<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">Taiwan </a>urged the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-defends-chinas-handling-of-coronavirus-280873">World Health Organisation</a> on Tuesday not to be "kidnapped" by China, as more countries put travel curbs on its citizens because the health agency groups the island's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-toll-leaps-past-1868-with-93-new-deaths-in-chinas-hubei-province-281239">coronavirus </a>cases with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">China </a>in the battle on the outbreak.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-confirms-first-coronavirus-death-on-island-cases-at-20-280968">Taiwan </a>has reported just 22 cases, versus China's figure of more than 72,400, but the self-ruled island shares the agency's classification of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">China </a>as "very high risk", since the WHO considers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">Taiwan </a>as part of China.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-confirms-first-coronavirus-death-on-island-cases-at-20-280968">Taiwan's confirms first coronavirus death on island, cases at 20</a>

"Taiwan is not ruled by China and certainly should not be labelled as an infected area," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou told a news conference.

"We urge the WHO to be professional and neutral: Break away from China's unreasonable claim. Don't be kidnapped by China."

Taipei is already in a war of words with Beijing over its exclusion from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-defends-chinas-handling-of-coronavirus-280873">WHO</a>, because of objections by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">China</a>, which considers Taiwan its own territory and has blocked the island's membership in many international bodies.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">Now, Taiwan sells face masks to fend off Chinese buyers</a>

Democratically governed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-confirms-first-coronavirus-death-on-island-cases-at-20-280968">Taiwan </a>says it is an independent country called the Republic of China&nbsp;and has never been part of the People's Republic of China.

Countries including El Salvador, Mongolia, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu have adopted travel curbs for arrivals who have visited Taiwan, while the island's largest airline is covered by an Italian ban on flights from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-taiwan-selling-face-masks-to-fend-off-chinese-buyers-279227">China</a>.

Ou said Taiwan continued to press Italy to resume flights, adding that the WHO should immediately correct its "inappropriate label" for the island.

Taiwan has scrambled diplomats around the world to ensure no more flights are cut off because of the WHO classification.

In a rare diplomatic success, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-confirms-first-coronavirus-death-on-island-cases-at-20-280968">Taiwan </a>managed to get Vietnam to lift a flight ban this month. Last week, the Philippines lifted a travel ban on visitors from Taiwan imposed to rein in the spread of the virus.

Taiwan urged the World Health Organisation on Tuesday not to be "kidnapped" by China, as more countries put travel curbs on its citizens because the health agency groups the island's coronavirus cases with China in the battle on the outbreak.

Taiwan urged the World Health Organisation on Tuesday not to be "kidnapped" by China, as more countries put travel curbs on its citizens because the health agency groups the island's coronavirus cases with China in the battle on the outbreak. Taiwan has reported just 22 cases, versus China's figure of more than 72,400, but the self-ruled island shares the agency's classification of China as "very high risk", since the WHO considers Taiwan as part of China. Also read: Taiwan's confirms first coronavirus death on island, cases at 20 "Taiwan is not ruled by China and certainly should not be labelled as an infected area," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou told a news conference. "We urge the WHO to be professional and neutral: Break away from China's unreasonable claim. Don't be kidnapped by China." Taipei is already in a war of words with Beijing over its exclusion from the WHO, because of objections by China, which considers Taiwan its own territory and has blocked the island's membership in many international bodies. Also read: Now, Taiwan sells face masks to fend off Chinese buyers Democratically governed Taiwan says it is an independent country called the Republic of China and has never been part of the People's Republic of China. Countries including El Salvador, Mongolia, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu have adopted travel curbs for arrivals who have visited Taiwan, while the island's largest airline is covered by an Italian ban on flights from China. Ou said Taiwan continued to press Italy to resume flights, adding that the WHO should immediately correct its "inappropriate label" for the island. Taiwan has scrambled diplomats around the world to ensure no more flights are cut off because of the WHO classification. In a rare diplomatic success, Taiwan managed to get Vietnam to lift a flight ban this month. Last week, the Philippines lifted a travel ban on visitors from Taiwan imposed to rein in the spread of the virus.

'Don't be kidnapped by China': Taiwan tells World Health Organisation in bid for separate virus tally

The World Health Organisation defended China's handling of coronavirus which is continuously spreading across continents.

WHO's chief of emergencies Dr Michael Ryan said that China had a strong <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-coronavirus-death-confirmed-in-europe-over-1500-die-in-china-280870">public health system</a> and the rhetoric surrounding the outbreak had not been helpful.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Ryan also said that the global community needed to change the narrative to tackle the newly identified coronavirus more successfully.

The outbreak which began in China in December has now infected more than 60,000 people and the death toll has crossed 15,000.

Watch |&nbsp;WION answers your travel questions amid coronavirus outbreak

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&nbsp;

In a press briefing held at Munich security conference, the WHO Director-General said that the outbreak of COVID-19 in China stands as a shred of evidence that the world was badly prepared for a pandemic.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke about the lasting impact of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-143-new-deaths-reported-in-china-as-toll-rises-to-1523-280766">spread of the virus </a>and how the world needed to be less shortsighted.

He said the WHO was concerned about the continuous spread of the virus, impact on health workers and the lack of personal protective equipment.

Meanwhile, the death toll from a coronavirus outbreak in mainland China has reached 1,665 as of the end of Saturday, up by 142 from the previous day, the country's National Health Commission said on Sunday morning.

The number of new deaths in China's central Hubei province from the coronavirus outbreak rose by 139 as of Saturday.

Across mainland China, there were 2009 new confirmed infections on Saturday. The total accumulated number so far has reached 68,500.

The World Health Organisation defended China's handling of coronavirus which is continuously spreading across continents. WHO's chief of emergencies Dr Michael Ryan said that China had a strong public health system and the rhetoric surrounding the outbreak had not been helpful.

The World Health Organisation defended China's handling of coronavirus which is continuously spreading across continents. WHO's chief of emergencies Dr Michael Ryan said that China had a strong public health system and the rhetoric surrounding the outbreak had not been helpful. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Ryan also said that the global community needed to change the narrative to tackle the newly identified coronavirus more successfully. The outbreak which began in China in December has now infected more than 60,000 people and the death toll has crossed 15,000. Watch | WION answers your travel questions amid coronavirus outbreak × In a press briefing held at Munich security conference, the WHO Director-General said that the outbreak of COVID-19 in China stands as a shred of evidence that the world was badly prepared for a pandemic. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke about the lasting impact of spread of the virus and how the world needed to be less shortsighted. He said the WHO was concerned about the continuous spread of the virus, impact on health workers and the lack of personal protective equipment. Meanwhile, the death toll from a coronavirus outbreak in mainland China has reached 1,665 as of the end of Saturday, up by 142 from the previous day, the country's National Health Commission said on Sunday morning. The number of new deaths in China's central Hubei province from the coronavirus outbreak rose by 139 as of Saturday. Across mainland China, there were 2009 new confirmed infections on Saturday. The total accumulated number so far has reached 68,500.

WHO defends China's handling of coronavirus as death toll rises to 1,665

American Airlines have announced that they have extended its suspension of flights to mainland China and Hong Kong until April amid the novel coronavirus outbreak that has infected more than 40,000 people worldwide. Watch report:

WION Dispatch: Global airlines suspend flights to China

By Ian M Mackay and Katherine Arden

A recent announcement by a Chinese health official suggested the new coronavirus might spread more easily than we thought, via an “airborne route”. The virus is now known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), while the name of the disease it causes is now called COVID-19.

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention almost immediately corrected the announcement, noting SARS-CoV-2 was not known to be an airborne virus.

The centre confirmed the virus appears to spread via droplets, direct contact and by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. The World Health Organisation agrees.

