The novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China, in late 2019 continues its spread, claiming lives primarily in China while prompting global concern. As of January 27, 2020, the toll stands at 81 fatalities and 2,816 confirmed infections. With 56 million people under quarantine in China, nations like France and the U.S. are coordinating evacuations of their citizens.
This emerging coronavirus, genetically 80% similar to the 2003 SARS virus, has triggered heightened alerts worldwide. In China, Wuhan—the epicenter—remains locked down, transformed into a near-ghost town with suspended transport and mandatory mask-wearing. Hong Kong has activated its highest health alert level.
Europe's first cases surfaced in France, but officials report them contained, noting the virus appears less virulent than initially feared. Yet, infections have reached nearly 15 countries.
According to Channel NewsAsia's report on January 27, 2020, there are now 2,816 confirmed cases and 81 deaths worldwide, with over 6,000 suspected. China bears the brunt: 2,761 cases and all fatalities, spanning nearly every province. To curb movement, authorities extended Chinese New Year holidays through February 2.
No deaths outside China, but cases rise elsewhere: Hong Kong and Thailand (8 each), Australia, Macao, and the U.S. (5 each), Japan, Malaysia, Singapore (4 each), France, South Korea, Taiwan (3 each), Vietnam (2), and Nepal (1).
Human-to-human transmission, confirmed recently, ensures daily new cases amid peak Chinese New Year travel ending January 29. Though vaccine development is underway in China, experts anticipate months before containment.
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