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 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.
W-H-O Director General [[Dr]] Tedros Ghebreyesus [[TED-ross geb-ree-AY-soss]] explains the decision.