There were 10 confirmed cases of the virus in Macau, including a casino croupier who reportedly had been sharing public transport to work and eating in the cafeterias before testing positive for the virus. However there are as yet no deaths reported in Macau.
The decision to close the casinos was done "for the health of Macau's residents" said Ho Iat Seng chief executive of Macau, but it was not easily done.
Casino gambling accounts for 80 per cent of the region's revenue and, for perspective, it brings in six times the revenue of Las Vegas.
It would appear the Casinos place at the centre of the Chinese SAR has led to this special dispensation. No date has been announced for reopening other public facilities including cinemas, internet cafes, bars and gyms still are closed.
- With AP reporting
