Hong Kong recorded no new cases of Covid-19 on Wednesday after officials announced guidelines allowing the city to return to some semblance of normality, as part of the relaxing of restrictions imposed because of the coronavirus.
It was the 17th day in a row of no locally transmitted cases, with only a handful of imported cases over that period taking the total number of infections in Hong Kong to 1,040. There have been four deaths.
The easing of social-distancing rules means bigger weddings and larger public gatherings, while some businesses can reopen from Friday, the Food and Health Bureau announced, but there were conditions attached.
Bars can begin serving again, as long as they operate at half capacity, host no live music or karaoke, and close dance floors, while no more than four people can sit at each table.
“The measures have balanced the oft-competing factors of public health protection, economic impact and social acceptance. They could help maintain social distancing while allowing room for resumption of social activities,” a bureau spokesman said.
For weddings, 50 people can now be present, as opposed to 20 previously, while Hong Kong’s 2,500 listed companies can hold shareholder meetings on public premises, but these must be capped at 50 people each, minus food and drink.
