bbc--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: US slashes rates and launches huge stimulus programme

The US has cut interest rates to almost zero and launched a $ 700bn stimulus programme in a bid to protect the economy from the impact of coronavirus .
It is part of a co-ordinated action announced on Sunday in the UK , Japan , eurozone , Canada , and Switzerland .
Announcing the US move , the Federal Reserve said the `` outbreak has harmed communities and disrupted economic activity in many countries '' .
Fed chairman Jerome Powell will hold a news conference later on Sunday .
US President Donald Trump said the Fed 's action `` makes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has cut rates to a target range of 0 % to 0.25 % , and said it would it begin buying bonds - quantitative easing - a move that pumps money directly into the economy .
The central bank had already cut interest rates by half a percentage point after an emergency meeting on 3 March .
It was the first rate cut outside of a regularly scheduled policy meeting since the financial crisis in 2008 .
Stock markets have plunged over recent days amid fears that economic paralysis will wipe out corporate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But early indications suggest the Fed 's move may not shore up financial markets .
US stock market futures , which anticipate the direction of shares when trading begins , were almost 4 % down .
In a statement on Sunday , the Fed said : `` The Federal Reserve is prepared to use its full range of tools to support the flow of credit to households and businesses and thereby promote its maximum employment and price stability goals . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
As part of Sunday 's announcement , the Fed will work with other central banks to increase the availability of dollars for commercial banks .
These so-called currency swap lines were an important tool in maintaining financial stability after the 2008 banking crisis .
`` Today 's coordinated action by major central banks will improve global liquidity by lowering the price and extending the maximum term of US dollar lending operations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a joint statement with Andrew Bailey , who succeeds him as BoE chief on Monday .
Michael Hewson , chief market analyst at UK-based CMC Markets , described the co-ordinated move as throwing `` the kitchen sink at the markets .
[ It ] serves to underscore the seriousness of the economic shocks coming our way . ''
And in the US , Greg McBridge , chief financial analyst at online bank and mortgage firm Bankrate.com , said : `` Desperate times call for desperate measures and the Fed is doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ credit markets functioning and prevent the type of starving of credit that nearly toppled the global economy into a depression in 2008 .
`` Reducing interest rates to borrowers will ease the burden of existing debts slightly but is unlikely to spur the usual surge of borrowing as consumers and businesses batten down the hatches for a coming drop off in US economic activity . ''

Speaking after the emergency meeting, which was held in place of the Fed's regular rates setting decision scheduled for this week, Mr Powell warned that although it was clear the outbreak was already having a major impact on the economy it was still too early to tell just how far-reaching the effects will be.


bbc--2020-03-15--Spanish police use 'stay at home' drones

No football likely for months - Balague on lockdown in Spain Spanish football journalist Guilem Ballague says it is likely @ @ @ @ @ in many areas in Europe for `` many months '' following the outbreak of coronavirus @

Police use drones to enforce movement restrictions in Spain's fight against the coronavirus infection.
On Saturday, the country's 47 million citizens were ordered to stay indoors except for necessary trips.
Social gatherings were banned.


bbc--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: A visual guide to the pandemic

Coronavirus - a fast-moving infection originating in China - has spread to more than 140 countries and claimed more than 5,700 lives .
While more than half the cases are in China , the virus is now spreading faster outside the country than within .
Italy , so far , has the highest number of confirmed infections outside China .
This series of maps and charts will help you understand what is going on .
1 .
The virus outbreak is now a pandemic A rise in the number of daily confirmed cases of the new coronavirus internationally has led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to declare its spread a global pandemic .
This is when an infectious disease is passing easily from person to person in many parts of the world at the same time .
About 81,000 people in China have been diagnosed with coronavirus since its emergence in the city of Wuhan , Hubei province , in December .
But there are now also about 71,000 confirmed cases outside China , according to the latest WHO figures .
However , the number of people with coronavirus internationally is thought to be a much higher number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms have not been tested and counted .
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• PROTECTION : Where are we with a vaccine ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
After China , Italy has the highest number of confirmed cases , with more than 21,000 .
Europe has become the new `` epicentre '' of the pandemic .
Iran and South Korea also have significant outbreaks , with nearly 13,000 and 8,000 known cases respectively .
In response to the virus 's spread , countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to try to slow it down .
Governments have halted flights from virus-hit nations , locked down towns , urged people to stay at home , and suspended major sporting and social events .
US President Donald Trump has declared a national emergency , freeing up to $ 50bn ( £40bn ) in relief funds .
He has also announced travel restrictions on European countries .
The measures - originally only applying to non-Americans travelling from countries which are members of the Schengen border-free travel area - have been extended to include the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions are in addition to those applying to China and Iran .
A number of international conferences and sporting events have also been cancelled , including Six Nations rugby matches .
To better co-ordinate the global response , leaders of the world 's richest economies - the G7 group - will hold a crisis summit via videoconference on Monday .
2 .
Italy has the most recorded cases outside China Italy currently has the most confirmed cases outside China , having overtaken both South Korea and Iran .
It has more than 21,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 1,400 .
Italian authorities have imposed stringent restrictions , closing nearly all shops , bars , hairdressers , restaurants and cafes until 25 March .
Schools , gyms , museums , nightclubs and other venues have also been shut , and people have been ordered to stay home and seek permission for essential travel .
A number of airlines , including British Airways , EasyJet and Ryanair , have cancelled Italy flights until the start of April .
3 .
Numbers across Europe are also rising European countries have seen steep rises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ region has become the new epicentre of the crisis .
As well as Italy , Spain , France and Germany now have thousands of confirmed cases each .
Germany 's Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned that up to 70 % of its population - some 58 million people - could contract coronavirus .
However , some German virologists dispute the high figure , suggesting a worst-case scenario of 40,000 cases .
In Spain , a state of emergency came into force on Saturday , with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez warning that the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top 10,000 next week .
In the UK , where cases stand at 1,140 , the government has told those with a high temperature or new , persistent cough to self-isolate for a week as it steps up its response .
The UK has switched to tactics aimed at delaying the virus 's spread , rather than containing it .
• UK outbreak in maps and charts : How many cases are in your area.
?
4 .
China still has the most cases The number of overall coronavirus cases in China has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been levelling off over the last couple of weeks .
The country still has the highest number of confirmed cases of any country and accounts for about 81,000 of the 152,000 global cases .
Government and regional officials have imposed tight restrictions in a bid to reduce infections , including cancelling flights , closing schools and workplaces and ordering some cities to go into lockdown .
The country is now tightening travel restrictions to try and prevent imported cases , so all international arrivals in the capital Beijing will have to be quarantined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus have been linked to illegally traded wildlife at the seafood market in Wuhan , capital of Hubei province , where the outbreak began .
The exact source has not yet been identified .

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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--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Pubs asked to close by Irish government

The Irish government has called on pubs and bars to close from Sunday to help tackle coronavirus .
Mass gatherings are banned in the Republic of Ireland , but pubs and bars have remained open .
Over the weekend , videos emerged of large numbers of people in pubs in the country .
On Sunday the government confirmed 40 new cases of coronavirus , bringing the total in the Republic of Ireland to 169 .
Two people in the country have died after being infected .
The request to close pubs until 29 March followed discussions with industry representatives who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while pubs remain open .
The government also asked people not to hold house parties , as doing so `` would put other peoples ' health at risk '' .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak On Sunday , 11 new cases of coronavirus were confirmed in Northern Ireland , bringing the total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the weekend a series of clips circulated on social media of busy pubs in the Republic of Ireland .
One clip showing a crowded bar , purporting to have been taken in a pub in Dublin 's Temple Bar area , was tweeted by Irish Heath Minister Simon Harris .
In his post , Mr Harris described it as an `` insult '' to the efforts of healthcare workers .
`` Not far from here , nurses & doctors are working to prepare for the impact of a global pandemic .
Everyone is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Earlier on Sunday , Temple Bar publicans in Dublin have announced a complete shutdown of all bars and nightclubs with immediate effect .
On Sunday , the Irish government said having consulted with the chief medical officer , it was an `` essential public health measure given the reports of reckless behaviour by some members of the public in certain pubs last night '' .
`` While the government acknowledges that the majority of the public and pub owners are behaving responsibly , it believes it is important that all pubs are closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' it said .
The Licenced Vintners Association and the Vintners Federation of Ireland , representative bodies for the pub and hospitality industry in the Republic , were consulted in the decision to request the closure .
The government has said the guidelines of social distancing in other parts of the leisure industry , including restaurants and cinemas , would be reviewed and subject to consultation in the coming days .

