The Government today announced that the existing social distancing measures will be extended for seven days to August 18.

It explained that the COVID-19 situation in Hong Kong remains severe, noting that the overall number of confirmed cases is still high and the mortality rate continues to rise despite a slight drop in the number of daily cases over the past week.

Among the local cases, the infection source of about 40% is unknown, indicating the existence of sustained silent transmission in the community and therefore a considerably high risk of a large-scale community outbreak.

The Government emphasised that in view of the latest public health risk assessment, in particular the higher risks brought about by activities conducted without wearing masks and various social activities as shown in recent cases, it is necessary to extend 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 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 partitions.

Bars and pubs and 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 the public to stay at home as much as possible and avoid 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.