Hong Kong Disneyland to close again over COVID-19 case resurgence

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Hong Kong Disneyland will once again close from July 15 due to the rising COVID-19 cases in the city, the Walt Disney Company said on Monday.

Hong Kong recorded 52 new confirmed COVID-19 cases on Monday, a new high since the pandemic re-emergence, including 41 local infections, according to local health authorities.

"As required by the government and health authorities in line with prevention efforts taking place across Hong Kong, Hong Kong Disneyland park will temporarily close from July 15," a Disney spokeswoman said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort hotels will remain open with enhanced health and safety measures in place, the company said.

The theme park reopened less than a month ago after closing in January over the COVID-19 pandemic. Guests and staff were required to wear face masks, practice social distancing and have temperature checked upon entry.

Visitors at the Hong Kong Disneyland, June 18, 2020. /AP

Apart from its Disneyland park, Hong Kong's Ocean Park is also seeing a temporary closure. As the announcement on its official website says, the park will cease operation from July 14 to 21 to help curb the COVID-19 pandemic with all reservations during the period cancelled.

For holders of the general admission tickets purchased at the Park's Ticketing Office or official website that are valid for use on the dates affected, the park said they "can keep their admission tickets for direct ticket exchange or refund by the Park."

The Ocean Park in Hong Kong, China, June 13, 2020. /AP

Hong Kong is tightening social distancing measures amid growing worries about another wave of coronavirus infections. The city will limit public gatherings from 50 to four people starting Wednesday with 12 types of high-risk venues, including beauty salons, fitness centers, bars, and cinemas, suspended for seven days.

Since late January, Hong Kong has reported 1,522 confirmed coronavirus cases and eight deaths.

(Cover: The iconic cartoon character Minnie Mouse at the Hong Kong Disneyland, Hong Kong, China, June 18, 2020. /AP)