Funeral homes busy as China reports first Covid deaths since easing of pandemic rules

China reported two Covid-related deaths on December 19, 2022, the first official fatalities since the government shifted away from its zero-Covid policy and eased pandemic restrictions earlier in the month. Health experts said the official tally was lower than expected. But the country is reportedly grappling with a wave of infections and there has been a surge in demand at funeral homes and crematoriums.