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For the fifth consecutive day today, the Centre for Health Protection said there have been no new local confirmed coronavirus cases in Hong Kong.

It is also the seventh time this month. Since April 12, the CHP had reported either no or single-digit new daily cases.

The tally remains at 1,038, which include one probable case, with four deaths.

The Hospital Authority said 846 patients have recovered so far after 16 more were discharged. Among the 188 hospitalized virus patients, four are in a critical condition.

It has also reported 16 new suspected cases to the Department of Health.

Across the city, people have packed beaches, restaurants and shopping malls on the first day of the long weekend today.

The CHP again urged people to maintain an appropriate social distance with other people as far as possible in their daily lives to minimize the risk of infection.

"In particular, they should go out less and avoid social activities such as meal gatherings or other gatherings to reduce the chance of contacting infected persons who may not present any symptoms, and minimize the risk of outbreak clusters emerging in the community."

People flock to beaches on the first day of the long weekend today.

No new virus cases in HK for fifth straight day