Mag is a Chinese citizen, living in Zhongshan in the Guangdong province of China, 1088km from Wuhan. We had a chat with her to find out about the coronavirus situation in Zhongshan and was surprised to find her more busy with work than usual.
“Business has even gotten better now because people are more aware of health issues. I am even more busy than usual, working from Monday to Sunday non-stop.”
Q: Hi Mag, where do you live? How long have you been staying home since the novel coronavirus outbreak started?
A: I live in Zhongshan, a city in Guangdong. I can’t remember when we began staying home. It was probably during the Chinese Lunar New Year (25 Jan). We had bought a lot of food for the new year so we just stayed home. However, I went to the supermarket once on 15 Feb because we were running out of food.
How many cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in your city? What measures have been taken in your city to avoid further outbreaks?
There are 62 confirmed cases here. Since 5 Feb, the city implemented a series of measures to restrict the mobility of people. For example, a lot of facilities such as cinemas/karaoke joints/online game centers were forced to close. People are not allow to go out if they do not wear a mask. Besides, only one family member can represent the family to go out to source for food and supplies, once every 2 days. Every time you go out of a certain area, you need to show a pass to the guard and the record would be logged.
The pass required for going in and out of the villages in Zhongshan.
Who are these guards? Who gets selected to be guards?
For villages, normally it would be the committee members in the village who would be assigned the job to control people going in and out of the area. For small communities in the city, the job would be carried out by volunteers. The main roads or highways are guarded by the police.
Can you briefly describe how it was like the last time you went to a supermarket?
It was quite crowded at the supermarket. Everyone wore a mask. The most popular thing was rice. Everyone bought at least two bags of rice and one full cart of other stuff.
The back of the pass required for going in and out of the villages in Zhongshan. Exit records will be logged at the back of the pass.
What do you do at home these days?
Since I work for an insurance company, I can work at home with the computer. Business has even gotten better now because people are more aware of health issues. I am even more busy than usual, working from Monday to Sunday non-stop.
When will you physically return to work?
There is no announcement from my company yet. Hopefully we can make it in March.
Tomorrow, we’ll chat with an expat in another part of China’s Guangdong province to find out how similar his situation might be over there. Follow the latest in our COVID-19 Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Mag. Interviewer: Kauai Sponsor or support the COVID-19 Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
The Amateur Trader, who prefers to be known only by his online handle, is a self-employed person based in Singapore and is presently supporting 2 babies, a wife, a flat and a car on a single income. We had a chat with him to find out how the COVID-19 might affect his financial situation over the next few months and got some unexpected answers.
“The stupid person will ask how much this is going to cost me. The smarter person will ask how much I can earn from this.”
Q: Hi The Amateur Trader, thanks for coming on to share your perspective. When did you first hear about the 2019-nCoV / COVID-19 coronavirus and what did you think of it then?
A: I heard about it in Jan. The first thing that came to mind is concern because my family is in the medical and healthcare sector and also, my wife was due to give birth so I was imagining the logistical issues it could create.
But I also reminded myself, that a crisis in general (not specifically of this scale), also presents opportunities to profit, as I have seen before.
How concerned are you now? How many people do you personally know who’ve been affected by the coronavirus?
I am concerned for my kids. Of course my family is personally affected too, being in healthcare. But in the financial markets (and I speak with regards to stocks), trends are emerging and if you are systematic and nimble about it, it does present opportunities to profit. So financially at least, that’s not so bad.
You identify as self-employed. Can you explain what that means and describe how you earn a living?
I am working towards multiple income streams to earn a living. Stock investing and Options Trading is just one of the means.
How has COVID-19 affected the above? How badly have your regular sources of income been disrupted?
It has affected sources of income of course. It’s bad… but because I am working towards having multiple streams, I know it could be worse. Currently, as of Feb 2020, the most regular source has so far been the stock market.
What have you been doing to stay afloat?
Specifically with regards to stocks. I am going shorter than I normally would. Locking in profit as income and capital consolidation (to prepare for the next positions I take) became a priority.
For how long do you think you can survive—financially and physically—if things continue as they are now or get worse? Had you ever planned for such a situation?
I have planned for such a situation. It’s the disease of being self-employed, where you know not every day is Sunday. Financially, as long as there’s a stock market performing the way it has been in the last quarter, there’s potential financially.
A chart shared by The Amateur Trader.
What do you plan to do if COVID-19 brings the Singapore economy to a standstill for more than 6 months?
I am more heavily vested in the American stock market than Singapore, so as far as financially and stock market wise, so it doesn’t make much of a difference to me.
Honestly, it is my opinion that COVID-19 is less of an issue (in terms of stock and financial markets) than other geopolitical issues, especially the American Presidential 2020 Election in November.
Do you think anybody or any organisation—government or private—will be helping you out if the economy continues to tank?
No.
How will being put on quarantine, Leave Of Absence (LOA), or contracting the virus affect your financial situation?
It would affect my family having 2 babies. But financially, it may be better since I would have more time to monitor the stock market if I wish to do short plays.
Which 3 items or people are most useful for you right now?
My trading platform and stock market charts.
Lastly, what have you learned from this coronavirus outbreak that you didn’t know before?
The stupid person will ask how much this (the coronavirus) is going to cost me. The smarter person will ask how much I can earn from this (coronavirus). Which one do you want to be?
Remember that the best opportunities to make profit lies when the whole world ‘seems like it’s coming to an end’.
My idea of fun is reading earnings reports and looking at stock charts so when this virus happened, one of the things I did was to pull out charts of the stock markets during SARS so I had a reference of how the market could move.
I also did that in early Jan. The US fired missiles into Iran; I pulled up the stock market charts of the Afghanistan war in case the situation escalated.
I have learnt to always remember that there is an opportunity.
*Disclaimer: The above opinions are The Amateur Trader’s own on the day he completed this interview and should not be considered as specific investment advice. The risk of loss in trading the stock market can be substantial. Readers must consider all risk factors before trading.
