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Live updates: Coronavirus outbreak in China prisons raises alarm; South Korea feared as new hot spot Live updates: Coronavirus outbreak in China prisons raises alarm; South Korea feared as new hot spot
(30 minutes later)
Chinese authorities on Friday reported hundreds of new coronavirus infections at prisons around the country, a dire revelation that undercut the government’s effort to show progress in containing the deadly epidemic.Chinese authorities on Friday reported hundreds of new coronavirus infections at prisons around the country, a dire revelation that undercut the government’s effort to show progress in containing the deadly epidemic.
A handful of prisons reported nearly 500 new cases, a significant portion of the more than 1,100 new cases reported in mainland China on Friday — and a marked increase after several days of declines.A handful of prisons reported nearly 500 new cases, a significant portion of the more than 1,100 new cases reported in mainland China on Friday — and a marked increase after several days of declines.
Tests at a prison in eastern Shandong province showed 207 out of 2,077 inmates and staff were infected, and the provincial justice department’s Communist Party secretary was dismissed as a result, the province announced. Another jail in Zhejiang province found 34 cases. Hubei province, at the center of the outbreak, said Friday it found 220 new cases inside penitentiaries.Tests at a prison in eastern Shandong province showed 207 out of 2,077 inmates and staff were infected, and the provincial justice department’s Communist Party secretary was dismissed as a result, the province announced. Another jail in Zhejiang province found 34 cases. Hubei province, at the center of the outbreak, said Friday it found 220 new cases inside penitentiaries.
The prison outbreaks underscored the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s high transmissibility in confined spaces after the disease ravaged the Diamond Princess cruise ship docked in Japan. In South Korea, new cases skyrocketed, bringing the national total to 204, as worries mounted that the country is becoming a new hot spot. Many of the new cases have been traced to a church.The prison outbreaks underscored the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s high transmissibility in confined spaces after the disease ravaged the Diamond Princess cruise ship docked in Japan. In South Korea, new cases skyrocketed, bringing the national total to 204, as worries mounted that the country is becoming a new hot spot. Many of the new cases have been traced to a church.
China’s government has sought to encourage companies to resume work after an extended Lunar New Year closure aimed at containing the virus, but some factories have been forced to shut down soon after reopening as infections surface.China’s government has sought to encourage companies to resume work after an extended Lunar New Year closure aimed at containing the virus, but some factories have been forced to shut down soon after reopening as infections surface.
Here are the latest developments:Here are the latest developments:
● The discovery of hundreds of new coronavirus cases in Chinese prisons underlined fears about the virus’s ability to spread rapidly in confined areas.● The discovery of hundreds of new coronavirus cases in Chinese prisons underlined fears about the virus’s ability to spread rapidly in confined areas.
● Cases in South Korea jumped markedly, with investigators focusing on a church and hospital in the southern city of Daegu.● Cases in South Korea jumped markedly, with investigators focusing on a church and hospital in the southern city of Daegu.
● Hundreds of passengers were disembarking from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, but the massive case load left troubling questions about the rigor of quarantine and testing procedures on board.● Hundreds of passengers were disembarking from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, but the massive case load left troubling questions about the rigor of quarantine and testing procedures on board.
● Officials in Wuhan have been disinfecting the city’s drainage pipes amid concerns that the virus could spread through the sewer system.● Officials in Wuhan have been disinfecting the city’s drainage pipes amid concerns that the virus could spread through the sewer system.
Angola has released 50 travelers who arrived from China, ending what may be one of the first quarantines in Africa meant to stop the possible spread of coronavirus.
The group of travelers held in the capital, Luanda, included 13 people from Angola, 36 from China and one from Brazil, according to the country’s official ANGOP news agency.
While there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in Africa, global health officials have expressed concerns that some countries on the continent may be especially ill-equipped to handle the virus in the event of an outbreak.
The World Health Organization has identified 13 countries across the continent, including Angola, as “vulnerable” because of high volumes of travel or their direct links to China. About 10,000 Chinese firms operate in Africa, and the continent’s largest airline, Ethiopian Airlines, has continued its flights to China despite intense public pressure.
WHO has sent kits to 29 labs on the continent to equip them to handle the virus, the BBC reported, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that 36 African countries are prepared.
Outside of Angola, more than 100 people were quarantined earlier this month after arriving in Uganda. Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Ivory Coast and Kenya have all also dealt with suspected cases, though only Egypt has confirmed a case so far.
TOKYO — Tokyo’s governor said Friday that her government would cancel or postpone many large-scale official events for the next three weeks to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
Gov. Yuriko Koike told a news conference that her government regards the period until March 15 as “an important period for the prevention of the spread of infection” and will “in principle” cancel or postpone events organized by the government that might pose risks to participants.
Some events, such as graduation ceremonies, will be allowed to go ahead provided they implement measures to prevent the virus from spreading. Outdoor events that do not serve meals will also be held after conducting risk assessments, she said.
The announcement came just 154 days before the opening of the Tokyo Olympics. Over the past week, Tokyo has reported 25 confirmed cases of covid-19, including several related to a party held by a taxi drivers’ union. The government has set up a special task force panel to discuss measures against the spread of virus.
Koike told reporters that in view of recent trends, she sees the next three weeks as a “crucial moment.”
BEIJING — Chinese researchers are reporting progress in developing a coronavirus vaccine.BEIJING — Chinese researchers are reporting progress in developing a coronavirus vaccine.
