Get Critical COVID-19 Daily Emails

covid-19 Apr 24, 2020

For over 3 months now we have been providing critical emails on the COVID-19 crisis on a daily basis. Our first email was on February 29th, 2020 when there were zero deaths and 70 cases in the US. There are now over 100,000 deaths in the US.

Here are the coronavirus headlines of our emails from the past 3 months.

We have posted all of our past daily coronavirus email updates and the headlines since February 29th. We did this to not only document the rapid scale of change that has taken place but to also provide a historical resource for all of us. We will be linking to the full emails shortly.

February 29th, 2020: 3 New Oregon, California, Washington Cases, Latest Infection Map

On Friday February 28th, three new US cases of the Coronavirus were announced in California, Oregon, and Washington. One in Santa Clara county in the Bay Area, 1 in Lake Oswego near Portland, and 1 just north of Seattle. The origins of these three were untraceable. To date, there are four untraceable cases of the virus within the US and officials are working to track down anyone they may have come in contact with.

Experts say this may indicate signs of further spreading in the US. Worldwide, more cases have been reported in Europe, and over 800 new cases were reported in South Korea.

March 1, 2020: Washington State declares state of emergency, Rhode Island case

On Saturday February 29th, Washington State declared a state of emergency. The first death due to Coronavirus was reported in Seattle. Two others tests positive for the virus where dozens of people have reported feeling ill. Researching who have studied cases in Washington suggest the possibility the virus may have been spreading in the State for weeks.

The number of confirmed cases worldwide has reached nearly 87,000 with the virus now detected in 60 countries. There were 2,198 cases reported between yesterday and today and 4 new countries with infections. See list below. The US Food and Drug administration announced this weekend that testing for the coronavirus would be greatly expanded in the US.

March 2, 2020: 2 new Bay Area cases, another Seattle death, first New York case

On Sunday March 1st, in the US:

  • A second person in the U.S. has died from the virus, also in Seattle. Experts in Seattle say the virus may have been spreading undetected for up to 6 weeks in Washington State based based on a genetic analysis of the virus.
  • Both U.S. deaths were older adults with underlying health problems.
  • Two health care workers in the Bay Area tested positive for the virus. They had previously treated a Coronavirus patient. They both work in Vacaville, however one lives in Alameda County.
  • The first case in New York was detected, a Manhattan woman who came back from Iran.
  • Florida declares a public health emergency in response to the Coronavirus spread.
  • Across the US, there are now 88 cases confirmed, an increase of 24 cases since yesterday.

March 3, 2020: More New York and Washington cases, increases in testing

On Monday March 2nd, in the US:

  • The number of deaths in the US due to Coronavirus increased to 6, all in Washington State.
  • A new case in New York was reported, suggesting the illness could be spreading locally.
  • There are now more than 100 confirmed cases in the US.
  • The US government has been criticized for distributing defective diagnostic kits early on and restrictive testing rules, both of which may have contributed to the spread of the virus.
  • The US has said it will distribute more than a million test kits by the end of the week; officials say this most certainly will increase the number of confirmed cases.
  • On Tuesday morning, the US central bank said it would cut interest rates by half a percent; more reporting indicates the global risks posed to economic activity.

March 4, 2020: W.H.O Coronavirus study, map of new US cases, government response

The World Health Organization (W.H.O) announced that Covid-19 has a higher fatality rate than the flu but does not transmit easily. They announced their "crudely calculated" study based on overall cases and deaths, and said the current death rate is around 3%.

Meanwhile, in the US:

  • The number of deaths in the US due to Coronavirus increased to 9, all in Washington State.
  • New cases were detected in the Bay Area, 1 new case in Alameda County, 1 in Contra Costa County, and 1 in Santa Clara county. California has 45 total confirmed cases.

March 5, 2020: California declares state of emergency, cruise ship held off San Francisco

Markets continue to slide and airlines report major losses in the US and around the world. Yesterday, United announced that it would reduce its domestic flights by 20% in the coming months and its international flights by 10%.

Meanwhile, in the US:

  • The number of deaths in the US due to Coronavirus increased to 11, and the first death outside of Washington State occurred in California.
  • Total confirmed cases in the US are 160, an increase of 31 since yesterday.

