"Although the current risk level is low, the ministry of health has instructed relevant agencies to take precautionary measures and maintain continuous surveillance to prevent potential risks," a spokesman for the department said.

Speculation about a potential lockdown is rife across China, with those living in the north-eastern parts of the country being urged to stockpile canned foods and antibiotics.

Uh ....low risk huh? Stockpile canned foods.....