The COVID-19 outbreak that began in the city of Wuhan in China has spread across the world and has claimed 63,832 lives and infected 1,170,159 people so far. Several cases have been reported in many countries across the world, triggering panic about a 2003 SARS-like global outbreak.
We give you a chronological breakdown of the situation over the past few weeks. Here's a screengrab showing the latest status of coronavirus across the world:
Dec. 31, 2019: The World Health Organization (WHO) is notified by China that several cases of pneumonia caused by an unknown virus were reported in Wuhan City, in the central province of Hubei.
Jan. 1, 2020: Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan is closed down as many of the infected individuals are found to be employed there.
Jan. 5: China rules out the recurrence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) virus that killed over 770 people across the world in 2002-03.
Jan. 7: WHO states that China has announced the discovery of a new coronavirus, similar to SARS and the Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (MERS), responsible for the sickness.
Jan. 9: A 61-year-old man who had shopped at the market dies. His heart failed after treatments to alleviate his symptoms proved ineffective. He becomes the first casualty of the mystery disease though he had abdominal tumors and chronic liver disease prior to falling ill.
Jan. 11: China officially announces the sexagenarian's death and its status as the nation's first death caused by the virus.
Jan. 12: Preeti Maheshwari, 45, a school art teacher at the International School of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, becomes the first foreigner with symptoms of 2019-nCoV, admitted to the Shekou Hospital.
Jan. 13: A woman who had travelled to Thailand from Wuhan becomes the first case reported by WHO outside China.
Jan. 16: A man who had visited Wuhan is announced as Japan's first reported case by its health ministry.
Jan. 17: Authorities in the US begin screening passengers at three airports upon their arrival from China as Wuhan reports its second death. Soon, Australia, France, Malaysia, Nepal, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, the US, and Vietnam confirm the detection of 2019-nCoV cases.
Jan. 20: The third death is reported by China, where over 200 infections have been reported, including in other cities such as Beijing, Shenzhen and Shanghai.
Jan. 20: With the Lunar New Year holiday around the corner, an expert on infectious diseases from China confirms on China Central Television (CCTV) that human-to-human transmission is possible, triggering the panic button about a massive outbreak soon.
Jan. 22: Over 550 infections are reported, and the death toll rises to 17 in China. Flights from Wuhan become subjects of extra checking measures.
Jan. 23: Air and rail travel is suspended in Wuhan and the city is placed under quarantine. Two more cities from the same province, Chibi and Xiantao, are also placed under quarantine.
Jan 23: WHO says the outbreak does not qualify to be declared a 'public emergency of international concern', as sufficient evidence of the human-to-human transmission outside China is not available.
Jan. 24: The Chinese government reports over 830 infections, and the number of causalities rises to 26. Disneyland in Shanghai and the Great Wall are among many public parks or entertainment venues closed. Over 41 million people are affected as 13 cities in Hubei province announce shutdowns.
Jan. 25: The number of people affected by lockdowns rises to 56 million as five more cities in Hubei province, announce travel restrictions. Events to celebrate the Lunar New Year are cancelled by Beijing, while Hong Kong declares the virus an emergency and restricts links to the mainland. The first death outside Hubei is reported.
Jan. 26: New confirmed cases are reported in Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, South Korea and the US. Ocean Park theme parks and Disneyland in Hong Kong are shutdown. Though travel restrictions increase, over 2,000 cases of infections are confirmed, and the number of deaths rises to 56.
Jan. 27: Death toll rises to 81. Most of the deaths, 76, are in Hubei province — the ground zero. The first death is reported in the city of Shanghai. In all, 2,794 cases are confirmed.
-- CDC issues a level 3 alert — its highest level on a scale of 1 to 3 — and warns against any nonessential travel to China.
Jan. 28: China says that the death toll within the country has reached 106. The number of infected sees a drastic jump to 4,474. Most of the cases, 2,714, reported in Hubei. The total number of reported cases in Thailand increases to 14, the highest among other countries.
Jan. 29: A sharp spike is seen in the number of infected as it rises to 6,057 overnight. The death toll increases to 132. Japan, Turkey, and the US begin evacuating their nationals from the city of Wuhan.
-- British Airways becomes the first international commercial carrier to discontinue flights to and from China. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) reports its first cases of the coronavirus, making them the first in the Middle East region.
Jan. 30: Over a thousand new infection cases are reported, increasing the numbers to 7,783. The number of people succumbing to the infection rises to 170. US and Japan extract some of their citizens from Wuhan. However, the extraction of UK citizens is delayed due to non-authorisation by Chinese authorities.
-- European furniture giant, Ikea, temporarily suspends operations in China. The Australian government announces that all citizens evacuated from Wuhan will be quarantined at a detention facility in Christmas Island in order to prevent a mainland outbreak of the infection.
-- Australia, South Korea and Vietnam report new cases, while India reports its first case of an Indian student studying at Wuhan University, who returned home with the virus.
Jan. 31: WHO declares the coronavirus outbreak a global emergency as nearly 2,000 new cases are confirmed overnight, bringing the tally to 9,776. The number of deaths rises to 213. The German Foreign Ministry and the US State Department issue advisories dissuading their citizens from travelling to China.
--South Korea and France continue to evacuate their citizens from Wuhan, while Japan raises its infectious disease advisory level for China to Level 2. The US announces its first person-to-person transmission case. With misinformation about the disease increasing, Facebook announces that it will remove posts that promote misinformation and false cures for the outbreak.
--The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) event scheduled to be held in Wuhan is cancelled, and a women's Olympic qualifying tournament featuring Australia, China, Taiwan and Thailand is moved to Australia from Wuhan.
Feb. 1: The total number of cases confirmed cases increases to 11,374. The US declares a public health emergency. Australia and the US imposes travel bans against anyone flying from China, except citizens and residents. Various commercial airlines, including Australian carrier Qantas suspend flights to mainland China till March.
Feb. 2: Overnight, the total number of confirmed cases climbs to 14,628, with the number of deaths reported reaches 305. First death outside China is reported as a 44-year old man dies in the Philippines due to the infection. India reports its second case and neighbour Bangladesh suspends issuing of on-arrival visas for Chinese citizens, while Indonesia suspends all flights to-and-from China.
-- China seeks the assistance of the European Union (EU) for facilitating the purchase of medical supplies from member nations. The UAE reports it's fifth confirmed case. France helps evacuate 10 Mexican citizens stranded in Wuhan.
