foxnews--2020-05-06--Coronavirus was circulating in France in December, case report suggests

The coronavirus was circulating in France as early as December , new evidence suggests .
Doctors in France discovered that a patient who went to the hospital in late December with respiratory symptoms was positive for COVID-19 , according to The Guardian .
The man contracted the virus nearly a month before France confirmed its first cases .
But it 's still not clear how the man was infected , as he was n't traveling .
Doctors also ca n't say whether or not the man was France 's `` patient zero . ''
The doctors discovered the patient while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 24 patients who had all tested negative for the flu .
One of the samples , taken from a patient on Dec. 27 , tested positive for COVID-19 .
The doctors had originally collected the samples to test for the flu using a polymerase chain reaction test — the same test used to detect the new coronavirus — which searches for bits of viral genetic material .
The patient , a 43-year-old man from Bobigny , likely became infected sometime between Dec. 14 and Dec. 22 , according to the BBC .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ dry cough , a fever and trouble breathing on Dec. 27 .
He was sick for 15 days and had infected his two children , but not his wife , Dr. Yves Cohen , the head of resuscitation at the Avicenne and Jean Verdier hospitals in Paris told France 's BFM TV on May 3 .
It 's too early to know whether or not this patient was France 's `` patient zero , '' he added .
The patient 's wife worked at a supermarket near Charles de Gaulle airport and could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from China , according to the BBC .
It 's possible that the patient 's wife had been infected first , perhaps asymptomatically , Cohen said .
“ All the negative PCRs for pneumonia must be tested again , '' Cohen said .
`` The virus was probably circulating.
” The French government is now working to confirm this case and will investigate further if necessary , the French health ministry told the BBC .
Such early missed cases could have occurred elsewhere around the world .
In the U.S. , a medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died in Santa Clara County in California on Feb. 6 and Feb. 17 had been infected with the coronavirus , weeks before the first known deaths from the coronavirus in the U.S .
The very first known case of the coronavirus in the world could have occurred in November , in a 55-year-old person in the Hubei province of China , according to a previous Live Science report .
That 's more than a month before doctors first noted a cluster of odd pneumonia cases in the area .
Though the timeline of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ becoming apparent that the virus was spreading long before health care workers detected it .
• 20 of the worst epidemics and pandemics in history • 11 ( sometimes ) deadly diseases that hopped across species

The coronavirus was circulating in France as early as December, new evidence suggests.
Doctors in France discovered that a patient who went to the hospital in late December with respiratory symptoms was positive for COVID-19, according to The Guardian. The man contracted the virus nearly a month before France confirmed its first cases. But it's still not clear how the man was infected, as he wasn't traveling. Doctors also can't say whether or not the man was France's "patient zero."
The doctors discovered the patient while testing samples taken in December and January from 24 patients who had all tested negative for the flu. One of the samples, taken from a patient on Dec. 27, tested positive for COVID-19.
Related: 13 coronavirus myths busted by science
The doctors had originally collected the samples to test for the flu using a polymerase chain reaction test — the same test used to detect the new coronavirus — which searches for bits of viral genetic material.
The patient, a 43-year-old man from Bobigny, likely became infected sometime between Dec. 14 and Dec. 22, according to the BBC. He presented to the hospital with a dry cough, a fever and trouble breathing on Dec. 27.
He was sick for 15 days and had infected his two children, but not his wife, Dr. Yves Cohen, the head of resuscitation at the Avicenne and Jean Verdier hospitals in Paris told France's BFM TV on May 3. It's too early to know whether or not this patient was France's "patient zero," he added.
The patient's wife worked at a supermarket near Charles de Gaulle airport and could have come in contact with those arriving from China, according to the BBC. It's possible that the patient's wife had been infected first, perhaps asymptomatically, Cohen said. “All the negative PCRs for pneumonia must be tested again," Cohen said. "The virus was probably circulating.”
The French government is now working to confirm this case and will investigate further if necessary, the French health ministry told the BBC.
Such early missed cases could have occurred elsewhere around the world. In the U.S., a medical examiner-coroner recently found that two people who died in Santa Clara County in California on Feb. 6 and Feb. 17 had been infected with the coronavirus, weeks before the first known deaths from the coronavirus in the U.S.
The very first known case of the coronavirus in the world could have occurred in November, in a 55-year-old person in the Hubei province of China, according to a previous Live Science report. That's more than a month before doctors first noted a cluster of odd pneumonia cases in the area. Though the timeline of the pandemic remains muddy, it's becoming apparent that the virus was spreading long before health care workers detected it.
Originally published on Live Science.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Persecuted Christians at greater risk during coronavirus outbreak: ‘From bad to worse’

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The living conditions for Christians and other religious minorities around the world are worsening due to the coronavirus pandemic , according to a watchdog group that operates in more than 60 countries .
Open Doors reports that at least 25 countries with positive cases are among the world 's worst persecutors of Christians .
CHRISTIANS 'PERSECUTED EVEN AFTER DEATH ' AS CHINA CRACKS DOWN ON RELIGIOUS FUNERALS : REPORT “ Their situation is going from bad to worse , ” David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a statement .
“ In places like North Korea , Iran , and Pakistan , Christians are already seen as second-class citizens , traitors , and infidels , '' Curry added .
`` Now , as COVID-19 ravages the health and livelihoods of all people in these countries , Christians are especially in need of emergency relief . ''
In the countries where Christians are persecuted , they are more likely to experience discrimination when seeking basic provisions , like food and medical care .
WUHAN , CHINA PASTOR PENS LETTER @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK Open Doors reports that economic discrimination is the second-most common form of persecution toward men in the Middle East and North Africa , and with significant job losses and the loss of support , many are even more vulnerable than before .
Open Doors is mobilizing existing local emergency relief networks in the countries where it operates , as well as providing Bibles , discipleship training and trauma care to Christians in need .
CLICK HERE FOR MORE FAITH STORIES “ As many churches worldwide are canceling services or holding them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s like to worship in isolation , '' Curry said .
`` In this newfound reality , Christians in the United States have a unique opportunity to connect with the ongoing experience of persecuted Christians who are worshipping in secret.
” Open Doors has been going live on social media every day with church leaders to share spiritual encouragement and prayer requests from the persecuted believers .

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The living conditions for Christians and other religious minorities around the world are worsening due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a watchdog group that operates in more than 60 countries.
Open Doors reports that at least 25 countries with positive cases are among the world's worst persecutors of Christians.
CHRISTIANS 'PERSECUTED EVEN AFTER DEATH' AS CHINA CRACKS DOWN ON RELIGIOUS FUNERALS: REPORT
“Their situation is going from bad to worse,” David Curry, CEO of Open Doors, said in a statement.
“In places like North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan, Christians are already seen as second-class citizens, traitors, and infidels," Curry added. "Now, as COVID-19 ravages the health and livelihoods of all people in these countries, Christians are especially in need of emergency relief."
In the countries where Christians are persecuted, they are more likely to experience discrimination when seeking basic provisions, like food and medical care.
WUHAN, CHINA PASTOR PENS LETTER ON HOW 'THE CHURCH SHOULD FACE' CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK
Open Doors reports that economic discrimination is the second-most common form of persecution toward men in the Middle East and North Africa, and with significant job losses and the loss of support, many are even more vulnerable than before.
Open Doors is mobilizing existing local emergency relief networks in the countries where it operates, as well as providing Bibles, discipleship training and trauma care to Christians in need.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE FAITH STORIES
“As many churches worldwide are canceling services or holding them online, more Christians are experiencing what it’s like to worship in isolation," Curry said. "In this newfound reality, Christians in the United States have a unique opportunity to connect with the ongoing experience of persecuted Christians who are worshipping in secret.”
Open Doors has been going live on social media every day with church leaders to share spiritual encouragement and prayer requests from the persecuted believers.


foxnews--2020-04-01--Amid coronavirus, church leaders share ways to prepare for long-term changes in worship

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Pastors are being encouraged to focus on mental health and make other long-term shifts in ministry amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Judah Smith , the lead pastor of Churchome in Seattle and Los Angeles , launched an app for anyone to join his church , offering guided prayers , a virtual lobby and a chat feature to talk with a trained pastor 24/7 .
`` I think we have an opportunity , actually , to engage at a deeper level , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We 're finding that actually being home , engaging face to face is going to lead us to an interesting place in faith and I think will change how we worship going forward . ''
He believes church at home and in smaller settings is going to be a `` massive trend '' for years to come .
Other faith leaders are pointing out the need for a focus on mental health as people are forced to stay inside .
PASTORS OBJECT TO NYC MAYOR 'S THREAT TO SHUT DOWN CHURCHES Doug Clay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ God , said their mental health committee polled pastors on advice for other leaders during the outbreak and came up with best practices , Christian Post reported .
First among them was boundaries .
“ All of us are going to be stretched in ways we haven ’ t been stretched before , ” Clay said at the COVID-19 Church Online Summit in a panel discussion hosted by Walter Kim , president of the National Association of Evangelicals .
Other mental health advice included processing decisions with a trusted friend , taking a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and finding healthy physical and emotional rhythms , as well as adapting to realistic ministry expectations , and making time for laughter .
Colin Watson , acting executive director of the Christian Reformed Church , said they need to reframe `` social distancing '' as `` physical distancing , '' a sentiment shared by many other leaders .
“ We want some social closeness so we need to figure out some new ways to be in church together , ” he said .
CLICK HERE FOR MORE STORIES ON FAITH A lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook Live , Instagram Live and YouTube , but smaller churches that have never held online services have struggled .
Scott Ridout , president of Converge , a movement of churches working to help people meet , know and follow Jesus , says he prays coronavirus will lead to a `` pandemic of prayer ... that God will use this to draw more people to himself . ''