The first vaccine is expected to be submitted for clinical trials around late April, Chinese vice minister of Science and Technology Xu Nanping told reporters on Friday. Animal models of mice and monkeys infected with the novel coronavirus have also been constructed, which will provide support for drug screening, vaccine development and research on viral transmission mechanism.The first vaccine is expected to be submitted for clinical trials around late April, Chinese vice minister of Science and Technology Xu Nanping told reporters on Friday. Animal models of mice and monkeys infected with the novel coronavirus have also been constructed, which will provide support for drug screening, vaccine development and research on viral transmission mechanism.
China set up a coronavirus scientific research group about one month ago, with 14 experts led by renowned pulmonologist Zhong Nanshan.China set up a coronavirus scientific research group about one month ago, with 14 experts led by renowned pulmonologist Zhong Nanshan.
“One month is a very short time for scientific research, but a very long time for patients struggling with the disease. The scientific and technological community nationwide will put the safety of people’s lives and health first and spare no effort to continue to produce tangible and effective scientific research results,” Xu told reporters, adding that vaccine development in China was “synchronized” with that of teams in other countries.“One month is a very short time for scientific research, but a very long time for patients struggling with the disease. The scientific and technological community nationwide will put the safety of people’s lives and health first and spare no effort to continue to produce tangible and effective scientific research results,” Xu told reporters, adding that vaccine development in China was “synchronized” with that of teams in other countries.
Phamaceutical firms including Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen unit and Sanofi Pasteur have been working with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on a vaccine.Phamaceutical firms including Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen unit and Sanofi Pasteur have been working with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on a vaccine.
BEIJING — Across China, governments are continuing to wrestle with the coronavirus – and the concept of transparency.BEIJING — Across China, governments are continuing to wrestle with the coronavirus – and the concept of transparency.
The health commission in Xiantao, west of Wuhan, issued a gag order on Tuesday warning employees not to speak to reporters or leak documents that would “incite online discourse and cause negative social impact.” It leaked anyway.The health commission in Xiantao, west of Wuhan, issued a gag order on Tuesday warning employees not to speak to reporters or leak documents that would “incite online discourse and cause negative social impact.” It leaked anyway.
The document touched a nerve once it landed online: Chinese Internet users drew parallels with how police in late December silenced doctors in Wuhan who had shared documents proving the existence of a novel coronavirus. That delayed the government’s response to the epidemic during a crucial period and later became a national scandal.The document touched a nerve once it landed online: Chinese Internet users drew parallels with how police in late December silenced doctors in Wuhan who had shared documents proving the existence of a novel coronavirus. That delayed the government’s response to the epidemic during a crucial period and later became a national scandal.
“Do you know how Wuhan and Hubei’s epidemic became so severe in the first place? When these things happen, you only know one thing: suppression!” the top commenter on a Weibo thread said. Other commenters wondered if the Xiantao government was breaking the law by warning employees from speaking out.“Do you know how Wuhan and Hubei’s epidemic became so severe in the first place? When these things happen, you only know one thing: suppression!” the top commenter on a Weibo thread said. Other commenters wondered if the Xiantao government was breaking the law by warning employees from speaking out.
On Wednesday, Xiantao officials backtracked. Asked to explain the document by reporters from Chongqing’s Shangyou Daily, they said the earlier directive was “inappropriate” and had been retracted.On Wednesday, Xiantao officials backtracked. Asked to explain the document by reporters from Chongqing’s Shangyou Daily, they said the earlier directive was “inappropriate” and had been retracted.
National-level officials have expressed worry about the epidemic’s spread in less-developed parts of Hubei in places like Xiantao, which is about 90 minutes’ drive from Wuhan and has a population of over 1 million. As of Thursday night, Xiantao reported 568 confirmed cases, a relatively low number among Hubei cities.National-level officials have expressed worry about the epidemic’s spread in less-developed parts of Hubei in places like Xiantao, which is about 90 minutes’ drive from Wuhan and has a population of over 1 million. As of Thursday night, Xiantao reported 568 confirmed cases, a relatively low number among Hubei cities.
Chinese citizens have fumed in recent weeks about the culture of secrecy and cover-ups that pervades their government. Some Internet users have compared Beijing’s approach to the ossified Soviet Union portrayed in last year’s television series Chernobyl, which has been a minor hit on Chinese streaming sites.Chinese citizens have fumed in recent weeks about the culture of secrecy and cover-ups that pervades their government. Some Internet users have compared Beijing’s approach to the ossified Soviet Union portrayed in last year’s television series Chernobyl, which has been a minor hit on Chinese streaming sites.
Wuhan’s original “whistleblower doctor,” Li Wenliang, contracted the disease and died Feb. 7, becoming a martyr in the eyes of many Chinese who were moved by his calls for freedom of speech. But in the wake of his death, online memorials and criticism of government censorship have been quickly suppressed.Wuhan’s original “whistleblower doctor,” Li Wenliang, contracted the disease and died Feb. 7, becoming a martyr in the eyes of many Chinese who were moved by his calls for freedom of speech. But in the wake of his death, online memorials and criticism of government censorship have been quickly suppressed.
SEOUL — South Korea reported 48 new cases of the coronavirus late Friday, most of them traced to a church, adding to a big jump in the national tally hours earlier that reinforced fears over the outbreak’s rapid spread.SEOUL — South Korea reported 48 new cases of the coronavirus late Friday, most of them traced to a church, adding to a big jump in the national tally hours earlier that reinforced fears over the outbreak’s rapid spread.
