Health bureau officials track down source of outbreak which has infected 36, and put hundreds of schoolchildren at risk; 585,666 mass-tested, majority negative.
Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Division
One cluster traced to 13 non-resident workers living in one flat; carriers range from baby to octogenarian; staff at 53 NAT stations working all-out to complete mass testing.
Government may also purchase Covid-19 vaccines that have been successfully developed specifically to combat Omicron variant.
Officials seek to adapt versions used in mainland China to suit Macao; quarantine-free travel from Hong Kong on the horizon if Beijing gives thumbs-up.
Decision follows partial relaxation of entry ban on foreigners which allowed Indonesian and Filipino helpers back into Macao.
Health chief indicates that helpers from other foreign countries, such as Vietnam, may be allowed to return in near future.
From Monday, families with children under 12 or caring for a disabled member will be allowed to apply under new regulations.
Full-time students coming home to Macao from their place of study abroad will pay MOP 125 rather than MOP 250 per NAT.
Health chief also concerned about availability of quarantine hotel rooms and what to do if many new arrivals test positive for Covid-19.
