DOD urges caution amid coronavirus outbreak in China

Defense Secretary Mark Esper released guidance today aimed at reducing the potential threat of the rapidly spreading coronavirus responsible for nearly 10,000 infections in China.

"I approved a directive apprising our forces about precautions they should take, how to recognize the signs and symptoms of the virus," Esper said in a statement. "The Department of Defense continues to work closely with our interagency partners as we monitor the situation and protect our service members and their families, which is my highest priority."

Esper's directive to DOD personnel notes the State Department recently adjusted the travel advisory for China to a Level 4, meaning individuals should not travel there.

The State Department has also requested that all non-essential U.S. government personnel defer travel to China.

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends avoiding all nonessential travel to China.

The virus has killed at least 213 people, all of them in China, with about 130 cases confirmed in 22 other countries, according to global health agencies.

The United States has confirmed six cases of the flu-like virus, as well as the first person-to-person transmission.

The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak a "public health emergency of international concern."

"DOD officials are closely monitoring the outbreak of the virus, which was first detected in Wuhan City, China, and is closely coordinating with our interagency partners to ensure accurate and timely information is available and all appropriate measures are taken to prevent potential spread," the Pentagon said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the DOD directive states leaders in charge of U.S. geographic commands will be issuing specific guidance.