Around 92 per cent of Beijing’s 22 million population would have been infected with COVID-19 by the end of January, according to a study by researchers from the University of Hong Kong.&nbsp;The study estimated that by January 31, more than 90 per cent of Beijing's population would have had Covid. As of December 22, around 76 per cent of Beijing residents had contracted coronavirus, reported South China Morning Post.&nbsp;

The research was published on January 13 in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Medicine. The researches estimated that the Beijing situation could soon be witnessed in other big cities in mainland China &nbsp;

According to the study, several cities could face multiple infection peaks as people were on the move after the first peak and millions have been travelling for the Lunar New Year period.&nbsp;

“Surveillance programmes should be rapidly set up to monitor the spread and evolution of Sars-CoV-2 infections, and further work should be done to track the transmissibility, incidence and infection rate of the epidemic,” the researchers wrote.&nbsp;

The estimates provided by the researchers for Beijing fall&nbsp;in line with the previous projections made by Chinese health officials.&nbsp;

<h2>Gravitas | Wuhan Virus: China's death toll rises</h2>

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On December 27, the former chief scientist at the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Zeng Guang, said that more than 80 per cent of people in Beijing had likely been infected with the virus.&nbsp;

“The first wave usually infects 30 per cent of the population, but the infection rate of COVID-19 is rising faster than expected,” Zeng said.&nbsp;

China had to drop its strict zero-Covid policy in December following a wave of protests. The policy change triggered a sharp spike in Covid cases. By January, the number of cases had peaked.&nbsp;China&nbsp;reported nearly 13,000&nbsp;Covid-related deaths in hospitals between January 13 and 19, with a top health official saying that the vast majority of the population has already been infected.&nbsp;

China's Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a statement on Saturday that 681 hospitalised patients had died of respiratory failure caused by coronavirus infection, and 11,977 had died of other diseases combined with infection over the period.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Around 92 per cent of Beijing’s 22 million population would have been infected with COVID-19 by the end of January, according to a study by researchers from the University of Hong Kong.

Around 92 per cent of Beijing’s 22 million population would have been infected with COVID-19 by the end of January, according to a study by researchers from the University of Hong Kong. The study estimated that by January 31, more than 90 per cent of Beijing's population would have had Covid. As of December 22, around 76 per cent of Beijing residents had contracted coronavirus, reported South China Morning Post. The research was published on January 13 in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Medicine. The researches estimated that the Beijing situation could soon be witnessed in other big cities in mainland China According to the study, several cities could face multiple infection peaks as people were on the move after the first peak and millions have been travelling for the Lunar New Year period. “Surveillance programmes should be rapidly set up to monitor the spread and evolution of Sars-CoV-2 infections, and further work should be done to track the transmissibility, incidence and infection rate of the epidemic,” the researchers wrote. The estimates provided by the researchers for Beijing fall in line with the previous projections made by Chinese health officials. Gravitas | Wuhan Virus: China's death toll rises On December 27, the former chief scientist at the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Zeng Guang, said that more than 80 per cent of people in Beijing had likely been infected with the virus. “The first wave usually infects 30 per cent of the population, but the infection rate of COVID-19 is rising faster than expected,” Zeng said. China had to drop its strict zero-Covid policy in December following a wave of protests. The policy change triggered a sharp spike in Covid cases. By January, the number of cases had peaked. China reported nearly 13,000 Covid-related deaths in hospitals between January 13 and 19, with a top health official saying that the vast majority of the population has already been infected. China's Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a statement on Saturday that 681 hospitalised patients had died of respiratory failure caused by coronavirus infection, and 11,977 had died of other diseases combined with infection over the period. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

92% of Beijing population could be infected with Covid by January-end: Study 

The chances of China facing a major Covid-19 rebound in the coming next two or three months is unlikely as 80 per cent of the country's population has already been infected by the virus, said a senior government scientist on Saturday.&nbsp;The pandemic may spread widely and increase infections in a few areas due to people's mass movement during the country's ongoing Lunar New Year holiday season, however, China is less likely to face a second Covid wave in the near term, claimed China Centre for Disease Control and Prevention's chief epidemiologist Wu Zunyou on the Weibo social media platform.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/about-900-million-in-china-infected-with-covid-chinese-university-study-552374">About 900 million in China infected with Covid: Chinese university study</a>

Across China, millions of Chinese citizens have been travelling for holiday reunions after the Covid-19 curbs were recently eased, which raised fears of fresh Covid-19 outbreaks in the country's rural areas, which are not well-equipped to handle massive surge in infections.

The peak of the number of coronavirus patients admitted in emergency rooms, fever clinics and in critical conditions has already passed in China, said a National Health Commission official on Thursday.

WATCH | China Covid: WHO says China reports big jump in Covid hospitalisations by 70%

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As per the government data, around 60,000 Covid-19 patients have died in hospital till January 12, almost a month after the zero-Covid policy was abruptly scrapped by the Chinese government.

However, some experts stated that the figure given by the government is an undercount of the complete impact, as it fails to include many people who died at home, and because various doctors have accepted that they were discouraged from writing Covid-19 as the cause of death.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The chances of China facing a major Covid-19 rebound in the coming next two or three months is unlikely as 80 per cent of the country's population has already been infected by the virus, said a senior government scientist on Saturday.

