The death toll from a new flu-like coronavirus in China rose to nine on Wednesday.<br />Chinese health officials report the total confirmed cases of the virus have skyrocketed to 440.<br />Authorities stepped up efforts to control the outbreak by discouraging public gatherings in Hubei province.<br />2,197 people who came into contact with infected people have been isolated.<br />Health officials have confirmed there is evidence that the virus is being spread through “respiratory transmission”.
