Multiple provinces and cities across China have created online epidemic maps to combat the novel coronavirus epidemic, so as to further reduce the risk of the virus spreading.

In Beijing, an epidemic map went into operation on Thursday, showing the confirmed coronavirus pneumonia cases in different districts of the capital with the cured ones, as well as the current epidemic allocation situation. Meanwhile, open data on the virus can be also downloaded and tracked to related departments for further epidemic data research and development, according to the city's municipal economy and information technology bureau.

Northwest China's Gansu province also implemented information-based and big data approaches to prevent and control the novel coronavirus, according to local authorities.

A special epidemic monitoring system on novel coronavirus cases and an online medical inquiry platform as well as a self-check and reporting platform of suspected novel coronavirus cases had been established in the province, according to the provincial health commission.

East China's Zhejiang province and Southwest China's Sichuan province in recent days also applied intelligent medical consulting services to conduct concentrated medical observation and screen out suspected pneumonia cases. Residents can also report their health conditions individually through online platforms to receive relevant advice.