Since March 2020, China’s border has been restricted. With several rounds of updates on how travellers enter China would be quarantined, we see signs that the restrictions are getting looser. Between March 2020 and December 2021, I would say Shanghai was pretty easy and open, we were able to party and go visit our favourite restaurants, and the only measure back then was to do a paid covid test at any hospital nearby to gain access to flights and train to other cities/provinces within China. However, as you may be aware, there was a strict Shanghai lockdown in April 2022, which was supposed to last 4 days and prolonged for exactly 2 months. Shanghai became silent during that period, but the city was slowly revived after the release. However, we can now see more semi-permanent covid test booths and test sites around each neighbourhood. Any resident can go get a test for free. People here require consistent testing to show records of taking public transportation and entering public venues such as shopping malls, restaurants, and office buildings.

So how do you stay updated with the covid regulations and information while living in Shanghai?

1. Official announcements:
Every morning, multiple tools and official accounts on WeChat would publish authorized data on new cases and areas. The information is usually in Chinese. The English will be followed by English media such as SHINE/Expat Hub.

2. Neighbor WeChat Groups:
Since the mass lockdown back in April, every household has joined a collective WeChat group with their neighbours. Usually, a neighbour leader would share official announcements with the groups. Again, the information is usually in Chinese, but WeChat has a translation function that can be helpful.

3. Your HR from work:
Usually, an Admin/HR from your work should inform you if you would need to work from home or if there are any special cases. Keep the communication smooth as this is very important information. They are usually responsible for answering your questions or helping communicate with your neighbour committee. (juweihui) if needed.

4. WeChat miniprograms
The government also developed several tools to check which areas are high-risk, mid-risk, and low-risk based on the categorization. There are different rules. For example, if you are at high-risk or be determined to have close contact, you would need to stay in or be quarantined for 7 days, with 5 tests. If you are mid-risk, it would be 2 tests within 3 days and may be released after 2 PCR tests with negative results. The tool also helps you locate the nearby test sites and their operating hours.

5. Traveling apps
Some travelling apps allow travellers to track the policies of each destination, so you can be well-prepared before travelling or deciding if you should cancel the trip later. This information can be useful for business and leisure travellers. In my opinion, and according to my experience, travelling in China right now requires a little more luck, just in case you get stranded and cannot return to work. The risk of being infected and coming to close contact still exists.

Also, everyone must scan a venue QR code to check in, such as getting into a taxi, going into a restaurant, sports venue, cinema, etc., so it is traceable.

In short,

• Scan venue codes

• Test every 24-48 hours

• Wear a mask in public spaces, especially at test sites and any public transportation

• Stay safe, stay healthy.

• Be mentally prepared to be quarantined, partially lockdown (building/compound) and stock up on frozen food for emergencies,

• Have a bag with the essentials (contact lenses, change of clothes, detergent, medicines, female products, mobile chargers, etc.)