Most children in Beijing will not return to school next week as originally planned, Chinese officials said on Saturday, after an emerging COVID-19 outbreak prompted authorities to partly reverse a decision to resume in-person teaching.

China is the last major economy still committed to a zero-Covid strategy, stamping out new cases with a combination of targeted lockdowns, mass testing and lengthy quarantines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-kicks-off-new-round-of-mass-covid-testing-beijing-cases-jump-487185">Shanghai kicks off new round of mass Covid testing, Beijing cases jump</a>

But virus clusters in recent months have put that approach under strain. The megacity of Shanghai was forced into a gruelling months-long lockdown and in the capital Beijing, schools were shuttered and residents were ordered to work from home.&nbsp;

Authorities in Beijing eased many curbs earlier this week, but dozens of infections linked to a bar have led authorities to tighten some restrictions again.

Most primary and middle school students will "continue to study online at home" from Monday, city government spokesperson Xu Hejian said at a press briefing on Saturday.

Watch |&nbsp;COVID woes worsen in China: World Bank cuts COVID growth forecast

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The announcement partly walked back a previous decision to send younger pupils back to school in phases, starting next week.

Some 115 cases have been linked to the bar cluster so far, municipal health official Liu Xiaofeng said at the briefing.

The new outbreak was "at a rapidly developing stage ... and at a relatively high risk of spreading", Liu said.

More than 20 million people in Shanghai began a mass testing drive on Saturday that local governments said would take place under temporary lockdown conditions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-restrictions-return-to-shanghai-xi-jinping-says-persistence-is-victory-486990">Covid restrictions return to Shanghai, Xi Jinping says ‘persistence is victory’</a>

The move comes less than two weeks after the eastern economic hub lurched out of a harsh lockdown that was punctuated by food shortages and isolated protests from irate residents.

Officials have maintained a shifting patchwork of restrictions in Shanghai, wary of a virus resurgence after finally containing the country's worst outbreak in two years.

China recorded 138 domestic infections on Saturday, including 61 in Beijing and 16 in Shanghai, according to the National Health Commission.

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Most children in Beijing will not return to school next week as originally planned, Chinese officials said on Saturday, after an emerging COVID-19 outbreak prompted authorities to partly reverse a decision to resume in-person teaching.

Most children in Beijing will not return to school next week as originally planned, Chinese officials said on Saturday, after an emerging COVID-19 outbreak prompted authorities to partly reverse a decision to resume in-person teaching. China is the last major economy still committed to a zero-Covid strategy, stamping out new cases with a combination of targeted lockdowns, mass testing and lengthy quarantines. Also read | Shanghai kicks off new round of mass Covid testing, Beijing cases jump But virus clusters in recent months have put that approach under strain. The megacity of Shanghai was forced into a gruelling months-long lockdown and in the capital Beijing, schools were shuttered and residents were ordered to work from home. Authorities in Beijing eased many curbs earlier this week, but dozens of infections linked to a bar have led authorities to tighten some restrictions again. Most primary and middle school students will "continue to study online at home" from Monday, city government spokesperson Xu Hejian said at a press briefing on Saturday. Watch | COVID woes worsen in China: World Bank cuts COVID growth forecast The announcement partly walked back a previous decision to send younger pupils back to school in phases, starting next week. Some 115 cases have been linked to the bar cluster so far, municipal health official Liu Xiaofeng said at the briefing. The new outbreak was "at a rapidly developing stage ... and at a relatively high risk of spreading", Liu said. More than 20 million people in Shanghai began a mass testing drive on Saturday that local governments said would take place under temporary lockdown conditions. Also read | Covid restrictions return to Shanghai, Xi Jinping says ‘persistence is victory’ The move comes less than two weeks after the eastern economic hub lurched out of a harsh lockdown that was punctuated by food shortages and isolated protests from irate residents. Officials have maintained a shifting patchwork of restrictions in Shanghai, wary of a virus resurgence after finally containing the country's worst outbreak in two years. China recorded 138 domestic infections on Saturday, including 61 in Beijing and 16 in Shanghai, according to the National Health Commission. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Beijing delays school reopenings after new Covid outbreak

The commercial hub of Shanghai in China recently began a mass Covid testing for close to 25 million residents in 15 of Shanghai's 16 districts this Saturday. At the same time, Beijing reported an upsurge in cases.

