At the forefront of the fight against the novel coronavirus-related pneumonia, medical workers are charged with the duty to save lives, but must also ensure self-protection, said Premier Li Keqiang on Jan 21 while visiting a local hospital in Xining, capital of Northwest China’s Qinghai province.

More cases have been reported following the outbreak of the epidemic, Premier Li said, urging timely and vigorous efforts to contain it. He added that actions have been taken nationwide, including in cities seeing the most cases, as Spring Festival approaches.

The Premier then expressed thanks to the medical workers there. "Chinese New Year will come in a few days, and many of you will still work on the front line. Please safeguard the life and health of the people!"