China: Authorities tighten restrictions in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, as of Aug. 9 due to COVID-19 concerns /update 3

Event

Officials in Jiangsu Province continue to impose measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as of Aug. 9. The tightest restrictions remain in force in Nanjing and Yangzhou, where most COVID-19 cases have emerged. As of Aug. 9, authorities have designated Lukou Street in the Jiangning District as a high-risk location, and 19 areas in Jiangning, Qinhuai, Jianye, Qixia, and Yuhuatai districts as medium risk. Officials in Yangzhou have classified Lianhe Village in the Guangling District as a high-risk location. Local authorities in the city have also tightened controls in 10 designated medium-risk areas in Guangling and Hanjiang districts, as well as the Yangzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone. Residents in these locations must stay at home; exceptions may be possible for essential reasons. Officials in Yangzhou only permit one person per household to leave medium-risk communities every 3-5 days, provided they are tested for COVID-19. The government also restricts travel to and from these areas, especially those classified as high risk. Authorities have also implemented tighter controls in Jiangbei New Area, where most nonessential businesses and public venues are closed. Officials may impose similar restrictions in other areas of Nanjing and Yangzhou without warning if more COVID-19 cases emerge.

Authorities are carrying out COVID-19 testing in both cities; several rounds of testing are likely before officials begin to ease measures. The government requires residents departing Nanjing to have a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours prior to departure. Officials also require anyone who has visited affected areas of Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG) since July 10 to self-quarantine and undergo testing.

Authorities have suspended all flights to and from NKG and Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport (YTY). NKG is scheduled to reopen on Aug. 11; it is currently unclear when flights at YTY will resume. Similar suspensions are possible at other area airports. Officials have also temporarily closed toll stations and 26 highways in Jiangsu to limit the spread to other areas of the province. Public transport disruptions and road closures could also occur in high- and medium-risk areas of Nanjing and Yangzhou. The government reportedly halted service on the S1 Line from NKG to Nanjing South Railway Station, and other lines are not stopping in high-risk areas. Intercity rail disruptions may also occur due to reduced demand. Increased security is likely to ensure compliance with restrictions and travel controls. Many provincial and municipal governments may introduce quarantine requirements for individuals who have recently traveled to affected areas of Jiangsu Province.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Check transport status before travel. Avoid all nonessential operations in areas impacted by travel controls. Confirm appointments. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers.