foxnews--2020-04-09--Sens. Graham, Coons call on China to 'immediately' shut down wet markets

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Lindsey Graham , Chris Coons and a group of bipartisan senators on Thursday “ urgently ” requested that China “ immediately ” close all operating wet markets amid the coronavirus pandemic in a letter first obtained by Fox News .
Graham , R-S.C. , and Coons , D-Del.
, penned a letter to Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai urging him to close markets to “ protect ” the world from “ additional health risks.
” BOOKER , GRAHAM CALL ON @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MARKETS ' AROUND THE WORLD AMID CORONAVIRUS “ We write to urgently request that China immediately close all operating wet markets that have a potential to expose humans to health risks through the introduction of zoo tonic disease into the human population , ” Graham and Coons wrote , citing Gao Fu , the director of China ’ s Center for Disease Control and Prevention , who said that “ the origin of the new coronavirus is the wildlife sold illegally in a Wuhan ( China ) seafood market.
” “ It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been a source of a number of worldwide health problems , and their operation should cease immediately so as to protect the Chinese people and the international community from additional health risks , ” they continued .
Graham and Coons also cited Dr. Anthony Fauci , the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , and a member of President Trump ’ s coronavirus task force , who recently said the markets should be shut down “ right away , ” and that it “ boggles ” his mind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that emanate out of that unusual human animal interface that we don ’ t just shut it down.
” The senators said Fauci ’ s statement was “ both true and urgent , and his advice should be followed immediately.
” “ We believe China should play an important role in shutting down its wet markets that expose humans to health risks and by urging other countries to do the same , ” Graham and Coons wrote .
The senators went on to cite Chinese leader Xi Jinping , who stated that China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” on wildlife trafficking , which , in turn , had the Standing Committee of the National People ’ s Congress take steps to close China ’ s wet markets earlier this year .
At the time , the National People ’ s Congress said “ it is necessary to strengthen market supervision , resolutely ban and severely crack down on illegal wildlife markets and trade , and control major public health risks from the source.
” WHAT ARE 'WET MARKETS ' LINKED TO THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK ?
“ Despite these statements , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are back in operation after the recent shut downs , ” Graham and Coons wrote .
“ Therefore , we are urging China to shut down all wet markets that allow for interactions between humans and wild animals that pose public health risks , ” they added .
“ We understand and respect that wet markets are an important component to Chinese society and way of life , but we believe the current moment , which has disrupted everyday life around the world , calls for extreme precautions.
” The letter was signed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chris Van Hollen , Thom Tillis , Martha McSally , Cindy Hyde-Smith , Marsha Blackburn , John Hoeven , Mitt Romney , and Rick Scott .
Graham and Coons ’ letter to the Chinese ambassador comes after Graham and Sen. Cory Booker , along with Reps. Mike Quigley , D-Ill. , and Mike McCaul , R-Texas , penned a letter to World Health Organization officials to ban and immediately close wet markets around the world .
“ Live wildlife markets , known as ‘ wet ’ markets , were linked to the 2003 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the source of the current COVID-19 , ” Booker and Graham wrote .
“ As this pandemic continues to threaten the lives of millions , pushes healthcare systems to the breaking point , and devastates economies around the world , it is imperative that we all take action as a global community to protect public health.
” They went on to note that scientists studying diseases that are zoonotic – meaning they jump between animals and humans – have pointed to the close proximity of shoppers , vendors and both live and death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world “ as prime transmission locations for these pathogens.
” They added that “ wet markets ” pose “ a threat to global public health because wildlife comes from many different locations without any standardized sanitary of health inspection processes.
” “ The risk to food buyers can also be through the slaughter of animals in front of customers , releasing disease carrying fluids like blood , saliva , and excrement into the air , which can then splash or splatter on nearby people , be consumed or inadvertently inhaled by humans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Graham cited scientists who estimate that approximately 60-75 percent of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic and that approximately 72 percent originate from wildlife .
They also noted that “ in the past 45 years , at least five pandemics have been traced back to bats.
” “ In the case of SARS and the COVID-19 outbreak , bats were also the original hosts , ” they wrote .
Meanwhile , McCaul sent a separate letter last month to the WHO demanding they work to end unsanitary practices at wildlife markets in China .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the positive cases of COVID-19 globally surpassed 1.58 million , more than 94,000 deaths .
As of Thursday evening , the United States reported more than 452,500 positive cases of the novel coronavirus and more than 16,100 deaths .

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Sens. Lindsey Graham, Chris Coons and a group of bipartisan senators on Thursday “urgently” requested that China “immediately” close all operating wet markets amid the coronavirus pandemic in a letter first obtained by Fox News.
Graham, R-S.C., and Coons, D-Del., penned a letter to Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai urging him to close markets to “protect” the world from “additional health risks.”
BOOKER, GRAHAM CALL ON WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION TO SHUT DOWN 'WET MARKETS' AROUND THE WORLD AMID CORONAVIRUS
“We write to urgently request that China immediately close all operating wet markets that have a potential to expose humans to health risks through the introduction of zoo tonic disease into the human population,” Graham and Coons wrote, citing Gao Fu, the director of China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention, who said that “the origin of the new coronavirus is the wildlife sold illegally in a Wuhan (China) seafood market.”
“It is well documented that wet markets in China have been a source of a number of worldwide health problems, and their operation should cease immediately so as to protect the Chinese people and the international community from additional health risks,” they continued.
Graham and Coons also cited Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and a member of President Trump’s coronavirus task force, who recently said the markets should be shut down “right away,” and that it “boggles” his mind “when we have so many diseases that emanate out of that unusual human animal interface that we don’t just shut it down.”
The senators said Fauci’s statement was “both true and urgent, and his advice should be followed immediately.”
“We believe China should play an important role in shutting down its wet markets that expose humans to health risks and by urging other countries to do the same,” Graham and Coons wrote.
The senators went on to cite Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who stated that China would “resolutely outlaw and harshly crackdown” on wildlife trafficking, which, in turn, had the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress take steps to close China’s wet markets earlier this year.
At the time, the National People’s Congress said “it is necessary to strengthen market supervision, resolutely ban and severely crack down on illegal wildlife markets and trade, and control major public health risks from the source.”
WHAT ARE 'WET MARKETS' LINKED TO THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK?
“Despite these statements, wet markets in Wuhan and throughout China are back in operation after the recent shut downs,” Graham and Coons wrote.
“Therefore, we are urging China to shut down all wet markets that allow for interactions between humans and wild animals that pose public health risks,” they added. “We understand and respect that wet markets are an important component to Chinese society and way of life, but we believe the current moment, which has disrupted everyday life around the world, calls for extreme precautions.”
The letter was signed on by Sens. Kevin Cramer, Chris Van Hollen, Thom Tillis, Martha McSally, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Marsha Blackburn, John Hoeven, Mitt Romney, and Rick Scott.
Graham and Coons’ letter to the Chinese ambassador comes after Graham and Sen. Cory Booker, along with Reps. Mike Quigley, D-Ill., and Mike McCaul, R-Texas, penned a letter to World Health Organization officials to ban and immediately close wet markets around the world.
“Live wildlife markets, known as ‘wet’ markets, were linked to the 2003 SARS outbreak and are believed to be the source of the current COVID-19,” Booker and Graham wrote. “As this pandemic continues to threaten the lives of millions, pushes healthcare systems to the breaking point, and devastates economies around the world, it is imperative that we all take action as a global community to protect public health.”
They went on to note that scientists studying diseases that are zoonotic – meaning they jump between animals and humans – have pointed to the close proximity of shoppers, vendors and both live and death animals at wet markets in countries around the world “as prime transmission locations for these pathogens.”
They added that “wet markets” pose “a threat to global public health because wildlife comes from many different locations without any standardized sanitary of health inspection processes.”
“The risk to food buyers can also be through the slaughter of animals in front of customers, releasing disease carrying fluids like blood, saliva, and excrement into the air, which can then splash or splatter on nearby people, be consumed or inadvertently inhaled by humans,” they wrote.
Booker and Graham cited scientists who estimate that approximately 60-75 percent of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic and that approximately 72 percent originate from wildlife. They also noted that “in the past 45 years, at least five pandemics have been traced back to bats.”
“In the case of SARS and the COVID-19 outbreak, bats were also the original hosts,” they wrote.
Meanwhile, McCaul sent a separate letter last month to the WHO demanding they work to end unsanitary practices at wildlife markets in China.
The calls to ban wet markets come as the positive cases of COVID-19 globally surpassed 1.58 million, more than 94,000 deaths.
As of Thursday evening , the United States reported more than 452,500 positive cases of the novel coronavirus and more than 16,100 deaths.


foxnews--2020-04-09--Booker, Graham call on WHO to ban 'wet markets' globally amid coronavirus

