Updated August 4, 2020
The novel coronavirus outbreak has transformed lives across the globe. A lot has changed in our daily lives since the onset of COVID-19 pandemic was declared months ago. At the same time, China is largely going through a peaceful post-COVID-19 phase. Life has gradually returned back to normal in China, thanks to the Chinese authorities/government. The number of infected cases is largely non-existent in China. Most of us have already been back to work (for months now).
However, even in China, certain changes have become part of the new normal in our daily lives.
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Let’s look at the top 5 post-COVID-19 changes in our daily China life.
Post-COVID-19 Life In China
#1 Border and Immigration
The Chinese borders are still virtually closed. Certain individuals and (diplomats, specialists) and Chinese citizens are allowed to return. However, only a few flights (+expensive) to selected international destinations are available. It’s difficult to exit/enter China. In all likelihood, it wouldn’t be any easier for most of the foreigners to visit China this year.
#2 Face Masks And Body Temperature Checks
They are everywhere. It’s rare to see someone without a face mask. Not expensive, though. You can buy one mask for less than RMB 1 yuan. You won’t be allowed to enter the bus and subways without a face mask.
The body temperature checks have become part of daily life since the outbreak. Even yesterday (8th July 2020), I went out to grab some snacks, and the bus driver checked my body temperature. However, the number of such checks has gradually been reduced.
#3 City Health Codes
Every Chinese city/province has implemented a unique code (Cheng Ma 城码) system. The code assigns one of the three colors to every China dweller: green, yellow and red. Greens are the healthy individuals, yellows are mid-risk (those in close contact of the infected individuals, recently recovered, travelled to the infected regions), and reds are the suspected/confirmed cases.
The health code (bound with AliPay/WeChat) is linked to GPS and tracks your movements. The code can change color as you move from one city to another. We are often asked to show the health code. It’s virtually compulsory to show a green health code to enter shopping malls and subways. Codes are not regularly checked in the buses (a bit relaxed norms in the buses, recently).
#4 Travel Restrictions
Ever since I moved to China, I used to travel every now and then. However, I have not been out of my city for over last 6 months. We are officially restricted from travelling by the employer. As such, if I want to go out of my city, I must get an official permission from my employer (after being recommended by my boss).
The travel restrictions have been tightened after a recent COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing.
Actually, the situation was gradually improving. In fact, by the end of May 2020, we were allowed to travel anywhere within the provincial boundaries. Official permission was only required if we wished to go beyond the province. Now back to the square one!
#5 Dating And Relationship
COVID-19 pandemic had affected dating and relationship (free Sign Up: China Love Cupid) as well. It’s quite normal that your potential date will ask if you have had any COVID-19 symptoms. Worse, if you have been tested for COVID-19. Moreover, there are restrictions on bringing guests to the bedrooms. Btw, I see more and more women around my locality with baby bumps. 🙂
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How have you been affected by COVID-19 pandemic? How is the post-COVID-19 situation in your city?
