jerusalempost--2020-03-16--French infant among four new coronavirus cases in Cambodia

PHNOM PENH - Cambodia reported four new cases of coronavirus including in a four-month-old French boy and two people who @ @ @ @ @ a religious ceremony , the Ministry of Health said late Sunday .
The baby is @ @ @ @ @ man who traveled from Paris via Singapore to Phnom Penh and tested positive for the @ @ @ @ @ the ministry said .
His wife tested negative .
A Cambodian man returning from France @ @ @ @ @ from the Islamic ceremony in Malaysia also tested positive , bringing the country 's tally @ @ @ @ @ the ministry said .
Prime Minister Hun Sen has ordered citizens not to travel to @ @ @ @ @ and Iran as part of the government 's efforts to curb the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ late last year and has spread around the world .

PHNOM PENH - Cambodia reported four new cases of coronavirus including in a four-month-old French boy and two people who had traveled to Malaysia for a religious ceremony, the Ministry of Health said late Sunday.
The baby is the son of a French man who traveled from Paris via Singapore to Phnom Penh and tested positive for the virus earlier on Sunday, the ministry said. His wife tested negative.
A Cambodian man returning from France and two other people returning from the Islamic ceremony in Malaysia also tested positive, bringing the country's tally of cases to 12, the ministry said.
Prime Minister Hun Sen has ordered citizens not to travel to Europe, the United States and Iran as part of the government's efforts to curb the spread of the virus which emerged from China late last year and has spread around the world.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--US soldier aboard ship tests positive for coronavirus

The Navy said the sailor was quarantined at home and that personnel who had been in close contact with the sailor have been notified and are in self-isolation at their homes .
`` None of them is aboard the ship currently .
US Navy ships conduct routine , daily cleanliness procedures geared toward health , wellness and the prevention of communicable disease spread , '' the Navy said in a statement .
The sailor had been assigned to the USS Boxer , the Navy said .
A US official , however , said the ship was in port , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way at sea .
It was not immediately clear whether the sailor was sleeping on the ship or just working onboard during the day .
The case is the latest example of how the US military is grappling with coronavirus cases around the world , from a Marine who works at key defense agency near the Pentagon to a soldier assigned to US Army Europe Headquarters in Wiesbaden , Germany .
A dangerous virus on a warship presents particular concerns , as sailors operate in close proximity to one another .
The Navy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thorough cleaning , according to specific guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Navy-Marine Corps Public Health Center .
It also said the military was conducting contact tracing to determine whether anyone else may have been in close contact with the sailor .
`` Depending on the results of that investigation , additional mitigations may be taken , '' the Navy said .

WASHINGTON - A US sailor aboard a warship ship tested positive for the coronavirus for the first time, the US Navy said on Sunday, as it disclosed the case of a person assigned to an amphibious assault ship at port in San Diego.
The Navy said the sailor was quarantined at home and that personnel who had been in close contact with the sailor have been notified and are in self-isolation at their homes.
"None of them is aboard the ship currently. US Navy ships conduct routine, daily cleanliness procedures geared toward health, wellness and the prevention of communicable disease spread," the Navy said in a statement.
The sailor had been assigned to the USS Boxer, the Navy said. A US official, however, said the ship was in port, a substantially less risky situation than being under way at sea.
It was not immediately clear whether the sailor was sleeping on the ship or just working onboard during the day.
The case is the latest example of how the US military is grappling with coronavirus cases around the world, from a Marine who works at key defense agency near the Pentagon to a soldier assigned to US Army Europe Headquarters in Wiesbaden, Germany.
A dangerous virus on a warship presents particular concerns, as sailors operate in close proximity to one another.
The Navy said the USS Boxer was conducting a thorough cleaning, according to specific guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Navy-Marine Corps Public Health Center.
It also said the military was conducting contact tracing to determine whether anyone else may have been in close contact with the sailor.
"Depending on the results of that investigation, additional mitigations may be taken," the Navy said.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Guatemala reports first coronavirus related death

GUATEMALA CITY - Guatemala has registered its first fatality from coronavirus infection , an elderly man who had recently visited @ @ @ @ @ Monroy said on Sunday .
Monroy told a news conference the 85-year-old man returned from @ @ @ @ @ illness and that the country had two other cases of confirmed coronavirus infection .
Guatemala @ @ @ @ @ arrivals from countries more heavily affected by the coronavirus outbreak to include the United States @ @ @ @ @ Giammattei said on Friday .

GUATEMALA CITY - Guatemala has registered its first fatality from coronavirus infection, an elderly man who had recently visited Madrid, Health Minister Hugo Monroy said on Sunday.
Monroy told a news conference the 85-year-old man returned from Spain without showing signs of illness and that the country had two other cases of confirmed coronavirus infection.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Number of new daily coronavirus cases in China lowers

That brings the total number of confirmed cases in China so far to 80,860 .
The death toll from the @ @ @ @ @ 3,213 as of the end of Sunday , up by 14 from the previous day @ @ @ @ @ of Hubei , the epicenter of the outbreak in China , there were 14 new @ @ @ @ @ capital of Wuhan accounting for 13 of the fatalities .

BEIJING - Mainland China had 16 new confirmed cases of coronavirus infections on Sunday, the National Health Commission said on Monday, down from 20 a day earlier.
That brings the total number of confirmed cases in China so far to 80,860.
The death toll from the outbreak in China had reached 3,213 as of the end of Sunday, up by 14 from the previous day.
In the central province of Hubei, the epicenter of the outbreak in China, there were 14 new deaths, with the provincial capital of Wuhan accounting for 13 of the fatalities.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Benny Gantz pledges to get Israel out of political "paralysis"

Blue and White Party leader , Benny Gantz , pledged to get Israel out of political `` paralysis '' on @ @ @ @ @ Facebook Page .
`` I know this is a complicated time , you expect the @ @ @ @ @ , to put aside personal considerations , to unite , and put Israel above all @ @ @ @ @ by saying that him getting a mandate was the first stage in in forming a @ @ @ @ @ he could to prevent another election .

Blue and White Party leader, Benny Gantz, pledged to get Israel out of political "paralysis" on Monday night posting on his Facebook Page.
"I know this is a complicated time, you expect the national leadership, including myself, to put aside personal considerations, to unite, and put Israel above all else."
He continued by saying that him getting a mandate was the first stage in in forming a government, and promised everything he could to prevent another election.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Brazil's foreign trade secretary, who met Trump, has coronavirus

BRASILIA - Brazilian Foreign Trade Secretary Marcos Troyjo , who was part of the Brazilian delegation that met with US @ @ @ @ @ ago , has tested positive for the coronavirus , his office said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ who is Brazil 's deputy economy minister , was also in Washington last week .
@ @ @ @ @ and is working from his home in strict isolation , the statement said .

BRASILIA - Brazilian Foreign Trade Secretary Marcos Troyjo, who was part of the Brazilian delegation that met with US President Donald Trump nine days ago, has tested positive for the coronavirus, his office said in a statement on Monday.
Troyjo, who is Brazil's deputy economy minister, was also in Washington last week. He is showing no symptoms and is working from his home in strict isolation, the statement said.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Egypt reports two deaths and 40 new cases of coronavirus

CAIRO - Egypt reported on Monday two more deaths because of coronavirus , bringing the total of coronavirus related deaths @ @ @ @ @ , the health ministry said in a statement .
The individuals were a 72-year-old German @ @ @ @ @ a 50-year-old Egyptian in Dakahlia governorate , the statement added .

CAIRO - Egypt reported on Monday two more deaths because of coronavirus, bringing the total of coronavirus related deaths in the country to four, the health ministry said in a statement.
The individuals were a 72-year-old German who died in Luxor and a 50-year-old Egyptian in Dakahlia governorate, the statement added.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Trump urges no gatherings higher than 10 people to fight coronavirus

WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump issued new guidelines on Monday to help fight the coronavirus , including a recommendation that @ @ @ @ @ more than 10 people , discretionary travel , and going to bars , restaurants and @ @ @

WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump issued new guidelines on Monday to help fight the coronavirus, including a recommendation that people avoid social gatherings of more than 10 people, discretionary travel, and going to bars, restaurants and food courts.
Trump said the new guidelines from his coronavirus task force applied for 15 days and were meant to slow the spread of the virus.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--US CDC reports 3,536 coronavirus cases, 68 deaths

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) on Monday reported 3,536 cases of the coronavirus , @ @ @ @ @ from its previous count reported on March 13 , and said the number of deaths @ @ @ @ @ 68 .
The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , as of 4 p.m .
ET on March 15 .
The agency said @ @ @ @ @ by 49 states , District of Columbia , Puerto Rico , Guam and US Virgin @ @ @ @ @ states and the District of Columbia in its previous report .
The latest tally includes @ @ @ @ @ from Japan and Wuhan , China , where the outbreak began .
The CDC figures @ @ @ @ @ reported by individual states .

