An elderly man was spotted lying dead on a pavement in China's Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus on Thursday.&nbsp;

The fear of the deadly virus amongst a few passerby was apparent as they did not dare to touch the grey-haired man.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-wuhan-virus-death-toll-hits-213-in-china-nearly-10000-infected-277621">Wuhan virus death toll hits 213 in China, nearly 10000 infected</a>

News agency AFP's reporters detected the body in the morning and soon after an emergency vehicle arrived with police and medical staff.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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So far, police and local health officials have not commented on the man who appeared to be in his 60s.&nbsp;

A woman who was standing near the old man said that she believed that the man had died from the virus.&nbsp;

"It's terrible," she said. "These days many people have died."

In two hours, at least 15 ambulances passed by from the scene.&nbsp;

Finally, a white van with blacked-out windows reached the spot and took away the man.

Wuhan is the epicentre of the deadly virus and alone witnessed 159 deaths out of the total toll of 213.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the outbreak a global emergency.&nbsp;

Wuhan is put under an unprecedented lockdown, with roads out of the city blocked and flights suspended, in a bid to stop the virus from spreading.

An elderly man was spotted lying dead on a pavement in China's Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus on Thursday. The fear of the deadly virus amongst a few passerby was apparent as they did not dare to touch the grey-haired man.

An elderly man was spotted lying dead on a pavement in China's Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus on Thursday. The fear of the deadly virus amongst a few passerby was apparent as they did not dare to touch the grey-haired man. Also read: Wuhan virus death toll hits 213 in China, nearly 10000 infected News agency AFP's reporters detected the body in the morning and soon after an emergency vehicle arrived with police and medical staff. Watch: So far, police and local health officials have not commented on the man who appeared to be in his 60s. A woman who was standing near the old man said that she believed that the man had died from the virus. "It's terrible," she said. "These days many people have died." In two hours, at least 15 ambulances passed by from the scene. Finally, a white van with blacked-out windows reached the spot and took away the man. Wuhan is the epicentre of the deadly virus and alone witnessed 159 deaths out of the total toll of 213. On Thursday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the outbreak a global emergency. Wuhan is put under an unprecedented lockdown, with roads out of the city blocked and flights suspended, in a bid to stop the virus from spreading.

Watch- Man lying dead on streets of Wuhan, epicentre of coronavirus

A plane of Japanese evacuees from the virus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan arrived in Tokyo on Thursday as the total number of confirmed deaths from the newly identified pathogen in the country rose by 38 to 170 and infections also jumped.

Chinese health authorities said there were 7,711 confirmed cases of infection as of the end of Wednesday, mostly in Hubei province where the death toll rose by 37 to 162.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-countries-suspend-flights-to-china-as-coronavirus-death-toll-climbs-to-132-277368">Several countries suspend flights to China as Coronavirus death toll climbs to 132</a>

Infections have been reported in at least 15 other countries and, with the appearance of the first case in Tibet, in every province and region of mainland China.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-indigo-air-india-suspend-most-china-bound-flights-no-case-in-india-yet-277405">Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet</a>

The World Health Organization's (WHO) Emergency Committee is set to reconvene behind closed doors in Geneva later on Thursday to decide whether the rapid spread of the virus now constitutes a global emergency.

"In the last few days the progress of the virus, especially in some countries, especially human-to-human transmission, worries us," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news conference on Wednesday, naming Germany, Vietnam and Japan.

"Although the numbers outside China are still relatively small, they hold the potential for a much larger outbreak."

A second chartered flight with Japanese evacuees from Wuhan, which is under virtual lockdown, landed in Japan with nine people showing symptoms of fever or coughing, broadcaster NHK reported.

The first flight landed on Wednesday and at least one more is expected in coming days.

Three Japanese who returned on the first flight were confirmed to be infected with the virus, NHK reported on Thursday, citing the health ministry, although two of the three had not shown any symptoms.

The United States flew about 200 Americans out of Wuhan, capital of Hubei where most of the cases are concentrated. They were being screened on arrival in California. France, Britain and Canada also have organised evacuations.

The effects of the virus are already weighing heavily on China's economy, the world's second-biggest, with companies cutting corporate travel and tourists cancelling trips.

Various airlines are cutting flights, from British Airways and Lufthansa to Air Canada and American Airlines.

A plane of Japanese evacuees from the virus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan arrived in Tokyo on Thursday as the total number of confirmed deaths from the newly identified pathogen in the country rose by 38 to 170 and infections also jumped.

A plane of Japanese evacuees from the virus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan arrived in Tokyo on Thursday as the total number of confirmed deaths from the newly identified pathogen in the country rose by 38 to 170 and infections also jumped. Chinese health authorities said there were 7,711 confirmed cases of infection as of the end of Wednesday, mostly in Hubei province where the death toll rose by 37 to 162. Also read: Several countries suspend flights to China as Coronavirus death toll climbs to 132 Infections have been reported in at least 15 other countries and, with the appearance of the first case in Tibet, in every province and region of mainland China. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet The World Health Organization's (WHO) Emergency Committee is set to reconvene behind closed doors in Geneva later on Thursday to decide whether the rapid spread of the virus now constitutes a global emergency. "In the last few days the progress of the virus, especially in some countries, especially human-to-human transmission, worries us," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news conference on Wednesday, naming Germany, Vietnam and Japan. "Although the numbers outside China are still relatively small, they hold the potential for a much larger outbreak." A second chartered flight with Japanese evacuees from Wuhan, which is under virtual lockdown, landed in Japan with nine people showing symptoms of fever or coughing, broadcaster NHK reported. The first flight landed on Wednesday and at least one more is expected in coming days. Three Japanese who returned on the first flight were confirmed to be infected with the virus, NHK reported on Thursday, citing the health ministry, although two of the three had not shown any symptoms. The United States flew about 200 Americans out of Wuhan, capital of Hubei where most of the cases are concentrated. They were being screened on arrival in California. France, Britain and Canada also have organised evacuations. The effects of the virus are already weighing heavily on China's economy, the world's second-biggest, with companies cutting corporate travel and tourists cancelling trips. Various airlines are cutting flights, from British Airways and Lufthansa to Air Canada and American Airlines.

Coronavirus: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region

Numerous foreign nationals from nations such as Japan, the US and several EU countries are being evacuated from Wuhan.

