Hanoi authorities will start punishing people who do not wear face masks in public for Covid-19 prevention from August 7.

The information was given by chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Nguyen Duc Chung at the government’s online meeting on Covid-19 prevention and control with localities in Hanoi on Friday.

Hanoi Chairman People's Committee Nguyen Duc Chung speaks at the meeting.

The city also temporarily banned the operation of karaoke parlours, street food and drink stalls, festivals and mass sports events.

Hanoi has resumed the Covid-19 prevention and control system which is operated all round the clock with more than 10,000 quick response groups.

The city has prepared facilities to quarantine around 7,000-8,000 people at the same time, including 800 people who will return from Danang in some days to come.

Hanoi is also providing Covid-19 tests for all people coming back from Danang since July 15.

Meanwhile, strict Covid-19 prevention regulations will be carried out to ensure the safety for the coming high school graduation examination. Each room will have only 24 students, sitting at a safe distance. Students have to wear face masks and be given with temperature checks before coming into the examination room.

Under the government’s Decree 11 issued in 2013, people who do not wear face masks as stipulated can face a maximum fine of VND300,000 (USD13).