Coronavirus Watch: Cases in all 50 states

The border between Canada and the U.S. is closing for nonessential travel. The Pentagon is sending a 1,000-bed hospital ship to New York City. And millions of people are sheltering in place.

It's Wednesday, and this is Coronavirus Watch from the Paste BN Network, where we update you on everything to know about COVID-19.

Here's the latest, as of 2 p.m. ET:

• President Donald Trump says he's invoking the Defense Production Act, which allows the administration to expedite and expand supplies and resources, such as respirators and other medical equipment.
• More than 7,300 people in the U.S. across all 50 states have been infected with the virus, and at least 115 people have died. Here's a map of all confirmed cases.
• Kansas is the first state to announce that schools will remain closed for in-person teaching for the rest of the school year.
• Nevada is shutting down all casinos and other nonessential businesses starting at noon Wednesday.
• The U.S. stock market opened sharply lower as lockdowns and restrictions rattled investors despite Washington’s promises for economic aid. The Dow dropped more than 1,200 points, and S&P 500 also sank.
• The IRS is postponing the April 15 tax deadline by 90 days for millions of people.
• Some retailers – including Target, Safeway, Acme, Vons and Whole Foods – are setting aside time for the elderly and those with underlying health concerns to shop.

Remember, for the next 15 days, the White House recommends avoiding: social gatherings involving more than 10 people; nonessential travel, shopping trips and social visits; and eating out at restaurants and bars. Need some coping strategies for your time at home?

• Here's a list of free TV and movies to stream.
• Try out these 100 things to do while stuck inside, from puzzles to finally doing your taxes. 
• Social distancing doesn't mean you can't have a Netflix movie night with friends. Here's how Google is making it happen. 
• Sports are canceled but we've compiled the 15 best sports movies you haven't seen.

Thank you for sending us your questions! You can find information about the virus here, or see answers to your specific questions here. What else are you curious about?

Tom from Bath, Michigan, asks: The virus does not seem to be in warmer climates, such as Mexico, the Caribbean and South America. Is this true?

Actually, the new coronavirus has indeed spread to these locations. The virus can be transmitted in all areas, including areas with hot and humid weather, according to the World Health Organization. There are confirmed cases across more than 160 countries worldwide, with nearly a hundred cases in Mexico, nearly 200 throughout Central America and more than 1,000 throughout South America. 

Thinking of trying to kill off the virus with heat? Don't. Taking a hot bath, sitting in a sauna or using a hand dryer won't kill the coronavirus, according to the WHO. At the same time, there is no reason to believe that cold weather can kill the virus.

Have you or someone you know been diagnosed with the virus? What has your experience been like? We want to hear your story. Email me at ghauck@usatoday.com if you're interested in sharing.

Finally, thank you all for subscribing. We appreciate you trusting the Paste BN Network with this important information. Know someone who would benefit from this newsletter? Please forward this email so they can sign up here.

Here are today's coronavirus need-to-knows.

— Grace Hauck, Breaking News Reporter, @grace_hauck