China coronavirus now in Macau, casino staff ordered to wear face masks

Macau confirmed on Wednesday its first case of the new coronavirus from China. As a result, authorities ordered all staff in casinos to wear face masks.

Thousands of mainland tourists are expected to visit Macau for the Lunar New Year celebration this weekend. Macau is the only place in China that allows gambling.

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On Wednesday, Macau reported its first confirmed case of the new coronavirus strain, which originated in China. It said a 52-year-old businesswoman from Wuhan arrived in the city.

“A series of tests found that she was positive for the coronavirus and had symptoms of pneumonia,” said Lei Chin-lon, the head of Macau’s health bureau.

The woman stayed at the New Orient Landmark Hotel and was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday. Her two friends, who were with her in the hotel, were being monitored.

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Ao Ieong Iu, Macau’s Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture said all casino staff should wear face masks. Anyone who would enter the city’s border should fill out health declaration forms.

“We have not banned tourism groups from Wuhan, but we are not encouraging them,” Ao Ieong said.

“We will stay in close contact with tourism agencies and require them to notify us of all groups going to and coming from Wuhan,” she added.

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The new virus already killed nine people with 440 confirmed cases as of today. It has caused pandemic fear, especially in Asian countries.

Also read: Chinese doctor investigating new coronavirus was also infected