Wuhan vegetable sellers resume business behind barriers

Wuhan's vegetable vendors are continuing to adjust to life at the epicenter of the new coronavirus outbreak, on Friday resuming their business behind large yellow barriers.

Along with other areas in Minyi residential compound, the Minyi market, which used to offer fresh vegetables, meat, and other staples, has been blocked by tall barriers, with several chairs and stools on the other side for customers.

Vegetable vendor Xie Lianning is one of those operating behind the barriers, picking vegetables up from a supermarket in another community early in the morning, and driving her cart into the Minyi community after undergoing checks for infection.

"We have no choices. There are old and young in my family depending on us. We have a heavy financial burden and we have no choices", Xie said.

After Wuhan's government enforced tight quarantine measure on all residential compounds, communities have taken charge of purchasing and delivering daily essentials to residents.

60-year-old Zhan Zhongwu, wearing two layers of masks, came Friday morning from a community nearby to buy pork for his wife and grandchild.

"I don't feel safe going to a supermarket," said Zhan, "There are too many people. Many infections happened in the supermarket. We should try not to go to places with too many people. Safety is priority."

While Wuhan hasn't reported any new infections for a week, officials said it must go a full 14 consecutive days without new cases before they lift travel restrictions and social distancing demands.

The region has suffered 2,563 deaths from the new virus, accounting for about 80% of China's total fatalities.

The new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms for most people.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness or death.