Manufacturing activities in China witnessed a sharp decline in December &nbsp;2022, according to the official data released by China's national bureau for statistics (NBS). The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) recorded in December 2022 was down to 47, compared to 48 in the previous month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

China's sudden relaxation of its zero-Covid policy, followed by the rapid spread of COVID-19, has hurt the nation's overall production. The PMI is a fundamental measure in the world's second-biggest economy, and a recording below 50 indicates a downturn in factory activities. NBS obtains the PMI from a survey of large-scale and state-owned companies.&nbsp;

Also read|<a href="www.wionews.com/world/china-looking-at-indian-market-for-approved-covid-19-drugs-as-demand-increases-547447">&nbsp;</a><a href="www.wionews.com/world/china-looking-at-indian-market-for-approved-covid-19-drugs-as-demand-increases-547447">China looking at Indian market for approved COVID-19 drugs as demand increases</a>

Since February 2020, China did not see such a steep contraction in manufacturing activities. The rapidly plunging output (December vs November) was 44.6 vs 47.8. The new orders received were 43.9, and export sales were 44.2 vs 46.7.

Purchasing activity declined for the third time in a row, and the employment rate decreased sharply. With the most profound fall in the last eight months, the buying activity was 44.9 vs 47.1, and the employment rate was 44.8 vs 47.4.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;WHO calls up China to step up Covid response, urges to share more Covid data too

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The input cost rose steeply for the fourth month&nbsp;running, while the output charges lengthened for the eighth successive month. Furthermore, delivery time grew significantly.&nbsp;

However, the fact remains that the PMI has not contracted up to this extent in nearly three years. While this is concerning, Trading Economics predicted the business confidence (PMI) as 49.5 by the end of this quarter.&nbsp;

The average PMI of China is 51.45 from 2005 to 2022. It peaked in April 2008 at 59.2 points and recorded its lowest at 35.7 in February 2020. According to the global macro model and analysts' anticipations, the PMI might trend around 52 points in 2023 and 51 in 2024. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Manufacturing activities in China witnessed a sharp decline in December 2022, according to the official data released by China's national bureau for statistics (NBS).

Manufacturing activities in China witnessed a sharp decline in December 2022, according to the official data released by China's national bureau for statistics (NBS). The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) recorded in December 2022 was down to 47, compared to 48 in the previous month. China's sudden relaxation of its zero-Covid policy, followed by the rapid spread of COVID-19, has hurt the nation's overall production. The PMI is a fundamental measure in the world's second-biggest economy, and a recording below 50 indicates a downturn in factory activities. NBS obtains the PMI from a survey of large-scale and state-owned companies. Also read| China looking at Indian market for approved COVID-19 drugs as demand increases Since February 2020, China did not see such a steep contraction in manufacturing activities. The rapidly plunging output (December vs November) was 44.6 vs 47.8. The new orders received were 43.9, and export sales were 44.2 vs 46.7. Purchasing activity declined for the third time in a row, and the employment rate decreased sharply. With the most profound fall in the last eight months, the buying activity was 44.9 vs 47.1, and the employment rate was 44.8 vs 47.4. Watch | WHO calls up China to step up Covid response, urges to share more Covid data too The input cost rose steeply for the fourth month running, while the output charges lengthened for the eighth successive month. Furthermore, delivery time grew significantly. However, the fact remains that the PMI has not contracted up to this extent in nearly three years. While this is concerning, Trading Economics predicted the business confidence (PMI) as 49.5 by the end of this quarter. The average PMI of China is 51.45 from 2005 to 2022. It peaked in April 2008 at 59.2 points and recorded its lowest at 35.7 in February 2020. According to the global macro model and analysts' anticipations, the PMI might trend around 52 points in 2023 and 51 in 2024. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China's manufacturing activity plunges in December amid Covid flare-up after ease in curbs

The French health system is under immense pressure as the authorities informed that the nation faces a triple epidemic—of coronavirus, flu, and bronchiolitis. The nationwide strike by doctors and emergency services has made the situation even worse.&nbsp;Earlier this week, on Wednesday, French Health Minister François Braun said that the respiratory infection is affecting children under two and the strike is forcing patients to go to hospitals for consultation instead of their local GP.&nbsp;

Health Minister François Braun had also warned that this was a week of great danger for the national health system. Braun issued an alert because the general practitioners continue their strike for higher consultation fees and improved conditions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, France said on Friday (December 30) that it would require travellers arriving from China to show a negative Covid test report. Amid a rise in positive cases in China, countries like Italy and Spain have also taken similar decisions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
France will now require travellers boarding a flight from China to show a negative Covid test report&nbsp;fewer than 48 hours old with their boarding pass, with random tests carried out on passengers on arrival. The government also said that the positive tests will be sequenced to check for new variants.&nbsp;

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The French health system is under immense pressure as the authorities informed that the nation faces a triple epidemic—of coronavirus, flu, and bronchiolitis. The nationwide strike by doctors and emergency services has made the situation even worse.

The French health system is under immense pressure as the authorities informed that the nation faces a triple epidemic—of coronavirus, flu, and bronchiolitis. The nationwide strike by doctors and emergency services has made the situation even worse. Earlier this week, on Wednesday, French Health Minister François Braun said that the respiratory infection is affecting children under two and the strike is forcing patients to go to hospitals for consultation instead of their local GP. Health Minister François Braun had also warned that this was a week of great danger for the national health system. Braun issued an alert because the general practitioners continue their strike for higher consultation fees and improved conditions. Meanwhile, France said on Friday (December 30) that it would require travellers arriving from China to show a negative Covid test report. Amid a rise in positive cases in China, countries like Italy and Spain have also taken similar decisions. France will now require travellers boarding a flight from China to show a negative Covid test report fewer than 48 hours old with their boarding pass, with random tests carried out on passengers on arrival. The government also said that the positive tests will be sequenced to check for new variants. 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.

France makes Covid test mandatory for travellers from China; as it faces ‘triple epidemic’

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday (December 30) that the coronavirus strategy in the nation was "optimised" to protect the lives of citizens and minimise economic costs of the pandemic. China is currently reeling amid a sudden surge in positive Covid cases, with reports of multiple outbreaks across the country.&nbsp;

Xi's recent remarks are an extension of what he said earlier this week regarding the current Covid situation in China. While speaking for the first time on the recent rise in cases, the Chinese president had urged the authorities to take steps to "protect" lives.&nbsp;

Xinhua News Agency reported on Friday (December 30) that while listing his achievements of 2022, Xi said at an event, "We have optimised Covid control strategy based on time and situation in order to best protect people's lives and health, and minimise the impact on economic and social development."&nbsp;

In the report, Xi used terms like "Covid control strategy," instead of Covid zero policy. Earlier this month, China eased some of the hardline measures which led to a fresh wave of Covid cases.&nbsp;

To curb the spread of Covid virus, China had adopted a strict zero-Covid policy, and to some extent, the authorities were successful too. But the repercussions of lockdowns and restricted trade were massive on the nation's economy.&nbsp;

After a visible impact on the economy and public outrage after the deadly apartment fire in the country's far west, the authorities started relaxing some of the measures following protests.&nbsp;

But the Covid situation in China is continuing to worsen. Also, it is slightly difficult to get updates as the Chinese authorities informed that they have stopped publishing daily Covid figures.&nbsp;

As per the National Health Commission, the decision came into effect on December 25. The drastic step has baffled the experts as the NHC released Covid data for the last three years. But as per studies, around one million people could die over the next few months in China.&nbsp;

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Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday (December 30) that the coronavirus strategy in the nation was "optimised" to protect the lives of citizens and minimise economic costs of the pandemic.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday (December 30) that the coronavirus strategy in the nation was "optimised" to protect the lives of citizens and minimise economic costs of the pandemic. China is currently reeling amid a sudden surge in positive Covid cases, with reports of multiple outbreaks across the country. Xi's recent remarks are an extension of what he said earlier this week regarding the current Covid situation in China. While speaking for the first time on the recent rise in cases, the Chinese president had urged the authorities to take steps to "protect" lives. Xinhua News Agency reported on Friday (December 30) that while listing his achievements of 2022, Xi said at an event, "We have optimised Covid control strategy based on time and situation in order to best protect people's lives and health, and minimise the impact on economic and social development." In the report, Xi used terms like "Covid control strategy," instead of Covid zero policy. Earlier this month, China eased some of the hardline measures which led to a fresh wave of Covid cases. To curb the spread of Covid virus, China had adopted a strict zero-Covid policy, and to some extent, the authorities were successful too. But the repercussions of lockdowns and restricted trade were massive on the nation's economy. After a visible impact on the economy and public outrage after the deadly apartment fire in the country's far west, the authorities started relaxing some of the measures following protests. But the Covid situation in China is continuing to worsen. Also, it is slightly difficult to get updates as the Chinese authorities informed that they have stopped publishing daily Covid figures. As per the National Health Commission, the decision came into effect on December 25. The drastic step has baffled the experts as the NHC released Covid data for the last three years. But as per studies, around one million people could die over the next few months in China. 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 optimised ‘Covid control strategy’ to protect lives, minimise economic costs, says Xi Jinping

As more and more countries are imposing restrictions on travellers from China amid the recent surge in cases in the country, Beijing’s state media, called these mandates “discriminatory”. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) chief, on Thursday, called the measures “understandable” given the lack of information from China.

