bbc--2020-05-10--Gaethje beats Ferguson as UFC resumes behind closed doors

Justin Gaethje produced the best performance of his career to finish Tony Ferguson and win the UFC interim lightweight title at UFC 249 .
Undisputed champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was originally set to face Ferguson on 18 April in Brooklyn , but the coronavirus outbreak forced the event to be moved , and the UFC 's attempt to hold the show on tribal land in Lemoore , California , was halted after broadcast partner ESPN and parent company Disney intervened .
Eventually , it was moved to the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville , where it became the first major @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March .
More than 77,000 people have now died with Covid-19 in the United States and there are 1.2 million confirmed cases - both figures the highest in the world .
Brazilian middleweight Jacare Souza and his two cornermen tested positive for coronavirus on the eve of the event and were withdrawn .
On the night there were strict health and safety protocols in place .
The referees , commentators and event staff wore face masks and only one cornerman per fighter was allowed into the cage between rounds .
Without the crowd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commentators .
Heavyweight Greg Hardy said he was able to take the advice of commentator Daniel Cormier as he beat Yorgan de Castro .
`` Thank God for not having the crowd , '' Hardy said in his post-fight interview .
`` Shout out to DC .
I heard him tell me to check him , so I started trying to check him .
Game changer . ''
Carla Esparza , who beat Michelle Waterson , said she heard Cormier 's criticism of her and changed her strategy during the fight .
Fans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and `` terrifying '' the punches sounded in an empty arena . '
I 'll wait for the real one ' - Gaethje after victory While the night saw a host of thrilling fights , all eyes were on the main event between Americans Gaethje and Ferguson , with the winner set to move on to Nurmagomedov later this year .
Gaethje , 31 , stepped in to face Ferguson at the start of April , and took his chance with a calm , composed display to win the belt and set himself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ champion .
Gaethje started superbly and settled into his work in the first two rounds , but was dropped by a huge Ferguson uppercut in the final seconds of round two .
Undeterred , Gaethje continued to connect with powerful shots as Ferguson maintained his forward pressure and put the former interim champion on wobbly legs with a big punch early in round four .
It was Cejudo whose skills prevailed on the night as he countered Cruz 's unorthodox footwork with powerful leg kicks and , after an accidental clash of heads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he connected with a huge knee that dropped Cruz to the mat .
With the former champion looking to scramble back to his feet , Cejudo swarmed his downed opponent and landed 11 unanswered shots to force referee Keith Petersen to step in and wave off the fight with just two seconds remaining in the round .
After his victory , Cejudo said : `` I 'm retiring tonight .
I 'm 33 years old , I 'm happy with my career .
Uncle Dana ( White , UFC president ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything , you 're the man .
Everybody here , thank you so much . ''

Justin Gaethje (left) on his way to beating Tony Ferguson at UFC 249
Justin Gaethje produced the best performance of his career to finish Tony Ferguson and win the UFC interim lightweight title at UFC 249.
The event was held behind closed doors in Jacksonville, Florida, after the global coronavirus pandemic forced several changes to the card and venue.
Undisputed champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was originally set to face Ferguson on 18 April in Brooklyn, but the coronavirus outbreak forced the event to be moved, and the UFC's attempt to hold the show on tribal land in Lemoore, California, was halted after broadcast partner ESPN and parent company Disney intervened.
Eventually, it was moved to the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, where it became the first major US sporting event to take place since March.
More than 77,000 people have now died with Covid-19 in the United States and there are 1.2 million confirmed cases - both figures the highest in the world.
Brazilian middleweight Jacare Souza and his two cornermen tested positive for coronavirus on the eve of the event and were withdrawn.
On the night there were strict health and safety protocols in place. The referees, commentators and event staff wore face masks and only one cornerman per fighter was allowed into the cage between rounds.
Without the crowd, fighters said they could hear the commentators.
Heavyweight Greg Hardy said he was able to take the advice of commentator Daniel Cormier as he beat Yorgan de Castro.
"Thank God for not having the crowd," Hardy said in his post-fight interview. "Shout out to DC. I heard him tell me to check him, so I started trying to check him. Game changer."
Carla Esparza, who beat Michelle Waterson, said she heard Cormier's criticism of her and changed her strategy during the fight.
Fans watching at home commented on how noisy and "terrifying" the punches sounded in an empty arena.
Fighters compete in an empty arena
Officials and support staff wore masks at the event
'I'll wait for the real one' - Gaethje after victory
While the night saw a host of thrilling fights, all eyes were on the main event between Americans Gaethje and Ferguson, with the winner set to move on to Nurmagomedov later this year.
Gaethje, 31, stepped in to face Ferguson at the start of April, and took his chance with a calm, composed display to win the belt and set himself up for a shot at the Russian champion.
Gaethje started superbly and settled into his work in the first two rounds, but was dropped by a huge Ferguson uppercut in the final seconds of round two.
Undeterred, Gaethje continued to connect with powerful shots as Ferguson maintained his forward pressure and put the former interim champion on wobbly legs with a big punch early in round four.
By that point, Gaethje's solid, accurate punches had started to take their toll on a bloodied and bruised Ferguson, and when a stiff jab forced Ferguson backwards, midway through the fifth and final round, referee Herb Dean stepped in to end the contest.
It saw Gaethje awarded the interim lightweight belt, but he waved it away, saying he's waiting for the "real thing", as he laid out his wish to take on Nurmagomedov in a title unification bout in his next outing.
"Khabib is the best in the world," he said.
"I've been working since I was four for challenges like this, and I'm happy to represent the United States of America against Dagestan (Khabib's home region), or Russia's best. He's 28-0, and there's no other challenge I want right now. I want to fight him."
Cejudo retains his belt, then retires
Henry Cejudo with UFC commentator Joe Rogan
The night's co-main event saw 2008 Olympic wrestling gold medallist Henry Cejudo successfully defend his UFC bantamweight title against former champion Dominick Cruz, then make a surprise announcement as he confirmed his retirement from the sport.
The 33-year-old transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2013. His skills eventually saw him make it to the UFC, where he dethroned all-time great Demetrious 'Mighty Mouse' Johnson to win the UFC flyweight title.
Cejudo then moved up to 135 pounds and came from behind to defeat Marlon Moraes to capture the bantamweight title and become a UFC 'champ champ', but eventually relinquished the flyweight belt to focus on life at his new weight class.
His first title defence came against former two-time champion Cruz, who was returning from a three-and-a-half-year lay-off in a bid to reclaim the title.
It was Cejudo whose skills prevailed on the night as he countered Cruz's unorthodox footwork with powerful leg kicks and, after an accidental clash of heads forced the fight into a brief pause, he connected with a huge knee that dropped Cruz to the mat.
With the former champion looking to scramble back to his feet, Cejudo swarmed his downed opponent and landed 11 unanswered shots to force referee Keith Petersen to step in and wave off the fight with just two seconds remaining in the round.
After his victory, Cejudo said: "I'm retiring tonight. I'm 33 years old, I'm happy with my career. Uncle Dana (White, UFC president), I want to say thank you for everything, you're the man. Everybody here, thank you so much."


bbc--2020-05-10--Gossip - Tottenham leading Man Utd in race for Meunier

Tottenham are currently leading Manchester United in the race to sign Paris St-Germain 's Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier , 28 .
( Sun on Sunday ) Manchester United are considering replacements for David de Gea , even though the 29-year-old Spain goalkeeper signed a new four-year contract in September .
( Sunday Mirror ) Manchester United are preparing an offer for Inter Milan 's Argentina forward Lautaro Martinez , but Barcelona and PSG are also interested in the 22-year-old .
( Sunday Express ) The Red Devils , Chelsea and Tottenham are all interested in Lazio 's Serbia midfielder Sergej @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Real Madrid have told Arsenal to make a decision by 15 June as to whether they are open to selling Gabon striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang , 30 , who has only a year remaining on his contract .
( Sunday Mirror ) Atletico Madrid are prepared to sell England full-back Kieran Trippier for £20m with former club Burnley among those interested in acquiring the 29-year-old .
( Sun on Sunday ) Liverpool are prepared to make a move for 17-year-old Brazilian forward Talles Magno , who plays for Rio de Janeiro side Vasco @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Liverpool could also swoop in for Arsenal left-back Bukayo Saka , with the English 18-year-old ’ s contract talks on hold .
( Sun on Sunday ) The Reds ' Spanish midfielder Pedro Chirivella , 22 , will join Ligue 1 side Nantes when his contract at Anfield expires this summer .
( Football 365 ) Manchester United are hoping to secure Swansea defender Joe Rodon in a £20m move after former player and current Wales boss Ryan Giggs recommended the 22-year-old .
( Sunday Mirror ) Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Manchester United or Everton after the Frenchman failed to secure a regular first-team place in Turin .
( Corriere di Torino via Mail on Sunday ) Tottenham should sign Bournemouth ’ s Scottish winger Ryan Fraser , 26 , on a free transfer this summer , says former Spurs striker Darren Bent .
( Sunday Express ) Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says Liverpool will always be recognised as Premier League champions , even if the season is cancelled .
( Talksport )

