CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE COVID-19 and its impact on supply chains is ongoing and fluid. Airgroup and the Radiant Network remains committed to providing our customers with customized supply chain solutions that deliver, whatever the challenge. The coming weeks will require expertise in creative solutions for successful movement in and out of affected areas of the world. These updates illustrate the need to ensure your supply chain partner is well versed in both international and domestic out-of-the-box solutions, as shrinking space and restrictions continue to roll out at the ports and beyond. Airgroup will continue to work with valued customers--past, present and future alike--on providing assistance and problem solving for these current challenges. If you have questions or concerns with freight or with your supply chain, please reach out to your Airgroup account executive. This page will be updated with new information as it becomes available. More Coronavirus information can be found on the Center for Disease Control website, and the World Health Organization website. Additionally, Johns Hopkins currently has provided an interactive dashboard showing the latest statistics on the spread of COVID-19. Ever wonder what the unload from an AN-124 might look like? With payloads of over 100,000 kilos, this shipment contained medical essentials in the fight against COVID-19. 90 minutes condensed into 90 seconds! Airgroup and the Radiant Network remains committed to the battle against COVID-19. Coordinating thus far over two dozen charters, we have now ensured delivery of over 4.5 MILLION POUNDS of vital medical supplies and PPE for distribution across the US. We are here to help! Please reach out to us today. General Timeline Last updated July 2, 2021 at 9am PST July 2 The Johnson & Johnson vaccine last at least 8 months and protects against the Delta variant according to a new study. Germany has issued a strong recommendation for combining covid vaccines. June 30 Experts are expecting that many pandemic regulations are here to stay long after 2021. Missouri officials are warning caution during the upcoming holiday as Covid-19 cases continue to climb. India, the worlds largest vaccine producer, has a vaccine rate of only 4%. June 29 Nearly 80% of Australians are currently living under restrictions after a national outbreak of the Delta variant - the highest number since the start of the pandemic. The World Health Organization has updated their mask wearing recommendations. Due to the spread of the Delta Covid-19 variant, they are once again advising that vaccinated individuals continue to wear masks while indoors. Mixing covid vaccines, for example receiving a Pfizer first dose and a AstraZeneca second dose, has been found to generate a strong immune response. This opens the door for a more flexible vaccine rollout. June 22 Scientists are expecting the Delta covid-19 strain to become the dominant strain in the US. The EU has moved to purchase 150 million additional vaccines from Moderna. India's Covid-19 outbreak is finally cooling off as the country hits their lowest daily infection tally in 3 months. June 18 Covid cases are on the rise in Russia at large, and a new aggressive variant is rapidly spreading in Moscow. Africa's current Covid-19 trajectory is 'very very concerning' according to WHO officials. With medical experts expecting Covid-19 to linger for years, they are increasingly turning their attention to developing treatments like pills. June 17 The Delta Covid-19 variant now makes up roughly 10% of US cases. A new study looking at infection rates in England during May and early June has found the epidemic is growing throughout the island nation. Ahead of the Olympic games next month Japan will be lifting Covid-19 emergency restrictions. Some restrictions will still apply, such as a reduced spectator capacity at Olympic events. June 15 California, the first state to introduce covid-19 restrictions, ended capacity limits, physical distancing and mask mandates today. The WHO is warning of a possible Covid-19 surge in Europe this Autumn thanks to the Delta variant. Vermont has vaccinated roughly 80% of the state's population, clearing the way for Covid-19 restrictions to be lifted. June 14 The Delta Covid-19 variant, now dominant in the UK, China and India, is becoming of increasing concern to US medical experts. A fourth Covid-19 vaccine will soon be available in the US as Novavax's new shot is found to be "extremely effective" in clinical trials. The accuracies of death tolls in India are coming into question after several thousands of unreported deaths are found in the state of Bihar. June 10 While Covid deaths are trending down in much of the world, India has set a record for most Coivd deaths in a single day. New evidence published in Nature suggests that the Covid-19 vaccine will indeed protect against variants. China has returned to strict covid restrictions after an outbreak of the Delta variant in Guangzhou. June 9 Johnson & Johnson's CEO has said he expects the covid vaccine to be taken annually with the flu shot for the 'next several years.' The Covid-19 Delta variant, which is now in the UK, is becoming of increasing concern for American medical professionals. The EU digital Covid certificate, or vaccine passport, has received final approval and will launch July 1. June 7 A new type of Covid-19 vaccine, could be debuting soon. US air travel is on the upswing as the TSA recorded the biggest day for air travel in more than a year last week. The delta covid-19 variant, first found in India, has made its way into several major Chinese cities. June 4 Renewed covid-19 spread in the UK has generated some concerns about the June 21 unlocking. With vaccine distribution in full swing in North America & Europe, many Asian countries are struggling to secure enough vaccines. The White House announced yesterday that the US has begun shipping surplus vaccines abroad. June 2 For the first time in nearly a year, the UK has reported no new Covid-19 deaths yesterday. Moderna has officially applied for full FDA approval for their Covid-19 vaccine. After the emergence of a new Covid-19 variant Vietnam has started a mass testing campaign. May 28 Coronavirus cases at college campuses have slowed across the US. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine has received emergency use approval in Mexico and in the UK. Medical experts are increasingly confident that those who have had covid-19 will develop antibodies for a lifetime. May 26 With vaccines on the rise, and total cases on the decline US medical experts are turning now turning their questions toward the origin of Covid-19. Dozens of countries across the world are facing Oxygen shortages due to surge in their use for critical Covid-19 patients. New Covid cases in the US are the lowest they've been in more than 11 months. May 25 Moderna announced that its vaccine is 100% in teens, and that they will be seeking FDA approval in early June. Average daily cases have dipped below 25,000 in the US, and in 25 states more than half of US adults are fully vaccinated. May 24 Osaka, Japan's second largest city, is facing a Covid surge amidst mass vaccinations and weeks before the Olympics. New York City Schools will be 100% in person this Fall, with masks and social distancing mandatory. Visitors to Maui without a vaccine card will have to be tested for Covid-19 according to county officials. May 19 Children ages 12-15 are finally receving vaccines, and medical professionals say the rollout is moving "better than expected." New York City's reopening has begun, and nearly half of the city's residents have received at least their first vaccine shot. With Covid-19 cases continuing to rise rapidly in India, concern about new variants is mounting. May 18 Scientists & authorities have debated for nearly a year whether Covid-19 is airborne, and it seems they've finally come to an agreement that the virus is indeed airborne. With the Tokyo Olympic Games only 66 days away, doctors in Japan are calling for cancellation as covid-19 cases are on the rise. The state of Maryland has reported their lowest number of Covid-19 cases since March of 2020. May 17 Covid infections are currently trending down in all 50 states, with national cases reaching the lowest point in 14 months. The new head of the CDC said over the weekend that "only unvaccinated people are at risk if they take off their masks," and that “If you are vaccinated... you can take up your mask and you are not at risk of severe disease or hospitalization from Covid-19." Germany has updated their travel rules when it comes to foreign nationals visiting their country. Visitors must fall into one of three categories to visit... Vaccinated: These travelers must have proof of a completed vaccine at least 14 days prior. Recovered: Travelers who have contracted Covid-19 at least 28 days prior, but no longer than 6 months. Tested: Individuals must have proof of a negative rapid antigen test no more than 48 hours prior to arriving. May 13 Medical expert are increasingly convinced that a third shot, or a vaccine booster, will be necessary. Ohio has introduced a Vaccine Lottery, the first of its kind. Five people who have received the vaccine will also receive a prize of $1,000,000. A massive covid-19 outbreak is no longer India's only public health challenge after an outbreak of "black fungus" has been reported across the country. May 12 Medical experts are saying that vaccinated peoples can relax about their risk of contracting covid-19. Canada has authorized the use of the Pfizer vaccine for peoples 12-15 years old. Sewage surveillance has become an unexpected front in the battle against Covid-19. May 11 A new test can identify if a person is infected with Covid-19 or 19 other pathogens, which should give medical experts a leg-up come the 2021 flu season. The WHO has classified the 'triple mutant' covid variant, which has become widespread in India, as a global health risk. Taiwan has tightened coronavirus restrictions after domestic cases shoot up. May 10 Experts are increasingly convinced that the coronavirus will be something we "need to learn to live with," as smaller mutated outbreaks are expected to continue for years. US Covid cases are down 30% over the past two weeks, averaging 2 millions shots a day in the same time. Dr. Fauci has indicated that indoor mask-wearing guidance may be changing soon. May 7 Nearly 8% of those who received the first covid shot have delayed or skipped their second vaccine dose. For the third time in a week India has reported more than 400,000 daily cases of coronavirus. Pfizer is seeking full FDA approval for their vaccine, beyond the current emergency approval. May 6 In order to increase supply of the covid vaccine, the US has backed a waiver on vaccine patents. The EU later backed the proposal to discuss waiving patent protections. The outlook on Covid-19 cases in the US has "reached it's most hopeful point yet." May 4 Florida has suspended all remaining covid restrictions, and will be lifting the state of emergency. Medical experts are increasingly convinced that reaching 'herd immunity' in the US is unlikely. With cases in India continuing to climb, several nations are banning travelers who have been in India. May 3 The FDA is moving forward with plans to authorize the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for people ages 12-15. Nepal will be banning all entry by foreign nationals and cancelling international flights beginning May 6, as infections continue to climb there and in neighbor country India. Live music and concerts are starting to reemerge in a vaccinated world. April 30 For the first time in over a year, Dineyland will be opening its doors to customers. The situation in India is continuing to worsen, with some experts calling it a 'complete collapse.' Delays continue to pile up for AstraZenecca as they struggle to receive approval from the FDA. April 29 An Italian village is puzzling researchers after multiple "super-immune' cases pop up. The "super-immune" individuals have an unusually high amount of anti-bodies, making them immune prior to vaccination. Amid falling demand, some mass vaccination sites in the US are closing. The CDC has updated mask wearing guidance, advising that fully vaccinated individuals do not need to wear a mask when outdoors. April 27 After passing a safety check, the US will be sharing 60 million AstraZenecca vaccine shots with the world. After a nearly two-week pause, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will resume being used across the states. As live sports continue to resume from little league to professional levels, Wimbeldon announces they will be open to 25% capacity this year. April 23 More than 30 US colleges will be making vaccines mandatory for Fall 2021 classes. Because N95 masks are no longer in short supply the FDA is no longer recommending the masks be reused. According to the lates report from the WHO, worldwide covid cases reached a new weekly high last week of 5.24 million new cases. April 22 A chief medical scientist who helped develop the Pfizer vaccine agrees that a third shot is necessary to prevent immunity from waning. India's daily infections have risen to the highest of any country at any point during the coronavirus. The CDC has reported that fewer than 6,000 instances of an individual contracting covid after receiving a full vaccine dose. April 21 Nearly half of Americans have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine to resume its vaccine rollout in Europe after being paused last week. Regulators are pushing for a warning label to be added to the shot. Medical experts are increasingly confused as children in Brazil are contracting the virus at higher rates than in other countries. April 20 The CDC has relaxed guidelines for mask wearing among vaccinated people, but is still urging vaccinated individuals to wear them in public and when around those not yet vaccinated. While a vaccinated person can't contract Covid-19, they can still spread it to others. Medical experts are increasingly optimistic that the Covid Vaccine will continue to stay ahead of a growing number of Covid variants. A group of otters are the latest animals to test positive for the Covid-19 virus. Scientists are still trying to understand how the disease is passed between humans and animals. April 16 Hospitalizations among young Americans are rising, and experts are linking this rise, in part, to the UK covid variant. Pfizer's CEO has said that a covid-19 booster shot will likely be necessary within 12 months. The CDC has updated their guidelines on the Covid-19 vaccine, including recommendations for 'returning to normal' after receiving your second dose. April 14 The race to beat the next pandemic has already started in labs across the world. Moderna is hoping to have a vaccine booster shot ready for distribution by Fall 2021. The CDC is studying 'breakthrough' cases of Covid-19, cases where a vaccinated individual still contracts the Covid-19 virus, to better understand why and when the vaccine fails. April 13 The FDA is recommending a 'pause' in the administration of the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine to review cases where blood clots occurred. Yesterday Britain's Covid-19 lockdown, the longest in the world, came to an end. The CDC director advised Michigan to 'shut things down' as cases rise, cautioning against a bet on vaccines. April 12 Los Angeles has opened vaccinations to anyone 16 and older. The WHO is warning that the Covid pandemic is growing 'exponentially,' with 4.4 million global cases added a day. Later this month over 50,000 students in New York will be returning to classrooms for the first time since the start of the pandemic. The move comes shortly after the CDC updated their social distancing recommendation for school children from 6 ft. to 3 ft. April 9 Officials in