On Sunday, the Irish government said having consulted with the chief medical officer, it was an "essential public health measure given the reports of reckless behaviour by some members of the public in certain pubs last night".


bbc--2020-03-15--Footballers 'treated as coronavirus guinea pigs'

Wayne Rooney says the government and football authorities have treated footballers as `` guinea pigs '' during the coronavirus outbreak .
Elite football in Britain has been suspended until at least 3 April , with the Premier League saying `` conditions at the time '' will determine its return .
`` For players , staff and their families it has been a worrying week , '' he said .
`` One in which you felt a lack of leadership from the government and from the FA and Premier League . ''
Writing in his column in the Sunday Times , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The rest of sport - tennis , Formula 1 , rugby , golf , football in other countries - was closing down and we were being told to carry on .
`` I think a lot of footballers were wondering , 'Is it something to do with money being involved in this ? '
.
Why did we wait until Friday ?
Why did it take Mikel Arteta [ Arsenal manager ] to get ill for the game in England to do the right thing ?
`` After the emergency meeting , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until then it almost felt like footballers in England were being treated like guinea pigs .
`` I know how I feel .
If any of my family get infected through me because I 've had to play when it 's not safe , and they get seriously ill , I 'd have to think hard about ever playing again .
I would never forgive the authorities . ''
Now , 34 the former Everton and Manchester United player is just over two months into his time as a player-coach at Championship club @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points off a play-off berth in the second tier with nine games of the season remaining , and Rooney believes there will have to be a radical restructure of the football calendar to allow fixtures to be fulfilled .
`` We 're happy to play until September if the season extends to then , if that 's how it has to be .
That 's our job , '' Rooney added .
`` As long as we know we 're safe to play and it 's a safe environment for spectators , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cup is in November and December 2022 , so you could actually use this situation as an opportunity and say we 're going to finish the 2019-20 season later this year , then prepare for 2022 by having the next two seasons starting in winter . ''
World greats Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have led the way as footballers have sent their thoughts and best wishes to the world at large during the coronavirus outbreak .
In a post on Instagram , Messi said : `` They are complicated days for everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is happening and we want to help putting ourselves in the place of those who are having the worst of it , either because it directly affected them or their family and friends , or because they are working on the frontline to combat it in hospitals and health centres .
`` I want to send a lot of strength to all of them .
Health must always come first .
It is an exceptional moment and you must follow the instructions of both health organisations and public authorities .
`` Only in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is the time to be responsible and stay at home , it is also perfect to enjoy that time with yours that you can not always have .
A hug and hopefully we can turn this situation around as soon as possible . ''

Wayne Rooney joined Derby in January after signing an 18-month deal
Wayne Rooney says the government and football authorities have treated footballers as "guinea pigs" during the coronavirus outbreak.
Elite football in Britain has been suspended until at least 3 April, with the Premier League saying "conditions at the time" will determine its return.
"For players, staff and their families it has been a worrying week," he said.
"One in which you felt a lack of leadership from the government and from the FA and Premier League."
Writing in his column in the Sunday Times external-link , the former England captain said: "The rest of sport - tennis, Formula 1, rugby, golf, football in other countries - was closing down and we were being told to carry on.
"I think a lot of footballers were wondering, 'Is it something to do with money being involved in this?'. Why did we wait until Friday? Why did it take Mikel Arteta [Arsenal manager] to get ill for the game in England to do the right thing?
"After the emergency meeting, at last the right decision was made - until then it almost felt like footballers in England were being treated like guinea pigs.
"I know how I feel. If any of my family get infected through me because I've had to play when it's not safe, and they get seriously ill, I'd have to think hard about ever playing again. I would never forgive the authorities."
Now, 34 the former Everton and Manchester United player is just over two months into his time as a player-coach at Championship club Derby.
The Rams are currently five points off a play-off berth in the second tier with nine games of the season remaining, and Rooney believes there will have to be a radical restructure of the football calendar to allow fixtures to be fulfilled.
"We're happy to play until September if the season extends to then, if that's how it has to be. That's our job," Rooney added.
"As long as we know we're safe to play and it's a safe environment for spectators, we'll play.
"The next World Cup is in November and December 2022, so you could actually use this situation as an opportunity and say we're going to finish the 2019-20 season later this year, then prepare for 2022 by having the next two seasons starting in winter."
Footballers' messages of solidarity
World greats Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have led the way as footballers have sent their thoughts and best wishes to the world at large during the coronavirus outbreak.
In a post on Instagram, Messi said: "They are complicated days for everyone.
"We live worried about what is happening and we want to help putting ourselves in the place of those who are having the worst of it, either because it directly affected them or their family and friends, or because they are working on the frontline to combat it in hospitals and health centres.
"I want to send a lot of strength to all of them. Health must always come first. It is an exceptional moment and you must follow the instructions of both health organisations and public authorities.
"Only in this way can we combat it effectively. It is the time to be responsible and stay at home, it is also perfect to enjoy that time with yours that you can not always have. A hug and hopefully we can turn this situation around as soon as possible."


bbc--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Spain and Italy applaud health workers

Residents in Spain and Italy have shown their gratitude to health personnel on the coronavirus frontline by applauding from their @ @ @ @ @ were coordinated in the locked-down countries through social media .
BBC News has also been @ @ @ @ @ Instagram page to report the same thing happening in Portugal , an hour after Spain @ @ @ @ @ at US airports as France and Spain lock down

Residents in Spain and Italy have shown their gratitude to health personnel on the coronavirus frontline by applauding from their windows.
The nationwide events were coordinated in the locked-down countries through social media.
BBC News has also been contacted via comments on our Instagram page to report the same thing happening in Portugal, an hour after Spain.
Read more: Chaos at US airports as France and Spain lock down


bbc--2020-03-15--Simone Biles hits back at USA Gymnastics 'happy birthday' tweet

Last updated on .From the section Gymnastics Simone Biles reiterated her call for an independent investigation into the Larry Nassar @ @ @ @ @ responded to a tweet from USA Gymnastics wishing her happy birthday .
`` How about @ @ @ @ @ the right thing - have an independent investigation , '' said the 23-year-old .
Biles @ @ @ @ @ gymnast .
She has won 19 world titles and four Olympic gold medals .
In @ @ @ @ @ a plan to pay a $ 215m ( £164m ) settlement to the group of @ @ @ @ @ who was sentenced to up to 300 years in jail in 2018 .
In a @ @ @ @ @ , Biles said she was `` relieved '' after speaking out about Nassar after feeling @ @ @ @ @ '' to keep the truth to herself for so long .

Last updated on .From the section Gymnastics
USA Gymnastics failed to use Simone Biles' correct Twitter handle in their 'happy birthday' post
Simone Biles reiterated her call for an independent investigation into the Larry Nassar sex abuse scandal as she responded to a tweet from USA Gymnastics wishing her happy birthday.
Nassar, USA Gymnastics' ex-doctor, was jailed for life for abusing more than 250 athletes, including Biles and members of the Olympic teams.
"How about you amaze me and do the right thing - have an independent investigation," said the 23-year-old.
Biles is the most decorated US gymnast.
She has won 19 world titles and four Olympic gold medals.
In January, USA Gymnastics announced a plan to pay a $215m (£164m) settlement to the group of athletes abused by Nassar, who was sentenced to up to 300 years in jail in 2018.
In a 2018 interview with the BBC, Biles said she was "relieved" after speaking out about Nassar after feeling "a lot of pressure" to keep the truth to herself for so long.


bbc--2020-03-15--Van Dyck painting stolen from University of Oxford gallery

A work by 17th century master Anthony Van Dyck is among three `` very high value '' paintings stolen from a University of Oxford art gallery .
A Soldier On Horseback by the Flemish artist , a leading court painter in England under King Charles I , dates from around 1616 .
Two other works were stolen from Christ Church Picture Gallery , St Aldates , at about 23:00 GMT on Saturday .
Police said a `` thorough investigation '' was under way to recover the paintings .
The burglars also made off with A Boy Drinking ( c. 1580 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rocky Coast , With Soldiers Studying a Plan ( late 1640s ) by Salvator Rosa .
A Christ Church College spokesman said staff had initially alerted police to the theft of the `` important cultural artefacts '' , and the gallery will be closed until further notice .
Det Ch Insp Jon Capps , from Thames Valley Police , said : `` The paintings which have been stolen are very high-value pieces dating back to the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries .
`` The artwork has not yet been recovered but a thorough investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring those responsible to justice . ''
He added there would be an increased police presence in the area , and that any witnesses or anyone with CCTV or other footage from near the area should get in touch .