However, local authorities have prevented family members of many UK citizens in China because their relatives held Chinese passports. One such incident report comes from a mother who was told to leave her three-year-old son behind because he has a Chinese passport.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-more-japanese-evacuated-from-china-virus-epicentre-death-toll-climbs-to-170-277434">Also read: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region</a>

The Chinese coronavirus which originated in Wuhan has spread to almost every region in the country and at least 16 other nations, raking up a kill count of 170 and counting.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-countries-suspend-flights-to-china-as-coronavirus-death-toll-climbs-to-132-277368">Several countries suspend flights to China as Coronavirus death toll climbs to 132</a>

The Foreign Office stated that it was "working urgently" to organise a flight to the UK "as soon as possible."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-indigo-air-india-suspend-most-china-bound-flights-no-case-in-india-yet-277405">Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet</a>

Health Authorities of China stated that there were 7,711 confirmed cases in the country, and the Foreign Office issued a statement reassuring the panicking public that they were "in close contact with the Chinese authorities and conversations are ongoing at all levels."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-death-toll-rises-to-170-in-china-277445/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Mr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "In the last few days the progress of the virus, especially in some countries, especially human-to-human transmission, worries us."

"Although the numbers outside China are still relatively small, they hold the potential for a much larger outbreak," he added.

Numerous foreign nationals from nations such as Japan, the US and several EU countries are being evacuated from Wuhan. However, local authorities have prevented family members of many UK citizens in China because their relatives held Chinese passports.

Numerous foreign nationals from nations such as Japan, the US and several EU countries are being evacuated from Wuhan. However, local authorities have prevented family members of many UK citizens in China because their relatives held Chinese passports. One such incident report comes from a mother who was told to leave her three-year-old son behind because he has a Chinese passport. Also read: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region The Chinese coronavirus which originated in Wuhan has spread to almost every region in the country and at least 16 other nations, raking up a kill count of 170 and counting. Also read: Several countries suspend flights to China as Coronavirus death toll climbs to 132 The Foreign Office stated that it was "working urgently" to organise a flight to the UK "as soon as possible." Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet Health Authorities of China stated that there were 7,711 confirmed cases in the country, and the Foreign Office issued a statement reassuring the panicking public that they were "in close contact with the Chinese authorities and conversations are ongoing at all levels." Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Mr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "In the last few days the progress of the virus, especially in some countries, especially human-to-human transmission, worries us." "Although the numbers outside China are still relatively small, they hold the potential for a much larger outbreak," he added.

Coronavirus fears grip China's borders: Families of UK Citizens barred from departing as they hold Chinese passports

A suspected case of coronavirus has been reported in Rajasthan, following which the patient has been kept in isolation, state Health Minister Raghu Sharma said on Sunday.

He said a doctor, who returned to India after completing the MBBS course in China, was kept in isolation at the SMS Hospital here on the suspicion of being affected by a coronavirus.

Directions were given to conduct a screening of all the family members of the patient, he added.

In an official statement, the minister said a blood sample of the patient was sent to the National Virology Laboratory in Pune.

He added that a total of 18 people from four districts of the state had returned to the country from China and the respective district chiefs and medical officers were directed to keep them under surveillance for 28 days.

Sharma also urged the Union health minister to make the screening facility available at the international terminals of various airports in the country.

A suspected case of coronavirus has been reported in Rajasthan, following which the patient has been kept in isolation, state Health Minister Raghu Sharma said on Sunday.

A suspected case of coronavirus has been reported in Rajasthan, following which the patient has been kept in isolation, state Health Minister Raghu Sharma said on Sunday. He said a doctor, who returned to India after completing the MBBS course in China, was kept in isolation at the SMS Hospital here on the suspicion of being affected by a coronavirus. Directions were given to conduct a screening of all the family members of the patient, he added. In an official statement, the minister said a blood sample of the patient was sent to the National Virology Laboratory in Pune. He added that a total of 18 people from four districts of the state had returned to the country from China and the respective district chiefs and medical officers were directed to keep them under surveillance for 28 days. Sharma also urged the Union health minister to make the screening facility available at the international terminals of various airports in the country.

Suspected case of coronavirus reported in Rajasthan

Chinese health authorities announced Monday that 24 new fatalities have brought the death toll from the coronavirus outbreak to 80 and more than 2,744 have been infected so far.

National Health Commission has said on Sunday that 461 people are in critical conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-that-the-ability-of-the-virus-to-spread-is-getting-stronger-276630">China warns that the ability of the virus to spread is getting stronger</a>

Making the situation even graver, Wuhan's mayor has said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-wuhan-mayor-predicts-1000-more-infected-with-virus-276704">thousand more cases of coronavirus are expected</a>. 769 new cases have now been reported.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/reports-china-tried-to-cover-up-deadly-coronavirus-outbreak-initially-276524/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

No new deaths were confirmed outside of Hubei province.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-evacuate-its-citizens-from-china-virus-epicentre-276590">US to evacuate its citizens from China virus epicentre</a>

Meanwhile World Health Organization director-general Tedros Adhanom announced that he was headed to China to assist with response efforts to the coronavirus.

China has banned wild animal trade until the situation is taken under control.This comes as reports suggest that virus was spread from the illegal market which traded live animals.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-confirmed-cases-of-coronovirus-in-india-so-far-73-people-under-observations-276537/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There have also been claims that snakes are the source of this coronavirus.

According to the joint directive, raising, transporting or selling all wild animal species is forbidden "from the date of the announcement until the national epidemic situation is over."

China’s health minister, however, has said that people can spread it before they have symptoms.

China's national health commission earlier said that the transmission ability of the coronavirus is getting stronger and that the number of infections could continue to rise.

In a press briefing, authorities have said that knowledge of the new virus is limited.

Meanwhile, Beijing now has 68 confirmed cases of Wuhan coronavirus.&nbsp;Shanghai government has also reported the city's first death from the virus.

Tianjin -- a city of about 15 million--has now become the second major city to suspend long-distance buses that enter and leave the city.

This comes a day after Beijing announced a similar measure. Shandong province has also banned long-distance buses over fears of an outbreak.

Public attractions such as Beijing's forbidden city, shanghai Disneyland and a section of the great wall have been closed as a precaution.

Hubei province in central China is the epicentre of this outbreak.&nbsp;14 cities in Hubei, including Wuhan, have been completely locked down.

In Hubei, 18 cities have been put under travel restrictions that include closing public transport links and access to highways.

They have also ordered nation-wide detection measures on flights, buses and trains.&nbsp;Hong Kong has confirmed the 8th case of coronavirus. Hong Kong hospital authority has said that there are 77 suspected cases of the virus.&nbsp;

Hong Kong has declared the outbreak an 'emergency'. This is the highest-level health warning in the semi-autonomous region.

All schools have been closed till February 17. While all the flights and trains to Wuhan remain suspended indefinitely.

