Is China's coronavirus a biological weapon? Was the virus made in a laboratory? Did Chinese 'spies' smuggle out the virus from Canada? WION's Palki Sharma fact checks some of the theories around the coronavirus outbreak.

Gravitas: Is the coronavirus a biological weapon?

Pakistan will not airlift its citizens stranded in Wuhan, the Chinese city worst hit by the Novel Coronavirus outbreak, which has killed over 300 people in the country.

Pakistan Won't Airlift Its People From Virus-Hit China

On Sunday, China’s Health Commission reported that 361 people had died from the disease — surpassing the country’s 2002 to 2003 SARS outbreak death toll of 349.

Indian Govt reviews nCoV preparedness

On Thursday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a global health emergency over the outbreak of the coronavirus, which is believed to have originated at a wild animal market in Wuhan and was first detected in December 2019.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Pak students appeal to their govt for help

China said Monday it "urgently needs" protective medical equipment as the death toll in the country from a highly contagious coronavirus passed that of the 2002 SARS crisis, with more than 17,000 infected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-coronavirus-killed-more-people-than-sars-in-mainland-china-278354">Also read: Wuhan coronavirus killed more people than SARS in mainland China</a>

Fears of the virus have spurred people in the densely-populated country of 1.4 billion to stock up on single-use surgical masks, while frontline medical personnel at the centre of the outbreak have reported equipment shortages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-coronavirus-rises-to-361-as-man-dies-in-philippines-278197">Also read: Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines</a>

"What China urgently needs at present are medical masks, protective suits, and safety goggles," the foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said in a press briefing.

At full capacity, China's factories are only able to produce around 20 million masks a day, according to the ministry of industry.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-doctors-say-cocktail-of-flu-hiv-drugs-appears-to-help-fight-coronavirus-278168">Also Read:&nbsp;Thai doctors say cocktail of flu, HIV drugs appears to help fight coronavirus</a>

The foreign ministry said countries including South Korea, Japan, Kazakhstan and Hungary have donated medical supplies.

Tian Yulong of the industry ministry said earlier Monday that authorities were taking steps to bring in masks from Europe, Japan and the US, adding that supply and demand in China remained in "tight equilibrium" as factories returned to production after the Lunar New Year lull.

He said they were now operating at "between 60 and 70 per cent capacity".

In addition to Hubei, the province of more than 50 million people at the centre of the outbreak, several other provinces and cities across China have made it compulsory to wear masks in public as virus fears have grown.

These include Guangdong -- China's most populous province -- plus Sichuan, Jiangxi, Liaoning and the city of Nanjing, with a combined population of more than 300 million.

The death toll from the coronavirus soared past 360 on Monday, exceeding the 349 mainland fatalities from the 2002-03 SARS outbreak, although SARS killed a higher percentage of people infected.

China said Monday it "urgently needs" protective medical equipment as the death toll in the country from a highly contagious coronavirus passed that of the 2002 SARS crisis, with more than 17,000 infected.

China said Monday it "urgently needs" protective medical equipment as the death toll in the country from a highly contagious coronavirus passed that of the 2002 SARS crisis, with more than 17,000 infected. Also read: Wuhan coronavirus killed more people than SARS in mainland China Fears of the virus have spurred people in the densely-populated country of 1.4 billion to stock up on single-use surgical masks, while frontline medical personnel at the centre of the outbreak have reported equipment shortages. Also read: Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines "What China urgently needs at present are medical masks, protective suits, and safety goggles," the foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said in a press briefing. At full capacity, China's factories are only able to produce around 20 million masks a day, according to the ministry of industry. Also Read: Thai doctors say cocktail of flu, HIV drugs appears to help fight coronavirus The foreign ministry said countries including South Korea, Japan, Kazakhstan and Hungary have donated medical supplies. Tian Yulong of the industry ministry said earlier Monday that authorities were taking steps to bring in masks from Europe, Japan and the US, adding that supply and demand in China remained in "tight equilibrium" as factories returned to production after the Lunar New Year lull. He said they were now operating at "between 60 and 70 per cent capacity". In addition to Hubei, the province of more than 50 million people at the centre of the outbreak, several other provinces and cities across China have made it compulsory to wear masks in public as virus fears have grown. These include Guangdong -- China's most populous province -- plus Sichuan, Jiangxi, Liaoning and the city of Nanjing, with a combined population of more than 300 million. The death toll from the coronavirus soared past 360 on Monday, exceeding the 349 mainland fatalities from the 2002-03 SARS outbreak, although SARS killed a higher percentage of people infected.

Battling shortage, China 'urgently needs' masks and medical equipment to tackle Coronavirus

China's loss of life from coronavirus hopped over 360 on Monday to outperform the number of fatalities of its SARS emergency two decades back in 2003, with many individuals dying in Wuhan the epicentre of this outbreak.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-coronavirus-rises-to-361-as-man-dies-in-philippines-278197">Also read: Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines</a>

During the 2002-03 SARS outbreak, the number of deaths in mainland China was 349 along with 5,327 cases of infections.

SARS, caused by a pathogen similar to the new coronavirus&nbsp;killed 774 people worldwide - with most of the other deaths in Hong Kong.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-doctors-say-cocktail-of-flu-hiv-drugs-appears-to-help-fight-coronavirus-278168">Also Read:&nbsp;Thai doctors say cocktail of flu, HIV drugs appears to help fight coronavirus</a>

The coronavirus infection has already spread across China and to around two dozen nations. Yet, the zone hit hardest is the Hubei area, of which Wuhan is the provincial capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-chinese-authorities-ignored-early-reports-of-mysterious-coronavirus-by-doctor-report-278301">Also read: Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor</a>

A Hong Kong University study estimates that more than 75,000 people could be infected in Wuhan alone.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-medical-workers-strike-for-china-border-closure-278344/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China is now doing everything it can to control the outbreak. It has built a 1000-bed hospital in record time. Another special hospital is under construction and will be completed this week.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-accuses-us-of-causing-panic-and-spreading-fear-over-coronavirus-278347/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, China is expecting other countries to make judgements and respond to the crisis reasonably and based on scientific evidence.&nbsp;

China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus.

