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Live updates: China strikes upbeat note on coronavirus as businesses reopen; Hong Kong reports second death Live updates: China strikes upbeat note on coronavirus as businesses reopen; Hong Kong reports second death
(about 3 hours later)
Chinese leader Xi Jinping is striking an increasingly confident note that the country can control the coronavirus outbreak and manage the economic and social fallout, as some Chinese health experts predict a peak in infections by the end of the month.Chinese leader Xi Jinping is striking an increasingly confident note that the country can control the coronavirus outbreak and manage the economic and social fallout, as some Chinese health experts predict a peak in infections by the end of the month.
Chinese leaders, eager to kick-start economic activity, have dismantled some highway checkpoints, while businesses have begun to reopen. As of Wednesday, however, restrictions on personal mobility remained tight, suggesting wariness about rising infections.Chinese leaders, eager to kick-start economic activity, have dismantled some highway checkpoints, while businesses have begun to reopen. As of Wednesday, however, restrictions on personal mobility remained tight, suggesting wariness about rising infections.
China on Wednesday reported that the rate of new cases continues to decline, but international experts, including Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, say they are wary of declaring that the pace of worldwide infections is slowing. Here’s what we know:China on Wednesday reported that the rate of new cases continues to decline, but international experts, including Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, say they are wary of declaring that the pace of worldwide infections is slowing. Here’s what we know:
● Beijing’s central Xicheng district said it would seal off residential compounds for almost half a million residents in one of the strictest control policies to reach the Chinese capital.● Beijing’s central Xicheng district said it would seal off residential compounds for almost half a million residents in one of the strictest control policies to reach the Chinese capital.
● China tallied a total of 1,749 new infections and 136 deaths through the end of Tuesday, making the cumulative total 74,185 infections and 2,004 deaths — the overwhelming majority still occurring in central Hubei province. Hong Kong reported its second death, a 70-year-old man.● China tallied a total of 1,749 new infections and 136 deaths through the end of Tuesday, making the cumulative total 74,185 infections and 2,004 deaths — the overwhelming majority still occurring in central Hubei province. Hong Kong reported its second death, a 70-year-old man.
● New stricter criteria for diagnosing coronavirus cases will likely result in further drops in the rate of new infections reported.● New stricter criteria for diagnosing coronavirus cases will likely result in further drops in the rate of new infections reported.
● In Japan, an infectious disease specialist slammed conditions on the Diamond Princess cruise ship, where 79 new cases were reported Wednesday, saying officials endangered lives by failing to observe proper quarantine practices.● In Japan, an infectious disease specialist slammed conditions on the Diamond Princess cruise ship, where 79 new cases were reported Wednesday, saying officials endangered lives by failing to observe proper quarantine practices.
● Iran reported its first two cases of the virus, raising the number infected with the coronavirus in the Middle East to 12, including in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.● Iran reported its first two cases of the virus, raising the number infected with the coronavirus in the Middle East to 12, including in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.
● The number of coronavirus cases in South Korea increased substantially Thursday, rising by nearly two-thirds to 82.
South Korea reported 31 new cases of the coronavirus on Thursday, increasing its total by nearly two-thirds to 82.
All of the latest cases except one in Seoul were in the southern city of Daegu and surrounding North Gyeongsang province, Korea’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said.
Of those, 23 cases were linked to church services that a 61-year-old patient known had attended, according to the KCDC.
Shincheonji Church of Jesus released a statement on Wednesday that 10 churchgoers contracted the virus from the 61-year-old woman. The church in Daegu she attended has been shut since Tuesday and is currently undergoing investigations, the statement said.
A patient being treated for novel cornoavirus at a San Diego hospital was released Wednesday after fully recovering from the virus, UC San Diego Health said in a statement.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notified UC San Diego Health that a patient at the facility had fully recovered. The facility has worked closely with the CDC to receive individuals with symptoms to rule out the coronavirus infection.
“Patients who are cleared for hospital discharge have been confirmed through rigorous testing that includes consecutive negative test results provided by the CDC,” UC San Diego Health wrote in a statement. The facility said the patient discharged Wednesday is no longer under federal quarantine or isolation commands.
UC San Diego Health was scrutnized last week when a confirmed coronavirus patient was mistakenly discharged due to a laboratory error. The patient was among three evacuees from China placed in isolation at the facility in early February and underwent testing after showing signs of the novel coronavirus.
A coronavirus, recently named COVID-19, has infected more than 70,000 people since it was first reported in late 2019. To predict how big the epidemic could get, researchers are working to determine how contagious the virus is.A coronavirus, recently named COVID-19, has infected more than 70,000 people since it was first reported in late 2019. To predict how big the epidemic could get, researchers are working to determine how contagious the virus is.
As governments and public health agencies work to treat infected people and control the spread of COVID-19, researchers are using mathematical models to estimate how contagious it is and how far it could spread. One such model has indicated that the number of cases may peak this month.As governments and public health agencies work to treat infected people and control the spread of COVID-19, researchers are using mathematical models to estimate how contagious it is and how far it could spread. One such model has indicated that the number of cases may peak this month.
Read more here.Read more here.
As the number of coronavirus cases in China skyrocketed in the past week, a small Texas manufacturer was inundated with orders from 8,000 miles away. Then, Stephen K. Bannon reached out.As the number of coronavirus cases in China skyrocketed in the past week, a small Texas manufacturer was inundated with orders from 8,000 miles away. Then, Stephen K. Bannon reached out.
Prestige Ameritech, the largest full-line domestic surgical mask manufacturer, was producing 600,000 masks each day but struggling to meet demand. Mike Bowen, the company’s executive vice president, received cold calls on his cellphone from people saying they represented foreign governments and wanted to make bulk purchases. The Hong Kong government and Hong Kong International Airport wanted more. Everyone was hunting for masks.Prestige Ameritech, the largest full-line domestic surgical mask manufacturer, was producing 600,000 masks each day but struggling to meet demand. Mike Bowen, the company’s executive vice president, received cold calls on his cellphone from people saying they represented foreign governments and wanted to make bulk purchases. The Hong Kong government and Hong Kong International Airport wanted more. Everyone was hunting for masks.
Instead of celebrating the business boom, Bowen was indignant. This is the precise scenario he began warning about almost 15 years ago, when he pleaded with federal agencies and lawmakers to boost U.S. production of medical masks. He had predicted an eventual health scare and not enough manufacturers. He was right.Instead of celebrating the business boom, Bowen was indignant. This is the precise scenario he began warning about almost 15 years ago, when he pleaded with federal agencies and lawmakers to boost U.S. production of medical masks. He had predicted an eventual health scare and not enough manufacturers. He was right.
So there Bowen was last week as a guest on Bannon’s “War Room: Pandemic” podcast, tormented that no one in power had listened. Bannon, a former top adviser to President Trump, has long cautioned about the decline of U.S. manufacturing.So there Bowen was last week as a guest on Bannon’s “War Room: Pandemic” podcast, tormented that no one in power had listened. Bannon, a former top adviser to President Trump, has long cautioned about the decline of U.S. manufacturing.
“What I’ve been saying since 2007 is, ‘Guys, I’m warning you, here’s what is going to happen, let’s prepare,’ ” Bowen said on the program. “Because if you call me after it starts, I can’t help everybody.”“What I’ve been saying since 2007 is, ‘Guys, I’m warning you, here’s what is going to happen, let’s prepare,’ ” Bowen said on the program. “Because if you call me after it starts, I can’t help everybody.”
The coronavirus outbreak has led to a health crisis, a diplomatic fiasco and, increasingly, an economic mess. It has also exposed major vulnerabilities in the medical supply chain. Many U.S. companies, especially hospitals and pharmaceutical firms, rely on Chinese manufacturers for products ranging from the active ingredients of prescription drugs to protective gear like masks and gloves. Now, much appears upended.The coronavirus outbreak has led to a health crisis, a diplomatic fiasco and, increasingly, an economic mess. It has also exposed major vulnerabilities in the medical supply chain. Many U.S. companies, especially hospitals and pharmaceutical firms, rely on Chinese manufacturers for products ranging from the active ingredients of prescription drugs to protective gear like masks and gloves. Now, much appears upended.
Read more here.Read more here.
Halfway around the world, the covid-19 outbreak is negatively affecting Chinese businesses in New York and San Francisco, and some Chinese community members are feeling targeted. Watch more here:Halfway around the world, the covid-19 outbreak is negatively affecting Chinese businesses in New York and San Francisco, and some Chinese community members are feeling targeted. Watch more here:
Researchers have produced the first 3-D map of the coronavirus, a development that may help the development of a vaccine or antiviral medicine.Researchers have produced the first 3-D map of the coronavirus, a development that may help the development of a vaccine or antiviral medicine.
The research, which maps the molecular structure of SARS-CoV-2, was published in the journal Science on Wednesday. A team at the University of Texas at Austin collaborated with researchers at the National Institutes of Health.The research, which maps the molecular structure of SARS-CoV-2, was published in the journal Science on Wednesday. A team at the University of Texas at Austin collaborated with researchers at the National Institutes of Health.
