I'm declaring a public health emergency of international concern
over the global outbreak of novel coronavirus.
The main reason for this declaration is not because of what is happening in China,
but because of what is happening in other countries.
Our greatest concern is the potential for the virus to spread to countries
with weaker health systems and which are ill prepared to deal with it.
Let me be clear.
This declaration is not a vote of no confidence in China.
On the contrary, WHO continues to have confidence in China's capacity
to control the outbreak.
I'll repeat this.
Let me be clear.
This declaration is not a vote of no confidence in China.
On the contrary, WHO continues to have confidence in China's capacity
to control the outbreak.
You know, going to the field, visiting countries, you know,
having firsthand information is very important.
And that's why I had to visit to see for myself what's happening.
And I came back so impressed.
I have never seen in my life this kind of mobilisation.
And maybe you're following the one hospital which is being built in 10 days.
Big hospital, but that's not the only thing.
You know, the measures they are taking, which I believe will reverse the tide.