Urgent Call for Enactment of Hong Kong COVID-19 Emergency Law... Need to Strengthen Restriction Measures

Major Countries Divided on Easing or Extending COVID Restrictions
Experts Warn of 'Third Wave Infections' if Measures Are Not Strengthened

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Young-shin] There have been calls to strengthen restrictions to prevent the 'third wave of infection' of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Opinions are divided between those advocating for easing restrictions to block COVID-19 and those urging for their extension, highlighting the urgent need for international cooperation to curb the spread of infectious diseases.

On the 14th (local time), the Hong Kong South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that Professor Ho Pak-lung of the Department of Microbiology at the University of Hong Kong urged the Hong Kong government to enact emergency legislation mandating mask-wearing in all public places.

Prior to Professor Ho, Professor Wen Kok-wing, an infectious disease expert at the University of Hong Kong, had warned of a third wave of infections due to overseas reverse transmission. Professor Ho stated, "Wearing masks is effective," and argued that "regulations on mask-wearing should be expanded to public places such as hospitals."

The Hong Kong government has prohibited public gatherings of more than four people since the end of last month and issued a two-week closure order for cinemas, fitness centers, and bars. For restaurants, it has also stipulated that tables must be spaced 1.5 meters apart.

SCMP cited infectious disease experts, reporting that mandatory social measures are necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.