(Yicai Global) Feb. 7 -- To control the coronavirus epidemic, many regions in China have started screening people's medical records. The Standing Committee of the Shanghai Municipal People's Congress today issued a document stating that people who conceal their medical and travel histories in key areas of the epidemic will not only face legal sanctions, but will be blacklisted for personal credit.

The committee made the decision at a meeting this morning, Ding Wei, its director told a regular press briefing. Individuals who violate laws and regulations on the prevention and control of the epidemic will be punished, including by the public security organs, in accordance with the law.

Those who cause damage to others or their properties will bear civil liability in accordance with the law. If their acts constitute a crime, they will be investigated for criminal responsibility, Ding added.

Individuals who conceal their medical history, travel history in key areas, history of contact with patients or suspected patients, and/or evade quarantined medical observation will also be punished according to the law and be included in the public credit information platform according to state and municipal laws, Ding said.

He noted that China has decided to make provisions for acts hindering epidemic prevention and control in relevant laws and regulations, including the Law on Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases, Law on Emergency Response and Public Health Emergency Response Regulations.

Shanghai had confirmed another 12 cases of the novel coronavirus as of yesterday, bringing the total to 269, the Shanghai Health Commission said this morning. Among the total, one has died, 18 remain in a critical state, 25 are fully recovered and have been discharged from hospital, and 225 are in stable condition.