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Sens .
Cory Booker , Lindsey Graham and more than 60 congressional lawmakers urged the World Health Organization on Thursday to ban and permanently close all wet markets globally amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Booker , D-N.J. , was joined by Graham , R-S.C. , Reps .
Mike Quigley , D-Ill. , and Mike McCaul , R-Texas , in penning a letter to the WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus , World Organization for Animal Health Director-General Monique Eloit , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nations Director-General Qu Dongyu .
NEXT CORONAVIRUS 'RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER ' IF WET MARKETS DO N'T CLOSE , ANIMAL RIGHTS GROUPS , POLITICIANS WARN The letter urged the officials to take “ aggressive action toward a global shutdown of live wildlife markets and a ban on the international trade of live wildlife that is not intended for conservation purposes.
” “ Live wildlife markets , known as ‘ wet ’ markets , were linked to the 2003 SARS outbreak and are believed to be the source of the current COVID-19 , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this pandemic continues to threaten the lives of millions , pushes healthcare systems to the breaking point , and devastates economies around the world , it is imperative that we all take action as a global community to protect public health.
” They went on to note that scientists studying diseases that are zoonotic – meaning they jump between animals and humans – have pointed to the close proximity of shoppers , vendors and both live and death animals at wet markets in countries around the world “ as prime transmission locations for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport and holding wild animals in these crowded markets where they are also sometimes slaughtered creates an unnatural environment where viruses from different species are able to come in contact , mutate , and spread from one species to another , ” they wrote .
“ The viruses can subsequently spread or ‘ spill over ; into humans through handling and consumption of wildlife , potentially starting highly contagious outbreaks of new and deadly diseases for which we have no natural immunity -- as we are currently seeing with COVID-19 and have seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lass fever in the recent past.
” They added that “ wet markets ” pose “ a threat to global public health because wildlife comes from many different locations without any standardized sanitary of health inspection processes . ''
“ The risk to food buyers can also be through the slaughter of animals in front of customers , releasing disease carrying fluids like blood , saliva , and excrement into the air , which can then splash or splatter on nearby people , be consumed or inadvertently inhaled by humans , ” they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who estimate that approximately 60-75 percent of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic and that approximately 72 percent originate from wildlife .
They also noted that “ in the past 45 years , at least five pandemics have been traced back to bats.
” “ In the case of SARS and the COVID-19 outbreak , bats were also the original hosts , ” they wrote .
WHAT ARE THE 'WET MARKETS ' LINKED TO THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK ?
“ It is clear that to protect human health , these close and sustained interactions with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ While China has banned the trade and consumption of wild animals in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak , there are significant loopholes relating to the current legal trade of wildlife for medicinal purposes .
China took similar steps after the 2003 SARS outbreak , but ultimately lifted the restrictions after the outbreak came under control and perceived risk decreased.
” Booker and Graham , joined by more than 60 lawmakers , urged the health officials to “ work with member states to ensure that live wildlife markets are closed permanently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trade of live wildlife not intended for conservation purposes is banned.
” Animal Wellness Action Foundation , a nonprofit , “ applauded ” Booker , Graham , McCaul , Quigley for “ their leadership in bringing Congress together to call for a global ban of the disgusting and infectious wet markets that have plagued the planet for far too long , and appreciate the tremendous support of all of the Members that joined in championing this effort.
” “ All the evidence points to a nasty cesspool in Wuhan , China as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ species barrier to the human race , killing nearly 100,000 to date , and crippling the global economy , ” Animal Wellness Action said in a statement to Fox News .
“ It ’ s time to swiftly eradicate wet markets from the face of the earth for good.
” Meanwhile , McCaul sent a separate letter last month to the WHO demanding they work to end unsanitary practices at wildlife markets in China .
The calls to ban wet markets come as the positive cases of COVID-19 globally surpassed 1.5 million .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported more than 432,500 positive cases of the novel coronavirus and more than 14,800 deaths .

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Sens. Cory Booker, Lindsey Graham and more than 60 congressional lawmakers urged the World Health Organization on Thursday to ban and permanently close all wet markets globally amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Booker, D-N.J., was joined by Graham, R-S.C.,Reps. Mike Quigley, D-Ill., and Mike McCaul, R-Texas, in penning a letter to the WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Organization for Animal Health Director-General Monique Eloit, and Food and Agriculture Organization fo the United Nations Director-General Qu Dongyu.
NEXT CORONAVIRUS 'RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER' IF WET MARKETS DON'T CLOSE, ANIMAL RIGHTS GROUPS, POLITICIANS WARN
The letter urged the officials to take “aggressive action toward a global shutdown of live wildlife markets and a ban on the international trade of live wildlife that is not intended for conservation purposes.”
“Live wildlife markets, known as ‘wet’ markets, were linked to the 2003 SARS outbreak and are believed to be the source of the current COVID-19,” Booker and Graham wrote. “As this pandemic continues to threaten the lives of millions, pushes healthcare systems to the breaking point, and devastates economies around the world, it is imperative that we all take action as a global community to protect public health.”
They went on to note that scientists studying diseases that are zoonotic – meaning they jump between animals and humans – have pointed to the close proximity of shoppers, vendors and both live and death animals at wet markets in countries around the world “as prime transmission locations for these pathogens.”
“The stress of transport and holding wild animals in these crowded markets where they are also sometimes slaughtered creates an unnatural environment where viruses from different species are able to come in contact, mutate, and spread from one species to another,” they wrote. “The viruses can subsequently spread or ‘spill over; into humans through handling and consumption of wildlife, potentially starting highly contagious outbreaks of new and deadly diseases for which we have no natural immunity -- as we are currently seeing with COVID-19 and have seen with SARS, Ebola, monkeypox and Lass fever in the recent past.”
They added that “wet markets” pose “a threat to global public health because wildlife comes from many different locations without any standardized sanitary of health inspection processes."
“The risk to food buyers can also be through the slaughter of animals in front of customers, releasing disease carrying fluids like blood, saliva, and excrement into the air, which can then splash or splatter on nearby people, be consumed or inadvertently inhaled by humans,” they wrote.
Booker and Graham cited scientists who estimate that approximately 60-75 percent of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic and that approximately 72 percent originate from wildlife. They also noted that “in the past 45 years, at least five pandemics have been traced back to bats.”
“In the case of SARS and the COVID-19 outbreak, bats were also the original hosts,” they wrote.
WHAT ARE THE 'WET MARKETS' LINKED TO THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK?
“It is clear that to protect human health, these close and sustained interactions with wildlife must stop,” they wrote. “While China has banned the trade and consumption of wild animals in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, there are significant loopholes relating to the current legal trade of wildlife for medicinal purposes. China took similar steps after the 2003 SARS outbreak, but ultimately lifted the restrictions after the outbreak came under control and perceived risk decreased.”
Booker and Graham, joined by more than 60 lawmakers, urged the health officials to “work with member states to ensure that live wildlife markets are closed permanently in all countries and that the international trade of live wildlife not intended for conservation purposes is banned.”
Animal Wellness Action Foundation, a nonprofit, “applauded” Booker, Graham, McCaul, Quigley for “their leadership in bringing Congress together to call for a global ban of the disgusting and infectious wet markets that have plagued the planet for far too long, and appreciate the tremendous support of all of the Members that joined in championing this effort.”
“All the evidence points to a nasty cesspool in Wuhan, China as the scene where COVID — 19 jumped the species barrier to the human race, killing nearly 100,000 to date, and crippling the global economy,” Animal Wellness Action said in a statement to Fox News. “It’s time to swiftly eradicate wet markets from the face of the earth for good.”
Meanwhile, McCaul sent a separate letter last month to the WHO demanding they work to end unsanitary practices at wildlife markets in China.
The calls to ban wet markets come as the positive cases of COVID-19 globally surpassed 1.5 million. As of Thursday, the United States reported more than 432,500 positive cases of the novel coronavirus and more than 14,800 deaths.


foxnews--2020-04-09--'Be the light': Why high schools across America are burning stadium lights

