China's novel coronavirus outbreak has claimed four lives, with over 200 confirmed cases. Leading experts now confirm human-to-human transmission.
Since November 12, 218 people across Asia have been officially impacted by this mysterious viral pneumonia epidemic. However, experts at Imperial College London warn in a recent paper that the true figure is likely much higher, approaching 1,700 cases.
Genetic analysis identifies the pathogen as a new coronavirus, 80% similar to SARS, which caused 774 deaths globally in 2002-2003, including 349 in mainland China.
Initially clustered in Wuhan, the epicenter, cases have rapidly spread. Beijing and Shanghai reported their first on Monday, alongside over a dozen in Guangdong province. Thailand (three cases), Japan (three), South Korea, and Australia have also confirmed infections among travelers from China, who were immediately isolated.
In a recent CCTV interview, Dr. Zhong Nanshan of China's National Health Commission stated that "human-to-human transmission is proven."
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports four fatalities so far, heightening urgency.
Authorities anticipate a spike during the Lunar New Year holiday starting January 25, as Wuhan hubs millions traveling nationwide.
Wuhan has deployed infrared thermometers at airports, train, and bus stations to detect feverish passengers. Masks are distributed to all residents.
Internationally, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia have introduced screenings. U.S. airports in Los Angeles, New York (JFK), and San Francisco have enhanced checks on Wuhan flights.
WHO experts convene in Geneva this Wednesday to assess if this warrants a "public health emergency of international concern"—a rare alert for severe outbreaks.
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