WHO 'concerned’ on Covid situation in China, calls restrictions by countries ‘understandable’

Hospitals across China have been overwhelmed by an explosion of Covid cases following Beijing's decision to lift strict rules. Watch this video to know more.

China's Covid surge triggers global alarm

Due to spike in covid infections in China, the United States will require all visitors from China to present a negative Covid-19 test result before boarding a flight to the country.

U.S. will require Covid-19 testing for travellers from China

U.S., like India and other countries, to impose entry curbs for those coming from China

COVID-19 has spread globally since its discovery in Hubei province, China in December 2019. Let's have a look as to what are the causes of creation of the new virus variants.

What causes the creation of new virus variants?

Hospitals in China struggle with spike in Covid cases. Even as China records zero covid deaths now data firm is claiming that the real scale of infection could be far greater than what the official data is showing. Watch to know further.

China reports ‘zero Covid death’ for the first time in three years

India’s health minister has advised the public to take precautions against Covid-19, as the country remains on alert for potential new variants that could emerge from the wave of infections sweeping neighboring China.

WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China

A #WuhanVirus tsunami has engulfed China. The country's top doctor has predicted 3 Covid waves in 3 months. Is Xi Jinping caught in his own trap? Will China infect the world once again?

Gravitas: China stares at 3 Covid waves in 3 months

The country is ramping up ICU beds, and building new hospitals, as it relaxes covid measures and drops mandatory quarantine. What explains these contradictory measures? @MollyGambhir tells you

Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

Covid cases are surging in the Chinese capital of Beijing, this comes as the country tries to turn away from its zero-tolerance coronavirus strategy. Beijing authorities said, more than 22,000 patients visited hospitals across the city in the previous days.

Covid cases surge in China as hardline policy eases

China on Monday said that a major application used for tracking COVID-19 contacts will retire, a major move in the rapid turn away from its zero-tolerance Covid strategy.

Trending on WION: China retires application that tracks COVID contacts

Dozens of people gathered in central Hong Kong and at a major university campus on Monday to protests against China's strict Covid-19 restrictions. The supporters also mourned the victims of a deadly fire in the mainland's northwest.

Protests spread in China as anger mounts over ‘zero-COVID’; other countries join in solidarity

The Covid situation in China is worsening every day. The Asian country reported a high number of cases for the third consecutive day.&nbsp;The National Health Commission on Saturday (Nov 26) announced that China reported 35,183 new infection cases on Nov 25, of which 3,474 were symptomatic cases while the remaining 31,709 cases were asymptomatic marking another high the third day in a row.

However, the death toll remains constant&nbsp;at 5,232, AFP reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-single-day-covid-cases-hit-record-high-with-over-30000-infections-536948">Also read |&nbsp;With over 31,000 Covid infections, China registers highest single-day rise since pandemic began</a>

A day earlier, the country reported 32,943 cases of which 3,103 were symptomatic and 29,840 were asymptomatic.&nbsp;The Asian country also reported over 30,000 cases on Wednesday and Thursday.&nbsp;

China's mainland has verified 304,093 active cases with symptoms as of Friday (Nov 25).&nbsp;

Authorities have been struggling with controlling epidemics, with Chongqing and Guangzhou being the hotspots.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-covid-19-authorities-face-anger-after-an-infant-dies-due-to-delay-in-treatment-amid-restrictions-535230">Also read |&nbsp;China COVID-19: Authorities face anger after an infant dies due to delay in treatment amid restrictions</a>

Chongqing, home to nearly 32 million people reported 7,721 cases on Friday, implying a 20 per cent increase from the day before.&nbsp;

Guangzhou on the other hand reported 7,419 new Covid cases on Friday, a little low from the previous day.&nbsp;

Beijing, the capital city reported 2,595 cases on Saturday, the health officials stated.&nbsp;

The authorities earlier stated that they'll be increasing not only vaccination doses but also promised to install nearly 250 K beds for Covid treatment, but the situation seems to be out of control.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Covid situation in China is worsening every day. The Asian country reported a high number of cases for the third consecutive day. The National Health Commission on Saturday (Nov 26) announced that China reported 35,183 new infection cases on Nov 25, of which 3,474 were symptomatic cases while the remaining 31,709 cases were asymptomatic marking another high the third day in a row.

The Covid situation in China is worsening every day. The Asian country reported a high number of cases for the third consecutive day. The National Health Commission on Saturday (Nov 26) announced that China reported 35,183 new infection cases on Nov 25, of which 3,474 were symptomatic cases while the remaining 31,709 cases were asymptomatic marking another high the third day in a row. However, the death toll remains constant at 5,232, AFP reported. Also read | With over 31,000 Covid infections, China registers highest single-day rise since pandemic began A day earlier, the country reported 32,943 cases of which 3,103 were symptomatic and 29,840 were asymptomatic. The Asian country also reported over 30,000 cases on Wednesday and Thursday. China's mainland has verified 304,093 active cases with symptoms as of Friday (Nov 25). Authorities have been struggling with controlling epidemics, with Chongqing and Guangzhou being the hotspots. Also read | China COVID-19: Authorities face anger after an infant dies due to delay in treatment amid restrictions Chongqing, home to nearly 32 million people reported 7,721 cases on Friday, implying a 20 per cent increase from the day before. Guangzhou on the other hand reported 7,419 new Covid cases on Friday, a little low from the previous day. Beijing, the capital city reported 2,595 cases on Saturday, the health officials stated. The authorities earlier stated that they'll be increasing not only vaccination doses but also promised to install nearly 250 K beds for Covid treatment, but the situation seems to be out of control. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19: China reports over 30,000 new cases for the third consecutive day

The COVID-19 situation is easing around the world but not in China. Chaoyang, the largest district of China’s capital Beijing, urged people to stay home for the weekend and restricted intra-city travel as Covid-19 cases continue to rise in the city. Watch the full video to know more

China's COVID cases rise, Beijing under semi-lockdown

COVID-19 infections are on a rise in China as the country's top health officials begin easing some pandemic measures in a bit to provide some economic relief to the people

Chinese cities record new surge in COVID-19 cases

China's&nbsp;National Health Commission (NHC) on Saturday (November 5) revealed that 3,837 new Covid cases have been reported among which 657 are symptomatic and the remaining 3,180 asymptomatic.&nbsp;

A day prior to this, the Asian country recorded 4,045 new Covid cases of coronavirus infection, which marked a six-month high with 3,288 asymptomatic infections and the remaining 757 symptomatic ones.

China has been dealing with Covid for a while now. States and cities are under several restrictions to control the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-disneyland-closes-due-to-covid-preventive-efforts-prevents-visitors-from-leaving-529821">Also read |&nbsp;Shanghai Disneyland closes due to Covid curbs; prevents visitors from leaving</a>

As of Friday (November 4), mainland China had confirmed 262,966 individuals with proper symptoms.&nbsp;The number of deaths remained at 5,226 due to no new deaths reported.

Beijing, the capital reported 37 symptomatic cases and five asymptomatic cases on Saturday (November 5). A day prior the capital reported 32 symptomatic and six asymptomatic cases, the local government revealed.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | China's COVID lockdowns intensify

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Shanghai, the financial hub, recorded five asymptomatic and no symptomatic cases on November 5. In comparison to the recent data, the city on Friday (November 4) recorded one symptomatic and six symptomatic cases, the local authorities reported. Recently, the Disney park in Shanghai was closed to curb the Covid spread.&nbsp; 
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Guangzhou, another city home to 19 million people, recorded 111 news symptomatic and 635 asymptomatic cases, down from 142 symptomatic and 430 asymptomatic cases, as per the city officials.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's National Health Commission (NHC) on Saturday (November 5) revealed that 3,837 new Covid cases have been reported among which 657 are symptomatic and the remaining 3,180 asymptomatic.

