Stricter COVID-19 Measures Announced After Rapid Rise in Number of New Cases

MInister of Health Svandís Svavarsdóttir.

MInister of Health Svandís Svavarsdóttir. mbl.is/Eggert Jóhannesson

Vala Hafstað

Minister of Health Svandís Svavarsdóttir has just announced stricter COVID-19 measures, following day after day of record numbers of new cases. The 14-day incidence rate per 100,000 inhabitants in Iceland has soared to 496.8. For more COVID-19 data, see here.

The new rules take effect at midnight and will remain in effect through December 8.

The new restrictions allow a maximum of 50 people to convene.

A one-meter social distancing rule remains in effect.

The use of face masks remains mandatory in stores, public transportation, and wherever the one-meter social distancing rule can’t be respected.

Events can be held with a maximum of 500 people in each space, provided everyone born 2015 and earlier can present the negative result of a rapid COVID-19 test, taken no more than 48 hours prior.

Swimming pools and fitness centers may receive up to 75 percent of the number of guests their licenses permit.

Bars and restaurants may receive guests until 10 pm, and everyone must leave the premises by 11 pm.  A record must be kept of the guests’ names.

For more information, see here. (English translation not available at this time). 

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