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Pastors are being encouraged to focus on mental health and make other long-term shifts in ministry amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Judah Smith, the lead pastor of Churchome in Seattle and Los Angeles, launched an app for anyone to join his church, offering guided prayers, a virtual lobby and a chat feature to talk with a trained pastor 24/7.
TEXAS CHURCH PLANS VIRTUAL EASTER EGG HUNT ON MINECRAFT
"I think we have an opportunity, actually, to engage at a deeper level," Smith told Fox News. "We're finding that actually being home, engaging face to face is going to lead us to an interesting place in faith and I think will change how we worship going forward."
He believes church at home and in smaller settings is going to be a "massive trend" for years to come.
Other faith leaders are pointing out the need for a focus on mental health as people are forced to stay inside.
PASTORS OBJECT TO NYC MAYOR'S THREAT TO SHUT DOWN CHURCHES
Doug Clay, general superintendent of the Assemblies of God, said their mental health committee polled pastors on advice for other leaders during the outbreak and came up with best practices, Christian Post reported.
First among them was boundaries.
“All of us are going to be stretched in ways we haven’t been stretched before,” Clay said at the COVID-19 Church Online Summit in a panel discussion hosted by Walter Kim, president of the National Association of Evangelicals.
FAITH LEADERS SHARE MESSAGE OF HOPE AMID CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK, UNCERTAIN TIMES
Other mental health advice included processing decisions with a trusted friend, taking a break from the news and social media, and finding healthy physical and emotional rhythms, as well as adapting to realistic ministry expectations, and making time for laughter.
Colin Watson, acting executive director of the Christian Reformed Church, said they need to reframe "social distancing" as "physical distancing," a sentiment shared by many other leaders.
“We want some social closeness so we need to figure out some new ways to be in church together,” he said.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE STORIES ON FAITH
A lot of ministries have gone online, using Facebook Live, Instagram Live and YouTube, but smaller churches that have never held online services have struggled.
Scott Ridout, president of Converge, a movement of churches working to help people meet, know and follow Jesus, says he prays coronavirus will lead to a "pandemic of prayer...that God will use this to draw more people to himself."


foxnews--2020-04-03--Coronavirus spurs 'rainbow hunters' as they descend on neighborhoods across the country

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PHILADELPHIA – It is hard being a kid right now .
Just ask 8-year-old Cooper O'Malley .
`` I would rather be at school , '' said O'Malley , who has spent the gloomy last few weeks couped up inside his house because of the coronavirus outbreak .
`` It 's tough . ''
However , as the saying goes , after the storm comes a rainbow .
In Cooper 's neighborhood in Philadelphia , there were hundreds of them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hundreds across the country hosting `` rainbow hunts . ''
It 's as simple as drawing a rainbow and sticking it in the front of your house for the world to see – and then going on a stroll to hunt out the brightness in these dark times .
`` That is just huge ! ''
O'Malley said , marveling at a rainbow drawn with chalk on a brick facade .
He said the rainbows have created something to look forward to after he is done with school work .
`` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` It 's more fun than just going for a boring walk . ''
The idea started in Italy , which has been ravaged by the pandemic .
People began posting colorful drawings , paintings and banners of rainbows with the message `` Tutto andra ' bene , '' or “ Everything will turn out OK , ” the Associated Press reported .
Across the U.S. , communities in at least 20 states are now taking part .
Several Facebook groups have popped up - including one that just surpassed 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help their fellow rainbow hunters find them .
For the Acosta family in Houston , Texas - some 1500 miles away from Philadelphia - the rainbow hunts have been a new way to spend quality time .
`` It 's just really fun getting outside with my family , '' Mia Acosta , 11 , said .
`` Just going looking for rainbows and get all happy . ''
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A PDF OF THE RAINBOW TEMPLATE The difficult part is when Mia or her little sister sees a friend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remind them , social distancing.
`` Mia 's mom Michelle said .
`` Say hi from afar ! ''
Taking a walk around the neighborhood is still allowed under most stay-at-home orders , provided you 're at minimum six-feet from your fellow rainbow hunters .
Under new CDC guidelines , it is recommended to wear a face mask while out , even for a walk around the neighborhood .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP '' We need joy , we need hope , '' said Kristen O'Malley , Cooper 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a really dark time .
We know that people are sick .
This brings light and joy and happiness . ''

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PHILADELPHIA – It is hard being a kid right now. Just ask 8-year-old Cooper O'Malley.
"I would rather be at school," said O'Malley, who has spent the gloomy last few weeks couped up inside his house because of the coronavirus outbreak. "It's tough."
However, as the saying goes, after the storm comes a rainbow. In Cooper's neighborhood in Philadelphia, there were hundreds of them.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
The neighborhood is just one of the hundreds across the country hosting "rainbow hunts." It's as simple as drawing a rainbow and sticking it in the front of your house for the world to see – and then going on a stroll to hunt out the brightness in these dark times.
"That is just huge!" O'Malley said, marveling at a rainbow drawn with chalk on a brick facade. He said the rainbows have created something to look forward to after he is done with school work.
"It's like a scavenger hunt," he said. "It's more fun than just going for a boring walk."
The idea started in Italy, which has been ravaged by the pandemic. People began posting colorful drawings, paintings and banners of rainbows with the message "Tutto andra' bene," or “Everything will turn out OK,” the Associated Press reported.
Across the U.S., communities in at least 20 states are now taking part. Several Facebook groups have popped up - including one that just surpassed 100,000 members. They also created interactive maps to help their fellow rainbow hunters find them.
For the Acosta family in Houston, Texas - some 1500 miles away from Philadelphia - the rainbow hunts have been a new way to spend quality time.
"It's just really fun getting outside with my family," Mia Acosta, 11, said. "Just going looking for rainbows and get all happy."
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A PDF OF THE RAINBOW TEMPLATE
The difficult part is when Mia or her little sister sees a friend or a neighbor.
"I constantly remind them, social distancing. " Mia's mom Michelle said. "Say hi from afar!"
Taking a walk around the neighborhood is still allowed under most stay-at-home orders, provided you're at minimum six-feet from your fellow rainbow hunters.
Under new CDC guidelines, it is recommended to wear a face mask while out, even for a walk around the neighborhood.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
"We need joy, we need hope," said Kristen O'Malley, Cooper's mom. "We know this is a really dark time. We know that people are sick. This brings light and joy and happiness."


foxnews--2020-04-06--Medical Brigade commander hopes Javits Center will 'decrease pressure' on NYC hospitals

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In an appearance on “ Fox & Friends ” Monday , Col. Kimberlee Aiello explained the use of the Javits Center in New York City , which was recently approved by President Trump to ease the burden on medical providers flooded by coronavirus patients .
“ We look for the need and , really , what the state and city asked for .
And what we ’ re seeing is that there is also needs at the front lines and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals , ” the 44th Commander of the Medical Brigade said .
The 44th Medical Brigade is a United States Army unit that provided medical support and health care in Fort Bragg , North Carolina .
They were directed by the Department of Defense to aid first responders in New York City .
Aiello said that their ability to place providers at the front lines gives “ hope to decrease pressure ” on medical providers in city hospitals .
Trump on Thursday approved New York City ’ s Javits Center to begin treating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the city ’ s crowded hospitals , Gov .
Andrew Cuomo announced .
The Javits Center , located between 34th and 40th streets on the west side of the city , in Hell ’ s Kitchen , had been reconfigured earlier this week into a temporary hospital with 2,500 beds to treat non-coronavirus patients .
As of Thursday , there were nearly 52,000 COVID-19 cases in New York City alone , with 1,397 deaths , according to the latest figures from Johns Hopkins University .
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of many makeshift hospitals set up in the city to deal with the onslaught of coronavirus patients .
Over the next few weeks , spaces -- including pro tennis courts , college dorms and a cruise ship terminal -- are supposed to start housing patients as New York state races to roughly triple its hospital capacity .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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In an appearance on “Fox & Friends” Monday, Col. Kimberlee Aiello explained the use of the Javits Center in New York City, which was recently approved by President Trump to ease the burden on medical providers flooded by coronavirus patients.
“We look for the need and, really, what the state and city asked for. And what we’re seeing is that there is also needs at the front lines and the front lines are the city and state hospitals,” the 44th Commander of the Medical Brigade said.
The 44th Medical Brigade is a United States Army unit that provided medical support and health care in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. They were directed by the Department of Defense to aid first responders in New York City.
SCIENTISTS OFFER HOPEFUL NEWS ON COVID-19 VACCINE BASED ON VIRUS' MUTATION RATE
Aiello said that their ability to place providers at the front lines gives “hope to decrease pressure” on medical providers in city hospitals.
Trump on Thursday approved New York City’s Javits Center to begin treating COVID-19 patients to free up space in the city’s crowded hospitals, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced.
The Javits Center, located between 34th and 40th streets on the west side of the city, in Hell’s Kitchen, had been reconfigured earlier this week into a temporary hospital with 2,500 beds to treat non-coronavirus patients.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS MAP
As of Thursday, there were nearly 52,000 COVID-19 cases in New York City alone, with 1,397 deaths, according to the latest figures from Johns Hopkins University.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP
The arrangement with the Javits Center was one of many makeshift hospitals set up in the city to deal with the onslaught of coronavirus patients.
Over the next few weeks, spaces -- including pro tennis courts, college dorms and a cruise ship terminal -- are supposed to start housing patients as New York state races to roughly triple its hospital capacity.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-06--New Jersey church sparks movement after sending care package to member with coronavirus

