Hong Kong reported about 20,000 new coronavirus cases on Friday as health experts called for a clear way out of a 'zero COVID' policy that has left the city isolated.
Fences are placed to block access to Deep Water Bay beach during the coronavirus disease pandemic, in Hong Kong, China, March 18, 2022. REUTERS/Tyrone SiuHONG KONG, March 18 - Hong Kong reported about 20,000 new coronavirus cases on Friday as health experts called for a clear way out of a "zero COVID" policy that has left the city isolated.
But restrictions, including a ban on flights from nine countries such as Britain and the United States, quarantine of up to 14 days for residents returning to Hong Kong, and the closure of schools, gyms, beaches and other venues, have frustrated many.Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Thursday she would provide an update on restrictions around March 20-21 rather than wait for them to expire on April 20.
There have so far been more than 1 million confirmed cases, and more than 5,000 deaths. But about half of the city's 7.4 million residents have likely been infected, a study from the University of Hong Kong estimated this week.
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