All those who were in close contact with two pneumonic plague patients from north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region were released from medical quarantine at 8:00 a.m. this morning in accordance with guidelines, the Beijing Municipal Health Commission said on Thursday.

The two patients, who are in a critical condition, have had consultations with well-known experts to optimize their treatment. Medical staff have been closely monitoring the patients, using methods that integrate traditional Chinese and Western medicine.

Under the guidance of the National Health Commission, Beijing will continue to take full advantage of its expert resources and make efforts in disease prevention and treatment.