Ho Chi Minh City’s authorities allowed the reopening of some non-essential businesses like gyms, fitness centers, pubs and beer clubs from March 9 after the city went 26 days without confirming new cases of Covid-19.

Bars and karaoke parlors in Ho Chi Minh City are closed under the city's order due to Covid-19. Photo: Quynh Tran

Religious activities are also allowed to resume, according to a local authorities’ notice. Eateries are not allowed to admit more than 30 people at a time.

However, bars, dance clubs and karaoke parlors will remain closed until further notice.

Most non-essential services were resumed from March 1 after almost a month of closure, providing that a minimum social distance of one meter is ensured.

Vice Chairman Duong Anh Duc warned that the city faces a potential risk of transmission by illegal entrants. Last week, the city’s police raided a number of hotels in District 1 and Go Vap district and found 40 Chinese nationals who had illegally entered the country. The hotels will be fined for failing to inform to local authorities about the presence of illegal immigrants.

In the latest outbreak, Ho Chi Minh City has confirmed 36 cases of Covid-19. It is conducting random tests and monitoring people coming from infected areas.