Mandatory Covid Tests For Visitors To 14 Dance Clubs

People who've visited 14 dance studios, including one at the centre of a Covid-19 outbreak, are to be ordered to undergo tests for the virus, health officials said on Saturday.

It comes as health authorities reported 43 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, including 21 infections linked to the Starlight Dance Club in Wan Chai, taking the total number of patients in the cluster to 32.

Dr Chuang Shuk-kwan of the Centre for Health Protection warned that it could be a so-called "super-spreading" event.

She said infections might continue to spread as the dance instructors and pupil had visited at least 13 other studios.

She added that anyone who visited any of the venues this month would have to undergo mandatory coronavirus tests.

“The mandatory testing notice issued by the Food and Health Bureau will take effect for those who’ve been to those places to undergo testing… if any of them are found to have not complied with the notice, there will be penalties,” she said.

Under new regulations, those who refuse a test can be hit with a penalty of HK$2,000 and a notice ordering them to undergo testing. Penalties for those found guilty of ignoring the order include prison sentences of up to six months and fines of up to HK$25,000.

There were 13 other local infections via unknown sources involving people from all walks of life.

More than 60 people have also tested preliminary positive for the virus.

Chuang described the situation as "very alarming” and called on people to cancel all unnecessary social activities.

"The numbers are escalating, so the trend of increase is very alarming. We are very worried that a further increase in cases will happen, and it will be very difficult to control".

Dr Lau Ka-hin of the Hospital Authority, meanwhile, said work is under way to make sure there are enough hospital beds in case the Covid outbreak worsens.

He said close to 4,000 beds, including those at a temporary medical facility at the Asia World-Expo, will be available.

Seven imported Covid-19 cases were also reported, involving people arriving from the Philippines, Indonesia, Sweden, the UK and the US.