COVID-19: The new measures that begin on Thursday morning across Greece

The new measures announced by Health Minister Thanos Plevris to curb the spread of COVID-19 are 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.

Initially, the measures against COVID-19 were to take effect on January 3, 2022, however, due to the rapid increase of cases and the onset of the Omicron mutation, it was decided to expedite their implementation earlier.

READ MORE: Anti-vaxxer priest dies of COVID-19 in Thessaloniki.