niman Posted January 10, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 10, 2020 “Plenty of people are working on the outbreak,” says Xu Jianguo, head of an evaluation committee advising the Chinese government. XU JIANGUO Mystery virus found in Wuhan resembles bat viruses but not SARS, Chinese scientist says By Dennis NormileJan. 10, 2020 , 12:30 PM SHANGHAI—A new coronavirus identified by Chinese scientists is the putative cause of an outbreak of unusual pneumonia in the central city of Wuhan, according to Chinese news reports yesterday. In an interview today with Science, Xu Jianguo, head of an evaluation committee advising the Chinese government, confirmed that scientists have a complete sequence of the novel virus’s genome. The World Health Organization on 9 January requested sequence data, a spokesperson in Geneva says, and many scientists urge the country to make the sequence public quickly, but the decision is up to the top leadership of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, says Xu, who is director of the Beijing-based State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, part of China CDC. (The center’s head, George Gao, did not respond to emails from Science seeking comment.) Xu says the investigation is being led by China CDC but numerous groups in other government agencies are involved. “Plenty of people are working on the outbreak,” he says. The role of the evaluation committee Xu leads is to review all the findings and make recommendations to the National Health Commission. Xu also said the novel coronavirus resembles known bat viruses, but not the coronaviruses that cause severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). The following transcript has been edited for clarity and brevity. Q: The virus has been isolated from one patient, is that correct? A: Correct. Two groups isolated the virus from samples from one patient. The viruses are nearly identical in morphology under electron microscopy. Researchers did laboratory investigations of 34 patients. A total of 15 were positive for the novel virus, [based on] sequencing samples of [fluid injected into the lung and collected for examination]. The teams got complete genome sequence data from about 10 patients. They are now attempting to isolate the virus from those samples as well. There are 19 cases with no evidence of the virus. There is no information available for the results of the remaining 25 cases. Q: How close is this new virus to the SARS coronavirus? A: The virus is similar to some of the published viruses collected from bats. But it is not close to SARS and not close to MERS. Q: Are close contacts of patients and market workers being tested for antibodies to the new virus? A: [Investigators] have just gotten the virus, they now need the chance to prepare reagents for antibody tests, but there are no data yet. Q: The 5 January report from the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, the latest available, says a total of 59 pneumonia patients have been identified as possibly carrying the virus. Have more patients been found? A: It should be mentioned that the 59 reported pneumonia patients in Wuhan were clinically diagnosed; of those, 15 were confirmed to be infected by the new coronavirus. No new patients have appeared, as far as I understand. It’s good news. People fear something like SARS in 2003, but this is a different case. The outbreak is limited, but we should test patients one by one [to identify] pneumonia caused by other pathogens. Q: Are researchers trying to replicate the disease in lab animals to prove that it is really the cause of the outbreak? A: People have recommended that [investigators] do tests to see if the virus can cause the infection in animals, but they need time. Q: Is there any progress in tracing the original source of the virus? A: I have no information. Personally, I’m interested, too. The virus looks like viruses isolated from bats, but how it was transmitted from bats to people is still a question. Several groups in China have been working on bat coronaviruses for years. I imagine they’re working on this but so far there is no information. Q: Are other live animal markets being checked? A: The Wuhan market has been closed. I have no information about other [markets]. Wild animals carry the risk of exposing people to new viruses. I think we should have more strict regulations and inspections of markets that sell wild animals, especially since the source of the new coronavirus has not been identified and eliminated. With reporting by Jon Cohen. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 11, 2020 Report Share Posted January 11, 2020 Virus in China Is Part of a Growing Threat New type of so-called coronavirus is possible cause of the outbreak in the city of Wuhan Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that infect mostly pigs, cats and other animals. PHOTO: CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL By Betsy McKay Updated Jan. 10, 2020 9:26 pm ET SAVE PRINT TEXT The virus implicated in a mysterious outbreak of pneumonia in central China is in a class of pathogens that are a growing player in global infectious disease epidemics. The Wall Street Journal reported this week that Chinese scientists identified a new type of so-called coronavirus as a possible cause of the outbreak in the city of Wuhan, where 59 people have been sickened, with seven in critical condition. Chinese health authorities said Saturday that a 61-year-old man has died. There were no infections found among people in close contact with the infected patients, including medical workers, according to the Wuhan health commission. No new cases have been reported since Jan. 3. Chinese authorities say they have found coronavirus in patients, but haven’t confirmed it as the underlying cause of the illnesses. But virologists and epidemic experts say it is likely. “None of us were surprised,” said Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota. “I thought this had a high possibility of being a coronavirus.” Epidemic Potential Coronaviruses are jumping increasingly from animals to humans, creating new threats NL63 (1100s) SARS (2003) 229E (1800s) MERS (2012) OC43 (1800s) Wuhan CoV (2020) HKU1 (unknown) Source: Timothy Sheahan, University of North Carolina That is because Wuhan has all the ingredients for a coronavirus outbreak, Dr. Osterholm and other experts say: a big, densely populated city with live animal markets where people and possibly infected pigs, bats or other mammals mingle. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that infect mostly pigs, cats and other animals. They can also jump from animals to humans, and from one human to another, though Chinese health officials say they haven’t found human-to-human transmission with the Wuhan strain. Outbreaks in recent years have killed thousands of pigs in China. Seven strains are known to infect humans, including the virus in Wuhan, causing illnesses in the respiratory tract. Four of those strains cause common colds. Two others, by contrast, rank among the deadliest of human infections: severe acute respiratory syndrome, known as SARS, and Middle East respiratory syndrome, or MERS. Named for crown-like spikes on their surfaces, coronaviruses mutate rapidly, essentially making mistakes easily as they copy their genome to produce offspring. RELATED New Virus Discovered by Chinese Scientists Investigating Pneumonia Outbreak Health Officials Work to Solve China’s Mystery Virus Outbreak Predicting the Next Pandemic China’s Leaders Are Penned In as Citizens Stomach High Pork Prices “They can recombine with incredibly high efficiency,” said Ralph Baric, a coronavirus expert and professor of epidemiology at the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina. Two or three coronaviruses in the same cell can mix and produce new offspring viruses quickly, he said. The reservoir, or natural home, of the coronavirus is believed to be in bats. But the virus jumps easily from one host to another, evolving as it moves. Investigators searching for the source of the SARS virus first found it in civet cats, an animal often eaten in the region of southern China where humans first were infected. Later, they traced it to bats found at the same markets where the civet cats were sold. New, more severe human coronaviruses are emerging at an accelerating pace. Since 2002, three new types of coronavirus have emerged: SARS, MERS, and now this new one in Wuhan. A health surveillance officer monitored passengers arriving at the Hong Kong International airport on Jan. 4. PHOTO: ANDY WONG/ASSOCIATED PRESS SARS changed the game for virologists as the first coronavirus that was deadly to humans. Before that, it was known as a virus causing common colds. MERS is even deadlier. It also infects people on a continuing basis, unlike SARS, which disappeared after causing one epidemic that shook up global public health. The new Wuhan virus appears milder. While some people are severely ill, no deaths have been reported. More new human coronaviruses are likely to emerge, said Peter Daszak, president of EcoHealth Alliance, a U.S. organization that identifies and researches emerging viruses around the world, including tracing SARS and MERS to bats. “Our ecology is changing,” he said. “We’re exposed more to animal pathogens.” Coronaviruses are “well poised to take advantage of a more densely populated planet with integrated farm methods that bring large numbers of animals together to feed populations,” said Dr. Baric. SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS How has the outbreak in China affected your travel plans? Join the conversation below. Populations are aging, too, and coronavirus causes more severe illnesses in people over age 65. Researchers have traced about 100 or more SARS-related coronaviruses circulating in bats in China, Dr. Daszak said. Some can infect humans, lab experiments show, he said. The Wuhan strain is similar to bat coronaviruses that led to SARS, scientists say. One question is whether the Wuhan strain will recede, like SARS, or continue to cause outbreaks, like MERS, Dr. Osterholm said. Newsletter Sign-up The Wuhan outbreak demonstrates how urgent the need is for drugs to treat emerging coronaviruses, said Timothy Sheahan, an assistant professor of epidemiology at UNC’s Gillings School of Global Public Health. In a paper published Friday in Nature Communications, he and colleagues showed that an antiviral drug by Gilead Sciences Inc., remdesivir, lessened lung disease from MERS in mice. He hopes to study the effects of the drug on the new Wuhan strain. The same drug has been given to people with Ebola, and reduced the severity of their disease, though not as much as two other therapies. “We have a new coronavirus emerging every 10 years,” Dr. Sheahan said. “As we come into contact with animals that we didn’t come into contact with before, I think we’re going to see this more and more often.” Write to Betsy McKay at [email protected] https://www.wsj.com/articles/virus-in-china-is-part-of-a-growing-threat-11578692839?mod=searchresults&page=1&pos=1&ns=prod/accounts-wsj Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
