China adopts new law to enhance public health emergency response capacity

BEIJING, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- A new law was adopted by Chinese lawmakers on Friday to regulate the response to public health emergencies and enhance the country's capacity to address such situations.

The law on public health emergency response, adopted at a session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, put forward the establishment and improvement of a nationwide public health emergency reporting system.

The law specifies the establishment and improvement of an authoritative and efficient monitoring and early warning system featuring multiple sources and rapid response for public health emergencies.

It stipulates that medical and health institutions, as well as their staff performing duties, shall report the occurrence or potential occurrence of public health emergencies through the online direct reporting system within two hours.

Any individual or group that discovers the occurrence or potential occurrence of a public health emergency should report their discovery immediately to local government, relevant departments, or the disease prevention and control institution, according to the new law, adding that units and individuals whose reports, upon verification, do not fall under the category of public health emergencies will not be held legally accountable.

It also specifies the establishment of a tiered emergency response mechanism for public health emergencies.

The new law also makes provisions regarding the management and guiding systems, prevention and emergency preparedness, supporting measures, and legal responsibilities, among other areas.

The law, consisting of 65 articles in eight chapters, will take effect on Nov. 1. ■