All posts by nedhamson

Activist, writer, researcher, addicted to sharing information and facts.

Northern Ireland closes schools over COVID fears | New Europe

Ireland’s first minister Arlene Foster on Wednesday said that schools in the country will close from Monday and pubs and restaurants will face new restrictions from Friday, in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

On Wednesday, authorities reported 1,217 new infections and 4 deaths from the disease. The total number of cases currently stands at 23,115.

From Friday, hospitality businesses will be limited to takeaway and delivery services for the next four weeks. The decision comes after health officials warned that infections would rise further if schools and hospitality premises remain open. Under the new measures, schools will close for two weeks until  November 2.

“We fully appreciate that this will be difficult and worrying news for a lot of people. The executive has taken this decision because it is necessary. We do not take this step lightly”, Foster said.

Source: Northern Ireland closes schools over COVID fears | New Europe

Portugal declares ‘state of calamity’ amid surge in COVID-19 cases | New Europe

Portugal has returned to a “state of calamity,” Prime Minister Antonio Costa announced on Wednesday, as the country is facing a “serious evolution” of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the new measures, that came into effect on Thursday and will last until until October 31, gatherings are limited to five people, with a “recommendation to wear a mask,” while private celebrations, like weddings and baptisms can have a maximum of 50 guests.

The government is also planning to make face masks mandatory in all public spaces, along with the mandatory use of the “StayAwayCovid” screening app in work, schools, public administration and in the armed and security forces, however the parliament will need to green-light the decision.

Source: Portugal declares ‘state of calamity’ amid surge in COVID-19 cases | New Europe

Setbacks and Subtle Victories: One Year of Lebanon Protests

As long as previous rulers and sectarian groups continue to rearrange chairs for their own advantage – Lebanon continues its troubles. A new non-sectarian era of progressive youth is the answer. W140

Lebanon’s protest movement has made some important gains since it burst out onto the streets a year ago, even if its revolutionary fever has died down.

COVID-19 takes tragic toll on husband-and-wife nurses – Los Angeles Times

A group of people wearing masks pose for a photo

Both husband and wife were hospitalized, and the two texted each other from separate rooms in St. Mary. Ben ultimately returned home after five days, but Sally was transferred to the intensive care unit when she began having difficulty breathing. The texting stopped when she was put on a ventilator.

“With COVID, you’re drowning. You’re drowning; you cannot breathe,” Ben said. “It’s awful, the severity of the effects of the COVID virus in your lungs.”

Source: COVID-19 takes tragic toll on husband-and-wife nurses – Los Angeles Times

Open Thread | That’s A Lot of Dough, Joe😊 — 3CHICSPOLITICO

I remember when Joe Biden didn’t have $100 before the South Carolina Primary…. My, how things change🤗 To every person who chipped in a few dollars last month — thank you. Because of your support, we raised an astounding $383 million. I’m incredibly humbled. There’s still more work to be done, but I wanted to […]

Open Thread | That’s A Lot of Dough, Joe😊 — 3CHICSPOLITICO

South Dakota reports record 876 new COVID-19 cases, three new deaths

Clayton said that the state is seeing an increase in cases, but also an increase in testing targeted at higher-risk individuals and an increase in case identification. He noted that statewide, the majority of counties are reporting substantial community spread.  Source: South Dakota reports record 876 new COVID-19 cases, three new deaths