The regulations were made up of six chapters and 54 articles, including general rules, prevention and emergency preparations, reporting and information broadcasting, emergency procedures, legal responsibility and supplementary articles.

The regulations came into force with publication.

According to the regulations, the State Council shall set up an emergency headquarters to deal with any public health emergencies.

The regulations also prescribe reporting systems in public health emergencies.

Public health emergencies refer to serious epidemics, widespread unidentified diseases, food and industrial poisoning, and other serious cases detrimental to public health.

(Xinhua News Agency May 13, 2003)