2019-20 coronavirus outbreak by country and territory

2019–20 coronavirus outbreak by country and territory
Map of the outbreak
Disease	COVID-19
Virus strain	SARS-CoV-2
Location	Worldwide
First outbreak	Wuhan, Hubei, China
Index case	Wuhan, Hubei, China
Date	December 2019 – ongoing
Confirmed cases	Varies by country
Recovered	Varies by country
Deaths	Varies by country

The 2019–20 coronavirus outbreak by country and territory refers to the global spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The outbreak was first identified in December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei province, China. Since then, the virus has spread to virtually every country and territory around the world, leading to widespread health, economic, and social impacts.

Outbreak by Country and Territory

China

The outbreak began in Wuhan, China, where the first cases were reported in December 2019. The Chinese government implemented strict lockdown measures in Wuhan and other cities in Hubei province to contain the spread of the virus. These measures included travel restrictions, quarantine protocols, and the closure of public spaces.

Italy

Italy was one of the first countries outside of China to experience a major outbreak. The virus spread rapidly in the northern regions, particularly in Lombardy and Veneto. The Italian government imposed a nationwide lockdown in March 2020 to curb the spread of the virus.

United States

The United States reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19 in January 2020. The virus spread quickly across the country, with significant outbreaks in states such as New York, California, and Florida. The U.S. government declared a national emergency in March 2020.

Iran

Iran experienced one of the earliest and most severe outbreaks in the Middle East. The virus spread rapidly, affecting many high-ranking officials and leading to widespread public health measures.

South Korea

South Korea implemented extensive testing and contact tracing measures to control the outbreak. The country was able to flatten the curve relatively quickly compared to other nations.

Other Countries

The virus has affected every continent except Antarctica, with significant outbreaks in countries such as Spain, France, Germany, Brazil, and India. Each country has implemented its own measures to combat the spread of the virus, with varying degrees of success.

Global Response

The global response to the COVID-19 pandemic has involved international cooperation and coordination. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) have played a key role in providing guidance and support to countries affected by the outbreak. Many countries have implemented travel restrictions, social distancing measures, and vaccination campaigns to control the spread of the virus.

Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on global health, economies, and societies. Healthcare systems have been overwhelmed in many countries, leading to shortages of medical supplies and personnel. The pandemic has also caused significant economic disruptions, with many businesses closing and unemployment rates rising.

Also see

• COVID-19 pandemic
• SARS-CoV-2
• World Health Organization
• Pandemic
• Public health