He added there would be an increased police presence in the area, and that any witnesses or anyone with CCTV or other footage from near the area should get in touch.


bbc--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: Nigerian celebrities wear blinged-up masks

Nigerian celebrities turned up to a glitzy award ceremony wearing glittery , jewelled face masks amid the coronavirus pandemic .
That is despite medical experts advising that face masks do not provide effective protection .
At least one of the stars said they were using the mask to make a statement rather than to prevent the spread of the virus .
Nigeria has reported just two confirmed cases of coronavirus and no deaths .
The first case of the coronavirus in sub-Saharan Africa was an Italian who flew from Milan to Lagos in February .
• EASY STEPS : What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Where are we with a vaccine ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
The Big Brother Naija finalist Omashola Kola Oburoh said he turned up to the Africa Magic Viewers ' Choice Awards ( AMVCA ) awards in a glittery mask as a protest .
`` Fashion can also be a Protest/Educative not just a Statement ... ... let 's join hands to fight Covid19 , '' he said in an Instagram post .
It is not clear whether the comment about joining hands was intended as a joke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AMVCAs for TV and film stars in a luxury hotel in Lagos on Saturday when they wore the masks .
Television presenter and actor Ada Afoluwake Ogunkeye AKA Folu Storms , who wore a jewelled mask on the red carpet , complained that people were getting too close to her .
`` No one really paid attention to my social distancing cries so I will be avoiding large crowds for the forseeable future ! ''
she said in an Instagram post .
`` Take care of yourselves people !
Wash your hands and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
Meanwhile , another former Big Brother Naija housemate and fashion designer Iheme Faith Uloma AKA Ifu Ennada posted a picture of herself and used the hashtag # CoronaVirusFashion .
They are not the first celebrities to don fashionable masks at awards ceremonies .
The US singer Billie Eilish wore a Gucci designer mask at the Grammy awards at the end of January .
Masks also appeared on the catwalk at Paris Fashion week at the end of February .
The outfits , in French designer Marine Serre 's show , were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Organization has advised that most people do not need to wear a face mask .
Dr Shunmay Yeung from London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine told the BBC that if you are not close to people and they are not coughing or sneezing on you then a facemask is not necessary .

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bbc--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: 'I've had to cancel my wedding'

Holly Eason and her fiance Masakazu Yamamoto have been planning their April wedding in their hometown of Tokyo for ages but now , thanks to coronavirus , they 've had to cancel everything .
Ms Eason , a teacher , could n't risk her guests being exposed to infection .
She said : `` I could n't forgive myself if our celebration became the cause of a serious health condition .
I 'm also worried that my dad and my brother would n't be allowed to enter Japan .
We just do n't know what the situation will be at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go ahead without them being here . ''
She feels frustrated - but says safety is the priority .
The coronavirus only emerged in December but is now a pandemic , with countries implementing lockdowns and travel restrictions .
On the day the couple finally decided to cancel , their wedding invitations turned up at the home of Ms Eason 's father , Mike , at his home in Market Harborough , Leicestershire , in the UK .
He said : `` It hit home the effort she had put into organise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 60 , she was very worried about putting me and the others at risk .
`` My daughter has arranged the wedding day herself , when most have their mum to help with organising advice .
Holly 's mum died five years ago and unfortunately , I can not offer much help from the UK . ''
He said the family was now facing difficulty trying to get refunds .
`` We can not get our money back for the flights and hotel , so stand to write off approximately £5,000 .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ credit card but despite being on hold for nearly 90 minutes ( as everyone else is trying to get through too ) they say there is nothing they can do . ''
The family hopes to reschedule the wedding at a later date , ideally during blossom season again .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
For Saavan Nathwani @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Italy was supposed to be the happiest moment of their lives .
But Ms Modi , who is from Harrow , London , said : `` In a matter of one week , our world was turned upside down , when the outbreak in Italy was announced .
`` We were due to marry in Tuscany in about a month 's time but now we 're in a bit of a limbo and have no idea whether it 's going to go ahead or if we should postpone or cancel .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for nearly six months .
We both work full-time and even though it has been a stressful and bumpy road , the only thing that kept us going was knowing we would marry one another . ''
She said they had more than 150 guests from coming all over the world including babies , grandparents and elderly relatives but many were now too scared to travel .
With the response to the virus in the UK also changing rapidly , they also were concerned that it might be better to postpone if Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her fiance , Charlotte Armitage , have their fingers crossed their marriage will go ahead at The Whitby Abbey in Yorkshire in May .
But Ms Maitland said : `` My mum has recently had a surgical procedure carried out on her heart and is recovering , while my granddad is 90 years old .
Charlotte worries about her own parents daily too .
`` Beyond that , we 're nervous of large public gatherings being cancelled which would mean our ceremony could n't go ahead , or indeed so many people having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whitby Pavilion ca n't go ahead .
• Virus 'forces ' couple to live-stream into own wedding '' We also have friends and family travelling from Australia , New Zealand , Switzerland , Germany and the USA .
We 're very nervous they wo n't be able to travel . ''
They have taken out wedding insurance and have travel insurance already in place for their 10-day honeymoon in Orlando , Florida and a week on a Royal Caribbean cruise but Ms Maitland adds : `` With the current travel bans , park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certainly starting to feel anxious about what is going to happen with our best-laid plans . ''
The couple , who live in St Ives , Cambridgeshire , say they are opting for a wait-and-see approach .
`` More importantly , we remember to keep things in context .
As important as our wedding is to us , and as excited as we are about our honeymoon , nothing is more important to us than the friends and family who we 've invited to join us on that special day .
`` As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus-free , then postponing or cancelling our plans does n't really matter in the end .
We just want everyone to be OK. '' Meanwhile , also in London , Elisha Deol and her fiance Ronak Shah are trying to figure out contingency plans to make sure their wedding goes ahead in a few weeks .
The couple , who have been engaged for just over a year , were due to have a Hindu wedding with 500 guests at the Oshwal Centre in Potters Bar next month , with a civil wedding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hotel the next day .
The whole event was set to cost around £100,000 .
Ms Deol said : `` There are a lot of things that concern us about the wedding going ahead .
These include venues and suppliers cancelling on us at the last minute ; the health and wellbeing of ourselves and our elderly and at-risk guests and the fact we have friends and family who were due to come from overseas . ''
She said guests from Canada , Kenya and the US had mostly all cancelled already .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently in the process of writing to all suppliers asking them what their contingency plans are .
`` It is so hard to know if we will get refunds , or even try to make any real plans as the picture is constantly changing . ''

"We cannot get our money back for the flights and hotel, so stand to write off approximately £5,000. I have tried to claim back through my credit card but despite being on hold for nearly 90 minutes (as everyone else is trying to get through too) they say there is nothing they can do."


bbc--2020-03-15--Coronavirus: What measures are countries taking to stop it?