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There 's nothing like those Friday night lights .
Through the darkness of the coronavirus pandemic and an uncertain future , high schools across the country are burning their stadium lights to remind students to keep shining .
With life disrupted and schools eerily empty amid the ongoing outbreak , a high school principal in Texas was recently inspired to illuminate the football stadium to remind the teens that teachers and administrators were thinking of them .
Now , the # @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
AMERICA TOGETHER : UPLIFTING STORIES OF AMERICANS FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT During spring break and before the official shutdown in late March , Principal Brett Beesley said he was driving by Dumas High School when the vision came to life .
“ My heart was hurting for our kids , and I wanted to show that we love them .
I thought , ‘ It would be cool to light up the stadium , ’ ” Beesley told Yahoo Lifestyle .
With a little help from head football coach Aaron Dunham , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that night .
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS “ To the students of Dumas ISD : Tonight and every weekday night from 8:00 to 9:00 we are going to burn our stadium lights for you ... as a symbol of hope and an assurance that you are on our hearts and minds , ” Beesley tweeted from the school ’ s account .
“ To the Great State of Texas : We challenge you to do the same , ” he said , adding the hashtag # BeTheLight .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Irving and Eustace , which proudly accepted the challenge .
In the weeks since , the # BeTheLight movement has expanded across Colorado , Tennessee and Minnesota , Yahoo reports .
In the Gopher State , an estimated 250 schools lit up their stadiums on Monday night and shared # BeTheLight photos to social media , Fox 9 reports .
“ There ’ s unity , right ?
And solidarity , ” Jed Helwig , activities director of North High School in St. Paul told the St. Paul Pioneer Press of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students ] know that we miss them .
We look forward to seeing them as soon as possible .
”

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There's nothing like those Friday night lights.
Through the darkness of the coronavirus pandemic and an uncertain future, high schools across the country are burning their stadium lights to remind students to keep shining.
With life disrupted and schools eerily empty amid the ongoing outbreak, a high school principal in Texas was recently inspired to illuminate the football stadium to remind the teens that teachers and administrators were thinking of them.
Now, the #BeTheLight challenge is lighting up social media.
AMERICA TOGETHER: UPLIFTING STORIES OF AMERICANS FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT
During spring break and before the official shutdown in late March, Principal Brett Beesley said he was driving by Dumas High School when the vision came to life.
“My heart was hurting for our kids, and I wanted to show that we love them. I thought, ‘It would be cool to light up the stadium,’” Beesley told Yahoo Lifestyle.
With a little help from head football coach Aaron Dunham, the principal had the field glowing later that night.
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS
“To the students of Dumas ISD: Tonight and every weekday night from 8:00 to 9:00 we are going to burn our stadium lights for you... as a symbol of hope and an assurance that you are on our hearts and minds,” Beesley tweeted from the school’s account. “To the Great State of Texas: We challenge you to do the same,” he said, adding the hashtag #BeTheLight.
The trend soon spread to school districts in Irving and Eustace, which proudly accepted the challenge. In the weeks since, the #BeTheLight movement has expanded across Colorado, Tennessee and Minnesota, Yahoo reports.
In the Gopher State, an estimated 250 schools lit up their stadiums on Monday night and shared #BeTheLight photos to social media, Fox 9 reports.
CLICK HERE FOR FOX NEWS' CONTINUING CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
“There’s unity, right? And solidarity,” Jed Helwig, activities director of North High School in St. Paul told the St. Paul Pioneer Press of the statewide effort. “To let [students] know that we miss them. We look forward to seeing them as soon as possible.”


foxnews--2020-04-09--Bill Murray says John Prine's music once pulled him from a deep depression

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Bill Murray said Wednesday that late singer and songwriter John Prine ’ s music once helped him through a severe bout of depression after a breakup .
Murray told The Washington Post he ’ d had his heart broken and wasn ’ t leaving the house when he remembered something Hunter S. Thompson once told him about relying on Prine -- who died of complications from the coronavirus this week -- for his `` sense of humor.
” “ I remembered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fog that I was in , and I went and found this John Prine record , ” Murray said , adding he wondered at the time if Thompson thought Prine was a humorist .
He said he 'd listened to most of the 26-track CD when the song “ Linda Goes to Mars '' played .
He said he reacted with : “ Huh.
” “ That was all , ” he remembered .
“ Just huh , like huh , that ’ s kind of funny .
And that was it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ bottom .
I had touched the bottom and it was over , and I was on my way back.
” Murray told The Post he had been so deep in his depression that nothing had reached him until he heard “ Linda Goes to Mars.
” He said it was when he got to know Prine that he realized “ what a wonderful gift was given.
” “ That last record of his was really a treasure , too .
His final record was just , oh , my God , ” Murray @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the most influential artists in folk and country music , was hospitalized with the virus in March and later put on a ventilator before he died Tuesday .
Prine was a two-time cancer survivor and continued to make music and tour despite having part of his lung removed .
He had shows scheduled in May and a summer tour planned before he contracted the virus .
Some of the Grammy winner ’ s most famous songs were “ Hello in There , ” “ Sam Stone ” and “ Paradise.
” Fox @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contributed to this report .

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Bill Murray said Wednesday that late singer and songwriter John Prine’s music once helped him through a severe bout of depression after a breakup.
Murray told The Washington Post he’d had his heart broken and wasn’t leaving the house when he remembered something Hunter S. Thompson once told him about relying on Prine -- who died of complications from the coronavirus this week -- for his "sense of humor.”
“I remembered that in the midst of this dark fog that I was in, and I went and found this John Prine record,” Murray said, adding he wondered at the time if Thompson thought Prine was a humorist.
He said he'd listened to most of the 26-track CD when the song “Linda Goes to Mars" played.
He said he reacted with: “Huh.”
John Prine dead at age 73 from coronavirus complications
“That was all,” he remembered. “Just huh, like huh, that’s kind of funny. And that was it. That was it. That was the bottom. I had touched the bottom and it was over, and I was on my way back.”
Murray told The Post he had been so deep in his depression that nothing had reached him until he heard “Linda Goes to Mars.”
He said it was when he got to know Prine that he realized “what a wonderful gift was given.”
“That last record of his was really a treasure, too. His final record was just, oh, my God,” Murray added.
Prine, 73, one of the most influential artists in folk and country music, was hospitalized with the virus in March and later put on a ventilator before he died Tuesday.
Prine was a two-time cancer survivor and continued to make music and tour despite having part of his lung removed.
He had shows scheduled in May and a summer tour planned before he contracted the virus.
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Some of the Grammy winner’s most famous songs were “Hello in There,” “Sam Stone” and “Paradise.”
Fox News' Mariah Haas and Stephanie Nolasco contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-04-08--Cash-strapped rural hospitals struggle to stay open, brace for coronavirus

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CHEROKEE COUNTY , Iowa – Shortages in personal protective equipment and limited COVID-19 testing kits are just some of the difficulties for health-care facilities across the country during the coronavirus pandemic .
But there ’ s another issue looming for hospitals in rural America : a labor shortage .
“ Respiratory therapists are very difficult to find , ” said Gary Jordan , CEO of Cherokee Regional Medical Center in Iowa .
“ Medical laboratory technologists .
They ’ re very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cherokee Regional Medical Center is one of roughly 2,000 rural hospitals in the country , according to data from the National Rural Health Association ( NRHA ) .
Rural hospitals represent more than half of all hospitals in the United States , providing essential access to inpatient , outpatient and emergency medical services in rural communities .
What makes rural hospitals different than urban facilities is typically the number of beds , services offered , and proximity within a community .
On average , rural hospitals have 25 beds , which is less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urban average of 76 beds .
In addition , some rural hospitals do not have intensive care units , and some are 35 miles away from the next nearest hospital .
CORONAVIRUS : WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW '' For rural communities , the population is older , sicker , has a greater percentage of chronic health care needs .
I just described the population most at risk for COVID-19 , ” said Alan Morgan , CEO of the NRHA .
According to the NRHA , rural providers are overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the breaking point .
Blaine County , Idaho , has more than 300 positive COVID-19 patients but is only a small rural hospital with 25 beds for the community .
Eagle County , Colo. , has more than 300 positive cases , but its county hospital has only 56 beds .
Making things worse is some rural hospitals can ’ t afford to keep their doors open .
CUOMO : ANTIBODY TEST COULD BE CRITICAL IN RETURN TO NORMALCY Data from the NRHA revealed that 47 percent of the nation ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prior to COVID-19 .
Rural hospitals are being forced to stop outpatient services and elective procedures to keep up with the possible demand from the coronavirus .
“ It ’ s really an unusual circumstance where they ’ re desperate for cash now but they need to keep their hospitals open to prepare for a surge to come , '' Morgan told Fox News .
`` It ’ s the worst possible situation for many of these rural hospitals.
” Congress recently approved a $ 2.2 trillion stimulus package that would allocate $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The NRHA sent a letter to Congress asking that a portion be set aside for rural hospitals over fears that funds will be depleted before reaching rural communities .
“ Rural providers care for 20 percent of the nation ’ s population .
Because they are proportionately older and have higher percentages of comorbidities , rural Americans are extraordinarily vulnerable to COVID-19 , ” the letter reads .
“ Without at least 20 percent set aside rural , we believe small , rural , and isolated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the funds before they are depleted by other facilities .
”

