Xi Jinping Warns That China’s Coronavirus Outbreak Must Be Taken Seriously

Chinese President Xi Jinping said Monday that it’s “extremely crucial” to take every possible measure to combat a new coronavirus that has infected 217 people in the country. His remarks, cited by state broadcaster CCTV, came the same day that the country reported a sharp rise in the number of people infected by the novel form of viral pneumonia, including the first cases in the capital.

The outbreak comes as the country enters its busiest travel period, when millions board trains and planes for the Lunar New Year holidays. “The recent outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia in Wuhan and other places must be taken seriously,” Xi said, according to CCTV. “Party committees, governments, and relevant departments at all levels should put people’s lives and health first.”

They should “ensure that the masses have a quiet, peaceful and joyous Spring Festival,” he added.

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