-- Brazilian citizens stranded in Wuhan appeal to President Jair Bolsonaro for evacuation from ground zero. Medical workers in the semi-autonomous region of Hong Kong announce a five-day strike in response to the government's refusal to accept their demand for shutting down all entry points to the city from mainland China.
Feb. 3: The Chinese stock market nosedives 9 per cent as the number of deaths increases to 362 and crosses that of the SARS outbreak in 2003. The number of confirmed cases rises to 17,373.
-- State-owned Russian Railways suspends all passenger trains to China. Medical workers in Hong Kong go on strike in response to the government's refusal of their demand. India reports its third confirmed case.
-- Vietnam confirms three new cases, while the US confirms its 11th. France's health minister announces that 36 of the 254 people evacuated from Wuhan are showing symptoms of the disease.
Feb. 4: The death toll rises to 427 and the number of confirmed cases increases to 20,613.
-- Hong Kong reports its first coronavirus death as a 39-year-old man succumbs to the infection, making it the second confirmed death outside mainland China. Hong Kong closes all border crossings with the mainland, except three.
-- CDC announces the second case of human-to-human transmission in the US. India's Kerala state where all the three cases have been reported, declares the outbreak a "state disaster".
Feb. 5: Amid rising cases, the UK announces that it will send a final flight to evacuate its citizens from Wuhan while Japan announces its fourth evacuation trip. The number of confirmed cases increases to 24,516 and the death toll stands at 493.
--The strike by health workers in Hong Kong enters its third day as chief executive Carrie Lam keeps three entry points open despite their demand for complete sealing of all entry points.
-- Carmaker Hyundai suspends production in South Korea due to disruption in the supply of parts. Nike shuts down over half its stores in China amidst lockdown. Two US carriers, United Airlines and American Airlines, cease operations to Hong Kong for two weeks following the report of the first coronavirus death in the city.
-- The Japanese Health Ministry announces that 10 passengers aboard Diamond Princess, a cruise ship carrying 3,700 passengers anchored in Yokohama Bay, test positive for the virus.
Feb. 6: The official death toll rises to 565 and the number of confirmed cases to 28,296. Chinese state media announces that a 28-year-old doctor in Hunan province, who worked for 10 days as a part of the coronavirus responders, dies; overwork is suspected as the reason.
-- China announces that the drug, Remdesivir, is in the clinical trial stage in Wuhan's Jinyintan hospital housing coronavirus patients. International sporting events such as the Asian Athletics Association, PGA Tour Series-China and World Athletics Indoor Championships, which were scheduled to be held in China are either cancelled or moved to other countries.
-- All international cruise ships are banned from docking in Taiwan by the country's health authority, as 10 more passengers aboard the Diamond Princess docked in Japan test positive for the infection.
-- Virgin Australia ceases all flights to Hong Kong while Adidas announces the closure of many of its stores in China.
Feb. 7: Singapore reports three new cases and North Korea reports its first confirmed case, as the number of confirmed cases increases to 31,520 and the official death toll rises to 638.
-- Hong Kong Airlines announces that it will cut 400 jobs and reduce its operations as the coronavirus outbreak worsens the company's financial troubles. Also, Asia's largest annual art fair, Art Basel, which was scheduled to be held in Hong Kong is cancelled.
-- Chinese scientists say that the pangolin, a mammalian that is widely trafficked, could be a possible intermediate host.
-- As Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison urges Australian nationals to leave China at the earliest, the first epidemiological report on coronavirus cases confirmed in the country is published.
Feb. 8: Japan confirms three new coronavirus cases aboard the Diamond Princess, increasing the tally on the ship to 64 infected, and Malaysia confirms its 16th case. The global death toll rises to 725 and the total number of confirmed cases increases to 34,954.
-- People holding passports from HK, China and Macau are banned by the Royal Caribbean Cruises from its ships. The US offers China $100 million in order to aid in the efforts against the containment of the disease.
-- Thailand reports new seven confirmed cases while the UAE reports two new cases. A 60-year-old US citizen dies in Wuhan due to the infection.
-- WHO says that there is a severe shortage in the supply of the protective gear due to hoarding of it.
Feb. 9: The total number of confirmed cases increases to 37,590 and the death toll to 814.
-- Chinese state media states that all schools in Hebei province will be shut till March. The second coronavirus case is confirmed in Spain. Organizers announce that the Singapore airshow will go ahead as planned.
-- The Philippines evacuates 30 of its citizens from Wuhan while the final British flight carrying evacuated citizens from Wuhan arrives in the UK.
Feb. 10: As the global death toll reaches 910, and the number of confirmed cases in the UK increases to eight, the country declares the coronavirus outbreak a "serious and imminent threat" to public health. The total number of confirmed cases rises to 40,573. China allows experts from WHO to visit.
-- Additional 60 confirmed cases are reported aboard the Diamond Princess. Airbnb suspends all bookings in Beijing till February 29. KIA, the South Korean carmaker, ceases productions in three of its factories due to a shortage of manufacturing parts from China.
Feb. 11: Two more cases are confirmed in Germany as the worldwide toll increases to 43,129 and the number of causalities reaches 1,018.
-- WHO names the novel coronavirus 'SARS-Cov-2' and the disease caused by it 'COVID-19', and says that a new vaccine will be ready in 18 months. It also urges countries to treat the virus as "public enemy number one" and step up efforts to combat it.
-- Researchers from the Imperial College London test new coronavirus vaccine on mice while Novacyt, French-British biotech company, announces that it can offer a faster test to diagnose the disease.
-- Senior medical adviser to the Chinese government says that the infection rates may peak in the month of February before subsiding as two senior health officials from the Hubei province are sacked.
-- Thailand confirms its 33rd case, a 54-year-old woman from Wuhan. The Japanese health ministry reports that two of its citizens evacuated from Wuhan test positive for COVID-19.
Feb. 12: The number of COVID-19 cases on the Diamond Princess touches 175. The Japanese health ministry reports that one of its officials surveying the infected on the cruise ships tests positive for the virus.
-- The death toll rises to 1,116 and the number of confirmed cases to 45,191 as Iran denies a suspected coronavirus death.
