Closure of schools in Hong Kong have been extended until March 16, as authorities try to reduce the risk of the Covid-19 spreading.
They've also told overseas students studying in the city that there was no rush to return, with many schools already switching to online classes.
Meanwhile, public sector workers have also been allowed to work from home until February 23.
The news comes as Hubei reported a record rise in the death toll, with the flu-like virus killing 242 people on Wednesday.
Americans mark 25 years since September 11 attacks amid grief, reflection
Twenty-five years after the deadliest attack on US soil, Americans paused on Friday to commemorate the nearly 3,000 people killed when hijacked planes slammed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Pennsylvania.
Nigeria parliament boycotts South Africa events over anti-migrant attacks
Nigeria's parliament has suspended official visits to South Africa and ordered lawmakers to boycott South African-hosted legislative activities, citing reports of attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants there.
Sydney Airport flights disrupted due to air traffic controller shortage
A shortage of air traffic controllers has caused flight cancellations and major delays at Sydney Airport on Friday morning, the federal agency responsible for managing Australia's air traffic said.
Philippine firefighters enter charred ferry as search continues for dozens missing
Philippine firefighters on Friday managed to board a burned-out ferry more than a day after the ship caught fire on its way from Manila to the western province of Palawan, killing five people and leaving more than 80 missing.
Modi, Putin hold talks in New Delhi on trade, defence
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin began talks in New Delhi on Friday, their second meeting in two weeks, that is expected to focus on trade, energy and defence ties between the two countries, which have long been friends.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Angela Merkel, former Chancellor of Germany, as part of his state visit to the country.
The UAE's National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has reassured the public that there is no cause for concern over social media reports warning of severe impacts from the El Nino climate phenomenon, including claims of widespread flooding or unusual rainfall.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has met with UAE students studying at universities in Germany, as part of his state visit to the country.
