Status: 08/19/2022 10:25 a.m
China has been following a strict zero-Covid strategy since the pandemic began. Regular tests in metropolises with millions of inhabitants are almost the order of the day. But not only people are tested, but also fish that are caught in the sea.
Chinese health authorities are even testing fish caught in the sea as part of their zero-Covid strategy. A representative of the Xiamen Health Department confirmed the practice of testing not only the returning fishermen but also their fish to the dpa news agency. “Whatever comes in has to be tested.”
The Jimei district published the instruction at the end of July because there was a risk of illegal trade with foreign fishermen at sea: “When fishermen and their catch arrive on land, people and goods must be tested.”
China, where the virus was first detected in December 2019, is pursuing a strict zero-Covid strategy. The country has sealed itself off completely. The few travelers who are allowed to enter the country usually have to stay in a quarantine hotel room for seven days – then under observation for three days. In metropolises of millions, people usually have to be tested every three days. Proof of the negative test in the Corona app on the cell phone is necessary in order to be allowed into shops, markets or your own residential complex at all.
Anyone who is identified as a contact person or was in a “risk area” must isolate themselves. Anyone who is positive goes to the hospital. In cases of infection, entire neighborhoods are cordoned off.
Omicron wave despite harsh measures
Despite the harsh measures, the world’s most populous country is experiencing a major surge as the latest omicron variant spreads easily. The Beijing Health Commission reported more than 500 new infections and more than 2,000 asymptomatic cases on Friday. The tropical island of Hainan is particularly affected. Tens of thousands of holidaymakers are stuck there.
Corona brought to Hainan by fishermen?
The Xiamen Marine Development Bureau told Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post that reports say the coronavirus may have been brought to Hainan by fishermen who may have come into contact with foreign colleagues at sea. “We are not the only place that does this,” it said about the corona tests on fish and fishermen.