With the latest cases, South Korea’s cases nearly doubled to 204 from 104 the previous day, according to Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.With the latest cases, South Korea’s cases nearly doubled to 204 from 104 the previous day, according to Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
More than two-thirds of the total cases are linked to a regional branch of a fringe religious sect named Shincheonji Church of God in the southern city of Daegu, according to the KCDC.More than two-thirds of the total cases are linked to a regional branch of a fringe religious sect named Shincheonji Church of God in the southern city of Daegu, according to the KCDC.
The church’s founder Lee Man-hee called the outbreak “the devil’s deed to curb the rapid growth of Shincheonji,” in an internal message published by South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency on Friday.The church’s founder Lee Man-hee called the outbreak “the devil’s deed to curb the rapid growth of Shincheonji,” in an internal message published by South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency on Friday.
Daegu city and surrounding North Gyeongsang province have been designated “special care zones” after a jump in cases in the area, Prime Minister Chung Sye Kyun said earlier Friday.Daegu city and surrounding North Gyeongsang province have been designated “special care zones” after a jump in cases in the area, Prime Minister Chung Sye Kyun said earlier Friday.
A hospital in Cheongdo county, about 20 miles from the church, has reported 15 infection cases, including the country’s first death from the virus.A hospital in Cheongdo county, about 20 miles from the church, has reported 15 infection cases, including the country’s first death from the virus.
Jung Eun-kyeong, director of the KCDC said late Friday that half a dozen coronavirus patients in the country are in “serious condition.”Jung Eun-kyeong, director of the KCDC said late Friday that half a dozen coronavirus patients in the country are in “serious condition.”
The city of Moscow has placed 2,500 travelers who came from China under two-week quarantine orders, its mayor said, adding that officials will continue to apply such measures.The city of Moscow has placed 2,500 travelers who came from China under two-week quarantine orders, its mayor said, adding that officials will continue to apply such measures.
In a post on his personal blog, Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said that all airline passengers coming to Moscow from China, whether directly or through other countries, will also undergo tests for coronavirus. Anyone with a fever or other symptoms will be immediately hospitalized.In a post on his personal blog, Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said that all airline passengers coming to Moscow from China, whether directly or through other countries, will also undergo tests for coronavirus. Anyone with a fever or other symptoms will be immediately hospitalized.
A temporary entry ban on all Chinese travelers took effect Thursday in Russia, but Sobyanin’s order also looks to address the possible spread of the virus among those who are already in the city. Any passengers who took one of 58 recent flights from China to Moscow are being instructed not to leave their homes or hotels for two weeks, he said.A temporary entry ban on all Chinese travelers took effect Thursday in Russia, but Sobyanin’s order also looks to address the possible spread of the virus among those who are already in the city. Any passengers who took one of 58 recent flights from China to Moscow are being instructed not to leave their homes or hotels for two weeks, he said.
To enforce the quarantine order, Sobyanin said that the Moscow government is conducting raids on homes and hotels and employing automated facial recognition systems and other technical measures.To enforce the quarantine order, Sobyanin said that the Moscow government is conducting raids on homes and hotels and employing automated facial recognition systems and other technical measures.
On his blog, he described how this might work in practice: After erroneously testing positive for coronavirus, one Chinese citizen was caught on security cameras violating her quarantine by leaving her apartment to meet a neighbor.On his blog, he described how this might work in practice: After erroneously testing positive for coronavirus, one Chinese citizen was caught on security cameras violating her quarantine by leaving her apartment to meet a neighbor.
In addition, the taxi driver for one recent arrival from China was tracked down using cameras at the Moscow airport, though she tested negative for coronavirus and quarantine was not required.In addition, the taxi driver for one recent arrival from China was tracked down using cameras at the Moscow airport, though she tested negative for coronavirus and quarantine was not required.
Elsewhere in Russia, the passengers of a train traveling from Kyiv, Ukraine, to Moscow were quarantined in the city of Bryansk, about halfway along that route, after a Chinese citizen on board was removed and taken to a hospital, according to Interfax news agency.Elsewhere in Russia, the passengers of a train traveling from Kyiv, Ukraine, to Moscow were quarantined in the city of Bryansk, about halfway along that route, after a Chinese citizen on board was removed and taken to a hospital, according to Interfax news agency.
SEOUL — Russian diplomats in North Korea are kept in a “house arrest-like” quarantine in their embassy building and residential complex, Moscow’s top envoy to Pyongyang told the Russian news agency TASS.SEOUL — Russian diplomats in North Korea are kept in a “house arrest-like” quarantine in their embassy building and residential complex, Moscow’s top envoy to Pyongyang told the Russian news agency TASS.
Russia’s ambassador to North Korea Alexander Matsegora told the state-run TASS on Thursday that officials at the embassy are “going through difficult times” in a quarantine “not much different from house arrest.”Russia’s ambassador to North Korea Alexander Matsegora told the state-run TASS on Thursday that officials at the embassy are “going through difficult times” in a quarantine “not much different from house arrest.”
Matsegora said he and his colleagues cannot leave the diplomatic compound since all foreigners in the country have been put under strict quarantine until March 1. Even within the compound, no movement is allowed except for taking out trash and visiting a grocery store inside the grounds, according to Matsegora.Matsegora said he and his colleagues cannot leave the diplomatic compound since all foreigners in the country have been put under strict quarantine until March 1. Even within the compound, no movement is allowed except for taking out trash and visiting a grocery store inside the grounds, according to Matsegora.
Embassy work is also disrupted as staff members have not had any meetings with North Korean officials nor diplomats from other countries, he said.Embassy work is also disrupted as staff members have not had any meetings with North Korean officials nor diplomats from other countries, he said.
North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency said last week that mandatory quarantine period for all foreigners has been doubled from two weeks to a month under an “emergency” measure.North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency said last week that mandatory quarantine period for all foreigners has been doubled from two weeks to a month under an “emergency” measure.
Since the coronavirus outbreak in neighboring China, North Korea has maintained that there is no evidence of the virus in the country. The World Health Organization, too, said on Tuesday that there is “no indication” of coronavirus outbreak in the isolated nation.Since the coronavirus outbreak in neighboring China, North Korea has maintained that there is no evidence of the virus in the country. The World Health Organization, too, said on Tuesday that there is “no indication” of coronavirus outbreak in the isolated nation.
However, South Korean news outlets reported multiple cases of the virus in the North earlier this month, citing unnamed sources.However, South Korean news outlets reported multiple cases of the virus in the North earlier this month, citing unnamed sources.
North Korean state media said on Friday that the country is making efforts to “prevent the coronavirus from ever entering.” It also described strict quarantines on people who recently returned from countries where coronavirus infection was reported.North Korean state media said on Friday that the country is making efforts to “prevent the coronavirus from ever entering.” It also described strict quarantines on people who recently returned from countries where coronavirus infection was reported.
North Korea has also cut cross-border air and train routes since the virus outbreak.North Korea has also cut cross-border air and train routes since the virus outbreak.
TOKYO — Tokyo Gov. Yuriko Koike said on Friday it was inappropriate to suggest that London could host the 2020 Olympics if the coronavirus outbreak forces organizers to look for an alternative site.TOKYO — Tokyo Gov. Yuriko Koike said on Friday it was inappropriate to suggest that London could host the 2020 Olympics if the coronavirus outbreak forces organizers to look for an alternative site.
On Wednesday, Shaun Bailey, the Conservative Party candidate for the London mayoral elections, had tweeted that London could host the Games, due to be held in the Japanese capital in July and August. “We have the infrastructure and the experience. And due to the #coronavirus outbreak, the world might need us to step up,” he wrote.On Wednesday, Shaun Bailey, the Conservative Party candidate for the London mayoral elections, had tweeted that London could host the Games, due to be held in the Japanese capital in July and August. “We have the infrastructure and the experience. And due to the #coronavirus outbreak, the world might need us to step up,” he wrote.
The International Olympic Committee said last week that it had been advised by the World Health Organization that there was no need for a contingency plan or to consider canceling or moving the Games.The International Olympic Committee said last week that it had been advised by the World Health Organization that there was no need for a contingency plan or to consider canceling or moving the Games.
Yet the number of cases in Japan has trebled to 92 since then, excluding cases on the quarantined Diamond Princess cruise ship that are counted separately, and officials admit it is impossible to prevent the virus from spreading further.Yet the number of cases in Japan has trebled to 92 since then, excluding cases on the quarantined Diamond Princess cruise ship that are counted separately, and officials admit it is impossible to prevent the virus from spreading further.
Nevertheless, Japan’s chief government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said Friday the government would continue to prepare to host the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics this summer as planned, adding that the IOC has “confidence” in Japan’s response to the virus.Nevertheless, Japan’s chief government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said Friday the government would continue to prepare to host the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics this summer as planned, adding that the IOC has “confidence” in Japan’s response to the virus.
“We will coordinate closely with the IOC, the organizing committee and the Tokyo metropolitan government, and move ahead with preparations to make sure athletes and spectators can feel safe and secure throughout the games,” Suga told a news conference.“We will coordinate closely with the IOC, the organizing committee and the Tokyo metropolitan government, and move ahead with preparations to make sure athletes and spectators can feel safe and secure throughout the games,” Suga told a news conference.
On Feb. 19, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved Japan onto a Level 1 watchlist, noting the virus had spread to the country, and advising travelers to practice “usual precautions” such as avoiding contact with sick people and washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said nine countries have now placed some “restraint” on their citizens traveling to Japan.On Feb. 19, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved Japan onto a Level 1 watchlist, noting the virus had spread to the country, and advising travelers to practice “usual precautions” such as avoiding contact with sick people and washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said nine countries have now placed some “restraint” on their citizens traveling to Japan.
Tokyo and Nagoya have both been forced to scale back marathons planned for March, only opening them to elite runners. On Friday, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party postponed a convention scheduled for March 8 at a Tokyo hotel, which was to be attended by about 3,000 party members, Kyodo news reported.Tokyo and Nagoya have both been forced to scale back marathons planned for March, only opening them to elite runners. On Friday, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party postponed a convention scheduled for March 8 at a Tokyo hotel, which was to be attended by about 3,000 party members, Kyodo news reported.
Japan’s health ministry has asked organizers to “re-examine” the need to hold big events, warning the risk of infection will increase if people are not given adequate personal space at indoor facilities, Kyodo reported.Japan’s health ministry has asked organizers to “re-examine” the need to hold big events, warning the risk of infection will increase if people are not given adequate personal space at indoor facilities, Kyodo reported.
