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Live updates: Fears grow of a coronavirus pandemic as markets stumble again; Japan shuts schools Live updates: Fears grow of a coronavirus pandemic as markets stumble again; Japan shuts schools
(32 minutes later)
The rapid spread of the novel coronavirus raised the specter of a global pandemic as governments ramped up their emergency responses and financial markets slumped again Thursday, despite signs that the outbreak may be easing in China.The rapid spread of the novel coronavirus raised the specter of a global pandemic as governments ramped up their emergency responses and financial markets slumped again Thursday, despite signs that the outbreak may be easing in China.
Japan on Thursday told all schools to close through the spring break, which for most schools typically ends in early April. Australia’s leader warned a pandemic was a matter of when, not if, and an Iranian lawmaker said he had tested positive for the virus, as new infections and deaths emerged from the Middle East to Europe and South Korea. This came after the United States announced Wednesday the first known U.S. case with no known link to foreign travel and the State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory for South Korea, portending extended economic disruption in Asia. Japan told schools to close through the spring break, which for most students typically means early April. Australia’s leader warned that a pandemic was inevitable, and an Iranian lawmaker said he has tested positive for the virus, as new infections and deaths emerged from the Middle East to Europe and South Korea. The United States, meanwhile, announced its first known case with no known link to foreign travel, and the State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory for South Korea, portending extended economic disruption in Asia.
While official numbers released by China continued to show a drop in new cases and deaths from the outbreak in country, in other parts of the world the problem appeared to be getting worse. South Korea announced 505 new cases on Thursday, bringing its total tally of confirmed infections to 1,766, including a U.S. soldier stationed on the peninsula. While China’s official numbers continued to show a drop in new cases and deaths in the country, in other parts of the world the problem appeared to be getting worse. South Korea announced 505 new cases Thursday, bringing its total to 1,766, including a U.S. soldier stationed on the peninsula.
Elsewhere, the spread of the virus prompted officials to cancel or postpone events ranging from religious pilgrimages in Saudi Arabia to rugby matches in Ireland, as doubts grow over Japan’s plans to host the 2020 Olympics. Elsewhere, officials canceled or postponed events including religious pilgrimages in Saudi Arabia, as doubts grow over Tokyo’s plans to host the 2020 Olympics.
Here are the latest developments:
Mapping the spread of the coronavirus | What we know about the virusMapping the spread of the coronavirus | What we know about the virus
ISTANBUL — Iran’s Health Ministry on Thursday reported more than 100 new cases of the novel coronavirus, bring the number of infections in the country to 245 amid a widening outbreak.
Twenty-six people have died in Iran after contracting the virus, which causes the disease known as covid-19, Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur said.
In a news conference carried by Iranian state television, Jahanpur warned that the infection rate was rising and urged citizens to avoid public gatherings and nonessential travel. He said that Friday prayers in high-risk provinces would be canceled and that President Hassan Rouhani would announce further measures to contain the outbreak later Thursday.
Iran appears to be the source of a wider outbreak across the Middle East. The virus first appeared in the holy city of Qom and has since spread to 20 provinces and five other countries in the region.
Several Iranian officials, including influential lawmakers and the head of Iran’s counter-coronavirus task force, said they have tested positive for the virus.
PARIS — Additional novel coronavirus cases were confirmed across Europe on Thursday, as authorities struggled to contain the outbreak and assuage rising public anxieties.PARIS — Additional novel coronavirus cases were confirmed across Europe on Thursday, as authorities struggled to contain the outbreak and assuage rising public anxieties.
By midday Thursday, the British government reported that two new cases had been confirmed in England, and Swiss authorities announced three new cases of the virus. Both health ministries cited ties between newly infected patients and Italy, the apparent center of Europe’s coronavirus outbreak.By midday Thursday, the British government reported that two new cases had been confirmed in England, and Swiss authorities announced three new cases of the virus. Both health ministries cited ties between newly infected patients and Italy, the apparent center of Europe’s coronavirus outbreak.
The British health ministry also said one case had a connection to Tenerife, where a luxury hotel was placed on lockdown this week after a visiting Italian doctor tested positive for the virus. The British Health Ministry also said one case had a connection to Tenerife, where a luxury hotel was placed on lockdown this week after a visiting Italian doctor tested positive for the virus.
Public officials across the continent have tried to swell rising panic, arguably spreading faster than the disease itself. Public officials across the continent have tried to swell rising panic, which is arguably spreading faster than the disease itself.
On Thursday, anxieties were particularly acute in France, where two men from the Oise region north of Paris had tested positive for the virus yesterday without having traveled to China, Italy or Tenerife. One of those men, aged 60, died in a Paris hospital on Tuesday night. Anxieties were particularly acute in France on Thursday, after two men from the Oise region north of Paris tested positive for the virus without having traveled to China, Italy or Tenerife. One of those men, age 60, died in a Paris hospital on Tuesday night.
Authorities were struggling to identify the source of the infection.Authorities were struggling to identify the source of the infection.
To calm an increasingly anxious public, French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday morning visited the Paris hospital, Pitié-Salpêtrière, where the 60-year-old patient died.To calm an increasingly anxious public, French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday morning visited the Paris hospital, Pitié-Salpêtrière, where the 60-year-old patient died.
According to the Élysée Palace, the seat of the French presidency, he visited the hospital’s intensive-care unit and spoke with doctors and nurses.According to the Élysée Palace, the seat of the French presidency, he visited the hospital’s intensive-care unit and spoke with doctors and nurses.
