Coronavirus outbreak: World Bank announces up to $12 bn in immediate funds

World Bank President David Malpass said there were still 'many unknowns' about the fast-spreading virus, and 'much more' aid might be required

Reuters  |  Washington 

coronavirus
Malpass called on countries to coordinate on a regional and international level, saying the speed and breadth of the response would be critical to saving lives

The on Tuesday announced an initial $12 billion in immediate funds to assist countries grappling with the health and economic impacts of the outbreak that has spread quickly from China to over 60 countries.

President David Malpass said there were still "many unknowns" about the fast-spreading virus, and "much more" aid might be required.

He called on countries to coordinate on a regional and level, saying the speed and breadth of the response would be critical to saving lives.

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First Published: Wed, March 04 2020. 02:32 IST