China: Officials downgrade Zhoupu town in Shanghai's Pudong New Area to low-risk for COVID-19 from Dec. 5; other areas remain at medium-risk /update 3

Event

National authorities have downgraded Mingtianhuacheng neighborhood in Zhoupu Township of Shanghai's Pudong New Area from medium to low-risk for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Dec. 5, following no new COVID-19 cases within that community in the past 14 days. Officials continue to designate 450 Hangcheng 7th Road and Xinsheng community in Zhuqiao Township and 126 Shunhe Road in Zhangjiang Township as medium-risk.

Localized movement restrictions remain in effect for residents in Zhuqiao and Zhangjiang townships. Individuals are not allowed to leave their homes as authorities conduct mass COVID-19 screenings in the area. Authorities have lifted strict movement controls that they had previously imposed in other parts of Pudong Area. However, officials may introduce further controls in affected communities, and possibly other parts of Pudong, at short notice if additional cases emerge. Authorities in several other provinces and cities are also requiring individuals traveling from affected communities in Pudong Area to undergo increased health screenings.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security personnel. Confirm travel reservations in Shanghai's Pudong Area as a precaution. Avoid nonessential travel to designated medium-risk areas.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.