New York tightens measures

More on the situation in New York, the state with the highest numbers in both infections and deaths in the US.

Despite the slowing hospitalisation rate, Governor Andrew Cuomo warned that “much remains to be done” and announced new steps aimed at containing the virus.

New York City – with more than 8 million people – is making some streets pedestrian-only to allow more room for social distancing between people.

The city also plans to ban basketball and other contact sports in public parks, urging individuals to comply on a voluntary basis.

"Our closeness makes us vulnerable," Mr Cuomo warned.

In a sign that things are expected to get worse before they get better, New York along with North Carolina and Hawaii, has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency to send special mortuary teams that can be deployed for mass casualties.