A couple in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, were found positive for COVID-19, local health authority said on Friday morning.

The husband, 29, works for a company in the city's Luohu district. The wife, also 29, works in the Luogang district.

The couple were sent to Shenzhen No 3 People's Hospital for treatment.?

Authorities in the Luohu and Longgang districts have called on local residents not to leave Shenzhen. Large gatherings have been canceled in both districts.

Starting Saturday, anyone leaving Shenzhen will need a negative nucleic test result within 48 hours, according to local regulations.