Last updated on .From the section Gossip
Tottenham are currently leading Manchester United in the race to sign Paris St-Germain's Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier, 28. (Sun on Sunday) external-link
Manchester United are considering replacements for David de Gea, even though the 29-year-old Spain goalkeeper signed a new four-year contract in September. (Sunday Mirror) external-link
Manchester United are preparing an offer for Inter Milan's Argentina forward Lautaro Martinez, but Barcelona and PSG are also interested in the 22-year-old. (Sunday Express) external-link
The Red Devils, Chelsea and Tottenham are all interested in Lazio's Serbia midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, 25. (Caught Offside) external-link
Real Madrid have told Arsenal to make a decision by 15 June as to whether they are open to selling Gabon striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, 30, who has only a year remaining on his contract. (Sunday Mirror) external-link
Atletico Madrid are prepared to sell England full-back Kieran Trippier for £20m with former club Burnley among those interested in acquiring the 29-year-old. (Sun on Sunday) external-link
Liverpool are prepared to make a move for 17-year-old Brazilian forward Talles Magno, who plays for Rio de Janeiro side Vasco de Gama.(Daily Star Sunday) external-link
Liverpool could also swoop in for Arsenal left-back Bukayo Saka, with the English 18-year-old’s contract talks on hold. (Sun on Sunday) external-link
The Reds' Spanish midfielder Pedro Chirivella, 22, will join Ligue 1 side Nantes when his contract at Anfield expires this summer. (Football 365) external-link
Manchester United are hoping to secure Swansea defender Joe Rodon in a £20m move after former player and current Wales boss Ryan Giggs recommended the 22-year-old. (Sunday Mirror) external-link
Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot, 25, is open to a move to Manchester United or Everton after the Frenchman failed to secure a regular first-team place in Turin. (Corriere di Torino via Mail on Sunday) external-link
Do the last nine games change much? How much changes in the final nine games of a Premier League season?
Tottenham should sign Bournemouth’s Scottish winger Ryan Fraser, 26, on a free transfer this summer, says former Spurs striker Darren Bent. (Sunday Express) external-link
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says Liverpool will always be recognised as Premier League champions, even if the season is cancelled. (Talksport) external-link


bbc--2020-05-10--What to watch out for in UK PM's lockdown speech

Boris Johnson will address the nation from Downing Street on Sunday evening , setting out the next steps in England 's coronavirus response .
While No 10 is giving little away , many of us are looking for updates on when children will return to school , how the government plans to get the economy moving , and how we can stay safe when travelling and working .
The PM is expected to announce the launch of an alert system for tracking coronavirus in England , and to set out a `` roadmap , a menu of options '' - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might begin to ease the current lockdown .
Mr Johnson has already unveiled a new slogan , telling the public to `` stay alert , control the virus , save lives '' .
It 's worth pointing out the lockdown has already been extended for another three weeks in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland to 28 May .
That 's one of the reasons it 's seen as being unlikely Mr Johnson will announce immediate alterations to restrictions in England .
But it 's not long until we find out .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from 19:00 BST , on BBC One , BBC News Channel with sign language interpreter , BBC Radio 4 and BBC Radio 5 Live , and you can find a live stream plus real-time analysis on the BBC News website .
So with all that in mind , what should we be looking out for in Mr Johnson 's speech ?
1 .
An update on the five tests The PM has said a series of tests must be satisfied before lockdown measures are adjusted .
We 're likely to hear more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive an update on progress towards meeting them .
What is a `` manageable level '' of new cases ?
Is the death rate falling in a `` sustained and consistent '' way ?
We 've a longer explanation of the five tests here .
This is a technical term for how fast the virus is spreading in the UK .
If the `` R '' number is one , that means one person with the virus passes it to one other person .
Experts have said `` R '' is currently at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and keeping it there is the aim .
Mr Johnson could explain which adjustments risk increasing `` R '' above one , and which do n't .
• Analysis : How do we get out of lockdown ?
• What will be the 'new normal ' ?
• Will over-70s have to stay in lockdown ?
One of the only things we do know ahead of the speech is that garden centres in England will be allowed to reopen with distancing measures in place from next week , according to a senior government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has said garden centres in Wales will be able to reopen next week .
Mr Drakeford said on Saturday this is `` very much in line '' with Mr Johnson 's plans - so expect to hear something similar from the PM .
Another decision in Wales could signal what 's to come in Mr Johnson 's speech - Mark Drakeford announced that people in Wales would be able to leave home to exercise as much as they want from Monday .
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said a change to exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consider in the immediate term .
Guidance on the UK government 's website limits outdoor exercise to once a day , alone or with members of your household .
5. Who might go back to work first Mr Johnson has said Sunday 's speech will give more detail on how to `` get our economy moving '' .
There 's no solid information on this , but Mr Johnson may talk about helping employers observe social distancing guidelines .
We might hear a bit about how certain industries , like construction , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And then there 's the furlough scheme - will the government keep paying workers ' wages ?
There have been lots of different thoughts aired about how schools might return to normal .
Mark Drakeford said on Saturday that schools in Wales would not be re-opening to the majority of pupils in June .
Will Mr Johnson say something similar ?
Either way , any changes involving schools will be `` extremely cautious '' and `` painstaking '' , according to England 's deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam .
There 's some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday suggested all people arriving into the UK will need to quarantine for 14 days at a registered address .
Will Mr Johnson confirm this and give us more details ?
There are also questions about how commuters may be able to travel safely once lockdown is eased .
Speaking on Saturday , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said there was a chance for a `` once in a generation change '' to the way we travel as he unveiled a package of measures to encourage cycling and walking .
Mr Johnson said on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ useful '' for helping the country come out of lockdown .
The government 's science advisers have given evidence on face coverings to ministers - and they 're recommended in Scotland for certain situations - will the PM say whether the public in England should use them ?
Will we be able to meet up with small groups of family and friends ?
That 's the question many of us want answered .
But the changes to restrictions that Mr Johnson might confirm on Sunday are unlikely to offer an immediate solution .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with beer gardens might be allowed to open - but would it be possible to make that work ?
And what about sport ?
The PM may give us an update on the Premier League 's so-called `` Project Restart '' to recommence football matches behind closed doors for audiences at home .
We may get also some ideas about how the government plans to get mosques , churches and temples back up and running .
Just a quick note on devolution .
While he 's the UK prime minister , any measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday will only apply to England .
Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland have the power to make their own decisions on lockdown regulations - and while leaders have said they want to broadly move together as one in the coming months - they may do so at different speeds .
How can I follow the PM 's speech ?
Boris Johnson 's national address will be broadcast across BBC News at 19:00 BST .
• Watch on BBC One , BBC Scotland or BBC News Channel • Listen on Radio 4 or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local radio stations will also air analysis and reaction • Read our online coverage on the BBC News website or on the app ( download for Apple devices here , and for Android products here ) • A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• IMPACT : What the virus does to the body • RECOVERY : How long does it take ?
• LOCKDOWN : How can we lift restrictions ?
• ENDGAME : How do we get out of this mess ?

If the "R" number is one, that means one person with the virus passes it to one other person. Experts have said "R" is currently at or below one in the UK - and keeping it there is the aim.