China's National Health Commission (NHC) on Saturday (November 5) revealed that 3,837 new Covid cases have been reported among which 657 are symptomatic and the remaining 3,180 asymptomatic. A day prior to this, the Asian country recorded 4,045 new Covid cases of coronavirus infection, which marked a six-month high with 3,288 asymptomatic infections and the remaining 757 symptomatic ones. China has been dealing with Covid for a while now. States and cities are under several restrictions to control the virus. Also read | Shanghai Disneyland closes due to Covid curbs; prevents visitors from leaving As of Friday (November 4), mainland China had confirmed 262,966 individuals with proper symptoms. The number of deaths remained at 5,226 due to no new deaths reported. Beijing, the capital reported 37 symptomatic cases and five asymptomatic cases on Saturday (November 5). A day prior the capital reported 32 symptomatic and six asymptomatic cases, the local government revealed. Watch | WION Fineprint | China's COVID lockdowns intensify Shanghai, the financial hub, recorded five asymptomatic and no symptomatic cases on November 5. In comparison to the recent data, the city on Friday (November 4) recorded one symptomatic and six symptomatic cases, the local authorities reported. Recently, the Disney park in Shanghai was closed to curb the Covid spread. Guangzhou, another city home to 19 million people, recorded 111 news symptomatic and 635 asymptomatic cases, down from 142 symptomatic and 430 asymptomatic cases, as per the city officials. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19: Day after hitting a six-month high, China reports over 3,800 new cases

Yet another city in China has extended its lockdown. Chengdu's extended its lockdown in the majority of districts on Thursday, in an effort to stop the spread of the COVID-19 cases in the 21.2 million populous capital.&nbsp;

Local authorities reported 116 new Covid cases, down from 121 the day before. Among the recorded cases, 57 had symptoms and 59 did not, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

As instances increased in various districts last week, the city was shut down, allowing the authorities to finish another round of mass testing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/china-clears-roads-to-earthquake-epicentre-death-toll-rises-to-74-513625">Also read |&nbsp;China clears roads to earthquake epicentre, death toll rises to 74</a>

According to Chengdu's authorities, the lockdown was anticipated to be lifted on Wednesday (September 7), but local government officials stated extreme caution, stating that the threat of social spread still exists.

Not specifying when the lockdown will be lifted, the authorities in the southwestern Chinese province announced late on Wednesday that residents will undergo daily covid tests.&nbsp;

On September 9 and 11, a number of district residents who were let out of a complete lockdown would take part in massive Cocid testing.

Last week, the Shuangliu Airport in Chengdu had to cancel nearly 90 per cent of the scheduled flights.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-create-app-that-can-detect-covid-using-peoples-voices-513605">Also read |&nbsp;Scientists create app that can detect Covid using people’s voices</a>

China, this year has been fighting to suppress the extremely contagious Omircorn Variant, placing cities under varying levels of lockdown to halt its spread.&nbsp;

Shanghai, one of the well-known cities to be impacted by China's "dynamic zero-Covid policy" aiming to eradicate infections, was shut down for two months in April and May in 2022.&nbsp;

The Covid restrictions, which are keeping tens of millions of people under lockdown, were expanded by authorities advising residents to avoid unnecessary trips for the impending holiday long weekend.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Yet another city in China has extended its lockdown. Chengdu's extended its lockdown in the majority of districts on Thursday, in an effort to stop the spread of the COVID-19 cases in the 21.

Yet another city in China has extended its lockdown. Chengdu's extended its lockdown in the majority of districts on Thursday, in an effort to stop the spread of the COVID-19 cases in the 21.2 million populous capital. Local authorities reported 116 new Covid cases, down from 121 the day before. Among the recorded cases, 57 had symptoms and 59 did not, Reuters reported. As instances increased in various districts last week, the city was shut down, allowing the authorities to finish another round of mass testing. Also read | China clears roads to earthquake epicentre, death toll rises to 74 According to Chengdu's authorities, the lockdown was anticipated to be lifted on Wednesday (September 7), but local government officials stated extreme caution, stating that the threat of social spread still exists. Not specifying when the lockdown will be lifted, the authorities in the southwestern Chinese province announced late on Wednesday that residents will undergo daily covid tests. On September 9 and 11, a number of district residents who were let out of a complete lockdown would take part in massive Cocid testing. Last week, the Shuangliu Airport in Chengdu had to cancel nearly 90 per cent of the scheduled flights. Also read | Scientists create app that can detect Covid using people’s voices China, this year has been fighting to suppress the extremely contagious Omircorn Variant, placing cities under varying levels of lockdown to halt its spread. Shanghai, one of the well-known cities to be impacted by China's "dynamic zero-Covid policy" aiming to eradicate infections, was shut down for two months in April and May in 2022. The Covid restrictions, which are keeping tens of millions of people under lockdown, were expanded by authorities advising residents to avoid unnecessary trips for the impending holiday long weekend. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19: Chengdu extends its lockdown as virus spreads 

An art teacher in China won 40,000 yuan ($6,000) in an unfair dismissal case over her cat’s appearance during her online class. The incident took place in June when during her online class, Luo’s beloved cat repeatedly leaped into the camera’s view throughout the lesson.

The teacher, Luo, was fired by the education tech company in charge of the online classes because of the feline’s erratic appearances on the screen. However, according to the tech company, Luo participated in non-teaching activities during the class and was also 10 minutes late to the class, Guangzhou Daily reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-teacher-consoles-his-students-who-weep-uncontrollably-after-his-transfer-netizens-tear-up-497637">Watch: Teacher consoles his students who weep uncontrollably after his transfer; netizens tear up</a>

Later, Luo challenged the arbitration ruling. The company, however, refused to accept the order and even refused to pay the teacher’s compensation for unjust dismissal, as per media reports.

Judge Liao Yajing of the Guangzhou Tianhe People’s Court, hearing the case, said that if companies require their employees to work from home, they shouldn’t expect them to work as if they are working in an office. She further stated, "The employer's rules should not only comply with the laws but should also be fair and reasonable," BBC reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-teachers-in-hong-kong-forced-to-take-allegiance-oath-or-risk-losing-job-report-487424">Foreign teachers in Hong Kong forced to take allegiance oath or risk losing job: Report</a>

In the midst of lockdowns and schools being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, online classes became a necessity.

However, authorities in Shanghai announced that the city is planning to reopen schools on September 1 with regular Covid tests for teachers and students. The city had all its schools closed by mid-March. With the announcement that schools would resume, many people are worried about the coronavirus that still persists as China sticks to its dynamic zero policy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An art teacher in China won 40,000 yuan ($6,000) in an unfair dismissal case over her cat’s appearance during her online class. The incident took place in June when during her online class, Luo’s beloved cat repeatedly leaped into the camera’s view throughout the lesson.

An art teacher in China won 40,000 yuan ($6,000) in an unfair dismissal case over her cat’s appearance during her online class. The incident took place in June when during her online class, Luo’s beloved cat repeatedly leaped into the camera’s view throughout the lesson. The teacher, Luo, was fired by the education tech company in charge of the online classes because of the feline’s erratic appearances on the screen. However, according to the tech company, Luo participated in non-teaching activities during the class and was also 10 minutes late to the class, Guangzhou Daily reported. Also read | Watch: Teacher consoles his students who weep uncontrollably after his transfer; netizens tear up Later, Luo challenged the arbitration ruling. The company, however, refused to accept the order and even refused to pay the teacher’s compensation for unjust dismissal, as per media reports. Judge Liao Yajing of the Guangzhou Tianhe People’s Court, hearing the case, said that if companies require their employees to work from home, they shouldn’t expect them to work as if they are working in an office. She further stated, "The employer's rules should not only comply with the laws but should also be fair and reasonable," BBC reported. Also read | Foreign teachers in Hong Kong forced to take allegiance oath or risk losing job: Report In the midst of lockdowns and schools being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, online classes became a necessity. However, authorities in Shanghai announced that the city is planning to reopen schools on September 1 with regular Covid tests for teachers and students. The city had all its schools closed by mid-March. With the announcement that schools would resume, many people are worried about the coronavirus that still persists as China sticks to its dynamic zero policy. (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.

Chinese teacher fired for her cat’s appearance in online class, awarded $6,000 compensation

After months of Covid lockdown, Shanghai on Sunday (August 14), announced that all schools, including kindergartens, and primary and middle schools, will reopen from September 1. The city will mandate that all teachers and students undergo daily Covid nucleic acid tests before leaving the campus.

The Shanghai Municipal Education Commission stated that the city will also mandate 14-day self-health management inside the city prior to the schools' reopening. Shanghai had closed all schools in mid-March.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-sizzles-as-authorities-declare-another-extreme-heat-warning-497329">Shanghai sizzles as authorities declare another extreme heat warning</a>

Many locals are relieved by the news that schools will reopen, but the concerns about Covid continue to exist as China continues to stick to its dynamic zero policy.

Shanghai allowed the majority of the students to continue their home studies for the duration of the semester. It also permitted certain middle school and high school students to return to their classes.

Watch |&nbsp;New Omicron variant found in China, Shanghai carries out new rounds of covid-19 testing

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China's most populous city, Shanghai reported five new Covid cases on Saturday; 2,467 domestically transmitted cases were recorded nationwide.

