Wuhan, China, once the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, saw crowds ringing in the New Year late Thursday, a scene that made a stark contrast to other parts of the world hosting smaller holidays because of the virus.
Thousands of people were seen crowding the city, where the COVID-19 outbreak was first reported just a year ago. According to reports, people were seen going to clubs and celebrating by releasing balloons.
However, the photos showed crowds still wearing face masks.
As of Sunday, Wuhan reported a total of 50,354 confirmed cases of COVID-19, according to the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission.
While the city has largely recovered from the coronavirus pandemic, a recent study published this week found that the number of cases was probably higher than initially reported.
It is possible that up to half a million people in the Chinese city have been infected with the virus, about 10 times more than the initial number of confirmed cases.
In the United States, December was the deadliest month of the pandemic, with more than 63,000 deaths to date. April was previously the deadliest month of the pandemic, with more than 55,000 deaths.
State officials have urged Americans to avoid large New Year’s Eve gatherings as the virus continues to spread. New York’s annual celebration in Times Square took place, but with a new format, including virtual appearances and smaller crowds.
The images in New York contrast sharply with Wuhan, but the holiday was still full of celebrities and musical performances.
The photos showed a quieter Time’s Square, with those around wearing masks and social distances.