bbc--2020-05-10--Tracking the global outbreak

Tracking the global outbreak

Coronavirus is continuing its spread across the world , with more than four million confirmed cases in 187 countries .
More than 279,000 people have lost their lives .
The United States alone has more than 1.3 million confirmed cases - almost six times as many as any other country .
This series of maps and charts tracks the global outbreak of the virus since it emerged in China in December last year .
How many cases and deaths have there been ?
The virus , which causes the respiratory infection Covid-19 , was first detected in the city of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Since then it has been spreading rapidly in many countries and the number of deaths continues to climb .
Note : The map and table in this page use a different source for figures for France from that used by Johns Hopkins University , which results in a slightly lower overall total .
The US has by far the largest number of cases , according to figures collated by Johns Hopkins University .
With more than 78,000 fatalities , it also has the world 's highest death toll .
France , Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worst-hit European countries - have all recorded more than 25,000 deaths .
In China , the official death toll is some 4,600 from about 84,000 confirmed cases , although critics have questioned whether the country 's official numbers can be trusted .
The outbreak was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization ( WHO ) on 11 March .
This is when an infectious disease is passing easily from person to person in many parts of the world at the same time .
More than four million people are now known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the true figure is thought to be much higher as many of those with milder symptoms have not been tested and counted .
Globally , more than 4.5 billion people - half the world 's population - have been living under social distancing measures , according to the AFP news agency 's estimates .
Those restrictions have had a big impact on the global economy , with the International Monetary Fund warning the world faces the worst recession since the Great Depression of the 1930s .
The United Nations World Food Programme has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ double the number of people suffering acute hunger , and the UN has appealed for $ 6.7bn ( £5.4bn ) in funding .
UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Mark Lowcock said `` the spectre of multiple famines '' loomed .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to protect your mental health • WHAT WE DO N'T KNOW : How to understand UK death toll Where are coronavirus cases still rising ?
While some regions are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall following the introduction of strict lockdown restrictions , others are only now seeing them rise .
Russia 's latest official data shows it now has the fifth highest number of infections worldwide .
The country has reported more than 10,000 new cases for seven consecutive days and Moscow 's mayor has suggested the number of cases in his city is far higher than the official figure .
These charts show four countries where deaths are on an upward trajectory - as shown by the red lines - each following a similar pattern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economies are already struggling and millions live on what they can earn day-to-day , there are concerns about the strain coronavirus could put on health care systems .
Ecuador has already seen its health system collapse - thousands have died from the virus and other conditions that could not be treated because of the crisis .
The country 's official number of coronavirus deaths is around 1,700 but the death toll is thought to be much higher .
The growing threat in South America and elsewhere comes as Europe and other regions are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in to slow the spread of the virus .
New Zealand says it has effectively eliminated the threat posed by the virus after fewer than 1,500 confirmed cases and just 21 deaths .
Its authorities had brought in some of the toughest restrictions on travel and activity early in the pandemic .
• Three continents , four lives , one day • 'We 'll starve to death if this continues' In Europe , the UK became the first country to record more than 30,000 coronavirus deaths earlier this week .
It surpassed Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the region to see a rapid increase in deaths in early March .
Spain and France have also recorded more than 25,000 deaths .
Differences in population size and how countries report their figures , with some including deaths in care homes , or deaths of those suspected but not confirmed of having the virus , means international comparisons are complicated .
However , all four countries appear to have passed through the peak of the virus and the number of new reported cases and deaths is falling .
Germany and Belgium have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths and are now seeing those numbers decrease , though as Belgium has a far smaller population than Germany , the number of deaths per capita there has been higher .
How countries across Europe are planning to move out of lockdown varies , with the EU saying there is `` no one-size-fits-all approach '' to lifting containment measures .
Spain has announced a four-phase plan to lift its lockdown and return to a `` new normality '' by the end of June .
However , schools will not be fully reopened until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and factories have now reopened and bars and cafes are being allowed to offer takeaway services .
In Germany all shops can now reopen with extra measures in place , schools have partially reopened and two different households are now allowed to meet up with each other .
In France , non-essential shops and markets are to open again from Monday , but not bars and restaurants .
Schools will also be reopened gradually .
However , stricter restrictions will remain in Paris and the neighbouring regions .
Other European countries easing restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Czech Republic .
In the UK , lockdown measures are still in full effect .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has promised to reveal a `` comprehensive plan '' on Sunday for how the country will get moving again .
New York remains epicentre of US outbreak With more than 1.3 million cases , the US has the highest number of confirmed infections in the world .
It has also recorded more than 78,000 deaths .
The state of New York has been particularly badly affected , with more than 26,000 deaths in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point , more than 90 % of the US population was under mandatory lockdown orders , but around half of the states have now begun to loosen their stay-at-home restrictions and allowed some businesses to reopen - a move health officials fear could further spread the virus .
Last week President Donald Trump said he would refocus the White House task force on kickstarting the US economy , a day after suggesting he would disband it .
The US unemployment rate has risen to 14.7 % , with 20.5 million jobs lost in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy .
The rise means the jobless rate is now worse than at any time since the Great Depression of the 1930s .
Former US President Barack Obama has criticised his successor 's response to the crisis .
During a private phone call to former staffers , Mr Obama called the response `` an absolute chaotic disaster '' .

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This information is regularly updated but may not reflect the latest totals for each country.
** The past data for new cases is a three day rolling average. Due to revisions in the number of cases, an average cannot be calculated for this date.
Source: Johns Hopkins University and national public health agencies


bbc--2020-05-10--Johnson unveils 'conditional plan' to reopen

Boris Johnson has unveiled a `` conditional plan '' to reopen society , allowing people in England to spend more time outdoors from Wednesday .
The PM also said people who could not work from home should return to the workplace - but avoid public transport .
He said a new Covid Alert System with five levels would govern how quickly lockdown restrictions could be eased .
He hoped the next step `` at the earliest by 1 June '' would be for some primary pupils to return to school in England .
In an address to the nation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involve reopening shops - but he cautioned this would only happen if supported by science .
The next step could see some hospitality businesses and other public places reopen - `` if the numbers support it '' - but not earlier than 1 July .
He said these steps formed part of a `` first sketch of a roadmap for reopening society '' .
The PM added : `` This is not the time simply to end the lockdown this week .
Instead we are taking the first careful steps to modify our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that fines for the `` small minority who break '' lockdown rules will increase .
• Kuenssberg : PM 's address prompts questions as well as answers Further details about England 's lockdown are expected in guidance to be published on Monday .
A government official told the BBC the new guidance will say you can meet one person from outside your own household in a park , if you stay two metres apart .
People will also be allowed to drive to parks and beaches in England as long as they observe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the official .
However , there will be no change in the advice for those who are shielding and have been asked to stay at home for at least 12 weeks .
• LOOK-UP TOOL : How many cases in your area ?
• EXERCISE : What are the guidelines on getting out ?
• SCHOOLS : When will children be returning ?
BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg said that , while the coronavirus has started to come under control , the PM 's cautious announcement was `` certainly not some kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Clarifying the conditions in which schools and shops would reopen , Mr Johnson said : `` Throughout this period of the next two months we will be driven not by mere hope or economic necessity .
`` We are going to be driven by the science , the data and public health .
`` And I must stress again all of this is conditional , it all depends on a series of big ifs . ''
The PM explained how the `` R '' number - the reproduction rate of the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown could be eased further .
Experts have said that keeping R below 1 - meaning one person with the virus passes it on to one other person - is the priority .
`` It depends on all of us - the entire country - to follow the advice , to observe social distancing , and to keep that R down , '' he said .
The PM said those who could not work from home would now be encouraged to return to work - but they should avoid using public transport to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mentioned construction and manufacturing as examples of the sorts of industries where restarting would now be explicitly encouraged .
Workplaces would receive guidance on how to become `` Covid secure '' , he added .
He said in addition to being able to leave home as many times as they wish for exercise or to sunbathe in parks , people in England would also be able to drive to other destinations .
The PM also said he was `` serving notice '' that it would soon be the time to impose a quarantine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ air .
In a joint statement later , Mr Johnson and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed quarantine measures would not apply between France and the UK `` at this stage '' .
'Trying to pull off the impossible' The prime minister is effectively trying to pull off the impossible .
He wants to try to restart normal life , while keeping the virus at bay with limited means to do so .
With no vaccine , the government is reliant on containing any local outbreaks .
But the problem is that even with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place over the past month , there are big holes in the UK 's ability to suppress the virus .
It takes too long to get test results back - several days in some cases - and those most in need of regular testing , such as care home staff for example , are still reporting they can not always access tests .
Our ability to trace the close contacts of infected people remains unknown - the piloting of the system , which involves the use of an app and army of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Isle of Wight .
It means we are effectively fighting this `` invisible killer '' with one hand behind our back .
We are not alone in struggling , similar problems are being encountered by other countries .
But we are still some way behind the best prepared and equipped , such as Germany and South Korea .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Johnson 's speech lacked `` clarity and consensus '' and raised `` as many questions as it answers '' .
He told BBC News that millions of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were effectively being told to go to work with just 12 hours ' notice - and not to use public transport .
`` That 's why I say the statement raises as many questions as it answers , '' he said .
Acting Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said he did not understand why the government had changed its messaging at this stage .
`` It risks what people have fought so hard for , '' he said .
Mr Johnson said in his speech he had consulted `` across the political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK '' and that his plan was a `` a general consensus on what we could do '' .
But Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said after the speech she felt the PM should have stressed `` more strongly '' that most of the changes he referred to in his speech applied to England only .
The PM earlier unveiled the new message of `` stay alert , control the virus , save lives '' in England - but Ms Sturgeon said it would not apply in Scotland at the moment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` consider its plan for a phased , strategic approach to recovery '' at a meeting on Monday .
Wales ' health minister Vaughan Gething also said there had not been a `` four-nations agreement '' on the new `` stay alert '' message and that the advice to `` stay at home '' in Wales was unchanged .
Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland have powers over their own lockdown restrictions , with England 's measures set by the government at Westminster .
While leaders have expressed a wish to move forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at different speeds .
Previous guidance published by the government said people could leave home once a day to exercise in England .
A further 269 people have died in the UK after testing positive for coronavirus , taking the total number of deaths recorded to 31,855 .
The number of deaths recorded tends to be lower over the weekend because of reporting delays .
• The National Education Union said Mr Johnson 's school reopening plan was `` nothing short of reckless '' • Pubs and bars are still `` in limbo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry bosses said • Business leaders said their practical questions needed answering if employers were to reopen safely • Jersey will enter the first stage of its four-tier lockdown exit strategy on Monday • A further 178 deaths of people with coronavirus have been reported by NHS England • There were also 12 more deaths reported in Wales , 10 in Scotland and five in Northern Ireland • The government missed its target of 100,000 tests a day for the eighth day in a row , with 92,837 tests on Saturday How have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tell us about your experience by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
You can also contact us in the following ways : • Or Upload your pictures/video here • Please read our terms & conditions and privacy policy

