48: Are we prepared to deal with the new coronavirus outbreak?

The coronavirus has claimed 17 lives and infected hundreds. In China, authorities have put the city of Wuhan, from where the outbreak originated, under lockdown. Several other countries, including India, are screening passengers coming from the city. Thankfully, no case has been detected in India so far, and there is no reason for us to be alarmed. But it would be advisable to stay on alert so that we are well-prepared was the outbreak to grow into a global health emergency.