Earlier, videos on social media went viral and showed panicked shoppers shoving past security officers and fleeing from the mall after a Covid contact tracing announcement was made. IKEA later said that the mall was shut at that time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-century-old-3800-tonne-building-in-shanghai-start-walking-496092">How did this century-old, 3,800-tonne building in Shanghai start 'walking'?</a>

The city has extended both the free testing period and the weekly Covid test requirement until the end of September.

China’s most affected location is currently the southern province of Hainan, where 494 symptomatic cases and 846 asymptomatic cases were reported on Saturday. Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan when visiting the island reportedly pushed Hainan to quickly reach zero instances at the community level.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After months of Covid lockdown, Shanghai on Sunday (August 14), announced that all schools, including kindergartens, and primary and middle schools, will reopen from September 1.

After months of Covid lockdown, Shanghai on Sunday (August 14), announced that all schools, including kindergartens, and primary and middle schools, will reopen from September 1. The city will mandate that all teachers and students undergo daily Covid nucleic acid tests before leaving the campus. The Shanghai Municipal Education Commission stated that the city will also mandate 14-day self-health management inside the city prior to the schools' reopening. Shanghai had closed all schools in mid-March. Also read | Shanghai sizzles as authorities declare another extreme heat warning Many locals are relieved by the news that schools will reopen, but the concerns about Covid continue to exist as China continues to stick to its dynamic zero policy. Shanghai allowed the majority of the students to continue their home studies for the duration of the semester. It also permitted certain middle school and high school students to return to their classes. Watch | New Omicron variant found in China, Shanghai carries out new rounds of covid-19 testing China's most populous city, Shanghai reported five new Covid cases on Saturday; 2,467 domestically transmitted cases were recorded nationwide. Earlier, videos on social media went viral and showed panicked shoppers shoving past security officers and fleeing from the mall after a Covid contact tracing announcement was made. IKEA later said that the mall was shut at that time. Also read | How did this century-old, 3,800-tonne building in Shanghai start 'walking'? The city has extended both the free testing period and the weekly Covid test requirement until the end of September. China’s most affected location is currently the southern province of Hainan, where 494 symptomatic cases and 846 asymptomatic cases were reported on Saturday. Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan when visiting the island reportedly pushed Hainan to quickly reach zero instances at the community level. (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: Shanghai to reopen all schools from September 1

Russia’s Soyuz rocket launched an Iranian satellite called Khayyam from Baikonur launch site in Kazakhstan. In other news, leading candidates for Britain’s prime minister, Foreign Minister Liz Truss, and former finance minister Rishi Sunak have said they would both be willing to serve on the other’s cabinet in the case of a loss. In another news, China recorded 1,094 Covid cases on August 9, amongst which 444 were symptomatic and 650 are asymptomatic. Finally, a year after the US withdrew from Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to seize power and causing a destabilising refugee crisis, a bipartisan bill has been introduced in both houses of the US Congress for.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/russias-soyuz-rocket-blasts-off-with-iranian-satellite-from-kazakhstan-505381">Russia's Soyuz rocket blasts off with Iranian satellite from Kazakhstan</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/10/286195-untitled-design-1.png" />

Hailing the satellite launch as ''an important milestone in Russian-Iranian bilateral cooperation'', Russian space chief Yury Borisov said ''it will open the way to the implementation of new and even larger projects.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/both-truss-sunak-willing-to-serve-on-the-others-cabinet-in-case-of-loss-505375">Both Truss, Sunak willing to serve on the other’s cabinet in case of loss</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/10/286192-untitled-design.png" />

Both Truss and Sunak highlighted they would put aside their differences and work under each other's leadership.

Truss and Sunak are the leading candidates to replace Boris Johnson as Britain's prime minister and the decision regarding the final choice will be made on September 5.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-1094-new-covid-cases-on-august-9-increase-from-939-cases-day-earlier-505379">China reports 1,094 new Covid cases on August 9, increase from 939 cases day earlier</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/10/286194-2022-08-10t012005z2lynxmpei7901drtroptp4health-coronavirus-china-hainan.JPG" />

According to the National Health Commission's announcement on Wednesday, China reported 1,094 new cases of coronavirus for August 9, of which 444 were symptomatic and 650 were asymptomatic. The country's death toll remained at 5,226 due to no additional deaths. There were 232,109 confirmed cases with symptoms in mainland China as of August 9.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-year-after-it-abandoned-afghanistan-us-introduces-bill-to-give-thousands-of-afghans-path-to-citizenship-505365">A year after it abandoned Afghanistan, US introduces bill to give thousands of Afghans path to citizenship</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/10/286184-new-wion-18.png" />

&nbsp;bipartisan bill has been submitted in both houses of the US Congress, a year after the US withdrew from Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to seize power and sparking a catastrophic refugee crisis. With the passage of this Act, thousands of Afghan evacuees who were previously granted temporary immigration status will now have a clear road to citizenship.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India mulls possibility of a single charger for all devices

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Russia’s Soyuz rocket launched an Iranian satellite called Khayyam from Baikonur launch site in Kazakhstan. In other news, leading candidates for Britain’s prime minister, Foreign Minister Liz Truss, and former finance minister Rishi Sunak have said they would both be willing to serve on the other’s cabinet in the case of a loss.

Russia’s Soyuz rocket launched an Iranian satellite called Khayyam from Baikonur launch site in Kazakhstan. In other news, leading candidates for Britain’s prime minister, Foreign Minister Liz Truss, and former finance minister Rishi Sunak have said they would both be willing to serve on the other’s cabinet in the case of a loss. In another news, China recorded 1,094 Covid cases on August 9, amongst which 444 were symptomatic and 650 are asymptomatic. Finally, a year after the US withdrew from Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to seize power and causing a destabilising refugee crisis, a bipartisan bill has been introduced in both houses of the US Congress for. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia's Soyuz rocket blasts off with Iranian satellite from Kazakhstan Hailing the satellite launch as ''an important milestone in Russian-Iranian bilateral cooperation'', Russian space chief Yury Borisov said ''it will open the way to the implementation of new and even larger projects.'' Both Truss, Sunak willing to serve on the other’s cabinet in case of loss Both Truss and Sunak highlighted they would put aside their differences and work under each other's leadership. Truss and Sunak are the leading candidates to replace Boris Johnson as Britain's prime minister and the decision regarding the final choice will be made on September 5. China reports 1,094 new Covid cases on August 9, increase from 939 cases day earlier According to the National Health Commission's announcement on Wednesday, China reported 1,094 new cases of coronavirus for August 9, of which 444 were symptomatic and 650 were asymptomatic. The country's death toll remained at 5,226 due to no additional deaths. There were 232,109 confirmed cases with symptoms in mainland China as of August 9. A year after it abandoned Afghanistan, US introduces bill to give thousands of Afghans path to citizenship bipartisan bill has been submitted in both houses of the US Congress, a year after the US withdrew from Afghanistan, allowing the Taliban to seize power and sparking a catastrophic refugee crisis. With the passage of this Act, thousands of Afghan evacuees who were previously granted temporary immigration status will now have a clear road to citizenship. Watch | India mulls possibility of a single charger for all devices

Morning news brief: Russia’s rocket launches Iranian satellite, Covid in China & more

The World Health Organisation recently released its weekly assessment of the pandemic released on Wednesday (August 3), according to which the new coronavirus cases fell by 9 per cent globally last week but the deaths remained steady. As per the report, 6.5 million virus cases and more than 14,000 fatalities were reported in the previous week. The US, South Korea, and Germany reported the highest numbers of new coronavirus cases. The United States reported the highest number of deaths. The WHO recently expressed concern that countries’ recent reductions in Covid&nbsp;testing and other alert systems have seriously hampered its efforts in monitoring COVID-19.

As per the health organisation, the number of cases decreased in Europe by 35 per cent but increased in the Western Pacific and Asia by nearly 20 per cent and 5 per cent respectively, AP reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-can-rebound-even-in-those-who-havent-taken-paxlovid-study-503403">COVID-19 can rebound even in those who haven't taken Paxlovid: Study</a>

The Office for National Statistics in the UK last week revealed that the number of COVID-19 cases has decreased to nearly 1 in 20 people, indicating that the Covid wave has reached its peak in the country. Medical experts predict that COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations will continue to fall in the coming weeks. However, as per specialists, COVID-19 prevention should continue as the medical system is still under pressure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-related-loss-of-smell-might-be-linked-to-cognitive-impairment-study-502714">Covid-related loss of smell might be linked to cognitive impairment: Study</a>

After finding four cases, Chinese authorities this week sealed off a part of Wuhan. Despite the social and economic disruption in the country, the authorities said that its "Zero-Covid Policy’ could persist for years.

As per WHO, two subvariants of Omicron, BA.4 and BA.5, were responsible for the recent Covid waves. It claimed that between 64 -70 per cent of the sequences shared with the biggest public viral database in the world were of BA.5.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The World Health Organisation recently released its weekly assessment of the pandemic released on Wednesday (August 3), according to which the new coronavirus cases fell by 9 per cent globally last week but the deaths remained steady.

