British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will on Monday chair an emergency meeting on coronavirus as the government mulls more stringent measures to tackle the outbreak.

Britain so far reported three deaths and 278 cases of the new coronavirus. The country's biggest retailer, Tesco, has restricted bulk buying of products such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and long-life milk.

"The number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in the UK and around the world," Johnson said. "We are well prepared and will continue to make decisions to protect the public based on the latest scientific advice."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/number-of-uk-coronavirus-cases-rises-to-273-285120">Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273</a>

The new coronavirus, which emerged in China in December, causes a disease called COVID-19. It has spread around the world, infecting more than 106,000 people and 3,600 people have died worldwide, according to a Reuters tally.

Britain's emergency scientific group agreed last week that the virus was likely to spread in a significant way and the government will decide on Monday whether to move to the so-called "delay phase" of its plan.

As some British supermarket shelves were emptied of basics such as lavatory paper, the British government said it had set up a team to tackle "interference and disinformation" around the spread of coronavirus.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-finance-minister-sunak-looking-at-ways-to-relax-spending-limit-285091">UK finance minister Sunak looking at ways to relax spending limit</a>

British culture secretary Oliver Dowden there were no plans to shut museums, art galleries or concert halls, or to order sporting events to be cancelled or played behind closed doors.

"We not anywhere near that sort of stage," he told BBC TV. "There is no reason for people not to attend such events or to cancel them at this stage but we keep it under review."

Dowden added that there was no need for people to stockpile.

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"We are confident that supermarkets have the supply chains necessary to keep shelves stocked," he said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will on Monday chair an emergency meeting on coronavirus as the government mulls more stringent measures to tackle the outbreak.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will on Monday chair an emergency meeting on coronavirus as the government mulls more stringent measures to tackle the outbreak. Britain so far reported three deaths and 278 cases of the new coronavirus. The country's biggest retailer, Tesco, has restricted bulk buying of products such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and long-life milk. "The number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in the UK and around the world," Johnson said. "We are well prepared and will continue to make decisions to protect the public based on the latest scientific advice." Also read: Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273 The new coronavirus, which emerged in China in December, causes a disease called COVID-19. It has spread around the world, infecting more than 106,000 people and 3,600 people have died worldwide, according to a Reuters tally. Britain's emergency scientific group agreed last week that the virus was likely to spread in a significant way and the government will decide on Monday whether to move to the so-called "delay phase" of its plan. As some British supermarket shelves were emptied of basics such as lavatory paper, the British government said it had set up a team to tackle "interference and disinformation" around the spread of coronavirus. Also see: UK finance minister Sunak looking at ways to relax spending limit British culture secretary Oliver Dowden there were no plans to shut museums, art galleries or concert halls, or to order sporting events to be cancelled or played behind closed doors. "We not anywhere near that sort of stage," he told BBC TV. "There is no reason for people not to attend such events or to cancel them at this stage but we keep it under review." Dowden added that there was no need for people to stockpile. Watch: × "We are confident that supermarkets have the supply chains necessary to keep shelves stocked," he said.

British PM to hold emergency meeting on coronavirus

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has risen to 273, the Department of Health and Social Care said on Twitter on Sunday, up from 209 a day earlier, and the biggest one-day increase so far.

More than 23,500 people in Britain have been tested for the virus, the government said. So far, two patients who have tested positive for coronavirus have died in Britain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-people-lost-800000-pounds-in-coronavirus-related-scams-284833">UK people lost 800,000 pounds in coronavirus-related scams</a>

Earlier, finance minister Rishi Sunak said the government would invest whatever was needed to deal with the spread of the virus, including more money for the health service and help to companies suffering short-term cash flow problems.

After reports of people stockpiling goods such as hand sanitiser, soap, dried pasta and toilet rolls, the government said on Friday supermarkets had contingency plans in place to prevent shortages.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-to-take-paternity-leave-after-his-childs-birth-284011">&nbsp;Boris Johnson to take paternity leave after his child's birth</a>

Britain's biggest supermarket Tesco&nbsp;confirmed on Sunday it had introduced a restriction on bulk buying of several products in all of its stores and online. Customers will be limited to buying five units of items such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and UHT milk.

The government has also set out details of planned emergency legislation, including the possibility of holding more court proceedings via telephone or video link, and steps to protect the jobs of those who volunteer for the health service.

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Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to chair a meeting of the government's emergency committee on Monday to discuss the response to the outbreak.

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has risen to 273, the Department of Health and Social Care said on Twitter on Sunday, up from 209 a day earlier, and the biggest one-day increase so far.

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United Kingdom has risen to 273, the Department of Health and Social Care said on Twitter on Sunday, up from 209 a day earlier, and the biggest one-day increase so far. More than 23,500 people in Britain have been tested for the virus, the government said. So far, two patients who have tested positive for coronavirus have died in Britain. Also read: UK people lost 800,000 pounds in coronavirus-related scams Earlier, finance minister Rishi Sunak said the government would invest whatever was needed to deal with the spread of the virus, including more money for the health service and help to companies suffering short-term cash flow problems. After reports of people stockpiling goods such as hand sanitiser, soap, dried pasta and toilet rolls, the government said on Friday supermarkets had contingency plans in place to prevent shortages. Also see: Boris Johnson to take paternity leave after his child's birth Britain's biggest supermarket Tesco confirmed on Sunday it had introduced a restriction on bulk buying of several products in all of its stores and online. Customers will be limited to buying five units of items such as anti-bacterial gels and wipes, dried pasta and UHT milk. The government has also set out details of planned emergency legislation, including the possibility of holding more court proceedings via telephone or video link, and steps to protect the jobs of those who volunteer for the health service. Watch: × Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to chair a meeting of the government's emergency committee on Monday to discuss the response to the outbreak.

Number of UK coronavirus cases rises to 273

A West Bengal resident returning home from Saudi Arabia was on Sunday admitted to an isolation ward in a state-run hospital here with fever and cough amid the coronavirus scare, a health department official said.

The man from Murshidabad district was taken to the hospital after he underwent thermal screening at the NSC Bose International Airport.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-five-new-cases-of-covid-19-in-kerala-total-confirmed-cases-in-india-now-39-284972">&nbsp;Coronavirus in India: Five new cases of COVID-19 in Kerala, total confirmed cases in India now 39</a>

His blood samples and swabs were collected and sent to the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED) in Beliaghata.

"After the thermal screening, the youth suffering from fever and cough was taken to the Beliaghata ID Hospital in a specialised ambulance. He was admitted to the isolation ward and is currently under observation," the official said.

Also see:&nbsp;

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Special arrangements were made as per guidelines of the central and state health departments to take him from the airport to the hospital.

"A doctor, a nurse and another person, as well as the driver of the ambulance in which the youth was taken to the hospital wore special jackets meant to protect from coronavirus infection. All forms of precautionary measures were taken," the official said.

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A Bangladeshi woman who had landed in Kolkata airport from Chittagong on Thursday is also in the isolation ward of the same hospital. She had also been suffering from fever and cough.

A West Bengal resident returning home from Saudi Arabia was on Sunday admitted to an isolation ward in a state-run hospital here with fever and cough amid the coronavirus scare, a health department official said.

A West Bengal resident returning home from Saudi Arabia was on Sunday admitted to an isolation ward in a state-run hospital here with fever and cough amid the coronavirus scare, a health department official said. The man from Murshidabad district was taken to the hospital after he underwent thermal screening at the NSC Bose International Airport. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Five new cases of COVID-19 in Kerala, total confirmed cases in India now 39 His blood samples and swabs were collected and sent to the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED) in Beliaghata. "After the thermal screening, the youth suffering from fever and cough was taken to the Beliaghata ID Hospital in a specialised ambulance. He was admitted to the isolation ward and is currently under observation," the official said. Also see: × Special arrangements were made as per guidelines of the central and state health departments to take him from the airport to the hospital. "A doctor, a nurse and another person, as well as the driver of the ambulance in which the youth was taken to the hospital wore special jackets meant to protect from coronavirus infection. All forms of precautionary measures were taken," the official said. Watch: × A Bangladeshi woman who had landed in Kolkata airport from Chittagong on Thursday is also in the isolation ward of the same hospital. She had also been suffering from fever and cough.

West Bengal man returning from Saudi Arabia admitted to hospital

Dubai has taken adequate measures to screen passengers for the deadly coronavirus symptoms at all travel points for travellers entering the country from high-risk areas in order to avoid any delay or inconvenience at the ports of entry, a senior official has said.

In the UAE, the total number of confirmed infections is 45.

"All concerned authorities are working round the clock in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention and Dubai Health Authority's (DHA) medical team to implement precautionary measures against COVID-19," Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police and Head of Dubai's Crisis and Disaster Management Team, Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al-Marri, said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-27-new-virus-deaths-lowest-rise-in-cases-since-january-284962">China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January</a>

According to him, the highest levels of safety and protection for the public are being ensured. Substantial preventive measures have been put in place in various airports and seaports in the emirate.

Al-Marri said that the equipment to screen passengers for coronavirus symptoms have been installed at all travel points.

He further said enhanced screening measures have been put in place for travellers entering the UAE from high-risk countries and that these measures do not apply to transit passengers. Enhanced screening procedures include a swab test and a health questionnaire.

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"Travellers should be aware that this may add 2-3 hours to their journey time, he pointed out. After the test, travellers are free to continue their journey.&nbsp;

They will be contacted only if any further intervention is needed, such as reporting to a medical facility or self-quarantine," he said in a statement.

Dubai has taken adequate measures to screen passengers for the deadly coronavirus symptoms at all travel points for travellers entering the country from high-risk areas in order to avoid any delay or inconvenience at the ports of entry, a senior official has said.