The commercial hub of Shanghai in China recently began a mass Covid testing for close to 25 million residents in 15 of Shanghai's 16 districts this Saturday. At the same time, Beijing reported an upsurge in cases. Authorities are determined to contain an outbreak linked to a popular beauty salon and have barred residents from five districts in Shanghai from leaving their homes during the mass testing period, reported Reuters. This comes after the city lifted a strict two-month lockdown ten days back, aiming to eradicate the community spread of Covid. Also read | Shanghai to lock down and test 2.7 million as Covid fears linger Shanghai reported seven new local symptomatic cases on Saturday, most of which were detected outside of the quarantined area, along with nine new asymptomatic cases being reported, six more than the previous day. China's capital, Beijing, also reported a spike in cases on Saturday with 36 new local symptomatic cases, seven more than the previous day, and 25 new local asymptomatic cases. The authorities claim that China's zero-COVID policy is needed to protect the elderly and the medical system, Reuters reported citing the authorities. Watch | Residents stock up food supplies as Shanghai imposes new COVID lockdown curbs Bar Cluster On Thursday, the capital reinstated a few Covid curbs again, mainly in two districts that includes one of the most populated district, Chaoyang. Chaoyang district is known for its nightlife, shopping, and streets of embassies, which made the authorities shut down entertainment and related venues in the area after a crowd started flaring up in the busy neighbourhood. The cases in Beijing are being linked to an establishment called Heaven Supermarket Bar as close to 61 cases reported in the capital on Saturday had either visited the bar or had some sort of links to it. Also read | Covid restrictions return to Shanghai, Xi Jinping says ‘persistence is victory’ A total of 69 cases linked to the bar have been reported so far from 14 of Beijing's 16 districts. The capital had imposed widespread Covid curbs to fight a significant outbreak that began in the month of April, which was relaxed less than two weeks ago. Mainland China totally reported 210 new coronavirus cases as of June 10, of which 79 were symptomatic and 131 were asymptomatic cases, Reuters reported quoting the National Health Commission. No new deaths have been reported, leaving China's fatalities at 5,226. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shanghai kicks off new round of mass Covid testing, Beijing cases jump

After cases started declining, the Chinese capital city Beijing is easing coronavirus (COVID-19) measures which were imposed under its zero Covid policy. Due to the rise in Covid cases, China forced a zero-Covid strategy of hard lockdowns, mass testing and long quarantine periods. Such strict actions were taken to remove Covid clusters and outbreaks.&nbsp;

Local authorities said in a statement on Sunday (June 5) that the public transport will resume in most districts, except for Fengtai and some parts of Changping. People are allowed to return to the office and restaurants to start dine-in services.&nbsp;

During the 15 hours to 3pm local time (0700 GMT) on Monday (June 6), Beijing reported no new domestically transmitted Covid cases, a disease control official revealed as quoted by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Pang Xinghuo, who is the deputy director at Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, told a news briefing that the Chinese capital Beijing has had 1,822 Covid infections as of 3 pm local time Monday since April 22.&nbsp;

News reports revealed scenes from ground zero where morning rush hour traffic resumed in Beijing. Residents cycled on the roads alongside heavy traffic.&nbsp;

Restaurants, which have been restricted to takeaway since early May, opened for business as dine-in service in most parts of Beijing also resumed.&nbsp;

In Shanghai, most of the city's 25 million inhabitants have been able to move freely since Wednesday. But hundreds of thousands still face restrictions after being designated close contacts of infected people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After cases started declining, the Chinese capital city Beijing is easing coronavirus (COVID-19) measures which were imposed under its zero Covid policy. Due to the rise in Covid cases, China forced a zero-Covid strategy of hard lockdowns, mass testing and long quarantine periods.

After cases started declining, the Chinese capital city Beijing is easing coronavirus (COVID-19) measures which were imposed under its zero Covid policy. Due to the rise in Covid cases, China forced a zero-Covid strategy of hard lockdowns, mass testing and long quarantine periods. Such strict actions were taken to remove Covid clusters and outbreaks. Local authorities said in a statement on Sunday (June 5) that the public transport will resume in most districts, except for Fengtai and some parts of Changping. People are allowed to return to the office and restaurants to start dine-in services. During the 15 hours to 3pm local time (0700 GMT) on Monday (June 6), Beijing reported no new domestically transmitted Covid cases, a disease control official revealed as quoted by news agency Reuters. Pang Xinghuo, who is the deputy director at Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, told a news briefing that the Chinese capital Beijing has had 1,822 Covid infections as of 3 pm local time Monday since April 22. News reports revealed scenes from ground zero where morning rush hour traffic resumed in Beijing. Residents cycled on the roads alongside heavy traffic. Restaurants, which have been restricted to takeaway since early May, opened for business as dine-in service in most parts of Beijing also resumed. In Shanghai, most of the city's 25 million inhabitants have been able to move freely since Wednesday. But hundreds of thousands still face restrictions after being designated close contacts of infected people. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: Morning rush resumes after Beijing reopens schools and workplaces as curbs ease

Shanghai's local government said that China's largest city has reported 22 new domestically transmitted asymptomatic coronavirus cases.

Its local symptomatic cases rose to nine&nbsp;from six&nbsp;a day earlier according to health authorities who are closely monitoring the city's situation.

It comes after Shanghai ended the coronavirus lockdown and lifted restrictions to ease the frustration about the “zero-COVID” strategy on its population.

They were welcomed by a weary populace and struggling shopkeepers eager for life to return to normal.

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Allowing malls and shops to reopen and people in "low-risk" areas to return to work,&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;will move into a normalised epidemic-control phase from Wednesday.

In an authoritarian country where people think twice about speaking out publicly because of possible repercussions, some had resisted and staged protests at apartment complexes and university dormitories.

Vice mayor Zong Ming told an online press conference railways will also resume normal operations and the number of domestic flights to the city will increase.

Shanghai is not the only city in China that recorded new cases. The country's capital, Beijing, also reported 16 new domestically transmitted symptomatic coronavirus cases.

A day earlier it had reported 8 cases which means the outbreak is still spreading despite safety checks to curb them.

Under a system that readily punishes them for lax enforcement if outbreaks flare-up or come back, officials tend to err on the side of caution.

Highlighting that sporadic cases are still being found in some districts, but they are within a controllable range, Xu Hejian, a city spokesperson said “This round of outbreak has been put under effective control.” 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Shanghai's local government said that China's largest city has reported 22 new domestically transmitted asymptomatic coronavirus cases. Its local symptomatic cases rose to nine from six a day earlier according to health authorities who are closely monitoring the city's situation.

Shanghai's local government said that China's largest city has reported 22 new domestically transmitted asymptomatic coronavirus cases. Its local symptomatic cases rose to nine from six a day earlier according to health authorities who are closely monitoring the city's situation. It comes after Shanghai ended the coronavirus lockdown and lifted restrictions to ease the frustration about the “zero-COVID” strategy on its population. They were welcomed by a weary populace and struggling shopkeepers eager for life to return to normal. Allowing malls and shops to reopen and people in "low-risk" areas to return to work, Shanghai will move into a normalised epidemic-control phase from Wednesday. In an authoritarian country where people think twice about speaking out publicly because of possible repercussions, some had resisted and staged protests at apartment complexes and university dormitories. Vice mayor Zong Ming told an online press conference railways will also resume normal operations and the number of domestic flights to the city will increase. Shanghai is not the only city in China that recorded new cases. The country's capital, Beijing, also reported 16 new domestically transmitted symptomatic coronavirus cases. A day earlier it had reported 8 cases which means the outbreak is still spreading despite safety checks to curb them. Under a system that readily punishes them for lax enforcement if outbreaks flare-up or come back, officials tend to err on the side of caution. Highlighting that sporadic cases are still being found in some districts, but they are within a controllable range, Xu Hejian, a city spokesperson said “This round of outbreak has been put under effective control.” (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Coronavirus in China: Beijing, Shanghai report new cases after easing restrictions

Beijing is all set to expand in South Pacific region but China's expansion plan is troubling West and that has now led to an Australia vs China fight in Oceania. Australia has now warned Pacific nations against Beijing deals.

South Pacific: Australia warns Pacific nations against Beijing deals

Is there a spilt within the Communist Party? Mixed messages from the leadership in Beijing has sparked doubts. There is speculation that differences have emerged between President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang. Palki Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: Is there a spilt within the Communist Party?

After about two months of strict lockdown in line with China's zero covid policy, Shanghai is now inching towards a gradual reopening. According to reports, officials in Shanghai aim to end the lockdown from Wednesday.

Shanghai inches towards gradual reopening, over 100 bank outlets resume work

Hong&nbsp;Kong's&nbsp;next&nbsp;leader&nbsp;John Lee travelled to&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;on Saturday to receive the central government's blessing as he prepares to take office in a month.

Lee, 64, a former security chief who oversaw the crackdown on&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's democracy movement, was chosen as the&nbsp;next&nbsp;chief executive by a small committee of&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;loyalists in early May.

He was the sole candidate in the race and received 99 percent of the vote, after China remoulded&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's electoral system in 2021 to ensure anyone deemed unpatriotic would be ineligible to run.

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As part of a four-day trip, Lee will be officially appointed and is expected to meet with top Chinese leaders, according to local media.

The South China Morning Post reported that Lee is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, and will present a list of his team for approval.

The incoming chief executive will have to undergo testing and quarantine over the weekend, and will not be able to meet outsiders during his trip, the report said.

Lee will assume office on July 1, which coincides with the 25th anniversary of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's transfer from British to Chinese rule and the halfway point of the "One Country, Two Systems" political model.

Watch |&nbsp;US, Australia &amp; allies counter China as it steadily builds influence in the South Pacific

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It is not yet confirmed whether Xi will visit&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;for the 25th anniversary celebrations, which will be seen as a symbolic endorsement of Lee's new administration.

Such a trip would also mark the first time he has travelled outside the Chinese mainland since the pandemic began.

In July 2017, Xi attended the swearing-in of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;leader&nbsp;Carrie Lam as part of a three-day trip, which also included a visit to the local Chinese army barracks.

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But the protests that accompanied Xi's 2017 trip are not likely to be repeated this year, after&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;imposed a national security law that has clamped down on dissent.

More than 10,000 police officers will be deployed in the event a Chinese&nbsp;leader&nbsp;does visit&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, local publication Eastweek magazine reported.

Local authorities are also finding ways to protect Xi against the risk of coronavirus infection, as both&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and China remain committed to a zero-Covid strategy.

Xi may opt for a day trip or scrap the visit entirely if new coronavirus outbreaks are found, according to the Wall Street Journal.

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Hong Kong's next leader John Lee travelled to Beijing on Saturday to receive the central government's blessing as he prepares to take office in a month. Lee, 64, a former security chief who oversaw the crackdown on Hong Kong's democracy movement, was chosen as the next chief executive by a small committee of Beijing loyalists in early May.