-- 300 staff of the Singaporean DBS Bank are evacuated from its headquarters as a precautionary measure after an employee tests positive. South Korean commercial carrier, Asiana Airlines, tells its cabin crew to go on unpaid leave following the suspension of all flights to China.
-- Dutch cruise ship, MS Westerdam, anchors in the Gulf of Thailand after four countries refuse docking amid fears that some of the 2,257 passengers may be infected.
-- General Motors Korea suspends production due to shortage in the supply of manufacturing parts. Asia Pacific stock markets rise despite concerns of a global economic meltdown and oil prices stabilise.
Feb. 13: The death toll rises to 1,370 and the number of confirmed cases to 60,363 as Japan confirms it first COVID-19 casualty, an 80-year-old woman.
-- With e3ight new confirmed cases, Singapore's tally increases to 58 while Malaysia confirms its 19th case. The number of infected cases aboard the Diamond Princess increases to 218 as 44 new cases are confirmed.
-- The UK confirms its ninth case, the first in London. The CDC confirms the 15th case in the US.
-- American carrier, United Airlines, suspends all flights to China till April. Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics and the IOC announce that the event will be held as planned.
Feb. 14: Egypt confirms its first COVID-19 case. China reports that six health workers die due to the infection.
-- Passengers from the MS Westerdam finally disembark in Cambodia after being stranded at sea for two weeks.
-- Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics state that there is no "Plan B" and that the event will be held as scheduled.
Feb. 15: France reports its first coronavirus death, making it the first in Europe. Thailand reports its 34th case, a 35-year-old medical worker.
--The official death toll rises to 1,527 and the number of confirmed cases to 67,091.
-- Chinese gymnasts withdraw from World Cup to be held in Australia amid coronavirus fears. A Japanese man who visited Hawaii tests positive for the infection after returning to Japan.
-- 67 new cases are reported on the Diamond Princess as the US prepares to evacuate its citizens from the cruise ship.
Feb. 16: Number of infected aboard the Diamond Princess increases to 355 as 70 more cases are confirmed. Hong Kong and Canada announce that they will fly their citizens, who had disembarked in Japan from the ship, home.
-- With over 2,000 new cases reported, the number of infected stands at 69,267 while the number of deaths increases to 1,670.
-- Nepal evacuates 175 of its citizens from Wuhan after protests from families of the stranded. Protests break out against setting up of new quarantine centers in Hong Kong.
Feb. 17: Thailand confirms another case while Japan cancels birthday celebrations amid the coronavirus scare.
-- The death toll rises to 1,775 and the number of confirmed cases increases to 71,811.
-- With 99 new cases, the total number of confirmed cases aboard Diamond Princess increases to 454. The US and the Philippines confirm that some of their citizens on the cruise ship have tested positive for Covid-19.
--The UAE confirms a new case. Casinos in Macau announce that they will resume operations from 20 February 2020.
Feb. 18: WHO reports 92 cases of human-to-human transmission outside China as the total number of confirmed infections stands at 73,451.
-- Russia announces that it will not permit the entry of Chinese citizens from Thursday while the global death toll stands at 1,875.
-- Jaguar Land Rover says that due to a lack of manufacturing parts from China, its UK production will be affected in two weeks. Apple's low-profit warning causes Asian stocks to tumble.
-- 6,000 hygiene masks are stolen by thieves from a hospital in Japan. The Japanese health ministry announces that 500 quarantined passengers who tested negative will be allowed to leave on Wednesday while 88 more cases are confirmed on board.
Feb. 19: Iran reports its first two cases as the number of confirmed cases increases to 75,280 and the official death toll to 2,012.
-- Nearly 800 passengers aboard the MS Westerdam test negative for the coronavirus. Hong Kong reports its second coronavirus death, a 70-year-old man, while South Korea reports 20 new cases, jumping from 31 to 51 in one day.
-- While the number of deaths crosses the 2,000-mark, the number of new cases in China drop. Wuhan's new Communist Party secretary says authorities will face strict action if the spread of the infection is not halted.
-- 92 cases of human-to-human transmission of Covid-19 outside China, across 12 countries, is reported by WHO.
Feb. 20: The official death toll rises to 2,130. However, the number of confirmed cases shows very limited rise and stands at 75,778.
-- The number of confirmed cases on Diamond Princess increases to 634. Iran reports three new coronavirus cases, while the first two patients who tested positive for Covid-19 succumb to the infection.
-- Following the arrival of evacuees from Wuhan, protests erupt in Ukraine over fears of an outbreak and protesters clash with the police. United Nations AIDS agency says that lockdowns could affect access to vital HIV drugs in China, putting HIV patients in the country at risk.
-- As the number of confirmed infections rises to 104 in South Korea, the first coronavirus death is reported.
Feb. 21: As Iran begins reporting confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths, Kuwait's civil aviation authority grounds all flights to and from Iran.
-- Worldwide death toll reaches 2,250 and confirmed cases touch 76,798.
-- A 78-year-old man becomes Italy's first Covid-19 casualty as 16 cases are confirmed in the northern regions of Lombardy and Veneto. Authorities in 10 Italian towns order closure of public spaces such as bars and schools.
-- The UAE reports two new novel coronavirus cases, bringing its total to 11. A woman travelling from Iran becomes Lebanon's first confirmed case. Israel reports its first case.
Feb. 22: Iran reports one more death and 10 new cases, increasing its tally to five deaths and 28 infections.
-- The number of confirmed cases across the world increases to 77,923 and the official death toll to 2,362.
-- Italy reports its second Covid-19 death. South Korea reports 87 new cases, drastically increasing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 433.
Feb. 23: The number of confirmed cases in South Korea witnesses a massive spike as the total reaches 602, with 6 deaths. Iran confirms 43 cases and eight deaths.
-- The global death toll rises to 2,466 and the number of confirmed cases to 78,891.
-- Afghanistan, Jordan and Turkey ban travel to and from Iran. The country's health minister says that travel to China is the cause of the spread within the Middle Eastern nation.
-- Italy reports several new cases as the number of confirmed cases touch 132 and the Venice carnival is suspended.
Feb. 24: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Iraq and Kuwait report their first cases of coronavirus infections.
-- The death toll rises to 2,626 and the number of confirmed cases to 79,524 as Korea reports over 100 new cases in one day and Italy confirms fifth death.
-- China announces that over 3,000 medical staff have been infected with COVID-19 so far while the country's parliamentary session is postponed.
