WHO declares coronavirus an international Public Health Emergency

The World Health Organisation has declared the novel coronavirus outbreak a global emergency.

China has locked down millions of people in an effort to keep a lid on the situation. Pictured, people wear face masks at Hong Kong Airport. Source: AP

The World Health Organisation WHO has declared the novel coronavirus outbreak that originated in China a public health emergency of international concern PHEIC.

 

It's a rarely used designation that could lead to an improved international coordination in tackling the virus.

 

The coronavirus has so far killed at least 170 people in China and infected more than 8,000 worldwide.