Health Minister: Coronavirus will Most Likely Come to Turkey with Entries from Abroad

Source and photo: AA

Click to read the article in Turkish

Although no Covid-19 cases have been seen in Turkey yet, it is possible that the disease will spread in the country, Minister of Health Fahrettin Koca said today (March 9).

"If the virus comes to our country, it will most likely be with new entries from abroad or returns from abroad," he said. Turkey has been scanning all international passengers with thermal cameras in airports since February.

CLICK - Turkish Medical Association: There are No Coronavirus Cases in Turkey

"It is possible to have cases in our country, but it is in our hands to prevent it from spreading. All of the state organizations, our ministry, are doing all that needs to be done more than any other country," he asserted.

The minister also advised the citizens of Turkey who live abroad not to go outside unless it is necessary.

The coronavirus outbreak

The new strain of coronavirus was first diagnosed in Wuhan, China on December 12, 2019. Releasing a statement on December 31, the Health Commission of Wuhan Municipality announced that 27 other people having links with the Huanan Seafood Market were also diagnosed with the virus.

The disease caused by the virus was named "Covid-19" by the World Health Organization.

The first findings of the scientific research conducted on the coronavirus showed that its genetic sequence emerged from bat and snake species unique to China. Accordingly, the sale of wild animals has been forbidden in the country until the outbreak ends.

Over 100 thousand people in nearly 100 countries have been infected with coronavirus so far, according to the WHO. (AÖ/VK)