China health officials on COVID "dynamic-zero" policy

Top Chinese health officials on Friday said the government's "dynamic-zero" policy against COVID-19 was in line with cost-effectiveness.

Restrictions confining many Shanghai residents to their homes are now in their fourth week and all schools have switched to online learning since last month.

The pandemic and stringent lockdown measures have taken a toll on the economy, especially in Shanghai, which is home to the world's busiest port and China's main stock market, along with a large international business community.

Lockdowns could also affect spring planting, driving up food prices, while transport has also been badly hit. Travel, particularly between provinces and cities, is expected to fall during next week's May Day holiday.

In Shanghai, the number of local confirmed cases and silent carriers has been declining, but still remains above 10,000 every day.