South Africans in China concerned about Covid-19 at home

Some cities in China, include the virus epicentre Wuhan, are beginning to open up as the number of infections decrease.

The Asian country has recorded over 70 000 recoveries. 

Tshegofatso Mekgwe, a teacher working in Jiaxing City, was one of at least 15 million people across China who went on lockdown in January. 

"I am really scared for people back at home, now I understand what my family and my friends were saying when the virus broke out in China and now the tables have turned and I am the one who is fearful for them. I see people are not really following the government's instructions of staying home, people want to do things they can live without."

Mekgwe says it is important to note that while some people might recover from the virus, they need to think about the fact they can infect others who have a weaker immune system.

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Mosibudu Rasethaba, who is in China's Lanzhou City in Gansu Province, is concerned about reports of police brutality.

"I hope that our government, communities, healthcare workers and other essential workers work together to find the best way to flatten the curve, reduce the spread and come out of this with hope. It has been disheartening seeing the abuse met out on our people by law enforcement and the military has been disheartening. I hope that those who are responsible will be held accountable."

Both say the lockdown in China has not been fully lifted and, while they can move around, there are still restrictions in place.