niman Posted January 11, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 11, 2020 Novel Coronavirus 2019, Wuhan, China Situation Summary: View larger image As of January 11, 2020, Chinese health authorities have preliminarily identified more than 40 human infections with a novel coronavirus in an outbreak of pneumonia under investigation in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The preliminary identification of the novel coronavirus was announced by the World Health Organizationexternal icon on January 9, 2020. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing illness in people and others that circulate among animals, including camels, cats and bats. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can evolve and infect people and then spread between people such as has been seen with MERS and SARS. The outbreak in Wuhan, China has been reported to be linked to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting a possible zoonotic origin to the outbreak. There is an ongoing investigation to determine more about this outbreak. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available. Risk Assessment: Outbreaks of novel virus infections among people are always of public health concern. The associated risk posed by such outbreaks depends on characteristics of the virus, including whether and how well it spreads between people, the severity of resulting illness, and the medical or other countermeasures available to control the impact of the virus. Chinese health authorities report that to date in this outbreak, there has been no confirmed human-to-human spread of this virus. Authorities also report that several hundred contacts, including health care workers caring for outbreak patients, are being monitored and no additional illnesses have been detected. One patient is reported to have died. Internationally, there have no reports of any cases outside of China. There is much more to learn about the transmissibility, severity, and other features associated with this novel coronavirus, and investigations are ongoing in China. Based on current information, however, the risk from the novel coronavirus 2019 to the American public is deemed to be low at this time. Nevertheless, CDC is taking proactive preparedness precautions. The World Health Organizationexternal icon (WHO) provided updated guidance specific to this response the evening of January 10, 2020external icon. Clinicians should use WHO guidance until CDC guidance is updated in the coming days. CDC Response: CDC is closely monitoring this situation and is working with WHO. CDC has established an Incident Management Structure to optimize domestic and international coordination to this emerging public health threat. CDC has issued an interim travel health notice for this destination to provide information to people who may be traveling to Wuhan City and who may get sick. CDC has issued an interim Health Alert Notice (HAN) Advisory to inform state and local health departments and health care providers about this outbreak. An updated Health Alert Notice (HAN) is in development. This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and CDC will provide updated information as it becomes available, in addition to updated guidance in the coming days on how to investigate possible infections with this new coronavirus. Other Available Resources The following resources are available with current information on the unnamed novel coronavirus World Health Organization, Coronavirusexternal icon Pneumonia Outbreak in Chinaexternal icon World Health Organization (WHO) Statement Regarding Cluster of Pneumonia Cases in Wuhan, Chinaexternal icon CDC Information on Coronaviruses CDC Travelers’ Health: Pneumonia of Unknown Cause in China CDC Travelers’ Health information for people traveling to China CDC Health Alert Network Advisory information for state and local health departments and health care providers https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019.html Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
niman Posted January 11, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 11, 2020 WHO Statement Regarding Cluster of Pneumonia Cases in Wuhan, China 9 January 2020 Statement China 中文 Chinese authorities have made a preliminary determination of a novel (or new) coronavirus, identified in a hospitalized person with pneumonia in Wuhan. Chinese investigators conducted gene sequencing of the virus, using an isolate from one positive patient sample. Preliminary identification of a novel virus in a short period of time is a notable achievement and demonstrates China’s increased capacity to manage new outbreaks. Initial information about the cases of pneumonia in Wuhan provided by Chinese authorities last week – including the occupation, location and symptom profile of the people affected – pointed to a coronavirus (CoV) as a possible pathogen causing this cluster. Chinese authorities subsequently reported that laboratory tests ruled out SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, influenza, avian influenza, adenovirus and other common respiratory pathogens. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses with some causing less-severe disease, such as the common cold, and others more severe disease such as MERS and SARS. Some transmit easily from person to person, while others do not. According to Chinese authorities, the virus in question can cause severe illness in some patients and does not transmit readily between people. Globally, novel coronaviruses emerge periodically in different areas, including SARS in 2002 and MERS in 2012. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans. As surveillance improves more coronaviruses are likely to be identified. China has strong public health capacities and resources to respond and manage respiratory disease outbreaks. In addition to treating the patients in care and isolating new cases as they may be identified, public health officials remain focused on continued contact tracing, conducting environmental assessments at the seafood market, and investigations to identify the pathogen causing the outbreak. In the coming weeks, more comprehensive information is required to understand the current status and epidemiology of the outbreak, and the clinical picture. Further investigations are also required to determine the source, modes of transmission, extent of infection and countermeasures implemented. WHO continues to monitor the situation closely and, together with its partners, is ready to provide technical support to China to investigate and respond to this outbreak. The preliminary determination of a novel virus will assist authorities in other countries to conduct disease detection and response. Over the past week, people with symptoms of pneumonia and reported travel history to Wuhan have been identified at international airports. WHO does not recommend any specific measures for travellers. WHO advises against the application of any travel or trade restrictions on China based on the information currently available. https://www.who.int/china/news/detail/09-01-2020-who-statement-regarding-cluster-of-pneumonia-cases-in-wuhan-china Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chinese authorities have made a preliminary determination of a novel (or new) coronavirus, identified in a hospitalized person with pneumonia in Wuhan. Chinese investigators conducted gene sequencing of the virus, using an isolate from one positive patient sample. Preliminary identification of a novel virus in a short period of time is a notable achievement and demonstrates China’s increased capacity to manage new outbreaks. Initial information about the cases of pneumonia in Wuhan provided by Chinese authorities last week – including the occupation, location and symptom profile of the people affected – pointed to a coronavirus (CoV) as a possible pathogen causing this cluster. Chinese authorities subsequently reported that laboratory tests ruled out SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, influenza, avian influenza, adenovirus and other common respiratory pathogens. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses with some causing less-severe disease, such as the common cold, and others more severe disease such as MERS and SARS. Some transmit easily from person to person, while others do not. According to Chinese authorities, the virus in question can cause severe illness in some patients and does not transmit readily between people. Globally, novel coronaviruses emerge periodically in different areas, including SARS in 2002 and MERS in 2012. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans. As surveillance improves more coronaviruses are likely to be identified. China has strong public health capacities and resources to respond and manage respiratory disease outbreaks. In addition to treating the patients in care and isolating new cases as they may be identified, public health officials remain focused on continued contact tracing, conducting environmental assessments at the seafood market, and investigations to identify the pathogen causing the outbreak. In the coming weeks, more comprehensive information is required to understand the current status and epidemiology of the outbreak, and the clinical picture. Further investigations are also required to determine the source, modes of transmission, extent of infection and countermeasures implemented. WHO continues to monitor the situation closely and, together with its partners, is ready to provide technical support to China to investigate and respond to this outbreak. The preliminary determination of a novel virus will assist authorities in other countries to conduct disease detection and response. Over the past week, people with symptoms of pneumonia and reported travel history to Wuhan have been identified at international airports. WHO does not recommend any specific measures for travellers. WHO advises against the application of any travel or trade restrictions on China based on the information currently available. https://www.who.int/china/news/detail/09-01-2020-who-statement-regarding-cluster-of-pneumonia-cases-in-wuhan-china