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Monday reported 3,536 cases of the coronavirus, an increase of 1,858 cases from its previous count reported on March 13, and said the number of deaths had risen by 27 to 68.
The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. ET on March 15.
The agency said the cases had been reported by 49 states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and US Virgin Islands, up from 46 states and the District of Columbia in its previous report.
The latest tally includes 49 cases among people repatriated from Japan and Wuhan, China, where the outbreak began.
The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--France to impose movement restrictions: Macron

PARIS - French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday ordered stringent restrictions on people 's movement that would last at least two weeks to slow the spread of the coronavirus and said the army would be drafted in to help move the sick to hospitals .
France had already shut down restaurants and bars , closed schools and put ski resorts off limits , but Macron said measures unprecedented in peacetime were needed as the number of infected people doubled every three days and deaths spiraled higher .
In a somber address to the nation , the president said that from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and only go out for essential activities .
Anyone flouting the restrictions would be punished .
`` I know what I am asking of you is unprecedented but circumstances demand it .
We are at war , '' Macron said .
Macron said he was postponing the second round of local elections on Sunday and was suspending the government 's reform agenda , starting with his overhaul of the pension system .
Coronavirus infections and fatalities in France and Spain have been surging at a pace just days behind that of Italy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where hospitals in the worst-hit northern regions are stretched to breaking point .

PARIS - French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday ordered stringent restrictions on people's movement that would last at least two weeks to slow the spread of the coronavirus and said the army would be drafted in to help move the sick to hospitals.
France had already shut down restaurants and bars, closed schools and put ski resorts off limits, but Macron said measures unprecedented in peacetime were needed as the number of infected people doubled every three days and deaths spiraled higher.
In a somber address to the nation, the president said that from Tuesday midday people should stay at home and only go out for essential activities. Anyone flouting the restrictions would be punished.
"I know what I am asking of you is unprecedented but circumstances demand it. We are at war," Macron said.
Macron said he was postponing the second round of local elections on Sunday and was suspending the government's reform agenda, starting with his overhaul of the pension system.
Coronavirus infections and fatalities in France and Spain have been surging at a pace just days behind that of Italy, the epicenter of the outbreak in Europe where hospitals in the worst-hit northern regions are stretched to breaking point.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--British actor Idris Elba tests positive for coronavirus

Elba , who starred in TV drama `` The Wire '' and movie `` Avengers : Infinity War , '' said in a Twitter post that he had no symptoms but was isolating himself from others .
It was not clear where he was located .
`` This morning I tested positive for Covid 19 .
I feel ok , I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus .
Stay home people and be pragmatic .
I will keep you updated on how I 'm doing ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , wrote .
Elba said he had taken the test because he found out on Friday that he had been exposed to someone who had contracted the disease .
He did not identify the person .
`` Stay positive .
Do n't freak out , '' he said in a video accompanying the Twitter post .
Elba was the second major Hollywood celebrity to announce he has the virus .
Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson announced last week that they both had contracted the disease while working on a film in @ @

Idris
Elba
British actorsaid on Monday he had tested positive for the new coronavirus, joining Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, among the first major celebrities to contract the respiratory disease.
Elba, who starred in TV police drama "Luther" and played the Norse god Heimdall in "Avengers: Infinity War," said in a Twitter post that he had no symptoms but was isolating himself from others. It was not clear where he was located.
This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how I’m doing No panic. pic.twitter.com/Lg7HVMZglZ — Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2020
Elba
"This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how I'm doing... No panic,", 47, wrote.
Elba said he had taken the test because he found out on Friday he had been exposed to someone who had contracted the disease. He did not identify the person.
"Stay positive. Don't freak out," he said in a video accompanying the Twitter post. His wife, Sabrina, was seen in the background.
Hanks and Wilson said last week that they had contracted the disease while working on a film in Australia.
Former Bond girl Olga Kurylenko, who appeared in "Quantum of Solace" in 2008, said on Sunday that she was "locked up at home" after testing positive for the coronavirus.
Elba's announcement followed the halting of more movie productions worldwide.
Movie studio Warner Bros said on Monday it had stopped filming on the fourth installment of the "Matrix" action franchise, starring Keanu Reeves, and the third "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them," a spinoff of its successful "Harry Potter" franchise.
Trade paper Variety said "Matrix" was about to film in Germany and "Fantastic Beasts" was about to start production.
Universal Pictures, Netflix Inc and Disney halted production of most of their live-action TV shows and movies last week as the coronavirus spread around the world.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--PM Netanyahu on new coronavirus rules: No national lock down

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The government imposed increasingly severe limits on both the public and private sector on Monday evening, as the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus climbed to 298.The public sector will operate according to an emergency framework, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a press conference, with all government and local authority workers placed on paid leave until the end of the Passover holiday, except for those deemed critical for continued operations. Private sector firms exceeding 10 employees will be required to reduce staff present in the workplace by 70%.Netanyahu said the government will also approve the use of a range of "digital tools" to monitor the spread of the virus for an initial period of 30 days. Responding to privacy fears voiced in recent days regarding the implementation of technological measures previously used to fight terrorism, Netanyahu emphasized the importance of balancing human rights and the demands of the crisis."We are not locking people in their houses – this is not a total lockdown , and I hope we will not reach that," Netanyahu said. "We have a more moderate increase in infection than in other countries, are we are doing everything to remain in control."While localized lockdowns may be implemented in specific areas facing severe outbreaks, Netanyahu said that critical services – including supermarkets, pharmacies, banks and welfare institutions – will continue to operate as normal. Public transportation will also continue to operate according to regular schedules.Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon hailed an agreement reached with union representatives, employers and industry organizations to ease financial struggles faced by businesses and self-employed workers. Measures will include increased eligibility for unemployment benefits and the deferral of payments, including VAT, municipality taxes and utility bills.Kahlon also declared his intention to inject NIS 5 billion into the Israeli economy, in addition to a NIS 10b. package already announced, to assist small and medium businesses. Details are likely to be announced in the coming days.Speaking to Army Radio, Health Minister Ya'acov Litzman said authorities were already considering quarantining one town with a significant number of cases. Hebrew media reported that the location under discussion is the ultra-Orthodox town of Kiryat Ye'arim, also known as Telz-Stone, where eight cases have been confirmed to date and a quarter of the population (1,500 residents) are in isolation.The announcements came as the number of confirmed coronavirus infections in Israel jumped to 298 – a spike of 98 people from the day before. Earlier, the Health Ministry accidentally announced an increase to 344 patients, but soon corrected itself. “There was a malfunction in the reporting system," the ministry said, promising it would update the numbers soon.Of the 298 people confirmed to be infected by the virus, 21 are medical staff. As of Monday evening, there were more than 50,000 people in isolation - among them, 2,600 medical personnel, including 862 doctors.Three cases of medical personnel contracting COVID-19 have been confirmed in the past 24 hours. On Sunday night, a senior doctor at Ichilov Hospital was reported by Ynet to have contracted the virus. All of the patients in her unit – many of them senior citizens – had to be tested and transferred to another unit, and her staff was sent home to self-isolate. The next morning, an intern in the hospital’s urology department also tested positive for coronavirus.Meanwhile, the deputy director-general of the Central Laboratory for Detecting Coronavirus of the Ministry of Health at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer tested positive for COVID-19. The laboratory, which carried out approximately 480 tests on a daily basis, was shut down.Following a request from the Health Ministry to Hadassah-University Medical Center, the Jerusalem hospital said it would aim to fill the gap by doubling or tripling its current rate of tests, calling on PhD students and other laboratory staff to boost their capabilities.The Carmel Medical Center in Haifa also said that its laboratories are now available to run approximately 100 coronavirus tests on a daily basis, and subsequently plans to increase its capability to 400 tests per day once additional equipment arrives from abroad. The laboratory at HaEmek Medical Center in Afula will also join the effort.Anticipating an increase in confirmed cases, preparations are underway to convert several hotels into quarantine facilities for patients with mild symptoms. Dan Hotels said it was holding talks to rent three of 14 hotels owned by the luxury chain to the Defense Ministry for use as isolation centers for carriers of the virus.Footage broadcast by Channel 12 showed soldiers working outside Dan Panorama Tel-Aviv, a hotel usually brimming with tourists and businessmen at this time of year. The Dan Jerusalem Hotel will also host patients with mild symptoms.National Economic Council Chairman Prof. Avi Simhon estimated that a full shutdown of the economy would likely cost the state at least NIS 50 billion. Speaking to Army Radio, he added that it will be necessary for the government to “significantly increase” the fiscal deficit in order to compensate businesses and support the economy.Meanwhile, on Monday afternoon, the Intelligence Subcommittee of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee held its first hearing on whether to approve Netanyahu's request to allow the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) to use various advanced technological means to track the movements of persons infected with the coronavirus.Committee chairman and top Blue and White official Gabi Ashkenazi indicated that he would demand rounds of hearings on the issue to understand it in-depth and would not serve as a rubber stamp.Already on Monday, Health Ministry Director-General Moshe Bar Siman Tov, Public Services Health Ministry Director Sigal Sedensky and Deputy Attorney-General Raz Nizri all testified before the committee, whose proceedings are often not even announced.Ashkenazi made several moves to ensure that his committee could proceed with the hearings even as the Knesset officially changed over from the 22nd to the 23rd.In addition, as countries worldwide continue to restrict incoming and outgoing travel, the Consular Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs encouraged Israeli citizens abroad to ensure that plans to return the country remain feasible.In a statement, the ministry called on nationals currently residing in Peru to follow instructions issued by local authorities after Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra ordered the closure of borders, including air and sea travel.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Blue and White submits term limits bill

