Time Not Right To Ease Covid Restrictions: Expert

An infectious disease expert said on Tuesday it's not the right time for the government to further relax social distancing measures because of the re-emergence of local Covid-19 cases that cannot be traced.

On an RTHK radio programme, Dr. Joseph Tsang expressed concern about what he described as "scattered" cases with unknown sources of infection appearing in recent days.

Tsang warned that as social activities resume and more people get together again, clusters would emerge.

He spoke about the possible spread of the virus in bars as people mingle and let down their guard under the influence of alcohol. Tsang also pointed out that contact tracing of bar customers can be difficult.

Tsang said the government should step up inspection of high-risk venues such as bars to ensure people comply with anti-epidemic rules.

He also expressed concern about a growing number of people opting for staycation at local hotels, saying it's risky for large groups of people to gather.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Executive Council meeting, Chief Executive Carrie Lam said it's unlikely social distancing measures would be further relaxed this week.

Lam said it's hard to tell if the third wave of the outbreak was indeed over. She noted that many people ventured out during last week's National Day and mid-autumn holidays, and that social activities did represent health risk.

The Secretary for Food and Health, Sophia Chan, will announce the latest round of social distancing measures in a press briefing on Tuesday afternoon.

Meanwhile, sources said Hong Kong will report eight more coronavirus cases on Tuesday.

If confirmed, that would be a slight drop from 11 the day before.