WHO on Coronavirus: 'Test, test, test. Test every suspected case'

We have a simple message for all countries: Test, test, test. Test every suspected case.

You cannot fight a fire blindfolded, and we cannot stop this pandemic if we don't know who is infected, The World Health Organization's Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at a coronavirus briefing on Monday, as the pandemic continues to shut down cities around the world.

Here is the full briefing at the W.H.O's website.

"We have seen a rapid escalation in social distancing measures, like closing schools and cancelling events and other gatherings, said Tedros, But we haven't seen enough escalation in testing, isolation, and contact tracing, which is the backbone of the COVID-19 response.

The most effective way to prevent infections & save lives is breaking the chains of COVID-19 transmission. To do that, you must test and isolate.

FULL TRANSCRIPT FOLLOWS.

WHO Director-General's opening remarks at the media briefing on COVID-19 - 16 March 2020

16 March 2020

Good afternoon everyone.

In the past week, we have seen a rapid escalation of cases of COVID-19.

More cases and deaths have now been reported in the rest of the world than in China.

We have also seen a rapid escalation in social distancing measures, like closing schools and cancelling sporting events and other gatherings.

But we have not seen an urgent enough escalation in testing, isolation and contact tracing which is the backbone of the response.

Social distancing measures can help to reduce transmission and enable health systems to cope.

Handwashing and coughing into your elbow can reduce the risk for yourself and others.