The UK Completes Sequencing the 2019-nCoV’s Viral Genome

Scientists at the UK’s Public Health England (PHE) announced they have fully sequenced the novel coronavirus’s viral genome.

PHE said in a press statement on February 4, 2020, ‘The publication of the (2019-nCoV) sequence provides valuable information on any mutations in the virus over time and allows an improved understanding of how the virus spreads.’

‘The new sequencing in UK cases illustrates that so far, the 2019-nCoV has not evolved to better infect humans, since the sequence was first published by China during January 2020.’

Professor Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director at PHE, added, “Genome sequencing means that we can see where it came from, how it’s developing and determine the interventions that aid treatment.”

“These data play an integral part in helping the scientific community in tackling this global problem.”

“We are excited to share this knowledge (about the 2019-nCoV) across the scientific community and will continue to work closely with partners around the world,” concluded Doyle.

In an updated statement on February 4th, the UK's Chief Medical Officers raised the risk of 2019-nCoV to the public from ‘low to moderate.’ 

The Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Chris Whitty shared ‘that 2 patients in England have tested positive for coronavirus.’

Furthermore, of the 1,466 passengers and 95 staff who arrived in the UK on direct flights from Wuhan, China, between 10 and 24 January: 162 of the passengers have already left the UK; 53 of the crew have already left the UK, and 1,107 are now outside of the virus incubation period.

PHE said ‘it is working to contact the remaining passengers.’

‘We have been working in close collaboration with international colleagues and the World Health Organization to monitor the situation in China and around the world,’ concluded PHE’s statement.

Realtime 2019-nCoV outbreak news is published by Coronavirus Today.