreak in China .
The face mask listings were detected by risk management company Digital Shadows on English-language marketplace Empire , which is known for selling illegal drugs and hacking equipment .
Pictures featured in the listings show plain masks without the advanced respirators capable of filtering small virus particles , although it is n't clear whether these images are legitimate .
The disease caused by the coronavirus , COVID-19 , has now infected more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for normal surgical face masks despite the lack of evidence they prevent transmission .
Digital Shadows identified a number of criminal enterprises attempting to exploit this demand , including on dark web marketplaces which are specifically referencing COVID-19 to market their goods .
One listing offers to sell boxes of 2,000 surgical face masks for $ 6,500 ( £5,300 ) each , pricing an individual mask at $ 3.25 ( £2.65 ) .
Another supplier based in Ukraine claimed to be able to manufacture 200,000 masks every two to three weeks - rates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the masks themselves .
`` Vendors like these typically engage in the sale of illicit drugs , but have clearly seen a market opportunity to branch out into medical equipment , '' the company reported .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Even away from the dark web , Digital Shadows found hundreds of websites had been registered and set-up on the open web within the past few weeks offering heavily discounted face masks .
There is a huge risk that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some cases the masks potentially do n't even exist at all - and once enough consumers have handed over their money , the website will simply disappear .
According to the UK 's national fraud intelligence bureau , British people have been swindled out of more than £800,000 by attempting to buy masks from fake sellers .
Cyber criminal gangs are also targeting healthcare professionals with phishing emails about `` coronavirus awareness '' - part of a wave of scams capitalising on the pandemic .
Sky News has seen a copy of an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthcare organisations that pretends to be from each firm 's internal IT team .
The email - which has the subject `` ALL STAFF : CORONA VIRUS AWARENESS '' - tells employees that `` the institution is currently organising a seminar for all staff to talk about this deadly virus '' , asking them to click on a link to register .
The link takes anyone clicking on it to a third-party website disguised as an Outlook web app .
Anyone who fills in that form ends up giving their details to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about phishing campaigns using COVID-19 as a lure .
It said : `` Health organisations such as the WHO and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) have been prime targets for impersonation due to their perceived authority . ''
`` Attackers have been observed tempting victims with URLs or document downloads using promises of important safety documentation or infection maps , '' the company added , noting that the topic had been a popular discussion point on cyber crime forums .

Cyber criminals are now selling potentially counterfeit surgical face masks on dark web marketplaces in a rush to exploit the supply shortage resulting from the outbreak in China.
The face mask listings were detected by risk management company Digital Shadows on English-language marketplace Empire, which is known for selling illegal drugs and hacking equipment.
Pictures featured in the listings show plain masks without the advanced respirators capable of filtering small virus particles, although it isn't clear whether these images are legitimate.
Image: Coronavirus masks listed for sale on the dark web. Pic: Digital Shadows
The disease caused by the coronavirus, COVID-19, has now infected more than 156,000 people worldwide, driving demand for normal surgical face masks despite the lack of evidence they prevent transmission.
Digital Shadows identified a number of criminal enterprises attempting to exploit this demand, including on dark web marketplaces which are specifically referencing COVID-19 to market their goods.
One listing offers to sell boxes of 2,000 surgical face masks for $6,500 (£5,300) each, pricing an individual mask at $3.25 (£2.65).
Another supplier based in Ukraine claimed to be able to manufacture 200,000 masks every two to three weeks - rates that would almost certainly impact the quality of the masks themselves.
"Vendors like these typically engage in the sale of illicit drugs, but have clearly seen a market opportunity to branch out into medical equipment," the company reported.
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
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Even away from the dark web, Digital Shadows found hundreds of websites had been registered and set-up on the open web within the past few weeks offering heavily discounted face masks.
There is a huge risk that these products are counterfeit, but in some cases the masks potentially don't even exist at all - and once enough consumers have handed over their money, the website will simply disappear.
According to the UK's national fraud intelligence bureau, British people have been swindled out of more than £800,000 by attempting to buy masks from fake sellers.
Cyber criminal gangs are also targeting healthcare professionals with phishing emails about "coronavirus awareness" - part of a wave of scams capitalising on the pandemic.
Sky News has seen a copy of an email scam sent to a number of healthcare organisations that pretends to be from each firm's internal IT team.
The email - which has the subject "ALL STAFF: CORONA VIRUS AWARENESS" - tells employees that "the institution is currently organising a seminar for all staff to talk about this deadly virus", asking them to click on a link to register.
The link takes anyone clicking on it to a third-party website disguised as an Outlook web app. Anyone who fills in that form ends up giving their details to the hackers.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:19 Trump announced UK and Ireland travel ban
Digital Shadows reported similar findings about phishing campaigns using COVID-19 as a lure.
It said: "Health organisations such as the WHO and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been prime targets for impersonation due to their perceived authority."
"Attackers have been observed tempting victims with URLs or document downloads using promises of important safety documentation or infection maps," the company added, noting that the topic had been a popular discussion point on cyber crime forums.


