China: Xi’an recorded 46 new infections in the past 24 hours the provincial health bulletin stated. Amidst the latest surge, the city recorded 1,959 local cases since Dec. 9, 2021, 

 According to Lyu Yongpeng, deputy director of the city’s health commission, the city has a total of three high-risk areas and 55 medium-risk areas in the resurgence. Citing the reduced count of fresh infections, Lyu stated that the city would be freed from restrictions in a phased pattern.

At a press briefing to be held at local time on Saturday, officials promoted the resumption of postal and delivery services under the requirements of epidemic prevention and control. Head of Xi’an Municipal Postal Administration, stated 60% laxation in the operational capability of postal and delivery services before the Spring Festival. Reiterating the government’s zero covid policy, authorities vowed to ensure continuous food supply at stable prices after an outcry over shortages of produce was heard.

The northwest province of China has been in lockdown for the last two weeks now. Majorly 13 million residents of the city have been barred from stepping out for essentials. Hospitals in Shaanxi province have admitted 1,992 people infected with the virus. Serious cases account for 2.4% of the total, lower than the nation’s average of 7% since the second half of 2020.