-- Austria suspends train services to Italy and Iraq closes its border with Kuwait to prevent the spread of infection.
Feb. 25: Croatia and Austria report first cases while Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Thailand and Spain report more cases.
-- The total number of cases in South Korea rises to 977, while the number of cases across the world stands at 80,346. South Korea announces plans to test 200,000 members from Shincheonji Church of Jesus — reportedly the epicenter of the outbreak in the country.
-- The death toll in Iran, South Korea and Italy increase to 16, 12 and seven respectively, while the number of deaths worldwide reaches 2,705.
-- Iraq bans travellers from seven countries and the UAE limits flights to Dubai from Iran. US President Donald Trump seeks $2.5 billion from the US Congress to fight the spread of COVID-19.
Feb. 26: Algeria, Brazil and Greece confirm their first cases of COVID-19 while South Korea confirms over 100 cases bringing the number of cases reported in the country to 1,261.
-- The official death toll rises to 2,770 and the number of confirmed cases shows very limited rise and stands at 81,245.
-- Japan says that planning for the Olympics scheduled for later this year in the island nation will continue. US President Donald Trump announces a press conference to address the coronavirus situation on Wednesday. US soldier stationed in South Korea tests positive for COVID-19.
-- International airlines, Air Canada and Egyptair extend the suspension of flights to several Chinese cities and Etihad Airways suspends flights to Hong Kong.
-- Kuwait, China, Bahrain, Thailand, Japan, Iran, France and Italy report new deaths. Several passengers from the cruise ship, Diamond Princess, who were let into Japan develop symptoms of the diseases, to be tested.
Feb. 27: China's National Health Commission confirms 433 that cases were recorded on Wednesday along with 29 deaths as the total number of confirmed cases across the world increases to 82,446 while the death toll shows a limited increase to 2,808.
-- More new cases are reported in Britain, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Greece and Switzerland. Estonia and Denmark report their first confirmed cases, increasing the number of European countries with confirmed cases to over 15.
-- Japanese automobile maker, Nissan, temporarily suspends production due to lack of supply of manufacturing parts from China. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe calls for a nationwide shutdown of schools amid infection fears.
-- Hundreds of cases are reported in South Korea on Thursday increasing the number of confirmed cases in the country to 1,766.
Feb. 28: Belarus, Lithuania, Wales and New Zealand report their first cases. Nigeria also confirms its first case, making it the first confirmed case in sub-Saharan Africa.
-- As the COVID-19 infection spreads to 57 countries, the global death toll rises to 2,867 and the total number of confirmed cases increases to 83,774.
-- South Korea continues to report cases as the number of cases steadily rises and stands at 2,337, prompting boy band, BTS, to cancel their Korean tour. The death toll in Korea increases to 13.
-- Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga and the staff who accompanied him during a recent visit to China are placed under quarantine. Pope Francis who cancelled an official engagement on Thursday after feeling "sick", cancels more meetings.
Feb. 29: Thailand, Taiwan, Pakistan and Lebanon report new cases as the worldwide total of reported cases rises to 85,688.
-- Qatar reports its first case. South Korea continues to struggle as over 800 cases are reported on Friday, taking the number of confirmed cases in the country to 3,150.
-- Iran reports nine more deaths as the number of casualties across the world increases to 2,933.
-- 427 new cases and 47 deaths are reported in China as the number of cases and deaths in the country touches 79,251 and 2,835 respectively.
Mar. 1: The Czech Republic and Armenia become the latest countries to report their first COVID-19 cases, increasing the total number of countries with confirmed cases to 66. First casualties are reported in Australia and Thailand.
-- Australia, Lebanon, the UK and Qatar report more cases as the death toll in Iran increases to 54. South Korea reports hundreds of cases adding to the tally that stands at 3,526. The number of cases worldwide increases to 87,446 and the death toll touches 2,990.
-- Pakistan, which has reported four cases of the coronavirus, shuts its border with Afghanistan. Adding to the woes of containing the infection, a dog belonging to a COVID-19 patient tests "weak positive" for the infection, officials say.
-- Churches in South Korea suspend services amid fears of a spread of infection. French officials announce the shutdown of The Louvre Museum in Paris.
Mar. 2: Andorra, Iceland, Indonesia and Portugal report their first cases increasing the number of affected countries to 68.
--The official death toll across the world crosses 3,000 and stands at 3,048. The number of confirmed cases increases to 89,197.
-- The US reports a second COVID-19 death — a 70-year-old man in the state of Washington. Kazakhstan announces the barring of Iranian nationals from entering the country from March 5 while Israel heads to the polls in the midst of the virus outbreak.
-- With over 500 cases reported in one day, the number of cases in South Korea increases to 4,335.
Mar. 3: Germany, India, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar and South Korea report new cases as the total number of reported cases across the world increases to 92,314.
-- Ukraine reports its first case as Iran continues to see new cases. With 77 deaths, stands second in COVID-19 deaths as the worldwide toll stands at 3,131. Pirhossein Kolivand, the nation's head of emergency medical services, tests positive for coronavirus.
-- Pope Francis tests negative for COVID-19. Twitter asks employees to work from home amid growing coronavirus fears.
-- Canada asks travellers from Iran to self-isolate. Shanghai authorities say that visitors from coronavirus-stricken countries will be quarantined for 14 days.
Mar. 4: India reports more cases, the number of reported infections rise to 28. Iraq reports its first two COVID-19 deaths. The global death toll stands at 3,214.
-- More countries continue to report cases as the total number of cases across the world reaches 94,261 across 82 countries. Hungary and Poland confirm first cases.
-- Amid growing fears of spread of the coronavirus infection, Saudi Arabia suspends Umrah pilgrimage, while Iran cancels Friday prayers and bans officials from travelling.
-- The Chinese Medical Association says the median incubation period of SARS-CoV-2 is 5-7 days and the maximum of 14 days. Chinese scientists identify two strains of the coronavirus.
-- Japan announces that the Olympics 2020 will be held as scheduled. The London Book Fair is cancelled.
March 5: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, Slovenia, South Africa and Switzerland report their first cases, increasing the number of countries with confirmed cases to 89.
-- Number of COVID-19 deaths sees a spike in Italy and Iran, with 148 and 107 reported deaths respectively. The total number of deaths across the world stand at 3,347.
