overview
As of: 01/26/2022 6:34 p.m
Many of Germany’s neighboring countries want to relax or completely abolish their corona restrictions. And that despite the fact that some record values are reported for new infections. An overview.
In Austria Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced an end to the lockdown for the unvaccinated on Monday. This lockdown is “one of the strictest measures you can take,” said Nehammer. However, the situation in Austrian hospitals makes it possible to end this restriction.
At the same time, new infections rose again to a high of 34,000 cases in 24 hours. In Austria, a good 72 percent of the population has been vaccinated, and from February 1st, vaccination is compulsory for all adults.
Denmark wants to abolish restrictions
Denmark is about to abolish all national corona restrictions. Despite the record number of cases, the Danish Minister of Health plans to no longer classify the corona pandemic as a threat to society.
If the responsible parliamentary committee agrees, national restrictions such as the health pass requirement, the requirement to wear a mask or reduced opening hours for restaurants and bars would be lifted on February 1st.
The reason given by the health minister is the high vaccination rate in the country, including booster vaccinations. More than 60 percent of the population in Denmark has already received a third injection of corona vaccine.
Denmark would be the first country in Europe to recommend an end to restrictions amid the omicron wave. According to the Minister of Health, certain entry restrictions should apply for four weeks longer.
Denmark could become the first EU country to lift corona restrictions amid the omicron wave.
Image: dpa
Sweden wants to extend rules, then abolish them
The head of the health department of Sweden wants to extend the restrictions by two weeks for the time being. The reason is that the infections are currently spreading rapidly. If the situation permits, the restrictions should be lifted after these two weeks. A drop in cases is expected in a few weeks.
Sweden had imposed comparatively few restrictions during the pandemic. Most recently, however, cafés, restaurants and bars were instructed to close at 11 p.m. In addition, people should work from home if possible, while schools have allowed distance learning for the higher classes.
Relaxation in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands Cafes and restaurants are allowed to open again until 10 p.m. under certain conditions. Cinemas, theaters and museums are also allowed to receive visitors again. There had been a lot of criticism of the corona restrictions, especially from the cultural sector. In addition to cultural institutions, spectators will again be admitted to major sporting events such as football matches.
According to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, the number of infections is currently “going through the roof”, so the easing could appear contradictory. However, his government wants to consciously explore the limits of what is possible.