Macao's thoroughfare wore a deserted look as the city took measures to combat a COVID-19 outbreak.
In response to the surge in cases, authorities issued strict directives, requiring residents to remain indoors unless procuring essential supplies. Violators faced punitive measures.
Over the weekend, casinos, the lifeblood of Macao's economy, were mandated to close for at least one week due to the rising number of coronavirus infections. On Monday, the government reported 59 new cases, bringing the total for the latest outbreak to 1,526.
Macao and Hong Kong are adopting mainland China's "zero COVID" strategy, aiming to isolate every infected individual.
While casino gambling has traditionally underpinned Macao's economy, it has suffered greatly due to travel restrictions imposed to curb the virus's spread.
This week's decision marks the first time since the early days of the pandemic in 2020 that casinos have been completely shuttered, underscoring the government's urgency in containing the current outbreak. Restrictions imposed in June had already reduced their workforce to just 10% of normal levels.
The government has also announced plans to conduct mass testing for COVID-19 across the city over the next week. Certain groups, such as bus drivers and food delivery personnel, have been instructed to undergo daily testing.
It's disheartening to witness Macao's bustling streets turn empty due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The closure of casinos, a lifeline for the city, reflects the severity. While prioritizing public health is crucial, the economic toll is undeniable. Let's hope these stringent measures prove effective, and Macao swiftly recovers from this challenging situation.🙏
Macao's decision to close casinos due to the COVID-19 outbreak is a tough but necessary move. It shows the city's commitment to public health, even at the cost of its economic mainstay. The situation underscores the ongoing global challenges of the pandemic and the need for stringent measures to protect communities.
Macao is one of my favorite country! It's evident that public health and safety are the top priorities. The situation in Macao serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic and the difficult decisions governments must make to balance public health with economic concerns. Keep safe everyone :)
It's good to see Macao taking steps to control COVID-19. They asked people to stay inside and closed the casinos, which is a big deal for a city that relies on them. It's surprising that this is the first time they've fully closed since the pandemic began. It's reassuring to know that they're doing everything they can to fight the virus and keep everyone safe.