channel4uk--2020-04-24--Revealed: Elderly woman dies after being ‘refused admission’ from Glasgow hospital

A woman has died after allegedly being refused admission to Glasgow ’ s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital , Channel 4 News can reveal .
Natalie Wolfson , 85 , a resident at Westacres Care Home in East Renfrewshire , passed away the day after her GP allegedly asked for her to be admitted to hospital for hydration and pain relief after she fell and fractured her upper arm .
Westacres Care Home manager Linda Carruthers told Channel 4 News Scotland Correspondent Ciaran Jenkins she believed Natalie , who also had suspected Covid-19 symptoms , died as a consequence of being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carruthers said : “ People still need treatment and if we learn anything from Natalie ’ s death is that we don ’ t ever let it happen again.
” In First Minister ’ s Questions on April 21st , Scotland ’ s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was “ vital ” to get the message across that “ the NHS is open ” .
Ms Sturgeon said : “ The NHS is there if people need it ; they should not hold back .
People should come forward for the help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them.
” Jack Ryan , Chief Executive of Newark Care , called for an investigation and said he believed the NHS was “ clearly not ” there for those who need it in Mrs Wolfson ’ s case .
Mrs Wolfson ’ s husband , Leslie , said he had met Natalie at just 17 years old and they had been happily married for over 65 years .
“ I loved her dearly and we were still on our honeymoon , ” he said .
“ We never argued .
If she wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted something , I got it.
” This is the latest in a series of reports from Channel 4 News Correspondent Ciaran Jenkins on care homes and Covid-19 deaths , which previously revealed whistleblower allegations that some Coronavirus deaths were being certified by GPs under other conditions and may not be included in the official death toll .
Natalie Wolfson became a resident at Westacres Care Home two months ago .
She had Alzheimer ’ s but her named nurse , Laura Millar , said she was “ full of life ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ being “ barrier nursed , ” meaning her carers were wearing full PPE and treating her as if she had suspected Coronavirus .
However , according to Ms Millar her symptoms “ eased ” , the barrier nursing was stopped and as little as a fortnight before her death “ she was out and about and just herself and enjoying life.
” Then Mrs Wolfson had a fall .
She was admitted to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow and according to the care home , was discharged hours later with a collar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her upper arm .
Ms Millar alleges Natalie was discharged too hastily : “ Her pain control wasn ’ t managed and her outlook was shattered , ” she said .
Care Home Manager Linda Carruthers said Natalie deteriorated quickly after being discharged : “ She became very frail because her pain levels were such that she wasn ’ t eating or drinking.
” Care Home nurse Laura Millar decided Natalie needed to go to hospital for pain relief and to be put on a drip .
The Care Home incident log on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received from Dr to say that she would admit Natalie to hospital .
She called the hospital and called back stated that the hospital have refused to admit Natalie for pain relief and re-hydration.
” Mrs Carruthers said : “ We certainly hoped that she would be admitted .
You know the GP agreed with us – she should have been admitted to hospital – she tried everything she could but the answer when she came back was they weren ’ t going to take her in , she wasn ’ t to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s in the hospitals and that Natalie had been a suspected case but she should still have been treated.
” Asked by Channel 4 News Scotland Correspondent Ciaran Jenkins what she believed the consequences were of Natalie not being admitted to hospital , Mrs Carruthers replied : “ She died .
And that ’ s wrong.
” Mrs Millar , who said she was “ heartbroken ” by Natalie ’ s death , said she tried to give her some reassurance in her final days .
She said she told Natalie : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for you.
” Mrs Millar said : “ Natalie is a lady that should have been entitled to the same rights as anybody .
Irrespective of her age or if she had suspected coronavirus .
She was a lady that deserved more than what she got .
Westacres Care Home says Mrs Wolfson ’ s cause of death was certified as “ presumed Covid ” with “ humerus bone fracture ” listed as a significant condition contributing to her death .
“ The whole aim of this was to keep that [ elderly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to look after them .
They still need to be admitted to hospital .
They still need to have treatment , ” she said .
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said in a statement : “ We wish to offer our sympathies to the family and understand what a difficult time this must be for them .
“ Whilst we can not discuss individual cases we can confirm that this patient was appropriately treated for their orthopaedic condition .
“ We are investigating the allegations made by the care home , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patient was not admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 .
“ Any patient who requires to be hospitalised will be admitted to hospital .
”

A woman has died after allegedly being refused admission to Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Channel 4 News can reveal.
Natalie Wolfson, 85, a resident at Westacres Care Home in East Renfrewshire, passed away the day after her GP allegedly asked for her to be admitted to hospital for hydration and pain relief after she fell and fractured her upper arm.
Westacres Care Home manager Linda Carruthers told Channel 4 News Scotland Correspondent Ciaran Jenkins she believed Natalie, who also had suspected Covid-19 symptoms, died as a consequence of being refused admission to the hospital.
Mrs Carruthers said: “People still need treatment and if we learn anything from Natalie’s death is that we don’t ever let it happen again.”
In First Minister’s Questions on April 21st, Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was “vital” to get the message across that “the NHS is open”.
Ms Sturgeon said: “The NHS is there if people need it; they should not hold back. People should come forward for the help that the NHS is there to give them.”
Jack Ryan, Chief Executive of Newark Care, called for an investigation and said he believed the NHS was “clearly not” there for those who need it in Mrs Wolfson’s case.
Mrs Wolfson’s husband, Leslie, said he had met Natalie at just 17 years old and they had been happily married for over 65 years.
“I loved her dearly and we were still on our honeymoon,” he said. “We never argued. If she wanted something she got it. If I wanted something, I got it.”
This is the latest in a series of reports from Channel 4 News Correspondent Ciaran Jenkins on care homes and Covid-19 deaths, which previously revealed whistleblower allegations that some Coronavirus deaths were being certified by GPs under other conditions and may not be included in the official death toll.
Natalie Wolfson became a resident at Westacres Care Home two months ago. She had Alzheimer’s but her named nurse, Laura Millar, said she was “full of life”.
Earlier in April, Mrs Wolfson was being “barrier nursed,” meaning her carers were wearing full PPE and treating her as if she had suspected Coronavirus. However, according to Ms Millar her symptoms “eased”, the barrier nursing was stopped and as little as a fortnight before her death “she was out and about and just herself and enjoying life.”
Then Mrs Wolfson had a fall. She was admitted to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow and according to the care home, was discharged hours later with a collar and pain killers for a fracture to her upper arm.
Ms Millar alleges Natalie was discharged too hastily: “Her pain control wasn’t managed and her outlook was shattered,” she said.
Care Home Manager Linda Carruthers said Natalie deteriorated quickly after being discharged: “She became very frail because her pain levels were such that she wasn’t eating or drinking.”
Care Home nurse Laura Millar decided Natalie needed to go to hospital for pain relief and to be put on a drip. The Care Home incident log on Thursday April 16th reads:
“Call received from Dr to say that she would admit Natalie to hospital. She called the hospital and called back stated that the hospital have refused to admit Natalie for pain relief and re-hydration.”
Mrs Carruthers said: “We certainly hoped that she would be admitted. You know the GP agreed with us – she should have been admitted to hospital – she tried everything she could but the answer when she came back was they weren’t going to take her in, she wasn’t to be admitted. I understand that Covid’s in the hospitals and that Natalie had been a suspected case but she should still have been treated.”
Asked by Channel 4 News Scotland Correspondent Ciaran Jenkins what she believed the consequences were of Natalie not being admitted to hospital, Mrs Carruthers replied: “She died. And that’s wrong.”
Mrs Millar, who said she was “heartbroken” by Natalie’s death, said she tried to give her some reassurance in her final days. She said she told Natalie:
“We’re trying our best for you.”
Mrs Millar said: “Natalie is a lady that should have been entitled to the same rights as anybody. Irrespective of her age or if she had suspected coronavirus. She was a lady that deserved more than what she got.
Westacres Care Home says Mrs Wolfson’s cause of death was certified as “presumed Covid” with “humerus bone fracture” listed as a significant condition contributing to her death.
Care Home Manager Linda Carruthers told Channel 4 News Mrs Wolfson “didn’t need to die”.
“The whole aim of this was to keep that [elderly] population safe. But we still need to look after them. They still need to be admitted to hospital. They still need to have treatment,” she said.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said in a statement:
“We wish to offer our sympathies to the family and understand what a difficult time this must be for them.
“Whilst we cannot discuss individual cases we can confirm that this patient was appropriately treated for their orthopaedic condition.
“We are investigating the allegations made by the care home, however, we refute the suggestion that this patient was not admitted to hospital due to COVID-19.
“Any patient who requires to be hospitalised will be admitted to hospital.”


channel4uk--2020-04-25--“Scientists calling out the accurate figures are silenced”   – Tory MP Tom Tugendhat on China’s hand

“Scientists calling out the accurate figures are silenced”   – Tory MP Tom Tugendhat on China’s handling of Covid-19

Conservative MPs have formed a new group – headed by chair of the Foreign Affairs committee Tom Tugendhat – which @ @ @ @ @ better understanding China ’ s place in the world and its global ambitions .
It @ @ @ @ @ it was removing China from a list of international comparisons for the spread of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ accuracy of its data .

