France Sets New Daily Coronavirus Record—13,000 Cases—As Other Countries Lock Down

Topline

France has stumbled over a menacing new hurdle in their battle to beat coronavirus as the country counted upwards of 13,000 new coronavirus cases Friday, an all-time daily high including even before the French lockdown in spring, as other countries like the U.K., Israel and Spain grapple to regain control of the virus’ spread.

Key Facts

Surprising Fact

According to an analysis by the Washington Post, Spain, France and Israel all have higher infection rates than even the United States, which has by far the most confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths.

Key Background

While Europe and Israel were lauded worldwide for imposing strict lockdowns relatively early on during the pandemic and seeing steep declines in new coronavirus cases and deaths, many of the countries once regarded as success stories are seeing new surges after reopening. Europe’s jump in cases has been blamed on young people congregating and partying, hoping to enjoy the last part of summer. However, experts have noted that increased testing capacity has likely contributed to the higher numbers recorded more recently, and that healthcare systems are generally in a better position to handle coronavirus patients than they were in spring. 

Further Reading

French COVID-19 cases jump to new daily record above 13,000 (Reuters)

Covid-19: Second wave now hitting the UK, says Boris Johnson (BBC)

French New Virus Cases Top 13,000 as Europe Lockdown Risk Rises (Bloomberg)

These countries crushed covid-19 — but are now reporting higher infection rates than the U.S. (Washington Post)

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