China Eases COVID Restrictions

Chinese authorities have formally announced the easing of COVID-19 restrictions nationwide, reports the South China Morning Post (Hong Kong).

Under the new guidelines, people with mild symptoms or who are asymptomatic can self-isolate at home for seven days, rather than being sent to a central facility.

China will also expand the use of rapid antigen tests (RAT) instead of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. Additionally, citizens no longer need to show a negative PCR test to enter public spaces or travel, except when entering hospitals, schools and elderly homes. Furthermore, essential workers will be exempt from regular restrictions, according to the State Council.

The public has repeatedly expressed concerns about stringent lockdowns implemented by the government to reduce the spread of COVID.

The announcement signals that China is moving away from its Zero-COVID policy.

Vice Premier Sun Chunlan said that the nature of the virus had changed and new variants were "less pathogenic. She said changes would take place in small steps going forward.