132 Deaths Confirmed in China as Coronavirus Spreads to Multiple Countries

Latest recap:

• Chinese authorities confirmed 132 deaths.
• Director-general of WHO have decided to reconvene the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee to debate whether it constitutes a public health emergency of international concern.
• The virus has spread to at least 13 other countries and regions.

A total of almost 6,000 cases nationwide has been confirmed, at this point already surpassing the 5,327 people diagnosed with SARS.

Wuhan is the epicentre of the virus and was placed under lockdown by the Chinese government last week, prompting other countries including Britain, Australia and the U.S. to evacuate their nationals from the city. However, it still remains unknown when these arrangements would be carried out since several planes have failed to take off as scheduled.

Up to date, Australia has recorded 7 comfirmed coronavirus cases, with 4 in New South Wales, 2 in Victoria and 1 latest in Queensland.

Tremendous efforts are being put to stabilize the situations and develop any methods possible to protect the public. While there are reported cured cases in China, currently no effective vaccines are available to curb the virus. To reduce any likely transmission, you can

1)wash your hands often with soap and water;

2) avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands;

3) avoid close contact with people who are sick.