The World Health Organization declared a global health emergency with the viral novel coronavirus, named 2019-nCoV, due to weak health care systems of other countries — not for China’s handling of the outbreak. The WHO stopped short of recommending travel restrictions and trade bans. “(The WHO) could question any country over travel restrictions like visa refusal, border closure, quarantine of travellers in good conditions,” said Didier Houssin, chair of the WHO emergency committee. The declaration of a global emergency triggers recommendations to all countries aimed at preventing or reducing cross-border spread of disease, while avoiding unnecessary interference with trade and travel. It covers temporary recommendations for national health authorities worldwide, which include stepping up their monitoring, preparedness and containment measures.

Source: National Post January 30, 2020 13:21 UTC