Hong Kong guess on zero-Covid. Now it is dealing with a 'preventable catastrophe'

Hong Kong — once lauded as a zero-Covid success story — is now battling a deadly outbreak reminiscent of the early days of the pandemic, despite having had more than two years to prepare. For two years, as the pandemic raged around the world, Hong Kong largely contained the virus, and there was a growing feeling the city might keep the virus out forever. As cases rose this year, the government reimposed its strictest rules, limiting public gatherings to two, closing restaurants and bars after 6 p.m., and roping off public playgrounds. But it still wasn't enough. With few other…