Macau confirms first coronavirus case

Macau has confirmed its first case of Wuhan coronavirus-linked pneumonia, despite the efforts of authorities to keep the infection out of the international gaming hub.

The patient is a 52-year-old businesswoman from Wuhan who had spent two days at the New Orient Landmark casino hotel before her hospitalisation.

The death toll from the new coronavirus rose to nine on Wednesday, with 440 confirmed cases. Symptoms include fever, coughing and difficulty breathing and it is now confirmed that the viral infection can be transmitted from person to person. There is also a possibility that the virus may mutate as it spreads.

The Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau has asked its local gaming operators to reinforce preventive measures in their casinos, including the wearing of masks by all casino staff.

Bernstein analysts noted earlier this week that it is too early to forecast any impact of the virus (or fear of the virus) on Macau’s gaming industry, but they noted it could impact GGR should the spread of the virus worsen, as now seems to be occurring.

Source: Asia Gaming Brief