German virologist Christian Drosten declared the pandemic over. But the new travel rules in China are causing worldwide concern. Is there a reason for that?
The end of China’s zero-Covid approach comes amid rising case numbers and low vaccination coverage – especially among the elderly. Determining the spread and severity of Covid is more difficult than ever as Beijing has stopped publishing daily cases and stops mass testing. And now the quarantine ends on January 8 upon entry. Numerous Chinese are in the starting blocks and want to travel again on the occasion of the Chinese New Year on January 22.
Worry about new variants
However, the opening up of travel raises concerns about the spread of new Covid variants. Australian infectious disease doctor Dominic Dwyer says the lack of transparency about Covid in China is concerning as “we don’t know which variants are currently circulating in China and whether those variants respond differently to vaccination.”
Austrian environmental doctor Hans-Peter Hutter does not see the situation as drastic: “We cannot claim that there is mordor in China with regard to Corona and that we live in the Shire. We now have to keep a close eye on the situation.”
Milan has already reacted to the new regulations in China. Passengers from the Middle Kingdom must be able to show a negative PCR test upon entry into Italy. The US is also considering corona measures for travelers from China. Hutter sees the tests as positive, but points out which tourists are asked to take the test as a result. “In Japan, for example, the number of infections is increasing.” So the motto is still: wear a face mask, keep your distance and wash your hands.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
