Ever since the A(H1N1) flu began spreading across the world, the Chinese government has adopted timely and strict preventive measures. Yet some Western countries have been criticising these measures. Considering the special conditions in China and the preventive effects, these measures are more than reasonable and necessary in the current situation, says an article in Guangzhou Daily. Excerpt:

Some Western media and scholars rebuke the Chinese government for over-reacting to the A(H1N1) flu. One comment, for example, reads: "China is making trouble for its relations with other countries, and further endangering the already depressed world economy". The World Health Organisation (WHO) has countered such remarks and praised the swift action of China as "correct" and "transparent".

From the scientific viewpoint, there is still great uncertainty over the pathology and severity of the epidemic. WHO predicts that the "A(H1N1) flu's impact might exceed that of SARS". An American scholar reminds us that " currently there is no vaccine to prevent the epidemic". Thus we are being cautious as "prevention is better than cure", given the three confirmed cases we already have.

From the legal viewpoint, China's actions are beyond reproach. According to China's Epidemic Prevention Law, suspected cases should be put under medical observation until confirmed. Faced with a spreading epidemic, China's measures are in conformity with the law and should be fully upheld.

Moreover, the special conditions in China demand that strict control is exercised to prevent the outbreak of any epidemic disease. As a developing country, the health care system in China is not as sound as that in developed countries. And, the density of population raises the risk more than in developed countries. Here, a couple of potential cases can impact a lot.

In the current situation, when some Westerners criticize the preventive measures taken by China, it shows a poor appreciation of the realities. Six years ago, the Chinese government was criticized as "sluggish" in combating SARS. Now it is accused of being "oversensitive" in dealing with the A(H1N1) flu. Some people's nitpicking attitude towards Chinese policies and programs has ulterior motives and is provocative.

(China Daily May 19, 2009)