Update: More steps to ease coronavirus measures announced

Published

06th May 2020

The number of coronavirus infections is declining steadily, and the outlook seems positive, but the risk of the virus spreading still exists. Therefore, the government have taken a step-by-step approach and will start by easing restrictions at a local level.

This is what to expect from 11 May:

Adults may engage in outdoor sports (e.g. tennis, golf) taking care to practise safe-distancing.
Contact-based professions may resume operations (subject to certain conditions). This includes hair and beauty specialists, medical practitioners and therapists, and driving instructors.
Libraries will reopen and take measures to ensure that library users can stay 1.5-metres apart.
Primary schools and childcare will reopen for half the time (with preventive measures in place).
Since 29 April, children till the age of 12 may engage in outdoor sports/activities. And youths from 13 - 18 may engage in outdoor sports with supervision, taking care to practise safe-distancing.

From 1 June public transport companies will resume its regular schedule and it will be mandatory for passengers to put on non-medical face masks on buses/trams/trains/metros. However, please note that you should only use public transportation when there is no other alternative.

From 1 June, if the virus remains under control:

Secondary schools will reopen (details to be worked out).
Restaurants and cafes may open outdoor dining if safe-distancing can be maintained.
Cinemas, cultural institutions, museums and heritage sites may reopen subject to certain conditions.

The government have also laid out plans to ease more measures in phases. More details on what to expect in June, July and September is available in the official announcement.

In order for this plan to realise, it is important to continue with the primary coronavirus measures:

Wash your hands frequently.
Cough and sneeze into your elbow. Use tissues to blow your nose and discard them after use.
Do not shake hands with others.
Avoid busy places and stay 1.5 metres (2 arms lengths) away from other people.
Work at home as much as possible.
If you are sick, stay at home. If you have a fever or shortness of breath, you and anyone you live with should stay at home.
If you are over the age of 70 or have health issues, take extra care and stay at home as much as possible.

Download this infographic for an overview of the measures as well as a step-by-step plan for the coming months.