James kon

The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus continued to surge globally amounting to nearly 24,600 cases and 492 confirmed death as of morning yesterday.

Growing concern among the local community about the virus, prompted several major Chinese New Year receptions and gatherings to be cancelled as a precautionary measure.

A local bank also cancelled its open house.

It stated that the bank prioritises the health and safety of its customers, business associates and staff and decided to cancel the Chinese New Year Open House due to the novel coronavirus.

Meanwhile, a foreign bank also cancelled its Chinese New Year reception in view of the outbreak.

The bank took the pre-emptive measures to ensure the well-being and safety of its clients and employees.

Brunei Darussalam has not recorded any case of the novel coronavirus.

The Ministry of Health has activated a Health Advice Line to provide information and advice with regards to the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

Calls can be made to the Health Advice Line at 2381380 and 2381383 during working hours from Monday to Thursday and Saturday, from 7.45am-12.15pm and 1.30pm-4.30pm.

For information, contact the Darussalam line 123 for calls outside working hours or visit www.moh.gov.bn/SitePages/2019nCoV.aspx.