Travellers from US, Brazil, Russia, Turkey and many parts of Asia and Africa targeted; Macao’s 79th imported coronavirus case infected with Omicron variant.
Novel Coronavirus Response and Coordination Centre
Health experts warn that new strain is even more contagious than Delta, urge residents to be extra cautious.
Travellers from some parts of Yunnan, Shaanxi and Guizhou face up to 14 days’ medical observation and five NATs.
The centre identified the patient as a 62-year-old local resident who arrived in Macao on Monday from Los Angeles, US via Singapore.
Patient – classified as imported case – is 23-year-old male local resident who arrived in Macao last Saturday having been studying in New York.
Baby remains under observation after testing ‘weakly’ positive; Health Bureau rules case will not be included in Macao’s tally.
World Health Organization warns new strain carries an increased risk of reinfection, making it potentially more dangerous than Delta variant.
Regulations relaxed following easing of the Covid-19 wave in the mainland; departing air passengers also need to show seven-day NAT.
Relaxed requirements spell good news for cross-border commuters; travellers from Hong Kong still face two weeks’ quarantine.