Michigan are calling on the federal government to deliver more vaccines amidst a surge in new cases. Even with the number of vaccinated people skyrocketing, international travel remains complex. Nearly every country in the world that isn't restricting travel still requires quarantine, a negative test or proof of vaccination for foreign travelers. April 8 Yesterday, the CDC director announced that the UK Covid variant is now the dominant covid strain in the US. Covid-19 infections are rapidly increasing in Michigan, Illinois and throughout the upper midwest. Health officials are increasingly concerned that youth sports are driving the current wave of infections. April 7 Roughly 80% of K-12 educators and staff in the US have received their first vaccine dose. Vaccine passports are the latest covid-related issue dividing Americans. Fauci, and other White House officials, have said that a vaccine passport won't be mandated from a federal level. Covid deaths in Brazil are now exceeding 4,000 a day. April 6 American's fear of the pandemic is at the lowest level since April 2020. The White House has moved its suggested deadline for opening vaccine eligibility to all adults up to April 19. States will have the final say on who is eligible. A new vaccine record was set this weekend when 4 million Americans were vaccinated in one day. April 5 For the first time since the start of the pandemic, India has recorded 100,000 new cases in a single day. California will allow indoor gatherings and events beginning April 15. With vaccine distribution in full swing, covid mutants remain front of mind for researchers. April 2 The surge of new cases in New Jersey continues to worsen. The CDC is now advising that it is safe to travel for fully vaccinated individuals. As more and more vaccinations are being distributed, experts are growing increasingly pessimistic on herd immunity. April 1 A new study on the long term efficacy of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine has found that it is highly effective through at least 6 months. Georgia is the latest state to announce plans to roll back Covid-19 restrictions. A manufacturing error led to 15 million vaccine doses being destroyed in Oregon. March 31 A new study has found that the Pfizer vaccine is highly effective in young people ages 12-15. A third national lockdown is seeming increasingly likely in France as hospitals are overwhelmed. March 30 Experts are increasingly concerned about another surge in cases amidst the vaccine rollout. Infections in the northeast continue to climb, particularly in New Jersey and New York. To combat raising rates of infection, Germany is once again tightening its borders. March 29 A leaked WHO report is pointing to animals as the source of the covid-19 pandemic. A single dose of the Moderna & Pfizer vaccine was 80% effective in preventing covid infection in healthcare workers in a new CDC study. While most of the US seems to be making significant headway against the virus, the Northeast is facing a growing surge in cases. March 26 All adults will be eligible to receive the coronavirus vaccine by mid April in 31 states. Vaccine tests are turning their eye towards younger Americans as studies on vaccine effectiveness in teens and kids begin in earnest. A new study is showing that previous infection of covid-19 increases vaccine response six-fold. March 25 Florida has announced plans to drop the vaccine age requirement to 40 this week, and 18 in early April. With vaccinations on the rise and covid related deaths falling, medical experts are striking a more optimistic tone. The White House has announced plans to vaccinate 100 million people in the next 40 days. March 24 As a part of their new emergency rules the EU will be cutting vaccine exports for 6 weeks. The US has approved a Johnson & Johnson vaccine plant in order to accelerate vaccine distribution this spring. After months of decline across the US, covid cases are beginning to crawl upwards again in 19 states. March 23 New data from studies on the AstraZeneca vaccine's use in the US show it is effective for all adults. Severe floods in Australia this week have threatened to disrupt vaccine distribution. The Philippines government will begin limiting passenger arrivals to their main international gateway amidst a spike in cases. March 19 France has resumed use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, and entered a one month lockdown in the several regions. 28.5% of US adults have now received at least one Covid vaccine shot. A new vaccine produced by Novavax is showing promising results in studies on the original coronavirus and its variants. March 18 After receiving the Moderna vaccine while she was pregnant, a new mother has given birth to the first baby with Covid-19 antibodies. Disruptions in the global supply of vaccines is hampering vaccine rollout in the UK. New studies are showing that the chance for reinfection of coronavirus appears low. March 16 Sweden, France, Italy and Spain have now also suspended the use of the Astrazenecca vaccine after reports of dangerous blood clots in some recipients. According to the latest TSA data, more people have flown in the past five days than the 5 days after Christmas. March 15 Germany, Indonesia and the Netherlands are temporarily suspending the use of the Astrazenecca vaccine after Norwegian health officials raise concerns over possible side effects. One in five Americans have now received one or both doses of the Coronavirus vaccine. Today, New Jersey expanded vaccine eligibility to several groups. March 12 With loosened restrictions and new variants, medical experts are warning another infection spike could be on the way. Amidst rising cases, Italy has announced new widespread closures and restrictions for half the country. The White House is directing states to make all adults eligible to receive a Covid vaccine starting May 1. March 11 Travelers visiting New York from other US states will no longer be required to quarantine effective April 1. One year ago today the World Health Organization declared the Coronavirus an international Pandemic. States across the US are increasingly expanding vaccine eligibility. March 10 The White House announced this morning that they will be purchasing 100 million extra doses of the Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine. Alaska has become the first state to make the Covid vaccine available to everyone over the age of 16. The EU and Pfizer have reached a deal to deliver 4 million more doses of vaccine to target Covid-19 "hotpsots." March 9 A new study has found that the Pfizer vaccine neutralizes the Brazil Covid variant. Roughly 60% of people aged 65+ in the US have received their first doses of the coronavirus vaccine. The CDC has said vaccinated people can safely gather indoors, but should still avoid travel. March 8 Arizona and West Virginia are the latest states to roll-back Covid-19 restrictions for business. One year after closing, the US Canada border remains closed to travelers. UK students are returning to classrooms this week. March 5 Top US health officials are warning that new Covid variants could potentially 'hijack' the nation's recovery process. The Covid relief bill has ran into delays after reaching the Senate. Connecticut has joined Texas and Mississippi in easing Covid restrictions. March 4 FEMA's mass vaccination site in Philadelphia has drawn in thousands to its official opening. Germany has announced a new vaccine strategy. The European country will be taking the maximum amount of time between vaccine doses to ensure every receives their first dose as soon as possible. March 3 Yesterday President Biden vowed that every adult in the US would be vaccinated by May, two months earlier than their initial projection of July. More than 45,000 Johnson & Johnson vaccines are in route to Colorado. Texas and Mississippi have both lifted mask mandates and limited Covid restrictions this week. March 2 Dr. Fauci said this week that children are 'very likely' to receive their vaccine in early 2022. Houston Texas is the first US city to record at least one case of every major coronavirus strain. March 1 Yesterday, Johnson & Johnson began distributing its newly approved single shot vaccine. The UK discovered its first case of the Brazil Covid-19 variant over the weekend. Over the weekend, the House approved a $1.9 trillion coronavirus stimulus plan. February 26 New studies are showing that one Pfizer dose offers protection for people who have already had Covid-19. Canada has approved the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine. February 25 California has surpassed 50,000 deaths related to the coronavirus, the most of any state. The EU Health Commissioner announced plans to vaccinate 70% of EU adults by summer. A new coronavirus strain has been identified in New York by two separate teams of researchers, worrying medical experts. February 24 Early analyses of Johnson & Johnson's single dose vaccine are showing promising results. Johnson & Johnson will be unable to produce the 10,000,000 doses initially promised by end of February. Instead, pending FDA approval, they will be supplying the US with 2,000,000 doses next week. According to the latest WHO report, global deaths resulting from Covid-19 were down 20% last week. February 23 The US has now accumulated more than 500,000 deaths related to Covid-19. February 22 US medical experts , including Dr. Fauci, are advising Americans to steel themselves against Covid complacency, as total infections continue to fall. Scientists are largely expecting the coronavirus to become endemic, and stick around for years to come. February 19 Medical experts are warning that vaccines aren't being distributed fast enough to reach most Americans this summer. The world's first Covid-19 human challenge trials are starting next week in the UK. The trials will see young healthy volunteers deliberately infected with Covid-19 in order to test treatments & vaccines. February 16 US Covid Cases continue their months long decline this week, with new cases well below December and January levels. Winter weather across the country has hampered the distribution of vaccines, and forced the closure of many clinics and testing sites. Medical experts in the UK are arguing that eliminating the virus shouldn't be the goal, making Covid into a manageable disease like the flu should be. February 15 For the first time since November, new Covid-19 cases have dipped below 100,000. Dr. Anthony Fauci has described the data on the South African Covid variant as 'sobering.' Researchers have now identified 7 different Covid-19 variants within the US. February 11 The CDC has updated their mask wearing guidance to recommend wearing two masks rather than one. Coronavirus infections are plummeting, continuing a sharp decline since late January. Despite not being as effective on some Covid variants, WHO is backing the Oxford vaccine. February 10 Global cases of Covid-19 declined 17% last week according to the World Health Organization. Arizona, California and Rhode Island have the highest rate of Covid-19 infection anywhere in the world. The UK now has the highest per capita death toll in the world. February 9 The US is considering implementing mobile vaccination centers to combat an 'undersupply' of shots. The CDC will be holding a national Covid vaccination forum in late February to 're-empower scientific agencies.' Johnson & Johnson has applied for emergency FDA approval for their single-shot vaccine. February 8 Continuing a month-long decline, the US reported less than 100,000 new cases for the first time in 2021. In a new study the AstraZeneca vaccine has only had a 10% efficacy against the variant from South Africa of the coronavirus. Moderna has suggested their vaccine is still effective against the variant from South Africa, though less so than other strains. February 5 The state of New York will begin expanding who is permitted to receive the coronavirus vaccine on February 15. The House is aiming to pass the Covid relief bill within the next two weeks according to officials. The Covid-19 variant first discovered in the UK now makes up more than 6% of German cases. February 4 Denmark and Norway are the latest countries to recommend the AstraZenecca not be given to anyone older than 65; joining Sweden, Germany and other European countries. A new vaccine study is indicating that receiving your Covid-19 vaccine may reduce transmission of the disease for up to three months. February 3 Nearly half of the US is allowing teachers to receive the vaccine in a push to reopen schools. With the vaccine push in full swing, herd immunity remains a far off but achievable goal. The USA now has nearly 26.5 million total cases of coronavirus. February 2 An infectious disease expert from the University of Minnesota is warning that the new variants could be a Covid-19 "Hurricane." A new study on the UK coronavirus variant is showing signs that it could be developing resistance to vaccines. February 1 The pace of vaccinations is slowly picking up in the US, with just over a million vaccinations being administered a week. Vaccine shortages are plaguing the EU as vaccine maker AstraZeneca is unable to meet initial roll-out estimates. Over the weekend anti-vaccine protestors delayed vaccinations for over an hour at the largest mass vaccination site in California. January 29 Dr. Fauci & the CDC have both recommended reopening schools for in-person learning. Despite lacking of bipartisan support, a new Covid-19 relief bill is expected to make its way to congress early next week. During a White House press briefing the CDC Director warned that "We should be treating every case as if it's a variant." January 28 Health officials in Germany have limited the AstraZeneca vaccine shot to under-65s, citing insufficient data. The latest variant of Covid-19, which cropped up in Brazil in December, is worrying scientist with its rapid spread. The coronavirus variant first seen in South Africa has been identified in South Carolina. January 27 Amid supply shortages, NYC has had to delay vaccine distribution. January 2021 is now the deadliest month for Covid-19 in the US with more than 80,000 deaths. White House officials have said they will have enough vaccine doses for 300 million Americans by the end of summer. January 25 Moderna says it's vaccine is showing a weaker response against the South African Covid-19 variant, and is developing a 'vaccine booster' for this variant. A travel ban will soon be going into place for most non-us citizens attempting to travel into the United States. January 22 Global Covid-19 deaths have now exceeded 2 million. UK health experts are urging the world to act 'quickly and aggressively' when it comes to the new Covid-19 strain that originated in the UK. With Covid-19 rates at an all time high, countries across the globe are locking back down. January 20 The US death toll has surpassed 400,000 Covid-19 deaths, and Texas continues to fight rapid spread of Covid-19. Amidst a Washington DC lockdown, President Biden and Vice President Harris were sworn in at the capitol building today. Studies are showing strong evidence that Pfizer's vaccine is effective against the UK Covid variant. January 19 Teacher shortages have been impeding efforts to reopen schools across the nation. New York and Michigan have both reached out to Pfizer in an effort to order doses of the vaccine directly from the supplier. January 18 As the US surpassed 24 million total cases of coronavirus, hotspots like Los Angeles continue to feel the strain. With the Biden inauguration taking place later this week, Vaccine distribution remains the administration's top priority. Covid-19 variants are popping up in LA, South Africa, the UK and Brazil, and nations are preparing for the impact of more contagious variants of the coronavirus. January 15 Arizona and California are largely fueling the surge in US coronavirus related deaths. Moderna CEO yesterday said that he expects Covid-19 to be around 'forever.' Norwegian medical experts are warning of vaccination risks for sick patients over 80. January 13 Starting January 26 the CDC will require all international travelers coming to the US to show a negative coronavirus test. A third coronavirus vaccine is still in the works at Johnson & Johnson, despite production lags. Immunity from Moderna's Covid-19 vaccine is expected to last around 1 year. January 12 With US Covid-19 deaths at an all-time high, officials are recommending that vaccines be approved for all Americans over 65. Teachers across the US are beginning to receive Covid-19 vaccines, as local governments work to reopen in-person schools. WHO officials are warning nations that herd immunity will not happen in 2021, and that social distancing measures should remain in place through this year. January 11 The city of New York has loosened the requirements needed to receive the coronavirus vaccine. The move comes after outcry from hospitals that the strict requirements were forcing them to discard vaccines unused. A Biden Coronavirus advisory board member said that while they are still committed to 100 million shots in the first 100 days of Biden's term, doing so will require no '...squabbling over partisan issues...' Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, is battling an 'alarming' second wave as the country surpasses 100,000 total cases. January 8 Medical experts are warning that those who receive the coronavirus vaccine will remain vulnerable to catching the virus for "...a few weeks" while the vaccine takes effect. According to a new study from the Jama Network, 59% of the virus spread takes place in people who have no symptoms. Arizona has become the hottest Covid-19 hotspot as virus numbers surge well beyond summer levels. January 7 In a day overshadowed by the events taking place at the Capitol building, nearly 4,000 Americans lost their lives to Covid-19. Washington has become the latest state to release Covid-19 vaccination tiers. With infections on the rise in Tokyo, officials have announced a state of emergency and additional restrictions. January 6 The EU drug regulator has approved the Moderna vaccine, a decision that was originally scheduled to take place in late January. A new strain of Covid-19 in South Africa is concerning experts as it appears to inhibit antibody drugs. A case of the UK Covid-19 variant has been found in Georgia. January 5 The US has nearly 21 million total cases of Coronavirus. The British PM has announced new lockdown plans that are expected to last until mid-February. Under the new rules, Brits will only be permitted to leave their homes for permitted reasons like food shopping, medical needs and exercise. The largest global study of 'long Covid' is shedding light on why some people are experiencing symptoms for six months after contracting Covid. January 4 A California nurse became one of the first Americans to receive their second vaccine dose this morning. Dr. Fauci indicated yesterday that the US could reach herd immunity by late Summer or early Fall. The US recorded 6.3 million new cases of Coronavirus in December, nearly 2 million more than November. December 23 A last minute change could be coming to the $900 billion Covid-19 relief bill after President Trump joins several other lawmakers in calling for larger stimulus checks. The US has come to a deal with Pfizer and will buy 100 million more doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. Hospitals in California, Oklahoma, Texas and Tennessee are being pushed near their breaking point. December 22 Yesterday congress voted to pass a $900 billion Covid-19 relief bill. The state of Washington has announced that travelers from the UK will need to quarantine for 14 days after a new strain of Coronavirus has been identified there. Doctor Fauci is warning medical experts to "assume that [the new strain of Covid-19] is here already." December 21 Several EU Nations have banned flights to and from England, and France has imposed a 48 hour suspension of freight transit. The move comes as the island nation attempts to contain what officials are calling a new more contagious variant of the coronavirus. Despite optimism related to the new vaccine, officials are warning that a Christmas spike could overload already crowded hospitals. US lawmakers are expected to vote and confirm a bipartisan $900 billion Covid-19 relief bill later today. December 18 Lawmakers are striking an optimistic note on the new Covid relief bill as the midnight deadline quickly approaches. An FDA panel has endorsed the Moderna coronavirus vaccine, bringing the second vaccine one step closer to widespread distribution. Vice President Pence, his wife and the Surgeon General all received the Pfizer vaccine this morning on live TV. December 17 With a Friday deadline fast approaching, the US congress is 'closing in on' approving a massive Covid aid bill. California, the latest US Covid-19 epicenter, has more active cases than most other countries. Cases are once again surging in much of Asia, with Japan and South Korea implementing some of their toughest restrictions yet. December 16 Amidst a potential shortage, the US and Pfizer are negotiating a deal that aims to provide more doses to Americans in the first half of next year. The Port of Los Angeles director is pushing for vaccine priority for dock workers. December 15 Moderna's vaccine could be releasing as early as next week after the FDA deems it safe and highly effective. The US has surpassed 300,000 Covid-19 deaths. Walgreens is preparing ultra-cold storage at 100 sites across the US to prepare for vaccine distribution. December 14 The FDA has cleared Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine, and will begin shipping millions of doses this week. According to the latests Ispos poll, 84% of Americans plan to take the coronavirus vaccine. December 10 An advisory panel of medical experts will be meeting today to decide whether to recommend Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine for full FDA approval. Yesterday marked a new high for Covid-19 deaths in the US at 3100. Some cities, like Chicago, have already begun releasing information about vaccine distribution plans. December 8 The FDA has deemed Pfizer's vaccine safe and effective after one dose. The vaccine procedure calls for two doses three weeks apart, and is vying for emergency use authorization. The UK has given their first Covid-19 vaccine doses today. The WHO is advising caution as vaccine's begin to be distributed, warning that herd immunity is "still far off." December 7 Tomorrow will mark the launch of the UK's vaccine drive. They will become the first western country to do so. With nearly 40,000 national cases, and new social distancing measures taking effect tomorrow, South Korean officials are calling some hotspots "covid-19 war zones." Experts are saying Covid fatigue and colder weather are to blame for the US's rise to nearly 200,000 new cases a day. December 4 With a potential government shutdown looming, Congressional leaders met yesterday to talk about a potential coronavirus stimulus deal. Dr. Anthony Fauci said today that "we have not yet seen the post-Thanksgiving peak," and advised caution going into the winter holiday season. California is planning regional stay at home orders as cases continue to surge throughout the state. December 3 Delta has become the first US airline to offer contact tracing to travelers. Moderna will be submitting their vaccine for FDA approval later today. Healthcare providers across the country are preparing for a winter surge in new coronavirus cases, and are learning what they can from the spring surge. December 2 Britain has given emergency authorization to Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine, becoming the first western nation to approve a vaccine. Distribution will begin next week. Yesterday an independent panel advising the CDC voted to recommend that long-term-care residents and health workers should be the first to receive a vaccine. The CDC has updated their recommended self-quarantine period for people who have tested positive for Covid-19 but have no symptoms from 14 days to 10 days. December 1 CDC advisers are meeting today to discuss how the coming vaccine will be distributed, and who will be first in line to receive it. Pfizer and BioNTech have applied for Covid-19 vaccine approval in Europe. November's Covid-19 surge lead to more than 4 million new cases of coronavirus, doubling the amount of new cases in October. November 30 Moderna has announced they intend to apply to the FDA for emergency vaccine approval, saying injections could begin in late December. As airlines had their busiest week since March this Thanksgiving, experts are warning that this could lead to a spike in cases leading into the Christmas season. The U.S. congress has reconvened today, opening a brief window to pass a Covid-19 stimulus deal. November 24 US cases, now exceeding 12,000,000, are experiencing a rapid increase across the country. As cases continue to surge, Covid-19 tests are taking longer to come back. Despite initial success across Asia fighting the spread of new coronavirus cases, the last few weeks have seen a resurgence of new cases. November 23 Good vaccine news continues to pile in as AstraZeneca is the latest drugmaker to publish promising results. Some states, like Texas & Florida, have already begun outlining how a vaccine will be distributed. The UK lockdown is scheduled to end on December 2. November 19 A quarter of a million people have now died in the US from contracting the coronavirus. New York City schools will be closing down once again, even as restaurants and gyms remain open. For the first time in months, cases are falling once again in Europe. Last week saw a 10% drop in cases across the continent. November 18 France has now surpassed 2 million total cases of coronavirus, as French officials warn that the lockdown could stay in place for several weeks. As cases rise across Asia, Japan and South Korea are moving back toward tighter restrictions. Vaccine producers Pfizer & Moderna expect to have 22.5 million doses ready to distribute by January. November 17 Texas and California now both have over 1,000,000 total cases of coronavirus. New Jersey, Oklahoma, Iowa and California all announced yesterday that they'd be introducing stricter public health measures to combat coronavirus. Joining England, some parts of Scotland will be moving into the highest level of restrictions as cases continue their climb. November 16 Washington, Texas, California, Michigan and several other states have reimposed some coronavirus restrictions amidst rising cases. The Moderna coronavirus vaccine has been found to be 95% effective in a recent study. After being exposed to the coronavirus, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be entering self-isolation. November 12 The US recorded 145,000 new cases of coronavirus yesterday, and increase of more than 40,000 compared to one week ago. Dr. Fauci said yesterday that most Americans could expect to receive the vaccine by April. Officials across the United States have been providing updates on the state of restrictions, new cases, and more. November 11 The EU has agreed to buy 200 million doses of Pfizer's vaccine, shortly after the company announces a 90% effective rate. Texas now has 1 million total cases of coronavirus. The CDC has updated their mask-wearing recommendations after a new study finds that wearing a mask protects the wearer as much as those around them. November 10 Hospitalizations related to Covid-19 are surging in many US states. States with highest rates of hospitalization are the Dakotas, New Mexico, Nebraska and Wisconsin. The FDA has authorized Eli Lilly's coronavirus antibody treatment for use in emergencies. Italy has tightened travel restrictions in five regions as the death toll in the country and across Europe continues to mount. November 9 This morning Pfizer announced that they're expecting their coronavirus vaccine to be 90% effective. The President-Elect transition team has announced members of the new coronavirus task force. John Hopkins University reported more than 50 million global cases on Sunday. The US represents roughly 10 million of those cases. November 6 More than 250,000 cases of coronavirus have been linked to college campuses so far this year. As the country focuses on the hectic election process, the US continues to report record breaking rates of coronavirus. A new strain of coronavirus that mutated to infect minks could affect a future vaccine according to a new study by the WHO. November 5 For the first time since the start of the pandemic, the US has added more than 100,000 cases of coronavirus in a single day. South Korea has developed and approved a new test that can detect both coronavirus and the seasonal flu. As the UK & France begin their second lockdown, Greece, Italy and Germany announces plans to do the same. November 4 For four days in a row, France has recorded more than 25,000 new cases of coronavirus. The news comes as England, France and the UK impose new lockdowns amidst rising cases and pandemic fatigue. Election day also saw a sharp increase in the number of new daily cases of Coronavirus. November 3 Britain is planning on conducting city-wide Covid-19 testing in Liverpool, attempting to test all 500,000 city residents. Today is election day in the United States. Covid-19 and how the US should respond to it has been a major focus an already embattled election season. For the first time in more than a week, Japan has recorded less than 500 new daily cases. November 2 LA County now has more than 300,000 active cases of Covid-19. With winter and flu season approaching, British PM Boris Johnson is warning that UK Covid-19 deaths could be 'twice as bad' as in the spring. Nearly 50,000 Americans are currently hospitalized for Covid-19. October 29 Moderna announced this week that they have begun preparing for the global launch of the Covid vaccine, and have made supply agreements with countries across the globe. Situations in European hospitals are getting critical. Belgium has paused all non-essential medical procedures, and patients in the Netherlands are being flighted to Germany due to a shortage of space. While warning of an 'unrelenting broad community spread' across the country, Dr. Anthony Fauci warned that unless we 'act quickly' a national lockdown is not out of the question. October 28 Although new infections are climbing across Europe and the US, the Covid-19 fatality rate is declining. Denver is the latest US city to reimpose strict coronavirus restrictions in an effort to curb new infections. Meanwhile in California, four Bay Area counties have loosened coronavirus restrictions from red to orange. The World Health Organization has said that vaccine trial results have been 'encouraging,' while also cautioning that broad distribution of the vaccine will 'take time.' October 27 A new study from the UK is showing that post-infection immunity to Covid-19 from antibodies decreases by as much as 25% within 3 months of recovery. After a 160% increase in cases, the city of El Paso will be instituting a new curfew. As a second wave of coronavirus sweeps through the continent, European countries are battling the virus on several fronts. France is reporting the most coronavirus hospitalizations since April. Italy has reimposed strict coronavirus restrictions. October 26 Spain and France both now have more than 1 million cases of coronavirus each as cases continue a steep upward climb across Europe. On Friday the US recorded more than 83,000 new cases of coronavirus, the highest daily total since the start of the pandemic. Utah hospitals are considering rationing medical supplies as rising cases of Covid-19 threaten to outpace capacity. October 23 The US recorded 77,000 new