Countries around the world are taking different measures to try to stop the spread of coronavirus .
Governments say they are acting on medical and scientific advice from leading experts .
But the measures - and their timing - have varied widely , highlighting the many factors at play .
Who is restricting travel and movement ?
The US has introduced restrictions on 26 European countries , preventing anyone ( except US citizens ) from entering the country if they 've been in Europe 's border-free travel zone in the past 14 days , and is now extending this ban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland .
India says it 's suspending visas for all foreigners for a month , with a few exemptions such as for diplomats , official or employment purposes .
Kuwait has also stopped issuing visas to foreign visitors .
And various countries around the world have now stopped or restricted entry to travellers from the countries worst affected by the virus , like China , Italy , Iran and South Korea .
Italy is now in a major lockdown , with special permission needed for travel within the country , and some countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there .
Spain is poised to declare a 15-day national lockdown , with its citizens allowed out only for emergencies or to work or buy food .
When the outbreak began in China , the authorities there restricted travel nationwide and told people to stay at home , only relaxing this recently .
The Iranian authorities have also tried to restrict travel between cities , but they did not seal off the holy city of Qom , where there were large numbers of cases .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ except for a temporary period .
`` In general , evidence shows that restricting the movement of people and goods during public health emergencies is ineffective in most situations , '' it said .
Who is screening at airports ?
Some countries - if they are not barring entry - are screening arrivals at airports and other transport hubs .
This can involve questioning travellers about their recent movements , their health and carrying out temperature checks .
However , there are doubts about how effective screening for high temperatures is because coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Which countries are screening at airports ?
Airports in Italy have been running temperature checks on passengers since early February , and there are also tests at railway stations .
Thermometers are a common sight at airports throughout Asia .
And the US - as part of the travel restrictions announced on Europe - has said its citizens will be screened at designated airports .
How many tests are being carried out ?
There is considerable variation in how many people are being tested for coronavirus around the world .
South Korea has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of population than anyone else , with nearly 20,000 people tested every day .
Compare that with an average of about 1,500 a day in England - although there are now plans to ramp this up to 10,000 daily .
The US has so far carried out even fewer tests , with reports of shortages at some health centres .
How severe the outbreak has been is another factor , with countries which see a spike in cases generally starting to increase the numbers they test .
Who has closed schools and colleges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cultural body Unesco says that as of 13 March , 39 countries had closed all their schools .
A further 22 had closed some at a local level .
School closures can be very disruptive socially and economically , and governments will be weighing up the pros and cons .
Ireland has announced it 's closing its schools and colleges until 29 March , and there 've been school closures at national or local level in other European countries .
In the UK and Germany , a relatively small number of schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deep cleaning after staff or pupils tested positive or returned from high-risk areas .
China closed schools in many areas , and Japan has asked all schools to close until the end of the school year , which is in late March .
Italy has closed all its schools until April as part of the nationwide lockdown .
There have also been nationwide school closures in Iran , Iraq and Saudi Arabia .
Coronavirus is having a major impact on the sporting calendar .
In football , games were already being cancelled or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of players and coaches tested positive for the virus in different countries , the authorities have gone further .
Uefa have postponed all matches in the Champions League and the Europa League .
England 's Premier League has been suspended ( until 4 April ) along with elite football in Spain , Portugal , France , Italy the Netherlands and a number of other countries .
• What are the rules on ticket refunds ?
Rugby Union 's Six Nations matches , due to be played on 14 March between Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were postponed .
The Indian Wells tennis tournament in California was cancelled after a public health emergency was declared for the Coachella Valley .
A number of marathons have been affected including the Barcelona marathon which has been moved from 15 March to 25 October .
April 's London marathon is also being postponed until October .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the outbreak Meanwhile , Japan 's Olympics Minister Seiko Hashimoto has said everything is being done to allow the Games to go ahead on 24 July , but said it could be delayed until later in the year .
The recent torch-lighting ceremony in ancient Olympia was held without spectators , before the rest of the relay in Greece was suspended .
The flame handover in Athens next week will be done behind closed doors because of coronavirus concerns .
Are museums and tourist attractions still open ?
Some of the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , restricted entry or told visitors to minimise close contact with each other .
Disney has announced that it is closing its theme parks in Florida and Paris .
Hong Kong 's Disneyland remains closed as do Disney theme parks in Japan .
There have also been temporary closures of tourist sites across Italy , and restrictions or new measures introduced for visitors to other attractions in Europe .
In France , the Louvre museum , the palace at Versailles and the Eiffel Tower have now been closed following a government order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In New York , Broadway shows are being closed for a month while St Patrick 's Day celebrations have been cancelled throughout the island of Ireland .
Saudi Arabia has temporarily halted the entry of pilgrims wanting to visit the holy sites , and Iraq introduced restrictions on access to religious sites .

Japan, which earlier banned entry to visitors from certain areas of China and South Korea, has now extended this to 21 European countries and Iran, and is telling arrivals from the US to go into quarantine for 14 days.


bbc--2020-03-15--Italian FA calls for Euro 2020 postponement

The Italian Football Federation has called for the postponement of Euro 2020 to give time to complete the Serie A season , which has been suspended because of coronavirus .
Federation president Gabriele Gravina says the idea will be put to Uefa at an emergency meeting on Tuesday .
Serie A was suspended last Tuesday , with Italy the European country worst affected by the virus .
`` We will propose that Uefa postpone the European Championship , '' Gravina said .
Speaking to television channel Sportmediaset , the Italian added : `` We will try to get to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] because it is fairer and more correct after the many investments and sacrifices of our clubs . ''
• Coronavirus : How the virus has impacted sporting events around the world Uefa has invited representatives of its 55 member associations to Tuesday 's video conference meeting , with Euro 2020 due to take place from 12 June-12 July at venues across Europe .
The boards of the European Club Association and the European Leagues , and a representative of world players ' union Fifpro have also been invited and discussions will cover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the possible postponement of Euro 2020 by one year .
The Italian Football Federation had previously said the Serie A season may not be completed and offered alternatives including play-offs , not having a champion for 2019-20 or declaring the current standings final .
Gravina now hopes the league could finish by 30 June , one month later than scheduled , but admitted it could be extended for another month and suggested players should not train at the moment .
`` If the league were to resume at the beginning of May , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the moment , '' he said .
`` Let 's leave the boys at home , they have to recover physical and mental energy . ''
On Sunday , Italy reported 368 more coronavirus deaths , a new one-day record in the country .
La Liga president Javier Tebas said he is `` convinced '' the Spanish top-flight season will finish .
The league was suspended on Thursday after the Real Madrid squad went into quarantine , while five Valencia players and staff have tested positive for coronavirus .
Spain is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is set to declare a national lockdown on Monday .
`` I am convinced that we are going to end the season .
We are working with other leagues to match dates , '' Tebas told Cadena COPE .
`` I have had contacts with Italy , Germany .
The approach for now is to see what happens on Tuesday with Euro 2020 and then decide .
`` The news is to see how we finish the championship if there is no Euro because , if not , we are going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be in good health , which is the first thing , of course .
If the competitions are suspended , everything is reviewed and the income is much lower .
`` All team budgets will be compromised if the competition is not over , but I am convinced that it will end . ''

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Juventus v Inter Milan was one of several Serie A games played behind closed doors before the league was suspended
The Italian Football Federation has called for the postponement of Euro 2020 to give time to complete the Serie A season, which has been suspended because of coronavirus.
Federation president Gabriele Gravina says the idea will be put to Uefa at an emergency meeting on Tuesday.
Serie A was suspended last Tuesday, with Italy the European country worst affected by the virus.
"We will propose that Uefa postpone the European Championship," Gravina said.
Speaking to television channel Sportmediaset, the Italian added: "We will try to get to the end of this championship [Serie A] because it is fairer and more correct after the many investments and sacrifices of our clubs."
Uefa has invited representatives of its 55 member associations to Tuesday's video conference meeting, with Euro 2020 due to take place from 12 June-12 July at venues across Europe.
The boards of the European Club Association and the European Leagues, and a representative of world players' union Fifpro have also been invited and discussions will cover all domestic and European competitions, including the possible postponement of Euro 2020 by one year.
The Italian Football Federation had previously said the Serie A season may not be completed and offered alternatives including play-offs, not having a champion for 2019-20 or declaring the current standings final.
Gravina now hopes the league could finish by 30 June, one month later than scheduled, but admitted it could be extended for another month and suggested players should not train at the moment.
"If the league were to resume at the beginning of May, I would leave the question of training for the moment," he said.
"Let's leave the boys at home, they have to recover physical and mental energy."
On Sunday, Italy reported 368 more coronavirus deaths, a new one-day record in the country.
Coronavirus 2020: Guillem Balague explains lockdown in Spain
'La Liga season will finish' - Tebas
La Liga president Javier Tebas said he is "convinced" the Spanish top-flight season will finish.
The league was suspended on Thursday after the Real Madrid squad went into quarantine, while five Valencia players and staff have tested positive for coronavirus.
Spain is the second worst-hit country in Europe after Italy and is set to declare a national lockdown on Monday.
"I am convinced that we are going to end the season. We are working with other leagues to match dates," Tebas told Cadena COPE. external-link
"I have had contacts with Italy, Germany. The approach for now is to see what happens on Tuesday with Euro 2020 and then decide.
"The news is to see how we finish the championship if there is no Euro because, if not, we are going to have serious problems.
"We must be in good health, which is the first thing, of course. If the competitions are suspended, everything is reviewed and the income is much lower.
"All team budgets will be compromised if the competition is not over, but I am convinced that it will end."


bbc--2020-03-15--Liverpool's Van Dijk will be 'gutted' if fans miss title

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk admits he would be `` gutted '' if the coronavirus crisis prevents fans from watching them win a league title for the first time in 30 years .
The Reds lead the Premier League by 25 points but football across the country is suspended until 3 April .
The prospect of playing matches without fans has been raised as one of a number of ways to complete the fixture list .
`` No one wants to play games without the fans , '' said Van Dijk , 28 .
`` If we won it in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't there , I 'd be gutted for them , '' the Dutch international told newspapers .
`` Obviously , if there are no fans at Anfield , then it will be a bit of a blow .
`` Until a decision is made on how we go on from here , then we just have to deal with it .
But when it happens , we are still bringing the title to our fans , definitely . ''
• A null and void season ?
What happens next ?
• 'Cups should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is expected to be subjected to further restrictions next week with Prime Minister Boris Johnson set to announce a blanket ban on major public gatherings .
Uefa will meet on Tuesday to discuss the scheduling of Euro 2020 , which is due to begin on 12 June .
The Premier League will then hold a second emergency meeting on Thursday to discuss potential ways forward in the wake of Uefa making its own plans clear .
On Saturday , Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said it is `` hard to imagine '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis unfolding on a global scale .
Liverpool need a maximum of two more wins to secure the Premier League and Barber said it would be `` incredibly unjust '' if they were not to be awarded the title .
In a newspaper column , West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady said declaring the season `` null and void '' was `` the only fair and reasonable thing to do '' .
On Friday , Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said `` football matches really are n't important at all '' in an emotional message @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged fans to `` look out for each other '' .

