The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Officials: Virus problems likely won't be over soon
Defense leaders: Virus issues may last till July
Top U.S. defense and military leaders are warning department personnel that the coronavirus problems could extend for eight to 10 weeks, or even into the summer.
Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at a Defense Department town hall meeting the virus could extend into late May or June, and possibly even July. He says there are a variety of models from other countries, so the exact length of the virus and its restrictions are not yet clear. Milley and Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned of national security risks if the virus triggers a global recession and countries struggle to support their people.
India goes into lockdown mode for three weeks
No flights. No trains. Only essential services open. More than 1.3 billion people urged to stay in their homes. India, the world’s second-most-populous country, is making a dramatic, last-ditch effort to prevent an explosion of coronavirus cases in a country ill-equipped to handle such an outbreak.
For 21 days, there will be restrictions on commerce and movement across India. Even at the height of its battle with the pandemic, China did not impose a nationwide lockdown. On Tuesday, India had about 500 confirmed coronavirus cases, but the number is growing rapidly.
Lieutenant governor of Texas: ‘Get back to work’
Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made the comments while appearing on Fox News’ “Tucker Carlson Tonight.” Patrick, 69, went on the program after President Donald Trump said earlier Monday that he wanted the country getting back to business in weeks, not months.
“Let’s get back to work. Let’s get back to living. Let’s be smart about it,” Patrick said. “And those of us who are 70 plus, we’ll take care of ourselves. But don’t sacrifice the country.”
Britain seeks volunteers to deliver food, medicine
British Health Secretary Matt Hancock says the government is looking to build a volunteer army of a quarter of a million people to help deliver food and medicines to those quarantined during the coronavirus pandemic. Hancock says the government is looking for people in good health to help the National Health Service support those who have been ask to “shield themselves.”
L.A. sheriff wants to shut down gun shops
Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva wants to see gun shops shut down during the coronavirus pandemic. There are many restrictions in place on Los Angeles businesses, but those deemed essential remain open. However, Villanueva says gun shops “are not an essential function.”
Medical glove factories running at half capacity
Malaysia’s medical glove factories, which make most of the world’s critical hand protection, are operating at half capacity just when they’re most needed, The Associated Press has learned. Health care workers snap gloves on as the first line of protection against catching COVID-19 from patients, and they’re crucial to protecting patients as well.