In "We Won the Battle Against the Virus"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] China has declared victory in its fight against the virus through the implementation of its zero-COVID policy.

On the 2nd, the People's Daily extensively reported on the front page that "there was a great achievement in defending Shanghai." The Communist Party's chief spokesperson stated in a separate commentary that given China's aging population, relatively low vaccination rates among the elderly and children, and insufficient medical resources, the zero-COVID policy proved to be the most suitable.

The previous day, the number of new infections in China dropped to 61 from 68 the day before, reaching the lowest level since February 17. This was largely due to the sharp decrease in confirmed cases in Shanghai, which had reached tens of thousands per day, following the city's lockdown.

In Shanghai, movement restrictions were eased, allowing 90% of residents to move freely for the first time in two months. On the first day, the 1st, 13 new cases were reported. In Beijing, lockdown was avoided through regulations such as mandatory work-from-home for 22 million residents and compulsory COVID-19 testing.

Beijing reported 14 new confirmed cases, and out of the city's 16 districts, 13 have maintained zero community transmission for a week. Zero community transmission refers to a state where no infections occur outside lockdown or controlled zones, a term used in epidemic prevention.

China emphasizes its victory over the virus by highlighting that it has recorded the lowest number of deaths worldwide compared to the United States, which has recorded over one million deaths.

China is expected to continue its high-intensity response to virus suppression. It aims to install tens of thousands of COVID-19 testing booths throughout cities, enabling residents to get tested within a 15-minute walk.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.