China’s Portrayal of Smooth Covid Exit Leaves Scientists Wanting More Data
Wall Street JournalDec 23, 2022
The Facts
On this coming Monday, travel will fully resume between China and its special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau. Reopening travel is expected to revive and reinvigorate these regions' suffering economies following an extended COVID lockdown.
Three border checkpoints will reopen and travelers will not need to provide proof of a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination.
The Spin
Narrative A
Hong Kong has been preparing for a full reopening ever since its first partial reopening proved successful. The region is ready to open without restrictions for travelers. Yes, there will be a risk — but it's a manageable risk. As long as officials continue to review the data and make necessary improvements, Hong Kong will be a safe and enjoyable location for world travelers.
Narrative B
Beijing is anxious to reopen and re-establish itself as a global leader but it's too soon. The abrupt abandonment of the three-year-long zero-COVID strategy is alarming. Infections are raging across the country, resources are lacking for residents, and travel fares are outrageous. While the international community is overjoyed to see China reopening, even they share some skepticism over safety and the extent of the outbreak taking place. There are significant challenges that need to be resolved before China blows the doors open to foreigners so quickly.
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