So far no infectious virus has been recovered from captured air samples. This would need to occur to demonstrate the virus was airborne.

When we sneeze, cough or talk, we expel particles in a range of sizes.

The bigger, wet droplets larger than 5-10 millionths of a meter (µm or micrometre) fall to the ground within seconds or land on another surface.

These wet droplets are currently considered to be the highest risk routes for the SARS-CoV-2.

But smaller particles aren’t implicated in the spread of SARS-CoV-2.

Smaller particles remain suspended in the air and evaporate very quickly (at less than one-tenth of a second in dry air). They leave behind gel-like particles made of proteins, salts and other things, including viruses.

These leftovers are called “droplet nuclei” and can be inhaled. They may remain aloft for hours, riding the air currents through a hospital corridor, shopping centre or office block. This is what we mean when we talk about something being airborne.

But there’s more to airborne spread. To infect humans, the droplet nuclei need to contain the infectious virus. The virus must be able to land on our mucous membranes – the soft lining of our ears, nose, conjunctiva (eyelid), throat and digestive tract and it must be able to enter our cells and replicate.

There also needs to be enough virus to overcome our early immune responses to the invader and start an infection.

So a few stars have to align for airborne infection to result.

But airborne transmission wouldn’t be a shock 
 
We already know the measles virus can remain aloft in a room for up to 30 minutes after an infected person leaves it.

Likewise, the MERS coronavirus has been captured in infectious form from hospital air samples and found to be infectious.

So there is some precedent.

Other viruses that can be infectious via an airborne route include rhinoviruses (the main causes of the common cold) and flu viruses.

The ability for common respiratory viruses to spread via airborne particles means it wouldn’t be a shock to find SARS-CoV-2 also had this capability.

But there is no evidence this is currently occurring.

Why would airborne spread be such a problem?

The airborne spread would mean the virus could travel further. It could spread through unfiltered air conditioning ducting and reach people further away from the infected person, despite them not being in their direct line of sight.

It would also affect how far away from the patient hard surfaces need cleaning and whether airborne personal protective equipment (PPE) precautions – such as P2 respirator masks – would need to be more widely used.

Our definition of “sufficient contact” for someone to be a possible new infection may broaden, which would mean more people need to be monitored, tested and possibly quarantined for each known patient.

But even if an airborne route is found in the future, it’s unlikely to be the major route of transmission.

People who are ill and show symptoms such as coughing and sneezing usually produce and expel viruses in greater amounts than those who show fewer symptoms. These sicker people are more likely to spread the virus via bigger wet droplets, physical contact and contamination of surfaces and objects.

Do I need to worry?

No. SARS-CoV-2 has been spreading the whole time, regardless of our understanding of how. That spread doesn’t look to be changing.

Currently, relatively few people infected with SARS-CoV-2 are outside of mainland China. Only 15 cases have been identified in Australia. Those found are isolated quickly and are well cared for.

The chances of catching SARS-CoV-2 outside of mainland China are, at the moment, remote (provided you aren’t on a certain cruise ship).

If the situation changes because infected travellers arrive in greater numbers than we can contain, then our best tools to mitigate spread remain the ones we already know:

1. Distancing ourselves from obviously ill people 
2. Hand-washing 
3. Cleaning surfaces 
4. Good cough etiquette (coughing into a tissue or your elbow and washing your hands) keeping our hands away from our face.

 
(Ian M Mackay is Adjunct assistant professor, The University of Queensland; Katherine Arden is Virologist, The University of Queensland) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the<a href="https://theconversation.com/theres-no-evidence-the-new-coronavirus-spreads-through-the-air-but-its-still-possible-131653"> original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

By Ian M Mackay and Katherine Arden A recent announcement by a Chinese health official suggested the new coronavirus might spread more easily than we thought, via an “airborne route”.

By Ian M Mackay and Katherine Arden A recent announcement by a Chinese health official suggested the new coronavirus might spread more easily than we thought, via an “airborne route”. The virus is now known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), while the name of the disease it causes is now called COVID-19. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention almost immediately corrected the announcement, noting SARS-CoV-2 was not known to be an airborne virus. The centre confirmed the virus appears to spread via droplets, direct contact and by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. The World Health Organisation agrees. So far no infectious virus has been recovered from captured air samples. This would need to occur to demonstrate the virus was airborne. When we sneeze, cough or talk, we expel particles in a range of sizes. The bigger, wet droplets larger than 5-10 millionths of a meter (µm or micrometre) fall to the ground within seconds or land on another surface. These wet droplets are currently considered to be the highest risk routes for the SARS-CoV-2. But smaller particles aren’t implicated in the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Smaller particles remain suspended in the air and evaporate very quickly (at less than one-tenth of a second in dry air). They leave behind gel-like particles made of proteins, salts and other things, including viruses. These leftovers are called “droplet nuclei” and can be inhaled. They may remain aloft for hours, riding the air currents through a hospital corridor, shopping centre or office block. This is what we mean when we talk about something being airborne. But there’s more to airborne spread. To infect humans, the droplet nuclei need to contain the infectious virus. The virus must be able to land on our mucous membranes – the soft lining of our ears, nose, conjunctiva (eyelid), throat and digestive tract and it must be able to enter our cells and replicate. There also needs to be enough virus to overcome our early immune responses to the invader and start an infection. So a few stars have to align for airborne infection to result. But airborne transmission wouldn’t be a shock We already know the measles virus can remain aloft in a room for up to 30 minutes after an infected person leaves it. Likewise, the MERS coronavirus has been captured in infectious form from hospital air samples and found to be infectious. So there is some precedent. Other viruses that can be infectious via an airborne route include rhinoviruses (the main causes of the common cold) and flu viruses. The ability for common respiratory viruses to spread via airborne particles means it wouldn’t be a shock to find SARS-CoV-2 also had this capability. But there is no evidence this is currently occurring. Why would airborne spread be such a problem? The airborne spread would mean the virus could travel further. It could spread through unfiltered air conditioning ducting and reach people further away from the infected person, despite them not being in their direct line of sight. It would also affect how far away from the patient hard surfaces need cleaning and whether airborne personal protective equipment (PPE) precautions – such as P2 respirator masks – would need to be more widely used. Our definition of “sufficient contact” for someone to be a possible new infection may broaden, which would mean more people need to be monitored, tested and possibly quarantined for each known patient. But even if an airborne route is found in the future, it’s unlikely to be the major route of transmission. People who are ill and show symptoms such as coughing and sneezing usually produce and expel viruses in greater amounts than those who show fewer symptoms. These sicker people are more likely to spread the virus via bigger wet droplets, physical contact and contamination of surfaces and objects. Do I need to worry? No. SARS-CoV-2 has been spreading the whole time, regardless of our understanding of how. That spread doesn’t look to be changing. Currently, relatively few people infected with SARS-CoV-2 are outside of mainland China. Only 15 cases have been identified in Australia. Those found are isolated quickly and are well cared for. The chances of catching SARS-CoV-2 outside of mainland China are, at the moment, remote (provided you aren’t on a certain cruise ship). If the situation changes because infected travellers arrive in greater numbers than we can contain, then our best tools to mitigate spread remain the ones we already know: 1. Distancing ourselves from obviously ill people 2. Hand-washing 3. Cleaning surfaces 4. Good cough etiquette (coughing into a tissue or your elbow and washing your hands) keeping our hands away from our face. (Ian M Mackay is Adjunct assistant professor, The University of Queensland; Katherine Arden is Virologist, The University of Queensland) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

There’s no evidence new coronavirus spreads through the air – but it’s still possible

The death toll from coronavirus in China has risen to 1367 with 254 new cases. Chinese city Hubei has recorded its highest number of coronavirus deaths in a day. China has sacked the top political leaders of virus-stricken Hubei province and it's capital Wuhan, the highest-profile figures to be removed so far in a crisis.