Hong Kong Disneyland and ocean park, two of the city's biggest theme parks, have closed due to the coronavirus outbreak.

While chief executive Carrie lam has urged the public to be rational and fight the outbreak together.

Protesters in hong kong set alight a facility housing the quarantined patients.&nbsp;The fire was later put out by firefighters and the damage appeared to be confined to the lobby area.

Hundreds of riot police also moved in, arresting at least one person.&nbsp;A study has revealed that each infected person is passing the disease on to between two and three other people on average at current transmission rates.

The spread of this disease depends on the effectiveness of control measures.&nbsp;To be able to contain the epidemic and turn the tide of infections, control measures would have to halt transmission in at least 60% of cases.

Chinese health authorities announced Monday that 24 new fatalities have brought the death toll from the coronavirus outbreak to 80 and more than 2,744 have been infected so far.

Chinese health authorities announced Monday that 24 new fatalities have brought the death toll from the coronavirus outbreak to 80 and more than 2,744 have been infected so far. National Health Commission has said on Sunday that 461 people are in critical conditions. Also read: China warns that the ability of the virus to spread is getting stronger Making the situation even graver, Wuhan's mayor has said that thousand more cases of coronavirus are expected. 769 new cases have now been reported. No new deaths were confirmed outside of Hubei province. Also read: US to evacuate its citizens from China virus epicentre Meanwhile World Health Organization director-general Tedros Adhanom announced that he was headed to China to assist with response efforts to the coronavirus. China has banned wild animal trade until the situation is taken under control.This comes as reports suggest that virus was spread from the illegal market which traded live animals. There have also been claims that snakes are the source of this coronavirus. According to the joint directive, raising, transporting or selling all wild animal species is forbidden "from the date of the announcement until the national epidemic situation is over." China’s health minister, however, has said that people can spread it before they have symptoms. China's national health commission earlier said that the transmission ability of the coronavirus is getting stronger and that the number of infections could continue to rise. In a press briefing, authorities have said that knowledge of the new virus is limited. Meanwhile, Beijing now has 68 confirmed cases of Wuhan coronavirus. Shanghai government has also reported the city's first death from the virus. Tianjin -- a city of about 15 million--has now become the second major city to suspend long-distance buses that enter and leave the city. This comes a day after Beijing announced a similar measure. Shandong province has also banned long-distance buses over fears of an outbreak. Public attractions such as Beijing's forbidden city, shanghai Disneyland and a section of the great wall have been closed as a precaution. Hubei province in central China is the epicentre of this outbreak. 14 cities in Hubei, including Wuhan, have been completely locked down. In Hubei, 18 cities have been put under travel restrictions that include closing public transport links and access to highways. They have also ordered nation-wide detection measures on flights, buses and trains. Hong Kong has confirmed the 8th case of coronavirus. Hong Kong hospital authority has said that there are 77 suspected cases of the virus. Hong Kong has declared the outbreak an 'emergency'. This is the highest-level health warning in the semi-autonomous region. All schools have been closed till February 17. While all the flights and trains to Wuhan remain suspended indefinitely. Hong Kong Disneyland and ocean park, two of the city's biggest theme parks, have closed due to the coronavirus outbreak. While chief executive Carrie lam has urged the public to be rational and fight the outbreak together. Protesters in hong kong set alight a facility housing the quarantined patients. The fire was later put out by firefighters and the damage appeared to be confined to the lobby area. Hundreds of riot police also moved in, arresting at least one person. A study has revealed that each infected person is passing the disease on to between two and three other people on average at current transmission rates. The spread of this disease depends on the effectiveness of control measures. To be able to contain the epidemic and turn the tide of infections, control measures would have to halt transmission in at least 60% of cases.

Coronavirus outbreak: China reports 2,744 confirmed cases, 80 deaths

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health on Thursday said that there were no cases of deadly coronavirus in the territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, amid an outbreak that has killed 25 people in China.

On Thursday, news broke out that a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-china-places-second-city-on-lockdown-as-sars-like-coronavirus-spreads-276129">nurse from India working at the al Hayat national hospital</a> in Saudi Arabia has been diagnosed with the SARS-like coronavirus.

But the Saudi Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a tweet that there were no cases of the novel coronavirus so far.

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No cases of the novel <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> (2019-nCoV) in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Saudi_Arabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Saudi_Arabia</a> so far. 
 
Events of public health concern are published daily at: <a href="https://t.co/JnQRmarvZ5">https://t.co/JnQRmarvZ5</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Weqaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Weqaya</a>
— المركز الوطني للوقاية من الأمراض ومكافحتها (@SaudiCDC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaudiCDC/status/1220340670071820288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Another statement from the Saudi health ministry said that the case mentioned in the Indian minister`s tweet was related to an infection with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and was being dealt with.&nbsp;

"The ministry has taken all the precautionary measures to deal with this global issue and is in close coordination with all concerned entities," the statement added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Beijing authorities on Thursday said large scale Lunar New Year events have been cancelled after the SARS-like coronavirus continued to spread leading to a lockdown of Wuhan and Huanggang.

The officials said the cancellation was done to strengthen "prevention and support" as authorities confirmed more than 1000 new cases of the virus.

After Wuhan, a second Chinese city has been put on lockdown as the SARS-like coronavirus continued to spread in China.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health on Thursday said that there were no cases of deadly coronavirus in the territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, amid an outbreak that has killed 25 people in China.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health on Thursday said that there were no cases of deadly coronavirus in the territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, amid an outbreak that has killed 25 people in China. On Thursday, news broke out that a nurse from India working at the al Hayat national hospital in Saudi Arabia has been diagnosed with the SARS-like coronavirus. But the Saudi Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a tweet that there were no cases of the novel coronavirus so far. No cases of the novel #coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in #Saudi_Arabia so far. Events of public health concern are published daily at: https://t.co/JnQRmarvZ5#SCDC #Weqaya — المركز الوطني للوقاية من الأمراض ومكافحتها (@SaudiCDC) January 23, 2020 × Another statement from the Saudi health ministry said that the case mentioned in the Indian minister`s tweet was related to an infection with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and was being dealt with. "The ministry has taken all the precautionary measures to deal with this global issue and is in close coordination with all concerned entities," the statement added. Meanwhile, Beijing authorities on Thursday said large scale Lunar New Year events have been cancelled after the SARS-like coronavirus continued to spread leading to a lockdown of Wuhan and Huanggang. The officials said the cancellation was done to strengthen "prevention and support" as authorities confirmed more than 1000 new cases of the virus. After Wuhan, a second Chinese city has been put on lockdown as the SARS-like coronavirus continued to spread in China. (With inputs from Reuters)

China coronavirus: Indian nurse in Saudi Arabia doesn't have Wuhan virus, government clarifies

Nine people--seven in Kerala, two in Mumbai and one in Hyderabad--who were among the hundreds of passengers who returned from China in the recent days are under observation in hospitals to check for possible exposure to the deadly novel coronavirus, central and state officials said on Friday.