The Olympics will run from July 24 to Aug. 9, with the Paralympics scheduled to take place from Aug. 25 to Sept. 6.The Olympics will run from July 24 to Aug. 9, with the Paralympics scheduled to take place from Aug. 25 to Sept. 6.
Authorities in three Chinese provinces on Friday announced viral outbreaks inside prisons that added roughly 500 cases to the cumulative case count and the stark prospect of contagion now spreading through the densely packed facilities.Authorities in three Chinese provinces on Friday announced viral outbreaks inside prisons that added roughly 500 cases to the cumulative case count and the stark prospect of contagion now spreading through the densely packed facilities.
In Hubei province at the heart of the epidemic, 230 cases were found at a women’s prison in Wuhan, while 41 more cases were reported in a nearby county. Shandong province announced that 10 percent of the 2,077 inmates and staff at Renchang prison were infected. Zhejiang province reported 34 infections were reported at a jail.In Hubei province at the heart of the epidemic, 230 cases were found at a women’s prison in Wuhan, while 41 more cases were reported in a nearby county. Shandong province announced that 10 percent of the 2,077 inmates and staff at Renchang prison were infected. Zhejiang province reported 34 infections were reported at a jail.
It’s not clear why the cases came to light in quick succession on Friday, or when the infections were first discovered. Various authorities appeared to disclose the outbreaks only after Shandong province announced the dismissal of its justice department’s Communist Party chief Friday and revealed the scale of infections at Renchang prison.It’s not clear why the cases came to light in quick succession on Friday, or when the infections were first discovered. Various authorities appeared to disclose the outbreaks only after Shandong province announced the dismissal of its justice department’s Communist Party chief Friday and revealed the scale of infections at Renchang prison.
Within hours, several other provinces announced that they, too, had outbreaks inside penal facilities.Within hours, several other provinces announced that they, too, had outbreaks inside penal facilities.
Wu Lei, head of Shandong Prison Administrative Bureau, told reporters Friday that two police officers were confirmed to have the coronavirus on Feb. 12 and 13 and the prison began “transferring prisoners to a single room” as a precautionary measure on Feb. 14. ”We felt really guilty. It revealed the ineffectiveness of our preventative measures,” he said, according to Chinese media.Wu Lei, head of Shandong Prison Administrative Bureau, told reporters Friday that two police officers were confirmed to have the coronavirus on Feb. 12 and 13 and the prison began “transferring prisoners to a single room” as a precautionary measure on Feb. 14. ”We felt really guilty. It revealed the ineffectiveness of our preventative measures,” he said, according to Chinese media.
The Hubei health commission said in a statement Friday that because prisons were not linked to its centralized case reporting system, the provincial commission only updated their tallies after receiving reports from prisons “by hand” late Thursday.The Hubei health commission said in a statement Friday that because prisons were not linked to its centralized case reporting system, the provincial commission only updated their tallies after receiving reports from prisons “by hand” late Thursday.
The prison case counts appeared to further scramble the case data reported by the Chinese government. Hubei province revised its statistics on Friday to at least partially — but not fully — account for prison cases, but discrepancies in the arithmetic remained.The prison case counts appeared to further scramble the case data reported by the Chinese government. Hubei province revised its statistics on Friday to at least partially — but not fully — account for prison cases, but discrepancies in the arithmetic remained.
National officials have not publicly addressed how they would confront the problem.National officials have not publicly addressed how they would confront the problem.
Days before the announcements, speculation had surfaced on Chinese social media that prisons in Shandong and Zhejiang may be ravaged by the coronavirus but never officially confirmed.Days before the announcements, speculation had surfaced on Chinese social media that prisons in Shandong and Zhejiang may be ravaged by the coronavirus but never officially confirmed.
After several days of widely fluctuating statistics, state-controlled media Friday began to circulate remarks by the secretary-general of the Communist Party’s powerful political and legal commission, Chen Yixin, warning the entire bureaucracy to report accurate numbers and not “hide” cases.After several days of widely fluctuating statistics, state-controlled media Friday began to circulate remarks by the secretary-general of the Communist Party’s powerful political and legal commission, Chen Yixin, warning the entire bureaucracy to report accurate numbers and not “hide” cases.
“Behind the numbers lies the lives of the people and the credibility of the government,” Chen said.“Behind the numbers lies the lives of the people and the credibility of the government,” Chen said.
North Korea has closed all of its schools as of Thursday in response to fears about the spreading coronavirus, the Daily NK reported.North Korea has closed all of its schools as of Thursday in response to fears about the spreading coronavirus, the Daily NK reported.
The closure affects all of the country’s educational institutions, from childcare centers though secondary schools and most colleges, except for universities in Pyongyang, according to the Seoul-based news website.The closure affects all of the country’s educational institutions, from childcare centers though secondary schools and most colleges, except for universities in Pyongyang, according to the Seoul-based news website.
Pyongyang university students who live in the capital have been told to stay at home, while those who come from other parts of the country have been ordered not to leave their dormitories, the Daily NK reported.Pyongyang university students who live in the capital have been told to stay at home, while those who come from other parts of the country have been ordered not to leave their dormitories, the Daily NK reported.
Although the coronavirus originated in neighboring China, which has since documented tens of thousands of cases, North Korea has insisted it is free of the virus. On Wednesday, officials with the World Health Organization said there are “no indications” of covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.Although the coronavirus originated in neighboring China, which has since documented tens of thousands of cases, North Korea has insisted it is free of the virus. On Wednesday, officials with the World Health Organization said there are “no indications” of covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.
