The Macao government has sold more than 76 million facemasks to residents and non-resident workers since late January, the Novel Coronavirus Response and Coordination Centre announced today at its daily press conference about the local situation of COVID-19.
The 14th 10-day round of “government facemasks” – as they are colloquially known – will start on Monday, officials said at the press conference, pointing out that the government is studying new recommendations for using the facemasks, considering that Macao has not confirmed a new COVID-19 case for 51 days.
Under the government’s purchase programme, the facemasks are sold at designated pharmacies, health centres and community association outlets. Residents and non-resident workers have the right to buy 10 facemasks for MOP 8 (US$1) in each round.
Currently, it is mandatory to wear facemasks when entering public administration premises and casinos, as well as on public transport, both for drivers and passengers, including taxis.
Junior primary school pupils return to in-class teaching on Monday. Other segments of pupils returned gradually to their classrooms in the past few weeks. Pupils and teaches are obligated to wear masks on school premises.
Macao had a population of 696,100 at the end of March, according to official statistics.
Facemasks at commercial prices are also available in the private market.
(The Macau Post Daily/Macau News)
