BEIJING -- Vice-Premier Sun Chunlan on Feb 7 called for strengthened efforts in epidemic prevention and control for the upcoming Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Containment measures against COVID-19 should be fully implemented and responsibilities should be assigned to ensure a safe and happy holiday, Sun stressed during a symposium convened at the National Health Commission.

Noting that medical and health workers have been fighting on the front line against the epidemic for more than a year, Sun called for persistent efforts in epidemic control, as well as further improved measures and contingency plans.

Sun also underscored efforts to improve China's disease prevention and control system, enrich medical resources and balance its regional allocation.