Joint operations with several government departments were mounted this weekend at bar areas and places where foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) usually gather to carry out publicity work to combat COVD-19, the Government said today.

The operations were taken amid concerns over recent local COVID-19 cases involving mutant strains.

Apart from arranging contractors to strengthen cleaning services at FDH gathering spots, the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department also stepped up patrols to combat unlicensed hawking activities at these locations.

During the operations, FDHs were reminded to comply with the regulations on mask-wearing and prohibition of group gatherings in public places.　

The department also visited bar areas in Prince Edward, Soho and Wan Chai with Police to carry out publicity and educational work.

The two departments also conducted publicity work on the vaccine bubble to help bar operators adapt to the new measures.