On Sunday, China announced a nationwide ban on the sale of wildlife in markets, restaurants, and e-commerce platforms. On Sunday, China confirmed 1,975 cases of patients infected with the new coronavirus as of Jan. 25, while the death toll from the virus has risen to 56, state broadcaster CCTV reported. VIRUS SPREADING OUTSIDE CHINAOn Saturday, Hong Kong declared a virus emergency, scrapped celebrations and restricted links to mainland China. Australia confirmed its first four cases on Saturday, Malaysia confirmed four and France reported Europe's first cases on Friday. Airports around the world have stepped up screening of passengers from China, although some health officials and experts have questioned the effectiveness of such screenings.

Source: The Star January 26, 2020 06:56 UTC