Hubei's top political leader sacked after spike in coronavirus deaths

India's Health Ministry is briefing a press conference on coronavirus outbreak. Watch the video for more updates.

India Health Minister Harsh Vardhan briefs on coronavirus

Food giant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/unilever-shares-slide-after-warning-of-sales-miss-268718">Unilever </a>is going to stop marketing its products for&nbsp;children to keep a check on rising obesity rates, the company said.

The company plans on doing it by directing its advertisements towards parents instead of children.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/unilever-shares-slide-after-warning-of-sales-miss-268718">Unilever shares slide after warning of sales miss</a>

"Our promise is a genuine commitment to make and market products to children responsibly," said Matt Close, executive vice president of the firm's global ice cream business.

It will no longer advertise its products by using&nbsp;influencers, celebrities or social media stars who appeal to children under 12 years of age through any media platforms.

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We’re changing the way we go about marketing and advertising our ice cream, food and drinks to children. Find out more here: <a href="https://t.co/GvdSZvGYeK">https://t.co/GvdSZvGYeK</a> <a href="https://t.co/xixkm9h9N3">pic.twitter.com/xixkm9h9N3</a>
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The company which owns several ice cream brands such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/unilever-shares-slide-after-warning-of-sales-miss-268718">Ben and Jerry</a>'s, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/unilever-shares-slide-after-warning-of-sales-miss-268718">Kwality Walls</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/unilever-shares-slide-after-warning-of-sales-miss-268718">Twister</a> ice cream said it will limit the use of cartoon characters in its advertising as well.

Ads for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/unilever-shares-slide-after-warning-of-sales-miss-268718">Unilever </a>ice creams have been pulled in the past over complaints they marketed unhealthy food to children.&nbsp;By the end of 2020 every ice cream in their kids' range will have no more than 110 calories and a maximum of 12g of sugar per portion.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-warns-overseas-virus-spread-may-be-tip-of-the-iceberg-279719">World Health Organisation </a>has named childhood obesity as one of the most serious public health issues of the 21st century.

Food giant Unilever is going to stop marketing its products for children to keep a check on rising obesity rates, the company said. The company plans on doing it by directing its advertisements towards parents instead of children.

Food giant Unilever is going to stop marketing its products for children to keep a check on rising obesity rates, the company said. The company plans on doing it by directing its advertisements towards parents instead of children. Also read: Unilever shares slide after warning of sales miss "Our promise is a genuine commitment to make and market products to children responsibly," said Matt Close, executive vice president of the firm's global ice cream business. It will no longer advertise its products by using influencers, celebrities or social media stars who appeal to children under 12 years of age through any media platforms. We’re changing the way we go about marketing and advertising our ice cream, food and drinks to children. Find out more here: https://t.co/GvdSZvGYeK pic.twitter.com/xixkm9h9N3 — Unilever (@Unilever) February 12, 2020 × The company which owns several ice cream brands such as Ben and Jerry's, Kwality Walls and Twister ice cream said it will limit the use of cartoon characters in its advertising as well. Ads for Unilever ice creams have been pulled in the past over complaints they marketed unhealthy food to children. By the end of 2020 every ice cream in their kids' range will have no more than 110 calories and a maximum of 12g of sugar per portion. The World Health Organisation has named childhood obesity as one of the most serious public health issues of the 21st century.

Unilever to stop advertising ice cream for children in bid to tackle obesity

The new coronavirus that has killed over 1,000 people in China and sickened more than 43,000 others globally has been named 'COVID-19', the World Health Organisation said on Tuesday

WHO renames Coronavirus as 'COVID-19'

The total number of deaths on the mainland reached 1,016 in the 24 hours until midnight, the National Health Commission said on Tuesday.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Death toll rises to 1,016

The death toll in mainland China topped 1,016, according to Chinese state media. One death each has been reported Hong Kong and the Philippines. The number of infections in mainland China reached almost 42,300

WION-CGTN Exclusive Report | Farmers faces brunt of city Lockdowns | Coronavirus

Coronavirus Outbreak: WION gets you the latest from inside China

The head of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-world-health-organisation-holds-briefing-279523">World Health Organization</a> has warned that confirmed cases of coronavirus being transmitted by people&nbsp;who&nbsp;have never travelled to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-world-health-organisation-holds-briefing-279523">China </a>could be the "tip&nbsp;of the&nbsp;iceberg".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-world-health-organisation-holds-briefing-279523">Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus</a>' remarks come as members of a&nbsp;WHO-led "international expert mission" flew to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-world-health-organisation-holds-briefing-279523">China </a>on Monday to help coordinate a response to the outbreak that has so far infected more than 40,000 people and killed 908 in the country.&nbsp;

Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: World Health Organisation holds briefing

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&nbsp;

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There’ve been some concerning instances of onward <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2019nCoV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2019nCoV</a> spread from people with no travel history to 🇨🇳. The detection of a small number of cases may indicate more widespread transmission in other countries; in short, we may only be seeing the tip of the iceberg.
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros/status/1226629008302931971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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While the&nbsp;virus'&nbsp;spread&nbsp;outside China appeared to be slow, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-world-health-organisation-holds-briefing-279523">Ghebreyesus </a>warned it could accelerate.

"Containment remains our objective, but all countries must use the window of opportunity created by the containment strategy to prepare for the&nbsp;virus's possible arrival," he said.

Outside mainland <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-world-health-organisation-holds-briefing-279523">China</a>, there have been more than 350 infections reported in nearly 30 places. There have been two deaths, one in the Philippines and the other in Hong Kong.

Several countries have banned arrivals from China while major airlines have suspended flights, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-china-flights-sudden-descent-linked-to-co-pilot-smoking-reports-151420">Air China</a> cancelled some of its flights to the United States.

The&nbsp;WHO-led mission to China is being headed up by Bruce Aylward, a veteran of previous health emergencies, Ghebreyesus said.&nbsp;Aylward oversaw the&nbsp;WHO's 2014-2016 response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WHO&nbsp;said in recent days there had been "some stabilising" in the numbers of new cases of the coronavirus in China. But the UN agency cautioned it was too early to say if the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;had peaked.

The SARS-like&nbsp;virus&nbsp;is believed to have emerged late last year in the central city of Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province where millions of people are under lockdown in a bid to stop it spreading.

The head of the World Health Organization has warned that confirmed cases of coronavirus being transmitted by people who have never travelled to China could be the "tip of the iceberg".

The head of the World Health Organization has warned that confirmed cases of coronavirus being transmitted by people who have never travelled to China could be the "tip of the iceberg". Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus' remarks come as members of a WHO-led "international expert mission" flew to China on Monday to help coordinate a response to the outbreak that has so far infected more than 40,000 people and killed 908 in the country. Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: World Health Organisation holds briefing There’ve been some concerning instances of onward #2019nCoV spread from people with no travel history to 🇨🇳. The detection of a small number of cases may indicate more widespread transmission in other countries; in short, we may only be seeing the tip of the iceberg. — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) February 9, 2020 × While the virus' spread outside China appeared to be slow, Ghebreyesus warned it could accelerate. "Containment remains our objective, but all countries must use the window of opportunity created by the containment strategy to prepare for the virus's possible arrival," he said. Outside mainland China, there have been more than 350 infections reported in nearly 30 places. There have been two deaths, one in the Philippines and the other in Hong Kong. Several countries have banned arrivals from China while major airlines have suspended flights, and Air China cancelled some of its flights to the United States. The WHO-led mission to China is being headed up by Bruce Aylward, a veteran of previous health emergencies, Ghebreyesus said. Aylward oversaw the WHO's 2014-2016 response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. WHO said in recent days there had been "some stabilising" in the numbers of new cases of the coronavirus in China. But the UN agency cautioned it was too early to say if the virus had peaked. The SARS-like virus is believed to have emerged late last year in the central city of Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province where millions of people are under lockdown in a bid to stop it spreading.