March 6, 2020: First cases in San Francisco, W.H.O says "Time to Act"

The World Health Organization chief said that the "time is now" to act. Today, total global infections crossed the 100,000 mark with 90 nations having reported infections.

“This is not a drill,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the W.H.O. “This is not a time for excuses. This is a time for pulling out all the stops.”

The U.S. congress approved an $8.3 billion emergency aid bill. Stocks continued to decline globally. Passengers on board the infected cruise ship off San Francisco await their test results.

March 7, 2020: 21 infected on cruise ship off San Francisco, first East Coast deaths

The number of Coronavirus tests in the US continued to increase this week due to the change in testing criteria. It is widely expected that every day we will see more confirmed cases being reported across the country. However, doctors and patients across the country are reporting that testing kit availability remains limited. The financial markets continued to decline on Friday. 21 cases were confirmed on a cruise ship off San Francisco. Here are the rest of the US and global updates from the past 24 hours:

March 8, 2020: Over 100 new US cases, weekly map comparison

The total number of Coronavirus cases in the US as of Sunday morning is now 430. The Grand Princess Cruise ship will dock at the Port of Oakland on Monday while all the passengers undergo testing and quarantine. Meanwhile, Italy puts it entire northern region under quarantine, and China appears to have new infections under control as the daily new cases rate has dropped.

March 9, 2020: U.S. stocks plunge, Over 500 total U.S. cases

The total number of Coronavirus cases in the US as of Monday morning is now 545 with over 22 deaths, according to the NYTimes dataset. In the first several minutes of the stock market opening, the stock market fell by 7% triggering an automatic halt to trading. European and Asian markets also dived, and oil and bond prices tumbled.

Meanwhile, a lockdown continued in northern Italy affecting 16 million people, the largest restriction of movement ever during peacetime in a Western democracy.

March 10, 2020: Italy locks down entire country, 2 new US states report infections

Yesterday, Italy locked down the entire country of 60 million in an effort to control the outbreak. The virus has now been detected in over 100 countries. The stock market and oil prices tumbled. Below we share the latest numbers as well as infection and fatality rates by age group based on a study from the C.D.C.

March 11, 2020: 100+ countries with infections, US government gives tips

Today, stocks continue to slide as global infections increase and investors worry that government measures to bolster economy won't be enough. Over 100 countries have reported cases of the coronavirus, and 37 U.S. states have reported cases. Cases in the U.S. surpassed 1,000. The U.S. government shared tips on Tuesday on how to stay safe from the Coronavirus.

March 12, 2020: Travel suspended from Europe to US; NBA suspends season

There are have been major announcements in the past 24 hours. Here is a brief summary with links to important news sources for more information.

Yesterday, President Trump announced that the U.S. would suspend travel from Europe to the U.S. for 30 days starting this Friday. The U.K. is the exception to this.

The NBA announced that it is cancelling the rest of the season after a Utah Jazz player tested positive. Subsequently, a second Utah Jazz player has tested positive.

March 13, 2020: Congress votes on aid package, more closures, flattening the curve

In the U.S., Congress is set to vote on a coronavirus aid package today. The legislation includes enhances to unemployment benefits and free testing for the virus, and ensures 14 days of paid sick leave.

At least 6 states and several large school districts have closed for two weeks. Many other major events or festivals have been cancelled or postponed. Broadway shows are cancelled and many museums and public institutions are also closing.

Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, wife of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has tested positive for the virus. Also, a senior Brazilian official who met with President Trump and Vice President Pence a few days ago has tested positive, but the White House says neither will be tested.

March 14, 2020: Outbreak hits 49 states, U.S. National Emergency declared, Apple closes stores

Coronavirus has now been detected in 49 U.S. states. Yesterday, Congress passed a relief package to assist people affected by the outbreak. Apple says it will close most of its stores worldwide for two weeks. As of Saturday morning, there have been at least 2,195 cases of coronavirus confirmed in the US and 49 deaths.

Around the world, New Zealand will start mandating that every new arrival self-isolate for 14 days. Spain declares a state of emergency as they announce 1,500 new cases, bringing the total to 5,700. The number of deaths in the UK rises from 11 to 21.