TOKYO — Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the government will ask all the country’s schools to close from Monday until the end of spring break, which for most schools typically ends in early April, in an attempt to counter the spread of the new coronavirus. TOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Thursday the government will ask all the country’s schools to close from Monday until the end of spring break, which for most schools typically ends in early April, in an attempt to counter the spread of the new coronavirus.
Abe said he was asking all elementary, middle and high schools to close until the vacation period, news agencies reported. Officials on the northern island of Hokkaido and in Chiba just outside Tokyo had already announced schools there would close after outbreaks of the virus in those areas. Abe said he was asking all elementary, middle and high schools to close until the vacation period, news agencies reported. Officials on the northern island of Hokkaido and in Chiba just outside Tokyo had already announced that schools there would close after outbreaks of the virus in those areas.
Japan has at least 185 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus, not including more than 700 cases from the quarantined cruise ship the Diamond Princess, while seven people have died.Japan has at least 185 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus, not including more than 700 cases from the quarantined cruise ship the Diamond Princess, while seven people have died.
The government says the next two weeks are crucial in slowing the spread of the virus.The government says the next two weeks are crucial in slowing the spread of the virus.
“Efforts have been made to prevent the spread of infection among children in each region, and these one or two weeks will be an extremely critical period,” Abe told a meeting of cabinet ministers, adding that the government "attaches top priority to the health and safety of children, among others.” “Efforts have been made to prevent the spread of infection among children in each region, and these one or two weeks will be an extremely critical period,” Abe told a meeting of cabinet ministers. He added that the government "attaches top priority to the health and safety of children, among others.”
ISTANBUL — An influential Iranian lawmaker said Thursday that he tested positive for the new coronavirus, in the latest infection to hit Iran’s political elite as the number of cases in the country rose to 141.ISTANBUL — An influential Iranian lawmaker said Thursday that he tested positive for the new coronavirus, in the latest infection to hit Iran’s political elite as the number of cases in the country rose to 141.
Mojtaba Zonnour, the head of the national security and foreign policy commission in parliament, released a video announcing that he contracted the virus, which originated in China. Mojtaba Zonnour, head of the national security and foreign policy commission in parliament, released a video announcing that he has contracted the virus, which originated in China.
Zonnour is a Shiite cleric and conservative politician from the holy city of Qom, where the virus first appeared in Iran. He previously served as the chairman of the parliament’s nuclear committee and as a representative of the supreme leader to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a powerful branch of the armed forces. Zonnour is a Shiite cleric and conservative politician from the holy city of Qom, where the virus first appeared in Iran. He previously served as chairman of the parliament’s nuclear committee and as a representative of the supreme leader to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a powerful branch of the armed forces.
In the video, which was broadcast by Iranian news agencies, Zonnour said he was under quarantine but remained positive about his chances for recovery.“If God helps our nation, we will win against it . . . and it will be purged from the country,” Zonnour said. In the video, which was broadcast by Iranian news agencies, Zonnour said he was under quarantine but remained optimistic about his chances for recovery. “If God helps our nation, we will win against it . . . and it will be purged from the country,” Zonnour said.
At least 22 people have died since Iran reported its first cases of the virus, which causes the disease known as covid-19. Iran has emerged as the epicenter of a widening outbreak across the Middle East. At least 22 Iranians have died since the country reported its first cases of the virus, which causes the disease known as covid-19. Iran has emerged as the center of a widening outbreak across the Middle East.
Europe’s financial markets slumped again Thursday, with London’s FTSE 100 and other benchmark indexes across the continent shedding roughly 2.5 percent before recovering some ground by early morning.Europe’s financial markets slumped again Thursday, with London’s FTSE 100 and other benchmark indexes across the continent shedding roughly 2.5 percent before recovering some ground by early morning.
The falls followed a mixed day on Asian markets, where some stock indexes notched modest gains but Japan’s Nikkei fell 2.1 percent.The falls followed a mixed day on Asian markets, where some stock indexes notched modest gains but Japan’s Nikkei fell 2.1 percent.
U.S. stock futures were down about 0.4 percent, pointing to a slightly lower open on Wall Street. Stocks globally have lost more than $3 trillion in value over recent days.U.S. stock futures were down about 0.4 percent, pointing to a slightly lower open on Wall Street. Stocks globally have lost more than $3 trillion in value over recent days.
Investors’ anxiety is driven by concerns that the novel coronavirus outbreak, which began in China and has spread to every inhabited continent, could become a fully fledged pandemic with unpredictable and protracted economic effects.Investors’ anxiety is driven by concerns that the novel coronavirus outbreak, which began in China and has spread to every inhabited continent, could become a fully fledged pandemic with unpredictable and protracted economic effects.
Among the companies to post significant falls Thursday was Belgium-based Anheuser-Busch InBev, one of the world’s largest drink and brewing companies, whose stock dropped more than 7 percent. The company, which makes Budweiser, said Thursday that it estimates that the coronavirus outbreak has resulted in lost revenue of approximately $285 million so far in 2020.Among the companies to post significant falls Thursday was Belgium-based Anheuser-Busch InBev, one of the world’s largest drink and brewing companies, whose stock dropped more than 7 percent. The company, which makes Budweiser, said Thursday that it estimates that the coronavirus outbreak has resulted in lost revenue of approximately $285 million so far in 2020.
