City sees slowdown in virus case numbers

The daily increase in confirmed coronavirus cases has been dropping in recent days, health officials said a news conference on Wednesday, with Shanghai still in the first wave of imported patients.

Confirming or ruling out infection of a person visiting hospital with symptoms takes on day on average. Quick diagnosis and quarantine are important to help cut the possible spread of the virus, said Dr Wu Fan, a member of the team of public health experts for the coronavirus in the city.

“There are many cases due to gatherings. Thanks to the high-quality epidemiological research in Shanghai, all follow-up cases being infected with the virus after gatherings were detected while being quarantined and observed as close contacts of a suspected or confirmed patient,” Wu said. “This can effectively prevent further spread of the epidemic.”

She said all confirmed cases in Shanghai are hospitalized for effective treatment.

Wu said the first wave of imported patients will end soon and a second wave may come due to the large number of people returning from their Spring Holiday break. 

“The huge number of arrivals imposes a big challenge for respiratory disease control,” Wu said. “On the other hand, the arrivals don’t only come from key areas but also other provinces and regions, which have seen a big increase in cases with multiple places of departures and destinations. It is very difficult for imported cases prevention and control,” she said.

Experts say some people may have digestive symptoms instead of respiratory symptoms. The complicated situation also imposes more challenges for patient management and close contact management.

They said the public must reduce gatherings, family dinners, large meetings and conduct protective measure at home and office as well as personal protection.