-- The number of deaths in China crosses 3,000 as the number of cases reported worldwide stands at 97,840.
-- Israel and the US cancel joint military exercise. England versus Italy Six Nation rugby match is postponed.
March 6: WHO urges all countries to make containment a priority as the global total of confirmed cases crosses the 100,000-mark and stands at 101,583 and the death toll reaches 3,460.
-- Cameroon, Peru, Serbia, Togo and the Vatican confirm first cases, increasing the number of countries affected by COVID-19 to 97.
-- US President Donald Trump signs an emergency bill for the spending of $8.3 billion to aid state and local authorities in responding and battling coronavirus. Smaller EU member states urge bigger ones such as Germany and France to share essential medical supplies to halt the spread of COVID-19.
-- More cases are reported in the US sates of Maryland and New York. China reports 140 new cases and 30 more deaths. In less than 3 days, the number of cases in India jumps to 31 while the death toll in Iran and Italy increase to 124 and 197 respectively.
-- The Asian Development Bank reports that the global economic losses due to the coronavirus outbreak could amount to $347 billion while European stocks plunge amidst growing fears surrounding the disease.
-- Tokyo Olympics organisers conduct the first test event for Olympics 2020 set to be held in the country.
March 7: A massive spike in the number of confirmed cases is seen as over 4,000 news cases are reported, bringing the worldwide toll to 105,479.
-- Costa Rica, Malta and Paraguay report first cases as the number of countries with confirmed COVID-19 cases stands at 100.
-- Italy and Iran report several new deaths; the death toll touches 233 and 145 respectively. The global death toll reaches 3,555.
-- Two attendees of a conference that was also saw the presence of Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, test positive for the coronavirus. Iranian MP, Fatemeh Rahbar, dies of COVID-19.
-- Pope Francis cancels his major public appearances to prevent the spread of infection among large crowds gathering to see him. NBA star LeBron James says "I ain't playing" if fans are not allowed to attend games to contain the spread of the infection.
March 8: Andrew Cuomo, Governor of New York, declares a state of emergency in the state as the number of cases grows at an alarming rate and crosses 100. The worldwide total of confirmed cases reaches 107,900.
-- Bulgaria, the Maldives and Moldova report first cases as COVID-19 spreads to 107 countries.
-- US President Donald Trump said that "fake news media is doing everything possible" to make the US look bad as the virus spreads in the nation.
March 9: Albania reports its first two cases as the number of reported cases stands at 113,432 across 109 countries.
-- As the number of cases drastically jumps to 9,172, Italy becomes the second most affected country after China. With nearly 100 deaths reported in a single day, the number of deaths in the country sharply rises to 463 as the worldwide death toll touches 3,994.
-- WHO says COVID-19 is closer to becoming a pandemic but can be controlled through containment and mitigatory measures.
-- In a bid to contain the spread of the infection, Iran temporarily releases nearly 70,000 prisoners. Riots erupt across several prisons in Italy as precautionary measure of limiting visits to reduce chances of infection is met with severe resistance.
-- Qatar bans entry to travellers from 14 countries. Saudi Arabia extends travel bans to more countries including France, Germany and Spain.
March 10: With 168 casualties reported in just 24 hours, the number of deaths in Italy jumps to 631, while the global death toll stands at 4,259. Italy becomes the worst-hit European nation and second in the world with 10,149 cases.
-- Iran reports 881 new cases in less than 24 hours, increasing the total number of reported cases in the country to 8,042 cases, and adding to the global total of 117,730 cases.
-- The Vatican shuts down St. Peter's square and its main basilica to tourists in order to reduce the risk of spread of infection. Several countries impose closure of schools and universities, and ban public events.
-- Amid rising fears around infected travellers spreading COVID-19, several countries such as Austria, Denmark, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Portugal and Serbia impose travel restrictions and bans on countries affected by the coronavirus.
-- Congo, Mongolia, Morocco and Panama report their first cases, increasing the number of affected countries to 117 countries.
-- The US says it is likely that the number of service members and related personnel infected by the coronavirus is higher than the reported figures.
March 11: WHO finally declares the global outbreak of COVID-19 a pandemic as the total number of cases across 118 affected countries reaches 121,564.
-- Several countries report their first cases and coronavirus deaths. Bolivia, Honduras, Ivory Coast and Turkey report their first cases. Belgium, Bulgaria, Indonesia, Panama and Sweden report their first deaths increasing the number of casualties to 4,373.
-- Number of COVID-19 deaths in Iran and Italy continue to rise. Eshaq Jahangiri, Iran's senior vice president and two other members of the cabinet, become the latest Iranian officials to be stricken by the infection. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announces the allocation of € 25 billion towards fighting the pandemic in the European nation.
-- Amid the coronavirus outbreak, several events such as the Coachella music festival, FIFA Congress, and G20 Agriculture and Water meeting, are postponed. However, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics will proceed as planned chief Yoshiro Mori announces.
March 12: Adding to the tally of 4,718 global casualties, Algeria, Austria, Greece, India and Poland, report their first COVID-19 deaths.
-- French Polynesia and Guyana report their first cases as the number of confirmed cases worldwide stand at 127,863.
-- Several prominent personalities test positive for the infection. Hollywood actors Tom Hanks, and his wife Rita Wilson announce their contraction of the infection. NBA star Donovan Mitchell also tests positive. Irene Montero, Spain's Equality Minister is diagnosed with COVID-19 and Pablo Iglesias, Deputy Prime Minister of the country is also quarantined.
-- As Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior adviser to Iran's Supreme leader becomes the latest official to contract the infection and the death toll in the country touches 429, Iran seeks emergency funding of $5 billion from IMF.
March 13: As the number of COVID-19 cases in the US crosses 1,700, US President Donald Trump declares a national emergency. With nearly 10,000 new cases reported in a day, the number of infections worldwide stands at 137,445.
-- More countries report first cases as the number of countries affected by the virus increases to 117. South China Morning Post reports that the first case of an individual suffering from COVID-19 in China was traced back to November 17, 2019.
-- Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro tests negative for the coronavirus. Bulgaria declares state of emergency as the number of cases in the country rises to 23.
-- As the global death toll reaches 5,088, Italy reports 250 deaths in a single day. With several European countries reporting an increasing number of cases, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO says that Europe is the new epicenter of the pandemic.