SEOUL — South Korea reported 171 additional cases of the novel coronavirus late Thursday local time, having disclosed another 334 just hours earlier, bringing its total confirmed infections to 1,766 — the second-highest outside China.SEOUL — South Korea reported 171 additional cases of the novel coronavirus late Thursday local time, having disclosed another 334 just hours earlier, bringing its total confirmed infections to 1,766 — the second-highest outside China.
The increase was the largest in a single day since the country confirmed its first case on Jan. 20. But the jump had been expected as health authorities expanded coronavirus tests this week, in an attempt to assess more than 200,000 members of the controversial Shincheonji Church of Jesus that is at the center of the outbreak in Daegu, South Korea’s fourth-largest city.The increase was the largest in a single day since the country confirmed its first case on Jan. 20. But the jump had been expected as health authorities expanded coronavirus tests this week, in an attempt to assess more than 200,000 members of the controversial Shincheonji Church of Jesus that is at the center of the outbreak in Daegu, South Korea’s fourth-largest city.
About two-thirds of South Korea’s cases of the virus are in the southern city, and the rapid growth in cases in recent days has overwhelmed Daegu’s hospitals. As of Thursday morning, over 500 coronavirus patients in Daegu were in self-quarantine at their homes because of overcapacity in local hospitals, according to city authorities.About two-thirds of South Korea’s cases of the virus are in the southern city, and the rapid growth in cases in recent days has overwhelmed Daegu’s hospitals. As of Thursday morning, over 500 coronavirus patients in Daegu were in self-quarantine at their homes because of overcapacity in local hospitals, according to city authorities.
South Korea also reported its 13th death from the virus on Thursday. A 75-year-old man died while waiting at his Daegu home for a hospital bed to be assigned to him, said Jung Eun-kyeong, director of the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Jung said health authorities would improve allocation planning of hospital beds.South Korea also reported its 13th death from the virus on Thursday. A 75-year-old man died while waiting at his Daegu home for a hospital bed to be assigned to him, said Jung Eun-kyeong, director of the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Jung said health authorities would improve allocation planning of hospital beds.
While most of South Korea’s cases are in Daegu and surrounding North Gyeongsang province, Seoul and Busan, the country’s two biggest cities, reported 56 and 61 cases, respectively. Some 40 nations and regions have banned or restricted visitors from South Korea since Seoul’s government raised its coronavirus alert to the highest level last weekend, said Lee Tae-ho of South Korea’s Foreign Ministry.While most of South Korea’s cases are in Daegu and surrounding North Gyeongsang province, Seoul and Busan, the country’s two biggest cities, reported 56 and 61 cases, respectively. Some 40 nations and regions have banned or restricted visitors from South Korea since Seoul’s government raised its coronavirus alert to the highest level last weekend, said Lee Tae-ho of South Korea’s Foreign Ministry.
Lee said such restrictions are “excessive” given South Korea’s “transparent and efficient” response to the virus with “world-best quarantine capabilities.”Lee said such restrictions are “excessive” given South Korea’s “transparent and efficient” response to the virus with “world-best quarantine capabilities.”
Among those who tested positive for the virus this week is a Korean Air flight attendant who worked on round-trip flights between Seoul and Los Angeles the previous week, according to the KCDC. Officials said the flight attendant had also been on a Korean Air flight from Tel Aviv to Seoul on Feb. 15. Members of a South Korean religious group who boarded the Tel Aviv flight have reported 31 coronavirus infections.Among those who tested positive for the virus this week is a Korean Air flight attendant who worked on round-trip flights between Seoul and Los Angeles the previous week, according to the KCDC. Officials said the flight attendant had also been on a Korean Air flight from Tel Aviv to Seoul on Feb. 15. Members of a South Korean religious group who boarded the Tel Aviv flight have reported 31 coronavirus infections.
TOKYO — The remaining crew members finally began disembarking from the Diamond Princess on Thursday, but the saga of the stricken cruise liner is far from over.TOKYO — The remaining crew members finally began disembarking from the Diamond Princess on Thursday, but the saga of the stricken cruise liner is far from over.
More than 130 crew who tested positive for the virus have already been taken to the hospital in Japan, while the Philippines evacuated more than 400 of its nationals from the ship earlier this week.More than 130 crew who tested positive for the virus have already been taken to the hospital in Japan, while the Philippines evacuated more than 400 of its nationals from the ship earlier this week.
But around 240 crew members were still on board the ship, and will disembark over the next three days. They will be taken to the National Tax College in Wako, near Tokyo, where they will serve out the remainder of their quarantine.But around 240 crew members were still on board the ship, and will disembark over the next three days. They will be taken to the National Tax College in Wako, near Tokyo, where they will serve out the remainder of their quarantine.
The treatment of the crew has been one of the most controversial aspects of the Diamond Princess affair, because the crew had no choice but to continue working on board the ship during the quarantine period — living, eating and sleeping in close proximity as their colleagues fell sick around them.The treatment of the crew has been one of the most controversial aspects of the Diamond Princess affair, because the crew had no choice but to continue working on board the ship during the quarantine period — living, eating and sleeping in close proximity as their colleagues fell sick around them.
Around the world, former passengers from the Diamond Princess continue to serve out additional quarantines imposed by their home governments, and some have been found to be carrying the virus.Around the world, former passengers from the Diamond Princess continue to serve out additional quarantines imposed by their home governments, and some have been found to be carrying the virus.