Officials in Kerala said another 73 people were being kept under medical surveillance at their homes in the state.

As over 20,000 passengers returning from mainland China and Hong Kong underwent thermal screenings at the seven international airports of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Cochin, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) in Delhi has set up an isolation ward and kept beds ready for providing treatment to any suspected case of the respiratory infection.

According to Kerala state health ministry officials in Thiruvananthapuram, seven people who had shown mild symptoms of fever, cough and sore throat are under watch in state-run hospitals in different districts in the state. Two of them are in the state capital while one each is in observation in Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Pathanamthitta.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confirms-second-case-of-coronavirus-at-least-50-under-investigation-276437">US confirms second case of coronavirus, at least 50 under investigation</a>

The state government has advised those under home surveillance to remain at home for 28 days from the date of their departure from China.

The coronavirus is a large family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to acute respiratory syndromes, but the virus in China is a novel strain and not seen before. It has killed 26 people so far, and has caused alarm because of its similarity to SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

According to a union health ministry official, two persons who returned from China have been kept under observation at a Mumbai hospital while one person has been placed under watch at a hospital in Hyderabad.

However, no positive case has been detected in the country so far, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-outbreak-first-case-reported-in-nepal-ministry-of-health-confirms-276431">Coronavirus outbreak - First case reported in Nepal, ministry of health confirms</a>&nbsp;

The official said a total of 20,844 passengers who travelled in 96 flights from China have been screened at the airports till January 24.

Also, on the basis of the details provided by the Indian Embassy in China, around 25 students who have returned to India recently from Wuhan are being closely monitored, the official said.

Their details have been shared with district-level officers and they are being monitored closely for any symptoms.

Two people who returned to Mumbai from China have been kept in an isolation ward at Kasturba Hospital, and their blood samples collected to check for the new strain of coronavirus, officials said in Mumbai.

As many as 1,789 passengers underwent thermal screening at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai for the coronavirus since January 19 and two of them were admitted to civic-run Kasturba Hospital in the city as a precaution, they said.

Till now, no cases of coronavirus infection have been detected during screening, a health department official said.

"No passenger with history of visit to Wuhan city of China in the last 14 days was found positive (for the virus) during thermal scanning," he said. 
Coronavirus cases were first reported from Wuhan, the capital of central China's Hubei province.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has created an isolation ward at the Kasturba hospital.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-likely-to-rise-in-china-world-health-organisation-276391">Coronavirus cases likely to rise in China - World Health Organisation</a>&nbsp;

"The isolation ward has been created for diagnosis and treatment of persons suspected to have the virus infection," said Dr Padmaja Keskar, executive health officer of the BMC.

Keskar said the two persons under observation at the hospital have a mild cough and exhibited cold-related symptoms.

Doctors at the airport have been asked to send travellers returning from China to the isolation ward if they show any symptoms of the novel coronavirus, she said.

"All private doctors in the city have been asked to alert us if they observe symptoms of coronavirus in any person who has returned from China," she added.

According to Kasturba Hospital sources, they have received detailed instructions from the Maharashtra government about how to deal with a coronavirus infection.

Apart from Kasturba Hospital, quarantine facilities have also been provided at Naidu Hospital in Pune, the officials said.

During the screening at the Mumbai airport, six passengers -- three from Pune and another three from Mumbai -- underwent a further medical examination, he said.

"Four of them were found to be perfectly alright. As a precaution, two others who were suffering from a minor cold and cough have been admitted to the Kasturba Hospital in Mumbai and kept under monitoring," he said.

AIIMS Director Randeep Guleria said, "We have an isolation ward and we have beds kept ready for providing care and treatment for suspected coronavirus cases in Delhi or elsewhere in India."

"All precautionary measures -- in terms of personal protection equipment for healthcare workers to prevent the spread of the disease while treating infected patients -- are in place."&nbsp;

Nine people--seven in Kerala, two in Mumbai and one in Hyderabad--who were among the hundreds of passengers who returned from China in the recent days are under observation in hospitals to check for possible exposure to the deadly novel coronavirus, central and state officials said on Friday.

Nine people--seven in Kerala, two in Mumbai and one in Hyderabad--who were among the hundreds of passengers who returned from China in the recent days are under observation in hospitals to check for possible exposure to the deadly novel coronavirus, central and state officials said on Friday. Officials in Kerala said another 73 people were being kept under medical surveillance at their homes in the state. As over 20,000 passengers returning from mainland China and Hong Kong underwent thermal screenings at the seven international airports of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Cochin, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) in Delhi has set up an isolation ward and kept beds ready for providing treatment to any suspected case of the respiratory infection. According to Kerala state health ministry officials in Thiruvananthapuram, seven people who had shown mild symptoms of fever, cough and sore throat are under watch in state-run hospitals in different districts in the state. Two of them are in the state capital while one each is in observation in Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Pathanamthitta. Also read: US confirms second case of coronavirus, at least 50 under investigation The state government has advised those under home surveillance to remain at home for 28 days from the date of their departure from China. The coronavirus is a large family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to acute respiratory syndromes, but the virus in China is a novel strain and not seen before. It has killed 26 people so far, and has caused alarm because of its similarity to SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). According to a union health ministry official, two persons who returned from China have been kept under observation at a Mumbai hospital while one person has been placed under watch at a hospital in Hyderabad. However, no positive case has been detected in the country so far, he said. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak - First case reported in Nepal, ministry of health confirms The official said a total of 20,844 passengers who travelled in 96 flights from China have been screened at the airports till January 24. Also, on the basis of the details provided by the Indian Embassy in China, around 25 students who have returned to India recently from Wuhan are being closely monitored, the official said. Their details have been shared with district-level officers and they are being monitored closely for any symptoms. Two people who returned to Mumbai from China have been kept in an isolation ward at Kasturba Hospital, and their blood samples collected to check for the new strain of coronavirus, officials said in Mumbai. As many as 1,789 passengers underwent thermal screening at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai for the coronavirus since January 19 and two of them were admitted to civic-run Kasturba Hospital in the city as a precaution, they said. Till now, no cases of coronavirus infection have been detected during screening, a health department official said. "No passenger with history of visit to Wuhan city of China in the last 14 days was found positive (for the virus) during thermal scanning," he said. Coronavirus cases were first reported from Wuhan, the capital of central China's Hubei province. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has created an isolation ward at the Kasturba hospital. Also read: Coronavirus cases likely to rise in China - World Health Organisation "The isolation ward has been created for diagnosis and treatment of persons suspected to have the virus infection," said Dr Padmaja Keskar, executive health officer of the BMC. Keskar said the two persons under observation at the hospital have a mild cough and exhibited cold-related symptoms. Doctors at the airport have been asked to send travellers returning from China to the isolation ward if they show any symptoms of the novel coronavirus, she said. "All private doctors in the city have been asked to alert us if they observe symptoms of coronavirus in any person who has returned from China," she added. According to Kasturba Hospital sources, they have received detailed instructions from the Maharashtra government about how to deal with a coronavirus infection. Apart from Kasturba Hospital, quarantine facilities have also been provided at Naidu Hospital in Pune, the officials said. During the screening at the Mumbai airport, six passengers -- three from Pune and another three from Mumbai -- underwent a further medical examination, he said. "Four of them were found to be perfectly alright. As a precaution, two others who were suffering from a minor cold and cough have been admitted to the Kasturba Hospital in Mumbai and kept under monitoring," he said. AIIMS Director Randeep Guleria said, "We have an isolation ward and we have beds kept ready for providing care and treatment for suspected coronavirus cases in Delhi or elsewhere in India." "All precautionary measures -- in terms of personal protection equipment for healthcare workers to prevent the spread of the disease while treating infected patients -- are in place."