They were able to produce their 3-D atomic-level scale map of the part of the virus that attaches to and infects human cells. That part — called the spike protein — could prove essential as researchers race to produce a vaccine.They were able to produce their 3-D atomic-level scale map of the part of the virus that attaches to and infects human cells. That part — called the spike protein — could prove essential as researchers race to produce a vaccine.
The team at Austin had already been studying other viruses in the coronavirus family and developing ways of locking their spike proteins into a shape that made them easier to analyze.The team at Austin had already been studying other viruses in the coronavirus family and developing ways of locking their spike proteins into a shape that made them easier to analyze.
“As soon as we knew this was a coronavirus, we felt we had to jump at it,” said Jason McLellan, associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin, who led the research, in a statement. “We knew exactly what mutations to put into this, because we’ve already shown these mutations work for a bunch of other coronaviruses.”“As soon as we knew this was a coronavirus, we felt we had to jump at it,” said Jason McLellan, associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin, who led the research, in a statement. “We knew exactly what mutations to put into this, because we’ve already shown these mutations work for a bunch of other coronaviruses.”
The researchers worked quickly, designing and producing samples of their spike protein within two weeks of receiving the genome sequence of the virus from Chinese researchers. It took roughly another two weeks to reconstruct the 3-D atomic-scale map.The researchers worked quickly, designing and producing samples of their spike protein within two weeks of receiving the genome sequence of the virus from Chinese researchers. It took roughly another two weeks to reconstruct the 3-D atomic-scale map.
McLellan’s team said they plan to work next on using the molecule they mapped to see if they can isolate antibodies produced by previously infected patients who have recovered from the virus — in hopes of producing a treatment for people soon after they are exposed to the virus.McLellan’s team said they plan to work next on using the molecule they mapped to see if they can isolate antibodies produced by previously infected patients who have recovered from the virus — in hopes of producing a treatment for people soon after they are exposed to the virus.
Sony Interactive Entertainment has decided to cancel its plans to attend a major video game showcase in Boston beginning Feb. 27 due to concerns about the coronavirus. The publishing company announced the decision Wednesday afternoon with a short update to an existing post on the event.Sony Interactive Entertainment has decided to cancel its plans to attend a major video game showcase in Boston beginning Feb. 27 due to concerns about the coronavirus. The publishing company announced the decision Wednesday afternoon with a short update to an existing post on the event.
The showcase, Pax East, will run through March 1 and demo some of the major recent and upcoming game releases before a mass audience at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. With both prominent game publishers and members of the general public, the expected crowd for the event figures to number in the tens of thousands.The showcase, Pax East, will run through March 1 and demo some of the major recent and upcoming game releases before a mass audience at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. With both prominent game publishers and members of the general public, the expected crowd for the event figures to number in the tens of thousands.
“Today, Sony Interactive Entertainment made the decision to cancel its participation at PAX East in Boston this year due to increasing concerns related to COVID-19 (also known as ‘novel coronavirus’),” the post reads. “We felt this was the safest option as the situation is changing daily. We are disappointed to cancel our participation in this event, but the health and safety of our global workforce is our highest concern.”“Today, Sony Interactive Entertainment made the decision to cancel its participation at PAX East in Boston this year due to increasing concerns related to COVID-19 (also known as ‘novel coronavirus’),” the post reads. “We felt this was the safest option as the situation is changing daily. We are disappointed to cancel our participation in this event, but the health and safety of our global workforce is our highest concern.”
The news comes after Boston released a statement confirming its first case of coronavirus in the state of Massachusetts.The news comes after Boston released a statement confirming its first case of coronavirus in the state of Massachusetts.
Sony was preparing to demo some of its most anticipated upcoming releases at the show and is preparing to release a new console, the PlayStation 5, this year.Sony was preparing to demo some of its most anticipated upcoming releases at the show and is preparing to release a new console, the PlayStation 5, this year.
In a statement to The Washington Post on Wednesday, Pax event director Kyle Marsden-Kish said Pax East will go on as planned, with “enhanced cleaning and sanitization across the show” based on the Environment Protection Agency’s recommendations in its emerging pathogen policy. “We are working closely with the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center and following local, state and federal public health guidelines, including those issued by the CDC,” Marsden-Kish said in a statement.In a statement to The Washington Post on Wednesday, Pax event director Kyle Marsden-Kish said Pax East will go on as planned, with “enhanced cleaning and sanitization across the show” based on the Environment Protection Agency’s recommendations in its emerging pathogen policy. “We are working closely with the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center and following local, state and federal public health guidelines, including those issued by the CDC,” Marsden-Kish said in a statement.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a new travel notice Wednesday for people headed to Hong Kong.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a new travel notice Wednesday for people headed to Hong Kong.
The Level 1 warning asks travelers to exercise basic hygiene that includes hand washing and to avoid contact with sick people. The relatively mild warning comes shortly after Hong Kong reported a second death caused by coronavirus.The Level 1 warning asks travelers to exercise basic hygiene that includes hand washing and to avoid contact with sick people. The relatively mild warning comes shortly after Hong Kong reported a second death caused by coronavirus.
Canceling or postponing travel plans wasn’t discouraged by the agency. However, the CDC recommended that a person seek medical attention if a visit to Hong Kong happened in the past 14 days and if symptoms of the virus are occurring.Canceling or postponing travel plans wasn’t discouraged by the agency. However, the CDC recommended that a person seek medical attention if a visit to Hong Kong happened in the past 14 days and if symptoms of the virus are occurring.
Earlier this month, the agency issued a Level 3 travel notice to China that advised against nonessential travel to the country. Hong Kong, Macao and the self-governing island of Taiwan weren’t part of that warning.Earlier this month, the agency issued a Level 3 travel notice to China that advised against nonessential travel to the country. Hong Kong, Macao and the self-governing island of Taiwan weren’t part of that warning.
A Filipino crew member from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, the first among the crew to test positive for the coronavirus earlier this month, was discharged from a Japanese hospital Wednesday, according to a statement from the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs.A Filipino crew member from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, the first among the crew to test positive for the coronavirus earlier this month, was discharged from a Japanese hospital Wednesday, according to a statement from the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs.
He was admitted to a hospital on Feb. 5 and has been “successfully treated,” officials said.He was admitted to a hospital on Feb. 5 and has been “successfully treated,” officials said.
About 40 other Filipinos are still receiving medical care for covid-19 at facilities throughout the Tokyo metropolitan area, according to officials. That number includes six new cases that emerged Wednesday, among 79 new cases total on the Diamond Princess.About 40 other Filipinos are still receiving medical care for covid-19 at facilities throughout the Tokyo metropolitan area, according to officials. That number includes six new cases that emerged Wednesday, among 79 new cases total on the Diamond Princess.
The Philippines Embassy in Tokyo is working with the Japanese government and Princess Cruises management to coordinate how and when Filipino crew and passengers aboard the cruise ship will be transported back to the Philippines, according to the statement.The Philippines Embassy in Tokyo is working with the Japanese government and Princess Cruises management to coordinate how and when Filipino crew and passengers aboard the cruise ship will be transported back to the Philippines, according to the statement.
Wednesday was the last day of Japan’s government-enforced quarantine of the cruise ship. All other Filipino crew members and travelers will be allowed to enter the Philippines once they receive medical clearance, officials said.Wednesday was the last day of Japan’s government-enforced quarantine of the cruise ship. All other Filipino crew members and travelers will be allowed to enter the Philippines once they receive medical clearance, officials said.
At least 621 people have contracted the virus aboard the ship. Crew members say they have not been afforded the same protections as passengers.At least 621 people have contracted the virus aboard the ship. Crew members say they have not been afforded the same protections as passengers.
Democratic senators sent a letter Wednesday to the Trump administration asking it to request emergency funding to supplement the government’s coronavirus response.Democratic senators sent a letter Wednesday to the Trump administration asking it to request emergency funding to supplement the government’s coronavirus response.
In the letter, 25 senators expressed concern that the administration had not asked for supplemental funding to deal with the epidemic. Trump administration officials, the letter said, “continue to assert that there are already sufficient resources available, while providing few details on current or projected spending.”In the letter, 25 senators expressed concern that the administration had not asked for supplemental funding to deal with the epidemic. Trump administration officials, the letter said, “continue to assert that there are already sufficient resources available, while providing few details on current or projected spending.”
In a briefing to senators on Feb. 12, administration officials “stated that we must be prepared for a very large and lengthy public health response to this virus given how easily it appears to be transmitted,” according to the letter. “They also stated that [the Department of Health and Human Services] would exhaust existing funding for the response soon.”In a briefing to senators on Feb. 12, administration officials “stated that we must be prepared for a very large and lengthy public health response to this virus given how easily it appears to be transmitted,” according to the letter. “They also stated that [the Department of Health and Human Services] would exhaust existing funding for the response soon.”
In recent weeks, officials at the state level have expressed concerns over reimbursement for the mounting costs of coronavirus screenings and quarantines, along with staffing and equipment, under federally directed efforts to limit the outbreak’s reach in United States.In recent weeks, officials at the state level have expressed concerns over reimbursement for the mounting costs of coronavirus screenings and quarantines, along with staffing and equipment, under federally directed efforts to limit the outbreak’s reach in United States.
The letter cites those worries. “We strongly urge the Administration to transmit an emergency supplemental request that ensures it can and will fully reimburse states for the costs,” the senators wrote.The letter cites those worries. “We strongly urge the Administration to transmit an emergency supplemental request that ensures it can and will fully reimburse states for the costs,” the senators wrote.
The letter also noted that President Trump’s recent budget proposal calls for a 9 percent cut in funding for the HHS, which includes the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — although officials said funding aimed at combating the coronavirus would be protected.The letter also noted that President Trump’s recent budget proposal calls for a 9 percent cut in funding for the HHS, which includes the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — although officials said funding aimed at combating the coronavirus would be protected.
Facebook criticized Singapore for invoking a controversial fake-news law to block a Facebook page, which the government said had been spreading misleading news about the coronavirus outbreak, among other concerns.Facebook criticized Singapore for invoking a controversial fake-news law to block a Facebook page, which the government said had been spreading misleading news about the coronavirus outbreak, among other concerns.
Facebook told Reuters on Tuesday that it was legally obligated to comply with Singapore’s order this week to block the States Times Review’s page in Singapore, but that it was “deeply concerned” by the move.Facebook told Reuters on Tuesday that it was legally obligated to comply with Singapore’s order this week to block the States Times Review’s page in Singapore, but that it was “deeply concerned” by the move.
Singapore last year passed the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA), one of the world’s most far-reaching anti-misinformation laws.Singapore last year passed the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA), one of the world’s most far-reaching anti-misinformation laws.
The government had already used it to censor the page in question, which is run by an Australia-based Singaporean political activist. The most recent case concerned articles criticizing Singapore’s handling of the coronavirus, which the government said were inaccurate.The government had already used it to censor the page in question, which is run by an Australia-based Singaporean political activist. The most recent case concerned articles criticizing Singapore’s handling of the coronavirus, which the government said were inaccurate.
“The reason why we need to act swiftly is because if we don’t, then these falsehoods can cause anxiety, fear and even panic,” Singapore’s minister for communications and information, S. Iswaran, told reporters Monday, the Straits Times reported.“The reason why we need to act swiftly is because if we don’t, then these falsehoods can cause anxiety, fear and even panic,” Singapore’s minister for communications and information, S. Iswaran, told reporters Monday, the Straits Times reported.
Social media companies and governments around the world are grappling with their responses to an onslaught of disinformation around the coronavirus outbreak. Well before the epidemic, however, human rights groups and free speech activists warned that Singapore’s fake-news law would restrict freedom of expression.Social media companies and governments around the world are grappling with their responses to an onslaught of disinformation around the coronavirus outbreak. Well before the epidemic, however, human rights groups and free speech activists warned that Singapore’s fake-news law would restrict freedom of expression.
“We believe orders like this are disproportionate and contradict the government’s claim that POFMA would not be used as a censorship tool,” Facebook said in a statement, according to Reuters. “We’ve repeatedly highlighted this law’s potential for overreach and we’re deeply concerned about the precedent this sets for the stifling of freedom of expression in Singapore.”“We believe orders like this are disproportionate and contradict the government’s claim that POFMA would not be used as a censorship tool,” Facebook said in a statement, according to Reuters. “We’ve repeatedly highlighted this law’s potential for overreach and we’re deeply concerned about the precedent this sets for the stifling of freedom of expression in Singapore.”
Iran’s first two coronavirus patients died Wednesday, hours after their infections were initially reported, a spokesman for the country’s health ministry wrote on Twitter.Iran’s first two coronavirus patients died Wednesday, hours after their infections were initially reported, a spokesman for the country’s health ministry wrote on Twitter.
The Iranians died in the holy Shiite city of Qom where they had been hospitalized after testing positive for the virus, Iran’s Mehr news agency reported.The Iranians died in the holy Shiite city of Qom where they had been hospitalized after testing positive for the virus, Iran’s Mehr news agency reported.
Kianush Jahanpur, the health ministry spokesman, wrote that both patients died while in intensive care. The patients were under isolation, Reuters reported.Kianush Jahanpur, the health ministry spokesman, wrote that both patients died while in intensive care. The patients were under isolation, Reuters reported.
Iran’s deputy minister of health traveled to Qom on Wednesday, according to Mehr, and a team from the ministry’s contagious diseases department arrived there Tuesday to assist staff at the Qom University of Medical Sciences, where the patients were hospitalized. Jahanpur told Iranian media earlier Wednesday that a number of people in Qom had been isolated and tested after reporting flu-like symptoms.Iran’s deputy minister of health traveled to Qom on Wednesday, according to Mehr, and a team from the ministry’s contagious diseases department arrived there Tuesday to assist staff at the Qom University of Medical Sciences, where the patients were hospitalized. Jahanpur told Iranian media earlier Wednesday that a number of people in Qom had been isolated and tested after reporting flu-like symptoms.
This sounds like great news: Drugmakers are starting to develop a coronavirus vaccine.This sounds like great news: Drugmakers are starting to develop a coronavirus vaccine.
The downside: That’s because they believe the virus is so deadly that developing a vaccine is worth risking a lot of money.The downside: That’s because they believe the virus is so deadly that developing a vaccine is worth risking a lot of money.
Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson has announced its Janssen unit will partner with the Department of Health and Human Services to work on a vaccine for the rapidly spreading coronavirus.Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson has announced its Janssen unit will partner with the Department of Health and Human Services to work on a vaccine for the rapidly spreading coronavirus.
On Monday, a second drug company — Sanofi Pasteur — said it’s also partnering with HHS to work on creating a vaccine using the company’s recombinant DNA platform. Both drugmakers will work with HHS’s Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, otherwise known as BARDA.On Monday, a second drug company — Sanofi Pasteur — said it’s also partnering with HHS to work on creating a vaccine using the company’s recombinant DNA platform. Both drugmakers will work with HHS’s Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, otherwise known as BARDA.
“I think companies are looking at it in a way they hadn’t looked at it before because I think the disease itself is convincing people this has a potential to be around for a while,” said Michael Osterholm, the director of the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy.“I think companies are looking at it in a way they hadn’t looked at it before because I think the disease itself is convincing people this has a potential to be around for a while,” said Michael Osterholm, the director of the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy.
Janssen’s and Sanofi’s announcements are welcome news to government health officials, who have worried publicly that the pharmaceutical industry wouldn’t wade into vaccine development because they might never recoup enormous upfront costs — potentially $750 million to $1 billion — for a vaccine that won’t be ready until the epidemic has significantly slowed or even ended.Janssen’s and Sanofi’s announcements are welcome news to government health officials, who have worried publicly that the pharmaceutical industry wouldn’t wade into vaccine development because they might never recoup enormous upfront costs — potentially $750 million to $1 billion — for a vaccine that won’t be ready until the epidemic has significantly slowed or even ended.
Read more: Drugmakers are developing a coronavirus vaccine. That’s a sign the disease will be around a long time.Read more: Drugmakers are developing a coronavirus vaccine. That’s a sign the disease will be around a long time.
Taiwan confirmed its 24th coronavirus diagnosis Wednesday, the Taiwanese Centers for Disease Control said in an announcement.Taiwan confirmed its 24th coronavirus diagnosis Wednesday, the Taiwanese Centers for Disease Control said in an announcement.
Health officials said the latest patient is a woman in her 60s from the northern part of the island. She went to see doctors four times between Jan. 22 and Jan. 29 for symptoms that included coughing and a fever, authorities said.Health officials said the latest patient is a woman in her 60s from the northern part of the island. She went to see doctors four times between Jan. 22 and Jan. 29 for symptoms that included coughing and a fever, authorities said.
The woman’s condition worsened to the point that she had to be rushed to the emergency treatment unit of a hospital, where she was diagnosed with pneumonia. She was admitted for care on Jan. 30, but her health declined further. The woman was sent to the intensive care unit, then transferred to an isolation ward where she was diagnosed with coronavirus Wednesday, officials said.The woman’s condition worsened to the point that she had to be rushed to the emergency treatment unit of a hospital, where she was diagnosed with pneumonia. She was admitted for care on Jan. 30, but her health declined further. The woman was sent to the intensive care unit, then transferred to an isolation ward where she was diagnosed with coronavirus Wednesday, officials said.
Authorities confirmed that the woman hadn’t been abroad for about two years. Health officials said they planned to investigate her contacts and activities over the past two weeks, in an effort to identify where she contracted the infection.Authorities confirmed that the woman hadn’t been abroad for about two years. Health officials said they planned to investigate her contacts and activities over the past two weeks, in an effort to identify where she contracted the infection.
The mounting death toll from the coronavirus raises a basic question: How does the virus make people sick, and why is it fatal for some?The mounting death toll from the coronavirus raises a basic question: How does the virus make people sick, and why is it fatal for some?
