Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City have asked relevant agencies in the city to adopt more drastic measures aimed at keeping the number of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases under 150.

As of March 26, there have been 40 COVID-19 cases recorded in the southern hub, the second most in the country behind Hanoi. 

One of the most concerning aspects of the cases in Ho Chi Minh City is the outbreak that occurred at the Buddha&Grill Bar. It is thought that at least 13 visitors to this place, the majority being foreigners, have tested positive for the virus with the numbers continuing to rise.  

Buddha&Grill Bar is the place where a new coronavirus outbreak occured.
The bar was forced to close on March 25 (Photo: Buddha)

At a meeting discussing the city’s prevention measures on March 26, Mayor Nguyen Thanh Phong said people must come together to stamp out the outbreak at any cost, whilst trying to keep the number of infections under 150.

"Ho Chi Minh City will have to accept sacrificing its short-term economic benefits to protect people's health," Phong stressed. 

He also hit back at rumours regarding an imposed lockdown within the city and said that those who have spread such inaccurate information must face stiff punitive measures. 

He also recommended that local residents remain indoors as much as possible, avoid gatherings, and wear face masks when in public, in an attempt to minimise the risk of infection. 

“The city will give hefty fines to those who fail to wear face masks in public places,” said Phong.