SINGAPORE (Reuters): A dramatic surge in coronavirus infections in South-east Asia in recent days has increased doubts over a theory that warmer weather could stem the spread of the virus, health experts say.
Relatively low cases of infections in many South-east Asian countries had been cited as possible evidence that hotter weather was suppressing the virus, giving hope to Europe and the United States as they head into spring.
Though a limited amount is known about the new virus, some of the symptoms show similarities with winter influenza, which is more widespread in colder temperatures, although this is partly attributed to people crowding together inside. The World Health Organization said this month that there was no evidence that temperature would play a role in the coronavirus outbreak but it was an avenue worth exploring.
"At best, warm weather might influence the spread but it will not see the end of it," said Professor Dale Fisher, chair of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network coordinated by WHO. In the Philippines, deaths more than doubled to 12 at the weekend, with confirmed cases rising to 140 - compared with three 10 days ago - prompting the authorities to place the entire capital Manila under"community quarantine".
Indonesia confirmed 17 more cases on Monday, taking its toll to 134, amid concerns that there could be large under-reporting in the world's fourth most populous country.
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