Coronavirus Death Toll Rises to 362 in China

Chinese authorities said, on Monday, that the death toll from the new Coronavirus has risen to 362.

The authorities announced that the total number of the infection cases in the country has risen to 17,238.

On Thursday, the United States warned its citizens not to travel to China after Beijing announced that the death toll from the new Coronavirus has risen to more than 200 while the World Health Organization declared coronavirus outbreak a global health emergency.

Last week, China announced a nationwide ban on wildlife sales in stores, restaurants and e-commerce sites.

Health authorities in Beijing urged people not to shake hands but to use a conventional cupped-hand gesture instead of saluting. The advice was sent in a Sunday morning text message that went out to city mobile phone users.

The outbreak has overshadowed the start of the Lunar New Year, usually a festive time of year, with the cancellation of public events and the closure of many tourist sites. Many on social media have been calling for an extension of the week-long holiday to help prevent further spread of the virus.

Worldwide airports have stepped up screening of Chinese passengers, although some health experts have questioned their effectiveness.