SHANGHAI: China has reported 32 new coronavirus cases marking the highest daily increase on Thursday, and up from nine cases reported a day earlier, Chinese health authorities said on Friday.

This is the biggest since August 10 and suggests continued coronavirus risks stemming from overseas travelers coming into China.

According to the National Health Commission (NHC), all new cases were imported infections — 13 in the northwestern Shaanxi province and another 12 in Shanghai, Reuters reported.

The mainland China had not reported any local coronavirus infections since mid-August.

According to the NHC, nine of the 12 new patients – all Chinese nationals – flew on a flight from Manila on September 16.

The total number of coronavirus cases for mainland China stands at 85,255.

(With inputs from Reuters)