AKIPRESS.COM - China reported 18 new cases of the coronavirus, including nine in Beijing and two in neighboring Hebei province, AP reports.

It was the first time in more than a week that the number fell to single digits in an outbreak in the Chinese capital.

Previously, the city had reported more than 20 cases every day for eight straight days.

The total number of cases since the first one was confirmed on June 11 rose to 236.

The fall in numbers comes after China strengthened measures to eradicate the virus in Beijing, including cancelling school classes and public events.