Covid-19 Outbreak In Asia That Does Not Include China And The Koreas -- News Updates February 26, 2020

Afghanistan's healthcare system is in tatters after more than four decades of war and there are fears it would not cope with an outbreak of the new coronavirus

AFP: 'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan

With porous borders, creaking hospitals and large illiterate populations, Afghanistan and Pakistan face a potentially devastating health crisis after the new coronavirus erupted in neighbouring Iran.

Islamabad has closed official border crossings while Kabul has suspended all travel to the Islamic republic, which has reported 19 deaths and a total of 139 infections -- making it one of the hardest hit countries outside the virus epicentre China.

But experts fear the measures could prove ineffective with thousands of people -- refugees fleeing violence, Shiite pilgrims, smugglers and migrants looking for work -- likely crossing the long, poorly patrolled frontiers every day.

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Covid-19 Outbreak In Asia That Does Not Include China And The Koreas -- News Updates February 26, 2020

Thailand reports three new virus cases, urges disclosure of travel history -- Reuters
Thailand reports 3 new COVID-19 cases, total infections at 40 -- CNA
Thai Stocks Plunge as More Virus Cases Spur Fear of Outbreak -- Bloomberg
Coronavirus infections keep mounting after cruise ship fiasco in Japan -- Science Magazine
Coronavirus: Hong Kong schools to remain closed until April 20, but key DSE written exam to go ahead -- HKFP
$10,000 Free Cash: Hong Kong’s Handout During Coronavirus Crisis Explained -- CCN
Singapore charges man with virus for lying to health officials -- AFP
All confirmed cases of coronavirus in Vietnam cured, anti-epidemic measures strengthened -- Straits Times
445 Filipinos from virus-hit Japan cruise ship now back in PH -- Rappler
Dozens of passengers who were allowed off the Diamond Princess cruise ship after testing negative for coronavirus ARE now showing symptoms -- Daily Mail
Dozens allowed off Japan virus-hit ship have 'symptoms': minister -- AFP

Tokyo Olympics on, organisers say, as virus hits Japan events -- AFP
Indonesia Braces for Full Impact From Coronavirus Economic Fallout -- Jakarta Globe
Pakistan confirms first two cases of coronavirus, in travelers from Iran: minister -- Reuters
Australia to close schools, cancel sports in event of COVID-19 outbreak -- CNA
Australia activates emergency response plan amid rising concerns of coronavirus pandemic -- News.com.au