Global COVID-19 tracker

Harsh lockdowns aimed at halting the march of the coronavirus has extended worldwide as the deaths surpassed 50,000 and new waves of US outbreaks pushed the nation's containment efforts to the brink. Despite slivers of hope in stricken Italy and Spain, the tough measures that have confined some two-fifths of the globe's population to their homes were broadened.

Hyderabad: The coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 10,15,850 and killed over 53,216 people across the world. More than 2,12,991 people have recovered so far.

The count represents confirmed cases, but the true numbers are believed to be much higher. White House coronavirus task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said that incoming infection data suggests not enough Americans are abiding by guidelines in the national “call to action” to stem the spread of the virus.

Global COVID-19 tracker.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death. The vast majority of people recover.

One of the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus is by washing your hands with soap and water. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends first washing with warm or cold water and then lathering soap for 20 seconds to get it on the backs of hands, between fingers and under fingernails before rinsing off.