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‘Power to the people’: Hong Kong can cope with any Covid surge, says health chief after most pandemic curbs are lifted
- Residents were out in force enjoying their new-found freedom a day after substantial easing of curbs was announced
- Arrivals at the airport pleasantly surprised to discover that the city had dropped vaccine-pass arrangements and PCR test requirements
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Hong Kong’s health minister on Thursday said it was time to “hand over responsibility and power” to the public in the fight against Covid-19, expressing confidence in the city’s ability to cope with any infection surge after lifting most of its pandemic restrictions.
A day after the substantial easing of curbs was announced, residents were out in force enjoying their new-found freedom by flocking to restaurants and entertainment venues no longer bound by strict social-distancing rules.
Arrivals at the airport still unaware of the latest development were pleasantly surprised to discover that the city had dropped vaccine-pass arrangements and a requirement for PCR tests upon landing.
Restaurant operators reported a jump in business of at least 10 per cent as unvaccinated patrons could again dine in, while more tourists visited popular attractions.
Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau said residents had become more familiar with the coronavirus and could decide for themselves how to deal with Covid-19.
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