Image copyright ReutersHong Kong has recorded its highest one-day increase in cases since the pandemic began, the territory’s Chief Executive Carrie Lam has said.
At a Sunday press conference, Ms Lam said there had been more than 100 new infections, and announced new restrictions to contain the spread.
She described the situation as “really critical” and said there was “no sign” it was coming under control.
Non-essential civil servants must work from home and testing will increase.
The chief executive promised that authorities would carry out 10,000 tests a day, and also made wearing face masks compulsory in indoor public spaces. Face coverings were already mandatory on public transport.
There were 108 new cases, 83 of them local and 25 imported, the health authorities said.
The announcement comes days after Hong Kong Disneyland shut again, less than a month after reopening, as the government brought back social distancing measures.
Authorities closed bars, gyms and clubs last week amid the fresh outbreak and barred restaurants from allowing diners to eat in past 6pm. These restrictions will be extended.
Hong Kong had seen relatively few cases of coronavirus after imposing rapid and strict measures at the start of the year to prevent its spread. But there has been a surge in cases recently, with more than 500 new infections reported in the last two weeks.
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In recent weeks, the authorities banned several pro-democracy gatherings, including the 4 June vigil for victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, and an annual pro-democracy rally on 1 July, citing coronavirus and social distancing measures.
However, many feared the police were using the coronavirus outbreak as an excuse for restricting pro-democracy gatherings, and tens of thousands defied the bans.
In June, China passed a severe new security law which criminalises subversion, secession and collusion with foreign forces in Hong Kong.
The legislation has been condemned by numerous countries and human rights activists, who say the law is vaguely defined and erodes freedoms.
However, China has dismissed the criticism and supporters say it is necessary for restoring order in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong’s new security law
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