"Most patients in the wards cannot take care of themselves and depend on nurses for eating and drinking. It is really a highly intensive workload," he said.

Many doctors and nurses said they have gained the most inspiration from patients whose conditions have improved.

Wei Xiao, a native of Wuhan who works for a local construction company, said: "The city seems to have pressed the pause button on life for the time being. When it presses the play button again, we Wuhan people will invite all those who provided help, and their families, to enjoy the beauty of our city, the Yangtze River, cherry blossom and our delicious food."