The toll from the 2019-nCoV coronavirus outbreak continues to climb. Meanwhile, France has repatriated 250 more nationals from China, with about 20 initially showing symptoms—though tests confirmed they were negative. Researchers have identified a possible new strain featuring a distinct transmission pathway.
According to the South China Morning Post's report on February 3, 2020, the epidemic now includes 17,387 confirmed cases and 361 deaths. Chinese authorities reported 2,829 new cases and 57 additional deaths in a single day, indicating the outbreak's ongoing intensity.
Cases are rising globally too. Nations approaching 20 cases include Japan (20), Thailand (19), Singapore (18), and South Korea (15). In Europe, Germany leads with 8 cases, followed by France with 6. Notably, the first death outside China occurred in the Philippines.
On February 2, a second flight from Wuhan arrived in Istres carrying 250 passengers from 30 nationalities, including 65 French citizens. Le Monde reports that around 20 showed symptoms and received care, but tests ruled out infection.
Some French returnees joined earlier arrivals at the Carry-le-Rouet holiday center, while others were housed at a firefighters' school in Aix-en-Provence. European nationals were transferred with support from their home countries.
As detailed by Belgium's Le Soir, experts are investigating a potential new strain transmissible via the digestive system and bodily fluids. Chinese researchers observed diarrhea in some patients without fever, raising concerns about fecal-oral transmission.
In response, G7 nations are coordinating efforts, including a planned conference call among health ministers for a unified strategy.
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