Hong Kong to consider lifting mask mandate after winter flu threat

Chief executive John Lee Ka-chiu said Friday that the SAR government will actively consider dropping its mask mandate after the winter flu threat.

Speaking to reporters today, the Hong Kong leader said that with the city currently in the winter influenza season and the city picking up its pace in reconnecting to the rest of the world, the mask mandate must stay as far as risks can be properly managed.

Lee said the government will take into account health experts' and health authorities’ advice and look into removing the mask rule after the winter influenza season.