Scientists’ understanding of the new coronavirus is in flux, but it’s important to keep a few facts in mind: Most people who contract covid-19 — 80 percent, according to a study from Chinese public health officials — will experience only mild illness and recover. Based on early numbers, about 2 percent of people who are infected die — but that estimate comes with a huge caveat, given how hard it is to estimate fatality rates early in an outbreak.Scientists’ understanding of the new coronavirus is in flux, but it’s important to keep a few facts in mind: Most people who contract covid-19 — 80 percent, according to a study from Chinese public health officials — will experience only mild illness and recover. Based on early numbers, about 2 percent of people who are infected die — but that estimate comes with a huge caveat, given how hard it is to estimate fatality rates early in an outbreak.
The difference between a lethal infection and one that feels like a bad cold probably hinges on the interaction between the virus and a person’s immune system, say researchers, who are relying on their knowledge of other similar illnesses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).The difference between a lethal infection and one that feels like a bad cold probably hinges on the interaction between the virus and a person’s immune system, say researchers, who are relying on their knowledge of other similar illnesses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
“What you get is the initial damage and rush of inflammatory cells, but the damage is so extensive that the body’s immune response is completely overwhelmed — which causes even more immune response, more immune cells and more damage,” said Matthew Frieman, a University of Maryland virologist.“What you get is the initial damage and rush of inflammatory cells, but the damage is so extensive that the body’s immune response is completely overwhelmed — which causes even more immune response, more immune cells and more damage,” said Matthew Frieman, a University of Maryland virologist.
Coronaviruses that cause common colds are excellent at infecting the upper airway, while the virus causing SARS tended to go deeper in the lungs. As the coronavirus gains strength, Frieman said, dead cells are sloughed off and collect in the airway, making breathing difficult.Coronaviruses that cause common colds are excellent at infecting the upper airway, while the virus causing SARS tended to go deeper in the lungs. As the coronavirus gains strength, Frieman said, dead cells are sloughed off and collect in the airway, making breathing difficult.
In the patients who recover, the immune system’s response has worked: It has cleared the virus, with inflammation receding. Yet experts don’t know the long-term outcome for these individuals. It’s possible they will gain immunity and be protected from reinfection. Or they might get a less severe case in the future — or not be protected at all. They also might just gain temporary immunity. It’s yet another unanswered question about the coronavirus.In the patients who recover, the immune system’s response has worked: It has cleared the virus, with inflammation receding. Yet experts don’t know the long-term outcome for these individuals. It’s possible they will gain immunity and be protected from reinfection. Or they might get a less severe case in the future — or not be protected at all. They also might just gain temporary immunity. It’s yet another unanswered question about the coronavirus.
Read more here: How exactly does coronavirus kill?Read more here: How exactly does coronavirus kill?
SEOUL — North Korea maintained Wednesday that it does not have any coronavirus cases.SEOUL — North Korea maintained Wednesday that it does not have any coronavirus cases.
“Fortunately, no coronavirus case has been reported in our country to date,” Pyongyang’s Health Minister Oh Chun Bok told the official Korea Central Television.“Fortunately, no coronavirus case has been reported in our country to date,” Pyongyang’s Health Minister Oh Chun Bok told the official Korea Central Television.
“However, if we lower our guard just a little bit and let even one case of coronavirus infection occur, this can escalate into a disastrous fallout,” Oh told the state broadcaster.“However, if we lower our guard just a little bit and let even one case of coronavirus infection occur, this can escalate into a disastrous fallout,” Oh told the state broadcaster.
The World Health Organization said Tuesday that there are “no indications” of coronavirus cases in North Korea.The World Health Organization said Tuesday that there are “no indications” of coronavirus cases in North Korea.
“At the moment there are no signals. There are no indications we are dealing with any covid-19 there,” Mike Ryan, head of the WHO’s emergencies program, said during a news conference in Geneva.“At the moment there are no signals. There are no indications we are dealing with any covid-19 there,” Mike Ryan, head of the WHO’s emergencies program, said during a news conference in Geneva.
South Korean media outlets had previously reported on a coronavirus outbreak in North Korea, citing unnamed sources there.South Korean media outlets had previously reported on a coronavirus outbreak in North Korea, citing unnamed sources there.
South Korea’s Unification Ministry spokesman Yoh Sang-key said Wednesday that the country could consider sending virus aid to North Korea, if asked. The country has yet to receive an official request from an international organization, however, he added.South Korea’s Unification Ministry spokesman Yoh Sang-key said Wednesday that the country could consider sending virus aid to North Korea, if asked. The country has yet to receive an official request from an international organization, however, he added.
After a health scare last weekend that sent health officials in several countries scrambling, test results now show that almost 800 passengers on a cruise ship docked in Cambodia do not have the coronavirus, Cambodian health officials said.After a health scare last weekend that sent health officials in several countries scrambling, test results now show that almost 800 passengers on a cruise ship docked in Cambodia do not have the coronavirus, Cambodian health officials said.
The cruise ship Westerdam was turned away by several ports in Asia before finally being welcomed by Cambodia. Some of the passengers were allowed to disembark and travel on to other countries because the ship was assumed to be virus-free. But on Feb. 15, one passenger — an 83-year-old American woman from the ship who went on to Malaysia — tested positive, prompting fears that other passengers may be carrying the virus.The cruise ship Westerdam was turned away by several ports in Asia before finally being welcomed by Cambodia. Some of the passengers were allowed to disembark and travel on to other countries because the ship was assumed to be virus-free. But on Feb. 15, one passenger — an 83-year-old American woman from the ship who went on to Malaysia — tested positive, prompting fears that other passengers may be carrying the virus.
On Wednesday, Holland America Line, which operates the Westerdam, said 781 passengers tested negative for the virus that causes the disease now known as covid-19. “This completes the guests’ testing,” the company said in a statement.On Wednesday, Holland America Line, which operates the Westerdam, said 781 passengers tested negative for the virus that causes the disease now known as covid-19. “This completes the guests’ testing,” the company said in a statement.
When the ship first left Hong Kong on Feb. 1, it carried 1,455 passengers and 802 crew members. Once it docked in Cambodia, roughly 674 passengers and 55 crew members disembarked and flew onward to other countries, including the United States. The rest were stopped by sudden restrictions on travel imposed as news of the 83-year-old woman’s positive test spread, Holland America spokesman Erik Elvejord said in an phone interview.When the ship first left Hong Kong on Feb. 1, it carried 1,455 passengers and 802 crew members. Once it docked in Cambodia, roughly 674 passengers and 55 crew members disembarked and flew onward to other countries, including the United States. The rest were stopped by sudden restrictions on travel imposed as news of the 83-year-old woman’s positive test spread, Holland America spokesman Erik Elvejord said in an phone interview.
Since then, the remaining 781 passengers and 747 crew members have been stuck in Cambodia. While some passengers will be allowed to disembark Wednesday, the crew members will remain aboard while they wait for their tests to be completed, Elvejord said.Since then, the remaining 781 passengers and 747 crew members have been stuck in Cambodia. While some passengers will be allowed to disembark Wednesday, the crew members will remain aboard while they wait for their tests to be completed, Elvejord said.
The 55 crew members who were able to leave previously were not tested, he added, and it is unclear what countries they returned to. Those crew members left because they had finished their contracts, he said.The 55 crew members who were able to leave previously were not tested, he added, and it is unclear what countries they returned to. Those crew members left because they had finished their contracts, he said.
Experts have cautioned that the Westerdam incident demonstrates how travelers without obvious symptoms could slip through screening processes because authorities have been focused on monitoring only those who traveled to China or had close contact with an infected person.Experts have cautioned that the Westerdam incident demonstrates how travelers without obvious symptoms could slip through screening processes because authorities have been focused on monitoring only those who traveled to China or had close contact with an infected person.
Singapore confirmed three new coronavirus cases, raising the country’s total to 84 infections.Singapore confirmed three new coronavirus cases, raising the country’s total to 84 infections.
Singapore’s Health Ministry linked one of the patients to the Grace Assembly of God Church, which is the country’s biggest cluster, and another patient to the Life Church and Missions, Singapore’s Straits Times newspaper reported. The third person infected, however, had not recently traveled to China and was originally hospitalized in a shared room, following a dengue fever diagnosis.Singapore’s Health Ministry linked one of the patients to the Grace Assembly of God Church, which is the country’s biggest cluster, and another patient to the Life Church and Missions, Singapore’s Straits Times newspaper reported. The third person infected, however, had not recently traveled to China and was originally hospitalized in a shared room, following a dengue fever diagnosis.
The 57-year-old Singaporean woman was admitted to the hospital on Feb. 15 and moved to an isolation room after testing positive for the virus on Feb. 18. The Health Ministry said in a statement Wednesday that authorities are tracing and monitoring anyone that this third patient could have come in contact with.The 57-year-old Singaporean woman was admitted to the hospital on Feb. 15 and moved to an isolation room after testing positive for the virus on Feb. 18. The Health Ministry said in a statement Wednesday that authorities are tracing and monitoring anyone that this third patient could have come in contact with.
“They [other patients] have been tested for covid-19 infection, and the results are pending,” the ministry said. “So far, none of the contacts have any respiratory symptoms.”“They [other patients] have been tested for covid-19 infection, and the results are pending,” the ministry said. “So far, none of the contacts have any respiratory symptoms.”
Singapore’s Ministry of Health also announced Wednesday that 34 coronavirus patients have been discharged. Of the 50 people who remain hospitalized, most are in stable or improving condition, although four are in a critical state in the intensive care unit, according to the ministry.Singapore’s Ministry of Health also announced Wednesday that 34 coronavirus patients have been discharged. Of the 50 people who remain hospitalized, most are in stable or improving condition, although four are in a critical state in the intensive care unit, according to the ministry.
Dozens of scientists joined the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday in rebuking conspiracy theories on the origins of the coronavirus.Dozens of scientists joined the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday in rebuking conspiracy theories on the origins of the coronavirus.
“The rapid, open, and transparent sharing of data on this outbreak is now being threatened by rumours and misinformation around its origins,” read an open letter published in the Lancet medical journal and signed by more than 20 scientists. “We stand together to strongly condemn conspiracy theories suggesting that covid-19 does not have a natural origin,” they wrote.“The rapid, open, and transparent sharing of data on this outbreak is now being threatened by rumours and misinformation around its origins,” read an open letter published in the Lancet medical journal and signed by more than 20 scientists. “We stand together to strongly condemn conspiracy theories suggesting that covid-19 does not have a natural origin,” they wrote.
“Conspiracy theories do nothing but create fear, rumours, and prejudice that jeopardise our global collaboration in the fight against this virus,” the authors added.“Conspiracy theories do nothing but create fear, rumours, and prejudice that jeopardise our global collaboration in the fight against this virus,” the authors added.
The letter was published as WHO representatives similarly rebuked conspiracy theories that the virus may not have natural origins. At a news conference on Wednesday, Richard Brennan, a regional emergency director with the WHO, said there is “no evidence that this virus was produced in a laboratory, and certainly no evidence that it was produced as a biological weapon.”The letter was published as WHO representatives similarly rebuked conspiracy theories that the virus may not have natural origins. At a news conference on Wednesday, Richard Brennan, a regional emergency director with the WHO, said there is “no evidence that this virus was produced in a laboratory, and certainly no evidence that it was produced as a biological weapon.”
“This is one of the rumors that we need to snuff out very, very early,” he said, adding that the WHO is working proactively to debunk conspiracy theories via its digital channels.“This is one of the rumors that we need to snuff out very, very early,” he said, adding that the WHO is working proactively to debunk conspiracy theories via its digital channels.
A significant number of Chinese living with HIV are at risk of running out of medicines within days, warned the Joint U.N. Program on HIV/AIDS.A significant number of Chinese living with HIV are at risk of running out of medicines within days, warned the Joint U.N. Program on HIV/AIDS.
The problem, said the organization, known as UNAIDS, is largely due to “lockdowns and restrictions on movement in some places in China” in response to the coronavirus outbreak.The problem, said the organization, known as UNAIDS, is largely due to “lockdowns and restrictions on movement in some places in China” in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
In a survey conducted by UNAIDS and its regional partners earlier this month, almost one-third of more than 1,000 Chinese respondents with HIV said they feared being left without treatment in the next days.In a survey conducted by UNAIDS and its regional partners earlier this month, almost one-third of more than 1,000 Chinese respondents with HIV said they feared being left without treatment in the next days.
“People living with HIV must continue to get the HIV medicines they need to keep them alive,” Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, was quoted as saying in a release Wednesday.“People living with HIV must continue to get the HIV medicines they need to keep them alive,” Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, was quoted as saying in a release Wednesday.
The program vowed to address the distribution difficulties through “a close partnership between the [Chinese] government and community partners.” The program’s China branch also said it would proactively seek to reach individuals at risk of running out of medicines.The program vowed to address the distribution difficulties through “a close partnership between the [Chinese] government and community partners.” The program’s China branch also said it would proactively seek to reach individuals at risk of running out of medicines.
Separately, the “Chinese National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention has directed local authorities to ensure that nonresident people living with HIV can collect their medication wherever they are and has published and disseminated lists of antiretroviral therapy clinics,” UNAIDS added.Separately, the “Chinese National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention has directed local authorities to ensure that nonresident people living with HIV can collect their medication wherever they are and has published and disseminated lists of antiretroviral therapy clinics,” UNAIDS added.
ISTANBUL — Iranian authorities have confirmed two cases of the coronavirus, the country’s first known infections, local media reported Wednesday.ISTANBUL — Iranian authorities have confirmed two cases of the coronavirus, the country’s first known infections, local media reported Wednesday.
Kianush Jahanpur, a Health Ministry official, said the cases were detected in the holy city of Qom and that a number of other people with flu-like symptoms have been isolated and are undergoing testing, according to the Iranian Students’ News Agency (ISNA).Kianush Jahanpur, a Health Ministry official, said the cases were detected in the holy city of Qom and that a number of other people with flu-like symptoms have been isolated and are undergoing testing, according to the Iranian Students’ News Agency (ISNA).
Jahanpur did not divulge the nationalities of those infected or elaborate on the number of people suspected of having the virus. He said that specialized medical teams were deployed to Qom to detect potential cases of the virus, which first emerged in China in December.Jahanpur did not divulge the nationalities of those infected or elaborate on the number of people suspected of having the virus. He said that specialized medical teams were deployed to Qom to detect potential cases of the virus, which first emerged in China in December.
“In the past two days, suspicious cases of influenza were detected in the city of Qom,” Jahanpur said, ISNA reported.“In the past two days, suspicious cases of influenza were detected in the city of Qom,” Jahanpur said, ISNA reported.
“Initial testing showed two positive cases for coronavirus, while some other [patients] were reported to have Type B influenza,” he said, adding that further testing was being conducted.“Initial testing showed two positive cases for coronavirus, while some other [patients] were reported to have Type B influenza,” he said, adding that further testing was being conducted.
Earlier this month, Iran evacuated more than 50 Iranian nationals — as well as Iraqi, Lebanese and Syrian nationals — from the Chinese city of Wuhan where the outbreak of the virus originated. The evacuees were flown to Tehran and quarantined for two weeks, according to local media reports.Earlier this month, Iran evacuated more than 50 Iranian nationals — as well as Iraqi, Lebanese and Syrian nationals — from the Chinese city of Wuhan where the outbreak of the virus originated. The evacuees were flown to Tehran and quarantined for two weeks, according to local media reports.
The report came just hours after WHO officials in Cairo noted that no new countries have been added to the list of those affected in a few days.The report came just hours after WHO officials in Cairo noted that no new countries have been added to the list of those affected in a few days.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said Wednesday that it was working to increase preparedness in North Africa and the Middle East for a possible outbreak of the coronavirus, promising the delivery of more essential medical supplies.The World Health Organization (WHO) said Wednesday that it was working to increase preparedness in North Africa and the Middle East for a possible outbreak of the coronavirus, promising the delivery of more essential medical supplies.
Egypt recently reported its first case of the virus, amid mounting concerns that it could spread in other parts of Africa, which analysts have cautioned are ill-equipped to handle an outbreak. More than 1 million Chinese citizens are estimated to work in Africa.Egypt recently reported its first case of the virus, amid mounting concerns that it could spread in other parts of Africa, which analysts have cautioned are ill-equipped to handle an outbreak. More than 1 million Chinese citizens are estimated to work in Africa.
Speaking in Cairo on Wednesday, Richard Brennan, a regional emergency director with the WHO, said laboratories in 20 out of 22 countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region are now capable of diagnosing the virus. Speeding up tests has been considered crucial in quickly confirming cases and identifying other individuals who were potentially exposed to the virus.Speaking in Cairo on Wednesday, Richard Brennan, a regional emergency director with the WHO, said laboratories in 20 out of 22 countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region are now capable of diagnosing the virus. Speeding up tests has been considered crucial in quickly confirming cases and identifying other individuals who were potentially exposed to the virus.
Brennan also said the WHO was distributing essential supplies, including gloves, masks, medical gowns and respirators.Brennan also said the WHO was distributing essential supplies, including gloves, masks, medical gowns and respirators.
“There has been a tendency for some countries to start hoarding some of these materials, these essential supplies,” he said. “But we’ve got to make sure that the supplies get to people who need them. So, WHO is working with the manufacturers [and] with governments to make sure that supplies are freed up and appropriately and fairly distributed across the globe in the spirit of solidarity.”“There has been a tendency for some countries to start hoarding some of these materials, these essential supplies,” he said. “But we’ve got to make sure that the supplies get to people who need them. So, WHO is working with the manufacturers [and] with governments to make sure that supplies are freed up and appropriately and fairly distributed across the globe in the spirit of solidarity.”
Brennan added that while there have been encouraging trends of decreasing numbers of new cases around the world, “we have to be vigilant, we cannot be complacent.” He said the WHO would continue working on preparedness around the region.Brennan added that while there have been encouraging trends of decreasing numbers of new cases around the world, “we have to be vigilant, we cannot be complacent.” He said the WHO would continue working on preparedness around the region.
“We are not at a turning point yet,” he added.“We are not at a turning point yet,” he added.
BEIJING — Chinese national health authorities have released stricter guidelines for how coronavirus cases are diagnosed, which could decrease the rate of new cases in the outbreak’s epicenter.BEIJING — Chinese national health authorities have released stricter guidelines for how coronavirus cases are diagnosed, which could decrease the rate of new cases in the outbreak’s epicenter.