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A New Jersey church sparked a nationwide movement after shipping one of its members who tested positive for the coronavirus a care package .
Chris Morante , the pastor of Evangel Church in Scotch Plains , told `` Fox & Friends First '' how he started `` Boxes of Hope , '' which nationwide is through GetBoxesOfHope.com .
AMERICA TOGETHER : MISSOURI SMALL TOWN RALLIES AROUND FAMILY WHO LOST EVERYTHING IN FIRE '' We 've always been committed to reaching our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We always say our mission field is across the street and around the world , so we began to mobilize our efforts as soon as we saw the crisis beginning . ''
The church partnered with Convoy of Hope and World Help — two disaster relief organizations — after they learned that a member of its flock had tested positive for COVID-19 .
NURSES GATHER TO PRAY ON ROOFTOPS DURING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC After the pastor reached out to that person , he noticed how much hopelessness they had in the dire situation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to show God 's love , so we just delivered some groceries in a box to their front door , '' the pastor said .
TEXAS FAMILY HOSTS 'PROM ON THE PORCH ' WHEN BIG DANCE IS CANCELED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC And after they saw the hope it brought one family , they started doing it en masse , shipping out 600 boxes in the New Jersey area .
Morante said the response has been amazing .
CLICK HERE FOR MORE STORIES ON FAITH '' People come to the door in tears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you to know that you 're not forgotten , there 's a God that sees you and loves you and there 's someone in a church that cares about you .
It really means the world to people . ''

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A New Jersey church sparked a nationwide movement after shipping one of its members who tested positive for the coronavirus a care package.
Chris Morante, the pastor of Evangel Church in Scotch Plains, told "Fox & Friends First" how he started "Boxes of Hope," which nationwide is through GetBoxesOfHope.com.
AMERICA TOGETHER: MISSOURI SMALL TOWN RALLIES AROUND FAMILY WHO LOST EVERYTHING IN FIRE
"We've always been committed to reaching our neighbors," Morante said. "We always say our mission field is across the street and around the world, so we began to mobilize our efforts as soon as we saw the crisis beginning."
The church partnered with Convoy of Hope and World Help — two disaster relief organizations — after they learned that a member of its flock had tested positive for COVID-19.
NURSES GATHER TO PRAY ON ROOFTOPS DURING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
After the pastor reached out to that person, he noticed how much hopelessness they had in the dire situation.
"We wanted to do something tangible to show God's love, so we just delivered some groceries in a box to their front door," the pastor said.
TEXAS FAMILY HOSTS 'PROM ON THE PORCH' WHEN BIG DANCE IS CANCELED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
And after they saw the hope it brought one family, they started doing it en masse, shipping out 600 boxes in the New Jersey area.
Morante said the response has been amazing.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE STORIES ON FAITH
"People come to the door in tears," he said. "For you to know that you're not forgotten, there's a God that sees you and loves you and there's someone in a church that cares about you. It really means the world to people."


foxnews--2020-04-03--Schiff proposes coronavirus commission, with subpoena power, to probe pandemic response

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House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff on Friday publicly proposed the establishment of a bipartisan commission , with subpoena power , to investigate the response to the coronavirus pandemic by the Trump administration and other levels of government .
Schiff , D-Calif. , had floated empaneling a `` 9/11-style commission '' to review the administration ’ s actions earlier this week , but began circulating a draft of legislation on Friday .
SCHIFF ALREADY CALLING FOR 9/11-STYLE COMMISSION TO PROBE TRUMP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commission would include 10 lawmakers to examine the government ’ s preparedness in advance of the COVID-19 pandemic and the response to it -- and would provide recommendations to `` improve our ability to respond to and recover from future outbreaks , epidemics and pandemics , '' his office said Friday .
The legislation , according to his office , “ closely mirrors ” the 9/11 Commission where members of Congress , experts and current and former officials reviewed the Bush administration ’ s handling and response .
“ After Pearl Harbor , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in American history , independent , bipartisan commissions have been established to provide a complete accounting of what happened , what we did right and wrong , and what we can do to better protect the country in the future , ” Schiff said in a statement Friday .
“ Though we are still in the early days of the Coronavirus crisis , there is no doubt that such a comprehensive and authoritative review will be required.
” Schiff has already faced criticism for his proposal , with Intelligence Committee Ranking Republican Rep. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dumb stunt.
” '' His Russia collusion hoax failed , his Ukraine scam failed , and his efforts to cover up FISA abuse failed , '' Nunes , R-Calif. , told Fox News on Wednesday when Schiff first floated the commission .
`` So , Schiff is launching yet another dumb stunt to justify his never-ending media relations operation.
” Schiff has led multiple Trump-focused probes , including the House impeachment inquiry and investigations into whether members of the president 's campaign colluded with Russia to influence the 2016 election , the president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Schiff insisted on Friday : “ This is not an exercise in casting blame or scoring political points , but something that the American people should rightly expect from their government as an exercise in accountability.
” The commission , Schiff said , would hold hearings and public events to obtain information and “ educate the public , ” and would also have subpoena power to “ compel cooperation by relevant witnesses.
” Schiff said that the commission would not be established until February 2021 , “ hopefully after the pandemic has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Schiff ’ s announcement comes after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , on Thursday announced that she would create a separate House committee to oversee the administration ’ s coronavirus response , chaired by Rep. James Clyburn D-S.C. Pelosi said the committee she formed is designed to address the “ here and now , ” specifically concerning the allocation of the historic amount of federal funds directed to the economic recovery , and compared it to the committee chaired by then-Sen. Harry Truman in 1941 to investigate waste , fraud and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days of World War II .
`` With over $ 2 trillion in emergency relief , we need to ensure those dollars are spent carefully and effectively , '' Pelosi said of the massive stimulus bill Congress already passed to address the coronavirus pandemic .
TRUMP SLAMS 'PARTISAN ' PROBES AFTER PELOSI ANNONCES CORONAVIRUS COMMITTEE : 'HERE WE GO AGAIN' President Trump blasted Pelosi and House Democrats for yet another “ witch hunt.
” “ It 's witch hunt after witch hunt after witch hunt , '' Trump said Thursday .
`` And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people doing the witch hunt who are losing -- - and they 've been losing by a lot .
And it 's not any time for witch hunts .
`` It 's time to get this enemy defeated .
Conducting these partisan investigations during a pandemic is a really big waste of vital resources , time , attention , ” Trump continued .
“ And we want to fight for American lives , not waste time and build up my poll numbers , because that 's all they 're doing , because everyone @ @ @ @ @ @