March 15, 2020: Social distancing, chaos at airports, important testing information

Global infections has surpassed 156,000 people with over 5,700 deaths. This includes 2,563 deaths outside of China. Cases have been detected in 131 countries.

In the U.S. more businesses close and social distancing and self-isolation is becoming more widespread.

Big questions we are hearing are: How widespread is the testing now? Where can I get tested? What about my work?

March 16, 2020: Stocks plummet, New York closes schools, California closes bars

On Monday morning the stock market plunged again, triggering an automatic trading halt. There are now more Coronavirus cases outside of China than inside China. Meanwhile, on Sunday, California announced that it is closing all bars and nightclubs and New York announced that is closing its public schools.

We've put together GetCoronavirusTest.org with the latest information from the CDC on where testing centers are located, what are the testing center plans, and who to call if you have symptoms. This page includes a link to the new Verily testing site, by Google, which is available for people in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties in the Bay Area.

March 17, 2020: "Shelter in Place" order in Bay Area, A Personal Note, Map of Infections

A note from our Founder, Ryder Pearce:

Our first daily Coronavirus update was on February 28th. At that time there were 64 cases in the U.S. and 0 deaths. We thought it would be important to keep the world informed with daily data, maps, and information. Providing critical information is core to our mission. It has now been 18 days since our first update and the world is a very different place. As of this morning, there are 4,482 confirmed cases in the U.S. and 86 deaths. Around the world there are now 182,100 confirmed cases.

March 18, 2020: US-Canada Border Closes, Trillions Pledged in Economic Stimulus

As of Wednesday morning, the Coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 201,000 people. Over 8,200 people have died. Cases have been detected in at least 144 countries. The U.S. and Canada have decided to close their border for all "non-essential" travel.

March 19, 2020: White House Seeks $500 Billion in Checks for Taxpayers, Zero New Infections in Wuhan

As of Thursday morning, the Coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 218,700 people in 147 countries. At least 9,186 people have died, more than half of them outside China. On the positive side, China reported zero new infections yesterday, and the White House is seeking $500 billion to write stimulus checks to US taxpayers. See the latest numbers and maps below.

March 20, 2020: Stay At Home Orders for California and New York; Tax Deadline Pushed to July 15

As of Friday morning, the Coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 244,100 people in 150 countries. At least 10,184 people have died, more than half of them outside China. On Thursday evening, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued "stay at home" orders for all Californians except for essential services. On Friday morning, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo issued a similar stay at home order for all of New York State.

March 21, 2020: 1 in 4 Americans will need to stay home, 21,000 US cases

As of Saturday morning, the Coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 277,300 people in 154 countries. At least 11,759 people have died, more than 2/3rds of them outside China. 1 in 4 Americans will soon be required to stay indoors as New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Illinois join California in restricting residents' movements.

March 22, 2020: "April is going to be worse" NYC Mayor, China's positive news

As of Sunday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 314,700 people in 157 countries. New York State has 15,000 cases, 5% of the world's total. The crisis is worsening in Italy and Spain. China reported the 4th day in a row with zero new infections in Wuhan.

March 23, 2020: New York is now center of U.S. outbreak, $1.8 trillion stimulus plan

As of Monday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 341,500 people in 163 countries. At least 15,187 people have died. Italy has reported 5,476 deaths and is reporting several hundred new deaths per day. New York looks to increase hospital capacity by 50% to prepare for new cases this week. The U.S. Congress is in session right now trying to agree on the $1.8 trillion stimulus plan.

March 24, 2020: Tokyo Olympics postponed, New York cases skyrocket, India lockdown

As of Tuesday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 382,000 people in 166 countries. At least 16,890 people have died. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced “a total ban of coming out of your homes" for the next 21 days for a country of 1.3 billion. The Tokyo Olympics were officially postponed until 2021. New York's number of cases are doubling every 3 days, according to New York Governor Cuomo.

March 25, 2020: $2 trillion relief deal reached (details), Prince Charles tests positive

As of Wednesday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 431,100 people in 168 countries. At least 19,544 people have died. U.S. lawmakers reached a $2 trillion aid deal and we've broken down the details below. New York works on addressing its hospital capacity and ventilator shortage.

