BEIJING: The death toll rose to 170 in the coronavirus outbreak in China on Thursday. More than 1,000 new cases have been confirmed. Thirty-seven of the 38 new deaths came in hard-hit Hubei province, the epicentre of a contagion that is causing mounting global fear. Thursday's figures cover the previous 24 hours and represent an increase of 38 deaths and 1,737 cases for a total of 7,711. But there are concerns that the death toll and the number of infected people are far higher than official figures. The disease has been confirmed in 17 countries.

China's top health expert Dr Zhong Nanshan, said the virus would reach its worst level within ten days and then the situation would be under control. International air services like British Airways, United Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Lion Air have cancelled all their services to China.

806 people are under observation as part of the measures to prevent the possible outbreak of coronavirus. Of these, 796 are in their houses and the rest in various hospitals. Those under observation include the people who have returned to Kerala from China. They should stay in a room at their own house for 28 days. If symptoms of fever, cough and breathlessness are seen during this period, the health minister said that special treatment facilities set up in the districts should be contacted.