This archive report was first published on 16 June 2020.
June 16, 2020
Beijing Reports 27 New Virus Cases Amid WHO Concerns ¶
China's capital city, Beijing, has reported 27 new domestically transmitted coronavirus cases, sparking concerns from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The new cases bring the total number of infections confirmed in Beijing over the past five days to 106. In response, city officials have locked down almost 30 communities and tested tens of thousands of people.
Authorities have shut down another market, Tiantaohonglian in the central Xicheng district, after one employee was diagnosed with Covid-19. Seven residential estates surrounding the market have also been locked down.
The WHO has expressed concern over the new cluster, citing Beijing's size and connectivity. WHO Emergencies Director Mike Ryan stated, "A cluster like this is a concern and it needs to be investigated and controlled – and that is exactly what the Chinese authorities are doing."
Beijing officials have announced plans to give virus tests to stall owners and managers at all of the city's food markets, restaurants, and government agency canteens. All indoor sports and entertainment venues in the city have been ordered to shut, and some other cities across China have warned they will quarantine those arriving from Beijing.
The National Health Commission has also reported four new domestic infections in Hebei province, which surrounds Beijing. Another case reported in southwestern Sichuan province was linked to the Beijing cluster, health officials said.
