The corona virus has infected over 1.3 million people and more than 80,600 have been reported dead in the United States as a result of covid-19.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, stated that many experts believe that even more have died from the coronavirus.

"Most of us feel that the number of deaths is probably higher than the official number," Fauci said before a hearing in the Senate.

Served under six presidents

Anthony Fauci assumed the post of head of the US National Infectious Disease Institute NIAID 36 years ago and has served under a total of six presidents.

He said he was not sure how many percent higher the actual death rate could be. But in all likelihood, it's higher, he said.

He also urged caution to ease restrictions in the United States. 

"If you think we have it under control, we don't have it," he replied to Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren during the hearing.

mass Tests

The US Department of Health stated that the country has the capacity for huge mass tests.

"We estimate that our nation will be able to carry out at least 40 to 50 million tests a month this fall, if needed at that time," said Admiral Brett Giroir, at the HHS Department of Health.

He added that 12.9 million tests will be conducted in the next four weeks, in addition to the 9 million tests already done in the country. It was reported to be twice as many tests as any other country has done.

Quarantine manager

The head of the infection protection authority, Doctor Fauci, 79, had quarantined himself after coming into contact with officials at the White House who tested positive for covid-19.

Nine candidates

Fauci stated that there are currently nine possible "candidates" for covid-19 vaccine and research began in January.

"If we are successful, you will know this in the fall or winter," Fauci said, adding that the authorities said it would take 12 to 18 months to produce a vaccine, shortly after work began.

"I also have to warn that there are opportunities for negative consequences or that some vaccines may increase the negative effect of the infection," said Dr. Anthony Fauci.