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: UK could announce new measures today in fight against COVID-19

The government will hold an emergency meeting later to consider implementing social distancing measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic , including banning mass gatherings and lengthy household isolation for the elderly .
The prime minister is set to chair an emergency COBRA meeting before addressing the media over the pandemic on Monday , alongside chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance .
Any announcement of new measures will likely come during the first of what will become daily televised news conferences featuring the PM or one of his senior ministers .
One measure that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this stage is school closures .
The PM 's official spokesperson said the scientific advice is it is `` not a step we should be taking at this moment in time '' but equally is `` not something that we have ever ruled out '' .
The plans to hold daily televised briefings to update the public come after Mr Johnson received criticism over an apparent lack of transparency in the fight against COVID-19 - the prevalent strain of coronavirus .
As of 9am on Monday , 1,543 people had tested positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 35 people in the UK have died since being diagnosed .
The move came as the number of patients who have died in the UK after testing positive for the virus reached 35 on Sunday .
They included 59-year-old Nick Matthews from Bristol , who is believed to be the youngest victim of coronavirus in the UK .
The PM or a `` senior '' minister will host each briefing and face scrutiny while being joined by a revolving cast of medical and scientific experts , Number 10 said .
A spokeswoman added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government are committed to keeping the public informed every step of the way about what we 're doing to fight the spread of coronavirus , when we 're doing it and why we 're doing it .
`` At all times , we will be led by the science to bring forward the right responses at the right time to this global pandemic . ''
Mr Johnson has faced criticism for ministers and advisers allegedly briefing selected journalists over plans to tackle the crisis .
Theresa May 's former chief of staff Lord @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not say this strongly enough : Ministers need to stop anonymously briefing journalists and start speaking directly to the public .
`` Trust in government is going to be vital during the difficult months ahead and it is best fostered by transparency , not off-the-record briefing . ''
Labour 's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth called for the government to publish its modelling so a wider pool of experts can scrutinise the plans .
He told Sky News ' Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme : `` I just need to understand better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach , based on its science , from other countries and I think that 's why it is so important that all the scientific modelling , for example , is published .
`` If things have changed since the prime minister 's press conference on Thursday , then the prime minister should be doing another press conference today and explaining why things have changed . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock suggested a decision could be made over whether to ban mass gatherings to aid the fight at Monday 's COBRA meeting .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be told `` in the coming weeks '' to stay at home for a period of up to four months to shield themselves from the virus .
But amid confusion as to exactly what such advice will entail , Mr Hancock said on Monday : `` It is the case that people will be able to go out and walk the dog .
It 's about being sensible , but not mixing in crowds . ''
He also said other severe measures could include police being handed powers to arrest people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Bars , restaurants and shops other than supermarkets and pharmacies could be told to shut , the health secretary added .
Jeremy Corbyn has accused the government of being `` complacent '' and `` well behind the curve '' in its handling of the coronavirus crisis .
The Labour leader said it was `` strange '' that ministers were giving advice on COVID-19 which was `` different to that given in almost every other European country '' .
He added : `` It seems to me that at every stage , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is n't fast enough . ''
Meanwhile , on Monday morning the PM will ask British manufacturers including the Unipart Group to support the production of essential medical equipment for the NHS .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He will also speak with all the G7 leaders including US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to discuss a co-ordinated global response to the pandemic .
A Downing Street spokesman said : `` Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant expertise who might be able to help to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis .
`` We need to step up production of vital equipment such as ventilators so that we can all help the most vulnerable , and we need businesses to come to us and help in this national effort . ''
• Globally more than 169,000 are infected and over 6,500 have died • US President Donald Trump tests negative for the coronavirus • Guatemala @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Italy records 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak on Sunday , its biggest one day rise • France is preparing an order that would put the country under partial lockdown to combat the epidemic • Britain will isolate older people `` within weeks '' and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus • Jordan confirms 12 new cases of the coronavirus • More major retailers shut stores in the US including Nike , Under Armour , and Lululemon Athletica Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm , with experts answering @ @ @ @ @ @

