A total of five local officials in Wuhan were disciplined for dereliction of duty during a transfer of severe novel coronavirus patients, Wuhan's Commission for Discipline Inspection reported on Friday.

On February 9, Wuhan's epidemic prevention and control center required Wuchang District to transfer 494 coronavirus patients to designated hospitals before midnight. On the night of the transfer, due to several long delays, chaotic organizing, and lack of coordination, many severe patients lost their tempers. This event had a negative impact on the city's continuing fight against the novel coronavirus.

Several officials responsible for the transfer were removed from their positions, and others were given warnings, according to the commission.