BEIJING — China's newly revised regulation on nursing homes has brought in epidemic response-related provisions, an official with the Ministry of Civil Affairs said on Sept 17. 

Based on experience gained in fighting COVID-19, the new regulation requires nursing homes to lay down emergency response plans against natural disasters, public health emergencies and public security incidents, among others, the official said at a press conference.

Alarm devices, necessary emergency rescue equipment and regular drills for unexpected emergencies are demanded, read the regulation. It also adds measures in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases in nursing homes.

The ministry will further promote supporting measures, including strengthening the emergency response mechanism to facilitate the implementation of the new regulation, the official said.

The revised regulation will take effect on Nov 1.