Dubai has taken adequate measures to screen passengers for the deadly coronavirus symptoms at all travel points for travellers entering the country from high-risk areas in order to avoid any delay or inconvenience at the ports of entry, a senior official has said. In the UAE, the total number of confirmed infections is 45. "All concerned authorities are working round the clock in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention and Dubai Health Authority's (DHA) medical team to implement precautionary measures against COVID-19," Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police and Head of Dubai's Crisis and Disaster Management Team, Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al-Marri, said. Also read: China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January According to him, the highest levels of safety and protection for the public are being ensured. Substantial preventive measures have been put in place in various airports and seaports in the emirate. Al-Marri said that the equipment to screen passengers for coronavirus symptoms have been installed at all travel points. He further said enhanced screening measures have been put in place for travellers entering the UAE from high-risk countries and that these measures do not apply to transit passengers. Enhanced screening procedures include a swab test and a health questionnaire. Watch: × "Travellers should be aware that this may add 2-3 hours to their journey time, he pointed out. After the test, travellers are free to continue their journey. They will be contacted only if any further intervention is needed, such as reporting to a medical facility or self-quarantine," he said in a statement.

Dubai travellers reassured on screening procedures for COVID-19

Beijing has decided to donate USD 20 million to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in support of international cooperation over fighting the novel coronavirus outbreak that has killed more than 3,600 people and infected over one lakh others worldwide.

Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, officially known as COVID-19, the WHO, under the leadership of Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has played an important role in promoting other countries to strengthen their prevention measures and tackle the epidemic in a scientific and rational way, and in helping relevant countries improve their health system capacity, which has been widely recognised by the international community, Xinhua news agency reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-27-new-virus-deaths-lowest-rise-in-cases-since-january-284962">China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January</a>

China highly appreciates WHO`s understanding and support of the country`s work in epidemic prevention and control.

Currently, the world is facing an escalating urgency of making global efforts in the joint prevention and control of the COVID-19, as the disease has broke out in multiple places and spread to more countries around the world.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-surge-past-100000-worldwide-21-cases-found-on-ship-off-san-francisco-284873">Coronavirus cases surge past 100,000 worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco</a>

As a response to the WHO`s appeal, the donation is practical support for the organisation to continue playing a better coordinating role in the global fight against the epidemic, especially in helping medium and small-sized countries with weak public health systems cement their defence against the outbreak.

Beijing has decided to donate USD 20 million to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in support of international cooperation over fighting the novel coronavirus outbreak that has killed more than 3,600 people and infected over one lakh others worldwide.

Beijing has decided to donate USD 20 million to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in support of international cooperation over fighting the novel coronavirus outbreak that has killed more than 3,600 people and infected over one lakh others worldwide. Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, officially known as COVID-19, the WHO, under the leadership of Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has played an important role in promoting other countries to strengthen their prevention measures and tackle the epidemic in a scientific and rational way, and in helping relevant countries improve their health system capacity, which has been widely recognised by the international community, Xinhua news agency reported. Also read: China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January China highly appreciates WHO`s understanding and support of the country`s work in epidemic prevention and control. Currently, the world is facing an escalating urgency of making global efforts in the joint prevention and control of the COVID-19, as the disease has broke out in multiple places and spread to more countries around the world. Also see: Coronavirus cases surge past 100,000 worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco As a response to the WHO`s appeal, the donation is practical support for the organisation to continue playing a better coordinating role in the global fight against the epidemic, especially in helping medium and small-sized countries with weak public health systems cement their defence against the outbreak.

China to donate US$20 million to WHO to fight COVID-19

British finance minister Rishi Sunak, under pressure to fund the fight against the coronavirus and meet election promises in this week's budget, has said he is looking at possible changes to rules which could allow him to spend more.

Sunak told the Sunday Telegraph newspaper he was studying "with interest" proposals to reclassify some government spending as an investment as he puts the finishing touches Britain's first post-Brexit budget on Wednesday.

Such a change would give him more room for manoeuvre with spending on public services, including on health.

Wednesday's budget was originally billed as a chance for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fresh from December's election triumph, to begin to meet his promise to "level up" Britain's struggling regions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-consider-opposition-to-digital-tax-in-pursuit-of-us-trade-deal-283837">UK to consider opposition to digital tax in pursuit of US trade deal</a>

But the focus on the spread of the coronavirus means it will delay announcing full details of its plans for new railways, roads and other infrastructure investment.

In interviews on Sunday, Sunak repeatedly declined to confirm that he would stick with the fiscal rules set by his predecessor Sajid Javid who came under pressure from Johnson's advisors to spend more.

But the 39-year-old former Goldman Sachs banker who has been in his job for less than a month said he was not about to abandon the discipline of previous Conservative Party finance ministers whose tight grip on spending slashed Britain's budget deficit since the global financial crisis.

"That means I can sit here today and say I will invest what it takes to get us through this," he told BBC television, referring to the coronavirus outbreak.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infects-100000-plus-worldwide-21-cases-found-on-ship-off-san-francisco-284865">Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco</a>

Sunak said he would offer help to companies suffering short-term cash-flow problems and he was in touch with Bank of England Governor Mark Carney about the possible economic hit.

The BoE has said it needs to see more evidence before of the virus' impact before cutting interest rates as the U.S. Federal Reserve. Other options include reviving incentives for bank lending to companies.

SPENDING SOLUTION?

Sunak has been expected to relax a limit on day-to-day spending which was set by Javid before he unexpectedly quit last month after a row with Johnson over advisors.

The toughest of those rules is a pledge to balance so-called current spending with tax revenues within three years.

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Media reports have said Sunak might reclassify some public spending on health and education services as an investment which is subject to a less restrictive rule, avoiding cuts to other services or tax increases.

Sunak told the Sunday Telegraph he wanted "lower rates of tax" during his time in office.

He said he was looking at objections to transaction taxes such as Britain's stamp duty which is applied to the purchase of properties, suggesting it could be changed in a future budget.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-to-take-paternity-leave-after-his-childs-birth-284011">Boris Johnson to take paternity leave after his child's birth</a>

Sunak also said there was no need to extend the Brexit transition period, which is due to end on Dec. 31, describing the coronavirus as a short-term challenge.

Asked about Johnson's "levelling up" plans, Sunak said he would launch a review of the way that public investment decisions are taken, which critics say favours London and the south, and he said a fifth of finance ministry staff would eventually work in northern England.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak, under pressure to fund the fight against the coronavirus and meet election promises in this week's budget, has said he is looking at possible changes to rules which could allow him to spend more.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak, under pressure to fund the fight against the coronavirus and meet election promises in this week's budget, has said he is looking at possible changes to rules which could allow him to spend more. Sunak told the Sunday Telegraph newspaper he was studying "with interest" proposals to reclassify some government spending as an investment as he puts the finishing touches Britain's first post-Brexit budget on Wednesday. Such a change would give him more room for manoeuvre with spending on public services, including on health. Wednesday's budget was originally billed as a chance for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fresh from December's election triumph, to begin to meet his promise to "level up" Britain's struggling regions. Also read: UK to consider opposition to digital tax in pursuit of US trade deal But the focus on the spread of the coronavirus means it will delay announcing full details of its plans for new railways, roads and other infrastructure investment. In interviews on Sunday, Sunak repeatedly declined to confirm that he would stick with the fiscal rules set by his predecessor Sajid Javid who came under pressure from Johnson's advisors to spend more. But the 39-year-old former Goldman Sachs banker who has been in his job for less than a month said he was not about to abandon the discipline of previous Conservative Party finance ministers whose tight grip on spending slashed Britain's budget deficit since the global financial crisis. "That means I can sit here today and say I will invest what it takes to get us through this," he told BBC television, referring to the coronavirus outbreak. Also see: Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco Sunak said he would offer help to companies suffering short-term cash-flow problems and he was in touch with Bank of England Governor Mark Carney about the possible economic hit. The BoE has said it needs to see more evidence before of the virus' impact before cutting interest rates as the U.S. Federal Reserve. Other options include reviving incentives for bank lending to companies. SPENDING SOLUTION? Sunak has been expected to relax a limit on day-to-day spending which was set by Javid before he unexpectedly quit last month after a row with Johnson over advisors. The toughest of those rules is a pledge to balance so-called current spending with tax revenues within three years. Watch: × Media reports have said Sunak might reclassify some public spending on health and education services as an investment which is subject to a less restrictive rule, avoiding cuts to other services or tax increases. Sunak told the Sunday Telegraph he wanted "lower rates of tax" during his time in office. He said he was looking at objections to transaction taxes such as Britain's stamp duty which is applied to the purchase of properties, suggesting it could be changed in a future budget. Also read: Boris Johnson to take paternity leave after his child's birth Sunak also said there was no need to extend the Brexit transition period, which is due to end on Dec. 31, describing the coronavirus as a short-term challenge. Asked about Johnson's "levelling up" plans, Sunak said he would launch a review of the way that public investment decisions are taken, which critics say favours London and the south, and he said a fifth of finance ministry staff would eventually work in northern England.

UK finance minister Sunak looking at ways to relax spending limit

Bangladesh on Sunday confirmed its first three cases of coronavirus in the country, said the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-nrc-will-not-impact-bangladesh-says-indias-foreign-secretary-harsh-vardhan-shringla-283845">Assam's NRC will not impact Bangladesh, says India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla</a>

The affected people are aged between 20 and 35 and two of them returned from Italy recently, IEDCR Director Meerjady Sabrina told reporters.

