China says no epidemics have been discovered in and around Sichuan, the site of Monday's 7.8 magnitude earthquake. Meanwhile, the country's health authorities say they are doing their best to ensure that medical treatment and disinfection materials are accessible to all areas affected by the quake. CRI's Zheng Chenguang reports.

Reporter:

Since the deadly earthquake on Monday, China's health authorities have dispatched over 5,000 medical workers to the quake-hit regions for on-site rescue.

These workers have so far treated nearly 24 thousand people while another 64 thousand have received treatment in various hospitals across Sichuan.

Deputy health minister Gao Qiang, says with it's turning hotter, the ministry will ensure that no epidemics occur within the quake zone.

"The goal of the ministry in the relief effort is to make medical treatment, disinfection materials as well as medical supplies accessible to every county that has been hit by the earthquake. Through effective rescue efforts, we will strive to reduce the number of casualties and serious injuries."

Gao Qiang also says the Ministry has demanded that China's other provinces share the responsibility of providing medical treatment to Sichuan's various counties.

When asked about when rescue efforts will be scaled down, Gao Qiang says search and rescue operations will continue as long as possible.

"We will never abandon rescue efforts. Now in every place that can be reached by road, our rescue staff are there. In places where roads are blocked, we have sent 90 helicopters carrying medical workers. As long as there's still the slightest glimmer of hope, we will redouble our efforts and never give up."

In addition, Chinese Ministry of Finance gave a further 200 million yuan, about 30 million U.S. dollars on Thursday in an emergency move to help buy and ship medicine and medical equipment to quake-hit areas.

Zheng Chenguang, CRI news.