Speedy and comprehensive control measures targeting COVID-19 infections, bolstered by nationwide solidarity and assertive leadership, are the keys to China's success in reining in the viral outbreak, a senior public health expert said on Nov 25.

Wu Zunyou, chief epidemiologist at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said China has stood out in its virus control outcomes as it becomes one of the few countries able to effectively rein in the spread of the disease while its rampage worldwide has recently accelerated.

"Combating the virus is like fighting a war and swiftness is indispensable," he said during a news conference held by the State Council's Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism. "China detected the outbreak at the earliest possible time, followed by a combination of strategies including mass testing, complete isolation and free treatment covering all patients."

"Relevant information is also released to the public timely so the whole society can respond and take action," he said.

According to Wu, these control strategies are conventional and have been applied by the global community in curbing the pandemic, but the extent of implementation is exceptional in China.

"A Chinese saying goes when people are determined, they can move Taishan Mountain," he said. "The whole nation is mobilized and aligned to prevail over the virus."

Wu said science-based strategies, strong leadership and coordinated efforts from different sectors of society have all played a significant role in fighting the disease in China.