Hong Kong: Associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the requirement to wear a mask will cease to apply in Hong Kong from March 1, Xinhua news agency reported on Tuesday, citing the head of the particular administrative region, John Lee.
He said it would be possible without a mask on the streets, indoors, and public transport. However, the restriction will continue in places of high risk – hospitals and nursing homes.
Li says the decision to abandon masks is because the epidemiological situation is under control. So, in Hong Kong, there have been no outbreaks of coronavirus infection for a long time.
The mandatory wearing of a mask was first introduced on Hong Kong public transport on July 15, 2020. Two weeks later, the rule was extended to premises and public spaces. Violators were fined more than $1,000.
Earlier, China lifted the main restrictions on entry into the country, adopted as part of the fight against coronavirus. However, since January 8, China has raised the main restrictions on entry into the country, which were introduced as part of the fight against coronavirus, Bloomberg reports.
Overseas travelers must take a COVID-19 test 48 hours before travel but will no longer be required to quarantine upon arrival in China.
Restrictions on movement between mainland China and Hong Kong have also been eased; mandatory quarantine has been lifted. In addition, according to the South China Morning Post, the number of operating checkpoints has increased: three of them continued to work during the pandemic, and in addition to them, four more checkpoints have opened.
To enter mainland China from Hong Kong, you must register online and take a COVID-19 test 48 hours before departure. The Associated Press, citing the Hong Kong authorities, reports that seven more checkpoints are planned to reopen.
China lifts travel restrictions ahead of the Lunar New Year on January 22. During the festive period, the Chinese traditionally visit relatives. According to media reports, among those who arrived on the first flights after the lifting of covid restrictions were those who had not been able to see their families for several years.
Since 2020, China has maintained a « zero tolerance » policy for COVID-19, including lockdowns and mandatory quarantines for those who come into contact with infected people. However, in December, the country’s authorities began to lift some restrictions, followed by a sharp increase in the incidence.
