As people get geared up for shopping ahead of the Tibetan New Year festival, the Tibet autonomous region government is encouraging residents to shop online to avoid infection risks, according to a statement from the local government.

This year, the Tibetan New Year festival, also known as Losar, begins on Feb 24, and traditionally lasts for about one to two weeks.

According to the statement, residents are encouraged to shop from online stores on WeChat, or use online food delivery services.

Residents can also shop from designated stores supervised by the government. However, the local government suggests residents not go out frequently these days due to the ongoing fight against novel coronavirus.

By following various local social media networks, residents can check the nearest outlet stores provided by the government or market chains from where they live.