Conservative MPs have formed a new group – headed by chair of the Foreign Affairs committee Tom Tugendhat – which they say is aimed at better understanding China’s place in the world and its global ambitions.
It comes as Downing Street said it was removing China from a list of international comparisons for the spread of coronavirus – amid concerns about the accuracy of its data.


channel4uk--2020-04-25--Navajo Nation to sue US government over lack of coronavirus funding

In the US , a handful states have already begun easing their lockdown restrictions – although the number of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ soared to more than 50,000 .
But while much of the focus has been on @ @ @ @ @ like New York , the country ’ s largest American-Indian reservation also has a shockingly @ @ @ @ @ Navajo Nation spans 27,000 square miles across three states .
Its population is relatively small @ @ @ @ @ death rates are nearly 10 times higher than those in neighbouring Arizona .
The Navajo @ @ @ @ @ re being ignored – are suing the US government over a lack of emergency funding @

In the US, a handful states have already begun easing their lockdown restrictions – although the number of coronavirus deaths across the country has soared to more than 50,000. But while much of the focus has been on heavily populated cities and states like New York, the country’s largest American-Indian reservation also has a shockingly high infection rate.
The Navajo Nation spans 27,000 square miles across three states. Its population is relatively small, but the infection and death rates are nearly 10 times higher than those in neighbouring Arizona. The Navajo – who say they’re being ignored – are suing the US government over a lack of emergency funding.


channel4uk--2020-04-25--News you may have missed due to the coronavirus

For most of us the pandemic has overtaken everything and put any normal life on hold , but the world @ @ @ @ @ keeps on turning – from conflicts to deforestation .
Our International Editor Lindsey Hilsum reports @ @ @ @ @ world leaders hope might have gone unseen .

For most of us the pandemic has overtaken everything and put any normal life on hold, but the world of geopolitics beyond the coronavirus keeps on turning – from conflicts to deforestation.
Our International Editor Lindsey Hilsum reports on the dramas which some world leaders hope might have gone unseen.


channel4uk--2020-04-25--NHS tells public to seek urgent medical care when needed

The government has launched a campaign encouraging people who need urgent medical care not to avoid seeking help – warning @ @ @ @ @ could put long term health at risk .
The government has launched a campaign encouraging @ @ @ @ @ care not to avoid seeking help – warning that delays in getting treatment could put @ @ @ @ @ .
As figures show the numbers going to A & E departments has dropped by @ @ @ @ @ NHS England said vital services were still available for serious non coronavirus conditions like heart @ @ @ @ @ Stephenson reports .

The government has launched a campaign encouraging people who need urgent medical care not to avoid seeking help – warning that delays in getting treatment could put long term health at risk.
The government has launched a campaign encouraging people who need urgent medical care not to avoid seeking help – warning that delays in getting treatment could put long term health at risk.
As figures show the numbers going to A&E departments has dropped by half – the head of NHS England said vital services were still available for serious non coronavirus conditions like heart attacks and strokes. Minnie Stephenson reports.


channel4uk--2020-04-25--‘We need to be careful about telling people they are immune when they might not be’ – Prof Sarah Wal

‘We need to be careful about telling people they are immune when they might not be’ – Prof Sarah Walker on Covid-19 study

To ease the lockdown we need a much better understanding of who has had Covid-19 , especially if they were @ @ @ @ @ who might get it and how badly .
To ease the lockdown we need a @ @ @ @ @ has had Covid-19 , especially if they were not showing any symptoms , who might @ @ @ @ @ .
Enter a major new study run by the Department of Health and the Office @ @ @ @ @ first 20,000 households .
Joining me now is Sarah Walker , who is chief investigator @ @ @ @ @ of medical statistics and epidemiology at the University of Oxford .

To ease the lockdown we need a much better understanding of who has had Covid-19, especially if they were not showing any symptoms, who might get it and how badly.
To ease the lockdown we need a much better understanding of who has had Covid-19, especially if they were not showing any symptoms, who might get it and how badly.
Enter a major new study run by the Department of Health and the Office of National Statistics involving at first 20,000 households. Joining me now is Sarah Walker, who is chief investigator for the study and professor of medical statistics and epidemiology at the University of Oxford.


channel4uk--2020-04-25--‘People are getting bored   ’ – Blackburn residents on life under lockdown

On another weekend of warm sunshine , the public are being urged to keep observing social distancing restrictions and stay @ @ @ @ @ virus spreading .
On another weekend of warm sunshine , the public are being urged @ @ @ @ @ restrictions and stay at home to stop the virus spreading .
The Home Secretary Priti @ @ @ @ @ the government ’ s daily briefing today – acknowledging the huge sacrifices made .
So @ @ @ @ @ putting their entire lives on hold ?

On another weekend of warm sunshine, the public are being urged to keep observing social distancing restrictions and stay at home to stop the virus spreading.
On another weekend of warm sunshine, the public are being urged to keep observing social distancing restrictions and stay at home to stop the virus spreading.
The Home Secretary Priti Patel underlined that message at the government’s daily briefing today – acknowledging the huge sacrifices made. So how are people coping with putting their entire lives on hold?


channel4uk--2020-04-25--Coronavirus deaths in UK hospitals pass 20,000

With more than 20,000 deaths in UK hospitals – the government is coming under more pressure to be transparent about @ @ @ @ @ is getting .
This is a deeply tragic and moving moment , the Home Secretary @ @ @ @ @ than 20,000 deaths in UK hospitals – the government is coming under more pressure to @ @ @ @ @ scientific advice it is getting .
Opposition parties are demanding to know why the Prime @ @ @ @ @ aide Dominic Cummings had been allowed to attend meetings of a key scientific advisory group @ @ @ @ @ was being provided with independent advice .

With more than 20,000 deaths in UK hospitals – the government is coming under more pressure to be transparent about the expert scientific advice it is getting.
This is a deeply tragic and moving moment, the Home Secretary said – but with more than 20,000 deaths in UK hospitals – the government is coming under more pressure to be transparent about the expert scientific advice it is getting.
Opposition parties are demanding to know why the Prime Minister’s top political aide Dominic Cummings had been allowed to attend meetings of a key scientific advisory group. Number 10 insisted it was being provided with independent advice.


channel4uk--2020-04-25--Coronavirus crisis: Charity fears student care leavers face isolation

With universities closed across the country , many students are now spending lockdown in the relative comfort of their family @ @ @ @ @ to those students who spent time in care or are estranged from their family – @ @ @ @ @ go to – now facing new challenges when they ’ ve already been through so @ @ @ @ @ by the charity Become says around two thirds are now concerned about paying their rent @ @ @ @ @ struggling with new levels of loneliness and isolation .
Our social affairs editor Jackie Long @ @

With universities closed across the country, many students are now spending lockdown in the relative comfort of their family home.
But what happens to those students who spent time in care or are estranged from their family – who have no home to go to – now facing new challenges when they’ve already been through so much.
A new survey by the charity Become says around two thirds are now concerned about paying their rent and bills and many are struggling with new levels of loneliness and isolation. Our social affairs editor Jackie Long reports.


channel4uk--2020-04-26--How parks have become vital for city dwellers

We ’ ve been to East London ’ s Victoria Park to see how people are spending their daily exercise @ @ @ @ @ distancing We ’ re now a month into the lockdown , with most of the @ @ @ @ @ venturing outside for a bit of exercise once a day , or the occasional essential @ @ @ @ @ people in towns and cities , parks have become a vital part of life , @ @ @ @ @ see any green space .
We ’ ve been to East London ’ s Victoria @ @ @ @ @ are spending their daily exercise time with the necessary social distancing – and how this @ @ @ @ @ with the public spaces around us .

We’ve been to East London’s Victoria Park to see how people are spending their daily exercise time with the necessary social distancing
We’re now a month into the lockdown, with most of the country staying indoors – only venturing outside for a bit of exercise once a day, or the occasional essential shopping.
For millions of people in towns and cities, parks have become a vital part of life, and the only chance to see any green space.
We’ve been to East London’s Victoria Park to see how people are spending their daily exercise time with the necessary social distancing – and how this crisis is changing our relationship with the public spaces around us.


channel4uk--2020-04-26--David Miliband: US has not set ‘the gold standard that’s necessary’ over coronavirus

David Miliband , the head of the International Rescue Committee and former Labour Foreign Secretary , has argued that the @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus crisis will shape the whole future of global democracy .
And it will reveal @ @ @ @ @ is able to cope with the challenge .
He joins us live from Connecticut .

David Miliband , the head of the International Rescue Committee and former Labour Foreign Secretary, has argued that the way governments respond to the coronavirus crisis will shape the whole future of global democracy.
And it will reveal what kind of political system is able to cope with the challenge. He joins us live from Connecticut.


channel4uk--2020-04-26--Loneliness in lockdown: how isolating alone is affecting the elderly

No one is in this alone .
But millions of people across the country say they ’ re experiencing feelings @ @ @ @ @ the chance to see family or friends .
For those aged over 70 – who @ @ @ @ @ indoors – technology and grass roots community groups are now their contact with the outside @ @ @ @ @ been to East Sussex , which has a particularly high proportion of older residents , @ @ @ @ @ ’ re coping .

No one is in this alone. But millions of people across the country say they’re experiencing feelings of loneliness – deprived of the chance to see family or friends. For those aged over 70 – who have been told to stay indoors – technology and grass roots community groups are now their contact with the outside world.
Ayshah Tull has been to East Sussex, which has a particularly high proportion of older residents, to find out how they’re coping.


channel4uk--2020-04-26--This is the new ‘normal’, says Dominic Raab

This is the new normal – and we are going to have get used to it – that was the @ @ @ @ @ .
This is the new normal – and we are going to have get used @ @ @ @ @ the message from Dominic Raab today , as he said the current level of deaths @ @ @ @ @ distancing remained vital for quite some time to come .
Despite pressure to give details @ @ @ @ @ the Government has insisted it is far too soon – and that includes the Prime @ @ @ @ @ back at work tomorrow .
He apparently quoted Cicero : the health of the people @ @ @ @ @ .

