China quarantines 41 million in 13 cities over coronavirus

China has expanded its quarantine efforts to 13 cities, restricting the movement of 41 million people to curb the spread of a novel coronavirus.

The virus has now infected 830 people and claimed 26 lives, with the outbreak originating in Wuhan, a major industrial and transport hub.

Public transport in these cities has been shut down, and Lunar New Year celebrations have been cancelled to prevent further transmission.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the situation an emergency in China but stopped short of a global health declaration.

Medical personnel are wearing full protective gear, and at least eight hospitals in Wuhan have appealed for donations of supplies due to shortages.

The Philippines has suspended all flights to and from Wuhan and is investigating a suspicious case in Tacloban City.

Other countries like South Korea and Japan have also confirmed new cases of the virus.