Coronavirus: The latest global updates on 28 March

Here are the latest developments in the coronavirus crisis:

Italy: nearly 1 000 dead in a day

Italy recorded almost 1 000 deaths, the worst one-day coronavirus toll anywhere around the world, according to the civil protection agency.

The national health institute (ISS) said Italy has not yet peaked, but could “in the next few days,” as infections continue to slow.

US: most cases  

The United States has become the country with the most coronavirus infections, as more than 97 000 people have tested positive, according to Johns Hopkins University. Nearly 18 000 cases were recorded in 24 hours.

More than 570 000 world cases

At least 26 621 deaths have been recorded since the epidemic started in China in December, according to an AFP tally compiled at 1900 GMT Friday based on official sources.

More than 572 040 cases have been declared in 183 countries and territories.

The countries with the most official deaths are Italy with 9,134, Spain (4 858), mainland China (3 292), Iran (2 378) and France (1 995).

‘Dramatic evolution’ in Africa

The World Health Organization’s regional director for Africa warned the continent faced a “dramatic evolution” of the pandemic, with some 40 nations now affected, compared with only one a month ago.

WHO sounds fresh alarm 

The WHO warned a dire lack of protective gear for health workers battling the pandemic is one of the most pressing threats in the fight to prevent deaths.

A giant 1,000-bed US naval hospital ship arrived in Los Angeles, where it will be used to ease the strain on the city’s emergency rooms. 

Confinement 

South Africa came under a nationwide military-patrolled three-week lockdown, its people joining the more than three billion across the world who have been told to stay at home.

France extended its coronavirus lockdown for another two weeks to 15 April as the premier warned of an “extremely high” surge in cases.

Belgium also extended its confinement to April 19.

 Boris Johnson infected 

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson became the first leader of a major power to test positive. An hour later, his health secretary is also confirmed positive.

US Congress passes mega package

The US House of Representatives passed a historic $2 trillion rescue package.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva said it is “clear that we have entered a recession”.

Pope stands alone

Pope Francis stood alone in Saint Peter’s Square to bless Catholics around the world suffering under the coronavirus pandemic, urging people to ease their fears through faith.

Paris fashion cancelled 

The Paris Fashion Week and the Haute Couture week, due to take place in June and July, have been cancelled. The Milan Men’s Fashion Week is also cancelled.

Cat carrier

A pet cat has been infected with the novel coronavirus after being contaminated by its owner, Belgian health authorities said, ruling out any risk of contamination to humans from home animals.

© Agence France-Presse