Bangladesh on Sunday confirmed its first three cases of coronavirus in the country, said the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR). Also read: Assam's NRC will not impact Bangladesh, says India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla The affected people are aged between 20 and 35 and two of them returned from Italy recently, IEDCR Director Meerjady Sabrina told reporters.

Bangladesh confirms its first three cases of coronavirus

Ranks of tourist buses idle under a burning sun while once-bustling theme parks lie empty from above, striking images reveal the hollowing out of Thai tourism due to the effect of the new coronavirus.

Chinese tourists 10 million of whom were expected to visit this year have abandoned Thailand, staying at home as a health crisis sweeps the globe, or under quarantine by their government.

The attractions around Pattaya, a Thai tourist resort close to Bangkok which for several years has made its money from mainland tour groups, are struggling for survival.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-27-new-virus-deaths-lowest-rise-in-cases-since-january-284962">China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January</a>

Beaches are quiet and shopping malls deserted as an economic malaise settles over a kingdom heavily dependent on tourist spending.

"The situation is very bad, there are very few tourists left," said Songsak Srimuang, a 27-year-old tattoo shop manager.&nbsp;

"Maybe I'll go back to my hometown and go back to farming."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-growth-to-fall-below-last-years-level-due-to-coronavirus-imf-284325">&nbsp;Global growth to fall below last year's level due to coronavirus: IMF</a>

Pattaya, like the capital Bangkok, is fuelled by migrant labour from poorer Thai provinces as well as neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

Economic growth is forecast to shrink to as low as two per cent this year.

As tourism is eviscerated by the virus, Thais in spin-off industries fear the worst.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/how-this-economic-slowdown-is-different-from-the-previous-ones-283955">How this economic slowdown is different from the previous ones</a>

"I make 1000 baht a day, it's not enough to earn a living," Pattaya ice-cream seller Rasmee Thapa, 28, told the sources.

Hotels and shops are shutting down, while those that stay open rely on Western ex-pats and Russian tourists who are still holidaying.

"Usually there are many tour buses but now it's nothing," said waitress Kochawan Greeglang, 30.

"If this keeps... the bar will have to close down and I won’t have anywhere else to work."

Thailand has confirmed 50 cases of the virus, with one death. &nbsp;

Ranks of tourist buses idle under a burning sun while once-bustling theme parks lie empty from above, striking images reveal the hollowing out of Thai tourism due to the effect of the new coronavirus.

Ranks of tourist buses idle under a burning sun while once-bustling theme parks lie empty from above, striking images reveal the hollowing out of Thai tourism due to the effect of the new coronavirus. Chinese tourists 10 million of whom were expected to visit this year have abandoned Thailand, staying at home as a health crisis sweeps the globe, or under quarantine by their government. The attractions around Pattaya, a Thai tourist resort close to Bangkok which for several years has made its money from mainland tour groups, are struggling for survival. Also read: China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January Beaches are quiet and shopping malls deserted as an economic malaise settles over a kingdom heavily dependent on tourist spending. "The situation is very bad, there are very few tourists left," said Songsak Srimuang, a 27-year-old tattoo shop manager. "Maybe I'll go back to my hometown and go back to farming." Also read: Global growth to fall below last year's level due to coronavirus: IMF Pattaya, like the capital Bangkok, is fuelled by migrant labour from poorer Thai provinces as well as neighbouring countries. Economic growth is forecast to shrink to as low as two per cent this year. As tourism is eviscerated by the virus, Thais in spin-off industries fear the worst. Also see: How this economic slowdown is different from the previous ones "I make 1000 baht a day, it's not enough to earn a living," Pattaya ice-cream seller Rasmee Thapa, 28, told the sources. Hotels and shops are shutting down, while those that stay open rely on Western ex-pats and Russian tourists who are still holidaying. "Usually there are many tour buses but now it's nothing," said waitress Kochawan Greeglang, 30. "If this keeps... the bar will have to close down and I won’t have anywhere else to work." Thailand has confirmed 50 cases of the virus, with one death.

Tour buses idle as Thai economy takes gut punch from virus

President Emmanuel Macron on Friday urged the French to limit visits to elderly people who are most vulnerable to the spread of the coronavirus that has already left nine dead in the country and made hundreds ill.

Macron, who shook up his agenda this week to focus on efforts to contain the outbreak, said on a visit to an old people's home that they were by far the most vulnerable to its effects.

"Our absolute priority is to protect the people who are the most fragile in the face of this virus," Macron said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/290-million-students-out-of-school-as-global-virus-battle-intensifies-284361">290 million students out of school as global virus battle intensifies</a>

"The nation is behind our old... during this epidemic and we need to limit our visits as much as we can," he said.

He admitted this could prove "heartbreaking" at times but said the measure was simply one of common sense.

He emphasised that young people should not be visiting the old because "as we know, they (the young) transmit the virus a lot".

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-accepts-resignation-of-cardinal-barbarin-over-sex-abuse-case-284809">Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case</a>

The French health ministry said Friday that the number of cases of coronavirus infection had jumped by a further 154 to 577, with two more deaths bringing the total toll to nine.

Those who died in France so far have been old with pre-existing conditions.

Macron said that the situation was likely to last several weeks and that people should show the "spirit of responsibility" without giving into a panic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-reopens-mecca-medina-holy-sites-after-coronavirus-closure-report-284702">Saudi Arabia reopens Mecca, Medina holy sites after coronavirus closure: Report</a>

The health ministry said its priority was to slow the spread of the virus to limit the effects for the population when the peak of the virus is reached.

"People who are old are more at risk and should be protected," the ministry added.

One of the worst-hit regions in France is the Haut-Rhin in the east, where the number of cases jumped eightfold inside eight hours to 81, according to local officials.

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The senior state official for the region, Laurent Touvet, announced a series of measures including closing some schools and banning gatherings of more than 50 people.

Some of the cases in Haut-Rhin have been traced to a meeting of an evangelical church from February 17 to 24 in the city of Mulhouse, attended by some 2,000 people.&nbsp;

Several participants have tested positive, including five who later flew to France's Latin American overseas department of French Guiana and began showing symptoms there.

President Emmanuel Macron on Friday urged the French to limit visits to elderly people who are most vulnerable to the spread of the coronavirus that has already left nine dead in the country and made hundreds ill.

President Emmanuel Macron on Friday urged the French to limit visits to elderly people who are most vulnerable to the spread of the coronavirus that has already left nine dead in the country and made hundreds ill. Macron, who shook up his agenda this week to focus on efforts to contain the outbreak, said on a visit to an old people's home that they were by far the most vulnerable to its effects. "Our absolute priority is to protect the people who are the most fragile in the face of this virus," Macron said. Also read: 290 million students out of school as global virus battle intensifies "The nation is behind our old... during this epidemic and we need to limit our visits as much as we can," he said. He admitted this could prove "heartbreaking" at times but said the measure was simply one of common sense. He emphasised that young people should not be visiting the old because "as we know, they (the young) transmit the virus a lot". Also see: Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case The French health ministry said Friday that the number of cases of coronavirus infection had jumped by a further 154 to 577, with two more deaths bringing the total toll to nine. Those who died in France so far have been old with pre-existing conditions. Macron said that the situation was likely to last several weeks and that people should show the "spirit of responsibility" without giving into a panic. Also read: Saudi Arabia reopens Mecca, Medina holy sites after coronavirus closure: Report The health ministry said its priority was to slow the spread of the virus to limit the effects for the population when the peak of the virus is reached. "People who are old are more at risk and should be protected," the ministry added. One of the worst-hit regions in France is the Haut-Rhin in the east, where the number of cases jumped eightfold inside eight hours to 81, according to local officials. Watch: × The senior state official for the region, Laurent Touvet, announced a series of measures including closing some schools and banning gatherings of more than 50 people. Some of the cases in Haut-Rhin have been traced to a meeting of an evangelical church from February 17 to 24 in the city of Mulhouse, attended by some 2,000 people. Several participants have tested positive, including five who later flew to France's Latin American overseas department of French Guiana and began showing symptoms there.

We need to limit our visits to elderly people, says Macron over coronavirus fears

Egypt detected 12 new cases Friday of the novel coronavirus among workers aboard a Nile cruise boat heading from Aswan to Luxor, a health ministry statement said.

"Twelve new cases tested positive for the coronavirus among Egyptian staff on the cruise boat without showing any symptoms," the joint statement with the World Health Organization said.

Authorities were alerted after it was found that a Taiwanese tourist of "American origin" who travelled on the ship had caused the virus to spread, they said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-reopens-mecca-medina-holy-sites-after-coronavirus-closure-report-284702">Saudi Arabia reopens Mecca, Medina holy sites after coronavirus closure: Report</a>

WHO had alerted Egyptian officials that tests revealed that the tourist, a woman, was the "main case that infected other cases", the statement added.

It was not clear where the tourist contracted the virus and if she had gone back to Taiwan or another country.

The 12 workers were quarantined after they were suspected of contracting the coronavirus and tested positive on the last day of their 14-day isolation.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/eastern-mediterranean-region-a-microcosm-of-regional-and-global-battles-284505">Eastern Mediterranean region: A microcosm of regional and global battles</a>

Other people who were on the boat and had come in contact with the tourist were also quarantined for 14 days.

Earlier this week, authorities said they had detected a third case of the virus, in a 44-year-old Egyptian man who had returned from Serbia after a 12-hour transit in France.

Initially, the man had shown no symptoms but a few days after his return home he checked himself into a hospital after experiencing some minor symptoms, officials said.

The first person infected in Egypt was a Chinese national who has since recovered.