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House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff on Friday publicly proposed the establishment of a bipartisan commission, with subpoena power, to investigate the response to the coronavirus pandemic by the Trump administration and other levels of government.
Schiff, D-Calif., had floated empaneling a "9/11-style commission" to review the administration’s actions earlier this week, but began circulating a draft of legislation on Friday.
SCHIFF ALREADY CALLING FOR 9/11-STYLE COMMISSION TO PROBE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO COVID-19
Schiff’s commission would include 10 lawmakers to examine the government’s preparedness in advance of the COVID-19 pandemic and the response to it -- and would provide recommendations to "improve our ability to respond to and recover from future outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics," his office said Friday.
The legislation, according to his office, “closely mirrors” the 9/11 Commission where members of Congress, experts and current and former officials reviewed the Bush administration’s handling and response.
“After Pearl Harbor, September 11, and many momentous events in American history, independent, bipartisan commissions have been established to provide a complete accounting of what happened, what we did right and wrong, and what we can do to better protect the country in the future,” Schiff said in a statement Friday. “Though we are still in the early days of the Coronavirus crisis, there is no doubt that such a comprehensive and authoritative review will be required.”
Schiff has already faced criticism for his proposal, with Intelligence Committee Ranking Republican Rep. Devin Nunes accusing him of a "dumb stunt.”
"His Russia collusion hoax failed, his Ukraine scam failed, and his efforts to cover up FISA abuse failed," Nunes, R-Calif., told Fox News on Wednesday when Schiff first floated the commission. "So, Schiff is launching yet another dumb stunt to justify his never-ending media relations operation.”
Schiff has led multiple Trump-focused probes, including the House impeachment inquiry and investigations into whether members of the president's campaign colluded with Russia to influence the 2016 election, the president's financial transactions, and more.
But Schiff insisted on Friday: “This is not an exercise in casting blame or scoring political points, but something that the American people should rightly expect from their government as an exercise in accountability.”
The commission, Schiff said, would hold hearings and public events to obtain information and “educate the public,” and would also have subpoena power to “compel cooperation by relevant witnesses.”
Schiff said that the commission would not be established until February 2021, “hopefully after the pandemic has been overcome and after the presidential election.”
Schiff’s announcement comes after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., on Thursday announced that she would create a separate House committee to oversee the administration’s coronavirus response, chaired by Rep. James Clyburn D-S.C.
Pelosi said the committee she formed is designed to address the “here and now,” specifically concerning the allocation of the historic amount of federal funds directed to the economic recovery, and compared it to the committee chaired by then-Sen. Harry Truman in 1941 to investigate waste, fraud and abuse in defense spending in the early days of World War II.
"With over $2 trillion in emergency relief, we need to ensure those dollars are spent carefully and effectively," Pelosi said of the massive stimulus bill Congress already passed to address the coronavirus pandemic.
TRUMP SLAMS 'PARTISAN' PROBES AFTER PELOSI ANNONCES CORONAVIRUS COMMITTEE: 'HERE WE GO AGAIN'
President Trump blasted Pelosi and House Democrats for yet another “witch hunt.”
“It's witch hunt after witch hunt after witch hunt," Trump said Thursday. "And, in the end, it's people doing the witch hunt who are losing --- and they've been losing by a lot. And it's not any time for witch hunts.
"It's time to get this enemy defeated. Conducting these partisan investigations during a pandemic is a really big waste of vital resources, time, attention,” Trump continued. “And we want to fight for American lives, not waste time and build up my poll numbers, because that's all they're doing, because everyone knows it's ridiculous.”
Fox News' Gregg Re contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Ted Cruz: Small businesses should expect 'bureaucratic hurdles' when applying for loans

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Sen. Ted Cruz , R-Texas , said on “ America ’ s Newsroom ” on Monday that small business owners should expect “ bureaucratic hurdles ” when applying for the loans provided by the coronavirus relief package .
Host Ed Henry noted to Cruz that President Trump ’ s critics have said that the process of getting those loans hasn ’ t been smooth , with phone lines tied up and some banks moving slowly .
“ We have appropriated $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administered through the Small Business Administration , which in turn uses local banks , community banks to administer those loans , ” Cruz explained .
He noted that it ’ s too soon to tell how the process is going since it just began on Friday .
“ Are there going to be bureaucratic hurdles ?
Of course .
Any gigantic government program is going to have bureaucratic hurdles , any $ 2 trillion bill is going to have significant problems , ” he continued .
CORONAVIRUS : WHAT TO KNOW Last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 2 trillion legislative package to combat the coronavirus pandemic and send economic relief to workers and businesses squeezed by restrictions meant to stop the outbreak ’ s spread .
The legislation amounts to the costliest stimulus plan in U.S. history .
It includes checks for most Americans , boosted unemployment aid , help for small business as well as a massive loan fund for corporations .
On Friday , banks started administering the loans .
Small business owners started applying on Friday for the loans , which are designed to keep salons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while retaining much of their workforce until the virus ' spread abates and the economy can begin climbing back to normal .
Small businesses have been ravaged by the economic slowdown that followed the country 's massive quarantining to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus ; the quarantines have continued as the death toll from the virus mounts , increasing unemployment to levels not seen since the Great Depression of the 1930s .
Under the plan , small businesses can apply for federal subsidized , low-interest loans for the lesser of $ 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government will pay off the loans made by the bank in their entirety if the business maintains its workforce .
“ Those small business loans are designed so that if you own a restaurant , or you own a bar , or a nail salon , or a hardware store , a movie theater , any small business with 500 employees or fewer , you can go to your local community bank , you can get an emergency loan and if you use that loan to pay for payroll and salary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on your business or to pay for utilities , that loan is entirely forgivable , ” Cruz said .
“ It becomes a grant and that applies even if you 've already furloughed your employees .
You can hire them back and use those forgivable loan proceeds to pay paychecks .
That ’ s designed to help get millions of people back in their job , back getting a paycheck .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP “ We have to see , ” Cruz continued , describing the small business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks , if not a couple of months to see how it operates.
” Fox Business ’ Charlie Gasparino and Lydia Moynihan contributed to this report .

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Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said on “America’s Newsroom” on Monday that small business owners should expect “bureaucratic hurdles” when applying for the loans provided by the coronavirus relief package.
Host Ed Henry noted to Cruz that President Trump’s critics have said that the process of getting those loans hasn’t been smooth, with phone lines tied up and some banks moving slowly.
“We have appropriated $377 billion for emergency small business loans administered through the Small Business Administration, which in turn uses local banks, community banks to administer those loans,” Cruz explained.
He noted that it’s too soon to tell how the process is going since it just began on Friday.
“Are there going to be bureaucratic hurdles? Of course. Any gigantic government program is going to have bureaucratic hurdles, any $2 trillion bill is going to have significant problems,” he continued.
CORONAVIRUS: WHAT TO KNOW
Last month, President Trump signed a more than $2 trillion legislative package to combat the coronavirus pandemic and send economic relief to workers and businesses squeezed by restrictions meant to stop the outbreak’s spread.
The legislation amounts to the costliest stimulus plan in U.S. history. It includes checks for most Americans, boosted unemployment aid, help for small business as well as a massive loan fund for corporations. On Friday, banks started administering the loans.
Small business owners started applying on Friday for the loans, which are designed to keep salons, restaurants and other such outfits open while retaining much of their workforce until the virus' spread abates and the economy can begin climbing back to normal.
Small businesses have been ravaged by the economic slowdown that followed the country's massive quarantining to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus; the quarantines have continued as the death toll from the virus mounts, increasing unemployment to levels not seen since the Great Depression of the 1930s.
Under the plan, small businesses can apply for federal subsidized, low-interest loans for the lesser of $10 million or a percentage of their payroll. The government will pay off the loans made by the bank in their entirety if the business maintains its workforce.
“Those small business loans are designed so that if you own a restaurant, or you own a bar, or a nail salon, or a hardware store, a movie theater, any small business with 500 employees or fewer, you can go to your local community bank, you can get an emergency loan and if you use that loan to pay for payroll and salary, to pay for rent or mortgage on your business or to pay for utilities, that loan is entirely forgivable,” Cruz said.
“It becomes a grant and that applies even if you've already furloughed your employees. You can hire them back and use those forgivable loan proceeds to pay paychecks. That’s designed to help get millions of people back in their job, back getting a paycheck.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“We have to see,” Cruz continued, describing the small business loan program. “That will take weeks, if not a couple of months to see how it operates.”
Fox Business’ Charlie Gasparino and Lydia Moynihan contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Trump swipes at Biden over 'virtual' convention idea, teases him on proposed phone call

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President Trump blasted Joe Biden on Monday for floating a “ virtual ” Democratic National Convention this summer , while questioning “ what ever happened ” to the phone call the former vice president offered to discuss a coronavirus response strategy .
“ Joe Biden wanted the date for the Democrat National Convention moved to a later time period .
Now he wants a ‘ Virtual ’ Convention , one where he doesn ’ t have to show up , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wonder why ?
” He added : “ Also , what ever happened to that phone call he told the Fake News he wanted to make to me ?
” The president ’ s tweet comes after his likely general election opponent suggested a virtual convention might be considered .
“ We ’ re going to have to do a convention , ” Biden told ABC News .
“ We may have to do a virtual convention .
I know I think we should be thinking about that right now.
” He added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and then is going to dictate a lot of that as well.
” For now , the convention is simply posted by a month .
The Democratic National Committee announced last week that they would push off the convention , slated to begin on July 13 , to the week of Aug. 17 due to COVID-19 concerns .
BIDEN SAYS DEMOCRATS MAY HAVE TO HOLD A VIRTUAL CONVENTION DUE TO CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC Meanwhile , Fox News first reported last week that Biden offered to have a phone call with Trump directly to discuss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked whether he would be receptive to a call with the likely Democratic presidential nominee , Trump said : “ Oh sure , absolutely .
I ’ d love to speak with him.
” “ I always found him to be a nice guy .
I don ’ t know him very well , frankly , but I think he ’ s probably a nice guy , ” Trump said last week .
“ If he ’ d like to call , I ’ d absolutely take his call.
” EXCLUSIVE : BIDEN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HOUSE TO DISCUSS CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE STRATEGY Biden ’ s offer of a phone call came after Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway challenged him to stop criticizing the Trump administration ’ s efforts and instead “ call the White House today and offer some support.
” Minutes after Trump acknowledged and accepted the former vice president ’ s offer , Biden deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield told Fox News : “ Our teams will be in touch and we w , ill arrange a call.
” Biden , on Monday , replied to the president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer of a chat on the table .
`` Mr. President , I hope we can gather in Milwaukee , but that is going to depend on you stepping up and doing what needs to be done to handle this pandemic , '' Biden tweeted , before plugging his campaign page outlining his own response .
A source familiar told Fox News on Monday that the Biden campaign did not hear from the White House , despite him saying he was happy to talk .
The source told Fox News that the Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House on Monday to try to get a phone call set up .

