China has experienced a surge in COVID-19 infections and deaths since a strict zero-COVID-19 policy was lifted in December. However, official data on the extent of the pandemic has been minimal. According to the Chinese government, between 8 December 2022 and 12 January 2023, there were 59,938 COVID-19-related deaths across the country. This figure, published on 15 January 2023, was the first update to its death toll since lockdown restrictions were lifted last year. However, this number may not represent the actual number of deaths as China has only recorded COVID-19 infections at hospitals and fever clinics for those with recognized symptoms. The data does not record asymptomatic cases or positive home testing kits results.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has asked for more “rapid, regular and reliable” data on hospitalization and deaths. Beijing says it has been sharing COVID-19 data in “a timely, open, and transparent manner in accordance with the law.” However, experts say that the new death toll may still not represent the actual number of deaths compared to figures from other countries. A study by Peking University estimated that as of 11 January 2023, some 64% of the population was reported to be infected with the virus.
Reports suggest that hospitals in China are under growing strain from the number of cases, with long queues for clinics and patients on hospital beds in the middle of busy waiting rooms. Videos have emerged on social media throughout December, appearing to show crowded hospitals and funeral home queues. The BBC’s team in Beijing has also reported on long lines outside health clinics and a high demand for fever remedies at pharmacies. Temporary health centres and intensive care facilities across the country have been set up.
China had one of the harshest anti-COVID-19 regimes in the world, known as its zero-COVID-19 policy, before lifting many of the restrictions in November. The measures included strict lockdowns even if only a handful of COVID-19 cases had been found, mass testing in places where cases were reported, and people with COVID-19 having to isolate at home or under quarantine at government facilities. Lockdowns have now been scrapped, and quarantine rules have been abolished. On 8 January 2023, China opened its borders without travel restrictions or quarantine measures for arrivals.
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