In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff. It was also the first country to impose a ban on Chinese travellers. These details were given out by Hua Chunying, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry.

China's loss of life from coronavirus hopped over 360 on Monday to outperform the number of fatalities of its SARS emergency two decades back in 2003, with many individuals dying in Wuhan the epicentre of this outbreak.

China's loss of life from coronavirus hopped over 360 on Monday to outperform the number of fatalities of its SARS emergency two decades back in 2003, with many individuals dying in Wuhan the epicentre of this outbreak. Also read: Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines During the 2002-03 SARS outbreak, the number of deaths in mainland China was 349 along with 5,327 cases of infections. SARS, caused by a pathogen similar to the new coronavirus killed 774 people worldwide - with most of the other deaths in Hong Kong. Also Read: Thai doctors say cocktail of flu, HIV drugs appears to help fight coronavirus The coronavirus infection has already spread across China and to around two dozen nations. Yet, the zone hit hardest is the Hubei area, of which Wuhan is the provincial capital. Also read: Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor A Hong Kong University study estimates that more than 75,000 people could be infected in Wuhan alone. China is now doing everything it can to control the outbreak. It has built a 1000-bed hospital in record time. Another special hospital is under construction and will be completed this week. Meanwhile, China is expecting other countries to make judgements and respond to the crisis reasonably and based on scientific evidence. China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus. In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff. It was also the first country to impose a ban on Chinese travellers. These details were given out by Hua Chunying, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry.

Wuhan coronavirus killed more people than SARS in mainland China

The mysterious coronavirus has fast-spread to four continents and has affected over 147,000 people.

China, where the virus first emerged, has been taking steps to control the epidemic.

It has even received appreciation from the World Health Organisation for its efforts in containing the virus, which includes building hospitals from the ground within a one-week window.

However, the veracity of the information flowing in from China has been put to the test owing to a report by the New York Times.

According to the report, a Chinese doctor named Li Wenliang had warned about a ''mysterious illness'' which had struck seven patients at a hospital on December 30 2019.

The virus had not been identified then. But Wenliang understood the dangers it possessed.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="135778da-9bc5-479e-9e24-48285fed93b7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_63.jpg" /> 
Passengers arrive at LAX from Shanghai, China, after a positive case of the coronavirus was announced in the Orange County suburb of Los Angeles, California, US</h6>

The report states that he tried to warn his medical school classmates in an online chat group.

The words used by the doctor to describe the virus were ''so frightening''. To which, one recipient replied with, ''Is SARS coming again?''

The mysterious disease was then identified as the coronavirus.

As per the report, the government tried to silence the doctor and bury the whole matter.

Officials from the Health Authority of Wuhan summoned Dr Wenliang and confronted him for sharing this information.

Wenliang was later ordered to sign a statement which labelled his warning as ''illegal behaviour''.

The report goes on to say that the government’s initial handling of the epidemic allowed the virus to gain a tenacious hold.

It blames the officials for choosing secrecy over openly confronting the growing crisis.

The report further alleges that this was done to avoid political embarrassment.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/did-china-hide-on-coronavirus-outbreak-earlier-278242/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The coronavirus is now on a relentless march outward from Wuhan, throughout the country and across the globe, killing at least 360 people in China, one in the Philippines and infecting more than 14,380 worldwide. In fact, a Hong Kong University study estimates that more than 75,000 people could be infected in Wuhan alone.

China is now doing everything it can to control the outbreak. It has built a 1000-bed hospital in record time. Another special hospital is under construction and will be completed this week.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-social-media-applications-tackling-false-claims-against-coronavirus-278258">Here's how social media apps are fighting misinformation surrounding coronavirus</a>

The mysterious coronavirus has fast-spread to four continents and has affected over 147,000 people. China, where the virus first emerged, has been taking steps to control the epidemic.

The mysterious coronavirus has fast-spread to four continents and has affected over 147,000 people. China, where the virus first emerged, has been taking steps to control the epidemic. It has even received appreciation from the World Health Organisation for its efforts in containing the virus, which includes building hospitals from the ground within a one-week window. However, the veracity of the information flowing in from China has been put to the test owing to a report by the New York Times. According to the report, a Chinese doctor named Li Wenliang had warned about a ''mysterious illness'' which had struck seven patients at a hospital on December 30 2019. The virus had not been identified then. But Wenliang understood the dangers it possessed. Passengers arrive at LAX from Shanghai, China, after a positive case of the coronavirus was announced in the Orange County suburb of Los Angeles, California, US The report states that he tried to warn his medical school classmates in an online chat group. The words used by the doctor to describe the virus were ''so frightening''. To which, one recipient replied with, ''Is SARS coming again?'' The mysterious disease was then identified as the coronavirus. As per the report, the government tried to silence the doctor and bury the whole matter. Officials from the Health Authority of Wuhan summoned Dr Wenliang and confronted him for sharing this information. Wenliang was later ordered to sign a statement which labelled his warning as ''illegal behaviour''. The report goes on to say that the government’s initial handling of the epidemic allowed the virus to gain a tenacious hold. It blames the officials for choosing secrecy over openly confronting the growing crisis. The report further alleges that this was done to avoid political embarrassment. The coronavirus is now on a relentless march outward from Wuhan, throughout the country and across the globe, killing at least 360 people in China, one in the Philippines and infecting more than 14,380 worldwide. In fact, a Hong Kong University study estimates that more than 75,000 people could be infected in Wuhan alone. China is now doing everything it can to control the outbreak. It has built a 1000-bed hospital in record time. Another special hospital is under construction and will be completed this week. Read more: Here's how social media apps are fighting misinformation surrounding coronavirus

Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor: Report

China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus.

