Wans Zhi Cheng

Of all those affected by the virus, 18% are in very critical condition. An international team of experts sent by the WHO is in Beijing to study ways of collaboration to contain the epidemic. Controversy over silence and delays continues. One historian: "The Chinese health system is very weak, overcrowded, inefficient, expensive and chaotic".

The majority of deaths (almost 96%) are in Hubei, the epicenter of the infection. The confirmed cases are 44742; suspected cases 16,067. So far the virus has spread to 24 countries, infecting 441 people and killing one. WHO gives the virus its official name: Covid-19.