China claims coronavirus epidemic peaks as new cases dwindle

China's health authorities said Thursday the country has passed the peak of the novel-coronavirus outbreak, as it reported 15 additional infections on the mainland, a new low in daily new cases.The statement by a National Health Commission spokesman came as the World Health Organization labeled the outbreak of the virus a pandemic, pointing to nearly 120,000 cases in over 110 countries with some 4,300 deaths.Touting its epidemic control efforts as having "turned the tide," the Chinese government is now encouraging factories and businesses to resume work in lower-risk areas, including in wor…READ FULL ARTICLE