The coronavirus is named after its shape which resembles the corona of a star. (Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)The coronavirus is named after its shape which resembles the corona of a star. (Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)
London

The new coronavirus death toll exceeds SARS

China's National Health Commission has reported the coronavirus death toll has surpassed the number of global SARS fatalities.

On Sunday, Mainland China said the number of fatalities had risen to 811, surpassing the 774 people who died during the 2002-2003 outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome. (SARS) China says the total number of cases has increased to over 37,198

The outbreak of SARS infected more than 8,000 worldwide. Like the new virus, it also originated in China. As of Feb.8, 2020, the government has said seven cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Canada with three cases in Ontario and four in B.C.

On Friday, 174 Canadians came home on a government-chartered plane, another 39 travelled on a second flight led by the U.S from Wuhan, China.

The repatriated Canadians will stay in isolation at CFB Trenton for 14 days to reduce the potential spread of the virus. Of the 213 Canadians, none have displayed symptoms.

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