Coronavirus: 9 people who returned from China under watch in hospitals in Kerala, Mumbai and Hyderabad

Nepal on Friday confirmed the first case of new coronavirus. A Nepali student who had returned from China tested positive for the virus, a health ministry official told news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

"One patient tested positive for coronavirus. He is a Nepali student studying in China," Mahendra Shrestha, a Health Ministry spokesperson, told Reuters.

As per reports, the Nepalese student had come home on a break from the Chinese city of Wuhan. The student is under surveillance and those in close contact with him are being investigated.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-26-dead-and-millions-on-lockdown-china-to-build-new-hospital-within-10-days-276334">Coronavirus - 26 dead and millions on lockdown; China to build new hospital within 10 days</a>

Wuhan in China is the epicentre of the virus. The airport in the Chinese city was shut down on January 23.

With over 800 reported cases of the new coronavirus and more than 20 killed, China has stepped up a series of countermeasures to fight the growing menace of the new viral disease.&nbsp;

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As many as 10 cities have been in a state of lockdown with the suspension of public transport and closure of public spaces.&nbsp;

Chinese authorities are in a state of a hurry to quickly build a new hospital to treat those infected by the virus.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation on Friday said&nbsp;the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-likely-to-rise-in-china-world-health-organisation-276391">new coronavirus cases is likely to be on the rise</a> in China.&nbsp;

A WHO spokesman added that it is still too soon to evaluate the severity of the virus.&nbsp;

"It's still too early to draw conclusions on how severe the virus is," WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told a Geneva news briefing as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

"The focus is not so much on the (case) numbers, which we know will go up," he added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Nepal on Friday confirmed the first case of new coronavirus. A Nepali student who had returned from China tested positive for the virus, a health ministry official told news agency Reuters.

Nepal on Friday confirmed the first case of new coronavirus. A Nepali student who had returned from China tested positive for the virus, a health ministry official told news agency Reuters. "One patient tested positive for coronavirus. He is a Nepali student studying in China," Mahendra Shrestha, a Health Ministry spokesperson, told Reuters. As per reports, the Nepalese student had come home on a break from the Chinese city of Wuhan. The student is under surveillance and those in close contact with him are being investigated. Also read: Coronavirus - 26 dead and millions on lockdown; China to build new hospital within 10 days Wuhan in China is the epicentre of the virus. The airport in the Chinese city was shut down on January 23. With over 800 reported cases of the new coronavirus and more than 20 killed, China has stepped up a series of countermeasures to fight the growing menace of the new viral disease. × As many as 10 cities have been in a state of lockdown with the suspension of public transport and closure of public spaces. Chinese authorities are in a state of a hurry to quickly build a new hospital to treat those infected by the virus. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation on Friday said the number of new coronavirus cases is likely to be on the rise in China. A WHO spokesman added that it is still too soon to evaluate the severity of the virus. "It's still too early to draw conclusions on how severe the virus is," WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told a Geneva news briefing as reported by news agency Reuters. "The focus is not so much on the (case) numbers, which we know will go up," he added. (With inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus outbreak: First case reported in Nepal, ministry of health confirms 

The city of Wuhan in China is the focal point of the deadly virus outbreak. The infection has now spread a long ways past China. The city of Wuhan is under lockdown alongside 9 different cities of the country.

The death toll has risen to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-of-chinas-coronavirus-mounts-to-25-276224">25 deaths and 830 cases due</a> to the Wuhan virus that’s spreading rapidly worldwide.

Now, the burden of controlling this outbreak falls on the medical staff.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-china-places-second-city-on-lockdown-as-sars-like-coronavirus-spreads-276129">Indian nurse diagnosed with SARS-like coronavirus in Saudi Arabia as death toll rises to 18 in China</a>

Emergency clinic staff are put on furious calendars as an ever-increasing number of individuals are getting contaminated every day.&nbsp;

<img alt="coronavirus" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MbDoRaa8.jpg" />

(Passengers arriving from the Chinese city of Wuhan arrive at Narita Airport | Photo Credit: Reuters)

This puts them at high danger of getting the infection out of this world into close contact with coronavirus-contaminated patients.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-we-know-about-new-coronavirus-outbreak-in-chinese-city-of-wuhan-275295">What we know about new coronavirus outbreak in Chinese city of Wuhan</a>

"When we come in to take over, we first make clear the patient's condition and vital signs, to avoid emergencies. Besides, we will also provide attentive care to the calm and clear-minded patients, and pay attention to whether they feel uncomfortable or if they want to eat," said Liu Hongjuan, a nurse inward.

Nurses have not just the most crucial role. But also the most dangerous.

However, in a stoic turn, they are going about their work with a great sense of duty.

Zhu Tinigxuan, a nurse assisting Jinyintan hospital from People's Hospital-Hubei said that "We are still young ourselves after all, so from the bottom of our heart, we may feel lost, afraid or worried. Our family members are worried as well. But as long as we put on the suit, we are not worried anymore. We are medical workers, and we must play our roles as long as we are wearing white coats."

