Chinese food market at epicentre of Coronavirus outbreak was selling Koalas

China is currently dealing with outbreak of a contagious dely coronavirus that has killed more than 17 people so far. It is believed that virus originated from animals and y could have been primary source of outbreak. w, new reports state that local Chinese media houses have suggested that koalas were being sold in Chinese meat markets ahe of coronavirus outbreak.

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According to local media reports, koalas were one of animals available at Huanan seafood market in Wuhan, which is epicentre of highly contagious virus. seafood market in Wuhan is currently under investigation and has been labelled as 'ground zero' by authorities.  World Health Organisation earlier reported that Huanan seafood market was closed down on January 1, 2020, for environmental sanitation and disinfection.

Earlier reports suggested that  original source of virus is a snake, more specifically, Taiwanese Krait or Chinese Krait which is a highly vemous species of elapid snake found in much of central and sourn China and Souast Asia. 

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Coronavirus cases jump to 555

China has reportedly said that number of coronavirus cases has jumped to nearly 547 as contagious disease has affected an estimated 2,200 people in country. According to international media reports, virus has spre to Hong Kong, Bangkok, Tokyo, South Korea, Beijing, Shanghai, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Singapore.

While disease is mainly concentrated in central Chinese city of Wuhan, re have been two reported cases in Thailand and one in Japan. According to media reports, worldwide cases have risen to 555 since outbreak was detected in December last year.

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Airports across world are distributing health declaration forms along with face masks and antiseptic wipes. India, United Kingdom, United States, and or countries are screening passengers coming from mainland China and Hong Kong at various airports. coronavirus is being compared to SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), an epidemic that killed 650 (disputed) people back in 2002-03. 

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(With inputs from ncies)