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President Trump blasted Joe Biden on Monday for floating a “virtual” Democratic National Convention this summer, while questioning “what ever happened” to the phone call the former vice president offered to discuss a coronavirus response strategy.
“Joe Biden wanted the date for the Democrat National Convention moved to a later time period. Now he wants a ‘Virtual’ Convention, one where he doesn’t have to show up,” Trump tweeted. “Gee, I wonder why?”
He added: “Also, what ever happened to that phone call he told the Fake News he wanted to make to me?”
The president’s tweet comes after his likely general election opponent suggested a virtual convention might be considered.
“We’re going to have to do a convention,” Biden told ABC News. “We may have to do a virtual convention. I know I think we should be thinking about that right now.”
He added: “What we do between now and then is going to dictate a lot of that as well.”
For now, the convention is simply posted by a month. The Democratic National Committee announced last week that they would push off the convention, slated to begin on July 13, to the week of Aug. 17 due to COVID-19 concerns.
BIDEN SAYS DEMOCRATS MAY HAVE TO HOLD A VIRTUAL CONVENTION DUE TO CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
Meanwhile, Fox News first reported last week that Biden offered to have a phone call with Trump directly to discuss a strategy to combat coronavirus.
When asked whether he would be receptive to a call with the likely Democratic presidential nominee, Trump said: “Oh sure, absolutely. I’d love to speak with him.”
“I always found him to be a nice guy. I don’t know him very well, frankly, but I think he’s probably a nice guy,” Trump said last week. “If he’d like to call, I’d absolutely take his call.”
EXCLUSIVE: BIDEN OFFERS TO CALL TRUMP AT THE WHITE HOUSE TO DISCUSS CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE STRATEGY
Biden’s offer of a phone call came after Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway challenged him to stop criticizing the Trump administration’s efforts and instead “call the White House today and offer some support.”
Minutes after Trump acknowledged and accepted the former vice president’s offer, Biden deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield told Fox News: “Our teams will be in touch and we w,ill arrange a call.”
Biden, on Monday, replied to the president's tweet, appearing to keep the offer of a chat on the table.
"Mr. President, I hope we can gather in Milwaukee, but that is going to depend on you stepping up and doing what needs to be done to handle this pandemic," Biden tweeted, before plugging his campaign page outlining his own response.
He added: "Happy to discuss anytime."
A source familiar told Fox News on Monday that the Biden campaign did not hear from the White House, despite him saying he was happy to talk.
The source told Fox News that the Biden campaign will reach out to the White House on Monday to try to get a phone call set up.


foxnews--2020-04-06--World will conquer coronavirus, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints leader says

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Humanity will conquer the coronavirus epidemic , a high-ranking member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said Sunday .
“ Even as we speak , we are waging an ‘ all hands on deck ’ war with COVID-19 , a solemn reminder that a virus 1,000 times smaller than a grain of sand can bring entire populations and global economies to their knees , ” Jeffrey R. Holland said at the church ’ s signature gathering , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ When we have conquered it — and we will — may we be equally committed to freeing the world from the virus of hunger and freeing neighborhoods and nations from the virus of poverty , ” he added .
CORONAVIRUS : WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Speeches at the conference had no in-person audiences and were livestreamed to millions around the world .
The church has temporarily closed 168 temples around the world to help prevent the spread of the virus .
On Saturday , President Trump issued a disaster declaration for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state , tribal and local recovery efforts because of the coronavirus .
The declaration made federal funding available to state , tribal and eligible local governments and some private nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures .
Utah had over 1,400 confirmed cases and eight deaths because of the virus , according to a Johns Hopkins University tally on Sunday afternoon .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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Humanity will conquer the coronavirus epidemic, a high-ranking member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said Sunday.
“Even as we speak, we are waging an ‘all hands on deck’ war with COVID-19, a solemn reminder that a virus 1,000 times smaller than a grain of sand can bring entire populations and global economies to their knees,” Jeffrey R. Holland said at the church’s signature gathering, which made adjustments to preserve social distancing.
“When we have conquered it — and we will — may we be equally committed to freeing the world from the virus of hunger and freeing neighborhoods and nations from the virus of poverty,” he added.
CORONAVIRUS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Speeches at the conference had no in-person audiences and were livestreamed to millions around the world.
The church has temporarily closed 168 temples around the world to help prevent the spread of the virus.
On Saturday, President Trump issued a disaster declaration for Utah and ordered federal assistance for the state, tribal and local recovery efforts because of the coronavirus.
The declaration made federal funding available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and some private nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures.
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Utah had over 1,400 confirmed cases and eight deaths because of the virus, according to a Johns Hopkins University tally on Sunday afternoon.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Dem lawmaker wants Trump prosecuted at international court for 'crimes against humanity'

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A Democratic state representative in Ohio said she `` ca n't take it anymore '' and vowed to refer President Trump to the International Criminal Court for `` crimes against humanity '' over Trump 's promotion of a drug that has not been conclusively proven to fight the coronavirus .
State Rep. Tavia Galonski tweeted Sunday after President Trump spoke about hydroxychloroquine at his daily press briefing .
The drug , normally used to treat malaria , is one of several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showing promise in the fight against COVID-19 , but its effectiveness has been a subject of debate .
GIULIANI SAYS DOCTORS , NOT 'NATIONAL BUREAUCRACY , ' SHOULD DECIDE WHETHER TO USE HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE FOR CORONAVIRUS '' I can ’ t take it anymore .
I ’ ve been to The Hague .
I ’ m making a referral for crimes against humanity tomorrow , '' Galonski said .
`` Today ’ s press conference was the last straw .
I know the need for a prosecution referral when I see one . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ International Criminal Court ( ICC ) , which boasts 123 state parties .
The United States is not one of them .
Only member states or non-members who accept the ICC 's jurisdiction can make referrals .
Alternatively , the United Nations Security Council can also refer a matter for investigation .
`` Crimes against humanity '' is a category of offense that the ICC handles .
The court provides a list of crimes that fall under this , including murder , extermination , enslavement , torture , and `` other inhumane acts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suffering or serious bodily or mental injury . ''
Fox News asked Rep. Galonski if there is a specific crime she is accusing Trump of committing , and how she plans on pursuing charges given the United States ' non-member status .
She did not immediately respond .
Galonski is not the only one to question Trump 's promotion of hydroxychloroquine , given that the FDA has not approved it -- or any other drugs -- specifically for treating COVID-19 .
The FDA has issued Emergency Use Authorizations ( EUAs ) for both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specifically note that these are for `` unapproved use '' and that `` optimal dosing and duration of treatment is unknown . ''
CLICK FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK Many governors , public-health officials , and others have warned that the drug has shown major side effects and its efficacy still remained unproven as a treatment for COVID-19 .
Some experts have expressed concern that widespread use of the drug could lead to complicating access for people who need them for rheumatoid arthritis or lupus .
There have been instances of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , but Dr. Antony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , told CBS ' `` Face the Nation '' that the data is `` at best suggestive . ''
Fauci said he does not think `` we could definitely say it works , '' noting that in some cases there has been `` no effect , '' and in others it may have been effective .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP When Fauci was asked about the drug at Sunday 's press briefing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s answered that question 15 times . ''
Despite the apparent inconclusiveness one way or the other about the drug , Galonski appears confident that she has grounds to bring a case against the president , and is calling on attorneys with international experience to reach out and help her .

