Blockade in Austria: “Every contact is too much”



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The partial lockdown did not contain the rapid spread of the corona virus in Austria. Chancellor Kurz’s government is now cracking down on more drastic measures. People should no longer know anyone.

In Austria, the government has decided to further toughen crown measures. As Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz announced, not only, as is the case now, restaurants and leisure facilities should be closed from Tuesday, but also retail stores. This does not apply to stores that are responsible for supplying everyday goods, such as grocery stores, post offices, banks, and pharmacies.

As with the first strict closure in spring, body hugging services, such as hair salons and cosmetic studios, are no longer allowed, Kurz said. Also, not just the upper levels, but all schools would now have to switch to distance education. However, if necessary, there is a care offer, also in nurseries.

As few contacts as possible

Kurz demanded that everyone work from home if possible. “My urgent request for the next few weeks is: Don’t meet anyone! Any social contact is too much. Spend your free time only with the people you live with in a household.” If he lives alone, the Chancellor asked him to find a person with whom he would like to be in personal contact during the confinement.

The exit restrictions, which currently apply from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., will be extended to the entire day, according to Kurz. You can only leave home if you have any of these four reasons: professionally, to meet basic needs, to support and care for others, as well as to stretch your legs and play sports.

“Saving” the holiday season

Kurz called the measures “extremely drastic.” But they are necessary to relieve the health system and intensive care units. This is the only way to have the opportunity to gradually improve the country again in December and “save” the Christmas season, and spend it together “carefully but with dignity”.

The Austrian government is reacting to the fact that the number of new infections continues to rise despite previous restrictions. As in Germany, a partial lockdown has been in effect since early November. Since then, gastronomy, tourism, cultural activities and leisure facilities are closed. According to Kurz, the announced total lockdown should apply until December 6.

Kurz said that an average of around 7,000 people contracted the coronavirus every day. The number of new infections per 100,000 inhabitants in seven days is more than 550. The goal is 50.

The Tagesschau reported on this issue on November 14, 2020 at 5:00 pm and the tagesschau24 at 6:00 pm


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