Hong Kong records 44 new COVID-19 cases as distancing measures extended

HONG KONG: Hong Kong reported 44 new coronavirus cases on Monday (Aug 17) as the government announced an extension to social distancing measures aimed at controlling further spreading of the virus, which has seen a resurgence in the Asian financial hub since early July. While the number of daily cases have come down from triple digits in recent weeks, authorities have cautioned residents from becoming complacent, warning that the situation remained “severe”. Restrictions including a ban on dining at restaurants from 6pm and the mandating of masks in all outdoor public areas are set to remain in force for a…