A motorcyclist wearing a face mask rides on a street in Vientiane, Laos, June 19, 2021. Laos has extended its lockdown COVID-19 prevention measures across the country for a further 15 days as the community spread of COVID-19 in the capital continues. (Photo: Xinhua)

 

Vendors wearing masks sell take-away food in Vientiane, Laos, June 19, 2021. Laos has extended its lockdown COVID-19 prevention measures across the country for a further 15 days as the community spread of COVID-19 in the capital continues. (Photo: Xinhua)

 

Photo taken on June 19, 2021 shows a blocked area with COVID-19 cases in Vientiane, Laos. Laos has extended its lockdown COVID-19 prevention measures across the country for a further 15 days as the community spread of COVID-19 in the capital continues.(Photo: Xinhua)

 

Photo taken on June 19, 2021 shows a blocked area with COVID-19 cases in Vientiane, Laos. Laos has extended its lockdown COVID-19 prevention measures across the country for a further 15 days as the community spread of COVID-19 in the capital continues.(Photo: Xinhua)

 
Laos has extended its lockdown COVID-19 prevention measures across the country for a further 15 days as the community spread of COVID-19 in the capital continues.

Given the situation in neighboring countries and community spread in Lao capital Vientiane, the lockdown order would be extended until July 4, according to a notice issued by the Prime Minister's Office on Saturday.

The current nationwide lockdown, imposed on June 4, was set to expire on Saturday.

The notice outlines a gradual loosening of lockdown measures with certain strict measures to remain in place.

Shopping malls, retail shops, supermarkets, minimarts, and fresh markets that comply with COVID-19 prevention measures may remain open.

Outdoor exercise and non-contact sporting activities are permitted.

Restaurants may continue to provide dine-in services in green zones, but must strictly comply with all COVID-19 prevention measures.

Events or activities with under 50 participants may be held in areas that are not red zones but social distancing and other COVID-19 prevention measures must be strictly enforced.

Land and air transportation may resume between capital Vientiane and other provinces across the country for passengers who have been fully vaccinated with two doses of vaccine without a requirement of 14 days quarantine.

International freight and cargo transportation will be required to comply with previous COVID-19 prevention measures as determined by the government.

Tourist sites and food gardens may reopen in provinces without community spread of the virus but are prohibited from serving alcohol.

The Lao Ministry of Health also urged the public to implement anti-epidemic measures including checking body temperatures, practicing social distancing, wearing a mask, and washing hands.

As of Saturday, the total number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 recorded in Laos is 2,050, with 1,935 recoveries.

Laos confirmed its first two COVID-19 cases on March 24 last year.