World Health Organisation warns overseas virus spread may be 'tip of the iceberg'

China is providing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">World Health Organization</a> (WHO) with wrong information about the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-city-accused-of-stealing-virus-masks-from-hard-hit-neighbor-279103">coronavirus </a>cases in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-first-case-of-new-sars-like-virus-275782">Taiwan</a>, the island’s foreign ministry said on Thursday, after the WHO published incorrect case numbers earlier this week.

Taiwan is not a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">WHO </a>member because of China’s objections. Beijing says the island is a wayward Chinese province and not a country and is adequately represented in the organization by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-city-accused-of-stealing-virus-masks-from-hard-hit-neighbor-279103">China</a>.

Democratically governed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-first-case-of-new-sars-like-virus-275782">Taiwan </a>says it is an independent country called the Republic of China&nbsp;and has never been part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-first-case-of-new-sars-like-virus-275782">People’s Republic of China</a>.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-city-accused-of-stealing-virus-masks-from-hard-hit-neighbor-279103">Chinese city accused of stealing virus masks from hard-hit neighbor</a>

On Tuesday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">WHO </a>corrected the number of cases reported on the island after having said there were 13. At the time Taiwan had only 10. Taiwan said on Thursday there were now 13 cases, compared to more than 28,000 in China.

Speaking at a news conference, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-first-case-of-new-sars-like-virus-275782">Taiwan </a>Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou said the crux of the problem was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-doctor-who-was-silenced-becomes-a-coronavirus-victim-278542">China </a>giving the wrong case number details to the WHO.

“This was wrong information that was provided by China which created the mistake,” she said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-doctor-who-was-silenced-becomes-a-coronavirus-victim-278542">Chinese doctor who was silenced becomes a coronavirus victim</a>

“We beseech the WHO not to put Taiwan’s information under China, creating mistake after mistake after mistake,” she added.

Taiwan says the main consequence of that so far has been Italy including Taiwan in its ban on flights from China.

Taiwan’s China Airlines has already stopped its Rome flights, and the island’s other main carrier Eva Airways said on Thursday it would postpone this month’s launch of Milan flights due to the Italian ban.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus</a>

Ou said they continue to press Italy to reverse the decision to stop flights from Taiwan.

China’s foreign ministry, in a faxed statement to Reuters, said the case numbers it reported to the WHO for Taiwan all came from Taiwan’s government.

“If there are mistakes, this is the relevant authorities in the Taiwan region deliberately reporting mistakes to us,” it said.

The WHO did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Earlier this week, Ou said China was “vile” for seeking to limit Taiwan’s access to <a href="Also read: World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus">WHO</a> meetings about the virus.

Both the <a href="Also read: World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus">WHO</a> and China have repeatedly said Taiwan is getting the access and cooperation it needs.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office said in a statement on Thursday the island should not “use the virus to plot independence”, and reiterated Taiwan faced no problem with technical cooperation with the <a href="Also read: World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus">WHO</a>.

China is providing the World Health Organization (WHO) with wrong information about the number of coronavirus cases in Taiwan, the island’s foreign ministry said on Thursday, after the WHO published incorrect case numbers earlier this week.

China is providing the World Health Organization (WHO) with wrong information about the number of coronavirus cases in Taiwan, the island’s foreign ministry said on Thursday, after the WHO published incorrect case numbers earlier this week. Taiwan is not a WHO member because of China’s objections. Beijing says the island is a wayward Chinese province and not a country and is adequately represented in the organization by China. Democratically governed Taiwan says it is an independent country called the Republic of China and has never been part of the People’s Republic of China. Also read: Chinese city accused of stealing virus masks from hard-hit neighbor On Tuesday, the WHO corrected the number of cases reported on the island after having said there were 13. At the time Taiwan had only 10. Taiwan said on Thursday there were now 13 cases, compared to more than 28,000 in China. Speaking at a news conference, Taiwan Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Joanne Ou said the crux of the problem was China giving the wrong case number details to the WHO. “This was wrong information that was provided by China which created the mistake,” she said. Also read: Chinese doctor who was silenced becomes a coronavirus victim “We beseech the WHO not to put Taiwan’s information under China, creating mistake after mistake after mistake,” she added. Taiwan says the main consequence of that so far has been Italy including Taiwan in its ban on flights from China. Taiwan’s China Airlines has already stopped its Rome flights, and the island’s other main carrier Eva Airways said on Thursday it would postpone this month’s launch of Milan flights due to the Italian ban. Also read: World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus Ou said they continue to press Italy to reverse the decision to stop flights from Taiwan. China’s foreign ministry, in a faxed statement to Reuters, said the case numbers it reported to the WHO for Taiwan all came from Taiwan’s government. “If there are mistakes, this is the relevant authorities in the Taiwan region deliberately reporting mistakes to us,” it said. The WHO did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Earlier this week, Ou said China was “vile” for seeking to limit Taiwan’s access to WHO meetings about the virus. Both the WHO and China have repeatedly said Taiwan is getting the access and cooperation it needs. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office said in a statement on Thursday the island should not “use the virus to plot independence”, and reiterated Taiwan faced no problem with technical cooperation with the WHO.

Taiwan says China feeding World Health Organisation wrong information about virus cases on island

The dramatic measures taken by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-virus-outbreak-delays-indias-cotton-exports-to-china-278865">China </a>to rein in the deadly new coronavirus outbreak have prevented significant spread abroad, providing a "window of opportunity" to halt transmission, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-one-in-every-ten-indians-will-develop-cancer-during-their-lifetime-world-health-organisation-278820">World&nbsp;Health&nbsp;Organization</a>&nbsp;said Tuesday.

But the UN&nbsp;health&nbsp;agency's chief also called for greater solidarity, accusing some governments of wealthy countries of being "well behind" in sharing data on virus cases.

Watch: WHO asks nations dealing with Coronavirus to be prepared, not panic

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-who-asks-nations-dealing-with-coronavirus-to-be-prepared-not-panic-278585/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"While 99 per cent of cases are in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-virus-outbreak-delays-indias-cotton-exports-to-china-278865">China</a>, in the rest of the&nbsp;world&nbsp;we only have 176 cases," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus</a> said in a technical briefing to the WHO's Executive Board in Geneva.

"That doesn't mean that it won't get worse. But for sure we have a window of opportunity to act. Let's not miss this window of opportunity," he said.

Also said:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus</a>

Tedros said the WHO had received complete case report forms for only 38 per cent of the cases outside China.

"Some high-income countries are well behind in sharing this vital data with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-one-in-every-ten-indians-will-develop-cancer-during-their-lifetime-world-health-organisation-278820">WHO</a>. I don't think it's because they lack capacity," he said.

"Without better data, it's very hard for us to assess how the outbreak is evolving, or what impact it could have, and to ensure we are providing the most appropriate recommendations," he said.

More than 20,400 cases of the virus have been confirmed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">China </a>since the virus was first detected on December 31.

The death toll in mainland China has soared to 425 and more than 20 countries have now confirmed cases of the virus, which the WHO has declared a global&nbsp;health&nbsp;emergency.

The dramatic measures taken by China to rein in the deadly new coronavirus outbreak have prevented significant spread abroad, providing a "window of opportunity" to halt transmission, the World Health Organization said Tuesday.

