Some anti-corona measures have been loosened and other tightened.
Tonight, these were announced by the Dutch government.
- All events are now officially cancelled.
- Museums and libraries will reopen. Visitors, however, had to reserve time slots ahead of time.
- Restaurants and bars will, however, remain closed. But, takeaways are still possible. And hotels remain open.
- All shops, except supermarkets, to close at 20:00.
- People are also still discouraged from travelling outside of the country unnecessarily.
- A maximum of thee visitors per house(hold) per day. Groups, outdoors, are limited to 4 people from different households. Indoor venues are now capped at 30ppl with no exceptions.
- Public transport is still limited to essential travels.
- As of 1 December, facemasks in indoor public spaces are mandatory. Not wearing these may result in a €95 fine. This applies to all indoor public areas, as well as the hallways of all educational institutions. You don’t have to wear a mask outdoors.
- No fireworks on New Year’s. People disregarding this ban will be fined €100.
Sports
- Adults team sports are no longer allowed. Individual sports practice continue – check with your gym/club.
- Canteens, showers and dressing rooms in sports facilities are closed. Again, check with your gym/club.
- No amateur sporting events.
From 1 December, some procedures regarding self-quarantining will change too. If the contact tracing app marks you as a potential risk, you’ll have to self-isolate for five days. You’re considered a risk if you’ve been in touch with someone who has tested positive.
The app is downloadable via coronamelder.nl. After that, you should get tested. If your test is negative, you won’t have to self-isolate anymore.
As of mid-January, a similar policy will most likely apply to incoming travellers. At present, the quarantine time is ten days.
Concerning the usual December celebrations, the government says Sinterklaas can’t be celebrated as usual. So, no large gatherings with family or friends. People are also encouraged to either shop online or alone. Christmas is too far away for any concrete rules.
Aside from this, the standard rules remain:
– Keep 1,5m distance.
– Frequently wash and disinfect your hands.
– Wear your facemask when indicated.
– Avoid public places where possible.
– Limit your social contacts.
Source: COVID-19 News by Bart Swinkels