The Amateur Trader is presently working to be a better stock investor/trader by remembering always that “the pain of discipline is always less than the pain of regret…” (his words). You can get more of his wisdom on his Facebook page or share your thoughts and questions with him using the comment box below.
More interviews with those affected by COVID-19 in Singapore and other parts of the world to come. Follow the latest in our COVID-19 Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of The Amateur Trader. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the COVID-19 Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
Elizabethheartz, who we interviewed last year, is a half-Taiwanese Singaporean content creator who runs an online business and shuttles often between Singapore, Taiwan and Japan for collaborations. We asked her for updates on the coronavirus situation in Singapore, 3432km from Wuhan, and found out what she’s doing to keep her business and teenage daughter healthy in spite of it.
“If it’s fated to happen, so be it. No point over-thinking and over-reacting.”
Q: Hi Elizabeth, thanks for coming back on LUCK-IT to share updates on the coronavirus situation here in Singapore! When did you first hear about the 2019-nCoV coronavirus and what did you think of it then?
A: I read about articles on it online on FB [Facebook] when it was first announced. So many people were sharing it.
How concerned are you now? How many people do you personally know who’ve been affected by the coronavirus?
I have not known anyone personally that is a suspect/confirmed case. I seriously think that most people are over-reacting. The ratio of confirmed cases isn’t that alarming if you are to look at it. There are worse outbreaks happening around the world that are having thousands of deaths happening.
How many cases are there in Singapore at the moment of this interview? How concerned is Singapore at this point?
Currently as of 12 Feb, 1200h, there are 50 confirmed cases. 638 tested negative, 125 are pending tests and 15 have been discharged. It is sad to know that there are people who try to make a fortune out of the situation, and that there are also people who are spreading fake news or unreasonable hate/bitterness. News from overseas of empty supermarkets somehow led to locals to do the same the moment we reached the orange stage [of Singapore’s Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (DORSCON)—there are 4 stages, orange being the 3rd most severe of 4 conditions].
What is the status of food, water and medical supplies like masks in stores in Singapore right now? And how long do you think you can last with the stock you have at home at the moment?
Currently some household supplies, storage food and medical supplies are out of stock at the moment. Many people are trying to import in bulk from overseas. I have yet to stock up as I usually do it once a month. Currently I have enough stock to last me a month, and longer if I use them carefully. Food and water wise, there ARE an abundance of options available; we can always buy alternatives. Mainstream supermarkets may be out of stock, but hey, try other places and smaller grocery stores. They are available (except medical items)!
“Some shelves got swept out, but supermarkets got them replenished pretty fast in a couple of days and set a limit amount for each buyer.”
Do you still go out? If so, what precautions do you take when, and before and after, going out?
As a global content creator, yes, I do need to go out for collaborations and even travelling. As my health has been on a weaker side, my mom is very concerned and insists I wear a mask out if I’m going to places with more crowds. I’ll check that I have my sanitiser and anti-bacterial wet wipes (I always had them before the virus) with me, and bathe immediately when I reach home. I try to stay at home, as much as I can.
You are a mother, so how worried are you about your child contracting the virus within Singapore? Are you doing anything special to keep her safe?
I will always double check her sanitiser and anti-bacterial wet wipes for school, and always remind her to sleep early, drink more water, eat healthy and take her supplements to maintain her immune system. It is important to educate her well.
You are also a retailer, so how has your business been affected by the outbreak of the virus in Singapore?
Thankfully, I closed the pop up store in Dec, so I happen to be taking a break. As my business also runs online, it is pretty easy to operate online. Currently, there aren’t any cosplay events either, so nobody is in any rush to get any costumes.
“Orchard Road is really quiet on weekdays. I believe everyone is staying at home unless they really need to go out.”
Has your work schedule or conditions been affected by the coronavirus? If so, what has changed?
As someone who manages her own time, it did not affect much for me. I’ll just need to plan and schedule properly in advance and try to stay at home if possible.
What will you do if you develop the symptoms of the virus? What do the officials in Singapore recommend you do?
I’ll definitely go for a check up asap to avoid spreading it to others. It is better to be safe and responsible for everyone’s sake.
“Body temperature checks can be seen at various places.”
What will you do if the coronavirus situation in Singapore takes a turn for the worse?
I’ll heed advice that our government provides and stay calm, practice awareness and be vigilant about it. If it’s fated to happen, so be it. No point over-thinking and over-reacting.
“It is nice to know there are hand sanitisers available at check stations too. Keeping our hands clean is very important, especially at places where more people tend to be around.”
Which 3 items or people are most useful for you right now?
Currently its my sanitiser, mask and anti-bacterial wet wipes.
Lastly, what have you learned from this coronavirus outbreak that you didn’t know before?
I can totally understand the frustration of those who could not buy the supplies they need. However we should spread awareness, not irrational hate. Times like this, we HAVE to encourage and help one another to fight against it.
Elizabethheartz (above) also wants to say “Stay calm, healthy, spread awareness and be positive!”
Elizabethheartz is presently pursuing her goals of providing better for herself and her girl, as well as prioritising quality collaborations to give more value to her readers. You may spot her doing LIVE chats on her Facebook page or at Orchard Road (“Orchard is like my second home, I go there a lot due to collaborations and hanging out.”). You may also drop her messages or share your updates of the coronavirus situation in Singapore using the comment box below.
Tomorrow, we’ll chat with another self-employed person in Singapore—who has 2 babies, a wife, a flat and a car to support—about how he is going to cope with the poor economy caused by COVID-19. Follow the latest in our COVID-19 Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Elizabethheartz. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the COVID-19 Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
Marta from Spain first travelled to China as a student and ended up living there for the next 13 years after finding employment, marrying a local and having a child. She presently lives in Suzhou, in the Jiangsu province of China, 609km away from Wuhan, and recently told us all about the restrictions she’s been living with since the novel coronavirus outbreak began.
“Residents have their temperature taken anytime they go in or out. The latest measure is that security staff check your car trunk when you drive in and out… in case you are hiding someone there!”