March 26, 2020: 3.2 million unemployment claims, US surpasses 1,000 deaths

As of Thursday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 482,800 people in 171 countries. At least 21,896 people have died. The Senate approved a bill that promises $1,200 payouts to million of Americans. Unemployment claims last week surpassed 3 million, the most ever in a week. The number of deaths in in the US surpassed 1,000 and in Spain, 4,000.

March 27, 2020: U.S. has most cases in the world, relief package details, Boris Johnson tests positive

As of Friday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 536,100 people in 171 countries. At least 24,460 people have died. The U.S. surpassed China with the country with the most infections, and now has 85,724 people who've tested positive. U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson tested positive with "mild symptoms" and is self-isolating.

March 28, 2020: Stimulus calculator: How much will I get and when?

As of Saturday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 619,400 people in 171 countries. At least 28,362 people have died. The U.S. now has over 113,000 detected cases and 1/2 of the country is under some form of lockdown. The President signed the $2.2 trillion stimulus bill which includes direct payments to U.S. taxpayers, additions to unemployment and increased funding for business loans.

Want to see how much you'll get? Take a look at our stimulus calculator or visit 2020stimulus.org.

March 29, 2020: New U.S. hotspots emerge, financial assistance information

As of Sunday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 678,900 people in 171 countries. At least 31,971 people have died. The US now has over 125,000 detected cases and officials warn new hotspots may be emerging in Detroit, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans and Boston. One week ago there were only 24,000 confirmed cases in the US. Spain had the highest coronavirus death toll yesterday, reporting 838 deaths in the past 24 hours.

March 30, 2020: Social distancing extended to April 30, more financial assistance updates

As of Monday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 729,100 people in 171 countries. At least 34,689 people have died. The US has over 140,000 detected cases and the White House extended "social distancing" guidelines through April 30th. This includes avoiding non-essential travel and limiting social interactions.

March 31, 2020: US surpasses 3,000 deaths; world nears 1 million cases

As of Tuesday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 815,100 people in 171 countries. At least 40,237 people have died. The US has over 173,000 detected cases and over 3,400 deaths. The White House has said it will release its statistical models today that show grim projections of "100,000 to 200,000" deaths in the US, even if social distancing guidelines are followed. Meanwhile, Congress discusses even more stimulus funding.

April 1, 2020: "Worst yet to come", projections for the next 2 weeks

As of Wednesday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 868,100 people in 171 countries. At least 43,010 people have died. The US has over 188,000 detected cases and over 3,900 deaths. The White House announced yesterday that the next 2 weeks will be very difficult and there are "hard days that lie ahead". The White House release models predicted 100,000 to 240,000 deaths. Governors complained about chaos in obtaining critical supplies. And Washington considers an infrastructure program to create jobs, similar to the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression.

April 2, 2020: A stunning 6.6 million unemployment claims last week, global map of infections

As of Thursday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 946,000 people in 171 countries. At least 47,000 people have died. Florida finally issued stay-at-home orders. 6.6 million people filed for unemployment last week, 3.3 million people filed the week before. According to the NYTimes, the speed and scale of job losses is without precedent. Until last month, the worst week for unemployment filings was 695,000 in 1982.

April 3, 2020: C.D.C recommends Americans wear masks in public

As of Friday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1 million people in 172 countries. At least 56,000 people have died. Alabama becomes the 41st US state to issue stay-at-home orders. New York suffers its largest daily death toll. C.D.C says all Americans should wear masks when they leave their homes.

April 4, 2020: "The toughest week" ahead, face masks survey

As of Saturday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.1 million people in 175 countries. At least 62,000 people have died. Over 300,000 cases have been detected in the US with now over 8,000 deaths. President Trump tries to brace Americans for “the toughest week” ahead, and the C.D.C. begins testing for antibodies.

April 5, 2020: New hotspots in New Jersey & New Orleans, "buckle down" week ahead

As of Sunday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.1 million people in 175 countries. At least 65,000 people have died. Over 311,000 cases have been detected in the US with now over 9,100 deaths. Governors from states with high case loads are struggling to find enough ventilators and top US officials warn of "our Pearl Harbor" this week.