March 14: Over 10,000 cases are reported in a single day across the globe, increasing the number of confirmed cases to 147,838 in 147 countries
-- Iran reports over 90 deaths as the number of casualties in the Middle Eastern nation rises to 611, and COVID-19 deaths in Italy sharply increases to 1,266. The global death toll rises to 5,539.
-- 11 new cases are confirmed by China's National Health Commission, all of which are travellers from other parts of the world, specifically the US, Italy and Saudi Arabia. Apple announces the closure of all its stores outside greater China till March 27.
-- Austria announces $4.4billion as a coronavirus aid package. In the US, the House of Representatives passed an aid package of $50 billion.
-- Major sporting and cultural events are cancelled or postponed across several countries.
March 15: In 24 hours, a tremendous rise in the number of cases is seen in Italy and Spain. Italy becomes the second worst-hit nation with 21,157 confirmed cases and 1,441 deaths. Spain reports nearly 2,000 cases as its tally rises to 7,798 cases and 289 deaths. The global total stands at 162,687 cases and 6,065 deaths.
-- A day After Canadian Prime Minister's wife tests positive for COVID-19, the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Begona Gomez, also tests positive. El Salvador, Kazakhstan and Lebanon declare an emergency.
-- Irish government directs pubs to suspend operations while Australia imposes self-quarantine on foreign arrivals. Countries in the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) discuss plans to tackle COVID-19.
-- Major Islamic centers such as the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and the tomb of Imam Reza in Iran close doors to avoid the spread of the coronavirus.
March 16: Number of people affected rises to 179,073 worldwide, with 7,074 deaths and 78,078 reported recoveries.
-- More European countries shut themselves off, with the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia suspending entry to foreigners. Germany partly closes its borders with five neighboring countries.
-- The US Centers for Disease Control recommends that all gatherings of more than 50 people be banned. New York City closes down its school system and orders all bars and restaurants to shut down, sparing some outlets for food takeout and delivery.
-- New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says that events of 500 people or more will not be permitted. Ayatollah Hashem Bathaei-Golpaygani, a member of the Assembly of Experts, dies of COVID-19.
-- Idris Elba and Olga Kurylenko become the latest Hollywood celebrities to test positive for the coronavirus. Chinese entrepreneur and billionaire, Jack Ma, sends test kits and masks to the US.
March 17: With 135 deaths in one day, the number of casualties in Iran rises to 988 while the global death toll jumps to 7,519. The number of deaths in Italy rises sharply to 2,503.
-- Over a 26 percent rise is seen in the UK in a single day as the number of cases increases to 1,950, adding to the global tally of 190,694.
-- China approves the trial of the first COVID-19 vaccine developed within the country. Immune response to coronavirus is mapped, say Australian researchers.
-- Several countries seal their borders to prevent the spread of the infection. Sri Lanka bans entry of all flights for two weeks. Iran frees 85,000 passengers temporarily.
-- France says nationalisation of big companies an option amid economic troubles caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Pakistan's Prime Minister calls for the removal of sanctions on Iran and write off debts to poorer countries.
March 18: Over 20,000 new cases are reported globally in a single day, leading to a tremendous rise in the number of COVID-19 cases, which stands at 212,616 across 157 countries.
-- With nearly 500 deaths reported in a single day, the number of casualties in Italy rises to 2,978, bring the number of coronavirus deaths across the world to 8,727. Rising by more than 4,000 new cases, Italy's number of reported COVID-19 cases increases to 35,713.
-- US President Donald Trump calls himself as a "wartime president" as the outbreak in the country worsens with the number of confirmed infections standing at 7,323 and deaths at 115. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, calls the disease an "enemy against humanity."
-- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison declares a "human biosecurity emergency" in the island nation, while Portugal seeks to declare a 15-day state emergency.
-- German pharma giant Bayer is said to make a significant donation of a drug that has shown some effect against the disease, to the US government. The UN estimates that 25 million jobs across the world could be affected due to the economic crisis triggered by the coronavirus pandemic.
March 19: Italy's death toll crosses that of China's. Adding to the global deaths that stand at 9,785, Italy's death toll jumps to 3,405.
-- For the first time in three months, Wuhan, the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak in China, and the province of Hubei, report zero cases. However, the worldwide tally of the number of confirmed cases rises by over 20,000 to touch 235,404.
-- As Europe struggles to contain the coronavirus outbreak, the US CDC announces that the total number of cases in the country increases to 10,491 with 150 deaths. The number of casualties in Iran rises to 1,284.
-- Michel Barnier, the European Union's chief negotiator for Brexit, announces that he tested positive for COVID-19. Thousands of foreigners and Filipinos make a rush to leave the country as a month-long lockdown is announced.
-- Experts warn that Somalia could be ravaged by the coronavirus infection if necessary measures are not put in place as the country confirms its first COVID-19 case. African nations asked to 'prepare for the worst' as the number of cases on the continent begins to rise.
March 20: In a single day, 627 deaths are reported in Italy — the largest daily jump — as the death toll in the country is the highest in the world with 4,032. The global death toll stands at 11,147.
-- Amidst speculation that youth might be invulnerable to the coronavirus, WHO chief warns the you that, "You are not invincible", with the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases reaching 265,495.
-- Ukraine imposes emergency while Brazil's senate approves a presidential decree in favour of one. National armies are called in Italy and Bulgaria to enforce lockdowns.
-- Banks in Australia announce a $57 billion loan relief package for businesses while Saudi Arabia announces that it will borrow more from debt markets to finance economic measures aimed at reducing the impact of the coronavirus outbreak.
-- As several countries continue to report more new cases, China records zero new cases for a second consecutive day. Russia begins animal testing of coronavirus vaccine prototypes.
March 21: Over 32,000 new cases are reported worldwide bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases to 297,090. Italy sees a massive spike in the number of deaths as the toll touches 4,825, and the global death toll rises to 12,755.
-- Several countries shut their borders and suspend all flights. A member of US Vice President Joe Biden's staff tests positive for the coronavirus. The Brazilian Olympic Committee (COB) and USA Track and Field (USATF) seek the postponement of the Olympics to 2021.
-- Turkey imposes curfew on patients over the age of 60. Amazon announces raise in overtime pay for associates in its US warehouses.
-- All malls, schools and restaurants in Bangkok are shut till April 12. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says that all restrictions would be called off in two to three weeks.