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A Democratic state representative in Ohio said she "can't take it anymore" and vowed to refer President Trump to the International Criminal Court for "crimes against humanity" over Trump's promotion of a drug that has not been conclusively proven to fight the coronavirus.
State Rep. Tavia Galonski tweeted Sunday after President Trump spoke about hydroxychloroquine at his daily press briefing. The drug, normally used to treat malaria, is one of several that the president has pointed to as showing promise in the fight against COVID-19, but its effectiveness has been a subject of debate.
GIULIANI SAYS DOCTORS, NOT 'NATIONAL BUREAUCRACY,' SHOULD DECIDE WHETHER TO USE HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE FOR CORONAVIRUS
"I can’t take it anymore. I’ve been to The Hague. I’m making a referral for crimes against humanity tomorrow," Galonski said. "Today’s press conference was the last straw. I know the need for a prosecution referral when I see one."
The Hague is the site of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which boasts 123 state parties. The United States is not one of them. Only member states or non-members who accept the ICC's jurisdiction can make referrals. Alternatively, the United Nations Security Council can also refer a matter for investigation.
"Crimes against humanity" is a category of offense that the ICC handles. The court provides a list of crimes that fall under this, including murder, extermination, enslavement, torture, and "other inhumane acts of a similar character intentionally causing great suffering or serious bodily or mental injury."
Fox News asked Rep. Galonski if there is a specific crime she is accusing Trump of committing, and how she plans on pursuing charges given the United States' non-member status. She did not immediately respond.
Galonski is not the only one to question Trump's promotion of hydroxychloroquine, given that the FDA has not approved it -- or any other drugs -- specifically for treating COVID-19. The FDA has issued Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for both hydroxycholoroquine and chloroquine, but the EUAs specifically note that these are for "unapproved use" and that "optimal dosing and duration of treatment is unknown."
CLICK FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK
Many governors, public-health officials, and others have warned that the drug has shown major side effects and its efficacy still remained unproven as a treatment for COVID-19. Some experts have expressed concern that widespread use of the drug could lead to complicating access for people who need them for rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
There have been instances of doctors saying they have had success with it, but Dr. Antony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told CBS' "Face the Nation" that the data is "at best suggestive."
Fauci said he does not think "we could definitely say it works," noting that in some cases there has been "no effect," and in others it may have been effective.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
When Fauci was asked about the drug at Sunday's press briefing, Trump said, "He’s answered that question 15 times."
Despite the apparent inconclusiveness one way or the other about the drug, Galonski appears confident that she has grounds to bring a case against the president, and is calling on attorneys with international experience to reach out and help her.
Fox News' Andrew O'Reilly contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Maria Bartiromo says market rally driven by 'glimmer of hope' about coronavirus pandemic

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Fox Business Network anchor Maria Bartiromo joined “ America ’ s Newsroom ” Monday as U.S. equity markets soared in response to signs that the spread of COVID-19 is abating in some of the hardest-hit areas of the U.S. On Monday , New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo told reporters that the number of daily coronavirus deaths in his state had been `` effectively flat for two days . ''
The governor reported 599 new deaths Monday , slightly up from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday .
Cuomo also reported that the number of hospitalizations – and admissions into intensive care units – had also hit their lowest points in more than two weeks , but cautioned against `` getting overconfident too quickly.
” On Sunday , President Trump told reporters at the White House that while the next two weeks would be difficult , there was “ light at the end of the tunnel . ''
As of Monday afternoon , COVID-19 has infected more than 347,000 people in the U.S. and killed more than 10,300 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided by Johns Hopkins University .
Bartiromo said the “ little decline ” in deaths in the country over the weekend “ is indicating that maybe the pace is slowing down a bit in terms of the number of deaths in New York , obviously a hot spot in the country.
” She added that as a result , “ the market looks at that saying , ‘ Okay , we ’ ve got that and we also have some treatments right now that we 're talking about.
’ [ Antimalarial drug ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ … you are seeing evidence that it is working.
” “ So I think Wall Street is now seeing this and saying , ‘ You know what ?
Maybe we 're actually getting to a point where we can actually see some clarity and we have a vision in terms of when the economy will open again.
’ ” Bartiromo acknowledged , though , that the next two weeks will be bad from a health standpoint .
“ Make no mistake , we are approaching the worst two-week period , ” she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called the next two weeks horrific and even Dr. [ Deborah ] Birx is saying do n't go to grocery stores , do n't to go to pharmacies in the next two weeks , be covered up and wear masks.
” “ So we are right now at the beginning of the peak , we believe , and I think when Wall Street sees what ’ s going on in terms of treatments , in terms of efforts by the pharma sector for a vaccine , as well as these new numbers from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope and that ’ s what 's really riding this market this morning , ” Bartiromo said .
Bartiromo also said part of the market gain could be attributed to the government providing some clarity about the implementation of small businesses loans .
“ Now that SBA [ Small Business Administration ] and Treasury have shared key implementation details and made important changes to the program , I expect banks of all sizes will participate and provide this important financial lifeline to small business customers , ” Rob Nichols , president and CEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Last month , President Trump signed a more than $ 2 trillion legislative package to combat the coronavirus pandemic and send economic relief to workers and businesses squeezed by restrictions meant to stop the outbreak ’ s spread .
The legislation amounts to the costliest stimulus plan in U.S. history .
It includes checks for most Americans , an increase in unemployment aid , help for small business as well as a massive loan fund for corporations .
Under the plan , small businesses can apply for federal subsidized , low-interest loans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a percentage of their payroll .
The government will pay off the loans made by the bank in their entirety if the business maintains its workforce .
“ There were lots of rules from the Small Bank Association which basically did not have the clarity that the banks needed in terms of lending , ” Bartiromo said on Monday .
“ You saw Wells Fargo cap the amount that it ’ s willing to participate here .
Bank of America is trying to do as much as it can , but initially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think that clarity has now been happening and I think maybe that 's also partly this rally here , ” she continued .
“ We 're actually seeing the Small Business Administration loan program work now , but it was a little spotty on Friday and that was certainly an issue for the businesses that needed the money.
” Fox Business ’ Jonathan Garber , Charlie Gasparino and Lydia Moynihan and Fox News ’ Greg Norman contributed to this report .

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Fox Business Network anchor Maria Bartiromo joined “America’s Newsroom” Monday as U.S. equity markets soared in response to signs that the spread of COVID-19 is abating in some of the hardest-hit areas of the U.S.
On Monday, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo told reporters that the number of daily coronavirus deaths in his state had been "effectively flat for two days." The governor reported 599 new deaths Monday, slightly up from 594 on Sunday but down from 630 on Saturday.
THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK STATE BY STATE
Cuomo also reported that the number of hospitalizations – and admissions into intensive care units – had also hit their lowest points in more than two weeks, but cautioned against "getting overconfident too quickly.”
On Sunday, President Trump told reporters at the White House that while the next two weeks would be difficult, there was “light at the end of the tunnel."
As of Monday afternoon, COVID-19 has infected more than 347,000 people in the U.S. and killed more than 10,300 Americans, according to the latest figures provided by Johns Hopkins University.
Bartiromo said the “little decline” in deaths in the country over the weekend “is indicating that maybe the pace is slowing down a bit in terms of the number of deaths in New York, obviously a hot spot in the country.”
She added that as a result, “the market looks at that saying, ‘Okay, we’ve got that and we also have some treatments right now that we're talking about.’ [Antimalarial drug] Hydroxychloroquine working with [antibiotic] Z-Pak … you are seeing evidence that it is working.”
“So I think Wall Street is now seeing this and saying, ‘You know what? Maybe we're actually getting to a point where we can actually see some clarity and we have a vision in terms of when the economy will open again.’”
Bartiromo acknowledged, though, that the next two weeks will be bad from a health standpoint.
“Make no mistake, we are approaching the worst two-week period,” she said, adding that “the president has called the next two weeks horrific and even Dr. [Deborah] Birx is saying don't go to grocery stores, don't to go to pharmacies in the next two weeks, be covered up and wear masks.”
“So we are right now at the beginning of the peak, we believe, and I think when Wall Street sees what’s going on in terms of treatments, in terms of efforts by the pharma sector for a vaccine, as well as these new numbers from New York there is a glimmer of hope and that’s what's really riding this market this morning,” Bartiromo said.
Bartiromo also said part of the market gain could be attributed to the government providing some clarity about the implementation of small businesses loans.
“Now that SBA [Small Business Administration] and Treasury have shared key implementation details and made important changes to the program, I expect banks of all sizes will participate and provide this important financial lifeline to small business customers,” Rob Nichols, president and CEO of the American Bankers Association, said.
Last month, President Trump signed a more than $2 trillion legislative package to combat the coronavirus pandemic and send economic relief to workers and businesses squeezed by restrictions meant to stop the outbreak’s spread. The legislation amounts to the costliest stimulus plan in U.S. history. It includes checks for most Americans, an increase in unemployment aid, help for small business as well as a massive loan fund for corporations.
Under the plan, small businesses can apply for federal subsidized, low-interest loans for the lesser of $10 million or a percentage of their payroll. The government will pay off the loans made by the bank in their entirety if the business maintains its workforce.
“There were lots of rules from the Small Bank Association which basically did not have the clarity that the banks needed in terms of lending,” Bartiromo said on Monday. “You saw Wells Fargo cap the amount that it’s willing to participate here. Bank of America is trying to do as much as it can, but initially the banks weren't sure.”
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
“I think that clarity has now been happening and I think maybe that's also partly this rally here,” she continued. “We're actually seeing the Small Business Administration loan program work now, but it was a little spotty on Friday and that was certainly an issue for the businesses that needed the money.”
Fox Business’ Jonathan Garber, Charlie Gasparino and Lydia Moynihan and Fox News’ Greg Norman contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Army temporarily halts sending new recruits to basic training during coronavirus outbreak

