Need medical help, but don't speak Chinese? No need to panic. Call 12345. It's easy to remember. This is Hainan's consultation service specifically for foreigners to provide scientific guidance amid the novel coronavirus outbreak.
China's Hainan Province is doing its best to protect everyone from catching the coronavirus, including foreigners. Authorities in the southern tropical island province have set up a special hotline for those needing information.
"We have arranged experts and at least two staff to provide a 24-hour service for the public. It's available in languages such as English, Korean, Russian and Thai," said Zuo Dan, chief monitor of the hotline.
Meanwhile, local reception and treatment services have been provided to foreigners as well.
"Our hospital has also set up international clinics to serve foreign nationals with symptoms of upper respiratory infections and fever. Many of our doctors have studied abroad. So people from English-speaking countries can be sure they'll get effective treatment," said Wu Bin, deputy chief physician of Hematology Department in Hainan General Hospital.
Many foreigners living in Hainan said that they are grateful to receive help from the local government. Many also said they are confident that they will overcome the virus.
"Pretty much, it's OK. We have masks, and we don't go out much," said Randy, one of the foreigners living in Hainan. "But we really feel the prevention and control measures of the government here in Hainan have been really good."
"We feel pretty safe here, and we're confident that everything will be OK," he said.