WHO working closely with China, countries to curb virus

The World Health Organization is working closely with China and various countries to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus that caused an outbreak in central Chinese city Wuhan.

"We are working 24/7 to support China and its people during this difficult time and remain in close contact with affected countries, with our regional and country offices deeply involved," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus tweeted on Sunday.

WHO is updating all countries on the situation and providing specific guidance on what to do to respond, he said.

Noting he is on his way to Beijing, Ghebreyesus said that he and his colleagues will meet with the Chinese government and health experts to understand the latest development and strengthen partnership with China in providing further protection against the outbreak.

Building on experience and systems already in place for related pathogens, the WHO has activated global networks of experts, quickly developed advice for countries everywhere, and is working with them to activate their response systems, he said.

Also on Sunday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi of the United Arab Emirates, said that the UAE is ready to provide support to China and collaborate with the international community to fight the virus.

"We're closely following the Chinese government's efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus. We're confident in their ability to overcome this crisis. The UAE is ready to provide all support to China and cooperate with the international community to tackle this virus," he tweeted.

Pope Francis praised China's "great commitment" to contain the coronavirus outbreak on Sunday and said he was praying for the dead, the sick, and families of victims, Reuters reported.