Blue and White submits term limits bill

The bills call for limitation of the prime ministerial tenure to two terms , the termination of the tenure of @ @ @ @ @ minister under indictment and the prohibition against assigning the task of formulating a governing coalition @ @ @ @ @ indictment .
The Likud responded that Blue and White 's behavior was making the coalition @ @ @ @ @ fail and was irresponsible during an international crisis over the coronavirus .
`` They say @ @ @ @ @ unity government , but they advance personal , anti-democratic , retroactive legislation aimed at cancelling @ @ @ @ @ and erasing the votes of more than 2.5 million voters [ of Likud and its @ @ @ @ @ a Likud spokesman said .
`` Even in Iran and Turkey , they do n't @ @ @ @ @ is not the way you act when you really want a unity government . ''

The bills call for limitation of the prime ministerial tenure to two terms, the termination of the tenure of a presiding prime minister or minister under indictment and the prohibition against assigning the task of formulating a governing coalition to a parliament member under indictment.
The Likud responded that Blue and White's behavior was making the coalition negotiations between the two parties fail and was irresponsible during an international crisis over the coronavirus.
"They say they want to form a unity government, but they advance personal, anti-democratic, retroactive legislation aimed at cancelling the will of the voters and erasing the votes of more than 2.5 million voters [of Likud and its satellite parties]," a Likud spokesman said. "Even in Iran and Turkey, they don't advance such laws. That is not the way you act when you really want a unity government."
Blue and White submitted three bills on the first day of Knesset on Monday that all targeted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Three MKs banned from Knesset due to possible coronavirus exposure

Agriculture Minister Tzachi Hanegbi and Blue and White MKs Alon Shuster and Ram Ben Barak attended an agricultural event last @ @ @ @ @ whose wife has the virus .
The man is being tested for the virus and @ @ @ @ @ to come , pending those results .
Shuster and Ben Barak received the message that @ @ @ @ @ they entered the building .
Hanegbi was told when he was in the building immediately @ @ @ @ @ he got sworn-in , kept his distance from people and left the building .

Agriculture Minister Tzachi Hanegbi and Blue and White MKs Alon Shuster and Ram Ben Barak attended an agricultural event last Wednesday along with a man whose wife has the virus. The man is being tested for the virus and the MKs were told not to come, pending those results.
Shuster and Ben Barak received the message that they should not come before they entered the building. Hanegbi was told when he was in the building immediately before the ceremony, so he got sworn-in, kept his distance from people and left the building.
The Knesset announced on Monday that three MKs would not be permitted in the building until it is clear whether they came in contact with someone who has the coronavirus.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--No spying from home in CIA's coronavirus plan

WASHINGTON - In the age of the coronavirus , working from home is no option for many employees of America 's spy agencies .
Handling highly sensitive information requires meeting in the secure confines of the CIA , the National Counterterrorism Center and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence , which oversees all U.S. intelligence agencies , three sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters .
U.S. intelligence workers are being offered more flexible working hours where possible , one of the sources said , although such agency offices as operations centers remain staffed around the clock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bar outside visitors from its buildings , and meetings with other government agencies are via video teleconferences , the source said .
The agency is considering a social-distancing plan for key employees to work in different offices .
Any employee suspected of having been exposed to the virus would need to self-quarantine for 14 days .
One CIA employee tested negative for the coronavirus at the weekend , two sources said .
So far none of the three intelligence agencies reports any employees have contracted the virus , the three sources said @

WASHINGTON - In the age of the coronavirus, working from home is no option for many employees of America's spy agencies.
Handling highly sensitive information requires meeting in the secure confines of the CIA, the National Counterterrorism Center and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which oversees all U.S. intelligence agencies, three sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters.
U.S. intelligence workers are being offered more flexible working hours where possible, one of the sources said, although such agency offices as operations centers remain staffed around the clock.
The outbreak has prompted the CIA to bar outside visitors from its buildings, and meetings with other government agencies are via video teleconferences, the source said. The agency is considering a social-distancing plan for key employees to work in different offices. Any employee suspected of having been exposed to the virus would need to self-quarantine for 14 days.
One CIA employee tested negative for the coronavirus at the weekend, two sources said. So far none of the three intelligence agencies reports any employees have contracted the virus, the three sources said.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Germany reports jump in coronavirus cases to 6,012, death toll rises to 13

BERLIN - Germany reported a jump in coronavirus cases by more than 1,100 to now 6,012 compared to the previous @ @ @ @ @ Institute for disease control said on Monday evening .
The number of confirmed deaths related @ @ @ @ @ one to now 13 , with the three most populous states of North Rhine-Westphalia , @ @ @ @ @ most affected regions , the institute added .

BERLIN - Germany reported a jump in coronavirus cases by more than 1,100 to now 6,012 compared to the previous day, the Robert Koch Institute for disease control said on Monday evening.
The number of confirmed deaths related to the coronavirus rose by one to now 13, with the three most populous states of North Rhine-Westphalia, Bavaria and Baden-Wuerttemberg among the most affected regions, the institute added.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Canada closes borders, says people should stay at home to stop virus

OTTAWA - Canada closed its borders to all foreign nationals , except U.S. citizens , on Monday , and Prime @ @ @ @ @ to stay at home to help stem the spread of the new coronavirus .
`` @ @ @ @ @ into Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents , '' Trudeau @ @ @ @ @ conference outside his home , where he is under quarantine .

OTTAWA - Canada closed its borders to all foreign nationals, except U.S. citizens, on Monday, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged people to stay at home to help stem the spread of the new coronavirus.
"We will be denying entry into Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents," Trudeau told reporters at a news conference outside his home, where he is under quarantine.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Coronavirus Iranian deaths at 853, Ayatollah Bathaei-Golpaygani dies

Ayatollah Hashem Bathaei-Golpaygani, a member of Iran's Assembly of Experts, died of coronavirus on Monday morning, Iranian news outlets have reported.Bathaei-Golpaygani was being treated for the illness in Shahid Beheshti Hospital, where he was taken on Saturday.The country's death toll from Covid-19 has now reached 853, with 129 reported in the past 24 hours, a health ministry official tweeted on Monday, adding that a total of 14,991 people have been infected across the Islamic Republic."In the past 24 hours we had 1,053 confirmed new cases of coronavirus and 129 new deaths," Alireza Vahabzadeh tweeted.A number of politicians, doctors, commanders of the elite Revolutionary Guards and clerics have been infected with the virus in Iran, several of whom have died. These include Nasser Shabani, a senior commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, Farhad Tazari, the former head of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps’ Political Bureau, and Seyed Mohammad Mir-Mohammadi, a member of Iran’s Expediency Discernment Council, a body that advises Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.To contain the outbreak in Iran, one of the deadliest outside of China, officials have called on people to stay at home."Based on the figures, we have past the peak of the outbreak, but I still suggest people stay at home, and in case of urgency, observe all health protocols," said President Hassan Rouhani , according to state TV.A host of senior officials have contracted the virus. Several of them, including two members of a top clerical body, have died, according to state media.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--US airlines urgently need $50 billion in grants, loans - letter

WASHINGTON - A group representing major US airlines said the industry needs $ 50 billion in grants and loans to @ @ @ @ @ travel demand from the coronavirus outbreak .
In a letter made public on Monday , @ @ @ @ @ need $ 25 billion in grants and $ 25 billion in loans , while cargo @ @ @ @ @ in grants and $ 4 billion in loans .
The group warned that major passenger @ @ @ @ @ money by the end of the year or sooner , and that credit card companies @ @ @ @ @ sales .
They are also seeking significant tax relief .
The letter added that `` @ @ @ @ @ '' could add to another $ 7 billion to $ 10 billion in lost revenue @

WASHINGTON - A group representing major US airlines said the industry needs $50 billion in grants and loans to survive the dramatic falloff in travel demand from the coronavirus outbreak.
In a letter made public on Monday, Airlines for America said members need $25 billion in grants and $25 billion in loans, while cargo carriers need $4 billion in grants and $4 billion in loans.
The group warned that major passenger carriers could run out of money by the end of the year or sooner, and that credit card companies could begin withhold cash from sales. They are also seeking significant tax relief. The letter added that "a 30-day domestic travel ban" could add to another $7 billion to $10 billion in lost revenue.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--G7 leaders say response to coronavirus outbreak is 'foremost priority'

`` By acting together , we will work to resolve the health and economic risks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic @ @ @ @ @ a strong recovery of strong , sustainable economic growth and prosperity , '' the G7 @ @ @ @ @ .