Nurses from across the country have been brought in to Wuhan. To beef up the headcount at a time of crisis. And they have it even more difficult.

"Under such intensity of work, we feel that we can already endure the tiredness, and we did not complain to anyone. Only our family members know how tough this is for us. As I am not a local, my parents are not here. So we talk through the phone every day," said Jiang Wei, nurse of intensive care unit, Jinyintan Hospital.

These nurses are the bulwark against the deadly new virus. They are fighting this war on the frontlines. Any hopes of survival and recovery rest on them.

The city of Wuhan in China is the focal point of the deadly virus outbreak. The infection has now spread a long ways past China. The city of Wuhan is under lockdown alongside 9 different cities of the country.

The city of Wuhan in China is the focal point of the deadly virus outbreak. The infection has now spread a long ways past China. The city of Wuhan is under lockdown alongside 9 different cities of the country. The death toll has risen to 25 deaths and 830 cases due to the Wuhan virus that’s spreading rapidly worldwide. Now, the burden of controlling this outbreak falls on the medical staff. Also read: Indian nurse diagnosed with SARS-like coronavirus in Saudi Arabia as death toll rises to 18 in China Emergency clinic staff are put on furious calendars as an ever-increasing number of individuals are getting contaminated every day. (Passengers arriving from the Chinese city of Wuhan arrive at Narita Airport | Photo Credit: Reuters) This puts them at high danger of getting the infection out of this world into close contact with coronavirus-contaminated patients. In pics: What we know about new coronavirus outbreak in Chinese city of Wuhan "When we come in to take over, we first make clear the patient's condition and vital signs, to avoid emergencies. Besides, we will also provide attentive care to the calm and clear-minded patients, and pay attention to whether they feel uncomfortable or if they want to eat," said Liu Hongjuan, a nurse inward. Nurses have not just the most crucial role. But also the most dangerous. However, in a stoic turn, they are going about their work with a great sense of duty. Zhu Tinigxuan, a nurse assisting Jinyintan hospital from People's Hospital-Hubei said that "We are still young ourselves after all, so from the bottom of our heart, we may feel lost, afraid or worried. Our family members are worried as well. But as long as we put on the suit, we are not worried anymore. We are medical workers, and we must play our roles as long as we are wearing white coats." Nurses from across the country have been brought in to Wuhan. To beef up the headcount at a time of crisis. And they have it even more difficult. "Under such intensity of work, we feel that we can already endure the tiredness, and we did not complain to anyone. Only our family members know how tough this is for us. As I am not a local, my parents are not here. So we talk through the phone every day," said Jiang Wei, nurse of intensive care unit, Jinyintan Hospital. These nurses are the bulwark against the deadly new virus. They are fighting this war on the frontlines. Any hopes of survival and recovery rest on them.

China coronavirus: Medical staff in Wuhan fighting an uphill battle among infected patients

China is hurrying to assemble another emergency clinic in just 10 days to treat patients at the focal point of a fatal virus outbreak that has stricken several individuals, state media announced Friday.

China is hurrying to assemble another emergency clinic in just 10 days to treat patients at the focal point of a fatal virus outbreak that has stricken several individuals, state media announced Friday. Also read: Medical staff in Wuhan fighting an uphill battle among infected patients The premises in Wuhan is relied upon to be being used by February 3 to serve a rising number of patients tainted by a coronavirus that has left at any rate 26 individuals dead and millions on lockdown with an end goal to control the spread. Also read: Death toll climbs to 26 with 1,072 reported cases, heightening global alarm Many excavators and trucks were taped taking a shot at the site by state telecaster CCTV. It will have a limit of 1,000 beds spread more than 25,000 square meters, the authority Xinhua news organization said. The increase in numbers of patients came hours after the World Health Organization declared the outbreak as an emergency but stopped short of calling it an epidemic of international concern. The National Health Commission said the officials were also examining 1,072 suspected cases that first emerged in Wuhan. In Wuhan, where more of the cases have been detected, shopping centres and streets are eerily quiet after authorities told residents not to leave the city. The National Health Commission also added that out the 830 confirmed cases, 177 were in serious condition. It said that thirty-four patients have been "cured and discharged". Health officials fear the transmission rate escalate as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel at home and other countries during holidays for the Lunar New Year, which begins on Saturday. On Thursday, Wuhan's local government, suspended most transport, including outgoing flights to contain the virus. There is no vaccine for this virus so far and fever, difficulty in breathing and coughing are some of its symptoms. (with AFP and Reuters inputs)

Coronavirus: 26 dead and millions on lockdown; China to build new hospital within 10 days

The death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 25, with the number of confirmed cases jumping to 830, the government said on Friday.

The increase in numbers came hours after the World Health Organization declared the outbreak as an emergency but stopped short of calling it an epidemic of international concern.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-china-places-second-city-on-lockdown-as-sars-like-coronavirus-spreads-276129">Indian nurse diagnosed with SARS-like coronavirus in Saudi Arabia as death toll rises to 18 in China</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="80dd2f86-85ac-4740-8ee0-c96c1957bb0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RWRTe8lb.jpg" />

(A picture released by the Central Hospital of Wuhan shows medical staff attending to patient at the The Central Hospital Of Wuhan Via Weibo in Wuhan, China | Photo Credit: Reuters)

The National Health Commission said the officials were also examining 1,072 suspected cases that first emerged in Wuhan.

<img alt="coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b86d891e-59fa-4d90-8f4e-2f18e33c3a54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MbDoRaa8.jpg" />

(Passengers arriving from the Chinese city of Wuhan arrive at Narita Airport | Photo Credit: Reuters)

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-we-know-about-new-coronavirus-outbreak-in-chinese-city-of-wuhan-275295">What we know about new coronavirus outbreak in Chinese city of Wuhan</a>

In Wuhan, where more of the cases have been detected, shopping centres and streets are eerily quiet after authorities told residents not to leave the city. &nbsp;

The National Health Commission also added that out the 830 confirmed cases, 177 were in serious condition.&nbsp;

It said that thirty-four patients have been "cured and discharged".

Health officials fear the transmission rate escalate as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel at home and other countries during holidays for the Lunar New Year, which begins on Saturday.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Wuhan's local government, suspended most transport, including outgoing flights in order to contain the virus.&nbsp;

There is no vaccine for this virus so far and fever, difficulty in breathing and coughing are some of its symptoms.&nbsp;

(with AFP and Reuters inputs)

The death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 25, with the number of confirmed cases jumping to 830, the government said on Friday. The increase in numbers came hours after the World Health Organization declared the outbreak as an emergency but stopped short of calling it an epidemic of international concern.

