China's medical experts and supplies arrive as Italy struggles to contain coronavirus

A team of Chinese medical experts, along with 31 tons of medical supplies, arrived in Italy late Thursday evening as the country struggles to contain the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) that has infected over 12,000 and killed over 1,000 people.

The nine-member medical team, arranged by the National Health Commission and the Red Cross Society of China, is the third Chinese expert team sent abroad following teams sent to Iran and Iraq.

Francesco Rocca, the president of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), said Italy welcomes China's support and assistance.