Beijing SARS Control Working Group held its fifth press conference this morning in Beijing International Hotel. Liang Wannian, deputy director general of Beijing Municipal Health Bureau and epidemiologist said: "The epidemic situation in Beijing has reached a comparatively high level since April 21 and has lasted until May 2.?
?According to our statistics based on daily material from newly received SARS patients, during past 12 days, an average of 70 to 80 new patients have been received and treated daily. However, after May 2 till 10:00 am this morning, the newly received SARS patients were around 30 to 40 daily according to reported numbers. It indicates that the epidemic situation in Beijing has descended to a lower level from its peak period which lasted for over 10 days, " said Liang.
?Generally speaking, the ascending trend of SARS epidemic has been effectively controlled. The epidemic situation in Beijing has shown signs of descending,? he added.
(China.org.cn May 9, 2003)
