Chinese officials are considering the possibility of implementing lockdowns to combat the flu in response to rising influenza cases. The city of Xi’an in Shaanxi Province released an emergency response plan outlining measures, including lockdowns “when necessary,” in the face of a severe flu threat. While authorities have not indicated an imminent return to lockdowns, locals have expressed discontent, considering the potential restrictions excessive.
China’s zero-COVID lockdowns, enforced during the pandemic, were deemed extreme by many. The Xi’an plan categorizes four levels of flu outbreak, with lockdowns becoming likely in the event of a critically high flu level. Residents recall the strict lockdowns imposed in Xi’an during the pandemic, and social media users on Weibo argue that the common flu does not warrant such measures.
Critics, including Yanzhong Huang, a senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations, argue that returning to draconian lockdown methods for the flu, especially for residents traumatized by previous measures, is unjustified. Some believe local governments have become “addicted to sealing and controlling.” Professor Tang Renwu of Beijing Normal University anticipates similar plans from other local governments, urging caution to avoid triggering social panic.
Despite the potential backlash, this is not the first time such lockdown plans have been considered in China. In 2015, the Shanghai government outlined restrictions in response to a serious flu threat, including limiting gatherings and recalling students and workers. As discussions continue, the possibility of returning to strict lockdown measures raises concerns and underscores the delicate balance between public health measures and societal impact.
RELATED ARTICLES
- UK Warns that China is Preparing for Total Nuclear War with the West
- Russia & China Plan Building Nuclear Power Plant on the Moon
- China expands Social Credit Score to include Central Bank Digital Currencies
- Brazil's Ministry Of Health Mandates Covid Jabs For Children As Young As 6 Months
- Italian Health Minister Faces Murder Charges Over COVID-19 Vaccine Deaths
Loading ...
