Latest on the coronavirus: Death toll passes 7,400

The world's richest nations prepared more costly measures on March 17 to combat the global fallout of the coronavirus that has infected tens of thousands of people, triggered social restrictions unseen since World War Two and sent economies spinning toward recession.

Deaths, infections

  • Worldwide cases crossed 187,000, while the death toll was more than 7,400; there have now been more cases and deaths outside mainland China than inside.

Americas 

  • The Trump administration on March 17 pursued a $850 billion stimulus package and mulled sending Americans $1,000 checks within two weeks.
  • Canada said it would provide financial support to people affected by the coronavirus outbreak.
  • Brazil on March 17 reported its first coronavirus death and said tests were under way on four other possible COVID-19 fatalities.
  • Tango classes, shows and milongas have been suspended in Argentina's capital Buenos Aires for at least 15 days.
  • Mexico's Supreme Court said it will suspend its regular court activities from March 18 to April 19.
  • Chile may postpone a referendum on a new constitution scheduled for April 26. 

Europe

  • Italy's prime minister said the coronavirus was causing a "socio-economic tsunami" as European leaders agreed to seal off external borders.
  • France put its 67 million people under lockdown on March 17, in an unprecedented act during peacetime, and said it was ready to nationalise big companies suffering financial turmoil.
  • Belgium will impose a lockdown from midday (1100 GMT) on March 18 until April 5 to restrict the movement of people.
  • Spain announced a massive 200 billion euros package...
Continue reading on: