China picks ex-Shanghai mayor to lead in virus epicenter

China on Thursday appointed former Shanghai mayor as its top official party chief in central Hubei, province hardest-hit by a viral outbreak that has infected more than 45,000 people worldwide.

Ying Yong replaces Jiang Chaoliang as ruling Communist Party's chief in beleaguered province, Xinhua state news ncy reported.

Jiang's departure follows firing of two or senior officials in Hubei.

public has widely criticized local officials for ir handling of outbreak of a new form of coronavirus. epidemic began in Hubei's capital, Wuhan, and has since spre to more than two dozen countries.

Many countries have implemented travel restrictions on recent visitors to China, which has more than 99% of world’s reported infections.

In an unprecedented measure to contain disease, recently dubbed COVID-19, Chinese government has placed hardest-hit cities — home to more than 60 million — under lockdown.

Japan’s health ministry anunced Thursday that 44 more people on a cruise ship quarantined in port of Yokohama, near Tokyo, have tested positive for COVID-19. ship has 218 infections among its 3,700 passengers and crew.

Health Minister Katsubu Kato told reporters five of patients who were alrey sent to hospitals for isolation and treatment of COVID-19 have severe symptoms and are on artificial respirators or under intensive care.

Ar cruise ship, Westerdam, finally anchored Thursday off Cambodia after being turned away by several Asian and Pacific governments. cases of viral illness have been confirmed among its 1,455 passengers and 802 crew members, according to operator Holland America Line.

Thailand refused to allow Westerdam to dock this week after it h alrey been turned away by Philippines, Taiwan, Japan and Guam over virus concerns.

Westerdam began its cruise in Singapore last month and its last stop before it was refused furr landings was in Hong Kong, where 50 cases of viral disease have been confirmed.