cases of Covid-19 yesterday, the highest recorded since July. Hospital beds are once again becoming scarce. Idaho hospitals are considering transferring patients as far as Portland and Seattle. The upper-midwest of the US is experience a rapid rise in new cases of coronavirus. October 22 The CDC has released new guidelines on what constitutes a 'close contact' with COVID-19. The new recommendation states that if you've been within 6 feet of an infected person for a total 15 minutes in any 24hr window you should self-isolate. The US recorded 1000+ Covid related deaths yesterday as the experts continue to warn about the fall surge. Germany is now reporting more than 10,000 new cases of Covid-19 a day. October 21 Amidst a new surge in cases of coronavirus, Chicago will be relaunching some restrictions. The move comes after the city is recording nearly 2000 new cases a day. As the second wave of Covid-19 sweeps through the country & abroad, studies are showing a drop in the death rate. New daily cases in the US are nearing 60,000. October 20 California has announced that it intends to independently review the safety of any Covid vaccine that received federal approval before wider distributions. As part of their 'human challenge' trials vaccine producers in the UK will begin deliberately infecting volunteers with Covid-19 to test the effectiveness of the vaccine. Global Covid-19 infections have surpassed 40 million according to the latest count from John Hopkins University. October 19 UNICEF has announced plans to purchase half a billion syringes in order to prepare to distribute an eventual vaccine. The Chinese port city of Qingdao was put under a soft lockdown and 1 million residents were tested over the weekend after 13 residents tested positive. New coronavirus infections jumped almost 17% in the US last week. October 16 Retail sales beat projections in September, as consumer demand continue to bounce back. Vaccine-producing drug company Pfizer said this week that the third week of November was the earliest that data could show if their vaccine was effective. The US now has 8 million active cases of coronavirus. October 15 Texas is the only state that has had a decreasing number of new coronavirus cases in the past seven days. One day after Johnson & Johnson put their vaccine on pause Eli Lilly has temporarily suspended testing for their antibody treatment citing a 'potential safety concern.' Dr. Fauci is advising caution for the approaching holiday season, and is asking each family to 'evaluate the risk/benefit of' gathering with relatives indoors. October 14 After a new outbreak, the NFL will begin testing all players on game day. The league has also said they have no plans to enter a 'bubble' similar to the NBA, WNBA & NHL. According to the latest data from John Hopkins there are now more than 38,000,000 global cases of coronavirus. Russia has seen a swift rise in cases of coronavirus cases, and this week marked the highest daily fatalities in the country since the start of the pandemic. October 13 Testing results in NYC schools are showing 'very encouraging results' as the larger city nears a 2% test positivity rate. The Johnson & Johnson Vaccine trial has been put on hold after an 'unexplained illness' in one of the study's participants. The UK has announced a new 3-tier lockdown system to combat the spread of Covid-19. Cities will be placed on a medium, high, or very high alert, and restrictions will range from travel bans to household mixing. October 12 For the first time since March, new daily infections in Italy exceeded 5,000 over the weekend. Restrictions are tightening across Europe as cases of coronavirus continue to rise. Twelve states set record highs for new Covid cases over the weekend. Florida, Texas, Utah, South Carolina, Nevada, Georgia, Missouri, Montana, Arizona, California, Tennessee and Oklahoma October 8 With nearly 19,000 new cases in the last 24 hours, France has set another new daily high. The WHO said this week that 10% of the human population may have had the conronavirus. The White House has signaled it is open to begin stimulus talks again, with a focus on $1200 stimulus checks and struggling airlines & small businesses. October 7 Yesterday evening Dr. Fauci warned that without the necessary precautions in the Fall and Winter the US could have 300,000-400,000 Covid-19 deaths. At nearly 7 million total cases of Covid-19, India is threatening to surpass the US in total cases of coronavirus in the coming weeks. Boston's school reopening will be pushed back until October 22 after an increase in coronavirus cases. October 6 The CDC has updated their Covid-19 guidance to acknowledge the risk of airborne spread. The WHO is warning Europeans to avoid 'Pandemic Fatigue' as a second wave of infections sweep the continent. Cases of coronavirus are only trending down in four US states; Kansas, Missouri, South Carolina & Hawaii. October 5 In the past seven days 9 states have set single day records for new coronavirus infections. States include Utah, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Maine and New Hamsphire. Cases of and hospitalizations from Covid-19 have both risen sharply in the Midwest as colder weather engulfs the region. The White House press secretary has contracted Covid-19, the latest person in President Trump's circle to test positive for the virus. October 2 Wisconsin, once largely spared from the brunt of the pandemic, has become a hotspot with new daily cases surging to more than 3000. Today in a memo to his employees the Pfizer CEO said the vaccine will 'move at the speed of science' and was disappointed in the politicization of vaccine distribution. According to the CDC cases of coronavirus in young adults 18-22 have increased 55% nationally. October 1 United and American airlines have announced a furlough of 32,000 employees. After being moved into the 'red zone' due to rising cases of coronavirus, the city of Boston will not be moving into the next stage of reopening as scheduled. Covid cases are once again on the rise in 25 of 50 states across the US. Cases are decreasing in 8 states, including Texas and Florida. September 30 Two members of the Italian senate have tested positive for Coronavirus. NYC will begin issuing fines to people who refuse to wears masks as the battered city once again faces climbing rates of infection. French health authorities have reported more than 10,000 new cases in the last 24 hours. The news comes as concerns over a second wave in Europe continue to mount. September 29 The CDC has released an early study on the trends of Covid-19 among school-aged children. Covid-19 was nearly twice as prevalent among adolescents (12-17) as it was in children (5-11). India has surpassed 6 million total cases of coronavirus, becoming the second nation to do so. Tampa International Airport is the first airport to offer Covid-19 testing to all passengers. September 28 The state of Florida will be lifting all coronavirus restrictions that have been placed on businesses. Total US cases of Coronavirus have surpassed 7 million. Canada's largest province, Ontario, has reported a single day increase of 700 cases, a new daily record. September 25 The governors of Missouri and Virginia and both their wives have all tested positive for coronavirus this week. Outdoor sidewalk dining will be permitted permanently and year round in NYC after a new announcement from the Mayor. As the world approaches 1 million deaths from coronavirus, WHO officials are warning that 2 millions deaths are 'not impossible.' September 24 Johnson & Johnson has become the fourth US company to enter the final trial phase of their vaccine. After a large spike in new cases of coronavirus, Israel will be the first developed nation to re-enter a strict national lockdown. A new study out of Houston has found that the coronavirus is mutating. September 23 The FDA has announced that they will be implementing stricter standards for a Covid-19 vaccine. France reported more than 10,000 new cases of coronavirus yesterday, as the potential of a second wave hangs over Europe. Fauci warned today that 'it might take some time' before a vaccine is ready. September 22 The UK government announced several new restrictive measures to slow the spread of Coronavirus. The news comes amidst a resurgence of cases. The United States has surpassed 200,000 deaths from Covid-19. The CDC has removed their guidance on airborne transmission from their website, saying the update was a draft posted unintentionally. September 21 The UK's top scientific advisors are warning that Britain could have up to 50,000 new cases a day by mid-October, as hospitalization rates have nearly quadrupled since Sept. 1. The CDC has updated thier How Coronavirus Spreads guidance to acknowledge that coronavirus is airborne, and can spread through the air. Global cases of Covid-19 have surpassed 30 million. September 18 The US, Canada and Mexico have agreed to push back reopening their shared borders until at least Oct. 21. The governor of Texas announced yesterday that restrictions on businesses will be eased in 'most' of the state. Hawaii will be reopening to tourist starting Oct. 15. September 17 NYC has once again pushed back in-person learning for the majority of students. Cases continue to rise across Europe, and WHO experts are warning about a 'very serious' resurgence in the continent as total cases surpass 300,000. Today several airline executives will be meeting with White House officials to push for another federal aid package for the struggling industry. September 16 For the fourth month in a row spending is up in the USA, with furniture, restaurants, bars and clothes leading the way. According to a recent survey of CEO's in the Washington DC region, they expect workers to remain home until at least next summer. Big Ten football has announced that they will return for an abbreviated season starting Oct. 24. September 15 After a long summer surge, hospitalizations in California are at their lowest rate since April. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a bill temporarily giving schools and employers immunity from all coronavirus-related lawsuits. Global cases of coronavirus have reached nearly 30 million. According to a new study from Columbia University the NYC lockdown and wearing masks helped reduce the spread of Coronavirus by 70%. September 14 After pausing their clinical vaccine trial when a volunteer became sick, AstraZeneca will be resuming testing in the U.K. For the first time in more than 6 months, Pakistan will be reopening schools and universities. September 11 In a first, New York transit riders who refuse to mask-up will be issued a $50 fine. As safety precautions prevent traditional 9/11 memorial services, observers turn to services streamed online. Coronavirus cases continue to climb in India, with the total now surpassing 4.5 million and as many as 95,000 new cases a day. September 10 Months after the initial outbreak of coronavirus, life is starting to return to normal in Wuhan, China where virus transmission is near normal. Health experts are hopeful that the increased focus and research on a coronavirus vaccine will lead to more effective flu vaccines in the future. Tonight the senate will be voting on a 'skinny' coronavirus relief aid bill to stimulate a battered economy. September 9 While speaking before congress, the director of the National Institute of Health expressed doubt about delivering a vaccine by November, but was cautiously optimistic we would have one by the end of 2020. Once ground zero for the coronavirus epidemic in the US, New York City officials announced today that they will be allowing indoor dining again for the first time since March. A Covid-19 vaccine trial being led by drugmaker AstraZeneca is being paused after a volunteer was diagnosed with a 'potentially unexplained illness.' September 8 After recording more than 90,000 cases in a single day this weekend, India moved to second place for total number of Covid-19 cases. New daily cases of Covid-19 in the United States continue to decline since peaking in late July. New daily cases are currently ranging from 40,000-30,000, down from nearly 70,000 at its height. While experts are hopeful that this flu season will be mild due to Covid-19 measures, hospitals across the country are bracing for a confluence of flu and Covid-19 patients. September 4 Going into a long Labor Day weekend, experts are warning that North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Arkansas, Missouri, Indiana, Illinois are at risk of a surge in cases. Unemployment fell again last month according to the latest report from the US Labor Department, bringing the total unemployment rate to 8.4%. Thailand's 100+ day streak of no new local cases of Coronavirus has come to an end after a Bangkok inmate test positive. September 3 Yesterday, the CDC alerted all 50 states to prepare for a coronavirus vaccine as early as November. The warning comes a day after Dr. Anthony Fauci says that a vaccine could be made available early to some low risk groups should the early results of testing be 'overwhelming.' The Covid threat level in Dallas County has been lowered from red to orange for the first time since May, allowing more businesses to open with the proper precautions. Brazil continues to battle a surge of new coronavirus infections as the country closes in on 4,000,000 total cases according to the latest from Johns Hopkins. September 2 According to a new study, inexpensive steroids can have life-saving results for Covid-19 patients. Today Thailand, the second country to originally report Covid-19 infections, has gone 100 consecutive days without a new local case of Covid-19. The CDC has halted evictions nationwide with the goal of limiting the spread of Covid-19. Shortly after re-opening the University of Alabama has had 1000+ students test positive for coronavirus. The news comes as college campuses across the US are battling local outbreaks of coronavirus. September 1 Dr. Anthony Fauci is warning Americans to avoid 'Super Spreader' events this Labor Day, and has offered recommendations for how to safely enjoy the Holiday. The US Open is kicking off this week surrounded by empty seats, as fans are forbidden due to Covid-19. New York City has pushed back the start of the school year by 10 days as concerns over spreading Covid-19 mount. August 31 Even as the US surpasses 6 million total cases of coronavirus, new cases fell by 15% last week. India recorded more than 78,000 new coronavirus cases today as the nation continues to become a new epicenter for the virus. New Jersey announced today that indoor dining will be resuming with limited capacity this week. August 24 The summer surge of Covid-19 infections is showing signs of slowing, as deaths and infections have been trending down since a mid-July peak. The CDC has released an updated overview for getting a Coronavirus test. Scientists in Hong Kong have found that, while extremely rare, some patients can be reinfected with COVID-19. August 21 Johnson & Johnson has announced plans to test their coronavirus vaccine on more than 60,000 volunteers in September. US senator Bill Cassidy has tested positive for Covid-19, making him the second senator to do so. Airbnb announced today that they will be limiting all locations to a maximum of 16 guests as part of their "Global Party Ban." The move comes days after the Los Angeles Mayor began shutting off power at houses hosting large gatherings. August 20 Florida has become the fifth state to record 10,000 coronavirus related deaths. US teachers have officially been declared essential workers. August 19 Michigan State and Notre Dame will both be joining UNC in the move to online-only learning. There have now been more than 22,000,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 worldwide. The CDC has released an updated list of locations from which travelers are prohibited from entering