The death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 25, with the number of confirmed cases jumping to 830, the government said on Friday. The increase in numbers came hours after the World Health Organization declared the outbreak as an emergency but stopped short of calling it an epidemic of international concern. Also read: Indian nurse diagnosed with SARS-like coronavirus in Saudi Arabia as death toll rises to 18 in China (A picture released by the Central Hospital of Wuhan shows medical staff attending to patient at the The Central Hospital Of Wuhan Via Weibo in Wuhan, China | Photo Credit: Reuters) The National Health Commission said the officials were also examining 1,072 suspected cases that first emerged in Wuhan. (Passengers arriving from the Chinese city of Wuhan arrive at Narita Airport | Photo Credit: Reuters) In pics: What we know about new coronavirus outbreak in Chinese city of Wuhan In Wuhan, where more of the cases have been detected, shopping centres and streets are eerily quiet after authorities told residents not to leave the city. The National Health Commission also added that out the 830 confirmed cases, 177 were in serious condition. It said that thirty-four patients have been "cured and discharged". Health officials fear the transmission rate escalate as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel at home and other countries during holidays for the Lunar New Year, which begins on Saturday. On Thursday, Wuhan's local government, suspended most transport, including outgoing flights in order to contain the virus. There is no vaccine for this virus so far and fever, difficulty in breathing and coughing are some of its symptoms. (with AFP and Reuters inputs)

China coronavirus: Death toll climbs to 26 with 1,072 reported cases, heightening global alarm

As China stepped up measures to control the spread of coronavirus, locking down Wuhan and Huanggang cities in the Hubei province where several Indians live, the Indian Embassy in Beijing has set up hotlines for their assistance.

Chinese officials assured all assistance, including food supply, to the Indians who stayed put in the province, the Indian Embassy said in a press release on Thursday.

Wuhan and its surrounding area became the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak as the confirmed cases climbed to over 600 mostly from the city and the province with 17 deaths so far.

China has virtually sealed Wuhan and Huanggang cities, halting all public transport, including flight services, and advised people to stay at home and follow the precautions. The two cities put together have a population of over 17 million people.

Chinese officials said the measures have been taken to prevent the spread of the virus to other cities and the world.

Concerns arose for India too as about 700 Indian students, mostly studying medicine in different Chinese universities, resided in Wuhan and its neighbouring areas.

While many of them were believed to have left home for the Chinese New Year holidays, others remained in the city to complete their academic work. However, the exact number is not yet known.

"The Embassy of India has been receiving queries from Indians in Hubei province as well as their relatives in India in connection with the evolving situation of coronavirus infection in China," the embassy press release said.

The embassy is in touch with relevant Chinese authorities in Beijing and Wuhan as well as Indians in Hubei Province, especially in Wuhan, it said. 
"We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in China, including the advisories issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO)," the embassy said.

According to the embassy, Chinese authorities have assured all assistance to residents of Wuhan, including food supply.

"At present, it is reported that supermarkets (particularly those that are government-run) and e-commerce services, including food delivery, continue to remain operational in Wuhan," it said.

The embassy has started two hotlines for those who wish to get in touch with the Mission in this regard in the following phone numbers: +8618612083629 and +8618612083617.

"All are advised to also keep track of the embassy's social media accounts (Twitter:@EoIBeijing; Facebook: India in China) for updates on this evolving situation," the release said.

Meanwhile, the Chinese foreign ministry said all assistance would be provided to consular officials of the foreign missions to ensure the safety of the foreigners in the country.

Asked whether China would consider any request from the respective countries to move their citizens out of Wuhan, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, "We always help foreign consular officials in China in their official jobs, we offer them all the assistance and convenience necessary and we work to guarantee foreign citizens' legitimate rights and interest in China."

He said while specific detailed would be provided by local officials, China in principle, has always handled issues according to domestic laws, international laws and bilateral consular agreements.

As China stepped up measures to control the spread of coronavirus, locking down Wuhan and Huanggang cities in the Hubei province where several Indians live, the Indian Embassy in Beijing has set up hotlines for their assistance.

As China stepped up measures to control the spread of coronavirus, locking down Wuhan and Huanggang cities in the Hubei province where several Indians live, the Indian Embassy in Beijing has set up hotlines for their assistance. Chinese officials assured all assistance, including food supply, to the Indians who stayed put in the province, the Indian Embassy said in a press release on Thursday. Wuhan and its surrounding area became the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak as the confirmed cases climbed to over 600 mostly from the city and the province with 17 deaths so far. China has virtually sealed Wuhan and Huanggang cities, halting all public transport, including flight services, and advised people to stay at home and follow the precautions. The two cities put together have a population of over 17 million people. Chinese officials said the measures have been taken to prevent the spread of the virus to other cities and the world. Concerns arose for India too as about 700 Indian students, mostly studying medicine in different Chinese universities, resided in Wuhan and its neighbouring areas. While many of them were believed to have left home for the Chinese New Year holidays, others remained in the city to complete their academic work. However, the exact number is not yet known. "The Embassy of India has been receiving queries from Indians in Hubei province as well as their relatives in India in connection with the evolving situation of coronavirus infection in China," the embassy press release said. The embassy is in touch with relevant Chinese authorities in Beijing and Wuhan as well as Indians in Hubei Province, especially in Wuhan, it said. "We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in China, including the advisories issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO)," the embassy said. According to the embassy, Chinese authorities have assured all assistance to residents of Wuhan, including food supply. "At present, it is reported that supermarkets (particularly those that are government-run) and e-commerce services, including food delivery, continue to remain operational in Wuhan," it said. The embassy has started two hotlines for those who wish to get in touch with the Mission in this regard in the following phone numbers: +8618612083629 and +8618612083617. "All are advised to also keep track of the embassy's social media accounts (Twitter:@EoIBeijing; Facebook: India in China) for updates on this evolving situation," the release said. Meanwhile, the Chinese foreign ministry said all assistance would be provided to consular officials of the foreign missions to ensure the safety of the foreigners in the country. Asked whether China would consider any request from the respective countries to move their citizens out of Wuhan, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, "We always help foreign consular officials in China in their official jobs, we offer them all the assistance and convenience necessary and we work to guarantee foreign citizens' legitimate rights and interest in China." He said while specific detailed would be provided by local officials, China in principle, has always handled issues according to domestic laws, international laws and bilateral consular agreements.