"By acting together, we will work to resolve the health and economic risks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and set the stage for a strong recovery of strong, sustainable economic growth and prosperity," the G7 leaders said in a statement.
BRUSSELS - Leaders of the Group of Seven countries said on Monday they are making their response to the coronavirus pandemic a priority and will coordinate public health measures to help stabilize the global economy.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Coronavirus spreading faster in London than rest of UK-PM Johnson

He said by this weekend it would be necessary to shield those with the most serious medical conditions from social contact , and the government was now advising against mass gatherings that required the presence of emergency workers .
British people need to stop non-essential contact and avoid clubs , pubs , theaters and all unnecessary travel as the coronavirusoutbreak accelerates towards the fast growth phase , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday .
LONDON - Coronavirus in spreading faster in London than in other parts of Britain , with the capital a few weeks nearer the peak of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson said on Monday as he stepped up the response to the crisis.British people need to stop non-essential contact and avoid clubs , pubs , theaters and all unnecessary travel as the coronavirusoutbreak accelerates towards the fast growth phase , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday .
`` Now is the time for everyone to stop non essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel , '' Johnson said at a news conference in Downing Street .
`` We need people to start working from home where they possibly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And you should avoid pubs , clubs , theaters and other such social venues . ''
`` It looks as though we are now approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve and without drastic action cases could double every 5 or 6 days , '' Johnson said .

He said by this weekend it would be necessary to shield those with the most serious medical conditions from social contact, and the government was now advising against mass gatherings that required the presence of emergency workers. British people need to stop non-essential contact and avoid clubs, pubs, theaters and all unnecessary travel as the coronavirusoutbreak accelerates towards the fast growth phase, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday. LONDON - Coronavirus in spreading faster in London than in other parts of Britain, with the capital a few weeks nearer the peak of the epidemic than elsewhere, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday as he stepped up the response to the crisis.British people need to stop non-essential contact and avoid clubs, pubs, theaters and all unnecessary travel as the coronavirusoutbreak accelerates towards the fast growth phase, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.
"Now is the time for everyone to stop non essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel," Johnson said at a news conference in Downing Street.
"We need people to start working from home where they possibly can," he said. "And you should avoid pubs, clubs, theaters and other such social venues."


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--US Chamber of Commerce urges aid to larger firms to combat revenue losses

WASHINGTON - The US Chamber of Commerce said on Monday that the coronavirus pandemic has drained revenues from a broad @ @ @ @ @ and small that need emergency loans and guarantees to keep them afloat and paying workers @ @ @ @ @ Chamber 's chief policy officer , said the business lobby group is urging Congress to @ @ @ @ @ taxes by employers for March , April and May and to pass legislation allowing emergency @ @ @ @ @ than 500 employees in addition to small and mid-size businesses .
`` Broadly speaking across @ @ @ @ @ no industry that 's not having significant revenue disruption , '' Bradley told reporters on @ @ @ @ @ The most important thing we can do for American workers today is to make sure @ @ @ @ @ a position to continue cutting them their paycheck . ''

WASHINGTON - The US Chamber of Commerce said on Monday that the coronavirus pandemic has drained revenues from a broad swath of American businesses large and small that need emergency loans and guarantees to keep them afloat and paying workers.
Neil Bradley, the Chamber's chief policy officer, said the business lobby group is urging Congress to suspend the payment of payroll taxes by employers for March, April and May and to pass legislation allowing emergency loans to companies with more than 500 employees in addition to small and mid-size businesses.
"Broadly speaking across industries, there's virtually no industry that's not having significant revenue disruption," Bradley told reporters on a conference call. "The most important thing we can do for American workers today is to make sure that their employers is in a position to continue cutting them their paycheck."


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Peru deploys military to slow coronavirus spread; Chile closes borders

Peru 's government deployed masked military personnel to block major roads in Lima on Monday , while police restricted the movement of people as the country rolled out a state of enforced `` social isolation '' to slow the spread of coronavirus .
In nearby Paraguay , which has eight cases of the disease so far , the government announced it would enforce a quasi curfew from 8 p.m. daily to restrict crowds , with police empowered to make arrests and prosecute those who did not comply .
The crisis has prompted the region , on the latter end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus , to lock down borders and shutter schools .
`` It is not a curfew , but it is the closest thing , '' Paraguay 's Interior Minister Euclides Acevedo said at a news conference .
`` What does that mean ?
That the right of movement is going to be restricted with the aim of being drastic regarding quarantine . ''
Certain people , including those doing vital work , delivering food or transportation could continue to move around , he added .
Countries around South America , including Argentina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to non-residents amid fears the virus could take hold in the region in the same way it has in parts of Asia and Europe .
Chilean President Sebastian Pinera said on Monday his country , which has 155 confirmed coronavirus cases , would close its borders to foreigners starting on Wednesday .
In Lima , troops wearing helmets and carrying weapons , stationed themselves on the Paseo de la República avenue , a key artery into the city center , to stop vehicles , with police officers only allowing emergency and medical vehicles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday night announced a 15-day state of emergency amid the total closure of the country 's border .
Peru has 86 confirmed cases .
The copper producer has suspended constitutional rights such as free movement and assembly , though the government has assured it will guarantee the operation of supermarkets , pharmacies , banks , basic services and the transport of merchandise .
`` We have to halt things to avoid the exponential curve of the coronavirus , '' Peruvian Defense Minister Walter Martos told local TV station América Televisión .

Peru's government deployed masked military personnel to block major roads in Lima on Monday, while police restricted the movement of people as the country rolled out a state of enforced "social isolation" to slow the spread of coronavirus.
In nearby Paraguay, which has eight cases of the disease so far, the government announced it would enforce a quasi curfew from 8 p.m. daily to restrict crowds, with police empowered to make arrests and prosecute those who did not comply.
The crisis has prompted the region, on the latter end of the global curve to be affected by the virus, to lock down borders and shutter schools.
"It is not a curfew, but it is the closest thing," Paraguay's Interior Minister Euclides Acevedo said at a news conference. "What does that mean? That the right of movement is going to be restricted with the aim of being drastic regarding quarantine."
Certain people, including those doing vital work, delivering food or transportation could continue to move around, he added.
Countries around South America, including Argentina and Chile, are closing their borders to non-residents amid fears the virus could take hold in the region in the same way it has in parts of Asia and Europe.
Chilean President Sebastian Pinera said on Monday his country, which has 155 confirmed coronavirus cases, would close its borders to foreigners starting on Wednesday.
In Lima, troops wearing helmets and carrying weapons, stationed themselves on the Paseo de la República avenue, a key artery into the city center, to stop vehicles, with police officers only allowing emergency and medical vehicles through.
Peruvian President Martín Vizcarra on Sunday night announced a 15-day state of emergency amid the total closure of the country's border. Peru has 86 confirmed cases.
The copper producer has suspended constitutional rights such as free movement and assembly, though the government has assured it will guarantee the operation of supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, basic services and the transport of merchandise.
"We have to halt things to avoid the exponential curve of the coronavirus," Peruvian Defense Minister Walter Martos told local TV station América Televisión.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Portugal confirms country's first death from coronavirus

LISBON - Portugal 's Health Minister Marta Temido said an 80-year-old man died of the coronavirus on Monday - the @ @ @ @ @ the epidemic began .
Portugal has so far reported 331 cases of the coronavirus .

LISBON - Portugal's Health Minister Marta Temido said an 80-year-old man died of the coronavirus on Monday - the country's first fatality since the epidemic began.
Portugal has so far reported 331 cases of the coronavirus.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--NFL-Draft to go ahead but all public events canceled

The National Football League draft will go ahead as planned next month but without any spectators in attendance as all @ @ @ @ @ in Las Vegas due to the coronavirus outbreak .
The draft scheduled for April 23-25 @ @ @ @ @ televised and the NFL said it is exploring innovative options for how the process will @ @ @ @ @ decision reflects our foremost priority – the health and safety of all fans and citizens @ @ @ @ @ Roger Goodell in a statement .
`` While this outcome is disappointing both to the @ @ @ @ @ Vegas community , we look forward to partnering with the Raiders , the City of @ @ @ @ @ Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority for a future NFL Draft as well as evaluating opportunities @ @ @ @ @ in Las Vegas in the future , including the Super Bowl . ''
The NFL @ @ @ @ @ top college players , has become a hugely popular event with fans from across the @ @ @ @ @ jeer their teams selections .

