China has softened its zero-Covid stance in the biggest relaxation of rules since the pandemic began in 2019.
Infected citizens with mild symptoms or none can quarantine at home and compulsory testing is being dropped for people travelling within the country, said the National Health Commission.
It comes after frustration with Covid controls sparked protests in cities including Beijing and Shanghai that were the biggest public demonstration of discontent since president Xi Jinping came to power in 2012.
The changes were welcomed by many people hoping for a return to normality after a series of lengthy lockdowns that have brought mental suffering to tens of millions.
The topic was the most viewed on China’s Weibo social media platform, with one user posting: ‘It’s time for our lives to return to normal, and for China to return to the world.’
China’s official count of 5,235 Covid deaths in a nation of 1.4billion is extremely low by global standards.
But Mr Xi has relied on draconian measures rather than Western vaccines that have allowed countries to conquer the threat of Covid.
Studies show China’s own vaccines are less effective – and only 40 per cent of over-80s have had a jab and booster.
The relaxation of rules set off a rush for cough and fever medicines, with health bosses urging restraint after reports shops in Beijing had sold out.
Investors welcomed the shift that could invigorate China’s economy and currency and boost global growth which has been stifled by shortages. Economist Zhiwei Zhang, of Pinpoint Asset Management, said: ‘I expect China will fully reopen its border no later than mid 2023.’
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