The Latest: Singapore loosens coronavirus restrictions

The Latest: Singapore loosens coronavirus restrictions

SeattlePI.com

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The Latest on the coronavirus pandemic. The new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms for most people. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness or death.

TOP OF THE HOUR:

— Singapore loosens coronavirus restrictions.

— South Korea reports 27 new cases, scrambles to test thousands who visited Seoul nightspots.

— The Philippines plans to ease massive lockdown.

— China reports 1 new coronavirus case as re-opening continues.

— Trump insists administration has “met the moment” and “prevailed” on testing.

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SINGAPORE — Singaporeans will be able to get a haircut at the barber or pop in to their favorite bakery Tuesday as the government loosens coronavirus restrictions three weeks before a partial lockdown ends.

Despite an upsurge in cases due to an outbreak among foreign workers staying in crowded dormitories, the government says transmission in the local community has dropped and it plans a phased reopening of the economy. Barbers and hairdressers, food manufacturers and outlets, and laundry shops are among selected businesses that can open with strict health measures in place Tuesday after five weeks of shutdown.

Barbers are open by appointment only and notices outside shops call for face masks before entry. Officials reminded citizens not to rush out or loiter outside.

Singapore has reported 23,822 infections, the most in Asia after China, India and Pakistan. But it has a low fatality rate of 21 deaths. About 90% of cases are linked to foreign workers' dorms, which have all remained locked down as testing continues.

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SEOUL, South Korea — The mayor of the South Korean capital of Seoul says the number of coronavirus cases linked to the city’s clubs and other nightspots...

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