You do not have to be watching the news these days to understand the world is experiencing a global pandemic that shows no signs of slowing down. It can be challenging to keep up with the latest developments in this rapidly changing situation. Here are a few things to know as you navigate this new way of life.

New York City Cases Soar

On Wednesday, the number of confirmed cases in New York City increased by more than 1,000, sending the alarm to health officials that this densely populated metropolitan area is not equipped to handle the onslaught of illness. As of Thursday afternoon, there are 5,200 cases across the state of New York. This number is up from about 3,000 cases at the end of the day Wednesday. 750 people of these patients have been hospitalized because of the severity of the symptoms. There are at least 29 deaths attributed to the illness in the state.

California Quarantine

More than 40 million Californians are now under a shelter in place order laid down by the state government. Earlier this week, residents in the San Francisco area were told to stay in their homes except for essential work and errands. On Thursday evening, residents of Los Angeles County in Southern California joined the ranks as they were also told to stay inside. As a result of the order, all non-essential businesses are closed. Shortly after the Los Angeles County order, the entire state was put on alert to simply stay home.

China Update Brings Hope

As much of the rest of the world continues to grapple with the deadly virus and its spread, it appears as if China has gained control over the outbreak. For the first time since the outbreak began, there were no new domestically transmitted cases reported for the day. At this stage in the containment, Chinese health officials are more fearful of imported cases starting a second surge of the virus.

India Ramps Up Containment Efforts

Efforts to contain the virus are now ramping up in India. Government officials have advised that all people over the age of 65 and under the age of 10 stay home. This advisement excludes those in essential job positions. There are currently 190 confirmed cases and four deaths in the country. India's Minister of Commerce, Piyush Goya, also prohibited the export of critical supplies of ventilators, masks, and other materials that are essential in mitigating the spread of the virus.

Coronavirus Affects Myriad of People

Nobody is immune to coming down with the coronavirus. The list of well-known celebrities and government officials that have tested positive for the virus continues to grow. On Wednesday, it was announced that NBA superstar Kevin Durant had tested positive along with three more of his Brooklyn Nets teammates. Marcus Smart of the Boston Celtics tested positive on Thursday. In addition, the executive director of the United Nations' World Food Programme, David Beasley, also announced that he has the virus.

Economy in Free Fall as Officials Race to Put in Protective Measures

Although Wall Street saw modest gains on Thursday, it did nothing to earn back what had been lost in the preceding days. Many countries, including the US, are considering issuing stimulus checks to adults in an effort to keep the economy afloat. Of particular concern is the loss of jobs that is resulting because of an entire country in near shutdown mode. Over the last few days, jobless claims have spiked to the highest levels in 2.5 years as many companies have made the tough decision to let go of workers.

Automakers to the Rescue

A shortage of ventilators across the country has inspired some automakers to convert their plants to help to produce more of these critical medical machines. Ford, GM, and Tesla all announced plans to look into the feasibility of turning some of their manufacturing plants into places to make ventilators for use in the medical community.

The spread of the virus and how it continues to affect the economy and the world's population is a fluid situation. Staying abreast of any changes will help you to put yourself in the best possible position to stay healthy.