Zhong Nanshan answers coronavirus questions of top concern

Renowned Chinese respiratory expert Zhong Nanshan shared his views on recent concerns about the novel coronavirus outbreak in interviews with Nanfang Daily and China Central Television on Sunday.

Q: Does the novel coronavirus have fecal-oral transmission? What should people be careful about?

A: The novel coronavirus is likely to spread by fecal-oral transmission. The issue should be taken very seriously, because the virus has been found in fecal samples of infected patients. We should be highly alert about the fact the virus can spread through fecal matter. In some places of Hubei and Jiangxi provinces, people have a habit of using chamber pots as toilets and washing them in fish ponds, which indeed needs attention.

Further research and surveying should be done to see how many patients have feces with the virus. Based on preliminary understanding, the virus hasn’t been detected in patients' urine.

Q: How does the development of the epidemic go so far?

A: So far, the confirmed cases are mainly from Wuhan. I haven't looked at the data this morning. The data yesterday showed Wuhan was still the major place of the outbreak. As a result, I think the central government’s decision of putting Wuhan into lockdown is right. It seems there is no obvious outbreak in places other than Wuhan.

Q: What do you think of the surge in the number of confirmed cases?

A: The number is rising now and the rising trend will continue for some time, but I'm sure it won't be long.

Q: The peak of people’s return trips is coming soon. Anything people should pay special attention to?

A: I have said before people who will return to Wuhan will not be a problem, because they haven’t been infected before. More than 10 days have passed, so the incubation stage of potential patients is almost over. People who are infectious have already been in treatment in local hospitals, and the others who are OK now will stay fine. However, those who leave Wuhan for other places should be closely watched.

Q: What should we pay attention to in the prevention and control of the disease in communities?

A: The prevention and control work in communities is very important. People living in a community can keep an eye on each other on many issues, including wearing masks, which to some extent plays a decisive role in prevention and control of the virus.