According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the US has caused fears over the spread of the virus by imposing travel restrictions and evacuations from China.

China accused the United States of spreading fear by pulling its citizens out and restricting travel instead of offering significant aid. 

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters said Washington has "unceasingly manufactured and spread panic". She added that the WHO had advised against trade and travel curbs.

Chunying continued: "It is precisely developed countries like the United States with strong epidemic prevention capabilities and facilities that have taken the lead in imposing excessive restrictions contrary to WHO recommendations"

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking in Geneva, again said travel bans were unnecessary.

"There is no reason for measures that unnecessarily interfere with international travel and trade," he told the WHO’s Executive Board, adding: "We call on all countries to implement decisions that are evidence-based and consistent."