BEIJING — China has released a circular requiring efforts to meet the basic needs of vulnerable populations during the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.

The circular, issued by a leading group of China's COVID-19 response on March 6, demands timely and full payment of relief funds, social welfare subsidies, and temporary price support.

It calls for more assistance to people in poverty and COVID-19 patients as well as their families.

Local authorities should provide temporary accommodation, food and clothing to non-natives who are stranded because of the epidemic, and assistance should be offered to migrant workers facing difficulties due to the virus outbreak.

The circular also stresses protection for the elderly, disabled and minors without the ability to take care of themselves while their guardians are quarantined or receiving treatment for COVID-19.