the US. China Iran European Schengen area United Kingdom Republic of Ireland Brazil August 18 The federal government has teamed up with researchers from the University of Minnesota to start a trial aimed at harnessing and mass producing the natural power of antibodies to fight Covid-19. South Korea is again facing a spike in coronavirus infections, with the latest four day total showing 745 new cases. Experts are cautiously optimistic after new studies show that humans have a 'robust' immune response to COVID-19. New York has added Alaska and Delaware to their Covid-19 travel advisory list. Visitors from all 35 listed states must submit to a mandatory 14 day quarantine upon entering New York. August 17 France is now recording nearly 3,000 new cases of coronavirus a day. More than 150 Colorado college students have been placed in a 14 day quarantine after a student test positive. August 14 China reported only 8 new local cases of coronavirus today. The United States continues to outpace similar countries in rates of COVID-19 infections and related deaths. August 13 New Zealand confirmed Thursday there are now 13 local cases linked to the four who tested positive for COVID-19, ending 102 days with no community spread. The Netherlands' top health official told parliament Tuesday that 4,036 additional cases had been confirmed in seven days — a rise of 55% on the previous week. The worldwide effort to create a vaccine for the novel coronavirus continues: here is a roundup of the latest progress aimed at ending the pandemic. Following the second State shutdown in California, data suggest these restrictions are finally having their intended effect. August 12 Yesterday Hawaii government officials instituted a mandatory 14-day quarantine for anyone traveling between islands. More than 900 students and staff are being put under quarantine in one Georgia school district after starting the school year last week. The Big Ten and Pac 12 conferences will be postponing some fall sports, including football, citing concerns related to coronavirus. Meanwhile, the Big 12 conference's fall season is proceeding as planned. August 11 Europe's CDC equivalent is advocating for new restrictions amid a 'resurgence in cases' across the continent. New Zealand confirmed their first locally transmitted case of coronavirus in over 102 days yesterday, leading to the announcement of a three day lockdown in Auckland. The African continent reached a grim milestone as it confirmed its 1,000,000 case of coronavirus. August 10 According to the latest from JHU, the US now has more than 5,000,000 total cases of coronavirus. Face masks will now be required in crowded outdoor areas throughout Paris and other French cities as concerns over a second wave mounts. A joint study between the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children's Hospital Association found that nearly 100,000 children in the US tested positive for the Coronavirus in the last two weeks of July. August 7 Today New York officials announced that schools will be reopening to in-person learning this Fall, citing a falling rate of coronavirus infections. India has now recorded more than 2,000,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus. Princeton has announced that the Fall 2020 semester will be entirely remote. August 6 Active coronavirus cases are now falling or remaining steady in most of the US. In hopes of a safer return to school this month, North Carolina will keep bars, gyms and indoor entertainment closed until at least Sept. 11. August 5 Johnson & Johnson has reached a deal with the US to develop and deliver more than 100,000,000 doses of the coronavirus vaccine. The Coronavirus pandemic has now claimed more than 700,000 lives worldwide. Mississippi has delayed the start of the school year until August 17 for counties that are considered hotspots. School reopenings are being handled state by state and county by county. Click here to see which states will be delaying fall sports to 2021. August 4 According to the latest data from John's Hopkins University, Latin America and the Caribbean have more than 5,000,000 confirmed coronavirus cases. Brazil, Mexico and Peru are among the hardest hit. Confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths are all trending down in California. Amidst a second wave of outbreaks, Australian citizens in Victoria will face large fines if found violating self-isolation regulations. August 3 As scientist and drug makers across the world race for a vaccine, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warns that there is "no silver bullet" and "there might never be." Top US Health Official, Dr. Deborah Birx, advised caution yesterday citing that the coronavirus pandemic has entered a "new phase" and that the virus is "extraordinarily widespread." Jos. A Bank & Men's Wearhouse are the latest nationwide retailers to file for bankruptcy. The move comes as retailers are increasingly focusing on online sales and closing physical locations. July 31 New York City is the first city to set an infection rate mandate for reopening schools. Infection rates must stay below 3% for schools to remain open. Coronavirus cases continue to rise across the US, concentrated most heavily in the South. Click here to see the latest numbers, including a state by state breakdown. While testifying before the house today, top US health officials were 'optimistic' that a coronavirus vaccine will be ready in 2021. Hong Kong announced today that legislative elections will be delayed until Sept. 2021 due to coronavirus. July 30 The US reported the worst drop in GDP ever this morning, after months of the coronavirus ravaging the economy. The CDC has updated their Coronavirus prevention guide. A new analysis of the outbreak aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship demonstrates the importance of aerosol transmission of the coronavirus. A new study is suggesting that certain people who have never contracted coronavirus may have some level of immunity. July 29 Amidst heightened safety concerns related to coronavirus Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Kohl's have all announced that they will be remaining closed for Thanksgiving 2020. As unemployment continues to climb, US lawmakers are negotiating a second stimulus bill. The move to close or limit the hours of bars is being debated across the country. While North Carolina passed a ban on the sale of alcohol past 11 pm, Ohio judges blocked a similar ordinance for their state. July 28 The NBA will resume play this week surrounded by massive video screens for fans to facetime in. This follows last week's launch of the 2020 MLB season, which has faced several challenges. Lebanon is the latest country to reintroduce a COVID-19 lockdown after a spike in active cases. Dr. Fauci remains 'cautiously optimistic' about a vaccine, as one potential vaccine moves into the final stages of testing. July 27 Robert O'Brien, White House National Security Advisor, announced today that he has tested positive for Coronavirus. O'Brien is the most senior US official to test positive for the virus. A new study out of King's College London suggest there could be six different 'types' of COVID-19 with differing symptoms. The CDC has released updated isolation guidelines. After a spike in cases, the Belgian PM has outlined a list of new restrictions and warns that a return to 'total shutdown' is not out of the question. July 24 The United States has officially surpassed 4,000,000 total coronavirus cases, as ICU beds in some states are getting critically low. After ending the national lockdown nearly a month ago Spain has struggled to maintain rising Coronavirus cases, with a daily increase of more than 900. White House coronavirus response coordinator Deborah Birx warns that California, Texas and Florida are 'essentially three New Yorks' as the virus continues to rapidly spread. July 23 Virginia has become the first state to introduce mandatory and enforceable COVID-19 safety measures in the workplace. Requirements include classifying employee's by risk level based on exposure to others while at work, establishment of self-reporting protocol, and the creation of an 'infectious disease preparedness and response plan.' As Coronavirus numbers continue to surge, weekly unemployment claims rose for the first time since March last week. The CDC has updated their recommended guidelines for how to reduce your chance of infection during personal and social activities like eating out or visiting with friends. July 22 Minnesota, Ohio and Indiana are the latest states to mandate masks while in public. New York, New Jersey & Connecticut will now be requiring a 14-day quarantine for visitors from 31 states deemed hotspots. July 21 Today marks the return of the White House's Coronavirus briefings amidst the worsening crisis. The EU has agreed to a massive stimulus package with hopes it will revive a virus battered economy. Yesterday, France introduced a mask mandate punishable via fine for anyone indoors. Click here to see how other countries are navigating mask mandates. July 20 Bad news for US college sports fans after the NCAA president says that the 'data is moving in the wrong direction' for fall sports. As the pandemic continues to spread throughout the country, top US officials are negotiating a possible second stimulus package. Oxford University and pharma giant AstraZeneca are seeing positive results in their early trials for a coronavirus vaccine. US states continue to see a steep climb in confirmed coronavirus cases. July 17 Hospital bed capacity is beginning to run low in hard hit areas like California, Arizona and Florida. The US recorded 75,000 new cases of coronavirus yesterday, a new single day record. EU leaders are meeting in person for the first time this week to negotiate a coronavirus stimulus package in hopes of reviving a virus-battered economy. India has surpassed one million active cases in the country's latest COVID-19 surge. July 16 32 US states are now adding more COVID-19 cases a week than they did during the spring surge. The CDC has updated their Quarantine guidelines, click here to take a look. Tokyo has hit a new record high for daily infections after nearly 300 new confirmed cases yesterday. According to the latest report from the US Commerce Department retail sales were up 7.5% in June, with some sectors, like restaurants and bars, jumping by 20%. Yesterday Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt announced that he tested positive for the coronavirus, becoming the first US Governor to contract COVID-19. July 15 The first COVID-19 vaccine tested in America is showing promising results, and is poised to begin final testing. According to a new poll, 71% of American parents believe it would be a large or moderate risk to return to school in the fall. Walmart is the latest corporation to mandate masks for employees and customers at all US locations. More than 400 million people in India will be re-entering lockdown conditions after a large surge in cases across the country. July 14 Global Covid cases have increased by more than 1,000,000 in the past five days. California is rolling back its coronavirus reopening after the Governor orders bars and other indoor businesses to close back down. Yesterday the US military announced they will be sending medical staff to Covid hotspots in Texas & California. Los Angeles, Atlanta & San Diego announce that schools will be online-only this fall. July 13 Louisiana is the latest state to re-close bars and mandate masks while in public. For the latest coronavirus news by state, click here. During a frank media briefing this morning, the WHO Director-General warns that there will be no return to the "old normal for the foreseeable future." and that "The virus remains public enemy number one…There are no shortcuts out of this pandemic." The CDC has updated its list of COVID-19 symptoms to include congestion, runny nose, nausea and diarrhea. After local outbreak surges to 61 new cases, Hong Kong orders schools, gyms, theaters and more to re-close. July 10 Thirty-three states saw an increase in coronavirus cases this week, with only Maine, New Hampshire and Connecticut trending downwards. The following states have mask mandates in place: California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and West Virginia. Starbucks has also mandated masks for customers at all US locations. Disney World is set to reopen tomorrow, and will be among the first reopenings of a major theme park in the US. The WHO has announced an independent evaluation of countries across the globe based on their response to COVID-19. July 9 In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Dr. Anthony Fauci urged states with rising coronavirus cases to 'seriously consider' shutting back down. As airlines all continue to be battered by the Coronavirus and decreased demand, United Airlines announces that they may need to layoff as many as 36,000 employees. With confirmed cases climbing across the country, medical professionals are once again facing a dwindling supply of PPE and beds for patients. July 8 Florida Education Commissioner signs executive order for schools to reopen in August. WHO experts are traveling to China, where they and national scientists will be investigating the origins of the coronavirus. Colombia has extended their national quarantine until August 1, however restrictions on domestic flights are being eased. Scotland announced today that the country will be dropping isolation requirements for travelers from 39 countries that have been identified as low risk. July 7 As Brazil's infection rates continue to rise, the country's President, Jair Bolsonaro has tested positive for coronavirus. After nearly 200 new cases on Monday, the Australian city of Melbourne will be re-entering lockdown. International students will not be permitted to remain in the US if their fall-semester classes move online only, according to new rules from US officials. July 6 Coronavirus cases decreased in only two states last week, New Jersey and Rhode Island. On Sunday, Britain announced a nearly $2 billion relief package for the Arts. The package will benefit virus-battered theater, museum and arts sectors. Texas and Florida have both surpassed 200,000 total confirmed Coronavirus cases. Hundreds of scientists have banded together to urge the World Health Organization to recognize that the risk for Coronavirus is now airborne. July 2 Yesterday, for the first time since the start of the pandemic, the US reported 50,000 new Coronavirus cases. Pennsylvania, Oregon and Kansas become the latest state to mandate mask wearing when in public. They will be joining North Carolina, California, Nevada, Rhode Island, New York, Delaware, Connecticut, New Mexico, Illinois and Washington who have already implemented similar measures. Top US Health expert says that the US will have the capacity to conduct 40-50 million tests a month by Fall. US Surgeon General, Vice President and other members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force are urging the public to wear masks while in public to help slow the spread. July 1 New York, New Jersey and Connecticut will mandate quarantines for travelers from an additional eight states. New study suggests that the coronavirus was already spreading in some US states, like NY, as early as February. Daily coronavirus deaths in the US continue to decline, despite recent spike in confirmed cases. Drug company Pfizer has reported some very encouraging early vaccine results. WHO Director-General warns of a 'long hard road ahead' for 'countries [that] have not used all the tools at their disposal,' as some argue economic reopening shifts responsibility from lawmakers to civilians. June 30 After a recent spike in confirmed cases, Arizona announces that certain businesses will be forced to close again. Businesses closing will include bars, movie theaters, gyms, clubs