The dramatic measures taken by China to rein in the deadly new coronavirus outbreak have prevented significant spread abroad, providing a "window of opportunity" to halt transmission, the World Health Organization said Tuesday. But the UN health agency's chief also called for greater solidarity, accusing some governments of wealthy countries of being "well behind" in sharing data on virus cases. Watch: WHO asks nations dealing with Coronavirus to be prepared, not panic "While 99 per cent of cases are in China, in the rest of the world we only have 176 cases," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a technical briefing to the WHO's Executive Board in Geneva. "That doesn't mean that it won't get worse. But for sure we have a window of opportunity to act. Let's not miss this window of opportunity," he said. Also said: World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus Tedros said the WHO had received complete case report forms for only 38 per cent of the cases outside China. "Some high-income countries are well behind in sharing this vital data with WHO. I don't think it's because they lack capacity," he said. "Without better data, it's very hard for us to assess how the outbreak is evolving, or what impact it could have, and to ensure we are providing the most appropriate recommendations," he said. More than 20,400 cases of the virus have been confirmed in China since the virus was first detected on December 31. The death toll in mainland China has soared to 425 and more than 20 countries have now confirmed cases of the virus, which the WHO has declared a global health emergency.

World has 'window of opportunity' to halt virus spread: World Health Organisation chief

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/markets-struggle-after-world-health-organisation-declares-virus-emergency-277811">World Health Organisation</a> has released a shocking report on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-cancer-day-2018-7-ways-to-prevent-the-debilitating-disease-31743">World Cancer day</a> which states that one out of every 10&nbsp;Indians will develop cancer during their lifetime and one in 15 will die of the disease.

According to the report, there are around 1.16 million new cancer cases and nearly 8 lakh cancer deaths every year in India.&nbsp;

The country also has 2.26 million cases of the disease which are five years old. In India, 7,84,800 cancer patients died in 2018.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-world-health-organisation-warns-countries-to-take-action-against-coronavirus-277495">World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus</a>

The country's cancer burden will continue to increase as a result of the continuing epidemiological transition and the maximum increment will occur in the most populous and least developed states, where the current cancer treatment facilities are grossly inadequate, the report stated.

Reportedly, the average age for breast cancer in India is almost a decade lower than that in the West. More Indian women die from cervical cancer than any country in the world and cancer now kills more than double the Indians it did in 1990.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-cancer-research-in-india-needs-mammoth-funding-157300">Cancer research in India needs mammoth funding</a>

Interestingly, India spends over 1 per cent of its GDP on public healthcare but&nbsp;the system is overcrowded and underfunded.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-cancer-day-2018-7-ways-to-prevent-the-debilitating-disease-31743">World Cancer Day: 7 ways to prevent the debilitating disease</a>

As per the report, the overall cancer cases in the world are expected to rise by 60 per cent by 2040 and tobacco use would be responsible for 25 per cent of cancer deaths.

The world already has about one in six deaths is due to cancer which is the second leading cause of death globally.

The World Health Organisation has released a shocking report on World Cancer day which states that one out of every 10 Indians will develop cancer during their lifetime and one in 15 will die of the disease.

The World Health Organisation has released a shocking report on World Cancer day which states that one out of every 10 Indians will develop cancer during their lifetime and one in 15 will die of the disease. According to the report, there are around 1.16 million new cancer cases and nearly 8 lakh cancer deaths every year in India. The country also has 2.26 million cases of the disease which are five years old. In India, 7,84,800 cancer patients died in 2018. Also read: World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus The country's cancer burden will continue to increase as a result of the continuing epidemiological transition and the maximum increment will occur in the most populous and least developed states, where the current cancer treatment facilities are grossly inadequate, the report stated. Reportedly, the average age for breast cancer in India is almost a decade lower than that in the West. More Indian women die from cervical cancer than any country in the world and cancer now kills more than double the Indians it did in 1990. Also read: Cancer research in India needs mammoth funding Interestingly, India spends over 1 per cent of its GDP on public healthcare but the system is overcrowded and underfunded. Also read: World Cancer Day: 7 ways to prevent the debilitating disease As per the report, the overall cancer cases in the world are expected to rise by 60 per cent by 2040 and tobacco use would be responsible for 25 per cent of cancer deaths. The world already has about one in six deaths is due to cancer which is the second leading cause of death globally.

One in every ten Indians will develop cancer during their lifetime: World Health Organisation

The deadly novel coronavirus, which has spread from China to two dozen countries, has killed more than 425 people and infected a further 20,000 in China, nearly all of them in central Hubei province — the epicentre of the outbreak — and spread to two-dozen countries since it emerged in December.

Face masks are selling quickly in stores across China, are not the secure answer for shielding somebody from contracting coronavirus.&nbsp;

The lack of N95 masks, prompted by specialists as basic for the individuals who cooperate with their patients, is considerably more extreme.

However, if you wear a regular surgical mask, you are not protected from the virus as some may believe.

Some experts believe that to protect against coronavirus an N95 respirator - can be effective.

Coronavirus, also known as 2019-nCov requires the thicker respirator mask to help prevent spread.

N95 respirators filter out airborne particles, though only those larger than the coronavirus.

According to the experts, there are thousands of mask factories in China, but companies that can produce high-end filters up to the N95 or KN95 standard, number less than 10.

Mask industrial facilities across China dropped their Spring Festival break and raced to expand production.

(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly novel coronavirus, which has spread from China to two dozen countries, has killed more than 425 people and infected a further 20,000 in China, nearly all of them in central Hubei province — the epicentre of the outbreak — and spread to two-dozen countries since it emerged in December.

The deadly novel coronavirus, which has spread from China to two dozen countries, has killed more than 425 people and infected a further 20,000 in China, nearly all of them in central Hubei province — the epicentre of the outbreak — and spread to two-dozen countries since it emerged in December. Face masks are selling quickly in stores across China, are not the secure answer for shielding somebody from contracting coronavirus. The lack of N95 masks, prompted by specialists as basic for the individuals who cooperate with their patients, is considerably more extreme. However, if you wear a regular surgical mask, you are not protected from the virus as some may believe. Some experts believe that to protect against coronavirus an N95 respirator - can be effective. Coronavirus, also known as 2019-nCov requires the thicker respirator mask to help prevent spread. N95 respirators filter out airborne particles, though only those larger than the coronavirus. According to the experts, there are thousands of mask factories in China, but companies that can produce high-end filters up to the N95 or KN95 standard, number less than 10. Mask industrial facilities across China dropped their Spring Festival break and raced to expand production. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: What is N95 face mask?

The World Health Organization (WHO) said that that the outbreak of the deadly novel coronavirus is currently not a pandemic.&nbsp;

Coronavirus has so far killed more than 425 people and infected 20,000 in China and spread to&nbsp;nearly 25 countries.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-news-belgium-confirms-first-coronavirus-case-six-more-infected-in-singapore-as-death-toll-reaches-426-278515">Belgium confirms first coronavirus case, six more infected in Singapore as death toll reaches 425</a>

"Currently we are not in a pandemic," Sylvie Briand, head of WHO's Global Infectious Hazard Preparedness division, told reporters in Geneva.