The World Health Organisation recently released its weekly assessment of the pandemic released on Wednesday (August 3), according to which the new coronavirus cases fell by 9 per cent globally last week but the deaths remained steady. As per the report, 6.5 million virus cases and more than 14,000 fatalities were reported in the previous week. The US, South Korea, and Germany reported the highest numbers of new coronavirus cases. The United States reported the highest number of deaths. The WHO recently expressed concern that countries’ recent reductions in Covid testing and other alert systems have seriously hampered its efforts in monitoring COVID-19. As per the health organisation, the number of cases decreased in Europe by 35 per cent but increased in the Western Pacific and Asia by nearly 20 per cent and 5 per cent respectively, AP reported. Also read | COVID-19 can rebound even in those who haven't taken Paxlovid: Study The Office for National Statistics in the UK last week revealed that the number of COVID-19 cases has decreased to nearly 1 in 20 people, indicating that the Covid wave has reached its peak in the country. Medical experts predict that COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations will continue to fall in the coming weeks. However, as per specialists, COVID-19 prevention should continue as the medical system is still under pressure. Also read | Covid-related loss of smell might be linked to cognitive impairment: Study After finding four cases, Chinese authorities this week sealed off a part of Wuhan. Despite the social and economic disruption in the country, the authorities said that its "Zero-Covid Policy’ could persist for years. As per WHO, two subvariants of Omicron, BA.4 and BA.5, were responsible for the recent Covid waves. It claimed that between 64 -70 per cent of the sequences shared with the biggest public viral database in the world were of BA.5. (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: WHO’s recent report states new cases fell by 9% globally, deaths remain steady

Some parts of the ancient Chinese city of Xi’an was shut down again to avoid an explosion of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, owing to the highly transmissible Omicron subvariant. The officials said Tuesday (July 5) that businesses, schools and restaurants in Xi’an, which is home to 13 million people, will close for one week.&nbsp;

At the fag end of last year, the historic city Xi'an endured a month-long lockdown. Now, the city has reported 18 cases since Saturday in a cluster. As per the official notices, the cases are caused by the fast-spreading Omicron variant, which is already dominant in the United States and Britain.&nbsp;

Zhang Xuedong, who is the city official, said during a press conference that Xi'an would implement "seven-day temporary control measures". The measures would "allow society to quieten down as much as possible, reduce mobility... and cut the risk of cross-infection".&nbsp;

Zhang said: "We must race against both time and the virus... to guard against all possible risks and hidden dangers, and decisively avoid an explosion in community spreading."&nbsp;

The latest rules will kick in from midnight on Wednesday. As per city government's notice, the public entertainment venues including pubs, internet cafes and karaoke bars would shut their doors.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The notice added that the restaurants will not be allowed to serve diners indoors but may continue to offer takeaway services. Schools are to start the summer holiday early and universities will seal off their campuses.&nbsp;

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Some parts of the ancient Chinese city of Xi’an was shut down again to avoid an explosion of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, owing to the highly transmissible Omicron subvariant.

Some parts of the ancient Chinese city of Xi’an was shut down again to avoid an explosion of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, owing to the highly transmissible Omicron subvariant. The officials said Tuesday (July 5) that businesses, schools and restaurants in Xi’an, which is home to 13 million people, will close for one week. At the fag end of last year, the historic city Xi'an endured a month-long lockdown. Now, the city has reported 18 cases since Saturday in a cluster. As per the official notices, the cases are caused by the fast-spreading Omicron variant, which is already dominant in the United States and Britain. Zhang Xuedong, who is the city official, said during a press conference that Xi'an would implement "seven-day temporary control measures". The measures would "allow society to quieten down as much as possible, reduce mobility... and cut the risk of cross-infection". Zhang said: "We must race against both time and the virus... to guard against all possible risks and hidden dangers, and decisively avoid an explosion in community spreading." The latest rules will kick in from midnight on Wednesday. As per city government's notice, the public entertainment venues including pubs, internet cafes and karaoke bars would shut their doors. The notice added that the restaurants will not be allowed to serve diners indoors but may continue to offer takeaway services. Schools are to start the summer holiday early and universities will seal off their campuses. 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 in China: A city of 13 million forced to shut down again to avoid 'explosion' of cases

Shanghai’s authorities on Monday (May 30) have announced that some of the COVID-19 lockdown measures put on businesses will be eased from Wednesday (June 1). Not just this, the two-month lockdown came to an end allowing the residents in virus-free sections of the city, BBC reported.&nbsp;

These plans have been introduced to help in city’s economy which has been severely harmed as a result of the lockdown restrictions.

Guidelines to manage the spread the of virus and people returning to work will be revised as per the officials.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-logs-80-new-local-covid-19-cases-45-in-shanghai-22-in-beijing-482503">China logs 80 new local Covid-19 cases, 45 in Shanghai; 22 in Beijing</a>

As per the announcement same, official numbers released on Sunday (May 29) showed the daily covid cases dropping from 170 to 122 cases in 24 hours.

Starting from June 1, the companies would no longer be required to be on ‘whitelist’ to resume their production. The declaration came as the city unveiled a 50-point plan aimed at reviving the city’s economy estimated to be $600 billion (£475 billion).

Watch |&nbsp;Shanghai inches towards gradual reopening, over 100 bank outlets resume work

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New measures included reducing taxes on automobile buyers like drivers who move to electric vehicles will be eligible for a $1,500 payment, speeding up the issuance of local government bonds, as well as the approval of construction projects.&nbsp;

Car manufacturers like Tesla and Volkswagen have been particularly suffered due to the covid restrictions.

Additional assistance for businesses will be included the ability to postpone insurance and pay rents along with utility bill discounts.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/shanghai-to-reopen-subways-in-easing-of-covid-restrictions-480345">Shanghai to reopen subways in easing of Covid restrictions</a>

This year, banks will be required to extend $15 billion in loans to small and medium sized businesses. &nbsp;At this same time, vouchers will be distributed to assist stores and e-commerce platforms notably in cultural, fitness and tourism sectors.&nbsp;

Shopping malls and other venues have been allowed to open in some areas of the city.

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(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Shanghai’s authorities on Monday (May 30) have announced that some of the COVID-19 lockdown measures put on businesses will be eased from Wednesday (June 1). Not just this, the two-month lockdown came to an end allowing the residents in virus-free sections of the city, BBC reported.

Shanghai’s authorities on Monday (May 30) have announced that some of the COVID-19 lockdown measures put on businesses will be eased from Wednesday (June 1). Not just this, the two-month lockdown came to an end allowing the residents in virus-free sections of the city, BBC reported. These plans have been introduced to help in city’s economy which has been severely harmed as a result of the lockdown restrictions. Guidelines to manage the spread the of virus and people returning to work will be revised as per the officials. Also read | China logs 80 new local Covid-19 cases, 45 in Shanghai; 22 in Beijing As per the announcement same, official numbers released on Sunday (May 29) showed the daily covid cases dropping from 170 to 122 cases in 24 hours. Starting from June 1, the companies would no longer be required to be on ‘whitelist’ to resume their production. The declaration came as the city unveiled a 50-point plan aimed at reviving the city’s economy estimated to be $600 billion (£475 billion). Watch | Shanghai inches towards gradual reopening, over 100 bank outlets resume work New measures included reducing taxes on automobile buyers like drivers who move to electric vehicles will be eligible for a $1,500 payment, speeding up the issuance of local government bonds, as well as the approval of construction projects. Car manufacturers like Tesla and Volkswagen have been particularly suffered due to the covid restrictions. Additional assistance for businesses will be included the ability to postpone insurance and pay rents along with utility bill discounts. Also read | Shanghai to reopen subways in easing of Covid restrictions This year, banks will be required to extend $15 billion in loans to small and medium sized businesses. At this same time, vouchers will be distributed to assist stores and e-commerce platforms notably in cultural, fitness and tourism sectors. Shopping malls and other venues have been allowed to open in some areas of the city. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Shanghai to lift restrictions for businesses

Shanghai&nbsp;was tightening its&nbsp;COVID-19 lockdown&nbsp;for what it hoped would be the&nbsp;final&nbsp;week of its&nbsp;battle&nbsp;with the virus before it could gradually begin to ease restrictions, while&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;kept fighting its much smaller but persistent&nbsp;outbreak.

China's commercial hub of 25 million hoped to come out of its painful six-week-old lockdown&nbsp;later this month. Authorities on Saturday were hoping one last round of tightening would eradicate the last infections of the country's worst covid outbreak&nbsp;of the pandemic.