In Japan, 45 passengers who were allowed to go home last week are now suffering from “certain symptoms” that could be caused by coronavirus, and will be tested again, the country’s Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told parliament on Wednesday. If significant numbers are found to have the virus, that would reinforce criticism that Japan was premature in allowing people to go home, and should have imposed an additional quarantine after disembarkation, as other countries did.In Japan, 45 passengers who were allowed to go home last week are now suffering from “certain symptoms” that could be caused by coronavirus, and will be tested again, the country’s Health Minister Katsunobu Kato told parliament on Wednesday. If significant numbers are found to have the virus, that would reinforce criticism that Japan was premature in allowing people to go home, and should have imposed an additional quarantine after disembarkation, as other countries did.
Four former passengers have died, all in their 80s, while more than 700 people were infected on board the ship, out of a total of 3,711 passengers and crew from 56 countries.Four former passengers have died, all in their 80s, while more than 700 people were infected on board the ship, out of a total of 3,711 passengers and crew from 56 countries.
HONG KONG — With the coronavirus outbreak casting a shadow over the world’s second-largest economy, China’s central bank said Thursday it would move to ensure banks have sufficient liquidity to continue lending to businesses.HONG KONG — With the coronavirus outbreak casting a shadow over the world’s second-largest economy, China’s central bank said Thursday it would move to ensure banks have sufficient liquidity to continue lending to businesses.
Liu Guoqiang, vice governor of the People’s Bank of China, told a news conference that the central bank would implement targeted cuts to the reserve requirement ratio — the minimum amount of money banks must set aside in reserve — to “strengthen support for medium-sized and small businesses through structural monetary policy.”Liu Guoqiang, vice governor of the People’s Bank of China, told a news conference that the central bank would implement targeted cuts to the reserve requirement ratio — the minimum amount of money banks must set aside in reserve — to “strengthen support for medium-sized and small businesses through structural monetary policy.”
By cutting the ratio, Chinese policy makers can encourage banks to lend more, which could kickstart economic activity. Much of the country’s industrial capacity has been shut down for weeks in the battle to contain the virus outbreak, though Communist Party officials, eager to hit growth targets, have been imploring people to return to work.By cutting the ratio, Chinese policy makers can encourage banks to lend more, which could kickstart economic activity. Much of the country’s industrial capacity has been shut down for weeks in the battle to contain the virus outbreak, though Communist Party officials, eager to hit growth targets, have been imploring people to return to work.
Cutting the reserve ratio can serve as an alternative to cutting interest rates, though some experts consider the move risky for some lenders.Cutting the reserve ratio can serve as an alternative to cutting interest rates, though some experts consider the move risky for some lenders.
Liu also told reporters that China’s central bank would set up special loans of 300 billion yuan (roughly $43 billion) to support financial institutions and help provide loans to enterprises that specialize in epidemic prevention. China hopes to get parts of the country not directly effected by the coronavirus outbreak to resume economic activity, in the hope of avoiding a prolonged financial impact.Liu also told reporters that China’s central bank would set up special loans of 300 billion yuan (roughly $43 billion) to support financial institutions and help provide loans to enterprises that specialize in epidemic prevention. China hopes to get parts of the country not directly effected by the coronavirus outbreak to resume economic activity, in the hope of avoiding a prolonged financial impact.
Experts have said the effects of the coronavirus could slash China’s growth this year, compounding a years-long slowdown and the impact of the Trump administration’s trade war.Experts have said the effects of the coronavirus could slash China’s growth this year, compounding a years-long slowdown and the impact of the Trump administration’s trade war.
Wang Yuan contributed reporting from BeijingWang Yuan contributed reporting from Beijing
Saudi Arabia said Thursday that it would halt all travel to some of the holiest sites in Islam, including the holy city of Mecca and the Prophet Muhammad’s mosque in Medina, due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.Saudi Arabia said Thursday that it would halt all travel to some of the holiest sites in Islam, including the holy city of Mecca and the Prophet Muhammad’s mosque in Medina, due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.
“Saudi Arabia renews its support for all international measures to limit the spread of this virus, and urges its citizens to exercise caution before traveling to countries experiencing coronavirus outbreaks,” the Saudi Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “We ask God Almighty to spare all humanity from all harm.”.“Saudi Arabia renews its support for all international measures to limit the spread of this virus, and urges its citizens to exercise caution before traveling to countries experiencing coronavirus outbreaks,” the Saudi Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “We ask God Almighty to spare all humanity from all harm.”.
According to the statement, entry to Saudi Arabia for the purposes of umrah of visiting the mosque in Medina would be temporarily suspended. Umrah refers to a pilgrimage to the holiest sites in Islam, including the Kaaba structure in Mecca. It is similar to the annual hajj, which is due to begin in late July this year, but done at other times of year.According to the statement, entry to Saudi Arabia for the purposes of umrah of visiting the mosque in Medina would be temporarily suspended. Umrah refers to a pilgrimage to the holiest sites in Islam, including the Kaaba structure in Mecca. It is similar to the annual hajj, which is due to begin in late July this year, but done at other times of year.
Millions of Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia each year for the umrah, though it is not compulsory unlike the hajj, which must be undertaken by all Muslims at least once during their lifetime.Millions of Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia each year for the umrah, though it is not compulsory unlike the hajj, which must be undertaken by all Muslims at least once during their lifetime.
