The government has announced a return to stricter measures, aimed at halting the spread of Covid-19.
The Dutch government has today implemented tougher restrictions which will impact the lives of just about every Dutch resident. The new measures, which can be found on the government website, have been justified by the government in the following statement:
‘On 19 November we will return to the partial lockdown introduced on 14 October. In mid-December, the government will assess what can be done in the period that follows. Before the measures in force can be reconsidered, there needs to be enough evidence that the number of infections is falling and that our regular healthcare services are under less pressure.’
The new measures are as follows:
- Residents are to stay at home as much as they possibly can and are to get tested if they develop symptoms of Covid-19.
- Social distancing should be observed – people must keep their distance from one another unless they live together.
- Residents are advised not to book holidays or trips abroad before mid-January.
- No more than 2 guests a day must enter a private dwelling.
- Meetings both indoors and outdoors are restricted to 2 people from different households (except in a private home, in which case the former rule applies)
- All residents must work from home if possible.
- Face masks must be worn on public transport and in all indoor spaces by everyone over the age of 13.
- In educational buildings, such as schools and universities, face masks must be worn by all, except in lessons.
- All venues, such as swimming pools, theatres, and museums are now closed.
- Bars and restaurants will remain closed to the public but open for delivery and takeaway.
- Retail stores must close by 8pm.
- No alcohol can be consumed or carried in public between the hours of 8pm and 7am, nor can it be sold or delivered between these hours.
- Indoor and outdoor events are both banned unless they are classed as demonstrations or Public Assembly Acts.
- Those over the age of 18 may only play sports with a maximum of 1 other person.