New restrictions come into force as Covid numbers rise

New restrictions come into force on Monday as Covid numbers continue to rise steeply. As of October 25, respirators will once again be compulsory in all enclosed places. People will have to wear them in the workplace with the exception of those who have an office to themselves or sit at least 1.5 metres apart.

They will also have to be worn at all public gatherings, regardless the number of people assembled, as well as in public transport and shops. The quarantine period has been shortened from two weeks to one and must be concluded by a PCR test.

Further changes will come into force as of November 1. The validity of PCR tests will be shortened from seven days to 72 hours and that of antigen tests from 72 to 24 hours. Restaurants, bars and pubs will be expected to check vaccination and test certificates and antigen and PCR tests will no longer be free of charge for people over 18.