and water parks/pools. While testifying in a Senate hearing focused on the reopening of schools, Dr. Fauci and other top health officials warn of trials of upcoming influenza season. To help with social distancing in airports, the TSA will be opening more screening centers. June 29 With global COVID cases surpassing 10,000,000, virus related deaths exceeded 500,000 over the weekend according to the latest data from Johns Hopkins University. After last week's virus outbreak in Beijing, Chinese officials are placing nearly half a million citizens in lockdown to limit the spread of the virus. After spike in cases, Florida will be closing some beaches for July 4th weekend. Visitors to Victoria, Australia will now be required to take a coronavirus test upon entering the state after an uptick in new cases on Sunday. With borders reopening across the EU this week, American citizens will not permitted to travel there. June 26 Amidst surge in new cases, Texas's Governor has ordered bars in the state to re-close and has limited the number of people permitted to gather in a restaurant. After coronavirus cases in India reach 500,000, New Delhi plans to test each of its 29 million residents. After tracking blood samples taken for antibody testing across the US, the CDC says that for every reported case of coronavirus there are as many as ten that go unreported. Florida state health officials confirmed 8,942 cases on Friday, nearly doubling the previous record of cases reported in a single day, two days ago. June 25 A new study in Brazil shows that coronavirus cases could be much higher than reported, as testing is limited in poorer communities. Disneyland has pushed reopening until at least July 17. Delta Airlines CEO says that passengers who refuse to wear a mask on flights may be permanently banned from future Delta flights. After longest closure since WWII, the Eiffel Tower reopened today as tourism returns to France. June 24 New York, New Jersey and Connecticut have officially imposed a mandatory quarantine for visitors from states with high rates of COVID. Confirmed Cases of coronavirus in Latin America have doubled in the last month to 2.2 million. Major League Baseball will be making its return this July for Spring Training. The season will be abbreviated to only 60 games. As EU borders reopen, officials are considering barring US citizens from entry. June 23 New York, New Jersey and Connecticut are all considering imposing a mandatory quarantine for visitors from certain states. LAX is testing new thermal cameras in their airport, with the hope they will be able to detect passengers with a fever. Roughly 2/3 of colleges are planning on returning to campus this Fall, according to latest data from the Chronicle of Higher Education. Only 7% plan to go online only. Even as total confirmed virus cases remain fairly low throughout the European Union, local outbreaks like the one in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany are still leading to regional lockdowns. South Korean medical experts are saying that the country is experiencing a second wave of coronavirus. June 22 The World Health Organization has reported the largest single day increase in coronavirus cases since the beginning of the pandemic. Every US State has now begun reopening. Click here for a state by state breakdown of restrictions, cases and more. New York City offices will be reopening for the first time this week, however most workers are expected to continue working from home. June 19 The UK has lowered the coronavirus alert level from 4 to 3, with total cases in the country near 1200. California's Governor has announced that mask-wearing will now be required in public throughout California. India is experiencing a surge in new coronavirus cases, with nearly 14,000 coronavirus cases reported yesterday. June 17 Analysis shows that Covid-19 Cases in California are beginning to trend younger, with 44% of cases in patients under 35. Coronavirus cases have surged in Brazil, with nearly 35,000 new cases reported yesterday. Rates of coronavirus cases vary greatly by state, and continue to change everyday. Click here for the latest. After a three month hiatus, the English Premier League is returning today. June 16 United and other US airlines will be mandating passengers wear masks while on board. The announcement comes as airlines continue to beef up summer flight schedules. According to the results of a British study released today, the use of a common steroid on patients with severe cases of coronavirus could be a 'major breakthrough.' Volunteers are signing up to risk their lives in a new experimental trial to develop a coronavirus vaccine. Following yesterday's limitation of travel within the Chinese capital, today Beijing announces that all schools will be closing once again amidst an 'extremely severe' outbreak. June 15 Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, North Carolina, Oklahoma and South Carolina all had record numbers of coronavirus cases this week. French borders to reopen to all EU member states tonight at midnight. Portions of Beijing are being locked down after a small outbreak rattles China's capital. Officials say these outbreaks are likely to be a part of the 'new normal.' June 12 US Hospitalizations from COVID-19 are the lowest they've been in more than 2 months. Oregon has paused their reopening after the state records daily high for infections. With less than 8,000 active cases nationally, Australia will be moving into Phase 3 of reopening. June 11 The US surpassed 2 million confirmed Covid-19 cases yesterday, according to the latest numbers from Johns Hopkins University. The World Health Organization is warning that the spread of the virus is accelerating in Africa, the continent which has been least affected by Coronavirus thus far. June 10 Major League Soccer to return July 8, marking the first major return of sports in the US. Amidst efforts to reopen, virus rates are up in 21of 50 states. Moves by American, Delta and United Airlines Holdings Inc. to increase flights in July show that customers are starting to return, at least for domestic travel… June 9 Texas has reported a new daily high for coronavirus hospitalizations. Global confirmed cases of Coronavirus has surged past 7,000,000 according to latest numbers from Johns Hopkins. As India continues to gradually reopen, shopping malls and places of worship will open their doors for the first time this week. June 8 Starting today, all travelers arriving to Britain will be subject to a mandatory 14 day quarantine period. As many as 400,000 NYC residents are returning to work today, as city officially moves into Phase 1 of reopening. 511 Epidemiologist across the US have weighed in on when they will personally resume activities like attending dinner parties, shaking hands or travel by plane. As customer demand for travel increases, US airlines are adding additional flights to summer schedules. With no current cases of the virus, New Zealand lifts remaining COVID-19 restrictions. California government announces plans to reopen TV and Film production as early as June 15. June 5 For the first time since March, NYC has gone a full day with no coronavirus deaths. Universal Orlando Theme Park reopened this morning in Florida, marking the first major return to business for theme parks in a post-Covid world. China's aviation authority is easing restrictions on foreign airlines. Once a week, airlines will be able to fly to one of 37 approved mainland cities. June 4 Small Businesses are leading the hiring charge, as their hiring rate outpaced the hiring rate of their corporate counterparts by nearly 40% in May. With safety measures in place, Las Vegas casinos have reopened. The NBA could be returning to TVs across the US. Today's NBA Team owner vote, which is expected to easily pass, will decide whether the NBA resumes the season with 22 teams. 1.9 million people filed claims for unemployment insurance according to this weeks numbers from US Labor Department, continuing the decline from March's peak of 6.8 million claims. June 3 Germany announces plans to lift travel ban on European countries starting June 15. The country joins Italy, whose restrictions on foreign travellers ended today. The US Government announces that Chinese airlines will no longer be permitted to fly to U.S. Cities, effective June 16. As protestors continue to gather by the thousands in cities across the US, experts are warning that the demonstrations could lead to coronavirus outbreaks. June 2 Restrictions are being lifted across the EU as confirmed Covid-19 cases continue to decline across the continent. Among them, France is moving into Phase II of their reopening allowing for the reopening of restaurants, parks, transportation and schools. Nearly 26,000 of 105,000 US Covid deaths were nursing home residents, according to the latest federal data. 6.2 million people across the globe currently have Covid-19 according to latest World Health Organization situation report. June 1 As what is promising to be an active hurricane season officially starts today, officials are concerned with the timing of the season, coupled with coronavirus risks. On Friday, May 29, the first-ever public teleconference hearing with lawmakers on Capitol Hill held by the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee was held. Discussions included freight volume recovery at the ports for 2020. May 29 Despite the reopening of the state of Illinois, Chicago to remain closed until next week. The CDC recommends complete overhaul of the modern office as businesses reopen amidst coronavirus. The Boston Marathon, originally scheduled for April before being postponed to September, has been cancelled for the first time in 124 years. New studies suggest the world is still far from herd immunity, as even the hardest hit areas have less than a third of the antibody rate needed to meet the immunity threshold. May 28 The National Women's Soccer League announced today that they will resume play in June with no fans in attendance, marking the first major return for professional sports in the US. Britain announces plan to lift lockdown next Monday, with government officials stressing caution and a gradual easing of restrictions. According latest numbers from Johns Hopkins University, the US has surpassed 100,000 Covid-19 related deaths. May 27 The EU and Japan have both unveiled new stimulus proposals to revive coronavirus-battered economies. The Canadian government is turning away from cargo flights and towards maritime, as the country makes plans to import 1.6 billion pieces of PPE. CDC warns that antibody test are still relatively unreliable, and it is unclear whether people who have already had the virus are immune. May 26 After being closed for more than two months, today the NYSE trading floor will be reopening for the first time. May 25 California announces retail stores and religious services can resume, provided that strict safety measures are followed. The Japanese Prime Minister has lifted the Coronavirus state of emergency for all of Japan. May 24 As confirmed cases of coronavirus continue to rise in Brazil, the US bars entry of any non-US citizen who has visited Brazil in the last 14 days. May 22 As the US approaches Memorial Day in the age of Coronavirus, a variety of virtual trips are available for the holiday weekend. With the US closing in on 100,000 coronavirus deaths, flags on government buildings, military posts and embassies to fly at half staff through Memorial Day Weekend. Check out these links for the latest updates from the CDC & WHO. Axios, using data provided by the Covid Tracking Project, has released an interactive map showing the increase/decrease in rates of coronavirus infection by state. May 21 Global cases of Covid-19 have now surpassed 5,000,000 according to new data from John Hopkins University. Days after reopening, Ford to temporarily halt production at two plants after employees test positive for coronavirus. May 20 The CDC has released new guidelines for businesses reopening during the Covid-19 Pandemic. WHO reports that the last 24 hours had highest daily increase in reported cases ever. Total number of Coronavirus cases in Russia surpasses 300k, as virus begins spread outside Moscow. May 19 Canada and the US have agreed to extend the border closure to non-essential travel until June 21. With Connecticut reopening tomorrow, all states have now made moves toward partial reopening. Vaccine used in National Institute of Health trial continues to show promising results. May 18 New data shows that the US job hiring plunge may have bottomed out in mid-April, as Linked in 'Hiring Rate' continues to climb in May. NYC Mayor says the city is likely to reach reopening criteria in early June. Chairman of the Federal Reserve warns economic effects of COVID-19 could last well into 2021. There have been several changes in lockdown restrictions at the state level, and plans for reopening vary drastically from state to state. Click here to view an interactive map detailing the status of each state. May 17 As local and state governments across the US continue to reduce virus restrictions California based tech-giant, Apple, announces plans to reopen 37 North American stores this week. May 16 Soccer has returned to Germany, albeit with empty stands, as Germany's Bundesliga Restarts Season. May 15 US Department of Agriculture is confident that there will be no widespread shortage of meat, as plants continue to return to full capacity. Retail sales across the US dropped more than 16% in the month of April, a new record low. The CDC has released new guidelines for reopening schools, businesses, and other workplaces. May 14 Wisconsin Supreme Court overturns the state's Safer at Home Orders, originally scheduled to end May 26. Nearly 3 million Americans applied for unemployment last week, according to new numbers from the Department of Labor. There have been several changes in lockdown restrictions at the state level, and plans for reopening vary drastically from state to state. Click here to view an interactive map detailing the status of each state. May 13 With US-Canadian border deal set to expire next week, Canadian Prime Minister says the government will be 'very, very careful' about any easing of border restrictions. Los Angeles County stay-at-home order likely to be extended through July, despite gradual loosening of restrictions in the area. Twitter announces that their employees who wish to work from home can do so 'forever.' California State University, the nation's largest four year public university, has announced plans to cancel most in person classes in favor of online classes for upcoming fall semester. EU announces phased recovery plan aimed at reopening borders between member states, with a goal to reopen in time for summer tourism. May 12 Top US health experts testify before the Senate, and warn lawmakers that reopening too early could be dangerous. Michigan manufacturing workers are back at work this week, however big three automakers won't begin assembling cars until next week. Wuhan, China orders test of all 11 million residents after the province discovers six new cases last week. May 11 France to begin a gradual reopening of the country today, with the Finance Minister saying: "From May 11 all the businesses that were closed will be able to open again, with the exception of social venues like cafes, bars and restaurants. “ After virus outbreak amongst White House staff, three members of the coronavirus task force will undergo self-isolation, including Dr. Anthony Fauci. May 10 British Prime Minister announces extension of Coronavirus Lockdown, as well as plans to reopen some schools and businesses. South Korea reports 34 new coronavirus cases after outbreak at several bars/night clubs, the countries highest daily increase in longer than a month. May 9 According to new data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, roughly