Coronavirus outbreak: Indian Embassy in Beijing opens hotline for Indians

The United States will begin screening efforts at three US&nbsp;airports to detect travellers from the central Chinese city of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-new-cases-in-wuhan-virus-outbreak-275016">Wuhan</a> who may have symptoms of a new respiratory virus that so far has killed two people and infected 45 more, public health officials said on Friday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/instances-of-binge-drinking-increasing-among-us-adults-study-275080">CDC</a>) said the screening at the San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles airports would begin on Friday and focus on travellers to the United States via direct or connecting flights from Wuhan.

So far, the new virus has spread outside of China to Japan and Thailand, and CDC officials said in a conference call with reporters that they expect more cases will be reported outside of China. The risk to Americans is deemed to be low, the CDC said.

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Health screenings of travelers arriving from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wuhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wuhan</a>, China is part of a layered approach used with other public health measures already in place to slow and reduce possible spread of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2019nCOV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2019nCOV</a> into the United States. <a href="https://t.co/Ovg4CTFJWf">https://t.co/Ovg4CTFJWf</a>
— CDC (@CDCgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov/status/1218252302647287808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Dr. Martin Cetron, director of the CDC's Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, said the CDC will be sending about 100 additional staff to the three airports, Los Angeles International, San Francisco International, and New York's John F. Kennedy International to supplement existing staff at quarantine stations located at those airports.

Under the screening procedures, travellers from Wuhan will be taken to a separate area in the airport, where they will complete a questionnaire and be checked for fever. Those with symptoms will be asked additional health and exposure-related questions and those needing more follow-up will be referred to a designated healthcare facility for more testing.

The CDC said it may adjust screening procedures as the outbreak investigation continues.

The Chinese virus is a coronavirus, a large family of viruses that can cause infections ranging from the common cold to severe acute respiratory syndrome, or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-sars-like-virus-in-china-has-affected-hundreds-report-274962">SARS</a>, a highly infectious virus that originated in China in 2002 and eventually traveled to 37 countries, killing 774 people.

So far, health officials do not consider the new virus from China to be as lethal as SARS, but the investigation is evolving and much is still not known about whether the virus can spread easily from person to person.

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According to the latest predictions from <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCFlu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CDCflu</a> forecasting experts, flu activity is likely to remain elevated through late January. A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fluvaccine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fluvaccine</a> can be beneficial any time flu viruses are circulating, including after January: <a href="https://t.co/CeAX6Br1Xg">https://t.co/CeAX6Br1Xg</a>
— Dr. Nancy Messonnier (@DrNancyM_CDC) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrNancyM_CDC/status/1215036631020900353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This is the stage of the investigation where we need to proceed cautiously and be prepared for any eventuality," Dr. Nancy Messonnier, a CDC expert in respiratory diseases, said on the conference call.

"It's highly plausible" that there will be a case in the United States, Messonnier said. "That is why we are moving forward with this screening."

China health officials report that most of the patients infected with the virus have had exposure to a large market where live animals were present, suggesting the virus is new and has jumped from animals to humans.

It is still not clear how well the virus can be transmitted, but there are indications of some limited spread from person-to-person, CDC officials said.

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Q: What is a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a>? 
 
A: Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are known to cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) <a href="https://t.co/PKzKaO2yfK">https://t.co/PKzKaO2yfK</a> <a href="https://t.co/mhEa7LFVhx">pic.twitter.com/mhEa7LFVhx</a>
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1218229883484155913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-new-cases-in-wuhan-virus-outbreak-275016">World Health Organization</a> this week provided guidance to hospitals worldwide about infection prevention and control in case the new virus spreads. There is no specific treatment for the new virus, but antivirals are being considered.

The United States will begin screening efforts at three US airports to detect travellers from the central Chinese city of Wuhan who may have symptoms of a new respiratory virus that so far has killed two people and infected 45 more, public health officials said on Friday.

The United States will begin screening efforts at three US airports to detect travellers from the central Chinese city of Wuhan who may have symptoms of a new respiratory virus that so far has killed two people and infected 45 more, public health officials said on Friday. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said the screening at the San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles airports would begin on Friday and focus on travellers to the United States via direct or connecting flights from Wuhan. So far, the new virus has spread outside of China to Japan and Thailand, and CDC officials said in a conference call with reporters that they expect more cases will be reported outside of China. The risk to Americans is deemed to be low, the CDC said. Health screenings of travelers arriving from #Wuhan, China is part of a layered approach used with other public health measures already in place to slow and reduce possible spread of #2019nCOV into the United States. https://t.co/Ovg4CTFJWf — CDC (@CDCgov) January 17, 2020 × Dr. Martin Cetron, director of the CDC's Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, said the CDC will be sending about 100 additional staff to the three airports, Los Angeles International, San Francisco International, and New York's John F. Kennedy International to supplement existing staff at quarantine stations located at those airports. Under the screening procedures, travellers from Wuhan will be taken to a separate area in the airport, where they will complete a questionnaire and be checked for fever. Those with symptoms will be asked additional health and exposure-related questions and those needing more follow-up will be referred to a designated healthcare facility for more testing. The CDC said it may adjust screening procedures as the outbreak investigation continues. The Chinese virus is a coronavirus, a large family of viruses that can cause infections ranging from the common cold to severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, a highly infectious virus that originated in China in 2002 and eventually traveled to 37 countries, killing 774 people. So far, health officials do not consider the new virus from China to be as lethal as SARS, but the investigation is evolving and much is still not known about whether the virus can spread easily from person to person. According to the latest predictions from @CDCflu forecasting experts, flu activity is likely to remain elevated through late January. A #fluvaccine can be beneficial any time flu viruses are circulating, including after January: https://t.co/CeAX6Br1Xg — Dr. Nancy Messonnier (@DrNancyM_CDC) January 8, 2020 × "This is the stage of the investigation where we need to proceed cautiously and be prepared for any eventuality," Dr. Nancy Messonnier, a CDC expert in respiratory diseases, said on the conference call. "It's highly plausible" that there will be a case in the United States, Messonnier said. "That is why we are moving forward with this screening." China health officials report that most of the patients infected with the virus have had exposure to a large market where live animals were present, suggesting the virus is new and has jumped from animals to humans. It is still not clear how well the virus can be transmitted, but there are indications of some limited spread from person-to-person, CDC officials said. Q: What is a #coronavirus? A: Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are known to cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) https://t.co/PKzKaO2yfK pic.twitter.com/mhEa7LFVhx — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) January 17, 2020 × The World Health Organization this week provided guidance to hospitals worldwide about infection prevention and control in case the new virus spreads. There is no specific treatment for the new virus, but antivirals are being considered.

US to screen passengers for new China coronavirus at three airports