PHNOM PENH, Apr 25 (NNN-AKP) – Cambodia closed all state-run and unregulated markets in the capital Phnom Penh, for 14 days starting yesterday, in an ongoing effort to contain a surge in new COVID-19 cases.
Phnom Penh Municipal Governor, Khuong Sreng said in a decision, the move came after the authorities observed that the rates of infection in the markets are “worryingly high” that requires an urgent response measure.
“All state-run and unregulated markets must be temporarily suspended for 14 days up to May 7, in order to prevent and contain the severe COVID-19 transmission in communities,” he said.
The governor called on all vendors, workers and security guards in the markets, to have their nasal swab samples taken for testing, or they will not be allowed to resume their business, when the markets reopen.
Cambodia has been enduring the third wave of community outbreak of COVID-19 since Feb 20. In a bid to flatten the infection curve, the country imposed a two-week stay at home lockdown in Phnom Penh, Ta Khmau city and Preah Sihanouk city.
Also, the country banned inter-provincial travel and has shut down all schools, tourist attractions, sports facilities, museums, cinemas, and entertainment venues nationwide.– NNN-AKP