a third of COVID-19 deaths take place in long term care facilities in most states. May 8 More than 1000 workers at a single meat packing plant in Waterloo, Iowa have tested positive for coronavirus. US Department of Labor report shows the unemployment rate spiked to nearly 15% in April. Denmark and Norway announce plans to reopen schools, cafes and malls over next two weeks, however borders of both countries to remain closed. Danish borders to remain closed until 'at least' June 1. May 7 Some sports are beginning to resume in the US and across the world, mostly with no fans in attendance. Amazon, CVS and other online retailers are urging congress to bailout the United States Postal Service, as the institution struggles to survive during ongoing virus. May 6 Airlines continue to struggle as Coronavirus decimates consumer demand. White House confirms that COVID-19 Task force will continue 'indefinitely,' but that the groups focus will shift to reopening the economy. May 5 California announces plans to begin easing Coronavirus restrictions later this week. Pharmaceutical company Pfizer begins trial for Coronavirus vaccine across the US. May 4 There have been several changes in lockdown restrictions at the state level, and plans for reopening vary drastically from state to state. Click here to view an interactive map detailing the status of each state. For the first time in US history, supreme court is holding arguments over broadcasted teleconference. May 3 New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Delaware to form state consortium to reduce competition when purchasing personal protective equipment. Japan extends state of emergency through the end of May. May 2 New York schools will remain closed through the rest of the school year. April 30 Japanese government intends to extend state of emergency, initially scheduled to end on May 6. Los Angeles City and County announce that free tests will be available to all residents, with priority given to those showing symptoms. South Korea finds no new domestic cases of COVID-19 for the first time in nearly 10 weeks. April 29 As states gradually reopen across the US, long term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are beginning to show. Several states have extended, lifted or adjusted their lockdown orders. Click here for a breakdown of the status and restrictions applicable in each state. White House invokes Defense Production Act to ensure that meat and poultry plants remain in operation. April 28 US Auto plants unlikely to re-open for at least two more weeks. As beef, pork and chicken processing plants close across the country, experts worry groceries could face shortages. The following states are lifting some stay-at-home restrictions: Colorado; retail stores are permitted to reopen under strict social distancing guidelines. Alaska; gatherings of up to 20 people are permitted, and certain retail shops have been permitted to reopen. Idaho; starting May 1 retail stores and places of worship will be permitted to reopen where social distancing can be observed. Iowa; Restaurants, fitness centers, libraries and retail stores may reopen May 1 at half their normal operating capacity. Mississippi; retail stores that don't require physical contact are permitted to reopen at 50% capacity. Texas; Retail, restaurants, theaters, museums, libraries and churches can open at 25% capacity May 1 April 27 South Carolina receives shipment of 1.5 million mask from China. US nearing 1,000,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases, according to latest numbers from Johns Hopkins University. April 26 After enduring longest lockdown of any country, Italy announces plans to gradually reopen. April 25 New York to expand standard testing, and to provide antibody testing for healthcare workers on the front lines. Michigan has extended Stay-at-Home orders, while beginning to lay plans for gradual reopening. April 24 Italy to allow a limited number of shops to reopen, as lockdown restrictions begin to ease. US Coronavirus deaths surpass 50,000. Oklahoma joins growing list of states beginning to reopen some non-essential businesses. The following states have extended their Stay at Home orders: Illinois; May 30 Extension includes mandate to cover one's face when in public spaces where 'social distancing is difficult.' North Carolina; May 8 April 23 Germany to make masks mandatory while on public transportation or in stores, as Merkel warns the country is 'only at the beginning' of COVID-19 Crisis. House set to vote on a nearly $500 billion coronavirus relief measure today. Michigan announces plans to extend Stay-at-Home order, while beginning to ease restrictions on some non-essential businesses. April 22 Trials for a COVID-19 vaccine candidate are set to begin in Germany. Autopsy reveals that first US COVID-19 death was actually 20 days earlier than initially believed, in California on Feb 6. Georgia, Minnesota, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Vermont plan to ease lockdown restrictions within the next week. April 21 Italy sees first drop in number of active Coronavirus cases. Georgia Governor announces plans to begin opening the state as early as Friday, April 24. The following states have extended their Stay at Home orders: Pennsylvania; May 8 Wisconsin; May 26 Mississipi; April 27 Indiana; May 1 April 20 White House and Congress near reaching a deal for interim coronavirus aid bill. US announces extension for travel restrictions with Mexico and Canada. Germany to begin cautiously reopening economy as small shops capable of observing social distancing are allowed to open doors. April 19 New York Gov. Cuomo says coronavirus numbers in the state are 'starting to descend' April 18 The following states have extended their Stay at Home orders: New York; May 15 Missouri; May 3 April 17 The following states have extended their Stay at Home orders: Maine; May 15 Kansas; May 1 Idaho; April 30 April 16 A court order in France has forced Amazon to temporarily limit operations in France to essential goods over worker safety controversies. Governments of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland have all begun mandating residents wear a mask while at work, on public transport or while in retail stores. April 15 US Government and airlines have agreed to terms for Coronavirus stimulus aid. American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines among those to receive billions in aid. April 14 Several states have formed coalitions to collaborate on COVID-19 response and to navigate reopening the states and their economies post-virus. Washington, Oregon and California have joined the Western States Pact. New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Delaware have formed a similar coalition. India's national lockdown on its 1.3 billion residents has been extended through May 3. April 13 South Korea to send 600,000 COVID-19 tests to the United States this week. US Surgeon General says that COVID-19 hotspots like CA, WA & NY 'appear to be leveling off.' April 12 Italy reports lowest number of daily COVID-19 deaths since mid-march, as confirmed cases and patients in ICU continue to decline. April 11 US confirmed cases of virus passes 500,000. April 10 The following states have extended their Stay at Home orders: Georgia; April 30 Vermont; May 15 April 9 Medical and Governmental leaders across the US continue to stress the importance of social distancing in combatting COVID-19. After nearly 150,000 confirmed cases, experts indicate that the curve is beginning to flatten in New York. The following states have extended their Stay at Home orders: Colorado; April 26 Washington; May 4 Michigan; April 30 New York; April 29 Rhode Island; May 8 April 8 Healthy residents and visitors of Wuhan, the epicenter of the global COVID-19 outbreak, will be able to leave the province the province today as 76 day lockdown ends. Los Angeles joins several cities across the US in making masks mandatory for workers or while visiting any other essential businesses that remain open, like a grocery store. April 7 According to a new UN report, the jobs of 4 of every 5 global workers affected by full or partial lockdown efforts. Wisconsin voters take to the polls to vote in the Presidential Primary election amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: South Carolina; indefinite April 6 Japanese Prime Minister declares State of Emergency as infections in the country continue to climb. Details to follow. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Missouri; April 24 April 5 Reported COVID-19 infection rates and deaths continue to drop in much of Europe. US medical suppliers have been granted antitrust clearance to collaborate on the production of supplies related to combatting COVID-19. April 4 The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Alabama; indefinite April 3 US military to convert temporarily medical facilities in New York, Dallas, and New Orleans to facilities for treating COVID-19 patients. White House invokes Defense Production Act to prioritize ventilator manufacturing. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Florida; through April 30 Georgia; April 13 Mississippi; indefinite Washington; extended through May 4 April 2 According to a new count, nearly 96% of Americans are currently living under a Stay-at-Home order. Democratic National Convention, originally scheduled for mid-July, has been pushed to week of August 17. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Maine; through April 30 Texas; through April 30 Tennessee; April 14 Texas; April 30 April 1 The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Nevada; through April 30 Pennsylvania; through April 30 Oklahoma; April 40 (Only applies to adults over 65 and at-risk individuals) Seven California Bay area counties have released updated Stay at Home orders that will be effective through May 3. The updated order requires essential businesses still in operation to adhere to stricter Social Distancing guidelines. Global COVID-19 cases exceed 860,000, with nearly 190,000 cases in the US. March 31 Southwest Airlines to reduce flight activity by as much as 40% from May 3 to June 5. Scientists in Germany are experimenting with a new testing method that would allow several samples to be analyzed at once, potentially increasing testing capacity ten-fold. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Arizona; indefinite March 30 New York to postpone statewide presidential primary from April 28 to June 23 to help prevent spread of COVID-19. Hungary Prime Minister granted sweeping emergency powers amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Kansas; through April 18 North Carolina; indefinite Maryland; indefinite Virginia; indefinite March 29 Working alongside private cargo carriers, FEMA launches Project Airbridge. The project will involve 50 flights, and aims to expedite delivery of medical supplies, and other necessities. March 28 The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Alaska; through April 11 Montana; indefinite Rhode Island; through April 13 March 27 US government signs $2 Trillion Coronavirus Rescue Package into law. Package provides aid to state and local governments, individuals, small and large businesses, and hospitals. To prevent reintroduction of COVID-19, China has closed their borders to foreign nationals. Those conducting "necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or out of emergency humanitarian needs" can still apply via embassies and consulates Airlines continue to convert passenger planes to temporary cargo carriers to meet freight capacity demand. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Vermont; through May 4 Minnesota; through April 10 March 26 With over 82,000 cases, United States now leads world in confirmed COVID-19 cases. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Colorado; through April 11 March 25 US Senate unanimously approves $2 trillion stimulus package to jump-start economy. House to consider the bill Friday. China ends Hubei lockdown and announces plans to lift lockdown of Wuhan, ground zero of the global Covid-19 pandemic, on April 8. After extensive testing, Hubei Province experiences no new cases for five consecutive days The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note- Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Vermont; through April 15 Hawaii; through April 30 Wisconsin; through April 24 Idaho; April 15 March 24 IOC president and the Prime Minister of Japan announce that Olympics will be delayed until July of 2021. The Indian Government has announced a nationwide lockdown for three weeks, beginning March 25 at 12am. Medical Services, Banking and essential goods services will be exempted from restrictions. Transport of medicine, fertilizers, pulses and edible oils, and petroleum/petroleum products all qualify as essential goods services. The Government can include new commodities as and when the need arises. Kansas City and much of the surrounding metro are now under a stay-at-home order. Douglas, Johnson, Leavenworth and Wyandotte counties in Kansas, and Cass, Clay, and Jackson counties in Missouri are affected. Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions. The following States have stay-at-home orders going into effect today. Please note: Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions: Delaware; through May 15. Indiana; through April 6. Massachusetts; April 7. Michigan; through April 14. New Mexico; indefinite. West Virginia; indefinite. March 23 The Louisiana stay-at-home order will go into effect today, and will last through April 12. Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions Washington Governor has issued a stay-at-home order for state residents effective from 25 March. Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions. Oregon Governor has issued a stay-at-home order for state residents. Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions. Effective today at 5 pm ET, Maryland will be closing nonessential businesses. Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions. Ohio joins the growing list of states under stay-at-home orders Monday, March 23 at 11:59 p.m. Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions. As of this morning, and according to the tally kept by the Johns Hopkins University, 351,731 people have been diagnosed with COVID-19. Of these, 15,374 have died and 100,430 have recovered. The country with the highest number of confirmed infections remains China, with 81,496, followed by Italy, Europe’s worst hit country, with 59,138, then the US with 35,241, Spain with 33,089, and Germany with 26,220. March 22 India's enacts a one-week ban on all international passenger flights through March 31. The most affected areas in India (13 states 80 districts) are also under a complete lockdown through March 31. March 21 New Jersey Governor issues a stay-at-home order for State citizens, effective Saturday, March 21 at 9 p.m. Freight transport is considered an essential service, and is exempt from these restrictions. March 20 Illinois Governor issues stay-at-home order on Friday to state residents, effective Saturday, March 21, 5pm. Freight Transport and other sources of fundamental supplies are exempt. The United States and Mexico are working together to close non-essential travel between the countries. Freight transport is exempt from these restrictions. New York Governor is ordering all workers in nonessential businesses to stay home, and banning gatherings statewide. Freight transport is exempt, as it is an essential service. March 19 California Governor has ordered all individuals living in the State of California to stay home or at their place of residence until further notice. Essential services, including freight transport, are exempt from the order. Pennsylvania Governor has ordered shutdown of all businesses not considered life-sustaining. Freight transport is exempt, as considered life-sustaining. After an order from Connecticut Governor, barber and tattoo shops, and hair and nail salons will be joining shopping malls, gyms and recreational facilities in a full shutdown Vietnam to close Cambodian border, and ban entry to any foreign travelers. March 18 The United States and Canada are looking to temporarily close their shared border to non-essential travel while continuing to allow goods to move between the countries to slow the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The EU decides on entry restrictions for citizens of most non-EU countries, valid for 30 days from March 17th, 2020. Each country is responsible for implementing the closure of the EU's external borders. The flow and transport of goods in most countries is free from these restrictions in order not to interrupt the supply chains, however there may be an impact on freight capacities, tariffs and the speed of processing and delivery times. March 17 Cathay Pacific, Delta Cargo, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Korean Air and Qantas all announce grounded passenger flights will be used for cargo. March 16 Six Bay Area counties announced “shelter in place” orders for all residents on Monday — the strictest measure of its kind yet in the continental United States. U.S. researchers give the first shots in a first test of an experimental coronavirus vaccine. Honduras has a total curfew from 10pm March 16 and continuing for at least the next 7 days in Tegucigalpa, Choluteca and La Ceiba. This curfew severely limits the movement of the general population and is currently set to expire at 3pm on Sunday, March 22. 2020. Please note the curfew could potentially be extended after this time. March 15 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended Sunday that no gatherings with 50 people or more — to include conferences or other events — be held in the United States for the next eight weeks. Starting at 9pm all individuals in Puerto Rico are to remain in their homes for a period of 14 days and limiting the use of public roads, except in certain instances. In addition, a closure of government operations is decreed, as well as the closure of all businesses in Puerto Rico from 6pm on March 15, 2020 until March 30, 2020. Personnel who are working in the wholesale distribution chain and the manufacture of goods and food are not subject to the curfew. This includes personnel dedicated to the release of merchandise and transportation of goods and food received at ports to warehouses and properties of importers. March 14 Ireland and the United Kingdom are added to the countries with travel restrictions. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration have indicated that truck drivers who are moving goods "in support of emergency relief efforts related to the COVID-19 outbreaks" will temporarily not have to follow the hours-of-service laws, which mandate how many hours a truck driver may work. Travelers entering Taiwan from European countries in the Schengen Area (EU including the UK, Ireland and Dubai) will be quarantined at home for 14 days. Foreign nationals who have visited China, Hong Kong and Macau in the last 14 days are prohibited from entering the country. March 13 Panic buying is causing an unprecedented surge in domestic freight volumes, reports Freightwaves, but it is a trend that won't last. March 12 With the continued and enormous number of blanked (canceled) sailings from China to the U.S. and Europe starting in the weeks following Chinese New Year, COVID-19 has spawned a worldwide box-repositioning challenge. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that cargo is not part of the latest travel restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus. March 11 U.S. Suspends Travel from Europe for the Next 30 Days beginning Friday. WHO declares COVID-19 a pandemic. March 10 Italy has extended its emergency coronavirus measures, which include travel restrictions and a ban on public gatherings, to the entire country. A growing number of conferences and events continue to cancel and/or postpone their programs across the nation. March 9 The World Health Organization today held a news conference on COVID-19. Said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus: "The bottom line is: we are not at the mercy of this virus. The great advantage we have is that the decisions we all make – as governments, businesses, communities, families and individuals – can influence the trajectory of this epidemic." Executive Director Rick Cotton for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has tested positive for coronavirus. Said Lindsay Kryzak, a Port Authority spokesperson, "We've been taking stock of the situation for weeks in preparation for something like this happening. Like many agencies and private companies, the Port Authority has work from home policies and contingency plans that allow the agency to function fully with certain staff working from outside the office." March 6 The International Air Transport Association now predicts the coronavirus will cause a much bigger loss in revenues for commercial airlines this year, though no estimates are yet available for the impact on air cargo operations. A number of companies are restricting business travel. As a result, many industry conferences are being canceled. Procurement teams are focusing on seven key actions to address the threat to business continuity posed by the coronavirus. March 5 Deutsche Lufthansa AG is canceling all group flights to Israel from March 8 - March 28, as authorities there have banned entry of travelers from Austria, Germany and Switzerland. The halt in operations covers Lufthansa, SWISS and Austrian Airlines. They will also reduce frequencies on various routes to Italy in March. This includes the destinations Milan, Venice, Rome, Turin, Verona, Bologna, Ancona and Pisa. They also will extend the suspension of flights between Germany, Switzerland, Austria and mainland China by Lufthansa, SWISS and Austrian Airlines until 24 April. Flights to Tehran will remain suspended until 30 April. March 4 Cargo volumes and ship calls are indicating that the cogs of global trade are grinding back into motion… "What this data is saying is ‘keep calm and carry on.’" March 2 United is suspending some service to Tokyo Narita, Osaka, Singapore and Seoul, as well as extending the suspension of flights between US hubs and Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai and Hong Kong through April 30. American Airlines Cargo: Due to the reduction in demand, American Airlines is suspending operations to and from Milan, Italy, from New York (JFK) and Miami (MIA). Flights to Milan are scheduled to resume April 25. Due to the reduction in demand, American Airlines has extended the suspension of flying to and from the mainland China and Hong Kong from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and Los Angeles (LAX) hubs. Flights between DFW/LAX and the mainland China are suspended through April 24. Flights between DFW and Hong Kong are suspended through April 23. Flights between LAX and Hong Kong are suspended through April 24. Cathay Pacific Group has announced a number passenger network changes which will impact cargo operations and capacity from now, likely into April. February 28 We are seeing some restrictions on domestic 40’ units moving back to the West Coast, due to congestion concerns at the yards stemming from shrinking storage for all of the empties eventually destined for China. Currently actions are being taken to restrict domestic shipments into Los Angeles and Oakland, CA due to extremely high volumes of equipment at the West Coast ports. Current restrictions include: OOCL All domestic shipments destined to Oakland have been restricted, regardless of container size (20’, 40’ stnd or HC, 45’) All domestic shipments destined to Los Angeles have been restricted for all sizes EXCEPT 40’ HC Customers/Shippers will be unable to book or request street turns for any OOCL domestic units originating on these origins (Chicago, Joliet, Memphis, and Kansas City), regardless of size or destination Effective 3/9/2020, OOCL’s Ocean terminal in Seattle, Terminal 18, will close on Fridays until further notice. Customers should make arrangements to terminate their empties at the terminal Monday thru Thursday. ONE Effective 3/2/2020, domestic shipments destined to Long Beach ICTF (L.A.) will be restricted. Equipment in transit may be delayed and requested to return to a different return location due to surplus in CY’s. February 26 CDC Officials have warned Americans to prepare for the "inevitable" spread of the Coronavirus. “Ultimately, we expect we will see community spread in the United States. It’s not a question of if this will happen, but when this will happen, and how many people in this country will have severe illnesses. . . I continue to hope that in the end, we'll look back and feel like we were overprepared. But that is a better place to be in than being underprepared.” – Nancy Messonnier, CDC Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. While new cases of Coronavirus slow in China, confirmed cases spike in South Korea, Italy and Iran. Factory closures, blank sailings and flight cancellations have increased in South Korea The CDC raises its travel warning for South Korea to Level 3. Iran and Italy remain under Level 2 alerts. A listing of all CDC country alerts can be found here. February 19 As Airbus, General Motors and Toyota factories all begin limited production in their China factories, quarantines, road blocks and checkpoints continue to prove a challenge to returning workers. The Auto and Electronics industry continue to face supply shortages due to their provider's factories being clustered in the Hubei province. With passenger flight restrictions to China continuing, experts warn price of Airfreight Charter Flights will likely spike in the coming weeks. Shippers are increasingly turning to solutions via rail transportation between Europe and China. Apple, Under Armour, Coca-Cola and Expedia join growing list of companies significantly affected by Coronavirus outbreak. February 13 The United Nations has activated a Crisis Management Team lead by WHO. The goal of the team is to help WHO focus on the health concerns, while other members of the team will concentrate on the social, economic and developmental ramifications of the outbreak. Due to the Coronavirus update, OPEC has decreased the forecasted demand for oil barrels by 230,000 barrels per day (bpd). OPEC also reduced the Chinese bpd forecast by 400,000 for the first six months of 2020, and by 200,000 for the later half. Australia has extended its ban on travelers entering the country from mainland China. The ban, originally scheduled to end Saturday, February 15th, has been extended one week to Saturday, February 22nd. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has said the ban will be reevaluated on a week-by-week basis. As many Chinese factories remain dormant, shippers have begun looking for suppliers outside of mainland China. Searches for countries other than China have increased by nearly 10% in the last year, according to Freightos. The resulting backlog could drive up rates for ocean shipping, but for now demand remains low. Production stoppages in china could cause contanerized retail imports to the US to drop by as much as 13% in February, according to the National Retail Federation's Global Port Tracker. February 10 The World Health Organization (WHO) has sent an advance team to China to begin building a larger team of medical researchers, and working with local doctors. WHO has refrained from providing more specific information on the Advance Team, but the most recent information can be found in their situation reports. Retail imports to China expected to be significantly impacted by Coronavirus, according to a Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. Retail Imports expected to bounce back to higher-than-normal rates in April as work continues resumes across the country. While some factory closures have leaked outside of China, a new analysis by global risk consultant agency Verisk Maplecroft shows this trend is unlikely to dominate outside Wuhan, China. Notable exceptions include Hyundai and Kia, the later of which is working flexible hours due to part supply shortage in their six South Korean factories. February 6 As Coronavirus risks escalate, China's finance ministry announces plans to cut US tariffs levied on some goods to 5% from 10%, and to 2.5% from 5% on other goods. While the ministry didn't clarify the value of affected goods, the products are part of the $75bn worth of goods that have been subject to 5% or 10% tariffs since Sept. 1. Updated tariff rates take effect Feb. 14. February 5 Current estimates have capacity on the ocean as significantly impacted, with blank sailings climbing. The following Ocean Carriers, among others, have been affected: APL – CMA CGM – Maersk – ONE Observation of the Chinese Lunar New Year has been extended as late as February 14 in some provinces. February 4 Several Air Carrier Routes have been suspended due to the Coronavirus, with increasing and significant numbers of passenger flights between mainland China and the rest of the world cancelled. The Carriers below have been subject to suspensions, delays or cancellations. Air Bridge – Air Canada – Air China – Air France – Air Seoul – American Airlines – Austrian Airlines – Asiana – British Airways – Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon – Cargolux – China Airlines – China Southern – Delta Airlines and Delta Cargo – Egypt Air – El Al – Emirates SkyCargo – Eva Air – Finnair – Hainan Airlines – Hong Kong Airlines – Iberia Airlines – IndiGo – JetStar – Kenya Airways – Korean Air – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – Lion Air –Lufthansa Group – Pakistan International Airlines – Polar – Qatar Airways – SAS – Scoot Airlines – Singapore Airlines – Swiss and Swiss WorldCargo – Thai Smile Airways – Turkish Airlines – United Airlines – UPS – Virgin Atlantic The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a Marine Safety Information Bulletin advising the restriction of entry for any vessels that stopped at Chinese ports, or are crewed by anyone who has been in China. The US and Australia close their borders to Chinese arrivals of foreign nationals. Many Asian countries have begun to close, suspend or limit border entry. January 31 United States Government declares the Coronavirus a public health emergency. January 30 World Health Organization declares the Coronavirus a public health emergency. January 29 Several municipalities (listed below) have extended the New Year Holiday and are now planning on returning to work Monday, February 10th. Factories in these provinces will remain closed until the end of the Lunar New Year Holiday. Shanghai – Suzhou – Nanjing – Wuxi – Hangzhou – Ningbo – Guangzhou – Shenzhen– Tianjin – Chongqing – Anhui – Fujian – Guizhou January 27 China's Lunar New Year Holiday has been extended to February 2, 2020 by the General Office of the State Council. This extension is intended to prevent the gathering of large crowds, limiting the impact of the outbreak. The operational impact of outbreak is predominantly in Wuhan and the surrounding Hubei province. Impact includes: Factories closed, reopen TBD Temporary closure of Wuhan International Airport Barge Port Shipment delays of 2-3 days Cross-border transportation restrictions Customs closure in Hubei Province until further notice January 7 WHO confirms a novel virus named 2019-nCoV is responsible for the growing number of cases. This virus belongs to the coronavirus family, which includes SARS and the common cold. December 31, 2019 China alerts the WHO to several cases of pneumonia in Wuhan. Wuhan is a port city of 11 million people in the central Hubei province. COVID-19 Resources © 2021 RADIANT GLOBAL LOGISTICS