China: Officials imposing tighter COVID-19 curbs in Changchun, Jilin Province, as of March 11 /update 1

Event

Authorities in Jilin Province have tightened COVID-19 restrictions in Changchun city as of March 11 due to increased disease activity. Officials prohibit residents from leaving their homes for nonessential reasons; authorities allow one person per household to buy necessities every two days. All nonessential businesses must close and public transport services have been suspended. Enhanced restrictions are also ongoing in Jilin City. Residents may only leave their homes for essential reasons; some nonessential facilities, including religious and recreational establishments, must close. All private vehicles are prohibited on roads. Authorities have set up checkpoints along expressways and trunk roads to and from the city to enforce the measures. Individuals that need to leave Changchun and Jilin must present a negative nucleic acid test certificate taken within 48 and 24 hours respectively, as well as a "green" health code.

Separately, officials have designated 13 areas, located in Hunchun and Jilin cities, as medium-risk zones. Officials require residents of and individuals with recent exposure to the locations to remain in their homes; exceptions may be possible for emergencies and essential reasons. Authorities are restricting travel to and from the affected communities. Security personnel will enforce checkpoints in these areas to ensure compliance with movement restrictions. Authorities typically extend measures until two weeks after the latest date of newly confirmed community cases. Officials will likely carry out several rounds of testing in the affected areas before easing restrictions.

Strict controls such as stay-at-home orders, and closure of nonessential businesses are probable in affected locations with COVID-19 cases, as well as adjacent areas. Several rounds of mass testing are almost certain in areas under stay-at-home orders. Other provincial and municipal governments will probably require individuals who have recently traveled to medium-risk areas in Hunchun City to undergo COVID-19 testing and/or mandatory institutional quarantine periods.

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.