Chinese people overseas, including people working for Chinese investment enterprises, are being urged not to return to Guangdong province during the Qingming Festival, or Tomb Sweeping Day holiday, as provincial health authorities further tighten the response to the novel coronavirus.

Qingming Festival, which begins on April 4, is usually peak time for millions of overseas Chinese to consider returning to Guangdong, said Ji Leqin, an official with the provincial health commission.

"At a time of rising numbers of confirmed imported COVID-19 cases, people are being gently urged not to return home," Ji said.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Guangdong had confirmed 20 imported cases of coronavirus infection, the health commission said.

Ji said that people returning from countries hit hard by the coronavirus will be required to undergo medical observation for 14 days.

"Paying respect to ancestors in online platforms is encouraged," Ji said.

According to Fang Qiaping, deputy director of the Guangdong Provincial Civil Affairs Department, the province will not organize any group activities to honor ancestors during this year's festival.

"We will launch online ritual activities instead," Fang said.

Public cemeteries will be closed during the Qingming period. 

"Workers at cemeteries will present flowers at each tomb," Fang said.