The Chinese mainland for the first time reported fewer than 50 new SARS cases yesterday, as most disease-affected regions went another day without new infections.
The Chinese mainland reported 39 new cases (including 29 previously on the suspected list), four deaths and 94 new suspected cases in the 24 hours to 10 am yesterday, the Ministry of Health said.
Of the total, Beijing accounted for 28 confirmed SARS patients, with all but six transferred from the suspected list.
One death and 43 new suspected cases were also reported in the capital.
As of yesterday, the cumulative number of confirmed SARS cases, suspected cases and deaths rose to 5,191, 2,173 and 275 in 25 provinces and autonomous regions of the Chinese mainland.
There are 2,969 SARS patients presently being treated in hospitals, while 1,947 people have been released after recovering from the disease.
The epidemic in China continues its decline. And the most vital task now is to stop virus transmission to and within rural areas, said Cai Quancai.
Cai, an expert from the Epidemic Analysis Group of the National Task Force for SARS Prevention and Control, made the remarks at a regular analysis meeting held in Beijing.
Cai also focused on analyzing the epidemic in North China's Shanxi Province, much of which is stricken by poverty.
The cumulative number of SARS cases in Shanxi as of yesterday was 443.
But there is a danger that SARS infections among farmers in Shanxi's central regions will increase unless effective measures are taken immediately, he said.
In another development, the Ministry of Education on Friday called on local administrations and universities to offer comprehensive job-hunting services to graduates, given the special circumstances created by the fight against SARS.
Recruitment fairs have been suspended in most Chinese provinces and regions due to the SARS epidemic, and some graduates have been unable to have interviews, undergo medical examinations or strike contracts with their employers.
The ministry has ordered universities to help students finish their academic course work and doctoral thesis evaluation, arrange for their return to campus, and resolve problems for those who are temporarily unable to return to school.
