Editorial | Hong Kong RAT proof nothing to get hungover about

Try as Hong Kong might, the number of daily Covid-19 cases remains stubbornly high. In an effort to reduce them in time for celebrations of the city’s 25th anniversary of its return to Chinese sovereignty on July 1, patrons of pubs, bars and clubs are from Thursday required to show proof of a negative rapid antigen test (RAT) result.

It is an understandable move given such places are behind half a dozen recent clusters in entertainment districts involving hundreds of people. Random raids by police of numerous premises have led to dozens of fines and temporary closures for the violation of rules.

Authorities have opted for the RAT strategy rather than rolling back a phased reopening of social and economic activity. The last of three stages remains to be implemented, but outgoing Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor contends circumstances are not right for that to happen before July 1.

While a feared sixth wave of the coronavirus has not struck, daily infections since the fifth outbreak at the start of the year have begun steadily rising from lows in the 300s and topped 1,000 on Wednesday. With an eye on the goal of attaining a return to pre-pandemic life, the least disruptive path has been adopted.

Some patrons may not agree. Having to take a rapid test within 24 hours before going for a drink, putting the image on a smartphone and then also having to use the “Leave Home Safe” app for entry in addition to proving having had three vaccine jabs may seem excessive for some.