China’s latest COVID outbreak forces closure of Shanghai Disneyland

With COVID-19 cases spreading across China, Shanghai Disney Resort was closed again on Monday as the nation's most populous city tried to contain its biggest Coronavirus flareup in two years.

Closed until further notice, a statement from Shanghai Disney Resort advised that at all tickets for 21st March and onwards will be extended for another six months, when operations resume.

The statement advised “in view of the current epidemic prevention and control situation, Shanghai Disney Resort (including Shanghai Disneyland, Disney Town and Star Wish Park) will be temporarily closed from Monday, March 21, 2022.

“We will continue to pay attention to the progress of epidemic prevention and control and consult the guidance of relevant departments. Once the resumption time is clear, we will inform you in time.”

In November last year, some 34,000 visitors were locked in the park to be tested and told to isolate after reports of a single COVID-19 case. The theme park was closed and rides halted as ticket holders were tested.

Meanwhile, the cities of Changchun and ilin in the north east began another round of citywide virus testing following a surge in infections. Jilin tightened anti-disease curbs, ordering its two million residents to stay home.

China’s case numbers in its latest infection wave are low compared with other major countries, but authorities are enforcing a “zero tolerance” strategy that has suspended access to some major cities.

Last week, the city of Shenzhen, with a population 17.5 million, shut down all businesses except those that supply food and other necessities and told the public to stay home following a spike in cases.

Hong Kong Disneyland is also currently closed due to COVID-19.