A letter to international friends in Hubei

Dear international friends in Hubei,

We would like to extend our greetings to you and your family on the occasion of the Spring Festival. In response to the outbreak of pneumonia caused by the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), Hubei Provincial People’s Government has activated Level I public health emergency response. Under the direction of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, Hubei has spared no efforts in the fight against epidemic to curb the spread of the virus. The CPC Hubei Provincial Committee and Hubei Provincial People’s Government are deeply concerned about your well-being. For the health of you and your family, you are kindly requested to follow the Law on the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases of the People’s Republic of China and other relevant laws and regulations, and the calls of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council by cooperating in the following areas:

I.Seek help in times of need

Foreign affairs offices at all levels open 24-hour hotlines for expats in the province (the list of hotlines has already been put on media outlets). You may call for information and assistance. Please feel free to contact us when you are in need.

II.Follow official updates

Hubei Provincial Headquarters on Epidemic Prevention and Control has established a platform named “Hubei Release”, to update accurate and authoritative information about epidemic prevention and control on a daily basis. Please follow the international column on Hubei Daily App, “Changjiang Cloud” and other media outlets for the latest updates. Keep calm and avoid believing and spreading false and unverified information.

III.Minimize outdoor activities

Avoid crowded places, parties and group activities. Properly wear a mask (preferably a surgical mask) if you have to go outside.

IV.Focus on epidemic prevention

Keep good personal hygiene by washing your hands more frequently with soap or alcohol-based sanitizer. Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms. Properly dispose used masks. Maintain ventilation and keep rooms clean. Avoid close contact with wild animals or birds and make sure eggs andmeat are thoroughly cooked before consumption.

V.Seek prompt medical attention

Please monitor your health condition closely and work with government or community personnel or medical staff if they inquire about your condition. If you have any symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath, or fatigue, please go to a designated hospital with a mask on.

Dear international friends, Hubei is our home. In the time of difficulties, we need to stand in unity and solidarity to protect and defend our home. With confidence and courage, we can win the battle against the epidemic.

Hubei Provincial Foreign Affairs Office