In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff. It was also the first country to impose a ban on Chinese travellers. These details were given out by Hua Chunying, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-could-ncov-have-been-controlled-278239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"All it has done could only create and spread fear, which is a bad example," Hua added.

China is expecting other countries to make judgements and respond to the crisis reasonably and based on scientific evidence.&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a42700-7701-408f-a6b7-ad5a7350a6e7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_69.jpg" /> 
A man wearing a mask walks past a military poster at the Financial Street in central Beijing, China, as the country is hit by an outbreak of the new&nbsp;coronavirus | Reuters</h6>

&nbsp;

The US is evacuating from China. The first evacuation took place on January 28 from the central city of Wuhan.

On January 30, after the announcement of mass evacuations by governments worldwide, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a global emergency. This coincided with the travel advisory released by the US State Department. 
 
"It is precisely developed countries like the United States with strong epidemic prevention capabilities and facilities that have taken the lead in imposing excessive restrictions contrary to WHO recommendations," Hua said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-ignored-early-reports-of-mysterious-coronavirus-by-doctor-report-278301">Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor</a>

(With inputs from Reuters)

China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus. In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff.

China recently claimed that the United States has created and spread fear about the coronavirus. In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, the United States became the first nation to suggest a partial withdrawal of its embassy staff. It was also the first country to impose a ban on Chinese travellers. These details were given out by Hua Chunying, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry. "All it has done could only create and spread fear, which is a bad example," Hua added. China is expecting other countries to make judgements and respond to the crisis reasonably and based on scientific evidence. A man wearing a mask walks past a military poster at the Financial Street in central Beijing, China, as the country is hit by an outbreak of the new coronavirus | Reuters The US is evacuating from China. The first evacuation took place on January 28 from the central city of Wuhan. On January 30, after the announcement of mass evacuations by governments worldwide, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a global emergency. This coincided with the travel advisory released by the US State Department. "It is precisely developed countries like the United States with strong epidemic prevention capabilities and facilities that have taken the lead in imposing excessive restrictions contrary to WHO recommendations," Hua said. Also read: Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor (With inputs from Reuters)

US propagating fear about coronavirus, claims China

While the world is focusing on how China plans to contain the Wuhan Virus outbreak - it is worth considering what would happen if the epidemic continues to spread. Is the world prepared to handle a major global outbreak?

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: The global picture of the outbreak

People are turning to face masks to protect themselves from the coronavirus. But, Pharmacies are running out of them. From Hong Kong, to Manila and even Bangkok - countries affected by the Wuhan virus are running short of face masks.

Gravitas: Wuhan virus triggers a shortage of face masks

The Wuhan coronavirus is almost as big as the Sars outbreak. The WHO is being accused of dragging its feet. China faces the charge of covering up the extend of the outbreak. On WION Edit, Palki S Upadhyay asks - Who's to blame for the Wuhan virus outbreak?

WION Edit: Who's to blame for coronavirus outbreak

The Wuhan virus outbreak couldn't come at a worse time for China. The disease could pull down a slowing Chinese economy. Even the global economy will feel the pinch. Palki S Upadhyay assess the economic impact of this outbreak.

Gravitas: China virus outbreak could hurt global economy

WION is the only Indian news network that is bringing you updates about the deadly virus outbreak in China - straight from its origins. In this report, WION's Palki S Upadhyay with Patrick Fok and Grace Lee get you the latest updates.

Gravitas: China's deadly virus: WION gets you a ground report

Rumours about China's deadly virus are spreading fast. In this report, Palki S Upadhyay answers some frequently asked questions about the Wuhan coronavirus - separating the facts from fiction.

Gravitas: How to protect yourself from the Coronavirus

Residents in Hong Kong's Kowloon district braved a seven-hour long queue on Thursday (January 30) morning to buy face masks only to discover stores were out of stock amid fears of increasing coronavirus cases.

Hongkongers queue for hours as mask supplies run short

Consequences of the Coronavirus - Air travel is restricted, international business close down

Australian scientists have claimed to have developed a lab grown version of the new deadly virus from a patient's sample. Dr. Mike Catton from The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity said the development will enable scientists to accurately investigate and diagnose the coronavirus.

Australian scientist claims lab version of virus

Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed to convene a high-level inter-ministerial meeting to discuss preventive measures against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-wuhan-mayor-predicts-1000-more-infected-with-virus-276704">deadly coronavirus</a> and formulate a comprehensive strategy to tackle the threat.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-says-china-virus-outbreak-will-hit-its-economy-this-year-276798">deadly novel virus</a>, which causes pneumonia-like illness, has already killed 106 people and infected more than 4,515 others in China.

The high-level meeting would be chaired by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Zafar Mirza, according to the Prime Minister's office.

Khan directed that the outcome of the meeting along with firm recommendations shall be furnished to his office within one week, as per reports.

His office stated that due to the presence of a large number of Chinese citizens in Pakistan and frequent travel between the two countries, the spread of coronavirus in Pakistan cannot be ruled out if necessary precautionary measures are not put in place.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/beyond-china-tracking-deadly-coronavirus-outbreak-276564">Beyond China: Tracking deadly coronavirus outbreak</a>

Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing, in a video statement, said that Chinese and Pakistani governments are working closely and 500 Pakistani citizens in Wuhan city of Hubei province are safe and being looked after.

"So far three suspicious cases in the Chinese community have been reported in Pakistan, but none of them has been confirmed. We have confidence and determination that we will overcome this difficult time and will return to normal life very soon," Yao said.

Meanwhile, the Islamabad International Airport management has sought two more "virus detection scanners".

An eight-member health department team has been monitoring the passengers arriving from Beijing. All the passengers are passed through the virus detection scanners and also checked by thermal guns.

The coronavirus, officially known as 2019-nCoV, was first reported in Hubei province's capital city Wuhan and has spread throughout China and around the world including the US, Australia and South Korea.

