China: Authorities continue to impose tighter COVID-19 curbs parts of Lanzhou, Gansu Province, as of July 26 /update 2

Event

Authorities in Lanzhou, Gansu Province, continue to impose tighter curbs in Anning, Chengguan, Qilihe, and Xigu districts as of July 26 due to COVID-19 concerns. Residents in the affected districts must stay at home and adopt work-from-home arrangements. Officials have banned gatherings, closed education facilities and entertainment venues; restaurants can only offer takeaway or delivery services. Essential businesses and public transport must implement health codes and temperature checks. Authorities allow at most one person from every household in low-risk areas of Lanzhou to leave home once a day to purchase essential items. Individuals must present a negative nucleic acid test result taken within 24 hours to enter public venues and transport. Mass testing is underway in the downtown areas of Lanzhou. Further extensions to the measures are possible if new COVID-19 cases emerge.

Tighter curbs are in place in areas with COVID-19 activity. As of July 26, officials have designated 167 high-risk and 127 medium-risk areas in Anning, Chengguan, Jiangchengguan, Qilihe, and Xigu districts. Residents 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 for seven to 14 days after the latest confirmed community case and will probably carry out several rounds of testing before easing restrictions.

Officials are only permitting essential travel for Lanzhou residents. The provincial government has warned travelers against entering the city, but inbound travel is not restricted. Officials encourage visitors to contact community offices or hotels at least a day before arrival, undergo a nucleic acid test after arrival, and carry out health monitoring. Additional measures are likely if there are new COVID-19 cases. Strict controls, such as stay-at-home orders, could occur in Lanzhou or other areas of Gansu Province in the coming days.

Advice

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