KATHMANDU: Nearly one billion people around the world were confined to their homes as US states implemented stay-at-home orders similar to those in Europe, and as deaths from the global coronavirus pandemic surged towards 13,000.
The virus death toll soared to 13,00 worldwide as worst-hit Italy reported a one-day record number of deaths — nearly 800, with the country’s overall toll shooting past 4,800 — and Spain reported a 32 percent spike in new deaths.
France’s toll jumped by 112 to 562, as police officials said helicopters and drones were being deployed to boost the government’s attempts to keep people in their homes.
More than a third of Americans were adjusting to life in various phases of lockdown — including in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, three of the country’s most populous cities — with more states expected to ramp up restrictions.
Nearly one billion people are now confined to their homes in 35 countries, including 600 million hemmed in by mandatory government lockdown orders, according to an AFP tally.
The measures came as pressure mounted on Olympic organizers to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Games — and as the US Congress thrashes out an emergency economic package that could top $1 trillion.
(With inputs from agencies)
Comment