China today reports 17 new cases of the mysterious Sars-like virus, three of which are in serious condition, increasing fears ahead of the Lunar New Year holidays when hundreds of millions of people move within the country.
The virus - a new strain of coronavirus that humans can contract - is causing alarm due to its connection with severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars), which killed nearly 650 people in China and Hong Kong in 2002-2003.
Of the 17 new cases in the central city of Wuhan - believed to be the epicenter of the epidemic - three are described as "serious". The virus infected 62 people in Wuhan altogether, including eight in serious condition, 19 recovered and discharged from hospital and the rest still in solitary confinement to receive treatment. Two people have died so far from the virus.