China: Officials extend mass testing and lockdown measures in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, Sept. 8 /update 3

Event

Officials in Sichuan Province have extended lockdown measures in Chengdu as of Sept. 8 due to COVID-19 concerns. The affected areas include Chengdu Eastern New, Chenghua, High-tech Zone, Jinjiang, Jinniu, Longquanyi, New Tianfu, Pidu, Qingyang, Shuangliu, Wenjiang, Wuhou, and Xindu districts; Jianyang City; as well as Jintang and Pujiang counties. Residents in high-risk areas must stay at home, while people living in medium-risk locations must limit movement to the immediate area. Mass testing is underway and individuals that test positive must undergo quarantine. The government allows at most one person per household to leave once a day to purchase necessities if they are located outside of high-risk areas; individuals are required to hold a negative nucleic acid test result taken within 24 hours. Nonessential businesses must close and social gatherings are banned. Officials will likely carry out several rounds of testing before easing restrictions.

Officials have lifted lockdown measures in some locations, including Qingbaijiang and Xinjin districts; Chongzhou, Dujiangyan, Pengzhou, and Qionglai cities; and Dayi County. However, officials require residents in these areas to undergo COVID-19 tests on Sept. 9 and 11. Individuals must present a negative nucleic acid test result taken within 24 hours to enter public transport and venues. People in areas no longer under lockdown measures are barred from visiting other districts and discouraged from leaving Chengdu for nonessential reasons.

Officials could extend the measures or impose tighter restrictions in Chengdu if there are new COVID-19 cases. The government may impose gathering, business, and travel restrictions in other parts of Sichuan Province as a precaution if new cases emerge. Reports indicate that flight disruptions are ongoing at Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) and Tianfu International Airport (TFU) due to the curbs. Business and supply chain disruptions are possible in areas affected by localized restrictions.

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.