Beijing cancels large-scale Lunar New Year celebrations

Large-scale Lunar New Year events in Beijing have been canceled as part of the national effort to control the spread of the new strain of coronavirus, authorities announced Thursday. 

The government said it would cancel events, including temple fairs "to strengthen prevention and support" within the city.

The Chinese New Year starts on January 25.

The China State Railway Group also announced on Thursday that passengers could get free refunds for rail tickets nationwide from January 24 amid the coronavirus outbreak.