Last updated on .From the section Liverpool
Virgil van Dijk has helped Liverpool to a 25-point lead at the top of the Premier League
Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk admits he would be "gutted" if the coronavirus crisis prevents fans from watching them win a league title for the first time in 30 years.
The Reds lead the Premier League by 25 points but football across the country is suspended until 3 April.
The prospect of playing matches without fans has been raised as one of a number of ways to complete the fixture list.
"No one wants to play games without the fans," said Van Dijk, 28.
"If we won it in an empty stadium and the fans weren't there, I'd be gutted for them," the Dutch international told newspapers.
"Obviously, if there are no fans at Anfield, then it will be a bit of a blow.
"Until a decision is made on how we go on from here, then we just have to deal with it. But when it happens, we are still bringing the title to our fans, definitely."
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber says it would be 'unjust' if Liverpool are not awarded the title.
Sport is expected to be subjected to further restrictions next week with Prime Minister Boris Johnson set to announce a blanket ban on major public gatherings.
Uefa will meet on Tuesday to discuss the scheduling of Euro 2020, which is due to begin on 12 June.
The Premier League will then hold a second emergency meeting on Thursday to discuss potential ways forward in the wake of Uefa making its own plans clear.
On Saturday, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said it is "hard to imagine" the league resuming in early April given the crisis unfolding on a global scale.
Liverpool need a maximum of two more wins to secure the Premier League and Barber said it would be "incredibly unjust" if they were not to be awarded the title.
In a newspaper column, external-link West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady said declaring the season "null and void" was "the only fair and reasonable thing to do".


bbc--2020-03-15--Tyson Fury: Ukad to open new investigation into farmer's meat claims

UK Anti-Doping is to investigate a farmer 's claim he was told to lie in support of a high-profile case involving world champion Tyson Fury .
Fury and his cousin Hughie tested positive for a banned steroid in February 2015 , blaming the result on eating uncastrated wild boar .
A farmer said he was offered £25,000 to say he sold the meat to 'Team Fury ' - but promoter Frank Warren called this claim `` a load of rubbish '' .
Being found guilty of tampering with the first investigation , which followed those positive tests , could result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Martin Carefoot provided evidence to a Ukad investigation stating he had supplied the team with wild boar - but in a newspaper interview , now says he never actually did so .
The Mail on Sunday reports that he says he was asked for assistance by a friend who was familiar with 'Team Fury ' , but that he never received the promised payment .
But boxing promoter Warren , who works with world heavyweight champion Fury now but did not at the time , said : `` The farmer making these outrageous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , full of errors and basically telling me he had committed perjury by signing statements under oath and lying .
`` When I called him , he asked for money .
I told him to clear off and get in contact with Ukad .
He chose not to speak to Ukad but instead speak to a newspaper .
`` How anybody can take this man seriously is beyond belief .
Tyson has never met this man in his life .
What a load of rubbish .
We 'll leave this with Ukad to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go any further .
`` It looks like while the football season has been paused , there 's nothing to write about and silly season has instead commenced . ''
Both Fury and his cousin Hughie , a British heavyweight fighter , returned positive tests for banned anabolic steroid nandrolone in February 2015 but were not charged by Ukad until June 2016 .
Between the two dates , Tyson Fury won the WBA , WBO and IBF world heavyweight titles from Wladimir Klitschko .
Both fighters insisted they `` never knowingly or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed to resume their boxing careers from December 2017 after accepting backdated two-year doping bans .
The drawn-out case drew scrutiny as before its conclusion Ukad feared becoming insolvent or requiring a government bailout over the dispute .
Tyson Fury suffered with depression and abused both drugs and alcohol during a 30-month spell away from boxing after his win over Klitschko .
Since his return in June 2018 , he has been held up as an inspiration as a result of his dramatic weight loss and a run of wins that culminated in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time by beating Deontay Wilder in February to claim the WBC belt .
On Sunday , WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said the farmer 's claims would `` not impact '' Fury 's position as champion .
Sulaiman told The Sun : `` Personally , I prefer to believe Tyson Fury ahead of someone who has already admitted to lying in legal documents for financial gain . ''

Fury became world champion for the second time by beating Deontay Wilder in February
UK Anti-Doping is set to investigate a farmer's claim he was told to lie in support of a high-profile case involving world champion Tyson Fury.
Fury and his cousin Hughie tested positive for a banned steroid in February 2015, blaming the result on eating uncastrated wild boar.
A farmer said he was offered £25,000 to say he sold the meat to 'Team Fury' - but promoter Frank Warren called this claim "a load of rubbish".
Ukad has refused to comment.
Being found guilty of tampering with the first investigation, which followed those positive tests, could result in an eight-year suspension.
Lancashire-based farmer Martin Carefoot provided evidence to a Ukad investigation stating he had supplied the team with wild boar - but in a newspaper interview, external-link now says he never actually did so.
The Mail on Sunday reports that he says he was asked for assistance by a friend who was familiar with 'Team Fury', but that he never received the promised payment.
But boxing promoter Warren, who works with world heavyweight champion Fury now but did not at the time, said: "The farmer making these outrageous allegations sent me a letter last October, full of errors and basically telling me he had committed perjury by signing statements under oath and lying.
"When I called him, he asked for money. I told him to clear off and get in contact with Ukad. He chose not to speak to Ukad but instead speak to a newspaper.
"How anybody can take this man seriously is beyond belief. Tyson has never met this man in his life. What a load of rubbish. We'll leave this with Ukad to look into and don't expect it to go any further.
"It looks like while the football season has been paused, there's nothing to write about and silly season has instead commenced."
Both Fury and his cousin Hughie, a British heavyweight fighter, returned positive tests for banned anabolic steroid nandrolone in February 2015 but were not charged by Ukad until June 2016. Between the two dates, Tyson Fury won the WBA, WBO and IBF world heavyweight titles from Wladimir Klitschko.
Both fighters insisted they "never knowingly or deliberately committed a violation" and were allowed to resume their boxing careers from December 2017 after accepting backdated two-year doping bans.
The drawn-out case drew scrutiny as before its conclusion Ukad feared becoming insolvent or requiring a government bailout over the dispute.
Tyson Fury suffered with depression and abused both drugs and alcohol during a 30-month spell away from boxing after his win over Klitschko.
Since his return in June 2018, he has been held up as an inspiration as a result of his dramatic weight loss and a run of wins that culminated in him becoming world champion for the second time by beating Deontay Wilder in February to claim the WBC belt.
On Sunday, WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said the farmer's claims would "not impact" Fury's position as champion.
Sulaiman told The Sun: "Personally, I prefer to believe Tyson Fury ahead of someone who has already admitted to lying in legal documents for financial gain."
BBC Sport has contacted Fury's management team MTK Global for comment.


bbc--2020-03-15--NFL players approve deal that adds an extra game to the regular season

NFL players have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement with the league 's team owners that will see major changes to the sport - including an expanded playoff field and an extra game each season .
The new deal , which runs until 2030 , means play-offs will be increased from 12 to 14 teams from the 2020 season .
The regular season will increase from 16 to 17 games per team in 2021 .
NFL players voted 1,019 to 959 in favour of the ratification .
The changes will also see big raises for players earning the minimum annual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also be added benefits for former players and an increased share of revenue for current players .
There will also be changes to the drug policy including a reduction in penalties for players who test positive for THC - the main psychoactive compound in cannabis .
`` We are pleased that the players have voted to ratify the proposed new CBA , '' NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said .
`` This will provide substantial benefits to all current and retired players , increase jobs , ensure continued progress on player safety , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football . ''

Last updated on .From the section American football
Kansas City beat San Francisco at Super Bowl 2020 in February
NFL players have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement with the league's team owners that will see major changes to the sport - including an expanded playoff field and an extra game each season.
The new deal, which runs until 2030, means play-offs will be increased from 12 to 14 teams from the 2020 season.
The regular season will increase from 16 to 17 games per team in 2021.
NFL players voted 1,019 to 959 in favour of the ratification.
The changes will also see big raises for players earning the minimum annual wage in the NFL, while there will also be added benefits for former players and an increased share of revenue for current players.
There will also be changes to the drug policy including a reduction in penalties for players who test positive for THC - the main psychoactive compound in cannabis.
"We are pleased that the players have voted to ratify the proposed new CBA," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said.
"This will provide substantial benefits to all current and retired players, increase jobs, ensure continued progress on player safety, and give our fans more and better football."


bbc--2020-03-15--Coronavirus symptoms: What are they and how do I protect myself?

