Informing, engaging & connecting the people of the world. APRIL 3, 2020

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Taiwan, widely watched from abroad for controlling the spread of COVID-19, started this week spreading medical aid to much harder-hit countries in a campaign that could help it stand up politically against its powerful rival China.

ON THIS DAY IN AMERICAN HISTORY On April 3, 1860, the Pony Express, which delivered mail via horse and rider relay teams, makes its debut. A westbound rider and mail packet traveled from Missouri to California, completing the 1,800-mile journey in 10 days. The journey set a new standard for speedy mail delivery and captured America’s imagination. But the Pony Express ultimately turned out to be unprofitable and short-lived, ending operations after 19 months in business. During its tenure the Pony Express delivered approximately 35,000 letters between St. Joseph, Missouri, and Sacramento, California.

“Go hard, go early.” That’s how to combat the coronavirus, according to U.S. Army General Robert Abrams, the top U.S. general in South Korea, who gave a joint interview with VOA and CNN.

VIDEO: Along with the global coronavirus virus pandemic, Nigeria is also battling a deadly Lassa fever outbreak that so far this year has killed at least 176 people in the country. Doctors say the illness is an annual problem that deserves more attention.

The lockdown has been in place just over a week here in Britain, and beyond the economic and health concerns, the new restrictions are having myriad effects on a society that finds itself largely locked indoors. A VOA reporter shares their observations on how Britain is dealing with the coronavirus.

Social distancing and isolation to prevent the spread of coronavirus can be hard. Experts say years of loneliness or feelings of isolation can lead to anxiety, depression and dementia in adults. A weakened immune system response, higher rates of obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease and a shorter life span can also result.