The chances of China facing a major Covid-19 rebound in the coming next two or three months is unlikely as 80 per cent of the country's population has already been infected by the virus, said a senior government scientist on Saturday. The pandemic may spread widely and increase infections in a few areas due to people's mass movement during the country's ongoing Lunar New Year holiday season, however, China is less likely to face a second Covid wave in the near term, claimed China Centre for Disease Control and Prevention's chief epidemiologist Wu Zunyou on the Weibo social media platform. ALSO READ | About 900 million in China infected with Covid: Chinese university study Across China, millions of Chinese citizens have been travelling for holiday reunions after the Covid-19 curbs were recently eased, which raised fears of fresh Covid-19 outbreaks in the country's rural areas, which are not well-equipped to handle massive surge in infections. The peak of the number of coronavirus patients admitted in emergency rooms, fever clinics and in critical conditions has already passed in China, said a National Health Commission official on Thursday. WATCH | China Covid: WHO says China reports big jump in Covid hospitalisations by 70% As per the government data, around 60,000 Covid-19 patients have died in hospital till January 12, almost a month after the zero-Covid policy was abruptly scrapped by the Chinese government. However, some experts stated that the figure given by the government is an undercount of the complete impact, as it fails to include many people who died at home, and because various doctors have accepted that they were discouraged from writing Covid-19 as the cause of death. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chances of Covid-19 rebound unlikely, 80% of population in China already infected: Scientist

China is set to face another Covid wave as people prepare to travel to their homes to spend time with their loves during the Lunar Year.

It is believed that the Covid cases could explode as this is the first Lunar New Year holiday, also known as the Spring Festival in China, after Beijing lifted all zero-Covid restrictions.

Nearly 2.1 billion passenger trips are expected to be made during the 40-day travel period around the holiday, considered the largest annual human migration in the world. This is double to what occurred just a year ago when Beijing imposed travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus

Airports and railways stations in&nbsp;megacities like Beijing and Shanghai witnessed a massive crowd with people heading back to their hometowns for Lunar New Year celebrations, triggering fears of an outbreak, ABC News reported.

However, health officials in China believe that the country won’t experience a second wave of Covid infections in the next two to three months.

WATCH | China Covid: WHO says China reports big jump in Covid hospitalisations by 70%

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"Although a large number of people travelling during the Spring Festival may promote the spread of the epidemic to a certain extent... the current wave of the epidemic has already infected about 80 per cent of the people in the country," Wu Zunyou, chief epidemiologist at the&nbsp;China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said in a post on&nbsp;China's Twitter-like Weibo platform on Saturday.

He said that the possibility of... a second wave of the epidemic across the country in the next two to three months “is very small".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-claims-80-of-population-infected-by-covid-19-554725">Chances of Covid-19 rebound unlikely, 80% of population in China already infected</a>

Meanwhile, China reported nearly 13,000 Covid-related deaths between January 13 and 19, after a top health official said, according to AFP news agency.

A week ago, nearly 60,000 people died from Covid as of January 12, but there has been widespread scepticism over official data since Beijing abruptly axed anti-virus controls last month.

In a statement on Saturday, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that 681 hospitalised patients had died of respiratory failure caused by coronavirus infection, and 11,977 had died of other diseases combined with infection over the period.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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China is set to face another Covid wave as people prepare to travel to their homes to spend time with their loves during the Lunar Year. It is believed that the Covid cases could explode as this is the first Lunar New Year holiday, also known as the Spring Festival in China, after Beijing lifted all zero-Covid restrictions.

China is set to face another Covid wave as people prepare to travel to their homes to spend time with their loves during the Lunar Year. It is believed that the Covid cases could explode as this is the first Lunar New Year holiday, also known as the Spring Festival in China, after Beijing lifted all zero-Covid restrictions. Nearly 2.1 billion passenger trips are expected to be made during the 40-day travel period around the holiday, considered the largest annual human migration in the world. This is double to what occurred just a year ago when Beijing imposed travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus Airports and railways stations in megacities like Beijing and Shanghai witnessed a massive crowd with people heading back to their hometowns for Lunar New Year celebrations, triggering fears of an outbreak, ABC News reported. However, health officials in China believe that the country won’t experience a second wave of Covid infections in the next two to three months. WATCH | China Covid: WHO says China reports big jump in Covid hospitalisations by 70% "Although a large number of people travelling during the Spring Festival may promote the spread of the epidemic to a certain extent... the current wave of the epidemic has already infected about 80 per cent of the people in the country," Wu Zunyou, chief epidemiologist at the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said in a post on China's Twitter-like Weibo platform on Saturday. He said that the possibility of... a second wave of the epidemic across the country in the next two to three months “is very small". Also read | Chances of Covid-19 rebound unlikely, 80% of population in China already infected Meanwhile, China reported nearly 13,000 Covid-related deaths between January 13 and 19, after a top health official said, according to AFP news agency. A week ago, nearly 60,000 people died from Covid as of January 12, but there has been widespread scepticism over official data since Beijing abruptly axed anti-virus controls last month. In a statement on Saturday, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that 681 hospitalised patients had died of respiratory failure caused by coronavirus infection, and 11,977 had died of other diseases combined with infection over the period. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China braces for another possible Covid wave as millions travel for Lunar Year celebrations

China's Wuhan Virus tragedy is worsening. The country reported a 70% jump in hospitalisations this week.

China Covid: WHO says China reports big jump in Covid hospitalisations by 70%

The cyber authorities of China are set to censor social media to ensure that "rumours" regarding the pandemic do not create “gloomy sentiments” on the platforms during the lunar new year festival.&nbsp;The decision of censorship crackdown comes after it was estimated by health forecasting firm Airfinity that more than 600,000 people have lost their lives since the government suddenly lifted zero-Covid restrictions in December.&nbsp;

The “Spring Festival online improvement” programme, which will continue for a month, will target accounts which are considered spreading “rumours” about Covid and the experiences of the patient by the authorities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/avalanche-strikes-tibet-killing-at-least-eight-china-helping-with-rescue-efforts-554002">Avalanche strikes Tibet, killing at least eight; China helping with rescue efforts</a>

The national cyber administration stated “in-depth rectification of false information and other issues to prevent gloomy sentiments”.&nbsp;

The administration specifically mentioned the probe and punishment of “online rumours related to the epidemic” and “fabricating patient experiences”, along with sharing or producing fake virus treatments. As per the announcement, the work would “prevent misleading the public and causing social panic”.

