The island’s health chiefs are preparing for potential cases of the Wuhan novel coronavirus here.

The global death toll from the new coronavirus now stands at 106, with the number of infections almost doubling in a day to more than 4,500.

The virus has spread across China and to at least 16 countries globally including France and Germany.

Coronavirus is a ’novel’ or new strain to humans, and evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus continues to emerge.

The island follows advice from Public Health England and the World Health Organisation.

Department of Health and Social Care professionals in the island say that the risk to the public is low.

There are currently no confirmed cases in the UK.

The health service here says it has put in place a number of ’precautionary measures’ to assist anyone suspected of having the virus, and to protect the public.

Information covering detection and diagnosis of possible cases is being given to health care professionals, along with infection prevention and control measures.

The DHSC says staff at the airport and Sea Terminal are being prepared to help travellers seeking advice if they are returning from an affected area of the world.

Director of Public Health Dr Henrietta Ewart said: ’The health service is prepared to deal with this type of situation. We are remaining vigilant and keeping our plans under review, responding as necessary to the latest advice from Public Health England and the World Health Organisation.

’Identifying potential cases swiftly, isolating those under investigation to help prevent transmission of the virus and protecting health staff are key principles guiding our plan.

She added: ’No system of checks can offer absolute protection because of the incubation period of the virus.

’However, we have taken proportionate, precautionary measures and our team is liaising closely with colleagues in other parts of government to ensure the Isle of Man is responding in line with emerging scientific evidence, including the provision of appropriate and timely advice to the public.’