*)World grapples with spread of coronavirus

The death toll from coronavirus has risen to almost 4,900 with over 135,000 infections around the world.

The virus has triggered a global stock markets meltdown while the global sporting calendar has been shredded with major events like Formula 1, football and tennis either being cancelled, suspended or postponed.

*)US launches air strikes against pro-Iranian militia in Iraq

The US has conducted retaliatory air strikes against Iranian-backed militia in Iraq.

US Defence Secretary Mark Esper says the Pentagon is prepared to respond again if necessary.

It comes after 18 rockets killed one British and two US soldiers at an air base north of Baghdad.

*)New Zealand to mark a year since terror attacks

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern attended a joint Friday prayer in Christchurch to mark the anniversary of last year’s March 15 terror attacks.

Ardern says New Zealanders have become more engaged with the Muslims in the year since a white terrorist killed 51 people at two mosques.

The country will on Sunday hold a National Remembrance Service to commemorate those who died.

*)Floods kill at least five in Egypt

At least five people were killed by floods in Egypt.

Heavy rain demolished houses in the southern province of Qena, where lightning caused several fires.

Forecasters have warned of heavy rains and flooding across much of the country through Saturday.

And finally,

*)Quarantined dog tests negative for coronavirus Some good news for pet owners.

A pet dog held in quarantine in Hong Kong after repeatedly testing “weak positive” for coronavirus, has tested negative.

The dog will still need to be retested before being discharged.

The World Health Organization says there's no evidence so far of human-to-animal transmission.