11 million quarantined, 17 died, nearly 600 infected - WHO brings final decision

It is confirmed that 17 people have died in China as a result of the new coronavirus, while 571 people have fallen ill. All transport networks closed in Wuhan.

11 million quarantined, 17 died, nearly 600 infected - WHO brings final decision

It is confirmed that 17 people have died in China as a result of the new coronavirus, while 571 people have fallen ill. All transport networks closed in Wuhan.

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EPA-EFE/STRINGER CHINA OUT

Another 393 people are suspected of being infected with the virus, but this has not yet been confirmed, Reuters reports.

Wuhan’s city government said it would shut down all urban transport networks and suspend outgoing flights.

Wuhan authorities have urged citizens not to leave the city unless under special circumstances, while heavy guards patrol Wuhan's main roads.

Of eight known cases worldwide, Thailand has confirmed four, while Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the United States have reported one each.

In Washington, there are 16 people who have been in contact with the coronavirus patients, who are currently under medical observation.

During a visit to Wuhan, Vice Premier Sun Chunlan said authorities needed to be open about the virus and efforts to contain it, the official Xinhua news agency said.

Some experts believe the new virus is not as dangerous as previous coronaviruses such as SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), which has killed more than 700 people since 2012.

There is no vaccine for the virus, which can spread through respiratory transmission. Symptoms include fever, difficulty in breathing and cough, similar to many other respiratory illnesses, and could cause pneumonia.

The previously unknown virus strain is believed to have emerged late last year from illegally traded wildlife at an animal market in China’s central city of Wuhan.

Taiwan’s China Airlines said it had suspended flights to Wuhan and railway company from Hong Kong confirmed it had suspended sales of high-speed rail tickets to and from Wuhan.

Japan is facing with the increased risk of new viruses, and citizens are advised to cancel trips to non-urban areas.