A letter to all expats in Foshan

In response to the outbreak of pneumonia caused by the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), Guangdong Province has activated a Level I public health emergency response since 23rd January. As an effort to protect you and your families from the virus, we recommend the following practices to all of Foshan's international residents:

I. Do not trust false and unverified information.

Use official updates instead. Follow "foshanfabu" (the official WeChat account run by Foshan Municipal People's Government ) , "fshealth"(the official WeChat account run by Foshan's Municipal Health and Family Planning Bureau ), "FSdaily" (the official WeChat account of Foshan's official newspaper), and other official WeChat accounts for the most recent updates. Check out the list of designated hospitals in Foshan city, and look for prevention and treatment guides.

II. Increase prevention and self-protection.

Keep good hygiene by washing your hands often with soap or alcohol-based sanitizer. Cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue or your flexed elbow. No spitting. Dispose of used masks appropriately. Maintain proper ventilation and keep rooms clean. Avoid close contact with wild animals or birds; eggs and meat must be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

III. Minimize outdoor activities.

Avoid crowded places, parties and group activities. Correctly wear a mask (preferably, a surgical mask) if you have to go and attend one, and maintain a proper distance in face-to-face communication. If you have mild to severe respiratory symptoms of fever, cough, breathing difficulty, or fatigue, please go to a designated hospital with a mask on.

IV. Join in our mass prevention and control efforts.

According to epidemiologist, the incubation period of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) lasts about 14 days. If you have been to the infected areas and returned to Foshan within 14 days, or if you have contacted people who are from the epidemic area, please monitor your health condition closely, stay at home, and timely report to local Disease Control authorities or designated departments. Please cooperate with government or community personnel or medical staff if they inquire about your condition.

Thank you for your support and cooperation!

Foreign Affairs Bureau

Foshan Municipal People's Government