niman Posted January 12, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 12, 2020 Novel Coronavirus – China Disease outbreak news : Update 12 January 2020 On 11 and 12 January 2020, WHO received further detailed information from the National Health Commission about the outbreak. WHO is reassured of the quality of the ongoing investigations and the response measures implemented in Wuhan, and the commitment to share information regularly. The evidence is highly suggestive that the outbreak is associated with exposures in one seafood market in Wuhan. The market was closed on 1 January 2020. At this stage, there is no infection among healthcare workers, and no clear evidence of human to human transmission. The Chinese authorities continue their work of intensive surveillance and follow up measures, as well as further epidemiological investigations. Among the 41 confirmed cases, there has been one death. This death occurred in a patient with serious underlying medical conditions. China shared the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus on 12 January, which will be of great importance for other countries to use in developing specific diagnostic kits. The cluster was initially reported on 31 December 2019, when the WHO China Country Office was informed. The Chinese authorities identified a new type of coronavirus (novel coronavirus, nCoV), which was isolated on 7 January 2020. Laboratory testing was conducted on all suspected cases identified through active case finding and retrospective review. Other respiratory pathogens such as influenza, avian influenza, adenovirus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) were ruled out as the cause. According to information conveyed to WHO by Chinese authorities on 11 and 12 January, 41 cases with novel coronavirus infection have been preliminarily diagnosed in Wuhan City. Of the 41 cases reported, seven are severely ill. This is when the one death, mentioned above, was reported, in a patient with other underlying health conditions. Six patients have been discharged from hospital. Symptom onset of the 41 confirmed nCoV cases ranges from 8 December 2019 to 2 January 2020. No additional cases have been detected since 3 January 2020. The clinical signs and symptoms reported are mainly fever, with a few cases having difficulty in breathing, and chest radiographs showing invasive pneumonic infiltrates in both lungs. National authorities report that patients have been isolated and are receiving treatment in Wuhan medical institutions. According to the preliminary epidemiological investigation, most cases worked at or were handlers and frequent visitors to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market. The government reports that there is no clear evidence that the virus passes easily from person to person. Currently, no case with infection of this novel coronavirus has been reported elsewhere other than Wuhan. Public Health Response China's National Health Commission has deployed a group of experts to Wuhan City to support the local response. National authorities have reported the following response measures: A total of 763 close contacts including healthcare workers, have been identified and followed up and no additional cases of infection with the novel coronavirus have been identified; The Wuhan Municipal Health Commission carried out active case finding, and retrospective investigations of the current cluster of patients have been completed The Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market has been temporarily closed to carry out environmental sanitation and disinfection; Public risk communication activities have been carried out to improve public awareness and adoption of self-protection measures. WHO is closely monitoring the situation and is in regular contact with national authorities in China to provide support required. Technical guidance on novel coronavirus has been developed and will continue to be updated as additional information is available. WHO risk assessment To date, investigations are still under way to assess the full extent of the outbreak. Wuhan city is a major domestic and international transport hub. To date, there have been no reported cases outside of Wuhan City. More comprehensive information and ongoing investigations are also required to better understand the epidemiology, clinical picture, source, modes of transmission, and extent of infection; as well as the countermeasures implemented. WHO advice Based on information provided by national authorities, WHO’s recommendations on public health measures and surveillance for novel coronaviruses apply. WHO does not recommend any specific health measures for travellers. In case of symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness either during or after travel, travellers are encouraged to seek medical attention and share travel history with their healthcare provider. Travel guidance has been updated. WHO advises against the application of any travel or trade restrictions on China based on the information currently available on this event. For more information: Technical guidance for novel coronavirus, WHO Wuhan Municipal Health Commission briefing on the pneumonia epidemic situation, 31 December 2019 (in Chinese) Wuhan Municipal Health Commission briefing on the pneumonia epidemic situation 3 January 2020 (in Chinese) Wuhan Municipal Health Commission's briefing on the pneumonia epidemic situation, 5 January 2020 (in Chinese) Wuhan Municipal Health Commission’s briefing on the pneumonia epidemic situation, 11 January 2020 (in Chinese) Wuhan Municipal Health Commission’s Experts interpretation of the outbreak update, 11 January 2020 (in Chinese) WHO travel advice for international travel and health in relation to the outbreak of pneumonia caused by a new coronavirus in China https://www.who.int/csr/don/12-january-2020-novel-coronavirus-china/en/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 "Father of Coronavirus" Lai Mingxuan: Wuhan pneumonia may still be transmitted from person to person due to viral gene mutation Source / Health Magazine By Qiu Shuyi / pixabay The unknown pathogen of Wuhan unknown pneumonia was initially identified as a new type of coronavirus, and it is presumed that it was transmitted from animals to humans. Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and "Father of Coronavirus" Lai Mingxuan said that coronaviruses are prone to genetic mutations, and epidemic prevention agencies and the general public must not be taken lightly. The CDC received a notification from China that Wuhan pneumonia pathogen was initially determined to be a new coronavirus transmitted from animals to humans, and the human-to-human transmission capacity is currently weak. Dr. Lai Mingkun, a top international researcher on coronaviruses, said that SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) in 2003 and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Infection) in 2012 were both coronaviruses that were transmitted from animals to humans and the virus was genetically mutated to become Respiratory diseases with high infectiousness and high mortality rate, therefore, the new coronavirus of Wuhan pneumonia should be waited for in epidemic prevention. Beware of mutations of new viruses that directly infect humans Lai Minghuan said that coronavirus is a type of RNA virus, and "genes are susceptible to mutation" is a feature of RNA viruses. Many animals in nature carry coronaviruses, especially bats. Bats are the largest hosts of coronaviruses. Coronaviruses on bats do not directly infect humans, but mutations in the virus genes become new viruses that infect other animals and may be transmitted to humans. For example, SARS in 2003 infected the civet with a bat coronavirus mutation and was finally passed on to humans. Another example is the Middle Eastern coronavirus that appeared in Saudi Arabia in 2012 and is also a bat coronavirus mutation Camels were transmitted to tourists. The resulting MERS later caused a pandemic in South Korea, with a mortality rate of 30%, which is higher than SARS. (Documentation: Qiu Shuyi, Cartography: Zheng Jialing) Lai Mingchen said that both SARS and MERS are new coronaviruses with mutations in bat coronavirus. It is unclear which animal the new coronavirus from Wuhan pneumonia came from this time, and he speculated that it is also likely that the coronavirus mutation in bats infected them. Wild animals are transmitted to humans. Eliminate virus transmission channels without touching wildlife He said that the coronavirus in animals, after genetic mutations are transmitted to humans, is likely to continue to mutate in humans and become human-to-human coronaviruses. At present, there is no obvious evidence of human-to-human transmission in Wuhan pneumonia, but the absence of evidence does not mean that it will not If it happens, the possibility of gene mutation cannot be completely ruled out. Now people who have been to Wuhan and have been exposed to wild animals become carriers without knowing it. Once the virus mutates into a virus that directly infects humans, a large-scale epidemic may break out. He said that the best prevention strategy is of course to block at the stage of "animals transmit the virus to humans" to avoid the possibility of new viruses becoming SARS or the Middle East coronavirus. He said that the coronavirus transmission channels include animal droplets, urine and feces. He urged the public to avoid going to traditional markets to contact live wild animals, especially those who went to Wuhan in mainland China to be cautious. If they have fever symptoms after returning to Taiwan, they should be isolated and observed , Do a good job of self-health management. Father of Coronavirus Contributes to SARS Control in Taiwan Lai Mingxuan is one of the earliest scholars involved in coronavirus research in the world. The academic community respected him as "the father of coronavirus". In 2003, he returned to Taiwan from the United States as the vice president of the Central Academy of Sciences at the invitation of Li Yuanzhe, the dean of the Chinese Academy of Research. Because of the SARS outbreak in Taiwan, he returned to Taiwan in May, and was involved in the prevention and treatment of the SARS epidemic. His long-term research on the coronavirus has allowed Taiwan to quickly grasp the characteristics of the SARS virus and develop effective treatment and prevention strategies. Taiwan will control the SARS epidemic within one year and help Taiwan escape from the SARS epidemic. https://health.ettoday.net/news/1623700 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 Wuhan pneumonia: Hong Kong set to develop new test for mystery virus after obtaining genetic sequence from mainland China A team of experts will also fly over to the mainland city to be briefed on the situation and learn about control measures News comes after China confirms first death from novel coronavirus strain Ng Kang-chung Published: 8:35pm, 12 Jan, 2020 TOP PICKS News Notorious gangster Kwai Ping-hung to be released from jail this week 12 Jan 2020 This Week in Asia Wuhan coronavirus: Asia battens down for Lunar New Year rush 10 Jan 2020 News Unwelcome mat: Hong Kong’s loss if mainland Chinese leave 8 Jan 2020 News Human Rights Watch chief ‘refused entry’ to Hong Kong at airport 13 Jan 2020 News Thousands join rally to demand universal suffrage in upcoming poll 12 Jan 2020 News Poor in Hong Kong: the struggle to survive in one of the world’s richest cities 11 Jan 2020 News Hong Kong protests loom large in Taiwan polls. But who benefits? 