In the sixth edition of its diagnostic criteria released Wednesday for covid-19, as the disease is called, the National Health Commission eliminated the distinction between how cases would be classified in Hubei province and other regions. Cases will now be reported under two categories: “suspected cases” and “confirmed cases,” the document said.In the sixth edition of its diagnostic criteria released Wednesday for covid-19, as the disease is called, the National Health Commission eliminated the distinction between how cases would be classified in Hubei province and other regions. Cases will now be reported under two categories: “suspected cases” and “confirmed cases,” the document said.
Moving forward, cases can only be described as “confirmed” if they stem from a positive result in a nucleic acid test.Moving forward, cases can only be described as “confirmed” if they stem from a positive result in a nucleic acid test.
Hubei officials surprised the world last week when they loosened their diagnosis criteria and began classifying as “confirmed” cases that were only clinically diagnosed by physicians. The move, which was not followed by other provinces, led to a dramatic surge in newly reported cases in Hubei to 10 times the previous rate. Chinese officials said the change was necessary due to the prevalence of undercounting inside the virus-ridden province.Hubei officials surprised the world last week when they loosened their diagnosis criteria and began classifying as “confirmed” cases that were only clinically diagnosed by physicians. The move, which was not followed by other provinces, led to a dramatic surge in newly reported cases in Hubei to 10 times the previous rate. Chinese officials said the change was necessary due to the prevalence of undercounting inside the virus-ridden province.
It’s unclear if the new guidelines will now lead to an equally dramatic drop in new cases.It’s unclear if the new guidelines will now lead to an equally dramatic drop in new cases.
The prevalence of coronavirus patients showing mild or no symptoms has been a challenge for public health authorities worldwide, who say it is difficult to screen for carriers.The prevalence of coronavirus patients showing mild or no symptoms has been a challenge for public health authorities worldwide, who say it is difficult to screen for carriers.
Experts, including top Chinese scientists, have called into question the accuracy of the nucleic acid tests, which examine genetic material from swabs of the mouth and throat. State media have also reported that case counting inside Hubei has been bottlenecked by the limited number of labs that can process samples.Experts, including top Chinese scientists, have called into question the accuracy of the nucleic acid tests, which examine genetic material from swabs of the mouth and throat. State media have also reported that case counting inside Hubei has been bottlenecked by the limited number of labs that can process samples.
A team led by top Chinese pulmonologist Zhong Nanshan said this week that he has been developing an antibody test that should give conclusive results more quickly and accurately.A team led by top Chinese pulmonologist Zhong Nanshan said this week that he has been developing an antibody test that should give conclusive results more quickly and accurately.
TOKYO — Hundreds of passengers who have tested negative for the new coronavirus began disembarking from the Diamond Princess cruise ship Wednesday as the 14-day quarantine ended, even as another 79 people from the ship have been found to have the virus.TOKYO — Hundreds of passengers who have tested negative for the new coronavirus began disembarking from the Diamond Princess cruise ship Wednesday as the 14-day quarantine ended, even as another 79 people from the ship have been found to have the virus.
The latest figures from the Japanese Health Ministry bring to 621 the number of people on board the ship who have the virus, according to Japanese media. Those testing positive will be taken to isolation facilities or hospitals depending on their level of symptoms, while those who have tested negative are finally being freed.The latest figures from the Japanese Health Ministry bring to 621 the number of people on board the ship who have the virus, according to Japanese media. Those testing positive will be taken to isolation facilities or hospitals depending on their level of symptoms, while those who have tested negative are finally being freed.
People whose travel companion contracted the virus have been asked to serve out an additional 14-days quarantine, starting from the date at which their cabin mate was removed from the ship.People whose travel companion contracted the virus have been asked to serve out an additional 14-days quarantine, starting from the date at which their cabin mate was removed from the ship.
At around noon, people wearing masks and carrying their suitcases began descending from the boat one after another, some walking alone and some in pairs between cones toward a fleet of buses waiting to take them to a nearby station in the Japanese city of Yokohama, just outside Tokyo.At around noon, people wearing masks and carrying their suitcases began descending from the boat one after another, some walking alone and some in pairs between cones toward a fleet of buses waiting to take them to a nearby station in the Japanese city of Yokohama, just outside Tokyo.
“When I learned that they decided to disembark us, I really could not help but cry with joy,” an elderly man told reporters as he was descending from the bus, according to a video posted on the NHK website. “I just wanted to get out as soon as possible.”“When I learned that they decided to disembark us, I really could not help but cry with joy,” an elderly man told reporters as he was descending from the bus, according to a video posted on the NHK website. “I just wanted to get out as soon as possible.”
Many people described how their worries had grown as more and more people on board the ship tested positive for the virus and were taken away to hospitals.Many people described how their worries had grown as more and more people on board the ship tested positive for the virus and were taken away to hospitals.
“It was tiring, but I am so relieved now,” said a 77-year-old man who was traveling with his 70-year-old wife, according to Yomiuri Shimbun.“It was tiring, but I am so relieved now,” said a 77-year-old man who was traveling with his 70-year-old wife, according to Yomiuri Shimbun.
The disembarking of the passengers is expected to continue through Friday.The disembarking of the passengers is expected to continue through Friday.
BEIJING — A new paper by researchers at China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention said that more than 100 people in China had been infected with the novel coronavirus by the end of 2019, suggesting the possibility of underreporting by health authorities or mishandled responses by local governments in the early days of the outbreak.BEIJING — A new paper by researchers at China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention said that more than 100 people in China had been infected with the novel coronavirus by the end of 2019, suggesting the possibility of underreporting by health authorities or mishandled responses by local governments in the early days of the outbreak.
The paper, published by Chinese Journal of Epidemiology, revealed for the first time that 104 people had already showed coronavirus pneumonia symptoms as of Dec. 31, 2019, and that 15 of them later died. The epidemiologists from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed 72,314 patient records nationwide as of Feb. 11 — both confirmed and suspected cases — and found that more than 5,000 of them had been put under medical observation as early as last December.The paper, published by Chinese Journal of Epidemiology, revealed for the first time that 104 people had already showed coronavirus pneumonia symptoms as of Dec. 31, 2019, and that 15 of them later died. The epidemiologists from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed 72,314 patient records nationwide as of Feb. 11 — both confirmed and suspected cases — and found that more than 5,000 of them had been put under medical observation as early as last December.
The new finding contrasts with official accounts from the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, which confirmed on Jan. 3 only 44 infections and reported no deaths, saying that 121 people who had come into contact with those confirmed patients were under medical observation. It went on to say that only half of the people with those early infections had visited the Huanan Seafood Market, a popular market associated with sales of exotic game meat and widely believed to be the origin of the ongoing outbreak.The new finding contrasts with official accounts from the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, which confirmed on Jan. 3 only 44 infections and reported no deaths, saying that 121 people who had come into contact with those confirmed patients were under medical observation. It went on to say that only half of the people with those early infections had visited the Huanan Seafood Market, a popular market associated with sales of exotic game meat and widely believed to be the origin of the ongoing outbreak.
After Jan. 1, the rate of new infections associated with the seafood market had dropped to 8.6 percent, as the epidemic started to explode through community transmission, the paper said. Through retrospective analysis, the authors pointed out that by Jan. 10, the virus had spread to 20 out of 31 provinces, regions and municipalities. However, China’s National Health Commission did not announce the first infection outside Hubei — a case in Guangdong province — until Jan. 19.After Jan. 1, the rate of new infections associated with the seafood market had dropped to 8.6 percent, as the epidemic started to explode through community transmission, the paper said. Through retrospective analysis, the authors pointed out that by Jan. 10, the virus had spread to 20 out of 31 provinces, regions and municipalities. However, China’s National Health Commission did not announce the first infection outside Hubei — a case in Guangdong province — until Jan. 19.
BEIJING — Chinese cities are slowly coming back to life as the government gains confidence in its ability to control the epidemic.BEIJING — Chinese cities are slowly coming back to life as the government gains confidence in its ability to control the epidemic.
Shanghai and a dozen other Chinese cities have allowed office buildings, shopping malls, and restaurants to reopen this week, but with extra measures taken to reduce the risks of virus spread, local media reported Wednesday.Shanghai and a dozen other Chinese cities have allowed office buildings, shopping malls, and restaurants to reopen this week, but with extra measures taken to reduce the risks of virus spread, local media reported Wednesday.
While a number of businesses have encouraged employees to work from home, more and more white-collar workers are tiptoeing back to downtown Shanghai’s dense skyscrapers — albeit with some safety measures. The 88-story Jinmao Tower, which houses branch offices of big state banks, IT companies and an upscale Hyatt hotel, have required tenants on different floors to clock in at different hours of the day to reduce mass gathering.While a number of businesses have encouraged employees to work from home, more and more white-collar workers are tiptoeing back to downtown Shanghai’s dense skyscrapers — albeit with some safety measures. The 88-story Jinmao Tower, which houses branch offices of big state banks, IT companies and an upscale Hyatt hotel, have required tenants on different floors to clock in at different hours of the day to reduce mass gathering.