Many residents of the nation's most populous city, allowed to leave their housing compounds about a week ago for short walks or quick grocery trips, have more recently received notices to stay indoors for a three-day "silent" period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-silences-criticism-over-zero-covid-policy-by-erasing-videos-of-excesses-by-authorities-477549">China silences criticism over zero-Covid policy by erasing videos of excesses by authorities &nbsp;</a>

Many buildings were told overnight that restriction would be extended until Friday. Going silent usually means residents cannot leave home and, in some cases, it can mean no deliveries.

Linette Lim, who has spent more than 40 days under lockdown, said her community received such a notice on Friday, a day after its official risk levels was lowered to a grade that in theory should have led to looser restrictions.

"It's very frustrating because everyone has been asked to make sacrifices, to overcome the present difficulties for the collective good, and people have been consistently complying and coping with whatever is thrown at them," she said.

"But somehow the goalposts keep shifting," said Lim. "Nerves are frayed and people have no end goal to look forward to."

Closing quarantine centres

Hundreds of millions in dozens of Chinese cities live under covid&nbsp;curbs of various degrees. The measures are hurting consumption and manufacturing in the world's second-biggest economy, and disrupting global trade and supply chains.

Some analysts expect the economy to shrink this quarter. Officials have promised more stimulus measures.

Watch |&nbsp;No end to COVID-19 woes in China’s capital city of Beijing

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China will offer subsidies, tax breaks and easier loans to boost prospects for college graduates, the cabinet said on Friday, as a record 10.76 million are set to finish college and enter the workforce this year in a weaker economy.

China's jobless rate hit its highest in nearly two years in March at 5.8 per cent, while youth unemployment was 16 per cent, the highest since July 2021.

Shanghai&nbsp;city official Ding Bo said on Saturday the number of patients in quarantine hospitals dropped to 50,000, one-fifth of the peak recorded last month. Authorities therefore closed five quarantine centres, he said.

The city reported more than 1,500 daily coronavirus cases,&nbsp;down&nbsp;from more than 2,000 the day before - all in areas under the tightest controls.

Cases found in relatively freer communities are being closely watched for clues on where the&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;is heading. There was one such case detected on Friday,&nbsp;down&nbsp;from four the previous day.

Beijing&nbsp;reported 56 daily cases, up from 50. The capital has been detecting a few dozen new cases almost every day since the first infections of its&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;were discovered on April 22.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-think-chinas-zero-covid-strategy-is-sustainable-who-477949">Don't think China's 'zero Covid' strategy is sustainable: WHO</a>

Officials in the capital this week denied rumours of an imminent lockdown, urging people not to panic-buy but to stay at home. Residents seemed to be heeding the advice as many of&nbsp;Beijing's streets were eerily quiet.

Mass testing across most of the city has become an almost daily routine.

Authorities in the capital had already banned dine-in services at restaurants, closed some malls, entertainment and tourist venues, suspended sections of the bus, subway and taxi systems and imposed lockdowns on some residential buildings.

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Shanghai was tightening its COVID-19 lockdown for what it hoped would be the final week of its battle with the virus before it could gradually begin to ease restrictions, while Beijing kept fighting its much smaller but persistent outbreak.

Shanghai was tightening its COVID-19 lockdown for what it hoped would be the final week of its battle with the virus before it could gradually begin to ease restrictions, while Beijing kept fighting its much smaller but persistent outbreak. China's commercial hub of 25 million hoped to come out of its painful six-week-old lockdown later this month. Authorities on Saturday were hoping one last round of tightening would eradicate the last infections of the country's worst covid outbreak of the pandemic. Many residents of the nation's most populous city, allowed to leave their housing compounds about a week ago for short walks or quick grocery trips, have more recently received notices to stay indoors for a three-day "silent" period. Also read | China silences criticism over zero-Covid policy by erasing videos of excesses by authorities Many buildings were told overnight that restriction would be extended until Friday. Going silent usually means residents cannot leave home and, in some cases, it can mean no deliveries. Linette Lim, who has spent more than 40 days under lockdown, said her community received such a notice on Friday, a day after its official risk levels was lowered to a grade that in theory should have led to looser restrictions. "It's very frustrating because everyone has been asked to make sacrifices, to overcome the present difficulties for the collective good, and people have been consistently complying and coping with whatever is thrown at them," she said. "But somehow the goalposts keep shifting," said Lim. "Nerves are frayed and people have no end goal to look forward to." Closing quarantine centres Hundreds of millions in dozens of Chinese cities live under covid curbs of various degrees. The measures are hurting consumption and manufacturing in the world's second-biggest economy, and disrupting global trade and supply chains. Some analysts expect the economy to shrink this quarter. Officials have promised more stimulus measures. Watch | No end to COVID-19 woes in China’s capital city of Beijing China will offer subsidies, tax breaks and easier loans to boost prospects for college graduates, the cabinet said on Friday, as a record 10.76 million are set to finish college and enter the workforce this year in a weaker economy. China's jobless rate hit its highest in nearly two years in March at 5.8 per cent, while youth unemployment was 16 per cent, the highest since July 2021. Shanghai city official Ding Bo said on Saturday the number of patients in quarantine hospitals dropped to 50,000, one-fifth of the peak recorded last month. Authorities therefore closed five quarantine centres, he said. The city reported more than 1,500 daily coronavirus cases, down from more than 2,000 the day before - all in areas under the tightest controls. Cases found in relatively freer communities are being closely watched for clues on where the outbreak is heading. There was one such case detected on Friday, down from four the previous day. Beijing reported 56 daily cases, up from 50. The capital has been detecting a few dozen new cases almost every day since the first infections of its outbreak were discovered on April 22. Also read | Don't think China's 'zero Covid' strategy is sustainable: WHO Officials in the capital this week denied rumours of an imminent lockdown, urging people not to panic-buy but to stay at home. Residents seemed to be heeding the advice as many of Beijing's streets were eerily quiet. Mass testing across most of the city has become an almost daily routine. Authorities in the capital had already banned dine-in services at restaurants, closed some malls, entertainment and tourist venues, suspended sections of the bus, subway and taxi systems and imposed lockdowns on some residential buildings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shanghai hunkers down for final covid battle, Beijing outbreak stubborn

More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal.

The research followed 1,192 participants in China infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the first phase of the pandemic in 2020.

While physical and mental health generally improved over time, the study suggests that COVID-19 patients still tend to have poorer health and quality of life than the general population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-tests-positive-for-covid-19-says-experiencing-mild-symptoms-477995">Bill Gates tests positive for COVID-19, says experiencing 'mild symptoms'</a>

This is especially the case for participants with long covid, who typically still have at least one symptom including fatigue, shortness of breath, and sleep difficulties two years after initially falling ill, the researchers said.

The long-term health impacts of COVID-19 have remained largely unknown, as the longest follow-up studies to date have spanned around one year, they said.

"Our findings indicate that for a certain proportion of hospitalised COVID-19 survivors, while they may have cleared the initial infection, more than two years is needed to recover fully from COVID-19," said study lead author Professor Bin Cao, of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, China.

"Ongoing follow-up of COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with symptoms of long covid, is essential to understand the longer course of the illness, as is further exploration of the benefits of rehabilitation programmes for recovery," Cao said in a statement.

The researchers noted that there is a clear need to provide continued support to a significant proportion of people who have had COVID-19, and to understand how vaccines, emerging treatments, and variants affect long-term health outcomes.

Watch |&nbsp;China’s censors target WHO Chief after comments criticizing its Zero covid policy

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They evaluated the health of 1,192 participants with acute COVID-19 treated at Jin Yin-tan Hospital in Wuhan, between January 7 and May 29, 2020, at six months, 12 months, and two years.

Assessments involved a six-minute walking test, laboratory tests, and questionnaires on symptoms, mental health, health-related quality of life, if they had returned to work, and health-care use after discharge, the researchers said.

The median age of participants at discharge was 57 years, and 54 per cent were men.

Six months after initially falling ill, 68 per cent of participants reported at least one long covid&nbsp;symptom, according to the researchers. 
By two years after infection, reports of symptoms had fallen to 55 per cent, they said.

Fatigue or muscle weakness were the symptoms most often reported and fell from 52 per cent at six months to 30 per cent at two years, the researchers said.

Regardless of the severity of their initial illness, 89 per cent of participants had returned to their original work at two years, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-growing-criticism-chinese-study-claims-lifting-zero-covid-policy-will-unleash-tsunami-of-cases-478182">Chinese study claims lifting ‘zero-Covid’ policy will unleash ‘tsunami of cases’</a>

The researchers noted that two years after initially falling ill, patients with COVID-19 are generally in poorer health than the general population, with 31 per cent reporting fatigue or muscle weakness and 31 per cent reporting sleep difficulties.

COVID-19 patients were also more likely to report a number of other symptoms including joint pain, palpitations, dizziness, and headaches, they said.

Around half of study participants had symptoms of long COVID at two years, and reported lower quality of life than those without long covid.

In mental health questionnaires, 35 per cent reported pain or discomfort and 19 per cent reported anxiety or depression.