The government will hold an emergency meeting later to consider implementing social distancing measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, including banning mass gatherings and lengthy household isolation for the elderly.
The prime minister is set to chair an emergency COBRA meeting before addressing the media over the pandemic on Monday, alongside chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance.
Any announcement of new measures will likely come during the first of what will become daily televised news conferences featuring the PM or one of his senior ministers.
One measure that is not expected to be included at this stage is school closures.
The PM's official spokesperson said the scientific advice is it is "not a step we should be taking at this moment in time" but equally is "not something that we have ever ruled out".
The plans to hold daily televised briefings to update the public come after Mr Johnson received criticism over an apparent lack of transparency in the fight against COVID-19 - the prevalent strain of coronavirus.
As of 9am on Monday, 1,543 people had tested positive for coronavirus - and figures from Sunday show 35 people in the UK have died since being diagnosed.
Image: Nick Matthews pictured with his wife Mary
The move came as the number of patients who have died in the UK after testing positive for the virus reached 35 on Sunday.
They included 59-year-old Nick Matthews from Bristol, who is believed to be the youngest victim of coronavirus in the UK.
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The PM or a "senior" minister will host each briefing and face scrutiny while being joined by a revolving cast of medical and scientific experts, Number 10 said.
A spokeswoman added: "The prime minister and this government are committed to keeping the public informed every step of the way about what we're doing to fight the spread of coronavirus, when we're doing it and why we're doing it.
"At all times, we will be led by the science to bring forward the right responses at the right time to this global pandemic."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:54 Johnson: 'Worst public health crisis for a generation'
Mr Johnson has faced criticism for ministers and advisers allegedly briefing selected journalists over plans to tackle the crisis.
Theresa May's former chief of staff Lord Barwell said on Sunday: "I cannot say this strongly enough: Ministers need to stop anonymously briefing journalists and start speaking directly to the public.
"Trust in government is going to be vital during the difficult months ahead and it is best fostered by transparency, not off-the-record briefing."
Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth called for the government to publish its modelling so a wider pool of experts can scrutinise the plans.
He told Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme: "I just need to understand better why the government is taking a different approach, based on its science, from other countries and I think that's why it is so important that all the scientific modelling, for example, is published.
"If things have changed since the prime minister's press conference on Thursday, then the prime minister should be doing another press conference today and explaining why things have changed."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:27 Over-70s to be asked to self-isolate - health secretary
Health Secretary Matt Hancock suggested a decision could be made over whether to ban mass gatherings to aid the fight at Monday's COBRA meeting.
He told Sophy Ridge on Sunday that over-70s could be told "in the coming weeks" to stay at home for a period of up to four months to shield themselves from the virus.
But amid confusion as to exactly what such advice will entail, Mr Hancock said on Monday: "It is the case that people will be able to go out and walk the dog. It's about being sensible, but not mixing in crowds."
He also said other severe measures could include police being handed powers to arrest people who are infected but who are not self-isolating.
Bars, restaurants and shops other than supermarkets and pharmacies could be told to shut, the health secretary added.
Jeremy Corbyn has accused the government of being "complacent" and "well behind the curve" in its handling of the coronavirus crisis.
The Labour leader said it was "strange" that ministers were giving advice on COVID-19 which was "different to that given in almost every other European country".
He added: "It seems to me that at every stage, the government just isn't on it and isn't fast enough."
Meanwhile, on Monday morning the PM will ask British manufacturers including the Unipart Group to support the production of essential medical equipment for the NHS.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He will also speak with all the G7 leaders including US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to discuss a co-ordinated global response to the pandemic.
A Downing Street spokesman said: "Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus outbreak is a national priority and we're calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant expertise who might be able to help to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis.
"We need to step up production of vital equipment such as ventilators so that we can all help the most vulnerable, and we need businesses to come to us and help in this national effort."
In other developments:
Globally more than 169,000 are infected and over 6,500 have died
US President Donald Trump tests negative for the coronavirus
Guatemala logs its first fatality from COVID-19
Italy records 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak on Sunday, its biggest one day rise
France is preparing an order that would put the country under partial lockdown to combat the epidemic
Britain will isolate older people "within weeks" and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus
"within weeks" and force into quarantine anyone diagnosed with coronavirus Jordan confirms 12 new cases of the coronavirus
More major retailers shut stores in the US including Nike, Under Armour, and Lululemon Athletica
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews at 12.30pm


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: European ski resorts close early to stop COVID-19 spread

