MANILA -- The World Health Organization (WHO) on Saturday reported 3,419 new cases of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) acute respiratory disease worldwide.
The latest WHO situation report showed that China, where the disease originated in the city of Wuhan in Hubei province, has the biggest number of new cases.
Worldwide, the WHO recorded a total of 34,886 confirmed cases.
In China, there are 34,598 confirmed cases as of February 8. Of the number, 3,401 cases are new, 6,101 cases are severe, and 723 cases led to death.
Outside China, about 288 confirmed cases and one death were recorded in 24 countries.
The WHO said no new countries reported cases of 2019-nCoV in the past 24 hours.
Upon receiving queries from different countries, the WHO started working closely with International Air Transport Association and jointly developed a guidance document to provide advice to cabin crew and airport workers.
The WHO developed a protocol for the investigation of early cases which aims to gain an early understanding of the key clinical, epidemiological and virological characteristics of the first cases of 2019-nCoV infection detected in any individual country, and to inform the development and updating of public health guidance to manage cases and reduce potential spread and impact of infection.
It also advised the practice of frequent handwashing, avoid unprotected contact with farm and wild animals, practice proper cough etiquette, and avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus. (PNA)
