Coronavirus

Desperate to stop virus' spread, countries limit travel

Clusters of the illness continued to balloon outside mainland China, fueling apprehension across the globe that was reflected in sagging financial markets.

The coronavirus may infect over half of the world’s population

The virus is spreading unchecked, and in a major turnaround, may not exhibit symptoms in infected victims.

Turkey quarantines its citizens returning on flight from Iran

The global coronavirus outbreak has prompted Ankara to step up travel precautions, including closing borders with Iran.

China, South Korea report more virus cases amid rising global concern

The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 60 new cases in its morning update, taking the tally to 893 – the largest national total anywhere outside China.

China bans trade, consumption of wild animals due to coronavirus

Many academics, environmentalists and residents in China have joined international conservation groups in calling for a permanent ban. Online debate within China has also heavily favoured a permanent ban.

Coronavirus forces fan ban at Italian football games

"In agreement with UEFA, the Lombardy regional health authorities and Milan city council, our return game with Ludogorets will be played behind closed doors," an Inter statement announce their Europa League match would be played with no fans present.

Iran denies coronavirus cover-up and claim of 50 deaths

Iran's government says only 12 people have died so far amongst 61 cases, after being accused of covering-up deadliest virus outbreak outside China where some 2,600 people have died.

China considers 'complete ban' on wildlife trade as coronavirus spreads

The official Xinhua news agency said the proposal was submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC).

Global spread of coronavirus raises pandemic fears

A surge of infections in South Korea and Italy, and an alarming rise in the death toll in Iran over the weekend, triggered steep falls in Asian share markets and Wall Street stock futures on Monday as investors fled to safe havens such as gold.

Coronavirus puts 'fragile' global recovery at risk - IMF

Global growth was poised for a modest rebound to 3.3 percent this year, up from 2.9 percent last year, International Monetary Fund chief Kristalina Georgieva said.

Iran voter turnout dips below 50 percent in a first since 1979

Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli says 42.57 percent of voter turnout in parliamentary election is "acceptable" as polls took place amid bad weather, air disaster, and coronavirus outbreak.

Turkey, Pakistan shut Iran border; Afghanistan bans travel over virus fears

Outbreak in Iran centers on holy city of Qom, where officials say travellers from China brought new coronavirus infecting 43 people so far. Meanwhile, Iran's neighbours close land and air traffic with it over jump in infection cases.