Ho Chi Minh City authorities have hit back at rumours concerning the local administration’s decision to begin a lockdown to halt the spread of the novel coronavirus outbreak (COVID), saying this is inaccurate information.

The city has no intention of imposing a lockdown to fight the coronavirus, and all the circulated information is inaccurate, Ha Phuoc Thang, spokesperson of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee told local media on March 25. 

Militiamen help bring daily supplies to poeple in quarantine

Thanh said since the disease broke out, the city’s leaders have met on a daily basis to review prevention and control work, while local residents have kept abreast of up-to-date information about disease developments as well as prevention measures. 

The city has pooled all resources to ensure the safety of its residents and foreign travelers, Thang said, adding that everything has been kept under control.

He warned local people of misleading information circulated on social media platforms in recent times, and stated any individuals or groups that publish such fake news must be dully punished according to the law. 

HCM City recently ordered the temporary closure of all bars, massage parlours, karaoke clubs, cinemas, and restaurants capable of accommodating more than 30 people, in an attempt to stop the spread of the virus.

To date the largest city in Vietnam  has reported 36 COVID-19 infections, with three  discharged from hospital following a full recovery.