This is the new normal – and we are going to have get used to it – that was the message from Dominic Raab today.
This is the new normal – and we are going to have get used to it. That was the message from Dominic Raab today, as he said the current level of deaths in the UK meant social distancing remained vital for quite some time to come.
Despite pressure to give details of an exit plan, the Government has insisted it is far too soon – and that includes the Prime Minister, who will be back at work tomorrow. He apparently quoted Cicero: the health of the people should be the supreme law.


channel4uk--2020-04-26--Gruffalo illustrator using art to explain coronavirus to kids

To children across the globe the drawings of illustrator Axel Scheffler are part of their childhood .
But the latest @ @ @ @ @ the Gruffalo are helping to explain the coronavirus outbreak to his young fans .
And @ @ @ @ @ so popular with parents – it ’ s already been downloaded hundreds of thousands of @ @

To children across the globe the drawings of illustrator Axel Scheffler are part of their childhood.
But the latest pictures by the illustrator of the Gruffalo are helping to explain the coronavirus outbreak to his young fans.
And the online project is proving so popular with parents – it’s already been downloaded hundreds of thousands of times.


channel4uk--2020-04-26--London Marathon competitors take on alternative challenges to raise money

The 40th London Marathon was meant to take place today .
Instead – to support the charities which were depending @ @ @ @ @ – a new challenge has been set with the hope of raising millions of pounds @ @ @ @ @ to create their own activity based around the numbers two and six in their back @ @ @ @ @ And the public have risen to the occasion – taking to treadmills , their stairs @ @ @ @ @ to raise vital funds .

The 40th London Marathon was meant to take place today. Instead – to support the charities which were depending on that mass fundraising effort – a new challenge has been set with the hope of raising millions of pounds.
Competitors have been asked to create their own activity based around the numbers two and six in their back gardens or front rooms. And the public have risen to the occasion – taking to treadmills, their stairs or pacing round the lounge to raise vital funds.


channel4uk--2020-04-26--Children in Spain allowed outside after six weeks in lockdown

In Spain , millions of children under the age of 14 have begun venturing outside for the first time in @ @ @ @ @ government begins a very gradual easing of the country ’ s strict lockdown measures .
@ @ @ @ @ hour of supervised activity outdoors , as long as they don ’ t use playgrounds @ @ @ @ @ their homes .
Spain ’ s prime minister warned : “ Maximum caution will be @ @ @ @ @ ” .

In Spain, millions of children under the age of 14 have begun venturing outside for the first time in six weeks – as the government begins a very gradual easing of the country’s strict lockdown measures.
Children are now allowed an hour of supervised activity outdoors, as long as they don’t use playgrounds or go very far from their homes. Spain’s prime minister warned: “Maximum caution will be our guideline for the rollback”.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--‘Days don’t matter – it’s unbearable’ – Tower block residents on life under lockdown

It ’ s now exactly five weeks since the lockdown started and for most of us the novelty of being @ @ @ @ @ wore off some time ago .
Particularly so if you aren ’ t lucky enough @ @ @ @ @ So spare a thought for people in high-rise flats .
Clare Fallon has been speaking @ @ @ @ @ effectively trapped in their towers .

It’s now exactly five weeks since the lockdown started and for most of us the novelty of being cooped up with our families wore off some time ago.
Particularly so if you aren’t lucky enough to have a garden. So spare a thought for people in high-rise flats.
Clare Fallon has been speaking to people who have been effectively trapped in their towers.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--Thirteen rangers killed in attack on DR Congo national park famous for its mountain gorillas

Funerals have been held for 13 rangers who were killed in an attack in Africa ’ s oldest national park @ @ @ @ @ its population of mountain gorillas .
The Rangers came to the aid of civilians who @ @ @ @ @ militia at Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of Congo .
The park was closed @ @ @ @ @ experts said the gorillas might be vulnerable to catching Covid-19 .

Funerals have been held for 13 rangers who were killed in an attack in Africa’s oldest national park, which is famous for its population of mountain gorillas.
The Rangers came to the aid of civilians who were being attacked by local militia at Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of Congo.
The park was closed to visitors in March after experts said the gorillas might be vulnerable to catching Covid-19.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--Martin Luther King III: ‘My father would be very disappointed that our society has not moved further

Martin Luther King III: ‘My father would be very disappointed that our society has not moved further’

Earlier , Jon Snow spoke to Martin Luther King III , a lawyer and International Human rights advocate who has @ @ @ @ @ his father Martin Luther King Jr .
In America , as in this country , @ @ @ @ @ the ethnicity of Covid-19 patients .
But it is becoming clear that the disease is @ @ @ @ @ Official estimates suggest almost one-third of US infections have affected black Americans , even though @ @ @ @ @ of the population .
Earlier , Jon Snow spoke to Martin Luther King III , @ @ @ @ @ rights advocate who has followed in the footsteps of his father Martin Luther King Jr @

Earlier, Jon Snow spoke to Martin Luther King III, a lawyer and International Human rights advocate who has followed in the footsteps of his father Martin Luther King Jr.
In America, as in this country, little data is collected about the ethnicity of Covid-19 patients.
But it is becoming clear that the disease is devastating African American communities.
Official estimates suggest almost one-third of US infections have affected black Americans, even though they represent only 13 percent of the population.
Earlier, Jon Snow spoke to Martin Luther King III, a lawyer and International Human rights advocate who has followed in the footsteps of his father Martin Luther King Jr.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--‘We’re sitting ducks waiting to die’ – US prisoner on coronavirus crisis

The US has the highest number of Covid-19 cases in the world and also incarcerates the most people .
It @ @ @ @ @ , that American prisons have become a hotbed for the virus .
Our Washington Correspondent @ @ @ @ @ to inmates in two Ohio state prisons who say conditions are rife for the spread @ @ @ @

The US has the highest number of Covid-19 cases in the world and also incarcerates the most people.
It’s no surprise then, that American prisons have become a hotbed for the virus.
Our Washington Correspondent Siobhan Kennedy has been speaking to inmates in two Ohio state prisons who say conditions are rife for the spread of the disease.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--‘We need to reach families rather than let them disappear’ – Yvette Cooper on tackling domestic viol

We need to reach families rather than let them disappear ’ – Yvette Cooper on tackling domestic violence surge Earlier @ @ @ @ @ s Yvette Cooper , who chairs the House of Commons committee which published the report @ @ @ @

‘We need to reach families rather than let them disappear’ – Yvette Cooper on tackling domestic violence surge
Jackie Long Social Affairs Editor and Presenter
Earlier we spoke to Labour’s Yvette Cooper, who chairs the House of Commons committee which published the report into domestic violence.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--MPs demand urgent action on domestic violence after surge in calls to helpline

Trapped in lockdown with your abuser – the reality of life for victims of domestic violence .
Trapped in lockdown with your abuser – the reality of life for victims of domestic violence .
Now a cross-party group of MPs is calling for urgent action from the Government to tackle the growing number of domestic abuse cases since coronavirus restrictions in movement began .
In a report published today , the Home Affairs Select Committee warns that , like other countries across the world , the UK is seeing a rise in domestic violence with calls to the abuse charity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 49 per cent .
Last year the Committee highlighted a shortage in beds at refuges with 64 per cent of referrals turned away between 2018 – 2019 – now they say the pressure is even greater .
The campaign Counting Dead Women says that 14 women and two children were killed in the first three weeks of lockdown – double that of an average 21 day period in the last decade .
Earlier we spoke to Rachel Williams – who was almost killed when her estranged husband shot her with a sawn off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now campaigns on behalf of victims of domestic violence

Trapped in lockdown with your abuser – the reality of life for victims of domestic violence.
Trapped in lockdown with your abuser – the reality of life for victims of domestic violence.
Now a cross-party group of MPs is calling for urgent action from the Government to tackle the growing number of domestic abuse cases since coronavirus restrictions in movement began.
In a report published today, the Home Affairs Select Committee warns that, like other countries across the world, the UK is seeing a rise in domestic violence with calls to the abuse charity helpline run by Refuge, up by 49 per cent.
Last year the Committee highlighted a shortage in beds at refuges with 64 per cent of referrals turned away between 2018 – 2019 – now they say the pressure is even greater.
The campaign Counting Dead Women says that 14 women and two children were killed in the first three weeks of lockdown – double that of
an average 21 day period in the last decade.
Earlier we spoke to Rachel Williams – who was almost killed when her estranged husband shot her with a sawn off shotgun after years of abuse. She now campaigns on behalf of victims of domestic violence


channel4uk--2020-04-27--Paediatric consultant explains alert over ‘very rare’ illness in children

We need to reach families rather than let them disappear ’ – Yvette Cooper on tackling domestic violence surge

4m
‘Tourists getting in the way of wildfire recovery on Maui,’ says former state representative


channel4uk--2020-04-27--Medical alert issued over illness in children who may have had Covid-19

An urgent medical alert has been sent to doctors regarding an apparent rise in the number of cases of children @ @ @ @ @ urgent medical alert has been sent to doctors regarding an apparent rise in the number @ @ @ @ @ to intensive care , with questions over whether these were severe Covid cases .

An urgent medical alert has been sent to doctors regarding an apparent rise in the number of cases of children admitted to intensive care
An urgent medical alert has been sent to doctors regarding an apparent rise in the number of cases of children admitted to intensive care, with questions over whether these were severe Covid cases.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--‘He wanted a better life’ – Tributes paid to care home nurse who died with coronavirus

Larni Zuniga was a nurse who had been working in a care home in Surrey .
He died on Friday @ @ @ @ @ care .
Throughout the worst days of the pandemic , we have been focusing on @ @ @ @ @ their lives to Covid-19 .
Larni Zuniga was a nurse who had been working in @ @ @ @ @ .
He died on Friday after three weeks in intensive care .
Tomorrow his colleagues @ @ @ @ @ s silence in his memory .
Anja Popp has been speaking to people who knew @ @

Larni Zuniga was a nurse who had been working in a care home in Surrey. He died on Friday after three weeks in intensive care.
Throughout the worst days of the pandemic, we have been focusing on frontline workers who have lost their lives to Covid-19.
Larni Zuniga was a nurse who had been working in a care home in Surrey.
He died on Friday after three weeks in intensive care. Tomorrow his colleagues will hold a minute’s silence in his memory. Anja Popp has been speaking to people who knew him.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--Boris Johnson returns to work – and compensation announced for NHS coronavirus deaths

Boris Johnson was back at work today .
The burning question in his in-tray – when will it be safe @ @ @ @ @ the country to follow him ?
Speaking from the steps of Downing Street , he @ @ @ @ @ at the moment of ‘ maximum risk ’ in the struggle against the coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ anxieties of businesses and the stress that social distancing was causing people .
But he @ @ @ @ @ to the economy and to life was a second spike in the pandemic .

