Time to ‘revenge shop’: China’s virus hot spot reopens

The city at the center of China’s virus outbreak was reopening for business Monday after authorities lifted more of the controls that locked downs tens of millions of people for two months. “I want to revenge shop,” declared an excited customer at one of Wuhan’s major shopping streets. Customers were still scarce. Those who ventured out were greeted by shop employees who wore masks and carried signs that told them to “keep a safe distance.”

A teacher from the eastern city of Nanjing was visiting her family in Wuhan when most access to the city of 11 million was suspended Jan. 23 to stem the coronavirus spread.“I’m so excited, I want to cry,” said the woman, who would give only the English name Kat, at the Chuhe Hanjie pedestrian mall.

“After two months trapped at home, I want to jump,” she added, jumping up and down excitedly.

While governments worldwide tighten travel and other controls, the ruling Communist Party has rolled back curbs on Wuhan and other areas as it tries to revive the world’s second-largest economy after declaring victory over the outbreak. The city in Hubei province is the last major population center still under travel controls. Residents were allowed to go to other parts of Hubei but could not leave the province. Restrictions on other Hubei residents were lifted March 23. The final curbs on Wuhan end April 8.

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