11 Jan 2020 News Cut quota of mainlanders settling in Hong Kong to ease tensions, tycoon urges 12 Jan 2020 News What happens to the economy when firms are split ‘blue’ vs ‘yellow’? 13 Jan 2020 News Hong Kong protesters in Taiwan celebrate election result, stage demonstration 12 Jan 2020 95 A man in a mask walks outside the West Kowloon terminus of the high-speed rail in Hong Kong, with trains to the mainland city of Wuhan, where a new form of pneumonia has gripped the population. Photo: K.Y. Cheng Hong Kong is set to race against time to develop diagnostic tests for the mystery strain of pneumonia that has claimed its first fatality on the mainland, after the city obtains the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus from Chinese authorities. A team of Hong Kong experts, meanwhile, will on Monday fly to Wuhan – ground zero of the outbreak – in Hubei province to meet health officials there and get first-hand information on the disease and control measures implemented. The latest development came as Hong Kong’s public hospitals reported seven more suspected cases. The seven comprised two boys aged eight and 13, a 10-year-old girl, a man and three women, aged 38 to 67. All had been to the mainland city in the past two weeks and developed fever, respiratory infection or pneumonia symptoms. None of them had visited wet markets there. The patients were sent to six hospitals – Queen Elizabeth, United Christian, Queen Mary, Eastern, Tuen Mun, and Prince of Wales. The wholesale seafood market in Wuhan where the virus is thought to have spread. Photo: Simon Song The Centre for Health Protection in Hong Kong confirmed on Sunday that it had received notification from China’s National Health Commission that it had shared with the World Health Organisation the genetic sequence of the new coronavirus. SUBSCRIBE HONG KONG NEWS Get updates direct to your inbox SUBMIT By registering, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy “The relevant institutions have also uploaded the genetic sequence onto the online GenBank (GISAID). GISAID is cross-checking the information and will publish it upon completion,” the centre said in a statement. An image of the virus on the GISAID website after Chinese authorities provided information on its genetic sequence. Photo: GISAID “The [centre’s] Public Health Laboratory Services Branch … as one of the users of this GenBank, will obtain the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus. While [the branch] is conducting molecular testing for a number of coronaviruses, it will develop specific tests based on the information of the new sequence,” the centre added. Wuhan pneumonia ‘bears close similarity to Sars’, analysis finds 11 Jan 2020 Genome sequencing of viruses is a useful tool for better understanding of the nature of diseases caused and for surveillance of the strain. The technology allows the development of specific diagnostic kits that can quickly identify illnesses and relevant care for patients, ensuring better containment of an outbreak. The centre pledged to maintain close liaison with the National Health Commission and WHO and closely monitor the latest development of cases in Wuhan. A group of Hong Kong experts, led by undersecretary for food and health Dr Chui Tak-yi, will leave for Wuhan on Monday. During their two-day visit, the team is expected to be briefed on the latest situation and control measures, as well as on clinical management. Also part of the group is Dr Chuang Shuk-kwan, head of the communicable disease branch of the Centre for Health Protection, and Dr Raymond Lai Wai-man, chief infection control officer at the Hospital Authority. Hong Kong has reported 67 suspected cases, of which 51 have been cleared and discharged. Photo: Winson Wong Since December 31, the authority has reported 67 suspected cases with no confirmed infection of the Wuhan strain thus far. Among these, 51 have been discharged and those still in hospitals are in stable condition. Chinese scientists investigating the outbreak said last week they believed the pathogen was a previously unknown type of coronavirus, linked to the family under which the acute respiratory syndrome, or Sars, is also classified. The primary source for the Wuhan virus was believed to be bats, as with Sars, which passed it to game animals consumed by humans. On Saturday a 61-year-old man became the first patient to die from the new strain, among the 41 cases diagnosed in the mainland city, according to health authorities there. This article appeared in the South China Morning Post print edition as: HK aims to develop new test for deadly Wuhan virus https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3045750/wuhan-pneumonia-hong-kong-set-develop-new-test Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 Wuhan Municipal Health and Health Committee's report on pneumonia of new coronavirus infection Issuing authority: Wuhan City health committee | Published: 2020-01-12 20:10:13 | Hits: 2845 | Font Size: Da Zhong Small At 04:00 on January 11, 2020, there were no new cases of pneumonia infected with new coronavirus in our city, 4 cases were cured and discharged, and no new deaths were reported. Up to now, the city has reported a total of 41 cases of pneumonia caused by new coronavirus infection , 6 cases have been cured and discharged, 7 cases are being treated in severe cases, and 1 case has died . A total of 763 close contacts have been tracked , 46 medical observations have been lifted, and 717 people are still receiving medical observations. Among the close contacts, no related cases were found. January 12, 2020 http://wjw.wuhan.gov.cn/front/web/showDetail/2020011209037 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 CHP provides update on latest progress on cluster of pneumonia cases in Wuhan **************************************************************** The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 12) received notification from the National Health Commission (NHC) that it has shared with the World Health Organization (WHO) the genetic sequences of the novel coronavirus associated with the cluster of pneumonia cases detected in Wuhan, Hubei Province. The relevant institutions have also uploaded the genetic sequences onto the online Genbank (GISAID). GISAID is cross checking the information and will publish it upon completion. The CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch (PHLSB), as one of the users of this Genbank, will obtain the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus. While the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch is conducting molecular testing for a number of coronaviruses, it will develop specific tests based on the information of the new sequence. The CHP will continue to maintain close liaison with the NHC as well as the WHO and closely monitor the latest development of cluster of pneumonia cases in Wuhan. Ends/Sunday, January 12, 2020 Issued at HKT 15:33 https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202001/12/P2020011200495.htm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 CHP provides further information on cluster of pneumonia cases in Wuhan *********************************************************** The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (January 12) received further notification from the National Health Commission (NHC) on the latest information of the cluster of pneumonia cases detected in Wuhan, Hubei Province. The public is again urged to maintain strict personal, food and environmental hygiene both locally and during travel. According to the information from the NHC, as at yesterday (January 11), 41 patients have been diagnosed to have infection of the novel coronavirus and no new case was reported on January 11. Among them, six patients have been discharged, seven patients are in serious condition and one died, while the remaining patients are in stable condition. A total of 763 close contacts have been identified. All have been put under medical surveillance with 46 of them having completed the surveillance, and no related cases have been detected so far. A dedicated webpage (www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/102465.html) has been set up by the CHP to provide relevant information and health advice. To address the public's concern, the CHP will announce the details of cases fulfilling the reporting criteria (www.