Millions confined to homes as Shanghai battles fresh COVID-19 outbreak

BEIJING/ANKARA – China’s recent decision to extend the COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions in Shanghai for an indefinite period due to the rise in cases triggered a strong response by locals.

More than 26 million people in the city, which is the largest metropolis in Asia, are currently facing curfew and isolation.

Authorities have been carrying out a citywide campaign to test millions of residents.

One can see only law enforcement officers and health officers on the streets of Shanghai. Despite high purchasing power, local people have difficulty accessing basic food.

Although authorities said the lockdown announced on March 28 will be gradually eased, the curfew continues in most parts of the city.

The problems faced in the supply of food and medicine as well as in the provision of healthcare services are increasing day by day amid everlasting lockdown measures in Shanghai.

Health authorities’ recent practice of quarantining young children who test positive for COVID-19 separately from their parents also caused anger in the public.

However, the authorities have decided to change the measure after strong reaction, and will now allow parents to accompany their children in quarantine.