North Korea says it has found that several fever cases reported on Thursday were actually caused by influenza, and not by the coronavirus.

North Korea's ruling party newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Friday that tests were conducted for four suspected coronavirus cases with feverish symptoms. It also says the lockdown in the northern Ryanggang Province will be lifted.

On August 10, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared that the country had prevailed in its fight against the coronavirus.

North Korea substantially eased its anti-coronavirus measures, including a mask mandate.

But people must still wear masks in the areas bordering China and South Korea.

Rodong Sinmun called on people to remain on the highest alert.