March 22: In a single day, 651 deaths are reported in Italy, increasing the death toll in the country to 5,476. The global death toll stands at 14,380.
-- Singapore reports 23 new confirmed cases and 98 new cases are reported in South Korea. No new cases are reported in Wuhan for a fourth consecutive day. The worldwide total of reported cases increases sharply to 328,275.
-- US Senator Rand Paul becomes the first senator to test positive for the coronavirus. German Chancellor Angela Merkel set to go into quarantine after coming in contact with a doctor who tested positive for the infection. US Vice President Mike Pence tests negative for COVID-19 after a staff tests positive for the virus.
-- Australia mulls over "draconian measures" to impose stricter social distancing. India imposes a countrywide 14-hour curfew. Ecuador replaces health minister as the number of cases in the country spikes.
March 23: Death toll in Italy touches 6,077 as 602 deaths are reported on Monday. The global casualties reach 16,113. The UK and France continue to report more deaths.
-- Several new cases are reported across many countries, bringing the worldwide total to 367,457. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says .the ."'pandemic is accelerating" and calls for countries to be aggressive in their approach.
-- Canada pulls out of Tokyo Olympics and the country's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, urges other countries to do the same. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe says holding the event could become "optional". German Chancellor Angela Merkel tests negative for the coronavirus after an infection scare.
-- Several countries including India, South Africa, Tunisia and Pakistan declare immediate or impending lockdowns to reduce the spread of the disease. Many nations call in their armies to impose lockdowns.
March 24: Italy and Spain continue to report a massive number of single-day deaths. The former reports 743 deaths, increasing its total to 6,820, and the latter reports 514 deaths as the number of casualties increases to 2,696. The worldwide COVID-19 deaths surge to 18,246 while the number of infections sees a tremendous spike as it reaches 409,014.
-- Ford Motor Co. joins General Electric and 3M Co. in manufacturing ventilators, in response to US President Donald Trump's appeal to automakers to work across disciplines and produce essential life-saving equipment. Facebook reports that its ad sales are affected by the pandemic.
-- Australia's most populous state, New South Wales, reports its highest one-day spike of 149 new cases bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 1,886. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces a 21-day lockdown in the country as the number of confirmed cases crosses 500.
-- Bahrain's finance minister Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa announces that the country will soon announce an $11.41 billion stimulus package. Thailand follows suit and announces a $3.25 billion package, and also declares a state of emergency.
March 25: Italy reports 683 more deaths, increasing the number of COVID-19 deaths in the country to 7,503. Spain registers 738 more casualties, rasing the countries death toll 3,434.
-- Turkey, England, Germany, Switzerland, and other countries report a steady rise in the number of deaths and cases, as the number of worldwide cases surpasses 454,000.
-- Spain's Deputy PM Carmen Calvo tests positive for the coronavirus. Spanish Confederation of Medical Unions (CESM) presents legal demand to the country's Supreme Court seeking adequate. Deputy British Ambassador to Hungary, Steven Dick, dies of the disease at the age of 37.
-- Russiam President Vladimir Putin calls on Russians to stay indoors and delays constitutional reforms vote. Russia considers shutting down, restaurants and cafes in order to prevent a spread.
March 26: With 82,400 cases, the US becomes the worst affected country in the world, crossing China and Italy whose totals stand at 81,782 and 80,589 respectively. The total number of COVID-19 infections stands at
-- G20 countries pledge to pump $5 trillion into the global economy to protect it against COVID-19fallout. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the US imposes sanctions on five Iranian companies and over a dozen Iranian individuals. India announces a $23 billion package to benefit the poor affected by the 21-day lockdown imposed in the country.
-- Several countries such as Honduras and Kenya, report first deaths as the global death toll reaches 22,993. WHO says that it is seeing "encouraging signs" as the number of deaths reported in Italy is reducing.
-- China says that no local cases are reported. All new cases are imported.
March 27: As US hospitals fall short of life-saving ventilators, US President Donald Trump signs an order asking carmaker, General Motors Co, to produce the equipment by invoking the Defense Production Act. The number of cases stands at 94,238, the highest in the world, and deaths stand at 546.
-- Several members of the UK cabinet test positive, including Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Other officials who test positive for COVID-19 are Health Minister Nadine Dorries and British Health Secretary Matt Hancock.
-- In order to enable debt relief to the poorest countries in the world, IMF approves changes to the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT). The financial body also announces that the global economy has entered a recession.
-- Zimbabwe announces a 21-day lockdown while Indonesia works towards the imposition of one. Israel set to call in the army to enforce lockdown. France extends its lockdown as the number of deaths reaches 1,696, adding to the total global causalities of 26,455.
-- South Korea, Thailand, New Zealand, and several other countries report new cases, bringing the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases across the world to 576,859.
March 28: US President Donald Trump mulls over imposing quarantine in Connecticut, New Jersey and New York as the number of cases in the country increases to 116,505. The global tally sees a massive rise and touches 652,079.
-- Italy's death toll crosses the 10,000 as hundreds of deaths are reported bringing the total to 10,023 as the global death toll reaches 30,313. European countries such as France, Germany, Spain, and UK, among others, continue to report new cases and deaths.
-- United States Food and Drug Administration approves new rapid test from Abbott Laboratories that can detect the disease in five minutes. UN donated 250,000 masks to coronavirus-hit New York and two million protective equipment across 74 countries.
-- Iran President Hassan Rouhani says lack of health infrastructure the reason behind the scale of the pandemic in the country as the number of cases in the country stands at 35,408 and the number of casualties is 2,517. 21-day lockdown in India hits a roadblock as thousands of migrant workers are stranded in the capital creating a serious health risk.
March 29: As the number of cases in India rises to 987 with 25 casualties, Indian railways begin converting railway coaches into isolation wards in anticipation of an increased number of infections.
-- US President Donald Trump announces extension of social distancing norms by 30 days. Amidst the rise of the number of cases to 132,627, CDC issues travel advisory to New York Area. The country's leading infectious disease expert, Anthony Fauci warns that the death toll in the country could cross 100,000.
-- Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, wife of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recovers from COVID-19. Venezuela's opposition leader, Juan Guaido, calls for the formation of a 'national emergency government' to combat the spread of the disease in the country.