Q: Hi Marta, thanks for connecting with us all the way from Suzhou, China! When did you first hear about the 2019-nCoV coronavirus and what did you think of it then?
A: I don’t remember when exactly I heard of the new coronavirus for the first time but I guess it was at the end of December, when it was officially confirmed. I wasn’t very concerned and didn’t think much about it at that moment.
How concerned are you now? How many people do you personally know who’ve been afflicted with the coronavirus?
I am not very concerned. I think here in Suzhou the chances of being infected are quite low and, besides, in my family we are all in good health. Having said that, we are following the official recommendations and we only leave our apartment when we need to buy supplies. I don’t personally know anyone who has been afflicted with the coronavirus but there was one case in another building of my residential complex.
“Our current supplies of masks, alcohol and hand sanitiser.”
How many cases are there in Suzhou at the moment of this interview? How concerned is Suzhou at this point?
At this moment there are 77 confirmed cases in Suzhou, 13 of which have already been cured and discharged from hospital. There hasn’t been any confirmed coronavirus death in Suzhou. However, the city is trying its best to avoid more infections and people are staying home as recommended. Recreational venues like tourist attractions, museums, karaokes and some malls were closed at the beginning of the outbreak and haven’t opened yet. Other measures have also been implemented as the situation evolved. For example, now it is not allowed to enter public transportation or supermarkets without a mask. Most residential complexes don’t allow entrance to anyone who doesn’t live there, including delivery staff, and residents have their temperature taken anytime they go in or out. The latest measure is that security staff check your car trunk when you drive in and out… in case you are hiding someone there!
Why do you choose to remain in Suzhou regardless?
Because my life is here and also because, as I said above, I’m not very worried about the situation. Besides, I think I’m more likely to get infected on a plane!
Is there anything you know about the situation within China or in Suzhou that has not been mentioned, or has been misrepresented, by news agencies outside of China?
I feel international news are focusing on the negatives (which, obviously, are a lot) and are not even mentioning when there’s good news. I regularly read Spanish and British newspapers and in every article the infection and death figures are repeated several times, but the recovered figure is nowhere to be seen (it currently stands at over 3x the death figure). Based on what my friends abroad have asked me during the outbreak, international news are transmitting the message that the virus is lethal and everybody is dying and that store shelves are empty.
What is the status of food, water and medical supplies like masks in stores in Suzhou right now? And how long do you think you can last with the stock you have at home at the moment?
Masks and alcohol are often sold out in the pharmacy, but other times they are available and we were able to buy them. Other than that, I’ve been to the supermarket 3 times and it was always well stocked. I haven’t had any problem getting fresh produce. My pantry and freezer are still full of goodies that were sent by the companies my husband and I work at for Chinese New Year. Water is also not a problem, drinking water gallons are delivered as normal.
“The day the Wuhan lockdown was announced, we went to a restaurant to have dinner with some friends who were visiting. We all wore masks, also the restaurant staff.”
Do you still go out? If so, what precautions do you take when, and before and after, going out?
I go out when necessary, for example to buy food. I put on a mask and I pack a small bottle of hand sanitiser. When I’m outside, I try my best not to touch my face in case I touched something contaminated, or I apply hand sanitiser. When I return home, I throw away the mask, hang my coat on the balcony, wash my hands, and disinfect the door knobs that I touched before washing my hands. Then I wash my hands again.
When did you return to work? And what’s the plan in Suzhou for people who need a form of income to survive yet cannot go back to work?
I’ve been working for a week already. I always work from home but now everybody in my company is working from home too. I have no idea what the people that cannot go back to work will do but I do hope the government can provide them with some kind of subsidy. I did read that small businesses will not need to pay the rent for one month. I have a cleaning lady who comes once a week and even though she can’t come these days, I will pay her anyway because it’s not her fault and I don’t want her to have financial difficulties because of this.
What will you do if you develop the symptoms of the virus? What do the officials in Suzhou recommend you do?
The last time I had a fever was 15 years ago so I would be surprised if I got sick now! If I did, I would go directly to the hospital. Pharmacies are not currently allowed to sell fever and cough medicine because anyone with those symptoms has to go to the hospital immediately to be tested for the virus.
What will you do if the coronavirus situation in Suzhou takes a turn for the worse?
If the situation worsens noticeably, I might go back to my home country with my son for some time. But I hope it doesn’t get to that!
“Empty streets in Suzhou.”
Which 3 items or people are most useful for you right now?
I’ll just mention one: the Internet! It has allowed me to keep in touch with my family and friends, to follow the news and also to search for games and activities to entertain my child these days.
Lastly, what have you learned from this coronavirus outbreak that you didn’t know before?
I’ve been surprised to read about the racist attacks Chinese and Asian people in general have been suffering in Western countries since the outbreak started. What a sad thing to learn… that people only need an excuse to become bigots.
Another empty street in Suzhou.
Marta is presently focused on raising her child. You can read more about her adventures in China at martalivesinchina.wordpress.com or ask her for status updates on the coronavirus situation in Suzhou using the comment box below.
Next week onwards, we’ll have some interviews about the coronavirus situation in Singapore and other countries affected by the virus. Follow the latest in our 2019-nCoV Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Marta. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the 2019-nCov Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
Liv from England moved to the Shunde District of Foshan, China to work as an English teacher in January 2020, and soon found herself caught up in the closures surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, 1029km away. She told us what it’s been like since then.
“The general attitude outside of China seems ridiculous to me. Worldwide media are in danger of causing mass panic, and there seems to be little to no comparison to everyday illnesses to put it all into context.”
Q: Hi Liv, thanks for connecting with us all the way from Shunde, China! When did you first hear about the 2019-nCoV coronavirus and what did you think of it then?
