Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Global Coronavirus Cases Hit 1 Million VOA News The coronavirus pandemic has hit a grim milestone --1 million confirmed cases. The count by Johns Hopkins University says almost one-fourth, 236,000, are in the United States. The worldwide death toll stands at more than 53,000. Italy reported the most fatalities with more than 13,000 and climbing daily. A question on nearly everyone's lips in the U.S. is, "Do I need to wear a mask?" Some experts have said anyone who is not sick or caring for someone who is doesn't need one. They say a mask won't stop the virus. Other experts say even minimal protection from a face covering is better than nothing at all. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio is recommending New Yorkers wear a scarf, bandana, or some homemade covering over their mouths and noses -- but not a surgical mask. He says those should be reserved for medical professionals. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is also asking people to cover their mouths in public. U.S. President Donald Trump said the White House task force is still putting together guidelines on whether to wear a face covering. "If people wanted to wear them, they can. It's not a bad idea, at least for a period of time," Trump said. .