The Government today announced that the existing social distancing measures will be extended for seven days from August 5 to 11.

It said that according to the latest public health risk assessment, the risk of a large-scale community outbreak is now the highest since the emergence of COVID-19 in Hong Kong.

In view of the epidemic situation, which remains severe, it is necessary to extend relevant social distancing measures.

Restaurants, except those granted exemptions, must cease to provide dine-in services from 6pm to 4.59am of the subsequent day. They may offer takeaway services and deliveries during the period.

The number of customers at any catering premises at any one time must not exceed 50% of the normal seating capacity. Each table can accommodate no more than two customers and tables must be arranged with a distance of at least 1.5m or with partitions.

Bars and pubs, and 13 types of scheduled premises should also remain closed.

Meanwhile, the prohibition on group gatherings of more than two people as well as the existing mask-wearing requirement in public places will continue to take effect.

The Government strongly urged members of the public to stay at home as much as possible and avoid going out and having unnecessary social activities to reduce community transmission of the virus.

It added that it will continue to closely monitor the development of the epidemic situation.