A: Hello and thanks for asking me to participate! I first heard about the coronavirus during the Spring Festival for Chinese New Year. The first couple of days of the holiday were great; I was able to get out and explore my new city. Then literally hours later, I saw a news headline pop up on my phone, and the next day everything that should’ve been open for the festival was closed and police were turning people away. I thought they were making a big deal out of nothing to be honest.
How concerned are you now? How many people do you personally know who’ve been afflicted with the coronavirus?
I am concerned, but in no way am I panicking about contracting the virus. I have read a lot about it and it is nowhere near as bad as the regular flu (which kills tens of thousands of people every year). I don’t know anyone who has it yet, but another teacher from my school flew back to the UK to get tested and lie low until it calms down.
“The day after the Chinese New Year festival, when everything was shut down by police. My local supermarket was bare.”
How many cases are there in Shunde at the moment of this interview? How concerned is Shunde at this point?
I don’t know at this point. A few days ago my boss gave us some statistics which said 49 people had contracted it in Foshan (Shunde is a district of Foshan) but all were mild cases. Everyone here is wary but trying to get on with it.
Why do you choose to remain in Shunde regardless?
I only moved here a month ago to start a teaching post, and I would hate to go home so soon after arriving. I have just settled into an apartment and started making friends, so I want to see how the next few weeks pan out and then re-address my decision if needs be.
Is there anything you know about the situation within China or in Shunde that has not been mentioned, or has been misrepresented, by news agencies outside of China?
Nothing specific springs to mind, but the general attitude outside of China seems ridiculous to me. Worldwide media are in danger of causing mass panic, and there seems to be little to no comparison to everyday illnesses (like the regular flu) to put it all into context.
Is there anything you know about the coronavirus that has not been mentioned in global news?
No, I’m afraid not.
What is the status of food, water and medical supplies like masks in stores in Shunde right now? And how long do you think you can last with the stock you have at home at the moment?
Everything is fine here. Initially the supermarket shelves were a bit bare but I think that was also down to it being New Year so everyone was on holiday. I’m able to go out and buy fresh produce every day.
Do you still go out? If so, what precautions do you take when, and before and after, going out?
I do, but not very much because very few places are open. I wear a mask to go to the supermarket, but I don’t bother with one when I go to the park as it is huge and green and there are rarely people around, so it’s nice to get some fresh air there.
When will you return to work? And what’s the plan in Shunde for people who need a form of income to survive yet cannot go back to work?
I return to work today! Monday 10th February. I am only training and working online though. Return to my office and classroom will be end of February/beginning of March, depending on the situation. I don’t know about anyone else, as I believe the Chinese government have stipulated that all businesses must phase back into work from today.
What will you do if you develop the symptoms of the virus? What do the officials in Shunde recommend you do?
Officially, I should go to the hospital straight away. To be honest, I would talk to my boss as she is a local and follow her advice. I would hope that I could recover from home by taking the usual flu medication and resting up, but I’ll cross that bridge if I come to it!
What will you do if the coronavirus situation in Shunde takes a turn for the worse?
If it gets really bad here then I will consider going home (UK) for a few weeks and then returning when the situation is better.
“The main road through Shunde right out the mall where I work. Usually this is busy with traffic, cyclists and people socialising or going to work. Now it is pretty empty most of the time.”
Which 3 items or people are most useful for you right now?
I don’t think these will be what you’re expecting me to say but 1—My book, I’d be going crazy in my apartment without something to do or read. 2—My family, they are being really supportive, sending me information daily and checking up on me. 3—My boss, she has hand delivered masks to me and rings me daily to update me on my work situation.
Lastly, what have you learned from this coronavirus outbreak that you didn’t know before?
I have learned that these things spread fast!! So it is a significant reminder to always be healthy, hygienic, and aware of your surroundings. I have also learned that life is too short to sit around doing nothing all day, so as soon as this is over I’m going to get out and explore and make the most of my time here in China!
Liv plans to be a fully qualified ESL (English Second Language) teacher by the end of this year, and wants to learn about nutrition and explore China’s history, landscape and culture while at it. You can find her on www.wheresliv.com and on Instagram @livedwardss, or ask her more about the coronavirus situation and being in China using the comment box below.
Tomorrow, we will interview an expat living in Suzhou, just 609km from Wuhan. Follow the latest in our 2019-nCoV Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Liv. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the 2019-nCov Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
Greg from the USA has been living in China for over 6 years—first Hangzhou, then Guangzhou and now, Shanghai, the most populous city in China. He told us about the situation in Shanghai amid the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan 690km away, and shared what he sees on the news within China that others outside of China might not see.
“The phrase that keeps appearing is “no other country could do this but China.””
Q: Hi Greg, thanks for connecting with us all the way from Shanghai! When did you first hear about the 2019-nCoV coronavirus and what did you think of it then?
A: At this point, I can’t quite remember when I first heard about it. Every day there are articles with updates, so it is hard to keep track. I’m pretty sure it was soon after it started, which would put it sometime between January 12-18.
How concerned are you now? How many people do you personally know who’ve been afflicted with the coronavirus?
I personally don’t know anyone who has been afflicted with the coronavirus. I suppose I’m not too concerned, mainly because I was still finishing my trip abroad when announcements of different quarantining measures were announced. As I was returning, I faced far less in terms of “extra precautions” than I expected.
How many cases are there in Shanghai at the moment of this interview? How concerned is Shanghai at this point?
At the time of filling out these questions (February 7), the official government approved stats say that Shanghai has 269 confirmed cases, 25 recoveries, and 1 death.
“Standing outside my apartment complex while the school helpers unload our “emergency” packages.”
Why do you choose to remain in Shanghai regardless?
I really didn’t choose to remain in Shanghai, my school repeatedly told us that if it’s at all possible to return then we should make every attempt to do so. Since I didn’t encounter any hiccups on my return flight to Shanghai (I expected there to be at least a delay if not a cancellation since a number of other coworkers noted that their flights had been delayed and cancelled), there was no reason not to return.
Is there anything you know about the situation within China or in Shanghai that has not been mentioned, or has been misrepresented, by news agencies outside of China?