April 6, 2020: Boris Johnson moved to intensive care, US death toll surpasses 10,000

As of Monday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.2 million people in 176 countries. At least 72,000 people have died. Over 357,000 cases have been detected in the US with now over 10,500 deaths. The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who tested positive over a week ago, was moved to the intensive care unit as a "precaution". Joseph Biden and President Trump spoke earlier today about the coronavirus response.

April 7, 2020: Record deaths in New York, $250 billion more for small businesses

As of Tuesday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.3 million people in 177 countries. At least 81,000 people have died. Almost 400,000 cases have been detected in the US with almost 13,000 deaths. The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is still in critical care. New York and New Jersey each recorded one-day highs for deaths. The Treasury Department is asking for an additional $250 billion to help small businesses get through this pandemic.

April 8, 2020: Record deaths in New York, California exposed in fall 2019?

As of Wednesday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.4 million people in 177 countries. At least 87,000 people have died. 425,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 14,500 deaths. New York had over 779 coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours, the highest one-day total. However, the state says hospitalization rates are decreasing. We have published the headlines from all of our daily updates on our blog: the past 40 days of coronavirus (that's this page!)

April 9, 2020: 1 in 10 US workers have filed for unemployment, latest infection numbers

As of Thursday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.4 million people in 177 countries. At least 89,000 people have died. Over 429,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 14,800 deaths. 16 million people have filed for unemployment in the last 3 weeks, that's 10% of all workers in the US. About 90% of hospitalized patients have had at least one underlying condition, a new study finds.

April 10, 2020: Small businesses wait for cash, global death toll passes 100,000

As of Friday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.6 million people in 177 countries. At least 101,000 people have died. Over 492,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 18,466 deaths. US agencies warn that re-opening businesses could lead to 200,000 deaths. Meanwhile, small businesses struggle to receive cash from the SBA loan program. In California, 70 test positive at a homeless shelter.  In New York, there were over 700 deaths in the last 24 hours but the hospitalization rate continued to decrease.

April 11, 2020: U.S. surpasses Italy for highest death count

As of Saturday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.7 million people in 177 countries. At least 107,000 people have died. Over 518,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 20,000 deaths. The US now has the most coronavirus-related deaths in the US, passing Italy. The NYTimes published an in-depth report on how President Trump was warned several times about what was coming, but for several reasons, the response was slow. Meanwhile, states start planning for the possibility of a widespread vote-by-mail election in November. Also, a study has revealed that nearly 2,000 residents of nursing homes in the New York region have died due to coronavirus of the total 10,000 deaths in the region.

April 12, 2020: Policymakers debate how to re-open, Disney to furlough 43,000

As of Sunday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.8 million people in 177 countries. At least 113,000 people have died. Over 555,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 22,000 deaths. While the US and global infection rates appear to have reached their peak, policymakers debate how the re-opening of society should happen. Most all agree that we are by no means out of the woods. Many state governors in the US say they will share detailed plans this coming week on how to re-open. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is released from the hospital. In a live-streamed Easter Mass, Pope Francis said the pandemic is "testing our whole human family".

April 13, 2020: East coast states coordinate on reopening, loan delays continue

As of Monday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.8 million people in 177 countries. At least 117,000 people have died. Over 571,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 23,000 deaths. New York Governor Cuomo says that New York may have reached peak infections. New York coordinates with 5 other states on reopening plans. Across the globe, countries weigh easing restrictions, even as new clusters emerge. Infections in Russia rise, France and Britain will extend lockdowns into May.

April 14, 2020: Deaths in NYC pass 10K, airlines get $25B bailout

As of Tuesday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 1.9 million people in 177 countries. At least 124,000 people have died. Over 604,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 25,000 deaths. New York City revised their death count and the city now has over 10,000 deaths related to COVID-19. California and the West Coast Pact explore steps to reopening. President Trump halts US funding to the World Health Organization. U.S. airlines agree to a $25 billion bailout.

April 15, 2020: Global cases top 2 million, stocks tumble after data released

As of Wednesday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2 million people in 177 countries. At least 130,000 people have died. Over 633,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 28,000 deaths. In the US, health, business, and political leaders warn against easing restrictions too early. The lack of testing in the US has emerged as a "signature failure" of the Trump administration. New York Governor Cuomo will require New Yorkers to wear facial covering in public. While some countries make plans to ease restrictions, many countries are still far from their peaks. In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended the nationwide lockdown by nearly three more weeks.