But the problem is that even with the extra testing that has been put in place over the past month, there are big holes in the UK's ability to suppress the virus. It takes too long to get test results back - several days in some cases - and those most in need of regular testing, such as care home staff for example, are still reporting they cannot always access tests.


bbc--2020-05-10--Cuomo demands twice weekly care home Covid-19 tests

Workers at care homes in New York state must be tested for coronavirus twice a week under new rules laid out by Democratic governor Andrew Cuomo .
Care facilities that fail to meet requirements intended to stem infections will lose their operating licenses , Mr Cuomo said on Sunday .
The mandate come as New York weighs options for relaxing other lockdown measures .
Parts of the state and neighbouring region could reopen business on 15 May .
New York has been the epicentre of the US coronavirus outbreak , with 26,670 deaths and 335,395 cases as of Sunday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,327,720 cases and 79 , 495 deaths from the virus .
What else did Mr Cuomo say ?
Despite a decline in the number of new Covid-19 infections in New York from a peak last month , deaths from the illness continue to mount .
Mr Cuomo has faced particular criticism for high numbers of deaths in the state 's care homes .
The US has seen more than 25,000 coronavirus deaths in elderly homes , with more than a fifth - about 5,300 - in New York , according to a count @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elderly people live in care facilities in New York .
• Which country has the most generous bailout ?
The governor announced new rules for care homes on Sunday , though he bristled at the suggestion that the new guidance was an acknowledgment of a flawed plan on the part of his administration .
`` This virus uses nursing homes .
They are ground zero .
They are the vulnerable population in the vulnerable location , '' he said .
Besides monitoring care home staff , hospitals can no longer discharge patients back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negative .
Any of the over 600 care facilities in New York that fail to comply would lose their licenses , Mr Cuomo said .
The announcement comes as New York moves to reopen parts of the state beginning on 15 May .
To qualify , a region must have at least 14 days of declines in reported infections and be able to run 30 tests for every 1,000 residents .
The governor also reported that the state is investigating 85 cases involving children suffering from an inflammatory illness suspected of being linked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the US ?
The White House is working to contain coronavirus cases after a valet for President Trump , and Katie Miller , press secretary to Vice-President Mike Pence and the wife of Trump aide Stephen Miller tested positive for the virus .
Dr Anthony Fauci - the public face of the US fight against the coronavirus - is among three members of the White House task force now self-isolating after possible exposure .
A senior economic adviser to Mr Trump has said that working from the White House could be risky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the world and the best medical team on earth , it 's a relatively cramped place , '' Kevin Hassett told CNN , adding that all administration officials have to test negative before meeting with President Trump .
`` We 've all been exposing ourselves to risks , under the best guidance we could possibly have to keep us safe , '' he said .
`` But we 're willing to take that chance because we love our country . ''
The White House has sent a memo to staff urging them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Washington Post .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • CRISIS BAILOUTS : What countries are doing • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus ?

Mr Cuomo has faced particular criticism for high numbers of deaths in the state's care homes. The US has seen more than 25,000 coronavirus deaths in elderly homes, with more than a fifth - about 5,300 - in New York, according to a count by The Associated Press. More than 100,000 elderly people live in care facilities in New York.


bbc--2020-05-10--'The day I met my troll'

'The day I met my troll'

Alan works as a concierge .
In his spare time he composes songs with political themes .
But he also @ @ @ @ @ : leaving nasty messages online – often hateful , racist and threatening .
One of @ @ @ @ @ of his abuse is a high-profile political activist and businesswoman .
Gina Miller gets so @ @ @ @ @ from people like Alan that she has had to hire security .
At our request @ @ @ @ @ meet .
So what happened next ?
This video was filmed in early March , @ @ @ @ @ measures .
This story is part of Crossing Divides , a season about bringing people @ @ @ @ @ .
Follow us on Twitter @ BBCtrending or on Facebook .

Alan works as a concierge. In his spare time he composes songs with political themes. But he also had a much uglier hobby: leaving nasty messages online – often hateful, racist and threatening.
One of those at the receiving end of his abuse is a high-profile political activist and businesswoman. Gina Miller gets so many nasty messages and threats from people like Alan that she has had to hire security.
At our request, the two agreed to meet. So what happened next?
This video was filmed in early March, prior to coronavirus social distancing measures.
Reporter: Marianna Spring
Producer: Reha Kansara
Video Journalist: Kat Macaulay
This story is part of Crossing Divides, a season about bringing people together in a fragmented world.
Follow us on Twitter @BBCtrending or on Facebook.


bbc--2020-05-10--Angela Merkel compared to Hitler by Malta ambassador who then quits

Malta 's ambassador to Finland has resigned after comparing German Chancellor Angela Merkel to Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler , local @ @ @ @ @ Tabona reportedly wrote on his Facebook page : `` Seventy-five years ago we stopped Hitler @ @ @ @ @ Merkel ?
She has fulfilled Hitler 's dream !
To control Europe . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ .
Maltese Foreign Minister Evarist Bartolo said Germany would receive an apology , the Times @ @ @ @ @ Bartolo told the newspaper that he had instructed the ambassador to remove the comment `` @ @ @ @ @ alerted to it '' .
Mr Zammit Tabona , who became Malta 's ambassador in @ @ @ @ @ so far made no comment on the row .
He is reported to be a @ @ @ @ @ career diplomat .
• Merkel ally Steinbach quits in row over blame for WWII

Mr Bartolo told the newspaper that he had instructed the ambassador to remove the comment "as soon as I was alerted to it".


bbc--2020-05-10--Safe family reunions under lockdown

Safe family reunions under lockdown

A care home in the Netherlands is bringing people together during the lockdown .
The BBC 's Anna Holligan speaks @ @ @ @ @ is a resident .

A care home in the Netherlands has found an innovative way to bring people together during the lockdown.
The BBC's Anna Holligan speaks to a family whose relative is a resident.
Video produced by Kate Vandy and Xavier Vanpevenaege.


bbc--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: Zambia sex workers praised for contact tracing

Sex workers in Zambia are helping to trace people who have contracted coronavirus after a surge in new infections at the border town of Nakonde , the health minister has said .
Chitalu Chilufya said 76 of 85 reported new cases in the northern town were either sex workers or lorry drivers .
`` Sex workers have been very co-operative and they are giving us all the leads we want , '' Mr Chilufya said .
Zambia has confirmed 267 Covid-19 infections , with seven deaths .
Last week , President Edgar Lungu announced the reopening of restaurants , casinos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforce social distancing measures .
You may be interested in : • How do African countries compare on testing ?
• Why are some African states easing lockdowns ?
What did Zambia 's health minister say ?
`` The situation in Nakonde remains grave , and the president is concerned , '' Mr Chilufya said on Sunday , adding that Mr Lungu had ordered the border to be `` temporarily closed . ''
Nakonde streets are usually lined by lorries leaving Zambia or entering from neighbouring Tanzania , the BBC 's Kennedy Gondwe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen as a high-risk group because they stop at several towns along the way and are known to have multiple sex partners , he added .
`` They [ sex workers ] are being very co-operative in our investigations , and we do n't want to stigmatise or discriminate against them .
They are being very useful in contact tracing , '' Mr Chilufya said .
`` We had a case where one of them appeared with symptoms and told us about a client who was a lorry driver of foreign jurisdiction and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We called that number and we were told the person we called had Covid-19 , '' the minister added .
Health authorities in East Africa have expressed concern that lorry drivers , listed as essential workers , could be spreading coronavirus .
Strict checks , including tests by Ugandan authorities , have caused long tailbacks at its border with Kenya .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • STRESS : How to look after your mental health

"We had a case where one of them appeared with symptoms and told us about a client who was a lorry driver of foreign jurisdiction and even gave us a contact number. We called that number and we were told the person we called had Covid-19," the minister added.


bbc--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: What shape will the recession be?