Blocking travel for the umrah appears to be unprecedented in modern history. In its statement, the Saudi foreign ministry also said that tourist visas for countries with confirmed coronavirus outbreaks would be suspended, and Saudi nationals would be required to use passports rather than national identity cards for international travel. In recent years Saudi Arabia has looked to tourism to diversify its economy away from a reliance on oil exports.Blocking travel for the umrah appears to be unprecedented in modern history. In its statement, the Saudi foreign ministry also said that tourist visas for countries with confirmed coronavirus outbreaks would be suspended, and Saudi nationals would be required to use passports rather than national identity cards for international travel. In recent years Saudi Arabia has looked to tourism to diversify its economy away from a reliance on oil exports.
There are currently no confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Saudi Arabia, but there have been a growing number of cases across the Middle East. In Iran, one of the cities with the most confirmed cases appears to be Qom, a holy city for Shiite Muslims and a place of pilgrimage.There are currently no confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Saudi Arabia, but there have been a growing number of cases across the Middle East. In Iran, one of the cities with the most confirmed cases appears to be Qom, a holy city for Shiite Muslims and a place of pilgrimage.
BEIJING — Qianjiang, a Chinese city in Hubei province, the epicenter of the novel coronavirus outbreak, announced a new policy on Thursday that could award up to 10,000 yuan, or $1,425, to people who report novel coronavirus symptoms to authorities.BEIJING — Qianjiang, a Chinese city in Hubei province, the epicenter of the novel coronavirus outbreak, announced a new policy on Thursday that could award up to 10,000 yuan, or $1,425, to people who report novel coronavirus symptoms to authorities.
Under the guidelines, 1,000 yuan (roughly $142) would be given to people who report symptoms of fever, while 2,000 yuan ($284) would be given to those who reported themselves and were classified as a suspected case. If a diagnosis confirms the presence of coronavirus, the person would be entitled to the full 10,000 yuan payment.Under the guidelines, 1,000 yuan (roughly $142) would be given to people who report symptoms of fever, while 2,000 yuan ($284) would be given to those who reported themselves and were classified as a suspected case. If a diagnosis confirms the presence of coronavirus, the person would be entitled to the full 10,000 yuan payment.
The decision was made by the city’s center for epidemic prevention and control and published on an official local news outlet.The decision was made by the city’s center for epidemic prevention and control and published on an official local news outlet.
According to Chinese official numbers, Qianjiang has seen a total of 197 confirmed infections since the outbreak. It became the first city in Hubei to announce a lockdown on Jan. 17, when it quarantined 32 infected patients, canceled public events and ordered citizens to not leave home, local Communist Party officials later told state media.According to Chinese official numbers, Qianjiang has seen a total of 197 confirmed infections since the outbreak. It became the first city in Hubei to announce a lockdown on Jan. 17, when it quarantined 32 infected patients, canceled public events and ordered citizens to not leave home, local Communist Party officials later told state media.
In the nearby city of Huanggang, where confirmed infections have reached 2,904, the third highest in the province, a similar proposal to reward testing was put in place on Feb. 16. However, in that case the money offered was only 500 yuan, roughly $70.In the nearby city of Huanggang, where confirmed infections have reached 2,904, the third highest in the province, a similar proposal to reward testing was put in place on Feb. 16. However, in that case the money offered was only 500 yuan, roughly $70.
Australia’s leader said Thursday the rate of transmission of the novel coronavirus was “fundamentally changing” outside of China and that Australia expects the outbreak to become a global pandemic.Australia’s leader said Thursday the rate of transmission of the novel coronavirus was “fundamentally changing” outside of China and that Australia expects the outbreak to become a global pandemic.
“There is every indication that the world will soon enter a pandemic phase of the coronavirus,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison told reporters in Canberra, adding that his government had activated an emergency response plan.“There is every indication that the world will soon enter a pandemic phase of the coronavirus,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison told reporters in Canberra, adding that his government had activated an emergency response plan.
Australia has 23 confirmed cases of coronavirus. Morrison is one of the first world leaders to openly say that they now expect a pandemic.Australia has 23 confirmed cases of coronavirus. Morrison is one of the first world leaders to openly say that they now expect a pandemic.
So far, the World Health Organization has refrained from calling the novel virus a pandemic, a definition that indicates the virus is spreading across multiple continents, rather than an epidemic, which refers to an outbreak in one country.So far, the World Health Organization has refrained from calling the novel virus a pandemic, a definition that indicates the virus is spreading across multiple continents, rather than an epidemic, which refers to an outbreak in one country.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has spoken of an “uncontained global spread” but declined to call the outbreak a pandemic. Other world leaders have downplayed the risks of the outbreak.WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has spoken of an “uncontained global spread” but declined to call the outbreak a pandemic. Other world leaders have downplayed the risks of the outbreak.
President Trump on Wednesday said he did not think it was inevitable that the virus would spread in the United States, contradicting the assessment of a top official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Late Wednesday, CDC officials confirmed the first case of infection in the United States to involve a patient who had contracted the virus without traveling outside the country nor coming in contact with another person known to have been infected.President Trump on Wednesday said he did not think it was inevitable that the virus would spread in the United States, contradicting the assessment of a top official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Late Wednesday, CDC officials confirmed the first case of infection in the United States to involve a patient who had contracted the virus without traveling outside the country nor coming in contact with another person known to have been infected.
