China: Authorities imposing tighter restrictions Haikou, Hainan Province, through at least July 16 due to COVID-19 activity

Event

Authorities in Hainan Province are implementing tighter restrictions in Haikou through at least July 16 after discovering community COVID-19 cases. Officials have advised residents to stay at home and mass testing is underway. Entertainment and cultural venues must close. Nonessential group activities are prohibited. Vehicles are banned from leaving Haidian Island. Travelers leaving Hainan Island from Haikou must undergo temperature screening, and present a green health code and negative nucleic acid test taken within 48 hours before departure. Similar measures are in place in Danzhou through at least July 12.

Tighter curbs are in place in areas with COVID-19 activity. As of July 12, officials have designated at least 11 areas in Meilan District in Haikou as medium- or high-risk areas. 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 until two weeks after the latest confirmed community case and will probably carry out several rounds of testing before easing restrictions.

Officials could extend or tighten the restrictions if new COVID-19 cases emerge. Strict controls, such as stay-at-home orders, could occur in Haikou or other areas of Hainan Province in the coming days. Increased health screenings are likely at passenger transport hubs throughout the city. Generalized controls on long-distance travel from Haikou are possible 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.