Other buildings have limited the number of passengers for elevators; for instance, the Hongqiao R&F Center allows no more than four people in one ride at the same time, while the HKRI Taikoo Hui commercial complex put the upper limit at six.Other buildings have limited the number of passengers for elevators; for instance, the Hongqiao R&F Center allows no more than four people in one ride at the same time, while the HKRI Taikoo Hui commercial complex put the upper limit at six.
The city government said Tuesday that a third of storefronts have also reopened. Smaller restaurants in Shanghai remain closed, and the few that are open have either opted for takeaway only or kept eating-in customers as far apart as possible. The food court in Shanghai Center has kept only a third of its tables and allowed only one customer per table; in addition, tables are placed at least three feet away from each other.The city government said Tuesday that a third of storefronts have also reopened. Smaller restaurants in Shanghai remain closed, and the few that are open have either opted for takeaway only or kept eating-in customers as far apart as possible. The food court in Shanghai Center has kept only a third of its tables and allowed only one customer per table; in addition, tables are placed at least three feet away from each other.
Fast-food chains and coffee shops including KFC and Starbucks are introducing a “no-touch” service, which asks customers to place orders on smartphone apps or a self-service machine and then get their food or drinks at a pickup table away from the cashier.Fast-food chains and coffee shops including KFC and Starbucks are introducing a “no-touch” service, which asks customers to place orders on smartphone apps or a self-service machine and then get their food or drinks at a pickup table away from the cashier.
Some 200 miles away in Nanjing, the provincial capital of Jiangsu, major shopping malls and department stores — the Central, Golden Eagle, Cenbest and the House of Fraser — reopened Wednesday morning with temperature checks at entrances, while most offices, cinemas and other indoor venues remain closed. Clinics and outpatient departments at public hospitals also resumed service, but dental clinics and the departments of oral medicine, ophthalmology, otolaryngology and plastic surgery are closed until further notice.Some 200 miles away in Nanjing, the provincial capital of Jiangsu, major shopping malls and department stores — the Central, Golden Eagle, Cenbest and the House of Fraser — reopened Wednesday morning with temperature checks at entrances, while most offices, cinemas and other indoor venues remain closed. Clinics and outpatient departments at public hospitals also resumed service, but dental clinics and the departments of oral medicine, ophthalmology, otolaryngology and plastic surgery are closed until further notice.
Intercity bus services and subway systems in Suzhou and several other cities in Jiangsu province have returned to normal operation this week. On Tuesday alone, more than 110,000 passengers took the subway in Suzhou, and all of them had to register their personal information before a security check. Parks, gardens and outdoor sports facilities are now open to public, but with security in place to control human flow.Intercity bus services and subway systems in Suzhou and several other cities in Jiangsu province have returned to normal operation this week. On Tuesday alone, more than 110,000 passengers took the subway in Suzhou, and all of them had to register their personal information before a security check. Parks, gardens and outdoor sports facilities are now open to public, but with security in place to control human flow.
Hangzhou, the home city of e-commerce giant Alibaba, announced Tuesday that roadblocks and temporary checkpoints inside the city would be dismantled. On Wednesday morning, social media was abuzz with excitement because traffic jams were reported in some parts of the city, signaling an increasing number of cars back on the road. The city’s West Lake scenic area reopened Wednesday, cutting the daily quota of visitors by half and requiring all to wear masks inside.Hangzhou, the home city of e-commerce giant Alibaba, announced Tuesday that roadblocks and temporary checkpoints inside the city would be dismantled. On Wednesday morning, social media was abuzz with excitement because traffic jams were reported in some parts of the city, signaling an increasing number of cars back on the road. The city’s West Lake scenic area reopened Wednesday, cutting the daily quota of visitors by half and requiring all to wear masks inside.
Three malls owned by Yintai Group have reopened, requiring temperature checks, real-name registration and closing two hours earlier than normal. By Thursday, all businesses in the services sector will be allowed to reopen.Three malls owned by Yintai Group have reopened, requiring temperature checks, real-name registration and closing two hours earlier than normal. By Thursday, all businesses in the services sector will be allowed to reopen.
Malls and wholesale markets in other cities — from Kunming in the west to Yiwu in the east, from Changchun in the north to Sanya in the south — have also reportedly reopened this week.Malls and wholesale markets in other cities — from Kunming in the west to Yiwu in the east, from Changchun in the north to Sanya in the south — have also reportedly reopened this week.
Wuhan, the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak, and the wider Hubei province remain under strict quarantine.Wuhan, the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak, and the wider Hubei province remain under strict quarantine.
MANILA — Select commercial flights from China to the Philippines will be available despite the travel ban, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced Wednesday.MANILA — Select commercial flights from China to the Philippines will be available despite the travel ban, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced Wednesday.
In a public advisory, the department said Filipinos who wish to return to the Philippines can board flights out of Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Guiyang, Kunming, Shanghai and Xiamen.In a public advisory, the department said Filipinos who wish to return to the Philippines can board flights out of Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Guiyang, Kunming, Shanghai and Xiamen.
All returning Filipinos must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine.All returning Filipinos must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine.
The Philippines eased its travel ban on China and its special administrative regions on Tuesday, when it allowed overseas Filipino workers, permanent residents and students to return to Hong Kong and Macao.The Philippines eased its travel ban on China and its special administrative regions on Tuesday, when it allowed overseas Filipino workers, permanent residents and students to return to Hong Kong and Macao.
At least 200,000 Filipinos reside or work in China. Earlier this month, 45 Filipinos were repatriated from Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak.At least 200,000 Filipinos reside or work in China. Earlier this month, 45 Filipinos were repatriated from Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak.
BEIJING — Xicheng district, one of Beijing’s most central locales and the site of the Chinese government’s central headquarters, is tightening restrictions and increasing tests for more than 489,000 households in one of the most significant changes in epidemic-control policies in the capital.BEIJING — Xicheng district, one of Beijing’s most central locales and the site of the Chinese government’s central headquarters, is tightening restrictions and increasing tests for more than 489,000 households in one of the most significant changes in epidemic-control policies in the capital.
Sun Shuo, deputy secretary of the district’s Communist Party committee, said Tuesday that all residential compounds that have conditions for closed-off management will be locked down, and the government has formulated specific measures for bungalows and compounds without property companies to ensure that “no blind spots are left.”Sun Shuo, deputy secretary of the district’s Communist Party committee, said Tuesday that all residential compounds that have conditions for closed-off management will be locked down, and the government has formulated specific measures for bungalows and compounds without property companies to ensure that “no blind spots are left.”
News had been circulating online that a government employee in Xicheng was diagnosed with the coronavirus, leading to the shutdown of government work in the district. Sun confirmed that the unnamed government employee was infected while carrying out epidemic-control work in central China and then drove back to Beijing.News had been circulating online that a government employee in Xicheng was diagnosed with the coronavirus, leading to the shutdown of government work in the district. Sun confirmed that the unnamed government employee was infected while carrying out epidemic-control work in central China and then drove back to Beijing.
Sixty-nine close contacts and people with high risks have been placed under centralized medical observation, but Sun said government agencies in the district are operating normally.Sixty-nine close contacts and people with high risks have been placed under centralized medical observation, but Sun said government agencies in the district are operating normally.
A total of 393 confirmed cases have been reported in 15 districts in Beijing so far, with 52 from Xicheng.A total of 393 confirmed cases have been reported in 15 districts in Beijing so far, with 52 from Xicheng.
BEIJING — Chinese Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi on Tuesday warned police officials and local administrators against excessive and “crude” use of force after a spate of videos surfaced showing officers tackling and roughing up citizens who refuse to wear masks.BEIJING — Chinese Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi on Tuesday warned police officials and local administrators against excessive and “crude” use of force after a spate of videos surfaced showing officers tackling and roughing up citizens who refuse to wear masks.
Chinese citizens are generally not known to hold urban beat cops, known as chengguan, or an array of semiformal security enforcers, in particularly high esteem. Now, one month into the full-blown epidemic, tempers are running particularly hot as countless Chinese cities and villages live under severe restrictions on movement.Chinese citizens are generally not known to hold urban beat cops, known as chengguan, or an array of semiformal security enforcers, in particularly high esteem. Now, one month into the full-blown epidemic, tempers are running particularly hot as countless Chinese cities and villages live under severe restrictions on movement.
The Chinese Internet has been suffused with online videos showing residents facing off with police. Women have been pinned on the ground for refusing to wear masks. One officer fired his gun after he was swarmed by locals angry about quarantine policies. Local inspectors slapped three people playing mah-jongg, leading to a furious confrontation with pajama-clad players. Brawls sometimes break out.The Chinese Internet has been suffused with online videos showing residents facing off with police. Women have been pinned on the ground for refusing to wear masks. One officer fired his gun after he was swarmed by locals angry about quarantine policies. Local inspectors slapped three people playing mah-jongg, leading to a furious confrontation with pajama-clad players. Brawls sometimes break out.
The latest video to cause a sensation showed a man in Henan province being bound by rope against a pillar outside a building while a man in hazmat suit berated him for not wearing a mask or registering his movement.The latest video to cause a sensation showed a man in Henan province being bound by rope against a pillar outside a building while a man in hazmat suit berated him for not wearing a mask or registering his movement.
