China’s zero-Covid policy sparks outcry again as woman, 55, dies in locked down Inner Mongolia compound
- Authorities in Hohhot pledge to improve Covid-19 control protocols after woman is found dead despite family calling for help
- Central health officials recently urged local authorities to avoid excessive disruption, amid growing public anger over zero-Covid excesses
The 55-year-old woman was found dead on Friday inside a community complex that was locked down on October 26 after two positive Covid-19 cases were reported.
The government of Hohhot, capital of Inner Mongolia, released a statement on Sunday, saying family members had contacted community workers on duty and called the local medical emergency hotline.
They wanted to report that she suffered from an anxiety disorder and had shown suicidal tendencies that required immediate medical attention. However, both the community management office and helpline failed to intervene or respond in time.
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“An investigation revealed that property management and community staff were slow to respond, did not respond properly, and lacked sensitivity to emergencies,” the statement said.