Restrictions to Be Eased as of Monday

Icelandic Minister of Health Svandís Svavarsdóttir states there is every reason to ease disease prevention restrictions earlier than planned, mbl.is reports. Current rules were originally meant to be in effect through February 16, but the decision has been made to ease restrictions as of Monday, February 8. The new rules will be in effect for three weeks.

The following rules will take effect on Monday:

Although the maximum number of people allowed to gather remains 20 in most cases, up to 150 people may attend religious services, including funerals.

Up to 150 people may attend theater performances, concerts and other performing arts events.

Stores and museums with adequate, specified space may receive up to 150 people.

Fitness centers will be allowed to receive 50 percent of the number of people their license allows. Guests must, however, register before arriving.

Bars, night clubs and arcades may now operate, but with restrictions. Businesses that serve alcohol must close by 10 pm.

The 2-meter social distancing rule and rules regarding the mandatory use of face masks will remain in effect.

All the above changes were suggested by Chief Epidemiologist Þórólfur Guðnason and approved without changes at a government meeting that just ended.

The new rules are listed on the government website. (No English translation is available at present.)