Beijing: As it continues to evaluate the most recent spike in infections, the World Health Organization on Friday again urged China's health officials to routinely share specific and up-to-date information on the COVID-19 situation in the nation.

The organisation has requested more genetic sequencing information, as well as information on hospitalisations, fatalities, and vaccinations, from Chinese officials.

Given that fewer tests are being conducted nationwide as a result of the recent relaxation of the strict "zero-COVID" policy, official figures from China are no longer a reliable indicator.

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WHO previously stated that it may be difficult for China to keep track of COVID-19 infections.

The organisation has invited scientists from China to present thorough information on viral sequencing at its meeting of a technical advisory group on January 3.
Following Beijing's dismantling of its zero-COVID policies, which included routine PCR testing on its population, COVID infections have increased throughout China this month. As a result, the COVID tests have been implemented by the US, South Korea, India, Italy, Japan, and Taiwan for travellers from China.

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The lack of knowledge about COVID variants and worries that the rise in cases in China might lead to the emergence of new COVID variants are other reasons cited by the United States for the recent change in policy.

Senior Chinese health officials held a video conference with the WHO to discuss the new coronavirus, according to a statement released earlier on Friday by China's National Health Commission.

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The Chinese health authority reported that views on the current epidemic situation, medical care, vaccination, and other technical issues were exchanged. It added that there would be additional technical exchanges.