CHONGQING - Eight packaging samples from imported frozen beef have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Southwest China's Chongqing municipality, local health authorities said Thursday.

According to epidemic prevention and control headquarters of Chongqing's Dadukou district, the samples were taken from a single batch of frozen beef imported from Brazil via Shanghai. Of 130 pieces, seven were sold to districts and counties in Chongqing, but they have not been used and have been sealed.

In addition to sealing the beef, local authorities have placed the storage facility under closed management.

Twelve close contacts have been identified and placed under quarantine for medical observation. Their nucleic acid tests for COVID-19 have come back negative.