Laos: Ministry orders temporary closure of entertainment venues from April 14-30

This photograph taken on April 15, 2019 shows Miss Laos New Year or "Nang Sang Khan" pageant winner Mila Douangximay (C) along with the other six chosen contestants, each symbolising King Kabinlaphom's seven daughters, taking part in the annual Laos New Year or "Pi Mai" celebrations at the Wat Xiengthong Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang. The Laos government has cancelled such festivities this year and temporarily closed all entertainment outlets from Apr 14-30 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. - AFP

Vientiane, April 13 (Vientiane Times/ANN): The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism on Tuesday ordered the closure of entertainment venues such as karaoke clubs, bars and nightclubs and banned weddings and other large events from April 14-30 in a bid to prevent a Covid-19 outbreak after three more people tested positive for the virus.

The move follows the rise in the number of cases in the region and around the world.