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CHEROKEE COUNTY, Iowa – Shortages in personal protective equipment and limited COVID-19 testing kits are just some of the difficulties for health-care facilities across the country during the coronavirus pandemic.
But there’s another issue looming for hospitals in rural America: a labor shortage.
“Respiratory therapists are very difficult to find,” said Gary Jordan, CEO of Cherokee Regional Medical Center in Iowa. “Medical laboratory technologists. They’re very difficult to find for rural communities.”
Cherokee Regional Medical Center is one of roughly 2,000 rural hospitals in the country, according to data from the National Rural Health Association (NRHA).
Rural hospitals represent more than half of all hospitals in the United States, providing essential access to inpatient, outpatient and emergency medical services in rural communities.
What makes rural hospitals different than urban facilities is typically the number of beds, services offered, and proximity within a community.
On average, rural hospitals have 25 beds, which is less than one-third the beds compared to the urban average of 76 beds. In addition, some rural hospitals do not have intensive care units, and some are 35 miles away from the next nearest hospital.
"For rural communities, the population is older, sicker, has a greater percentage of chronic health care needs. I just described the population most at risk for COVID-19,” said Alan Morgan, CEO of the NRHA.
According to the NRHA, rural providers are overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients and their limited resources are being strained to the breaking point.
Blaine County, Idaho, has more than 300 positive COVID-19 patients but is only a small rural hospital with 25 beds for the community. Eagle County, Colo., has more than 300 positive cases, but its county hospital has only 56 beds.
Making things worse is some rural hospitals can’t afford to keep their doors open.
CUOMO: ANTIBODY TEST COULD BE CRITICAL IN RETURN TO NORMALCY
Data from the NRHA revealed that 47 percent of the nation’s rural hospitals were operating at a loss prior to COVID-19.
Rural hospitals are being forced to stop outpatient services and elective procedures to keep up with the possible demand from the coronavirus.
“It’s really an unusual circumstance where they’re desperate for cash now but they need to keep their hospitals open to prepare for a surge to come," Morgan told Fox News. "It’s the worst possible situation for many of these rural hospitals.”
Congress recently approved a $2.2 trillion stimulus package that would allocate $100 billion to health care.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The NRHA sent a letter to Congress asking that a portion be set aside for rural hospitals over fears that funds will be depleted before reaching rural communities.
“Rural providers care for 20 percent of the nation’s population. Because they are proportionately older and have higher percentages of comorbidities, rural Americans are extraordinarily vulnerable to COVID-19,” the letter reads. “Without at least 20 percent set aside rural, we believe small, rural, and isolated providers may not be able to access the funds before they are depleted by other facilities.”


foxnews--2020-04-09--Jennifer Stone joins slew of celebs getting 'ready to join' front lines of coronavirus fight

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Jennifer Stone is now ready to play a nurse -- in real life .
The former `` Wizards of Waverly Place '' actress has announced via Instagram that she has completed nursing school and is now a registered nurse , preparing to join the fight against coronavirus .
In a post shared on Tuesday , Stone , 27 , shared a photo of her three medical badges : one as a volunteer , another as a student nurse and a final @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nurse .
`` A very good friend of mine ... pointed out to me that today is # worldhealthday , '' the actress wrote in the caption .
`` It is also the day I went from a volunteer , then a student nurse , and now an RN resident . ''
Furthermore , she added : `` I just hope to live up to all of the amazing healthcare providers on the front lines now as I get ready to join them . ''
Stone posted again on Wednesday , showing off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wearing it .
`` Why am I giving a thumbs up like a lame uncle ? ''
the caption read .
`` Because I ’ m wearing a mask to flatten the curve ... '' Stone then noted that followers ca n't see her smiling , which was prompted by hitting 300,000 followers on Instagram .
JOHN PRINE 'S WIFE FIONA SPEAKS OUT AFTER HIS DEATH , URGES ALL AGES TO TAKE CORONAVIRUS 'SERIOUSLY' The Disney star revealed that she earned her nursing degree in December of 2019 , celebrating with an Instagram @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with her certificate .
`` It ’ s been a long road of blood ( mostly other people ’ s ) , sweat , and tears ( those were mine ) , '' she said in the caption .
`` But I can finally call myself a nursing grad !
Now to start studying for NCLEX !
Stone , who played Harper on `` Wizards of Waverly Place , '' indicated that she has n't given up on acting , adding the hashtags `` # actorbyday '' and `` # nursebynight '' to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of other high-profile celebs who have returned to their previous positions in the medical field amid the pandemic .
This week Miss England 2019 , Bhasha Mukherjee , announced her decision to cut her title duties short and return to the United Kingdom to join the National Health Service as a junior doctor .
In an interview with Fox News , Mukherjee said she knew it was the right time to join in the fight .
`` It was n't a tough decision , '' Mukherjee told Fox News on Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkey , and India was the first of the Asian countries I was going to travel to .
After India , I had several other countries that had to be cut short because of obviously the coronavirus .
I knew the best place for me would be back at the hospital . ''
Similarly , former `` Love Island '' star Malin Andersson , who is also a trained elderly and palliative carer , revealed on Twitter she was returning to her former job to help those affected with COVID-19 .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my own anymore knowing I have training within the sector .
My heart hurts for them , and if I can give something more then what I ’ m doing - then I am satisfied , '' she wrote .
TIPS ON TALKING CORONAVIRUS WITH YOUR KIDS After her first shift , Andersson updated her followers to let them know her heart feels `` so , so full . ''
Anna Vakili , another `` Love Island '' alum , quit her former job as a pharmacist before joining the series in 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Instagram followers that the pandemic inspired her to return to the medical field .
`` First day back working as a Pharmacist since leaving Love Island .
It ’ s been almost a whole year !
Wow can ’ t believe how fast it ’ s gone .
Wasn ’ t really planning on registering yet but with everything that ’ s going on it felt wrong not to .
We can all fight this together .
Stay safe .
Stay home .
Save lives 💙 , '' she captioned a photo of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While a majority of stars likely did not start out in the medical field , Rita Ora proved that there are still opportunities to help provide relief during the global health crisis .
The `` Ritual '' singer 's mom revealed in an interview with Hello !
that Ora has signed up as an NHS volunteer , which could involve administerial responsibilities to delivering medical supplies .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP '' She 's very keen to do her bit , '' Ora 's mother shared .
`` She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 750,000 people who have applied to help out and prevent this illness coming through our door and overwhelming the NHS .
They 'll be among the people who deliver medical supplies , collect prescriptions , check on the elderly and make phone calls to lonely and vulnerable members of the community . ''

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Jennifer Stone is now ready to play a nurse -- in real life.
The former "Wizards of Waverly Place" actress has announced via Instagram that she has completed nursing school and is now a registered nurse, preparing to join the fight against coronavirus.
MASTER P HELPS NEW ORLEANS DURING CORONAVIRUS, OFFERS HAND SANITIZER, HOME CLEANINGS
In a post shared on Tuesday, Stone, 27, shared a photo of her three medical badges: one as a volunteer, another as a student nurse and a final indicating that she's become a registered nurse.
"A very good friend of mine... pointed out to me that today is #worldhealthday," the actress wrote in the caption. "It is also the day I went from a volunteer, then a student nurse, and now an RN resident."
Furthermore, she added: "I just hope to live up to all of the amazing healthcare providers on the front lines now as I get ready to join them."
CELEBRITIES PROVIDE CORONAVIRUS REFLIEF WITH DONATIONS
Stone posted again on Wednesday, showing off her facemask and explaining her reason for wearing it.
"Why am I giving a thumbs up like a lame uncle?" the caption read. "Because I’m wearing a mask to flatten the curve..."
Stone then noted that followers can't see her smiling, which was prompted by hitting 300,000 followers on Instagram.
JOHN PRINE'S WIFE FIONA SPEAKS OUT AFTER HIS DEATH, URGES ALL AGES TO TAKE CORONAVIRUS 'SERIOUSLY'
The Disney star revealed that she earned her nursing degree in December of 2019, celebrating with an Instagram post containing a video of herself dancing with her certificate.
"It’s been a long road of blood (mostly other people’s), sweat, and tears (those were mine)," she said in the caption. "But I can finally call myself a nursing grad! Now to start studying for NCLEX!
Stone, who played Harper on "Wizards of Waverly Place," indicated that she hasn't given up on acting, adding the hashtags "#actorbyday" and "#nursebynight" to her post.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Stone now joins a number of other high-profile celebs who have returned to their previous positions in the medical field amid the pandemic.
This week Miss England 2019, Bhasha Mukherjee, announced her decision to cut her title duties short and return to the United Kingdom to join the National Health Service as a junior doctor. In an interview with Fox News, Mukherjee said she knew it was the right time to join in the fight.
"It wasn't a tough decision," Mukherjee told Fox News on Tuesday. "I've been to Africa, Turkey, and India was the first of the Asian countries I was going to travel to. After India, I had several other countries that had to be cut short because of obviously the coronavirus. I knew the best place for me would be back at the hospital."
Similarly, former "Love Island" star Malin Andersson, who is also a trained elderly and palliative carer, revealed on Twitter she was returning to her former job to help those affected with COVID-19.
"I can’t sit at home on my own anymore knowing I have training within the sector. My heart hurts for them, and if I can give something more then what I’m doing - then I am satisfied," she wrote.
TIPS ON TALKING CORONAVIRUS WITH YOUR KIDS
After her first shift, Andersson updated her followers to let them know her heart feels "so, so full."
Anna Vakili, another "Love Island" alum, quit her former job as a pharmacist before joining the series in 2019. Last week, she alerted her Instagram followers that the pandemic inspired her to return to the medical field.
HOW DANGEROUS IS CORONAVIRUS?
"First day back working as a Pharmacist since leaving Love Island. It’s been almost a whole year! Wow can’t believe how fast it’s gone. Wasn’t really planning on registering yet but with everything that’s going on it felt wrong not to. We can all fight this together. Stay safe. Stay home. Save lives
While a majority of stars likely did not start out in the medical field, Rita Ora proved that there are still opportunities to help provide relief during the global health crisis.
The "Ritual" singer's mom revealed in an interview with Hello! that Ora has signed up as an NHS volunteer, which could involve administerial responsibilities to delivering medical supplies.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
"She's very keen to do her bit," Ora's mother shared. "She and her older sister Elena are among the 750,000 people who have applied to help out and prevent this illness coming through our door and overwhelming the NHS. They'll be among the people who deliver medical supplies, collect prescriptions, check on the elderly and make phone calls to lonely and vulnerable members of the community."


