As the United States again records more than 50,000 new cases of coronavirus in a 24-hour period, President Donald Trump has promised the country’s biggest fireworks show in recent memory to celebrate independence.
Meanwhile authorities in South Africa are concerned that their medical facilities are reaching a “tipping point” as the nation records a daily high in confirmed cases.
This story will be updated throughout Saturday and was last updated at 3: 00am.
Saturday’s key moments
- ‘Normal life’ in Russia not likely until February next year, says health minister
- Serbia’s capital declares state of emergency
- Authorities considering re-imposing restrictions as coronavirus cases surge in South Africa
- Argentina running trial of plasma as COVID-19 treatment
American Independence Day celebrations to go ahead despite record virus cases
The US is headed into the Fourth of July weekend with many parades and fireworks displays cancelled, beaches and bars closed, and health authorities warning that it could determine the trajectory of the surging coronavirus outbreak.
With confirmed cases climbing in 40 states, governors have ordered the wearing of masks in public, and families have been urged to celebrate their nation’s independence at home and keep events small.
Health experts say the weekend will be a pivotal moment in determining whether the nation slides into a deeper battle against coronavirus, of which more than 50,000 cases a day are being confirmed.
The fear is that a weekend of crowded pool parties, picn