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/enhanced_sur_pneumonia_wuhan_eng.pdf) on the above webpage daily to enhance transparency. To prevent pneumonia and respiratory tract infection, members of the public should always maintain good personal and environmental hygiene. They are advised to: • Perform hand hygiene frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes; after touching public installations such as handrails or door knobs; or when hands are contaminated by respiratory secretion after coughing or sneezing; • Wash hands with liquid soap and water, and rub for at least 20 seconds. Then rinse with water and dry with a disposable paper towel or hand dryer. If hand washing facilities are not available, or when hands are not visibly soiled, performing hand hygiene with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub is an effective alternative; • Cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissues into a lidded rubbish bin, then wash hands thoroughly; and • When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, refrain from work or attending class at school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly. The public should take heed of the health advice below when travelling outside Hong Kong: • avoid touching animals (including game), poultry/birds or their droppings; • avoid visiting wet markets, live poultry markets or farms; • avoid making close contact with patients, especially those with symptoms of acute respiratory infections; • do not consume game meat and do not patronise food premises where game meat is served; • adhere to food safety and hygiene rules such as avoiding consuming raw or undercooked animal products, including milk, eggs and meat, or foods which may be contaminated by animal secretions, excretions (such as urine) or contaminated products, unless they have been properly cooked, washed or peeled; • if feeling unwell when outside Hong Kong, especially if having a fever or cough, wear a surgical mask, inform the hotel staff or tour escort and seek medical advice at once; and • after returning to Hong Kong, consult a doctor promptly if having a fever or other symptoms, inform the doctor of recent travel history and wear a surgical mask to help prevent spread of the disease. Ends/Sunday, January 12, 2020 Issued at HKT 20:03 https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202001/12/P2020011200710.htm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 SARG reps to visit Wuhan January 11, 2020 Under Secretary for Food & Health Dr Chui Tak-yi will visit Wuhan on January 13 to examine the situation concerning the cluster of pneumonia cases, the Food & Health Bureau announced today. The bureau said with the arrangement of the National Health Commission, Dr Chui will go to Wuhan, together with representatives from the Department of Health and Hospital Authority, to learn about the prevention and control measures and clinical management there. They will return to Hong Kong on January 14. https://www.news.gov.hk/eng/2020/01/20200111/20200111_194321_136.html?type=ticker Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 Wuhan Municipal Health and Health Committee's report on pneumonia of new coronavirus infection Issuing authority: Wuhan City health committee | Published: 2020-01-13 19:00:19 | Hits: 1519 | Font Size: Da Zhong Small At 04:00 on January 12, 2020, there were no new cases of pneumonia infected with new coronavirus in our city, one case was cured and discharged, and no new deaths were reported. As of now, our city has reported 41 cases of pneumonitis infected with new coronavirus, 7 cases have been cured and discharged, 6 cases are being treated in severe cases, and 1 case has died. A total of 763 close contacts have been tracked, 76 medical observations have been lifted, and 687 are still receiving medical observations. Among the close contacts, no related cases were found. January 13, 2020 http://wjw.wuhan.gov.cn/front/web/showDetail/2020011309038 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 13, 2020 Report Share Posted January 13, 2020 CHP provides latest information on cluster of pneumonia cases in Wuhan ********************************************************** The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (January 13) received notification from the National Health Commission (NHC) on the latest information on the cluster of pneumonia cases detected in Wuhan, Hubei Province. The public is again urged to maintain strict personal, food and environmental hygiene both locally and during travel. According to the information from the NHC, as of yesterday (January 12), 41 patients had been diagnosed as having infection of the novel coronavirus. No new case was reported and one additional case was discharged yesterday. So far, a total of seven patients have been discharged, six patients are in serious condition and one died, while the remaining patients are in stable condition. A total of 763 close contacts have been identified. All have been put under medical surveillance with 76 of them having completed the surveillance, and no related cases have been detected so far. A dedicated webpage (www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/102465.html) has been set up by the CHP to provide relevant information and health advice. To address the public's concern, the CHP will announce the details of cases fulfilling the reporting criteria (www.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/enhanced_sur_pneumonia_wuhan_eng.pdf) on the above webpage daily to enhance transparency. To prevent pneumonia and respiratory tract infection, members of the public should always maintain good personal and environmental hygiene. They are advised to: • Perform hand hygiene frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes; after touching public installations such as handrails or door knobs; or when hands are contaminated by respiratory secretions after coughing or sneezing; • Wash hands with liquid soap and water, and rub for at least 20 seconds. Then rinse with water and dry with a disposable paper towel or hand dryer. If hand washing facilities are not available, or when hands are not visibly soiled, performing hand hygiene with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub is an effective alternative; • Cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissues into a lidded rubbish bin, then wash hands thoroughly; and • When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, refrain from work or attending class at school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly. The public should take heed of the health advice below when travelling outside Hong Kong: • avoid touching animals (including game), poultry/birds or their droppings; • avoid visiting wet markets, live poultry markets or farms; • avoid making close contact with patients, especially those with symptoms of acute respiratory infections; • do not consume game meat and do not patronise food premises where game meat is served; • adhere to food safety and hygiene rules such as avoiding consuming raw or undercooked animal products, including milk, eggs and meat, or foods which may be contaminated by animal secretions, excretions (such as urine) or contaminated products, unless they have been properly cooked, washed or peeled; • if feeling unwell when outside Hong Kong, especially if having a fever or cough, wear a surgical mask, inform the hotel staff or tour escort and seek medical advice at once; and • after returning to Hong Kong, consult a doctor promptly if having a fever or other symptoms, inform the doctor of recent travel history and wear a surgical mask to help prevent spread of the disease. Ends/Monday, January 13, 2020 Issued at HKT 18:41 https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202001/13/P2020011300628.htm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
niman Posted January 14, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 14, 2020 (edited) Novel coronavirus complete genome from the Wuhan outbreak now available in GenBank The complete annotated genome sequence of the novel coronavirus associated with the outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan, China is now available from GenBank for free and easy access by the global biomedical community. Figure 1 shows the relationship of the Wuhan virus to selected coronaviruses. Figure 1. Phylogenetic tree showing the relationship of Wuhan-Hu-1 (circled in red) to selected coronaviruses. Nucleotide alignment was done with MUSCLE 3.8. The phylogenetic tree was estimated with MrBayes 3.2.6 with parameters for GTR+g+i. The scale bar indicates estimated substitutions per site, and all branch support values are 99.3% or higher. According to the CDC, as of January 11, Chinese health authorities say they’ve identified more than 40 human infections as part of this outbreak that was first reported on December 31. The World Health Organization announced the preliminary identification of the novel coronavirus on January 9. The GenBank record of Wuhan-Hu-1 includes sequence data, annotation and metadata from this virus isolated approximately two weeks ago from a patient believed to have contracted the disease in a Hubei province seafood market. Rapid access to sequence data from public databases such as GenBank plays a vital role in helping countries develop specific diagnostic kits for disease outbreaks like this one. https://ncbiinsights.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2020/01/13/novel-coronavirus/ Edited January 14, 2020 by niman Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 14, 2020 Report Share Posted January 14, 2020 Wuhan Municipal Health and Health Committee's report on pneumonia of new coronavirus infection Issuing authority: Wuhan City health committee | Published: 2020-01-14 22:05:36 | Hits: 1469 | Font Size: Da Zhong Small January 2020 0-24 13th, the city no new novel coronavirus infection in cases of pneumonia, not cured cases and no new deaths were reported. Up to now, the city's cumulative reported cases of pneumonia novel coronavirus infection in 41 cases, seven cases have been cured in six cases of severe treatment, 1 patient died, the remaining patients had stable disease, patients were treated in isolation in Wuhan City designated medical institutions. Cumulative track close contacts of 763 people, 187 people have been released under medical observation, is still under medical observation 576 people, close contacts, we found no cases. Also, Thailand informed diagnosis of pneumonia cases from the novel coronavirus infection in Wuhan in 1 case. The case is currently being hospitalized in Thailand isolation, in close contact with its ongoing tracking and return home medical observation. January 14, 2020 http://wjw.wuhan.gov.cn/front/web/showDetail/2020011409039 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 14, 2020 Report Share Posted January 14, 2020 Questions and answers on pneumonia outbreak of new coronavirus infection (January 14, 2020) Issuing authority: Wuhan City health committee | Published: 2020-01-15 00:10:06 | Hits: 2062 | Font Size: Da Zhong Small 1. Recently, a Wuhan tourists were patients diagnosed with pneumonia novel coronavirus infection in Thailand, please brief us on that. On January 13, 2020, Thailand reported a case of pneumonia with a new coronavirus infection from Wuhan. The city attaches great importance to timely investigation. The patient is a citizen of our city and is now receiving treatment in Thailand with a stable condition. At the same time, the health department conducted medical observations on all close contacts of the patient found, and currently has no abnormal performance. 2. At present, in order to detect pneumonia cases of new coronavirus infection as early as possible, what measures have been taken in our city? After the outbreak, the city quickly carry out the relevant case-screening of all medical institutions in the city, as of cases of pneumonia 41 At present, the clinical manifestations in patients with a comprehensive group of experts, epidemiological and laboratory testing results, the novel coronavirus infection example. Recently, the city further strengthened the case surveillance and search of work, while continuing to do a good job monitoring pneumonia of unknown causes, on the other hand to carry out a search in case the city's various medical institutions at all levels, for early detection of cases. 