Coronavirus Outbreak: Death Count Crosses Over 3,300 Across World; Positive Cases In India Climb To 31

At least 3,337 people have now died across the world from the novel coronavirus outbreak, also known as COVID-19, as China reported 28 new deaths on Saturday. The new fatalities were all in Hubei province, the epicentre of the outbreak. Also, more than 1 lakh people have been diagnosed with the coronavirus disease globally, most of them in China, Italy, and Iran. According to the National Health Commission, there were 99 fresh cases with a rise in new cases outside the virus epicentre of Hubei province for a third consecutive day.

Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases in India climbed to 31, including 16 tourists from Italy and their Indian guide. On Thursday, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan held a meeting to review preparedness for COVID-19 management, through video conference with health ministers, chief secretaries of all states and UTs, central ministers and representatives from the related organisations and stressed on the need for keeping testing and quarantine facilities, isolation wards, and labs in active readiness.

During the review meeting, Dr Harsh Vardhan asked all the states and UTs to start an education and communication campaign to remove misconceptions about coronavirus. Earlier, in the day, the union minister informed Lok Sabha that as many as 29,607 people are under observation of Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network for novel coronavirus.

It is worth mentioning here that the COVID-19 outbreak emerged late last year in Hubei in central China, but has now spread to more than 60 countries around the world.

Also Read: Shooting World Cup Postponed, Olympic Test Event Cancelled Due To Coronavirus

Coronavirus: Vaccine, Prevention, And Safety Measures

There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. According to United States' Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these are the best ways to avoid being exposed and prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

1. One should avoid close contact with people who are sick.
2. One should avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
3. If you're feeling sick, stay home.
4. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue. Please dispose the tissue in the trash.
5. Keep your frequently touched objects clean and disinfected with regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
6. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
7. Your should wash your hands especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
8. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
9. It is always better to wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

RELATED