Ho Chi Minh City’s authorities have ordered the suspension of discos, bars, wedding centers, karaoke parlors, massage parlors and movie theaters from 12:00 pm Tuesday onwards, as per the latest direction by Nguyen Thanh Phong, chairman of the municipal People’s Committee.

Speaking at a meeting with the Steering Committee on COVID-19 Prevention and Control on Monday afternoon, the leader required all movie theaters, massage parlors, karaoke parlors, game centers, bars, beer clubs, discos and wedding centers to cease operation until further notice, citing complicated developments of the recent outbreak in the city.

Besides, religious rituals and ceremonies with gatherings of more than 20 people will also be banned.

Gas stations, essential retail stores, pharmacies and medical facilities will maintain normal operations, but with pandemic prevention rules strictly applied.

The southern metropolis will cancel the opening ceremonies for Tet (Lunar New Year holiday) flower and book streets on Nguyen Hue Street. The activities will only be organized from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm every day.

Further, Phong asked authorities at all levels to impose harsh punishments on those failing to wear face masks at public places.

According to Ho Chi Minh City’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the southern metropolis has reported an additional 25 people tested positive for the coronavirus on Monday.

All the cases are linked to five confirmed patients No. 1,979, 2,002, 2,003, 2,004 and 2,005, who are baggage handlers at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Earlier on Monday, several residential areas in the city have been locked down to prevent the virus spread.

Vietnam confirmed 45 new domestic Covid-19 cases on Monday evening, raising the total tally to 467 since its latest outbreak began on January 28.

Of the new infections, Ho Chi Minh City recorded the highest number with 25 cases, followed by Hai Duong with 12, Hanoi and Quang Ninh with three each, and Gia Lai with two, according to the Health Ministry.

With the new confirmed cases, Vietnam has registered 467 domestic Covid-19 cases in 12 cities and provinces since January 28.

Up to now, the Southeast Asian country has reported 2,050 cases, in which 1,472 have recovered.

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