foxnews--2020-04-09--Thomas Modly’s trip to USS Theodore Roosevelt cost taxpayers $243G: report

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Acting Navy Secretary Thomas Modly ’ s trip to the coronavirus-stricken USS Theodore Roosevelt last weekend cost him his job , a two-week quarantine — and the American taxpayer a reported $ 243,000 .
The United States shelled out the big bucks to send Modly out to the ship docked in Guam , where he badmouthed fired Capt .
Brett Crozier in a speech to his former crew , according to a trip cost estimate reported by USA Today .
Modly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for military use with per-hour cost of flying at $ 6,946.19 per hour , a Navy official told the outlet .
The flight time for the Guam trip was about 35 hours for a cost of $ 243,116.65 .
EX-USS COLE COMMANDER ON USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT CONTROVERSY : 'THERE WAS A FAILURE IN THE CHAIN OF COMMAND' Modly promptly resigned Tuesday after trashing Crozier for using improper channels last week to warn that the virus had spread among his crew , saying Crozier was “ naive ” and “ stupid ” for using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of command .
“ What the f–k ?
” an apparent sailor is recorded shouting in leaked audio as Modly criticized Crozier .
“ He was just trying to help us !
” another man ’ s voice protests .
Crozier had warned last week that COVID-19 was spreading among many his 5,000-person crew .
After docking in Guam , at least 230 people aboard — including Crozier — tested positive for COVID-19 .
President Trump said during a Tuesday night news conference that Modly didn ’ t have to resign over speech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end the controversy .
“ The whole thing was very unfortunate , ” Trump said at a press conference Tuesday night .
CLICK HERE FOR MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE “ The captain should not have written a letter , he didn ’ t have to be Ernest Hemingway , ” Trump said of Crozier .
“ He made a mistake but he had a bad day .
”

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Acting Navy Secretary Thomas Modly’s trip to the coronavirus-stricken USS Theodore Roosevelt last weekend cost him his job, a two-week quarantine — and the American taxpayer a reported $243,000.
The United States shelled out the big bucks to send Modly out to the ship docked in Guam, where he badmouthed fired Capt. Brett Crozier in a speech to his former crew, according to a trip cost estimate reported by USA Today.
Modly flew aboard a Gulfstream business jet modified for military use with per-hour cost of flying at $6,946.19 per hour, a Navy official told the outlet. The flight time for the Guam trip was about 35 hours for a cost of $243,116.65.
EX-USS COLE COMMANDER ON USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT CONTROVERSY: 'THERE WAS A FAILURE IN THE CHAIN OF COMMAND'
Modly promptly resigned Tuesday after trashing Crozier for using improper channels last week to warn that the virus had spread among his crew, saying Crozier was “naive” and “stupid” for using email to alert people outside his chain of command.
The comments angered sailors.
“What the f–k?” an apparent sailor is recorded shouting in leaked audio as Modly criticized Crozier.
“He was just trying to help us!” another man’s voice protests.
ACTING NAVY SECRETARY RESIGNS AFTER CRITICIZING OUSTED USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT COMMANDER
Crozier had warned last week that COVID-19 was spreading among many his 5,000-person crew. After docking in Guam, at least 230 people aboard — including Crozier — tested positive for COVID-19.
President Trump said during a Tuesday night news conference that Modly didn’t have to resign over speech, but that he hoped it would end the controversy.
“The whole thing was very unfortunate,” Trump said at a press conference Tuesday night.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
“The captain should not have written a letter, he didn’t have to be Ernest Hemingway,” Trump said of Crozier. “He made a mistake but he had a bad day.”


foxnews--2020-04-09--Coronavirus pandemic forces funeral homes, morgues into the frontline fight

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Sign up here .
In the hardest-hit coronavirus hotspots across the country , funeral homes and morgues are being worked to their breaking point in an attempt to keep up with the deadly pathogen .
`` It has gone from 'it can never happen here ' to 'oh my God , I ca n't believe it 's happening here , ' '' Michael Stack , funeral home assistant at Branchburg Funeral Home in N.J. , told Fox News .
`` Aside from the risk we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus , we fear for the safety and health of our families , as well . ''
More than 14,500 people have already died across the country .
The situation in New York , the current epicenter of the outbreak , is especially grim .
As of Thursday , coronavirus had claimed the lives of more than 6,270 individuals statewide – more than 43 percent of the national burden .
National Guard teams are currently removing upwards of 150 bodies from across New York City every day – six times the average @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the ascending body count , hospitals have had to call on refrigerated trucks to store the dead .
Earlier this week , New York City Councilman Mark Levine , who is chair of New York City Council Health Committee , tweeted that the city 's parks would potentially be used for `` dignified , orderly '' burials , but the notion was later squashed by a spokesperson for Mayor Bill de Blasio , who said that officials were only `` exploring using Hart Island for temporary burials if the need grows .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jersey , the second most infected state in the country , more than 1,500 people have succumbed to coronavirus in recent weeks .
According to Stack , the first question they now must ask with every phone call they receive , is : How did he or she pass ?
And they prepare to hear the wincing words , `` coronavirus . ''
`` This leads to a barrage of other questions , both in our office and of the loved ones , '' he continued .
`` These are questions regarding how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to loved ones , did loved ones self-quarantine ?
Being compassionate and with the family 's ' feelings in mind , we have to take them at their word . ''
For these funeral workers , on top of dealing with an overwhelming workload , tapped out resources and staff shortages in an already aging profession , they are also concerned for their own safety .
Some are choosing not to embalm the bodies of those who have died from coronavirus , as per recommendations from the World Health Organization ( WHO ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prevention ( CDC ) , however , has stopped short of explicitly urging funeral homes to cease embalming .
But it has cautioned that `` direct contact '' with those who have succumbed be avoided .
And the issue of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) remains a point of concern .
`` PPE is in a very critical state .
As the media has been reporting on hospitals and their shortages , we are in dire need of supplies , '' noted Gene Allen , president of the Texas Funeral Association ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this becomes a far greater crisis , and if or when the experts ' forecasts become a reality on the death numbers , we are going to be in a far more critical state for supplies than we already are . ''
Most facilities have a month 's supply on tap , but given much of the needed N-95 masks and surgical gloves are sourced from outside the country , it is unclear if supply will meet the demand as stockpiles diminish .
Nonetheless , other critical needs such as caskets and embalming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making them easier to come by .
Stack said that they now continue to wear their PPE even after the embalming process .
Funeral homes are also having to use three times the amount of cleaning and disinfectant materials than they did previously .
But several funeral home workers emphasized that they simply do not know for how long a deceased victim may be infectious .
Some speculated 72 hours , others said longer , but the jury is out .
Adding to the tremendous pain and grief families have to endure in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notion that not only could they not be by a loved one 's side in their final stretch of life , but they can not be there to bid a proper goodbye , either .
Mourners can neither gather in solace due to social distancing mandates , nor hold viewings , wakes or engage in other comforting rituals at churches , temples , mosques , and other houses of worship as almost all have been ordered shut .
DO COUNTRIES WITH HIGH RATES OF MALARIA HAVE FEWER CORONAVIRUS DEATHS ?
Funeral homes have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farewell , shifting to virtual services , in which one permitted family member can live-stream some form of ceremony for the grieving , sheltering in their homes .
`` There is a grieving process that our culture is accustomed to , and , in an instant , it was all changed due to the spread of the virus .
( Virtual services ) are still being worked on and logistics being figured out , but thus far , most have been recorded on a cellphone and saved for the family , '' Stack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put on a thumb drive and/ or burned to a disc for the family to have and to cherish forever . ''
And from the lens of Dr. James Mercer , owner of the Austin , Texas-based Heritage Funeral Homes , the explosion of the pathogen has stripped many of what were always considered to be fundamental rights .
`` The act of funeral rites goes back as long as the human race .
The act of showing respect for those we have lost has psychological benefits .
Being able to show our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain to have something physical to do when nothing else can be done , '' he lamented .
`` ( And ) not being able to have physical contact during the final hours and moments of life is devastating to those who are left behind .
No one wants to die alone , and the restrictions on funerals and funeral rites will have a lasting effect on the loved ones left behind . ''
Mercer also underscored that many workers are experiencing high levels of grief and burnout as the pandemic rages , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sick – or contracts coronavirus – it severely deepens the already maxed-out essential service .
Yet in one minor silver lining , directors have also noted that they see fewer fatalities from other tragedies , such as accidents and homicides as a result of the almost nationwide lockdown .
But even when those woes and other deaths do strike , families are once again not allowed to cluster and subject to the same separation protocols .
And as states like New York , New Jersey , Michigan and California continue their bitter fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bracing for a deluge of deaths .
`` We have been advised to expect a drastic increase in the deaths in Alabama .
If that occurs , it will take a toll on funeral service professionals , '' added Randy Anderson , a spokesman for the National Funeral Directors Association ( NFDA ) , who serves as a funeral director at Radney Funeral Home , in Alexander City , Ala. `` Many are not well stocked with personal protective equipment , and there is limited refrigerated storage in most funeral homes .
Funeral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prepare for the possibility of an increased death rate . ''

Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here.
In the hardest-hit coronavirus hotspots across the country, funeral homes and morgues are being worked to their breaking point in an attempt to keep up with the deadly pathogen.
"It has gone from 'it can never happen here' to 'oh my God, I can't believe it's happening here,'" Michael Stack, funeral home assistant at Branchburg Funeral Home in N.J., told Fox News. "Aside from the risk we are all taking in regards to contracting the virus, we fear for the safety and health of our families, as well."
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
More than 14,500 people have already died across the country. The situation in New York, the current epicenter of the outbreak, is especially grim. As of Thursday, coronavirus had claimed the lives of more than 6,270 individuals statewide – more than 43 percent of the national burden.
National Guard teams are currently removing upwards of 150 bodies from across New York City every day – six times the average number.
CORONAVIRUS UNKNOWNS IGNITE CONCERNS FOR PREGNANT WOMEN, NEWBORNS
In an effort to grapple with the ascending body count, hospitals have had to call on refrigerated trucks to store the dead. Earlier this week, New York City Councilman Mark Levine, who is chair of New York City Council Health Committee, tweeted that the city's parks would potentially be used for "dignified, orderly" burials, but the notion was later squashed by a spokesperson for Mayor Bill de Blasio, who said that officials were only "exploring using Hart Island for temporary burials if the need grows."
Across the water in neighboring New Jersey, the second most infected state in the country, more than 1,500 people have succumbed to coronavirus in recent weeks. According to Stack, the first question they now must ask with every phone call they receive, is: How did he or she pass? And they prepare to hear the wincing words, "coronavirus."
"This leads to a barrage of other questions, both in our office and of the loved ones," he continued. "These are questions regarding how long were they sick, their exposure to loved ones, did loved ones self-quarantine? Being compassionate and with the family's' feelings in mind, we have to take them at their word."
For these funeral workers, on top of dealing with an overwhelming workload, tapped out resources and staff shortages in an already aging profession, they are also concerned for their own safety. Some are choosing not to embalm the bodies of those who have died from coronavirus, as per recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), however, has stopped short of explicitly urging funeral homes to cease embalming. But it has cautioned that "direct contact" with those who have succumbed be avoided. And the issue of personal protective equipment (PPE) remains a point of concern.
"PPE is in a very critical state. As the media has been reporting on hospitals and their shortages, we are in dire need of supplies," noted Gene Allen, president of the Texas Funeral Association (TDFA). "If or when this becomes a far greater crisis, and if or when the experts' forecasts become a reality on the death numbers, we are going to be in a far more critical state for supplies than we already are."
'. . . we are going to be in a far more critical state for supplies than we already are.' — Gene Allen, president of the Texas Funeral Association (TDFA)
Most facilities have a month's supply on tap, but given much of the needed N-95 masks and surgical gloves are sourced from outside the country, it is unclear if supply will meet the demand as stockpiles diminish. Nonetheless, other critical needs such as caskets and embalming agents are made in the U.S., making them easier to come by.
Stack said that they now continue to wear their PPE even after the embalming process. Funeral homes are also having to use three times the amount of cleaning and disinfectant materials than they did previously.
But several funeral home workers emphasized that they simply do not know for how long a deceased victim may be infectious. Some speculated 72 hours, others said longer, but the jury is out.
Adding to the tremendous pain and grief families have to endure in the face of loss, is the notion that not only could they not be by a loved one's side in their final stretch of life, but they cannot be there to bid a proper goodbye, either. Mourners can neither gather in solace due to social distancing mandates, nor hold viewings, wakes or engage in other comforting rituals at churches, temples, mosques, and other houses of worship as almost all have been ordered shut.
DO COUNTRIES WITH HIGH RATES OF MALARIA HAVE FEWER CORONAVIRUS DEATHS?
Funeral homes have instead turned to other means of ceremonial farewell, shifting to virtual services, in which one permitted family member can live-stream some form of ceremony for the grieving, sheltering in their homes.
"There is a grieving process that our culture is accustomed to, and, in an instant, it was all changed due to the spread of the virus. (Virtual services) are still being worked on and logistics being figured out, but thus far, most have been recorded on a cellphone and saved for the family," Stack explained. "These videos are later put on a thumb drive and/ or burned to a disc for the family to have and to cherish forever."
And from the lens of Dr. James Mercer, owner of the Austin, Texas-based Heritage Funeral Homes, the explosion of the pathogen has stripped many of what were always considered to be fundamental rights.
"The act of funeral rites goes back as long as the human race. The act of showing respect for those we have lost has psychological benefits. Being able to show our love for the deceased allows us who remain to have something physical to do when nothing else can be done," he lamented. "(And) not being able to have physical contact during the final hours and moments of life is devastating to those who are left behind. No one wants to die alone, and the restrictions on funerals and funeral rites will have a lasting effect on the loved ones left behind."
Mercer also underscored that many workers are experiencing high levels of grief and burnout as the pandemic rages, and if one single staff member falls sick – or contracts coronavirus – it severely deepens the already maxed-out essential service.
Yet in one minor silver lining, directors have also noted that they see fewer fatalities from other tragedies, such as accidents and homicides as a result of the almost nationwide lockdown. But even when those woes and other deaths do strike, families are once again not allowed to cluster and subject to the same separation protocols.
GET THE FOX NEWS APP
And as states like New York, New Jersey, Michigan and California continue their bitter fight against the virus, other states are bracing for a deluge of deaths.
"We have been advised to expect a drastic increase in the deaths in Alabama. If that occurs, it will take a toll on funeral service professionals," added Randy Anderson, a spokesman for the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), who serves as a funeral director at Radney Funeral Home, in Alexander City, Ala. "Many are not well stocked with personal protective equipment, and there is limited refrigerated storage in most funeral homes. Funeral homes and funeral organizations are working feverishly to prepare for the possibility of an increased death rate."


foxnews--2020-04-09--Dr. Siegel: Economy cannot reopen without rapid COVID-19 testing capability

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Sign up here America 's economy can not reopen without rapid COVID-19 testing capability , Fox News medical contributor Dr. Marc Siegel said Thursday .
Appearing on `` Fox & Friends '' with host Ainsley Earhardt , Siegel said that increased testing so that those who were exposed , those who have symptoms , and those who are recovering can be tested , will let medical professionals `` so much better control this and figure out who gets back to work and what we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can reopen places where we know everybody in that place has antibodies , '' he added .
`` Now , that 's not a perfect example because you may not know how strong those antibodies are and , in some cases , we 're seeing weak antibodies after you get over it .
But , you get the idea , Ainsley . ''
Siegel also pointed out that Surgeon General Jerome Adams reported earlier that new CDC guidelines are saying that certain essential workers can go back to work even after being exposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OK with those guidelines , but I would also wish that people like bank workers , that the police , that health care workers , of course , across the board , energy workers , transit workers could be tested after they 've had exposure , '' Siegel remarked .
However , for non-essential workers , Siegel told Earhardt that they likely would not be able to return until physicians can be assured that they have n't been exposed to COVID-19 .
`` It 's not just guidelines .
Everyone out there needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidelines .
It 's how they 're applied , '' he explained .
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP '' And let 's also keep in mind that this is often asymptomatic .
So that 's the biggest problem : people can be passing this without knowing it , '' Siegel stated further .
`` The answer to [ the ] question : yes , non-essential workers can go back once we have the rapid testing and we 're using it across the board , '' he concluded .