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The Army is holding off sending recruits to basic training for two weeks beginning Monday in response to the fast-spreading coronavirus , leaders announced .
Those already in basic combat training at one of the Army 's four BCT locations -- Fort Benning , Ga. ; Fort Sill , Okla. ; Fort Jackson , S.C. , and Fort Leonard Wood , Mo .
-- and advanced individual training will continue to be screened and monitored , the Army said .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after graduation .
US RECORDS OVER 10,000 CORONAVIRUS DEATHS AS INFECTIONS MOUNT '' One of TRADOC 's main focuses is to develop leaders by accessing , training and educating Soldiers , '' said Gen. Paul E. Funk , II , commander of the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command .
`` We have to do so responsibly , and we 've already begun protecting those currently in our ranks with social-distanced-enabled training , reduced movement of our Soldiers and trainees , and increased screening of those moving across our commands , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the shipment of trainees to BCT for two weeks will allow leaders to focus on setting conditions so movement can be conducted in a safer manner in the future . ''
The Army began screening recruits last month as the virus intensified across the globe .
Recruits were asked a series of questions to gauge whether they could be infected .
The branch shut down its recruiting stations weeks ago to prevent the spread of the virus and implemented a virtual recruiting program through social media and other online activity .
Military recruitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic continues to impact every facet of society .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The Marine Corps announced in late March it will not accept recruits at Parris Island for two weeks after more than 20 people there contracted the illness .
At least 155 sailors on the USS Theodore Roosevelt have tested positive for COVID-19 , the Navy said .

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The Army is holding off sending recruits to basic training for two weeks beginning Monday in response to the fast-spreading coronavirus, leaders announced.
Those already in basic combat training at one of the Army's four BCT locations -- Fort Benning, Ga.; Fort Sill, Okla.; Fort Jackson, S.C., and Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. -- and advanced individual training will continue to be screened and monitored, the Army said.
They will move on to their next assignments after graduation.
US RECORDS OVER 10,000 CORONAVIRUS DEATHS AS INFECTIONS MOUNT
"One of TRADOC's main focuses is to develop leaders by accessing, training and educating Soldiers," said Gen. Paul E. Funk, II, commander of the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command.
"We have to do so responsibly, and we've already begun protecting those currently in our ranks with social-distanced-enabled training, reduced movement of our Soldiers and trainees, and increased screening of those moving across our commands," he added. "The decision to pause the shipment of trainees to BCT for two weeks will allow leaders to focus on setting conditions so movement can be conducted in a safer manner in the future."
The Army began screening recruits last month as the virus intensified across the globe. Recruits were asked a series of questions to gauge whether they could be infected.
The branch shut down its recruiting stations weeks ago to prevent the spread of the virus and implemented a virtual recruiting program through social media and other online activity. Military recruitment as a whole is struggling as the pandemic continues to impact every facet of society.
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The Marine Corps announced in late March it will not accept recruits at Parris Island for two weeks after more than 20 people there contracted the illness. At least 155 sailors on the USS Theodore Roosevelt have tested positive for COVID-19, the Navy said.


foxnews--2020-03-29--Coronavirus measures in Africa escalate to violence as police, military enforce lockdowns

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As coronavirus cases in Africa rose above 4,000 on Saturday , several countries have taken escalating measures to enforce lockdowns and curfews in the hopes of preventing the disease from spreading .
Tear gas , rubber bullets and a military raid were some of the reported actions authorities have taken amid the global COVID-19 pandemic .
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa imposed one of the strictest lockdown orders in Africa on Friday , authorizing the government to call upon the army @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total of 55 people were arrested for violating the orders on the first day .
The military raided a large workers ’ hostel in the Alexandra township where some residents had defied the three-week lockdown in an apparent show of force on Saturday .
Police screamed at homeless people in downtown Johannesburg , going after some with batons .
Police swept up 300 homeless and took them to a shelter , Reuters reported .
Some citizens reported the police used rubber bullets on a crowd of nearly 300 shoppers gathered outside a Shoprite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Johannesburg ’ s central business district , the Guardian reported .
South Africa leads the continent with more than 1,100 positive coronavirus cases .
Officials reported the first death on Saturday .
Elsewhere , new lockdown measures have also been tough to enforce .
Human rights groups have criticized Zimbabwe for deadly crackdowns , while police in Rwanda have denied that two civilians shot dead Monday were killed for defying the new measures there .
They said the men attacked an officer after being stopped .
Police fired tear gas at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where there are 38 cases , ahead of the 7 p.m. curfew .
Human rights groups called the incident a “ brutal ” and “ excessive use of police force.
” CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP While the outbreak is still in its early stages in Africa , crowded conditions in poor areas could accelerate the virus ’ spread and overwhelm struggling public health systems , health experts have said .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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As coronavirus cases in Africa rose above 4,000 on Saturday, several countries have taken escalating measures to enforce lockdowns and curfews in the hopes of preventing the disease from spreading.
Tear gas, rubber bullets and a military raid were some of the reported actions authorities have taken amid the global COVID-19 pandemic.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa imposed one of the strictest lockdown orders in Africa on Friday, authorizing the government to call upon the army to enforce it. Officials said a total of 55 people were arrested for violating the orders on the first day.
The military raided a large workers’ hostel in the Alexandra township where some residents had defied the three-week lockdown in an apparent show of force on Saturday.
Police screamed at homeless people in downtown Johannesburg, going after some with batons. Police swept up 300 homeless and took them to a shelter, Reuters reported.
SOUTH AFRICANS IGNORE STAY-AT-HOME ORDER IMPOSED TO TACKLE CORONAVIRUS
Some citizens reported the police used rubber bullets on a crowd of nearly 300 shoppers gathered outside a Shoprite supermarket, in Yeoville, a neighborhood in Johannesburg’s central business district, the Guardian reported.
South Africa leads the continent with more than 1,100 positive coronavirus cases. Officials reported the first death on Saturday.
Elsewhere, new lockdown measures have also been tough to enforce.
Human rights groups have criticized Zimbabwe for deadly crackdowns, while police in Rwanda have denied that two civilians shot dead Monday were killed for defying the new measures there. They said the men attacked an officer after being stopped.
Police fired tear gas at a crowd of ferry commuters in Kenya, where there are 38 cases, ahead of the 7 p.m. curfew. Human rights groups called the incident a “brutal” and “excessive use of police force.”
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP
While the outbreak is still in its early stages in Africa, crowded conditions in poor areas could accelerate the virus’ spread and overwhelm struggling public health systems, health experts have said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Coronavirus rise in Japan spurs Abe to declare state of emergency in Tokyo, 6 prefectures

