The Macau government today extended by another week its suspension of all non-urgent public services.
The extension from February 8 to 16 was announced in an executive order signed by Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng, according to a statement by the Public Administration and Civil Service Bureau (SAFP). The bureau stressed that the measure aimed to reduce the risk of a further spread of the novel coronavirus. The statement urged public servants to stay at home and avoid going out, "thereby fulfilling their duties".
The Macau government employs about 32,000 people, or about 11 percent of the city's total workforce.
NO NEW CASE SINCE TUESDAY
Macau has confirmed 10 novel coronavirus, comprising seven tourists from Wuhan, the epicentre of the epidemic, and three local residents. One of the patients from Wuhan was cured, according to the Macau Health Bureau (SSM), and discharged from hospital on Wednesday when she returned to the mainland under police escort.
Macau has not confirmed a new case of the disease since Tuesday. The government on Tuesday announced the closure of all 41 casinos and other entertainment venues such as bars, gyms, nightclubs, amusement arcades, cybercafes and snooker halls for two weeks. All public transport passengers are required to wear facemasks.
