China: Officials in Qinghai Province slightly ease COVID-19-related measures in Xining as of Sept. 13 /update 1

Event

Officials in Qinghai Province have slightly eased COVID-19 restrictions in Xining as of Sept. 13. Authorities have relaxed travel restrictions between Datong Hui and Tu Autonomous, Huangyuan, and Huangzhong counties. Outdoor tourist and sporting venues and public transport, including taxi services, have resumed operations at 50-percent capacity. Hotel and other accommodations are operating at 30-percent capacity. Some retail spaces and public services have reopened with tight COVID-19 measures.

Local Measures
Authorities continue to implement restrictions across the city. Entertainment businesses remain closed, and dine-in and mail delivery services remain suspended. Mass testing is underway, and individuals that test positive must undergo quarantine. Residents must hold a negative COVID-19 test result taken in the previous 48 hours to use public services or enter venues. The tightest measures continue in high- and medium-risk areas throughout the city, including East, West, and Central districts and Datong County. Residents in high-risk areas must stay at home, while people living in medium-risk locations must limit movement to the immediate area. Officials close nonessential businesses and ban social gatherings in these areas. Officials will likely carry out several rounds of testing before easing restrictions.

Although public transport has resumed, buses from urban to rural areas remain suspended. The government continues to ban all but essential inbound and outbound travel to the city. Returning residents and visitors must have received a negative nucleic acid test within 24 hours for entry and cannot attend meals, gatherings, or enter crowded locations for seven days after arrival.

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.