Coronavirus has spread to more than 140 countries or territories , including the UK , and claimed more than 5,700 lives .
So , what is the disease and how does it spread ?
How do I protect myself ?
The best thing is regular and thorough hand washing , preferably with soap and water .
Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs small droplets - packed with the virus - into the air .
These can be breathed in , or cause an infection if you touch a surface they have landed on then your eyes , nose or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into tissues , not touching your face with unwashed hands , and avoiding close contact with infected people are important for limiting the spread .
Face masks do not provide effective protection , according to medical experts .
What are the coronavirus symptoms ?
Coronavirus infects the lungs .
The symptoms start with a fever followed by a dry cough , which can lead to breathing problems .
It takes five days on average to start showing the symptoms , scientists have said , but some people will get symptoms much later than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 14 days , the World Health Organization ( WHO ) says .
But some researchers say it may be up to 24 days .
People will be most infectious when they have symptoms , but there have been suggestions some can spread the virus even before they are sick .
The early symptoms can easily be confused with other winter bugs including colds and flu .
What do I need to know about the coronavirus ?
• EASY STEPS : What can I do ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 'delay ' phase ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak The proportion dying from the disease appears low ( between 1 % and 2 % ) - but the figures are unreliable .
Thousands are being treated but may go on to die - so the death rate could be higher .
But it may also be lower if lots of mild cases are unreported .
• 6 % become critically ill - lung failure , septic shock , organ failure and risk of death • 80 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and some may have pneumonia Older people , and those with pre-existing medical conditions ( such as asthma , diabetes , heart disease , high blood pressure ) , are more likely to become severely ill .
The data from China also suggests that men are at slightly higher risk of dying from the virus than women .
Treatment relies on keeping the patient 's body going , including breathing support , until their immune system can fight off the virus .
Work to develop a vaccine is under way .
• How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
What should I do if I think I have coronavirus ?
The NHS says an epidemic in the UK is `` likely '' .
Patients with mild symptoms - such as a new continuous cough or a high temperature above 37.8C- should self-isolate at home for at least seven days , according to the latest advice issued by Public Health England on Friday .
Community teams will keep an eye on them if need be .
But people are being advised not to ring NHS 111 to report their symptoms unless they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go to their GP , or A & E .
Details for Scotland are to check NHS inform , then ring your GP in office hours , or 111 out-of-hours .
In Wales call NHS 111 , and in Northern Ireland , call your GP .
If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected , you may be told to self-isolate .
People needing to do so should take `` common-sense '' steps to avoid close contact with other people , says Public Health England .
Advice for people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from affected areas and who may need to self-isolate , has been issued .
Other countries have introduced their own measures For example , the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises people showing symptoms to call their healthcare provider , and those who are mildly ill to self-isolate .
The World Health Organization has also issued advice for the public .
Who gets tested and how does it work ?
In its latest advice , Public Health England ( PHE ) has said those who are self-isolating with mild symptoms will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with flu-like symptoms will be tested .
If you need testing in the UK , you may have to give samples of mucus , blood or faeces .
These will be tested and results may be available on the same day .
While you await your test results , you may be asked to stay at home and self-isolate .
How fast is it spreading ?
Hundreds of new cases are being reported worldwide each day .
However , it is thought health agencies may be unaware of many cases .
After starting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fast in countries like South Korea , Italy and Iran .
This explainer will be regularly updated to reflect the audience 's questions about coronavirus .
Details of how to get in touch are below .
What questions do you have about the coronavirus ?
In some cases your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
Your contact details will never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .
Use @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Older people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure), are more likely to become severely ill. Men are at slightly higher risk of dying from the virus than women.


bbc--2020-03-16--Germany shuts borders to try to slow virus

Germany has become the latest country to close borders as European nations try to stem the spread of the coronavirus .
Its borders with France , Austria and Switzerland were shut on Monday morning , except for commercial traffic .
France is considering more stringent lockdowns , with its health chief saying the situation is `` deteriorating fast '' .
However , last week it said Europe was now the `` epicentre '' of the virus and urged governments to act aggressively to control the spread of the Covid-19 disease .
Leaders of the G7 nations are to hold a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint response to the coronavirus pandemic .
Central banks around the world , including the US Federal Reserve and those in the UK , Japan , Canada , and Switzerland have cut interest rates and taken other measures to try to curb the economic turmoil , but stock markets in Asia and Europe still fell .
The EU 's Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton said a recession was now expected , with a 2-2.5 % negative growth .
Airlines are also continuing to slash flights as demand slumps .
• EASY STEPS : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Why and how has Germany acted ?
Germany had tried to resist closing its borders , to try to keep the Schengen agreement on free travel between European countries working , but traffic crossing the borders with the three neighbours and also Luxembourg will now be restricted to goods and work commuters .
The aim is to stem the spread of the virus but also to curtail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Only the borders with the Netherlands and Belgium are as yet unaffected .
Schools in Germany were closed on Monday , while Berlin over the weekend shut all clubs , bars and fitness centres .
Large gatherings nationwide are banned .
One of the most powerful states , Bavaria , declared an emergency , closing all leisure facilities and restricting the activities of restaurants and cafes .
German tourism giant TUI said on Monday it was suspending most of its operations and asked for state aid .
Germany now has close to 5,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths .
Meanwhile , Foreign Minister Heiko Maas responded to reports that US President Donald Trump wanted to buy exclusive access to a potential vaccine developed by a German biotech firm , saying : `` We can not allow others to seek exclusive results . ''
What are the other restrictions in Europe ?
Germany 's neighbours such as Poland , the Czech Republic and Denmark have already closed borders or introduced severe restrictions .
But there are a vast amount of travel restrictions inside many countries .
Spain and Portugal have agreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border , allowing only goods and workers to cross .
Spain imposed a partial lockdown on its 47 million inhabitants on Saturday , as part of a 15-day state of emergency .
People are barred from leaving home except for buying essential supplies and medicines , or for work .
It is also considering closing all its borders and expects the 15-day emergency period will be extended .
Portugal has a state of alert , although its confirmed cases of 112 are far below Spain 's 5,753 , according to WHO figures .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , where the virus originated , has more than 20,000 cases and more than 1,800 deaths .
Prime Minister Guiseppe Conte told Corriere della Sera on Monday that damage from the virus would be `` serious and widespread .
A true 'reconstruction plan ' will be needed '' .
`` After the coronavirus , nothing will be as before , we will have to sit down and rewrite the rules of trade and the free market , '' he said .
Renowned Italian architect , Vittorio Gregotti , who helped design the 1992 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after contracting the virus , aged 92 .
EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has expressed fears that border closures could strand thousands of lorry drivers at the borders .
`` If we do n't act now , stores will have difficulty filling with certain products , '' she said , urging the `` common internal market [ to keep ] going '' .
• The Czech authorities seal off an area in the east of the country - Unicov , Cervenka and Litovel • Poland is suspending all domestic flights from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ air and rail travel • Switzerland confirms 841 new coronavirus cases , raising the country 's total to 2,200 , with a death toll of 14 .
All schools have been shut , as have ski resorts • Ukrainian capital Kyiv is shutting restaurants , cafes and bars from Tuesday and restricting movement to other towns What is happening in France ?
President Emmanuel Macron will discuss the border closures with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday and will address his nation at 19:00 GMT .
France is considering following the lead of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain in their houses .
Cafes , restaurants , cinemas and most shops are already shut .
On Monday , the head of the country 's health service , Jerome Salomon , said the outbreak was `` very worrying '' and `` deteriorating very fast '' .
`` The number of cases doubles every three days , '' he told France Inter .
`` I want our citizens to realise that there are people who are sick , who are in intensive care and that [ their number ] runs into hundreds , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drawn criticism for proceeding with local elections on Sunday , which saw a record-low turnout .
The country so far has more than 5,000 infections and 127 deaths .
Have you been affected by the coronavirus ?
Share your experiences 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 : • Please read our terms & conditions and privacy policy

Germany had tried to resist closing its borders, to try to keep the Schengen agreement working, but traffic crossing the borders with the three neighbours and also Luxembourg will now be restricted to goods and people commuting for work.


bbc--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Stocks plunge despite global central bank action

