Concern about future

Meanwhile, Lyu Jiang, 37, who sells laminate flooring in Wuhan, is worrying more about the future of his business than becoming infected with the virus.

"Help is available if I get the virus, but I will have to fight for my livelihood alone," Lyu said. He has several showrooms around the city－all of which had to be closed due to the lockdown.

Lyu, who believes that business will boom after the outbreak, has kept in touch with loyal customers through social media.

"People always need to decorate houses, whether a property is new or old. When they are finally able to do so, demand for laminate flooring will surge," he said.

He has been busy with arrangements for his employees to undergo health checks and be tested for COVID-19, an essential requirement before they can return to work and visit people's homes to fit flooring.

"Many small businesses in the city won't survive the pandemic, but those that are left will certainly have great potential," he said.