With coronavirus cases and deaths rising sharply across Europe, Italy and Spain have shattered daily records, while U.S. President Donald Trump faces intense criticism over a vaccine development bid.
France's latest COVID-19 update as of March 15, 2020, evening shows 5,423 confirmed cases and 127 deaths. This marks a one-day jump of 900 cases and 36 deaths—the steepest increase since the virus emerged here. Health Minister Olivier Véran urged strict adherence to guidelines, noting crowded urban outings over the weekend that could prompt a nationwide quarantine soon.
Italy reports 24,747 cases and 1,809 deaths, while Spain's surge outpaces France at 7,844 cases and 292 deaths. Both nations hit new daily highs, with Italy logging 370 deaths. Globally, nearly 700 fatalities occurred in 24 hours.
As reported by Le Figaro, President Trump is under fire for allegedly offering millions to seize exclusive rights to a German coronavirus vaccine project. German officials confirmed the bid targeted Tübingen-based CureVac lab, which is advancing a vaccine with state funding and nearing validation in months.
With the U.S. at 3,689 cases and 68 deaths, the pressure is mounting. Social media has branded the move a potential "crime against humanity."
Other global figures: Iran (13,938 cases / 724 deaths), South Korea (8,162 / 75), Germany (5,813 / 13), Switzerland (2,200 / 14). Worldwide toll: 168,930 cases, 6,461 deaths, with over 76,000 recoveries.
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