Novel coronavirus

Sen. Cassidy on why Americans need to stay home amid pandemic

As Congress weighs relief packages meant to blunt the negative impact of COVID-19 on the U.S. economy, lawmakers are also trying to manage the outbreak’s damage in their own states. Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, one of three medical doctors currently…

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Coronavirus layoffs spark surge in state jobless claims

By David A. Lieb, Associated Press

In Ohio, more than 48,000 people applied for jobless benefits during the first two days of this week. The tally during the same period the prior week: just 1,825.

Tumbling stocks erase nearly all Dow gains since Trump’s inauguration

By Stan Choe, Damian J. Troise, Alex Veiga, Associated Press

Even prices for investments seen as safe during downturns fell as the coronavirus outbreak chokes the economy and investors rush to raise cash.

Small businesses face devastation as damage from virus grows

By Joyce M. Rosenberg, Christopher Rugaber, Associated Press

Across the country, in industries of every kind and size, the coronavirus outbreak has devastated small businesses.

Senate passes coronavirus response measure to provide sick leave and free testing

By Jonathan Lemire, Jill Colvin, Associated Press

The Senate overwhelming passed a second coronavirus response bill, sending it to Trump to enact with his signature.

German leader calls novel coronavirus biggest challenge since WWII

By Kirsten Grieshaber, Associated Press

She said everyone in Germany must help protect those most vulnerable to infection, illness and death.

U.S. Census Bureau suspends field operations on virus concerns

By Mike Schneider, Associated Press

Field operations have been suspended for two weeks, citing the health and safety of its workers and the U.S. public from the novel coronavirus.

U.S. struggles to fill requests for protective gear

By Andrew Selsky, Associated Press

The federal government is rushing protective equipment to states for medical workers who will be on the front lines of the growing coronavirus pandemic. But at least in three states, promised deliveries are falling far short of requests.

Q&A — What does 90-day tax payment delay mean for filers?

By Sarah Skidmore Sell, Martin Crutsinger, Associated Press

The Trump administration has announced that most individuals and businesses will be allowed to delay paying their federal tax bills for 90 days as part of an emergency relief plan amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Confronting Coronavirus

To offer context around these uncertain times, the PBS NewsHour will shed light on what health precautions everyone should take, as well as the pandemic’s economic impact.