Coronavirus: US records highest single-day fatalities; death toll crosses 1,000
The number of deaths due to coronavirus crossed 1,000 in the United States, which has quickly become one of the worst-hit nations in the outbreak. Officials reported 223 deaths on Wednesday, the highest single-day fatalities in the US. With 70,000 infected, the virus is also expected to impact the country's economy. To soften the blow, the US Senate passed a $2 trillion relief bill.
US death toll reaches 1,047; 280 dead in NYC
According to data collected by the Johns Hopkins University, 1,046 people have died from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the US. New York City is the worst-hit, reporting 280 deaths. Over 69,000 people have also been infected by the virus in the country and 619 have recovered. Earlier this month, estimates presented in the US Congress said 70-150 million people could be infected eventually.
US Senate passes $2 trillion coronavirus relief bill
Late Wednesday, the US Senate passed an 880-page coronavirus relief bill with a 96-0 vote. The bill would allow support of billions of dollars for the virus-hit industries, a boost to unemployment insurance and direct cash payments to Americans. The bill is now expected to be presented in the House on Friday. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the Democrats support the bill.
Trump says he will ratify bill if it reaches him
Pelosi said, "On Friday, the House will take up the legislation with strong bipartisan support." US President Donald Trump said he will sign the bill if it reaches his desk. He tweeted Wednesday, "96-0 in the United States Senate. Congratulations AMERICA!"
US 'has time' to avoid becoming coronavirus epicenter: WHO
After saying that the US has the potential to be the new coronavirus epicenter, World Health Organization spokesperson Margaret Harris told CNN that that does not have to be the case. She said, "The potential is there, but you've still got time to turn it around." Separately, in New York City, 200 low-level offenders will be released from jail due to COVID-19 concerns.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 was first reported in China's Wuhan city in December 2019. The disease is caused by a novel coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. The virus attacks a host's respiratory system triggering symptoms such as fever, cough, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, it may cause pneumonia, multiple organ failure, or death. COVID-19 has spread to roughly 170 countries, killing over 21,000 and sickening 4.7 lakh.
