Coronavirus: Trump dismisses claims that early warnings over coronavirus were ignored

President Donald Trump hit back at US public health adviser Dr Anthony Fauci after he claimed early warnings of coronavirus’ effect on the US were rebuffed by the administration.

Dr Fauci, who has become the de facto medical spokesman for the US during the coronavirus pandemic, said recommendations given to Mr Trump were “often” taken but “sometimes” not.

In response the president branded the comments as “fake news” and later said a decision will be made “shortly” on when the US economy would be reopened, adding that the call will be made by him and the federal government rather than state governors.

On Sunday, the New York Times reported administration officials warned the president of the severity of the virus in January, but were told they were being alarmist by Mr Trump.

The story added that social distancing measures were recommended by officials back in February, but only implemented by the president last month, and early intelligence reports of the virus’ likely spread to the US and subsequent financial losses were predicted in January.

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