The novel coronavirus originated in China last year and has so far killed over 3,385 people worldwide and infected over 98,000.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Egypt detected 12 new cases Friday of the novel coronavirus among workers aboard a Nile cruise boat heading from Aswan to Luxor, a health ministry statement said.

Egypt detected 12 new cases Friday of the novel coronavirus among workers aboard a Nile cruise boat heading from Aswan to Luxor, a health ministry statement said. "Twelve new cases tested positive for the coronavirus among Egyptian staff on the cruise boat without showing any symptoms," the joint statement with the World Health Organization said. Authorities were alerted after it was found that a Taiwanese tourist of "American origin" who travelled on the ship had caused the virus to spread, they said. Also read: Saudi Arabia reopens Mecca, Medina holy sites after coronavirus closure: Report WHO had alerted Egyptian officials that tests revealed that the tourist, a woman, was the "main case that infected other cases", the statement added. It was not clear where the tourist contracted the virus and if she had gone back to Taiwan or another country. The 12 workers were quarantined after they were suspected of contracting the coronavirus and tested positive on the last day of their 14-day isolation. Also see: Eastern Mediterranean region: A microcosm of regional and global battles Other people who were on the boat and had come in contact with the tourist were also quarantined for 14 days. Earlier this week, authorities said they had detected a third case of the virus, in a 44-year-old Egyptian man who had returned from Serbia after a 12-hour transit in France. Initially, the man had shown no symptoms but a few days after his return home he checked himself into a hospital after experiencing some minor symptoms, officials said. The first person infected in Egypt was a Chinese national who has since recovered. The novel coronavirus originated in China last year and has so far killed over 3,385 people worldwide and infected over 98,000.

Egypt detects 12 new coronavirus cases on Nile cruise boat

South Korea said on Friday it would suspend visas and visa waivers for Japan in response to Tokyo's own travel restrictions on Koreans, as fears over the spreading coronavirus rekindled a feud between the neighbours dating back to before World War Two.

South Korea's curbs, which will take effect on Monday, also include special entry procedures for non-Japanese foreigners arriving from Japan, Vice Foreign Minister Cho Sei-young told a briefing.

At present, the Japanese can visit South Korea for 90 days without a visa and those already in the country will be allowed to stay for that period.

The Korean moves came just hours after Seoul summoned the Japanese envoy to protest against Japan's decision to quarantine South Korean visitors for two weeks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-weighs-on-south-korea-february-trade-ministry-says-worse-to-come-283540">Coronavirus weighs on South Korea February trade; ministry says worse to come</a>

Japan is among almost 100 countries to impose curbs on travellers from South Korea, which has suffered 44 deaths and 6,593 infections in the biggest outbreak outside China, where the virus emerged late last year.

The number of coronavirus cases in Japan stood at around 1,060 on Friday, with new infections reported from Yamaguchi prefecture in the southwest to Hokkaido in the north, according to national broadcaster NHK.

Japan has barred entry to visitors from highly affected areas in South Korea and ordered two weeks' quarantine for others.

"If the Japanese government does not withdraw their decision...we cannot help but devise necessary countermeasures, including reciprocal measures," South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-Wha told Japanese Ambassador Koji Tomita earlier in the day.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-iran-three-senior-politicians-die-total-death-toll-rises-to-107-284639">Coronavirus in Iran: Three senior politicians die, total death toll rises to 107</a>

"We express deep regret towards the unjust measures taken by the Japanese government."

Japanese Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told reporters in Tokyo that the quarantine instructions, which would also apply to visitors from China, would take the form of a request for them to stay in their hotels.

"We'll do everything to make sure people understand," he said.

Seoul has protested to Southeast Asian neighbours Singapore and Vietnam over similar curbs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-total-number-of-coronavirus-jumps-to-over-5700-284425">South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700</a>

Tokyo faced "mistrust from the international community due to its opaque, passive" response to the virus outbreak, South Korea's National Security Council said after a meeting at the presidential Blue House earlier in the day.

The rapid spread of the disease has raised doubts about whether Tokyo will be able to host the Olympics this summer, but the government has insisted that the Games will go ahead as scheduled.

The number of new cases of the virus fell to 505 in South Korea on Friday, from 760 the previous day, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said.

Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said authorities had almost finished tests on more than 200,000 followers of a church in southeastern Daegu at the centre of the outbreak.

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More than 90% of South Korea's infections were in Daegu and nearby North Gyeongsang province. Smaller clusters elsewhere include a new one reported on Friday at a hospital in Seongnam, southeast of the capital.

The number of South Korean visitors to Japan fell nearly 26% last year to 5.6 million, the first drop since Japan's tsunami and nuclear disaster in 2011, Japanese tourism officials say.

Difficult relations between Japan and South Korea date from the former's sometimes brutal occupation of the Korean peninsula from 1910 to 1945. Japan's use of Korean girls and women in military brothels during World War Two still prompts fury in South Korea.

Last year, Tokyo slapped trade curbs on South Korea, which responded with a boycott on Japanese goods and services.

South Korea said on Friday it would suspend visas and visa waivers for Japan in response to Tokyo's own travel restrictions on Koreans, as fears over the spreading coronavirus rekindled a feud between the neighbours dating back to before World War Two.

South Korea said on Friday it would suspend visas and visa waivers for Japan in response to Tokyo's own travel restrictions on Koreans, as fears over the spreading coronavirus rekindled a feud between the neighbours dating back to before World War Two. South Korea's curbs, which will take effect on Monday, also include special entry procedures for non-Japanese foreigners arriving from Japan, Vice Foreign Minister Cho Sei-young told a briefing. At present, the Japanese can visit South Korea for 90 days without a visa and those already in the country will be allowed to stay for that period. The Korean moves came just hours after Seoul summoned the Japanese envoy to protest against Japan's decision to quarantine South Korean visitors for two weeks. Also read: Coronavirus weighs on South Korea February trade; ministry says worse to come Japan is among almost 100 countries to impose curbs on travellers from South Korea, which has suffered 44 deaths and 6,593 infections in the biggest outbreak outside China, where the virus emerged late last year. The number of coronavirus cases in Japan stood at around 1,060 on Friday, with new infections reported from Yamaguchi prefecture in the southwest to Hokkaido in the north, according to national broadcaster NHK. Japan has barred entry to visitors from highly affected areas in South Korea and ordered two weeks' quarantine for others. "If the Japanese government does not withdraw their decision...we cannot help but devise necessary countermeasures, including reciprocal measures," South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-Wha told Japanese Ambassador Koji Tomita earlier in the day. Also see: Coronavirus in Iran: Three senior politicians die, total death toll rises to 107 "We express deep regret towards the unjust measures taken by the Japanese government." Japanese Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told reporters in Tokyo that the quarantine instructions, which would also apply to visitors from China, would take the form of a request for them to stay in their hotels. "We'll do everything to make sure people understand," he said. Seoul has protested to Southeast Asian neighbours Singapore and Vietnam over similar curbs. Also read: South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700 Tokyo faced "mistrust from the international community due to its opaque, passive" response to the virus outbreak, South Korea's National Security Council said after a meeting at the presidential Blue House earlier in the day. The rapid spread of the disease has raised doubts about whether Tokyo will be able to host the Olympics this summer, but the government has insisted that the Games will go ahead as scheduled. The number of new cases of the virus fell to 505 in South Korea on Friday, from 760 the previous day, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said. Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said authorities had almost finished tests on more than 200,000 followers of a church in southeastern Daegu at the centre of the outbreak. Watch: × More than 90% of South Korea's infections were in Daegu and nearby North Gyeongsang province. Smaller clusters elsewhere include a new one reported on Friday at a hospital in Seongnam, southeast of the capital. The number of South Korean visitors to Japan fell nearly 26% last year to 5.6 million, the first drop since Japan's tsunami and nuclear disaster in 2011, Japanese tourism officials say. Difficult relations between Japan and South Korea date from the former's sometimes brutal occupation of the Korean peninsula from 1910 to 1945. Japan's use of Korean girls and women in military brothels during World War Two still prompts fury in South Korea. Last year, Tokyo slapped trade curbs on South Korea, which responded with a boycott on Japanese goods and services.

South Korea suspends visas for Japanese amid tit-for-tat coronavirus curbs

The Indian Army Headquarters has issued detailed instructions about with respect to preparations being made and emergency responses for tackling Covid-19

The latest advisory includes detailed instructions for Actions at various military stations, Army formations and service hospitals.

Non- essential mass gatherings for festivals, welfare activities To be postponed till The situation improves.

Regular health information and Counseling activities will be carried out at all millitary stations.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-batch-of-200-evacuees-from-coronavirus-epicentre-wuhan-discharged-from-itbp-quarantine-camp-in-delhi-281199">Coronavirus: First batch of 200 evacuees from Wuhan discharged from ITBP quarantine camp in Delhi</a>

Military hospitals will establish isolation wards.

Separate opd sections will &nbsp;be set up for screening of symptomatic cases to prevent avoidable transmission.

 
Service hospitals will work in synergy with local civil medical authorities and designated icmr labs.

Service personnel to be encouraged to utilise shopping complex facilities within the cantonment or military stations.

Visits to crowded areas like movie halls and shopping malls to be avoided.

All non-essential foreign travel to be avoided.

The Indian Army Headquarters has issued detailed instructions about with respect to preparations being made and emergency responses for tackling Covid-19 The latest advisory includes detailed instructions for Actions at various military stations, Army formations and service hospitals.

