Photos: HCMC’s shopping centers deserted ahead of Tet due to Covid-19

Previously, the HCMC administration has shut down bars, karaoke parlors, cinemas and discotheques, and banned religious events starting Tuesday.

Chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong made the announcement Monday afternoon after the city’s Covid-19 community transmission cases rose to 31 in eight districts since the country's latest outbreak began Jan. 28. Twenty five of these were confirmed Monday evening, VNExpress reported.

Phong said all cultural, sports and entertainment activities, beauty salons, massage parlors, internet cafes, wedding centers, theaters, gyms and pool table services will also be suspended from noon Tuesday until further notice.

Religious events with gatherings of more than 20 people are prohibited.

Gas stations, shops selling "essential" goods like pharmacies and medical facilities will operate normally, complying with preventive measures.

The Nguyen Hue flower street will not have its scheduled opening ceremony, and will only open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. People who do not wear masks will be strictly fined.

HCMC has recorded 33 local cases in the last 11 days.

The country has reported 2,070 cases with 1,474 recoveries and 35 deaths. Of the active cases, 32 have tested negative at least once.

Over 99,000 people are quarantined – 20,000 in centralized facilities, 800 in hospitals, and the rest at home or other designated accommodations.