Wuhan virus cases may be higher than reported

Scientists estimate that hundreds more people in Wuhan may have been infected by a mysterious SARS-like virus than officially reported, with the number potentially exceeding 1,700 cases.

The outbreak, centered around a Wuhan seafood market, has officially resulted in at least 41 infections and two deaths.

Researchers believe human-to-human transmission is a significant possibility and may be the main source of infection, rather than animal exposure.

The US has begun screening flights arriving from Wuhan at San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles airports.

Thailand has also increased passenger screening at its major airports, and Hong Kong has implemented rigorous temperature checkpoints for inbound travelers.

The new virus strain is causing alarm due to its relation to SARS, which caused widespread fatalities in 2002-2003.

Concerns have been raised regarding potential underreporting of cases by Chinese authorities, similar to the SARS outbreak response.