Hyderabad Reports Second Positive Case Of Coronavirus
Hyderabad, which reported its first positive Covid-19 case two days ago, has reported its second case. A tech working for DSM has developed symptoms last week was diagnosed positive.
DSM has evacuated the employees and shut down the facility at the Mindspace facility at the Madhapur IT hub. The sprawling Mindspace facility houses some top global multi-national and Indian IT firms and a star hotel.
A company statement has said that the employee had self-quarantined from February 28 after he developed symptoms. "Stating that the employee now has mild symptoms," it said.
The firm shut down the facility, and also the one at Brightspace, for cleaning and disinfection process.
"Both facilities will be closed till further notices. They will operate from their homes," it said.
The company reported the incident to the State government officials.
"We are in the process of assessing the situation. We will trace people who might have interacted with him closely," a State government official said.
China's Pollution Levels After Coronavirus Outbreak
China's air pollutant levels dropped in February as a result of measures taken by the nation's government to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus, the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service confirmed on Wednesday.
“The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) observed a decrease of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) for February relative to the previous three years,” said the CAMS in a report. It said PM2.5 was one of the “most important air pollutants regarding health impacts,” according to the World Health Organization.
Analysis by the CAMS showed a reduction of approximately 20-30% in air pollutants over large parts of China in February compared with monthly averages in February 2017, 2018 and 2019.
President Also Cancels Holi Celebration
Presient Ram Nath Kovind is added to the list of political dignitaries stating that they will not be celebrating Holi due to the Coronavirus outbreak in the country.
With alertness and safeguards, we all can help contain the outbreak of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. In a precautionary measure, the Rashtrapati Bhavan will not hold the traditional Holi gatherings.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 4, 2020
BJP Spokesperson Bagga Asks For Stopping Breath Analysing Tests In Wake Of Coronavirus
In view of the coronavirus outbreak, Delhi BJP spokesperson Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga has called for suspension of the use of breath analyser tests for alcohol consumption, by the police. In a letter to Delhi Police Commissioner, Bagga said, "In the light of ongoing ncovid2019(corona) infection, to protect(prevent) further spread of the disease, I request to please suspend the breath analyser tests for drunk drivers." He claimed breath is one of the main reasons behind the spread of the virus, adding the test can be resumed after the situation becomes normal.
17 Indians Affected Abroad
Seventeen Indians have been infected with coronavirus abroad, the MEA said today. Responding to a question in Lok Sabha, MoS for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said 16 cases were reported from Japan on the cruise ship and one from the UAE.
WHO Statements
WHO has stated that the COVID-19 is deadlier than the common flu.
It also stated that the world production of protective gear was depleting in the world.
Iran's death toll raced to 92 as Iraq confirmed its first death. The death toll is now over 3,200.
Poland, Morocco, Andorra, Armenia and Argentina confirmed its first case of COVID-19 on March 4, 2020 taking the toll of the infected cases to above 93,400.
PM And Other Ministers Say No Holi Celebrations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Bharatiya Janata Party Chief JP Nadda have tweeted that due to the ongoing outbreak of COVID-`19, the annual Holi Milan organization stands cancelled.
Experts across the world have advised to reduce mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. Hence, this year I have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 4, 2020
Holi is a very important festival for we Indians but in the wake of Coronavirus, i have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan celebration this year.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 4, 2020
I also appeal everyone to avoid public gatherings and take a good care of yourself & your family.
The world is battling COVID -19 Novel Corona Virus. The countries & medical fraternity are jointly making efforts to contain its spread. Keeping this in mind, this year, I will neither celebrate Holi nor organise Holi Milan.
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) March 4, 2020
Stay safe, Stay Healthy.
The Government of India has decided to prohibit the export of 26 anti-viral drugs.
India To Set Up Labs In Iran
Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan stated that India will also be helping Iran combat COVID-19 by sending scientists to set up a laboratory in Tehran.
India has been in contact with officials from Iran and has offered assistance if the country requires.
Iran currently has 2,336 confirmed cases and has reported around 77 deaths.