Boris Johnson was back at work today. The burning question in his in-tray – when will it be safe to allow the rest of the country to follow him?
Speaking from the steps of Downing Street, he warned that the country was at the moment of ‘maximum risk’ in the struggle against the coronavirus.
He said he understood the anxieties of businesses and the stress that social distancing was causing people.
But he warned that the biggest risk to the economy and to life was a second spike in the pandemic.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--‘This is not about life versus money’ entrepreneur John Caudwell on easing lockdown

Is Boris Johnson right to resist the loosening of lockdown restrictions ?
So is Boris Johnson right to resist the @ @ @ @ @ Earlier Jon Snow spoke to the entrepreneur John Caudwell , who co-founded Phones 4u and @ @ @ @ @ expert in epidemiology who led the Hong Kong government ’ s investigation into the 2003 @ @ @

Is Boris Johnson right to resist the loosening of lockdown restrictions?
So is Boris Johnson right to resist the loosening of lockdown restrictions?
Earlier Jon Snow spoke to the entrepreneur John Caudwell, who co-founded Phones 4u and Prof Sian Griffiths, an expert in epidemiology who led the Hong Kong government’s investigation into the 2003 Sars epidemic.


channel4uk--2020-04-27--FactCheck: Should parents be worried by warning about Covid-19 in children?

An email alert warning doctors of a possible rise in complications among children who may have Covid-19 has been widely shared online and reported by news outlets .
The message is worrying , but NHS leaders and independent experts point out that the risk of severe illness from coronavirus is very rare in children .
The official advice to parents remains unchanged .
The internal email was sent to GPs and hospital doctors by North Central London Clinical Commissioning Group .
It is being shared widely online after the Paediatric Intensive Care Society charity posted the warning on Twitter .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ refer children suffering from three symptoms : abdominal pain , gastrointestinal symptoms and cardiac inflammation .
It reads : “ It has been reported that , over the last three weeks , there has been an apparent rise in the number of children of all ages presenting with a multi-system inflammatory state requiring intensive care across London and also in other regions of the UK .
“ The cases have in common overlapping features of toxic shock syndrome and atypical Kawasaki disease with blood parameters consistent with severe Covid-19 in children.
” Kawasaki @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swelling of the blood vessels of the heart , mainly affecting children under five .
The message adds that the three symptoms listed have been seen in children who have tested positive and negative for the coronavirus with swab tests .
It ends : “ There is a growing concern that a SARS-CoV-2-related inflammatory syndrome is emerging in children in the UK , or that there may be another , as yet unidentified , infectious pathogen associated with these cases.
” Why has the warning been sent ?
NHS England says this kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raising awareness quickly among clinicians about potential new illnesses and complications .
The fact that a signal like this is sent out does not mean that there is confirmed statistical evidence of a clinical trend , according to experts .
Professor Adilia Warris , Paediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist at the University of Exeter , said : “ Please do consider that the absolute number of those cases are very low ( a handful at the moment ) .
“ The call to ask if other colleagues have comparable experiences over the last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what is going on , and if there is reason for additional assessment into this.
” Dr James Gill , Honorary Clinical Lecturer , Warwick Medical School , and Locum GP , said : “ A new alert has been raised about a signal , a notable change , marking an increase in children being admitted to hospital with a ‘ multi-system inflammatory state ’ .
“ A clinical signal does not mean there is a new finding , it does however work as an alter to clinicians to be vigilant in case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This can not be stressed enough.
” The NHS has not changed its advice to parents who may be worried about their children becoming ill with Covid-19 .
Prof Simon Kenny , NHS national clinical director for children and young people , said : “ Thankfully Kawasaki-like diseases are very rare , as currently are serious complications in children related to Covid-19 , but it is important that clinicians are made aware of any potential emerging links so that they are able to give children and young people the right care fast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same : if you are worried about your child for whatever reason , contact NHS 111 or your family doctor for urgent advice , or 999 in an emergency , and if a professional tells you to go to hospital , please go to hospital.
” Professor Russell Viner , President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health , said : “ New diseases may present in ways that surprise us , and clinicians need to be made aware of any emerging evidence of particular symptoms or of underlying conditions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the virus .
“ However our advice remains the same : parents should be reassured that children are unlikely to be seriously ill with COVID-19 but if they are concerned about their children ’ s health for any reason , they should seek help from a health professional .
“ See here for more information : Guidance for parents on symptoms and seeking advice.
” Evidence from around the world suggests that the absolute risk of children becoming seriously ill from Covid-19 is very low .
A major study of more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease among children in China found that 94 per cent were diagnosed as asymptomatic , mild or moderate .
Statistics from NHS England show that only nine out of more than 18,000 deaths reported in hospitals so far – or 0.05 per cent – have been among children and teenagers .

An email alert warning doctors of a possible rise in complications among children who may have Covid-19 has been widely shared online and reported by news outlets.
The message is worrying, but NHS leaders and independent experts point out that the risk of severe illness from coronavirus is very rare in children. The official advice to parents remains unchanged.
The internal email was sent to GPs and hospital doctors by North Central London Clinical Commissioning Group.
It is being shared widely online after the Paediatric Intensive Care Society charity posted the warning on Twitter.
The text urges clinical staff to urgently refer children suffering from three symptoms: abdominal pain, gastrointestinal symptoms and cardiac inflammation.
It reads: “It has been reported that, over the last three weeks, there has been an apparent rise in the number of children of all ages presenting with a multi-system inflammatory state requiring intensive care across London and also in other regions of the UK.
“The cases have in common overlapping features of toxic shock syndrome and atypical Kawasaki disease with blood parameters consistent with severe Covid-19 in children.”
Kawasaki disease is a rare condition that causes swelling of the blood vessels of the heart, mainly affecting children under five.
The message adds that the three symptoms listed have been seen in children who have tested positive and negative for the coronavirus with swab tests.
It ends: “There is a growing concern that a SARS-CoV-2-related inflammatory syndrome is emerging in children in the UK, or that there may be another, as yet unidentified, infectious pathogen associated with these cases.”
Why has the warning been sent?
NHS England says this kind of alert is a standard way of raising awareness quickly among clinicians about potential new illnesses and complications.
The fact that a signal like this is sent out does not mean that there is confirmed statistical evidence of a clinical trend, according to experts.
Professor Adilia Warris, Paediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist at the University of Exeter, said: “Please do consider that the absolute number of those cases are very low (a handful at the moment).
“The call to ask if other colleagues have comparable experiences over the last week is so we are able to define what is going on, and if there is reason for additional assessment into this.”
Dr James Gill, Honorary Clinical Lecturer, Warwick Medical School, and Locum GP, said: “A new alert has been raised about a signal, a notable change, marking an increase in children being admitted to hospital with a ‘multi-system inflammatory state’.
“A clinical signal does not mean there is a new finding, it does however work as an alter to clinicians to be vigilant in case there is anything substantive behind that signal. This cannot be stressed enough.”
Advice to parents
The NHS has not changed its advice to parents who may be worried about their children becoming ill with Covid-19.
Prof Simon Kenny, NHS national clinical director for children and young people, said: “Thankfully Kawasaki-like diseases are very rare, as currently are serious complications in children related to Covid-19, but it is important that clinicians are made aware of any potential emerging links so that they are able to give children and young people the right care fast.
“The advice to parents remains the same: if you are worried about your child for whatever reason, contact NHS 111 or your family doctor for urgent advice, or 999 in an emergency, and if a professional tells you to go to hospital, please go to hospital.”
Professor Russell Viner, President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said: “New diseases may present in ways that surprise us, and clinicians need to be made aware of any emerging evidence of particular symptoms or of underlying conditions which could make a patient more vulnerable to the virus.
“However our advice remains the same: parents should be reassured that children are unlikely to be seriously ill with COVID-19 but if they are concerned about their children’s health for any reason, they should seek help from a health professional.
“See here for more information: Guidance for parents on symptoms and seeking advice.”
Low overall risk to children
Evidence from around the world suggests that the absolute risk of children becoming seriously ill from Covid-19 is very low.
A major study of more than 2,000 confirmed or suspected cases of the disease among children in China found that 94 per cent were diagnosed as asymptomatic, mild or moderate.
Statistics from NHS England show that only nine out of more than 18,000 deaths reported in hospitals so far – or 0.05 per cent – have been among children and teenagers.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--Inside ICU with impressive coronavirus recovery record

For two days , Channel 4 News was given unprecedented access to Craigavon Area Hospital in North Armagh , to @ @ @ @ @ its staff is adapting to cope with the pandemic .
In Northern Ireland , more @ @ @ @ @ positive for coronavirus and 329 people have died .
For two days , Channel 4 @ @ @ @ @ to Craigavon Area Hospital in North Armagh , to see how one hospital and its @ @ @ @ @ with the pandemic .
The huge challenges to the healthcare system follow the recent paralysis @ @ @ @ @ Northern Ireland , nurses strikes and concerns around Brexit .
In the first of a @ @ @ @ @ on Northern Ireland ’ s frontline , tonight Paraic O ’ Brien has been inside @ @ @ @ @

For two days, Channel 4 News was given unprecedented access to Craigavon Area Hospital in North Armagh, to see how one hospital and its staff is adapting to cope with the pandemic.
Warning: this report contains distressing images.
In Northern Ireland, more than 3,000 people have tested positive for coronavirus and 329 people have died.
For two days, Channel 4 News was given unprecedented access to Craigavon Area Hospital in North Armagh, to see how one hospital and its staff is adapting to cope with the pandemic.
The huge challenges to the healthcare system follow the recent paralysis of the devolved government in Northern Ireland, nurses strikes and concerns around Brexit.
In the first of a three-part series about the reality on Northern Ireland’s frontline, tonight Paraic O’Brien has been inside the Intensive Care Unit.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--‘People very quickly adapted to a very radical disruption’ – writer Malcolm Gladwell on coronavirus

‘People very quickly adapted to a very radical disruption’ – writer Malcolm Gladwell on coronavirus lockdown

There are so many things we don ’ t yet know about this virus , the way it behaves or @ @ @ @ @ We are of course looking to scientists and politicians to guide us through this crisis @ @ @ @ @ seemingly , not always in step with each other , who should we believe ?
@ @ @ @ @ Talking to Strangers ” , the best-selling international author of “ Tipping Point ” Malcolm @ @ @ @ @ and misunderstanding between strangers .
So are scientists and politicians strangers ?
We speak to @ @ @ @ @ him if we had reached a tipping point with the lockdown .

