Hong Kong confirms three new cases of coronavirus infections, bringing tally to 29, with seven others testing positive
- Two of the confirmed cases are linked to the seven who tested positive, with all of them part of a larger family gathering
- Officials separately appeal for calm over panic buying sparked by fears of food shortage
Hong Kong on Sunday confirmed three more cases of coronavirus infections, taking the total tally to 29, with the new results linked to a large family gathering and an elderly man who had no recent travel history.
The health authorities said seven others who had a hotpot and barbecue meal with two of the three patients among the new confirmed cases also tested positive for the disease, but more checks were required.
“I’d suggest that the public cut down on these gatherings. If it’s necessary, try to reduce the time spent together,” said Dr Chuang Shuk-kwan, head of the Communicable Disease Branch of the Centre for Health Protection.
The family gathering linked to the two new confirmed cases – a man, 24, and his grandmother – was held on January 19 at the Lento Party Room in Kwun Tong, involving 19 people in all, including two relatives from mainland China who have since left the city.
The other new confirmed case is a 70-year-old man who has not travelled out of Hong Kong since January 9, spending most of his time at home.
The news came as Hong Kong’s top officials on Sunday assured the public that the city’s food supply was sufficient, amid the panic buying of essentials after signs of a community outbreak.