The popular resort of Val d'Isere was among hundreds of French ski resorts to have to close with little notice Ski resorts across Europe have shut down more than a month early as countries attempted to halt the spread of coronavirus .
Austria , France , Andorra , Italy , Norway , Spain and Switzerland have all closed their resorts this week as governments placed a limit on crowds and closed public places to stop the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic .
As well as disrupting holidays for tourists across Europe , seasonal staff are now out of a job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ski season was due to shut down at the end of April , and the beginning of May for some .
These are the details for each country : French mountains officially closed at midnight on Saturday after just four hours notice from the government - and just two weeks before most British schools go on their Easter holidays .
On Saturday afternoon , resorts and tourist boards had reassured visitors they would stay open until the end of the season .
But French prime minister Edouard Philippe announced at 8pm that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , notably cafes , restaurants , cinemas , nightclubs and shops '' from midnight .
He did not mention ski resorts specifically , but ski lifts and resorts have been deemed as `` non-essential '' to French life .
Mr Philippe called on the French people to have `` more discipline '' after initial orders to start social distancing were largely ignored .
British ski holiday company Inghams said `` as a responsible tour operator '' they would not be operating any more holidays to French resorts for the rest of the season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to France on Sunday to not go to the airport and said it is `` working on plans to bring home all guests currently in France '' .
Right next to hotspot Italy , Austria has closed its borders with the country , and also with Switzerland .
All ski lifts in Austria will stop operating at the end of the ski day on Sunday .
Resorts in the Paznaun Valley closed earlier this week as visitors were placed in quarantine for two weeks from 13 March .
They included the apres destination @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Danish tourists were infected after visiting the Kitzloch bar where a bar keeper was carrying the virus , local media reported .
St Anton and Heiligenblut were also included in the qurantine due to clusters of cases there .
Anybody who has been to those three resorts since 28 February , or been in contact with people who have , must isolate for 14 days , Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz said .
The Alps ' longest-running ski festival , Snowbombing , held in Austria 's Mayrhofen , has also been cancelled as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 500 people .
The Swiss government announced a ban on all social gatherings of more than 100 people on 13 March , forcing ski resorts to shut early as the number of people on the slopes can not be restricted effectively .
Verbier , Zermatt and Saas Fee all closed on Friday .
Arosa , St Moritz , Davos Klosters and Samnaun will close at the end of Sunday 's session , as will hundreds of smaller resorts ahead of the total ban on 16 March .
Laax , a ski resort in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rapidly , was due to host the British Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Championship ( the BRITS ) from 30 March to 3 April .
Coronavirus cases in the UK increased rapidly after half-term ski trips to northern Italy , which then prompted a lockdown of the region .
Italy , the worst hit country outside China , was the first European country to close its ski resorts , with the majority shutting down on 9 March when the entire country was placed on lockdown .
The Foreign Office is advising against all but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Norwegian ski resorts closed on Thursday , including Hemsedal and Trysil which are popular with British skiers and snowboarders .
Other mountains are set to follow as all outdoor sporting and indoor sporting events were banned .
All four resorts in Andorra 's Pyrenees closed on 14 March .
Ski Andorra said it made the decision `` as a measure of responsibility '' and wants to `` return to normality as soon as possible '' but the health of guests , workers and the general population is more important than anything else .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Spain 's ski resorts , in the Pyrenees and the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range , were shut down on 14 March as the country 's 47m inhabitants were suddenly placed under partial lockdown as part of a 15-day state of emergency .
The British government advises against all but essential travel to the second most affected European country after Italy .
Spain had 193 deaths from coronavirus by Saturday , up from 120 the day before , and 6,250 cases .
Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday , the same day Spain went on total lockdown .