Global stock markets have sunk despite central banks around the world announcing a co-ordinated effort to ease the effects of the coronavirus .
London 's FTSE 100 share index fell more than 7 % in early trade .
Earlier , markets in Asia closed sharply lower .
On Sunday , the US Federal Reserve cut interest rates to almost zero and launched a $ 700bn stimulus programme .
It was part of co-ordinated action announced alongside the eurozone , the UK , Japan , Canada , and Switzerland .
However , investors are concerned that central banks now have few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic .
In London , shares in airlines saw some of the biggest falls .
BA-owner IAG fell more than 20 % after it said it would cut its flight capacity by at least 75 % in April and May , while EasyJet fell nearly 30 % as it said it might have to ground the majority of its planes .
All the main European share indexes saw big falls , with France 's Cac 40 index down more than 9 % and Germany 's Dax more than 8 % lower .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nikkei 225 closed down 2.5 % , Hong Kong 's Hang Seng lost 4 % , and the Shanghai Composite in China ended the day 3.3 % lower .
• US in emergency rate cut and huge stimulus plan Why should I care if stock markets fall ?
Many people 's initial reaction to `` the markets '' is that they are not directly affected , because they do not invest money .
Yet there are millions of people with a pension - either private or through work - who will see their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a defined contribution pension ) invested by pension schemes .
The value of their savings pot is influenced by the performance of these investments .
So big rises or falls can affect your pension , but the advice is to remember that pension savings , like any investments , are usually a long-term bet .
On Sunday , the US central bank , the Federal Reserve , cut its interest rates by 100 basis points to a target range of 0 % to 0.25 % and said it would offer at least $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coming weeks .
It was the first US rate cut outside of a regularly scheduled policy meeting since the global financial crisis in 2008 .
Speaking after the announcement , Fed chairman Jerome Powell said : `` The virus is having a profound effect . ''
But stock markets dived as investors worried that the world 's biggest central banks may now have very little ammunition left to deal with the effects of the coronavirus if the global economic climate continues to worsen .
`` They [ the Fed ] pulled out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is I think it may help initially but I do n't think it goes much further because this is still a developing issue .
They used up basically all their ammunition and we 're down to sticks and stones , '' said Robert Pavlik , chief investment strategist at Slatestone Wealth .
Alongside the Fed , five other central banks - the Bank of England , the European Central Bank , the Bank of Japan , the Bank of Canada , and the Swiss National Bank - also announced measures to make it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ institutions facing stress in credit markets .
The move was designed to bring down the price banks and companies pay for US dollars , which has surged in recent weeks .
Andrew Sentance - a former member of the Bank of England 's Monetary Policy Committee , which sets interest rates - told the BBC 's Today programme that banks were acting to ensure enough credit was flowing .
`` There was some criticism around the financial crisis that central banks did n't move quickly enough , '' he said .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for central banks to show that they are doing as much as possible to keep the wheels of the economy turning . ''
Mr Sentance added that any further cut to the base rate in the UK , to 0.10 % for example , would be `` symbolic , because it would n't have that much impact on companies or individuals '' .
In other developments on Monday : • The Bank of Japan eased monetary policy by pledging to buy risky assets at double the current pace and announced a new loan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to financial institutions • Shares in Australia recorded their biggest daily percentage fall on record , as the benchmark ASX 200 index dropped 9.7 % • The Reserve Bank of Australia said it `` stands ready '' to pump more money into the country 's financial system • New Zealand 's central bank lowered interest rates by 75 basis points as it prepared for a `` significant '' hit to the economy .
• Oil prices fell again , with Brent crude down more than 7 % to $ 31.42 a barrel

"They [the Fed] pulled out whatever weapons they had and my sense is I think it may help initially but I don't think it goes much further because this is still a developing issue. They used up basically all their ammunition and we're down to sticks and stones," said Robert Pavlik, chief investment strategist at Slatestone Wealth.


bbc--2020-03-16--Satoshi Uematsu: Japanese man who killed 19 disabled people sentenced to death

A Japanese man has been sentenced to death for a stabbing rampage in 2016 which resulted in the death of 19 disabled people at a care home .
Satoshi Uematsu said people with disabilities who were unable to communicate well had no human rights , said broadcaster Kyodo .
The 30-year old had once worked in the care facility , located near Tokyo .
The case is one of Japan 's worst mass killings and has shocked people in a country where violent crime is rare .
In an earlier interview with Japan 's Mainichi Shimbun newspaper , Uematsu had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living '' for people with mental disabilities and that he `` had to do it for the sake of society '' .
The Yokohama District Court on Monday ordered him to death by hanging .
Uematsu previously said he did not plan to appeal against any verdict or sentence .
During the trial earlier this year , the former employee of the Sagamihara care home did not dispute that he stabbed his victims .
But his defence team pleaded not guilty , citing their client 's mental state .
They said he had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time .
`` He abused marijuana and suffered from mental illness , '' his lawyer said .
`` He was in a condition in which either he had no capacity to take responsibility or such a capacity was significantly weakened . ''
There were traces of marijuana found in his blood after the attack .
Prosecutors though insisted Uematsu was mentally competent and that the rampage was `` inhumane '' and left `` no room for leniency '' .
The attack has also raised the issue of how disabled people are treated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those killed have not been revealed by their families , reportedly because they do not want to reveal they had a disabled relative .
Before the start of the court hearing , however , one mother whose 19-year old daughter was killed in the attack revealed that her first name was Miho .
`` Even the most extreme penalty is light for you , '' the mother said according to public broadcaster NHK .
`` I will never forgive you . ''
`` Please bring back my most precious daughter ... you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fair .
It 's wrong .
I demand capital punishment , '' she added .
What happened during the attack ?
On 26 July 2016 , Mr Uematsu drove to the Tsukui Yamayuri-en care facility outside of Tokyo , armed with several knives .
He entered one of the buildings by breaking a window and began attacking sleeping residents one by one in their rooms , according to the prosecution .
• How Japan has almost eradicated gun crime • Why some Japanese pensioners want to go to jail His 19 victims were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Japanese news agency Kyodo .
Another 25 people were wounded , 20 of them seriously .
Soon after the attack , Mr Uematsu handed himself in at a police station .
The facility , set in extensive grounds , had about 150 residents at the time of the attack , according to local officials .
Nine staff members were on duty at the time .
It later emerged that a few months before the attack Mr Uematsu had taken a letter to Japan 's parliament saying he would kill 470 severely disabled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Japan to be a country where the disabled can be euthanised , '' he said .
He was subsequently taken to hospital but released after two weeks .
Since his arrest , he had shown no remorse .

In an earlier interview with Japan's Mainichi Shimbun newspaper, Uematsu had said there was "no point in living" for people with mental disabilities and that he "had to do it for the sake of society".


bbc--2020-03-16--Australian man charged over supermarket 'assault'

A man has been charged after a fight broke out in a supermarket in Sydney , Australia .
Police said @ @ @ @ @ be related to coronavirus concerns , but it came amid frenzied scenes of buying as @ @ @ @ @ .

A man has been charged after a fight broke out in a supermarket in Sydney, Australia.
Police said the fight was unlikely to be related to coronavirus concerns, but it came amid frenzied scenes of buying as shoppers continued to stockpile items.


bbc--2020-03-16--Coronavirus clears Venice of crowds

Coronavirus clears Venice of crowds

Eighteen months ago Venice resident Marianna showed us how her city was `` suffocating '' under the pressure of tourism @ @ @ @ @ us how Venice has been completely transformed by the coronavirus shutdown .