Even though countries are now moving towards easing lockdown restrictions , the coronavirus pandemic has already hit the global economy hard .
Millions of people are out of work , financial markets have been rocked , and supply chains have faced major disruption as factories around the world have closed .
The world is braced for recession even after governments and central banks have pumped trillions of dollars into their economies and slashed interest rates .
`` How bad will it be ? ''
and `` How soon will we recover ? ''
are two questions we 'll be hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
The answers to both of these questions will usually involve the use of one of four letters : V , U , W and L. That 's because this is how economists often label recessions .
These labels come from the shape of the charts typically seen during these periods that track economic activity such as employment , gross domestic product ( GDP ) - or economic growth - and industrial output .
Here we look at those four letters and what they would mean to hopes of an economic recovery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best-case scenario as this sort of downturn begins with a sharp fall , but then bottoms out and economic recovery quickly follows .
It would mean the recession would last only a few quarters before a swift return to growth , bringing the economy back to where it was before the coronavirus pandemic .
A classic example of a V-shaped recession happened in America in 1953 when the booming post-World War Two economy was upended by high interest rates .
After a steep decline growth was soaring again just over a year later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recession but lasts longer .
In this scenario GDP typically shrinks for several quarters in a row , and only slowly returns to the level of growth seen before the downturn .
America had a U-shaped recession in the early to mid 1970s .
At the start of 1973 the US economy began to contract sharply and continued to have very low growth for almost two years .
It only returned to its previous rate of expansion in 1975 .
This is when a recession starts by looking like it will be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after what turns out to be a false sign of recovery .
It is also known as a double-dip recession , because the economy drops twice before it recovers to its previous growth rate .
The US recession of the early 1980s was in effect two recessions with the economy shrinking from January 1980 to July that year .
That was followed by a period of sharp expansion before the economy fell back into recession a year later , only recovering at the end of 1982 .
This is the worst-case scenario .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` depression '' .
It is when an economy experiences a deep recession and does not recover to its previous rate of growth for several years , if ever .
Japan 's so-called `` lost-decade '' of the 1990s is a textbook example of an L-shaped recession .
The country had seen solid economic growth from the years immediately after World War Two until the end of the 1980s .
That led to what turned out to be a massive over-pricing of assets or `` bubble '' .
Since that bubble burst in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experience weak growth and has yet to return to the pace of expansion seen from 1950 to 1990 .
Which of these recessions we will actually see in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic is , unsurprisingly , the subject of heated debate .
And , of course , foreseeing the future of economies is , at best , inexact and any predictions can be taken with a pinch of salt .
In the words of the late economist John Kenneth Galbraith : `` The only function of economic forecasting is to make @ @ @ @ @

This is when a recession starts by looking like it will be a V-shaped downturn, but then falls again after what turns out to be a false sign of recovery. It is also known as a double-dip recession, because the economy drops twice before it recovers to its previous growth rate.


bbc--2020-05-10--Italian aid worker kidnapped in Kenya in 2018 returns home

An Italian aid worker , who was abducted in Kenya in November 2018 , has been flown back to her home country .
Silvia Romano , 25 , embraced her parents and sister , and was greeted by Italy 's prime minister and foreign minister after she landed in Rome .
She was freed from suspected Islamist group al-Shabab near Somalia 's capital Mogadishu on Saturday , reports say .
Italy 's secret service is said to have been assisted by Turkey and Somalia to secure her release .
No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction 18 months ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ al-Shabab said it was behind the attack on a hotel and office complex in Kenya 's capital Nairobi , in which 21 people died .
What has been the reaction to Silvia Romano 's return ?
After landing in Rome 's Ciampino airport on Sunday , Ms Romano said he was feeling well , both `` physically and mentally '' .
She was seen accompanied by masked men from the Italian secret service .
Meanwhile , Ms Romano 's father Enzo said he was `` bursting with joy '' .
Church bells were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ms Romano 's hometown of Milan to celebrate her return .
Ms Romano , who works for the Italian charity Africa Milele Onlus , was seized by gunmen from a small rural hotel in Kilifi Country , south-eastern Kenya , in 2018 .
She is believed to have been later taken to Somalia .
Kenyan police at the time offered a $ 10,000 ( £8,060 ) reward to help find Ms Romano .
Ms Romano was the first foreigner to be kidnapped in Kenya since the country had a spate of abductions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In April 2019 , two Cuban doctors were seized in north-eastern Kenya , and are believed to have been taken to Somalia .
Al-Shabab is thought to have been responsible for killing a British man and kidnapping his wife from a resort island in 2011 .
A few weeks later , a disabled French woman was taken from her home on the Lamu archipelago and reportedly died while in captivity .
Two Spanish aid workers were abducted in the same year by suspected jihadist gunmen from the Dadaab refugee camp close to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 21 months later .

Ms Romano was the first foreigner to be kidnapped in Kenya since the country had a spate of abductions that threatened its tourism resurgence in 2011.


bbc--2020-05-10--Indian and Chinese troops 'clash on border' in Sikkim

Dozens of Indian and Chinese soldiers have exchanged physical blows in a clash on the shared border , Indian media @ @ @ @ @ four Indian troops were injured , an army official reportedly said , near the Naku @ @ @ @ @ state of Sikkim .
Local commanders spoke and resolved the dispute , which took place @ @ @ @ @ countries have competing claims over their shared 3,400 kilometre ( 2,100 mile ) border .
@ @ @ @ @ pushing and shoving , and throwing stones at each other , BBC South Asia Editor @ @ @ @ @ latest tense face-off took place near the Naku La sector in Sikkim , more than @ @ @ @ @ above sea level in the Himalayas .
China and India fought a war over the @ @ @ @ @ 2017 , the two countries also clashed in the region after China tried to extend @ @ @ @ @ disputed plateau .
Though both countries send out patrols that often engage in physical stand-offs @ @ @ @ @ fired over the border in the last four decades .

Though both countries send out patrols that often engage in physical stand-offs, no bullet has been fired over the border in the last four decades.


bbc--2020-05-10--How are people making the best of social distancing?

There are many little things people are doing that make a big difference to connect people at a safe distance @ @ @ @ @ people at a care home , robots helped university students have a graduation ceremony , @ @ @ @ @ students through plastic .

There are many little things people are doing that make a big difference to connect people at a safe distance. Puppies cheered up elderly people at a care home, robots helped university students have a graduation ceremony, and a teacher hugged her students through plastic.


bbc--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: How they tried to curb Spanish flu pandemic in 1918

It is dangerous to draw too many parallels between coronavirus and the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic , that killed at least 50 million people around the world .
Covid-19 is an entirely new disease , which disproportionately affects older people .
The deadly strain of influenza that swept the globe in 1918 tended to strike those aged between 20 and 30 , with strong immune systems .
But the actions taken by governments and individuals to prevent the spread of infection have a familiar ring to them .
Public Health England studied the Spanish flu outbreak to draw up its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key lesson being that the second wave of the disease , in the autumn of 1918 , proved to be far more deadly than the first .
Britain was still at war when the virus claimed its first recorded victim , in May 1918 .
The government , like many others , was caught on the hop .
It appears to have decided that the war effort took precedence over preventing flu deaths .
The disease spread like wildfire in crowded troop transports and munitions factories , and on buses and trains , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arthur Newsholme for the Royal Society of Medicine .
But a `` memorandum for public use '' he had written in July 1918 , that advised people to stay at home if they were sick and to avoid large gatherings , was buried by the government .
Sir Arthur argued that many lives could have been saved if these rules had been followed , but he added : `` There are national circumstances in which the major duty is to 'carry on ' , even when risk to health and life is involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Spain , but Spain was the first country to report deaths from it , leading to the assumption that it must have started there .
Spain 's newspapers were not subject to wartime censorship , because it was a neutral country .
News of the epidemic was initially suppressed in other countries to avoid damaging morale .
In 1918 , there were no treatments for influenza and no antibiotics to treat complications such as pneumonia .
Hospitals were quickly overwhelmed .
There was no centrally imposed lockdown to curb the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ halls , cinemas and churches were closed , in some cases for months .
Pubs , which were already subject to wartime restrictions on opening hours , mostly stayed open .
The Football League and the FA Cup had been cancelled for the war , but there was no effort to cancel other matches or limit crowds , with men 's teams playing in regional competitions , and women 's football , which attracted large crowds , continuing throughout the pandemic .
Streets in some towns and cities were sprayed with disinfectant and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they went about their daily lives .
Public health messages were confused - and , just like today , fake news and conspiracy theories abounded , although the general level of ignorance about healthy lifestyles did not help .
In some factories , no-smoking rules were relaxed , in the belief that cigarettes would help prevent infection .
During a Commons debate on the pandemic , Conservative MP Claude Lowther asked : `` Is it a fact that a sure preventative against influenza is cocoa taken three times a day ? ''
Publicity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through coughs and sneezes .
In November 1918 , the News of the World advised its readers to : `` wash inside nose with soap and water each night and morning ; force yourself to sneeze night and morning , then breathe deeply .
Do not wear a muffler ; take sharp walks regularly and walk home from work ; eat plenty of porridge . ''
No country was untouched by the 1918 pandemic , although the scale of its impact , and of government efforts to protect their populations , varied widely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states imposed quarantines on their citizens , with mixed results , while others tried to make the wearing of face masks compulsory .
Cinemas , theatres and other places of entertainment were closed across the country .
New York was better prepared than most US cities , having already been through a 20-year campaign against tuberculosis , and as a result suffered a lower death rate .
Nevertheless , the city 's health commissioner came under pressure from businesses to keep premises open , particularly movie theatres and other places of entertainment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was seen as a potential bulwark against the spread of infection , leading to some ingenious solutions to keep society going .
But it proved impossible to prevent mass gatherings in many US cities , particularly at places of worship .
By the end of the pandemic , the death toll in Britain was 228,000 , and a quarter of the population are thought to have been infected .
Efforts to kill the virus continued for some time , and the population were more aware than ever of the potentially deadly nature of @ @ @