There are so many things we don’t yet know about this virus, the way it behaves or its likely long-term impact.
We are of course looking to scientists and politicians to guide us through this crisis.
But with them, seemingly, not always in step with each other, who should we believe?
In his latest book “Talking to Strangers”, the best-selling international author of “Tipping Point” Malcolm Gladwell explores concepts of trust and misunderstanding between strangers.
So are scientists and politicians strangers? We speak to him and begin by asking him if we had reached a tipping point with the lockdown.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--‘We have disrespected animals and disrespected the environment’ – Dame Jane Goodall on coronavirus

She ’ s been a global figurehead for international conservation for 6 decades – from her groundbreaking research with chimpanzees @ @ @ @ @ and campaigning to give people alternatives to killing and trafficking animals .
But now , @ @ @ @ @ another global pandemic some say has been caused by human interference with wild animals , @ @ @ @ @ only one species that has caused this – us .

Warning: this report contains distressing images.
She’s been a global figurehead for international conservation for 6 decades – from her groundbreaking research with chimpanzees in Tanzania to conserving rainforests and campaigning to give people alternatives to killing and trafficking animals.
But now, in the midst of yet another global pandemic some say has been caused by human interference with wild animals, Jane Goodall says there is only one species that has caused this – us.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--Minute’s silence held for key workers who have died during pandemic

Across the country , people stopped today to observe a minute ’ s silence for key workers who ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ .
There were tributes to medical staff , care workers , and bus drivers .
@ @ @ @ @ who have lost their lives will not be forgotten .

Across the country, people stopped today to observe a minute’s silence for key workers who’ve died in the coronavirus pandemic.
There were tributes to medical staff, care workers, and bus drivers.
The Prime Minister said those who have lost their lives will not be forgotten.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--BA and John Lewis hit by virus shutdown

BA and John Lewis hit by virus shutdown

Two big business announcements this afternoon show the heavy toll the coronavirus crisis is having on the economy .
Our @ @ @ @ @ Paul McNamara , is reporting from an industrial estate in Surrey .

Two big business announcements this afternoon show the heavy toll the coronavirus crisis is having on the economy.
Our Business and Global Trade Correspondent Paul McNamara, is reporting from an industrial estate in Surrey.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--‘More deaths should have been recorded as covid deaths’ – Nadra Ahmed, National Care Assn, on care h

‘More deaths should have been recorded as covid deaths’ – Nadra Ahmed, National Care Assn, on care homes

Joining us to discuss exactly what ’ s happening in care homes is Chair of the National Care Association , @ @ @

Joining us to discuss exactly what’s happening in care homes is Chair of the National Care Association, Nadra Ahmed.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--Care home staff concerned Scottish government still not reporting full death toll

Over the past few weeks , this programme has revealed the lack of accurate data around deaths in care homes @ @ @ @ @ now , the number of Covid-19 deaths in care homes has been based on testing @ @ @ @ @ s been relatively little , and information from death certificates .
But this programme revealed @ @ @ @ @ be accurate .
Now a Scottish care home tells us five of its residents may @ @ @ @ @ the official coronavirus death toll .

Over the past few weeks, this programme has revealed the lack of accurate data around deaths in care homes across the UK.
Until now, the number of Covid-19 deaths in care homes has been based on testing, of which there’s been relatively little, and information from death certificates.
But this programme revealed allegations that information may not be accurate.
Now a Scottish care home tells us five of its residents may not have been included in the official coronavirus death toll.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--‘It was difficult to imagine just how easy lockdown was, that people would go along with it’ – Prof

‘It was difficult to imagine just how easy lockdown was, that people would go along with it’ – Prof John Edmunds

We speak to John Edmunds who is professor of epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine .
@ @ @ @ @ is a member of SAGE , the scientific committee advising the government on coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ if we might not yet have reached the peak in care home coronavirus deaths .

We speak to John Edmunds who is professor of epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
He maps infectious diseases and is a member of SAGE, the scientific committee advising the government on coronavirus.
We begin by asking him if we might not yet have reached the peak in care home coronavirus deaths.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--Care home virus deaths rising sharply

Care home virus deaths rising sharply

As the death toll in hospitals appears to be declining , figures today reveal a new frontline – care homes @ @ @ @ @ sharply amid warnings that the peak of the outbreak has not yet been reached .
@ @ @ @ @ out a strategy for care homes in the early stages , and today announced a @ @ @ @ @ to include residents and staff who are not showing symptoms .
But familiar questions have @ @ @ @ @ equipment and whether tests were available early enough .

As the death toll in hospitals appears to be declining, figures today reveal a new frontline – care homes, where deaths are rising sharply amid warnings that the peak of the outbreak has not yet been reached.
The government insists it set out a strategy for care homes in the early stages, and today announced a new expansion of testing – to include residents and staff who are not showing symptoms.
But familiar questions have arisen about lack of protective equipment and whether tests were available early enough.


channel4uk--2020-04-28--Where did the two metre coronavirus rule come from?

One of the few constants during the coronavirus pandemic has been the edict to stay two metres away from other people .
But where did the rule come from , and what evidence is it based on ?
A search through internet archives shows that the government issued guidance on the rule in relation to COVID-19 on 22 January , over a month before a pandemic was declared and the UK lockdown began .
But it ’ s also been the rule for other viruses and bacterial infections during epidemics , from swine flu in 2009 to SARS in 2002 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the University of East Anglia told Channel 4 News that two metres has been part of the received wisdom on infection control since even further back than that .
“ The evidence originally comes from studies around the spread of infection between people based on how far the beds were , and I think it dates back to World War II , ” he said .
“ Generally if the beds were spaced more than about a metre apart , then there was lower risk of spread.
” By the time Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two metres was being taught as a generally accepted rule for lowering the risk of disease transmission .
But what ’ s actually happening , or not , when people are two metres apart ?
“ The first thing you ’ ve got to know is the distinction between droplet spread and airborne spread , which a lot of people get muddled up , ” Professor Hunter said .
Droplet spread is when a virus is contained in large drops produced by coughing or sneezing , and tend to fall out the air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came .
Airborne spread is when much smaller particles called aerosols are produced which can potentially drift in the air much further .
The majority of the research on COVID-19 transmission suggests it isn ’ t airborne spread , however , but rather by droplets and any surfaces the droplets land on .
“ The epidemiology is about the most common things , so you can ’ t say that it never spreads by aerosol , ” Professor Hunter said .
“ But as long as you ’ re providing droplet spread protection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cases prevented.
” Dr Ben Killingley from University College London Hospital told Channel 4 News that even if we were to discover later on that coronavirus can be spread by aerosols , it would only be a technical point .
That ’ s because it ’ s clear from the existing research that close contact is where the disease spreads , so aerosol transmission would still appear to require high concentrations at close range to infect .
None of this would change the existing public health advice , he said .
Both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no more important than other hygiene precautions , including proper handwashing and avoiding touching the face – especially when out in public .

One of the few constants during the coronavirus pandemic has been the edict to stay two metres away from other people. But where did the rule come from, and what evidence is it based on?
A search through internet archives shows that the government issued guidance on the rule in relation to COVID-19 on 22 January, over a month before a pandemic was declared and the UK lockdown began.
But it’s also been the rule for other viruses and bacterial infections during epidemics, from swine flu in 2009 to SARS in 2002.
In fact, Professor Paul Hunter from the University of East Anglia told Channel 4 News that two metres has been part of the received wisdom on infection control since even further back than that.
“The evidence originally comes from studies around the spread of infection between people based on how far the beds were, and I think it dates back to World War II,” he said. “Generally if the beds were spaced more than about a metre apart, then there was lower risk of spread.”
By the time Professor Hunter was studying medicine, he said two metres was being taught as a generally accepted rule for lowering the risk of disease transmission.
But what’s actually happening, or not, when people are two metres apart?
“The first thing you’ve got to know is the distinction between droplet spread and airborne spread, which a lot of people get muddled up,” Professor Hunter said.
Droplet spread is when a virus is contained in large drops produced by coughing or sneezing, and tend to fall out the air quickly and not far from where they came.
Airborne spread is when much smaller particles called aerosols are produced which can potentially drift in the air much further.
The majority of the research on COVID-19 transmission suggests it isn’t airborne spread, however, but rather by droplets and any surfaces the droplets land on.
“The epidemiology is about the most common things, so you can’t say that it never spreads by aerosol,” Professor Hunter said. “But as long as you’re providing droplet spread protection, that’s the vast majority of cases prevented.”
Dr Ben Killingley from University College London Hospital told Channel 4 News that even if we were to discover later on that coronavirus can be spread by aerosols, it would only be a technical point.
That’s because it’s clear from the existing research that close contact is where the disease spreads, so aerosol transmission would still appear to require high concentrations at close range to infect.
None of this would change the existing public health advice, he said.
Both experts point out that distancing itself is no more important than other hygiene precautions, including proper handwashing and avoiding touching the face – especially when out in public.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--FactCheck: What’s the latest on coronavirus deaths?

