narvikk/iStockBy MORGAN WINSOR, ABC News
(NEW YORK) — A global pandemic of the novel coronavirus has now killed more than 190,000 people worldwide.
Over 2.7 million people across the globe have been diagnosed with COVID-19, the disease caused by the new respiratory virus, according to data compiled by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. The actual numbers are believed to be much higher due to testing shortages, many unreported cases and suspicions that some governments are hiding the scope of their nations’ outbreaks.
Since the first cases were detected in China in December, the United States has become the worst-affected country, with more than 869,000 diagnosed cases and at least 49,963 deaths.
Here’s how the news is developing Friday. All times Eastern:
6:15 a.m.: Georgia governor defends opening some nonessential businesses
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp defended his controversial plan to open some nonessential businesses on Friday, despite criticism from President Donald Trump.
Kemp said he’s followed federal safety guidelines and that now is the time to start reopening the state’s economy.
“Now, with favorable data and approval from state health officials, we are taking another measured step forward by opening shuttered businesses for limited operations,” Kemp tweeted Thursday night. “I know these hardworking Georgians will prioritize the safety of their employees and customers. Together, we will weather this storm and emerge stronger than ever.”
Trump said Kemp went too far in opening some of the state’s businesses.
“I want him to do what he thinks is right,” Trump said during a press briefing Wednesday. “But … I think (opening) spas and beauty salons and tattoo parlors and barbershops in Phase One … it’s just too soon.”
In addition, Kemp released new requirements through executive order, detailing how various businesses can begin reopening again starting on Friday and Monday. Some requirements include that restaurants must post signs saying no one with symptoms of COVID-19 can enter.
Georgia has at least 21,883 diagnosed cases of COVID-19, with at least 881 deaths.
3:30 a.m.: China reports no new COVID-19 deaths for ninth straight day
China reported no new deaths from the novel coronavirus for the ninth consecutive day on Friday.
There were also only six new cases of COVID-19, two of which were brought into the country from overseas, according to China’s National Health Commission.
Since the virus was first detected in the city of Wuhan back in December, the Chinese mainland has reported 82,804 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 4,632 deaths.
Hospitals were still treating 915 patients with confirmed cases as of Friday morning, including 57 who are listed in serious condition, according to the National Health Commission.
Copyright © 2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.