Coronavirus contagious even in incubation stage, China’s health authority says

China’s National Health Commission (NHC) said on Sunday that the new coronavirus is contagious even in its incubation period, which lasts up to 14 days, and that the virus’ ability to spread is getting stronger.

Ma Xiaowei, the minister in charge of the NHC, told a press briefing that the authorities’ understanding of the virus was “limited” and they were also unclear on the risks posed by possible mutations.

“The outbreak is expected to continue for some time,” he said.




Ma said that unlike Sars (severe acute respiratory syndrome) the new coronavirus was infectious during its incubation period.

He also reiterated earlier reports that people infected with the virus might not immediately show any symptoms.

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