Pope prays for those profiting from virus

Pope Francis broadcast another Mass via the internet from Vatican City on Saturday, warning people against trying to profit personally from the pandemic caused by the new coronavirus.

During his address from the Santa Marta chapel the pope asked for people to be granted a "clear conscience".

The pontiff's statements appeared to be a reference to people who are profiting by raising  prices of products that are now in huge demand, such as protective masks, gloves, hydro-alcoholic solutions, along with basic food products and supplies.

The new coronavirus has caused a global pandemic that has sickened at least 1,118,000, killed 58,000 worldwide, crippled economies and forced restrictions on the movement of millions of people in an effort to stop the virus from spreading further and overwhelming health care systems.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.