3. As of now, has there been any case of human-to-human transmission? Existing survey results show that clear human-to-human evidence has not been found, and the possibility of limited human-to-human transmission cannot be ruled out, but the risk of continued human-to-human transmission is low. Further research is currently underway combining clinical and epidemiological data. 4. Has a family clustering case been found? Among the 41 cases currently diagnosed , one was found to be clustered in the family. The husband and wife developed the disease first, and the husband first developed the disease. He was an employee of the South China Seafood Wholesale Market. His wife denied a history of South China Seafood Wholesale Market exposure. 5. What are close contacts? Why medical observation of close contacts for 14 days? If close contacts develop symptoms during the observation period, how can they be diagnosed and diagnosed? At present, the close contacts defined in this epidemic are those who live with patients, work and study in the same room, and live in the same room. Medical staff and caregivers who have not taken effective protective measures during the diagnosis and treatment of cases have not taken effective protective measures. Laboratory testing personnel, other patients or accompanying staff in the ward, other contact situations determined by disease control professionals in the same transportation with the patient and close contact with the person. With reference to the incubation period of diseases caused by other coronaviruses, information about this new coronavirus case, and current prevention and control practices, the medical observation period for close contacts is set to 14 days, and home medical observations are made for close contacts. During the observation period, once the close contacts are found to have abnormal clinical manifestations such as fever and cough, the close contacts will be sent to the designated medical institution for investigation, diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner. 6. What are the characteristics of the epidemic that have been found so far? What is the development trend of the epidemic? Of the 41 cases diagnosed, most were male, and the number of middle-aged and elderly people was higher. In the early stage of the case, fever and cough are the main symptoms, which can be manifested as persistent mild disease in the early stage. Older patients with underlying disease are more likely to progress to severe disease. Preliminary results of existing etiology studies and epidemiological investigations show that most of the cases are related to the South China Seafood Wholesale Market exposure, a few cases deny a history of South China Seafood Wholesale Market exposure, and some cases have been exposed to similar cases. No community transmission has been identified. 7. After closing the South China Seafood Wholesale Market, are there any findings in the market? What measures have other markets taken? After the South China Seafood Wholesale Market was closed, the city strengthened its disposal of market environmental hygiene, carried out disinfection and sanitary disposal of the market, and carried out garbage cleaning and disinfection. In order to strengthen the traceability work, environmental specimens are collected and tested in the market. At present, the test results found that some samples were positive for new coronavirus. At the same time, preliminary investigations have been conducted in other markets, and no clues related to the source of the infection have been found. http://wjw.wuhan.gov.cn/front/web/showDetail/2020011509040 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 15, 2020 Report Share Posted January 15, 2020 [Wuhan Pneumonia] Health Protection Center: 70% of patients work in Wuhan seafood market. Society 16:27 2020/01/15 share it: PopularWei Junjie One King is released from prison 2020 luck Wuhan pneumonia delicious Tianwang Australian mountain fire fierce fire drama autumn and winter soup anti-cancer new direction child health ▲ The Hong Kong Government held a press conference to report on the Wuhan investigation. (Photo by Chen Guofeng) The pneumonia epidemic in Wuhan has continued. The government sent staff to Wuhan to inspect the local prevention and control and the situation of the epidemic. A press conference was held today (15th) to report the situation. 70% of patients work long hours in the South China Seafood Market in Wuhan. The relevant merchants mainly sell aquatic products, not game. However, it was revealed that in addition to aquatic products and birds, the market involved also includes bamboo rats, snakes, crickets, hedgehogs, etc. Game, but the quantity of game sold is unknown. Zhang Zhujun pointed out that the personnel of the health and health committee of the authorities detected viruses in the market environment, such as the location of the underground, countertops, and gloves, all of which were found near the aquatic stalls. She pointed out that the local staff did not collect only near the aquatic stalls, but the virus was only found in the aquatic stalls. As for the survival time of the virus, it is still to be studied. Because it is not an animal sample, the health committee failed to pinpoint the source of the virus. She also pointed out that Mainland experts have formulated rapid tests for new coronaviruses and have successively distributed them to provinces and cities across the country. Hong Kong has also obtained relevant nucleic acid reagents and is in the process of developing rapid tests for the viruses. When asked about a case in Thailand that had not been diagnosed in the South China Seafood Market but had been to other wet markets in Wuhan, Zhang Zhujun said that the authorities were still investigating the location of the market in question. The Government also said that the confirmed cases involved a couple, but the incidence of relatively late husband, wife, husband to have a chance of infection, and transmits wife, so I do not exclude person to person, please Air: [pneumonia] Government Wuhan: Wuhan pneumonia Does not rule out throat, sputum and blood in patients with limited human-to-human transmission Editor-in-chief: Chen Ziqian https://topick.hket.com/article/2542847/【武漢肺炎】衞生防護中心 ：7成患者於武漢海鮮市場工作 亦有售竹鼠刺蝟等野味 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 15, 2020 Report Share Posted January 15, 2020 [Wuhan Pneumonia] Wuhan South China Seafood Market Environmental Samples Detected Virus Couples and the Transmission of Humans or Objects Was Not Determined (16:26) Figure 2-1-The mainland authorities in the South China seafood market believed to be the source of pneumonia in Wuhan, environmental samples are against the new crown... (Profile picture) A pneumonia caused by a new coronavirus broke out in Wuhan. A government team from Hong Kong met with reporters this afternoon (15th) after a visit to Wuhan. Zhang Zhujun, director of the Department of Infectious Diseases of the Center for Health Protection, said that in the South China Seafood Market in Wuhan, which is suspected to be the source of the disease, environmental samples have been tested positive for the new coronavirus; a case of a couple infected by the mainland has not yet been identified. It is said that his wife became ill after he brought home items from the market and polluted the environment. She also pointed out that in addition to the couple's case, there was also a case of a three-person group in which the patients were a father and son and a son-in-law. Zhang Zhujun said that of the 41 patients in Wuhan, seven adults had visited the South China Seafood Market, which is believed to be the source of the disease. The remaining patients reported that they had not been there or were "too serious to ask", and most of the patients appeared on the market for sale. The area of aquatic seafood is not for those who sell game. She said that in addition to living together, the three patients in the three-person group also operated stores in the South China Seafood Market. The onset time was relatively short. It is believed that they may be more likely to be jointly exposed to the virus and less likely to be transmitted from person to person. However, she said that during the inspection, she did not ask in detail what the three patients were selling in the market. "The question was missed." Therefore, she was not sure. They could only infer that they were also selling aquatic products. A couple who was defined as a family group case, Zhang Zhujun initially only said that her husband developed the disease first, and his wife developed the disease "every few days". After questioning, she said that "there was no question to be clear". It is believed that the conversation between the mainland personnel occurred about 5 days apart. She also did not ask whether the condition of the wife, who was later affected, was more severe or milder than that of her husband. Zhang Zhujun pointed out that environmental samples from the South China seafood market, including the ground, table tops, and gloves, were positive for the new coronavirus, and the samples came from areas where aquatic products were sold. She said that although human-to-human cases of infected couples could not be ruled out at this stage, it is also possible that the husband brought home the virus-carrying items from the market, which polluted the home environment and infected his wife. https://news.mingpao.com/ins/港聞/article/20200115/s00001/1579076442327/【武漢肺炎】武漢華南海鮮市場環境樣本驗出病毒-夫婦發病未確定人傳人或物件傳播 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 15, 2020 Report Share Posted January 15, 2020 [Wuhan Pneumonia] The Hospital Authority stated that 2 critically ill patients needed external life support treatment January 15, 2020 02:52 Report Lai Weiwen, Chief Infection Control Director of the Hospital Authority, said that all 41 patients in Wuhan had mild to moderate pneumonia, and no symptoms were found but the virus was positive. Lai Weiwen pointed out that 7 to 8 of them were in serious condition, severe patients were aged 40 to 78, and had kidney and liver failure at the same time, and 2 patients needed external life support treatment. Severe patients worsened after more than 10 days. Some patients were found to be infected with other viruses at the same time, and some patients were found to have secondary infections. Local judgments indicate that long-term chronic diseases, elderly people, and obesity are high-risk factors. Lai Weiwen pointed out that a specific rapid test was developed locally, and viruses were found in throat secretion, sputum and blood. The overall number of white blood cells in patients with pneumonia is normal or low, and the lymphocytes are lower than normal. This phenomenon has occurred in other pneumonia. In addition, the lungs of local pneumonia patients will be filled with inflammatory secretions. Patients are treated locally with supportive care, including oxygen and intravenous injections. Early treatment with Tamiflu was used locally, but it was discontinued after it was found not to be flu. Local preaching has a certain degree of utility. No local ribavirin or protease was used. Lai Weiwen pointed out that the discharge conditions for pneumonia patients in Wuhan were more than 10 days of fever reduction, and two samples that were 48 hours apart were negative for the virus. As for the deceased patient who became ill last month and died on January 9th, he is a chronically ill patient because his family objected that no autopsy was performed. https://www.singtao.ca/4037242/2020-01-14/news-【武漢肺炎】醫管局指2名重症病患需體外生命支持治療/?variant=zh-hk Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
