Following reports of the coronavirus’s spread to people who have not visited China, World Health Organization (WHO) Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus sounded a grave warning on the situation and urged nations across the globe view these cases as embers that could start widespread conflagrations. Director General Tedros also warned that the virus can have more powerful consequences than terrorist action and should be regarded as public enemy number one.

Tedros said that as of Feb. 11, China has reported more than 40,000 confirmed cases and 1,000 deaths and pointed out that the virus can spread to people with no travel history to China.

While the world is well-prepared against threats of terrorism, the coronavirus could lead to much greater shocks to economies and cultures, Tedros said while urging for international action against the outbreak.

At a research and innovation forum held on the morning of Feb. 11, Director General Tedros said that “currently with 99 percent of cases China, this remains very much an emergency for that country, but one that holds a very grave threat for the rest of the world.”

The WHO invited around 400 experts from across the globe for two days of discussions beginning Feb. 11, during which the development of a vaccine was listed among top priorities. The WHO expects the first batch of vaccines against the coronavirus to be ready in 18 months’ time and urged governments to make long-term preparations.

[2020-02-12/ CNA]