There are 41 incoming flights from China to Pakistan every week, mostly taking away and bringing the Chinese. Thousands of Chinese nationals who are working on projects in various cities in Pakistan as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor regularly travel between the two countries, raising fears they could spread the disease.

The coronavirus has caused alarm because of its similarity to SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), which killed nearly 650 people across mainland China in 2002-2003.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed to convene a high-level inter-ministerial meeting to discuss preventive measures against the deadly coronavirus and formulate a comprehensive strategy to tackle the threat.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed to convene a high-level inter-ministerial meeting to discuss preventive measures against the deadly coronavirus and formulate a comprehensive strategy to tackle the threat. The deadly novel virus, which causes pneumonia-like illness, has already killed 106 people and infected more than 4,515 others in China. The high-level meeting would be chaired by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Zafar Mirza, according to the Prime Minister's office. Khan directed that the outcome of the meeting along with firm recommendations shall be furnished to his office within one week, as per reports. His office stated that due to the presence of a large number of Chinese citizens in Pakistan and frequent travel between the two countries, the spread of coronavirus in Pakistan cannot be ruled out if necessary precautionary measures are not put in place. Also Read: Beyond China: Tracking deadly coronavirus outbreak Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing, in a video statement, said that Chinese and Pakistani governments are working closely and 500 Pakistani citizens in Wuhan city of Hubei province are safe and being looked after. "So far three suspicious cases in the Chinese community have been reported in Pakistan, but none of them has been confirmed. We have confidence and determination that we will overcome this difficult time and will return to normal life very soon," Yao said. Meanwhile, the Islamabad International Airport management has sought two more "virus detection scanners". An eight-member health department team has been monitoring the passengers arriving from Beijing. All the passengers are passed through the virus detection scanners and also checked by thermal guns. The coronavirus, officially known as 2019-nCoV, was first reported in Hubei province's capital city Wuhan and has spread throughout China and around the world including the US, Australia and South Korea. There are 41 incoming flights from China to Pakistan every week, mostly taking away and bringing the Chinese. Thousands of Chinese nationals who are working on projects in various cities in Pakistan as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor regularly travel between the two countries, raising fears they could spread the disease. The coronavirus has caused alarm because of its similarity to SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), which killed nearly 650 people across mainland China in 2002-2003.

Pakistan to convene high-level meet to discuss preventive measures against coronavirus

The death toll from a coronavirus outbreak in China rose to 81 on Monday (January 27), as the government extended the Lunar New Year holiday and more big businesses shut down or told staff to work from home in an effort to curb the spread.

China extends Spring Festival holiday to contain coronavirus outbreak

On the back of the outbreak of ‘Coronavirus’ in China, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the virus may also enter Nepal. It exclaimed that Nepal lacks proper healthcare institutes and research laboratories for treatment and diagnosis of highly infectious diseases caused by a coronavirus. Watch report:

WHO warns Nepal over Coronavirus

China deadly Coronavirus has now claimed at least around 25 lives so far and around 830 people have been affected. The five Chinese cities are presently under lockdown to try and control the spread of this deadly virus. However, the World health organisation till now hasn't declared this virus as a 'global health emergency' so far. Watch report:

China's deadly Coronavirus spreads, 25 dead, 830 infected

Medical workers in central China's Wuhan City have faced up to their responsibilities regardless of the risks, with many putting in gruelling shifts as they support patients fighting viral pneumonia following the outbreak of a new type of coronavirus in the city. The Jinyintan hospital is one of nine specialist medical facilities designated for treating pneumonia patients in Wuhan, where staff have been working to combat the coronavirus since the first patient entered the hospital on December 29. As of now, the hospital has taken in a total of 170 pneumonia patients, of which 28 have been discharged while 137 still undergo treatment. Five victims have lost their lives at the hands of the illness despite the best efforts of staff.

Wuhan medical workers face gruelling task of treating viral pneumonia patients

A team of scientists from the <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/first-known-us-patient-of-coronavirus-being-treated-by-robot-276107">US </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-wuhan-coronavirus-who-yet-to-decide-if-china-virus-is-a-global-health-emergency-276018">China </a>have reportedly discovered&nbsp;28 ancient viruses in the Tibetan glacier which were never been seen earlier in the modern world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-ten-years-to-save-worlds-biodiversity-from-extinction-un-274629">Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN</a>

According to reports, at least 33 virus groups were also discovered in the&nbsp;glacier called Guliya ice cap in the northwestern Tibetan Plateau which is&nbsp;15,000 years old.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oldest-known-asteroid-collision-ended-earths-ice-age-study-275861">Oldest known asteroid collision ended Earth's 'ice age': Study</a>

The group published a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heat-from-eruption-of-mount-vesuvius-turned-victims-brained-to-glass-276041">research </a>paper which stated their findings in detail.&nbsp;They had travelled to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/villagers-hold-celebrations-to-warm-up-tibetan-new-year-in-southwest-china-274069">Tibet</a> in 2015 in search of the oldest glacial ice on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oldest-known-asteroid-collision-ended-earths-ice-age-study-275861">Earth</a>.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-action-on-climate-change-gets-stuck-and-what-to-do-about-it-275736">Why action on climate change gets stuck and what to do about it</a>

The scientists&nbsp;obtained two ice cores after drilling 50 meters inside the ice cap and had to undergo&nbsp;a protocol of three-step decontamination.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-coronavirus-wuhan-city-imposes-transport-lockdown-as-death-toll-rises-to-seventeen-and-no-of-cases-rise-to-571-276004">China coronavirus: Wuhan city imposes transport lockdown&nbsp;</a>

It was followed by the use of microbiology techniques to identify microbes and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-coronavirus-wuhan-city-imposes-transport-lockdown-as-death-toll-rises-to-seventeen-and-no-of-cases-rise-to-571-276004">viruses</a> in the samples.&nbsp;

''Melting of glaciers, at a bare minimum leads to loss of microbial and viral archives and in turn can be informative and help in the diagnosis of the planet's old climate regimes,'' they scientists said in the&nbsp;research paper.