The social media platform is filled with personal stories of citizens who had contracted Covid, their struggle to source healthcare or medication, or their loss of close ones due to the disease.&nbsp;

As per the health officials, the wave of current infections has peaked, however, they further warned that the infections may spread further in the wake of millions of people travelling across the country during the lunar new year.&nbsp;

Independent forecaster Airfinity on Thursday stated that the new modelling has increased estimates of fatalities and infections in China.&nbsp;

WATCH| China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping

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The forecast of the organisation of two successive infection waves has been changed to one, which is "more severe and larger".&nbsp;

“Deaths are forecast to peak at 36,000 a day on the 26th of January during the Lunar New Year Festival. This is up from our previous estimate of deaths peaking at 25,000 a day,” the organisation stated.

“The implication of one larger wave as opposed to two smaller ones is increased pressure on hospitals and crematoriums and therefore also potentially a higher case fatality ratio," it added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The cyber authorities of China are set to censor social media to ensure that "rumours" regarding the pandemic do not create “gloomy sentiments” on the platforms during the lunar new year festival.

The cyber authorities of China are set to censor social media to ensure that "rumours" regarding the pandemic do not create “gloomy sentiments” on the platforms during the lunar new year festival. The decision of censorship crackdown comes after it was estimated by health forecasting firm Airfinity that more than 600,000 people have lost their lives since the government suddenly lifted zero-Covid restrictions in December. The “Spring Festival online improvement” programme, which will continue for a month, will target accounts which are considered spreading “rumours” about Covid and the experiences of the patient by the authorities. ALSO READ| Avalanche strikes Tibet, killing at least eight; China helping with rescue efforts The national cyber administration stated “in-depth rectification of false information and other issues to prevent gloomy sentiments”. The administration specifically mentioned the probe and punishment of “online rumours related to the epidemic” and “fabricating patient experiences”, along with sharing or producing fake virus treatments. As per the announcement, the work would “prevent misleading the public and causing social panic”. The social media platform is filled with personal stories of citizens who had contracted Covid, their struggle to source healthcare or medication, or their loss of close ones due to the disease. As per the health officials, the wave of current infections has peaked, however, they further warned that the infections may spread further in the wake of millions of people travelling across the country during the lunar new year. Independent forecaster Airfinity on Thursday stated that the new modelling has increased estimates of fatalities and infections in China. WATCH| China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping The forecast of the organisation of two successive infection waves has been changed to one, which is "more severe and larger". “Deaths are forecast to peak at 36,000 a day on the 26th of January during the Lunar New Year Festival. This is up from our previous estimate of deaths peaking at 25,000 a day,” the organisation stated. “The implication of one larger wave as opposed to two smaller ones is increased pressure on hospitals and crematoriums and therefore also potentially a higher case fatality ratio," it added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China announces censorship crackdown to remove Covid ‘rumours’ from internet

In recent days, it's been widely reported that China is struggling to contain its latest Covid-19 outbreak. In the latest, Chinese President Xi Jinping has also considered the same, as per state media reports, Xi said China's Covid-19 announcement control is still going through a time of stress. Nonetheless, he added that there is light ahead.

China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping

After China abruptly cancelled its zero-Covid policy, the virus has taken over a majority of the population. Hospitals are overflowing with patients, medical supplies are running low &nbsp;and crematoriums are overwhelmed with bodies. A huge number of deaths are being reported, although Beijing doesn't attribute most of them to COVID-19.&nbsp;

A few days back, an official at the Chinese National Health Commission’s medical affairs department said that around 60,000 Covid-related deaths have been recorded in the country between December 8 and January 12. The country has adopted a controversial definition of Covid deaths, saying only those deaths that have occurred directly as a result of Covid minus any underlying issues will be defined as Covid deaths.

With the health system unable to manage the scale of the disease, most people have been left to fend for themselves. There is a shortage of medicines, test kits and other such supplies.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-records-around-60000-deaths-related-to-covid-19-in-one-month-552616">China records around 60,000 deaths related to Covid-19 in one month: Official</a>

Amidst this dire situation, people have come together to help each other. There are apps offering test kits and medicines to those in need via donations. A Straits Times report mentions how one woman suffering from a high fever, was hoping that the government will hand out medicines to her and her daughter.

But when that did not happen, she turned to one such app where one stranger offered her two test kits and another who had recovered from Covid-19, offered to provide two ibuprofen pills.

A country that was following everything that the government was telling them to do for the past three years during the pandemic, suddenly finds itself alone.&nbsp;

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President Xi Jinping urged the public at the beginning of 2023 to “make an extra effort to pull through” the virus wave. Even the state media told people to “take primary responsibility for their own health".

Just ahead of the Chinese New Year, Xi tried to install hope in the people, saying “dawn is just ahead.” Acknowledging for the first time that the current Covid wave has been "fierce", he expressed concerns over the spread of the virus in the countryside where medical facilities and resources are insufficient.&nbsp;

However, there are many people who contracted the infection and didn't receive any help or support from the government.&nbsp;

This is when groups and companies at the grassroots level came together to help those in need. They have come up with initiatives coordinating medicine supplies and offering health advice. They are also helping out people in rural areas.

The WeChat app mentioned above was launched on December 19 and saw over a million visits and more than 800,000 posts immediately.&nbsp;

The Campaign to Bring Down Fever in Villages collects donated ibuprofen and has sent medicines to about 13,000 elderly residents in 110 villages as of December 29.

NCP Relief, founded when the virus was first reported, provides data on hospital bed availability in major cities including Beijing and Shanghai.

Experts say that non-availability of the government during the citizens' time of need reflects poorly on it and might have shaped public opinion against it.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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After China abruptly cancelled its zero-Covid policy, the virus has taken over a majority of the population. Hospitals are overflowing with patients, medical supplies are running low and crematoriums are overwhelmed with bodies.

