World Health Organization(WHO) has warned against blanket measures over the novel coronavirus outbreak, pointing out the epidemic outside of China is only affecting a tiny proportion of the population.

WHO also said that COVID-19 is less deadly than other coronaviruses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, SARS or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome.

WHO officials rejected the suggestion that all cruises should be halted to avoid risking a new nest of infection like the one on the coronavirus-hit Diamond Princess off Japan.

The outbreak has battered manufacturing and tourism across the region and led to multiple travel restrictions including for flights and cruises