China nears full re-opening of schools

Beijing: China began moving into its final weekend before a full re-opening of schools amid continuing measures to prevent any further spread of coronavirus.

The country reported just nine new cases on Friday, all brought from outside the country. Hospitals are treating 288 people for COVID-19 and another 361 are being monitored in isolation for showing signs of the illness or having tested positive for the virus without displaying symptoms.

China has recorded 85,013 cases since the virus was first detected in the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, with 4,634 dying from COVID-19.

The roughly 25 percent of students still out of school are due to return to classes on Monday.

Lessons are being held on a staggered schedule and mask wearing and social distancing required. College undergraduates are also due to return to campus next week, with Beijing ordering tests for all 600,000 taking up places at the city’s institutions.