Australia pushes out $2.4 billion virus aid package

Australian government on Wednesday anunced a $2.4 billion (US $1.6 billion) pack to help tackle virus outbreak that has infected nearly 120,000 people worldwide, rocked financial markets and disrupted travel.

Australia, which has recorded 106 cases of virus and three deaths, is rushing to improve its prepareness.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said up to 100 coronavirus fever clinics will be set up in areas of need across country, as part of health pack.

“This pack is about preventing and treating coronavirus in coming weeks,” he told reporters. “Australia isn’t immune but with this $2.4 billion boost we’re as well prepared as any country in world.”

pack also includes funding for bulk-billed video consults for people in self-isolation and quarantine.

According to Australian newspaper, Morrison plans to anunce Thursday a $10 billion (US $6.5 billion) stimulus pack that could include subsidies for small businesses.

Australia also anunced on Wednesday that Italy has been ded to its travel ban list alongside China, Iran and South Korea.

Italy has enforced a sweeping lockdown of country as infections soared past 10,000 – second highest behind China.

Australian citizens and permanent residents traveling from those countries are exempt from ban, but will need to isolate mselves for 14 days.

"Italy itself has effectively put itself into lockdown with travel w, and this largely closes that loop," Morrison said.

For most people, new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older ults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

vast majority of people recover from new virus. According to World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.