Travellers arrive at Hong Kong's international airport on Sept 27, 2022. (PETER PARKS / AFP)
HONG KONG – Hong Kong recorded 5,068 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday while 13 infected patients passed away.
The Centre for Health Protection said in a statement that the new cases included 4,570 local cases and 498 imported infections. The 13 new deaths brought the city’s toll during the fifth wave to 10,279. Hong Kong saw 4,649 new cases on Tuesday.
Eleven residential care homes for the elderly and persons with disabilities had 22 new cases
The CHP said 11 residential care homes for the elderly and persons with disabilities had 22 new cases while 522 schools reported 618 students and 124 staff members getting infected.
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Nineteen schools suspended 18 classes and one extra-curricular activities group for one week due to cases, the CHP added.
As of Wednesday, the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch has identified 212 cases of sub-lineage XBB, six of XBD, eight of BA.2.75.2, seven of BA.4.6, 11 of BF.7 and 30 of BQ.1.1 among imported cases in Hong Kong.
Fourteen cases of sub-lineage XBB, 12 of XBD, one of BA.2.75.2 and 23 of BQ.1.1 have also been found among local infections.
In a separate statement, the Hospital Authority said 1,969 COVID-19 patients were being treated in public hospitals, including 243 new patients.
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Thirty patients were in critical condition, including eight receiving intensive care, while 44 were in serious condition, the HA added.