The Indian Army Headquarters has issued detailed instructions about with respect to preparations being made and emergency responses for tackling Covid-19 The latest advisory includes detailed instructions for Actions at various military stations, Army formations and service hospitals. Non- essential mass gatherings for festivals, welfare activities To be postponed till The situation improves. Regular health information and Counseling activities will be carried out at all millitary stations. Also Read: Coronavirus: First batch of 200 evacuees from Wuhan discharged from ITBP quarantine camp in Delhi Military hospitals will establish isolation wards. Separate opd sections will be set up for screening of symptomatic cases to prevent avoidable transmission. Service hospitals will work in synergy with local civil medical authorities and designated icmr labs. Service personnel to be encouraged to utilise shopping complex facilities within the cantonment or military stations. Visits to crowded areas like movie halls and shopping malls to be avoided. All non-essential foreign travel to be avoided.

Indian Army issued instructions  with respect to preparations tackling Covid-19

What you need to know about coronavirus

A Delhi man with a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia has tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of confirmed cases in India to 31, health ministry officials said on Friday.

The latest case is the third in Delhi.

"One suspected COVID19 case has been confirmed as positive. The patient is from Delhi. He has a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia. He is stable and being monitored. The total number of confirmed cases in India now stands at 31," a health ministry official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-confirms-first-coronavirus-case-us-tourist-tested-positive-government-284643">Bhutan confirms first coronavirus case, US tourist tested positive: Government</a>

The 30 other positive cases include a 45-year-old man from Delhi's Mayur Vihar and six of his relatives from Agra whom he had recently visited.

Another is a Paytm employee who works in Gurgaon and lives in west Delhi.

They are all being treated at the Safdarjung hospital.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-iran-three-senior-politicians-die-total-death-toll-rises-to-107-284639">Coronavirus in Iran: Three senior politicians die, total death toll rises to 107</a>

A middle-aged man from Ghaziabad, who tested positive for the virus, is being treated at the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital in the national capital.

A 24-year-old man from Hyderabad, who has also tested positive for coronavirus, has been isolated.

Besides, 16 members of a tourist group from Italy and their Indian guide have been found infected by the virus.

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While one Italian man and his wife are being treated at Jaipur's SMS hospital, 14 members of the group and their Indian guide, who was quarantined at the ITBP camp in Chhawla, have been admitted to the Medanta hospital in Gurgaon.

The total figure of positive cases includes the first three reported from Kerala last month. All three persons have been discharged following recovery. 
Meanwhile, in a suspected coronavirus case, a man from Raipur, who returned to India from Kenya through Dubai, has been put under home quarantine.

A Delhi man with a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia has tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of confirmed cases in India to 31, health ministry officials said on Friday.

A Delhi man with a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia has tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of confirmed cases in India to 31, health ministry officials said on Friday. The latest case is the third in Delhi. "One suspected COVID19 case has been confirmed as positive. The patient is from Delhi. He has a travel history to Thailand and Malaysia. He is stable and being monitored. The total number of confirmed cases in India now stands at 31," a health ministry official said. Also read: Bhutan confirms first coronavirus case, US tourist tested positive: Government The 30 other positive cases include a 45-year-old man from Delhi's Mayur Vihar and six of his relatives from Agra whom he had recently visited. Another is a Paytm employee who works in Gurgaon and lives in west Delhi. They are all being treated at the Safdarjung hospital. Also see: Coronavirus in Iran: Three senior politicians die, total death toll rises to 107 A middle-aged man from Ghaziabad, who tested positive for the virus, is being treated at the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital in the national capital. A 24-year-old man from Hyderabad, who has also tested positive for coronavirus, has been isolated. Besides, 16 members of a tourist group from Italy and their Indian guide have been found infected by the virus. Watch: × While one Italian man and his wife are being treated at Jaipur's SMS hospital, 14 members of the group and their Indian guide, who was quarantined at the ITBP camp in Chhawla, have been admitted to the Medanta hospital in Gurgaon. The total figure of positive cases includes the first three reported from Kerala last month. All three persons have been discharged following recovery. Meanwhile, in a suspected coronavirus case, a man from Raipur, who returned to India from Kenya through Dubai, has been put under home quarantine.

Delhi man with travel history to Thailand, Malaysia tests positive for coronavirus; total cases 31

A senior US official on Thursday accused Iran of lying to its own people over the extent of the coronavirus outbreak and expressed dismay Tehran had refused an offer of American help.

Brian Hook, the US State Department's envoy on Iran, said Tehran's response to the virus was one reason Iranian authorities were enduring a "crisis of legitimacy".

"Iran lied to its own people about the coronavirus," Hook told reporters on a trip to Paris to coordinate policy with Europe.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-total-number-of-coronavirus-jumps-to-over-5700-284425">South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700</a>

"It told them it was not anything to worry about but at the same time the virus was spreading throughout Iran."

Iranian authorities have put the death toll from the Covid-19 virus at 107, making it one of the worst-hit countries after China.

"Today as a result of the government's mismanagement and not being transparent with its own people Iran has one of the world's worst outbreaks of the coronavirus," Hook said.

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&nbsp;

The US, which has had no diplomatic relations with Iran since the hostage crisis that followed the 1979 Islamic Revolution, had offered help to Iran to fight the virus outbreak but Tehran rejected the offer.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has blamed "vicious" US sanctions for depriving Iranians of medication.

"We know there are gaps in their health system and we wanted to close those gaps," said Hook. "We wish they had accepted our sincere offer."

A senior US official on Thursday accused Iran of lying to its own people over the extent of the coronavirus outbreak and expressed dismay Tehran had refused an offer of American help.

A senior US official on Thursday accused Iran of lying to its own people over the extent of the coronavirus outbreak and expressed dismay Tehran had refused an offer of American help. Brian Hook, the US State Department's envoy on Iran, said Tehran's response to the virus was one reason Iranian authorities were enduring a "crisis of legitimacy". "Iran lied to its own people about the coronavirus," Hook told reporters on a trip to Paris to coordinate policy with Europe. Also read: South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700 "It told them it was not anything to worry about but at the same time the virus was spreading throughout Iran." Iranian authorities have put the death toll from the Covid-19 virus at 107, making it one of the worst-hit countries after China. "Today as a result of the government's mismanagement and not being transparent with its own people Iran has one of the world's worst outbreaks of the coronavirus," Hook said. Watch: × The US, which has had no diplomatic relations with Iran since the hostage crisis that followed the 1979 Islamic Revolution, had offered help to Iran to fight the virus outbreak but Tehran rejected the offer. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has blamed "vicious" US sanctions for depriving Iranians of medication. "We know there are gaps in their health system and we wanted to close those gaps," said Hook. "We wish they had accepted our sincere offer."

US envoy says Iran 'lied to own people' over coronavirus

Japan will quarantine people coming from China and South Korea for two weeks on arrival to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, the country's prime minister said Thursday.

"We will strengthen immigration quarantines on people from the two countries," Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told a cabinet-level taskforce meeting on the virus.

"We will ask them to stay in designated areas for two weeks and not to use public transport in the country," Abe added, saying the measures would come into force from March 9 and last at least until the end of the month.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japanese-coronavirus-infections-reach-1000-olympics-preparations-on-track-284226">Japanese coronavirus infections reach 1,000, Olympics preparations on track</a>

The government is calling for tourists from China, where the virus emerged and South Korea, which has been hard hit by the outbreak, to put off travel to Japan and will cancel visas for travellers from the two countries, Abe said.

"In order to reduce the amount of inbound travel from China and South Korea, we will limit arrival destinations for aircraft from the two countries to Narita and Kansai airports," he said.

"We will suspend transport of passengers by ship and cancel temporary and multiple-entry visas that have already been issued."

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-coronavirus-infections-spike-in-central-city-of-wuhan-284448">China coronavirus infections spike in central city of Wuhan</a>

More than 95,000 people have been infected and over 3,200 have died worldwide from COVID-19, which has now reached some 80 countries and territories.

Japan's government has been criticised for responding slowly and for its handling of a cruise ship where more than 700 people contracted the virus despite a quarantine.

Over 300 people have been infected domestically and six deaths have been linked to the outbreak, along with six from the cruise ship.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-held-on-cruise-ship-off-california-over-coronavirus-fears-284391">Thousands held on cruise ship off California over coronavirus fears</a>

In recent days the government has stepped up measures to contain the virus and warned that the coming two to three weeks will be crucial for halting its spread, raising questions about whether this Summer's Olympics in Tokyo will be cancelled.

Schools across the country have been closed and events scratched, with everything from football matches and sumo bouts to concerts affected.

Other countries have also taken measures to block or limit arrivals from China and nations suffering a large number of cases including South Korea, Iran and Italy.

Japan had already banned the entry of people with recent travel to several centres of the outbreak, including two provinces in China and two parts of South Korea.

Japan will quarantine people coming from China and South Korea for two weeks on arrival to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, the country's prime minister said Thursday.

