Hubei province in China has been the heart of the Novel Coronavirus pandemic, home to the now notorious Wuhan. In late January, the Chinese government attempted to contain the virus by placing strict lockdown measures on the cities within it. These were the first of the world’s Coronavirus ‘lockdowns’ and the most extreme to date. 2 months on and the citizens are finally able to leave their homes.
Why were you in Hubei?
I currently live in Shanghai but returned home to Hubei for the Chinese New Year holidays, it’s the most important festival for Chinese people and an important time to be with your family. I was living with my parents and younger brother in Huangshi City, an hour’s drive from Wuhan.
How did you all get along while living together?
It’s quite normal for Chinese people to live together with a big family, so there’s no inconvenience or special reason to argue. Since we were forbidden from leaving home for the whole 24 hours of every day, my parents were happy because we normally hung out with friends and rarely spent much time with them before. So it’s been a good time to stay with them and talk with them more often!
What was it like trying to stay in touch with friends and family you weren’t living with?
I did get bored that we couldn’t see each other or play together face to face – it was a pity because Chinese New Year might be the only chance for friends and family who are working in different cities to meet each other every year. The best way to do it was video call on WeChat.
What was ‘lock-down cooking’ like? Any advice for us in the UK?
There was no big change in my hometown. In the later stages, I think some people couldn’t eat things they used to due to no supply in the market. Some communities could not let residents go out, so basic foods were supplied within each community so, for some people, there’s no choice for eating. Just eat what the community supplies every day.
Did you ever get scared while you were living in lock-down?
Yes. But not for myself. I am quite confident in our country. I agree with the “Lock Down” policy, as long as my family and I do the right thing as per government and doctors guidance, I was confident that I won’t get infected. I just worried about my family and friends who had to go out of their houses to work during this time, for example, my older sister who works in a hospital, it’s easy to get infected in hospital.
What did the community do to keep spirits up?
Supply foods and help in any way they can.
What are your tips/recommendations on getting through a lock-down period?
Wear a mask, wash your hands frequently and stay at home. Don’t be afraid: trust humans and trust science!
How do you feel now lock-down is almost over?
Excited, I can’t wait to be going out again. I want to see my friends and eat hotpot!
Where are you excited to travel to after the lock-down is over?
Anywhere with sea and a beach!
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