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Donald Trump backed away from quarantining the New York tri-state region… On Saturday, he opted for a strong travel advisory instead. On Sunday, New York governor Andrew Cuomo said coronavirus deaths in his state, the US’s most affected, had jumped by a record 237 in the past day.
…and Indonesia’s capital is bracing for a quarantine. At a cabinet meeting today the government could decide to lock down Greater Jakarta, home to nearly 30 million people, to slow the spread of Covid-19 in the world’s fourth most-populous nation. Many fear the move would spark unrest.
China began blocking foreigners from entering the country… The move, which took effect Saturday, applies even to those with work permits. Recently most new coronavirus cases in China have been imported from overseas.
…while Russia is closing all border crossings starting today. The world’s largest nation by area is temporarily shutting down all vehicle, rail, and pedestrian checkpoints, plus maritime borders. Last week it halted all international flights.
The death toll in Italy and Spain mounted… The two nations lead the world in coronavirus fatalities and between them now account for more than half the world’s total, with their combined mark now passing 17,300. On Sunday Italy reported 756 new deaths, Spain 838.
…and Anthony Fauci said America’s Covid-19 death toll could hit 200,000. The director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases made the estimate in a CNN interview that aired Sunday, as the figure topped 2,300. The 1918-19 flu pandemic killed 675,000 in the US.
Holland recalled defective masks made in China. About 600,000 of them had already been distributed to local hospitals, the health ministry said. Earlier this month Spain and Turkey complained of faulty rapid testing kits from China.
North Korea launched more projectiles into the sea. The suspected ballistic missiles reportedly flew 230 km (143 miles) and splashed down outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone Sunday morning. The nation has recently tested a slew of short-range weapons.
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French fries are one of the world’s best-traveled and best-loved dishes. From Quebecois poutine to Spanish patatas bravas, there are dozens of ways to slice, fry, and drizzle potatoes around the world. Are french fries really French? Does it matter? Dip right in with the Quartz Daily Obsession.
Matter of debate
Does “social distancing” need a rebrand? A growing number of public health experts are following the World Health Organization’s lead and embracing the term “physical distancing.” After all, they argue, we need strong social connections more than ever as we stay home to slow the spread of Covid-19.
Surprising discoveries
A global condom shortage looms. The world’s biggest manufacturer says its stockpile will only last another two months.
Astronauts could one day build moon habitats using their own urine. Mixing urea with moon dust creates a remarkably strong 3D printing material.
Health officials are prescribing video games. The WHO is promoting gaming as a safe way to connect with loved ones while in isolation.
Stargazers have some of their best views yet… Widespread lockdowns have curbed pollution and cleared up the night sky.
…just in time for one of the most spectacular comets in decades. If it doesn’t break up, a space rock called Atlas will cast its brightest, greenest glow on May 31.
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