France was only given four hours to shut its resorts down as the government closed anything "non-essential" to French life.
The popular resort of Val d'Isere was among hundreds of French ski resorts to have to close with little notice
Ski resorts across Europe have shut down more than a month early as countries attempted to halt the spread of coronavirus.
Austria, France, Andorra, Italy, Norway, Spain and Switzerland have all closed their resorts this week as governments placed a limit on crowds and closed public places to stop the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As well as disrupting holidays for tourists across Europe, seasonal staff are now out of a job more than a month before the European ski season was due to shut down at the end of April, and the beginning of May for some.
Image: Courchevel in Les Trois Vallees, France, cancelled events on Friday before having to close down the next day
These are the details for each country:
France
French mountains officially closed at midnight on Saturday after just four hours notice from the government - and just two weeks before most British schools go on their Easter holidays.
On Saturday afternoon, resorts and tourist boards had reassured visitors they would stay open until the end of the season.
But French prime minister Edouard Philippe announced at 8pm that the country must "close all non-essential locations, notably cafes, restaurants, cinemas, nightclubs and shops" from midnight.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:04 This is what happens during lockdown
He did not mention ski resorts specifically, but ski lifts and resorts have been deemed as "non-essential" to French life.
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Mr Philippe called on the French people to have "more discipline" after initial orders to start social distancing were largely ignored.
British ski holiday company Inghams said "as a responsible tour operator" they would not be operating any more holidays to French resorts for the rest of the season.
It urged those due to travel to France on Sunday to not go to the airport and said it is "working on plans to bring home all guests currently in France".
Austria
Right next to hotspot Italy, Austria has closed its borders with the country, and also with Switzerland.
All ski lifts in Austria will stop operating at the end of the ski day on Sunday.
Resorts in the Paznaun Valley closed earlier this week as visitors were placed in quarantine for two weeks from 13 March.
Image: St Anton in Austria was placed in quarantine after a cluster of cases were linked to it
They included the apres destination of Ischgl after hundreds of Norwegian and Danish tourists were infected after visiting the Kitzloch bar where a bar keeper was carrying the virus, local media reported.
St Anton and Heiligenblut were also included in the qurantine due to clusters of cases there.
Anybody who has been to those three resorts since 28 February, or been in contact with people who have, must isolate for 14 days, Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz said.
The Alps' longest-running ski festival, Snowbombing, held in Austria's Mayrhofen, has also been cancelled as the government banned outdoor events with more than 500 people.
Switzerland
The Swiss government announced a ban on all social gatherings of more than 100 people on 13 March, forcing ski resorts to shut early as the number of people on the slopes cannot be restricted effectively.
Verbier, Zermatt and Saas Fee all closed on Friday.
Image: Verbier was among a handful of Swiss resorts to close suddenly on 14 March
Arosa, St Moritz, Davos Klosters and Samnaun will close at the end of Sunday's session, as will hundreds of smaller resorts ahead of the total ban on 16 March.
Laax, a ski resort in the Graubunden canton where cases are increasing rapidly, was due to host the British Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Championship (the BRITS) from 30 March to 3 April.
Italy
Coronavirus cases in the UK increased rapidly after half-term ski trips to northern Italy, which then prompted a lockdown of the region.
Italy, the worst hit country outside China, was the first European country to close its ski resorts, with the majority shutting down on 9 March when the entire country was placed on lockdown.
The Foreign Office is advising against all but essential travel to Italy.
Norway
Four major Norwegian ski resorts closed on Thursday, including Hemsedal and Trysil which are popular with British skiers and snowboarders.
Other mountains are set to follow as all outdoor sporting and indoor sporting events were banned.
Image: Hemsedal in Norway, which is popular with British skiers, closed down on 12 March
Andorra
All four resorts in Andorra's Pyrenees closed on 14 March.
Ski Andorra said it made the decision "as a measure of responsibility" and wants to "return to normality as soon as possible" but the health of guests, workers and the general population is more important than anything else.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Spain
Spain's ski resorts, in the Pyrenees and the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range, were shut down on 14 March as the country's 47m inhabitants were suddenly placed under partial lockdown as part of a 15-day state of emergency.
The British government advises against all but essential travel to the second most affected European country after Italy.
Spain had 193 deaths from coronavirus by Saturday, up from 120 the day before, and 6,250 cases.
Prime minister Pedro Sanchez's wife Begona Gomez tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, the same day Spain went on total lockdown.


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Foreign Office warns against all but essential travel to US

The Foreign Office has warned against all but essential travel to the United States .
The move comes hours after Washington said a ban on UK and Irish flights to the US would be introduced because of the coronavirus outbreak .
A Foreign Office spokesperson said : `` We are advising against all but essential travel to the USA following the US government announcement imposing restrictions on travel from the UK . ''
Britons will be added to America 's ban on travellers from Europe from 4am GMT on Tuesday .
People with journeys planned are advised to check with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already in America are also recommended to stay in contact with their travel company and airline .
Acting homeland security secretary Chad Wolf said the ban had been extended because of the growing COVID-19 outbreak in the UK , where 35 people have died .
Downing Street said on Saturday night that Boris Johnson had spoken to Mr Trump but did not confirm if they had discussed the ban .
America 's 30-day suspension on passenger flights from the Schengen Area of mainland Europe started on Friday - but the UK and Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker President Trump blamed the European Union for not acting quickly to address the outbreak and said US clusters were `` seeded '' by European travellers .
However , he said the UK was doing a `` good job '' on handling the situation The ban was criticised by the EU , which said it was a `` unilateral decision '' taken `` without consultation '' .
Meanwhile , the coronavirus continues to cause havoc for international travel and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced major cuts to its Spanish flights because of the lockdown in the country .
`` Ryanair Group Airlines ( including Buzz and Lauda ) has been forced to severely reduce flights to/from Spain , the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands from 24:00 Sun 15 Mar until 24:00 Thurs 19 Mar , '' said a statement .
The chairman of Virgin Airlines is also set to tell Boris Johnson the UK airline industry needs billions to avert a catastrophe .
Morocco has suspended all international passenger flights to and from its airports .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ including one death .
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6:30pm tonight , with experts answering your questions # AskSkyNews