With Australia gearing up for a pandemic, Morrison said that the country would extend a travel ban on visitors arriving from mainland China for another week, but would not recommend canceling events that draw large crowds.With Australia gearing up for a pandemic, Morrison said that the country would extend a travel ban on visitors arriving from mainland China for another week, but would not recommend canceling events that draw large crowds.
“You can still go to the football. You can still go the cricket. You can still go and play with your friends down the street. You can go to a concert. You can go out with your friends for a Chinese meal," Morrison said.“You can still go to the football. You can still go the cricket. You can still go and play with your friends down the street. You can go to a concert. You can go out with your friends for a Chinese meal," Morrison said.
“You can do all of these things because Australia has acted quickly. Australia has got ahead at this point in time, but to stay ahead we need to now elevate our response to this next phase.”“You can do all of these things because Australia has acted quickly. Australia has got ahead at this point in time, but to stay ahead we need to now elevate our response to this next phase.”
HONG KONG — Asian stocks resumed their slide on Thursday, as the spread of the novel coronavirus outbreak continued to stoke fears about the epidemic’s growing economic impact.HONG KONG — Asian stocks resumed their slide on Thursday, as the spread of the novel coronavirus outbreak continued to stoke fears about the epidemic’s growing economic impact.
Japan’s Nikkei index was hit worst, falling 2 percent by mid-afternoon local time, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was down by 0.8 percent and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 also fell 0.8 percent.Japan’s Nikkei index was hit worst, falling 2 percent by mid-afternoon local time, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was down by 0.8 percent and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 also fell 0.8 percent.
Oil also took a hit, with U.S. crude futures falling below $48 a barrel as investors sought safety in gold and Treasury bonds.Oil also took a hit, with U.S. crude futures falling below $48 a barrel as investors sought safety in gold and Treasury bonds.
Despite a White House news conference from President Trump on Wednesday evening that aimed to dispel fears that an outbreak could soon grip the United States, Dow Jones futures were down by more than one percent, suggesting a rough day ahead for Wall Street ahead once markets open.Despite a White House news conference from President Trump on Wednesday evening that aimed to dispel fears that an outbreak could soon grip the United States, Dow Jones futures were down by more than one percent, suggesting a rough day ahead for Wall Street ahead once markets open.
TOKYO — A Japanese woman who was one of the first cases of coronavirus in the country but was released from hospital nearly four weeks ago, apparently cured, has now tested positive again for the virus, officials say.TOKYO — A Japanese woman who was one of the first cases of coronavirus in the country but was released from hospital nearly four weeks ago, apparently cured, has now tested positive again for the virus, officials say.
The woman, in her 40s, served as a guide on a tour bus carrying tourists from the Chinese city of Wuhan. The driver was the first to fall sick, and then she developed a fever on Jan 20.The woman, in her 40s, served as a guide on a tour bus carrying tourists from the Chinese city of Wuhan. The driver was the first to fall sick, and then she developed a fever on Jan 20.
Nine days later, on Jan. 29, the government announced she had tested positive for the virus. But her symptoms went away, and on Feb 1. she was released from the hospital without being retested, according to the Mainichi newspaper.Nine days later, on Jan. 29, the government announced she had tested positive for the virus. But her symptoms went away, and on Feb 1. she was released from the hospital without being retested, according to the Mainichi newspaper.
On Feb. 6, she developed a cough and sought medical help but tested negative for the virus. But on Feb. 19, she started complaining of discomfort in her throat and pain in her chest, and some days later took another test that showed coronavirus was present.On Feb. 6, she developed a cough and sought medical help but tested negative for the virus. But on Feb. 19, she started complaining of discomfort in her throat and pain in her chest, and some days later took another test that showed coronavirus was present.
Officials told Japanese media it was unclear if the virus had remained in her system or if she had been reinfected. The woman didn’t go to work during the period, but remained at home without coming into close contact with others.Officials told Japanese media it was unclear if the virus had remained in her system or if she had been reinfected. The woman didn’t go to work during the period, but remained at home without coming into close contact with others.
Nevertheless, the fact that she was initially released from hospital without undergoing a further test underlines concerns about the rigor of Japan’s testing regime. The woman is now back in the hospital, NHK reported.Nevertheless, the fact that she was initially released from hospital without undergoing a further test underlines concerns about the rigor of Japan’s testing regime. The woman is now back in the hospital, NHK reported.
BEIJING — Prominent Chinese pulmonologist Zhong Nanshan told reporters Thursday he believed China could “basically control” the coronavirus by the end of April and questioned whether the pathogen originated from China at all.BEIJING — Prominent Chinese pulmonologist Zhong Nanshan told reporters Thursday he believed China could “basically control” the coronavirus by the end of April and questioned whether the pathogen originated from China at all.
Zhong, who is widely respected in China due to his role in combating the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003, told reporters at a semi-regular briefing in Guangzhou that nationwide infection figures have been declining in late February, as he predicted, due to “strong government intervention” such as quarantine measures and travel restrictions.Zhong, who is widely respected in China due to his role in combating the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003, told reporters at a semi-regular briefing in Guangzhou that nationwide infection figures have been declining in late February, as he predicted, due to “strong government intervention” such as quarantine measures and travel restrictions.
