Strengthen disease vigilance in frontlines

The raging coronavirus infections now named Covid -19 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) has precipitated panic on the global front. As more details about this viral agent emerge, its disruption on the movement of people and goods is threatening global commerce similar to the simmering Ebola outbreak.

While the focal point for the Covid-19 epidemic seems to be mainland China, specifically Wuhan region, its spread has been noted in almost all the corners of the world. Africa, the last bastion has now confirmed one case in Egypt. Locally, the handful suspected cases have fortunately all tested negative.