The Foreign Office has warned against all but essential travel to the United States.
The move comes hours after Washington said a ban on UK and Irish flights to the US would be introduced because of the coronavirus outbreak.
A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We are advising against all but essential travel to the USA following the US government announcement imposing restrictions on travel from the UK."
Britons will be added to America's ban on travellers from Europe from 4am GMT on Tuesday.
People with journeys planned are advised to check with their airline and tour operator.
Those already in America are also recommended to stay in contact with their travel company and airline.
Acting homeland security secretary Chad Wolf said the ban had been extended because of the growing COVID-19 outbreak in the UK, where 35 people have died.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:19 Trump announces UK and Ireland travel ban
Downing Street said on Saturday night that Boris Johnson had spoken to Mr Trump but did not confirm if they had discussed the ban.
America's 30-day suspension on passenger flights from the Schengen Area of mainland Europe started on Friday - but the UK and Ireland were not initially included.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
President Trump blamed the European Union for not acting quickly to address the outbreak and said US clusters were "seeded" by European travellers.
However, he said the UK was doing a "good job" on handling the situation
The ban was criticised by the EU, which said it was a "unilateral decision" taken "without consultation".
Meanwhile, the coronavirus continues to cause havoc for international travel and the world's airlines.
Ryanair has announced major cuts to its Spanish flights because of the lockdown in the country.
"Ryanair Group Airlines (including Buzz and Lauda) has been forced to severely reduce flights to/from Spain, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands from 24:00 Sun 15 Mar until 24:00 Thurs 19 Mar," said a statement.
The chairman of Virgin Airlines is also set to tell Boris Johnson the UK airline industry needs billions to avert a catastrophe.
Morocco has suspended all international passenger flights to and from its airports. The country has had 28 coronavirus cases including one death.
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6:30pm tonight, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews


news--2020-03-13--Coronavirus: Trump says US may have to include UK in European travel ban