The school closure has nonetheless sparked some fears that an outbreak is already underway in North Korea, according to the Daily NK, even as all foreign tourists have been blocked from entering the country.The school closure has nonetheless sparked some fears that an outbreak is already underway in North Korea, according to the Daily NK, even as all foreign tourists have been blocked from entering the country.
BEIJING — Wuhan has dumped nearly 2,000 tons of disinfectant in the city’s drainage networks in a bid to prevent the coronavirus from spreading through the sewer system, which has been a growing concern with troubling historical precedent.BEIJING — Wuhan has dumped nearly 2,000 tons of disinfectant in the city’s drainage networks in a bid to prevent the coronavirus from spreading through the sewer system, which has been a growing concern with troubling historical precedent.
Since Jan. 29, Wuhan – the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak – has mobilized over 6,500 people to pour 1,936 tons of disinfectant down the drains, targeting pipelines, septic tanks and sewage wells in hospitals, centralized quarantine facilities and other “high risk” areas, the city’s water authority said on Thursday.Since Jan. 29, Wuhan – the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak – has mobilized over 6,500 people to pour 1,936 tons of disinfectant down the drains, targeting pipelines, septic tanks and sewage wells in hospitals, centralized quarantine facilities and other “high risk” areas, the city’s water authority said on Thursday.
The move came after research showed the virus can survive in human feces and that the pathogen could be transmitted along the fecal-oral route, despite repeated assurances from the government in the early days that it is only transmitted through direct contact with virus-laden droplets from an infected person.The move came after research showed the virus can survive in human feces and that the pathogen could be transmitted along the fecal-oral route, despite repeated assurances from the government in the early days that it is only transmitted through direct contact with virus-laden droplets from an infected person.
In 2003, over 300 residents in Hong Kong’s Amoy Gardens compound were infected with the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) virus due to the defective design of its sewer system.In 2003, over 300 residents in Hong Kong’s Amoy Gardens compound were infected with the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) virus due to the defective design of its sewer system.
Wuhan’s 26 water treatment plants and sewage pumping stations have taken similar measures in the past three weeks, having poured sodium hypochlorite into wastewater for extra disinfection and oxidation around the clock.Wuhan’s 26 water treatment plants and sewage pumping stations have taken similar measures in the past three weeks, having poured sodium hypochlorite into wastewater for extra disinfection and oxidation around the clock.
Renowned respiratory expert Zhong Nanshan, who was a leading medical adviser in China’s management of the coronavirus outbreak, on Tuesday had warned the public to keep their drainage pipes unblocked as the virus might spread through drainage systems.Renowned respiratory expert Zhong Nanshan, who was a leading medical adviser in China’s management of the coronavirus outbreak, on Tuesday had warned the public to keep their drainage pipes unblocked as the virus might spread through drainage systems.
“If a waste pipe is blocked, the contaminated air, or the aerosol carrying the novel coronavirus, may lead to infection,” Zhong said at a news conference in Guangzhou.“If a waste pipe is blocked, the contaminated air, or the aerosol carrying the novel coronavirus, may lead to infection,” Zhong said at a news conference in Guangzhou.
“I think the virus was spread and inhaled through aerosol that contained dried and contaminated feces, not taken in through the digestion tract,” Zhong added.“I think the virus was spread and inhaled through aerosol that contained dried and contaminated feces, not taken in through the digestion tract,” Zhong added.
Two research teams, one led by Dr. Zhong, announced last week that they had isolated novel coronavirus strains from feces of infected patients.Two research teams, one led by Dr. Zhong, announced last week that they had isolated novel coronavirus strains from feces of infected patients.
Earlier this month, dozens of homes in Hong Kong’s Tsing Yi area were evacuated after two tenants from different floors of one building were infected. Authorities have yet to conclude whether the infections were caused by a modified drainage pipe, as suspected.Earlier this month, dozens of homes in Hong Kong’s Tsing Yi area were evacuated after two tenants from different floors of one building were infected. Authorities have yet to conclude whether the infections were caused by a modified drainage pipe, as suspected.
BEIJING — China is grieving the death of another young doctor in Wuhan, a 29-year old pulmonologist at Jiangxia District No. 1 People’s Hospital named Peng Yinhua.BEIJING — China is grieving the death of another young doctor in Wuhan, a 29-year old pulmonologist at Jiangxia District No. 1 People’s Hospital named Peng Yinhua.
Peng was scheduled to hold his wedding on Feb. 1 but postponed it to continue treating patients who began flooding into Wuhan’s hospitals in January as the coronavirus outbreak escalated. He had wedding invitation cards stored in his office desk, unsent, as he rushed back to work, according to Wuhan’s Changjiang Daily newspaper.Peng was scheduled to hold his wedding on Feb. 1 but postponed it to continue treating patients who began flooding into Wuhan’s hospitals in January as the coronavirus outbreak escalated. He had wedding invitation cards stored in his office desk, unsent, as he rushed back to work, according to Wuhan’s Changjiang Daily newspaper.
