The fight against the epidemic needs not only mass participation, but also the support of science and technology, Premier Li Keqiang said on Sunday.

Li, also the head of a leading group of the CPC Central Committee on the prevention and control of the novel coronavirus outbreak, made the remarks while inspecting the Institute of Pathogen Biology under the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

He learned about the ongoing research being done on epidemic prevention and thanked scientists for their hard work.

Li called on medical workers to continue implementing the measures of early identification, reporting, isolation, diagnosis and treatment and strive to improve patient admission and survival rates and reduce infection and mortality rates.

Read more:

Graphics: How are wild animals linked to an epidemic?

Aerosol transmission of novel coronavirus yet to be confirmed: health authorities

Accelerating research on how the virus is transmitted is key to preventing and controlling it, he said.

As the first batch of antiviral drugs go through clinical trials, the Chinese premier pointed out that the key to winning the battle against the epidemic is to improve treatment capabilities.

Medical workers should devote all their time and efforts to finding effective drugs, while ensuring they meet safety standards. 

He ensured that more human, financial, and material resources  would be increased for the development of effective medicines and vaccines.

The premier praised medical workers and researchers for their huge devotion to combating the virus and protecting the health and safety of the public.