The simple question “ how many people have died from the coronavirus ?
” is becoming even more complicated week by week .
The UK government , the devolved administrations , NHS England , national statistics bodies and the Care Quality Commission are all now producing statistics on Covid-19 deaths , showing different kinds of deaths over different time periods .
How are we supposed to make sense of it ?
Here ’ s what we know , based on the latest numbers – and what we still don ’ t know .
Hospital deaths have been falling for three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trend here , with the peak of deaths occurring on April 8 and falling steadily since then ( the last few days will be updated ) .
This is good news for the NHS and the idea that we have passed a peak chimes with other UK government data on hospital admissions in England : Note that these are deaths of people who have tested positive for Covid-19 , but the coronavirus may not be the cause of their death .
The NHS England death toll only counts people who have died in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that substantial numbers of people have been dying outside hospitals , and that care homes are a particular area of concern .
This week the Office for National Statistics said 21,284 Covid-19 deaths had been registered in hospitals and elsewhere in England by April 17 , almost 40 per cent higher than the figure for English hospital deaths by that date .
This is all based on cases where the doctor mentions coronavirus on the death certificate .
Again , it may not be the immediate cause of death .
We know that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes – more than 4,100 up to April 17 , according to the ONS death registration data .
And the Care Quality Commission ( CQC ) has been notified of an additional 2,000 deaths since that date , although the figures are not compiled in the same way and may not be directly comparable .
So have we really passed the peak ?
This ONS graph shows that total deaths in England and Wales still peaked on April 8 and have been falling since then , if you add together deaths in hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ red ) and everywhere else : But if we zoom in on care homes specifically , it ’ s not clear that deaths there have peaked yet .
The latest available data from the CQC runs until April 24 , a date on which 380 daily deaths were reported – very similar to the death toll seven days earlier : Experts have picked up on this and are warning that care home deaths specifically may not have peaked yet and could contribute to a long “ tail ” of deaths .
Prof Sir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Centre for Risk and Evidence Communication , University of Cambridge , said : “ When we add in deaths at home , this suggests there are now about as many COVID deaths out of hospital as in hospital .
And while hospital deaths are steadily decreasing , there is no sign yet that we are past the peak in care homes.
” So what is the real UK death toll ?
It ’ s impossible to say for sure because of the time lag between deaths occurring and being reported in the various @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together the latest numbers of registered Covid-19 deaths reported by the national statistics bodies until the middle of April ( here are the figures for Scotland and Northern Ireland ) .
And we can add to that more recent NHS England figures for deaths in hospitals by date and CQC figures covering care homes in England .
We can estimate that there have been at least 30,000 Covid-19 related deaths across the UK since the outbreak began , but this will have to be revised upward when more recent deaths are added to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a persistent fear , based on anecdotal evidence that doctors who fill in patients ’ death certificates outside hospital may not put Covid-19 down if they have not had the diagnosis confirmed by a test .
If this happened a lot , it could lead to an underreporting of Covid-related deaths , meaning the ONS might be undercounting .
But it ’ s interesting to note that the Care Quality Commission numbers for fatalities in care homes tally closely with registered deaths .
The commission is notified of deaths by care homes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may be independent of a test result or medical diagnosis .
The CQC was notified of 1,968 Covid-19-related deaths in England care homes between April 10 and April 17 , compared to 1,999 registered deaths in England in the same period .
We would expect the registered deaths to be much lower if doctors were under-counting coronavirus cases .
What about total deaths of all kinds ?
One way of getting around the question of what doctors are writing on death certificates is to look at all-cause mortality .
In other words , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason , and is this more than we saw in previous years ?
The data for the week ending April 17 shows that there were more than 22,000 total deaths in England and Wales – around double the average for this time of year .
Nearly three quarters of the excess deaths mentioned Covid on the death certificate .
That leaves a significant number of unexpected deaths that are apparently not attributable to the virus .
Is this simply undercounting ?
Or the effect of the lockdown rather than the virus itself ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for sure .
A third possibility is that vulnerable people are becoming infected with Covid-19 but not showing symptoms .
But we do know that hospital admissions have fallen sharply , so it is possible that people who have other serious illnesses are not getting the same level of treatment they got before the epidemic .
David Leon , Professor of Epidemiology , London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , said the Covid numbers “ do not count the indirect deaths that are occurring because people with serious symptoms or diagnoses of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a timely way or are experiencing delays in treatment ” .
He added : “ Some of this will be due to people ’ s reluctance to go to Accident and Emergency departments , while in other cases it is because investigations or treatments are being scaled back by hospitals.
” We still won ’ t know for some time how many people have lost their lives to the coronavirus .
We can be fairly certain now that hospital deaths in England have been falling for three weeks , suggesting we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wider population – though possibly not yet in care homes .
The death toll is likely to be above 30,000 so far , when we include deaths from across the UK and outside hospital .
Fears that doctors might be under-reporting coronavirus deaths are not supported by new data from the Care Quality Commission .
A significant number of excess deaths we are seeing have not been attributed directly to Covid-19 infection .

The simple question “how many people have died from the coronavirus?” is becoming even more complicated week by week.
The UK government, the devolved administrations, NHS England, national statistics bodies and the Care Quality Commission are all now producing statistics on Covid-19 deaths, showing different kinds of deaths over different time periods.
How are we supposed to make sense of it? Here’s what we know, based on the latest numbers – and what we still don’t know.
Hospital deaths have been falling for three weeks in England
There is a clear trend here, with the peak of deaths occurring on April 8 and falling steadily since then (the last few days will be updated).
(Graph: Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine at Oxford University)
This is good news for the NHS and the idea that we have passed a peak chimes with other UK government data on hospital admissions in England:
Note that these are deaths of people who have tested positive for Covid-19, but the coronavirus may not be the cause of their death.
The total death toll is higher
The NHS England death toll only counts people who have died in hospital.
It is becoming increasingly clear that substantial numbers of people have been dying outside hospitals, and that care homes are a particular area of concern.
This week the Office for National Statistics said 21,284 Covid-19 deaths had been registered in hospitals and elsewhere in England by April 17, almost 40 per cent higher than the figure for English hospital deaths by that date.
This is all based on cases where the doctor mentions coronavirus on the death certificate. Again, it may not be the immediate cause of death.
We know that many Covid-19-related deaths are happening in care homes – more than 4,100 up to April 17, according to the ONS death registration data.
And the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has been notified of an additional 2,000 deaths since that date, although the figures are not compiled in the same way and may not be directly comparable.
So have we really passed the peak?
This ONS graph shows that total deaths in England and Wales still peaked on April 8 and have been falling since then, if you add together deaths in hospitals (blue), care homes (red) and everywhere else:
But if we zoom in on care homes specifically, it’s not clear that deaths there have peaked yet.
The latest available data from the CQC runs until April 24, a date on which 380 daily deaths were reported – very similar to the death toll seven days earlier:
Experts have picked up on this and are warning that care home deaths specifically may not have peaked yet and could contribute to a long “tail” of deaths.
Prof Sir David Spiegelhalter, Chair of the Winton Centre for Risk and Evidence Communication, University of Cambridge, said: “When we add in deaths at home, this suggests there are now about as many COVID deaths out of hospital as in hospital. And while hospital deaths are steadily decreasing, there is no sign yet that we are past the peak in care homes.”
So what is the real UK death toll?
It’s impossible to say for sure because of the time lag between deaths occurring and being reported in the various data sets.
But we can draw together the latest numbers of registered Covid-19 deaths reported by the national statistics bodies until the middle of April (here are the figures for Scotland and Northern Ireland).
And we can add to that more recent NHS England figures for deaths in hospitals by date and CQC figures covering care homes in England.
We can estimate that there have been at least 30,000 deaths directly related to Covid-19 across the UK since the outbreak began, but this will have to be revised upward when more recent deaths are added to the official tally.
Are Covid-19 deaths being under-reported?
This has been a persistent fear, based on anecdotal evidence that doctors who fill in patients’ death certificates outside hospital may not put Covid-19 down if they have not had the diagnosis confirmed by a test.
If this happened a lot, it could lead to an underreporting of Covid-related deaths, meaning the ONS might be undercounting.
But it’s interesting to note that the Care Quality Commission numbers for fatalities in care homes tally closely with registered deaths.
The commission is notified of deaths by care homes and the assessment of whether Covid-19 was involved may be independent of a test result or medical diagnosis.
The CQC was notified of 1,968 Covid-19-related deaths in England care homes between April 10 and April 17, compared to 1,999 registered deaths in England in the same period.
We would expect the registered deaths to be much lower if doctors were under-counting coronavirus cases.
What about total deaths of all kinds?
One way of getting around the question of what doctors are writing on death certificates is to look at all-cause mortality. In other words, how many people are dying for whatever reason, and is this more than we saw in previous years?
The data for the week ending April 17 shows that there were more than 22,000 total deaths in England and Wales – around double the average for this time of year.
Nearly three quarters of the excess deaths mentioned Covid on the death certificate. That leaves a significant number of unexpected deaths that are apparently not attributable to the virus.
Is this simply undercounting? Or the effect of the lockdown rather than the virus itself?
Nobody is in a position to say for sure. A third possibility is that vulnerable people are becoming infected with Covid-19 but not showing symptoms.
But we do know that hospital admissions have fallen sharply, so it is possible that people who have other serious illnesses are not getting the same level of treatment they got before the epidemic.
David Leon, Professor of Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said the Covid numbers “do not count the indirect deaths that are occurring because people with serious symptoms or diagnoses of non-COVID health conditions are not getting diagnosed in a timely way or are experiencing delays in treatment”.
He added: “Some of this will be due to people’s reluctance to go to Accident and Emergency departments, while in other cases it is because investigations or treatments are being scaled back by hospitals.”
FactCheck verdict
We still won’t know for some time how many people have lost their lives to the coronavirus.
We can be fairly certain now that hospital deaths in England have been falling for three weeks, suggesting we have passed the peak of deaths in the wider population – though possibly not yet in care homes.
The death toll is likely to be above 30,000 so far, when we include deaths from across the UK and outside hospital.
Fears that doctors might be under-reporting coronavirus deaths are not supported by new data from the Care Quality Commission.
A significant number of excess deaths we are seeing have not been attributed directly to Covid-19 infection.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--‘Historical misfortune that person unqualified to be president’ in office during pandemic – historia

‘Historical misfortune that person unqualified to be president’ in office during pandemic – historian Francis Fukuyama

He predicted the end of history and the triumph of western democracy .
But even before the coronavirus crisis – @ @ @ @ @ was already looking shaky as populist and authoritarian governments grew in strength around the world @ @ @ @ @ world order looking increasingly uncertain – earlier Krishnan Guru-Murthy spoke to him about the future @ @ @ @ @ us next .
He began by asking him what determines if a country is able @ @ @ @ @ with the current pandemic .

