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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Singapore closes workplaces in virus fight

Singapore closes workplaces in virus fight

Published Apr 7, 2020 12:00 am
SINGAPORE (AFP) – Singapore's usually bustling business district was almost deserted Tuesday as most workplaces in the city-state closed to stem the spread of the coronavirus after a surge in cases. The financial hub has won praise for using a tough regime of testing and tracing contacts of the sick to keep its outbreak largely in check, but has seen a jump in new infections in recent days. Authorities previously resisted the kind of draconian measures seen in worse-hit countries – but have now ordered the closure of all businesses deemed non-essential as well as schools, and have asked people to stay home. There were just a handful of people in a usually packed major square in the business district Tuesday morning as workplaces closed. "It feels like a dead city, everyone is scared, they're all hiding at home," Jenny Lee, who works at an insurance brokers, told AFP. "All the crowds have disappeared." Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong urged Singaporeans to "do our part to support our healthcare professionals by staying at home, and complying with the enhanced measures in place". Schools will close from Wednesday, with the tougher restrictions set to last a month. The city-state reported 66 more COVID-19 cases Monday, bringing its total so far to 1,375, including six deaths.
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