Peng Yinhua, a frontline doctor at Jiangxia First Hospital in virus epicenter #Wuhan, died of #COVID19 on Thursday night. He had earlier delayed his wedding as he wanted to treat patients with the disease at hospital. pic.twitter.com/zEQaUMAnJVPeng Yinhua, a frontline doctor at Jiangxia First Hospital in virus epicenter #Wuhan, died of #COVID19 on Thursday night. He had earlier delayed his wedding as he wanted to treat patients with the disease at hospital. pic.twitter.com/zEQaUMAnJV
Peng worked practically nonstop for weeks, telling his colleagues that he did not need rest because he was young, before falling ill and admitting himself into his hospital Jan. 25.Peng worked practically nonstop for weeks, telling his colleagues that he did not need rest because he was young, before falling ill and admitting himself into his hospital Jan. 25.
Despite several weeks of treatment at Wuhan’s advanced Jinyintuan hospital and a successful blood transfusion, he died Thursday, becoming the latest high-profile case of a young, seemingly healthy adult succumbing to Covid-19.Despite several weeks of treatment at Wuhan’s advanced Jinyintuan hospital and a successful blood transfusion, he died Thursday, becoming the latest high-profile case of a young, seemingly healthy adult succumbing to Covid-19.
China’s battle against the epidemic has been particularly costly for medical professions. More than 1,700 health workers have ben infected so far, with at least seven deaths, including Peng.China’s battle against the epidemic has been particularly costly for medical professions. More than 1,700 health workers have ben infected so far, with at least seven deaths, including Peng.
On Tuesday, Wuhan doctors and nurses stood at attention outside Wuhan’s Wuchang hospital to mourn the passing of hospital director Liu Zhiming’s hearse. Liu became infected on the job and died age 51, the Wuhan Health Commission said.On Tuesday, Wuhan doctors and nurses stood at attention outside Wuhan’s Wuchang hospital to mourn the passing of hospital director Liu Zhiming’s hearse. Liu became infected on the job and died age 51, the Wuhan Health Commission said.
YOKOHAMA, Japan — As hundreds of passengers disembark from the Diamond Princess on Friday, the Japanese government insists that the quarantine was effective in reducing transmission of the virus on the ship.YOKOHAMA, Japan — As hundreds of passengers disembark from the Diamond Princess on Friday, the Japanese government insists that the quarantine was effective in reducing transmission of the virus on the ship.
It also says its choices were limited at the start, because it lacked facilities on land to isolate all 3,711 people on board.It also says its choices were limited at the start, because it lacked facilities on land to isolate all 3,711 people on board.
Still, with at least 634 people on board confirmed to have contracted the virus, many questions remain unanswered. Here are a few of them.Still, with at least 634 people on board confirmed to have contracted the virus, many questions remain unanswered. Here are a few of them.
After the first case was diagnosed, why did it take more than three days before the passengers were placed in quarantine?After the first case was diagnosed, why did it take more than three days before the passengers were placed in quarantine?
A former passenger from Hong Kong was diagnosed with the virus on Feb 1. Princess Cruises said it learned about this on social media the following day and reached out to Hong Kong authorities. On Feb. 3, after receiving formal notification from Hong Kong, the captain told passengers the ship would wait in Yokohama for Japanese health ministry officials to assess the situation.A former passenger from Hong Kong was diagnosed with the virus on Feb 1. Princess Cruises said it learned about this on social media the following day and reached out to Hong Kong authorities. On Feb. 3, after receiving formal notification from Hong Kong, the captain told passengers the ship would wait in Yokohama for Japanese health ministry officials to assess the situation.
But passengers continued to mingle, including at a buffet dinner on Feb. 4. It was only later that the captain told passengers to remain in their cabins. Those three days provided a crucial window for the virus to spread.But passengers continued to mingle, including at a buffet dinner on Feb. 4. It was only later that the captain told passengers to remain in their cabins. Those three days provided a crucial window for the virus to spread.
Was it ethical to leave more than 1,000 crew members on board to run the ship, with no effective quarantine or isolation, and no choice in the matter?Was it ethical to leave more than 1,000 crew members on board to run the ship, with no effective quarantine or isolation, and no choice in the matter?
Indian crew members appealed to their government to get them off the ship, saying they feared for their lives. But their calls went unanswered. In the end at least 74 crew members contracted the virus, with many falling sick after the quarantine was imposed.Indian crew members appealed to their government to get them off the ship, saying they feared for their lives. But their calls went unanswered. In the end at least 74 crew members contracted the virus, with many falling sick after the quarantine was imposed.
Was it right to confine more than 200 people over the age of 80 on board?Was it right to confine more than 200 people over the age of 80 on board?
Eight days into the quarantine, Japan’s government changed course and began to bring the oldest passengers off the ship, but many people believe it should have acted sooner.Eight days into the quarantine, Japan’s government changed course and began to bring the oldest passengers off the ship, but many people believe it should have acted sooner.
Why did it take a week to bring one 84-year-old woman off the ship after she came down with fever, and did this delay contribute to her death?Why did it take a week to bring one 84-year-old woman off the ship after she came down with fever, and did this delay contribute to her death?
Asked about this case, Japan’s government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said only that doctors gave “the highest priority” to people with a fever or over 80 years old.Asked about this case, Japan’s government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said only that doctors gave “the highest priority” to people with a fever or over 80 years old.
Did the ship act as a breeding ground for the virus?Did the ship act as a breeding ground for the virus?
