BEIJING - China's rural H7N9 victims will be reimbursed for the costs of antiviral drugs and treatment in line with the country's H7N9 diagnosis and treatment scheme, health authorities announced Tuesday.

The reimbursements will be covered by the country's new rural cooperative medical system, according to a circular released by the National Health and Family Planning Commission.

In order to alleviate the financial burden on rural residents infected by the H7N9 avian influenza virus, health departments at all levels are urged to actively support the treatment and prevention of the virus, according to the circular.

Treatment for H7N9 victims may not be delayed or withheld over a lack of funds, the circular noted.h   As of Tuesday, China has confirmed 71 H7N9 infections, including 14 cases that have ended in death.