Hong Kong's next leader John Lee travelled to Beijing on Saturday to receive the central government's blessing as he prepares to take office in a month. Lee, 64, a former security chief who oversaw the crackdown on Hong Kong's democracy movement, was chosen as the next chief executive by a small committee of Beijing loyalists in early May. He was the sole candidate in the race and received 99 percent of the vote, after China remoulded Hong Kong's electoral system in 2021 to ensure anyone deemed unpatriotic would be ineligible to run. Also read | Racist, pornographic illustrations in Chinese textbooks spark uproar As part of a four-day trip, Lee will be officially appointed and is expected to meet with top Chinese leaders, according to local media. The South China Morning Post reported that Lee is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, and will present a list of his team for approval. The incoming chief executive will have to undergo testing and quarantine over the weekend, and will not be able to meet outsiders during his trip, the report said. Lee will assume office on July 1, which coincides with the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's transfer from British to Chinese rule and the halfway point of the "One Country, Two Systems" political model. Watch | US, Australia & allies counter China as it steadily builds influence in the South Pacific It is not yet confirmed whether Xi will visit Hong Kong for the 25th anniversary celebrations, which will be seen as a symbolic endorsement of Lee's new administration. Such a trip would also mark the first time he has travelled outside the Chinese mainland since the pandemic began. In July 2017, Xi attended the swearing-in of Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam as part of a three-day trip, which also included a visit to the local Chinese army barracks. Also read | Ensure maritime freedom in South China Sea, Biden tells naval graduates But the protests that accompanied Xi's 2017 trip are not likely to be repeated this year, after Beijing imposed a national security law that has clamped down on dissent. More than 10,000 police officers will be deployed in the event a Chinese leader does visit Hong Kong, local publication Eastweek magazine reported. Local authorities are also finding ways to protect Xi against the risk of coronavirus infection, as both Hong Kong and China remain committed to a zero-Covid strategy. Xi may opt for a day trip or scrap the visit entirely if new coronavirus outbreaks are found, according to the Wall Street Journal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong's next leader visits Beijing for official nod

The National Health Commission reported 80 locally transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases on the Chinese mainland in the last 24 hours, 45 of which were in Shanghai and 22 in Beijing.

The Beijing municipal health authority reported 22 new confirmed locally transmitted COVID-19 cases and seven local asymptomatic cases in the last 24 hours, according to Xinhua News Agency.

Meanwhile, 31 COVID-19 patients were released from hospitals on Thursday after recovering. According to the National Health Commission's Friday report, 216 COVID-19 patients were discharged from hospitals after recovering on the Chinese mainland on Thursday.

As of May 26, the total number of COVID-19 patients discharged from hospitals after recovery on the mainland had reached 215,339 people.

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The National Health Commission reported 80 locally transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases on the Chinese mainland in the last 24 hours, 45 of which were in Shanghai and 22 in Beijing.

The National Health Commission reported 80 locally transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases on the Chinese mainland in the last 24 hours, 45 of which were in Shanghai and 22 in Beijing. The Beijing municipal health authority reported 22 new confirmed locally transmitted COVID-19 cases and seven local asymptomatic cases in the last 24 hours, according to Xinhua News Agency. Meanwhile, 31 COVID-19 patients were released from hospitals on Thursday after recovering. According to the National Health Commission's Friday report, 216 COVID-19 patients were discharged from hospitals after recovering on the Chinese mainland on Thursday. As of May 26, the total number of COVID-19 patients discharged from hospitals after recovery on the mainland had reached 215,339 people. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China logs 80 new local Covid-19 cases, 45 in Shanghai; 22 in Beijing

Beijing is yet again facing the heat over its alleged human rights violations of Uighur Muslims, a minority community in China which is said to have been facing incarceration in the Xinjiang region of the country.

New leaked reports on Uighurs Muslims in China shocks the world

While Shanghai has reopened four of the 20 subway lines, Beijing is still struggling to eliminate new covid infections. Few parts of Shanghai & Beijing have tightened covid curbs. However, China's zero covid policy at odds with other countries.

China: Shanghai reopens some public transport; Beijing struggles to eliminate new infections

The rapid rise of COVID-19 cases in Shanghai led to widespread panic in China and although the lockdown was able to decrease the cases, reports of food shortages and less than satisfactory living conditions continued to plague the citizens. However, it seems that normal life is set to return to Shanghai once more as the authorities plan to end the lockdown measures from June 1. It will mark the end of a tough six-week period which had a severe impact on both social and economic fronts.

Shanghai deputy mayor Zong Ming said on Monday that the city’s reopening will be carried out in phases and the restrictions on movement of the citizens will be removed after May 21.

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“From June 1 to mid- and late June, as long as risks of a rebound in infections are controlled, we will fully implement epidemic prevention and control, normalise management and fully restore normal production and life in the city,” she said according to a report by Reuters.

The authorities also said that the first phase will be starting with reopening reopen supermarkets, convenience stores and pharmacies from Monday. China’s railway operator will also increase the number of trains arriving and departing the city and the same will be done with domestic flights.

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After the relaxation of movement restrictions, bus and rail travel will start in Shanghai.

While Shanghai looks to bounce back from the troubles of the lockdown, Beijing continues to report cases and it remains to be seen whether a similar lockdown strategy is used in the Chinese capital.

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The rapid rise of COVID-19 cases in Shanghai led to widespread panic in China and although the lockdown was able to decrease the cases, reports of food shortages and less than satisfactory living conditions continued to plague the citizens.

