Coronavirus: France confirms first European cases of virus

France has confirmed its first three cases of Coronavirus, marking the first confirmed cases of the deadly virus from China in Europe.

French health minister Agnes Buzyn who made the announcement on Friday January 24, first confirmed the cases of two people who travelled to China. 

The third case, believed to be a family member of one of those already announced was later added to the list.

Buzyn also disclosed that she expects more to emerge within the nation's borders. She said;

"We have two cases, we will probably have other cases. We see how difficult it is in today's world to close the frontiers. 

In reality, it's not possible"

The Minister said she believes they are the first country in Europe to confirm the virus because of the development of a rapid diagnostic test within France.

Buzyn said;

"You have to treat an epidemic as you would a fire, that's to say find the source very quickly."

The French health Minister also confirmed that the Bordeaux patient is a 48-year-old Frenchman of Chinese origin who passed through Wuhan. His case was confirmed after being taken to the hospital for presenting classic flu-like symptoms.

The Bordeaux patient who alongside the second patient who is receiving treatment in Paris, were in contact with about 10 people before their cases were confirmed.