Global coronavirus cases hit 40 million as second wave gains momentum

The number of reported coronavirus cases around the world has hit 40 million, according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University.

The grim milestone of 40,050,902 confirmed cases on Monday comes as various parts of Europe and the U.S. struggle to deal with an alarming surge in infections.

The dreaded “second wave” began in August in Europe, following the relaxation of national lockdowns implemented in spring.

WHO warned on Friday that Europe’s coronavirus outbreak is “concerning” as the number of available intensive care beds continues to dwindle and near capacity in some regions.