The flu did not originate in Spain, but Spain was the first country to report deaths from it, leading to the assumption that it must have started there. Spain's newspapers were not subject to wartime censorship, because it was a neutral country. News of the epidemic was initially suppressed in other countries to avoid damaging morale.


bbc--2020-05-10--Coronavirus anxiety: How to cope with life after lockdown

As some countries ease coronavirus restrictions , mental health experts are noticing an emerging phenomenon ; anxiety about life after lockdown .
Meanwhile people who remain living under the most stringent measures are fearful about what will happen when these rules are lifted .
`` It is going to be uncomfortable for most of us , '' says Akanksha Bhatia .
The 25-year-old writer and advocate for mental health and women 's rights lived with anxiety before the lockdown .
Akanksha posts on social media about living with anxiety and has been talking with her followers about how the condition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lives and works in Delhi but has moved back to Chennai to live with her parents while India is in lockdown .
`` It 's not been that easy , '' she says .
A month into lockdown , she had a particularly bad day and cried a lot .
`` All you can do is tell yourself that this will end eventually . ''
Like many people , Akanksha has had some struggles during lockdown .
But there has also been respite from some of the things that triggered her anxiety in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to be at home with her parents , who help her to feel safe .
Akanksha describes herself as an introvert and says that socialising is one of the things that made her more anxious .
She feels relaxed and comfortable spending time with her family and so this has been much less of a problem in recent weeks .
Now her concerns centre on how she will return to her previous life .
`` Stepping out of the house , for someone with anxiety , is already something you overthink , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to get used to that all over again , because you 've been desensitised . ''
Many people are concerned about whether their leaders might be lifting lockdown too early , increasing the rate of infection .
But some are also worried about returning to a more normal life .
It wo n't necessarily just be people with an existing mental health condition who will be affected either .
`` After you 've been inside for a long time , it can feel very strange to go outside , '' says Nicky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a charity that supports people with mental health conditions .
`` You perhaps lose your confidence to do things you have n't had to in a while . ''
She gives examples of face-to-face work meetings or using cramped public transport - situations that might have stressed or worried people even before they were concerned about the risk of infection .
`` These things might have been difficult in the first place and having to return to them after having quite a sustained break might actually be very challenging , '' she says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your mental health in lockdown • How to cope with lockdown while living alone While some people have been safe in the relative comfort of their own home , others have faced difficult and upsetting situations .
From the medical workers on the front lines , to the people trying to stop their businesses from failing , for them last few weeks may have been incredibly busy and stressful .
But one common factor we all share is the amount of change we have all gone through , in a very short space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressful for people , '' says Dr Steven Taylor , a professor in the psychiatry department at the University of British Columbia , in Canada .
`` People are trying to cope by loving being in lockdown , by creating a cocoon of safety , a haven , to make the whole experience more tolerable .
`` Ironically that can create problems later on because people can love their lockdown too much and become anxious about going outside . ''
Dr Taylor is the author of The Psychology of Pandemic , a book @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emerged in China in late 2019 .
`` The spreading and containment of contagion in the case of a pandemic is very much a psychological phenomenon , '' he says .
`` It 's not just some bug that 's going at random around the world .
It 's people 's behaviour that determines whether or not a virus will spread . ''
When governments come to relax lockdown rules , Dr Taylor says good leadership will be crucial to helping people feel safe and confident in the change of policy .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world , there needs to be clear communication from leaders , [ saying ] 'It 's OK now to hug people .
It 's OK to go to restaurants . '
`` The guidelines need to be clear in people 's minds and that can help to reduce uncertainty , which will reduce anxiety . ''
Some people are describing the emotions they are feeling as symptomatic of agoraphobia , but this is n't accurate .
`` What people are describing as agoraphobia is similar superficially in some ways to agoraphobia , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' says Dr Taylor , `` but the motivation is different . ''
Typically , people with agoraphobia will avoid certain situations , because they are frightened of having a panic attack .
`` These people [ anxious about life after lockdown ] are n't frightened of having panic attacks , they 're frightened of infection , '' says Dr Taylor .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : How do I protect myself ?
• AVOIDING CONTACT : The rules on self-isolation and exercise • TESTING : Can I get tested for coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whether you already live with an anxiety disorder , or have experienced anxiety for the first time due to the pandemic , there are things you can do to help you cope with lockdown and the inevitable readjustment that has to take place once restrictions are lifted .
`` People find change quite difficult , '' says Ms Lidbetter .
`` It 's not about expecting yourself to go from 0 to 100 in one day .
Do n't be hard on yourself if you 're finding it difficult to get back into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult to get into the routine of lockdown , so it stands to reason that we 'll find it difficult to get out of the routine of lockdown as well . ''
As we start to leave the home more , she says we should be aware that it will be a `` physiological process '' as well as a mental one .
`` When we go outside , we have all this stimuli hitting us and it can lead to a bit of a sensory overload . ''
She encourages people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' throughout this time .
`` If people are really struggling with anxiety and they 've found this whole experience of the lockdown and the pandemic has really heightened their anxiety , then there is help .
`` People should go to their doctor and not struggle alone . ''
She also advises people to talk to a trusted friend or family member about their worries , if they can .
Dr Taylor says the anxiety many people feel now will pass .
`` The good news is people are resilient , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most of the people who are anxious right now will recover in the weeks , perhaps months , after lockdown restrictions have been lifted .
`` That said , some people will have lingering psychological problems . ''
Akanksha has already started thinking about how she will cope when lockdown in India lifts .
`` Though there are a lot of people looking forward to it , I do n't understand those people , '' she says .
Akanksha 's going to do some of the things that experts say are good for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and doing regular exercise .
`` Keep it as simple as you can , '' she adds , `` and do n't overwhelm yourself with anything new suddenly .
I wo n't be going crazy with parties every day . ''
But she will continue with a hobby that she started during lockdown , to maintain her routine as the world around her changes yet again , and give her an ongoing sense of achievement .
`` I 'm learning Korean right now , '' she says .
`` I want to watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 Women names 100 influential and inspirational women around the world every year .
We create documentaries , features and interviews about their lives - stories that put women at the centre .
Follow BBC 100 Women on Instagram and Facebook and join the conversation .

Like many people, Akanksha has had some struggles during lockdown. But there has also been respite from some of the things that triggered her anxiety in her life pre-coronavirus, because she's able to be at home with her parents, who help her to feel safe.


bbc--2020-05-10--The high-flying circus firm for pop and rock stars

The BBC 's weekly The Boss series profiles different business leaders from around the world .
This week we speak to Billy Alwen and Julian Bracey , founders of UK circus performance business Cirque Bijou .
Many of us dream of quitting our nine-to-five jobs , to , as the saying goes , `` run away and join the circus '' .
Billy Alwen did just that - literally - when he quit a fledgling career in politics in 1992 , aged 25 , to become a full-time circus performer .
A few years later , in 1999 , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend Julian Bracey .
Over the past two decades their business has designed and performed large open-air spectacles at cultural events around the world , from Glastonbury Festival , to Olympic Games , to New Year celebrations in the Far East .
At the same time , its staff go on tour with singers and bands such as Taylor Swift , Katy Perry and Muse , to bring their performances alive with fire performers , tight-rope walkers , and even giant robots .
Londoner Billy had been all set for a life in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international relations from the University of Staffordshire , he spent three years working as a political researcher in the House of Commons .
But in his spare time he had started training as a trapeze artist , and in 1992 he walked away from the day job to become a full-time professional circus performer .
`` I knew my heart lay in performing , '' says Billy , now 53 .
He started to get work with circuses , and performed at private parties and festivals .
Meanwhile , Julian Bracey , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ university in the 1990s .
He had won a scholarship to enrol on a prestigious course at the University of Montreal .
On the streets of the Canadian city he says he was exposed to a lot of circus and street performance .
`` I would see people busking in a market , and think , ' I can do that , ' '' says Julian , 50 .
So he ditched his plans for a career in design .
`` I ended up street performing all around the world , as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ juggler .
`` Then I joined a French circus , working as a compere .
I was n't fluent in any other languages , but I learnt the whole show in French , and even Spanish . ''
Returning to the UK , Julian joined a Bristol-based circus group , where Billy was by then working .
When they decided to go into business together they had no money to invest other than what they were continuing to earn from ad-hoc performance work .
To keep costs down they made do with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Julian 's father 's basement .
Billy says they decided to stay in Bristol because `` it has a thriving arts scene , and is a renowned centre for circus in the UK '' .
But why the French name , which translates as `` Elegant Circus '' ?
Julian explains : `` At the time , being an English circus was n't that cool , so we thought we should give ourselves a French name , hence Cirque Bijou . ''
The business then grew steadily over the years , thanks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's excellent contacts .
`` I had a little black book , and I knew lots of people , as I had travelled a lot , '' he says .
`` I was quite protective of our contacts .
That 's changed now because of social media , it 's now more inclusive .
You can now see someone on TV , Google their name , and say , 'Hey , do you want to be in our show ? '
'' • ‘ After eight years on drugs , I run a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was the stupidest idea he had seen' • 'Coronavirus is the biggest low in my career' • ' I reinvented the hair tie from my uni halls' As the company grew , Billy and Julian both quickly gave up performing themselves , to instead focus on the production work .
Over the years they have produced spectacles such as the annual Taiwan Lantern Festival , an international exhibition in Kazakhstan , and the opening ceremonies for the sailing events at the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics in the UK .
The show for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Add their work with music artists , and the company is typically involved in more than 100 shows around the world each year .
To meet all its commitments , the business relies on a pool of about 200 freelance performers .
Given that these men and women are often playing with fire , or walking tightropes , health and safety is a big factor .
One year they worked with Katy Perry at an awards show , where she wanted Catherine wheels attached to the backpacks of all her dancers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ backs , and we 'd accounted for all the health and safety hazards , '' says Julian .
`` But then this guy from Sony came up to us , and said , 'You realise that there 's this invisible video screen behind you ?
It 's worth £300,000 , and if you burn it you are in trouble ! '
`` That was slightly scary , but in over 20 years we have never had any accidents , which is amazing . ''
Typically , Billy and Julian spend lots of time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which both admit can take a toll on their personal lives .
Julian says it was particularly tough when he spent five months on tour with Muse when his daughter was born .
Presently though , all is on hold due to the coronavirus lockdown .
`` We have had around 20 events cancelled or postponed , '' says Julian .
`` The summer season for live events is effectively cancelled . ''
The company is using the downtime to develop new shows instead .
Ade Berry , artistic director at London arts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cirque Bijou has `` paved the way '' for circus performance in the UK .
`` It 's redefining circus , and pushing organisations like us to try to achieve more , and rethink everything we know , '' says Mr Berry .
He adds that Cirque Bijou 's continuing work with disabled people , via its side project Extraordinary Bodies is particularly inspiring .
As to the future of Cirque Bijou , Billy and Julian see it carrying on for at least another 20 years .
It does sound more fun than @ @ @ @ @

