About half the world's population is under lockdown in a desperate effort to push back the spread of the deadly infection. The number of COVID-19 confirmed cases in 182 countries has exceeded 450,000, Agence France-press reports.

More than 85% of coronavirus cases comes from Europe and the United States, according to the World Health Organization. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, spokeswoman Dr. Margaret acknowledged that fact that Europe had become the new epicenter of the global pandemic.

On Monday United Nations called for the global unity, comprehensive ceasefire and help for poor countries in the face of the coronavirus challenge. 'It is time to focus on the true fight of our lives', UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said.

According to Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director General of the World Health Organisation, the COVID-19 pandemic is gathering pace and 362,000 people in all but a few countries have been affected by the virus outbreak as of March 24th 2020.

At least 35 institutions are said to be working on the COVID-19 vaccine wordwide. The research into the new form of the coronavirus started as early as mid-January. As of late March 2020, at least four candidate vaccines are being tested in animals.

Global hotel networks are reported to be laying off staff amid the unfolding economic crisis. Many tourist industry workers will have to go on a temporarily leave while working hours for others are being reduced in the face of low demand for hotel services.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide had surpassed 267,000 in 185 countries by Saturday night, according to World Health Organization. The outbreak had caused more than 11.200 deaths. China, Italy, Iran, Spain, Germany and the United States remain the worst hit countries.