<img alt="coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2c00d25-05e2-4abe-a10b-4e416448ac42" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/KvqDmhj2.jpg" />

(A medical worker in protective suit adjusts a drip bag for a patient at a hospital, following an outbreak of the new coronavirus in Wuhan, Hubei province, China | Photo Credit: Reuters)

"We are at the phase where it is an epidemic with multiple foci."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-doctor-who-was-silenced-becomes-a-coronavirus-victim-278542">Chinese doctor who was silenced becomes a coronavirus victim</a>

Briand said that there is rapid spread of transmission in Hubei, the epicentre where most of the cases are detected.&nbsp;

The cases outside Hubei province are mainly "spillover cases", Briand said.&nbsp;

WHO has earlier declared the outbreak a global health emergency.&nbsp;

Earlier on Tuesday, Hong Kong became the second region outside mainland China to report the death of a coronavirus patient. Belgium also confirmed its first coronavirus case. In Singapore, with 6 more cases, 24 people are now suffering from coronavirus.&nbsp;

Amid the increase in death toll, China today restricted movement in city of Taizhou and three Hangzhou districts.&nbsp;

In order to admit patients, China has built make-shift hospitals with thousands of beds.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization (WHO) said that that the outbreak of the deadly novel coronavirus is currently not a pandemic. Coronavirus has so far killed more than 425 people and infected 20,000 in China and spread to nearly 25 countries.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said that that the outbreak of the deadly novel coronavirus is currently not a pandemic. Coronavirus has so far killed more than 425 people and infected 20,000 in China and spread to nearly 25 countries. Also read: Belgium confirms first coronavirus case, six more infected in Singapore as death toll reaches 425 "Currently we are not in a pandemic," Sylvie Briand, head of WHO's Global Infectious Hazard Preparedness division, told reporters in Geneva. (A medical worker in protective suit adjusts a drip bag for a patient at a hospital, following an outbreak of the new coronavirus in Wuhan, Hubei province, China | Photo Credit: Reuters) "We are at the phase where it is an epidemic with multiple foci." Also read: Chinese doctor who was silenced becomes a coronavirus victim Briand said that there is rapid spread of transmission in Hubei, the epicentre where most of the cases are detected. The cases outside Hubei province are mainly "spillover cases", Briand said. WHO has earlier declared the outbreak a global health emergency. Earlier on Tuesday, Hong Kong became the second region outside mainland China to report the death of a coronavirus patient. Belgium also confirmed its first coronavirus case. In Singapore, with 6 more cases, 24 people are now suffering from coronavirus. Amid the increase in death toll, China today restricted movement in city of Taizhou and three Hangzhou districts. In order to admit patients, China has built make-shift hospitals with thousands of beds.

Coronavirus outbreak currently not pandemic: WHO

The numbers of coronavirus deaths and infections are continuously rising around the world. China has placed millions under lockdown as the virus continues to spread. Countries are evacuating their citizens from the epicentre of the outbreak which is Wuhan. Watch report:

WION Dispatch: Countries evacuate its citizens from epicenter of Coronavirus outbreak

Overnight there has been a massive hike in the death toll of the deadly coronavirus. Around 425 people have lost their lives around the world and 62 new deaths were reported in China and all the casualties were reported in the Hubei province. WHO has warned all the countries dealing with the coronavirus outbreak by preparing and not by panicking. At a press briefing in Geneva, the Director of 'Global Infections' elaborated about the global collaboration of WHO and Google to narrow down all the information regarding the coronavirus, to avoid the spread of misinformation on the internet.

WION Dispatch: Coronavirus kills 425 people killed around the world, WHO ask countries to not panic

India has evacuated nearly 600 of its citizen's mainly students from Wuhan. Hundreds of Pakistani students are still waiting for help as they are stranded in a city which is a lockdown. These Pakistani's are appealing to their government for help. Two such students spoke to WION. Watch report:

Your Story: Stranded Pakistani students in Wuhan seek help from their govt

The fast spreading outbreak of coronavirus has killed 427 people and threatened the global economy. The World Health Organisation has asked all countries dealing with coronavirus to be prepared and not panic. Watch report:

Fineprint: WHO asks nations dealing with Coronavirus to be prepared, not panic

The Indian state of Kerala has declared a state of emergency as the third case of deadly coronavirus has been confirmed in the state. Another Indian state Karnataka is also observing 63 travellers who have recently come from coronavirus affected countries. Out of them 58 people have been put under isolation at home and one person has been admitted to an isolation ward in the hospital. Watch report:

Fineprint: India confirms 3rd case of Coronavirus in Kerala, Indian govt reviews nCOV preparedness

More figures have been trickling in the deadly Coronavirus and its spread across the world. In the latest Belgium has confirmed its first case. Belgium had evacuated a total of nine people from Wuhan in China, which has been the epicentre of that virus. Among the nine people, one has been tested positive.

Belgium confirms 1st case of Coronavirus

As the deadly Coronavirus spreads the city of Wuhan is under complete lockdown. The government's response has been opaque at times with information very hard to come by. Watch this report to know the inside situation in the city of Wuhan.

What is it like inside the Wuhan lockdown

In the wake of the deadly coronavirus outbreak in China, Google has joined hands with the World Health Organisation to launch 'SOS' alert.

Google aims to prioritise information and tips on the virus and its spread from the WHO and its Twitter handle in its search results.&nbsp;

The alert is an initiative by the global search engine giant in a bid to spread awareness and information by trusted sources on 2019-nCov and tips on how to stay protected from it.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-temporarily-suspends-e-visa-facility-for-chinese-and-foreigners-residing-in-china-278144">Coronavirus: India temporarily suspends e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China&nbsp;</a>

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As a result, a user searching for coronavirus on Google will be displayed the SOS Alert box with information from WHO at the top of the results page.

The flu-like coronavirus, which is believed to have originated in a market that traded illegally in wildlife in Hubei's provincial capital Wuhan, has so far resulted in 304 deaths in China, state broadcaster CCTV said early on Sunday in China. Confirmed cases of the virus have been reported in 27 other nations, according to the CDC.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-evacuees-from-wuhan-dance-at-indian-armys-quarantine-facility-in-manesar-278164">Indian evacuees from Wuhan dance at Indian Army's quarantine facility in Manesar</a>

While India has confirmed its second positive case of Coronavirus. The first death linked to the deadly outbreak outside China has been reported in the Philippines.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, New Delhi on Sunday temporarily suspended e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China.&nbsp;

In the wake of the deadly coronavirus outbreak in China, Google has joined hands with the World Health Organisation to launch 'SOS' alert. Google aims to prioritise information and tips on the virus and its spread from the WHO and its Twitter handle in its search results.

In the wake of the deadly coronavirus outbreak in China, Google has joined hands with the World Health Organisation to launch 'SOS' alert. Google aims to prioritise information and tips on the virus and its spread from the WHO and its Twitter handle in its search results. The alert is an initiative by the global search engine giant in a bid to spread awareness and information by trusted sources on 2019-nCov and tips on how to stay protected from it. Also read: Coronavirus: India temporarily suspends e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China × As a result, a user searching for coronavirus on Google will be displayed the SOS Alert box with information from WHO at the top of the results page. The flu-like coronavirus, which is believed to have originated in a market that traded illegally in wildlife in Hubei's provincial capital Wuhan, has so far resulted in 304 deaths in China, state broadcaster CCTV said early on Sunday in China. Confirmed cases of the virus have been reported in 27 other nations, according to the CDC. Also read: Indian evacuees from Wuhan dance at Indian Army's quarantine facility in Manesar While India has confirmed its second positive case of Coronavirus. The first death linked to the deadly outbreak outside China has been reported in the Philippines. Meanwhile, New Delhi on Sunday temporarily suspended e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China.

Coronavirus outbreak: Google joins hands with WHO to provide SOS alert, trusted info and safety tips 

Seizure and quarantine of exotic pets that are meant to be smuggled into India are quite common occurrences for customs officials at the Chennai International Airport, but officials now are being extra-cautious in dealing with smuggled animals, amidst the growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

The virus that has claimed over 200 lives has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation. Scientists suspect that the virus originated from bats and spread further at China's Hunan seafood market that deals with various types of exotic animal meat, after which it spread to humans.