The U.S. government seems to think so, mandating an additional two weeks’ quarantine for its evacuated citizens. The Japanese government says the quarantine was effective “in reducing the transmission” of the virus, with most of the infections after Feb. 5 occurring among crew members and within cabins.The U.S. government seems to think so, mandating an additional two weeks’ quarantine for its evacuated citizens. The Japanese government says the quarantine was effective “in reducing the transmission” of the virus, with most of the infections after Feb. 5 occurring among crew members and within cabins.
Were the conditions safe for people brought in to manage the quarantine?Were the conditions safe for people brought in to manage the quarantine?
Infectious disease expert Kentaro Iwata called the conditions on board chaotic and scary, with no effective infection control. The government has pushed back against the criticisms, yet six workers – four government officials, one medic and one ambulance driver – all contracted the virus.Infectious disease expert Kentaro Iwata called the conditions on board chaotic and scary, with no effective infection control. The government has pushed back against the criticisms, yet six workers – four government officials, one medic and one ambulance driver – all contracted the virus.
SEOUL — South Korea designated a southern city and surrounding area a “special care zone” after a surge in coronavirus cases centered on a church there.SEOUL — South Korea designated a southern city and surrounding area a “special care zone” after a surge in coronavirus cases centered on a church there.
Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said early Friday that South Korea faces a coronavirus “emergency” and vowed to mobilize “utmost resources” to Daegu city and surrounding North Gyeongsang province, where more than two-thirds of the country’s 156 virus cases have occurred.Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said early Friday that South Korea faces a coronavirus “emergency” and vowed to mobilize “utmost resources” to Daegu city and surrounding North Gyeongsang province, where more than two-thirds of the country’s 156 virus cases have occurred.
After the national tally of infection jumped by half from previous day, South Korea on Friday now has the unwanted distinction of having the highest toll besides China and Japan, if the hundreds of confirmed cases on the Diamond Princess cruise ship are included in Japan’s count.After the national tally of infection jumped by half from previous day, South Korea on Friday now has the unwanted distinction of having the highest toll besides China and Japan, if the hundreds of confirmed cases on the Diamond Princess cruise ship are included in Japan’s count.
President Moon Jae-in on Friday described South Korea’s coronavirus situation as “grave” and ordered inspections of the Daegu church and a nearby hospital identified as two clusters of infection. More than 80 coronavirus patients are linked to the local branch of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a fringe religious sect. The hospital in nearby Cheongdo County reported 16 infection cases, including the country’s first death from the virus.President Moon Jae-in on Friday described South Korea’s coronavirus situation as “grave” and ordered inspections of the Daegu church and a nearby hospital identified as two clusters of infection. More than 80 coronavirus patients are linked to the local branch of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a fringe religious sect. The hospital in nearby Cheongdo County reported 16 infection cases, including the country’s first death from the virus.
Three members of South Korea’s military also tested positive for the virus since Thursday. Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo said all soldiers will be banned from leaving their barracks except for special situations.Three members of South Korea’s military also tested positive for the virus since Thursday. Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo said all soldiers will be banned from leaving their barracks except for special situations.
After several cases were reported in capital, Seoul, since Thursday, mayor Park Won-soon said large demonstrations often held in the city on weekends will be banned.After several cases were reported in capital, Seoul, since Thursday, mayor Park Won-soon said large demonstrations often held in the city on weekends will be banned.
Meanwhile, Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin said Friday the city’s 2.5 million residents should “refrain from movement.” Daegu officials ordered schools and nurseries to postpone classes by a week to prevent the virus from spreading.Meanwhile, Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin said Friday the city’s 2.5 million residents should “refrain from movement.” Daegu officials ordered schools and nurseries to postpone classes by a week to prevent the virus from spreading.
“Concerns of local transmission are growing with the jump in confirmed cases in Daegu and North Gyeongsang,” Moon said, while urging the public to “trust the government’s efforts.”“Concerns of local transmission are growing with the jump in confirmed cases in Daegu and North Gyeongsang,” Moon said, while urging the public to “trust the government’s efforts.”
TORONTO — A woman who recently returned to Canada after a trip to Iran has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, public health officials said Thursday, bringing the total number of cases in the country to nine.TORONTO — A woman who recently returned to Canada after a trip to Iran has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, public health officials said Thursday, bringing the total number of cases in the country to nine.
The woman, who is in her 30s, lives in British Columbia and has a “relatively mild” form of the virus, said Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer. She and some of her close contacts are in self-isolation at home.The woman, who is in her 30s, lives in British Columbia and has a “relatively mild” form of the virus, said Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer. She and some of her close contacts are in self-isolation at home.
The case, which Henry described as “unusual,” is prompting new questions about how the coronavirus may be spreading.The case, which Henry described as “unusual,” is prompting new questions about how the coronavirus may be spreading.
“This could be an indicator that there’s more widespread transmission,” Henry said. “This is what we call an indicator, or a sentinel event.”“This could be an indicator that there’s more widespread transmission,” Henry said. “This is what we call an indicator, or a sentinel event.”
Iran has reported five cases of the novel coronavirus and two deaths.Iran has reported five cases of the novel coronavirus and two deaths.
Henry said that public health officials are investigating the details of the woman’s travel and when exactly she began to experience symptoms, to determine whether the other passengers on her flight need to be notified.Henry said that public health officials are investigating the details of the woman’s travel and when exactly she began to experience symptoms, to determine whether the other passengers on her flight need to be notified.
There have been six cases of the novel coronavirus in British Columbia and three cases in Ontario.There have been six cases of the novel coronavirus in British Columbia and three cases in Ontario.