The National Football League draft will go ahead as planned next month but without any spectators in attendance as all public events have been canceled in Las Vegas due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The draft scheduled for April 23-25 in Las Vegas will be televised and the NFL said it is exploring innovative options for how the process will be conducted.
"This decision reflects our foremost priority – the health and safety of all fans and citizens," said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement.
"While this outcome is disappointing both to the NFL and to the Las Vegas community, we look forward to partnering with the Raiders, the City of Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority for a future NFL Draft as well as evaluating opportunities for other major NFL events in Las Vegas in the future, including the Super Bowl."
The NFL draft, where teams select top college players, has become a hugely popular event with fans from across the country attending to cheer or jeer their teams selections.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Swiss ban all events at midnight as virus spreads

ZURICH - Switzerland 's government on Monday banned all public and private events from midnight and mobilized up to 8,000 @ @ @ @ @ declaring the rapidly spreading coronavirus an `` exceptional '' emergency .
`` We will not @ @ @ @ @ Swiss President Simonetta Sommaruga said at a news conference announcing strict new measures aiming to @ @ @ @ @ killed 14 people and sickened more than 2,200 in Switzerland .
`` We will take @ @ @ @ @

ZURICH - Switzerland's government on Monday banned all public and private events from midnight and mobilized up to 8,000 members of the military after declaring the rapidly spreading coronavirus an "exceptional" emergency.
"We will not leave you alone," Swiss President Simonetta Sommaruga said at a news conference announcing strict new measures aiming to control the epidemic that has killed 14 people and sickened more than 2,200 in Switzerland. "We will take care of you."


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Trump administration readying $400 bln boost to economy -Kudlow

WASHINGTON - The United States stands ready to pour $ 400 billion into the nation 's economy to help mitigate @ @ @ @ @ fast-spreading and highly-contagious coronavirus outbreak , White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Monday @ @ @ @ @ about $ 400 billion of fiscal actions that we can use - executive authority and @ @ @ @ @ now before the Senate , '' Kudlow told Fox Business Network in an interview

WASHINGTON - The United States stands ready to pour $400 billion into the nation's economy to help mitigate the economic hit from the fast-spreading and highly-contagious coronavirus outbreak, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Monday.
"We've got about $400 billion of fiscal actions that we can use - executive authority and the legislation, which is now before the Senate," Kudlow told Fox Business Network in an interview


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Erdan: Within 72 hours, Netanyahu will form emergency government

Discussing the coronavirus outbreak affecting Israel , Erdan stated that further restrictions are expected on commerce throughout the country .
@ @ @ @ @ banned gatherings and are investigating reports of gatherings that exceeded the legal limit of ten @ @

Discussing the coronavirus outbreak affecting Israel, Erdan stated that further restrictions are expected on commerce throughout the country. Police are trying to prevent banned gatherings and are investigating reports of gatherings that exceeded the legal limit of ten people.
Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan told KAN news on Monday that he believes that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will form an emergency government within the next 72 hours.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Coronavirus death toll in Lombardy rises 202 in a day to 1,420

ROME - The death toll from an outbreak of coronavirus in the northern Italian region of Lombardy , which has @ @ @ @ @ nationwide contagion , has risen over the past day to 1,420 from 1,218 , two @ @ @ @ @ data said on Monday .
The number of new cases in the region , which @ @ @ @ @ Milan , had risen by 1,377 over the past 24 hours -- a slower rate @ @ @ @ @ .
The latest national death toll figures are due to be released later in the @ @ @ @ @ the country-wide tally stood at 1,809 .

ROME - The death toll from an outbreak of coronavirus in the northern Italian region of Lombardy, which has borne the brunt of a nationwide contagion, has risen over the past day to 1,420 from 1,218, two sources with access to the data said on Monday.
The number of new cases in the region, which includes Italy's financial capital Milan, had risen by 1,377 over the past 24 hours -- a slower rate of increase than seen recently.
The latest national death toll figures are due to be released later in the day. On Sunday, the country-wide tally stood at 1,809.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Germany to shutter most shops, bars, churches

BERLIN - Germany 's federal and state governments agreed sweeping rules shutting everything from non-essential shops to bars , clubs @ @ @ @ @ brothels and churches in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus , the federal @ @ @ @ @ statement published on Monday , they said grocery shops , markets , banks , pharmacies @ @ @ @ @ open , while restaurants and other eating establishments would generally be allowed to open between @ @ @ @ @ .
The government said the new guidelines aimed `` to further limit social contacts in @ @ @ @ @ the corona epidemic in Germany . ''
Shops that remained open would have to implement @ @ @ @ @ their entrances in order to avoid long queues building , it added .

BERLIN - Germany's federal and state governments agreed sweeping rules shutting everything from non-essential shops to bars, clubs, theaters, museums, brothels and churches in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus, the federal government said.
In a statement published on Monday, they said grocery shops, markets, banks, pharmacies and delivery services would remain open, while restaurants and other eating establishments would generally be allowed to open between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
The government said the new guidelines aimed "to further limit social contacts in public spaces in response to the corona epidemic in Germany." Shops that remained open would have to implement heightened hygiene measures and monitor their entrances in order to avoid long queues building, it added.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--White House: No national curfew being discussed

WASHINGTON - A possible national curfew that would close non-essential businesses in the United States by a certain time each @ @ @ @ @ discussed by the coronavirus task force , the White House said on Monday .
`` @ @ @ @ @ '' White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a Twitter post responding to a CNN @ @ @ @ @ were active discussions within the administration of a curfew .
Katie Miller , a spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ Pence , who heads the task force , also said the report was incorrect

WASHINGTON - A possible national curfew that would close non-essential businesses in the United States by a certain time each night is not being actively discussed by the coronavirus task force, the White House said on Monday.
"This is not true!" White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a Twitter post responding to a CNN reporter's post saying there were active discussions within the administration of a curfew. Katie Miller, a spokeswoman for U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, who heads the task force, also said the report was incorrect


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Coronavirus may be slowing in Italy's worst hit region - governor

MILAN - Lombardy , the northern Italian region that has suffered the biggest hit from Europe 's worst coronavirus outbreak , is showing the first signs of a possible slowdown in contagion , its governor said on Monday .
The heavily populated region that includes Italy 's financial capital Milan has seen 1,218 deaths .
Of those , 252 were recorded in a 24-hour period between Saturday and Sunday , the largest toll so far .
In the whole of Italy there were 368 new deaths from the COVID-19 outbreak on Sunday , easily the biggest daily toll recorded in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite the surge in deaths , Governor Attilio Fontana said he saw some reason for optimism in the data , as new cases appeared to be rising less quickly than a few days earlier .
`` I have not seen today 's statistics yet , but ... we can see some small steps forward , '' he told Radio 1 .
`` The increase ( in coronavirus cases ) is not a sharp rise as it was two , three days ago .
Let 's hope it is the start of a trend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a whisper - this could be the start of a trend reversal , '' he said on the program Centocittà .
New cases showed a rise of 13.5 % in Lombardy on Sunday compared with Saturday .
Monday 's statistics will be published later in the day .
Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte told daily Corriere della Sera that the outbreak was still getting worse across Italy .
`` Scientists are telling us that the outbreak has not reached it peak , these weeks will be the most risky , '' Conte said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the contagion trend would be seen in the next few days following strict rules curbing people 's movements imposed from March 8 .
Lombardy is the region where the first cluster of coronavirus cases emerged on Feb. 20 in a small town some 60 km ( 40 miles ) from Milan .
Another cluster emerged in Vo Euganeo , a hamlet in the neighboring Veneto region .
Veneto Governor Luca Zaia has said his region will launch large-scale testing this week after screening in Vo Euganeo revealed that people without symptoms accounted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive cases discovered in the small town .
Zaia on Monday asked the government to allow him to impose even stricter measures such as closing even essential shops on Sunday and banning people from taking a walk .
Lombardy has ruled out such mass tests .
`` With current resources , it does not make sense to speak about mass screening in an area with 10 million inhabitants , '' Fontana told RaiNews 24 TV channel .
He added that it would require `` years '' to test everyone since it takes 8-9 @ @ @ @ @ @