-- Thomas Schaefer, the finance minister of Germany's Hesse state commits suicide amid fears of an economic crisis brought on by the pandemic. France, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Turkey report more new casualties as the global death toll touches 33,509.
March 30: As the number of cases across the world increases to 766,336 WHO says that "physical distancing" is better than "social distancing". WHO, Dr. Takeshi Kasai, Regional Director for the Western Pacific region, says that the fight against the disease was a "long-term battle" and counties must not let their guard down.
-- Human Rights Watch appeals to the Indonesian government to release "wrongfully" held prisoners including political prisoners in order to mitigate the risk of outbreaks of COVID-19 in its overcrowded prisons. Indonesia set to cease all arrivals and movement by non-Indonesian citizens, the only exception being foreigners on some diplomatic visits and foreigners with residence permits.
-- According to reports, workers at US warehouses of Amazon test positive for the infection, prompting some workers to stage a walkout at its Staten Island warehouse. Spain's Foreign Minister Arancha Gonzalez proposes an increase in the European Union's budget to tackle the pandemic-led crisis in the region.
-- Several countries including Belgium, France, Iran, and Spain report several deaths as the death toll touches 36,873.
March 31: Chris Cuomo, CNN anchor and brother of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, tests positive for COVID-19. Yhombi-Opango , Congo's ex-president succumbs to the infection. The global casualties stand at 40,708.
-- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says that the COVID-19 pandemic is the most challenging global crisis since World War II. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo reprimands those ignoring social distancing norms.
-- Saudi Arabia urges believers to postpone Hajj pilgrimage plans amid the coronavirus pandemic. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announces that the country's gyms, restaurants and schools, will remain shut at least till April 28.
-- Scientists from Imperial College London say that lockdowns could have saved up to 56,000 lives in Europe. Operations decrease by 75 percent for Qatar Airways as travel regulations and bans across the world affect the global airlines business.
-- More than 9,000 new cases are reported in New York City alone as the number of confirmed cases in the US touches 174,467. The worldwide total touches 826,222.
April 1: Joining the list of events cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus pandemic. Glasgow's COP26 is postponed to 2021. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says that he is deeply concerned over "deeply concerned" over the rapid spread of the pandemic across the world.
-- Nur Hassan Hussein, former Prime Minister of Somalia, dies after contracting COVID-19. The death toll in Iran touches 3,036 while the number of COVID-19 deaths in France, Italy and the US reaches 4,032, 13,155 and 4,076 respectively. The number of casualties across the world stands at 44,264.
-- The total number of cases in the US cross 200,000, and several countries continue to report new cases as the number of infected across the world stands at 887,067
-- Eritrea declares a 21-day lockdown to contain the spread of the disease while Sierra Leone announces a 3-day lockdown. Albania announces the extension of its lockdown—which was set to end on 3 April—till the end of the outbreak. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hints at a possible lockdown if the "voluntary quarantine" measures are not abided by citizens.
-- Turkey sends health supplies to Italy and Spain. Russian military plane carrying essential supplies leaves for the US. Department of Homeland Security officials say that US' stockpile of protective medical gear is nearly depleted.
April 2: The World Bank is set to roll out $160bn emergency aid over a period of 15 months to enable countries to deal with the impact of the pandemic. Pre-clinical testing of coronavirus vaccine commences in Australia.
-- British Airways plans to suspend nearly 32,000 staff members due to the pandemic. An alliance of Formula One companies, engineers and other industries aim to manufacture at least 1,500 ventilators a week soon.
-- Thailand is set to announce a nation-wide curfew from 10 pm and 4 am beginning on Friday as the number of cases in the country touch 1,875 cases. Doctor in Uganda say that the lockdown in the country could lead to the loss of more lives including expecting mother.
-- Bernardita Catalla, the Philippine ambassador to Lebanon dies in Beirut due to COVID-19. Jazz Legend Ellis Marsalis Jr, succumbs to pneumonia caused by the coronavirus. Yaakov Litzman, Israel's health minister and his wife test positive for the infection.
-- The Chinese city of Shenzen becomes the first city in the country to ban on the breeding and consumption of wildlife. A chartered flight from China leaves for London to evacuate Chinese students stranded in the UK.
-- The number of deaths across the world stands at 50,230 while the total number of cases touch 981,221.
April 3: The US Department of Labor reports that the US economy loses 701,000 jobs in the month of March, ending a 113-month streak of job creation. IMF says that the economic downturn set off by the coronavirus pandemic is worse than the 2008 global recession.
-- Three doctors from Iraq say that has thousands of COVID-19 as against the 772 reported by the government. Captain Brett Crozier, commander of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, is relieved of command after a stern letter about containing an outbreak on the vessel is leaked to the public.
-- Chinese foreign ministry advises foreign diplomats against visiting Beijing after the temporary travel ban against foreign travelers. Israel seals off, Bnei Brak, an orthodox town near the nation's capital Tel Aviv after a severe outbreak.
-- Matt Hancock, Health Secretary of UK says that Easter Sunday could be the peak of the infection in the country. Prince Charles opens a new 4000-bed hospital in London—named after 19th-century nurse Florence Nightingale—via video link from Scotland.
-- Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General, appeals to combatants in areas such as Libya, Syria, and Yemen, to call for a ceasefire saying the "The worst is yet to come" and that COVID-19 will affect "theatres of conflict" as well.
-- The US, Spain, and France, among others, continue to report hundreds of death in the last 24 hours. The worldwide death toll stands at 56,767 and the number of cases touches 1,076,017.
April 4: The Australian government asks over 2 million temporary visa holders such as students, visitors and skilled workers, to go home as soon as possible owing to the loss of jobs and the economic slowdown that the country is set to face due to the pandemic. An expert from Imperial College London says that the UK may relax some of its lockdown measures over the next few weeks.
-- Gulf Air announces that transit via Bahrain is open again for international travelers. As the number of imported cases increases in China, the country's southwestern Guangxi region, which shares borders with Vietnam, suspends cross-border transit.
-- Saudi Arabian authorities announce a partial curfew and a lockdown of seven neighbourhoods in the city of Jeddah in order to contain the outbreak of the coronavirus. Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi postpones the launch of several 'megaprojects' to 2021 due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
-- Ukraine has sent a 20-member team consisting of healthcare professionals to Italy for two weeks to assist Italian doctors and acquire field experience as the country expects a rise in its dom
