In response to media enquiries on the development of COVID-19, a spokesman from the Chief Secretary for Administration's Office today (February 20) said the following:

     "Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been closely monitoring the development of the situation. Guided by the three key principles of responding promptly, staying alert to the situation and working in an open and transparent manner, we have responded comprehensively with decisive and appropriate measures in accordance with the advice and opinions of our experts. According to the Government's prevention and control strategies, we have introduced specific measures in the areas of health surveillance, compulsory quarantine, isolation treatment, health declaration, exit screening, reducing the flow of people between Hong Kong and the Mainland, enhancing 'social distancing' locally, supporting front-line healthcare staff and provision of sufficient personal protective equipment. The overall situation is being closely monitored.

     "The Government will continue to monitor closely the development. Subject to expert advice and the actual situation in Hong Kong, we will not hesitate to introduce necessary measures to suit the situation. In face of the severe epidemic situation, the Government calls on the community to act in concert, put aside differences and win the battle against the epidemic for Hong Kong."

Ends/Thursday, February 20, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:17

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