New COVID-19 outbreaks in SK, Iran, China prisons raise global concerns

New outbreaks in South Korea, Iran, and within Chinese prisons have reignited concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has claimed over 2,200 lives.

The World Health Organization urged nations to act decisively against the virus, which has infected over 75,000 in China and more than 1,100 internationally.

South Korea confirmed 204 new cases, with over 120 members of a religious sect in Daegu infected, making it the most affected country outside China.

Iran's health ministry reported two more deaths and 13 new cases, bringing the total fatalities to four and infections to 18.

Fresh infections have surfaced in Chinese prisons, with hundreds of inmates and guards testing positive in Shandong and Hubei provinces, leading to dismissals of officials.

Despite a reported drop in new cases in China, fresh outbreaks have surfaced at two Beijing hospitals, with infections also reported among staff, patients, and their families.

The WHO chief emphasized the critical window to combat the virus, warning of serious consequences if immediate and forceful actions are not taken.