"We strapped the fireworks to their backs, and we'd accounted for all the health and safety hazards," says Julian. "But then this guy from Sony came up to us, and said, 'You realise that there's this invisible video screen behind you? It's worth £300,000, and if you burn it you are in trouble!'


bbc--2020-05-10--Migrants struggle to send money home

Migrants struggle to send money home

Remittances are a lifeline for tens of millions of families around the world .
But as the coronavirus pandemic limits the ability of migrants to work and send their wages back home , that lifeline is drying up .
Smitha Girish lives in Kerala in south-west India with her young son Ishaan .
Her husband is in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates .
Until recently he was working as a sales engineer but due to Covid-19 he is stuck in his accommodation , unemployed .
`` For the last month he is simply sitting in the flat , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ join his new job , he could n't withdraw his money from [ the ] bank .
It 's very difficult , because he has to pay a large amount for our flat . ''
The money Smitha received every month from her husband was her main source of income .
Although she is a criminal lawyer by profession , she has had to stay at home to take care of her son , who has autism .
Now , like many in Kerala , she is having to get by on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frustrated .
It 's very difficult , '' she says .
Smitha 's situation is far from unique .
According to the United Nations , some 800 million people benefit from funds sent home by relatives .
The amount of money flowing from developed to developing countries has increased dramatically in the previous few decades , reaching $ 554bn in 2019 , three times the combined global foreign aid budget .
Unlike foreign aid , the income from remittances goes straight into the pockets of poor families , says Michael Clemens of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He says remittances are a `` lifeline '' for families around the world and that they are crucial for reducing poverty .
It 's not just about keeping families afloat .
Mr Clemens says people use remittances to make the kinds of long-term investments , such as sanitation , education and healthcare that make them `` healthier , happier and also more economically productive . ''
This year many families wo n't be able to make such investments .
The World Bank is predicting global remittances will drop by some 20 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to $ 445bn in 2020 .
This decline is `` unprecedented in history , '' says World Bank economist Dilip Ratha .
He says the Bank has only observed two drops in remittances before now : a fall of 5 % after the global financial crisis in 2008 , and another smaller drop in 2016 .
Coronavirus affects remittances in a number of ways .
In many cases , as with Smitha and her husband , the migrant worker is unable to work and send money home .
In other cases the problem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdowns restrict peoples ' access to transfer shops .
Arthur Beare lives in Monrovia in Liberia , West Africa .
He says since 27 March it has become nearly impossible to take money out of banks and transfer shops .
`` If you do n't go there early they ask you to leave .
And even if you have the opportunity to enter the bank finally , you 'll be delayed for hours .
You go early in the morning , maybe you 're successful to enter the bank by 10am [ then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or 3 o'clock before you 're able to have access to your money . ''
He says with the country in a state of emergency , remittances are more important than ever , not just for subsistence , but for keeping people in quarantine .
`` You have families staying at home , brothers and sisters not going to school , and they are depending on you to help them .
When people are hungry , family members are hungry , they will try to [ go ] out and could get infected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation . ''
In the UK , Chandra Ceeka is having his own problems getting money to his family .
An IT consultant from Hyderabad in southern India 's Telangana state , Chandra has been living in Britain for 18 years and regularly sends money back to India .
Although there are digital remittance services available , he says without the relationship he and others in his community have with their local High Street transfer shops , he does n't get the deals he used to .
`` They try to give us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate .
They try to give us a good customer service .
As of now , due to the Covid-19 issue , I 'm forced to use only online methods and we do n't have an option for any negotiations or anything . ''
But Michael Kent , chief executive of digital payments app Azimo , says mobile payments have the potential to lower the costs of transferring money considerably .
`` We aim to be 70-80 % cheaper in terms of the cost of sending than a traditional money transfer company on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the costs of the store , the cost of the agent , a lot of the corporate costs that some of these larger companies have . ''
Mr Clemens of the Centre for Global Development says the impact of coronavirus will be seen for decades in developing countries .
He points to a landmark study in the the Journal of Political Economy , which found that in the census data of 1980 , the negative economic effects of the 1918 influenza pandemic could still be found in the US .
Babies not yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attainment , increased rates of physical disability , lower income , lower socio-economic status and were more likely to receive welfare .
Likewise , he says young children now , even those not yet born , whose parents ' income is diminished by the decline in remittances , will `` be much more likely to pass away , to be undernourished , to drop out of school to supplement family income .
And those are things that future researchers will be able to detect , unfortunately , in the data 50 to 70 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Kerala , whose husband Girish Sadanandan has been away on and off for 15 years , the sacrifice is no longer worth it .
She hopes next year she can start working again and her husband can come home .
`` Only for the sake of money he stays there and I am staying here .
Money 's everything , you know , without which we ca n't do anything .
But this situation , coronavirus , changed all our hopes . ''
For more on this , you can listen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on how migrants are struggling to send money home .

"If you don't go there early they ask you to leave. And even if you have the opportunity to enter the bank finally, you'll be delayed for hours. You go early in the morning, maybe you're successful to enter the bank by 10am [then it is not until] about 2 or 3 o'clock before you're able to have access to your money."