Long covid&nbsp;participants also more often reported problems with their mobility or activity than those without the disorder.

The authors acknowledge some limitations to their study.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-first-time-north-korea-officially-confirms-covid-outbreak-orders-lockdown-to-check-omicrons-spread-478240">Covid-19 in North Korea: After official confirmation of outbreak, Kim orders lockdown</a>

Without a control group of hospital survivors unrelated to COVID-19 infection, it is hard to determine whether observed abnormalities are specific to COVID-19, they said.

The slightly increased proportion of participants included in the analysis who received oxygen leads to the possibility that those who did not participate in the study had fewer symptoms than those who did, according to the researchers.

This may result in an overestimate of the prevalence of long covid symptoms, they added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal.

More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal. The research followed 1,192 participants in China infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the first phase of the pandemic in 2020. While physical and mental health generally improved over time, the study suggests that COVID-19 patients still tend to have poorer health and quality of life than the general population. Also read | Bill Gates tests positive for COVID-19, says experiencing 'mild symptoms' This is especially the case for participants with long covid, who typically still have at least one symptom including fatigue, shortness of breath, and sleep difficulties two years after initially falling ill, the researchers said. The long-term health impacts of COVID-19 have remained largely unknown, as the longest follow-up studies to date have spanned around one year, they said. "Our findings indicate that for a certain proportion of hospitalised COVID-19 survivors, while they may have cleared the initial infection, more than two years is needed to recover fully from COVID-19," said study lead author Professor Bin Cao, of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, China. "Ongoing follow-up of COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with symptoms of long covid, is essential to understand the longer course of the illness, as is further exploration of the benefits of rehabilitation programmes for recovery," Cao said in a statement. The researchers noted that there is a clear need to provide continued support to a significant proportion of people who have had COVID-19, and to understand how vaccines, emerging treatments, and variants affect long-term health outcomes. Watch | China’s censors target WHO Chief after comments criticizing its Zero covid policy They evaluated the health of 1,192 participants with acute COVID-19 treated at Jin Yin-tan Hospital in Wuhan, between January 7 and May 29, 2020, at six months, 12 months, and two years. Assessments involved a six-minute walking test, laboratory tests, and questionnaires on symptoms, mental health, health-related quality of life, if they had returned to work, and health-care use after discharge, the researchers said. The median age of participants at discharge was 57 years, and 54 per cent were men. Six months after initially falling ill, 68 per cent of participants reported at least one long covid symptom, according to the researchers. By two years after infection, reports of symptoms had fallen to 55 per cent, they said. Fatigue or muscle weakness were the symptoms most often reported and fell from 52 per cent at six months to 30 per cent at two years, the researchers said. Regardless of the severity of their initial illness, 89 per cent of participants had returned to their original work at two years, they said. Also read | Chinese study claims lifting ‘zero-Covid’ policy will unleash ‘tsunami of cases’ The researchers noted that two years after initially falling ill, patients with COVID-19 are generally in poorer health than the general population, with 31 per cent reporting fatigue or muscle weakness and 31 per cent reporting sleep difficulties. COVID-19 patients were also more likely to report a number of other symptoms including joint pain, palpitations, dizziness, and headaches, they said. Around half of study participants had symptoms of long COVID at two years, and reported lower quality of life than those without long covid. In mental health questionnaires, 35 per cent reported pain or discomfort and 19 per cent reported anxiety or depression. Long covid participants also more often reported problems with their mobility or activity than those without the disorder. The authors acknowledge some limitations to their study. Also read | Covid-19 in North Korea: After official confirmation of outbreak, Kim orders lockdown Without a control group of hospital survivors unrelated to COVID-19 infection, it is hard to determine whether observed abnormalities are specific to COVID-19, they said. The slightly increased proportion of participants included in the analysis who received oxygen leads to the possibility that those who did not participate in the study had fewer symptoms than those who did, according to the researchers. This may result in an overestimate of the prevalence of long covid symptoms, they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Half of Covid survivors show one symptom even two years after infection: Lancet study

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after&nbsp;hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown.

It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported.

Even while the virus still continues to spread, the city officials announced the first deaths of this outbreak on Monday (April 18) with Tuesday's death toll&nbsp;bringing the total&nbsp;to an unbelievable low of 10 as per official figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-economic-data-hints-at-cost-of-zero-covid-strategy-471860">China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy</a>

According to Shanghai’s health official Wu Qianyu, who spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, the recent seven deaths were all the unvaccinated patients aged between 60 and 101 with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and heart-related problems.

As per&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;Municipal Health Commission, the patients "became severely ill after admission to hospital, and died after ineffective rescue efforts, with the direct cause of death being underlying diseases".

Earlier on Sunday, Shanghai’s health officials said&nbsp;that less than two-thirds of residents have received their covid jabs and nearly 40 per cent have received their booster.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Beijing claims its zero-covid policy of tight lockdowns and mass testing has prevented deaths and public health disasters that much of the rest of the world is battling with.

Watch |&nbsp;Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown

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However, China has a massive senior population with a poor vaccination rate, which has raised questions over official&nbsp;figures.

AFP reports, unverified social media posts claimed that the fatalities in Shanghai were going unnoticed, but the messages were swiftly removed from the internet.

Since March 2022, many of the 25 million residents who have been restricted to their homes have been complaining about food shortages, harsh quarantine conditions and strict police&nbsp;handling&nbsp;policing on the internet.&nbsp;

The country's social media was flooded with protest footage that spread faster than the Chinese government’s ability to remove them.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-covid-19-deaths-in-shanghai-russia-ukraine-updates-and-more-471767">&nbsp;Morning news brief: COVID-19 deaths in Shanghai, Russia-Ukraine updates, and more</a>

Since the virus first emerged in late 2019 in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the country’s zero-tolerance approach to covid has limited new cases to a trickle.

Nearly 350 million people in at least 44 cities in the country are in some sort of lockdown as per one estimate released on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown. It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported.

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown. It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported. Even while the virus still continues to spread, the city officials announced the first deaths of this outbreak on Monday (April 18) with Tuesday's death toll bringing the total to an unbelievable low of 10 as per official figures. Also read | China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy According to Shanghai’s health official Wu Qianyu, who spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, the recent seven deaths were all the unvaccinated patients aged between 60 and 101 with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and heart-related problems. As per Shanghai Municipal Health Commission, the patients "became severely ill after admission to hospital, and died after ineffective rescue efforts, with the direct cause of death being underlying diseases". Earlier on Sunday, Shanghai’s health officials said that less than two-thirds of residents have received their covid jabs and nearly 40 per cent have received their booster. On the other hand, Beijing claims its zero-covid policy of tight lockdowns and mass testing has prevented deaths and public health disasters that much of the rest of the world is battling with. Watch | Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown However, China has a massive senior population with a poor vaccination rate, which has raised questions over official figures. AFP reports, unverified social media posts claimed that the fatalities in Shanghai were going unnoticed, but the messages were swiftly removed from the internet. Since March 2022, many of the 25 million residents who have been restricted to their homes have been complaining about food shortages, harsh quarantine conditions and strict police handling policing on the internet. The country's social media was flooded with protest footage that spread faster than the Chinese government’s ability to remove them. Also read | Morning news brief: COVID-19 deaths in Shanghai, Russia-Ukraine updates, and more Since the virus first emerged in late 2019 in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the country’s zero-tolerance approach to covid has limited new cases to a trickle. Nearly 350 million people in at least 44 cities in the country are in some sort of lockdown as per one estimate released on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Shanghai reports seven deaths as the virus toll rises

China's most populous and wealthiest city, Shanghai has started easing its lockdown&nbsp;on Monday after&nbsp;reporting more than 25,000 covid cases a day earlier.

The Communist Party is pressurising authorities to make the city work again after more than two weeks. Earlier as&nbsp;the lockdown stretched on, it was difficult for people to get adequate food and medicines, Reuters reported.

On Sunday, Shanghai reported 25,173 new asymptomatic infections, up from 23,973 the day before, though symptomatic cases fell from 1,006 to 914.<o:p></o:p>

The city official Gu Honghui, that the city is now categorising the residential units into three safety categories in order to allow the residents in neighbourhood with no positive cases for a two- week period to engage in “suitable activity.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-china-closes-guangzhou-to-most-arrivals-as-outbreak-spreads-470136">COVID-19: China closes Guangzhou to most arrivals as outbreak spreads</a>

However, it’s still unclear that how many of the city’s 25 million residents will be released from lockdown right away, the moves offer some relief for those who have been cooped up for more than three weeks in fight against the coronavirus since its outbreak in late 2019 in central Wuhan.

