Vice-chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Chu Xuan Dung on Tuesday afternoon ordered the shutdown of all beer restaurants and drinking venues to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The closure began immediately and will last until further notice.

Vice-chairman Dung also requested authorities in local districts and wards to suspend all makeshift markets as these locations pose a high risk of virus spread.

Earlier the same day, Hanoi chairman Chu Ngoc Anh asserted that unnecessary meetings and crowded events would have to be canceled.

The gathering of more than 10 people outside of public offices, schools, hospitals, and election sites is forbidden, as Vietnam is set to begin legislative elections at all levels on May 23.

Facilities selling food and beverages must make sure customers are two meters away from one another.

Diners located near hospitals are only allowed to sell takeaway food.

All grocery stores, diners, and rented houses near hospitals where COVID-19 outbreaks have been recorded, namely the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Dong Anh District and K Hospital, must cease operations.

Vietnam has recorded 3,507 COVID-19 cases as of Tuesday afternoon, with 2,618 recoveries and 35 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health.

The country has documented 502 local infections since April 27.

In Hanoi, 53 cases have been detected in the community and 93 others recorded at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases and K Hospital during this period.

Authorities in the capital have decided to shutter all karaoke parlors, bars, discos and game centers from April 30 and movie theaters, massage parlors, spa services, and gym centers from May 5.

All students were required to stay home and switch to remote learning on May 4.