China is lifting its most severe COVID policies — including forcing people into quarantine camps — just a week after landmark protests against the strict controls.

BBC News reports that people with COVID can now isolate at home rather than in state facilities if they have mild or no symptoms. They also no longer need to show tests for most venues, and can travel more freely inside the country.

Citizens have expressed relief but also concern about the sudden changes.

The sweeping changes indicate China is finally moving away from its zero-COVID policy and looking to "live with the virus" like the rest of the world.

This country is grappling with its biggest wave of infections — more than 30,000 each day.
Until now, China had forced people with COVID and anyone who was a close contact to go to quarantine camps.

This policy had been deeply unpopular because it separated families and removed people from their homes. Some of the centers were also reported to have poor living conditions and inadequate staff.