Covid-19 forces more world leaders into quarantine

By Devin Watkins

Two more world leaders went into quarantine on Monday after coming into contact with people who later tested positive for Covid-19.

Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, and one EU Commissioner put themselves in isolation.

The head of the EU’s executive arm tweeted that she had taken part in a meeting last Tuesday which was attended by someone who tested positive on Sunday.

Malaysian PM

The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Muhyiddin Yassin, also announced similar news on the same day.

The religious affairs minister of the Southeast Asian nation tested positive for Covid-19, following a meeting with the Prime Minister.

US President still in hospital

In the United States, President Donald Trump remains in hospital after being infected with the coronavirus and showing symptoms.

His doctors say he is doing well and is undergoing a steroid treatment after his oxygen levels dropped on Friday and Saturday.

President Trump might be discharged on Monday if his condition improves, according to his personal physician.

EU restrictions tightening

Meanwhile, coronavirus cases in France have forced a shutdown of all bars in Paris as of Tuesday.

The French capital has seen a surge in Covid-19 cases, with the infection rate surpassing 250 per 100,000 people.

Patients with the coronavirus now fill more than 30 percent of intensive care beds.

In Ireland, the government’s emergency health team is calling for a level of restrictions which would rival a full lockdown.

The experts are recommending a so-called ‘Level 5’ status, which would prohibit all indoor gatherings and allow restaurants and bars to only do takeaway meals.