US passes $8.3bn package to fight virus

THE US Senate has passed a multi-billion-dollar measure to tackle the coronavirus outbreak as its rapid spread threatens to upend everyday life in the US and across the globe.

The $8.3bn package would pay for a multi-faceted attack on a virus that is spreading more widely every day, sending financial markets spiralling again yesterday, disrupting travel and potentially threatening the US economy’s decadelong expansion.

Yesterday’s sweeping 96-1 vote sends the bill to the White House for President Donald Trump’s signature. The House passed the bill on Wednesday by a 415-2 vote.

The plan would more than triple the $2.5bn amount outlined by the White House 10 days ago.

The Trump proposal was immediately discarded by members of Congress from both parties. Instead, they negotiated the increased figure in a burst of bipartisan cooperation that has been increasingly rare in Washington.

“In situations like this, I believe no expense should be spared to protect the American people, and in crafting this package none was,” said Appropriations Committee chairman Richard Shelby.

“It’s an aggressive plan, a vigorous plan that has received an overwhelming positive reaction.”

Mr Trump is sure to sign the measure, which has almost universal support. It is intended to project confidence and calm as anxiety builds over the impact of the virus, which has claimed 11 lives in the US.

“The American people are looking for leadership and want assurance that their government is up to the task of protecting their health and safety,” said Senator Patrick Leahy.

The legislation would provide federal public health agencies with money for vaccines, tests and potential treatments, including 300 million dollars to deliver drugs to those who need it.

More than $2bn would go to help federal, state and local governments prepare for and respond to the coronavirus threat. An additional $1.3bn would be used to help fight the virus overseas.

The US bill was passed after the UN health agency urged all countries to “push this virus back”, a call to action reinforced by figures showing there are about 17 times as many new infections outside China as inside.

To date, the virus has infected nearly 97,000 people and killed over 3,300.