The coronavirus death toll shot has surpassed 20,000 in Europe with Italy and Spain each reporting more than 800 dead in one day.

Up to one-third of the world's population is under lockdown as the virus leaves its devastating imprint on nearly every aspect of society.

Globally, the death toll has surged past 30,000 and officials in some countries say the worst still lies ahead.

Trump decided last night against imposing a broad lockdown on New York and its neighbours after a strong pushback from local political leaders and warnings of the panic it could spark.                            

 The United States now has the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the world, at 122,666.