A directive issued by municipal authorities also orders the suspension of all non-essential businesses and services as well as street markets, and requests local residents to refrain from going outside, except for food, medicine, emergency care, or working at factories.

It bans the gatherings of more than three people, instead of five, in public places and outside offices, schools and hospitals while people must strictly observe the Ministry of Health’s 5K rules – “Khau trang” (face masks), “Khu khuan” (disinfection), “Khoang cach” (distancing), “Khong tu tap” (no large gatherings), and “Khai bao y te” (health declarations). It also demands tougher actions against violators.

Both governmental organisations and private enterprises are asked to cancel unimportant meetings, minimise interaction among employees and allow them to work from home. If in-person meetings and events are required, they should gather no more than 10 people.

Traditional and ride-hailing taxi services, public buses and inter-provincial buses are also banned. 

The city has detected more than 1,600 coronavirus infections since April 27, making it the second largest COVID-19 hotspot in Vietnam, after Bac Giang province in the north.

HCM city Vice Chairman Duong Anh Duc said next week will be crucial for efforts to contain the ongoing outbreak in the southern metropolis.