Eighteen months ago Venice resident Marianna showed us how her city was "suffocating" under the pressure of tourism.
Now, she shows us how Venice has been completely transformed by the coronavirus shutdown.
Produced by Marianna Purisiol, Boris De Giovanni and Bruno Boelpaep.


bbc--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: US man who stockpiled hand sanitiser probed for price gouging

A man who stockpiled 17,700 bottles of hand sanitiser to sell on Amazon is being investigated for price gouging .
Matt Colvin , from Chattanooga in Tennessee , told the New York Times he had faced a `` huge amount of whiplash '' .
Online platforms have cracked down on sellers listing coronavirus-related items at inflated prices .
Mr Colvin later said he would donate his goods but on the same day Tennessee 's attorney general opened an investigation , the Times reported .
Mr Colvin said that from 1 March , the day after the first coronavirus-related death in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his brother had spent three days driving across Tennessee , buying up all the hand sanitiser they could find .
He then listed the bottles on Amazon , selling some for as much as $ 70 ( £57 ) .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Amazon then deleted listings of hand sanitiser , sanitising wipes and face masks with marked-up prices @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of any of these items .
After the initial article was published , Mr Colvin faced a major backlash , with many accusing him of attempting to profit off a global crisis .
He expressed remorse in a follow-up interview , saying he `` had no idea that these stores wouldn ’ t be able to get replenished '' .
Price gouging - the act of re-selling an item in high demand with a `` grossly excessive '' price mark-up - is prohibited in the state of Tennessee if the governor has declared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilty , a person can be fined up to $ 1,000 ( £813 ) .
In a statement , Tennessee Attorney General Herbert Slatery III said : `` We will not tolerate price gouging in this time of exceptional need , and we will take aggressive action to stop it . ''

Mr Colvin said that from 1 March, the day after the first coronavirus-related death in the US was confirmed, he and his brother had spent three days driving across Tennessee, buying up all the hand sanitiser they could find.


bbc--2020-03-15--Spain's King Felipe VI renounces father's inheritance

Spain 's King Felipe VI has renounced the inheritance of his scandal-hit father Juan Carlos .
In a statement , the palace said that Juan Carlos , who abdicated in 2014 , would also stop receiving an annual grant of €194,000 ( £174,800 ; $ 217,100 ) .
This comes as the 82-year-old former king is being criticised for his lavish lifestyle .
Juan Carlos , who reigned for 39 years , is also facing an investigation by the Swiss financial authorities .
This follows media reports that he had received $ 100m in 2008 from Saudi Arabia via an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made no comments on the issue .
Some royal analysts in Spain say that by renouncing his father 's inheritance , King Felipe VI , 52 , is trying to distance himself from his father 's affairs .
Juan Carlos ascended the throne in 1975 on the death of General Francisco Franco , the right-wing dictator who ruled Spain for 36 years after his victory over Republican forces in the Spanish Civil War .
Juan Carlos became Spain 's first crowned head of state for 44 years .
But he soon ignored Franco @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to autocratic rule , and ushered in a new system of parliamentary monarchy .
As the years went on the king involved himself less in day-to-day politics , and became more of a figurehead .
He is credited as a stabilising force for independence-minded areas such as Catalonia and the Basque region , and he also helped defuse an attempted coup in 1981 .
Until a few years before his abdication his popularity was high , but a lavish elephant hunting trip to Botswana in 2012 and corruption allegations involving his youngest daughter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Urdangarin , led to calls for him to step aside .

Until a few years before his abdication his popularity was high, but a lavish elephant hunting trip to Botswana in 2012 and corruption allegations involving his youngest daughter, Cristina, and her husband Iñaki Urdangarin, led to calls for him to step aside.


bbc--2020-03-16--Rate cuts: US goes to almost zero and launches huge stimulus programme

The US has cut interest rates to almost zero and launched a $ 700bn stimulus programme in a bid to protect the economy from the effect of coronavirus .
It is part of a co-ordinated action announced on Sunday in the UK , Japan , eurozone , Canada , and Switzerland .
In a news conference Fed chairman Jerome Powell said the pandemic was having a `` profound '' impact on the economy .
US President Donald Trump said the emergency action `` makes me very happy '' .
The Fed has cut rates to a target range of 0 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would it begin buying bonds - quantitative easing - a move that pumps money directly into the economy .
The central bank had already cut interest rates by half a percentage point after an emergency meeting on 3 March .
It was the first rate cut outside of a regularly scheduled policy meeting since the financial crisis in 2008 .
Stock markets have plunged in recent days amid fears that economic paralysis will wipe out corporate profits and spark a global recession .
But early indications suggest the Fed 's move may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stock market futures , which anticipate the direction of shares when trading begins , were almost 4 % down .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : What is the UK 's 'delay ' phase ?
• TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
Speaking after the emergency meeting , which was held in place of the Fed 's regular rates setting decision scheduled for this week , Mr Powell warned that although it was clear the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the economy it was still too early to tell just how far-reaching the effects will be .
`` The economic outlook is evolving on a daily basis and it is depending on the spread of the virus ... that is not something that is knowable , '' he said .
As part of Sunday 's announcement , the Fed will work with other central banks to increase the availability of dollars for commercial banks .
These so-called currency swap lines were an important tool in maintaining financial stability after the 2008 banking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by major central banks will improve global liquidity by lowering the price and extending the maximum term of US dollar lending operations , '' Bank of England Governor Mark Carney said in a joint statement with Andrew Bailey , who succeeds him as BoE chief on Monday .
The Federal Reserve has now fired most of its remaining big guns to stimulate a US economy facing a serious financial shock from the coronavirus .
Interest rates were slashed by one full percentage point to just above zero , and the bank restarted the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into financial markets .
Global central banks , including the Bank of England , joined in to ease the flow of dollars around the world .
It was the full crisis toolkit designed to inject confidence into markets that ran riot last week as the outbreak turned into a global pandemic .
While the moves should soothe the financing of US business , they also reflect that the health emergency in the US has become far worse than expected and reveals US authorities are running short of options .
Interest rate cuts are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , and more is expected from Congress and the White House , in particular .
President Trump welcomed the cut , but it was his decision to ban European travel that sparked the latest record share sell off on Thursday .
There is some hope that a video conference call later between leaders of the G7 western industrialised nations , including President Trump and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson , will result in a more coordinated global approach to the virus .
The authorities will be watching markets carefully today , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the job .
Michael Hewson , chief market analyst at UK-based CMC Markets , described the co-ordinated move as throwing `` the kitchen sink at the markets .
[ It ] serves to underscore the seriousness of the economic shocks coming our way '' .
And in the US , Greg McBridge , chief financial analyst at online bank and mortgage firm Bankrate.com , said : `` Desperate times call for desperate measures and the Fed is doing just that in an effort to keep credit markets functioning and prevent the type @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the global economy into a depression in 2008 .
`` Reducing interest rates to borrowers will ease the burden of existing debts slightly but is unlikely to spur the usual surge of borrowing as consumers and businesses batten down the hatches for a coming drop off in US economic activity . ''

Speaking after the emergency meeting, which was held in place of the Fed's regular rates setting decision scheduled for this week, Mr Powell warned that although it was clear the outbreak was already having a major impact on the economy it was still too early to tell just how far-reaching the effects will be.


bbc--2020-03-16--Christchurch attack: Messages of hope one year one

This weekend marked one year since a gunman attacked two mosques in Christchurch , New Zealand , killing 51 people @ @ @ @ @ planned memorial service was cancelled as a precaution against Covid-19 .
Instead , about 3,000 @ @ @ @ @ love and hope for the city ’ s Muslim community .
The initiative was organised @ @ @ @ @ a well-being campaign set up after the 2011 Christchurch earthquake to encourage people to talk @ @ @ @ @ .
It has been active again since the mosque attacks .
Produced and edited by @ @ @ @ @ Christo Montes .

This weekend marked one year since a gunman attacked two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, killing 51 people and injuring 49.
A planned memorial service was cancelled as a precaution against Covid-19.
Instead, about 3,000 people have written messages of love and hope for the city’s Muslim community.
The initiative was organised by All Right?, a well-being campaign set up after the 2011 Christchurch earthquake to encourage people to talk about how they are feeling. It has been active again since the mosque attacks.
Produced and edited by Simon Atkinson. Filmed by Christo Montes.


bbc--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Louis Vuitton owner to start making hand sanitiser

Louis Vuitton owner LVMH will use its perfume production lines to start making hand sanitiser to protect people against the coronavirus outbreak .
The luxury goods maker says it wants to help tackle a nationwide shortage of the anti-viral products across France .
`` These gels will be delivered free of charge to the health authorities , '' LVMH announced on Sunday .
France has now seen 120 deaths from the coronavirus as the pandemic spreads .
`` LVMH will use the production lines of its perfume and cosmetic brands ... to produce large quantities of hydroalcoholic gels from Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The factories normally produce perfume and makeup for luxury brands like Christian Dior and Givenchy .
The French luxury conglomerate also owns well-known brands such as champagne maker Moet & Chandon , watchmaker Tag Heuer and jeweller Bulgari .
`` LVMH will continue to honour this commitment for as long as necessary , in connection with the French health authorities , '' the company said .
France has closed its restaurants , cafes and non-essential stores in an effort to combat the virus , which has infected an estimated 165,000 people and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the world have called on manufacturers to help make products that are running low during the virus outbreak .
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to ask UK engineering firms on Monday to shift production to build ventilators for the NHS .
In China , at the peak of its coronavirus outbreak in February , electronics giant Foxconn switched some of its production from Apple iPhones to make surgical masks .

France has closed its restaurants, cafes and non-essential stores in an effort to combat the virus, which has infected an estimated 165,000 people and killed more than 6,000 worldwide.