Greek health authorities expect a record-breaking 30,000+ new COVID-19 cases to be announced later today.
This comes as Greece broke another record yesterday, with 21,657 COVID-19 cases announced.
Due to this rapid rise in COVID-19 cases, new measures against the pandemic will begin on Thursday, with its specifics to be announced later today.
However, the measures were actually due to begin on Monday, but due to the urgency of the situation, they were pushed ahead to tomorrow.
What was announced yesterday by Health Minister Thanos Plevris yesterday, but could see some changes in today's announcements, is as follows:
– MASKS:
The government recommends the use of FFP2 or KN95 masks by people working in food places, and by the public using mass transportation, shopping in supermarkets, and wherever there are crowds. Alternatively, they should wear double surgical masks.
– FOOD, ENTERTAINMENT PLACES:
These stores will operate until 12:00 midnight. Music will be allowed for the time being, but if the measure is not observed, music will be banned. All people making use of the venues should be seated; stand-only people are not allowed. Each table must hold a maximum of 6 people, and tables must be at a distance from one another.
– SPORTS ARENAS:
Sports fields and arenas may only operate on 10% of the field’s full audience capacity. The maximum occupancy is 1,000 people per venue. If these measures are not observed, future games will be held without live audiences.
– ELDER CARE FACILITIES, HOSPITALS AND CLINICS:
Checks will be stricter for visitors, and allowed only after a PCR test (48 hrs). Medical sales people are banned.
– REMOTE WORK:
Up to 50% of staff at private and public sectors may work from home during that time, Plevris said, and the rotating schedule should be implemented so staff come to work in stages. This will prevent crowding in mass transportation means as well. Each business will decide on the number of staff to work remotely based on their needs.
READ MORE: New COVID-19 measures moved ahead to Thursday.