In China’s murky information and political landscape, Zhong has generally been seen as a respected authority who appears in state media to deliver key messages. He was the first to announce, a China Central Television interview on Jan. 20, that the virus was being transmitted between humans, in a stunning reversal after health authorities played down the possibility for weeks.In China’s murky information and political landscape, Zhong has generally been seen as a respected authority who appears in state media to deliver key messages. He was the first to announce, a China Central Television interview on Jan. 20, that the virus was being transmitted between humans, in a stunning reversal after health authorities played down the possibility for weeks.
On Thursday, Zhong shifted the onus of combating the epidemic onto other countries as he pointed out that China basically had prevented a major outbreak in cities other than Wuhan while more cases were now developing outside China than within.On Thursday, Zhong shifted the onus of combating the epidemic onto other countries as he pointed out that China basically had prevented a major outbreak in cities other than Wuhan while more cases were now developing outside China than within.
“Foreign countries should consider China’s model of early detection, early quarantine,” he said. “This is humanity’s disease, not China’s disease.”“Foreign countries should consider China’s model of early detection, early quarantine,” he said. “This is humanity’s disease, not China’s disease.”
China has kept its infection numbers at half of what international experts predicted, he said.China has kept its infection numbers at half of what international experts predicted, he said.
“Besides,” he added. “the epidemic was first discovered in China. But it does not mean it originated in China.”“Besides,” he added. “the epidemic was first discovered in China. But it does not mean it originated in China.”
SEOUL — South Korea’s Vice Foreign Minister Cho Sei-young had a phone call with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun on Thursday and urged the United States to refrain from “excessive measures that could unnecessarily discourage bilateral exchanges between the two countries" after the State Department urged Americans to reconsider travel to the country amid the novel coronavirus outbreak.SEOUL — South Korea’s Vice Foreign Minister Cho Sei-young had a phone call with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun on Thursday and urged the United States to refrain from “excessive measures that could unnecessarily discourage bilateral exchanges between the two countries" after the State Department urged Americans to reconsider travel to the country amid the novel coronavirus outbreak.
The call, which was announced by South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, came on the same day that South Korea confirmed 334 new virus cases.The call, which was announced by South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, came on the same day that South Korea confirmed 334 new virus cases.
South Korea’s national tally of cases now stands at 1,595, including a U.S. soldier stationed in the country. The coronavirus outbreak in South Korea has complicated relations with the United States, a key ally.South Korea’s national tally of cases now stands at 1,595, including a U.S. soldier stationed in the country. The coronavirus outbreak in South Korea has complicated relations with the United States, a key ally.
U.S.-South Korean Combined Forces Command said in a statement on Thursday that a key joint military exercise in South Korea would be postponed due to the outbreak. The day before, the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 3 travel advisory for South Korea — urging citizens to reconsider their need to travel to the country due to the risks.U.S.-South Korean Combined Forces Command said in a statement on Thursday that a key joint military exercise in South Korea would be postponed due to the outbreak. The day before, the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 3 travel advisory for South Korea — urging citizens to reconsider their need to travel to the country due to the risks.
The Trump administration has suggested it may restrict travel to virus-hit countries outside China, but said it would not do so immediately.The Trump administration has suggested it may restrict travel to virus-hit countries outside China, but said it would not do so immediately.
At a news conference on Wednesday, Trump responded to a question about travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea, two countries with large numbers of confirmed coronavirus cases, saying that “At a news conference on Wednesday, Trump responded to a question about travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea, two countries with large numbers of confirmed coronavirus cases, saying that “
at the right time we may do that. Right now it’s not the right time.”at the right time we may do that. Right now it’s not the right time.”
He said the two countries have been “hit pretty hard” from the coronavirus.He said the two countries have been “hit pretty hard” from the coronavirus.
Taylor reported from Hong KongTaylor reported from Hong Kong
BEIJING — The Chinese government has sent a team of investigators to Wuhan, the epicenter of the novel coronavirus outbreak, to determine how a woman infected with the virus had been released from a prison in the city and fled to Beijing despite a mandatory travel lockdown.BEIJING — The Chinese government has sent a team of investigators to Wuhan, the epicenter of the novel coronavirus outbreak, to determine how a woman infected with the virus had been released from a prison in the city and fled to Beijing despite a mandatory travel lockdown.
The team, headed by Vice Minister of Justice Liu Zhiqiang and consisting of members of the military, police, and prosecutors, will travel to Wuhan to investigate how the woman had been allowed to return to the Chinese capital while displaying fever symptoms.The team, headed by Vice Minister of Justice Liu Zhiqiang and consisting of members of the military, police, and prosecutors, will travel to Wuhan to investigate how the woman had been allowed to return to the Chinese capital while displaying fever symptoms.
Ying Yong, the newly appointed Communist Party chief for Hubei province, also called for a thorough investigation into the case even if higher-level government officials are involved. “It should be investigated thoroughly to see if there are any other legal and disciplinary issues involved. Whoever is involved would not be exempt from investigations,” the party newspaper Hubei Daily quoted Ying as saying.Ying Yong, the newly appointed Communist Party chief for Hubei province, also called for a thorough investigation into the case even if higher-level government officials are involved. “It should be investigated thoroughly to see if there are any other legal and disciplinary issues involved. Whoever is involved would not be exempt from investigations,” the party newspaper Hubei Daily quoted Ying as saying.