bbc--2020-05-10--Eurovision: How coronavirus changed the 2020 song contest

Back in February , James Newman stepped onto a small stage at a London club to perform My Last Breath live to a crowd for the first time .
After writing hits for Ed Sheeran , Calvin Harris and Little Mix he was introducing himself to the world as an artist in his own right .
That morning Radio 1 Breakfast had revealed him as the UK 's entry at the 2020 Eurovision Song Contest in the Netherlands .
James decided taking part in the world 's largest live music event was `` too good an opportunity to turn down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of fire for a new artist . ''
After the UK finished in last place in 2019 , James ' participation was seen as a new direction for the country 's involvement in the contest .
But coronavirus put a stop to it .
On 18 March the Eurovision Song Contest was cancelled for the first time in its 64-year history .
Organisers called the decision `` difficult '' and said everyone involved in the contest was `` heartbroken '' .
At that point the UK was fast approaching lockdown and James said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but was still `` absolutely gutted '' .
`` I was meant to be singing on the stage in front of a TV audience of 200 million and 20,000 people in an arena - but what 's more important is people 's health . ''
James was one of 41 acts who were due to compete in the Dutch city of Rotterdam .
Lesley Roy , representing Ireland , says she went from `` excitement , high energy and a buzz '' about her song to `` being upset but not really shocked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she `` cried a lot '' and Poland 's Alicja says the cancellation was `` crushing news '' .
Blas Canto 's anxiety worsened when `` the most incredible festival '' was cancelled .
`` I 've fought it since I was 20 but now this situation is hard because my heart is broken , '' the 28-year-old Spain contestant tells Newsbeat .
The former boyband member , who 's duetted with Kelly Clarkson , developed a rash across his body as a result of the anxiety and had to pull out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed and my mind , '' he explains .
`` I ca n't breathe normally or sing like I used to do and it 's hard for me because I want to give my best to the fans . ''
Victoria Georgieva , 22 , was representing Bulgaria , who were returning to the contest after a year 's absence .
Tears Getting Sober , a sparse but melodic Billie Eilish-esque ballad , was seen as one of the favourites .
`` It meant a lot because I 've always wanted to represent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I found out I was selected I got anxiety and happiness at the same time because it 's such a big thing . ''
Victoria and James were both due to perform with other contestants at pre-Eurovision concerts across Europe , which were all cancelled .
The coronavirus pandemic meant James ' diary went from `` 100 to zero '' .
But it also had a personal affect on him - when he began showing symptoms of the virus .
`` I lost my sense of smell and taste , '' he reveals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could n't get out of bed .
I had a tight chest . ''
He had moments when he felt better , then `` could n't breathe again '' an hour later .
As an asthmatic , breathing was his main concern and he describes a feeling of `` impending doom '' as he did n't know what was going to happen .
After a week of symptoms he reported feeling better but that lulled him into a false sense of security when he later began to feel even worse .
Now recovered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' why everyone has had to stay at home and why events with large crowds have been cancelled .
After Duncan Laurence won 2019 's contest with Arcade , the Netherlands was excited to host Eurovision for the first time in 40 years .
Rotterdam 's slogan for the contest was Open Up but its Ahoy Arena had to close down to be converted into a hospital to deal with Covid-19 .
`` I got to play my song there when it was empty , '' explains Dutch entry Jeangu Macrooy .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the back , which was weird . ''
There 's no confirmation on a 2021 host city but Rotterdam 's city council says it wants to welcome fans next year .
Jeangu was hoping the event would be `` postponed to the autumn or December '' - with the cancellation being his `` worst case scenario '' .
That 's exactly how Latvia 's Samanta Tina felt too after competing on national TV eight separate times hoping to be chosen as a Eurovision act .
`` It 's always been my ambition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stage , '' Samanta tells Newsbeat .
After `` finally making it '' she was `` broken '' when she was told she would n't get her dream .
Outside of sport there 's no bigger TV audience in the world than Eurovision , and the show is a massive hit with younger viewers .
Tens of thousands of international tourists were expected in Rotterdam during the week of the song contest .
The seriousness of the outbreak hit home for Danish entrant Tanne Balcells when she , along with singing partner Benjamin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show on 7 March .
Ben & Tan had expected to sing in front of 10,000 people at an arena in Copenhagen , giving them a taste of what the Rotterdam shows would have been like .
But following government advice they had to sing in an empty hall .
`` We were disappointed at first , '' Tanne admits .
`` You 're preparing this whole thing to go on stage and feel the energy from the full arena and then the day before you get told there 's not going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nerve-racking . ''
At this stage Ben & Tan do n't know if they 'll compete next year , but several other countries have confirmed their acts will get a second chance .
Currently , there 's no word on whether the UK 's James Newman will be chosen for the 2021 contest , although he `` absolutely '' wants to represent his country again .
Australian entrant Montaigne is one of those who 've been reselected but contest rules state it has to be with a new song .
The singer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says she 's disappointed she wo n't get to perform Do n't Break Me because `` life has revolved around it for six months '' .
But she says there was `` no doubt '' about wanting to come back in 2021 .
`` The fandom is amazing so I want to be able to see it through to the end . ''
Crucially , she wo n't have to compete in Australia Decides - where the public vote for who they want to send .
The same ca n't be said for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turned down a chance to represent her country in 2021 .
She won the Norwegian selection show Melodi Grand Prix ( MGP ) and was asked to compete in it again next year .
But it 's a TV programme with a public vote - so there 's no guarantee she 'd even win .
Eurovision was her `` biggest dream '' and it got `` broken '' .
`` This year was a hard and bumpy ride and I need a break . ''
Fans will say the performance and staging is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you want to win the contest .
Iceland 's Daoi Freyr had that in mind when he came up with his song , Think About Things , which was another pre-contest favourite .
`` The whole performance was in my head before I wrote the song . ''
The video features simple dance moves and as a result the track became a TikTok trend - with thousands of people copying the routine .
Iceland has never won the competition but he could tell people `` were getting excited '' with the momentum online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappointed than I am , '' he jokes .
Organisers have helped fans deal with the cancellation by streaming online concerts featuring 2020 acts as well as previous contestants .
The BBC has also announced coverage across TV , radio and online .
For now , James has to wait to find out if he 'll get picked for next year 's contest .
`` I felt welcomed into the Eurovision world , '' he says .
`` It 's such a diverse celebration of music and I love being part of something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finish what I started . ''
Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here .

"You're preparing this whole thing to go on stage and feel the energy from the full arena and then the day before you get told there's not going to be anyone there. It was very nerve-racking."


bbc--2020-05-10--Coronavirus: Italy’s other emergency - survivors’ mental health

`` When Covid patients enter the hospital , they think it 's the beginning of the end , '' says psychologist Tommaso Speranza .
His hospital , Rome 's Spallanzani infectious diseases institute , has been leading Italy 's response to the coronavirus crisis that has claimed more than 30,500 lives .
But since the beginning of Italy 's Covid-19 outbreak , it has seen a parallel and related emergency .
Today , fear of dying , anxiety , depression , anger , panic attacks , insomnia and survivor 's guilt - all known to affect survivors of natural disasters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms .
`` If the patients do n't have to be urgently admitted to the intensive care unit , we have a first therapy session to confront their fear .
We try to transform it into hope , telling them they 're not alone and encouraging them to trust the staff at the hospital : that they will do whatever they can to save their lives , '' says Dr Speranza .
The team of psychologists establishes daily contact with family members of Covid-19 patients .
`` Sometimes the family is suffering more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to visit ; they can just wait .
It 's emotionally exhausting .
We call to give them news and put them in touch by video-calls with their loved ones , if possible .
We become their best friends . ''
• Can you compare the UK with Italy ?
Psychologists have teamed up from the public , private and NGO sectors , offering their help free of charge in response to the mental health emergency .
Lombardy has been on the front line of the crisis .
Half of Italy 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Damiano Rizzi and his team work inside the San Matteo hospital in Pavia , south of Milan .
`` We 're a team of 15 psychologists working inside an intensive care unit supporting doctors , nurses and patients , '' he tells the BBC .
`` The hardest thing for them to do is call patients ' family members , not knowing them personally , and tell them their loved ones have died . ''
They can be doing this 10 times a day .
The founder of the group Foundation Soleterre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths and has confronted survivors ' guilt among both patients and staff .
Doctors and nurses who feel guilt show permanent stress as well as a feeling of disconnection from reality , Dr Rizzi explains .
The psychologists work to reassure them that they have done their utmost and have saved hundreds of lives .
`` We remind them of the limits of our [ medical ] professions , and that we 'll continue the battle . ''
Sometimes members of the same family are fighting for their lives in the same hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilt .
`` When one dies , the other tells us the virus should have killed them and not the other , '' says Dr Rizzi .
The team aims to limit survivors ' anger and other emotions , connecting them with community figures such as a priest , the mayor or local associations to create a network of support .
`` It 's sad to say , but we can call it the psychology of war that we are applying , '' he admits .
For his colleagues , the biggest fear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family members at home , Dr Rizzi says .
Mostly they work over the phone and by video-call , rarely venturing inside the hospitals for fear of further infections .
Facing such a dramatic death toll and so many people dealing with grief the health ministry launched an emergency help line in late April providing psychological crisis support .
At first people came looking for clear information .
Soon they were seeking help , devastated by the loss of loved ones .
In one case a woman 's father had lost his partner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worried for her father , '' says Dr Caputo .
Her mother had died at home , and her father had been left alone with his late wife all night long .
`` She needed an open heart ready to listen to her .
The idea of her father alone was unbearable . ''
Dr Caputo advised her to video-call her father and ask if he was eating and drinking regularly .
Until now family members of those who have died of Covid-19 have not been permitted to attend the funerals .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 relatives will now be allowed to take part .
Quite apart from the high number of deaths is the 219,000 infections reported across Italy .
Many of those discharged from hospital have found it hard to shake off the trauma they 've been through .
Once patients are back home , Tommaso Speranza says the Spallanzani hospital tries to keep in touch .
`` They are relieved [ that they are home ] , but still they ca n't have contact with their family and are in isolation : being alone , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , like with PTSD . ''
Before patients leave hospital , the psychologists prepare them for life outside again .
`` We make sure they know who will bring food , the therapy they will need to follow , we check if they sleep well and try to calm them down if the trauma resurges , '' says Dr Speranza .
`` We also engage with the family : every small sign of support can change their day . ''
He also has to ensure the wellbeing of hospital staff , to prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But the patients themselves are often a beacon of hope too .
One 75 year old had a panic attack on entering hospital , but after talking to Dr Speranza his attitude changed .
This virus was not going to kill him , the man decided , and he would wait for his grandson to be born .
`` I will go out from here .
I have to welcome this baby to this new strange world . ''
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"If the patients don't have to be urgently admitted to the intensive care unit, we have a first therapy session to confront their fear. We try to transform it into hope, telling them they're not alone and encouraging them to trust the staff at the hospital: that they will do whatever they can to save their lives," says Dr Speranza.