HK: Face masks made mandatory in more public areas

HONG KONG – The mandatory mask-wearing rule issued to contain the coronavirus pandemic will be expanded to more areas of the city, including all indoor public venues, public transportation terminals and transit areas, the Hong Kong government announced Wednesday.

The new rule takes effect from Thursday and will remain in force for two weeks primarily, Secretary for Food and Health Sophia Chan Siu-chee said at a press briefing.

Currently, the rule only covers public transportations and has a penalty provision for a maximum fine of HK$5,000 for its violation.

Chan also said from July 29 onwards, people from high-risk countries will have to provide negative nucleic acid test results and hotel reservation information before boarding fights to Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is experiencing a third wave of coronavirus infections, with 719 new cases recorded between July 8 and 21, including 606 locally transmitted ones. So far, the city has reported 2,019 coronavirus cases and 14 deaths.