He predicted the end of history and the triumph of western democracy. But even before the coronavirus crisis – Francis Fukuyama’s thesis was already looking shaky as populist and authoritarian governments grew in strength around the world.
Now with the new world order looking increasingly uncertain – earlier Krishnan Guru-Murthy spoke to him about the future and where history might take us next.
He began by asking him what determines if a country is able to deal well or not with the current pandemic.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--‘Another Wuhan in the making’?: Undercover in a Thailand market selling live animals

Across Asia crowded wet markets are very much open for business .
Wet markets selling live animals have been branded @ @ @ @ @ Organization .
But across Asia – crowded wet markets are very much open for business @ @ @ @ @ Jane Goodall told this programme about her fears about human interference with animals .
Our @ @ @ @ @ has been secretly filming inside South East Asia ’ s biggest live animal market in @ @ @ @ @ which one Thai newspaper says is “ another Wuhan in the making ” .
A @ @ @ @ @ scenes in his report .

Across Asia crowded wet markets are very much open for business.
Wet markets selling live animals have been branded dangerous by the World Health Organization.
But across Asia – crowded wet markets are very much open for business. Yesterday, the conservationist Jane Goodall told this programme about her fears about human interference with animals.
Our foreign affairs correspondent Jonathan Miller has been secretly filming inside South East Asia’s biggest live animal market in the heart of Bangkok – which one Thai newspaper says is “another Wuhan in the making”.
A warning, there are distressing scenes in his report.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--Access all areas to one Northern Ireland hospital changing how it treats all patients

The second of our special reports from Craigavon Area Hospital in County Armagh , Northern Ireland .
The second of @ @ @ @ @ Area Hospital in County Armagh , Northern Ireland .
Yesterday , we had an insight @ @ @ @ @ care .
Today , we have had extensive access to the rest of the hospital @ @ @ @ @ , as staff adapt to a new way of working amid concerns over shortages of @ @ @ @ @ been looking at how the pandemic has made some people reassess who – and what @ @ @ @ @ their lives .

The second of our special reports from Craigavon Area Hospital in County Armagh, Northern Ireland.
The second of our special reports from Craigavon Area Hospital in County Armagh, Northern Ireland.
Yesterday, we had an insight into the conditions inside intensive care.
Today, we have had extensive access to the rest of the hospital’s work with coronavirus, as staff adapt to a new way of working amid concerns over shortages of PPE.
And we have been looking at how the pandemic has made some people reassess who – and what – is truly important in their lives.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--Surviving coronavirus after weeks in intensive care

There have been many , far too many deaths already in this pandemic , but also stories of survival .
@ @ @ @ @ far too many deaths already in this pandemic , but also stories of survival .
@ @ @ @ @ a ritual , patients who leave intensive care are applauded out by staff , becoming @ @ @ @ @ But for those who do survive intensive care treatment , their lives are likely to @ @ @ @ @ for a long time to come .
Our correspondent Andy Davies has spoken to two @ @ @ @ @ in the last week about their experiences and the formidable physical and psychological challenges which @ @ @

There have been many, far too many deaths already in this pandemic, but also stories of survival.
There have been many, far too many deaths already in this pandemic, but also stories of survival.
In what’s becoming a ritual, patients who leave intensive care are applauded out by staff, becoming rare beacons of hope.
But for those who do survive intensive care treatment, their lives are likely to be shaped by the experience for a long time to come.
Our correspondent Andy Davies has spoken to two patients who have been released in the last week about their experiences and the formidable physical and psychological challenges which lie ahead.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--Free visa extensions to be granted to health and care workers

The Home Secretary is to grant free visa extensions across the health and care sectors .
The Home Secretary is @ @ @ @ @ across the health and care sectors .
Priti Patel told the Home Affairs Select Committee @ @ @ @ @ to extend workers visas – as well as lifting health surcharges , although she said @ @ @ @ @ care sector is very challenging .
But some campaign organisations say it does not go @ @ @ @ @ include for example spouse or family visas .

The Home Secretary is to grant free visa extensions across the health and care sectors.
The Home Secretary is to grant free visa extensions across the health and care sectors.
Priti Patel told the Home Affairs Select Committee that her department is looking to extend workers visas – as well as lifting health surcharges, although she said that tracking cases in the care sector is very challenging.
But some campaign organisations say it does not go far enough and does not include for example spouse or family visas.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--UK hospitals warned BAME staff may be at greater risk of coronavirus

Public Health England have told NHS trusts that all Black , Asian and other ethnic minority staff should be assessed @ @ @ @ @ risk from coronavirus – on a precautionary basis .
Public Health England have told NHS @ @ @ @ @ Asian and other ethnic minority staff should be assessed as being at potentially greater risk @ @ @ @ @ precautionary basis .
This , after emerging evidence in the UK , the US and @ @ @ @ @ from ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by Covid-19 .
Investigations are underway into why – @ @ @ @ @ no clear answers .

Public Health England have told NHS trusts that all Black, Asian and other ethnic minority staff should be assessed as being at potentially greater risk from coronavirus – on a precautionary basis.
Public Health England have told NHS trusts that all Black, Asian and other ethnic minority staff should be assessed as being at potentially greater risk from coronavirus – on a precautionary basis.
This, after emerging evidence in the UK, the US and European countries which suggests people from ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by Covid-19.
Investigations are underway into why – but as yet there are no clear answers.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--‘We have taken the triple hit of having a high death toll and economic costs and social costs’ –  Pr

‘We have taken the triple hit of having a high death toll and economic costs and social costs’ –  Prof Devi Sridhar

Earlier Cathy Newman spoke to Public Health professor Devi Sridhar , of the University of Edinburgh .
She began by @ @ @ @ @ were being recruited to manage the contact tracing operation that ’ s going to be @ @

Earlier Cathy Newman spoke to Public Health professor Devi Sridhar, of the University of Edinburgh.
She began by asking her if enough people were being recruited to manage the contact tracing operation that’s going to be required.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--Social care ‘tends to be an afterthought – the second class service’, former pension minister says

Social care ‘ tends to be an afterthought – the second class service ’ , former pension minister says Earlier @ @ @ @ @ pensions minister Baroness Altmann who now campaigns on issues surrounding social care – and Vic @ @ @ @ @ the National Care Forum .

Social care ‘tends to be an afterthought – the second class service’, former pension minister says
Cathy Newman Presenter
Earlier Cathy Newman spoke to former pensions minister Baroness Altmann who now campaigns on issues surrounding social care – and Vic Rayner, Executive Director of the National Care Forum.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--Fears for cancer patients as diagnosis and treatment delayed

Residents and staff at care homes in England are now entitled to a coronavirus test – whether or not they @ @ @ @ @ Residents and staff at care homes in England are now entitled to a coronavirus test @ @ @ @ @ ’ re showing symptoms .
Ministers have acknowledged the scale of the care home crisis @ @ @ @ @ “ we must grip and can grip ” .
But the impact on the wider @ @ @ @ @ apparent , with warnings that thousands of cancer patients could die because of delays in @ @ @ @ @

Residents and staff at care homes in England are now entitled to a coronavirus test – whether or not they’re showing symptoms.
Residents and staff at care homes in England are now entitled to a coronavirus test – whether or not they’re showing symptoms.
Ministers have acknowledged the scale of the care home crisis claiming it was a challenge “we must grip and can grip”.
But the impact on the wider health service is also becoming apparent, with warnings that thousands of cancer patients could die because of delays in getting diagnosis and treatment.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--Scotland: More coronavirus deaths in care homes than hospitals

More than half of coronavirus deaths in Scotland are now taking place in care homes , according to new figures @ @ @ @ @ until Sunday , they overtook the number of hospital deaths for the first time .
@ @ @ @ @ it was partly due to the fact that deaths in hospitals appeared to be on @ @ @ @ @ said care homes were “ still very vulnerable ” .
The familiar issues remain – @ @ @ @ @ equipment to a lack of testing .

