Government decision: Italy announces Christmas closure

Also in Italy there is concern that the number of infections could increase dramatically at Christmas. Therefore, the government is taking precautions and has ordered a Christmas closure, with a few exceptions.

Despite an infection rate that has declined slightly recently, the Italian government has imposed a blockade during the Christmas period. This was announced by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.

Consequently, from December 24 to 27, only those who carry out urgent errands, such as grocery shopping or pharmacies, or have to go to work are allowed to leave the house.

All shops, bars and restaurants that are not necessary for daily use will be closed. It is also widely prohibited to leave your own municipality until January 6. Anyone entering Italy from abroad before January 15 must enter a 14-day quarantine.

Exceptions on holidays

There are some exceptions for the holidays: it is allowed to attend the Christmas services, but due to the curfew starting at 10 pm, the Christmas masses are advanced. It is also possible for two people to visit family or friends in their own commune during the day.

As Conte also announced, these rules also apply from December 31 to January 3 inclusive, as well as January 5 and 6. With the exceptions of holidays, the prime minister says he wants to dampen the social difficulties of the shutdown a bit. In doing so, he asserted himself against the hardliners in his cabinet.

Slight relaxation outside the holidays

Outside of the holidays, December 28-30 and January 4, moderate relaxation is expected. Then the stores should open briefly and people should be able to move more freely again.

Italy was the first European country to be hit in full force by the pandemic in the spring; hospitals could no longer treat all patients. With tight lockdown, the first corona wave could finally be controlled. Meanwhile, Italy and its European neighbors are struggling with a dramatic second wave.