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A growing number of coronavirus cases in Japan has prompted Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to announce a state of emergency as soon as Tuesday in Tokyo and six other prefectures in an attempt to slow the outbreak .
Abe 's announcement on Monday came as Tokyo reported 83 new cases of COVID-19 .
“ This state of emergency declaration is to ensure the medical care system stays intact and to ask for even more cooperation from the people to avoid contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much as possible , '' the Japanese prime minister said .
CORONAVIRUS MEASURE IN JAPAN OF 2 MASKS PER HOME TAKEN AS APRIL FOOL 'S JOKE , MOCKED AS 'ABENOMASK' Abe said experts on a government-commissioned task force urged him to prepare to declare a state of emergency , with the COVID-19 outbreak rapidly expanding in major cities including Tokyo , and hospitals and medical staff overburdened with patients .
A growing number of cases in Tokyo have already left doctors and nurses in the city with a shortage of gear and staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small number of cases compared to its neighbors , China and South Korea .
“ We could empty out an entire ward and use it just for corona patients , but that means those patients ( with other illnesses ) will have to go elsewhere , ” said a doctor specializing in infectious diseases at a major hospital in the greater Tokyo area told Reuters .
“ If we can ’ t do that , it will lead to the virus spreading all through the hospital and lead to a collapse of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state of emergency will cover Tokyo , Osaka , Fukuoka , and four other hard-hit prefectures , and will be in effect for about a month .
Abe said he will hold a news conference on Tuesday to explain further details about the state of emergency .
The measure is intended to reinforce social distancing between people to slow the spread of the outbreak , and to continue to keep social and economic activities to a minimum .
While there will be no hard lockdowns in Japan , authorities in those designated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to the Japan Times .
WHY JAPAN APPEARS TO HAVE AVOIDED A MASS CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK Tokyo Gov .
Yuriko Koike said the city will start transferring patients with no or slight symptoms from hospitals to hotels and other accommodations to make room for an influx of patients with severe symptoms .
The Japanese prime minister has faced criticism for his response to the pandemic .
Some alleged the government manipulated numbers by limiting tests , or combined COVID-19 deaths with other pneumonia fatalities before the Summer Olympics were canceled .
Abe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far has been to focus on clusters and to trace infection routes rather than testing everyone .
In addition to the new measure so slow the spread of the virus , Abe also told reporters Monday that his government will launch a 108 trillion yen ( $ 1 trillion ) stimulus package to help counter the economic impact of the pandemic .
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP As of Monday , there are 3,654 COVID-19 cases reported and at least 85 deaths in Japan , according to Johns Hopkins University .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ another 712 infections and 11 fatalities on a cruise ship that was quarantined in the port of Yokohama near Tokyo earlier this year .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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A growing number of coronavirus cases in Japan has prompted Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to announce a state of emergency as soon as Tuesday in Tokyo and six other prefectures in an attempt to slow the outbreak.
Abe's announcement on Monday came as Tokyo reported 83 new cases of COVID-19.
“This state of emergency declaration is to ensure the medical care system stays intact and to ask for even more cooperation from the people to avoid contact with each other to reduce infection as much as possible," the Japanese prime minister said.
CORONAVIRUS MEASURE IN JAPAN OF 2 MASKS PER HOME TAKEN AS APRIL FOOL'S JOKE, MOCKED AS 'ABENOMASK'
Abe said experts on a government-commissioned task force urged him to prepare to declare a state of emergency, with the COVID-19 outbreak rapidly expanding in major cities including Tokyo, and hospitals and medical staff overburdened with patients.
A growing number of cases in Tokyo have already left doctors and nurses in the city with a shortage of gear and staff, even though Japan only has a small number of cases compared to its neighbors, China and South Korea.
“We could empty out an entire ward and use it just for corona patients, but that means those patients (with other illnesses) will have to go elsewhere,” said a doctor specializing in infectious diseases at a major hospital in the greater Tokyo area told Reuters. “If we can’t do that, it will lead to the virus spreading all through the hospital and lead to a collapse of our medical system.”
The prime minister said the state of emergency will cover Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and four other hard-hit prefectures, and will be in effect for about a month.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Abe said he will hold a news conference on Tuesday to explain further details about the state of emergency.
The measure is intended to reinforce social distancing between people to slow the spread of the outbreak, and to continue to keep social and economic activities to a minimum.
While there will be no hard lockdowns in Japan, authorities in those designated prefectures will able to take restrictive measures, according to the Japan Times.
WHY JAPAN APPEARS TO HAVE AVOIDED A MASS CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK
Tokyo Gov. Yuriko Koike said the city will start transferring patients with no or slight symptoms from hospitals to hotels and other accommodations to make room for an influx of patients with severe symptoms.
The Japanese prime minister has faced criticism for his response to the pandemic. Some alleged the government manipulated numbers by limiting tests, or combined COVID-19 deaths with other pneumonia fatalities before the Summer Olympics were canceled. Abe denied that.
Japan's strategy so far has been to focus on clusters and to trace infection routes rather than testing everyone.
In addition to the new measure so slow the spread of the virus, Abe also told reporters Monday that his government will launch a 108 trillion yen ($1 trillion) stimulus package to help counter the economic impact of the pandemic.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP
As of Monday, there are 3,654 COVID-19 cases reported and at least 85 deaths in Japan, according to Johns Hopkins University. Japan's health ministry said there were another 712 infections and 11 fatalities on a cruise ship that was quarantined in the port of Yokohama near Tokyo earlier this year.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-05--Florida county tells people to maintain social distance of '1 alligator' amid coronavirus

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A @ @ @ @ @ unusual way to educate citizens about coronavirus social distancing .
Leon County officials have echoed @ @ @ @ @ six feet apart – or , as they put it , about the length of @ @ @ @ @ is a reminder that during COVID 19 , please remember to keep at least 1 @ @ @ @ @ everyone else at all times , ” the Panhandle county said on Facebook .
Social @ @ @ @ @ orders , has been touted as a vital measure to slow the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ six feet is to prevent inhaling the droplets that someone might put into the air @ @ @ @ @ according to the World Health Organization .
As of Sunday morning , Florida had 11,536 @ @ @ @ @ 195 deaths .
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP Florida is the seventh-most infected @ @ @ @ @

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A Florida county has devised an unusual way to educate citizens about coronavirus social distancing.
Leon County officials have echoed health guidelines that people stay six feet apart – or, as they put it, about the length of one alligator.
A large alligator, to be specific.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
“This is a reminder that during COVID 19, please remember to keep at least 1 large alligator between you and everyone else at all times,” the Panhandle county said on Facebook.
Social distancing, along with stay-at-home orders, has been touted as a vital measure to slow the spread of the disease.
The distance of six feet is to prevent inhaling the droplets that someone might put into the air after coughing or sneezing, according to the World Health Organization.
As of Sunday morning, Florida had 11,536 confirmed cases as well as 195 deaths.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP
Florida is the seventh-most infected state in the country.


foxnews--2020-04-06--Hospital shares video of Lizzo thanking medical workers fighting the coronavirus pandemic

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Days after sending staff battling the coronavirus pandemic at the Boston Medical Center free meals , a video of Lizzo personally thanking front-line health care workers there was released by the organization .
The `` Truth Hurts '' singer , 31 , sent medical workers , including nurses , doctors , and hospital staff members , surprise lunch deliveries as a thank you for risking their lives to save others amid the coronavirus crisis .
`` Lizzo sent lunch to several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them for all their hard work , bravery and dedication amid the coronavirus pandemic , '' a rep for the singer told Fox News on Wednesday .
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU GET OVER THE CORONAVIRUS ?
Days later , the hospital itself shared a video on its Twitter in which Lizzo speaks directly to them , thanking them for their continued heroism as the world continues to rely on medical workers to help treat people who contract the coronavirus .
“ Hello Boston Medical Center , it ’ s Lizzo and I just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so much for everything that you guys are doing .
Y ’ all have really kept us safe , healthy , protected and alive , ” Lizzo began the video .
“ You guys are truly saving lives , you are heroes .
So I just wanted to send you a token of my appreciation and send you a meal .
And I hope that you enjoy the meal and I hope that it puts a smile on your face for the day .
It ’ s the least I could do and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I hope that you feel appreciated because you truly are .
Everyone is rooting for you and praying for you .
Have a great day.
” HELP PREVENT CORONAVIRUS WITH HAND SANITIZER : HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN The hospital posted the video along with a caption thanking not only the “ Juice ” singer but the countless people who have sent well wishes and donations to front-line medical workers battling the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ We 've received so many heartfelt comments on social media , including from the one and only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them in hopes they brighten your day too !
” The Boston Medical Center tweeted along with the video .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP As of Monday morning , the novel coronavirus has infected more than 1,280,046 people across 180 countries and territories , resulting in over 70,356 deaths .
In the U.S. , all 50 states plus the District of Columbia have reported confirmed cases of COVID-19 , tallying over 337,933 illnesses and at least 9,653 deaths .

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Days after sending staff battling the coronavirus pandemic at the Boston Medical Center free meals, a video of Lizzo personally thanking front-line health care workers there was released by the organization.
The "Truth Hurts" singer, 31, sent medical workers, including nurses, doctors, and hospital staff members, surprise lunch deliveries as a thank you for risking their lives to save others amid the coronavirus crisis.
"Lizzo sent lunch to several hospitals throughout the country yesterday to thank them for all their hard work, bravery and dedication amid the coronavirus pandemic," a rep for the singer told Fox News on Wednesday.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU GET OVER THE CORONAVIRUS?
Days later, the hospital itself shared a video on its Twitter in which Lizzo speaks directly to them, thanking them for their continued heroism as the world continues to rely on medical workers to help treat people who contract the coronavirus.
"Hello Boston Medical Center, it’s Lizzo and I just wanted to say thank you so, so much for everything that you guys are doing. Y’all have really kept us safe, healthy, protected and alive," Lizzo began the video. "You guys are truly saving lives, you are heroes. So I just wanted to send you a token of my appreciation and send you a meal. And I hope that you enjoy the meal and I hope that it puts a smile on your face for the day. It’s the least I could do and I hope that you feel loved and I hope that you feel appreciated because you truly are. Everyone is rooting for you and praying for you. Have a great day."
HELP PREVENT CORONAVIRUS WITH HAND SANITIZER: HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN
The hospital posted the video along with a caption thanking not only the "Juice" singer but the countless people who have sent well wishes and donations to front-line medical workers battling the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We've received so many heartfelt comments on social media, including from the one and only
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
As of Monday morning, the novel coronavirus has infected more than 1,280,046 people across 180 countries and territories, resulting in over 70,356 deaths. In the U.S., all 50 states plus the District of Columbia have reported confirmed cases of COVID-19, tallying over 337,933 illnesses and at least 9,653 deaths.