niman Posted January 17, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 17, 2020 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), Wuhan, China This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and CDC will provide updated information as it becomes available, in addition to updated guidance. On This Page Situation Summary Risk Assessment What to Expect CDC Response Other Available Resources Updated January 16, 2020 Situation Summary View larger image The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in more than 40 confirmed human infections in China with two deaths reportedexternal icon. A number of countries are actively screening incoming travelers from Wuhan and there has been one exported case confirmed in Thailandexternal icon and another in Japanexternal icon. Chinese health authorities posted the full genome of the so-called “2019 novel coronavirus” or “2019-nCoV” in GenBankexternal icon, the NIH genetic sequence database, and in the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAIDexternal icon) portal. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing illness in people and others that circulate among animals, including camels, cats and bats. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can evolve and infect people and then spread between people such as has been seen with MERS and SARS. Most of the patients in the outbreak in Wuhan, China have reportedly had some link to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting animal-to-person spread. Some patients in the outbreak reportedly have not had exposure to animal markets, suggesting that some limited person-to-person spread may be occurring. There are ongoing investigations to learn more. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available. Risk Assessment Outbreaks of novel virus infections among people are always of public health concern. The risk from these outbreaks depends on characteristics of the virus, including whether and how well it spreads between people, the severity of resulting illness, and the medical or other measures available to control the impact of the virus (for example, vaccine or treatment medications). Chinese health authoritiesexternal icon have reported that most patients in China visited a large seafood and animal market. They additionally report that several hundred health care workers caring for outbreak patients are being monitored and no spread of this virus from patients to health care workers has been detected. They report no sustained spread of this virus in the community, but there are indications that some limited person-to-person spread may have occurred. Cases outside China have all occurred in travelers from Wuhan. There is much more to learn about how the 2019-nCoV virus spreads, severity of associated illness, and other features of the virus. Investigations are ongoing in China, Thailand and Japan. Based on current information, however, the risk from 2019-nCoV to the American public is deemed to be low at this time. Nevertheless, CDC is taking proactive preparedness precautions. What to Expect Access to the full genetic sequence of 2019-nCoV will help identify infections with this virus going forward. More cases may be identified in the coming days, including more in countries outside China. Given what has occurred previously with MERS and SARS, it’s possible that some limited person-to-person spread will occur. CDC Response CDC is closely monitoring this situation and is working with WHO. CDC has established an Incident Management Structure to optimize domestic and international coordination to this emerging public health threat. CDC has updated its interim travel health notice for this destination to provide information to people who may be traveling to Wuhan City and who may get sick. CDC has issued an interim Health Alert Notice (HAN) Advisory to inform state and local health departments and health care providers about this outbreak. An updated Health Alert Notice (HAN) is in development. CDC laboratories currently have the capacity to detect 2019-nCoV by sequencing the virus and comparing the sequences against the genetic sequence that are publicly posted. CDC also is using the genetic sequence data provided by China to begin work on a test to detect this virus more easily. Currently, testing for this virus must take place at CDC. Other Available Resources The following resources are available with current information on the unnamed novel coronavirus World Health Organization, Coronavirusexternal icon CDC Information on Coronaviruses CDC Travelers’ Health: Novel Coronavirus in China CDC Health Alert Network Advisory information for state and local health departments and health care providers https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019.html Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
niman Posted January 17, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 17, 2020 Wuhan Municipal Health and Health Committee's report on pneumonia of new coronavirus infection Issuing authority: Wuhan City health committee | Published: 2020-01-18 00:10:55 | Hits: 1389 | Font Size: Da Zhong Small At 04:00 on January 16, 2020 , 3 patients were discharged from the hospital and no new deaths were reported. After comprehensive research and judgment on the clinical manifestations, epidemiological history, and laboratory test results of the national, provincial and municipal expert groups, 4 new cases of pneumonitis infected with new coronavirus have been added in our city. At present, the new cases have been arranged for transfer to Wuhan All cases were treated at Jinyintan Hospital. All the patients were in stable condition without critical illness. The time of onset of the cases was concentrated from January 5th to 8th. Related epidemiological investigations and search of close contacts were underway. In addition, Thailand and Japan each reported a case of pneumonia with a new coronavirus infection from Wuhan. Currently, Thai diagnosed cases are being hospitalized; Japanese diagnosed cases have been discharged. Close contacts in the country are conducting follow-up and medical observations. As of now, 45 cases of pneumonitis with new-type coronavirus infection have been reported in our city, 15 cases have been cured and discharged, 5 cases are being treated in severe cases, and 2 cases have died. The remaining patients are in stable condition. All patients received isolation treatment at designated medical institutions in Wuhan. A total of 763 close contacts have been tracked, 665 medical observations have been lifted, and 98 people are still receiving medical observations. Among the close contacts, no related cases were found. January 17, 2020 http://wjw.wuhan.gov.cn/front/web/showDetail/2020011809064 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 17, 2020 Report Share Posted January 17, 2020 About the situation of prevention and control of pneumonia caused by new coronavirus infection in our city (January 17, 2020) Issuing authority: Wuhan City health committee | Published: 2020-01-18 00:13:26 | Hits: 1704 | Font Size: Da Zhong Small I. About the new cases On January 16, 2020, experts from the provinces and municipalities newly identified 4 cases of pneumonia with a new type of coronavirus infection based on the clinical manifestations, epidemiological history of the patients, and the results detected by the diagnostic kit issued by the country. All 4 patients were male. They developed symptoms from January 5 to 8, 2020, and were admitted to the hospital from January 8 to 13 for treatment. After treatment, the symptoms improved and the condition is stable. They have been transferred to Wuhan Jinyintan Hospital for centralized treatment. . Epidemiological investigations of the four new cases are underway, and close contacts are also being tracked. Second, the main measures for the prevention and control of the recent epidemic Further do a good job in the management of pre-inspection and triage of medical institutions at all levels and early diagnosis, and early detection, isolation and early treatment. The sanitary killing of the South China Seafood Wholesale Market, other agricultural fairs in the city and the living environment of related hospitals, patients and close contacts will continue. Carry out a patriotic health campaign with the theme of “renovating the environment, cleaning homes, and welcoming the festival” to promote a healthy lifestyle. 3. Related situation of close contacts of confirmed cases abroad Seventeen Thai close contacts of the first confirmed patients were tracked, all of which were included in medical observations. One of them had symptoms of low fever and mild cough, and has been transferred to designated hospitals for treatment. Personnel information, tracking of close family contacts is under way; 4 cases of close family contacts have been tracked for patients with confirmed cases notified in Japan, all of which have been included in medical observation. http://wjw.wuhan.gov.cn/front/web/showDetail/2020011809065 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
