[Asia Economy Reporter Yuri Kim] "It is deeply concerning that confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are rapidly increasing in Italy, Iran, and Korea."
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), reportedly said this to diplomats from various countries stationed in Geneva, Switzerland, on the 26th (local time), according to major foreign media.
However, he emphasized that COVID-19 is still controllable and has not reached the stage of a 'pandemic.' He stated, "Carelessly using the word 'pandemic' is of no benefit," and "It can amplify irrational fear and stigma, potentially paralyzing the systems of countries." He explained that using the word 'pandemic' signals that the virus is no longer controllable, which is not true.
Meanwhile, he announced that WHO staff will be dispatched to Iran on the 28th and 29th.
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