Donald Trump says the UK may be added to a list of countries hit by a US travel ban over coronavirus - as he declared the pandemic a national emergency .
The UK and Ireland were exempt when the US president announced earlier this week he would not allow people from 26 European nations in the Schengen area to come into America for 30 days .
But he has now admitted he may have to add more countries to the ban - which has now come into effect - while taking others off the list .
Eleven people have died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the disease caused by coronavirus , and the number of confirmed infections has reached 798 - an increase of 208 over the last 24 hours .
In other developments across the world : • Mass gatherings in the UK will be banned from next week under plans being drawn up by ministers • The London Marathon is among a number of sporting events cancelled • Anyone entering New Zealand will have to self-isolate for 14 days • More than 145,000 cases and almost 5,500 deaths have been declared worldwide , according to Johns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a day , bringing its total to almost 18,000 Announcing the national emergency in the US , Mr Trump 's move will free up a total of $ 50bn ( £40.5bn ) for state and local governments to try to combat the spread of the virus .
More than 30 people in America have died after being diagnosed with COVID-19 and there have been over 1,200 infections in 46 states .
Worldwide , the disease has infected over 138,000 people and left more than 5,000 dead .
Speaking at the White House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We will defeat this threat .
When America is tested America rises to the occasion . ''
He added : `` This will pass . ''
Mr Trump indicated he himself would get tested for coronavirus `` fairly soon '' but said he had not shown any symptoms .
It comes after a photo reportedly taken last weekend showed him standing next to Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro 's press secretary Fabio Wajngarten , who has tested positive for COVID-19 .
White House physician Dr Sean P Conley also said the president encountered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested positive for coronavirus .
The encounter was `` low risk '' and there was no need for the president to `` home quarantine '' , Dr Conley said in a statement .
`` The president 's exposure to the first individual was extremely limited ( photograph , handshake ) and though he spent more time in closer proximity to the second case , all interactions occurred before any symptom onset , '' he added .
Mr Trump said he was asking hospitals to activate their emergency preparedness plans , and will give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as he waived federal regulations and laws .
His administration has been accused of being too slow to make coronavirus testing available .
Mr Trump said he expected up to half a million extra tests will be brought out early next week , as he announced a public-private partnership to increase capability .
He added that a Google website will help Americans work out if they need to take the test , and what drive-through testing options are available to them , including in supermarket car parks .
The president also waived @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the department of energy to buy oil to help producers as crude prices have plunged .
Asked about the UK possibly being included in a US travel ban , a Downing Street spokesperson said : `` This is a matter for the US .
`` We 're not going to comment on measures taken by another country . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker By declaring the pandemic an emergency , the president has invoked a law known as the Stafford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1988 .
It allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA ) - part of the Department of Homeland Security - to assist state and local governments during `` natural catastrophes '' and co-ordinate the nation 's response .
FEMA controls tens of billions of dollars in federal disaster relief funding which could be used for measures including helping to build medical facilities and transport patients .
It comes as the speaker in House of Representatives , Nancy Pelosi , announced the Democrat-controlled House would approve a coronavirus aid package .
The plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks of paid sick and family leave for those affected by the disease , Ms Pelosi said .
But Mr Trump has not backed the package , making its outcome uncertain in Congress .
Ms Pelosi does not need support from the Republicans to pass legislation in the Democrat-majority House .
But it would probably not get far in the Republican-controlled Senate without bipartisan support .
The House aid package builds on an emergency $ 8.3bn measure approved last week .
Sky News will broadcast a special coronavirus programme at 6.30pm tonight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Donald Trump says the UK may be added to a list of countries hit by a US travel ban over coronavirus - as he declared the pandemic a national emergency.
The UK and Ireland were exempt when the US president announced earlier this week he would not allow people from 26 European nations in the Schengen area to come into America for 30 days.
But he has now admitted he may have to add more countries to the ban - which has now come into effect - while taking others off the list.
Eleven people have died in the UK after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, and the number of confirmed infections has reached 798 - an increase of 208 over the last 24 hours.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Trump announced flight restrictions into the US on Thursday
In other developments across the world:
Mass gatherings in the UK will be banned from next week under plans being drawn up by ministers
in the UK will be banned from next week under plans being drawn up by ministers The London Marathon is among a number of sporting events cancelled
is among a number of sporting events cancelled Anyone entering New Zealand will have to self-isolate for 14 days
will have to self-isolate for 14 days More than 145,000 cases and almost 5,500 deaths have been declared worldwide, according to Johns Hopkins University
Italy recorded 250 cases in a day, bringing its total to almost 18,000
Announcing the national emergency in the US, Mr Trump's move will free up a total of $50bn (£40.5bn) for state and local governments to try to combat the spread of the virus.
More than 30 people in America have died after being diagnosed with COVID-19 and there have been over 1,200 infections in 46 states.
Worldwide, the disease has infected over 138,000 people and left more than 5,000 dead.
Speaking at the White House on Friday, Mr Trump said: "We will defeat this threat. When America is tested America rises to the occasion."
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He added: "This will pass."
Mr Trump indicated he himself would get tested for coronavirus "fairly soon" but said he had not shown any symptoms.
Image: Donald Trump was pictured with Fabio Wajngarten (right) who later tested positive for coronavirus. Pic: Instagram
It comes after a photo reportedly taken last weekend showed him standing next to Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's press secretary Fabio Wajngarten, who has tested positive for COVID-19.
White House physician Dr Sean P Conley also said the president encountered a second individual last weekend who later tested positive for coronavirus.
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The encounter was "low risk" and there was no need for the president to "home quarantine", Dr Conley said in a statement.
"The president's exposure to the first individual was extremely limited (photograph, handshake) and though he spent more time in closer proximity to the second case, all interactions occurred before any symptom onset," he added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:13 What is herd immunity?
Mr Trump said he was asking hospitals to activate their emergency preparedness plans, and will give doctors "flexibility" in treating patients, as he waived federal regulations and laws.
His administration has been accused of being too slow to make coronavirus testing available.
Mr Trump said he expected up to half a million extra tests will be brought out early next week, as he announced a public-private partnership to increase capability.
He added that a Google website will help Americans work out if they need to take the test, and what drive-through testing options are available to them, including in supermarket car parks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 COVID-19 'much, much worse than Ebola'
The president also waived interest on federally-held student loans and told the department of energy to buy oil to help producers as crude prices have plunged.
Asked about the UK possibly being included in a US travel ban, a Downing Street spokesperson said: "This is a matter for the US.
"We're not going to comment on measures taken by another country."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
By declaring the pandemic an emergency, the president has invoked a law known as the Stafford Act, which was originally introduced in 1988.
It allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - part of the Department of Homeland Security - to assist state and local governments during "natural catastrophes" and co-ordinate the nation's response.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:30 Containment zone imposed in New York
FEMA controls tens of billions of dollars in federal disaster relief funding which could be used for measures including helping to build medical facilities and transport patients.
It comes as the speaker in House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, announced the Democrat-controlled House would approve a coronavirus aid package.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:30 COVID-19: The scientific advice
The plan would provide free coronavirus testing and two weeks of paid sick and family leave for those affected by the disease, Ms Pelosi said.
But Mr Trump has not backed the package, making its outcome uncertain in Congress.
Ms Pelosi does not need support from the Republicans to pass legislation in the Democrat-majority House.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 'Europe is new epicentre of pandemic' - WHO
But it would probably not get far in the Republican-controlled Senate without bipartisan support.
The House aid package builds on an emergency $8.3bn measure approved last week.
Sky News will broadcast a special coronavirus programme at 6.30pm tonight, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews


