The majority of these cases – 17,205 – have been recorded in mainland China. Apart from these, Hong Kong has confirmed 14 cases and Macao seven, reports AP.

Most of the deaths have been recorded in central Hubei province, the epicentre of the new virus outbreak that was first detected in December.

Wuhan, the capital of Hubei, is one of China's largest industrial hubs hosting business operations of several Chinese and international corporations. The new virus has so far spread to 24 countries.

Outside China, the highest number of confirmed cases was reported from Japan (20), followed by Thailand (19) and Singapore (18) and South Korea (15).

Also Read-  Coronavirus: All You Need to Know

Philippines reported the first coronavirus death outside China.

Earlier this week, Bangladesh brought back 316 of its nationals from China but none of them have been found to be infected. The country has also issued alerts at its land and sea ports and suspended visa on arrival for Chinese nationals for one month.

Philippines reported the first coronavirus death outside China.

WHO declares global emergency over virus from China

The World Health Organization declared the outbreak a global emergency. The UN health agency defines an international emergency as an “extraordinary event” that constitutes a risk to other countries and requires a coordinated international response.

Meanwhile, Chinese authorities on Sunday said 37 patients, including one aged 88 who had been infected with the virus in Hubei, have recovered and been discharged from hospital.

China's National Health Commission said patients can be discharged when the symptoms are alleviated, the body temperature remains at a normal range for at least three days, and the nucleic acid test shows a negative result twice.