Coronavirus wrap October 15 | Infection doubling time in India improves sharply; lockdown announced in Paris
Globally, there have been over 3.83 crore confirmed cases of COVID-19. More than 10.88 lakh people have died so far.... Read More

Coronavirus India News highlights: Today is the 206th day since India implemented a nationwide lockdown, to help curb the novel coronavirus pandemic. So far, India has recorded 73,07,097 confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 1,11,266 deaths. Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka have reported the highest number of cases. However, infections are rising rapidly in states like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Yet, India’s recovery rate continues to rise and now stands at 87.4 percent. 'Unlock 5.0' is underway. Globally, there have been over 3.83 crore confirmed cases of COVID-19. More than 10.88 lakh people have died so far.
Highest single-day spike of 3,720 fresh cases takes WestBengal's COVID-19 tally to 3,09,417; death toll mounts to 5,870 with 62 more fatalities.
Delhi reports 3,483 new COVID-19cases, 26 deaths and 2,755 recoveries/discharges/migrations today. The total tally rises to 3,21,031, including 5,924 deaths and 2,92,502 recoveries/discharges/migrations. Active cases stand at 22,605.
The export of alcohol-based hand sanitizers in containers with dispenser pumps (in any form/packaging freely exportable) is now free, with immediate effect.
Maharashtra reports 10,226 new COVID-19cases, 13,714 discharged cases and337 deaths, taking total positive cases to 15,64,615 including 13,30,483 discharges, 1,92,459 active cases and41,196 deaths.
Punjab reported 511 new COVID-19cases, 1,111 discharged cases and29 deaths, taking total positive cases to 1,26,230 till date, including 1,15,186 discharges, 7,090 active cases and3,954 deaths.
Ministry of Culture has issued detailed Standard operating procedure for cultural functions and programs on preventive measures to contain spread of COVID-19; cultural activities shall continue to be prohibited inside containment zones.
Uttarakhand reports 423 new COVID-19cases today, taking total cases to 56,493 including 5,682 active cases, 49,631 recoveries and 814 deaths.
Gujarat reports 1,185 new COVID-19cases, 1,329 discharges and 11 deaths today, taking total cases to 1,56,283 including 1,37,870 recoveries, 3,609 deaths and 14,804 active cases.
Karnataka reports 8,477 new COVID-19cases, 8,841 discharges, and 85 deaths today. Total cases in the state rise to 7,43,848 including 1,13,538 active cases, 6,20,008 discharges and 10,283 deaths.
COVID-19 negative certificate is mandatory for visiting Sabarimala temple which is reopening tomorrow. Only 250 people will be allowed to visit on a day. A health certificate assuring the devotee is fit for climbing the hill is also mandatory.
Handwashing an effective tool to prevent COVID-19, other diseases: WHO
Ten months into the pandemic, handwashing with soap and other public health measures such as maintaining physical distance, practising cough etiquette and wearing a mask remain the best defence against coronavirus, the World Health Organisation said
Global Handwashing Day is observed on October 15 each year to raise awareness and highlight the importance of handwashing as an effective means of disease prevention. This year it marks a critical reminder for the world that this simple, cost-effective practice can save lives, said the WHO.