The epidemic situation in China due to new coronaviruses (2019-nCoV) is still tense. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 4 February, 20,471 confirmed cases in China with 425 deaths, and 20,630 confirmed worldwide.

According to a Chinese source, as of 5 February at 10:00 am there were 23,260 suspected cases, 24367 confirmed cases with 492 deaths and 898 patients recovered.

A number of complex measures have been taken by the Ministry of Health, from border control to laboratory research, to effectively implement the measures against the new virus (2019-nCoV).

Since 27 January, the specialists of the Ministry of Health have been dispatched to the border medical checkpoints to make the control over the passengers arriving from China more effective. Since that date, 859 people have arrived in Armenia and have been monitored by place of residence. As a result of the measures taken so far, 40 patients with suspected symptoms of coronavirus infection have been hospitalized, 26 of whom have been discharged (discharge continues), 14 patients are still hospitalized. All have received and are receiving symptomatic treatment, and laboratory tests are organized if needed. As a result, unique cases of influenza A viruses, rhinoviruses have been found, and The results of the new coronavirus test have been negative.

Notably, the World Health Organization will provide Armenia with a new set of laboratory tests.

In recent days, media and social media have also reported that a new coronavirus infection has spread through bananas or parcels sent from China. According to the World Health Organization, the infection is transmitted by respiratory-capillary and human-to-human contact, and in China, also by animals. Moreover, on the surfaces of fruit or parcels the pathogen cannot survive long and be a source of infection.   

Currently, the situation in the Republic of Armenia is under control, no cases of a new coronavirus infection have been reported; all necessary preventive measures are being taken in cooperation with stakeholders and international organizations.

The Ministry of Health again urges not to panic, not to spread misinformation, to follow only the official news feed and the advice of doctors, avoiding non professional guidance and comment, and not to fall ill.

• When planning international trips, take into account the epidemic situation in that country,
• Avoid contact with patients with respiratory infections,
• Use personal protective equipment (masks),
• Wash your hands before coming home and eating.
• If you have flu symptoms, contact a doctor, do not self-medicate,
• If you are in China, avoid or exclude visits to animal (especially seafood) markets, use only well-cooked food, bottled water, do not visit zoos or participate in cultural events involving animals,
• If you have returned from China and you have symptoms typical of flu-like illnesses, seek medical attention, mentioning travel information.