Japan will quarantine people coming from China and South Korea for two weeks on arrival to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, the country's prime minister said Thursday. "We will strengthen immigration quarantines on people from the two countries," Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told a cabinet-level taskforce meeting on the virus. "We will ask them to stay in designated areas for two weeks and not to use public transport in the country," Abe added, saying the measures would come into force from March 9 and last at least until the end of the month. Also read: Japanese coronavirus infections reach 1,000, Olympics preparations on track The government is calling for tourists from China, where the virus emerged and South Korea, which has been hard hit by the outbreak, to put off travel to Japan and will cancel visas for travellers from the two countries, Abe said. "In order to reduce the amount of inbound travel from China and South Korea, we will limit arrival destinations for aircraft from the two countries to Narita and Kansai airports," he said. "We will suspend transport of passengers by ship and cancel temporary and multiple-entry visas that have already been issued." Also see: China coronavirus infections spike in central city of Wuhan More than 95,000 people have been infected and over 3,200 have died worldwide from COVID-19, which has now reached some 80 countries and territories. Japan's government has been criticised for responding slowly and for its handling of a cruise ship where more than 700 people contracted the virus despite a quarantine. Over 300 people have been infected domestically and six deaths have been linked to the outbreak, along with six from the cruise ship. Also read: Thousands held on cruise ship off California over coronavirus fears In recent days the government has stepped up measures to contain the virus and warned that the coming two to three weeks will be crucial for halting its spread, raising questions about whether this Summer's Olympics in Tokyo will be cancelled. Schools across the country have been closed and events scratched, with everything from football matches and sumo bouts to concerts affected. Other countries have also taken measures to block or limit arrivals from China and nations suffering a large number of cases including South Korea, Iran and Italy. Japan had already banned the entry of people with recent travel to several centres of the outbreak, including two provinces in China and two parts of South Korea.

Japan to quarantine visitors from China, South Korea over virus

The government on Thursday asserted that there is no shortage of raw ingredients or medicines in the country as it has taken various initiatives to tackle the challenge posed by the coronavirus outbreak.

All initiatives are also being taken to ensure that there is no impact of the disease in India, Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers D V Sadananda Gowda said.

"There is no shortage of any APIs in the country. We have sufficient APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients) and medicines in the country," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-india-live-updates-coronavirus-cases-in-india-live-news-latest-updates-one-intel-employee-potentially-exposed-to-coronavirus-under-quarantine-284099">Coronavirus live updates: 29 positive coronavirus cases in India, including 16 Italians, says Health Minister Harsh Vardhan</a>

Gowda was addressing the 5th international exhibition and conference on pharmaceutical and medical industry organised by Department of Pharmaceuticals, Gujarat government and industry chamber Ficci here.

For another three months there is no shortage for undertaking production in the pharma sector, he added.

"Our government has taken all initiatives to ensure that as far as our country is concerned the coronavirus should be stopped, and there is no hazard as far as this issue is concerned," Gowda reiterated.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trade-impact-of-coronavirus-epidemic-for-india-estimated-at-348-million-dollars-un-report-284461">Trade impact of Coronavirus epidemic for India estimated at 348 million dollars: UN report</a>

Coronavirus is a challenge and "we should make all efforts that need to be taken..., " he added.

On Tuesday, India, the world's largest maker of generic drugs, restricted the export of common medicines such as paracetamol and 25 other pharmaceutical ingredients and drugs made from them, as it looks to prevent shortages amid concerns of the coronavirus outbreak turning into a pandemic.

Besides over-the-counter painkiller and fever reducer paracetamol, drugs restricted for exports included common antibiotics metronidazole, and those used to treat bacterial and other infections as well as Vitamin B1 and B12 ingredients.

A notification by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) had said the export of 26 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and formulations would require licence.

The government on Thursday asserted that there is no shortage of raw ingredients or medicines in the country as it has taken various initiatives to tackle the challenge posed by the coronavirus outbreak.

The government on Thursday asserted that there is no shortage of raw ingredients or medicines in the country as it has taken various initiatives to tackle the challenge posed by the coronavirus outbreak. All initiatives are also being taken to ensure that there is no impact of the disease in India, Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers D V Sadananda Gowda said. "There is no shortage of any APIs in the country. We have sufficient APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients) and medicines in the country," he said. Also read: Coronavirus live updates: 29 positive coronavirus cases in India, including 16 Italians, says Health Minister Harsh Vardhan Gowda was addressing the 5th international exhibition and conference on pharmaceutical and medical industry organised by Department of Pharmaceuticals, Gujarat government and industry chamber Ficci here. For another three months there is no shortage for undertaking production in the pharma sector, he added. "Our government has taken all initiatives to ensure that as far as our country is concerned the coronavirus should be stopped, and there is no hazard as far as this issue is concerned," Gowda reiterated. Also see: Trade impact of Coronavirus epidemic for India estimated at 348 million dollars: UN report Coronavirus is a challenge and "we should make all efforts that need to be taken..., " he added. On Tuesday, India, the world's largest maker of generic drugs, restricted the export of common medicines such as paracetamol and 25 other pharmaceutical ingredients and drugs made from them, as it looks to prevent shortages amid concerns of the coronavirus outbreak turning into a pandemic. Besides over-the-counter painkiller and fever reducer paracetamol, drugs restricted for exports included common antibiotics metronidazole, and those used to treat bacterial and other infections as well as Vitamin B1 and B12 ingredients. A notification by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) had said the export of 26 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and formulations would require licence.

No shortage of medicine raw materials, steps taken to counter coronavirus challenge: Gowda

The trade impact of the coronavirus epidemic for India is estimated to be about 348 million dollars and the country figures among the top 15 economies most affected as slowdown of manufacturing in China disrupts world trade, according to a UN report.

Estimates published by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Wednesday said that the slowdown of manufacturing in China due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is disrupting world trade and could result in a 50 billion dollar decrease in exports across global value chains.

The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment.

Among the most affected economies are the European Union ($15.6 billion), the United States ($5.8 billion), Japan ($5.2 billion), South Korea ($3.8 billion), Taiwan Province of China ($2.6 billion) and Vietnam ( $2.3 billion).

India is among the 15 most-affected economies due to the coronavirus epidemic and slow down in production in China, with a trade impact of 348 million dollars.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-inch-higher-virus-fears-limit-gains-284413">Sensex, Nifty inch higher, virus fears limit gains</a>

The trade impact for India is less as compared to other economies such as EU, the US, Japan and South Korea.

Trade impact for Indonesia is 312 million dollars.

For India, the trade impact is estimated to be the most for the chemicals sector at 129 million dollars, textiles and apparel at 64 million dollars, automotive sector at 34 million dollars, electrical machinery at 12 million dollars, leather products at 13 million dollars, metals and metal products at 27 million dollars and wood products and furniture at 15 million dollars.

Besides its worrying effects on human life, the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) has the potential to significantly slowdown not only the Chinese economy but also the global economy. China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations. Any disruption of China's output is expected to have repercussions elsewhere through regional and global value chains, UNCTAD said.

Over the last month, China has seen a dramatic reduction in its manufacturing Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) to 37.5, its lowest reading since 2004.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-india-live-updates-coronavirus-cases-in-india-live-news-latest-updates-one-intel-employee-potentially-exposed-to-coronavirus-under-quarantine-284099">Coronavirus live updates: 29 positive coronavirus cases in India, including 16 Italians, says Health Minister Harsh Vardhan</a>

This drop implies a 2 per cent reduction in output on an annual basis.

This has come as a direct consequence of the spread of corona virus (COVID-19).

The 2 per cent contraction in China's output has ripple effects through the global economy and thus far has caused an estimated drop of about $50 billion across countries,"UNCTAD said.

"The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment, it added.

UNCTAD said because China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations, a slowdown in Chinese production has repercussions for any given country depending on how reliant its industries are on Chinese suppliers.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nifty-sensex-end-lower-as-coronavirus-cases-jump-to-28-284272">Nifty, Sensex end lower as coronavirus cases jump to 28</a>

In addition to grave threats to human life, the coronavirus outbreak carries serious risks for the global economy, UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi said.

Any slowdown in manufacturing in one part of the world will have a ripple effect in economic activity across the globe because of regional and global value chains, he said.

Pamela Coke-Hamilton, who heads UNCTAD's Division on International Trade and Commodities, said for developing economies that are reliant on selling raw materials, the effects could be felt very, very intensely.

Assuming that it is not mitigated in the short-term, it's likely that the overall impact on the global economy is going to be significant in terms of a negative downturn, she said.

The estimated global effects of COVID-19 are subject to change depending on the containment of the virus and or changes in the sources of supply.

Watch: 

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Meanwhile, the extent of the damage to the global economy caused by novel coronavirus COVID-19 moved further into focus as UN economists announced a likely $50 billion drop in worldwide manufacturing exports in February alone.

Highlighting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the economic impact of the epidemic, in which there have been more than 90,000 confirmed cases in more than 70 countries (the majority in China) and over 3,000 deaths, Coke-Hamilton said that US measures in terms of visitor arrivals, cancelling various meetings were having a knock-on effect in terms of demand.

So right now, we're not clear on where it will go a lot will depend on what happens with COVID-19; if they are able to come up with a vaccine then hallelujah, hopefully it will end very quickly, but if not, the impact can be severe, she said.

The trade impact of the coronavirus epidemic for India is estimated to be about 348 million dollars and the country figures among the top 15 economies most affected as slowdown of manufacturing in China disrupts world trade, according to a UN report.

