The United States has overtaken China as the country with the largest number of infections with the novel strain of the coronavirus (COVID-19), John Hopkins University of revealed on its website on Friday, reported Sputnik.

There were currently 82,404 US cases of COVID-19 versus China’s 81,782 cases, according to the data provided by the Johns Hopkins University..

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Friday ordered the immediate closure of trails, bike paths, green spaces and parks near the city's Lakefront in an accelerated effort to fight COVID-19.

The order also prohibits contact sports, like basketball and football, according to a statement posted on the city government's website, reported Xinhua news agency.

To ensure compliance with the order, the Chicago Police Department is empowered to issue a 500-dollar ticket, and go further with issuing citations if individuals do not adhere to initial warnings from police officers.

"As we work tirelessly to flatten the curve and prevent the spread of COVID-19, we need people to stay at home as much as possible. Our order to temporarily close access to the Lakefront and restrict gatherings has now become a necessary step in our effort to protect people, and to get our city through this crisis as quickly as possible," said Lightfoot.

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker issued a "Stay at Home" Order, which went into effect on March 21. Under the order, residents of Chicago and across the state are mandated to stay at home as much as possible.

However, Chicago city officials of Chicago have reported that crowds are congregating along the Lakefront, in parks, and other public spaces in violation of the state's mandate and health guidance.

By Thursday, the US Midwest state of Illinois had 2,538 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with the death toll has climbing to 26. 

(With inputs by Sputnik and Xinhua)