Covid-19 worldwide cases near 4.9 million; death toll at 318,465

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has increased to over 4.8 million, while the death toll has surpassed 318,000, according to Johns Hopkins University.

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As of Tuesday morning, the total number of cases stood at 4,801,282, while the death toll increased to 318,465, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

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The US currently accounts for the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 15,37,830 and 90,694, respectively.

United States, Spain, Russia, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day.

Europe reopened more widely on Monday, allowing people into the Acropolis in Greece, shops in Italy, markets and museums in Belgium, golf courses in Ireland and beer gardens in Germany while its leaders discussed how to salvage hallowed summer vacations.

Meanwhile, in a surprise announcement, President Donald Trump said he’s been taking a malaria drug to protect against the virus even though his administration has warned it should only be administered in a hospital or research setting because of potentially fatal side effects.

(With inputs from agencies)