Travel bans

The WHO insists there is no need for actions that "unnecessarily interfere with international travel and trade", as countries suspend links with China over coronavirus fears.

"We call on all countries to implement decisions that are evidence-based and consistent," its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Monday.

There have been 17,238 confirmed infections in China including 361 deaths, as well as 151 confirmed cases in 23 countries and 1 death which was reported from the Philippines on Sunday, he added.

China has accused the US of creating a climate of fear, and other countries of overreacting, by restricting travel to and from the country.

It came as new figures from flight data firm OAG showed there would be over 25,000 fewer flights operated to, from and within China this week compared to two weeks ago. In terms of domestic services, there are 23,000 fewer domestic flights this week compared to last.

Read More