MILAN - Lombardy, the northern Italian region that has suffered the biggest hit from Europe's worst coronavirus outbreak, is showing the first signs of a possible slowdown in contagion, its governor said on Monday.
The heavily populated region that includes Italy's financial capital Milan has seen 1,218 deaths. Of those, 252 were recorded in a 24-hour period between Saturday and Sunday, the largest toll so far.
In the whole of Italy there were 368 new deaths from the COVID-19 outbreak on Sunday, easily the biggest daily toll recorded in any country, including China.
But despite the surge in deaths, Governor Attilio Fontana said he saw some reason for optimism in the data, as new cases appeared to be rising less quickly than a few days earlier.
"I have not seen today's statistics yet, but... we can see some small steps forward," he told Radio 1.
"The increase (in coronavirus cases) is not a sharp rise as it was two, three days ago. Let's hope it is the start of a trend reversal - I am saying it in a whisper - this could be the start of a trend reversal," he said on the program Centocittà.
New cases showed a rise of 13.5% in Lombardy on Sunday compared with Saturday. Monday's statistics will be published later in the day.
Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte told daily Corriere della Sera that the outbreak was still getting worse across Italy.
"Scientists are telling us that the outbreak has not reached it peak, these weeks will be the most risky," Conte said.
Fontana said he believed that a change in the contagion trend would be seen in the next few days following strict rules curbing people's movements imposed from March 8.
Lombardy is the region where the first cluster of coronavirus cases emerged on Feb. 20 in a small town some 60 km (40 miles) from Milan. Another cluster emerged in Vo Euganeo, a hamlet in the neighboring Veneto region.
Veneto Governor Luca Zaia has said his region will launch large-scale testing this week after screening in Vo Euganeo revealed that people without symptoms accounted for more than half of all the positive cases discovered in the small town.
Zaia on Monday asked the government to allow him to impose even stricter measures such as closing even essential shops on Sunday and banning people from taking a walk.
Lombardy has ruled out such mass tests. "With current resources, it does not make sense to speak about mass screening in an area with 10 million inhabitants," Fontana told RaiNews 24 TV channel.
He added that it would require "years" to test everyone since it takes 8-9 hours to get a result.


jerusalempost--2020-03-16--Coronavirus-hit British cruise ship finds refuge in Cuba

HAVANA - A British cruise ship that was turned away from several ports in the Caribbean after five passengers were confirmed to have the new coronavirus is setting sail to Cuba which is allowing it to dock , its owner Fred Olsen Cruise Lines wrote in a statement .
`` The Captain of Fred .
Olsen Cruise Lines ship Braemar has announced on board that he is setting sail to Cuba , where all guests will be repatriated back to the UK by air , '' the company wrote .
It added that 22 guests and 21 crew aboard the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms , including the five who tested positive , it wrote .
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez tweeted : `` Decision has been taken in response to health emergency that might put the life of sick persons at risk . ''
Earlier a diplomatic source said Cuba had offered to receive the cruise ship because it understood `` the difficult situation these people are in . ''
`` We are working around the clock to arrange evacuation flights from Cuba to the UK as soon as possible , '' a British foreign ministry @ @ @

HAVANA - A British cruise ship that was turned away from several ports in the Caribbean after five passengers were confirmed to have the new coronavirus is setting sail to Cuba which is allowing it to dock, its owner Fred Olsen Cruise Lines wrote in a statement.
"The Captain of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines ship Braemar has announced on board that he is setting sail to Cuba, where all guests will be repatriated back to the UK by air," the company wrote.
It added that 22 guests and 21 crew aboard the ship are in isolation after displaying influenza-like symptoms, including the five who tested positive, it wrote.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez tweeted: "Decision has been taken in response to health emergency that might put the life of sick persons at risk."
Earlier a diplomatic source said Cuba had offered to receive the cruise ship because it understood "the difficult situation these people are in."
"We are working around the clock to arrange evacuation flights from Cuba to the UK as soon as possible," a British foreign ministry spokesperson said.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Bennett urges Israelis to keep distance from elderly

Bennett referred to the recommendation as `` Operation Grandmother , '' calling contact with elderly people `` the most dangerous thing . ''
`` All of us have the responsibility to hug and cover our grandparents in love , on the phone and with food , but not by getting close to them .
If we get close , we risk their lives in a significant way , '' said the defense minister , warning that there were likely people carrying the virus among those present where he was speaking .
Bennett made the comments while visiting the Dan Panorama @ @ @ @ @ @ @ converted into a quarantine center on Monday .
The first infected people are expected to arrive to the new quarantine hotels on Tuesday afternoon .
`` I say now to the public : We will beat this incident together .
We are in a situation unprecedented in the past 100 years .
The large goal is to located carriers and to quarantine them from the population , '' said Bennett , adding that Israel is currently experiencing an exponential growth of the outbreak .
`` The national goal is to slow the spike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't get to an Italian situation in which hospitals collapse due to overcrowding , in which a doctor needs to choose who lives and who dies , the grandfather or the father .
We do n't want to get to that situation , '' added Bennett .

Bennett referred to the recommendation as "Operation Grandmother," calling contact with elderly people "the most dangerous thing."
"All of us have the responsibility to hug and cover our grandparents in love, on the phone and with food, but not by getting close to them. If we get close, we risk their lives in a significant way," said the defense minister, warning that there were likely people carrying the virus among those present where he was speaking.
Bennett made the comments while visiting the Dan Panorama hotel in Tel Aviv, which was converted into a quarantine center on Monday.
The first infected people are expected to arrive to the new quarantine hotels on Tuesday afternoon.
"I say now to the public: We will beat this incident together. We are in a situation unprecedented in the past 100 years. The large goal is to located carriers and to quarantine them from the population," said Bennett, adding that Israel is currently experiencing an exponential growth of the outbreak.
"The national goal is to slow the spike [in cases] so that we don't get to an Italian situation in which hospitals collapse due to overcrowding, in which a doctor needs to choose who lives and who dies, the grandfather or the father. We don't want to get to that situation," added Bennett.
Defense Minister Naftali Bennett urged Israelis to keep their distance from the elderly population in order to protect them from the coronavirus outbreak on Tuesday.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Buses to Haredi schools halted after coronavirus rule violations

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Buses to Haredi educational institutions will not run starting on Wednesday after multiple violations of instructions issued by the Israeli government due to the coronavirus outbreak were reported in the Haredi sector.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Israel Police arrest 10 in Jerusalem on suspicion of ‘illegal activity’

Israel Police announced on Tuesday that officers arrested 10 suspects connected to the Palestinian Authority “on suspicion of illegal activity,” including graffiti. Eight of the suspects were later releasedPolice said that they will continue operations.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Pakistan reports first death from coronavirus

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan's health ministry said on Wednesday that a coronavirus infected person had died.The death was announced on a web portal the ministry launched on Tuesday to keep a track of the spread of the coronavirus in the South Asian nation.It said 195 people had tested positive in Pakistan so far.Punjab health minister Yasmin Rashid said the patient was brought to a hospital in critical condition, and that he had a history of traveling from Iran where most of the 195 people got the infection.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Olympics organizers cancel some events, restrict access to torch relay

TOKYO - The organising committee for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games announced steps on Tuesday to stem the spread of the coronavirus along the torch relay route, including cancelling some events and restricting public access to others


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--100k Israelis attempt to register with Employment Service, 15k succeed

On Monday , Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that all government and local authority workers would be placed on paid @ @ @ @ @ the Passover holiday , except for those deemed critical for continued operations .
Private sector @ @ @ @ @ be required to reduce staff present in the workplace by 70 % .
Finance Minister @ @ @ @ @ reached with union representatives , employers and industry organizations to ease financial struggles faced by @ @ @ @ @ Measures will include increased eligibility for unemployment benefits and the deferral of payments , including @ @ @ @ @ utility bills .
Maayan Jaffe-Hoffman , Eytan Halon and Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this @ @

On Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that all government and local authority workers would be placed on paid leave until the end of the Passover holiday, except for those deemed critical for continued operations. Private sector firms exceeding 10 employees will be required to reduce staff present in the workplace by 70%.
Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon hailed an agreement reached with union representatives, employers and industry organizations to ease financial struggles faced by businesses and self-employed workers. Measures will include increased eligibility for unemployment benefits and the deferral of payments, including VAT, municipality taxes and utility bills.
Maayan Jaffe-Hoffman, Eytan Halon and Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report.
Some 100,000 Israelis attempted to register with the Israeli Employment Service after new restrictions were placed on workplaces on Monday, but only 15,000 succeeded in doing so, according to Ynet.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--AG Mandelblit: Digital tracking legal, meant to save lives

The new measures were checked by Mandelblit 's office with continued dialogue with Health Ministry officials , the political echelon @ @ @ @ @ Shin Bet in order to ensure that the measures would strike a balance between preserving @ @ @ @ @ the public and protecting privacy rights .

The new measures were checked by Mandelblit's office with continued dialogue with Health Ministry officials, the political echelon, Israel Police and the Shin Bet in order to ensure that the measures would strike a balance between preserving the health and safety of the public and protecting privacy rights.
Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit stressed on Tuesday that emergency measures implemented by the government to allow the Shin Bet to track those infected with the novel coronavirus are legal and are meant to "save lives during an emergency."


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Budapest Airport says only Hungarians allowed entry from Tuesday

As the restrictions took effect , Hungary reported a jump in confirmed coronavirus infections to 50 on Tuesday from 39 @ @ @ @ @ central European country transitions from isolated cases to cluster infections .
`` Budapest Airport is @ @ @ @ @ continue to welcome and launch flights , '' the airport operator said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ Hungarian citizens can enter Hungary from Tuesday .
Anyone , Hungarians and foreigners alike , @ @ @ @ @ the airport in the coming days , '' it said .
Foreigners denied entry must @ @ @ @ @ area until departure .
A previously imposed mandatory medical screening for Hungarians returning from South @ @ @ @ @ , China and Italy remains in effect , the airport said .