Now that is quite difficult to answer. As I wrote about in my recent blog post about this, I mentioned how the news coverage inside and outside of China are quite different and the only numbers that everyone is looking at are the numbers released by the Chinese government. Whatever we “know” is whatever we read about in articles posted on WeChat (the biggest social media app in China).
What I can say is that inside China, what we are presented with is how fast and efficient the government has been at putting quarantine measures into place and how fast they were able to build the temporary quarantine facility in Wuhan (people refer to it as a hospital but it’s definitely not a standard hospital, it’s more like a holding facility). The phrase that keeps appearing is “no other country could do this but China.” People have also posted videos created showing the strength and tenacity of the Chinese people in dealing with this, as well as photos and videos showing how people have dealt with being stuck at home and even showcasing their resourcefulness in dealing with the face mask shortage. As for the expat community, many are hopeful and think that the media is over-hyping the seriousness of the situation, although there are still some who are more cautious about this.
Outside of China, we see stories that also focus on the swiftness of the temporary holding facility in Wuhan, specifically news about the WHO praising China for it’s efforts. However, there are certainly more stories focusing on the “human rights” aspect of the situation, such as the initial mishandling of the whole outbreak and of the doctor (along with the other doctors in their WeChat group) who was arrested, detained, and forced to sign a confession of “spreading false rumours” and just recently died of the virus after treating others, along with cases of people being forcibly quarantined in their apartments or forcibly removed from their homes and taken elsewhere. There is also more doubt as to the accuracy of the Chinese government’s outbreak statistics.
“Here are the supplies [from the “emergency” packages] (including the all-important cream cookies and Toblerone).”
Is there anything you know about the coronavirus that has not been mentioned in global news?
Again, that is difficult to say. There are so many constant posts and updates, it’s hard to keep track of it all. I read in an article from the website of Dr. Mercola about the bio-security level 4 lab in Wuhan that was created in 2018 and that it is located about 20miles from the wet market that is believed to be the epicentre of the outbreak. It goes on to suggest that possibly lower standards of safety and security protocol could have contributed to this outbreak, too. To my knowledge, I haven’t seen this discussed anywhere else inside or outside of China. It also seems like the situation in Wuhan is even worse than Chinese media is letting on.
What is the status of food, water and medical supplies like masks in stores in Shanghai right now? And how long do you think you can last with the stock you have at home at the moment?
Food and water supplies seem to be relatively normal. I haven’t gone shopping at the local supermarket yet but coworkers who have have posted photos of their carts and didn’t mention anything about being low on items. Because it’s possible to do all of your grocery shopping online in Shanghai, I just do it that way. Those online stores I use have been low or out of stock on numerous meat and dairy items, but they expect to restock their inventory soon. So far I’ve had 3 grocery deliveries, so I’m still able to get most of the items I need.
As for masks, those seem to be very difficult to find. Not only have they sold out in pharmacies all across China, but even in other countries. Even Amazon.com reportedly sold out of them. This has resulted in people trying to obtain whatever other masks they can, mostly surgical masks that fit loosely around the ears and don’t seal tightly around the mouth and nose. The only other concern I’ve heard from some people are those with prescriptions that aren’t sure now how to get them refilled with all the quarantine measures in place.
“Two different face masks (one is the N95 kind, the other is the surgical mask).”
Do you still go out? If so, what precautions do you take when, and before and after, going out?
I have only gone out once this week since I got back. I haven’t tried taking subway yet. At this point, it has become a requirement to wear your mask when out in public, regardless of where you go, but this is especially true for public transport. As of now, you won’t be allowed onto the subway if you are not wearing a mask. Food delivery drivers are no longer allowed inside of apartment complexes, although the other day it looked like mailed items were starting to be allowed back into the mail storage area. Everyone is also being told to wash their hands frequently, and even to wipe down any packages that you bring into your home. Also, whenever you enter your apartment complex the guards will take your temperature first.
When will you return to work? And what’s the plan in Shanghai for people who need a form of income to survive yet cannot go back to work?
My school was supposed to start again in February 3, but the weekend before I returned we were told that many schools in Shanghai would be delayed by 2 weeks. As a result, our school’s IT team helped to create an online file-sharing drive for teachers to upload materials and videos to assign to the students. I imagine that other schools will probably follow something similar to this. Later this week though, they updated us to say that now many schools will not start before March.
At my school we were paid on time but I don’t know about the other schools. It seems like it’s the training schools that are not in service, and one person I know who works at one says they have not been paid yet and is unsure what the pay situation will be. The only other thing I can think of that some might resort to if needed is to try to do some online tutoring.
What will you do if you develop the symptoms of the virus? What do the officials in Shanghai recommend you do?
Knock on wood that I don’t develop any symptoms, but if I do then I will need to notify my school immediately and then check into one of the recommended hospitals they told us about. Of course, I would notify my family back home immediately and give them the contact information of whichever hospital I would be at.
What will you do if the coronavirus situation in Shanghai takes a turn for the worse?
As of right now, it doesn’t seem like things will deteriorate since a lot of people seem to be disciplined in complying with their self-quarantine. I’m really not sure what I/we will do if things were to get worse, though. I think the food and water supply would dictate what people end up doing. I’m not sure if people would be able to leave the city easily if things got worse, so I think people would try to stock up as best they could and just wait to see how things go.
Which 3 items or people are most useful for you right now?
1–Masks (which are required but also in short supply). 2–Food/water/toiletries. 3–forms of entertainment (movies, games, cards, etc).
Lastly, what have you learned from this coronavirus outbreak that you didn’t know before?
I now better understand the importance of saving face here and the lengths that authorities will go to in order to save face. I also learned how tenacious the Chinese are when dealing with restrictions on travel and movement around town.
Greg is presently still uncertain about when he will be able to continue travelling around China like he planned to. In the meantime, you can read and see photographs about his previous travels and living experience around China and Asia at www.globejournal2.com or ask him questions about the coronavirus situation in Shanghai using the comment box below.