After China abruptly cancelled its zero-Covid policy, the virus has taken over a majority of the population. Hospitals are overflowing with patients, medical supplies are running low and crematoriums are overwhelmed with bodies. A huge number of deaths are being reported, although Beijing doesn't attribute most of them to COVID-19. A few days back, an official at the Chinese National Health Commission’s medical affairs department said that around 60,000 Covid-related deaths have been recorded in the country between December 8 and January 12. The country has adopted a controversial definition of Covid deaths, saying only those deaths that have occurred directly as a result of Covid minus any underlying issues will be defined as Covid deaths. With the health system unable to manage the scale of the disease, most people have been left to fend for themselves. There is a shortage of medicines, test kits and other such supplies. Also Read | China records around 60,000 deaths related to Covid-19 in one month: Official Amidst this dire situation, people have come together to help each other. There are apps offering test kits and medicines to those in need via donations. A Straits Times report mentions how one woman suffering from a high fever, was hoping that the government will hand out medicines to her and her daughter. But when that did not happen, she turned to one such app where one stranger offered her two test kits and another who had recovered from Covid-19, offered to provide two ibuprofen pills. A country that was following everything that the government was telling them to do for the past three years during the pandemic, suddenly finds itself alone. × President Xi Jinping urged the public at the beginning of 2023 to “make an extra effort to pull through” the virus wave. Even the state media told people to “take primary responsibility for their own health". Just ahead of the Chinese New Year, Xi tried to install hope in the people, saying “dawn is just ahead.” Acknowledging for the first time that the current Covid wave has been "fierce", he expressed concerns over the spread of the virus in the countryside where medical facilities and resources are insufficient. However, there are many people who contracted the infection and didn't receive any help or support from the government. This is when groups and companies at the grassroots level came together to help those in need. They have come up with initiatives coordinating medicine supplies and offering health advice. They are also helping out people in rural areas. The WeChat app mentioned above was launched on December 19 and saw over a million visits and more than 800,000 posts immediately. The Campaign to Bring Down Fever in Villages collects donated ibuprofen and has sent medicines to about 13,000 elderly residents in 110 villages as of December 29. NCP Relief, founded when the virus was first reported, provides data on hospital bed availability in major cities including Beijing and Shanghai. Experts say that non-availability of the government during the citizens' time of need reflects poorly on it and might have shaped public opinion against it. (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.

The Chinese found themselves alone in their fight against Covid. So they decided to join hands

Over 60% of Chinese population has contracted Covid since the start of the pandemic. As per a report published by a local researcher, 900 million Chinese have contracted the virus since 2020. The research has been published by a team at the Peking University.

China Covid infections spike: Chinese publication reports over 64% population infected

China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths. A spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that Beijing has held close communication with WHO, holding five technical exchanges over the past month with the latest one on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters that the two sides have discussed current clinical treatment, epidemic development, monitoring and vaccination.&nbsp;

He further informed that local health authorities have held bilateral meetings with the EU and Australia on the matter. Genome data of the fresh cases has also been regularly shared via the Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data (GISAID), Wang said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chine-heavily-underreporting-covid-deaths-says-who-551876">China ‘heavily underreporting’ COVID deaths, lack info for proper risk assessment, says WHO</a>

The WHO this week had said, that while China has been sharing enough data on the virus, it has been "heavily underreporting" deaths caused by the disease.&nbsp;

"WHO still believes that deaths are heavily underreported from China," its emergencies director Michael Ryan told reporters. "We still do not have adequate information to make a full comprehensive risk assessment."

China has shared COVID-related data in a timely, open and transparent manner, Wang said, and is willing to continue holding technical exchanges to better cope with the epidemic challenges and &nbsp;protect people's lives and health.&nbsp;

"We hope that the WHO can scientifically and rationally evaluate China's COVID prevention and control, and make remarks objectively and fairly," Wang noted.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Liang Wannian, head of China's COVID-19 response expert panel under the NHC, said Wednesday that China has informed the international community about all the variants detected till date in the country to the WHO and will continue to do so.&nbsp;

China has been reporting five or fewer deaths a day over the past month, but the numbers being reported are inconsistent with the long queues seen at funeral homes. The country did not report COVID fatalities data on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Global Times reported that the infection peak in the country is declining, although the health system is still under massive pressure.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths. A spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that Beijing has held close communication with WHO, holding five technical exchanges over the past month with the latest one on Wednesday.

China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths. A spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that Beijing has held close communication with WHO, holding five technical exchanges over the past month with the latest one on Wednesday. Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters that the two sides have discussed current clinical treatment, epidemic development, monitoring and vaccination. He further informed that local health authorities have held bilateral meetings with the EU and Australia on the matter. Genome data of the fresh cases has also been regularly shared via the Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data (GISAID), Wang said. Also Read | China ‘heavily underreporting’ COVID deaths, lack info for proper risk assessment, says WHO The WHO this week had said, that while China has been sharing enough data on the virus, it has been "heavily underreporting" deaths caused by the disease. "WHO still believes that deaths are heavily underreported from China," its emergencies director Michael Ryan told reporters. "We still do not have adequate information to make a full comprehensive risk assessment." China has shared COVID-related data in a timely, open and transparent manner, Wang said, and is willing to continue holding technical exchanges to better cope with the epidemic challenges and protect people's lives and health. "We hope that the WHO can scientifically and rationally evaluate China's COVID prevention and control, and make remarks objectively and fairly," Wang noted. × Liang Wannian, head of China's COVID-19 response expert panel under the NHC, said Wednesday that China has informed the international community about all the variants detected till date in the country to the WHO and will continue to do so. China has been reporting five or fewer deaths a day over the past month, but the numbers being reported are inconsistent with the long queues seen at funeral homes. The country did not report COVID fatalities data on Tuesday and Wednesday. Meanwhile, Global Times reported that the infection peak in the country is declining, although the health system is still under massive pressure. (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.

China slams WHO for calling it out on lack of COVID-19 data

As Covid rips through China, the World Health Organisation and several countries have voiced concern about data shared by China on deaths with satellite images on China's funeral facilities and hospitals telling an entire different story.

China fudging Covid data? WHO says country still underreports deaths

Packed parking lot, crowded funeral homes: Satellite images reveal true scale of Covid outbreak in China

The Chinese embassy in South Korea has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Korean visitors, it said on Tuesday, the first retaliatory move against nations imposing COVID-19 curbs on travellers from China.