April 16, 2020: 5 million more unemployed, small business funding runs out

As of Thursday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2 million people in 177 countries. At least 138,000 people have died. Over 662,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 30,000 deaths. In the US, the latest unemployment numbers were released today. In the last 4 weeks, 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment. New York extended its shutdown to May 15. The Trump administration outlined a path for states to begin to lift restrictions. Meanwhile, the PPP & EIDL small business funding programs have run out of funding already. We've done a special section on this below.

April 17, 2020: At least 7,000 deaths in nursing homes, latest infection numbers

As of Friday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.1 million people in 177 countries. At least 146,000 people have died. Over 681,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 31,000 deaths. At the end of the week, New York has seen a decline in both infections and hospitalizations compared to the beginning of the week. New York's face mask mandate goes into affect tonight, and minutes ago, San Francisco Mayor London Breed announced that starting today, people will be required to wear face masks in public, too.

April 18, 2020: Beaches in Jacksonville re-open, experts say testing still lags

As of Saturday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.2 million people in 177 countries. At least 154,000 people have died. Over 717,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 34,000 deaths. New York Governor Cuomo said today that the state is past its plateau, and some states move to partial re-openings. Jacksonville re-opened beaches, but Florida schools remain closed. Meanwhile, experts in the US say testing must "triple" in order for states to safely re-open. Also on Saturday, the CDC admitted that sloppy laboratory practices rendered the nation's first testing kits infective last month. Around the world, Germany begins broad random testing for antibodies. Israel begins to relax some restrictions, Iran lifts Tehran's lockdown, and East African countries see a rise in infections.

April 19, 2020: Antibody tests sees difficulties, $450 billion new stimulus nears

As of Sunday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.3 million people in 177 countries. At least 159,000 people have died. Over 746,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 35,000 deaths. States are feeling pressure to reopen, but many governors say they need more time and more testing. Antibody tests under development are facing problems, as many are inaccurate and the rollout is nowhere close to the demand. In Congress, a deal for an additional $450 billion is nearing completion. This funding will add more money for the Paycheck Protection Program and the SBA's Economic Injury and Disaster Loan program. This will also have more money for hospitals and testing.

April 20, 2020: Oil prices nosedive, New York begins antibody testing

As of Monday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.4 million people in 177 countries. At least 164,000 people have died. Over 776,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 36,000 deaths. New York, the US epicenter of the outbreak begins antibody testing today. New York Governor Cuomo announced the lowest single-day death toll in two weeks. Meanwhile, oil prices plummeted this morning as storage capacity starts to run low, to under $11 a barrel. Congress and the White House are close to closing a deal on the latest stimulus package, a $450 billion package mainly to support small businesses and those that are self-employed.

April 21, 2020: Trump pauses issuing green cards, Senate passes $484 billion stimulus

As of Tuesday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.4 million people in 177 countries. At least 170,000 people have died. Over 804,100 cases have been detected in the US with over 40,100 deaths. In Washington, the Senate passed the new $484 billion stimulus, with most of the money going to the small-business grant and loan programs. Wall Street suffered its worst drop in three weeks as the oil market cratered. President Trump said his temporary halt on immigration would be in effect for 60 days and apply only to individuals seeking permanent residency in the United States. Meanwhile, New Jersey has its highest one-day death toll amid signs of progress.

April 22, 2020: The first US COVID-19 death was much earlier than thought

As of Wednesday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.5 million people in 177 countries. At least 177,000 people have died. Over 832,000 cases have been detected in the US with over 42,000 deaths. In a surprise, medical examiners in Santa Clara County, California found a woman had died on February 6th from COVID-19. President Trump detailed the executive order imposing a 60-day ban on issuing green cards. Meanwhile, two cats in New York State are the first pets to test positive for the virus.

April 23, 2020: 4.4 million new unemployed, California has deadliest day

As of Thursday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.6 million people and at least 181,000 people have died. California had its deadliest day ever, while 4.4 million new people filed for unemployment last week. The new $484 billion stimulus bill passed in the House and will be signed by the President tonight. Meanwhile, 1 out of 5 people in New York City screened for antibodies have tested positive.

