Hanoi (VNA) –꧋ The host Vietnam has built COVID-19 prevention and control measures, part of the preparations for the upcoming 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 31), as regional sports delegations show a concern about the work.

At the recentsecond Chefs de Mission Meeting of the Games, Deputy Director of the VietnamSports Administration Tran Duc Phan told delegates that in the face of complexdevelopments of COVID-19, Vietnam has devised three options of allowing fullcapacity, restricting or barring spectators. In case nofans are allowed in competition venues over COVID-19 concerns, all individualsare required to wear face masks, except for competing athletes. If capacityrestrictions are observed, seats will be arranged to maintain distance amongspectators. As for the no-restriction plan, spectators must still observe the 5K message on the prevention of the spread of the virus. The commuteof sports delegations and athletes must be held in a closed routine. Arrivalswill take COVID-19 rapid antigen test within 24 hours. Any found contracting the virus may stay in quarantine at hotels if theydevelop no or mild symptoms. Those with severe symptoms will be transferredto assigned medical facilities. Athletes havingcontact with COVID-19 positives are eligible to compete and notbe quarantined.   Theorganising board will cover COVID-19 testing and treatment costs for medicalincidents handled at competition venues and accommodation facilities. Sportsdelegations are to bear hospital bills, insurance and other costs. The SEAGames 31, themed “For a stronger South East Asia”, will run in Hanoi and 11neighbouring localities from May 12 to 23. It will feature 40 sports with 526events and expect to attract around 10,000 participants. The biennial event wasinitially slated for late 2021 but delayed due to the pandemic’s impact./.