Covid-19 Live: Number of coronavirus cases in India jumps to 223

The novel coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 9,800 people and infected over 240,000 so far. In India, the number of Covid-19 cases rose to 195 including 171 active cases and four deaths, according to the health ministry figures released on Friday morning.

Calling it a challenge for which there is no cure as yet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an address to the nation on Thursday, stressed on the importance of self-isolation and social distancing. He also called for a Citizens' Curfew on March 22 and asked people not to indulge in panic buying.

China's death toll, now at 3,248, was overtaken on Thursday by Italy, where more than 3,400 people have now died. Meanwhile, for the second straight day, China on Friday reported no new local cases of Covid-19.

Spain's coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000

Spain's death toll from the coronavirus epidemic soared to 1,002 on Friday from 767 on the previous day, the country's health emergencies chief Fernando Simon said.

The number of registered cases in the country rose to 19,980 on Friday from 17,147 on Thursday, Simon said.

Delhi metro services to remain shut on Sunday

In wake of PM Modi's announcement, Delhi Metro services will not function on Sunday.

"In the wake of 'Janta Curfew' to be observed this Sunday i.e., on 22nd March 2020, DMRC has decided to keep its services closed. The move is aimed at encouraging public to stay indoors and maintain social distancing, which is essential in the fight against Covid-19. #JantaCurfew," DMRC tweeted.

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people to impose self-curfew by announcing 'Janta curfew' on March 22 from 7 am to 9 pm.

"I am requesting your support for 'Janata Curfew'. The curfew will be in place from 7 am to 9 pm on Sunday, March 22," PM Modi had said.

(Inputs and image fron hindustantimes.com)