On January 20th, 2020, national authorities in China reported to WHO an additional 139 new cases of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection, that were detected in Wuhan, Beijing and Shenzhen over the past two days. This is the result of increased searching and testing for 2019-nCoV among people who are unwell with respiratory illness.
Background:
Since early December, a number of cases of pneumonia have been detected in persons from Wuhan city in China. Cases have now also been detected in Beijing and Shenzen. Chinese authorities identified a new coronavirus as the agent causing these cases. Two imported cases have also been reported in Thailand – in people that had traveled from Wuhan. A case has also been reported in Japan, who had also visited Wuhan.
Coronaviruses are common - many cause less severe illness such as the common cold; other are known to cause more severe illness (SARS and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, MERS
At present, WHO does not recommend any specific health measures for travelers in relation to this event. WHO advises against the application of any travel or trade restrictions on China based on the information available. If travelers develop respiratory illness before, during or after travel, they should seek medical attention and share travel history with their health care provider.
The World Health Organization is working with Thailand and other countries to track further understand infections caused by this new coronavirus and to ensure that they are prevented and controlled. This includes,
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Facilitating information sharing on this and other relevant health events between countries
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In the longer term, using the International Health Regulations to develop and strengthen the capacities of countries to detect and respond to infections like the new coronavirus.
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Providing all countries with a technical package of interim guidance, including
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Case definitions to help with identification of cases
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Information on laboratory methodologies to identify this and other respiratory viruses,
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Guidance on how to protect health care workers and others;
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Information for clinicians on case management
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Guidance on Risk Communication
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The following guidelines are also being developed
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Advice for people visiting markets
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Guidance on entry & exit screening at airports and other ‘points of entry’
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Guidance on case investigation and contact tracing
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Please see the following websites for more information
The situation report (data as reported by 20 January 2020)
Coronavirus
Q&A on coronaviruses
Twitter - World Health Organization Western Pacific