With many Chinese capitals under lockdown, businesses shut, and 60 million-plus citizens staying indoors to dodge the coronavirus, travel within the country has fallen dramatically. The coronavirus outbreak that began in December in Wuhan, China has executed at least 565 people and infected over 28,000 (the majority in China), spreading to over 25 countries.
- Global: 28,273cases,565 deaths
- Local: 28,018 cases, 563 deaths
- Outside China: 260 cases in more than 25 places, 2 deaths
Latest update:
Two infants are infected in Wuhan, according to China’s state broadcaster, the youngest baby was diagnosed in 30 hours after being born to a mother who had been affected. Experts predict it’s unclear how the baby got infected, as there could be several ways it became exposed to the virus. The first patient in the US was discharged from hospital earlier in Washington state, and the first patient of Taiwan will be discharged as well.
Thousands of people are being quarantined on two cruise ships, anchored in Japan, and Hong Kong after earlier passengers were confirmed to have the virus.
Specialists in Thailand say they have fortunately treated a patient with a sequence of antiviral drugs.
What’s happening?
Scientists worldwide, are developing medication, and are striving to learn more about the coronavirus, however, there is still no cure or vaccine yet. In the latter part, authorities worldwide are reacting with emergency measures, travel limitations, and quarantines to stem the expanse of the virus. These strict measures have also hit businesses hard; brands have had to close stores, shipping ways have been obstructed, and airlines have withdrawn flights from Hong Kong after months of declining business.
Is it safe to travel?
Many countries including the UK, have warned against travel to China. Many airlines have ceased travel to and from China, while countries have implemented bans on travellers from China.