Worldwide coronavirus cases jump to 1.5 million

Since emerging in China, coronavirus has infected 1,503,900 people, killed 89,915, says Johns Hopkins University

ANKARA: The number of novel coronavirus cases reached 1,503,900 on Thursday, according to figures compiled by U.S.-based Johns Hopkins University.

According to the data, since the emergence of the virus in China in December, 89,915 have died while 339,775 individuals have fully recovered.

The U.S. remains the country with the highest number of infections hitting 432,579, but Italy is the country with the highest death toll with 17,669 fatalities.

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After first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan, the virus has spread to at least 184 countries and regions, according to Johns Hopkins.It attacks the respiratory system, and can be fatal. Most people who become infected will exhibit moderate symptoms, but it can be especially fatal for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and asthma.

Several efforts are being made to develop a vaccine, but most experts believe that the milestone will not be crossed for at least another year, and possibly up to 18 months.