WHO: Is Coronavirus Outbreak a Pandemic? Not Yet

The transcript discusses the sudden increase in COVID-19 cases in Italy, Iran, and Korea, raising concerns about whether the epidemic has become a pandemic. The WHO has declared a public health emergency but has not yet labeled it a pandemic. The decision depends on the virus's geographical spread, disease severity, and societal impact. Currently, there is no uncontained global spread or large-scale severe disease. The virus has pandemic potential, but it is not yet classified as such.

Why is there speculation about the increase in cases being a sign of a pandemic?

What was the initial level of alarm declared by WHO regarding the spread of the virus?

What factors does WHO consider when deciding whether to use the term 'pandemic'?

What is the current status of the virus's global spread according to the text?

What does the text suggest about the potential of the virus to become a pandemic?