Wuhan virus update Saturday, Jan 25
The government announced on Friday that due to the Wuhan virus menace it has decided to extend the schools' Chinese New Year (CNY) holiday from February 3 to February 10. However, the announcement also said that local schools should make the necessary preparations for students to study at home during the extended period.
Macau's 10 tertiary education institutions have extended their CNY holiday to February 11, government-owned broadcaster TDM reported on Friday.
Unlike many other public CNY holiday activities and events that have been cancelled by the government and private entities, the city's tradition of letting off firecrackers and fireworks at designated sites is going on despite the Wuhan virus threat. There are two designated areas, one on the peninsula and the other in Taipa.
The government said on Friday that the city's two confirmed Wuhan virus patients - both visitors from Wuhan - were in a stable condition.
Casino operator SJM on Thursday cancelled its traditional Chinese New Year's Eve banquet. Gaming industry sources told The Macau Post Daily on Saturday they believe it's the first time that the banquet by the company and its predecessor STDM was cancelled. "I can't remember that it was ever cancelled," a retired croupier commented, pointing out that the banquet "has been held very year for decades". The banquet traditionally marked Macau's begin of the "gambling year."
