Part 5/15:

Healthcare System Under Strain

The rapid surge overwhelmed hospitals and healthcare providers. Long queues formed outside medical facilities, and staff reported 5 to 16-fold increases in patient load. Shortages of medications, particularly pain relievers and fever reducers, became widespread as pharmacies across China saw hoarding and panic buying. Many healthcare and funeral services struggled to cope with the influx, raising concerns over hospital preparedness and medical infrastructure.