US President Donald Trump (Photo: Taking points memo)

Mr. Trump says the ban will apply to travelers who have visited 26 countries in the EU's Schengen border-free area in the last 14 days but not travelers from the UK or Ireland. President Trump said the US would prevail in countering the virus, adding that Washington is keeping regular contact with its allies and is mobilizing the full power of the federal government and private sector to protect American people. President Trump said: “These restrictions will be adjusted subject to conditions on the ground. There will be exemptions for Americans who had undergone appropriate screenings. These prohibitions will not only be applied to tremendous amounts of trade and cargo, but various other things as we get approval, anything coming from Europe to the United States, is what we are discussing. At the same time, we are monitoring the situation in China and South Korea. Then, as their situation improves, we will revaluate the restrictions and warnings that are currently in place for a possible early opening”.

Mr. Trump said the highest risk is to the elderly population and those with underlying health conditions, saying that nursing homes should suspend all but necessary medical visits.

US President also said his administration will provide a $50 billion relief package to small business owners affected by the coronavirus outbreak as part of sweeping efforts to hinder the economic impact of the growing pandemic.