Amidst intense screening of passengers arriving at India’s major International airports, customs officials had stepped up vigil based on information that exotic species are likely to be smuggled into the country by a passenger arriving from Bangkok. On Friday morning, Customs officials had intercepted Ibrahim Shah, a Chennai resident who had arrived by Thai Airways flight TG337, after he was found to be moving in a suspicious manner while collecting his checked-in black stroller bag.&nbsp;

Examination of his bag revealed two plastic containers and tiffin boxes that were concealed among chocolates and wafers. The containers carried species of exotic mammals, rodents and reptiles. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) officials identified the species as Meerkat, Fat tail gerbil, Sphynx rat, Albinopacman frog, Tarantula spider, chameleon and green iguanas.&nbsp;

<img alt="Exotic rat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b20cc83c-81ca-4ee6-b95e-24bd3c76251c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_16.jpg" />

<img alt="Tarantula" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c7241e4-2b53-456f-9b39-368725591a16" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_19.jpg" />

<img alt="Exotic frog" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f15e7a7-f3b5-49e1-bf7f-0164a737ea3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_17.jpg" />

“We are exercising extra caution at Chennai airport amid the Coronavirus outbreak that’s become a global issue now. Since the virus is believed to have originated from certain types of animals, we have ensured that our staff handle the seized animals while wearing adequate protective equipment. They have been issued gloves, masks and after temporarily quarantining the animals in the airport, they will be deported to the country of origin within a day” Commissioner of Customs, Rajan Chaudhary told WION.&nbsp;

Ibrahim Shah told Customs officials that unknown persons had handed over the bag to him outside the Bangkok airport, along with instructions to hand it over to a person outside the Chennai airport. Despite Ibrahim being taken outside the airport for handing over the bag, no-one seemed to have turned up.&nbsp;

Thirteen animals that fall under seven species were seized under the provisions of Customs Act 1962 with FT (D&amp;R) Act.&nbsp;

A team of Veterinary doctors from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park inspected the animals and certified that they are in a healthy condition.&nbsp;

Animal Quarantine officials recommended to deport the wildlife species as the passenger did a no-objection certificate or the necessary license for import.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Seizure and quarantine of exotic pets that are meant to be smuggled into India are quite common occurrences for customs officials at the Chennai International Airport, but officials now are being extra-cautious in dealing with smuggled animals, amidst the growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus.

Seizure and quarantine of exotic pets that are meant to be smuggled into India are quite common occurrences for customs officials at the Chennai International Airport, but officials now are being extra-cautious in dealing with smuggled animals, amidst the growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus. The virus that has claimed over 200 lives has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation. Scientists suspect that the virus originated from bats and spread further at China's Hunan seafood market that deals with various types of exotic animal meat, after which it spread to humans. Amidst intense screening of passengers arriving at India’s major International airports, customs officials had stepped up vigil based on information that exotic species are likely to be smuggled into the country by a passenger arriving from Bangkok. On Friday morning, Customs officials had intercepted Ibrahim Shah, a Chennai resident who had arrived by Thai Airways flight TG337, after he was found to be moving in a suspicious manner while collecting his checked-in black stroller bag. Examination of his bag revealed two plastic containers and tiffin boxes that were concealed among chocolates and wafers. The containers carried species of exotic mammals, rodents and reptiles. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) officials identified the species as Meerkat, Fat tail gerbil, Sphynx rat, Albinopacman frog, Tarantula spider, chameleon and green iguanas. “We are exercising extra caution at Chennai airport amid the Coronavirus outbreak that’s become a global issue now. Since the virus is believed to have originated from certain types of animals, we have ensured that our staff handle the seized animals while wearing adequate protective equipment. They have been issued gloves, masks and after temporarily quarantining the animals in the airport, they will be deported to the country of origin within a day” Commissioner of Customs, Rajan Chaudhary told WION. Ibrahim Shah told Customs officials that unknown persons had handed over the bag to him outside the Bangkok airport, along with instructions to hand it over to a person outside the Chennai airport. Despite Ibrahim being taken outside the airport for handing over the bag, no-one seemed to have turned up. Thirteen animals that fall under seven species were seized under the provisions of Customs Act 1962 with FT (D&R) Act. A team of Veterinary doctors from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park inspected the animals and certified that they are in a healthy condition. Animal Quarantine officials recommended to deport the wildlife species as the passenger did a no-objection certificate or the necessary license for import.

Coronavirus outbreak: Customs officials take extra precautions while seizing exotic pets

Stock markets struggled Friday after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-declares-coronavirus-as-global-health-emergency-277634">World Health Organisation</a> declared a global health emergency over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-wuhan-virus-death-toll-hits-213-in-china-nearly-10000-infected-277621">China</a>'s spreading deadly virus.

With hours to go until <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-will-be-uk-eu-relations-post-brexit-277791">Britain</a> finally leaves the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-will-be-uk-eu-relations-post-brexit-277791">European Union</a>, the London stock market sank 0.8 per cent in late morning deals as a relief rally for the pound hurt exporters.

Frankfurt and Paris shed 0.2 per cent and 0.4 per cent respectively around midday after Asia was also gripped by virus worries in a volatile end to the week.

The novel coronavirus epidemic, which originated in the central Chinese city Wuhan, has so far killed 213 people and spread to at least 19 countries including two cases declared on Friday in Britain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-wuhan-virus-death-toll-hits-213-in-china-nearly-10000-infected-277621">Wuhan virus death toll hits 213 in China, nearly 10000 infected</a>

China's National Health Commission meanwhile said nearly 10,000 people have been infected.

"Coronavirus is currently spreading six times faster than SARS. Unless a cure is found, this could push a fragile world economic recovery into reverse," warned Douglas McWilliams, deputy chairman at British research group the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR).

He added, "It is clear that unless a cure and a vaccination are found rapidly, the fragile recovery that we predict is at risk. That is why from an economics point of view it is so vital that a cure and a vaccine is found."

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-declares-coronavirus-as-global-health-emergency-277634">WHO declares Coronavirus as global health emergency</a>

Separately, the EU's official statistics agency announced Friday that the 19-member single currency area had already suffered a sharp slowdown after a turbulent year of Brexit uncertainty and trade spats with US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-impeachment-witnesses-and-prez-privilege-dominate-qa-277635">Donald Trump.</a>

The eurozone economy grew 1.2 per cent over the year, down from 1.8 per cent in 2018 and well off the 2.7 per cent seen in 2017.

Meanwhile, the Geneva-based <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-declares-coronavirus-as-global-health-emergency-277634">WHO</a> invoked a global health emergency on coronavirus but stopped short of recommending trade and travel restrictions that could have had a bruising effect on key global growth engine China.

"This is not a vote of no confidence in China," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesushe said, praising Beijing for its swift action to tackle the outbreak.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/myths-vs-facts-about-coronavirus-277676">Myths vs facts about China's coronavirus</a>

'We must act now'

China has locked down a swathe of its centre, effectively quarantining millions of people in their cities and halting travel around the country.

"We must all act together now to limit further spread... We can only stop it together," said Tedros, who travelled to China this week and met with President Xi Jinping.

Foreign airlines including British Airways and Lufthansa have begun cancelling or curtailing flights to and from China, and a number of governments are recommending citizens do not visit the country.

Investors initially applauded the WHO's move, plunging back into markets that have lost altitude over recent days as the 2019-nCoV crisis has worsened.

"Coronavirus fears continue to remain a dominant driver of market sentiment, with the continued proliferation of the virus providing a huge cause for concern," noted IG analyst Joshua Mahony.

"Growth fears remain relevant as the virus continues to spread," he also warned.

World oil prices firmed Friday after plunging the previous day to three-month lows on virus-linked demand fears in China, which is a major market for raw materials including crude.

Stock markets struggled Friday after the World Health Organisation declared a global health emergency over China's spreading deadly virus. With hours to go until Britain finally leaves the European Union, the London stock market sank 0.

