HONG KONG—Hong Kong reported 1,347 new daily COVID-19 infections on Sunday, down from the previous day’s record, but the spread, with 2,000 more suspected cases, threatens the city’s overstretched healthcare system, authorities said.
The surge in COVID-19 cases, the biggest test yet for Hong Kong’s “zero-COVID” strategy, comes a day after the government said China would help the city with testing, treatment, and quarantine capacity.
Following the death of a four-year-old who had tested preliminary positive for the disease this week, the government said late on Sunday that children from the age of three would be eligible for vaccinations from Feb. 15.
Authorities also warned food supplies into the city may be disrupted, after some cross-border truck drivers tested positive for COVID-19.
Hong Kong imports 90 percent of its food, with mainland China its most important source, especially for fresh food. Consumers have felt shortages of some imported goods, including premium seafood, due to stringent flight restrictions.
Health authorities in the city of 7.5 million people reported 1,347 new COVID-19 infections, down from Saturday’s 1,514, but they told a news conference there were about 2,000 preliminary cases. The rapid spread of the outbreak was overwhelming healthcare facilities, they said.
Local media had reported that the city would report a record 3,000 infections, including the preliminary cases.
“For those in a stable condition, please wait patiently. Please heed our appeal,” said Hospital Authority official Larry Lee.
Hong Kong’s No. 2 official, John Lee, said on Saturday there were no plans to lock down the city, where schools, gyms, cinemas, and most other venues are closed. Social gatherings are limited to two people, restaurants close at 6 p.m. and it is rare to see anyone without a mask.
Most office employees have reverted to working from home.
Hospital beds for COVID-19 patients in the global financial hub are at 90 percent occupancy, data from the Hospital Authority showed, while isolation facilities were nearing their maximum.
Welfare Minister Law Chi-kwong said the city will shorten the quarantine period for residents and staff of residential care homes for the elderly because they are running short of isolation beds.
Hong Kong has recorded around 24,000 infections and more than 200 deaths, far lower than other similar major cities, although medical experts warn it could see 28,000 daily infections by the end of March.
