China: Authorities maintaining strict COVID-19 controls in Shanghai as of March 27 /update 2

Event

Authorities are maintaining restrictions in Shanghai as of March 27 due to COVID-19 activity. Officials advise residents not to leave Shanghai unless necessary; outbound travelers and individuals entering Shanghai must present a negative nucleic acid test result taken within 48 hours. Educational institutions are closed. All intercity bus services remain suspended. Interprovincial group tourism between Shanghai and other provinces, regions, and municipalities are banned until further notice. Increased health screenings are likely at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), and other passenger transport hubs throughout the city over the coming weeks. Authorities in PVG are diverting some international flights to other cities through at least May 1. Further controls on long-distance travel and flight cancelations and delays at PVG and SHA are possible.

The tightest curbs are in effect in medium-risk areas. As of March 27, officials have designated 17 areas in Shanghai's Chongming, Huangpu, Jiading, Pudong, and Minhang districts as medium risk. Residents of the location and individuals with recent exposure to them will likely need to remain in their homes; exceptions may be possible for emergencies and essential reasons. Authorities will probably restrict travel to and from the affected communities. Officials typically extend measures until two weeks after the latest date of newly confirmed community cases. Several rounds of testing in medium-risk areas are likely before restrictions ease.

Gathering controls and restrictions on nonessential businesses are possible in communities in or near districts with medium-risk areas. Officials could place additional communities under localized movement controls if more COVID-19 cases are found. Testing of residents is underway in several areas of Shanghai, including designated medium-risk zones. Provincial and municipal governments may require testing and/or quarantine for travelers from all or affected parts of Shanghai.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Confirm appointments and transport arrangements, especially at PVG. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers.