China is expanding lockdowns as it records its highest number of daily Covid-19 cases since the pandemic began. The mainland recorded over 31,527 cases despite stringent measures designed to eliminate the virus, CBS reported. The highest number of daily Covid-19 cases was recorded in April-- 29,317.
Outbreaks peaked in several major cities including Beijing and the southern trade hub Guangzhou, where factory workers clashed this week with police. People in eight districts of Zhengzhou cannot leave their homes except to buy food or get medical treatment. Authorities have ordered daily mass testing.
The restrictions which will affect a population of 6.6 million people will last for five days starting from Friday. Zhengzhou's order came after violent protests broke out at the city's vast iPhone factory complex, AFP reported. Footage from last month showed workers fleeing the site on foot in the wake of allegations of poor conditions at the facility.
Zhengzhou reported 675 new Covid infections in 24 hours. The increase in cases comes after authorities reduced Covid-related restrictions. They stopped recording secondary contacts and cut quarantine for primary contacts from seven days to five days. Also, authorities have been asked to stay clear of widespread lockdowns and testing, and be more targetted on their clampdowns.