China stops issuing short-term visas for South Koreans

As the COVID-19 horror in China surges, healthcare workers are going through more stress and workload at hospitals and clinics. Amid the spike in COVID-19 cases, doctors and nurses in China are battling unprecedented staff shortages, scarcity of medicines, and overcrowded hospitals.&nbsp;

Cities like Beijing and Shanghai are facing a Covid outbreak after the relaxation of COVID-19 rules and abandonment of the 'zero-Covid' policy. Specialist doctors are also helping in treating COVID-19 patients, and all wards are now open to treat them. However, the relocation of staff impacted surgery and other treatments.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/china-lifts-covid-19-restrictions-reopens-borders-for-quarantine-free-travel-550395">China lifts Covid restrictions on foreign travel, ends quarantine rule for inbound travellers</a>

The terrifying pandemic worsened since hospitals normalised working for healthcare staff and treating other patients while infected with the virus, the South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;

Two weeks earlier, Beijing called doctors from several parts of China and asked them to help with the treatment and ease the burden of staff at overcrowded hospitals. However, hospitals in other cities depend on their team. Thus, healthcare workers in several parts of China continue to work despite being tested positive or under-recovery.

Watch|&nbsp;China reopens borders from Hong Kong to mainland China ending its major Covid restrictions

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Six out of 10 healthcare workers are toiling through the pandemic, according to the medical platform, Yimi research. A survey also shows that 70 per cent of 3,000 medical care workers contracted the coronavirus in the last week of December.&nbsp;

Some hospitals have also tried to separate the positive and negative cases to protect the most vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the COVID-19 horror in China surges, healthcare workers are going through more stress and workload at hospitals and clinics. Amid the spike in COVID-19 cases, doctors and nurses in China are battling unprecedented staff shortages, scarcity of medicines, and overcrowded hospitals.

As the COVID-19 horror in China surges, healthcare workers are going through more stress and workload at hospitals and clinics. Amid the spike in COVID-19 cases, doctors and nurses in China are battling unprecedented staff shortages, scarcity of medicines, and overcrowded hospitals. Cities like Beijing and Shanghai are facing a Covid outbreak after the relaxation of COVID-19 rules and abandonment of the 'zero-Covid' policy. Specialist doctors are also helping in treating COVID-19 patients, and all wards are now open to treat them. However, the relocation of staff impacted surgery and other treatments. Also Read| China lifts Covid restrictions on foreign travel, ends quarantine rule for inbound travellers The terrifying pandemic worsened since hospitals normalised working for healthcare staff and treating other patients while infected with the virus, the South China Morning Post reported. Two weeks earlier, Beijing called doctors from several parts of China and asked them to help with the treatment and ease the burden of staff at overcrowded hospitals. However, hospitals in other cities depend on their team. Thus, healthcare workers in several parts of China continue to work despite being tested positive or under-recovery. Watch| China reopens borders from Hong Kong to mainland China ending its major Covid restrictions Six out of 10 healthcare workers are toiling through the pandemic, according to the medical platform, Yimi research. A survey also shows that 70 per cent of 3,000 medical care workers contracted the coronavirus in the last week of December. Some hospitals have also tried to separate the positive and negative cases to protect the most vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China's Covid crisis: Healthcare workers continue to work despite being tested positive for coronavirus

China’s Twitter-like social media firm, Weibo, has banned more than 1,000 social media accounts considered by the government as critiques of&nbsp;Xi Jinping’s COVID-19 policy.&nbsp;About 1,120 Weibo users were either permanently or temporarily banned from accessing their accounts over "personal attacks" and “inciting conflict” against the country’s health experts, the daily South China Morning Post reported.

Weibo, which claims to have half a billion active users,&nbsp;said it was taking action in response to the 12,854 violations it recorded, including attacks on experts, scholars and medical workers.

“Many experts, academics and internet users have been actively using their professional knowledge and gathering authoritative sources to help with combating the pandemic,” a statement from Weibo said on Thursday.

“It is not acceptable to hurl insults at people who hold a different point of view, or publish personal attacks and views that incite conflicts. Any kind of move that is destructive to the [Weibo] community would be handled in a serious manner,” the notice said.

The action from the microblogging site came days after Beijing’s top security chiefs warned of zero tolerance against activities that “use the pandemic … to disrupt social order”.

<h2>Gravitas: China’s Wuhan virus cover-up</h2>

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People’s anger has largely been against open-ended travel restrictions, inadequate food or medical care.

China has been facing a resurgent Covid outbreak, putting hospitals in major cities under severe stress. It is now preparing for further spread into less developed areas with the start of the Lunar New Year travel rush.

Doubts are also being raised on China’s official data on Covid cases, which has prompted several countries to require negative results for travellers from China within 48 hours of departure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinese-billionaire-jack-ma-to-cede-control-of-chinas-ant-group-report-550209">Chinese billionaire Jack Ma to cede control of Ant Group after regulatory crackdown: Report</a>

The World Health Organisation has also expressed concern about the lack of data from China, saying that the current numbers on Covid deaths are not showing the true impact of the outbreak.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-talks-with-pfizer-for-covid-19-medicine-report-550244">China in talks with Pfizer for COVID-19 anti-viral medicine paxlovid: Report</a>

"We still do not have complete data," the WHO's emergencies director Michael Ryan told reporters.

"We believe that the current numbers being published from China under-represent the true impact of the disease in terms of hospital admissions, in terms of ICU admissions, and particularly in terms of deaths."

(With inputs from agencies)

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China’s Twitter-like social media firm, Weibo, has banned more than 1,000 social media accounts considered by the government as critiques of Xi Jinping’s COVID-19 policy.

China’s Twitter-like social media firm, Weibo, has banned more than 1,000 social media accounts considered by the government as critiques of Xi Jinping’s COVID-19 policy. About 1,120 Weibo users were either permanently or temporarily banned from accessing their accounts over "personal attacks" and “inciting conflict” against the country’s health experts, the daily South China Morning Post reported. Weibo, which claims to have half a billion active users, said it was taking action in response to the 12,854 violations it recorded, including attacks on experts, scholars and medical workers. “Many experts, academics and internet users have been actively using their professional knowledge and gathering authoritative sources to help with combating the pandemic,” a statement from Weibo said on Thursday. “It is not acceptable to hurl insults at people who hold a different point of view, or publish personal attacks and views that incite conflicts. Any kind of move that is destructive to the [Weibo] community would be handled in a serious manner,” the notice said. The action from the microblogging site came days after Beijing’s top security chiefs warned of zero tolerance against activities that “use the pandemic … to disrupt social order”. Gravitas: China’s Wuhan virus cover-up People’s anger has largely been against open-ended travel restrictions, inadequate food or medical care. China has been facing a resurgent Covid outbreak, putting hospitals in major cities under severe stress. It is now preparing for further spread into less developed areas with the start of the Lunar New Year travel rush. Doubts are also being raised on China’s official data on Covid cases, which has prompted several countries to require negative results for travellers from China within 48 hours of departure. Also read | Chinese billionaire Jack Ma to cede control of Ant Group after regulatory crackdown: Report The World Health Organisation has also expressed concern about the lack of data from China, saying that the current numbers on Covid deaths are not showing the true impact of the outbreak. Also read | China in talks with Pfizer for COVID-19 anti-viral medicine paxlovid: Report "We still do not have complete data," the WHO's emergencies director Michael Ryan told reporters. "We believe that the current numbers being published from China under-represent the true impact of the disease in terms of hospital admissions, in terms of ICU admissions, and particularly in terms of deaths." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China’s Weibo bans more than 1,000 accounts critical of govt’s Covid policy

Benjamin Cowling, an epidemiologist with the Hong Kong University said, the prediction by international disease experts of at least 1 million COVID-related deaths in China this year is 'quite possible', adding that the deaths could have been avoided should there be better preparation.

Expert says around one million deaths 'quite possible' in China due to Covid

The World Health Organisation says that China has been hiding the real extent of Covid, something that the world has been saying while Beijing all along has been maintaining that all is well. The statemate was made by WHO after meeting Chinese officials.

WHO concerned about risk to life in China, asks for reliable data on hospitalisations, deaths

Thai authorities said Thursday that travellers from China could enter the kingdom without pre-departure coronavirus tests, hoping their return would be a shot in the arm for the recovery of the country's tourism sector.&nbsp;China has experienced a surge in infections and its hospitals and crematoriums have been inundated after Beijing last month wound back tight restrictions.

The United States, Canada, Japan and France are among the countries that have imposed new rules requiring travellers from China to provide negative Covid test reports&nbsp;as concerns grow over the spike in cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-live-updates-hong-kong-residents-rush-to-get-vaccinated-as-borders-set-to-reopen-with-china-549537">Also read |&nbsp;COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO</a>

But Thai authorities on Thursday said all countries should be treated the same.

"Thailand&nbsp;does not require Covid test results from tourists from any country," Public Health Minister Anutin&nbsp;Charnvirakul told reporters on Thursday following a meeting between health, tourism and transportation officials.

China was the largest source of foreign tourists for&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;before the pandemic, with almost 11 million arrivals in 2019, according to government data.

Tourism accounted for nearly 20 per cent of national income before the pandemic, and tough border restrictions at the height of the health crisis took a toll on hotels, restaurants and tour operators across the country.

"This is an opportunity to restore our economic situation and recover from losses we suffered for nearly three years," Anutin said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-beijings-covid-spike-chinas-healthcare-system-worsens-forces-people-to-take-risks-in-black-market-549628">Also read |&nbsp;China's healthcare system at its worst amid Covid spike; forces people to take risks in black market</a>

Tanes Petsuwan, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of&nbsp;Thailand, said he expected about 60,000 Chinese nationals to enter&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;this month and the numbers to steadily rise further.&nbsp;

"We expect Chinese tourists to come to&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;after Chinese New Year," Tourism Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakan said.

In December, Thailand&nbsp;clocked its 10 millionth international visitor for 2022 -- a major increase on the 430,000 seen in 2021 but still way off the 40 million arrivals of 2019.

Thai officials are forecasting some 20 million arrivals in 2023, though they believe Chinese tourists could push the figure up to around 25 million.

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Thai authorities said Thursday that travellers from China could enter the kingdom without pre-departure coronavirus tests, hoping their return would be a shot in the arm for the recovery of the country's tourism sector.

Thai authorities said Thursday that travellers from China could enter the kingdom without pre-departure coronavirus tests, hoping their return would be a shot in the arm for the recovery of the country's tourism sector. China has experienced a surge in infections and its hospitals and crematoriums have been inundated after Beijing last month wound back tight restrictions. The United States, Canada, Japan and France are among the countries that have imposed new rules requiring travellers from China to provide negative Covid test reports as concerns grow over the spike in cases. Also read | COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO But Thai authorities on Thursday said all countries should be treated the same. "Thailand does not require Covid test results from tourists from any country," Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters on Thursday following a meeting between health, tourism and transportation officials. China was the largest source of foreign tourists for Thailand before the pandemic, with almost 11 million arrivals in 2019, according to government data. Tourism accounted for nearly 20 per cent of national income before the pandemic, and tough border restrictions at the height of the health crisis took a toll on hotels, restaurants and tour operators across the country. "This is an opportunity to restore our economic situation and recover from losses we suffered for nearly three years," Anutin said. Also read | China's healthcare system at its worst amid Covid spike; forces people to take risks in black market Tanes Petsuwan, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said he expected about 60,000 Chinese nationals to enter Thailand this month and the numbers to steadily rise further. "We expect Chinese tourists to come to Thailand after Chinese New Year," Tourism Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakan said. In December, Thailand clocked its 10 millionth international visitor for 2022 -- a major increase on the 430,000 seen in 2021 but still way off the 40 million arrivals of 2019. Thai officials are forecasting some 20 million arrivals in 2023, though they believe Chinese tourists could push the figure up to around 25 million. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

