Coronavirus: Singapore tightens rules for residents returning from China
- The number of coronavirus infections in the city state has risen to 77, with 24 patients discharged from hospital
- Under new regulations, returnees from China must stay at home at all times for a 14-day period
This came as Singapore announced two new cases on Monday, taking its total number of infections to 77. In all, 24 patients have fully recovered.
Previously, returning Singaporeans and residents with the right to work and live in the city state could leave their homes to buy food or household supplies during their two week enforced absence from work or school.
But under the new Stay Home Notice regulations, which come into force on Tuesday, they must remain within their premises at all times. Those caught flouting the notice would be subject to “harsh punishments”, which authorities said could include the revocation of work permits for foreigners, while Singaporeans would be prosecuted under the Infectious Diseases Act.
National Development Minister Lawrence Wong, in announcing the changes on Monday, said there were a “substantial number” of Singaporean citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders still in China who were looking to return to the Lion City after the Lunar New Year holidays.