However, the melted ice can release toxic pathogens into the environment.&nbsp;It is a dire situation as this can lead to several fatal diseases, they predicted.

The inability to address global change is climate has transformed it in a ticking time bomb.&nbsp;They pointed out that climate change is an added threat as it has adversely affected our ability to delineate these minuscule lifeforms and to steer clear from harmful ones.

A team of scientists from the US and China have reportedly discovered 28 ancient viruses in the Tibetan glacier which were never been seen earlier in the modern world.

A team of scientists from the US and China have reportedly discovered 28 ancient viruses in the Tibetan glacier which were never been seen earlier in the modern world. Also read: Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN According to reports, at least 33 virus groups were also discovered in the glacier called Guliya ice cap in the northwestern Tibetan Plateau which is 15,000 years old. Also read: Oldest known asteroid collision ended Earth's 'ice age': Study The group published a research paper which stated their findings in detail. They had travelled to Tibet in 2015 in search of the oldest glacial ice on Earth. Also read: Why action on climate change gets stuck and what to do about it The scientists obtained two ice cores after drilling 50 meters inside the ice cap and had to undergo a protocol of three-step decontamination. Also read: China coronavirus: Wuhan city imposes transport lockdown It was followed by the use of microbiology techniques to identify microbes and viruses in the samples. ''Melting of glaciers, at a bare minimum leads to loss of microbial and viral archives and in turn can be informative and help in the diagnosis of the planet's old climate regimes,'' they scientists said in the research paper. However, the melted ice can release toxic pathogens into the environment. It is a dire situation as this can lead to several fatal diseases, they predicted. The inability to address global change is climate has transformed it in a ticking time bomb. They pointed out that climate change is an added threat as it has adversely affected our ability to delineate these minuscule lifeforms and to steer clear from harmful ones.

US, Chinese scientists discover ancient viruses in Tibetan glacier

Dubai&nbsp;will&nbsp;screen&nbsp;passengers&nbsp;arriving on direct&nbsp;flights&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/is-china-myanmar-economic-corridor-turning-out-to-be-another-cpec-275688">China</a>, the airport operator said on Thursday, as health authorities around the world scramble to prevent a global pandemic.

A new coronavirus&nbsp;that first appeared in the Chinese city of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wuhan-virus-compounds-hong-kongs-economic-woes-275935">Wuhan</a> has killed 17 and infected nearly 600, most in&nbsp;China&nbsp;but cases have been detected as far away as the United States.

Hundreds of millions of Chinese will travel at home and abroad during the week-long Lunar New Year holiday which begins on Saturday.

All&nbsp;passengers&nbsp;arriving at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dubai-airport-flights-delayed-cancelled-and-diverted-due-to-heavy-rain-273619">Dubai&nbsp;International</a> on direct&nbsp;flights&nbsp;from&nbsp;China&nbsp;"must receive thermal&nbsp;screening at the gate upon arrival and be provided with information leaflets,"&nbsp;Dubai&nbsp;Airports said.&nbsp;Passengers&nbsp;will be checked in secured gates.

Dubai&nbsp;International is the world's third busiest airport and a major international transit hub. It is the base of a major airline Emirates.

Thousands of Chinese travelers are expected to pass through&nbsp;Dubai&nbsp;airport for the Lunar New Year weekend, the operator said.

The United States, Australia, Britain, and several other countries have introduced&nbsp;screening measures at major airports.

China&nbsp;is putting Wuhan, a city of 11 million people considered the epicenter of the&nbsp;outbreak, on lockdown.

A flight from the city is scheduled to arrive in&nbsp;Dubai&nbsp;on Sunday, flight booking websites showed.

Dubai will screen passengers arriving on direct flights from China, the airport operator said on Thursday, as health authorities around the world scramble to prevent a global pandemic.

Dubai will screen passengers arriving on direct flights from China, the airport operator said on Thursday, as health authorities around the world scramble to prevent a global pandemic. A new coronavirus that first appeared in the Chinese city of Wuhan has killed 17 and infected nearly 600, most in China but cases have been detected as far away as the United States. Hundreds of millions of Chinese will travel at home and abroad during the week-long Lunar New Year holiday which begins on Saturday. All passengers arriving at Dubai International on direct flights from China "must receive thermal screening at the gate upon arrival and be provided with information leaflets," Dubai Airports said. Passengers will be checked in secured gates. Dubai International is the world's third busiest airport and a major international transit hub. It is the base of a major airline Emirates. Thousands of Chinese travelers are expected to pass through Dubai airport for the Lunar New Year weekend, the operator said. The United States, Australia, Britain, and several other countries have introduced screening measures at major airports. China is putting Wuhan, a city of 11 million people considered the epicenter of the outbreak, on lockdown. A flight from the city is scheduled to arrive in Dubai on Sunday, flight booking websites showed.

Dubai to screen passengers on China flights after virus outbreak

World shares fell on Thursday, led by the biggest decline in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-us-stock-futures-slip-after-tariff-hike-asia-shares-eke-out-gains-217420">Chinese stocks</a> in more than eight months, as concern mounted about the spread of a deadly virus in China.

With millions of Chinese preparing to travel for the Lunar New Year, the potential the disease to spread, along with the tendency of traders to reduce their exposure before holidays, left markets struggling.

Safe options like Japan's yen and government bonds rose, while European stocks followed Asia lower. The threat to airline travel and an increase in supply pushed oil prices to seven-week lows.

"Ultimately, the coronavirus is a slow-burning but important story for markets that is likely to last for months rather than just a few days," said TD Securities' European head of currency strategy, Ned Rumpeltin. "And the natural go-to currencies, when there are headlines like these, are the yen and the Swiss franc."