The unusual case of the woman’s escape came into public attention Wednesday, after the New World Villa compound in Beijing’s central Dongcheng district issued a notice saying that one of its tenants, a woman who had arrived from Wuhan, had been confirmed to be infected with the coronavirus.The unusual case of the woman’s escape came into public attention Wednesday, after the New World Villa compound in Beijing’s central Dongcheng district issued a notice saying that one of its tenants, a woman who had arrived from Wuhan, had been confirmed to be infected with the coronavirus.
The patient, referred to by her family name Huang, had started to show symptoms including fever and sore throat since Feb. 18 while still in Wuhan, according to Chinese media reports.The patient, referred to by her family name Huang, had started to show symptoms including fever and sore throat since Feb. 18 while still in Wuhan, according to Chinese media reports.
Later it was reported that Huang had been picked up by her family by car upon her release from Wuhan Women’s Prison. She arrived at her apartment at 2 a.m. on Feb. 22 after passing a temperature check at the compound entrance and was put under centralized quarantine later in the evening. Running a fever, Huang was taken by ambulance to Puren Hospital in Dongcheng district. It was confirmed she had the coronavirus on Feb. 24.Later it was reported that Huang had been picked up by her family by car upon her release from Wuhan Women’s Prison. She arrived at her apartment at 2 a.m. on Feb. 22 after passing a temperature check at the compound entrance and was put under centralized quarantine later in the evening. Running a fever, Huang was taken by ambulance to Puren Hospital in Dongcheng district. It was confirmed she had the coronavirus on Feb. 24.
Three family members who came into close contact with Huang have been sent to a centralized quarantine facility for two weeks of medical observation. Huang’s apartment building has been disinfected and the whole compound is under quarantine, Beijing’s municipal health commission said Wednesday. Huang is said to be a mild case and in a stable condition.Three family members who came into close contact with Huang have been sent to a centralized quarantine facility for two weeks of medical observation. Huang’s apartment building has been disinfected and the whole compound is under quarantine, Beijing’s municipal health commission said Wednesday. Huang is said to be a mild case and in a stable condition.
The case underlines a gray zone in China’s epidemic management. It remains unclear why the patient had not been isolated for virus screening in Wuhan and how she had been allowed to leave the city, where a travel lockdown has remained in place since it was announced Jan. 23.The case underlines a gray zone in China’s epidemic management. It remains unclear why the patient had not been isolated for virus screening in Wuhan and how she had been allowed to leave the city, where a travel lockdown has remained in place since it was announced Jan. 23.
Local authorities in Hubei say that several former inmates had been sent back to their home provinces this month after finishing their term in prison, with police chaperone to get through checkpoints. However, Wuhan Women’s Prison — where Huang was alleged to be released from — said on Wednesday that it hadn’t released any inmates recently due to the latest wave of confirmed infections in jail.Local authorities in Hubei say that several former inmates had been sent back to their home provinces this month after finishing their term in prison, with police chaperone to get through checkpoints. However, Wuhan Women’s Prison — where Huang was alleged to be released from — said on Wednesday that it hadn’t released any inmates recently due to the latest wave of confirmed infections in jail.
As of Feb. 23, Wuhan Women’s Prison had reported 279 confirmed cases among its inmates, accounting for 85 percent of prison infections across the wider Hubei province.As of Feb. 23, Wuhan Women’s Prison had reported 279 confirmed cases among its inmates, accounting for 85 percent of prison infections across the wider Hubei province.
HONG KONG — The Chinese government announced 433 new confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus Thursday morning local time, as well as 29 new deaths.HONG KONG — The Chinese government announced 433 new confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus Thursday morning local time, as well as 29 new deaths.
The numbers, released daily by China’s National Health Commission, continued to show a downward trend for coronavirus in China, where a global outbreak originated in the city of Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, late last year.The numbers, released daily by China’s National Health Commission, continued to show a downward trend for coronavirus in China, where a global outbreak originated in the city of Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, late last year.
Still, health officials have urged caution about the Chinese statistics, especially as there are lingering questions about the novel coronavirus’s incubation period and its transmissibility.Still, health officials have urged caution about the Chinese statistics, especially as there are lingering questions about the novel coronavirus’s incubation period and its transmissibility.
According to the Chinese government, 409 of the new cases were in Hubei, which is now under tight government restrictions on movement. Twenty-six of the new deaths were in Hubei, along with one death apiece in Beijing, Heilongjiang and Henan.According to the Chinese government, 409 of the new cases were in Hubei, which is now under tight government restrictions on movement. Twenty-six of the new deaths were in Hubei, along with one death apiece in Beijing, Heilongjiang and Henan.
Despite some outside skepticism, China’s government has suggested the lowering death rate in the country shows the outbreak is diminishing, in part thanks to officials’ dramatic decision in late January to placed Wuhan under lockdown.Despite some outside skepticism, China’s government has suggested the lowering death rate in the country shows the outbreak is diminishing, in part thanks to officials’ dramatic decision in late January to placed Wuhan under lockdown.
The official number of deaths from the novel coronavirus across China is now 2,744, and confirmed cases are 78,497. Some 43,258 of those confirmed cases involve individuals still in the hospital, with 8,346 of them in critical condition, Chinese statistics show; 32,495 have been discharged after recovering.The official number of deaths from the novel coronavirus across China is now 2,744, and confirmed cases are 78,497. Some 43,258 of those confirmed cases involve individuals still in the hospital, with 8,346 of them in critical condition, Chinese statistics show; 32,495 have been discharged after recovering.