The World Health Organization has said that the outbreak of the deadly novel coronavirus, which has spread from China to two dozen countries, does not yet constitute a “pandemic.”
Sylvie Briand, head of WHO’s Global Infectious Hazard Preparedness, also stressed the importance of tackling unfounded rumours about the virus.
A pandemic is the worldwide spread of a new disease, according to the WHO.
The death toll has now risen to 425, with more than 20,000 confirmed cases in 26 nations around the world.
Officials say 423 people have died in China and one in Hong Kong. One death has also been confirmed in the Philippines.
China’s top leadership earlier admitted “shortcomings and deficiencies” in the country’s response to the outbreak, which is believed to have originated in Wuhan, Hubei province.
The rare admission came from the Politburo Standing Committee, which called for an improvement in China’s emergency management system.
It also ordered a “severe” crackdown on illegal wildlife markets – where the virus is thought to have emerged.
more recommended stories
Zimbabwe’s imposing new Chinese-funded parliament opensHARARE, Zimbabwe — Zimbabwean President Emmerson.
Zimbabwe opposition leader Godfrey Sithole released on bail after 150 days in prisonGodfrey Sithole, an opposition lawmaker in.
‘South Africa’s Home Affairs lacks capacity to deal with Zimbabwean permit holder’Immigration stakeholders such as the Helen.
Zimbabwe launches first ever nano satellite into spaceZimbabwe on Monday announced the launch.
19 reported dead in Tanzania plane crashA Tanzanian passenger plane has crashed.
Four Zimbabweans part of 21 illegal miners found dead in South Africa mineThe African Diaspora Forum (ADF), an.
Zimbabwe’s ruling party backs leader Emmerson Mnangagwa despite huge inflationHARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Zimbabwe’s president.
Museveni’s son General Muhoozi vows he will become presidentThe son of Uganda’s long-serving President.