The Chinese government has reported a significant increase in Covid-related deaths since early December, with nearly 60,000 fatalities reported as of Saturday. The National Health Commission (NHC) noted that the majority of these deaths occurred in hospitals, and that the “emergency peak” of the surge appears to have passed. The NHC's announcement provides a more accurate picture of the situation, and the government is continuing to take measures to contain the virus, including travel restrictions, social distancing, and encouraging citizens to get vaccinated.