Many of you will have heard about the novel coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, which was identified in Wuhan, China. Infection with this virus causes respiratory disease ranging from mild to severe disease, and in some cases has led to death. People with serious underlying medical conditions are more at risk for severe disease and death.
The first case of coronavirus was reported on 12 December 2019 and was linked to the seafood market in Wuhan City in China, following which the market was closed for environmental sanitation and disinfection. By the 27 January 2020, the total number of reported cases rose to 2794, with the total number of reported deaths at 80.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed that there is clear evidence of human-to-human transmission of the 2019-nCoV, with the suggestion of sustained transmission.
There is still much we do not know about this virus; Where has it come from? Who is vulnerable to infection? How is the virus spread? However, WHO is providing up-to-date information on the virus, with practical advice for people in infected and non-infected areas.
Europe is also getting ready to respond in the event of further disease spread. The EU-funded PREPARE network, of which Penta is the paediatric partner, is checking its readiness to respond to the 2019-nCoV outbreak if required. Click here for more information on the PREPARE network and to read the PREPARE network press release.
To read more on the current status of the coronavirus download the WHO slides here: EPI-WIN SLIDES
Further information can also be found at the following links: