BEIJING — China's top economic planner invested 200 million yuan ($28.67 million) on Feb 7 from the central budget to help treat severe cases of novel coronavirus infection.

The investment was directed to three hospitals in Hubei province, the heart of the coronavirus outbreak, for building treatment units for severe cases, said the National Development and Reform Commission.

It was mainly meant for purchasing key medical equipment including non-invasive ventilators and ECG monitors to help cure more patients in critical conditions.

The commission said it will prioritize medical treatment and quarantine facilities in future investments to combat the virus.