Chongqing - The number of confirmed cases caused by the new coronavirus pneumonia disease (2019-nCoV) rose to 27 in Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality as of Thursday midnight, an increase of 18 cases from the day before, according to the Chongqing Municipal Health Commission on the morning of January 24, 2020.

Chongqing's efforts to prevent and control 2019-nCoV

The Chongqing municipal medical treatment expert team has strengthened the guidance of case treatment in the city. Hospitals have enhanced their disease prevention and control, set up fever diagnosis and isolation wards, and furthered disinfection. Moreover, resources from the Chongqing Public Transport Group said that 8700 buses in the downtown of Chongqing had been disinfected daily with proper ventilation, and all drivers wear masks, all aiming to ensure safe trips.

In the meantime, many cultural public places announced their suspension plans to prevent cross-infection. For example, Luohan Temple and Nengren Temple will not be opened on the Chinese Lunar New Year Eve Friday. Starting from January 24, Chongqing Art Gallery, Chongqing Natural History Museum, Chongqing Folk Art Theater, and Chongqing Library will be closed. The Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum, Beiheliang Underwater Museum, and Song Qingling Former Residence will be closed from January 25. All opening time is to be informed.

Chinese health authorities announced Friday that 830 confirmed cases of pneumonia caused by the 2019-nCoV had been reported in 29 provincial-level regions in the country by the end of Thursday. Among them, 34 had been cured and discharged from hospitals, according to the National Health Commission. A total of 1,072 suspected cases have been reported in 20 provincial-level regions, according to the commission.

Helpful reminders for the general public: avoid contact with wild animals and reduce contact with livestock and poultry; separate raw and cooked food and cook thoroughly; wash your hands frequently, get proper ventilation, and wear a mask in congested areas.