Wuhan virus: The science

Wuhan virus: Scientists scramble to find out more about new coronavirus

Researchers here helped unlock virus' genetic structure, but many questions still unanswered

Scientists in Singapore have also played a key role in unlocking the genetic structure of the new virus, and are developing faster and more accurate diagnostic kits to test if people have contracted the virus. PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Preparation is key in the fight against new viruses, says Professor Wang Linfa, director of Duke-NUS' emerging infectious diseases programme, who put himself on home quarantine after a recent visit to Wuhan.
Preparation is key in the fight against new viruses, says Professor Wang Linfa, director of Duke-NUS' emerging infectious diseases programme, who put himself on home quarantine after a recent visit to Wuhan. PHOTO: COURTESY OF WANG LINFA
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Is the Wuhan coronavirus a gun-toting villain for all to see and fear, or a terrorist strapped with hidden bombs who strikes when people least expect it?

The outbreak has claimed more than 200 lives in the month since the world first heard of it, but whether it has done its worst, or the worst is yet to come, is still unclear.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on February 02, 2020, with the headline Scientists scramble to find out more about new Wuhan coronavirus. Subscribe