Next up is a young expat from the UK living in the Shunde District in the Guangdong province of China. Follow the latest in our 2019-nCoV Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Greg. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the 2019-nCov Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
*EDITOR’S NOTE: On 12 Dec 2020, the World Health Organisation finally gave the 2019-nCoV a proper name—COVID-19. We have thus renamed our ‘2019-nCoV Diaries’ series to ‘COVID-19 Diaries’.
Thomas DuBois, from the USA, is presently living in Beijing, capital of the People’s Republic of China, where he works as a professor at one of China’s top institutions. We asked him how Beijing is holding up amid the novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan 1054km away, and why he chooses to remain in the country despite the U.S. government’s recommendation that its citizens “currently in China should attempt to depart by commercial means.”
“I have seen enough zombie movies to know that inside is always better than outside.”
Q: Hi Thomas, thanks for connecting with us all the way from Beijing! When did you first hear about the 2019-nCoV coronavirus and what did you think of it then?
A: I first heard of the virus some time in late January. I don’t remember the exact date because the news didn’t make much of an impact at the time. The severity of the outbreak only hit home when I started receiving notices from my university advising everyone to stay home. That was on February 1st.
How concerned are you now? How many people do you personally know who’ve been afflicted with the coronavirus?
I am calm. I stay in a low density part of the city, and have loads of supplies. Stores are open and well stocked. I do not personally know anyone who has been afflicted with the virus.
How many cases are there in Beijing at the moment of this interview? How concerned is Beijing at this point?
I believe that the current number in Beijing is around 300. I have not been following the local count as much as the national news.
“A shopping mall in central Beijing on Feb 2nd. It’s likely even more deserted now.”
Why do you choose to remain in Beijing regardless?
From a safety standpoint, staying put is by far the best policy. The last place I would want to be is a crowded airport or airplane. I had planned to take research trips to Nanjing and Hong Kong but since libraries in both are closed, there’s no reason to go.
Is there anything you know about the situation within China or in Beijing that has not been mentioned, or has been misrepresented, by news agencies outside of China?
I can’t speak for Wuhan, which is where much of the reporting is coming from, but there are occasional headlines about panic in Chinese cities. Here in Beijing, I see nothing of the sort. People are generally calm, there’s no hoarding, although people are concerned about having enough and the right kind of face masks. Cases of antiseptic sell out fairly quickly.
“The snowy market was set up by a housing association, but it was overkill, since the stores just down the street were all open.”
Is there anything you know about the coronavirus that has not been mentioned in global news?
No, I have been following the global news quite closely.
What is the status of food, water and medical supplies like masks in stores in Beijing right now? And how long do you think you can last with the stock you have at home at the moment?
Supplies are not a problem. Regular grocery stores are open and well stocked. There are no lines or hot tempers. There are occasional runs on items like instant noodles, which is related mostly to the closing of restaurants and food delivery. To avoid going out, more people than usual are getting food and bottled water delivered to their doors.
There is concern about having the right kind of face mask. People follow this sort of news quite closely on social media. Friends from elsewhere in China have offered to send me masks if I don’t have enough.
A photograph of Thomas in a mask with the checkpoint at the entrance to Beijing Normal University behind him. “The universities are tightly closed.”
Do you still go out? If so, what precautions do you take when, and before and after, going out?
I go out at least once a day, all masked up. There’s no danger being in the open air, especially in frozen Beijing, so I go out for a long walk or occasionally a run. More important than the mask, I am very careful with what I touch, avoid touching my face, and thoroughly wash my hands when I get home.
When will you return to work? And what’s the plan in Beijing for people who need a form of income to survive yet cannot go back to work?
The work situation is “fluid,” which is probably all one could expect, given that the outbreak has likely not peaked. Students have been told not to return to university, and we are planning to teach courses online. I expect that we will probably be able to return to our offices within the month, but student dormitories are likely to remain closed for the semester.
Income will be a problem for a lot of people. Beijing relies heavily on outside labor to run, and the entire population that went home for the New Year has been prevented from returning to the city. Any manner of service industry is going to be deeply affected.
What will you do if you develop the symptoms of the virus? What do the officials in Beijing recommend you do?
I have not made a plan for getting the virus myself. Since I am well connected by social media, I would likely ask people at my university what to do, so as to avoid affecting others.
What will you do if the coronavirus situation in Beijing takes a turn for the worse?
I would likely continue to stay put. I have seen enough zombie movies to know that inside is always better than outside.
“Delivery trucks and packages are more common sights than usual.”
Which 3 items or people are most useful for you right now?
—Computer
—Cartoon Network
—10kg hand weights
Lastly, what have you learned from this coronavirus outbreak that you didn’t know before?
I have learned how quickly a health outbreak can change people’s behaviour. When I first lived in China in the early 1990s, hygiene was a real problem. SARS and the coronavirus have done more to change daily habits than years of government campaigns.
I have also learned that the response—at least in Beijing—has been very well coordinated and executed. There are a million things that could have gone disastrously wrong, and none did.
An image Thomas got sent on WeChat, depicting a medicine box titled ‘Bu Chu Men’—meaning: Don’t Go Out—with ‘Usage Indications’ made of advice on how to self-quarantine and stay safe from the coronavirus. “‘Bu chu men’ is a bit of quarantine humor that’s typical of how people are handling this.”
Thomas, being a scholar of Chinese history, presently still delights in being able to have the unique opportunity to work at China’s top institution, and intends to make the most of that by working extremely hard. You can connect with him at thomasdaviddubois.com, read his research work here, or ask him questions about the coronavirus situation in Beijing and China using the comment box below.
Tomorrow, we will interview another expat living in China’s largest city—Shanghai—to understand the present situation there. Follow the latest in our 2019-nCoV Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Thomas DuBois. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the 2019-nCov Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
Last week, we asked a 30-year-old resident of Wuhan what his experience with being locked down at home has been like. This week, we find out what it’s like being a resident of the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak amid increasing global panic, racism and uncertainty.