The Swiss franc rose to a near three-year high against the euro overnight, but it was trading little changed as the focus in Europe turned to its central banks.

Norway's central bank had already left its interest rates unchanged. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-central-bank-will-ease-policy-if-inflation-doesnt-pick-up-draghi-228287">European Central Bank</a> holds its first meeting of the year later on Thursday, where it's expected to outline its first formal policy review in 17 years.

It will probably last for most of the year and span topics from the inflation target to digital money and the fight against climate change.

"Quite a lot has happened in the last 17 years," Rumpeltin said. "They are due for a rethink."

As the virus took hold, MSCI's broadest index of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-erase-losses-as-mideast-tensions-ease-oil-ticks-up-273093">Asia-Pacific shares</a> outside Japan fell 1.07 per cent. Chinese shares dropped 3.1 per cent, the biggest daily decline since May, when US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's threats of additional tariffs on Chinese goods rocked financial markets.

Hong Kong shares ended down 1.5 per cent&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/asia-stocks-open-lower-on-fears-over-us-growth-155633">Japan's Nikkei index</a> slid 1 per cent.

Among major currencies, the Chinese yuan fell to a two-week low, on course for its worst week since August. The Japanese yen climbed 0.2&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;to secure a third day of gains.

Gold and US&nbsp;Treasuries also rose as China blocked travel to and from Wuhan, the city where the coronavirus outbreak originated. Gold later recovered in Europe.

Deaths in China from the coronavirus rose to 17 on Wednesday, with nearly 600 cases confirmed. The outbreak has evoked memories of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2002-2003, another coronavirus that broke out in China and killed nearly 800 people worldwide.

"The coronavirus has introduced some caution," said Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist at CMC Markets in Sydney. "There is no reason to expect a global pandemic now, but there is some repricing in financial markets."

World shares fell on Thursday, led by the biggest decline in Chinese stocks in more than eight months, as concern mounted about the spread of a deadly virus in China.

World shares fell on Thursday, led by the biggest decline in Chinese stocks in more than eight months, as concern mounted about the spread of a deadly virus in China. With millions of Chinese preparing to travel for the Lunar New Year, the potential the disease to spread, along with the tendency of traders to reduce their exposure before holidays, left markets struggling. Safe options like Japan's yen and government bonds rose, while European stocks followed Asia lower. The threat to airline travel and an increase in supply pushed oil prices to seven-week lows. "Ultimately, the coronavirus is a slow-burning but important story for markets that is likely to last for months rather than just a few days," said TD Securities' European head of currency strategy, Ned Rumpeltin. "And the natural go-to currencies, when there are headlines like these, are the yen and the Swiss franc." The Swiss franc rose to a near three-year high against the euro overnight, but it was trading little changed as the focus in Europe turned to its central banks. Norway's central bank had already left its interest rates unchanged. The European Central Bank holds its first meeting of the year later on Thursday, where it's expected to outline its first formal policy review in 17 years. It will probably last for most of the year and span topics from the inflation target to digital money and the fight against climate change. "Quite a lot has happened in the last 17 years," Rumpeltin said. "They are due for a rethink." As the virus took hold, MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 1.07 per cent. Chinese shares dropped 3.1 per cent, the biggest daily decline since May, when US President Donald Trump's threats of additional tariffs on Chinese goods rocked financial markets. Hong Kong shares ended down 1.5 per cent and Japan's Nikkei index slid 1 per cent. Among major currencies, the Chinese yuan fell to a two-week low, on course for its worst week since August. The Japanese yen climbed 0.2 per cent to secure a third day of gains. Gold and US Treasuries also rose as China blocked travel to and from Wuhan, the city where the coronavirus outbreak originated. Gold later recovered in Europe. Deaths in China from the coronavirus rose to 17 on Wednesday, with nearly 600 cases confirmed. The outbreak has evoked memories of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2002-2003, another coronavirus that broke out in China and killed nearly 800 people worldwide. "The coronavirus has introduced some caution," said Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist at CMC Markets in Sydney. "There is no reason to expect a global pandemic now, but there is some repricing in financial markets."

Virus fears keep stocks red; ECB gets ready to rethink

The latest on deadly Coronavirus has confirmed the death of four in China and more than 218 cases have been detected in China alone. The World Health Organisation emergency panel will meet this week to discuss this SAARC like virus that has spread beyond China. China has confirmed human-to-human transmission of the new Coronavirus.

Coronavirus spreads beyond China, Human-to-human transmission confirmed

China is battling the spread of a deadly mysterious virus which is compared to the SARS virus. More than 200 people have been infected so far and an Indian national living in China is among them. Many countries in the region are now on alert. Take a look...

Gravitas: China Battles Deadly Virus: Over 200 Cases Reported

Four individuals were diagnosed with pneumonia on Thursday and are in stable condition, the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission said in a statement published shortly after midnight. Saturday's statement marked the first confirmation of new cases by the authority in nearly a week and came a day after the commission confirmed the death of a second patient.

Watch:&nbsp;At least 59 people infected with mysterious virus in China, Beijing rules out SARS threat

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Nearly 50 people are known to have been infected and so far involve only individuals who have travelled to or live in Wuhan, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-sars-like-virus-in-china-has-affected-hundreds-report-274962">wider outbreak is possible</a>. Many of China's 1.4 billion people will be travelling abroad during the Lunar New Year holidays next week, raising concerns about the disease spreading to other parts of the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-confirmed-in-chinese-traveller-who-arrived-in-thailand-who-274059">Thailand has reported two cases</a> of the coronavirus from Chinese travellers from Wuhan this week, while Japan has confirmed one case involving a Japanese national who travelled to Wuhan. Memories remain fresh in Asia of a 2002/03 outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which emerged in China and killed nearly 800 people worldwide.\

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-hospitals-worldwide-as-new-china-coronavirus-may-spread-further-274255">WHO warns hospitals worldwide over further spread of China's coronavirus</a>

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause infections ranging from the common cold to SARS. Health authorities have so far said the new virus discovered in Wuhan does not appear to be as lethal as SARS but admit they still know little about it, including its origins or how easily it can be transmitted from person to person.

