CThe chick beach resort city of Sanya stepped up Covid-19 controls and killed thousands after a surge in infections. It's confusing people's vacation plans. The latest virus hotspots in the country.
The city in the southern province of Hainan -- often called the "Hawaii of China" -- has reported 107 new infections since noon on Thursday, according to CCTV. This brings the total number of cases since Monday to over 140. Authorities say the flare-up was caused by the BA.5.1.3 Omicron subspecies, which has never been found in China, and is linked to fishmongers.
Authorities placed a partial lockdown on thecity, closing indoor facilities such as Karaoke His parlors and bars, and restaurants offering takeout only. People in areas classified as high-risk are prohibited from leaving their homes or accommodations, while others say he only goes out once every two days to buy essentials. I can't get out. Those wishing to leave Sanya must have a negative Covid test result within 48 hours of departure.
For holidaymakers staying in the city, there is little to see or do, with pictures on Chinese social media of people lining up meandering around COVID-19 testing stations. was done. Tourist attractions are closed and visitors must have a negative test within 24 hours to visit Yalong Bay and Haitang Bay beaches.
A core principle of Covid Zero, rapid lockdown, has been echoing across China since the early days of the pandemic. However, this strategy is increasingly challenged by the spread of thecontagious subspecies, which is costly both economically and socially.
The country also remains isolated in a world focused on coexisting with the virus, and it is unclear how authorities can navigate toward an exit. President Xi Jinping has characterized a zero-tolerance approach to his rule, saying the nation will not pursue "herd immunity" like other nations. rate.
Sanya is his third tourist hub in China, with the peak season disrupted by this year's epidemic. The scenic Beihai region of Guangxi was put under lockdown last month to contain the outbreak before it began easing restrictions from 1 August. Tours were suspended and authorities asked visitors to stay away.
Elsewhere, Yiwu, a manufacturing and trading city famous for mass-producing Christmas trees and ornaments, has tightened travel restrictions. Public transport was suspended for three days starting Friday, and most indoor venues were closed as the city conducted extensive testing. Residents in some areas are prohibited from leaving their homes. Jinhua, a county-level city that oversees the region that includes Yiwu, reported 65 cases on Thursday.
China reported 410 cases nationwide on Thursday. Please contact us at
