Months still to go in global coronavirus spread, top Chinese scientist warns

Epidemiologist Zhong Nanshan says disease will keep extending its reach around the world and China’s southern manufacturing hub should shift gears to stop imported cases

Covid-19 on track to becoming endemic, according to Hong Kong specialist

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The coronavirus epidemic appears to be subsiding in China allowing some normal life to resume. Photo: AFP

Published: 8:19pm, 9 Mar 2020Updated: 9:55pm, 9 Mar 2020

Leading Chinese epidemiologist Zhong Nanshan said he expected the coronavirus epidemic to keep spreading around the world for the next few months.

“The development of the global epidemic is projected to continue until at least June,” Zhong said, addressing a disease prevention meeting in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou on Friday.

According to footage posted online by Guangdong TV on Sunday, Zhong called for a shift in focus from containment to prevention of imported cases, especially in Guangdong province, a hub for international travel,

“Health checks at borders need to be strengthened and quarantine policies should be established for travellers from areas overseas affected by the epidemic,” he said.

“For areas seriously hit by the new coronavirus, Guangdong may need to send aid such as protective gear, test kits and treatment technology.”

China reported 40 new infections on Monday, its lowest daily number since the authorities started publishing the figures on January 20.