China: Officials imposing lockdown measures in Sanhe, Hebei Province, as of April 28 /update 4

Event

Officials in Hebei Province are imposing lockdown measures in Sanhe through April 30 after a resident tested positive for COVID-19. Stay-home rules are in effect while stores and businesses are suspended. Individuals cannot enter or leave the city during the period though exceptions are in place for logistics vehicles. Authorities advise people that commute between Beijing and Sanhe for work to telecommute. The government could extend lockdown measures if new COVID-19 cases emerge.

As of April 28, officials have designated Handan's Futudian Town in Jisze County and Yezhuang Village in Shuangjing Town as medium risk. Lipai Village in Xingtai City and Shaojiaying Village in Tangshan City are also medium risk. Residents of and individuals with recent exposure to these areas must remain in their homes; exceptions may be possible for emergencies and essential reasons. Officials restrict travel to and from the affected communities. Authorities typically maintain measures until two weeks after the latest confirmed community case and will probably carry out several rounds of testing before easing restrictions.

Additional measures are likely in other parts of Hebei Province if there are new COVID-19 cases. Provincial and municipal governments may require testing and/or quarantine for travelers from the affected areas in Hebei Province; some local governments may ban travelers with a recent travel history to such locations. Officials could launch testing operations in other areas of Hebei Province. Business closures and disruption to production operations in Hebei Province's industrial areas, as well as flight cancellations and delays at regional airports like Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW), are possible. Air travelers returning to Shijiazhuang and Chengde must present a negative nucleic acid test result taken within 48 hours and undergo an on-arrival test.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Confirm appointments and travel reservations due to possible restrictions.