After the video surfaced, local Henan officials this week sent a terse reminder to villages that epidemic prevention and control work must be done “in accordance with laws and regulations,” according to the Southern Metropolis newspaper.After the video surfaced, local Henan officials this week sent a terse reminder to villages that epidemic prevention and control work must be done “in accordance with laws and regulations,” according to the Southern Metropolis newspaper.
TOKYO — A Japanese infectious disease specialist has condemned the “chaotic” and “scary” conditions on board the Diamond Princess cruise liner, saying a lack of infection control risked the lives not only of the passengers and crew but also of the officials and medical staff working on the ship.TOKYO — A Japanese infectious disease specialist has condemned the “chaotic” and “scary” conditions on board the Diamond Princess cruise liner, saying a lack of infection control risked the lives not only of the passengers and crew but also of the officials and medical staff working on the ship.
Kentaro Iwata of Kobe University said he had gained access to the ship Tuesday and was appalled by a “completely inadequate system of infection control on board.”Kentaro Iwata of Kobe University said he had gained access to the ship Tuesday and was appalled by a “completely inadequate system of infection control on board.”
After several hours trying offer constructive advice on how to improve procedure, he was thrown off the ship, but was so worried he recorded YouTube videos in Japanese and English exposing his findings. The Japanese version has already been viewed more than 710,000 times.After several hours trying offer constructive advice on how to improve procedure, he was thrown off the ship, but was so worried he recorded YouTube videos in Japanese and English exposing his findings. The Japanese version has already been viewed more than 710,000 times.
Iwata said he had worked in Africa during the Ebola outbreak, in China during the severe acute respiratory syndrome epidemic, as well as during cholera outbreaks.Iwata said he had worked in Africa during the Ebola outbreak, in China during the severe acute respiratory syndrome epidemic, as well as during cholera outbreaks.
“I never had fear of getting infection myself, for Ebola, SARS, cholera, because I know how to protect myself, how to protect others and how infection control should be,” he said. “But inside the Diamond Princess, I was so scared.”“I never had fear of getting infection myself, for Ebola, SARS, cholera, because I know how to protect myself, how to protect others and how infection control should be,” he said. “But inside the Diamond Princess, I was so scared.”
Already 542 people on the cruise ship have been found to have the virus, out of 2,404 people tested, with results still awaited on the final 1,300 tests.Already 542 people on the cruise ship have been found to have the virus, out of 2,404 people tested, with results still awaited on the final 1,300 tests.
Four people working on or around the ship during the quarantine period have also contracted the virus, including a quarantine officer, a Health Ministry official, an ambulance driver and a medical staffer.Four people working on or around the ship during the quarantine period have also contracted the virus, including a quarantine officer, a Health Ministry official, an ambulance driver and a medical staffer.
Normal infection control involves establishing a red zone, where the virus is present and protective gear must be worn, and a green zone, which is safe, Iwata said. There was no such demarcation on board the ship, with people wearing protective suits mingling with and eating alongside unprotected people, and people even eating food and handling smartphones without removing gloves and clothing that could carry the virus.Normal infection control involves establishing a red zone, where the virus is present and protective gear must be worn, and a green zone, which is safe, Iwata said. There was no such demarcation on board the ship, with people wearing protective suits mingling with and eating alongside unprotected people, and people even eating food and handling smartphones without removing gloves and clothing that could carry the virus.
“It was completely chaotic,” he said. “I was so scared of getting covid-19 because there was no way to tell where the virus is, no green zone, no red zone — everywhere could have the virus.”“It was completely chaotic,” he said. “I was so scared of getting covid-19 because there was no way to tell where the virus is, no green zone, no red zone — everywhere could have the virus.”
Iwata said “bureaucrats were in charge of everything” without a single professional infection control specialist on board. When a crew member went to a nurse with a fever, the nurse didn’t even bother protecting herself, because she had concluded she must have already caught the virus, he said.Iwata said “bureaucrats were in charge of everything” without a single professional infection control specialist on board. When a crew member went to a nurse with a fever, the nurse didn’t even bother protecting herself, because she had concluded she must have already caught the virus, he said.
He has since returned to his home in Kobe, but has isolated himself in a room for fear of infecting his family, and will not return to work for around two weeks for fear of infecting colleagues and patients. But he said he feared doctors and nurses working on board will return to medical centers around the country with the virus, and could infect patients.He has since returned to his home in Kobe, but has isolated himself in a room for fear of infecting his family, and will not return to work for around two weeks for fear of infecting colleagues and patients. But he said he feared doctors and nurses working on board will return to medical centers around the country with the virus, and could infect patients.
Responding to Iwata’s complaints, Japan’s chief government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said the government had been “implementing measures to prevent the spread of the infection thoroughly.”Responding to Iwata’s complaints, Japan’s chief government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said the government had been “implementing measures to prevent the spread of the infection thoroughly.”
SEOUL — South Korea confirmed 15 new cases of the new coronavirus infection on Wednesday, raising the national tally to 46.SEOUL — South Korea confirmed 15 new cases of the new coronavirus infection on Wednesday, raising the national tally to 46.
Of the new cases, 13 were in Daegu city and the surrounding southwestern province of North Gyeongsang, with 11 of them linked to a previously confirmed patient, according to Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).Of the new cases, 13 were in Daegu city and the surrounding southwestern province of North Gyeongsang, with 11 of them linked to a previously confirmed patient, according to Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).
The 61-year-old woman is believed to have infected 10 people who attended the same church, and one person who came in contact at her hospital.The 61-year-old woman is believed to have infected 10 people who attended the same church, and one person who came in contact at her hospital.
She started displaying symptoms of fever around Feb. 10 and tested positive for the virus on Tuesday, according to the KCDC.She started displaying symptoms of fever around Feb. 10 and tested positive for the virus on Tuesday, according to the KCDC.
The agency has identified 166 people who came in contact with the woman, who are now in quarantine at home or in hospitals. It said it would conduct a close inspection of the church and test more churchgoers for the virus.The agency has identified 166 people who came in contact with the woman, who are now in quarantine at home or in hospitals. It said it would conduct a close inspection of the church and test more churchgoers for the virus.
MANILA — There are now 41 Filipino crew members on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship infected with the novel coronavirus, health officials said Wednesday, an increase of six from a day earlier.MANILA — There are now 41 Filipino crew members on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship infected with the novel coronavirus, health officials said Wednesday, an increase of six from a day earlier.
The patients have been brought to hospitals in Japan, where the ship is moored, and will be unable to return to the Philippines even as the government aims to repatriate other Filipinos this week.The patients have been brought to hospitals in Japan, where the ship is moored, and will be unable to return to the Philippines even as the government aims to repatriate other Filipinos this week.
Only those who are asymptomatic and who tested negative for the virus will be allowed to board a flight. They will still be subject to a 14-day quarantine.Only those who are asymptomatic and who tested negative for the virus will be allowed to board a flight. They will still be subject to a 14-day quarantine.
The repatriation team will also be kept in isolation for the same period. Officials said the quarantine facility and other details are still being finalized.The repatriation team will also be kept in isolation for the same period. Officials said the quarantine facility and other details are still being finalized.
There are a total of 538 Filipino crew members on the cruise liner.There are a total of 538 Filipino crew members on the cruise liner.
The global outbreak has affected the Philippines’ 2 million-strong overseas workforce, resulting in panic and job uncertainty. At least two Filipinos in Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates have tested positive for the virus.The global outbreak has affected the Philippines’ 2 million-strong overseas workforce, resulting in panic and job uncertainty. At least two Filipinos in Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates have tested positive for the virus.
HONG KONG — A 70-year-old man has died after testing positive for coronavirus, according to a Hong Kong hospital, bringing city’s death toll from the outbreak to two.HONG KONG — A 70-year-old man has died after testing positive for coronavirus, according to a Hong Kong hospital, bringing city’s death toll from the outbreak to two.
A spokeswoman for Princess Margaret Hospital said the patient died on Wednesday morning after his condition deteriorated. When health officials initially provided details on his case on Friday, they said he had underlying illnesses. He was sent to the hospital on Feb. 12 after developing malaise, shortness of breath and cough, the Center for Health Protection said, where he was in critical condition at the time. The man, who lives alone, had visited mainland China for a day trip on Jan. 22.A spokeswoman for Princess Margaret Hospital said the patient died on Wednesday morning after his condition deteriorated. When health officials initially provided details on his case on Friday, they said he had underlying illnesses. He was sent to the hospital on Feb. 12 after developing malaise, shortness of breath and cough, the Center for Health Protection said, where he was in critical condition at the time. The man, who lives alone, had visited mainland China for a day trip on Jan. 22.
As of Wednesday morning, Hong Kong reported 62 cases of coronavirus infection, including the two deaths. The first death, a 39-year-old man who contracted the virus outside of the city, also had underlying medical issues, health officials said.As of Wednesday morning, Hong Kong reported 62 cases of coronavirus infection, including the two deaths. The first death, a 39-year-old man who contracted the virus outside of the city, also had underlying medical issues, health officials said.