The novel coronavirus continues its global spread, with three cases now confirmed in France—the first on European soil. Hong Kong has escalated to its highest health alert to bolster containment efforts, as China's president warns of a "serious" situation with accelerating infections.
China first reported the new human-to-human transmissible coronavirus on January 20, 2020, sparking worldwide concern. As of this update, the death toll in China stands at 41, with approximately 1,300 infections.
Origin traced to Wuhan, authorities imposed a strict quarantine and deployed the military. On January 25, 450 military doctors and medical staff were sent to the city. Notably, around 250 French nationals remain in Wuhan, a metropolis of 11 million; France's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively reaching out to them.
Two weeks after leaving China, the virus has been detected in South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, the US, Vietnam, Nepal, Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia. France reports three confirmed cases—Europe's first. The initial patient is a Bordeaux-based wine professional.
Following detection, 10 to 15 contacts have come forward. The other two cases involve a Chinese tourist couple in their 30s who traveled from Wuhan to Paris. France's Ministry of Health states patients are receiving care with no cause for alarm. Public Health France's Dr. Daniel Lévy-Bruhl, speaking on BFM TV, noted the virus "is circulating more widely than initially thought but appears less virulent."
Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam has declared the territory's maximum health alert (see video at article's end) to enhance control measures. The February 9 marathon is canceled, and schools/universities remain closed through February 17.
Over 230 cases are confirmed in Hong Kong, fueling public anxiety—pharmacies report long lines for masks and sanitizers. The government has imposed stricter entry checks from mainland China. Neighboring Macao reports two cases with heightened vigilance.
Sources: France Info – South China Morning Post
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