The trade impact of the coronavirus epidemic for India is estimated to be about 348 million dollars and the country figures among the top 15 economies most affected as slowdown of manufacturing in China disrupts world trade, according to a UN report. Estimates published by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Wednesday said that the slowdown of manufacturing in China due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is disrupting world trade and could result in a 50 billion dollar decrease in exports across global value chains. The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment. Among the most affected economies are the European Union ($15.6 billion), the United States ($5.8 billion), Japan ($5.2 billion), South Korea ($3.8 billion), Taiwan Province of China ($2.6 billion) and Vietnam ( $2.3 billion). India is among the 15 most-affected economies due to the coronavirus epidemic and slow down in production in China, with a trade impact of 348 million dollars. Also read: Sensex, Nifty inch higher, virus fears limit gains The trade impact for India is less as compared to other economies such as EU, the US, Japan and South Korea. Trade impact for Indonesia is 312 million dollars. For India, the trade impact is estimated to be the most for the chemicals sector at 129 million dollars, textiles and apparel at 64 million dollars, automotive sector at 34 million dollars, electrical machinery at 12 million dollars, leather products at 13 million dollars, metals and metal products at 27 million dollars and wood products and furniture at 15 million dollars. Besides its worrying effects on human life, the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) has the potential to significantly slowdown not only the Chinese economy but also the global economy. China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations. Any disruption of China's output is expected to have repercussions elsewhere through regional and global value chains, UNCTAD said. Over the last month, China has seen a dramatic reduction in its manufacturing Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) to 37.5, its lowest reading since 2004. Also see: Coronavirus live updates: 29 positive coronavirus cases in India, including 16 Italians, says Health Minister Harsh Vardhan This drop implies a 2 per cent reduction in output on an annual basis. This has come as a direct consequence of the spread of corona virus (COVID-19). The 2 per cent contraction in China's output has ripple effects through the global economy and thus far has caused an estimated drop of about $50 billion across countries,"UNCTAD said. "The most affected sectors include precision instruments, machinery, automotive and communication equipment, it added. UNCTAD said because China has become the central manufacturing hub of many global business operations, a slowdown in Chinese production has repercussions for any given country depending on how reliant its industries are on Chinese suppliers. Also read: Nifty, Sensex end lower as coronavirus cases jump to 28 In addition to grave threats to human life, the coronavirus outbreak carries serious risks for the global economy, UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi said. Any slowdown in manufacturing in one part of the world will have a ripple effect in economic activity across the globe because of regional and global value chains, he said. Pamela Coke-Hamilton, who heads UNCTAD's Division on International Trade and Commodities, said for developing economies that are reliant on selling raw materials, the effects could be felt very, very intensely. Assuming that it is not mitigated in the short-term, it's likely that the overall impact on the global economy is going to be significant in terms of a negative downturn, she said. The estimated global effects of COVID-19 are subject to change depending on the containment of the virus and or changes in the sources of supply. Watch: × Meanwhile, the extent of the damage to the global economy caused by novel coronavirus COVID-19 moved further into focus as UN economists announced a likely $50 billion drop in worldwide manufacturing exports in February alone. Highlighting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the economic impact of the epidemic, in which there have been more than 90,000 confirmed cases in more than 70 countries (the majority in China) and over 3,000 deaths, Coke-Hamilton said that US measures in terms of visitor arrivals, cancelling various meetings were having a knock-on effect in terms of demand. So right now, we're not clear on where it will go a lot will depend on what happens with COVID-19; if they are able to come up with a vaccine then hallelujah, hopefully it will end very quickly, but if not, the impact can be severe, she said.

Trade impact of Coronavirus epidemic for India estimated at 348 million dollars: UN report

Shelves are being stripped bare of toilet rolls, hand sanitiser and surgical masks everywhere from Japan to France to the United States as panic buying criss-crosses the globe with the coronavirus, defying repeated calls for calm and disrupting supply chains.

Obsessively documented on social media, scrambles to the shops and empty shelves are adding panic and confusion to the fight against an epidemic that has killed thousands, placed millions under quarantine and battered global markets.

Australia's biggest supermarket this week began rationing sales of toilet paper after police had to be called to a shop in Sydney when a knife was drawn in a scuffle over the scarce commodity.

On Saturday Japan's prime minister took to Twitter to calm fears of a national shortage, while social media photos from the US show toilet paper shelves lying bare.

Psychologists say a mix of herd mentality and over-exposure to coverage of the virus is to blame.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-held-on-cruise-ship-off-california-over-coronavirus-fears-284391">Thousands held on cruise ship off California over coronavirus fears</a>

<div>"We might be less irrational if we weren't being reminded so much of the potential dangers by the news," London-based consumer psychologist Kate Nightingale told AFP.</div>

"We either avoid the topic or we go completely nuts and stock up on anything we might just need."

Panic buying of non-medical items like toilet paper "gives people this sense of control that 'I will have what I need when I want'," Andy Yap, a psychologist and Charlene Chen, who specialises in marketing and business in Singapore told AFP in an email.

The city-state experienced its own recent run on toilet paper, traceable, they said to a "believable" rumour of an impending shortage due to shutdowns in virus-stricken China, a major producer.

Endlessly scrolling through social media also "distorts our perceptions and makes us think that things are a lot more serious than they truly are," they said.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-frequently-asked-questions-about-coronavirus-284318">Explained: Frequently asked questions about coronavirus</a>

As the uncertainty grows, they added, items such as surgical masks and hand sanitiser transform into "problem-solving goods... that seemingly help people gain control over the virus."

'The odd one out'

Single-use surgical masks that typically retail for just a few US cents are also hot property, exacerbated by restrictions on exports from China, the leading producer, as the government keeps more back for domestic usage.

Last month ten thousand people queued outside a Hong Kong shop that had secured a shipment, and days later masks were voted the most desireable gifts to receive for Valentine's Day.

In London, masks are now going for more than 100 times their normal retail price, while French authorities said they will requisition all face mask stocks and production.

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The demand is being "driven by panic buying, stockpiling and speculation," World Health Organization spokeswoman Fadela Chaib told AFP.
</div>

This is despite the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention saying it did not "recommend the use of facemasks" to help combat the outbreak.

But in crowded, paranoid cities where others are already wearing them, donning a mask can be comforting -- if ineffective.

"You don't want to be the odd one out," Nightingale said.

"At the end of the day, we do need our social groups for survival so it's a primal instinct to obey whatever needs that society imposes on us."

'Trusted faces'

As more countries report new cases, Yap and Chen said it was important for authorities to "re-establish control" over information and rumours that spark hoarding and panic-buying.

"In times of uncertainty, it is good to set rules because rules provide a sense of order and control."

Governments also need to be clear in explaining any new rules and why they are important in the fight against the virus.

But, Nightingale said, with distrust of health authorities on the rise in the West over mandatory vaccinations and with governments and companies "among the least trusted institutions," this might be difficult.

"Hiring trusted faces could help...David Attenborough might work for a certain kind of customer profile, like the over 40s. For younger profiles, you could turn to social media influencers."

Shelves are being stripped bare of toilet rolls, hand sanitiser and surgical masks everywhere from Japan to France to the United States as panic buying criss-crosses the globe with the coronavirus, defying repeated calls for calm and disrupting supply chains.

Shelves are being stripped bare of toilet rolls, hand sanitiser and surgical masks everywhere from Japan to France to the United States as panic buying criss-crosses the globe with the coronavirus, defying repeated calls for calm and disrupting supply chains. Obsessively documented on social media, scrambles to the shops and empty shelves are adding panic and confusion to the fight against an epidemic that has killed thousands, placed millions under quarantine and battered global markets. Australia's biggest supermarket this week began rationing sales of toilet paper after police had to be called to a shop in Sydney when a knife was drawn in a scuffle over the scarce commodity. On Saturday Japan's prime minister took to Twitter to calm fears of a national shortage, while social media photos from the US show toilet paper shelves lying bare. Psychologists say a mix of herd mentality and over-exposure to coverage of the virus is to blame. Also read: Thousands held on cruise ship off California over coronavirus fears "We might be less irrational if we weren't being reminded so much of the potential dangers by the news," London-based consumer psychologist Kate Nightingale told AFP. "We either avoid the topic or we go completely nuts and stock up on anything we might just need." Panic buying of non-medical items like toilet paper "gives people this sense of control that 'I will have what I need when I want'," Andy Yap, a psychologist and Charlene Chen, who specialises in marketing and business in Singapore told AFP in an email. The city-state experienced its own recent run on toilet paper, traceable, they said to a "believable" rumour of an impending shortage due to shutdowns in virus-stricken China, a major producer. Endlessly scrolling through social media also "distorts our perceptions and makes us think that things are a lot more serious than they truly are," they said. Also see: Explained: Frequently asked questions about coronavirus As the uncertainty grows, they added, items such as surgical masks and hand sanitiser transform into "problem-solving goods... that seemingly help people gain control over the virus." 'The odd one out' Single-use surgical masks that typically retail for just a few US cents are also hot property, exacerbated by restrictions on exports from China, the leading producer, as the government keeps more back for domestic usage. Last month ten thousand people queued outside a Hong Kong shop that had secured a shipment, and days later masks were voted the most desireable gifts to receive for Valentine's Day. In London, masks are now going for more than 100 times their normal retail price, while French authorities said they will requisition all face mask stocks and production. Watch: × The demand is being "driven by panic buying, stockpiling and speculation," World Health Organization spokeswoman Fadela Chaib told AFP. This is despite the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention saying it did not "recommend the use of facemasks" to help combat the outbreak. But in crowded, paranoid cities where others are already wearing them, donning a mask can be comforting -- if ineffective. "You don't want to be the odd one out," Nightingale said. "At the end of the day, we do need our social groups for survival so it's a primal instinct to obey whatever needs that society imposes on us." 'Trusted faces' As more countries report new cases, Yap and Chen said it was important for authorities to "re-establish control" over information and rumours that spark hoarding and panic-buying. "In times of uncertainty, it is good to set rules because rules provide a sense of order and control." Governments also need to be clear in explaining any new rules and why they are important in the fight against the virus. But, Nightingale said, with distrust of health authorities on the rise in the West over mandatory vaccinations and with governments and companies "among the least trusted institutions," this might be difficult. "Hiring trusted faces could help...David Attenborough might work for a certain kind of customer profile, like the over 40s. For younger profiles, you could turn to social media influencers."

Panic buying follows coronavirus across the globe

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Mainland China reported a rise in new confirmed cases of coronavirus on Thursday, reversing three straight days of declines, because of a spike in new infections in Wuhan, the city at the centre of the outbreak.

