China strengthens alert against SARS

cctv.com 12-19-2003 09:31

The Chinese mainland has taken immediate measures to prevent any possible outbreak of SARS since the case was confirmed in Taiwan. The World Health Organization says China has enough experience to prepare for such a challenge.

It's the first day after Taiwan announced its confirmed SARS case. There's little sign of panic as passengers at the Beijing International Airport fill out health information cards in line with a new regulation.

Temperature screening is conducted at customs.

A special exit has been set up for passengers from Taiwan. Customs officials say the channel will provide an effective resource for SARS-related information in the future.

Zhao Liangang, official of Beijing Airport Inspection and Quarantine Office, said, "The SARS case occurred in a lab in Taiwan. Most Taiwan travelers come to Beijing from Hong Kong, Macao, and Singapore. So we set up a special channel for them at the airport. Our aim is to collect all these passengers' information and provide it to the necessary agencies in the event of an emergency."

According to the official, around 20 planes from Hong Kong, Macao and Singapore land at the Beijing International Airport every day. The number of passengers is usually between 4,000-5,000.

Reports from the nationwide network say there have been no clinically confirmed or suspected SARS cases on the Chinese mainland since August 16 when the last SARS patient on the mainland was discharged from hospital. The World Health Organization says it's confident that China is now prepared for any virus outbreak.

The Ministry of Health has resumed daily SARS reporting on the Chinese mainland and remains on alert. The ministry has also issued orders for government departments to pay special attention to the handling of SARS virus samples and the protection of researchers.

Earlier this year, the Chinese authorities paid dearly for their lack of preparation. Now, it seems that they have learned their lesson from that health crisis. But for the public, all they can really rely on is early detection and high vigilance to prevent another deadly outbreak.

Editor:Xiao  Source:CCTV.com