Deaths from China's coronavirus outbreak surpass deaths from SARS

STR / AFP

The number of coronavirus deaths in China has surpassed that of the 2003 Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) epidemic.

According to Chinese officials, the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus stands at 811, with over 37,000 people infected so far.

In 2003, 774 people died from Sars in more than two dozen countries.

Several cities in China have turned into ghost towns as the government ordered virtual lockdowns and asked residents not to go out.

The virus has spread to 27 countries and regions, with two deaths reported outside mainland China - one in Hong Kong and the other in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong has implemented a mandatory two-week quarantine period for anyone arriving from mainland China.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • Extra Time

    7:00pm - 8:00pm

    Chris & Robbie bring you the latest from the sporting world plus interviews with upcoming and legendary sporting stars.

  • The Night Shift with Mark Lloyd

    8:00pm - 11:00pm

    Musicians and music, entertainers and entertainment, industry gossip and songs selected by you, get ready to bring your night time to life! Every evening from eight, Mark Lloyd brings you an energetic mix of local and international content and contests, featuring an array of celebrity interviews and entertaining anecdotes. Get involved in the show and pick your favourite jukebox hits, every night from 8pm - 11pm.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Flying Taxis

    It sounds like an episode of The Jetsons, but the sight of flying taxis whizzing around our cities could be much closer than you think.

  • Tough penalties for deliberate tax evasion

    The UAE has said that tougher penalties will come into force from 1st August for not keeping proper corporate tax records.