The novel coronavirus pandemic continues to spread globally, with the US and Europe hit the hardest.
The US becomes worst hit, according to CNN. The US now has the highest number of confirmed cases in the world, overtaking China and Italy. March 26 was reportedly the deadliest day in the US so far, with at least 233 new deaths reported nationwide. New York City has become the epicenter of the US outbreak.
Meanwhile, new local transmissions have fallen to near zero in mainland China, so it's beginning to lift lockdowns and citizens are returning to normal life. But the number of imported cases from overseas is rising. On Thursday, China announced it would ban entry to foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits.
Japan reportedly saw case numbers spike this week, and the Tokyo governor urged residents to stay at home this weekend. In response, crowds surged to panic buy at supermarkets, while others continued gathering in outdoor parks during the cherry blossom season.
With borders snapping shut and serious public health concerns globally, countless events have been rescheduled. The K-pop group BTS postponed part of their world tour. Art Basel, widely considered to be the world's biggest art fair, has been postponed. And of course, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games are now being pushed to 2021.
