Germany reports 1st death from coronavirus outbreak
A German person died of the coronavirus in the town of Heinsberg, the first fatality in the country from the outbreak of the disease, news agency DPA reported citing the health ministry in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
The first German death underscores the risks posed by the disease, which started in China and has since spread across the world. Globally, more than 109,000 people have become infected with the virus.
Germany's export-oriented economy is particularly exposed to disruptions caused by the virus. China is Germany's largest trading partner, and its auto industry has close ties to parts suppliers in northern Italy, the epicenter of the outbreak in Europe.
Like other countries, Germany has canceled big events such as the ITB tourism trade show and the Leipzig book fair as it tries to contain the spread. The government hasn't ruled out sealing off entire regions or cities if the situation further deteriorates.
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