April 24, 2020: Don't drink bleach; $4 trillion deficit in 2020

As of Friday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.7 million people and at least 189,000 people have died. The new $484 billion stimulus bill is signed into law in the US. The federal deficit is expected to reach $4 trillion this year. Meanwhile, President Trump is highly ridiculed and criticized for suggesting ingesting bleach might help with COVID-19. It's deadly, don't do it. Georgia re-opens many businesses despite misgivings. And in immigration news, as feared, a top aide to Trump says the suspension of Green Cards may be just the beginning.

April 25, 2020: State-by-state reopening plans

As of Saturday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.8 million people and at least 195,000 people have died. While some states begin to re-open partially (map below), the overall consensus is that there is still not enough testing being done. Even though the U.S. conducted 1.2 million tests within a week, it is still far from enough, according to experts. This daily update is primarily focused on the state-by-state paths toward reopening. For a change, we are leaving out the usual maps and instead sharing one map - the state-by-state map of reopening plans.

April 26, 2020: Expect social distancing for months

As of Sunday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.9 million people and at least 200,000 people have died. The US approaches the 50,000 deaths and 1 million cases milestone. While the overall death rate remains flat, the daily number of cases in the US has increased in the last few days. Dr Deborah Birx, the White House response coordinator, said today that we can expect the need for social distancing to last months and that we need "a huge technology breakthrough" to achieve sufficient testing scale. Abroad, Italy's prime minister details how the country will begin to ease Europe's longest lockdown. In Spain, children go outside for the first time in weeks as the country's lockdown begins to ease.

April 27, 2020: U.S. surpasses 50,000 deaths, SBA loan system changes

As of Monday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 2.9 million people and at least 203,000 people have died. The US surpassed 50,000 deaths today. The CDC added 6 new Covid-19 symptoms. Oil prices plummeted. Some states gradually allowed some business to open today. Texas is also preparing to reopen. Meanwhile, the Bay Area counties have just decided to extend shelter-in-place order through the end of May.

April 28, 2020: U.S. passed 1 million cases, current hot spots

As of Tuesday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3 million people and at least 208,000 people have died. The US surpassed 1 million cases today. A patchwork of reopenings continues to be discussed. Many states plan to continue online learning and education through the fall. Below we have published our usual infection charts and maps from the NYTimes data team, along with charts showing the latest regional hotspots.

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April 29, 2020: Lyft has major layoffs; FDA expected to approve remdesivir

As of Wednesday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3 million people around the world and at least 212,000 people have died. In good news, the FDA is expected to approve experimental use of a promising drug, after the company making them released positive trial results today. We've expanded on this below, since it is significant. The economy had more bad news as data from Q1 was released today, showing a 4.8% decline. This morning, Lyft announced layoffs to 17% of its staff, hundreds of furloughs, and pay-cuts across the board. Uber is expected to do the same. If you or anyone you know will be applying for unemployment, they can use our free self-reporting unemployment tracker.

Thank you again for supporting and reading our daily emails and providing thoughtful feedback. We have been doing these coronavirus emails every single day for 61 straight days. Your support means allows us to help hundreds of thousands get through this difficult period.

April 30, 2020: Now 30 million unemployed, California beaches close

As of Thursday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.1 million people around the world and at least 229,000 people have died. In the US, another 3.8 million people filed for unemployment last week, bringing the 6 week total to 30 million. Dr Anthony Fauci expressed optimism that a vaccine could be available as early as January. Governor Gavin Newsom in California is closing the beaches in Orange County this weekend. New Jersey reported 460 deaths in the state on Thursday, significantly more than other states are reporting.

📌 We are publishing daily COVID-19 articles on our Skip blog, which includes answers to questions on paying rent, finding jobs, getting loans or financial help, and more. We have listed our some articles at the bottom of this email.

May 1, 2020: Breaking: Covid-19 treatment gets green light

As of Friday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.2 million people around the world and at least 236,000 people have died. An hour ago, it was announced in the White House that the Covid-19 treatment drug remdesivir has been given Emergency Use Authorization approval by the FDA. This is big news as it clears the way for hospitals to start using remdesivir, and the early results have been promising. Meanwhile, as of today, there are now 18 states with all or partial re-openings. We've done a video run through of the 18 states and what's reopened in each of them. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization extends its declaration of a global public health emergency.