As the restrictions took effect, Hungary reported a jump in confirmed coronavirus infections to 50 on Tuesday from 39 a day earlier as the central European country transitions from isolated cases to cluster infections.
"Budapest Airport is not closing; it will continue to welcome and launch flights," the airport operator said in a statement.
"However, only Hungarian citizens can enter Hungary from Tuesday. Anyone, Hungarians and foreigners alike, are free to depart from the airport in the coming days," it said.
Foreigners denied entry must wait in a designated transit area until departure. A previously imposed mandatory medical screening for Hungarians returning from South Korea, Iran, Israel, China and Italy remains in effect, the airport said.
Budapest Airport will allow Hungarian citizens only to enter the country as of Tuesday after sweeping restrictions imposed by Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government on Monday to contain the spread of the coronavirus.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--China says Trump's 'Chinese virus' tweet smears China

BEIJING - China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump's tweet calling the coronavirus a "Chinese virus" smears China and said Beijing strongly opposes Trump's usage of the words.Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters during a daily briefing that the US should first take care of its own matters.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Chemical spill reported at hazardous materials unit in Jerusalem

A chemical spill was reported at the national headquarters of the Hazardous Materials Unit in Jerusalem on Tuesday, according to the Jerusalem area Fire and Rescue Services. Monitoring engineers and additional teams are on their way to the scene.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Vietnam to halt issue of all visas amid coronavirus outbreak

Weeks after declaring the recovery of all 16 of its virus sufferers , Vietnam has confirmed 61 infections , but @ @ @ @ @ announced a surge in infections from overseas .
`` The government sees the visa suspension @ @ @ @ @ to constrain the rapid spread of the virus , given many countries are now at @ @ @ @ @ '' the state-run Nhan Dan newspaper said .
`` It 's temporary .
The restriction @ @ @ @ @ 15 to 30 days , '' it added , without saying when the ban would @ @ @ @ @ denied entry to visitors from Europe 's Schengen visa-free area and Britain from Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ testing for all arrivals from virus-hit areas .
Schools stayed shut nationwide on Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ of cinemas , clubs and bars , massage parlors , karaoke lounges and online game @ @ @ @ @ the end of March .
The government has advised Vietnamese to call off large gatherings @ @ @ @ @ masks in public places .

Weeks after declaring the recovery of all 16 of its virus sufferers, Vietnam has confirmed 61 infections, but no deaths, after authorities announced a surge in infections from overseas.
"The government sees the visa suspension policy as an effective measure to constrain the rapid spread of the virus, given many countries are now at high risk of infection," the state-run Nhan Dan newspaper said.
"It's temporary. The restriction will be in place for 15 to 30 days," it added, without saying when the ban would take effect.
Hanoi has denied entry to visitors from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain from Sunday, and ordered mandatory quarantine and testing for all arrivals from virus-hit areas.
Schools stayed shut nationwide on Tuesday. Authorities have ordered the closure of cinemas, clubs and bars, massage parlors, karaoke lounges and online game centers in urban areas until the end of March.
The government has advised Vietnamese to call off large gatherings and ordered them to wear masks in public places.
Vietnam will suspend the issue of new visas for all foreign nationals to curb the spread of coronavirus in the Southeast Asian nation, state media said on Tuesday.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Three schools in one Modi'in neighborhood report coronavirus cases

All those who were present at Darchei Yehudah on March 12 , including students , staff , guests and parents @ @ @ @ @ enter quarantine until Friday , March 27 , meaning an additional 700 residents of the @ @ @ @ @ 2,500 residents already in quarantine .

The mayor of Modi'in-Maccabim-Reut, Chaim Bibas, asked residents of the city to stay at home as much as possible, as the coronavirus spread through the Avnei Hen neighborhood of the city, requiring three schools to be put into quarantine.
"All residents should try and remain in their homes, should not congregate in parks and should refrain from any excessive errands, in order to successfully prevent the spread of the virus in the neighborhoods where the situation is complex," read a statement issued on Tuesday by the Federation of Local Authorities in Israel, which Bibas chairs.
Ten confirmed cases of the coronavirus have been reported in the city. On Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that while a national lock down was not being implemented, local lock downs may be implemented as needed in areas being severely affected by the outbreak.
Three schools in the neighborhood of Avnei Hen of Modi'in-Maccabim-Reut have reported cases of the novel coronavirus as of Tuesday, with the Darchei Yehudah school being the newest one.
All those who were present at Darchei Yehudah on March 12, including students, staff, guests and parents, have been ordered to enter quarantine until Friday, March 27, meaning an additional 700 residents of the neighborhood will join the about 2,500 residents already in quarantine. The municipality announced that it will disinfect public institutions and areas in the affected areas. תיעוד: צוותים קוראים לתושבי מודיעין להישאר בבתים בזמן החיטוי@ittaishick pic.twitter.com/SwJBtMLGGj — כאן חדשות (@kann_news) March 17, 2020 Police cars drove through the neighborhoods announcing on loudspeakers that residents should stay in their homes while firefighters disinfect the area, although there are no poisonous materials being used. Police cars drove through the neighborhoods announcing on loudspeakers that residents should stay in their homes while firefighters disinfect the area, although there are no poisonous materials being used.
The municipality of Modi'in-Maccabim-Reut and the Federation of Local Authorities in Israel are in constant contact with the Health Ministry and other relevant officials in order to inform residents about changing instructions . In the meantime, the municipality is preparing to provide residents in quarantine with necessary services.
According to Ynet, authorities are considering placing a lock down on the Avnei Hen neighborhood. As of Tuesday, Bibas has decided not to do so, but the possibility is still on the table.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Shin Bet: We will not store information gained during coronavirus tracking

The Shin Bet confirmed to the Jerusalem Post mid Tuesday afternoon that it had started surveillance of citizens infected by the coronavirus. An hour earlier, a top legal official confirmed on that the Shin Bet's legal authority to do so was already be in effect.
Speaking to a group of journalists, the official said that there was a full green-light and the only questions was whether the Shin Bet had made its own final decision to start using the new surveillance authorities.
Shin Bet Director Nadav Argaman issued a statement Tuesday morning saying that his agency would soon start delivering information about those citizens infected with the coronavirus to the Health Ministry.
This came after the government unanimously passed the request by the Health Ministry to use digital counter-terrorism tools to track the movements of coronavirus patients.
The vote was held via conference call to adhere to the government‘s new guidelines forbidding more than 10 people to gather.
Argaman emphasized that the Shin Bet would not be involved in enforcement of the quarantine rules, as this would still be done by the police.
Argaman also said that the Shin Bet would not hold on to any of the information it collects from persons' cellphones, about their locations or otherwise, after delivering the information to the Health Ministry.
The Shin Bet chief clarified that his agency had been asked to perform these functions, but had not sought to and would not want to perform them any longer than medically necessary.
Argaman said there were limits on using surveillance technology, but like other officials, did not specify the limits.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement defending his government's 1:30 a.m. decision to authorize Shin Bet surveillance of citizens regarding the coronavirus.
Netanyahu reacted to Blue and White leaders Benny Gantz and Gabi Ashkenazi calling the overnight decision "surrendering transparency" and "political thievery."
"Because the pandemic is spreading at an incredibly fast pace, postponing using these tools by even an hour could cause the deaths of a very large amount of Israelis," Netanyahu said, referencing Italy and other countries.
Government legal sources implied that if the Knesset could have dealt with the issue by Tuesday morning that they might have waited longer to get that approval.
Netanyahu said it could have taken the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee days to deal with the issue. He said the attorney-general and Health Ministry drafted the decision and it will be in effect for 14 days, instead of the original 30 days, during which the committee could make recommendations about how to change it.
Gantz said that these are exceptional times that, unfortunately, call for exceptional measures in order to save lives. but he said the cabinet decision went too far.
"We cannot surrender transparency and oversight," Gantz said. "Blue and White will insist that the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, along with a special Corona sub-committee, the Finance Committee and other sub-committees be enlisted immediately to oversee the process and approve the type of oversight regulation so critical at this juncture."
He said the Foreign Affairs and Defense committee must further be privy to information on tracking measures approved thus far.
"A functional parliament, even and especially in states of emergency, is a hallmark of democracy and we will be steadfast in preserving it,” he wrote.
Also on Tuesday, Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit issued a statement that he green-lighted the government having the authority to let the Shin Bet move forward with their plans without Knesset approval and explained in his statement that the situation was becoming so acute that the country could no longer wait for parliamentary approval.
His announcement comes after Netanyahu appeared to break a promise of his and of Mandelblit’s that the Shin Bet surveillance of citizens regarding coronavirus would only start after Ashkenazi's Intelligence Subcommittee of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee approved it.
Ashkenazi's committee debated the issue for the first time on Monday, but demanded more time to analyze the issues, remarking that they would not be a rubber stamp.
Deputy Attorney-General Raz Nizri implied to a conference call of reporters that state lawyers had been surprised that the Knesset did not quickly approve the Shin Bet surveillance.
Ashkenazi expressed outrage at the overnight cabinet decision, calling it "political thievery."
"It is improper that this is the way using such means is authorized, without parliamentary and public oversight," Ashkenazi said.
Ashkenazi called for the immediate formation of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee in order to meet on the matter and ensure proper oversight as required by law.
Labor-Meretz MK Merav Michaeli used even harsher language in criticizing the decision, which she said was made to serve Netanyahu and not to serve the struggle against the coronavirus.
"The citizens of Israel are not terrorists," she said. "There is no justification for such extreme and dangerous steps."
Late Tuesday night, the High Court of Justice rejected a request to freeze the Shin Bet's surveillance of citizens infected with the coronavirus, but agreed to hold a hearing on the issue on Thursday.
Justice Noam Sohlberg ordered the state to respond to the petition to compel binding oversight of the Shin Bet involvement by the Knesset.
Lawyer Shahar Ben Meir, in conjunction with the Movement for Digital Rights, filed the petition earlier Tuesday demanding that the court freeze Shin Bet surveillance until the Knesset signs off.
Further the petitioners said that the basis for any Shin Bet involvement should be the Shin Bet Law, which includes significant civil liberties protections, and not an emergency order, which contains fewer protections.
Also on Tuesday night, the state filed a response to the High Court defending Acting Justice Minister Amir Ohana’s Saturday night decision of placing the courts in a state of emergency, including the highly controversial result of postponing Netanyahu’s trial from Tuesday until May 24.
Previously, the Movement for the Quality of Government in Israel petitioned to revoke the state of emergency on the courts, calling it an unconstitutional power grab by Ohana to try to help Netanyahu escape justice on the back of the corona virus crisis.
The Movement said that the postponement could severely harm the public’s faith in the rule of law.
The state’s response did not even mention Netanyahu’s trial and focused on the idea that the emergency order was coordinated with the courts.
A statement issued by the courts on Sunday appeared to support Ohana despite heavy criticism from the Center-Left political parties as well as many former senior legal officials and legal academics.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Employee at Health Ministry virus lab infected with coronavirus