A seafood market in Wuhan is believed to be the epicentre, but authorities say some of the 45 patients they have identified with the virus in the city deny having any exposure to this market.

U.S. authorities have said they would start <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amidst-novel-coronavirus-outbreak-in-china-health-ministry-issues-travel-advisory-274904">screening at three airports</a> - Los Angeles International, San Francisco International and New York's John F. Kennedy International - to detect travellers arriving via direct or connecting flights from Wuhan who may have symptoms of the new virus.

In Asia, Thailand has stepped up monitoring at four airports receiving daily flights from Wuhan. Airports in Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea are also screening passengers from Wuhan, authorities said.

Indonesian authorities said they have stepped up screening at all points of entry in response to the outbreak. The Philippines is scanning all passengers at seaports and airports and those with fever will be interviewed for a history of illness and whether they have travelled to Wuhan, the country's Health Secretary Franciso Duque stated.

Japan screens all incoming travellers for high temperatures and the health ministry last week started displaying notices at airports around the country asking passengers to come forward if they have travelled to Wuhan and have become sick.

The WHO has said it advises against any travel or trade restrictions on China, however.

Australia, which saw about 1.4 million short-term arrivals from China last year, is not planning any screenings for now.

Four individuals were diagnosed with pneumonia on Thursday and are in stable condition, the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission said in a statement published shortly after midnight.

Four individuals were diagnosed with pneumonia on Thursday and are in stable condition, the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission said in a statement published shortly after midnight. Saturday's statement marked the first confirmation of new cases by the authority in nearly a week and came a day after the commission confirmed the death of a second patient. Watch: At least 59 people infected with mysterious virus in China, Beijing rules out SARS threat Nearly 50 people are known to have been infected and so far involve only individuals who have travelled to or live in Wuhan, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that a wider outbreak is possible. Many of China's 1.4 billion people will be travelling abroad during the Lunar New Year holidays next week, raising concerns about the disease spreading to other parts of the world. Thailand has reported two cases of the coronavirus from Chinese travellers from Wuhan this week, while Japan has confirmed one case involving a Japanese national who travelled to Wuhan. Memories remain fresh in Asia of a 2002/03 outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which emerged in China and killed nearly 800 people worldwide.\ Also Read: WHO warns hospitals worldwide over further spread of China's coronavirus Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause infections ranging from the common cold to SARS. Health authorities have so far said the new virus discovered in Wuhan does not appear to be as lethal as SARS but admit they still know little about it, including its origins or how easily it can be transmitted from person to person. A seafood market in Wuhan is believed to be the epicentre, but authorities say some of the 45 patients they have identified with the virus in the city deny having any exposure to this market. U.S. authorities have said they would start screening at three airports - Los Angeles International, San Francisco International and New York's John F. Kennedy International - to detect travellers arriving via direct or connecting flights from Wuhan who may have symptoms of the new virus. In Asia, Thailand has stepped up monitoring at four airports receiving daily flights from Wuhan. Airports in Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea are also screening passengers from Wuhan, authorities said. Indonesian authorities said they have stepped up screening at all points of entry in response to the outbreak. The Philippines is scanning all passengers at seaports and airports and those with fever will be interviewed for a history of illness and whether they have travelled to Wuhan, the country's Health Secretary Franciso Duque stated. Japan screens all incoming travellers for high temperatures and the health ministry last week started displaying notices at airports around the country asking passengers to come forward if they have travelled to Wuhan and have become sick. The WHO has said it advises against any travel or trade restrictions on China, however. Australia, which saw about 1.4 million short-term arrivals from China last year, is not planning any screenings for now.

China reports new cases in Wuhan virus outbreak

A virus akin to SARS that recently hit China <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-probes-mystery-pneumonia-outbreak-amid-sars-fears-271264">mysteriously</a> has taken the lives of two people with more than hundreds likely to be infected, reported AFP.

The virus also causes pneumonia which has infected at least 41 people in China. The first signs of the virus appeared around a seafood market in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

According to a study published by scientists at the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis at the Imperial College in London, the number of affected could run into thousands.

Watch:&nbsp;At least 59 people infected with mysterious virus in China, Beijing rules out SARS threat

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The Centre, which also advises world health bodies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated a ''total of 1,723 cases'' in Wuhan by January 12.

"For Wuhan to have exported three cases to other countries would imply there would have to be many more cases than have been reported," Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the authors of the report, told the BBC.

The infection no longer remains within the Chinese borders, with cases appearing in Thailand and Japan as well. In the former, two were infected, while one person has been affected in the latter so far. According to researchers, this was traced via international flight traffic data from Wuhan's airport. 
 
"I am substantially more concerned than I was a week ago.... [but it is] too early to be alarmist", Ferguson added.&nbsp;

Ferguson further added that it was "unlikely" that the infection was a product of animal exposure.

"People should be considering the possibility of substantial human-to-human transmission more seriously than they have so far," he added.

As of now, two people have known to be killed by the strange virus, which originates from the same pathogen family as the SARS virus.

Global health authorities have reaffirmed the lesser risk associated with the infection.

<img alt="Wuhan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d372eb52-ce72-4c79-98eb-577db8e2822a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_46.jpg" />

<h6>Image: Members of staff of the Wuhan Hygiene Emergency Response Team conduct searches on the closed Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in the city of Wuhan, in the Hubei Province, on January 11, 2020, where the Wuhan health commission said that the man who died from a respiratory illness had purchased goods | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

However, attempts to stop it from spreading have been put into action. For example, in Hong Kong, the authorities have improved their screening mechanism. This includes temperature checkpoints for travellers coming from the Chinese mainland.&nbsp;

The United States will also start screening flights arriving from Wuhan at San Francisco as well as New York City, along with Los Angeles.

