An interim review of the epidemiological characteristics of 2019 novel coronavirus

Epidemiol Health. 2020:42:e2020006. doi: 10.4178/epih.e2020006. Epub 2020 Feb 6.

Abstract

Objectives: The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) from Wuhan, China is currently recognized as a public health emergency of global concern.

Methods: We reviewed the currently available literature to provide up-to-date guidance on control measures to be implemented by public health authorities.

Results: Some of the epidemiological characteristics of 2019-nCoV have been identified. However, there remain considerable uncertainties, which should be considered when providing guidance to public health authorities on control measures.

Conclusions: Additional studies incorporating more detailed information from confirmed cases would be valuable.

Keywords: Characteristics; Coronavirus; Epidemiology; Public health.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Betacoronavirus / isolation & purification*
  • COVID-19
  • China / epidemiology
  • Coronavirus Infections / epidemiology*
  • Coronavirus Infections / prevention & control
  • Coronavirus Infections / virology*
  • Emergencies
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • Pandemics / prevention & control
  • Pneumonia, Viral / epidemiology*
  • Pneumonia, Viral / prevention & control
  • Pneumonia, Viral / virology*
  • Public Health
  • SARS-CoV-2