No pre-departure Covid test needed for travellers from China, says Thailand

China's healthcare system is facing several hardships and is on the verge of near collapse amid a Covid spike in the Chinese mainland after a shift from President Xi Jinping's 'Zero Covid policy' which not only harmed the economy but also failed to control the outbreak.&nbsp;In a country where not even a mask mandate exists right now, thousands of people have died and many medical workers are walking out of their jobs.&nbsp;

Almost everything is open now, even schools, but kids are not going due to the fear of getting infected at a time when even medicines are not easily available.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-live-updates-hong-kong-residents-rush-to-get-vaccinated-as-borders-set-to-reopen-with-china-549537">Also read |&nbsp;COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO</a>

As per several media reports, China's manufacturing and service sectors were at their worst by the end of 2022.&nbsp;

The healthcare system is experiencing a huge shortage of COVID-19 medications. The current coronavirus wave saw drug stores stripped of supplies, promoting people to buy from online marketplaces with price gouging and online fraud.&nbsp;

China's public security ministry on Monday ordered a crackdown on illegal and criminal activity involving the production and sale of counterfeit epidemic-related medicines and related items.

Despite this, people were forced to turn towards the black market for their loved ones.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-asks-china-to-provide-a-more-realistic-picture-of-covid-19-situation-549382">Also read |&nbsp;WHO says data provided by China ‘under-represents’ true impact of Covid outbreak</a>

The&nbsp;black market and online frauds include tainted medicines, fabricated clinical trials and lax regulation in the industry.

A 22-year-old Qiu told AFP that she spent&nbsp;thousands on online Covid medicines that never arrived.

Authorities claimed that they have begun shipping&nbsp;paxvloid, a Beijing-approved Covid treatment medicine developed by US drug giant Pfizer, to many hospitals and communities but is difficult to obtain.&nbsp;

According to AFP, limited stocks have compelled citizens to buy medicines at a higher price. It said that an online seller told the news agency that they were charging 18,000 yuan ($2,610) for a single box of the medicine, almost nine times more than the original price.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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China's healthcare system is facing several hardships and is on the verge of near collapse amid a Covid spike in the Chinese mainland after a shift from President Xi Jinping's 'Zero Covid policy' which not only harmed the economy but also failed to control the outbreak.

China's healthcare system is facing several hardships and is on the verge of near collapse amid a Covid spike in the Chinese mainland after a shift from President Xi Jinping's 'Zero Covid policy' which not only harmed the economy but also failed to control the outbreak. In a country where not even a mask mandate exists right now, thousands of people have died and many medical workers are walking out of their jobs. Almost everything is open now, even schools, but kids are not going due to the fear of getting infected at a time when even medicines are not easily available. Also read | COVID Highlights | Chinese CDC data suggests no new COVID-19 strains in China, says WHO As per several media reports, China's manufacturing and service sectors were at their worst by the end of 2022. The healthcare system is experiencing a huge shortage of COVID-19 medications. The current coronavirus wave saw drug stores stripped of supplies, promoting people to buy from online marketplaces with price gouging and online fraud. China's public security ministry on Monday ordered a crackdown on illegal and criminal activity involving the production and sale of counterfeit epidemic-related medicines and related items. Despite this, people were forced to turn towards the black market for their loved ones. Also read | WHO says data provided by China ‘under-represents’ true impact of Covid outbreak The black market and online frauds include tainted medicines, fabricated clinical trials and lax regulation in the industry. A 22-year-old Qiu told AFP that she spent thousands on online Covid medicines that never arrived. Authorities claimed that they have begun shipping paxvloid, a Beijing-approved Covid treatment medicine developed by US drug giant Pfizer, to many hospitals and communities but is difficult to obtain. According to AFP, limited stocks have compelled citizens to buy medicines at a higher price. It said that an online seller told the news agency that they were charging 18,000 yuan ($2,610) for a single box of the medicine, almost nine times more than the original price. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China’s healthcare system crumbles amid Covid spike; people buying medicines from black market

Amid constant disruptions in China due to lockdown, a surge in Covid cases, and employee unrest at a Foxconn factory, technology giant Apple Inc is all set to sign its manufacturing contractor Luxshare Precision Industry Co Ltd to produce premium iPhone models, people familiar with the matter said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Luxshare was producing only a small number of the iPhone 14 pro-Max at its Kunshan plant to make up for the lost production of Foxconn's Zhengzhou factory, the Financial Times reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-has-lost-1-trillion-market-value-in-just-a-year-549233">Also read |&nbsp;Apple has lost $1 trillion market value in just a year</a>

The COVID-19 outbreak and the curbs to control it, prompted thousands of workers to leave the Foxconn plant.

In November, Apple warned of lower shipments of its premium iPhone 14 and models following production cuts.&nbsp;

Foxconn also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry and Pegatron Corp has been leading a dominant position in Apple's supply chain.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Apple to sign deal with Luxshare for iPhone production in China

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While a source told Reuters that the Foxconn plant is almost back to its originals position with almost 90 per cent of December's shipments reaching, some media reports believe that Apple's shipments are likely to slip in the holiday quarter.&nbsp;

For upcoming projects, TrendForce, an industry research firm on Saturday said that Apple has decided to employ Luxshare as one of the assemblers for its iPhone 15 Pro Max.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-tesla-stock-hit-major-lows-as-concerns-prevail-over-production-amid-covid-547428">Also read |&nbsp;Apple, Tesla stocks hit major lows as concerns prevail over production amid Covid</a>

The firm also added that only Luxshare's assembling plant is set up in China and has no plans on setting up its iPhone production line.&nbsp;

The tech giant this week on its website also&nbsp;said that the out-of-warranty iPhone owners will have to now spend $20 more to replace their batteries at an Apple store.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starting from March 01, all old iPhones before 2022 will see their battery replacements charge increased by $20.

These increased battery prices will also apply to not just iPhones but also MacBooks, some iPads and a few international markets.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Amid constant disruptions in China due to lockdown, a surge in Covid cases, and employee unrest at a Foxconn factory, technology giant Apple Inc is all set to sign its manufacturing contractor Luxshare Precision Industry Co Ltd to produce premium iPhone models, people familiar with the matter said.

