Taiwan reports zero COVID-19 cases for 10 days

People wearing masks walk on street in Taipei, southeast China's Taiwan, March 30, 2020. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

TAIPEI, May 17 (Xinhua) -- Taiwan has recorded no new novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients for 10 days, the island's epidemic monitoring agency said Sunday.

The total number of COVID-19 cases remained at 440, while 395 of them have recovered with seven deaths, the agency said in a press release.

The agency reiterated the necessity of maintaining social distance, wearing face masks and sterilizing hands properly despite the easing epidemic.

It noted that the authorities are considering resuming the operation of night clubs and pubs, provided that they implement appropriate crowd control and sanitation measures.

Some local authorities have gradually eased epidemic control measures. The ferry service between Penghu County and Kaohsiung will increase from one return trip a week to three a week from June.

Tainan city has allowed one night club to resume business while Taipei will reopen community centers and small gathering spaces holding crowds of less than 50 from May 18.

Earlier this week, Chiayi County also removed the compulsory requirement to wear face masks at schools and public institutions. ■