Published 22:50 IST, March 11th 2020

WHO declares Coronavirus outbreak as a 'Pandemic', implores nations to take action

WHO has declared the Coronavirus (COVID-19) as a global pandemic after the deadly virus spread to 114 countries killing almost 4000 people worldwide

Reported by: Gloria Methri
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World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared Coronavirus (COVID-19) as a global pandemic after deadly virus spread to 114 countries, resulting in deaths of almost 4000 people worldwide. 

Taking to Twitter, WHO chief Tedros Adham finally declared disease as a global pandemic, calling all nations to get very serious over issue and take all necessary measures to contain virus from spreading at this rate. 

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Explaining term, Dr Tedros said, that word "Pandemic" cant be used lightly or carelessly due to its strong contation. Coronavirus is increasing at an alarming rate and needs curbing its spread is need of hour, he added.

READ | 'Threat Of Pandemic Real', Says WHO Chief As Coronavirus Continues To Spread Worldwide

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'Number of cases may rise even higher'

virus, which has originated from Wuhan, China, has so far claimed 3,893 lives with 111,862 cases detected worldwide. So far, 66 people have been tested positive in India. However, deaths have been reported in India yet.

Raising concerns over its increasing rate in China, WHO said that number of cases has increased to a 13-fold since it was first originated in Wuhan. 

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READ | World Fights Coronavirus With Tough Measures As Fear Of Pandemic Grows

WHO holds briefing over Coronavirus measures

Addressing media on measures taken to reach out to worse-affected countries, an official of WHO said that organisation is sending supplies to Iran and 14,000 COVID-19 tests have been made in country. He added that supply is drawing millions of dollars.

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official said 900 people are currently in intensive care units in Iran which is a matter of concern. 

"We can play blame game later. We need to do work. Iran is most affected. Or countries will be affected soon. Experts on ground say Iran is doing its best. y need a lot of supplies. We are doing our best," official said. 

READ | Iran Confirms 958 New Coronavirus Cases Within 24 Hours, Total Tally Reaches 9,000

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"All countries need to have a very close look at epidemic in ir country. y have to keep health system ready for mitigation and a comprehensive approach is needed. Containing affected is key," he said.

"It is t time for country to move to mitigation. You need to suppress infection orwise this can take whole system down," he added.

READ | Coronavirus Outbreak: 'Situation In Italy A Cause Of Concern,' Says MEA Jaishankar

22:50 IST, March 11th 2020