The woman , infected person number 249 , is in her 50 's and from central Israel .
Those who @ @ @ @ @ her have been located and are being notified personally .

The woman, infected person number 249, is in her 50's and from central Israel. Those who were in close contact with her have been located and are being notified personally.
An employee at a Health Ministry virus lab has been confirmed as having been infected with the novel coronavirus.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Japan to order self-quarantine for all travelers from Europe

TOKYO - The Japanese government will ask all travellers from Europe, including its own citizens, to quarantine themselves for two weeks on arrival, TV Asahi reported on Tuesday.The government also will begin refusing entry of foreign nationals who have been in certain areas of Spain, Italy and Switzerland, as well as all of Ireland, the report said.Citing an unknown number of government sources, the report said ministers would meet on Wednesday to make a formal decision. The report did not say when the measures would take effect.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was not able to comment immediately.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Coronavirus in the US: Where to get a COVID-19 test

The United States is working to drastically step-up its testing of citizens for coronavirus. Now, the public can visit the Health Resources and Services Administration website, enter their Zip code and find the nearest COVID-19 test site.Testing and treatment is free.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--China's Wuhan will require all overseas returnees to undergo quarantine

The Chinese city of Wuhan , where the coronavirus outbreak first began in late December , said it will require @ @ @ @ @ city to be centrally quarantined for 14 days at their own cost from Tuesday .

The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the coronavirus outbreak first began in late December, said it will require all overseas returnees to the city to be centrally quarantined for 14 days at their own cost from Tuesday.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Columbia closes borders due to coronavirus, all of Venezuela quarantined

Colombia will close its borders from Tuesday to prevent the spread of coronavirus and will keep them shut until May @ @ @ @ @ said on Monday .
The Andean country currently has 54 confirmed cases of COVID-19 , @ @ @ @ @ and killed nearly 6,700 worldwide , according to a recent Reuters tally .
Venezuala 's @ @ @ @ @ will enter quarantine on Tuesday due to coronavirus .

Colombia will close its borders from Tuesday to prevent the spread of coronavirus and will keep them shut until May 30, President Ivan Duque said on Monday.
The Andean country currently has 54 confirmed cases of COVID-19, which has infected over 174,100 and killed nearly 6,700 worldwide, according to a recent Reuters tally.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Majority of Chinese coronavirus cases attributed to foreign travelers

BEIJING - China reported on Tuesday another uptick in confirmed coronavirus cases as infections from abroad made it increasingly hard @ @ @ @ @ overall number of new infections to zero .
Mainland China had 21 new confirmed cases @ @ @ @ @ Health Commission said , up from 16 a day earlier .
Of the new cases @ @ @ @ @ arriving in China from abroad .
The number of infections imported from other countries surpassed @ @ @ @ @ day .
Beijing accounted for nine of the imported new cases , up from four @ @ @ @ @ hub of Shanghai had three , up from two a day earlier .

BEIJING - China reported on Tuesday another uptick in confirmed coronavirus cases as infections from abroad made it increasingly hard for authorities to reduce the overall number of new infections to zero.
Mainland China had 21 new confirmed cases on Monday, the National Health Commission said, up from 16 a day earlier. Of the new cases, 20 involved infected travelers arriving in China from abroad.
The number of infections imported from other countries surpassed local transmissions for a fourth day.
Beijing accounted for nine of the imported new cases, up from four on Sunday. The financial hub of Shanghai had three, up from two a day earlier.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--Two rockets fall outside Baghdad's Green Zone

Two rockets fell outside Baghdad 's Green Zone on Tuesday without causing any reported casualties , Iraq 's military said @ @ @ @ @ coalition ’ s spokesman , Colonel Myles B. Caggins III , said in a tweet @ @ @ @ @ the explosions in Baghdad , '' with more details coming from the Iraqi military later @ @ @ @ @ As of 11 P.M. ( Baghdad Time ) , no rockets were fired at Camp @ @ @ @ @ no explosions occurred near US/Coalition facilities . ''

Two rockets fell outside Baghdad's Green Zone on Tuesday without causing any reported casualties, Iraq's military said in a statement.
The US -led coalition’s spokesman, Colonel Myles B. Caggins III, said in a tweet that "Iraqis are investigating the explosions in Baghdad," with more details coming from the Iraqi military later.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--IDF closes natural parks in the West Bank due to coronavirus

The IDF’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) said on Tuesday that due to the coronavirus all nature parks in the West Bank will be closed until further notice.The decision also extends to major tourist sites of archeological or cultural value.Earlier on Tuesday evening Israeli officials addressed the nation and cautioned against using the new health regulations as an invitation to tour the country or go to the beach, Israelis were told to stay indoors.


jerusalempost--2020-03-17--NBA-Four players for Brooklyn Nets test positive for coronavirus

Four Brooklyn Nets players have tested positive for COVID-19 , better knows as the coronavirus , the team announced Tuesday .
The Nets said one of the player has symptoms of the virus and the other three are asymptomatic .
`` All four players are presently isolated and under the care of team physicians , '' the team said .
Three other NBA players are known to have tested positive for coronavirus : Utah Jazz All-Stars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell and Detroit Pistons forward Christian Wood .
In their statement , the Nets said the organization is contacting recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with the players and is working with state and local health officials .
Statewide , New York has the highest number of confirmed coronavirus patients in the nation with more than 1,500 .
More than half -- 814 -- of the cases are in New York City .
`` All players and members of the Nets travel party are being asked to remain isolated , closely monitor their health and maintain constant communication with team medical staff , '' the Nets ' statement read .
`` The health of our players and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the organization and the team is doing everything within its power to ensure that those affected receive the best care possible . ''
The Nets ' final game before play was suspended last Wednesday was against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 10 .

Four Brooklyn Nets players have tested positive for COVID-19, better knows as the coronavirus, the team announced Tuesday.
The Nets said one of the player has symptoms of the virus and the other three are asymptomatic.
"All four players are presently isolated and under the care of team physicians," the team said.
Three other NBA players are known to have tested positive for coronavirus: Utah Jazz All-Stars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell and Detroit Pistons forward Christian Wood.
In their statement, the Nets said the organization is contacting recent opponents and others known to have had contact with the players and is working with state and local health officials.
Statewide, New York has the highest number of confirmed coronavirus patients in the nation with more than 1,500. More than half -- 814 -- of the cases are in New York City.
"All players and members of the Nets travel party are being asked to remain isolated, closely monitor their health and maintain constant communication with team medical staff," the Nets' statement read. "The health of our players and staff is of the highest priority to the organization and the team is doing everything within its power to ensure that those affected receive the best care possible."
The Nets' final game before play was suspended last Wednesday was against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 10.