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America's economy cannot reopen without rapid COVID-19 testing capability, Fox News medical contributor Dr. Marc Siegel said Thursday.
Appearing on "Fox & Friends" with host Ainsley Earhardt, Siegel said that increased testing so that those who were exposed, those who have symptoms, and those who are recovering can be tested, will let medical professionals "so much better control this and figure out who gets back to work and what we can reopen."
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
"And, we can reopen places where we know everybody in that place has antibodies," he added. "Now, that's not a perfect example because you may not know how strong those antibodies are and, in some cases, we're seeing weak antibodies after you get over it. But, you get the idea, Ainsley."
Siegel also pointed out that Surgeon General Jerome Adams reported earlier that new CDC guidelines are saying that certain essential workers can go back to work even after being exposed to the virus.
"I'm OK with those guidelines, but I would also wish that people like bank workers, that the police, that health care workers, of course, across the board, energy workers, transit workers could be tested after they've had exposure," Siegel remarked.
However, for non-essential workers, Siegel told Earhardt that they likely would not be able to return until physicians can be assured that they haven't been exposed to COVID-19.
"It's not just guidelines. Everyone out there needs to know, it's not just guidelines. It's how they're applied," he explained.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP
"And let's also keep in mind that this is often asymptomatic. So that's the biggest problem: people can be passing this without knowing it," Siegel stated further.
"The answer to [the] question: yes, non-essential workers can go back once we have the rapid testing and we're using it across the board," he concluded.


foxnews--2020-04-09--FDA commissioner says 'mitigation is working' in battle against coronavirus

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Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn told `` The Story '' Wednesday efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus appear to be having an effect .
`` The big picture here , I think is , as we 've heard from the coronavirus task force , is that mitigation is working .
I think that 's our number one offense and defense against this virus .
And it 's really gratifying to see some encouraging results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highlightning declines in the number of new cases .
`` I think the other thing that we will dig into as more and more data and information comes to us is , 'What are the effects of the incredible work by our providers and the care that 's provided in our hospitals ? '
'' MacCallum asked Hahn about tests for COVID-19 antibodies in the blood , which some experts say can help lift restrictions on economic activity earlier than expected .
`` What we 're looking at is really trying to identify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs over the next couple of weeks to months , '' Hahn said .
`` That will give us the best information we can have about this natural immunity and then ramping up that production .
And we 've gotten a great response from industry .
And we 'll know more about that in the next couple of weeks . ''
`` We need to have those tests for months , '' he added .
`` So the ramp-up really needs to be significant over the summer and fall months as well .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of clinical studies of the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine are months away , but added that the drug is available to physicians who wish to use it .
`` I want to emphasize that although clinical trials are really the best and first choice for generating evidence , this drug is available for doctors to prescribe if they think it 's appropriate for their patients , '' Hahn said .
`` That 's an individual doctor patient decision . ''

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Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn told "The Story" Wednesday efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus appear to be having an effect.
"The big picture here, I think is, as we've heard from the coronavirus task force, is that mitigation is working. I think that's our number one offense and defense against this virus. And it's really gratifying to see some encouraging results from mitigation," said Hahn, highlightning declines in the number of new cases. "I think the other thing that we will dig into as more and more data and information comes to us is, 'What are the effects of the incredible work by our providers and the care that's provided in our hospitals?'"
CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK, STATE-BY-STATE
MacCallum asked Hahn about tests for COVID-19 antibodies in the blood, which some experts say can help lift restrictions on economic activity earlier than expected.
"What we're looking at is really trying to identify those tests that will best serve our needs over the next couple of weeks to months," Hahn said. "That will give us the best information we can have about this natural immunity and then ramping up that production. And we've gotten a great response from industry. And we'll know more about that in the next couple of weeks."
"We need to have those tests for months," he added. "So the ramp-up really needs to be significant over the summer and fall months as well."
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Hahn also said that any results of clinical studies of the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine are months away, but added that the drug is available to physicians who wish to use it.
"I want to emphasize that although clinical trials are really the best and first choice for generating evidence, this drug is available for doctors to prescribe if they think it's appropriate for their patients," Hahn said. "That's an individual doctor patient decision."


foxnews--2020-04-09--France is building a 'Stop Covid' app, but privacy concerns could derail it

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A number of different apps from countries and companies around the world have been created in an effort to stop the coronavirus pandemic , including ones from big tech companies such as Apple .
Now , France is throwing its hat into the ring .
The country 's health and digital ministers , Olivier Véran and Cédric O , officially announced the government is creating an app in an effort to slow the pandemic , which has ravaged the globe and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In an interview with French newspaper Le Monde , Véran and O said the app is designed to `` limit the spread of the virus by identifying transmission chains.
” '' We are in an exploratory phase , but we do not want to close any doors , '' they added , according to a translated version of the article .
Despite the widespread concern about the virus , there are concerns privacy could be invaded .
Following the announcement , Amnesty International urged governments to remain vigilant in respecting citizens ' rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an important role during this mobilization to save lives , for example to disseminate public health messages and increase access to health care , '' a statement from Amnesty International says .
`` However , the strengthening of state power over digital surveillance , such as gaining access to location data from mobile phones , threatens privacy , freedom of expression and freedom of association , which could flout rights and undermine trust in government - thereby compromising the effectiveness of any public health response . ''
`` Such measures also carry a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause disproportionate harm to already marginalized populations , '' the statement added .
The app , known as `` Stop Covid , '' will not be a force install and will use Bluetooth , the two officials told Le Monde .
They added a prototype is being built that will take three to six weeks to create .
However , Cédric O cautioned the app may not be released at all , telling Le Monde by way of TechCrunch that `` Bluetooth hasn ’ t been designed to measure the distance between individuals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ researchers recently developed an app to track the spread of coronavirus and figure out who is most at risk as a way to mitigate the disease 's spread .
Known as the Covid Symptom Tracker , the free app asks users to fill in data including age , sex and postal code as well as questions on a range of existing medical conditions , such as heart disease and asthma .
As of Thursday morning , more than 1.49 million coronavirus cases have been diagnosed worldwide , more than 432,000 of which are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country on the planet .

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A number of different apps from countries and companies around the world have been created in an effort to stop the coronavirus pandemic, including ones from big tech companies such as Apple. Now, France is throwing its hat into the ring.
The country's health and digital ministers, Olivier Véran and Cédric O, officially announced the government is creating an app in an effort to slow the pandemic, which has ravaged the globe and affected more than 83,000 French citizens.
In an interview with French newspaper Le Monde, Véran and O said the app is designed to "limit the spread of the virus by identifying transmission chains.”
APPLE ANNOUNCES NEW CORONAVIRUS APP AND WEBSITE
"We are in an exploratory phase, but we do not want to close any doors," they added, according to a translated version of the article.
Despite the widespread concern about the virus, there are concerns privacy could be invaded. Following the announcement, Amnesty International urged governments to remain vigilant in respecting citizens' rights.
"Technology can and should play an important role during this mobilization to save lives, for example to disseminate public health messages and increase access to health care," a statement from Amnesty International says. "However, the strengthening of state power over digital surveillance, such as gaining access to location data from mobile phones, threatens privacy, freedom of expression and freedom of association, which could flout rights and undermine trust in government - thereby compromising the effectiveness of any public health response."
"Such measures also carry a risk of discrimination and are likely to cause disproportionate harm to already marginalized populations," the statement added.
COVID SYMPTOM TRACKER APP AIMS TO HELP STOP CORONAVIRUS' SPREAD
The app, known as "Stop Covid," will not be a force install and will use Bluetooth, the two officials told Le Monde. They added a prototype is being built that will take three to six weeks to create.
However, Cédric O cautioned the app may not be released at all, telling Le Monde by way of TechCrunch that "Bluetooth hasn’t been designed to measure the distance between individuals."
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
The news comes after British researchers recently developed an app to track the spread of coronavirus and figure out who is most at risk as a way to mitigate the disease's spread.
Known as the Covid Symptom Tracker, the free app asks users to fill in data including age, sex and postal code as well as questions on a range of existing medical conditions, such as heart disease and asthma.
As of Thursday morning, more than 1.49 million coronavirus cases have been diagnosed worldwide, more than 432,000 of which are in the U.S., the most impacted country on the planet.
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Fox News' Christopher Carbone contributed to this story.


