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Tighter measures against the spread of the corona virus have been in effect across the country since Monday. This includes an expansion of the mask requirement and a maximum number of people in meetings. The Federal Council decided Sunday in an extraordinary meeting.
The obligation to wear a mask in public transport previously applicable now also applies to platforms, train stations, airports or other access points for public transport, as announced by the Federal Council. In addition to public transport, it is now mandatory to wear a mask in all public access buildings in Switzerland.
The Federal Council has waived the general obligation to wear a mask in compulsory schools, upper secondary and tertiary schools, as well as in the care of children as well as the family. The mask requirement only applies there if it is part of the protection concept.
Requirements for private events
The Federal Council is also introducing rules for private events. Because many people were infected in gatherings with family and friends, the Federal Council advises avoiding these events as much as possible.
The Federal Council does not establish rules for private meetings of less than 15 people. However, if there are more than 15 people, it is mandatory to wear a mask, except when sitting. Only those who are seated can eat and drink. In addition, contact details must be collected.
Private events of 100 people must have a protection concept and can only be held in public access facilities.
He rules again in public space
Gatherings of more than 15 people are now prohibited in public places, walking trails and parks as well. According to the Federal Council, this is to prevent private events from being relocated to public spaces. Organized events such as political and civil society rallies and demonstrations are still allowed with a protection concept.
The measures are also tightening in restaurants and bars. The mask can only be removed when a guest is seated. Also, a seat is required. This rule applies regardless of whether it is consumed indoors or outdoors.
The Federal Council has also supplemented the “Ordinance Covid 19, special situation” with a paragraph on the central office. Therefore, employers are obliged to abide by the recommendations of the Federal Office of Public Health (BAG) for the central office.
“The second wave is here”
The measures are necessary because the sharp increase in the number of cases affects all cantons and age groups, Federal President Simonetta Sommaruga told the media. In addition, hospital admissions would increase. “Since all of Switzerland is now affected again, rules are needed for all of Switzerland. However, the cantons can issue additional, even more extensive rules. “
Health Minister Alain Berset called on the population to take responsibility, as in the spring at the beginning of the corona pandemic. The current situation is “a test for society as a whole”. According to Berset, the second corona wave has hit Switzerland. “Yes, the second wave is here, earlier and stronger than expected, but we are prepared for it.”
Bern already approved the cantonal rules on Monday. Due to the increasing number of cases, the authorities have decided to ban major events from Monday. This means that a maximum of 1000 people are again allowed in the football and hockey stadiums. (Read about this: What does that mean for the fans?)
Federal Councilor Alain Berset and Federal President Simonetta Sommaruga provide information on Corona’s new measures at a special press conference. (October 18, 2020)
Photo: Marcel Bieri (Keystone)
Rega coordinates the distribution of patients to intensive care units
If there are bottlenecks in individual intensive care units due to the corona pandemic, Rega’s air rescue coordinates the distribution of patients between the various hospitals in Switzerland.
The corresponding order comes from the Society of Intensive Care Medicine (SGI) and the Federal Coordinated Medical Service (KSD). It is registered in the concept of “national coordination in case of a massive influx of patients in intensive care units during the Covid-19 pandemic”, as confirmed by Karin Hörhager, Rega’s head of communication, in a corresponding article in NZZ on Sunday at Keystone-SDA news agency request. . The concept has been in force since last June.
Consequently, the different spread of the coronavirus in different regions of Switzerland caused an imbalance in hospital occupancy in the spring. So that this scenario does not repeat itself, Rega has been in charge of coordinating the beds.
Read our article on this: Here’s what Corona measures mean for everyday life, leisure and work
