China: Authorities reduce COVID-19 risk areas in Shandong Province as of April 22 /update 4

Event

Officials continue to implement COVID-19 restrictions in Shandong Province as of April 22. The government has designated all areas in the province as low risk. However, officials are likely to maintain reduced measures, as most provincial governments chose a phased approach to easing controls. Authorities are likely to continue nonessential business closures, capacity limits for hospitality businesses, and limit public gatherings, especially in former high-risk areas in Binzhou.

Shandong prohibits entry for individuals from districts or counties with high- and medium-risk areas. Exemptions are possible for essential reasons, but passengers from these locations must quarantine for 14 days. Travelers from designated high-risk areas must report to local officials three days before arrival to secure quarantine arrangements. People from non-risk areas of affected cities can enter the province but must undergo seven days at centralized facilities followed by a seven-day home monitoring period. All travelers from locations with risk areas must obtain a negative nucleic acid test result within 48 hours before departure. Travelers already in the province from places that officials subsequently designate as high or medium risk within 14 days of arrival must undergo two nucleic acid tests, 24 hours apart, and undergo self-health management until the 14th day from exposure.

Increased health screenings are likely at Qingdao International Airport (TAO), Weihai Dashuibo Airport (WEH), and other passenger transport hubs in the province.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Confirm appointments and transport arrangements, especially at TAO and WEH. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers.