An open letter to foreign nationals in Guangzhou

As the COVID-19 virus has continued to spread globally, healthcare workers in Guangzhou have recently reported a number of newly confirmed cases and asymptomatic infections. Currently, we are taking swift and decisive actions to curb the spread of the virus. All of our approaches are science-based, and we need every resident in our city to cooperate with us. Foreign nationals have always been important members of our community, and we have always prioritized their health and safety. We now urge you to take the following actions:

First, support our control and prevention policies. Our healthcare professionals are treating patients, tracing contacts, conducting COVID-19 tests, and disinfecting key areas within the city. If you are approached by government employees, community organizers, or healthcare workers, please, support them by answering their questions. Our control and prevention professionals might also need to clean and disinfect any contaminated surfaces touched by people who test positive. We urge you to postpone or cancel large-scale events and suspend non-essential group activities. Be cautious when you invite guests to your private residence. Family gatherings must be limited to 10 people.

Second, get vaccinated. Widespread vaccinations are a critical tool to achieve herd immunity. We recommend that you and your family get vaccinated to protect yourself and others, unless special circumstances prevent you from doing so. Please, consult a healthcare provider to assess the risks.

Third, follow the latest updates from official sources. We recommend that you follow these public accounts on WeChat: Updates in Guangzhou, Guangzhou Foreign Affairs Office, and Guangzhou Health Commission. Do not trust nor spread unverified information. If you need interpretation services in English, Japanese, or Korean, please, call the Guangzhou Multilingual Public Service Hot-line at 960169. The hotline interpreters will connect you to Guangzhou's Public Health Hot-line (12320) to answer your enquiries.

Fourth, stay safe by taking some simple precautions, such as physical distancing, wearing a mask, keeping rooms well ventilated, avoiding crowds, and washing your hands. These are still the most simple and effective ways to curb the spread of the virus. If you have a fever or cough, please, go to one of the fever clinics and voluntarily offer the necessary information. Pay attention to food safety, and only purchase frozen food from authorized supermarkets. Avoid visiting any medium-risk areas.

Guangzhou Foreign Affairs Office

May 30, 2021