Table 2.

Three-phase response to COVID-19 in China, WHO-led Joint Mission report.

First phase	• To control the source of infection, block transmission and prevent further spread with multi-sectorial involvement in joint prevention and control measures. • The main strategy focused on preventing the exportation of cases from Wuhan and other priority areas of Hubei Province and preventing the importation of cases by other provinces.
Second phase	• To ensure that all cases were treated, and close contacts were isolated and put under medical observation. • The main strategy was to reduce the intensity of the epidemic and to slow down the increase in cases.
Third phase	• To reduce clusters of cases, thoroughly controlling the epidemic, and striking a balance between epidemic prevention and control, sustainable economic and social development. • The main strategy was to have a unified command, standardised guidance, and scientific evidence-based policy implementation.
Crucial Events	• The prevention and control of the COVID-19 outbreak became the top priority of government at all levels. • A Central Leadership Group for Epidemic Response and the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the State Council were established. • COVID-19 was included in the statutory report of Class B infectious diseases and border health quarantine infectious diseases on 20 January 2020, which marked the transition from the initial partial control approach to the comprehensive adoption of various control measures in accordance with the law. • On 8 February 2020, of The Notice on Orderly Resuming Production and Resuming Production in Enterprises, which indicated that China's national epidemic control work had entered a stage of overall epidemic prevention and control together with the restoration of normal social and economic operations.

Source: SARS Expert Committee; 2003. Internet. Available from: https://www.sars-expertcom.gov.hk/english/reports/reports/reports_fullrpt.html [accessed 12.06.21].