Monkeypox in Beijing: A New Episode of the Pandemic Play
Heads up! The Chinese health office has issued a fresh bulletin: when it comes to monkeypox, keep your nose – and skin – about your own people. The message rattled social networks, with folks humorously questioning why foreigners now play “dangerous” tag while locals get the “all-people” pass.
Official Warning
Wu Zunyou, chief epidemiologist at the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, posted on Weibo this weekend:
- “Avoid direct skin‑to‑skin contact with foreigners.”
- “Also steer clear of people who’ve traveled abroad within the past three weeks.”
- “Keep an eye on any strangers – vigilance is key.”
He added, “Strong surveillance and prevention are essential at the social level.”
Social Media Reaction
The thread was widely shared, but comments were disabled the following day. Some readers shared screenshots and asked: “Why are foreign residents more of a threat than our own?” Wu didn’t respond to a Reuters request sent on Monday.
Chongqing’s First Infection
In the southwest city, a monkey‑pox case was confirmed Friday. The patient had flown in from abroad and entered quarantine promptly – no wild animals, just a handful of close contacts who were checked for symptoms.
Global Context
- Over 90 non‑endemic countries report outbreaks.
- More than 60,000 confirmed cases worldwide.
- Some nations even record their first deaths from the virus.
Bottom line: Keep your distance, wear a mask if you’re uncomfortable, and hope the outbreak stays as contained as a squirrel on a city sidewalk. If you’re in China, stay aware and don’t let the monkey find you!
