In this article, we highlight some of the coronavirus-related news from the weekend of March 21–22, 2020.
To date, more than 340,000 people worldwide have contracted SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19. Of these, more than 14,000 have died and almost 100,000 have now recovered.
In this short feature, we provide a snapshot of the global situation, with brief updates from selected countries.
Stay informed with live updates on the current COVID-19 outbreak and visit our coronavirus hub for more advice on prevention and treatment.
United States: Curtailing movement
The U.S. has now reported 35,000 cases of COVID-19 and 471 associated deaths. New York City alone accounts for around 5% of all cases globally.
On Saturday, the U.S. government advised nearly 1 in 4 people to stay at home. California, New York, Illinois, Connecticut, and New Jersey are now applying strict rules regarding travel. Other states are also urging people to avoid large gatherings.
In Washington, politicians are preparing to inject $1 trillion into the U.S. economy.
China: No new locally transmitted infections
On Sunday, mainland China reported 39 new cases of COVID-19. This is the first drop in numbers after 4 days of increases. All of Sunday’s new cases were in travelers returning from other countries.
The Chinese government is extending their measures to contain and minimize imported infections, screening all passengers who arrive.
Italy: Cases surpass those of China
Italy has now reported more than 5,400 deaths, compared with China’s 3,100. On Sunday, Italy banned travel within the country. They also halted nonessential business activity, such as the motor, clothing, and furniture industries.
On Sunday, however, Italy reported 651 deaths, which is down from Saturday’s 793. Officials hope that this might be a sign that the outbreak is plateauing in the country.
United Kingdom: Government threatens restrictions
The United Kingdom has now reported over 5,700 cases and 281 deaths. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has threatened to impose curfews and travel restrictions if people do not adhere to the government’s social distancing recommendations.
Currently, around 12% of adult critical care beds in U.K. hospitals are occupied by people with COVID-19.
Australia: Beaches closed
As cases in Australia reach 1,676, the government is closing bars, clubs, gyms, and places of