The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday that the COVID-19 pandemic no longer constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, the WHO's highest alert level.
Liang Wannian, head of the National Health Commission's epidemic response expert panel, said that multiple factors, such as consistently declining numbers of reported cases, hospitalizations, severe cases and deaths — as well as no reports of significant increases of new strain pathogenicity and mortality — have contributed to the WHO's latest decision.
"Meanwhile, the world has established adequate herd immunity against the disease through mass vaccinations or natural infections over the past three years, and has stepped up overall preparedness including stockpiling protective equipment and effective medications, and treatment capacity," Liang said.
Following the downgrade, Liang said that restrictions on cross-regional traffic, trade and tourism volume are expected to further ease, driving international commerce, communication and travel.
Liang said the downgraded classification does not mean that the pandemic has ended, nor does it suggest that COVID-19 has become harmless. Global solidarity and targeted and science-based measures are still needed to safeguard people's health, he said.
"Vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk groups should continue to be rolled out and our capability in treating serious cases should be further improved," he added.
"It is also important to remind the public to keep practicing good hygiene, ramp up training and boost stockpiles of necessary supplies to cope with potential health emergencies and continue our efforts in building a strong public healthcare system."
信息来源：新华社 中国日报
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