During an online Daily Press Briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang responded to questions concerning foreign nationals infected with the novel coronavirus in China.

Geng said that according to the competent authority, as of 8 a.m. of 10 February, altogether 27 foreign nationals in China are confirmed to be infected with the novel coronavirus. Of them, 3 have been cured and discharged from hospital, 2 have died (the countries concerned have been notified), and 22 are receiving treatment under isolation.

Geng said that at 7 p.m. of 6 February, a Chinese American passed away in Wuhan, Hubei Province. Throughout the treatment process, the Chinese side kept in touch with the relatives in China and made best efforts to save the patient. We mourn the loss. The US side has already been notified through the diplomatic channel, and we will continue to assist the US side and the family in handling the follow-up matters.

Geng said that China sets great store by protecting the life and health of foreign nationals in Wuhan, and has taken robust measures to promptly address their legitimate concerns and demands. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on several occasions advised against hasty evacuation of foreign nationals. The best thing to do is to stay where they are and take proper self-protection. We hope these professional recommendations of WHO are respected. Of course, for countries that wish to bring back their citizens in Wuhan, the Chinese side will make arrangements and provide necessary assistance and facilitation in line with international practice and China's provisions on epidemic control.