Recently, Indian authorities also issued an advisory for people planning to travel to China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-from-sars-family-may-be-cause-of-mysterious-pneumonia-cases-in-china-who-273068">New coronavirus from SARS family may be cause of mysterious pneumonia cases in China: WHO</a>

(With inputs from AFP)

A virus akin to SARS that recently hit China mysteriously has taken the lives of two people with more than hundreds likely to be infected, reported AFP. The virus also causes pneumonia which has infected at least 41 people in China.

A virus akin to SARS that recently hit China mysteriously has taken the lives of two people with more than hundreds likely to be infected, reported AFP. The virus also causes pneumonia which has infected at least 41 people in China. The first signs of the virus appeared around a seafood market in the Chinese city of Wuhan. According to a study published by scientists at the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis at the Imperial College in London, the number of affected could run into thousands. Watch: At least 59 people infected with mysterious virus in China, Beijing rules out SARS threat The Centre, which also advises world health bodies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated a ''total of 1,723 cases'' in Wuhan by January 12. "For Wuhan to have exported three cases to other countries would imply there would have to be many more cases than have been reported," Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the authors of the report, told the BBC. The infection no longer remains within the Chinese borders, with cases appearing in Thailand and Japan as well. In the former, two were infected, while one person has been affected in the latter so far. According to researchers, this was traced via international flight traffic data from Wuhan's airport. "I am substantially more concerned than I was a week ago.... [but it is] too early to be alarmist", Ferguson added. Ferguson further added that it was "unlikely" that the infection was a product of animal exposure. "People should be considering the possibility of substantial human-to-human transmission more seriously than they have so far," he added. As of now, two people have known to be killed by the strange virus, which originates from the same pathogen family as the SARS virus. Global health authorities have reaffirmed the lesser risk associated with the infection. Image: Members of staff of the Wuhan Hygiene Emergency Response Team conduct searches on the closed Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in the city of Wuhan, in the Hubei Province, on January 11, 2020, where the Wuhan health commission said that the man who died from a respiratory illness had purchased goods | AFP However, attempts to stop it from spreading have been put into action. For example, in Hong Kong, the authorities have improved their screening mechanism. This includes temperature checkpoints for travellers coming from the Chinese mainland. The United States will also start screening flights arriving from Wuhan at San Francisco as well as New York City, along with Los Angeles. Recently, Indian authorities also issued an advisory for people planning to travel to China. Also read: New coronavirus from SARS family may be cause of mysterious pneumonia cases in China: WHO (With inputs from AFP)

Mysterious SARS-like virus in China has affected 'hundreds': Report

Calling Pakistan a "blot on humanity", a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baloch-activists-hold-anti-pakistan-protest-outside-un-office-seek-intervention-250262">Baloch activist</a> has said the country which was created for Islam has emerged as the biggest enemy of the religion itself.

He also accused the Pakistani establishment of kidnapping children of the Baloch community.

<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"We aim to expose the real face of Pakistan before the&nbsp;world&nbsp;and let the&nbsp;world&nbsp;know that Pakistan is a blot on humanity. Pakstan is the biggest enemy of Islam. Pakistan was created for Islam and now it has become the biggest enemy of that religion," Shams Baloch, Central Council Member of Free Balochistan Movement.

"Pakistan gained control over Balochistan. Pakistan is a virus not just for India, Afghanistan or Balochistan, but for the entire&nbsp;world&nbsp;&amp; humanity," he added.

Pakistan has been condemned internationally for cracking down on the minorities living in the country.

Islamabad is also reportedly discriminating against its religious minorities, which is manifested in various forms of targeted violence, mass murders, extrajudicial killings, abduction, rapes, forced conversion to Islam, etc, making the Pakistani Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadiyyas, and Shias one of the most persecuted minorities in the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/baloch-activists-demand-suspension-of-paks-membership-from-unhrc-165497">Various activists</a> belonging to the Baloch, Pashtuns, and Sindhi communities have been holding protests in Geneva to expose Pakistan over its illegal occupation and suppression of the minorities.

For long, Pakistan's establishment has been criticised over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by international bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue.

According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, about 5,000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014.

Most of them are still unresolved.

Independent local and international human rights organisations put the numbers much higher.

Around 20,000 have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture.

Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple interviews about the involvement of Pakistan's intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Calling Pakistan a "blot on humanity", a Baloch activist has said the country which was created for Islam has emerged as the biggest enemy of the religion itself.

Calling Pakistan a "blot on humanity", a Baloch activist has said the country which was created for Islam has emerged as the biggest enemy of the religion itself. He also accused the Pakistani establishment of kidnapping children of the Baloch community. "We aim to expose the real face of Pakistan before the world and let the world know that Pakistan is a blot on humanity. Pakstan is the biggest enemy of Islam. Pakistan was created for Islam and now it has become the biggest enemy of that religion," Shams Baloch, Central Council Member of Free Balochistan Movement. "Pakistan gained control over Balochistan. Pakistan is a virus not just for India, Afghanistan or Balochistan, but for the entire world & humanity," he added. Pakistan has been condemned internationally for cracking down on the minorities living in the country. Islamabad is also reportedly discriminating against its religious minorities, which is manifested in various forms of targeted violence, mass murders, extrajudicial killings, abduction, rapes, forced conversion to Islam, etc, making the Pakistani Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadiyyas, and Shias one of the most persecuted minorities in the region. Various activists belonging to the Baloch, Pashtuns, and Sindhi communities have been holding protests in Geneva to expose Pakistan over its illegal occupation and suppression of the minorities. For long, Pakistan's establishment has been criticised over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by international bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue. According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, about 5,000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved. Independent local and international human rights organisations put the numbers much higher. Around 20,000 have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture. Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple interviews about the involvement of Pakistan's intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Pakistan is blot on humanity, virus for entire world: Baloch activist

What is dengue, and why is it so widespread this year?

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