May 2, 2020: Global race for vaccine, debate over reopenings

As of Saturday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.3 million people around the world and at least 241,000 people have died. Nearly a dozen states tentatively returned to public life on Friday, the first mass reopening of businesses since the coronavirus pandemic brought America to a standstill six weeks ago. In states with restrictions still, debate over whether to go outside or not continues to grow. Government and companies around the world race to find an effective vaccine. In stimulus news, according to our self-reporting tracker, nearly 15% of people have received their federal stimulus check.

May 3, 2020: Experts worry coronavirus will continue to spread

As of Sunday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.4 million people around the world and at least 245,000 people have died. Despite social distancing and stay-at-home orders in place for several weeks, case counts continue to rise in 20 states. As a result, experts believe we may be facing a persistent spread in the coming weeks and months. The White House will "wait and see" before deciding on further economic aid. The governors of 7 Eastern states agree to coordinate on purchasing medical equipment.

May 4, 2020: Projections show deaths rising, stimulus updates

As of Monday evening, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.5 million people around the world and at least 249,000 people have died. In the US, over 68,000 people have died. As President Trump presses for states to reopen their economies, his administration is privately projecting a steady rise in the number of coronavirus cases and deaths over the next several weeks. The daily death toll will reach about 3,000 on June 1, according to an internal document obtained by The New York Times, nearly double the current number of about 1,750. We've outlined this study and another, as well as other states important updates below.

May 5, 2020: US infection rate increasing; some California reopening on Friday

As of Tuesday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.5 million people around the world and at least 251,000 people have died. In the US, infections continue to increase. Even though New York State, the US coronavirus epicenter, has seen a decline, the rest of the US continues to see a rise in infections (below graphic). The President has nominated a special inspector to serve as watchdog for the $500 billion stimulus fund. Around the world, France confirms there was a coronavirus case in December, weeks before the first confirmed cases. And in Japan, the prime minister pushes for a homegrown drug to treat coronavirus without solid evidence.

May 6, 2020: Uber, Airbnb announce major layoffs

As of Wednesday morning, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.6 million people around the world and at least 257,000 people have died. In the US, there have been 1.2 million infections and over 71,000 deaths. Yesterday, Airbnb announced layoffs to 25% of its employees, and today, Uber announced layoffs to around 15% of its employees. The NYTimes did an in-depth report on what the pandemic could mean for the travel industry. Meanwhile, the European Union announced ballooning unemployment numbers, adding to the grim global economic picture. Russia's economy continues to plummet as well.

May 7, 2020: Another 3.2 million apply for unemployment, SBA stops taking applications

As of Thursday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.7 million people around the world and at least 267,000 people have died. In the US, there have been 1.2 million infections and over 75,000 deaths. Today it was announced that another 3.2 million people applied for unemployment in the US last week, and some states report more than 25% of workers are unemployed. New evidence shows that travel from New York City seeded a majority of infections around the US (chart below). Also, the SBA announced that they are not accepting any more applications in the EIDL program. Around the world, Afghanistan's health minster tests positive for coronavirus, and Poland postpones it presidential election due to the outbreak.

May 8, 2020: FDA clears first home test, VP's press secretary tests positive

As of Friday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.8 million people around the world and at least 272,000 people have died. In the US, there have been 1.2 million infections and over 76,000 deaths. A short time ago, California's governor said that he would order mail-in ballots to be sent to the state’s 20.6 million voters for the November, so they can vote safely during the pandemic. Also today, the FDA said that it had granted emergency authorization for the first at-home saliva collection kit to test for the coronavirus. More on that below as well as the high profile infections at the White House.

May 9, 2020: 1/3rd of US deaths are in nursing homes

As of Saturday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 3.9 million people around the world and at least 276,000 people have died. In the US, there have been 1.3 million infections and over 78,000 deaths. Facebook and Google say most of their employees will work from home through the rest of the year. With 20 million job losses in the past month and a half in the US, the federal response now becomes critically important. A new study out today by the NYTimes has found that 1/3rd of all US deaths were tied to nursing home patients or staff. We've done a special section on this below written from inside a nursing home in New York State.

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