Gu Honghui said, Shanghai was divided into 7,624 sealed regions, 2,460 being subjected to ‘control’ after a week of no new infections and 7,565 ‘prevention areas’ to be opened up after two weeks with any coronavirus cases. The ones in prevention areas who travel around their neighbourhood must maintain social distance and may by sealed again after new cases emerge.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China: Shanghai's covid-19 infections rise by 25,000, authorities shaping an exit plan from lockdown

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The industrial neighbourhood of Jinshan, on the southwestern outskirts of Shanghai was the first one to publish its list, which included name of residentials locations classified into high and medium risks section.

Many social media users criticised the Shanghai government saying relaxing action as a major risk at a time when the city is dealing with a record number of cases every day, while some claimed that the city does not have any choice. While the complaints about controlling still continues as people in Xuhui district told Reuters, neighbouring committees had put locks in their bicycle to confine them to their homes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-releases-thousands-of-recovered-covid-patients-but-new-cases-continue-to-rise-470006">Shanghai releases thousands of recovered Covid patients, but new cases continue to rise</a>

The highly contagious but less lethal Omicron variant is straining China’s zero tolerance attitude towards COVID-19, which mandates one to be in quarantine even if they have no symptoms.&nbsp;

However, other countries are trying to live with the virus, China’s policy has halted all international travels and is taking a growing economic toll as towns apply limitations and eastern Ningbo and Guangzhou are the recent ones to do so.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

China's most populous and wealthiest city, Shanghai has started easing its lockdown on Monday after reporting more than 25,000 covid cases a day earlier. The Communist Party is pressurising authorities to make the city work again after more than two weeks.

China's most populous and wealthiest city, Shanghai has started easing its lockdown on Monday after reporting more than 25,000 covid cases a day earlier. The Communist Party is pressurising authorities to make the city work again after more than two weeks. Earlier as the lockdown stretched on, it was difficult for people to get adequate food and medicines, Reuters reported. On Sunday, Shanghai reported 25,173 new asymptomatic infections, up from 23,973 the day before, though symptomatic cases fell from 1,006 to 914. The city official Gu Honghui, that the city is now categorising the residential units into three safety categories in order to allow the residents in neighbourhood with no positive cases for a two- week period to engage in “suitable activity.” Also read | COVID-19: China closes Guangzhou to most arrivals as outbreak spreads However, it’s still unclear that how many of the city’s 25 million residents will be released from lockdown right away, the moves offer some relief for those who have been cooped up for more than three weeks in fight against the coronavirus since its outbreak in late 2019 in central Wuhan. Gu Honghui said, Shanghai was divided into 7,624 sealed regions, 2,460 being subjected to ‘control’ after a week of no new infections and 7,565 ‘prevention areas’ to be opened up after two weeks with any coronavirus cases. The ones in prevention areas who travel around their neighbourhood must maintain social distance and may by sealed again after new cases emerge. Watch | China: Shanghai's covid-19 infections rise by 25,000, authorities shaping an exit plan from lockdown The industrial neighbourhood of Jinshan, on the southwestern outskirts of Shanghai was the first one to publish its list, which included name of residentials locations classified into high and medium risks section. Many social media users criticised the Shanghai government saying relaxing action as a major risk at a time when the city is dealing with a record number of cases every day, while some claimed that the city does not have any choice. While the complaints about controlling still continues as people in Xuhui district told Reuters, neighbouring committees had put locks in their bicycle to confine them to their homes. Also read | Shanghai releases thousands of recovered Covid patients, but new cases continue to rise The highly contagious but less lethal Omicron variant is straining China’s zero tolerance attitude towards COVID-19, which mandates one to be in quarantine even if they have no symptoms. However, other countries are trying to live with the virus, China’s policy has halted all international travels and is taking a growing economic toll as towns apply limitations and eastern Ningbo and Guangzhou are the recent ones to do so. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Shanghai to ease lockdown in some areas despite rise in cases

China blasted the United States for making "groundless accusations" about its Covid-19 policy, after surging cases in Shanghai prompted the American consulate to let some staff leave the locked-down megacity.

Beijing's zero-Covid strategy has come under strain since March as over 100,000 cases in Shanghai have seen its 25 million inhabitants locked down in phases, inciting complaints of food shortages and clashes with health workers.

The US embassy said Saturday it would permit non-essential employees to leave its consulate in Shanghai due to the case surge, warning citizens in China they may face "arbitrary enforcement" of virus curbs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-vows-to-improve-food-deliveries-as-discontent-grows-over-covid-curbs-469021">Shanghai vows to improve food deliveries as discontent grows over Covid curbs</a>

In response, Beijing expressed "strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the US side's groundless accusations about China's epidemic control policy", according to a statement issued Saturday on the foreign ministry's website.

"This is the US's own decision. However, it must be pointed out that China's epidemic control policy is scientific and effective," ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said, adding that Beijing had lodged "solemn representations" with American counterparts.

"We have full confidence that Shanghai and other places will overcome this round of the epidemic."

China is sticking fast to a policy of snap lockdowns, mass testing and travel restrictions to staunch the spread of the virus even as Shanghai's daily case numbers have spiralled under an Omicron-fuelled wave.

The business hub reported a record 24,943 new infections on Sunday -- mostly asymptomatic, accounting for over 90 percent of the national total.

Watch |&nbsp;Lockdown in Shanghai to be lifted, strict measures irk residents

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Authorities have readied tens of thousands of new beds in over 100 makeshift hospitals as part of a policy of isolating every person who tests positive for the virus -- whether or not they show any symptoms.

Locals have begun to chafe at lockdown restrictions with many taking to social media to vent anger at food shortages and heavy-handed controls -- including the recent killing of a pet corgi by a health worker.

An unpopular policy of separating infected children from their virus-free parents -- now softened -- also triggered a rare show of public anger this week.

But officials are not budging on their zero-tolerance approach.&nbsp;

City health official Wu Qianyu said during a Sunday press conference the city "would not relax in the slightest".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-moves-a-number-of-covid-19-patients-to-neighbouring-province-of-zhejiang-469095">Shanghai moves a number of COVID-19 patients to neighbouring province of Zhejiang&nbsp;</a>

Major online delivery platforms said they would bolster food stocks and draft in thousands of drivers to strengthen the supply of basic goods.

In an interview with a local news outlet on Saturday, Zhang Wenhong -- a top doctor in Shanghai's pandemic fight -- acknowledged the impact on the healthcare system but said "realising dynamic zero ... will help to resume normal medical order as early as possible".

China blasted the United States for making "groundless accusations" about its Covid-19 policy, after surging cases in Shanghai prompted the American consulate to let some staff leave the locked-down megacity.

China blasted the United States for making "groundless accusations" about its Covid-19 policy, after surging cases in Shanghai prompted the American consulate to let some staff leave the locked-down megacity. Beijing's zero-Covid strategy has come under strain since March as over 100,000 cases in Shanghai have seen its 25 million inhabitants locked down in phases, inciting complaints of food shortages and clashes with health workers. The US embassy said Saturday it would permit non-essential employees to leave its consulate in Shanghai due to the case surge, warning citizens in China they may face "arbitrary enforcement" of virus curbs. Also read | Shanghai vows to improve food deliveries as discontent grows over Covid curbs In response, Beijing expressed "strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the US side's groundless accusations about China's epidemic control policy", according to a statement issued Saturday on the foreign ministry's website. "This is the US's own decision. However, it must be pointed out that China's epidemic control policy is scientific and effective," ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said, adding that Beijing had lodged "solemn representations" with American counterparts. "We have full confidence that Shanghai and other places will overcome this round of the epidemic." China is sticking fast to a policy of snap lockdowns, mass testing and travel restrictions to staunch the spread of the virus even as Shanghai's daily case numbers have spiralled under an Omicron-fuelled wave. The business hub reported a record 24,943 new infections on Sunday -- mostly asymptomatic, accounting for over 90 percent of the national total. Watch | Lockdown in Shanghai to be lifted, strict measures irk residents Authorities have readied tens of thousands of new beds in over 100 makeshift hospitals as part of a policy of isolating every person who tests positive for the virus -- whether or not they show any symptoms. Locals have begun to chafe at lockdown restrictions with many taking to social media to vent anger at food shortages and heavy-handed controls -- including the recent killing of a pet corgi by a health worker. An unpopular policy of separating infected children from their virus-free parents -- now softened -- also triggered a rare show of public anger this week. But officials are not budging on their zero-tolerance approach. City health official Wu Qianyu said during a Sunday press conference the city "would not relax in the slightest". Also read | Shanghai moves a number of COVID-19 patients to neighbouring province of Zhejiang Major online delivery platforms said they would bolster food stocks and draft in thousands of drivers to strengthen the supply of basic goods. In an interview with a local news outlet on Saturday, Zhang Wenhong -- a top doctor in Shanghai's pandemic fight -- acknowledged the impact on the healthcare system but said "realising dynamic zero ... will help to resume normal medical order as early as possible".

China slams US virus 'accusations' as Shanghai lockdown drags on

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