THE World Health Organisation (WHO) has said so far there is no need for Zimbabwe to issue trade or travel restrictions over the coronavirus first reported in China.

The virus has so far killed 81 people in China and 2 000 cases have been confirmed.

At least 44 cases have also been confirmed in other countries including in Thailand, the United States of America and Australia.
There have been no deaths outside China.

In an interview yesterday, WHO Medical Officer Dr Anderson Chimusoro said there is no need for Zimbabwe to impose any trade and travel restrictions following the outbreak of the virus in China.

“There are no indications for such restrictions as yet. This is because Coronaviruses are largely transmitted from animals to people.

“The virus is new and so far, the spread of the disease is concentrated around people who are connected to the meat market,” said Dr Chimusoro.

He said measures should be taken to reduce incidences of acute respiratory infections in the country.-State media