news--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Ireland closes all pubs and bars days before St Patrick's Day

All pubs and bars in the Republic of Ireland have been closed for two weeks in a bid to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
The closures , which came into effect at midnight on Sunday , come ahead of St Patrick 's Day on Tuesday , which is one of the busiest days in the year for these establishments , especially in tourist-heavy locations such as Dublin .
The Irish Department of Health has now confirmed 169 cases of COVID-19 in the country , with 45 more in Northern Ireland .
Two people have died in the Republic of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister Leo Varadkar was at pains to stress on Saturday that the government 's social distancing guidelines also applied to pubs and restaurants as the public criticised apparent rule-breakers on social media .
Images shared on Facebook and Twitter showed hundreds of people crammed into bars this weekend , despite health authorities warning people to keep their distance from each other .
He threatened to seek enforcement powers to sanction establishments which appeared to be operating in breach of the rules in place until at least 29 March .
The Republic 's chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` In regard to upcoming St Patrick 's Day celebrations , the government is calling on all members of the public not to organise or participate in any parties in private houses or other venues which would put other peoples lives at risk . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
All schools and colleges have been closed in the Republic of Ireland as a result of the outbreak , however those in Northern Ireland remain open .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said yesterday that now was too soon to close educational establishments , adding that when the advice she received changed then she would do `` everything in our power to try to protect our citizens '' .
Although originally a religious festival for St Patrick , the patron saint of Ireland , the day has has taken on additional cultural relevance among the Irish diaspora , especially in America .
The annual St Patrick 's Day parade in New York City has been cancelled for the first time in its 258-year history .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 6pm , with experts answering your questions # AskSkyNews at 12.30pm

All pubs and bars in the Republic of Ireland have been closed for two weeks in a bid to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The closures, which came into effect at midnight on Sunday, come ahead of St Patrick's Day on Tuesday, which is one of the busiest days in the year for these establishments, especially in tourist-heavy locations such as Dublin.
The Irish Department of Health has now confirmed 169 cases of COVID-19 in the country, with 45 more in Northern Ireland.
Two people have died in the Republic of Ireland after contracting coronavirus.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar was at pains to stress on Saturday that the government's social distancing guidelines also applied to pubs and restaurants as the public criticised apparent rule-breakers on social media.
Images shared on Facebook and Twitter showed hundreds of people crammed into bars this weekend, despite health authorities warning people to keep their distance from each other.
He threatened to seek enforcement powers to sanction establishments which appeared to be operating in breach of the rules in place until at least 29 March.
Image: Health officials have warned Irish citizens not to organise private parties for St Patrick's Day
The Republic's chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan said: "In regard to upcoming St Patrick's Day celebrations, the government is calling on all members of the public not to organise or participate in any parties in private houses or other venues which would put other peoples lives at risk."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast with Dermot Murnaghan on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
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All schools and colleges have been closed in the Republic of Ireland as a result of the outbreak, however those in Northern Ireland remain open.
Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster said yesterday that now was too soon to close educational establishments, adding that when the advice she received changed then she would do "everything in our power to try to protect our citizens".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:06 Coronavirus: Ireland's response
Although originally a religious festival for St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, the day has has taken on additional cultural relevance among the Irish diaspora, especially in America.
The annual St Patrick's Day parade in New York City has been cancelled for the first time in its 258-year history.
Sky News will broadcast a special programme at 6pm, with experts answering your questions #AskSkyNews at 12.30pm