Social Distancing Rules Should Stay For Now: Expert

Hong Kong's current social distancing restrictions should remain in place for the time being, as the city is still uncovering new coronavirus cases with unknown sources of infection, an infectious disease expert who advises the government said on Saturday.

Chinese University professor David Hui acknowledged there was fatigue within the community after months of social distancing measures aimed at limiting the spread of Covid-19, but he said the public must adhere to the rules, remain vigilant, and maintain good hygiene.

He said authorities need more time to see if outbreaks emerge after the long holiday weekend.

"We have to look at the daily figures, because what we have seen now reflects what happened two weeks ago," Hui said.

"During the holiday, a lot of people actually have gone out celebrating and also joining a lot of social activities. So we have to [see] whether there's any related outbreak, for example in restaurants and other facilities."

Health officials confirmed seven new coronavirus cases on Friday, with no known source of infection identified for two of the three locally acquired infections.

The government has eased some social distancing restrictions in the past week, as the number of coronavirus cases in the city continues to slow.

Places of worship were allowed to reopen on Friday, albeit at half their usual capacity and with no food or drink allowed to be served except during religious rites. The number of people allowed to participate in team sports was also relaxed, with the maximum dependent on the sport in question.

However, public gatherings are still limited to four people, and mask-wearing is compulsory in public with limited exceptions. And while most public facilities have reopened, beaches remained closed for the four-day holiday weekend.