Death of Chinese doctor sparks debate

(FASTNEWS | Coronavirus) – The death of a Chinese doctor who treated more than 3,000 patients within a month has triggered a debate on Chinese social media.

Liu Zhixiong, who worked in a hospital in Hubei province, died from a heart attack last week after working more than a month without a break, reported the Global Times.

But his death was not reported as a work-related injury because he was not infected with the coronavirus.

It is not clear what compensation his family would have been able to claim if his death was recognised as a work-related injury.

Many online were outraged that he had “risked” his life for his work – but still failed to meet the criteria.

“He obviously suffered from work exhaustion. Why isn’t it considered a work injury? Who decided this?” said one person on Weibo.

“He risked his life [to fight the virus]. You can’t always follow the rules in every circumstances. Have some flexibility,” another said.