China: Officials lift restrictions in parts of Changping and Haidian districts, Beijing, as of Aug. 20 /update 2

Event

Authorities have downgraded communities in Longyueyuan Unit 2, Changping District, and Guoxingjiayuan Community, Ganjiakou Street, Haidian District to low-risk areas as of Aug. 20. Officials declared the localities as medium-risk areas and placed them on lockdown following the discovery of community COVID-19 cases.

Tightened restrictions remain in effect in Lehuojiayuan community, Yancun Town, Fangshan District as of Aug. 20. Authorities ban residents from leaving the location; exceptions may be possible for essential reasons, though officials may require testing for residents to depart the area. Nonessential business and public venue closures are probable in the area. Authorities may impose similar restrictions in additional areas of Fangshan District and other parts of Beijing if new cases emerge.

Public transport disruptions and road closures are likely near the affected communities. Increased security is likely in Fangshan District to ensure compliance with restrictions and movement controls. Many provincial and municipal governments may introduce quarantine requirements for individuals who have recently traveled to the area or, potentially, Beijing.

Authorities in Beijing may continue to ban entry and suspend public transport vehicles from several domestic locations due to COVID-19 cases in the areas. It is unclear whether authorities provide any exemptions from the entry ban. Passengers in transport services to and from Beijing that remain operational must adhere to health protocols, like body temperature checks. Officials prohibit local personnel from counties with medium or high-risk areas to enter Beijing unless necessary. Individuals who need to enter Beijing must provide a negative nucleic acid test result 48 hours prior to departure and will need to take COVID-19 tests upon arrival and on day 7.

Advice

Confirm appointments in and all travel plans to and from Beijing. Avoid all nonessential operations in areas impacted by tightened controls. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Strictly heed the instructions of authorities.