Mainland China had 139 new confirmed cases as of Wednesday, the National Health Commission (NHC) said, bringing the total accumulated number of cases to 80,409.

Authorities reported 119 new cases the previous day and 125 the day before that.

The increase was driven by more cases in Wuhan, the provincial capital of Hubei, where the virus is believed to have emerged in a market late last year.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-state-confirms-11th-coronavirus-case-over-100-quarantined-284351">New York state confirms 11th coronavirus case, over 100 quarantined</a>

Wuhan's new infections climbed to 131 from 114 a day earlier. There was no immediate elaboration and health officials were due to hold a briefing later in the day.

After what some critics said was an initially hesitant response to the new virus, China imposed sweeping restrictions to try to stop it, including transport suspensions, lockdowns of cities and extending a Lunar New Year holiday across the country.

World Health Organization (WHO) officials have said other countries have much to learn from the way China has handled the outbreak and Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu said many countries had asked for help and China was responding.

The number of new confirmed cases in Hubei, excluding Wuhan, has remained in single digits for seven consecutive days, with three new infections recorded on Wednesday.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-deaths-in-us-as-lawmakers-reach-83-billion-funding-deal-284353">New coronavirus deaths in US as lawmakers reach $8.3 billion funding deal</a>

In the rest of mainland China, outside Hubei, there were only five new confirmed cases, the health commission said.

The death toll from the outbreak in mainland China had reached 3,012 as of the end of Wednesday, up by 31 from the previous day. Hubei accounted for all of the new deaths. In Wuhan, 23 people died.

With the downward trend in new cases, Chinese authorities have turned their attention to stopping the virus being brought in from new coronavirus hot spots abroad.

'REPAY KINDNESS'

The number of new infections overseas now exceeds the tally of new cases in China, with Italy, South Korea and Iran, in particular, seeing worrying spreads of the virus.

Authorities have asked overseas Chinese hoping to return home to reconsider their travel plans, while cities across the country have set up quarantine rules for those entering from high-risk places.

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An infected person is known to have arrived in China from Iran, one of the virus' new hot spots, last week.
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The cities of Shanghai and Guangdong have ordered people who have been in countries with severe outbreaks within the previous two weeks to stay in quarantine for 14 days.

The city of Chengdu in central Sichuan province said it was also ordering quarantine for such people.

The NHC has said authorities were transitioning from "overall containment to targeted containment" measures, with a focus on containment within communities, and medical treatment.

Ma told a briefing China would make donations to South Korea, Iraq, Cambodia and Sri Lanka, on top of what it has already given to Pakistan, Japan and Iran.

China was also considering responding to WHO call for donations, he said.

"Many of the countries which have requested for our help had actually helped us previously, so when we help these countries, it is to help them fight the virus, and also to repay their kindness," Ma said.
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&nbsp;

Mainland China reported a rise in new confirmed cases of coronavirus on Thursday, reversing three straight days of declines, because of a spike in new infections in Wuhan, the city at the centre of the outbreak.

Mainland China reported a rise in new confirmed cases of coronavirus on Thursday, reversing three straight days of declines, because of a spike in new infections in Wuhan, the city at the centre of the outbreak. Mainland China had 139 new confirmed cases as of Wednesday, the National Health Commission (NHC) said, bringing the total accumulated number of cases to 80,409. Authorities reported 119 new cases the previous day and 125 the day before that. The increase was driven by more cases in Wuhan, the provincial capital of Hubei, where the virus is believed to have emerged in a market late last year. Also read: New York state confirms 11th coronavirus case, over 100 quarantined Wuhan's new infections climbed to 131 from 114 a day earlier. There was no immediate elaboration and health officials were due to hold a briefing later in the day. After what some critics said was an initially hesitant response to the new virus, China imposed sweeping restrictions to try to stop it, including transport suspensions, lockdowns of cities and extending a Lunar New Year holiday across the country. World Health Organization (WHO) officials have said other countries have much to learn from the way China has handled the outbreak and Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu said many countries had asked for help and China was responding. The number of new confirmed cases in Hubei, excluding Wuhan, has remained in single digits for seven consecutive days, with three new infections recorded on Wednesday. Also see: New coronavirus deaths in US as lawmakers reach $8.3 billion funding deal In the rest of mainland China, outside Hubei, there were only five new confirmed cases, the health commission said. The death toll from the outbreak in mainland China had reached 3,012 as of the end of Wednesday, up by 31 from the previous day. Hubei accounted for all of the new deaths. In Wuhan, 23 people died. With the downward trend in new cases, Chinese authorities have turned their attention to stopping the virus being brought in from new coronavirus hot spots abroad. 'REPAY KINDNESS' The number of new infections overseas now exceeds the tally of new cases in China, with Italy, South Korea and Iran, in particular, seeing worrying spreads of the virus. Authorities have asked overseas Chinese hoping to return home to reconsider their travel plans, while cities across the country have set up quarantine rules for those entering from high-risk places. Watch: × An infected person is known to have arrived in China from Iran, one of the virus' new hot spots, last week. The cities of Shanghai and Guangdong have ordered people who have been in countries with severe outbreaks within the previous two weeks to stay in quarantine for 14 days. The city of Chengdu in central Sichuan province said it was also ordering quarantine for such people. The NHC has said authorities were transitioning from "overall containment to targeted containment" measures, with a focus on containment within communities, and medical treatment. Ma told a briefing China would make donations to South Korea, Iraq, Cambodia and Sri Lanka, on top of what it has already given to Pakistan, Japan and Iran. China was also considering responding to WHO call for donations, he said. "Many of the countries which have requested for our help had actually helped us previously, so when we help these countries, it is to help them fight the virus, and also to repay their kindness," Ma said.

China coronavirus infections spike in central city of Wuhan

South Korea's total number of novel coronavirus cases -- the largest outside China, where the disease first emerged approached 6,000 on Thursday as authorities announced a ban on face mask exports.

Total infections stood at 5,766, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, up 145, with 35 deaths.

Australia announced Thursday it would impose an entry ban on foreigners who have recently been in South Korea, joining 36 countries and regions that have taken similar measures so far according to the foreign ministry in Seoul.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/290-million-students-out-of-school-as-global-virus-battle-intensifies-284361">290 million students out of school as global virus battle intensifies</a>

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said face mask exports would be banned from Friday.

Masks have become standard wear throughout South Korea and demand has surged, with long queues forming as authorities struggle to ensure a sufficient supply.

"Most people are spending hours queueing," Chung told a meeting in Daegu, the centre of the epidemic in South Korea, where he is leading the government response.

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"I feel heavy responsibility for people's suffering from the shortage," he said, adding distribution would prioritise medical and disinfection workers.

Manufacturers were last month limited to exporting 10 percent of their production.

Nearly 90 percent of South Korea's cases are in Daegu with more than 4,300 cases confirmed there and the neighbouring North Gyeongsang province.

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Most of the country's infections are linked to the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a religious sect often condemned as a cult.
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A 61-year-old woman member in Daegu developed symptoms on February 10 and attended at least four services before being diagnosed.

President Moon Jae-in announced a 30-trillion-won ($25-billion) package earlier this week to address the "grave" situation brought on by the outbreak in the world's 12th-largest economy.

Scores of events from K-pop concerts to sports seasons have been cancelled or postponed over the contagion, with school and kindergarten breaks extended by three weeks nationwide.

The government on Thursday lengthened a nationwide daycare centre closure for a further two weeks.

South Korea's total number of novel coronavirus cases -- the largest outside China, where the disease first emerged approached 6,000 on Thursday as authorities announced a ban on face mask exports.

South Korea's total number of novel coronavirus cases -- the largest outside China, where the disease first emerged approached 6,000 on Thursday as authorities announced a ban on face mask exports. Total infections stood at 5,766, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, up 145, with 35 deaths. Australia announced Thursday it would impose an entry ban on foreigners who have recently been in South Korea, joining 36 countries and regions that have taken similar measures so far according to the foreign ministry in Seoul. Also read: 290 million students out of school as global virus battle intensifies Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said face mask exports would be banned from Friday. Masks have become standard wear throughout South Korea and demand has surged, with long queues forming as authorities struggle to ensure a sufficient supply. "Most people are spending hours queueing," Chung told a meeting in Daegu, the centre of the epidemic in South Korea, where he is leading the government response. Also see: New coronavirus deaths in US as lawmakers reach $8.3 billion funding deal "I feel heavy responsibility for people's suffering from the shortage," he said, adding distribution would prioritise medical and disinfection workers. Manufacturers were last month limited to exporting 10 percent of their production. Nearly 90 percent of South Korea's cases are in Daegu with more than 4,300 cases confirmed there and the neighbouring North Gyeongsang province. Watch: × Most of the country's infections are linked to the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a religious sect often condemned as a cult. A 61-year-old woman member in Daegu developed symptoms on February 10 and attended at least four services before being diagnosed. President Moon Jae-in announced a 30-trillion-won ($25-billion) package earlier this week to address the "grave" situation brought on by the outbreak in the world's 12th-largest economy. Scores of events from K-pop concerts to sports seasons have been cancelled or postponed over the contagion, with school and kindergarten breaks extended by three weeks nationwide. The government on Thursday lengthened a nationwide daycare centre closure for a further two weeks.

South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700

The Reserve Bank of Australia has cut official interest rates to a new record low of 0.5% due to the “significant effect” of the coronavirus outbreak on the Australian economy and has signalled it is prepared to cut further if needed.

Australia cuts rates to record low amid coronavirus concerns | Covid -19

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