The US government's top infectious disease expert has warned Congress that ending lockdowns too quickly could bring severe consequences including new outbreaks of the coronavirus just as the country tries to overcome the pandemic.

Fauci acknowledged that US deaths caused by the virus are likely higher than the roughly 80,000 fatalities in the current official government toll.

US Senators listen to Dr Anthony Fauci during the hearing in Washington. — Reuters
US Senators listen to Dr Anthony Fauci during the hearing in Washington. — Reuters

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