Amid constant disruptions in China due to lockdown, a surge in Covid cases, and employee unrest at a Foxconn factory, technology giant Apple Inc is all set to sign its manufacturing contractor Luxshare Precision Industry Co Ltd to produce premium iPhone models, people familiar with the matter said. Earlier, Luxshare was producing only a small number of the iPhone 14 pro-Max at its Kunshan plant to make up for the lost production of Foxconn's Zhengzhou factory, the Financial Times reported. Also read | Apple has lost $1 trillion market value in just a year The COVID-19 outbreak and the curbs to control it, prompted thousands of workers to leave the Foxconn plant. In November, Apple warned of lower shipments of its premium iPhone 14 and models following production cuts. Foxconn also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry and Pegatron Corp has been leading a dominant position in Apple's supply chain. Watch | World Business Watch: Apple to sign deal with Luxshare for iPhone production in China While a source told Reuters that the Foxconn plant is almost back to its originals position with almost 90 per cent of December's shipments reaching, some media reports believe that Apple's shipments are likely to slip in the holiday quarter. For upcoming projects, TrendForce, an industry research firm on Saturday said that Apple has decided to employ Luxshare as one of the assemblers for its iPhone 15 Pro Max. Also read | Apple, Tesla stocks hit major lows as concerns prevail over production amid Covid The firm also added that only Luxshare's assembling plant is set up in China and has no plans on setting up its iPhone production line. The tech giant this week on its website also said that the out-of-warranty iPhone owners will have to now spend $20 more to replace their batteries at an Apple store. Starting from March 01, all old iPhones before 2022 will see their battery replacements charge increased by $20. These increased battery prices will also apply to not just iPhones but also MacBooks, some iPads and a few international markets. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Apple to sign Luxshare for iPhone production in China, says report; hikes battery replacement price by $20

Chinese hospitals and funeral homes were under intense pressure on Wednesday as a surging Covid-19 wave drained resources. Watch this video to know more.

Chinese hospitals, funeral homes 'extremely busy' as Covid spreads

South Korea authorities said on Wednesday they were trying to track down a Chinese national who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility.

South Korea seeks Chinese national missing from Covid quarantine

Qatar joined the growing list of countries requiring travellers from China to provide a negative Covid result before boarding a flight. The flyers have to submit the test result 48 hours before the departure.

Qatar's state news agency QNA on Monday reported that the Covid test is mandatory regardless of vaccination status. The measures will come into effect on Tuesday.

Notably, Qatar is the first gulf country to impose such a measure. So far 10 countries, including the US, Australia, UK, and India, have announced the testing requirement, while Morocco went a step further and outrightly banned the entry of all travellers from China.

China has been witnessing a resurgent virus outbreak after it lifted its stringent COVID-19 restrictions in December, following a rare, but massive, protest by the people that saw them endure some form of lockdown for more than two years.

In a televised New Year address, Chinese President Xi Jinping said “epidemic prevention and control is entering a new phase.”

“Everyone is working resolutely, and the light of hope is right in front of us,” he said during a speech broadcast on Saturday.

Last Monday, he called for measures to “effectively protect people's lives”.

<h2>China braces up to mitigate Covid surge, Taiwan offers 'necessary assistance'</h2>

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On Saturday, China recorded more than 7,000 new infections and one death. However, several countries and the WHO believe that Beijing is not releasing the real extent of the spread of Covid and that the numbers are downplaying the situation.

UK, Australia, and Canada have cited a lack of data on the Covid situation from Beijing as the reason for implementing the travel curbs.

The World Health Organization (WHO) urged Chinese health officials to regularly share specific, real-time information on the country’s Covid surge.

WHO Covid experts met Chinese officials on Friday and “again stressed the importance of transparency and regular sharing of data to formulate accurate risk assessments and to inform effective response”, said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Qatar joined the growing list of countries requiring travellers from China to provide a negative Covid result before boarding a flight. The flyers have to submit the test result 48 hours before the departure.

Qatar joined the growing list of countries requiring travellers from China to provide a negative Covid result before boarding a flight. The flyers have to submit the test result 48 hours before the departure. Qatar's state news agency QNA on Monday reported that the Covid test is mandatory regardless of vaccination status. The measures will come into effect on Tuesday. Notably, Qatar is the first gulf country to impose such a measure. So far 10 countries, including the US, Australia, UK, and India, have announced the testing requirement, while Morocco went a step further and outrightly banned the entry of all travellers from China. China has been witnessing a resurgent virus outbreak after it lifted its stringent COVID-19 restrictions in December, following a rare, but massive, protest by the people that saw them endure some form of lockdown for more than two years. In a televised New Year address, Chinese President Xi Jinping said “epidemic prevention and control is entering a new phase.” “Everyone is working resolutely, and the light of hope is right in front of us,” he said during a speech broadcast on Saturday. Last Monday, he called for measures to “effectively protect people's lives”. China braces up to mitigate Covid surge, Taiwan offers 'necessary assistance' On Saturday, China recorded more than 7,000 new infections and one death. However, several countries and the WHO believe that Beijing is not releasing the real extent of the spread of Covid and that the numbers are downplaying the situation. UK, Australia, and Canada have cited a lack of data on the Covid situation from Beijing as the reason for implementing the travel curbs. The World Health Organization (WHO) urged Chinese health officials to regularly share specific, real-time information on the country’s Covid surge. WHO Covid experts met Chinese officials on Friday and “again stressed the importance of transparency and regular sharing of data to formulate accurate risk assessments and to inform effective response”, said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Qatar joins the list of countries requiring Covid negative test from travellers from China

As data related to the recent Covid surge in China remains shrouded in mystery, more countries are imposing mandatory testing requirements on arrivals from China. The latest Australia, Canada and Morocco have imposed these precautionary measures.

China braces up to mitigate Covid surge, Taiwan offers 'necessary assistance'

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