Hong Kong halts flights from UK amid virus scare

After a new and highly contagious strain of the coronavirus swept through parts of southern England, Hong Kong joined a number of countries that have restricted flights from the UK.

Hong Kong: Hong Kong banned all flights from Britain on Monday, after a new and highly-contagious strain of the coronavirus swept through parts of southern England.

Health minister Sophia Chan told reporters the measure was necessary as the new virus strain was ''ferocious.''

Recent arrivals from the UK will have to quarantine for 21 days, a week longer than the usual 14-day period, she said.

Hong Kong's move followed similar bans imposed by countries such as Germany, France, Belgium, Italy, Ireland, Canada and the Netherlands.

AP