The Government today announced that the existing social distancing measures will be extended to October 5.

It said the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has been brought down from the high level of over 11,000 cases per day in early September. The epidemic situation has reached a plateau and is developing a downward trend, slightly relieving the pressure on the public healthcare system.

Noting that it is now a critical time to further stabilise the epidemic situation, the Government explained that it decided to maintain the existing social distancing measures for the next 14-day cycle in order to have a clear observation of the epidemic trend.

All catering and scheduled premises are allowed to continue to operate subject to strict compliance with requirements including the vaccine pass, red and amber codes as well as virus testing.

Other requirements, such as mask-wearing for citizens on transport carriers and in specified public places, as well as the prohibition of group gatherings of more than four people in public places, also remain in force.

The Government reminded the public that the vaccine pass arrangements will be applicable to children aged five to 11 starting September 30. Such children are required to have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine for entering premises subject to the vaccine pass.

People are urged to arrange vaccination for children and the elderly as soon as possible.