Law enforcement facilitates tighter screenings over imported infections

Tianjin has heightened precautions against imported COVID-19 infections by enhancing law-based management of incoming travelers who conceal either symptoms or their travel histories. The move ensures stricter implementation of screening processes and quarantines for international flights, and the tightening of checks at border crossings.
Travelers who provide false information or conceal their travel history or the use of cold medication on a flight will be punished in line with laws and regulations, according to Hou Jinpo, deputy head of Tianjin Customs, speaking at a news conference on April 17.
Travelers who refuse to cooperate with temperature measurement and health condition checks will be seen as threatening public health. They can be subjected to detention for up to three years and face a financial fine.
The aim, according to the local government, is to strengthen control of the epidemic by reducing imported infections.
For travelers committing illegal acts that have hindered quarantine measures at borders, their luggage - as well as the luggage of their companions - will be unpacked and thoroughly inspected.
Illegal acts will lead to adverse effects on enterprise credit with customs if they are committed by legal representatives of companies.
Under joint prevention and control mechanisms, those committing illegal acts will be subject to joint punishment by relevant local government departments. Their illegal acts will also be published via the local customs’ official governmental website and in the media.
By April 17, the port city reported a total of 53 imported cases of COVID-19 (49 of Chinese nationality, two American, one French and one from the Philippines). Of these, 39 have been discharged from hospital after recovery and 14 are still being treated.