More than half of coronavirus deaths in Scotland are now taking place in care homes, according to new figures – in the week up until Sunday, they overtook the number of hospital deaths for the first time.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was partly due to the fact that deaths in hospitals appeared to be on the decline – but also said care homes were “still very vulnerable”.
The familiar issues remain – from a shortage of protective equipment to a lack of testing.


channel4uk--2020-04-29--Latest COVID-19 science updates: no-symptom virus spread, airborne particles, and the virus’ impact

Latest COVID-19 science updates: no-symptom virus spread, airborne particles, and the virus’ impact on cancer deaths

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds , scientists are rushing to carry out and publish research which will help us understand how the virus works , and how the disease it causes can be treated .
Each week , Channel 4 News will provide a summary of key research papers , studies or developments from the world of COVID-19 science .
Study suggesting coronavirus crisis could cause thousands of extra cancer patient deaths ( published 29/04/20 ) Preliminary results of a UK study suggest that the coronavirus crisis could cause thousands of extra deaths of cancer patients .
The study follows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthcare workers about the diversion of NHS attention away from cancer care while it focuses on coronavirus .
The model-based study , led by researchers at University College London ( UCL ) , is the first to estimate how many extra cancer deaths , known as excess mortality , might occur during the pandemic .
It hasn ’ t been peer reviewed yet , however , and experts commenting on the findings were cautious about the conclusions .
To create the models , the authors used real world figures on reductions in chemotherapy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 45-66 percent , and reductions in urgent referrals for cancer diagnosis , down by 70-89 percent .
Experts commenting on the findings acknowledged that these are indeed large and concerning , but pointed out that other parts of the author ’ s models use assumptions on figures we do not yet have data on .
For example , the study presented a headline figure of a potential 6,270 additional deaths this year for newly diagnosed cancer patients .
But adjusting those assumptions gave excess deaths figures ranging from hundreds to tens of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Professor of Applied Statistics at The Open University , said : “ It ’ s well known that there have been considerable changes in the provision of health care for many conditions , including cancers , as a result of all the measures to deal with the COVID-19 crisis , ” “ It seems inevitable that there will be increased deaths in cancer patients , if they are infected with the virus , or because of changes in the health services available to them , and quite possibly also from socio-economic effects of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts agree there will be excess mortality for cancer patients – but reiterated that the findings of this study need thorough reviewing by the science community to confidently establish how many .
The study authors concluded : “ To better inform prioritization of cancer care and guide policy change , there is an urgent need for weekly data on cause-speciﬁc excess mortality , cancer diagnosis and treatment provision and better intelligence on the use of effective treatments for comorbidities.
” Study suggesting that coronavirus genetic material can persist in the air ( published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Nature which found coronavirus RNA , a type of genetic material , was detectable in the air of hospitals in China .
The study authors proposed that this could be evidence of airborne transmission of the virus , which goes beyond the established evidence of large droplet transmission .
But they highlighted that their findings were of airborne genetic material only , not the functional virus itself – so said that more research is needed .
The study looked at the amount of coronavirus RNA in aerosols , tiny particles which float @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus patients in China .
It found that viral RNA was most concentrated in patient toilets , but was very low in ventilated rooms and undetectable in all public spaces , excluding two very crowded areas .
The study authors said : “ Our results indicate that room ventilation , open space , sanitization of protective apparel , and proper use and disinfection of toilet areas can effectively limit the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in aerosols.
” Professor Lawrence Young from the University of Warwick said that the study importantly reiterated the need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical staff , but said it was too early to conclude that the virus is readily transmitted through the air .
He said : “ Detecting the virus genetic material ( RNA ) with a very sensitive test ( RT-PCR ) is not the same as detecting infectious virus .
Dead or degraded virus would still be detected with this technique .
In fact , this method is so sensitive that there needs to be stringent control measures to prevent sample cross-contamination .
The sampling of aerosols is subject to enormous variation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also means that the data needs to be interpreted with caution.
” Study which found presymptomatic coronavirus transmission in US care home ( published 24/04/20 ) A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that more than half of residents in a US care home had no symptoms when they tested positive for coronavirus .
The study authors said that this reinforces previous evidence that coronavirus is readily spread by people with no symptoms , and may be a key factor in why the virus spreads so quickly in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ solely on symptomatic residents were not sufficient to prevent transmission after SARS-CoV-2 introduction into this facility , ” the authors concluded .
The research reported that of 89 residents in the US care home , 64 percent gave positive results for coronavirus at the point of testing , and over half of these had no symptoms .
Yet half of those residents without symptoms went on to develop symptoms later , highlighting the difficulty of determining figures for people who are truly asymptomatic or merely presymptomatic at the point of testing .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus , or the viral load , found in residents who tested positive were the same in those with and without symptoms .
Over a quarter of the residents who tested positive for the virus died .
Both the study authors and other experts commenting on the finding concluded that disease control measures which only focus on symptomatic patients are not enough .
This may extend to wearing face masks by everyone in public as it ’ s now clear that the virus is spread between people with no symptoms , they said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be found here .

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, scientists are rushing to carry out and publish research which will help us understand how the virus works, and how the disease it causes can be treated.
Each week, Channel 4 News will provide a summary of key research papers, studies or developments from the world of COVID-19 science.
Study suggesting coronavirus crisis could cause thousands of extra cancer patient deaths (published 29/04/20)
Preliminary results of a UK study suggest that the coronavirus crisis could cause thousands of extra deaths of cancer patients.
The study follows a number of anecdotal concerns raised by healthcare workers about the diversion of NHS attention away from cancer care while it focuses on coronavirus.
The model-based study, led by researchers at University College London (UCL), is the first to estimate how many extra cancer deaths, known as excess mortality, might occur during the pandemic.
It hasn’t been peer reviewed yet, however, and experts commenting on the findings were cautious about the conclusions.
To create the models, the authors used real world figures on reductions in chemotherapy appointments, which they found have fallen by 45-66 percent, and reductions in urgent referrals for cancer diagnosis, down by 70-89 percent.
Experts commenting on the findings acknowledged that these are indeed large and concerning, but pointed out that other parts of the author’s models use assumptions on figures we do not yet have data on.
For example, the study presented a headline figure of a potential 6,270 additional deaths this year for newly diagnosed cancer patients.
But adjusting those assumptions gave excess deaths figures ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands.
Professor Kevin McConway, Emeritus Professor of Applied Statistics at The Open University, said: “It’s well known that there have been considerable changes in the provision of health care for many conditions, including cancers, as a result of all the measures to deal with the COVID-19 crisis,”
“It seems inevitable that there will be increased deaths in cancer patients, if they are infected with the virus, or because of changes in the health services available to them, and quite possibly also from socio-economic effects of the responses to the crisis.”
Broadly experts agree there will be excess mortality for cancer patients – but reiterated that the findings of this study need thorough reviewing by the science community to confidently establish how many.
The study authors concluded: “To better inform prioritization of cancer care and guide policy change, there is an urgent need for weekly data on cause-speciﬁc excess mortality, cancer diagnosis and treatment provision and better intelligence on the use of effective treatments for comorbidities.”
Study suggesting that coronavirus genetic material can persist in the air (published 27/04/2020)
A study has been published in Nature which found coronavirus RNA, a type of genetic material, was detectable in the air of hospitals in China.
The study authors proposed that this could be evidence of airborne transmission of the virus, which goes beyond the established evidence of large droplet transmission.
But they highlighted that their findings were of airborne genetic material only, not the functional virus itself – so said that more research is needed.
The study looked at the amount of coronavirus RNA in aerosols, tiny particles which float in the air, in hospitals treating coronavirus patients in China.
It found that viral RNA was most concentrated in patient toilets, but was very low in ventilated rooms and undetectable in all public spaces, excluding two very crowded areas.
The study authors said: “Our results indicate that room ventilation, open space, sanitization of protective apparel, and proper use and disinfection of toilet areas can effectively limit the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in aerosols.”
Professor Lawrence Young from the University of Warwick said that the study importantly reiterated the need for protective equipment to be worn by medical staff, but said it was too early to conclude that the virus is readily transmitted through the air.
He said: “Detecting the virus genetic material (RNA) with a very sensitive test (RT-PCR) is not the same as detecting infectious virus. Dead or degraded virus would still be detected with this technique.
In fact, this method is so sensitive that there needs to be stringent control measures to prevent sample cross-contamination. The sampling of aerosols is subject to enormous variation and the small sample size in this study also means that the data needs to be interpreted with caution.”
Study which found presymptomatic coronavirus transmission in US care home (published 24/04/20)
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that more than half of residents in a US care home had no symptoms when they tested positive for coronavirus.
The study authors said that this reinforces previous evidence that coronavirus is readily spread by people with no symptoms, and may be a key factor in why the virus spreads so quickly in care homes.
“Infection-control strategies focused solely on symptomatic residents were not sufficient to prevent transmission after SARS-CoV-2 introduction into this facility,” the authors concluded.
The research reported that of 89 residents in the US care home, 64 percent gave positive results for coronavirus at the point of testing, and over half of these had no symptoms.
Yet half of those residents without symptoms went on to develop symptoms later, highlighting the difficulty of determining figures for people who are truly asymptomatic or merely presymptomatic at the point of testing.
The study also found that the amount of virus, or the viral load, found in residents who tested positive were the same in those with and without symptoms.
Over a quarter of the residents who tested positive for the virus died.
Both the study authors and other experts commenting on the finding concluded that disease control measures which only focus on symptomatic patients are not enough.
This may extend to wearing face masks by everyone in public as it’s now clear that the virus is spread between people with no symptoms, they said.
Last week’s update can be found here.


channel4uk--2020-04-30--Naomi Klein warns coronavirus could be used ‘to fulfil wish-list for wealthy corporations’

The question many people are asking is what will our societies look like once we pass through the initial economic @ @ @ @ @ people are asking is what will our societies look like once we pass through the @ @ @ @ @ will happen once government support for businesses and furloughed workers dries up ?
And how @ @ @ @ @ debts ?
Left-wing activist and author Naomi Klein made her name with her criticisms of @ @ @ @ @ joins us from New Jersey , one of the states most affected in the US @

The question many people are asking is what will our societies look like once we pass through the initial economic devastation.
The question many people are asking is what will our societies look like once we pass through the initial economic devastation. What will happen once government support for businesses and furloughed workers dries up? And how will we pay the vast debts?
Left-wing activist and author Naomi Klein made her name with her criticisms of globalisation and capitalism. She joins us from New Jersey, one of the states most affected in the US.