China: Officials imposing tighter COVID-19 curbs in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, as of April 16

Event

Shaanxi Province authorities have tightened restrictions in Xi'an after discovering dozens of COVID-19 cases. Officials have designated the Xiangyun Logistics Center and Mengjia Village in Xixian New District as medium-risk areas. 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.

Xi'an officials are implementing heightened controls citywide through April 19. The government requires residents to remain in their residential communities. All nonessential businesses, such as entertainment and hospitality venues, are closed. Large retail spaces are also closed. Restaurants can operate takeaway and delivery services. Other businesses can operate, but officials encourage remote work or closed-loop management, which requires workers to sleep on-site.

Residents must hold a green health code and a negative result from a nucleic acid test taken within the previous 48 hours to use public transport. The government has also banned taxi and ride-hailing services from traveling outside the city. Security personnel will likely enforce checkpoints on main roads into the Xi'an and near community compounds to ensure compliance with restrictions.

Additional measures are likely if there are new COVID-19 cases. Strict controls, such as stay-at-home orders, may occur in Xi'an or other areas of Shaanxi Province in the coming days.

Advice

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