The rapid rise of COVID-19 cases in Shanghai led to widespread panic in China and although the lockdown was able to decrease the cases, reports of food shortages and less than satisfactory living conditions continued to plague the citizens. However, it seems that normal life is set to return to Shanghai once more as the authorities plan to end the lockdown measures from June 1. It will mark the end of a tough six-week period which had a severe impact on both social and economic fronts. Shanghai deputy mayor Zong Ming said on Monday that the city’s reopening will be carried out in phases and the restrictions on movement of the citizens will be removed after May 21. Also read | Buffalo shooting: 'Racist' shooter specifically targeted Black neighbourhood “From June 1 to mid- and late June, as long as risks of a rebound in infections are controlled, we will fully implement epidemic prevention and control, normalise management and fully restore normal production and life in the city,” she said according to a report by Reuters. The authorities also said that the first phase will be starting with reopening reopen supermarkets, convenience stores and pharmacies from Monday. China’s railway operator will also increase the number of trains arriving and departing the city and the same will be done with domestic flights. Also read | In pics-WION Global Summit 2022: 'Mission Peace' begins After the relaxation of movement restrictions, bus and rail travel will start in Shanghai. While Shanghai looks to bounce back from the troubles of the lockdown, Beijing continues to report cases and it remains to be seen whether a similar lockdown strategy is used in the Chinese capital. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Shanghai to resume normal life as tough COVID-19 lockdown set to end on June 1

People could be seen standing in long queues for covid-19 tests in Beijing while Shanghai is tightening its covid-19 lockdown. China has withdrawn its rights to host the 2023 Asian Cup finals due to pandemic.

Covid-19: China withdraws rights to host 2023 Asian Cup due to pandemic

The rise in COVID-19 cases has been a major source of concern for the Chinese authorities and with Shanghai already under lockdown, the people of the country are in great distress. There were a number of reports from Shanghai depicting the poor living conditions of the citizens and with Beijing also facing an alarming number of cases, the people of the city are also worried about resources.

With ‘rumours’ suggesting that Beijing could be headed for a lockdown, people rushed to the supermarkets in order to stock up on necessary items, but it seems that the ‘rumours’ were not true.

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Chinese police are currently investigating a woman for starting the rumours which resulted in a widespread panic. The information appeared first on social media and was quicky shared by a huge number of people. The woman can also be tried for causing disruption as the alleged rumour resulted in a number of people breaking the prevalent rules and regulations set by the authorities.

According to the official police statement, the woman surnamed Yao “fabricated and published the relevant rumours" and also stated that the police have taken “criminal compulsory measures" against her. Although, it is not clear what measures were taken against the accused.

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The trend remains worrisome in China as 2,400 cases reported on Friday with 50 of them in Beijing.

Although there has not been a formal announcement of any lockdown, restrictions are in place who does not allow people to roam around freely and also makes testing compulsory.

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The rise in COVID-19 cases has been a major source of concern for the Chinese authorities and with Shanghai already under lockdown, the people of the country are in great distress.

The rise in COVID-19 cases has been a major source of concern for the Chinese authorities and with Shanghai already under lockdown, the people of the country are in great distress. There were a number of reports from Shanghai depicting the poor living conditions of the citizens and with Beijing also facing an alarming number of cases, the people of the city are also worried about resources. With ‘rumours’ suggesting that Beijing could be headed for a lockdown, people rushed to the supermarkets in order to stock up on necessary items, but it seems that the ‘rumours’ were not true. Also read | Twitter deal temporarily on hold, says Elon Musk Chinese police are currently investigating a woman for starting the rumours which resulted in a widespread panic. The information appeared first on social media and was quicky shared by a huge number of people. The woman can also be tried for causing disruption as the alleged rumour resulted in a number of people breaking the prevalent rules and regulations set by the authorities. According to the official police statement, the woman surnamed Yao “fabricated and published the relevant rumours" and also stated that the police have taken “criminal compulsory measures" against her. Although, it is not clear what measures were taken against the accused. Also read | China practising missile strikes on targets in Taiwan and Guam: Report The trend remains worrisome in China as 2,400 cases reported on Friday with 50 of them in Beijing. Although there has not been a formal announcement of any lockdown, restrictions are in place who does not allow people to roam around freely and also makes testing compulsory. WATCH WION LIVE TV HERE -

Chinese police investigate woman for spreading 'rumours' about lockdown in Beijing

The United States insisted on Tuesday that nothing had changed in its stance toward Taiwan after Beijing was angered by an updated fact sheet. In the updated fact sheet as it stands, the reference to the island nation being a part of China has been removed.

US state department plays down change as China angered by Taiwan 'fact sheet'

China's capital city is racing to contain the covid cases. Beijing has kicked off a fresh round of mass testing and officials have continued to tighten covid restrictions. Various subway stations have been shut down and at least 15% of the transportation network remains closed.

China struggles to contain covid surge, Beijing ramps up mass testing

There seems to be no end to rising COVID-19 cases in China’s capital city of Beijing. The authorities maintained tightened COVID-19 amid the ongoing elusive outbreak.

No end to COVID-19 woes in China’s capital city of Beijing

Amid china's zero-covid policy, cases in the Chinese capital Beijing continue to surge. The city reported 39 new covid infections in the last 24 hours taking its total tally to 727. Authorities continued to conduct regular mass testing.

Covid Update: China's capital Beijing witnesses surge in covid cases

The rising COVID-19 cases has been the source of major concern for the Chinese authorities and after a serious situation in Shanghai, Beijing has become the epicentre of the pandemic and lockdown was imposed on a number of areas in the capital to contain the infection.

A press briefing on Tuesday announced that schools in Beijing will reopen at least one week after the labour day holiday. The decision was taken keeping the growing rate of cases in mind.

The date when schools can resume will be decided after studying the COVID situation in the city, Li Yi, spokesperson with Beijing municipal education commission, said according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-hong-kong-plummeted-68-places-in-the-recent-press-freedom-rankings-476076">Why Hong Kong plummeted 68 places in the recent press freedom rankings</a>

Earlier, all the schools in the region were closed one day ahead of schedule for their May Day holidays. There are a number of schools who have already transitioned to online classes and Xinhua news agency reported that students and teachers will need negative tests in order to return.

The testing process is a time-inducing one and Beijing implementing mass testing in some of the areas, the teachers and students will take time to return to the classrooms after the holidays.

53 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Beijing on Wednesday as the city continued to impose strict rules regarding testing and masks. The new directive states that all medical workers and delivery personnel will have to wear masks in closed control areas and temporary control areas.

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Pang Xinghuo, deputy director of the Beijing municipal disease prevention and control centre, said in a press conference that mass testing will be conducted all over the provinces.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The rising COVID-19 cases has been the source of major concern for the Chinese authorities and after a serious situation in Shanghai, Beijing has become the epicentre of the pandemic and lockdown was imposed on a number of areas in the capital to contain the infection.

The rising COVID-19 cases has been the source of major concern for the Chinese authorities and after a serious situation in Shanghai, Beijing has become the epicentre of the pandemic and lockdown was imposed on a number of areas in the capital to contain the infection. A press briefing on Tuesday announced that schools in Beijing will reopen at least one week after the labour day holiday. The decision was taken keeping the growing rate of cases in mind. The date when schools can resume will be decided after studying the COVID situation in the city, Li Yi, spokesperson with Beijing municipal education commission, said according to Reuters. Also read | Why Hong Kong plummeted 68 places in the recent press freedom rankings Earlier, all the schools in the region were closed one day ahead of schedule for their May Day holidays. There are a number of schools who have already transitioned to online classes and Xinhua news agency reported that students and teachers will need negative tests in order to return. The testing process is a time-inducing one and Beijing implementing mass testing in some of the areas, the teachers and students will take time to return to the classrooms after the holidays. 53 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Beijing on Wednesday as the city continued to impose strict rules regarding testing and masks. The new directive states that all medical workers and delivery personnel will have to wear masks in closed control areas and temporary control areas. Also read | Three killed as Al-Shabaab militants attack African Union camp in Somalia Pang Xinghuo, deputy director of the Beijing municipal disease prevention and control centre, said in a press conference that mass testing will be conducted all over the provinces. WATCH | EU prepares next Russia sanctions including German-backed oil ban (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing to postpone school reopening for at least one week after labour day holiday as cases rise

Beijing authorities are now imposing strict covid-19 curbs, they are ramping up measures to control the spread of the virus. However, Shanghai officials ease covid curbs because no cases have been reported outside quarantine areas.

Covid-19 in China: Authorities in Beijing impose strict covid curbs

In a positive sign for the city, Shanghai on Saturday said that no new daily Covid cases outside quarantine areas had been found. This has marked a milestone in Shanghai's battle to contain the virus. The recent outbreak had paralysed the city of 25 million.

Outbreak in Shaghai has kept Beijing on edge. At the start of the five-day Labour Day break, street were eerily quiet.

"You look at a city that used to be crowded and now is void. You wonder how these people manage to survive," said Li, 35, who works in the finance sector in Beijing, breaking into tears.

In the eastern commercial capital of Shanghai, scenes of houses and buildings ringed with fences to prevent residents from leaving have grabbed headlines at a time when most other countries in the world are learning to live with COVID.

China maintains a zero-COVID policy aimed at eradicating the disease, leading to frustration, especially in Shanghai, where many residents have been cooped up for more than a month. Some, struggling to find food and other daily necessities, have shown rare public opposition to the government's stringent controls.

If the zero-tolerance campaign works, however, it would be a victory for President Xi Jinping's approach in a year when he is expected to secure a precedent-breaking third term.

Shanghai officials did not discuss the break in COVID transmission at their daily news conference, but social media cheered the news.

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"Shanghai has finally reached zero at the community level!!! May Shanghai wake up as soon as possible!!," said one post on the Weibo platform.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a positive sign for the city, Shanghai on Saturday said that no new daily Covid cases outside quarantine areas had been found. This has marked a milestone in Shanghai's battle to contain the virus.

In a positive sign for the city, Shanghai on Saturday said that no new daily Covid cases outside quarantine areas had been found. This has marked a milestone in Shanghai's battle to contain the virus. The recent outbreak had paralysed the city of 25 million. Outbreak in Shaghai has kept Beijing on edge. At the start of the five-day Labour Day break, street were eerily quiet. "You look at a city that used to be crowded and now is void. You wonder how these people manage to survive," said Li, 35, who works in the finance sector in Beijing, breaking into tears. In the eastern commercial capital of Shanghai, scenes of houses and buildings ringed with fences to prevent residents from leaving have grabbed headlines at a time when most other countries in the world are learning to live with COVID. China maintains a zero-COVID policy aimed at eradicating the disease, leading to frustration, especially in Shanghai, where many residents have been cooped up for more than a month. Some, struggling to find food and other daily necessities, have shown rare public opposition to the government's stringent controls. If the zero-tolerance campaign works, however, it would be a victory for President Xi Jinping's approach in a year when he is expected to secure a precedent-breaking third term. Shanghai officials did not discuss the break in COVID transmission at their daily news conference, but social media cheered the news. Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Euro zone inflation rises to 7.5% × "Shanghai has finally reached zero at the community level!!! May Shanghai wake up as soon as possible!!," said one post on the Weibo platform. (With inputs from agencies)

Shanghai hits Covid milestone, Beijing still wary

China has sharpened COVID-19 screening in Beijing to prevent Shanghai-like chaos but the commuter workers are not happy about the restrictions, find out why in this next report.

Beijing prevents Shanghai-like chaos, commuter workers upset with restrictions

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown.

Most citizens in Shanghai have been one month into stressful home isolation. They struggled to meet basic needs. The situation improved as number of new cases declined further

Fears were growing, however, that China would be trapped in a whack-a-mole game in coming months, lifting lockdowns in some places, while imposing others elsewhere, causing severe economic damage and exasperating its population.

As Beijing rolled out three rounds of mass testing this week across most of the city, it locked down a number of residential compounds, offices and a university.

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Some schools, entertainment venues and tourist sites were also shut. Universal Studios in Beijing said it would require visitors from Friday to show negative test results before they could enter the theme park.

Andrew Ward, 36, a Canadian living in one of Beijing's narrow lanes of courtyard houses known as hutongs, was sent to quarantine in a hotel on Thursday even though his test results were negative.

On Wednesday, people in hazmat suits tested Ward at home after he was identified as a close contact of a COVID case.

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"I'm a little bit annoyed, because I spent all that money and time stockpiling food for being locked down at home," said Ward, who works at an international school.

(With inputs from agencies)

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown.

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown. Most citizens in Shanghai have been one month into stressful home isolation. They struggled to meet basic needs. The situation improved as number of new cases declined further Fears were growing, however, that China would be trapped in a whack-a-mole game in coming months, lifting lockdowns in some places, while imposing others elsewhere, causing severe economic damage and exasperating its population. As Beijing rolled out three rounds of mass testing this week across most of the city, it locked down a number of residential compounds, offices and a university. Also Read | China's Guangzhou city orders flight cancellation, mass testing after suspected COVID-19 case Some schools, entertainment venues and tourist sites were also shut. Universal Studios in Beijing said it would require visitors from Friday to show negative test results before they could enter the theme park. Andrew Ward, 36, a Canadian living in one of Beijing's narrow lanes of courtyard houses known as hutongs, was sent to quarantine in a hotel on Thursday even though his test results were negative. On Wednesday, people in hazmat suits tested Ward at home after he was identified as a close contact of a COVID case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × "I'm a little bit annoyed, because I spent all that money and time stockpiling food for being locked down at home," said Ward, who works at an international school. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing steps up Covid screening to avoid Shanghai-like fate

The outrage against Zero Covid in China is growing. Residents of Shanghai are protesting against fencing of their homes. While residents of Beijing have resorted to panic buying after a fresh spike in cases. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Lockdown fears spark panic buying in Beijing

After the Shanghai lockdown jitters hit the capital city Beijing, the city of about 22 million residents has expanded its COVID-19 mass testing drive. Beijing has already started mass testing residents of its most populous district Chaoyang.

China's coronavirus crisis worsens, fears of lockdown loom over Beijing

China's latest Wuhan Virus outbreak has turned into a nightmare. In Shanghai, residents are being caged. While an outbreak in Beijing has led to panic buying. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Inside China's Wuhan Virus Nightmare

After Shanghai, now Beijing may implement strict restrictions due to the rising number of Covid-19 cases. Residents in the Chinese capital were seen panic buying as long queues were seen outside grocery shops. People also lined up for mass tested. Reportedly, around 20 million people will be screened for Covid-19 in Beijing.

After Shanghai, Beijing to close? Residents start panic buying as 20 mn to be tested for Covid

Beijing has begun widespread testing of its citizens as part of an extraordinary plan to track down and stop omicron's spread before it becomes uncontrollable in the Chinese capital.

Nearly 20 million individuals will be tested for COVID-19 over the weekend as Beijing's city administration expands an effort that began in the eastern Chaoyang district, which has seen the majority of cases in the recent flare-up.

The larger test will include ten additional administrative districts as well as an economic development zone.

Following the discovery of hundreds of cases in the city in recent days, Beijing officials have ordered everyone in 12 key districts, which account for the majority of the city's population, to undergo three rounds of PCR testing.

People waited in long queues to be swabbed by health workers in protective gear in the capital's most populous downtown area, Chaoyang, which was the first to order mass testing on Monday. 
 
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On Tuesday, eleven more districts began testing.

The testing order for Chaoyang spurred frantic buying beginning Sunday night, with residents queued up at stores with full carts and bulging shopping bags, despite state media assurances that supplies would be sufficient.

Inhabitants in Beijing said they feared a repetition of Shanghai's recent lockdown, in which residents struggled to find food and medical attention for non-Covid illnesses.

Virus proliferation in Beijing is still "within the limits of control," according to city health director Xu Hejian.

Beijing has begun widespread testing of its citizens as part of an extraordinary plan to track down and stop omicron's spread before it becomes uncontrollable in the Chinese capital.

Beijing has begun widespread testing of its citizens as part of an extraordinary plan to track down and stop omicron's spread before it becomes uncontrollable in the Chinese capital. Nearly 20 million individuals will be tested for COVID-19 over the weekend as Beijing's city administration expands an effort that began in the eastern Chaoyang district, which has seen the majority of cases in the recent flare-up. The larger test will include ten additional administrative districts as well as an economic development zone. Following the discovery of hundreds of cases in the city in recent days, Beijing officials have ordered everyone in 12 key districts, which account for the majority of the city's population, to undergo three rounds of PCR testing. People waited in long queues to be swabbed by health workers in protective gear in the capital's most populous downtown area, Chaoyang, which was the first to order mass testing on Monday. Watch | COVID crisis: Situation worsens in China, Beijing on alert as COVID numbers increase On Tuesday, eleven more districts began testing. The testing order for Chaoyang spurred frantic buying beginning Sunday night, with residents queued up at stores with full carts and bulging shopping bags, despite state media assurances that supplies would be sufficient. Inhabitants in Beijing said they feared a repetition of Shanghai's recent lockdown, in which residents struggled to find food and medical attention for non-Covid illnesses. Virus proliferation in Beijing is still "within the limits of control," according to city health director Xu Hejian.

China begins unprecedented COVID-19 testing of nearly all 21 million Beijing residents

China is witnessing its worst COVID outbreak in over two years. After Shanghai, Beijing is now under threat as the cases in the capital city have also started to increase. Beijing reported 22 new cases on Sunday, the outbreak along with the news of supply shortages in Shanghai has now triggered a massive panic amongst the citizens of Beijing

China: Beijing on alert as COVID cases rise in the city

China has been experiencing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases for quite some time now and the restrictions placed by the authorities are not making life easy for the citizens.

Earlier, Shanghai went through a tough lockdown and on Monday, Beijing saw a lot of panic buying in the supermarkets as the start of mass testing sparked rumours of a similar lockdown.

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Chaoyang, the biggest district of Beijing, became the first place to undergo mass testing as around 3.5 million citizens were asked to report for three COVID-19 tests in a week. The decision was taken after the area accounted for more than half of Beijing’s asymptomatic cases since Friday.

“The current outbreak in Beijing is spreading stealthily from sources that remained unknown yet and is developing rapidly,” a municipality official said on Sunday according to a report on The Guardian.

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There was a partial lockdown in Chaoyang after the rise in COVID-19 as around 12-14 residential buildings were put under observation. “Chaoyang district is now the topmost focus for pandemic prevention,” said the city’s Communist party head, Cai Qi, according to the New York Times.

“Important pandemic measures cannot be left waiting till the next day … All at-risk sites and individuals involved in these cases must be checked that day,” he added.

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The authorities have made it clear that they do not want to implement the lockdown immediately as they fear a repeat of the situation in Shanghai where people suffered from food shortages.

A number of supermarket chains confirmed that they have stocked their shops and they will be increasing their working hours to meet the demands. Meituan, a grocery delivery platform, also said that they will have more number of staffers in the coming days according to Beijing Daily.

WATCH |&nbsp;Situation worsens in China, Beijing on alert as COVID numbers increase

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China has been experiencing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases for quite some time now and the restrictions placed by the authorities are not making life easy for the citizens.

China has been experiencing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases for quite some time now and the restrictions placed by the authorities are not making life easy for the citizens. Earlier, Shanghai went through a tough lockdown and on Monday, Beijing saw a lot of panic buying in the supermarkets as the start of mass testing sparked rumours of a similar lockdown. Also read | WATCH | Foxconn suspends production at 2 China plants amid COVID scare Chaoyang, the biggest district of Beijing, became the first place to undergo mass testing as around 3.5 million citizens were asked to report for three COVID-19 tests in a week. The decision was taken after the area accounted for more than half of Beijing’s asymptomatic cases since Friday. “The current outbreak in Beijing is spreading stealthily from sources that remained unknown yet and is developing rapidly,” a municipality official said on Sunday according to a report on The Guardian. Also read | Fourth COVID-19 wave in India? List of states where cases are rising There was a partial lockdown in Chaoyang after the rise in COVID-19 as around 12-14 residential buildings were put under observation. “Chaoyang district is now the topmost focus for pandemic prevention,” said the city’s Communist party head, Cai Qi, according to the New York Times. “Important pandemic measures cannot be left waiting till the next day … All at-risk sites and individuals involved in these cases must be checked that day,” he added. Also read | In blast, 33 killed, 43 injured at mosque in Kunduz province of Afghanistan The authorities have made it clear that they do not want to implement the lockdown immediately as they fear a repeat of the situation in Shanghai where people suffered from food shortages. A number of supermarket chains confirmed that they have stocked their shops and they will be increasing their working hours to meet the demands. Meituan, a grocery delivery platform, also said that they will have more number of staffers in the coming days according to Beijing Daily. WATCH | Situation worsens in China, Beijing on alert as COVID numbers increase

Citizens rush to supermarkets in Beijing as COVID-19 mass testing sparks rumours of lockdown

COVID crisis: Situation worsens in China, Beijing on alert as COVID numbers increase

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