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As of publishing time, 39 countries have passed the threshold of 100 confirmed cases, with
many more countries on the cusp. By comparing infection trajectories from the 100 case

mark, we’re able to see a clearer picture of how quickly the virus is spreading within various
countries.

A rapid “doubling rate” can spell big trouble, as even countries with advanced healthcare
systems can become overwhelmed by the sheer number of cases. This was the case in the
Lombardy region of Italy, where hospitals were overloaded and an increasing number of
medical staff are under quarantine after testing positive for the virus. Nearly 10% of COVID-
19 patients in Lombardy required intensive care, which stretched resources to their
breaking point.

Other countries are looking to avoid this situation by “flattening the curve” of the pandemic.
In other words, preventing and delaying the spread of the virus so that large portions of the
population aren’t sick at the same time.

Everything’s Canceled

While all the countries on this tracker are united behind a common goal – stamping out
COVID-19 as soon as possible – each country has its own approach and unique challenges
when it comes to keeping their population safe. Of course, countries that are just beginning
to experience exponential growth in case numbers have the benefit of learning from

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