Local COVID-19 Cases in China’s Fujian Have More Than Doubled

Singapore has experienced a sudden surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the past week despite having it under control a while ago, but apparently, we’re not the only ones who are facing this.

In July, China experienced an outbreak of infections in the eastern city of Nanjing, with more than 1,200 people in China confirmed to be infected. It was driven mainly by infections first detected amongst a few airport workers.

By the end of last month, the number of infections had tapered off and all was well again.

However, it seems like it’s still too soon to rejoice, as there is a new outbreak in another part of China.

Local COVID-19 Cases in China’s Fujian Have More Than Doubled

Health authorities from the National Health Commission have reported that the local COVID-19 cases in China’s south-eastern province of Fujian have more than doubled.

On 12 September, the number of reported cases was 22 infections, but on 13 September, just a day later, the number jumped to 59 new infections.

According to reports, the outbreak in Fujian first started in Putian, which is a city with a population of 3.2 million. The first case was detected on 10 September, and through preliminary testing, it was discovered that the infected individuals from Putian had contracted the highly infectious Delta variant.

In a matter of four days, 102 community infections have been detected in Fujian, a province that is bordered by Zhejiang to the north and Guangdong to the south.

Infections Have Spread to Other Cities

The infections have also spread to other cities like the scenic coastal city of Xiamen, as well as the nearby city, Quanzhou.

On 12 September, Xiamen reported just one new case, however, the number of reported cases quickly rose to 32 on 13 September.

The number of infections is slightly lower in Quanzhou, with six infections reported on 12 September, and three infections reported on 13 September.

In order to prevent further spread of the infectious Delta variant, Xiamen and Putian have both since locked down areas of higher virus risk. Classes at kindergartens, primary schools, and high schools have moved online so that students no longer have to congregate in a public venue for long.

Cinemas, gyms, and bars have also been closed until further notice. Residents are advised not to leave the city unless they have an essential reason to do so.

Overall Statistics

China reported a total of 20 new asymptomatic cases on 13 September, down from the initial 28 asymptomatic cases on 12 September. However, China does not see asymptomatic cases as confirmed cases.

As such, the overall numbers of COVID-19 cases for 12 and 13 September are 49 and 92 respectively.

As of now, no new deaths have been reported.

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