There were no confirmed coronavirus cases in Jammu and Kashmir, a health official said on Friday, but advised the public to remain cautious.

Shafqat Khan, Nodal Officer, corona virus control Jammu and Kashmir, told IANS that 230 samples were collected from across the Union Territory, of which 27 were sent for testing to Delhi.But all the 230 sample were found to be negative, Khan said.

“Jammu and Kashmir is corona virus free, there is nothing to panic, however people are advised to remain cautious,” Khan told IANS.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has appointed variousofficers to ramp up efforts for prevention and control of the fast-spreadingvirus, which has so far infected 31 people in the country as of Friday. Theofficers will ensure the creation of adequate quarantine, isolation and otherrequisite facilities besides undertaking adequate measures for surveillance ofhome quarantined persons.Meanwhile the Kashmir Health Department were on alertto deal with any possible case in the valley.

Trained staff has been mobilised and an isolation ward hasbeen established at Maternity Centre and General OPD at Sanatnagar, Srinagar.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has also deputed medicalstaff to screen foreigners at the Srinagar airport.In a tweet, DC Srinagar ShahidChoudhary said: “#Coronavirus Outbreak is Global Health Emergency. Awareness isequally important as Preparedness. People landing at Srinagar airport pl ensure100% self-declaration for your own safety and everyone else. Pl cooperate withHealth teams.