Stock markets struggled Friday after the World Health Organisation declared a global health emergency over China's spreading deadly virus. With hours to go until Britain finally leaves the European Union, the London stock market sank 0.8 per cent in late morning deals as a relief rally for the pound hurt exporters. Frankfurt and Paris shed 0.2 per cent and 0.4 per cent respectively around midday after Asia was also gripped by virus worries in a volatile end to the week. The novel coronavirus epidemic, which originated in the central Chinese city Wuhan, has so far killed 213 people and spread to at least 19 countries including two cases declared on Friday in Britain. Also read: Wuhan virus death toll hits 213 in China, nearly 10000 infected China's National Health Commission meanwhile said nearly 10,000 people have been infected. "Coronavirus is currently spreading six times faster than SARS. Unless a cure is found, this could push a fragile world economic recovery into reverse," warned Douglas McWilliams, deputy chairman at British research group the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR). He added, "It is clear that unless a cure and a vaccination are found rapidly, the fragile recovery that we predict is at risk. That is why from an economics point of view it is so vital that a cure and a vaccine is found." Watch: WHO declares Coronavirus as global health emergency Separately, the EU's official statistics agency announced Friday that the 19-member single currency area had already suffered a sharp slowdown after a turbulent year of Brexit uncertainty and trade spats with US President Donald Trump. The eurozone economy grew 1.2 per cent over the year, down from 1.8 per cent in 2018 and well off the 2.7 per cent seen in 2017. Meanwhile, the Geneva-based WHO invoked a global health emergency on coronavirus but stopped short of recommending trade and travel restrictions that could have had a bruising effect on key global growth engine China. "This is not a vote of no confidence in China," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesushe said, praising Beijing for its swift action to tackle the outbreak. Also see: Myths vs facts about China's coronavirus 'We must act now' China has locked down a swathe of its centre, effectively quarantining millions of people in their cities and halting travel around the country. "We must all act together now to limit further spread... We can only stop it together," said Tedros, who travelled to China this week and met with President Xi Jinping. Foreign airlines including British Airways and Lufthansa have begun cancelling or curtailing flights to and from China, and a number of governments are recommending citizens do not visit the country. Investors initially applauded the WHO's move, plunging back into markets that have lost altitude over recent days as the 2019-nCoV crisis has worsened. "Coronavirus fears continue to remain a dominant driver of market sentiment, with the continued proliferation of the virus providing a huge cause for concern," noted IG analyst Joshua Mahony. "Growth fears remain relevant as the virus continues to spread," he also warned. World oil prices firmed Friday after plunging the previous day to three-month lows on virus-linked demand fears in China, which is a major market for raw materials including crude.

Markets struggle after World Health Organisation declares coronavirus emergency

International airlines from France, UK, US and India have suspended flights to China over fears of the spread of the deadly coronavirus. The virus is showing no sign of reducing, overnight the death toll climbed to 213 with more than 2000 new cases being reported across the country.

More than 2,000 new Coronavirus cases reported in China, death toll rises to 213

The Wuhan Coronavirus continues to spread and is showing no signs of slowing down. Over 100 people are dead and more than seven thousand cases have been reported.&nbsp;

The World Health Organisation (WHO) had declared that the outbreak is not yet a global emergency. Now, this outbreak is almost as large as the SARS virus, and is spreading fast.

Who should be blamed for this health crisis - First China refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation and punishes people who bring it up. Then the WHO drags its feet. The result is more deaths and panic across the world.

Apparently, both China and the WHO tried to underplay the extent of this crisis. The WHO made an error in its assessments of the Wuhan Coronavirus. On Monday, they released a 'situational report' on the outbreak. In its report, the WHO admitted that in its reports - it had 'incorrectly summarised the risk for the global level to be moderate'.

Basically, the WHO had earlier said the coronations pose a moderate risk. Some say the WHO is being cautious, But some others accuse it of going slow - a charge that is not being made for the first time - in 2014, the WHO faced severe criticism for downplaying the Ebola epidemic. More than 11 thousand people had died by the time it could be controlled.

Is the WHO treading 'carefully' now - because China is involved? It's possible because declaring a global emergency means economic losses and damage to China's reputation. 
 
WATCH: Who's to Blame for Coronavirus Outbreak&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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WHO is under pressure, but, by failing to act now it risks failing as an institution for international public health.

This brings us to China, multiple reports now claim that the first signs of this outbreak can be traced back to mid-December. Officials at the local level tried to hide and even cover up the extent of the crisis. Beijing was slow to act and ended up mishandling the outbreak. 
 
To overcompensate, China is doing what it does best - construction - building hospitals overnight. It is responding with a nationwide mobilisation of resources, but the problem got out of hand and the disease has spread to at least 17 countries now.

It's a deadly mix, a virus that the world knows little about. A government that wants to hide and control everything,&nbsp;and an international health body that is reluctant to act against a big economy.

The WHO has no rule book to deal with a Coronavirus like outbreak from a country like China, which is the world's second-largest economy.

The need of the hour is a coherent global response that allows for collaboration between doctors, scientists and health professionals. A team of global experts which can come up with solutions to end this outbreak.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world) 
&nbsp;

The Wuhan Coronavirus continues to spread and is showing no signs of slowing down. Over 100 people are dead and more than seven thousand cases have been reported.

The Wuhan Coronavirus continues to spread and is showing no signs of slowing down. Over 100 people are dead and more than seven thousand cases have been reported. The World Health Organisation (WHO) had declared that the outbreak is not yet a global emergency. Now, this outbreak is almost as large as the SARS virus, and is spreading fast. Who should be blamed for this health crisis - First China refuses to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation and punishes people who bring it up. Then the WHO drags its feet. The result is more deaths and panic across the world. Apparently, both China and the WHO tried to underplay the extent of this crisis. The WHO made an error in its assessments of the Wuhan Coronavirus. On Monday, they released a 'situational report' on the outbreak. In its report, the WHO admitted that in its reports - it had 'incorrectly summarised the risk for the global level to be moderate'. Basically, the WHO had earlier said the coronations pose a moderate risk. Some say the WHO is being cautious, But some others accuse it of going slow - a charge that is not being made for the first time - in 2014, the WHO faced severe criticism for downplaying the Ebola epidemic. More than 11 thousand people had died by the time it could be controlled. Is the WHO treading 'carefully' now - because China is involved? It's possible because declaring a global emergency means economic losses and damage to China's reputation. WATCH: Who's to Blame for Coronavirus Outbreak × WHO is under pressure, but, by failing to act now it risks failing as an institution for international public health. This brings us to China, multiple reports now claim that the first signs of this outbreak can be traced back to mid-December. Officials at the local level tried to hide and even cover up the extent of the crisis. Beijing was slow to act and ended up mishandling the outbreak. To overcompensate, China is doing what it does best - construction - building hospitals overnight. It is responding with a nationwide mobilisation of resources, but the problem got out of hand and the disease has spread to at least 17 countries now. It's a deadly mix, a virus that the world knows little about. A government that wants to hide and control everything, and an international health body that is reluctant to act against a big economy. The WHO has no rule book to deal with a Coronavirus like outbreak from a country like China, which is the world's second-largest economy. The need of the hour is a coherent global response that allows for collaboration between doctors, scientists and health professionals. A team of global experts which can come up with solutions to end this outbreak. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit - China virus spreads: Is WHO dragging its feet?

The new coronavirus has been declared a global emergency by the World Health Organization, as the outbreak continues to spread outside China. "The main reason for this declaration is not what is happening in China but what is happening in other countries," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

WHO declares Coronavirus as global health emergency

Rumours of the deadly coronavirus are spreading faster than the Coronavirus itself. Watch this video to know some myths and facts about the coronavirus.

Myths and Facts about deadly Coronavirus

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