“I think people need to put more faith in the Chinese government. They can handle this situation.”
Q: Thanks again for chatting with us, Icypriest. Quite a number of countries are now blocking residents from Hubei from entering their countries. Some, like Singapore, USA and Australia have even blocked all people coming from China. How do you feel about that?
A: I am a little offended by that but I understand their reasons. And after our own lockdown, it seems that it is an effective measure to contain infections.
There have been reports on the internet of racism towards Asian peoples and Chinese citizens triggered by the 2019-nCoV virus. What are your thoughts on that?
I think racism in any form is wrong and there is no rational excuse for any form of racism.
I’ve heard personal stories from friends with friends and family in China that many in China are getting bored out of their minds because of the inability to leave their homes. How has that experience been like for you and your family? What is it like not being to go out into the world like before?
I understand their urges to go out—I have those too. It’s like being grounded by the virus. I miss all the food beside our university and I constantly tell my friends to try them all again when quarantine life is over. And I miss my friends too since contacting them online is so different from meeting them in person. I even held an online singing party on my birthday. My parents seem to have the same problems too, they hold daily video chats with their relatives and friends.
Icypriest’s present stash of snacks. “(1) Potato chips, (2) 沙琪玛 (Sachima , Chinese egg pastry), (3) Instant noodles (for emergencies), (4) Dried mushrooms, (5) Apples, (6) A kind of oranges called 皇帝柑 (Tribute Citru).
How well do you think the government of China has responded to this viral crisis? How confident are you of them being able to get things under control?
The local government has tried their best but it was slightly dissatisfactory. But when the national government was involved, the situation was a lot better. I am 100% confident the national government won’t leave us behind.
Where do you get your information about the coronavirus from?
There’s an official WeChat account called 武汉发布 (Wuhan announcements). Other information is from CCTV and local news, Weibo and web search.
Is there anything you know about the coronavirus that has not been mentioned in global news?
Mostly about our own lives—it’s not as chaotic as “corpses littered on streets” or “people randomly collapsing”. I posted on Reddit because I think the situation is too tense on r/ChinaFlu and there’s no other good media for me to share our actual quarantine lives online. I’d like to think I helped some people with my posts.
Is there anything you know about the situation within China that has not been mentioned in global news?
No. But I think people need to put more faith in the Chinese government. They can handle this situation.
What have you and your family learned from this coronavirus outbreak that you didn’t know before?
Nothing much. But I think we’ll be more cautious of our hygiene after the outbreak and fulfil our wishes as soon as we can—life is short, we shouldn’t waste it.
What are the best and worst examples of humanity you’ve seen since the coronavirus crisis broke out?
Best examples: people voluntarily formed groups to help the doctors and nurses at hospitals; donations of food, medical equipment and the efficiency to build up a system to transfer resources into a city on lockdown. All of those examples were not government-motivated, but done by people.
Worst examples: a small number of people going out to deliberately infect others after getting diagnosed and people sending messages like “u dead yet?” or “go f*ck yourself” to me after my Reddit post.
What advice do you have for others in China and around the world who are also in quarantine or locked down right now?
Just because you’re in quarantine or lockdown doesn’t mean you can let your guard down. Keep personal hygiene up and wash your hands as frequently as you can. Food is better cooked than consumed directly. Ventilation is always good for a cleaner and healthier house. Remember to keep your toilets water-filled.
What advice do you have for others around the world who have not yet been seriously affected by the 2019-nCoV coronavirus?
Be cautious and follow the news but there’s no need for panic. Keeping yourself healthy is the best weapon against the virus.
Lastly, what can readers of this article do to help you, Wuhan, Hubei and China get through this?
Keep watching the news. If you have the heart and the money, please donate. Please don’t discriminate Chinese, or anyone really, because we’re all residents of the same planet. Have faith in us and all other infected countries—we are able to quash this before it turns into a global epidemic.
Tomorrow, we will interview an expat presently in the capital of China—Beijing—to understand the current situation there. Follow the latest in our 2019-nCoV Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or have been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Icypriest. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the 2019-nCov Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
Icypriest, who prefers to be known only by his online handle, is a 30-year-old Wuhan resident and postgraduate student at a university in Wuhan. He is presently in lockdown in his home together with his parents, aged 63 and 59, and is only allowed to go out once every 5 days. We found our way past quarantine restrictions, oceans, military blockades, walls and viral risks to ask him what being quarantined in the epicentre of a global viral outbreak is really like.
“We are more tense than afraid.”
Q: Hi Icypriest, thanks for connecting with us all the way from Wuhan. When did you first hear about the coronavirus and what did you think of it then?
A: I heard about it in early December. I sensed the situation could be serious, so I told my parents to consider it as a “potentially cautious event”. We didn’t think of it as a serious event back then.
When did you start becoming more concerned about the virus? What triggered that?
I saw the official announcement by the Wuhan government that 27 people were infected. Then I became more aware of the virus.
How did you find out that Wuhan was going to be locked down and quarantined? What were you doing before that and what did you do right after that?
The lockdown was announced by the government several days before so we had time for preparation. We had already stocked enough food for the Chinese New Year [CNY] since most businesses were closing down during those weeks, so we just bought some face masks for potential outdoor needs. After the lockdown, we didn’t change much in our lives except to keep exercising indoors since we have a treadmill in our home.
Icypriest’s present stash of food: “(1) Cabbage, (2) Common Yam Rhizome (山药), (3) Bunching Onion (大葱), (4) Garlic, (5) Onion, (6) Potatoes. There is also ginger and chicken, pork, yogurt and frozen dumplings kept in the fridge. We also have a giant bag of rice (10kg).”
How did you feel about no longer being able to leave?
It doesn’t feel mandatory since most traditions during CNY are home-based except for visiting relatives, but we cancelled that because of the virus. We understand it’s a special occasion which won’t stop us from all indoor activities.
How long have you and your family been in lockdown thus far? What is daily life for your family like?