foxnews--2020-04-09--Nevada man charged with stealing 200 masks from VA hospital, prosecutors say

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A Nevada man was arrested this week for allegedly stealing hundreds of surgical masks from a Department of Veterans Affairs medical center , prosecutors announced Wednesday .
Peter Lucas , 35 , of Reno , was arrested Tuesday and appeared in court the next day to face charges , said U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada .
According to the charges , Lucas stole about 200 surgical masks from a supply cart at the Ioannis A. Lougaris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our military veterans served on the front lines to protect our country , and now our health professionals are doing the same in our fight against COVID-19 , ” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich .
“ We will not allow the theft of personal protective equipment to go undeterred , endangering the safety of doctors , nurses , and other health professionals protecting our communities.
” Prosecutors say police surveillance cameras at the VA Medical Center showed Lucas stealing at least four boxes of surgical masks from supply carts in his care , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exiting the hospital between March 19 and March 23 , 2020 .
Each box contained 50 masks .
LAS VEGAS TEMPORARY HOMELESS SHELTER AFTER CORONAVIRUS CASE CALLED 'INHUMANE , ' PEOPLE SEEN SLEEPING ON ASPHALT Lucas faces one count of theft of health care property .
He made his first appearance in court Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carla L. Baldwin .
If convicted , Lucas faces up to one year in prison and a $ 100,000 fine .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The case was investigated by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Walkingshaw .

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A Nevada man was arrested this week for allegedly stealing hundreds of surgical masks from a Department of Veterans Affairs medical center, prosecutors announced Wednesday.
Peter Lucas, 35, of Reno, was arrested Tuesday and appeared in court the next day to face charges, said U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.
According to the charges, Lucas stole about 200 surgical masks from a supply cart at the Ioannis A. Lougaris VA Medical Center in Reno.
“Our military veterans served on the front lines to protect our country, and now our health professionals are doing the same in our fight against COVID-19,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “We will not allow the theft of personal protective equipment to go undeterred, endangering the safety of doctors, nurses, and other health professionals protecting our communities.”
Prosecutors say police surveillance cameras at the VA Medical Center showed Lucas stealing at least four boxes of surgical masks from supply carts in his care, then concealed the boxes under his jacket before exiting the hospital between March 19 and March 23, 2020. Each box contained 50 masks.
LAS VEGAS TEMPORARY HOMELESS SHELTER AFTER CORONAVIRUS CASE CALLED 'INHUMANE,' PEOPLE SEEN SLEEPING ON ASPHALT
Lucas faces one count of theft of health care property. He made his first appearance in court Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carla L. Baldwin. If convicted, Lucas faces up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine.
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The case was investigated by the VA Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Walkingshaw.


foxnews--2020-04-09--The Hilton Foundation donates $10 million towards coronavirus relief efforts

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The Hilton family is giving back in a major way .
The famous hoteliers announced via their non-profit , the Hilton Foundation , that a $ 10 million donation would be made and go towards providing aide during the coronavirus pandemic .
The foundation was started by Conrad N. Hilton , the great-grandfather of Paris and Nicky Rothschild Hilton , in 1944 .
CORONAVIRUS : WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW According to a press release sent out by the Hilton Foundation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protecting the homeless population in Los Angeles , with the other half focused on helping African countries prepare for a pending outbreak.
” The three organizations in LA that will receive the contributions are Brilliant Corners , California Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Los Angeles .
The money will help the charities `` immediately purchase essential supplies and cover expenses related to developing and implementing a COVID-19 response plan '' such as getting access to more personal protective equipment , hand sanitizer , thermometers , and testing kits .
HOW TO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charities in Africa receiving the grants are Shining Hope for Communities , The World Health Organization ( WHO ) Regional Office for Africa ( in partnership with the King Baudouin Foundation United States ) , and The United Nations Children ’ s Fund ( UNICEF ) .
“ [ WHO and UNICEF ] are collaboratively leading and supporting efforts as part of a plan agreed upon at an emergency meeting convened by the World Health Organization , Regional Office for Africa earlier this month , ” the Hilton Foundation said .
HOW TO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PANDEMIC '' It is our collective responsibility in philanthropy to continue to stay vigilant and focus on continuing to identify ways we can be nimble and responsive with our funding , and learn from our experiences in real time , both locally and abroad , '' the release added .
`` We will get through this by working together . ''

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The Hilton family is giving back in a major way.
The famous hoteliers announced via their non-profit, the Hilton Foundation, that a $10 million donation would be made and go towards providing aide during the coronavirus pandemic.
The foundation was started by Conrad N. Hilton, the great-grandfather of Paris and Nicky Rothschild Hilton, in 1944.
CORONAVIRUS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
According to a press release sent out by the Hilton Foundation, “about half will go toward protecting the homeless population in Los Angeles, with the other half focused on helping African countries prepare for a pending outbreak.”
The three organizations in LA that will receive the contributions are Brilliant Corners, California Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Los Angeles.
The money will help the charities "immediately purchase essential supplies and cover expenses related to developing and implementing a COVID-19 response plan" such as getting access to more personal protective equipment, hand sanitizer, thermometers, and testing kits.
HOW TO HELP CORONAVIRUS RELIEF THROUGH DONATIONS
The four charities in Africa receiving the grants are Shining Hope for Communities, The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa (in partnership with the King Baudouin Foundation United States), and The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
“[WHO and UNICEF] are collaboratively leading and supporting efforts as part of a plan agreed upon at an emergency meeting convened by the World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa earlier this month,” the Hilton Foundation said.
HOW TO HELP YOUR COMMUNITY DURING THE ONGOING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
"It is our collective responsibility in philanthropy to continue to stay vigilant and focus on continuing to identify ways we can be nimble and responsive with our funding, and learn from our experiences in real time, both locally and abroad," the release added. "We will get through this by working together."


foxnews--2020-04-09--Australian police raid cruise ship linked to 600 coronavirus cases, 15 deaths

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SYDNEY -- Police wearing protective gear boarded a cruise ship to seize evidence and question crew members of the vessel linked to hundreds of coronavirus infections and 15 deaths across Australia .
CLICK FOR THE LATEST ON THE CORONAVIRUS About 2,700 passengers disembarked from the ship on March 19 in Sydney and it has since become the largest source of coronavirus infections in Australia .
More than 600 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths are linked the to the ship , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police , which boarded the ship Wednesday night at Port Kembla south of Sydney , said it ’ s expected to remain in port for 10 days with its 1,040 crew undergoing medical assessments .
About 200 crew have shown symptoms of COVID-19 , while 18 have tested positive for the virus that causes it .
The workers remaining on the ship are from 50 countries .
New South Wales police Commissioner Mick Fuller said Thursday that officers seized a black box “ very similar to that of international planes ” and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been extremely helpful .
“ I can confirm there ’ s still over 1,000 crew members on the ship , ” he said , adding that three-quarters of them want to remain on the ship .
“ They feel safe on the ship and I think that ’ s a good outcome.
” On Thursday , Australia recorded its lowest increase in coronavirus cases in more than three weeks .
Health Minister Greg Hunt said there were 96 new cases , the first time there have been fewer than 100 a day since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March 28 , when 457 cases were recorded .
There have been a total of just over 6,000 and 51 deaths in Australia from the virus .
Seeking to limit the impact on the economy , lawmakers passed a wage subsidy program late Wednesday worth $ 81 billion .

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SYDNEY-- Police wearing protective gear boarded a cruise ship to seize evidence and question crew members of the vessel linked to hundreds of coronavirus infections and 15 deaths across Australia.
CLICK FOR THE LATEST ON THE CORONAVIRUS
About 2,700 passengers disembarked from the ship on March 19 in Sydney and it has since become the largest source of coronavirus infections in Australia. More than 600 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths are linked the to the ship, the Ruby Princess.
New South Wales police, which boarded the ship Wednesday night at Port Kembla south of Sydney, said it’s expected to remain in port for 10 days with its 1,040 crew undergoing medical assessments. About 200 crew have shown symptoms of COVID-19, while 18 have tested positive for the virus that causes it. The workers remaining on the ship are from 50 countries.
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New South Wales police Commissioner Mick Fuller said Thursday that officers seized a black box “very similar to that of international planes” and other evidence. He said the captain had been extremely helpful.
“I can confirm there’s still over 1,000 crew members on the ship,” he said, adding that three-quarters of them want to remain on the ship. “They feel safe on the ship and I think that’s a good outcome.”
On Thursday, Australia recorded its lowest increase in coronavirus cases in more than three weeks.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said there were 96 new cases, the first time there have been fewer than 100 a day since March 17. The peak was on March 28, when 457 cases were recorded. There have been a total of just over 6,000 and 51 deaths in Australia from the virus.
Seeking to limit the impact on the economy, lawmakers passed a wage subsidy program late Wednesday worth $81 billion.