Explainer: What Will Happen If China Relaxes Zero-Covid Curbs

China could see 1.3 million to 2.1 million people die if it lifts its zero-COVID policy due to low vaccination.

China has started taking steps to ease its zero-COVID policy, fuelling a mix of relief and worry as the public waits to see the health consequences, and impact on the medical system, of a full-blown exit.

Researchers have analysed how many deaths the country could see if it pivots to a full reopening, with most pointing to the country's relatively low vaccination rates and lack of herd immunity as some of its most vulnerable spots.

As of Friday, China reported 5,233 COVID-related deaths and 331,952 cases with symptoms.

Here are some of the estimates: