World

Global scientists are investigating angiotensin receptor blockers like losartan as a potential treatment for COVID-19. Researchers from Israel suggest these medications could help reduce the aggressiveness and mortality of SARS-CoV-2 virus infections, offering a promising approach in the ongoing battle against the pandemic.

President Rodrigo Duterte placed Luzon island under enhanced community quarantine, restricting movement and economic activity. The measure aims to contain coronavirus spread but creates significant challenges for minimum wage workers and access to essential supplies.

The coronavirus pandemic has triggered a massive stock market downturn, with global stocks falling over 11.5% between March 9-13. The outbreak has disrupted service, manufacturing, and travel industries, compounding economic fears and marking the worst market performance since the 2008 recession.

Singapore's government has awarded San Diego-based Arcturus Therapeutics a $10 million grant to develop a potential COVID-19 vaccine. The company's unique self-replicating RNA platform aims to create a single-shot solution with significantly improved dosing compared to existing RNA-based medicines.

The Philippine government has imposed travel bans on mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau to control coronavirus spread. Only Filipino nationals and permanent residents are allowed entry, subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared a state of public health emergency as coronavirus cases increased to 33 in Manila and neighboring areas. The emergency proclamation allows financial assistance to local governments and eases procurement of health resources to combat the spreading outbreak.

Saudi Arabia slashes oil prices by up to $8 after Russia rejects OPEC's proposed production cuts, triggering a global market turmoil and causing oil prices to drop 48% this year.

The coronavirus outbreak has severely disrupted pharmaceutical supply chains, with China being the primary manufacturer of drug ingredients. India, the largest generic drug provider, is now limiting drug exports due to ingredient shortages, raising global medicine availability concerns.

Asian share prices rebounded after the Bank of Japan and U.S. Federal Reserve committed to protecting markets from coronavirus economic damage. BOJ Governor Haruhiko Kuroda pledged to stabilize markets through emergency measures, while the Fed promised to mitigate financial market volatility.

The International Monetary Fund and World Bank have developed contingency plans to provide financial assistance to countries struggling with the coronavirus pandemic. IMF spokesman Gerry Rice stated they have various financial instruments to support nations facing economic challenges from epidemics or natural disasters.