The novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a new strain of coronavirus first reported to WHO on 31 December 2019. Coronaviruses (CoV) are a family of viruses that cause respiratory illness, ranging from the common cold to more severe disease that can result in death, such as SARS-CoV (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome).

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a significant public health issue during epidemics. Lack of adequate reproductive health services, including contraception and management of gender based violence, including sexual violence, can lead to a range of adverse outcomes including trauma, sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies and maternal and neonatal deaths. Access to life-saving sexual and reproductive health information and services is in line with the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for Sexual and Reproductive Health in Crisis Situations, and highlights the importance of providing integrated services to women, adolescents and youth.