The number of daily new infections with the corona virus in China has risen to the highest level in six months. More than 7,400 cases were reported, as the National Health Commission announced in Beijing on Tuesday. This is the highest level since the eastern Chinese port city of Shanghai went into lockdown for two months in March and April.
As the rest of the world tries to live with the virus, China is implementing a strict zero-Covid strategy with lockdowns, mass testing every day, strict monitoring, contact tracing and forced quarantine. Despite this, the number of new infections is increasing every day, the number has tripled in two weeks.
Lockdowns are no longer openly discussed, but rather “temporary control” or “shutdown”. Neighborhoods are gradually being locked and major announcements are no longer made, much to the surprise of many residents as a result.
Public discontent is growing
Public discontent is growing. Residents of megacities have to prove a negative PCR test on the Corona app at the entrances of supermarkets, residential complexes or restaurants. It should not be older than 48 or 72 hours. They also have to scan themselves with their mobile phone so that their movements can be tracked. Anyone identified as possible contact should isolate themselves.
With the few allowed entries from abroad, seven to ten days of quarantine in a hotel room is mandatory. Some local authorities impose additional restrictions. When traveling inland, proof is required that you are not from “risk areas”.
Little natural immunity
Since China has never had widespread infections with Covid-19, there is little natural immunity in its multi-billion dollar population. Elderly or chronically ill people were often excluded from vaccination campaigns for fear of side effects. This group is therefore at extra risk. Also, China has not approved advanced foreign vaccines such as mRNA vaccines, only its own conventional products.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
