"The U.S. is following the science and advice of public health experts, consulting with partners, and considering taking similar steps we can take to protect the American people," the officials said.The officials pointed to measures taken by Japan and Malaysia – adding that India and the World Health Organization have also expressed their concern about the situation in China.Japan to require negative testThe U.S. officials' comments come after Japan's recent measures which require a negative Covid test for travelers arriving from mainland China from Dec. 30 – as China faces a sharp surge in infections nationwide following an abrupt reopening."The current COVID situation in the world continues to call for a science-based response approach and joint effort to ensure safe cross-border travel, keep global industrial and supply chains stable, and restore world economic growth," deputy director-general Wang Wenbin told reporters in a Tuesday briefing.All passengers arriving on direct flights from China and some by boat will be required to undergo a PCR test, the notice said, adding that the measures will take into effect on Jan. 1 and remain in place for a month."