We have been staying home for 12 days. Since we limited our outdoor activities to none, we stay in bed every day until 10 and reduce the daily 3 meals to 2: one at about 11am and one at 5pm. We go to bed at about 12. The only differences between lockdown life and our previous CNY lives is: 3 of us are exercising daily on the treadmill, and we check the news about the virus frequently. Nothing else has changed much.
How do you get food, water and medical supplies right now? And how long do you think you can last with the stock you have at home at the moment?
We stocked masks in advance and cancelled our family trip during CNY. As we have the tradition of stocking food during CNY, we didn’t make extra preparations food-wise. Our stock can still last for about 2 weeks.
What will you do if your supplies run out?
The lockdown now is not a strict one—we can go out for emergencies and supplies, provided body temperatures are taken before going out.
The scene from Icypriest’s home window.
Are emergency services (police, fire and ambulances) still in operation? What would you do in the case of an emergency right now?
All of the emergency services are still in operation. As almost everybody is in lockdown, I guess that police stations are not that much in need now. But if there’s an emergency, especially health-wise, there’s an appointed taxi to every xiaoqu(小区) [land plot] in Wuhan for that.
I’ve read that residents in Wuhan have been ordered not to leave their homes. Do you know what might happen if someone did leave their home?
As far as I know, all the quarantine protocols in Wuhan are not strict. But most people are aware of the situation and they are not intentionally challenging the law system.
How afraid are you and your family of the 2019-nCoV? How many people do you personally know who’ve been afflicted with the coronavirus?
We are more tense than afraid. I’m a little worried about the mental state of my parents but they clarified that they are not afraid or worried now. I don’t know anyone infected with the virus but I have an aunt, a friend’s mother and a friend working as nurses in different hospitals. They report daily on the situation and we’re informed about the virus and themselves.
What would you and your family do if one of you did develop the symptoms of the 2019-nCoV coronavirus?
If one of us have the symptoms we would voluntarily report to the community health centre. Since the big hospitals are stacked, the government has divided the responsibility to various communities. If they think it’s nCoV then we will be sent to designated hospitals.
When do you think you and your family will be returning to work and school? Which month will that be?
In my own optimistic view, I think things will start turning back to normal by 3-6 weeks. Traditional work and school days after CNY began a week before.
How are people in Wuhan and Hubei planning to get by without going out onto the streets to work? 手停口停的人怎么办 aka what would those with financial constraints do for income?
This is what I mainly worry about. People may be laid off if businesses go months without income, and all of them still have bills to pay. But I learned from the news that several cities are reducing taxes and rents to ease the burdens of people. I haven’t heard of similar news in Wuhan but I hope it would come soon.
Since we’re unable to go outside, my laptop is the most important thing in the world—it provides Internet, a work environment, most entertainment, news sources and communication. Headphones—because music is one of my main hobbies and it can be simultaneously enjoyed when I’m on the treadmill. The third is hand sanitiser—mostly not for hygiene but for easing our inner tension.
“Entertainment: guitar and Kalimba. My parents and I also enjoy TV shows.”
Lastly, is there anything you regret not doing earlier?
I regret not meeting all my friends for my birthday—I miss them. As my birthday is always during Chinese New Year, it was a great opportunity for me to meet many of them at once. But this year I hesitated and postponed my party plans.
Icypriest is presently still on lockdown inside his home but will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have for him if you leave them in the comment box below.
Next week, we ask him more about his feelings surrounding the racism that has appeared in the wake of the coronavirus, what he thinks of being barred from entry by numerous countries including Singapore, and what readers can do to help him and the rest of China get through this crisis. Stay tuned.
Photographs courtesy and copyright of Icypriest. Interviewer: Sy Sponsor or support the 2019-nCov Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
4 days ago, just 4 days after Singapore (from which LUCK-IT operates) banned all travellers from China, Singapore announced its very first locally-transmitted cases of novel coronavirus infections—2 Singaporeans in the service industry who had attended to a vacationing group of China nationals from Wuhan (ground zero of the coronavirus outbreak).
2 days ago, just 2 days after the first Singaporeans had been infected, the very first case of locally-transmitted novel coronavirus infection of unknown origin was announced. The infected had not travelled to China or come into contact with any of the previous cases in Singapore.
Yesterday, 3 more locally-transmitted cases of unknown origin were announced, bringing the total number of cases within Singapore to 33. Panic-buying of groceries immediately ensued.
Today is the 69th day since the very first person known to be infected with the coronavirus in Wuhan reported feeling ill (on 1 Dec 2019), and a mere 16 days since the first case within Singapore (a 66-year-old tourist from Wuhan) was announced.
Singapore is now the country after China with the most number of confirmed cases. Masks have been out of stock for weeks and although the government has given each household 4 masks for use in emergencies, there is no information on when masks will be available for purchase again.
Advice from Singapore’s Ministry of Health, announced 10 days ago on 29 Jan 2020.
From here on, we are going to do a series called ‘2019-nCoV Diaries’ to document the developments of this new virus in Singapore and other affected countries—to assist with the understanding of this developing global emergency, and also for use for future outbreaks.
To start, tomorrow at 3pm, we’ll publish an interview with a Wuhan resident who’s been in lockdown in his home for 12 days. Beyond that, we’ll publish new interviews at 3pm on days when they are available.
You can read the whole 2019-nCoV Diaries series here.
If you’re in China right now or any other country that’s been affected by the novel coronavirus and would like to share information about the situation where you’re at, do get in touch with us here.
If you’d like to volunteer your time to help us gather more interviews with those affected by the coronavirus, you can also get in touch with us here.
Image Source: Ministry of Health, Singapore. Compiler: Sy Sponsor or support the 2019-nCov Diaries series here. If you found this article useful:
![“Here are the supplies [from the “emergency” packages] (including the all-important cream cookies and Toblerone).”](https://i0.wp.com/luck-it.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/100b-2.jpg?resize=1600%2C1200&ssl=1)
