COVID-19: a new lockdown for Polish gastronomy
Wpis dostępny jest także w języku:
polski
Due to the very rapidly growing number of diagnosed coronavirus infections, the government in Poland has decided to introduce further restrictions. The key change is the closure of gastronomic facilities. All the changes come into force already from Saturday, 24 October.
As in the spring, gastronomic facilities, i.e. restaurants, pubs and cafés, will only be able to provide take-away (delivery) services. According to the arguments of Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, according to the specialists, gastronomic facilities are usually rooms where many people stay in a small area, which favours the spread of viruses.
For the time being, these restrictions are introduced for two weeks, with an option of extension. Possible decisions will be made at the end of the second week and will be related to the epidemiological situation. Similar restrictions on the operation of gastronomic establishments have already been introduced in many European countries. Restrictions in retail outlets are also being maintained – 5 persons/cashdesk in shops up to 100 sq.m and 1 person per 15 sq.m in shops over 100 sq.m.
Prohibition of activity for more than 5 people
In addition, the whole of Poland will be covered by the red zone. Remote learning is also being introduced in primary schools in grades 4-8. Already before, remote learning (or hybrid) has been introduced for secondary schools and university students. Between 8 am and 4 pm, children and young people up to 16 years old will not be able to move around without adult supervision.
Meetings of more than five people are also forbidden, except for people living in the same household and occupational situations. The government also imposes restrictions on movement for 70+ people, except for professional, vital or religious activities.
According to the Minister of Health, Adam Niedzielski, next week will be crucial for the development of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. Whether and to what extent it will be possible to flatten the disease curve will depend on the introduction or relaxation of restrictions.
