Omicron: mass screening as border city reports over half China’s new coronavirus infections
- 56 new cases reported, including 33 local infections in Baise and 22 cases in Liaoning province
- More than 16,000 medical personnel sent to Baise to perform PCR tests, Guangxi regional government organises task force for contact tracing and quarantine
The screenings began at noon and were set to cover all 12 counties and districts across Baise. The process was expected to be completed by the evening, according to the China News Service.
Baise’s new cases accounted for more than half of the national tally of 56 reported on Friday, according to the National Health Commission.
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Of the 220 cumulative cases in Guangxi, two were asymptomatic local infections. About half the Guangxi cases remained in a stable condition and the other half presented mild symptoms.
All the cases in Baise, which is on the border with Vietnam, appeared to be the Omicron variant, Guangxi health commission deputy director Pang Jun said late on Thursday, citing epidemiology studies.
According to state media, Baise has administered millions of tests amid a fear that there is a high risk of the Omicron outbreak spreading to other cities. Guangxi authorities have mobilised 451 task force members for contact tracing and quarantine. More than 16,000 medical personnel were sent to Baise to perform PCR tests.
The city has been under strict lockdown since Monday, with 3.6 million urban residents banned from leaving their homes, except for mass testing or for holders of essential worker permits. Schools are shut, public transport suspended and most businesses closed.