niman Posted January 17, 2020 Author Report Share Posted January 17, 2020 Rapid Risk Assessment: Cluster of pneumonia cases caused by a novel coronavirus, Wuhan, China, 2020 Risk assessment 17 Jan 2020 Cite: Citation Link TwitterFacebookLinked InMail The likelihood of importation of cases of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) to the EU is considered to be low, but cannot be excluded in the current situation.This document presents disease background, risk assessment and options for response. Executive summary A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has been isolated and considered the causative agent of the cluster of 41 pneumonia cases in the area of Wuhan, Hubei province in China, and three travel-related cases in Thailand and Japan, arriving from Wuhan. The majority of detected pneumonia cases reported having visited the Wuhan Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market recently before disease onset. Some cases did not report any exposure to this specific market, but to other food markets in Wuhan. For a few cases there was no direct connection with a food market. The Wuhan Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market has been closed and disinfected. However, there is no information available on restrictions at other food markets in Wuhan. If the sources of the infections are indeed certain animals sold in the market, other markets in the city may continue to pose a risk of infection. At the moment, there is no information on the source of infection or the transmission mode. As of 16 January 2020, there is no clear indication of sustained human-to-human transmission. The report of two small family clusters in Wuhan and the exposure history of the imported Japanese case (history of contact with a person with an acute, not laboratory confirmed, respiratory infection in Wuhan) suggest that person-to-person transmission may have occurred. In the absence of detailed information from the ongoing studies in China, it is impossible to quantify the potential of the 2019-nCoV for human-to-human transmission. The clinical information on confirmed 2019-nCoV cases reported so far suggests a milder disease course than that observed in SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV cases. However, in the absence of results from ongoing epidemiological investigations, it is impossible to assess whether there are population groups at higher risk of severe illness. Risk for travellers, importation and further spread in the EU Three EU airports have direct flight connections to Wuhan and there are indirect flight connections to other EU hubs. The likelihood of EU/EEA travellers becoming infected while visiting any wet or live animal markets in Wuhan is considered to be moderate, as the source of infection is unknown and could still be active. The likelihood of infection for travellers visiting Wuhan, but not visiting these markets, is considered low, because so far there is no indication of virus circulation in the community. Therefore, the likelihood of importation of cases of 2019-nCoV to the EU is considered to be low, but cannot be excluded in the current situation. The upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations at the end of January 2020 will cause an increase in the volume of travel to/from China and within China, increasing the likelihood of possible cases arriving in the EU. If a case is identified in the EU, rigorous infection prevention and control measures (IPC) should be applied. Current evidence that human-to-human transmission is limited indicates that the assessed likelihood of further spread in the community setting within the EU/EEA is very low, but the risk cannot be excluded. Risk of nosocomial transmission, infection prevention and control So far, there are no reported instances of disease transmission to healthcare workers/medical personnel in China, Japan and Thailand. Therefore, the likelihood of nosocomial transmission is considered very low, provided that appropriate IPC measures are applied [41]. Risk of transmission in airplane There are no specific guidelines for assessing the risk of 2019-nCoV transmission during a flight. Assessment should be made on a case-by-case basis. As the current level of uncertainty regarding transmission of 2019-nCoV is high, comprehensive contact tracing of confirmed cases should be considered and if this is not possible, efforts should be made to at least trace passengers seated in the same row and passengers seated two rows in front or behind the index case. In addition, ECDC will shortly be publishing an updated guide on MERS-CoV infections during a flight. https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/rapid-risk-assessment-cluster-pneumonia-cases-caused-novel-coronavirus-wuhan Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 18, 2020 Report Share Posted January 18, 2020 China reports new virus cases, raising concern globally before key holiday Se Young Lee, Hallie Gu 4 MIN READ BEIJING (Reuters) - China reported four more cases of pneumonia believed to be caused by a new coronavirus strain, causing rising concern globally that a disease health officials do not yet fully understand could spread during a key holiday period. The new virus, which was discovered in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, belongs in the same large family of coronaviruses that includes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which killed nearly 800 people globally during a 2002/03 outbreak that also started in China. Though experts say the new virus does not appear to be as lethal as SARS, there is little known about its origins and how easily it can spread. Thailand and Japan have confirmed new cases of the virus earlier this week, stoking worries globally as many of the 1.4 billion Chinese people will travel abroad during the Lunar New Year holidays that begin next week. Authorities around the world including in the United States, Thailand and South Korea have stepped up monitoring of travelers from Wuhan as part of their efforts to prevent the disease from spreading. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also warned that a wider outbreak is possible, though it has advised against any travel restrictions for China. The Wuhan Municipal Health Commission (WMHC) said on Saturday the four new individuals diagnosed with the new virus are in stable condition, adding it has confirmed 45 cases in the city as of Thursday. A day earlier, the commission confirmed the death of a second patient. Nearly 50 people are now known to have been infected globally, but all of them either live in Wuhan or have traveled to the city. A report published by the London Imperial College’s MRC Center for Global Infectious Disease Analysis said there are likely “substantially more cases” of the new coronavirus than currently announced by Wuhan authorities: its base scenario estimate is that there would be 1,723 cases showing onset of related symptoms by Jan. 12. The WMHC referred Reuters queries about the report to the National Health Commission (NHC) and the Hubei provincial government, but the NHC and the Hubei government did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. Wuhan is the capital of Hubei province. FILE PHOTO: International travelers arrive at John F. Kennedy international airport in New York City, U.S., February 4, 2017. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid SCREENING U.S. authorities have said they would start screening at three airports to detect travelers arriving via direct or connecting flights from Wuhan who may have symptoms of the new virus. In Asia, authorities in Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand have stepped up monitoring of passengers from Wuhan at airports. Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines say they have strengthened screening at all points of entry in response to the outbreak, as well. But Alexandra Phelan, global health legal expert at Georgetown University’s Center for Global Health Science and Security, said such screening may be insufficient in preventing the virus from spreading as its symptoms, which include fever, cough and difficulty in breathing, are “quite general”. “There are likely to be many individuals with matching symptoms due to an illness that is not 2019-nCoV,” Phelan said, referring to the new virus. Reporting by Se Young Lee and Hallie Gu; Additional reporting by John Geddie in https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-health-pneumonia/china-reports-new-virus-cases-raising-concern-globally-before-key-holiday-idUSKBN1ZH020 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Admin Posted January 18, 2020 Report Share Posted January 18, 2020 Wuhan pneumonia: Wuhan bans sale of live poultry, cracks down on wildlife trade January 19, 2020 01:26 The health and health commission strengthened control over the South China Seafood Wholesale Market. The outbreak of a new coronavirus pneumonia outbreak in Wuhan, Hubei, has caused new cases for several consecutive days, causing national concern. According to a report from the mainland's official TV station on Sunday (19th), the relevant person in charge of the Municipal Health and Health Commission stated that it will continue to strengthen the city's prevention and control efforts, including a firm ban on the sale of live poultry and a severe crackdown on wildlife trading. In addition, we will do our best to treat patients and critically ill patients to minimize the mortality rate. The person in charge pointed out that the authorities will strengthen the control of the South China Seafood Wholesale Market after the market break, conduct hygienic and epidemiological investigations, and focus on the isolation and treatment of discovered cases. In addition, the market and its surrounding entrances and exits will be controlled 24 hours, including the rectification of the city's farmers' markets and various business establishments, and the sale of live poultry will be banned. It is strictly forbidden to illegally breed, process and manage all kinds of wild animals, and crack down on illegal transshipment and trafficking of wild animals. Further strengthen the management of cleaning, disinfection and ventilation of relevant business sites. In addition, the management of close contacts will be strengthened, and classified monitoring management will be implemented. District CDCs and community health service centers will send daily staff and follow-up households and other close contacts of the general population. Currently, there are 121,000 person-times. Close medical contacts of patients diagnosed in Thailand and Japan are under medical observation. https://hk.on.cc/hk/bkn/cnt/cnnews/20200119/bkn-20200119012643430-0119_00952_001.html?eventid=402883476ed4097c016f5a39f2c63fde&eventsection=hk_news Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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